2025 Remarkable Women Winner: Rachel Leslie
Every year, WTWO holds a Remarkable Women contest. Viewers are asked to nominate a remarkable woman they know. After receiving dozens of nominations, a panel of judges chose Rachel Leslie as the 2025 winner.
2025 Remarkable Women nominee: Erica Arnold
Leslie is the founder of RJL Solutions. The company started with an office in Terre Haute and has grown to include offices in Indianapolis and Evansville.
'When she started putting all of these great young leaders around her, and they got excited, it just ballooned to what it is today,' said Rick Burger with Duke Energy.
2025 Remarkable Women nominee: Lauren Alexander
Among the things Leslie's company does is help local governments and organizations make connections with state and federal lawmakers. It allows a community's wants and needs be known, and in return, those needs can hopefully be met.
'It's really nice to have a partner in everything we're working on, and that's what Rachael provides,' said President and CEO of the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce Kristin Craig.
2025 Remarkable Women nominee: Kim Cooper
Besides helping communities and organizations achieve their goals, Leslie also helps her friends make their dreams come true.
Susan Turner is the Director of the Terre Haute Children's Museum. Nearly a decade ago, she received the news that it would be very difficult for her and her husband to ever have a baby.
'I went to Rachel and I told her what the doctors had said and I said, I don't know how we're ever going to afford to adopt a baby because it's really expensive and she said, don't worry about the money, we'll figure it out,' explained Susan Turner.
2025 Remarkable Women nominee: Meredith Osburn
Turner says Leslie held a fundraiser at her house. The $3,000 raised was seed money Turner and her husband needed to adopt Max. He became their son at four days old and that was more than 7 years ago.
It was for all of these things and many others that Rachel Leslie was nominated as a Remarkable Woman.
'It's not something that you don't think is going to happen during your lifetime,' added Rachel Leslie.
As the winner of WTWO's Remarkable Women contest, $1,000 will be donated to the charity of Leslie's choice. She will also be flown to Los Angeles, to be part of the National Remarkable Women's contest sponsored by Nexstar Broadcasting. The winner of the national contest gets $25,000 donated to a charity of her choice.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
TechCrunch
2 hours ago
- TechCrunch
Women are making real progress in venture capital, and the numbers prove it
A new report by the nonprofit All Raise found that the percentage of women and nonbinary individuals in partner roles at leading firms has doubled in the past few years, despite market headwinds. All Raise CEO Paige Hendrix Buckner chatted with TechCrunch's Dominic-Madori Davis about what's driving the shift on this week's Equity. 'There are two pieces to it,' she said of the progress being made for women. She said much of it is to do with firms looking to become more efficient and are looking to internally promote the best people within their firms. The second part is that firms realize the benefit of having a more diverse set of voices at the decision-making table. 'One, folks got in the door, and then number two, people were able to perform,' she continued. But there is still much work to be done. Compensation, for one, is still an issue. Also, megafirms, those managing more than $10 billion in assets, still do not have many women in those top partner roles. 'It takes time to change,' she said. Luckily, it looks like good news is already on the way. Listen to the full episode to hear: How investors are responding to the current DEI backlash The impact that women starting their own firms are having on the industry What progress All Raise hopes to see in the next five years Equity will be back Friday with our weekly news roundup, so stay tuned. Equity is TechCrunch's flagship podcast, produced by Theresa Loconsolo, and posts every Wednesday and Friday. Subscribe to us on Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify and all the casts. You also can follow Equity on X and Threads, at @EquityPod.
