In this episode of The Denise Ilitch Show, Denise sits down with Portia Roberson, the dynamic CEO of Focus: HOPE, to delve into the incredible work she does with the organization and her inspiring journey to where she is today. Portia shares her passion for her current role but reveals that one of her proudest moments was being appointed by President Obama after working on his successful campaign. Despite never envisioning a career in Washington, D.C., Portia's experience taught her a valuable life lesson about being open to unexpected opportunities.

Throughout their conversation, Portia emphasizes the importance of embracing nontraditional paths and staying receptive to unforeseen possibilities, even as we make plans throughout life. She credits her relationship with her father for shaping her confidence and discusses how she has learned to quiet the self-doubt that sometimes creeps in. Recognizing the societal pressure on women to be perfect, Portia underscores the significance of giving herself grace.

Portia also reminisces about her favorite Detroit moments, fondly recalling times spent at Boblo Island and the State Fair with family and friends. Join us for an enlightening discussion on resilience, adaptability, and the power of unexpected opportunities.

Denise Ilitch, an owner of Ilitch Family Companies and President of Ilitch Enterprises,
has been a part of Detroit’s business and philanthropic community for over 40 years.
As a mother, lawyer, entrepreneur, devoted community servant and tireless advocate
for women and children, she learned early, from her father, that everyone is worthy of
contributing to the world. Her passion for affordable, accessible, quality education
stems from her own experience as a first-generation student, earning a bachelor’s
degree from the University of Michigan, where she currently serves on the Board of
Regents, and a law degree from the University of Detroit Law School. FOLLOW
DENISE @thedeniseilitchshow

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Denise Ilitch podcast! Today's episode, titled "Showing Up," features an extraordinary guest who embodies the spirit of Detroit's resilience and progress.

Join us as Denise sits down with Mary Sheffield, the youngest person ever elected to the Detroit City Council and its current President. Mary's journey is a testament to the power of service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to community.

In this captivating conversation, Mary shares her inspiring story of discovering her gift in public service, her deep love for Detroit, and the crucial importance of showing up - even in the face of fear, doubt, and uncertainty. You'll hear about her strategies for silencing self-doubt, how adversity has shaped her character, and her dedication to lifelong learning and personal growth.

Mary also offers invaluable advice to young people about understanding their values, standing firm in their beliefs, and cultivating their unique gifts. Plus, she shares her pride in Detroit's recent hosting of the NFL draft.

Whether you're a budding leader, a community advocate, or simply someone looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical insights. So tune in, get ready to be motivated, and learn how showing up can transform not just your life, but your entire community. The Denise Ilitch podcast starts now!

Have you wondered what it takes to be on the partnership track at a law firm? What
kind of preparation and leadership it takes to achieve top success in private practice?
Denise talks to Carrie Leahy, attorney and chair of Bodman PLC. Carrie provides
tangible and useful advice about working your way up in a large firm and career
development. She talks about balancing interests, being creative with solutions, and
learning to listen and actually hear colleagues and clients. This episode will be very
helpful to those aspiring to the legal field as well as those interested in general business career advice.

Carrie Leahy is chair of the executive management committee of Bodman PLC, a
business law firm headquartered in Detroit. She concentrates her practice in corporate
and business law. She counsels both established and emerging businesses on general
corporate transactions, mergers and acquisitions, compliance with securities
regulations, and issues involving venture capital funding. Carrie was recently named
one of Crain’s Detroit Business 100 Most Influential Women and DBusiness “Detroit
500” Most Powerful Business Leaders.

Denise Ilitch, an owner of Ilitch Family Companies and President of Ilitch Enterprises,
has been a part of Detroit’s business and philanthropic community for over 40 years.
As a mother, lawyer, entrepreneur, devoted community servant and tireless advocate
for women and children, she learned early, from her father, that everyone is worthy of
contributing to the world. Her passion for affordable, accessible, quality education
stems from her own experience as a first-generation student, earning a bachelor’s
degree from the University of Michigan, where she currently serves on the Board of
Regents, and a law degree from the University of Detroit Law School. FOLLOW
DENISE @thedeniseilitchshow