Events

WBN Speaker Series AI for Everyday Business: Save Time, Stay Organized, Reduce Stress Join us for a practical, easy-to-follow session designed to help you simplify your daily work using AI. Your inbox is full. Your to-do list keeps growing. And the digital work behind your business never really stops. AI is everywhere right now, but most advice feels either too technical or too vague to be useful. This session cuts through the noise and focuses on real-world tools you can start using right away. What You’ll Learn • How to use AI to clean up emails, documents, and everyday writing • Simple ways to organize notes, ideas, and meeting takeaways • How to turn repetitive tasks into clear, reusable systems • Basic prompting techniques that improve AI results instantly • The “power prompt” that makes AI feel like a true assistant What to Expect • Live demonstrations using real business scenarios • Practical, easy-to-apply tools (no tech background needed) • A clear, no-overwhelm approach to using AI in your daily work Event Details 📅 Wednesday, May 13, 2026 ⏰ 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM 📍 Venture X – Frederick, MD About the Speaker Whitney Hahn is known as the “No Busyness Advisor,” helping leaders replace hustle with clarity, accountability, and systems that actually work. She founded Provoke Better to help founders and teams move out of survival mode and into sustainable growth. Her background spans leadership consulting, team coaching, and marketing, with unique experience as a radio DJ, TV host, and zoo marketing director, where she learned to engage audiences and stay calm when things get unpredictable. Today, Whitney helps professionals turn their expertise into practical, AI-supported workflows that save time, improve communication, and reduce friction—without adding complexity. She serves on leadership and tech advisory boards and regularly speaks on culture, growth, and practical AI adoption for everyday business. Optional: We will be collecting items for Andrea’s House at this event. Donations are always appreciated and help support women and families in our community.

Getting Started with Copilot: AI for Everyday Work Tasks  Registration Free for WBN Members $10 for Non-Members - All non-member registration proceeds will benefit Andrea’s House. Virtual Training (link provided after registration) Overview Curious about AI but not sure where to start? This interactive Skills Series session introduces Microsoft Copilot and shows you how to use it for everyday work tasks like writing, summarizing, brainstorming, and organizing information. Designed for beginners, this session combines short demos with hands-on practice so you can try Copilot in real time and walk away with skills you can use immediately. What You’ll Learn What Microsoft Copilot is (and what it isn’t) How to use AI for common, everyday work tasks Simple prompting techniques to get better results How to apply Copilot in your own workflow What to Expect Live demonstrations Guided, hands-on practice A supportive, low-pressure learning environment Practical tips you can use right away About the Presenter Isabel Sumy AI Consultant, Penn State University Isabel Sumy is an AI Consultant at Penn State University with hands-on experience helping faculty and staff use Microsoft Copilot to work more efficiently. She supports AI-enabled teaching and administrative workflows and regularly leads Copilot trainings and workshops for academic and professional audiences. Isabel is passionate about helping professionals feel confident using AI tools to save time, streamline work, and focus on higher-impact work.

Connection • Community • Purpose Join us for a relaxed summer evening at Frederick Social, where meaningful connections happen naturally. This is a come-as-you-are gathering—no formal networking, no agenda—just time to unwind, connect, and enjoy great conversation with women who share a passion for community and purpose. We’ll come together to support Andrea’s House, an organization making a lasting impact for women and families in our community. Whether through registration or donations, your participation helps provide essential resources and support to those working toward stability and independence. Bring a friend, meet someone new, and be part of a Social that feels good... and does good. Registration Options $10 to Attend All registration proceeds will benefit Andrea’s House. OR Attend Free with an In-Kind Donation Bring a much-needed item to support Andrea’s House in place of registration. In-Kind Donation Ideas Andrea’s House supports women and families as they transition toward stability. The following items are especially helpful: Personal care items (shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, toothpaste, feminine hygiene products) Laundry supplies (detergent, dryer sheets) Household essentials (paper towels, toilet paper, cleaning products) Gift cards (grocery, pharmacy, gas) New towels or bedding All donated items will be delivered directly to Andrea’s House.

