How the Legacy Network Led to a Perfect Mentorship Pairing

When Lori Robertson, founder of SpeakHer Coach and women’s leadership keynote speaker, joined Biz 417’s The Legacy Network as a mentor, she didn’t expect to find what she calls “a perfect fit.” She is paired with mentee Blaine Wallace, Mercy’s Executive Director of Operations and both women started in health care labs before taking different paths to leadership.

Though the duo’s relationship is new, it’s already making an impact. Robertson and Wallace share insights on their journey so far.

Biz 417: What has struck you from your initial meeting?
Blaine Wallace: Lori and I have some very interesting things in common. We both started in laboratory science and found out that wasn’t something we wanted to do for the rest of our lives, which put us on different paths to becoming leaders professionally.
Lori Robertson: One of the remarkable things about our pairing is that we have so much in common. The idea of working with a leader like Blaine, just walking alongside for a few miles of her journey, thrills me to my core.

Biz: Have either of you ever been in a similar program, as a mentor or mentee?
B.W.: Nothing to this extent. This was a unique opportunity my organization invested in and has given me time to do.
L.R.: I’ve not been in a structured program like this, but I am absolutely the product of incredible mentorship. My former boss was “the one”—her investment in me changed my life, and she saw more in me than I could ever see in myself. If I can be that for Blaine or other amazing women who need someone in their corner encouraging them to take those chances and invest in themselves, it would be my greatest honor.

Biz: If the program was over today, what is one of your biggest takeaways?
B.W.: From the program, the importance of building connections within my community. From Lori, being able to appreciate what I accomplish. I’m a confident individual, but like anyone, it’s easy to think the things you are doing aren’t as impressive as other people think. It’s a skill set I’m developing because of Lori’s advice.
L.R.: One of the few things you can never lose is your education and investments you make in yourself. It’s also never a mistake to invest in someone else. There’s great joy in being part of someone’s story and journey, helping them step into what they’re made for. You can’t fail by championing, cheering for, mentoring and lifting others.

Biz: How has Lori helped Blaine navigate a tough situation?
B.W.: At our first meeting, I was having a difficult time after being shifted to a newer leader I didn’t have a relationship with. By our second meeting, that leader was leaving, and I was applying for his position. Lori was helpful in every aspect. I could get advice from people within our organization, but it was nice to have an outside perspective as well.
L.R.: In every situation, there’s something to learn: things you did well, things you wish you’d done differently. Most of us, especially professional women, need someone to remind us of our value and encourage us to stand in it with integrity and self-awareness. I loved being that voice for Blaine.