The Wider Lens: Powered by Focus on Women
Self-Improvement
About
The Wider Lens is a podcast about seeing possibility where you might not have looked before. Powered by Focus on Women, the show opens the door to broader conversations with creatives, entrepreneurs, and leaders across disciplines. Each episode features real, thoughtful conversations — not just about success, but about uncertainty, change, and growth. We talk about how careers evolve, how priorities shift, and how people build work that supports the life they want. Honest, grounded, and community-minded, The Wider Lens invites you to step back, zoom out, and expand how you think about your own creative path.
Episodes
- S26 E249 Malinda Sanna, Founder & CEO, LookLook
Malinda Sanna operates at the intersection of creativity, culture, and data, using insight as a creative tool to shape how luxury brands connect with people. As the Founder and CEO of LookLook, she built a 7-figure proprietary consumer ins…
- S25 E248 Kenzie Green
Join us in conversation with brand strategist & designer Kenzi Green for an honest conversation on building intentional brands, charging your worth, and breaking out of the comfort zone in business. Based in Benson, NC, Kenzi is the founde…
- S25 E247 Rebecca Miller
In this episode, we sit down with photographer and director Rebecca Miller for a thoughtful conversation on creative longevity, evolution, and building a meaningful body of work over time. With over 20 years of experience spanning fashion,…
- S25 E246 Emily Frances Olson - Photographer
In this episode we sit down with Emily Frances Olson, photographer and visual storyteller, to talk about creative evolution, meaningful work, and how personal experiences can reshape your artistic path. Based in Queens, New York, Emily is…
- S25 E245 Hannah Schon
In this episode, we sit down with Hannah Schon, the visionary wardrobe and prop stylist, producer, creative consultant, and founder of Double Engine Studio—a Boston-based practice that blends strategic thinking with intuitive storytelling…
- S25 E244 Sam Jump - Powerhouses With Purpose
In this episode, we sit down with Sam Jump, the visionary founder of Powerhouses with Purpose, a platform dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations to harness their potential for social good. Sam shares her inspiring journey fr…
- S25 E243 Jennifer Silverberg - Photographer
In this episode, we sit down with Jennifer Silverberg, a talented photographer known for her striking visual storytelling and her ability to capture authentic moments. As a creative force, Jennifer shares her journey in the world of photog…
- S25 E242- Zoe (Berkovic) Zela - Poppy and Sesame
In this episode, we sit down with Zoe (Berkovic) Zela , founder of Poppy and Sesame . A thoughtful creative and entrepreneur, Zoe is redefining what it means to build a brand with intention, heart, and purpose in today’s evolving creative…
- S25 E241 Rebecca Tickell - Common Ground Films
In this episode, we sit down with visionary filmmaker and environmental activist Rebecca Tickell . A force in documentary storytelling, sustainability, and regenerative living; to uncover how she’s using the power of film to spark global c…
- S25 E239 -Trinette Faint - Floor 51 Productions
In this episode, we sit down with multi-talented creative entrepreneur Trinette Faint — a force in modeling, acting, writing, and podcasting — to uncover how she built her name across multiple industries. Trinette shares how she got her st…
- S25 E240 Kelly Allison - kaProductions
In this episode, we sit down with Chicago-based food photographer and director Kelly Allison to explore how she turned a universe-orchestrated dream job into reality, embracing nonlinear paths and the unstoppable power of the feminine forc…
- S24 E238 Dani Dufresne - The Aux Co Creative Agency
In this episode, we sit down with Emmy Award-winning Executive Producer Dani Dufresne to explore what it really takes to lead high-stakes creative campaigns across broadcast, digital, experiential, and branded content. With over 20 years o…
- S24 E237 Stephanie Elizondo Griest - Art Above Everything
In this episode, we’re joined by globe-trotting author and professor Stephanie Elizondo Griest to talk about her latest book, Art Above Everything . Stephanie spent the past decade traveling across a dozen countries, interviewing women she…
- S24 E236 Jenni Helin - Food Photographer
In this episode, we're joined by London-based commercial photographer Jenni Helin, whose work is known for its colorful storytelling and subtle touch of nostalgia. Growing up in Finland with her grandparents, Jenni spent her Sundays immers…
- S24 E235 Melissa Cronin and Devin Gmitter - Finding Stoke Documentary
In this episode, we’re joined by Melissa Cronin and Devin Gmitter of Greener Concepts Inc., a powerhouse agency transforming brand strategies into compelling visual content. You may recognize Melissa's name, and that's because she joined u…
- S24 E234 Karen Williams - Black Visual Queen
