Her Story
About Ann
Ann Leister founded Creative Spaces four years ago as a business dedicated to helping people make time for what matters most to them. For the past 25 years, she has led Fresh Wind, an educational and religious gathering that educates, empowers, and encourages participants to discover and fulfill their purpose in life. Previously a managing cosmetologist, Ann holds a bachelor's degree from Nation to Nation in Biblical Studies along with a master's degree in the same field. She serves as the local president of Women with a Call International for Columbus, Ohio, and was president of the Gold Medallion Foundation. Her work has earned awards from Maxxis for outstanding achievement in helping people reach financial freedom, from the BREAD organization, and for her speaking engagements. Ann also supports her church's nonprofit efforts, including a monthly farmer's market that distributes fresh produce to those in need. She attributes her success to the guidance and empowerment of the Lord and the Holy Spirit.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Ann
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the Lord and the Holy Spirit who leads, guides, influences, and empowers me. Without that, I probably would have given up because sometimes you pour into people and don't see results or face resistance, but you can't let that stop you from obtaining what you're aiming for.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received is don't be moved all the time by your emotions or what you see right then, because behind that it could be something much greater.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell them to pace themselves and not feel the pressure. Don't be discouraged by what you see or how you feel, but just keep moving forward. When you know that you're doing a good work, don't look for the accolades of men. Just know within yourself you have done what you're supposed to do, and you know that you're helping somebody.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is not having the finance sometimes to reach out and help the number of people that you would like to help.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are being truthful, having integrity and a great character, and loving people as I love myself.
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