Ep. 15 - The Value of Trusted Local Leaders w/ CEO Vanessa Baird-Streeter

Policy & Culture

In this powerful episode of Policy and Culture, we sit down with Vanessa Baird-Streeter, CEO of the Health & Welfare Council of Long Island, for a candid and inspiring conversation about leadership, legacy, and service.

Vanessa shares her journey from entrepreneur to trusted public servant, reflecting on her time as Deputy County Executive of Suffolk County Government, where she helped shape critical policies impacting families across the region. Now, as CEO of one of Long Island’s most important nonprofit organizations, she leads with heart, vision, and deep community insight.

We discuss the power of local politics, the challenges of navigating government and advocacy spaces, and what it means to show up every day as a mother, wife, woman, and boss. Vanessa opens up about the ups and downs of being an entrepreneur, the importance of being rooted in purpose, and the lessons she’s learned from wearing many hats—and wearing them well.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone balancing leadership and life and committed to making real impact in their community.

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