Wall Street Journal
2 days ago
- Wall Street Journal
Car Buyers Are Showing Up to Auto Lots With Cash to Spend
The consumer economy is cooling and car prices remain vastly higher from just a few years ago. But there is little sign that sticker shock at dealers' lots is straining affordability, according to the head of auto lending at JPMorgan's commercial bank. Despite the dual sting of more than three years of above-trend inflation and a cooling labor market, household finances are still in solid shape, Chase Auto chief Leslie Wims Morris said in an interview. That has helped car buyers weather a brutal combination of higher vehicle prices and steep borrowing costs.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Yahoo
15 Reasons More Women Are Opting Out Of Marriage Entirely
Deciding whether to get married is a big deal, and more women are opting out of marriage entirely. It's not about rejecting love or companionship; it's about choosing what feels right for you. If you're on the fence about marriage or leaning towards skipping it, you're not alone. More women are finding happiness, fulfillment, and success outside of the traditional path. Here are 15 reasons why marriage might not be on your to-do list. 1. Financial Independence Is A Priority You've worked hard to establish your career and become financially independent. Marriage could feel like a potential risk to your financial stability, especially if it involves sharing debts or uneven financial habits. According to a study by Pew Research Center, women are increasingly the primary or sole breadwinners in their households, which might lessen the perceived need for a financial partnership. Being financially independent gives you the power to make decisions based on your own wants and needs without compromise. You might prefer to maintain control over your finances and prioritize your own economic security. On the flip side, managing finances as a single person can be less complicated. You have the freedom to spend, save, and invest your money as you see fit. The absence of financial disputes can lead to a more peaceful and stress-free life. You might also feel more empowered because you can set and achieve personal financial goals on your own timeline. This independence can be incredibly rewarding and is a valid reason to consider opting out of marriage. 2. Career Goals Take Center Stage Your career is important to you, and marriage might not fit into your professional plans right now. You're driven, ambitious, and focused on achieving your career goals, which could mean relocating frequently or working unconventional hours. Marriage might feel like an additional responsibility that could detract from your career ambitions. You want the freedom to pursue opportunities without needing to consider a partner's career or location preferences. For you, personal satisfaction and professional success can be more fulfilling than traditional family life. While being career-focused, you might find that the traditional roles associated with marriage don't align with your vision. You feel more liberated and capable when you don't have to balance home duties typically expected in a marriage. Choosing not to marry can mean one less thing to think about when making career moves or accepting promotions. You might prefer this independence, as it allows you to shape your life around your aspirations without having to compromise. This can be a powerful way to ensure you reach your full potential professionally. 3. Desire For Personal Growth Personal growth and self-discovery might be at the top of your priority list. Marriage could potentially limit your self-exploration, as it often involves focusing on the needs and growth of the partnership. Dr. Bella DePaulo, a social psychologist known for her research on single life, suggests that being single provides more opportunities for self-development and self-reflection. You want the time and space to pursue your passions, learn new things, and evolve as an individual. This personal journey can be incredibly fulfilling and rewarding. Additionally, you might feel that marriage could impose certain expectations or roles that don't align with your vision for your life. You're interested in defining your identity on your own terms without societal pressures. Being free from the constraints of a traditional marriage allows you to explore different facets of your character and lifestyle. You can embrace change more readily and take on new challenges with a sense of freedom. This autonomy can lead to a more authentic and fulfilling life experience. 4. The Appeal Of Freedom And Flexibility Freedom and flexibility are appealing and significant factors for you. Marriage often comes with responsibilities that can tie you down, such as joint decision-making and shared obligations. Being single allows you to make spontaneous choices and adapt to life's changes without needing to consider a partner's preferences. You enjoy the ability to travel, explore, and live life on your own terms. This flexibility can be both exhilarating and liberating. Married life can sometimes mean prioritizing couple goals over personal ones. For you, the idea of being unrestricted in your decisions is more attractive. You want the ability to pivot your life direction without the need to consult with someone else. This autonomy allows you to live authentically and pursue opportunities that might not be feasible within a marriage. Ultimately, this freedom can lead to a more adventurous and fulfilling life. 5. Changing Societal Perspectives Society's views on marriage and relationships are shifting, and