Consider this my fashionably late entrance (sorry, Major General Dad). September slipped by without a Wonder Women feature, and the blame sits with real life and real deadlines that did not cooperate. Add in two tough losses for my Chiefs, and you get the picture. Even so, the lesson stands strong. Resilience and perspective rise when we need them most, and our October Wonder Women show us how.
One has embraced a year of transformation by leaning into her core values, claiming her worth, and breaking free from old cycles to lead with authenticity and heart. The other has climbed step by step through her career, proving that growth comes not just from titles and numbers, but from the energy, creativity, and confidence we pour into others along the way. Both stories highlight the power of self-advocacy, community and the women who lift us higher when they stand beside us.
To those in our industry serving Medicare clients, may you have smooth sailing this open enrollment season. The rest of us handling group benefits and individuals will be calling on your good luck (and maybe your extra coffee stash) very soon. With that, I’m thrilled to introduce the September…I mean October, Wonder Women: Marcia Benton and Joslynn Mayo.
“This past year has been nothing short of transformative. I discovered my core values and began using them as my compass in both personal and professional decisions. By advocating for myself and recognizing my worth, I earned partnership at Craig-Howard Insurance after 10 years of dedication.
At the same time, I’ve had the privilege of leading a significant cultural shift within our organization, creating an environment where every voice is valued and heard. As President of NABIP Treasure Valley, I’ve championed community engagement, successfully leading our team to raise over $30,000 for charity — a true testament to what can be achieved when we lead with heart.
On a personal level, I broke free from an abusive relationship and generational trauma cycles that no longer served me. I’ve now invested in coaches and mentors who have equipped me with tools to recognize triggers and navigate challenges constructively. This journey of self-discovery has not only strengthened me as a leader, but also opened doors to meaningful friendships and professional relationships built on authenticity, trust and mutual respect.”
“Looking back on the last eight years of my career, I’m proud of the commitment I’ve made to continuous growth. Each season has brought new opportunities to stretch, learn, and evolve — lessons that have carried me forward in ways I never imagined.
I began my career as an office administrator and, step by step, earned multiple promotions. One of my proudest accomplishments has been recently stepping into a sales leadership role — guiding a team and driving significant results within my very first month.
What I’ve discovered along the way is that true success isn’t defined by titles or numbers. It’s about the energy, creativity, and clarity you bring to others. It’s also about building stronger partnerships, believing in yourself, and helping those around you grow.
Most of all, I’m deeply grateful for the powerful women who have stood beside me and lifted me up, reminding me that we rise higher when we rise together. To every woman working hard, chasing growth, or wondering if the next step is possible: keep going. You are stronger than you think, and the journey is always worth it.”
Know a woman in our industry who’s quietly making an impact or stepping into something big? I’m always looking to feature those who are shifting the conversation, breaking patterns and bringing others along with them. If someone comes to mind, reach out to me at scombs@combsandc.com
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