Today we're talking to Karen Williams, a visual creative director, keynote speaker, and the founder of Black Visual Queen. With over a decade of experience in the brand and editorial photography industry, Karen shares how she’s turning her…
- S24 E233 Lucia Rollow - Bushwick Community Darkroom
Today we're talking to Lucia Rollow, a photographer, educator, and founder of the Bushwick Community Darkroom. Lucia shares her journey of building a thriving artist-run space dedicated to keeping analog photography alive in NYC. With over…
- S24 E232 Personal Branding as a Photographer
This episode is all about being bold in how you show up. Whether you’re just starting to define your personal brand or wondering if it’s time for a rebrand, we’re diving into what it means to truly own your voice as a creative. From market…
- S24 E231 Jenny Wilson - Prop & Wardrobe Stylist
Jenny Wilson is a seasoned and forward-thinking stylist with over 20 years of experience in wardrobe and prop styling. With a sharp eye for market trends and a background spanning fashion to floral design, Jenny is known for her adaptabili…
- S24 E230 Using Social Media as a Commercial Photographer
As professionals in the commercial photography industry, social media is an essential tool for marketing, client connections, and inspiration—but it can also become a trap of endless scrolling and comparison. In this Community Call, we sit…
- S24 E229 Focus on Food Styling - Janine Kalesis, Victoria Granof, and Bee Berrie
In this special episode, we’re diving into the food styling industry with insights from past guests who have mastered the craft. Janine Kalesis shares how her background as a chef and years in the restaurant industry shaped her journey int…
- S23 E228 Melissa Dunne - Art Director at Nic+Zoe
Today we're checking in with Melissa Dunne! In her last appearance on the show in 2023, we talked about how she got her start, the lessons she learned, and the creative path that led her forward. Today, she returns to share how her career…
- S23 E227 Michael James O'Brien - SCAD Photography Chairman
Today, Lauren and Traci are talking to Michael James O'Brien, a photographer, teacher, curator, activist, and writer. Michael is an acclaimed photographer and poet known for his wide-ranging work, from still lifes and portraits to commerci…
- S23 E226 Keith Gentile and Lynn Kyle - Agency Access
Today Lauren and Traci are talking to Keith Gentile and Lynn Kyle of Agency Access! Keith found his passion for business and marketing early in life. He started at Agency Access as a researcher, where his natural talent quickly became evid…
- S23 E225 Kaylei McGaw - Props and Interiors Stylist
Today we're talking to Kaylei McGaw! Kaylei is a prop stylist specializing in designing immersive spaces for commercial and editorial projects. She works closely with photographers, art directors, designers, and architects to craft compell…
- S23 E224 Jillian Lenser - Beauty and Product Photographer
Jillian Lenser is a Brooklyn-based beauty and product photographer whose self-taught journey has fueled in her a deep sense of curiosity and intention. She approaches each project with thoughtful precision, asking, What do you notice? What…
- S23 E223 Caitlin Dooley - Fashion Editor and Personal Stylist
Caitlin Dooley is a dynamic fashion professional with a diverse background in styling and editing. She began her career as a freelance wardrobe stylist for Anchor Artists, gaining invaluable experience working with a variety of talent and…
- S23 E222 Allison Martinek - Photographer and Artist
Today we're talking to recent SCAD graduate Allison Martinek! Allison is a photographer and artist from Cresco, IA. Her work is driven by a passion for body inclusivity and a love for capturing authentic connections through portraiture. Al…
- S23 E221 Rachael Kershaw - Fashion, Wellness and Hospitality Photographer
Rachael Kershaw is a gifted photographer based in the tropical paradise of Costa Rica. Originally from the UK and raised in Switzerland, her love for nature and exploration has profoundly shaped her journey. Rachael crafts captivating imag…
- S23 E220 Dawn Heumann - Commercial Photographer and Director
Dawn Heumann’s upbringing shaped her into the heart-driven storyteller she is today. Raised by a filmmaker father and producer mother, she traveled the world as they created captivating travel films, instilling in her a love for curiosity,…
- S23 E219 Jigisha Bouverat - Creative Management and Content Production
Happy New Year, everyone! Today we're talking to Jigisha Bouverat of Rise Creative Studios! Throughout her 20 years at TBWA\Chiat\Day, she revolutionized the art production industry, managing teams and collaborating with creators to produc…
- S22 E218 Jessie-Sierra Ross - Seasons Around the Table
This week, we welcome back Jessie-Sierra Ross, the self-taught cook, entertaining expert, and creator of Straight to the Hips, Baby, a blog that inspires confidence in the kitchen with from-scratch recipes and step-by-step guides. Jessie-S…
- S22 E217 Alishia Abodunde - Documentary Photographer
This week’s guest is Alishia Abodunde, a London-based, self-taught photographer whose work captures the authenticity and intimacy of honest storytelling through still imagery. Alishia first discovered her passion during the lockdown, creat…
