Host Nan Whaley sits down with Liz Walters, CEO of TargetSmart and former chair of the Ohio Democratic Party, for a wide-ranging and insightful conversation about leadership, politics, and the power of data. Liz reflects on her political journey - from leading in Ohio to shaping the future of political technology - and shares lessons learned working alongside some of the most influential women in public life. Together, they explore how data is transforming modern campaigns, the role of mentorship in developing strong female leaders, and why bipartisan collaboration still matters. This episode offers thoughtful insights at the intersection of politics, leadership growth, and data-driven strategy.
About Our Guest:
Liz Walters is the CEO of TargetSmart, a data-driven solutions company serving the private, government, non-profit, and political sectors. Liz also serves on the Summit County Council in Ohio. She’s formerly the Chairwoman of the Ohio Democratic Party and has worked for candidates and causes in Ohio and Washington, D.C. She credits her start in public service to her involvement in the Girl Scouts of the USA.
- Liz’s Mentor, former Congresswoman and current Appeals Court Judge Betty Sutton
- Girl Scouts
- Seeds recommended by Martha Stewart: Vilmorin in Paris
About the Host: Nan Whaley is a long time community leader and public servant. She’s currently the CEO of Planned Parenthood of Southwest Ohio. She served as Mayor of Dayton, Ohio from 2014 - 2022. Nan has also presided over the United Conference of Mayors. She’s a feminist, daughter, aunt, sister and friend.
About the Show: Carry As You Climb is focused on elevating the voices of women in leadership from Ohio and the rest of the United States. The podcast features guests who give special attention to not only busting through doors to lead but also hold the door open for more women behind them. In other words, they carry as they climb. We focus on leadership development and leadership lessons. Plus, we share personal experiences to inspire the inclusion of more diverse leaders in business, government and the nonprofit sector.
Stay up to date with Nan’s Substack: https://substack.com/@nanwhaley
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Produced by: Collective Change Communications - Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler
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