Episode 211: ‘Introducing Libby’ with Angel and Christi
In this episode:
Christi Powell and Angela Gardner welcome listeners to Women Talk Construction and announce that recent guest Libby is joining as a new guest co-host, allowing Christi to step back during a demanding season. Through questions led by Libby, they discuss recognizing when stepping back is a strategic leadership choice, with Christi sharing past health-related warning signs and her realization she wasn’t bringing her best self. The hosts explore setting boundaries, learning to say no to even good opportunities, and using priorities, mentors, and self-awareness to protect wellbeing, family, and faith. Libby describes stepping into growth by aligning choices with core values, intuition, and passions. They emphasize transparency and modeling sustainable leadership in construction by building trusted teams, sharing responsibility, and treating careers as marathons. Christi notes she’ll return periodically while supporting her family and work.
Show Notes and Links:
00:00 Welcome and Big News
00:47 Why Christi Is Stepping Back
03:15 Tipping Point and Health Signals
07:48 Boundaries and Saying No
13:00 Libby on Stepping In
17:30 Sustainable Leadership Models
19:38 Closing and What’s Next
About Libby:
Libby Mendiratta is a construction industry leader with more than 25 years of experience driving growth, operations, and strategic partnerships across the built environment. She serves as Executive Vice President and Co-Owner of Frisco Woodline, a 70-year-old family-owned building materials supplier, where she leads business development, government contracting, and operational strategy.
Beyond her corporate leadership, Libby is the President of the DC Chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), where she is dedicated to advancing women in the industry and building the next generation of construction professionals. She is the founder of Camp NAWIC a free hands-on construction and STEM camp for girls, and has helped raise thousands of dollars in scholarships while expanding mentorship and workforce development opportunities throughout the region.
Known for her passion for leadership, community impact, and industry advocacy, Libby is committed to creating pathways for women and young people to thrive in construction and related trades.
Supported by:
