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In this special edition, hosts Heather Luce and Kimberly Downs take you behind the scenes at the WIRED 2025 holiday mixer, where powerful, passionate women in commercial real estate gather to celebrate, connect, and learn from each other.

Listen in as they chat with a vibrant mix of WIRED members, including industry leaders, investors, and rising stars like Melissa Kelley-Jones, Diane Botwin, Kimmy Angier, Katie Collum, and more. You'll hear their firsthand stories about how WIRED's collaborative community has empowered them: whether it's taking the leap into their first investment, managing ambitious development projects, or banding together to break down barriers in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

As the group looks ahead to a milestone tenth year, this episode highlights the deep value of women supporting women, practical tools for building wealth, and the unvarnished advice that comes from real experience. Whether you're stepping into real estate for the first time or looking for mentorship and new opportunities, there's inspiration, laughter, and actionable insights waiting for you here. So grab your headphones, settle in, and join us at the party!

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Welcome to WIRED: Stories of Impactful Women, the podcast spotlighting bold, brilliant women who are shaping the future of commercial real estate, business leadership, and beyond. Hosted by Kimberly Downs and Heather Luce, WIRED dives deep into honest, empowering conversations that go way beyond buildings.

In every episode, Kimberly and Heather sit down with entrepreneurs, innovators, and changemakers to share unfiltered stories, hard-won insights, and the real-world tools behind their success. Whether you’re building a business, advancing your career, or carving your own path, you’ll find connection, mentorship, and inspiration here.

In this episode, our hosts welcome Jodi Sundaram, a leader making a difference in business and through service as a Rotary district governor. They discuss the evolution and impact of the Rotary organization, community projects, leadership development for young women, and the importance of giving both locally and globally. Plus, discover how you can get involved, give back, and connect with a network of women lifting each other higher.

Subscribe so you don’t miss the next empowering story—and join us as we build community, leadership, and opportunity, one conversation at a time.

Learn more at wiredpodkc@gmail.com and follow us for updates on local WIRED events & opportunities to be featured.

#WomenInLeadership #CommercialRealEstate #Mentorship #ImpactfulWomen #WIREDpodcast

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Welcome back to WIRED: Stories of Impactful Women, the podcast where we shine a spotlight on the trailblazing women shaping the future of commercial real estate, business leadership, and beyond. In today's episode, hosts Heather Luce and Kimberly Downs sit down with Kesi Milligan—a dynamic commercial real estate broker, community advocate, and the first nominated guest on WIRED.

Kesi takes us on her inspiring journey from radio intern to residential agent, her pivotal role at AltCap supporting underserved entrepreneurs, and her determination to become the representation she wished existed for minority and women business owners. With honesty and humor, Kesi discusses overcoming fear, the importance of authentic connections, and the drive to be a change-maker in Kansas City's urban core.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, aspiring leader, or looking to carve your own path, get ready for a candid conversation packed with real-world advice, resilience, and heartfelt stories. Plus, discover how the power of mentorship, community, and a little roller skating can keep your cup full—even on the toughest days.

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On this episode of WIRED: Stories of Impactful Women, hosts Kimberly Downs and Heather Luce sit down with the inspiring Cyndi Garza - entrepreneur, business coach, boutique owner, and mentor who has built her career by helping women find their purpose and success across industries. Cyndi shares her journey from mortgage banking to launching her own businesses, overcoming personal loss, and making bold pivots that honor her passions.

Tune in for honest conversations about leadership, the power of pouring into others, the importance of personal boundaries, and how carving out time for yourself pays dividends. Cyndi, Kimberly, and Heather offer practical advice on mentorship, building a supportive “tribe,” and embracing change, whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned leader, or anyone seeking to connect more deeply with your purpose.

Don’t miss this episode full of wisdom, laughs, real-world strategies, and an inside look at what it means to live - and lead - with authenticity.

Subscribe to WIRED to hear empowering stories of women shaping the future of business, real estate, and beyond—every other Wednesday!

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In this inspiring episode of WIRED: Stories of Impactful Women, hosts Kimberly Downs and Heather Luce sit down with Cheryl Hartel and Jenny Vergara—two Kansas City powerhouses making waves in both the culinary world and commercial real estate. Jenny shares the inside story behind her famed underground supper club, Test Kitchen, and how her deep connections in Kansas City's restaurant scene led her into commercial real estate specializing in hospitality spaces. Cheryl discusses her journey from longtime restaurateur to real estate developer and her leadership as president of Les Dames d'Escoffier Kansas City, an organization dedicated to supporting and uplifting women in food, beverage, and hospitality.

