Note: Episode reposted due to a hosting sync issue and number / Nan Whaley reconnects with longtime friend and fundraising powerhouse Alexandra Acker-Lyons. Al, a dedicated political consultant with over two decades of experience, shares insights on her journey into politics, mentorship, and her passion for supporting women candidates and issues. They discuss the evolution of women in political leadership, the challenges of campaign finance, and the importance of mentorship. Al also shares her views on the current political landscape, future election cycles, and inspirations. Plus, you’ll get insights on the unique role of donor advising, the importance of investing in women's political leadership, and how Al helps ultra-high-net-worth donors strategically deploy their resources.
About Our Guest: Alexandra Acker-Lyons
For over 20 years, Alexandra Acker-Lyons has worked for some of the nation’s most prominent donors, campaigns, and progressive organizations. She specializes in advising female donors at the intersection of electoral politics, philanthropy, and the nonprofit sector. Alexandra is a certified 21/64 Philanthropic Advisor. She also serves as the Political Director for the Electing Women Alliance, a network of 17 (and growing) giving circles focused on raising money for female candidates and closing the political giving gap in US politics.
Her company AL Advising, works with progressive donors and philanthropists looking to streamline their giving and boost their impact. They specialize in working with women donors, candidates, and women-focused organizations.
Resources Mentioned:
- Electing Women Alliance
- PoliticAL Update on YouTube
- AL Advising
- Congresswoman and first female chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, Nita Lowey
- Geraldine Ferraro’s 1984 acceptance speech as the Democratic nominee for Vice President of the United States
About the Host: Nan Whaley is a longtime 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.
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Produced by: Collective Change Communications - Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler
Note: The opinions expressed by host Nan Whaley on this podcast are hers alone, and not that of any organization with which she is affiliated.
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