Ellevate Network: Conversations With Women Changing the Face of Business

Allyson McDonald

The Ellevate Podcast spotlights women+ making a difference across industries—entrepreneurs, authors, executives, and other trailblazers who share the strategies, stumbles, and wins that shaped their careers. Hosted by Ally McDonald and produced by Ashton Porzio, the show blends real talk with practical guidance to help you navigate today’s business landscape. Expect actionable advice on leadership, growth, and impact; thoughtful conversations on purpose and resilience; and insights you can use immediately—whether you’re a founder, a corporate leader, or somewhere in between. Tune in for engaging stories, smart takeaways, and the momentum to take your next step.About Ellevate Network:Ellevate is a community of professional women+ committed to helping each other succeed. We use the power of community to help you take the next step in your career. We show up for each other, helping everyone — no matter their background or aspirations — build a career they love. And even more importantly, we mobilize our collective power to change the culture of business.Although our community is the largest of its kind, we know that navigating a sea of faceless connections is a waste of time. That’s why we prioritize meaningful relationships—local and digital—that offer real insights and open real doors. Our community has reach, power, and influence, while remaining warm, welcoming, and deeply supportive. Ellevate is where changemakers cultivate their voice, build bridges of understanding, and mobilize for impact.We also partner with leading companies to improve hiring, retention, and diversity, equity, and inclusion across organizations.Our History:Ellevate Network (formerly known as 85 Broads) was founded in 1997 by Janet Hanson, one of the first women promoted to sales management at Goldman Sachs. During a moment of transition in her own life, she realized that clarity comes from community—and that women needed a place to share insight, opportunity, and support. What began as an unofficial network for women connected to Goldman Sachs quickly expanded across industries and continents. In 2014, the community rebranded from 85 Broads to Ellevate Network to reflect its evolution from a finance-focused group to a broad, diverse, global community of ambitious and values-driven women+ working together to change the culture of business.