Past Featured Members
Diane Kaplowitz
Producer/Broker, R.C. Fischer & Co. Insurance Brokers
Diane Kaplowitz is a producer and broker at R.C. Fischer & Co., a company that provides a
variety of insurance solutions to its clients. Diane and her team at R.C. Fischer have combined
experience of over 100 years in the insurance industry. Diane is a licensed broker in property,
casualty, life, and health insurance and is a subject matter expert in the insurance industry.
Diane’s favorite thing about her business is getting to know her clients on a personal level and
providing them with solutions to protect their assets. Unlike captive market insurance agents,
Diane has multiple carriers through which she can find the best options for excellent coverage
and competitive premiums for home, auto, and excess liability insurance. A good referral for
Diane is someone who is getting a nonrenewal notice from their current homeowners
insurance company or someone who would like a personal broker.
Diane works in an industry that has been dominated by men. In fact, she is the first successful
female broker that RC Fischer & Co has had since its inception in 1939. Other women in the
insurance industry have told Diane that she has helped them become more confident when
speaking with clients and sharing their knowledge.
Diane is an active member of MDBW and has served as its hospitality chair and president and is
currently president elect. She finds the organization to be made up of friendly and encouraging
women and finds the meetings to be both informative and social.
As a way to give back to her community, this fall Diane and her husband will be opening their
home young children so that their parents can enjoy an evening out. Many of their young
friends do not have family members who live nearby, so on Friday evenings their children can
drop by for nutritious food and fun activities.
In her free time, you will find Diane in her garden, on a local trail, or on the golf course. She also
enjoys indoor activities such reading and crafting with mosaics.
You can learn more about Diane’s company by visiting its website.
Amy Golan
Owner and Founder, Planet Renu
Amy Golan is the owner of Planet Renu, a zero-waste refill shop that offers reusable, eco-friendly alternatives to plastic products. Amy manages a physical retail space in Walnut Creek and an online store. Amy also works with farmers’ markets, schools, colleges, and corporations doing pop-ups, sustainability workshops, and green consulting. Education is an important part of Planet Renu’s mission, providing the WHY in why everyone needs to live more sustainably.
Amy is proud that her business provides eco solutions and actionable tasks to people, schools, and businesses that are concerned about their carbon footprint and the global plastic crisis. By attending her workshops and events, and by chatting with her at her shop, they learn how to reduce their carbon impact in all aspects of their lives. Anyone can be a customer who purchases cleaning products and personal care products, but on a larger scale, Amy would love to connect with anyone who works for or has contacts with larger retailers, universities, or large apartment management companies.
Amy loves the camaraderie and support that MDBW provides, as well as the great speakers and events. Amy was recently elected president of MDBW, a role in which she is excelling. She is committed to being a good role model to other women and enjoys showing them that small steps can make a difference in all aspects of one’s life.
One way that Amy gives back to her community is to mentor between two and ten students at Northgate High each year. She also hires student interns at Planet Renu. In addition, Planet Renu supports local charities. Planet Renu’s biggest fundraiser takes place every November at Boundary Oak Golf Course. This fun event, called The Phoenix Boutique Fundraiser, benefits the Child Life Program at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital. It features local artisans, a 50/50 raffle, musicians, and free appetizers massages.
In her free time, Amy loves to hike, dance, paddleboard, travel and spend time with her family and friends.
To learn more about Amy Golan and Planet Renu, visit her website. You can also connect with Amy through Facebook, Instagram , and LinkedIn.
Rebekah Dani
Holistic Mindset Coach and Business Strategist, Rebekah Dani Coaching
Rebekah Dani is a coach and business strategist for a multimedia personal development company called Rebekah Dani Coaching. Through one-on-one coaching, a podcast, a blog, video content, and speaking engagements, she helps entrepreneurs and professionals create success through alignment in all areas of their lives: health and wellness, business and career, money and finances, relationships, faith and spirituality, and overall well-being. What Rebekah loves about her business is that it allows her to inspire and motivate people and show them what’s possible so that they can design the life they truly desire. Rebekah’s clients benefit from her services by learning skills that lead to long-lasting transformations and growth. Good referrals for Rebekah would be ambitious entrepreneurs, professionals, and executives.
