Host: Cristan Engelke
Guest: Debbie King and Karen Dickey
VIDEO
PRESENTING SPONSORS:
Community Bank – communitybank.net
EPISODE SPONSOR:
Pure Focus Media – https://www.purefocus.media/
DESCRIPTION
In this special edition, we’re diving deep into one of Southaven’s most cherished annual events—the Women in Business Luncheon, hosted in partnership with the Southaven Chamber of Commerce and Community Bank.
Joining Cristan are two phenomenal leaders and champions of community: Debbie King, President and CEO of the Southaven Chamber, and Karen Dickey, Chief Administration Officer for Community Bank. These dynamic women take us behind the scenes of how this empowering event came to life, what makes it so much more than just a luncheon, and why it continues to inspire, uplift, and transform the lives of women in our community year after year.
Event Description Originally started as a simple lunch outing on Administrative Professionals Day, this event has blossomed into a vibrant celebration of female empowerment, leadership, and connection. Now in its sixth year, the Women in Business Luncheon is where professional women from all industries gather to celebrate each other, grow together, and support one another. From photo booths and fun music to real-talk panel discussions and awe-inspiring keynote speakers, this event is packed with moments that are unforgettable—and often emotional.
Whether you’re a seasoned executive, a new entrepreneur, or simply someone looking for community and encouragement, you’ll leave this event feeling seen, supported, and stronger than ever.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
The origin story of the Women in Business Luncheon—how a casual support meeting turned into a flagship event
Why Administrative Professionals Day was chosen and its symbolic significance
Behind-the-scenes moments: from mic drops to unexpected panel swaps
The heartfelt impact of community and connection for women in the workforce
Why this event has become a safe space for authenticity, faith, vulnerability, and fun
What to expect if you’re a first-time attendee—and what to wear! (Hint: whatever makes you feel beautiful)
How to register and why you should bring a friend (or come alone—you’ll leave with plenty!)
CHAPTERS
- Welcome & Guest Introductions (00:00 – 01:00)
- How the Women in Business Luncheon Started (01:00 – 02:15)
- The Power of Connection & the Original Inspiration (02:15 – 03:45)
- Why It’s Held on Administrative Professionals Day (03:45 – 04:45)
- How It Grew from Lunch to Legacy (04:45 – 06:00)
- Favorite and Funniest Memories (Mic Drop Moment!) (06:00 – 08:30)
- A Raw and Real Moment That Took Everyone to Church (08:30 – 10:30)
- Post-COVID Return: An Emotional Reunion (10:30 – 12:45)
- What to Expect at the Luncheon (12:45 – 14:00)
- Creating a Welcoming Space for All Women (14:00 – 15:15)
- What to Wear: “Whatever Makes You Feel Pretty!” (15:15 – 17:20)
- Karen’s Hope for Every Attendee (17:20 – 19:00)
- Supporting Each Other & Owning Your Seat at the Table (19:00 – 21:00)
- How to Register and What You Get (21:00 – 23:00)
- Memorable Speakers from Years Past (23:00 – 24:00)
- Why You Do Not Want to Miss This Event! (24:00 – 25:15)
- Final Encouragement & Wrap-Up (25:15 – 26:23)
SPONSOR LIST
https://www.wisdomintegrators.com – Wisdom Integrators
https://thefollowapp.co/ – The Follow App
https://www.purefocus.media/ – Pure Focus Media
https://www.southavenchamber.com/ – Southaven Chamber of Commerce
YOUTUBE URL
