Today we’d like to introduce you to Ellie Nieves
Hi Ellie, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in New York to parents who embodied a strong sense of civic duty and hard work. My father worked as a security guard at Rockefeller Center and a part-time newscaster for a Spanish-language radio station, while my mother was deeply involved in community activism and worked for a state legislator. I became the first in my family to graduate from college and attend law school, driven by a passion for civic engagement. Following in my parents’ footsteps, I pursued a degree in communications, which aligned with my desire to contribute to society, with a dream of becoming a legislator.
After graduating from law school, I immersed myself in the political world, working on both local and national campaigns. As one of the few women in these male-dominated spaces—and often the youngest at the table—I quickly learned how to navigate challenges and make my voice heard.
I later transitioned to corporate America, focusing on government and regulatory affairs as a lawyer. During this time, I was frequently asked to mentor young women aspiring to careers in civic engagement or public office. This ignited a passion for helping women advance in their careers, leading me to become a certified coach and launch Leadership Strategies for Women, LLC. Through my company, I offer seminars, webinars, and coaching programs aimed at empowering high-achieving women to confidently show up, speak up, and step up in their professional journeys.
Today, I continue my work as an attorney at a Fortune 300 company, focusing on public policy matters. In parallel, I maintain my commitment to empowering women through my leadership programs. Additionally, I founded ChristianCareerWomen.com, a faith-based initiative that supports Christian women in advancing their careers without compromising their values. Many Christian women wrestle with balancing ambition and humility, and my goal is to provide them with both Biblical guidance and practical skills to thrive in corporate and organizational environments while staying true to their faith.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Some of the biggest challenges I faced early on included finding my voice and earning respect as the youngest person at the table. In male-dominated, highly political environments, I had to develop my executive presence and learn how to clearly articulate my ideas to be heard. However, it wasn’t just about communication—I needed to consistently prove my ability to deliver results, despite facing opposition. Navigating these dynamics helped shape me into a more resilient and effective leader.
I’ve spent over 20 years in the workforce, and I know firsthand the highs and lows that come with climbing the career ladder. I’ve navigated promotions and job loss, worked under both good bosses and bad managers, and dealt with supportive colleagues as well as difficult co-workers.
When I became a Christian, I struggled to align my faith with my identity as a working woman. I refrained from speaking about my accomplishments because I didn’t want to be boastful. I avoided higher-visibility assignments out of a desire to be humble. I hesitated to ask for a raise, fearing it would seem greedy. Ultimately, I believed that seeking a promotion would lead me to compromise my values.
As I once heard, we often teach what we need to learn. So, when I earned my certification in Christian life coaching, I naturally focused my practice on helping women develop leadership skills and navigate the complexities of the workplace. As I delved into the Bible to support these women, I started to uncover God’s truth about women in the workplace.
I witnessed remarkable transformations. The women I coached began to bring their best selves to work, developing better relationships with their bosses and colleagues. They started receiving credit for their contributions, and many of them earned promotions. And, in the process, I did too.
It became clear to me that Christian working women face unique challenges in today’s competitive business environment. We often hesitate to advance our careers, fearing that doing so will come at the expense of our core values. We avoid taking risks, questioning whether engaging in competitive dynamics is something a “good Christian girl” should do. While there’s no shortage of advice for women seeking success in the workplace, few voices speak directly to Christian career women.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I offer secular speaking and coaching programs to corporations, organizations, and associations that want to develop their women leaders into effective managers and executives. I offer programs in how to develop executive presence, effective communication, and negotiation skills. I also tailor my programs to the particular needs of the client.
I also offer faith-based programs for Christian women’s retreats, conferences and employee resource groups to help Christian working women get ahead in their careers.. My goal is to provide them with the Biblical guidance and practical tools they need to thrive professionally without compromising their faith.
Within the next year, I will be launching online professional development courses (both secular and Christian). I am also writing a Faith-based career development book for women.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
I’ve had incredible mentors and supporters along the way. My parents were clear role models, especially my mom, who was deeply committed to her community and to helping others. My husband has been an incredible partner and champion. We support each other’s careers and consult with each other often—he is my best friend and sounding board. My friend Angeles shared her faith with me and guided me on my faith journey. My cousin Johan is someone with whom I pray, cry, and laugh. Lastly, my friend and mentor Diana Furr always provides faith-filled perspective and advice, enriching my personal and professional life with her wisdom.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.EllieNieves.com
- Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/LeadershipStrategiesforWomen
- Facebook: https://www.Facebook.com/LeadershipStrategiesforWomen
- Twitter: https://www.X.com/ellienieves
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/ellienieves
- Other: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/leadership-strategies-for-women–3081573
Image Credits
Tracy McDemott; Juan Antonio Nieves; Hispanic National Bar Association; Sarah H.
