Interview 006: Amy Hunter

Our Distinctive Woman is Amy Hunter. Her Distinctive career is focused on critical subject of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in our global society. Amy brought to daylight the barriers created through “Lucky Zip codes” in her famous TEDx talk. Amy has helped people to reflect on unconscious bias in many different ways.

Continue reading for the full interview with Amy A Hunter!

LIW: Give us a quick synopsis of who you are and what you do?

AH: My name is Amy A Hunter. I am the Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Caleres, (formally Brown Shoe Company). I lead the DEI strategies for Caleres. I am a native St. Louisan, activist, mother, grandmother, educator, storyteller, and sister.

LIW: What's one characteristic you possess that you think has helped you get to where you are and why?

AH: A winning attitude: In the world of diversity, it takes more than positive vibes, meditation, and endurance. It requires that your core belief is that change will occur, change and equity are possible and that all people are born good. I love this work and I love seeing the changes, impact and innovation needed to connect people in ways they may not have experienced or imagined.

LIW: One of the biggest lessons you learned throughout your career?

AH: The biggest lesson I have learned throughout my career is not to be afraid to “jump” to leave an organization for another unfamiliar opportunity. Yes, it is terrifying and thrilling at the same time.  I have never regretted a move; I have learned something with each opportunity. I love my new role at Caleres. Everyone wears shoes, our reach in the community is real and work is so supported.

LIW: One piece of advice for young women?

AH:One piece of advice for young women dream even bigger.  Life is beautiful and filled with adventure and love, don’t settle, or sell yourself short.  Write down your goals and work towards them, literally anything is possible. Oh, and own your own company.  I believe there is an entrepreneur in all of us.  Have something to fall back on, that was more than one piece and all of them are important.

LIW: What was something you wish you knew or wish someone told you when you were growing up?

AH: I wish I knew that raising my children would go by so fast and I would have plenty of time to work on my career. I wish someone would have told me; womanhood doesn’t mean self-neglect.

LIW: What has been the biggest career achievement for you?

AH: My TEDx Talk Lucky Zip Codes.  It has shifted my entire life.  I had a great friend that encouraged me and an amazing coach that made my talk great.  My coach, a brilliant woman was so kind and honest with me, it was the best gift.  Women reflecting positive energy on other women…pure JOY.  It feels like LOVE while the sun is beaming on our faces, we need more of that.

You can connect with Amy A Hunter on the following social media channels:

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/amy.a.hunter

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/Amystl1909/

LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-johnson-hunter-ba21042

Twitter:
@amyhunterstl