The fractional CXO and independent consultant explained how her Buddhist practice, which she characterized as “polishing” her mirror, influences the way she leads in high-pressure and often male-dominated environments. Through daily reflection, chanting and shadow work, Summers said she has learned that strong leadership begins with self-awareness and personal accountability rather than titles or authority.
She also shared how Women in Nutraceuticals (WIN) has helped shape her growth through mentorship programs, leadership assessments and conversations around unconscious bias and microaggressions.
Summers highlighted the importance of continual personal development and adaptability. She said WIN has become especially meaningful to her because it aligns with her values around empowerment, equity and mentorship for women and girls. As a mother of two daughters, she feels personally invested in helping create stronger opportunities for future generations.
The discussion also touched on disparities in women’s health research.
“I was shocked to learn that until 1993, women of childbearing potential were largely excluded from clinical trials, which basically created decades of male-centered research standards,” she said. “Ultimately, this all clarified my mission around mentorship advocacy and helping advance more equitable representation in research and healthcare for women.”
Summers credits initiatives like the WIN white paper and broader conversations around gender disparities in research for motivating her advocacy work and commitment to advancing female-focused health research.
Looking ahead, Summers is planning to expand her consulting and wellness initiatives through Orchid Room Essentials and the Sustainable Enterprise Society while continuing her volunteer leadership work within the nutraceutical industry.