Through her membership with MDBW, Rebekah has developed amazing friendships and connections. She finds that MDBW provides a like-minded community, and she enjoys the opportunity to hear from her peers about their passions. Rebekah has inspired other women to dream bigger, knowing that they do not have to settle and that they can have what they desire, as well as an aligned, balanced life. She has also inspired women to keep going despite challenges and setbacks.
Rebekah gives back to her community in her role as a pastor at her church, which gives her the opportunity to spiritually mentor and guide young women and men to help them grow, expand, and experience the truth of who they are. In her free time, Rebekah enjoys spending quality time with her partner and family. They enjoy picnics, wine tasting, trying new restaurants, taking day trips, and exploring museums. She also loves her alone time, which she spends journaling, reading, drawing, crafting, and going on walks.
Finally, Rebekah is excited to announce that her first book, The Aligned Life: How to Release What’s Holding You Back and Start Creating the Life You Desire, will be available for preorder during August on her website.
To learn more about Rebekah Dani and her company, visit her website and connect with her on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Judy Vared
Outreach and Education, Connected Horse
Judy Vared is involved in outreach and education with Connected Horse, a nonprofit organization that offers equine-assisted memory support programs, workshops, and training designed for individuals living with dementia and memory loss, as well as their care partners. Connected Horse was founded in 2017 based on the founders’ theory that “guided interactions with horses could strengthen primary social bonds and activate social engagement for people with dementia and their care partners.”
Connected Horse offers in-person workshops that allow interactions between horses and participants; sensory engagement activities that spark memories; a training institute for those who would like to become certified Connected Horse facilitators; and barn certification that allows barns to become approved Connected Horse workshop facilities. This innovative programming is based on research conducted at Stanford University and UC Davis and takes place in local barns and in private homes, senior communities, and senior day programs.
Judy says of her work with Connected Horse, “I love seeing the smiles emanated by the participants. My job is filled with joy.” She says that the programs offered by Connected Horse help to alleviate anxiety and depression in both those with dementia and their family and care partners. Good referrals for Judy are any services that work with people or families dealing with dementia including realtors, bankers, and fiduciaries.
Judy is an active member of Mt. Diablo Business Women, saying, “It has been great getting to know women who are working with a variety of clients. Many of the members or their clients may be dealing with dementia in their families.” Judy inspires other women in her field by educating them about positive possibilities when dealing with the challenges of dementia.
One way Judy gives back to her community is by coordinating the outreach for Connected Horse’s annual fundraiser, Lassos with Love. This annual event is a unique opportunity to support the program, meet the horses, and have a fun evening.
In her free time, Judy enjoys walking, going to the gym, being with friends and family, traveling, and being in nature.
To learn more about Judy and Connected Horse, please visit https://connectedhorse.org
Monica Stein
Ayurvedic Lifestyle Engineer and Energy Healer, Omthentic You Wellness Center
Monica Stein is an Ayurvedic Lifestyle Engineer and Energy Healer and owner of Omthentic You Wellness Center, which Monica describes as “A safe space to pause from life and reconnect to your wisest self.” Omthentic You Wellness Center offers coaching and healing services that help clients balance and align their lives so that they can soar.
Monica offers clients the opportunity to settle their nervous systems and get clarity on their next steps. Clients report feeling better in their mind, body, and spirit. Monica abides by the Ayurveda six pillars of health: sleep, hygiene, movement, meditation, nutrition, and self-awareness and reflection. Good referrals for Monica are women who have experienced loss or change in status that is causing distress.
Monica also gives back to her community. She has been a foster dog mom for over 20 years. She is also Community Outreach Coordinator for the Walnut Creek Area Neighbors and Newcomers Club, as well as their meditation group leader. In addition, she financially supports The Sparkle Foundation, Meals on Wheels, CASA, Monument Crisis Center, BACN, Hope Solutions, Muttville Rescue, and Tails of Gray.
In her free time, Monica loves learning new things and diving deeper into what she has already studied. Currently she is digging deep into Human Design for Business. She also enjoys having gatherings at her house and having lunch with friends. She just joined a gym and enjoys being a part of that community. Above all, she loves her life and where it is taking her.
To learn more about Monica, please visit her website, and check her out on Facebook and Linkedin.
