Building Consensus: The Power of Empathetic Leadership and Authentic Storytelling

Today, Fiona Ma is California’s 34th State Treasurer and the primary banker for the world’s fifth-largest economy. But she’s had to overcome countless obstacles on her journey. From being the first Asian-American woman to serve as California Assembly Speaker Pro Tempore to authoring 60+ laws advocating for those without power or a voice, she’s overcome roadblocks with an authentic communication style and win-win mindset. Join for her hard-won insights into building bridges—and consensus. You’ll hear:

• The glass and bamboo ceiling: How Fiona overcame adversity on her own journey
• DE&I insights and takeaways you can use to help level playing fields for others
• Authentic storytelling: How Fiona works to inspire and uplift by sharing her story
• Creating a win-win: How to overcome polarization to find common ground
• The role of empathetic leadership in restoring the public’s trust in institutions
• Quick speechwriting insights and tips Fiona has learned on the road and at the podium
• Getting real and having fun: How Fiona balances official and personal brands on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook (think doggy posts and Fiona singing karaoke)
• Optimism and the press: Why the future looks bright—plus hard-won lessons to get the media to eschew the easy “gotcha” and negative stories in favor of upbeat coverage