Guest
Allyson Eman,
Chief Executive Officer of Venture Atlanta Conference
"The Future Focused CXOs"
PODCAST - Episode 9
The Future Focused CXO is the podcast for C-level executives aiming to scale their organizations, lead through transformative challenges, and stay ahead in adopting cutting-edge technologies like AI. Each episode explores actionable leadership strategies, insights on managing rapid organizational change, and real-world examples from top executives tackling the complexities of modern business operations.
In this episode, we sit down with Allyson Eman, the CEO of Venture Atlanta Conference, who shares her incredible journey of building one of the Southeast's most prominent venture capital events. With over 17 years of experience, Allyson opens up about her challenges, successes, and the critical role relationships have played in her leadership.
What you’ll learn:
- How building meaningful relationships can scale your business.
- The importance of advocating for yourself and negotiating your worth.
- Lessons from overcoming challenges as a leader in a male-dominated industry.
- Strategies for adapting and innovating to stay ahead in changing times.
- Why prioritizing time management and wellness is essential for CXOs.
Tune in to hear how Allyson’s insights can inspire and guide your leadership journey!
The Future Focused CXO Episode 9: Show Notes
As Industry leaders you must be aware that leadership isn’t just about meeting targets—it’s about creating lasting connections that fuel growth and success. This philosophy is embodied by Allyson Eman, CEO of Venture Atlanta Conference, who has spent over 17 years navigating the venture capital landscape and building one of the most prestigious events in the Southeast.
We had the honor of speaking with Allyson on our podcast, where she shared her incredible journey, her insights on leadership, and the undeniable power of relationships. Here’s what we learned from her story.
From Challenges to Leadership: Allyson’s Journey
When Allyson entered the venture capital space, she was one of very few women in a room of 100 people.
“It was a classic boys' club,” she recalls.
Yet, rather than retreating, she leaned in, learned to advocate for herself, and built trust through persistence.
Her leadership at Venture Atlanta has been transformative. Starting with just 20 funds in 2007, the conference has grown to host 450 funds and over 1,300 attendees in 2022. This success didn’t come without obstacles, from economic challenges to pivoting during the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, Allyson’s focus on relationships proved to be her greatest asset in overcoming them.
The Power of Building Connections
A recurring theme in Allyson’s story is the power of relationships. Whether it’s forming partnerships with sponsors, collaborating with her team, or creating a welcoming environment for attendees, she believes meaningful connections are key to success.
“It’s about building trust, both externally and within your organization,” she shared.
Her ability to connect with others has not only helped Venture Atlanta grow but also positioned the conference as a must-attend event for venture capitalists across the East Coast.
Key takeaways from Allyson’s leadership journey
1. Advocate for Your Worth
When Allyson proposed transitioning from Executive Director to CEO, she faced hesitation. But she knew the title would elevate her credibility with corporate partners, so she campaigned for it—and succeeded. Her advice? Don’t wait for recognition; take the initiative and ask for what you deserve.
2. Adapt to Change
The growth of Venture Atlanta wasn’t accidental. Allyson and her team continually iterated, expanded their reach beyond Georgia, and embraced new strategies. Whether it was branding, marketing, or pivoting to virtual events during the pandemic, adaptability was key.
3. Learn from Failures
Allyson shared a humbling experience from her early career, where a 360-degree review revealed her team’s dissatisfaction.
“I thought I was a great boss, but I wasn’t,” she admitted.
This experience taught her to balance high standards with empathy—a skill she carries forward in her leadership today.
4. Prioritize Time and Wellness
Balancing personal and professional responsibilities is vital for sustained success. Allyson prioritizes regular exercise and clear to-do lists to stay focused.
“Discipline in my schedule helps me lead effectively,” she said, emphasizing the importance of self-care for leaders.
5. Empower Others
As a mentor, Allyson is passionate about helping entrepreneurs, especially women, find their confidence and refine their storytelling.
“It’s not always about having everything perfect; it’s about taking action,” she explained.
Leading with Relationships at the Core
Allyson’s story isn’t just about her achievements—it’s a blueprint for modern leadership. She has shown that success is rooted in relationships, whether it’s building trust within your team, fostering partnerships, or empowering others to succeed.
As a leader, you don’t have to have all the answers. Surround yourself with great people, advocate for your worth, and embrace change. These are the principles Allyson has lived by, and they’ve helped her transform Venture Atlanta into a powerhouse event in the venture capital world.
Are you ready to lead with relationships at the heart of your strategy? Allyson’s journey proves it’s the key to scaling success.
Final Thoughts
Allyson Eman’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and the relationships we cultivate along the way. Her ability to transform challenges into opportunities and to build a thriving ecosystem at Venture Atlanta demonstrates that leadership is not just about strategy—it’s about connection.
Whether you’re a CXO or an aspiring leader, Allyson’s story is a reminder to trust your instincts, fight for your worth, and surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you. At the heart of it all lies the foundation of success: relationships built on trust, collaboration, and a shared vision.
For more inspiring stories and actionable strategies from top executives, subscribe to the Future Focused CXOs podcast on your favorite streaming platform:
