04-04-2025
Lima-area businesswomen share insights on success, leadership
Apr. 3—LIMA — A panel of four local, successful businesswomen discussed their insights, experiences, strategies for success and the keys to thriving in today's business landscape.
The panel included Bev Beery, owner and agent of Beery Insurance; Lynn Carpenter, president and COO of Lima Memorial Health System; Tracie Sanchez, owner and president of Lima Pallet Company and managing partner of the Central District; and Krista Schrader, broker and owner of Schrader Realty.
The panelists discussed significant moments from their journeys.
Sanchez grew up wanting to be a school teacher.
"I didn't grow up saying that I wanted to own a pallet company by any means, but it's the family business," Sanchez said.
Sanchez was able to teach work ethic and skills when she gave felons a second chance at the pallet company.
When it comes to her leadership role, Sanchez said she enjoys a participative style and getting everyone involved.
Unhappiness and a lack of respect in the workplace led Beery to start her own business.
"I'd go home crying," Beery said. "And finally, I said I can do this on my own. I don't need a man telling me how to do this."
Schrader's role models taught her to be okay with not selling every house and how to battle through adversity.
"If it's not going to matter in five years, why are you spending five minutes on it?" Schrader said.
Each panelist explained why maintaining a healthy work-life balance is key to success.
"I have to work out," Schrader said. "If I don't, I become grouchy."
Sanchez is motivated by doing what she loves to do.
"When you love what you do, I don't look at it as work," Sanchez said. "Find something you really enjoy."
Carpenter tries to carve time out of her day to be away from work.
"All of the day-to-day challenges and opportunities, just that time away, taking a walk with one of my kids or what have you," Carpenter said.
Beery loves to stay involved, whether it's volunteering or enjoying her hobbies at her home.
"My niece calls me the Energizer Bunny, and my family gets mad at me that I never sit still, but I do love to garden, and I'm in the yard a lot," Beery said.
"I love to be out in God's creation."
Panelists discussed the importance of surrounding oneself with intelligent people, demonstrating humility, being comfortable with making mistakes, and not hesitating to set high standards when defining what makes a strong businesswoman.
The next Women In Business event will be Thursday, Sept. 4.
Reach Cade Higgins at 567-242-0351
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