July 2025
Sun's Out, Empowered is On
As the summer sun shines a little brighter, the pull toward vacation mode is real—but at Empowered, we’re leaning into the season with renewed energy and inspiration. This month, we’re spotlighting how our team is embracing summer while staying connected to meaningful, motivating work.
We’re also celebrating a major milestone: our five-year anniversary! To mark the occasion, we’re planning a team night out and taking a short summer break to rest, recharge, and return even stronger.
Scroll down to see how we’re refueling, reconnecting, and bringing that summer spark into everything we do!
Out of Office
The Empowered Team will be out of office from Friday, August 8 to Tuesday, August 12.
How is the Empowered Team making the most of Summer?
Stefanie is bringing her work outside
"Just because it's summer in Chicago and the beautiful weather has arrived doesn't mean the work stops. Making time to work outside is a summer must! It gives me an extra boost of energy, and my dogs love the extra time to explore, too."
Rashel is getting out, getting fueled, and getting work done
"Once a week I set out to a coffee shop to either work alone or with a colleague. It's been a great way to get out in the summer and explore new spots, all while staying productive. If you have any coffee spot recs, let me know!"
Taryn is starting the day with a walk
"My summer goal is to start my morning with a walk - at least once a week - before the day takes over. It's not easy, as my instinct is to dive straight into my inbox, but I'm trusting the research that says moving my body first will actually make me more focused and productive. That email refresh urge is real, but I'm trying!"
Julia is spending time with clients
"Over the summer we have a bit more time to steward relationships with our clients! It was really nice meeting the director of catering at the Four Seasons for lunch with Ilissa. She has such an interesting perspective on nonprofit events and we are looking forward to continuing our partnership."
Christina is taking advantage of local resources
"I have been intentional about slowing down this summer and taking advantage of what's in my own community, which has turned out to be many fun beach days. Sometimes we do not need to go very far to enjoy summer."
Ilissa is saying YES more
"I am filling my cup this summer by saying YES more! Whether it's scheduling more in-person meetings to get quality time with clients and colleagues or taking my daughter for a pre-bedtime bike/scooter ride, it's more fun saying yes. "