Holistic Business Health Integrating Risk Protection & Workforce Resiliency   Running a successful business isn’t just about growth—it’s about building a strong foundation that supports both your business and your people. Holistic Business Health is an interactive session designed for women business owners and professionals who want to strengthen their business from the inside out. This session reframes traditional risk planning and workforce support as strategic tools that reduce uncertainty, build confidence, and support sustainable success. You’ll walk away with practical insights to help you protect your business, support your team, and grow with clarity. What You’ll Learn: Reframe Risk Protection Understand how strategic insurance and risk planning can serve as confidence builders that support smarter business decisions. Boost Workforce Resiliency Learn how holistic support systems improve retention, productivity, and overall workplace culture. Align Strategy & People Discover how integrating protection and people-first practices reduces exposure and creates stronger, more sustainable systems. This session is ideal for women who want to lead with intention, strengthen their operations, and create a business that is both protected and people-centered. About the Speakers Blakeley Barker, Agency Director – WLR Insurance Solutions Blakeley Barker brings over 15 years of experience in the commercial insurance industry, where she has developed a deep understanding of the unique needs of business owners. Known for her high level of service and relationship-driven approach, Blakeley is passionate about helping clients protect what they’ve built while making confident, informed decisions. Her commitment to serving others is rooted in a strong belief in integrity and intention—values that guide her work and leadership. Blakeley began her career as a Patient Care Coordinator and Marketing Director for a physical therapy group, where she discovered the power of community connection and service in setting herself apart. Since transitioning into commercial insurance, Blakeley has continued to grow as a leader in the industry. In 2019, she was appointed to the Maryland Property and Casualty Producer Licensing Advisory Board, working alongside the Maryland Insurance Administration during a time of significant change. After being introduced to WLR Automotive Group in 2017, Blakeley partnered as their commercial insurance agent, helping to foster a risk-conscious culture that aligned with the company’s values. Today, she serves as Agency Director of WLR Insurance Solutions, where she is focused on bringing a fresh, strategic approach to commercial insurance for businesses across the region. Brianne DiDino, Wellness Strategist Brianne DiDino is a Wellness Strategist, speaker, author, and founder of Beyond Grounded, LLC. She empowers individuals to better understand themselves and transform life’s challenges into meaningful growth. With over 20 years of experience as a Clinical Scientist, Brianne blends analytical insight with intuitive awareness to guide others toward greater clarity, self-trust, and authentic living. As the creator of the C.R.E.A.T.E. Method, she offers a transformative framework that helps individuals shift from self-protection to empowerment—recognizing that life is not happening to them, but for them—so they can create a more aligned and fulfilling life.

Inspiring Conversation + Fast, Meaningful Connections Join us for a meaningful and engaging WBN Speaker Series event that brings together purpose, community, and connection. We’re honored to welcome Carleah Summers, Founder & CEO of Andrea’s House, who will share her powerful story and the mission behind creating a safe, supportive space for women and children in recovery. Following a brief and inspiring talk, we’ll transition into a fun and interactive Speed Connections session—designed to help you meet new people, spark conversations, and build authentic relationships in a relaxed and welcoming environment. What to Expect: Inspiring Speaker Moment Hear from Carleah Summers as she shares the story and impact of Andrea’s House and the importance of community support. Speed Connections A guided, fast-paced networking experience to help you meet and connect with other women in the room. Meaningful Conversations Build relationships that go beyond business and create lasting connections within WBN. This event is perfect for anyone looking to: ✔ Connect with other women in a more intentional way ✔ Be inspired by a powerful local mission ✔ Grow their network in a fun and supportive environment About the Speaker Carleah Summers, Founder & CEO of Andrea’s House Carleah Summers founded Andrea’s House: Transitional Living for Women and Children in Frederick, MD, in March 2019, turning her deep faith and life journey into a transformative mission. Guided by her unwavering belief in redemption, Carleah created Andrea’s House as a beacon of hope for women recovering from substance use disorders—a place where they can heal, grow, and thrive alongside their children in a safe, supportive environment. With extensive experience in the addiction and recovery field, Carleah brings both professional expertise and deep compassion to her work. Her holistic approach supports the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of recovery, while her personal journey as a mother in long-term recovery allows her to connect with the women she serves in a meaningful way. Andrea’s House is more than a program—it is a community where women rediscover their purpose, rebuild confidence, and develop the skills needed for a brighter future. 💛 Optional: Support Andrea’s House Donations for Andrea’s House will be accepted at this event. Contributions help provide essential resources and support for women and families in our community. The following items are especially helpful: Personal care items (shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, toothpaste, feminine hygiene products) Laundry supplies (detergent, dryer sheets) Household essentials (paper towels, toilet paper, cleaning products) Gift cards (grocery, pharmacy, gas) New towels or bedding  

