CINCINNATI (May 30, 2022) — “So many systems and structures are put in place that are meant for us [women] to take a step forward when really, they make us take a step back . . . Tweaking the game won’t change the game; we need to push the game off the table and make a whole new game.” 

Those were the words of Teresa Tanner, founder of Reserve Squad, during Women of Tocqueville’s Compelling Conversations event on May 23, 2022.

Tanner and Barbara Turner, President and CEO of Ohio National Financial Services, spoke about gender equity in the workplace in a conversation titled “Breaking Barriers: The Rose-Colored Glass Ceiling.”

United Way of Greater Cincinnati President and CEO Moira Weir opened the program by sharing a story of a young, single mother named Lisa and her challenges in obtaining financial stability in her life. United Way is supporting her on her path.

Women such as Lisa often face barriers obtaining employment and thriving in their jobs. Turner said she helped create the Ohio National Women’s Network to support women in her workplace and help them develop into dynamic leaders. She’s proud of how the network has grown and been embraced.

“Everyone has earned the right to be treated with dignity and respect,” she said.

Tanner said she wakes up every day with the goal of making a difference. She recounted recently receiving an email from a young woman who was surprised and thankful that Tanner had personally responded to her email. Because Tanner shared words of advice and encouragement, the young woman said, “I am now not afraid to do anything.” 

Compelling Conversations is on summer break and will resume in October!