Sandra Bolton
Owner and Head Instructor, Mind Your Heart
Sandra Bolton is the owner of and head instructor at Mind Your Heart, a business based in Pleasanton that provides training in CPR/AED, first-aid, bloodborne pathogens, babysitting safety, and the use of EpiPens and Narcan. Sandra’s mission is to provide high-quality, fun, hands-on, low-stress training for all ages in both individual and group settings. The training she provides can be tailored to meet the specific needs of individuals and businesses. In her training sessions, participants gain the knowledge and confidence needed to help save a life, something that Sandra believes we all have the power to do. The experience Sandra has gained in her work as an EMT has been instrumental in helping her design her training sessions.
Sandra is passionate about what she does, saying, “I absolutely love to conduct trainings!” Her training sessions are enthusiastic, fun, interactive, and low stress, as any of us who attended her CPR training at a recent MDBW meeting can attest to. During these sessions, Sandra enjoys meeting the participants, and she is proud that her business allows her to empower individuals to respond effectively in emergencies. Her clients benefit because they are able attain the knowledge and skills need to help save a life. A good referral for Sandra is any individual or company that is interested in training that leads to CPR certification.
Sandra is proud to be a member of MDBW and says it allows her to meet incredible women. She also loves that she had the opportunity to introduce her business and to provide CPR training to MDBW members. She loves to inspire other women through her actions and behavior.
Giving back to her community is also important to Sandra. She has done this by providing CPR training in underprivileged areas and at local schools. In addition, Sandra is a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) member.
In her free time, Sandra enjoys going on walks, swimming, and taking indoor cycle classes. She also truly enjoys the company of her son, her daughter, and her friends.
To learn more about Sandra, please e-mail her at sanfransan@sbcglobal.net or follow her on Instagram.
Veronica Sibley
Director of Marketing, Senior Alternatives
Veronica Sibley is director of marketing for Senior Alternatives, a boutique agency providing support for elders. It combines experienced caregivers with social workers who are Master’s level geriatric specialists. Veronica has over 20 years of experience in the senior living industry. Prior to joining Senior Alternatives, she was regional sales manager, leading a sales team at Senior Resource Group.
All members of the interdisciplinary team at Senior Alternatives have years of experience in the areas of dementia, hospice, chronic medical conditions and disabilities. The organization maintains relationships with physicians, nurses, and other professionals skilled in treating the geriatric population. Senior Alternatives serves clients throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.
These supportive services offered by Senior Alternatives allow seniors to feel independent and empowered to live their lives. Family members benefit by having peace of mind knowing they can count on the support provided. The positive impact created by supporting elders to live comfortably and with dignity in their own homes is what Veronica enjoys about her work.
Veronica is a long-time member of Mt. Diablo Business Women. She says she finds the collective energy of the group invigorating and every time she leaves one of the events, she feels a sense of empowerment and personal growth. She comments that she has made good connections with women she admires and respects, and has also received some referrals.
Good referrals for Veronica are fiduciaries, attorneys, doctors, nurses, realtors, senior living communities, and financial planners.
Veronica is active in the community by volunteering and giving of her time whenever possible, and provides financial support to many charitable organizations. She has also been supportive of women in her field. When in the role of Regional Sales for Senior Resource Group she helped sales team members grow professionally and many said they found the collaboration with her inspiring.
In her spare time Veronica loves to shop, visit museums, decorate interiors, play tennis and golf, and travel to Europe and beach locations. She also likes to hike with her partner, Luca, and her dog, Gigio.
To learn more about Veronica, visit her LinkedIn page. For more information about Senior Alternatives, visit its website and Facebook page.
Ellen Osmundson
Broker Associate and Senior Real Estate Specialist, Windermere Diablo Realty
Ellen Osmundson is a broker associate and senior real estate specialist with Windermere Diablo Realty in Walnut Creek, where she helps sellers and buyers achieve their real estate goals. She enjoys applying her knowledge and experience to help her clients navigate through complex real estate transactions with confidence. Her most memorable transaction was helping a senior move out of her two-story home to a single-level home. The two transactions closed on the same day, and seeing her client with a big smile on her face sitting on the couch in her new home was gratifying.
Ellen serves her clients with dedication and compassion. Her business motto is "Plan-Action-Results." A good referral for Ellen would be seniors who are looking to downsize. Ellen recognizes that navigating a large home is a daunting task as we get older. Having a right-size home can make all the difference.