- S22 E216 Ayser Salman - Writer & Filmmaker
This week, we’re joined by Ayser Salman, a multi-talented producer, editor, comedy writer, and author dedicated to bringing stories of underrepresented voices to the forefront. From her Emmy-nominated and Clio-winning docuseries to her rol…
- S22 E215 - Stephanie Swane - Modernist Cuisine Publisher & Women in Pizza Ambassador
In this episode, Shelly is joined by Stephanie Swane, the publisher of Modernist Cuisine. With over 25 years in publishing, Stephanie has helmed numerous projects that dive into the science and art of cooking, leading global research trips…
- S22 E214 Jen Schmitz - Agent at REDEYE Reps
In this episode, we're talking with Jen Schmitz, an artist agent with REDEYE, an agency known for supporting voice-driven, art-focused work, blending commercial projects with the freedom for artists to pursue personal creative visions. Jen…
- S22 E213 Tori Spadaro Weintraub - Creative Director and Producer
Say hello to Tori Spadaro Weintraub, a photographer, creative director, and producer for photoshoots and music video shoots! Tori's passion lies in crafting content that sparks wonder and captures authentic emotion. Her dynamic approach al…
- S21 E212 Hollie Fraser - Founder of Shelance
Today Shelly is chatting with Hollie Fraser, an award-winning multidisciplinary Creative Director with over 15 years of experience developing compelling concepts, repositioning brands, and garnering media attention for clients. Known for h…
- S21 E211 Iri Greco - BrakeThrough Media
Today we're talking with Iri Greco, a photographer and video producer whose journey into photography began after spending over a decade working as a chef and food stylist. From her time in restaurant kitchens and bartending to styling for…
- S21 E210 Helynn Ospina - Photographer
In this episode, we’re joined by Helynn Ospina, a photographer, artist, and storyteller. Born in Colombia and raised in the U.S. as an undocumented immigrant, Helynn’s journey has been shaped by the search for identity. Her path has been a…
- S21 E209 Sandy Grigsby - Personal Branding Photographer
Today we have the pleasure of speaking with Sandy Grigsby! Sandy started as a commercial model for major brands like T-Mobile, Apple, and Cadillac, and later transitioned into designing celebrity websites with top photographers in LA. Desp…
- S21 E 208 Katie Marble - Photographer and Stylist
In this episode, Lauren is chatting with Katie Marble, a California native and lifelong creative with over 15 years of experience in both agency and freelance work. Katie’s passion for storytelling, style, and attention to detail brings a…
- S21 E207 Allie LeFevere - Creative Director and Co-founder of Obedient
In this episode, we're joined by Allie LeFevere, the Creative Director and Co-founder of Obedient, a humor-driven branding agency that transforms businesses into unforgettable, bold brands. Allie, alongside her best friend and business par…
- S21 E206 Lisa Sylvester - Interrobang Design
Lisa Sylvester is the co-owner of Interrobang Design Collaborative, an award-winning and internationally published strategic brand development and graphic design studio based in Vermont. Known for her calm, steady approach and positive att…
- S21 E205 Erika Bierman - Architecture Photographer
In this episode, we’re joined by Erika Bierman, whose story begins in a small Hungarian town, where she developed a deep connection to nature and sustainable living. Growing up, she spent her days biking through fields, learning the art of…
- S21 E204 Brehan Todd - Fashion Stylist and Art Director
In this episode, we’re joined by Brehan Todd, a creative force with over two decades of experience in the fashion industry. Brehan's unique perspective has shaped her career as a designer, stylist, art director, and creative producer, allo…
- S21 E203 Catching Up with Neysa of Ginger and Carrot Productions
You might remember Neysa's amazing story from back in Season 19. Neysa is a multi-skilled life coach, entrepreneur, author, and podcast host dedicated to helping others show up authentically and boldly. As a co-owner of Ginger and Carrot P…
- S20 E202 Shaina Fishman - Animal Photographer
Join us in this episode as we chat with Shaina Fishman, an accomplished photographer with a passion for capturing the essence of animals. Shaina's journey began with her family pets and has taken her around the world, photographing wild li…
- S20 E201 Christy Day - Interior Stylist
Today we're talking to Christy Day, a talented designer and stylist with a foundation rooted in furniture and photography. Since 2006, Christy has developed a distinct design vision that's modern and clean, with a touch of traditional clas…
- S20 E200 Celebrating 200 Episodes with Traci Terrick
Today we're celebrating 200 episodes of the podcast by talking to Focus on Women's co-founder, Traci Terrick! In 2009, Traci founded Poppy Creative, an innovative, inclusive creative agency representing visionary photographers, insightful…