ALS is a disease that many people have heard about — often through moments like the Ice Bucket Challenge, the Legacy of Lou Gehrig, or more recently through public figures sharing their diagnoses. Yet for many, the reality of what ALS is and how it impacts families remains largely unknown until it touches their lives directly.
On this episode of Powered by Authenticity, I’m joined by Peggy Pollizi, co-founder of Palmesano Strong, a foundation dedicated to supporting individuals and families impacted by ALS.
Peggy shares the deeply personal story of her brother, Mick, and the journey their Family experienced after his diagnosis. From the moment they learned he had ALS to walking beside him through the progression of the disease, Peggy reflects on the Love, strength, and resilience that carried their family through an incredibly difficult chapter.
Out of that love came purpose. Through Palmesano Strong, Peggy and her community are working to ensure that families facing ALS are not alone. The foundation raises funds and provides meaningful, practical support for patients — in many ways you may not realize they need – like, building accessibility ramps in homes to providing specialized utensils and equipment that help individuals maintain independence as the disease progresses.
Peggy’s story is a powerful reminder of how love for family can turn into action that lifts an entire community.
If this conversation moves you, I encourage you to learn more about Palmesano Strong, support their mission, and consider getting involved. One way to do that is by signing up for their upcoming golf tournament, which helps fund the resources and support they provide to families facing ALS.
Thank you, Peggy, for sharing your journey to finding Palmesano Strong.
Links:
Palmesano Strong – Stronger Together
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.
