I have written about the kind of men who felt entitled to my personal space. I have written about the men who called me pet names and asked to talk to the man in charge. I have written about the men who thought I represented an exception and diversity, not my own hard work and reputation. We’re not here to talk about them this month.

I have not written about the men who told me I could do it. I have not written about the men who listened when I spoke and made space for me at the table. I have not written about the men who made sure that even when I wasn’t in the room, someone was singing my praises. I have not told you about my male colleagues, mentors, and allies. Let’s talk about those men and the incredible influence they wield in the careers and lives of women like me.

My former male colleagues to this day remain some of my biggest allies, both publicly when I celebrate an achievement and privately when I need support. I always felt good about the connections I forged in my last role, but knowing that they outlasted my tenure and our daily reasons to interact is simply amazing. Those guys got to watch me work every single day for several years. They saw me in meetings, on client visits, on stage, in the podcast studio, on camera, grinding and busting my ass to do what needed to be done and win for the company continuously. I am forever proud to call those guys my friends and mentors.

The men that blew me away really unexpectedly were the ones that never had the chance to work alongside me as a colleague. The men that were clients, industry leaders, listeners of the podcast, readers of this blog, and friends that I made along the way. I never noticed just how much those men were looking out for me and rooting for me until I announced my departure from Urner Barry. When I landed at my amazing new company, the men that I admire in this business showed up for me in ways that still leave me in awe.

It started when I started getting emails, calls, texts, and messages on LinkedIn from tons of people not only congratulating me, but asking to get in touch when I landed. Many of them told me that they were excited for me to be on their side of the fence and would look for ways to do business together in my new capacity. Wow.

It escalated when I landed at Semper Foods and reached out to a few long-time industry friends for some advice to get me started. Not only did these meat industry superstars pick up the phone and talk to me, they gave me guidance, support, and direction that made my transition smoother than I ever could have hoped. Oh, and the ones who said they’d find ways to do business with me? They did. Wild.

It absolutely threw me when the President of NPFDA emailed me letting me know that I was nominated and almost elected for a seat on the board. I couldn’t even imagine who would have thought of me when I’ve never asked for it, mentioned it, or thought of it as possible for me considering my short tenure in my new role. As I racked my brain, I bounced it off of a former colleague who I’ve always looked up to, he responded to my shock with, “It doesn’t matter how much experience you have, you got the sauce.” Holy cow.

When I went to the NPDFA Supplier Showcase in Atlanta, I was blown away by the amount of men who I have come to know over the years who made time to come catch up. Some to say hello, some to check out my new company, some to try the golfing simulator I had set up at my booth. I told one of my very favorite people in the industry the story of my nomination while he was hitting one-handed puts at my golf station (and landing them). And guess what? It was him! He saw how shocked I was that he threw my hat in such a prominent ring and he said this, “It’s not about how long you’ve been doing it, it’s about the value you bring. And you bring a ton.” Floored.

To every man who has taken the time to talk and listen to me in a room full of important people, thank you. To every man who has sought me out to provide feedback, support, or mentorship, thank you. To every man who made sure that my name continued to be spoken highly of when I wasn’t in the room, thank you. To every man who sees my reputation, credibility, and potential, thank you. Every single one of you is paving the way for a brighter future for women like me. Every single one of you is making room for more women to take up space and make contributions that matter. You are our colleagues, friends, mentors, and allies. Thank you.

Men That Matter

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