SPOTLIGHT: NANCY SPEARS
CEO, Founder, genconnectU
Nancy Spears is the CEO and founder of genconnectU, an online learning platform built to advance the careers and lives of women. gcU is based in NYC and Dublin. Prior to founding genconnectU, Nancy was the founder of a US based marketing and branding agency which she sold to the Interpublic Group. Her experience includes marketing, branding, and promotions for numerous Fortune 500 Clients including Nike, Eli Lilly, Coca Cola, Master Card, Johnson & Johnson, and CNN. Nancy has filmed and spoken at a variety of global conferences including: the Digital Innovation Summit, Berlin, the Cannes Lions Marketing Conference and the Aspen Ideas Festival. Nancy published, Buddha: 9 to 5: The Eightfold Path to Enlightening Your Workplace and Improving Your Bottom Line.
What inspired you to join NYWICI?
I have always been passionate about teaching and guiding the next generation. The best way to do this is by leading with an open heart. NYWICI does this through so many programs including the Matrix. When I first started creating videos for the Matrix Awards I was inspired by the common thread of every honoree – the desire to give back. This generosity, I think is at the core of NYWICI.
What piece of career advice do you live by?
Never stop learning! The only constant is change itself. Because the communications industry is constantly changing, the only way to truly stay ahead and advance your career is through continued learning. Online learning makes it easier now more than ever to acquire the new skills you need to expand your talents and position yourself for successful career growth. It’s also important to learn from and get to know the leaders in our industry. Once you are in a leadership role it’s important to give back and share your knowledge with others. That’s the circle of wisdom that ensures continued industry growth.
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I love to snowboard, ski and write poetry. I’ve been writing poetry since I was 9. Also, I have over 1,000 hours on the meditation cushion….and have been meditating for 20+ years. Hint: Don’t try meditating when snowboarding or skiing!
What’s the best thing you’ve watched/ listened to/ or read recently?
Anything and everything by David Whyte. Consolations is packed for every trip and on every nightstand.
What 5 people living, or dead would you invite for dinner?
His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, my parents, and my twins, Clark and Gwyneth.