Connection • Community • Purpose Join us for a relaxed evening at Rak Brewing Co., where connection comes easy and conversations flow naturally. Enjoy a laid-back atmosphere, great company, and your favorite brew while spending time with women who value community and purpose. This is a come-as-you-are gathering—no formal networking, no program—just an opportunity to unwind, connect, and enjoy the moment. We’ll come together to continue supporting Andrea’s House, an organization making a meaningful difference for women and families in our community. Through your attendance and donations, you help provide essential resources and support to those working toward stability and independence. Bring a friend, meet someone new, and be part of a Social that feels good—and does good. Registration Options $10 to Attend All registration proceeds will benefit Andrea’s House. OR Attend Free with an In-Kind Donation Bring a much-needed item to support Andrea’s House in place of registration. In-Kind Donation Ideas Andrea’s House supports women and families as they transition toward stability. The following items are especially helpful: Personal care items (shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, toothpaste, feminine hygiene products) Laundry supplies (detergent, dryer sheets) Household essentials (paper towels, toilet paper, cleaning products) Gift cards (grocery, pharmacy, gas) New towels or bedding All donated items will be delivered directly to Andrea’s House.

Save the Date: WBN Steps for Success Wednesday, October 14, 2026 Join us for WBN Steps for Success, an upcoming Women’s Business Network event created to inspire connection, growth, and meaningful momentum. We’re excited to share more details soon, including the event location, timing, and additional information. For now, we invite you to save the date and plan to join us on Wednesday, October 14, 2026. Additional details coming soon.

Charging Your Worth: Pricing with Confidence   Many women business owners are brilliant at what they do, but when it comes to pricing their work, self-doubt, limiting beliefs, and fear of losing clients can keep them stuck charging far less than they are worth. In this presentation, Rachel Collins cuts through the confusion with a practical, straightforward framework for setting prices that reflect your true value and support the business you are building. Using her signature reverse-engineering approach, Rachel will help attendees take a clear look at what is really behind pricing hesitation and how to begin turning that around. She will walk through the calculations needed to determine what you actually need to charge in order to pay yourself consistently, cover expenses, and create real profit. Key Takeaways: Why you may be undercharging, and why the reason is often not what you think A simple formula for working backward from your income goals to price with confidence How to stop making buying decisions for your clients and start pricing for the people you want to serve Which pricing model fits your business and how to think creatively about it Rachel Collins is a Certified Financial and Business Accountability Coach, with Living Well Financial Coaching who helps women business owners navigate the financial realities of entrepreneurship. She works with driven entrepreneurs who are making decent money but still feel broke and are tired of the feast-or-famine cycle. Rachel creates a shame-free space where clients can get unstuck, build systems that work, and run businesses that are both profitable and sustainable, so they can stop stressing and start living with greater intention and purpose. Giving Back: Supporting Andrea’s House We are proud to support Andrea’s House, a local nonprofit providing transitional housing and resources for women and children in our community. We are always collecting supplies and gift cards to help meet everyday needs. Suggested Donation Items: • Cleaning supplies • Laundry detergent • Handbags and tote bags • Facial and personal care products • Gift cards (grocery, gas, or general retail) Donations are always appreciated and help make a meaningful impact.

WBN December Social – Holiday Sweater Party Connection • Community • Purpose Join us for a festive evening at Oscar’s Alehouse as we celebrate the season together at our WBN Holiday Social! This month, it’s a Holiday Sweater Party! 🎄 Wear your favorite (or funniest!) holiday sweater and enjoy a relaxed, come-as-you-are evening filled with connection, laughter, and great conversation. No formal networking, no program, just time to unwind and celebrate with women who value community and purpose. We’ll continue supporting Andrea’s House, an organization making a meaningful difference for women and families in our community. Through your attendance and donations, you help provide essential resources and support to those working toward stability and independence. Grab a drink, show off your holiday spirit, and be part of a Social that feels good—and does good. Registration Options $10 to Attend All registration proceeds will benefit Andrea’s House. OR Attend Free with an In-Kind Donation Bring a much-needed item to support Andrea’s House in place of registration. In-Kind Donation Ideas Andrea’s House supports women and families as they transition toward stability. The following items are especially helpful: Personal care items (shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, toothpaste, feminine hygiene products) Laundry supplies (detergent, dryer sheets) Household essentials (paper towels, toilet paper, cleaning products) Gift cards (grocery, pharmacy, gas) New towels or bedding All donated items will be delivered directly to Andrea’s House.