The Disruptors

Community Care with Ignite Promise

In this special Women’s History Month episode of The Disruptors, we sit down with Stephanie Piccirilli, President & CEO of Ignite, and Chineze Mogbo, Director of Engagement, to explore how Ignite is transforming the lives of young people facing housing instability. Ignite envisions a world where youth are defined by their potential, not their circumstances. Through safe housing, holistic support, and community advocacy, they are breaking cycles of homelessness and helping young people step into leadership and self-sufficiency. Stephanie and Chineze share powerful insights on women in leadership, overcoming systemic barriers, and the role of courage and community in creating lasting change. We’ll also highlight the unique challenges young women face and how Ignite is shaping a future where every young person has the opportunity to thrive. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on resilience, leadership, and the power of investing in our youth. https://www.ignitepromise.org/

Building Bridges for Collective Power with Arielle Johnson

In this episode of The Disruptors, we sit down with Arielle Johnson—entrepreneur, advocate, and former city and state government leader. Arielle shares her journey from public service to launching Fierce Staffing Agency, a company rooted in workforce development and economic empowerment. She discusses the challenges Black women face in leadership, the importance of advocacy, and how she balances being a CEO and a mother. Tune in for a conversation on resilience, community impact, and building bridges for collective power. Learn more about Fierce Staffing Agency: https://www.fiercestaffingservices.com/

Transformative Leadership with Myetie Hamilton

In this insightful episode of The Disruptors, host Ashley E. sits down with Myetie Hamilton, the first Black woman to serve as CEO of Leadership Greater Chicago. With a distinguished career spanning education, non-profit leadership, and civic engagement, Myetie shares her journey of stepping outside her comfort zone to lead transformative initiatives across Chicago. She discusses the importance of leaning into discomfort, the role of mentorship, and the unique challenges faced by Black women in leadership positions. To learn more about Leadership Greater Chicago visit https://lgcchicago.org/

Season 2: Welcome Back

We’re back! 🎙️ Kicking off Season 2 of The Disruptors with a special series celebrating Women’s History Month. Stay tuned as we spotlight incredible women leaders in Chicago’s nonprofit, civic, and entrepreneurial sectors who are making a lasting impact. Plus, check out Bowa Gives, the philanthropic arm of Bowa Construction, to see what we’ve been up to while we’ve been away. 🔗 BowaGives.org

Second Chances & Transformative Change with Iman Central

In this episode of The Disruptors, we sit down with Jose Acevedo, Director of Iman Central’s Green Reentry Program, to explore how their transformative initiative is creating pathways to new beginnings for justice-involved individuals. We dive into the program's mission, which blends construction training, community support, and sustainability practices to offer participants meaningful skills and fresh opportunities. Learn how Green Reentry aligns with Bowa's community-centered vision, and discover the powerful impact of building futures while transforming neighborhoods. Visit Iman Central for more information: https://www.imancentral.org/