Ellen has more than 25 years of experience in the real estate field and has served clients in the United States, Hong Kong, China, and Taiwan. She is the author of American Home Ownership - The Chinese American Dream, a guide for Chinese-speaking homebuyers. She is also the recipient of several awards, including the Contra Costa Women’s Hall of Fame Leadership Award.
Ellen has been a member of MDBW for more than 15 years. She enjoys the friendship and support from other MDBW members and learns a lot from speakers and other members. She is open to sharing her knowledge and experience with others. As Ellen says, “Nobody can do anything alone. Together we are stronger.”
Ellen believes in giving back to her community and has served on the board of various organizations over the years. She currently hosts a monthly Senior Education Seminar Series at the Ygnacio Valley Library to provide information and resources for seniors in the community, and she is working on relaunching the Walnut Creek Village to help seniors with their age-in-place needs.
In her free time, Ellen loves playing with her dog Laa Laa, who will always be a puppy to her.
To learn more about Ellen, please visit her website, www.ellenosmundson.com.
Lily Dong
Photographer and Business Owner, Lily Dong Photography
Lily Dong is a personal brand portrait photographer who pursues her work through her company, Lily Dong Photography. She specializes in business headshots, and her goal is to “bring out the inner model in every client.” Her understanding of people on an intuitive level results in photos that capture their essence and energy, helping them to stand out and attract clients in highly competitive fields such as real estate, acting, and modeling.
Through her keen observation of mannerisms, attitudes, and body language, Lily “gets” her clients and understands how they want to be seen. Often, her clients' images look like experienced models because she first addresses any fears of being in front of the camera, followed by simple coaching on posing and good lighting. A good referral source for Lily are men and women who would like to elevate their visibility through a new headshot.
Lily earned her bachelor’s degree in fine arts from the California College of the Arts, after which she became a couture wedding gown designer who was known as the ”local Vera Wang” in the South Bay. Twelve years later, she became a professional photographer, a passion she has been pursuing for over thirteen years.
Lily is an active member of Mt. Diablo Business Women (MDBW), having recently served as its secretary. She says she enjoys the group because she loves “how each woman she’s met is powerful in what they do, open to connect with others and help each other.” She also served on the board of the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce, volunteered with the Assistance League of Diablo Valley, and served as a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) volunteer for foster children.
When not working as a photographer, Lily enjoys making necklaces, painting, traveling, hiking, and gardening. She is the proud mother of two college boys and a spirited dog named Molly.
One of Lily’s favorite quotes is “Beauty is not in the face; it is a light in the heart,” by Kahlil Gibran. She believes everyone is born beautiful.
To learn more about Lily, visit her website, www.LilyDongPhotography.com, and check out her Facebook page.
Kyla Mitsunaga
Founder and Business Mindset Magician, WITH Warriors LLC
Kyla Mitsunaga is founder and Warrior-in-Chief of WITH Warriors LLC, a company that offers certification in The Mitsunga MethodTM; online and in-person courses in such areas as The On(line) Growing Method, Family Constellations; retreats for individuals and couples; a coach’s retreat; and catering services. Through her company, Kyla also offers inspirational books she has authored. She truly does it all!
Here is how Kyla describes her business: “I help badass women grow their businesses using weird-ass subconscious mind techniques that WORK through 1:1 coaching, retreats, and group coaching sessions. I also started to recently add Asian comfort food catering and cooking for badass women to our list of offerings, and it's been super fun to experiment and witness our clients leave our retreats completely soul-nourished in their minds and bodies.”
As a Harvard graduate, a TED Talks speaker, a former award-winning college professor, and a motivational speaker who has presented in 16 countries on 3 continents, Kyla is passionate about helping women grow their businesses and become more confident in their professional and personal lives. As one client said regarding a 400-person workshop Kyla delivered, “[Kyla] encouraged attendees to break down their mental barriers and learn to communicate with one another as humans. She got them on their feet, had them do group assignments, and at the end of the session people were laughing and crying together because they finally experienced what it was like to connect on a genuine level with one another.”
Kyla loves being a member of Mt. Diablo Business Women (MDBW), which she says has completely revitalized her business. Kyla also gives back to her community by running her business using a social entrepreneurship philosophy. She offers full and partial scholarships to BIPOC and other women in the community who would like to work with her as much as possible.
Learn more about Kyla by connecting with her on LinkedIn. You can also visit her website, and connect with her through Facebook and Instagram.