In the latest episode of the Lead with Levity podcast, hosted by Dr. Heather Walker, listeners are invited to delve deep into the struggles and triumphs that often remain hidden in both political and professional arenas. This engaging conversation features Dr. Wendy Davis, a former candidate for the Utah House of Representatives, author of “The Fight You Don’t See,” and Chief Experience Officer for Agile Cloud Consulting.
Embracing Challenges on the Campaign Trail
Dr. Davis shares her firsthand experience of running for office in Utah, shedding light on the arduous, often unseen aspects of the political landscape. From the thrill of connecting with voters to the stress of scrutiny from donors and internal conflicts, she provides a raw look at what it’s like behind the scenes. Her journey highlights the significant mental, emotional, and physical toll that campaigning can take, emphasizing the importance of having mental health support along the way.
Lessons from the Book: “The Fight You Don’t See“
Dr. Davis’s book, “The Fight You Don’t See,” captures her candid experiences. She wrote it to fill the gap in firsthand narratives by candidates, aiming to demystify the political process and encourage others to pursue their passion for public service despite inevitable challenges. She hopes that readers understand politics as both complex and rewarding and that perseverance in the face of defeat can be the most significant growth opportunity.
Workplace Challenges: The Silent Struggles
Transitioning to workplace dynamics, Dr. Davis discusses similar hidden battles that professionals face in their careers. She emphasizes the importance of career path planning, pay equity, and emotional intelligence. The workplace, much like political arenas, is rife with invisible power structures and challenges that can impede progress if not addressed openly.
The Importance of Emotional Intelligence
Reflecting on her earlier career, Dr. Davis underscores the need for emotional intelligence and self-awareness, recounting her experiences as a young consultant. Her insight into the necessity of checking one’s ego and fostering a collaborative environment serves as a crucial reminder of how personal growth and team success are interconnected.
The Fight for Pay Equity
One significant yet often overlooked struggle Dr. Davis advocates for is pay equity. She passionately discusses the disparities in salaries, particularly between men and women, and how these reflect broader systemic issues in both workplace and societal structures.
Creating Opportunities for Growth
Dr. Davis further emphasizes the need for organizations to facilitate career growth and rotation programs that prevent stagnation and encourage personal development. By offering clear paths to advancement and valuing diverse talent, companies can foster a more equitable and fulfilling workplace environment.
A Vision for the Future
Concluding with a call to action, Dr. Davis encourages others to hold metaphorical doors open for those who follow. By sharing experiences and mentorship, individuals can create a more supportive and inclusive atmosphere for future leaders.
Finding Joy Amidst the Chaos
Despite the challenges, Dr. Davis finds solace in nature, family, and simple joys like hiking and playing in the park with her grandchildren. These moments of levity and connection remind us of the importance of balancing ambition with personal well-being.
Dr. Wendy Davis’s conversation with Dr. Heather Walker offers insightful perspectives on handling life’s myriad challenges with grit and grace. Whether in politics or at work, it’s the unseen battles that shape who we are and push us toward growth and understanding. Let her story inspire you to face your hidden fights with courage and an open heart.
Wendy Davis, PhD is a former candidate for the Utah House of Representatives. She holds a PhD in Political Science from the University of Utah where her research interests included education policy, political socialization, state and local government, and political participation. In her book The Fight You Don’t See Wendy draws a portrait of modern American politics and details how she faced one of the most challenging campaigns in Utah history. Through it all, she would prove that she was much more than an underdog…she was a fighter.
The Chief Experience Officer for Agile Cloud Consulting, Wendy has worked as a higher education and nonprofit technology expert with over 25 years’ experience driving sales and customer solutions for nonprofits, colleges, and universities of all types and sizes across North America and globally. With a flair for consulting and deep knowledge of key trends, she has paved the way for hundreds of organizations to adopt new business processes through a broad portfolio of technology solutions.
Wendy was recognized as a 2024 finalist for a Stevie Award in the category “Customer Service Leader of the Year.”
Wendy has articles published in Authority Magazine discussing The Power of Authentic Women’s Leadership and CEO World where she writes about Human-Centric Digital Transformation.
She is a grandma to 10 smart, funny, talented, and extraordinary little people. She resides in Sandy, Utah with her husband, Dean.
