
Voices Rising Podcast
Choosing Yourself First: Dee Diaz on Leadership, Chronic Pain, and Purpose‑Driven Work
In this powerful episode of Voices Rising, Lynda and Marcia sit down with Dee Diaz—a purpose‑driven leader with nearly 30 years of experience in philanthropy, social impact, and nonprofit leadership. Dee has held senior roles with Look Good Feel Better, UNICEF Canada, War Child Canada, and SickKids Foundation, and now serves as a social impact strategist and consultant. Dee opens up about: -Walking into an interview for a women’s charity and findingfive men at the table—and what she said anyway -Why helping women “choose themselves first” is the realquestion behind support programs and services -The hardest decision of her life: stepping down fromexecutive leadership to prioritize a rare degenerative neurospinal condition -Learning to live (and lead) with chronic pain, body grief,and the ongoing choice to look for joy Dee also shares what she’s learned about balance,boundaries, and the “fine line between grief and joy”—and how listening to your body and your inner voice can change not just your career, but your life. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re allowed to slow down, pivot, or redefine success on your own terms, this conversation will stay with you. For more Voices Rising, go to https://voicesrisingpodcast.com/