you might find that traditional marriage isn't as appealing as it once was. More people are questioning the necessity of marriage, focusing instead on the quality of their relationships. Researchers at the University of Michigan found that younger generations are more likely to prioritize personal happiness over conforming to societal expectations. This shift means there's less pressure to conform, and more room to make choices that align with your values and desires. You're empowered to make decisions based on what feels right for you, not what's expected. Part of this changing perspective is the recognition that there are many ways to lead a fulfilling life. You might value experiences, personal achievements, and relationships outside of a traditional marriage. The societal acceptance of diverse lifestyles means you can craft a path that reflects who you truly are. This freedom to choose and define your own success is a powerful motivator in deciding to forgo marriage. Embracing this outlook allows you to live authentically and happily, on your own terms. 6. Prioritizing Mental Health Your mental health is important, and marriage might not always support that priority. Relationships can be stressful, and the demands of marriage could add pressure to your life. You might find peace and stability in being single, with fewer obligations and emotional entanglements. This allows you to focus on your well-being and happiness without the additional stress of managing a shared life. Prioritizing your mental health can lead to a more balanced and fulfilling life. Being single also means having the time and space to engage in self-care practices. You have the freedom to create routines that support your mental health without needing to accommodate another person's schedule or preferences. You can dedicate time to therapy, meditation, or other wellness activities that help you maintain a healthy mindset. This focus on self-care can lead to greater emotional resilience and overall well-being. Opting out of marriage might be the best choice for maintaining your mental health and happiness. 7. The Rise Of Alternative Relationships Alternative relationship models are becoming more popular, and you might find these more appealing than traditional marriage. Concepts like cohabitation, open relationships, or partnerships without legal ties offer flexibility and customization. According to Dr. Elisabeth Sheff, an expert on polyamory, many people are finding happiness in non-traditional relationships that allow for personal growth and freedom. This trend reflects a shift towards valuing the diversity of relationship experiences over traditional norms. Exploring alternative models allows you to shape your relationships based on mutual respect and understanding. These alternative relationships can offer more honesty and communication, as they require defining boundaries and expectations clearly. You have the opportunity to craft a partnership that fits your lifestyle, without the constraints of legal marriage. This flexibility can lead to healthier dynamics and more fulfilling connections. You might appreciate the ability to redefine what a successful relationship looks like, free from societal pressure. Choosing an alternative relationship model could be more satisfying and sustainable for you. 8. Focus On Friendships And Community You might place a high value on friendships and community, seeing them as equally important, if not more so, than a marital relationship. Building a network of supportive, meaningful connections can provide a sense of belonging and happiness. Friendships often offer long-lasting support and companionship, without the formalities and expectations of marriage. You might find that spending time nurturing these relationships leads to a richer and fuller life. This focus can provide emotional comfort and stability that are sometimes sought in marriage. Being part of a community offers a diverse range of interactions and experiences. By surrounding yourself with a variety of people, you create a broader support system that can meet different emotional needs. This network can provide a sense of family and connection, reducing the need for a marital partner. You might find more satisfaction in building these bonds and enjoying the freedom that comes with them. For you, a strong community can be the foundation of a joyful and fulfilling life. 9. Avoiding The Pressure Of Traditional Roles Marriage often comes with traditional roles and expectations that might not align with your personal beliefs or desires. You want the freedom to define your identity without conforming to predetermined roles of spouse or partner. Being single allows you to escape expectations related to gender roles or familial duties. You can define your roles and responsibilities in a way that suits your personality and goals. This freedom can lead to a more authentic and satisfying life. By opting out of marriage, you have the opportunity to challenge and redefine societal norms. You can create a lifestyle that reflects your values and ambitions, rather than those imposed by tradition. This independence allows you to explore different identities and roles without the pressure of meeting someone else's expectations. You can focus on what makes you happy and fulfilled, on your own terms. This autonomy is a powerful reason to consider forgoing marriage. 