Together, they explore the value of community, mentorship, and building supportive networks for women entrepreneurs—plus, they offer candid advice for anyone dreaming of starting their own restaurant or business. The conversation also highlights their upcoming collaborative event for women interested in breaking into the industry, and shines a spotlight on exciting new food spots around the city.

Whether you’re passionate about food, curious about career pivots, or looking for advice on navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, there’s something here for everyone. Join us for actionable insights, heartfelt stories, and a celebration of women shaping Kansas City’s culinary and real estate landscapes!

Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode of WIRED: Stories of Impactful Women.

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In this inspiring episode of WIRED: Stories of Impactful Women, hosts Kimberly Downs and Heather Luce sit down with Katie Ramos—Kansas City native, commercial real estate agent, and partner at DLM Commercial. Katie shares her unique journey from working with the Kansas City Royals to finding her true calling in commercial real estate, laying down roots, and eventually becoming a business owner.

Listen as Katie reflects on her path to partnership, the power of mentorship, and the challenges of being a young woman in a competitive, commission-based industry. She offers invaluable advice on embracing growth, building resilience, and seizing opportunities, even when they're outside your comfort zone.

Katie also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the "POD Project"—a collaborative, women-powered commercial real estate investment that brought together 24 female investors to raise nearly $1 million. Discover how a vision from a fellow WIRED leader turned into a thriving project, thanks to teamwork, tenacity, and a belief in the power of women supporting women.

Whether you're a seasoned professional, aspiring entrepreneur, or just love hearing stories of women breaking barriers, this episode offers connection, actionable insights, and a dose of Kansas City spirit. Plus, hear Katie’s top advice for women considering their own commercial property journey—and the importance of saying “yes” to showing up.

Don’t miss this episode packed with wisdom, mentorship, and authentic conversation about growth, grit, and the future of women in real estate and beyond.

Subscribe now and join the WIRED community—where bold, brilliant women shape the future, together.

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Welcome back to WIRED: Stories of Impactful Women, the podcast where we spotlight bold, brilliant women redefining business, leadership, and the world of real estate. In today’s episode, hosts Heather Luce and Kimberly Downs invite Melissa Martin, president and owner of Kansas City Realty, to the mic for an inspiring and candid conversation.

Melissa opens up about her unconventional journey from social work to real estate, the personal fears she overcame to step fully into leadership, and how she’s working to build an agency—and a community—where women and independent voices thrive. From lessons in authentic leadership and supporting local businesses, to advice on building up confidence in the next generation, Melissa shares her experience creating a collaborative, women-led company culture that goes far beyond just buying and selling property.

Whether you’re growing a career, building a business, or looking for real-world inspiration, this episode offers connection, mentorship, and the reminder that yes, we all have the power to “do it ourselves.” Plus, you’ll hear how groups like WIRED are bringing women together to invest, rise, and celebrate each others’ wins—one honest conversation at a time.

So pour a cup of coffee, settle in, and let’s dive in!

Have episode suggestions or questions for us? Email us at WIREDPODKC@GMAIL.COM.

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Welcome to the relaunch of the WIRED podcast— Stories of Impactful Women. A dynamic space where bold, brilliant women come together to shape the future of business, commercial real estate, leadership, and beyond. Hosted by Heather Luce and Kimberly Downs, this podcast is all about honest, empowering conversations that go way beyond buildings.

In this inspiring premiere, Heather and Kim introduce themselves—not just as leaders in Kansas City real estate and mortgage, but as lifelong learners, business owners, team builders, and passionate advocates for women’s empowerment. They dive into their journeys from residential real estate and mortgages to commercial ownership and business coaching, sharing lessons learned about leadership, self-care, personal growth, and the power of mentorship.

Discover how authentic connections and a community like WIRED have transformed their careers, given them the courage to pursue new goals, and become a launching pad for women eager to learn, share, and own their role in business and real estate. Whether you’re building a business, growing in your career, or seeking a supportive network, you’ll find connection, mentorship, and real-world wisdom in every episode.

Tune in every other Wednesday for stories, insights, and unfiltered truths from women of influence, innovators, and changemakers. This is the podcast where women uplift women—and where anything is possible when you find your tribe. Join us as we launch the WIRED Podcast and begin a new chapter of women empowering women.

Have episode suggestions or questions for us? Email us at WIREDPODKC@GMAIL.COM.