#97 Overcoming Challenges as a Female CEO Marzella Tyson

Thinking That Matters with Elizabeth Mahusay

In this episode of Thinking That Matters, I had the pleasure of speaking with Marzella Tyson, CEO of Meals on Wheels Collin County. She shared her inspiring journey and the organization's mission to fight hunger and isolation among seniors. Founded in 1976, Meals on Wheels now serves over half a million meals annually, addressing both hunger and the critical issue of isolation, especially in the wake of the pandemic.

Marzella’s passion for helping others comes from her own experiences growing up in Arkansas after losing her father. Her faith guided her path to public health and, ultimately, her role at Meals on Wheels. As a female CEO in a male-dominated field, Marzella spoke candidly about the challenges of leading an organization while navigating gender dynamics.

She emphasized the importance of having confidence, advocating for herself, and speaking up, even when unsure if her voice would be heard. Marzella also discussed how she’s learned to balance the different communication styles within her diverse team to build strong, productive relationships and ensure the organization's mission stays at the forefront.

She also outlined the organization's goal to serve 630,000 meals this year and the urgent need for community support due to projected funding shortfalls. Marzella stressed that the work Meals on Wheels does is only possible with the community’s involvement, whether through volunteering, donating, or spreading the word.

If Marzella’s story and the mission of Meals on Wheels have inspired you, I encourage you to get involved and make a difference in the lives of seniors facing hunger and isolation.

Here’s how you can get involved with Meals on Wheels Collin County:

1. Donate: Visit mealsonwheelscc.org or text M-O-W-C-C Give to 972-440-0443 to contribute any amount. Your donation helps fight hunger and isolation for local seniors.

2. Corporate Takeover: Encourage your business to get involved by volunteering, delivering meals, and giving back. Learn more on the website.

3. Join the Gala: Don’t miss the Meals on Wheels Gala in March at Divine Vineyard. Get your tickets or reserve a table today on the website! https://www.mealsonwheelscc.org/

More about Marzella:

Marzella Zyson, the Chief Executive Officer of Meals on Wheels Collin County, brings a compassionate vision to her role, driven by her extensive experience and expertise in non-profit leadership. She has dedicated 20 years of her career to positively impacting at-risk and disenfranchised populations. Zella envisions Meals on Wheels Collin County as where hope is produced and delivered to aging and disabled people. She strives to continue to create an environment where recipients are well-nourished and can live independently, feeling safe, honored, and appreciated.

Connect with Meals on Wheels:

• Website: https://www.mealsonwheelscc.org/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mealsonwheelscc/?hl=en

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mowcc

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mealsonwheelscollincounty/

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More about Elizabeth Mahusay:

Elizabeth grew up a self-starter who as a young woman prided herself on her independence and self-sufficiency. She found herself challenged to develop deep and meaningful relationships because of her prideful “know-it-all” approach to life and work. She projected that she was perfect yet struggled to deal with failure, thoughts of insecurity, and the feeling of inadequacy. Through her study of the Bible, time as an entrepreneur, and the accountability of some great mentors Elizabeth, is a transformed woman. Today, she passionately invests her time helping others transform their thinking.

Elizabeth is author of the recently published Transform My Thinking, God study on the book of Philippians. She has published over 170 YouTube videos and hundreds of Facebook Live videos ranging from topics of business building, daily encouragement/motivation, inspiration, marriage, and Bible exposition.

Connect with Elizabeth:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabethbmahusay

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ebmahusay/

• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ElizabethMahusay

• Website: https://elizabethmahusay.com/