10. The Importance Of Lifestyle Choices Lifestyle choices can be a big factor in your decision to stay single. Marriage might require compromises on how you want to live your life, from where you live to how you spend your time. You might prefer the flexibility to make lifestyle decisions without needing to consider a partner's preferences. This freedom allows you to create a life that truly reflects your values and desires. Choosing your own path can lead to a more satisfying and harmonious existence. Your lifestyle choices might include travel, hobbies, and living arrangements that don't align with traditional marriage expectations. You value the ability to direct your life in ways that bring you joy and contentment. Living without the constraints of marriage lets you explore and pursue your interests fully. You have the opportunity to live authentically and make choices that enhance your happiness and well-being. This freedom of choice is a compelling reason to consider remaining unmarried. 11. The Need For Personal Space Personal space can be important for your comfort and well-being. Marriage often involves sharing your life and space closely with another person, which can feel overwhelming at times. By staying single, you have the autonomy to create boundaries and maintain your personal space. This allows you to retreat and recharge when needed, without the obligation to be constantly available. This space can lead to greater emotional balance and personal satisfaction. You might find that having control over your environment contributes to your happiness. Being able to design your living space and routines to suit your preferences brings comfort and stability. You value the freedom to decide when and how to engage with others, based on your needs and energy levels. This control over your personal space can enhance your well-being and sense of independence. For you, the ability to maintain personal space is a significant factor in choosing not to marry. 12. The Appeal Of Self-Sufficiency Self-sufficiency might be a core value for you, and marriage could feel like a step back in that regard. You take pride in being able to manage your life independently, without relying heavily on someone else. This independence can be empowering, allowing you to tackle challenges and enjoy successes on your own terms. Being self-sufficient means you can navigate life with confidence and resilience. This sense of autonomy is a fulfilling and rewarding way to live. Choosing not to marry allows you to maintain and enhance this self-sufficiency. You have the freedom to make decisions and solve problems without needing to consider a partner's input. This autonomy can lead to a stronger sense of self and personal satisfaction. You might find that living independently gives you the opportunity to grow and develop in ways that align with your values. Embracing self-sufficiency is an empowering reason to consider remaining unmarried. 13. The Freedom To Travel And Explore Travel and exploration might be a significant part of your life, and marriage could potentially limit these experiences. You value the freedom to pick up and go, exploring new places and cultures at your own pace. Being single allows you to make spontaneous travel plans without needing to consider a partner's schedule or preferences. This freedom can lead to a life rich with adventure and personal growth. You might find that living on your own terms enhances your experiences and satisfaction. Traveling solo can lead to deeper self-discovery and understanding of the world. You have the opportunity to immerse yourself fully in new experiences without distractions. This can lead to a more authentic and meaningful exploration of different cultures and perspectives. You might find that these adventures contribute significantly to your happiness and personal development. This love for travel and exploration is a compelling reason to consider remaining single. 14. Avoiding The Stress Of Relationship Conflicts Relationship conflicts can be stressful, and marriage might amplify these challenges. You might prefer to avoid the potential for ongoing disputes over finances, household duties, or personal habits. Being single allows you to steer clear of the emotional turmoil that can come with marital disagreements. This choice can lead to a more peaceful and harmonious life. You have the freedom to create a stress-free environment that nurtures your well-being. Without the stress of relationship conflicts, you can focus on your personal goals and happiness. This freedom allows you to maintain emotional balance and resilience. You can build a life that minimizes stress and maximizes joy by choosing who you spend time with and how you engage with them. This autonomy can lead to a more fulfilling and stress-free existence. Choosing to avoid the potential conflicts of marriage can be a major factor in your decision to stay single. 15. Embracing A Lifestyle Of Minimalism Minimalism might resonate with you, and marriage can sometimes contradict this lifestyle choice. You appreciate simplicity and the freedom that comes from living with less. Marriage might require accumulating more possessions and responsibilities, which can feel burdensome. By staying single, you have the flexibility to live a minimalist lifestyle that aligns with your values. This simplicity can lead to greater peace and contentment. Living minimally allows you to focus on what truly matters, such as experiences and personal growth. You have the freedom to declutter both your physical space and your life choices. You might find that this lifestyle brings clarity and enhances your well-being. Embracing minimalism can lead to a deeper sense of freedom and happiness. For you, the simplicity of single life is a powerful reason to consider forgoing marriage. Solve the daily Crossword
