What does it take to build a career by recognizing opportunities before everyone else?
In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, Emily sits down with Christina Duvall, President of Renegade Talent Management and CelebExperts. Christina shares the experiences that shaped her leadership journey, from becoming the youngest Vice President in company history at 22 to leading one of the industry’s premier talent management firms by age 26.
Together, they explore what it means to lead with authenticity, why sales is one of the most valuable skills anyone can develop, and how making decisions often matter more than waiting for certainty. Christina also shares her perspective on representing elite athletes, creators, and chefs while helping them build brands that create long-term impact.
The conversation also dives into the rapid Growth of women’s sports, the evolution of NIL, and the responsibility that comes with helping athletes navigate opportunities while protecting their future. Christina offers thoughtful insights into leadership, mentorship, and why saying “no” can sometimes be the most powerful decision you make.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, business leader, content creator, or someone looking to grow your career, this episode is filled with practical lessons on leadership, opportunity, and building a career with intention.
In this episode, you’ll hear about:
- Becoming President at 26 and the leadership lessons learned along the way
- Why sales is a foundational skill for every profession
- The mindset shift that helped shape Christina’s career
- Building brands that create lasting value
- The continued rise of women’s sports and NIL
- Protecting athletes and creators as opportunities continue to grow
- Leading by example and creating a culture built on trust
- Speaking before Congress on STEM and serving as a Congressional Witness on social media and the digital Economy
Thank you, Christina, for such a great conversation. This was by far one of my favorite episodes.
Links discussed within the episode:
Christina Duvall | LinkedIn
A Digital Talent MGMT & marketing agency. – A Digital Marketing Agency
Top Celebrity Booking & Consulting Agency | Celeb Experts
Emily Carlson is a trailblazing executive, mentor, and international #1 best-selling author in the Healthcare IT and technology consulting industry. With a 30-year career spanning Information Technology, Project Management, and Digital Transformation, Emily has been at the forefront of leveraging technology to drive innovation, optimize healthcare operations, and enhance patient outcomes. She is recognized for her expertise in leading complex IT initiatives, delivering best-in-class solutions, and helping organizations achieve strategic growth through technology-driven transformation.
Beyond her executive leadership, Emily is a passionate advocate for equity and inclusion in technology. She is the creator and host of Powered by Authenticity, a podcast on a mission to elevate equity and inclusion for women everywhere. Each episode delivers insightful, inspiring conversations with remarkable individuals who are redefining success on their own terms. The show dives into their stories, shares valuable resources for those ready to start or re-start their professional journeys, and explores the unique challenges and triumphs they’ve encountered along the way. Join us for empowering stories and actionable insights that remind you that your path forward is as bold as you make it.
Emily’s thought leadership extends beyond the microphone—she is a highly sought-after keynote speaker at national and international technology and leadership conferences. Her keynote topics address not only emerging tech trends, digital transformation, and mentorship, but also the broader needs for leaders in every career vertical. She provides valuable insights into adaptive leadership, workplace innovation, and strategies for driving inclusion, engagement, and long-term success across industries. Her ability to connect with diverse audiences and inspire action makes her a transformative voice in leadership conversations.
Among her many accolades, Emily was honored as one of Consulting Magazine’s Top Women Leaders in Technology, Excellence, and Innovation in 2021. In 2022, she was named Mentor of the Year, recognizing her unwavering commitment to supporting and uplifting women in technology. She is also an international #1 best-selling author, further solidifying her role as a thought leader and advocate for meaningful change.
When she’s not leading in the tech space, Emily channels her creative innovation into crafting wildly inventive cocktails, extreme charcuterie boards, and outlandish pies. A lifelong Buffalo Bills fan, she cherishes every moment spent with her family.
