The Motherlode Spring 2024: Women at the Helm

I think what’s exciting for us is we love meeting the people that are coming in [to Leo]. We love talking with them. We love learning what kind of wine they like to drink. We love learning what their favorite things are.... Our chef is a new chef, and it’s exciting for people to like the food that he’s making. It’s just exciting to be part of the community.

I would tell my younger self to be confident to do things on your own. By yourself, there’s a lot of confidence that’s built by going to a concert by yourself, going to a restaurant by yourself, and I’ve learned that in the past 10 years, so I would definitely tell myself to do that sooner.

- Hilarey Leonard Owner, Leo Annapolis

- Gerry Mathews Owner, A.P. Mathews Heating & Air Conditioning

I knew that this [lead vocal teacher] position wasn’t going to come around often, so after making an extensive pros and cons lists and lots of conversations with my husband and trusted colleagues, I decided to apply. I remember feeling so nervous and questioning years later, I can say it was definitely the right move. This position has forced me to grow professionally and challenged me to become a better teacher and musician. whether this would be the right move. Three

After almost 7 years, the space next to my restaurant has become available. I am working on expanding into the space and creating a coworking cafe. The space will have a meeting/ conference room, office/breakroom for my team, and seating/tables for 20. Probably most exciting about this is that the space has a ramp and ADA bathroom, which is a game changer for my customers in wheelchairs or folks with kids in strollers.

- Lauren Walker Lead Artistic Director, All

Remember the life lessons you’re learning from those Choose Your Own Adventure books: •Sometimes you think you’re close to the end, but then you get caught in quicksand and have to turn back and start again. A misstep is not the end of the journey. •There is always a way around the dragon or monster or villain in your path. Keep moving forward. •Your story is yours to tell.

Children’s Chorus of Annapolis; High School Vocal Teacher, Anne Arundel County Public Schools, Apex Arts Magnet Program

- Monica Alvarado

Owner, Bread and Butter Kitchen

- Janet Huang

Director of Operations, Montessori International Children’s House

SPRING 2024 | 61

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