What does it take to lead with purpose, grace, and energy — for decades — without burning out?

Episode Overview:

In this inspiring conversation, host Wendy Wollner sits down with Dr. Marsha Gordon, President and CEO of The Business Council of Westchester. A trailblazing leader who transformed a struggling local chamber into one of the most influential business organizations in New York State, Marsha reflects on her decades of leadership, the power of humility and gratitude, and how she continues to lead with joy, curiosity, and connection. From surviving tough early years to winning the prestigious Corning Award for Excellence, Marsha shares wisdom that every leader — especially those feeling stretched thin — needs to hear.

What You’ll Learn

How to rebuild an organization from the ground up with vision and gritWhy humility and gratitude are the foundation of lasting leadershipHow to pause before reacting when conflict hits your organizationThe importance of vulnerability and trusted advisors in decision-makingWhat a true “day in the life” of a modern CEO looks likeWhy staying connected to community keeps burnout at bay

Episode Highlights

00:15 – Wendy introduces her decades-long friendship and admiration for Marsha

01:36 – The early days of rebuilding The Business Council of Westchester

02:49 – How collaboration, not ego, fueled the organization’s comeback

03:27 – Humility, gratitude, and leading by recognition

04:14 – Receiving the Corning Award for Excellence — and what it meant personally

06:47 – Marsha’s approach when “the real mess hits the fan”

07:45 – The value of trusted advisors and honest reflection

08:58 – A day in the life of a CEO balancing multiple roles

10:24 – Why work and life blend naturally when purpose is present

12:04 – Staying energized by connection, not competition

12:32 – Overwhelm vs. burnout: knowing the difference

13:01 – The secret to longevity in leadership: community and humility

Meet the Guest

Dr. Marsha Gordon is the President and CEO of The Business Council of Westchester, where she has spent over two decades transforming the organization into a powerful force for regional growth, advocacy, and connection. A passionate champion for business and community development, she serves on numerous boards, mentors emerging leaders, and continues to model what compassionate, sustainable leadership looks like in practice.

Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned

Pause-before-reacting leadership methodBuilding advisory circles for honest decision-makingRecognition and gratitude as motivational toolsWork-life blending vs. balance mindsetLongevity through community engagement

Closing Insight & CTA

“Sometimes you’ll feel overwhelmed — that’s part of leadership. But burnout doesn’t have to be.”

Dr. Gordon’s story is a reminder that when humility, community, and gratitude guide your work, you’ll always have more to give.

Resource Links

???? The Business Council of Westchester: https://thebcw.org

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???? Balancing Life’s Issues: https://balancinglifesissues.com/podcast-bli/

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