Brewing Authenticity with Nancy Benter on Culture and Leadership at Starbucks

What happens when you stop trying to fit in and start leading from who you truly are?

 

In this episode of Breaking Through the Mayhem, Nancy Benter, Enablement & Strategy Partner at Starbucks, shares what it really means to lead with authenticity in today’s workplace.

 

With over 14 years of experience driving innovation across tech and retail, Nancy unpacks how staying true to her values has shaped her career, why diversity must be a business imperative, and how building trust through transparency creates real organizational impact. She also reflects on her personal journey from assimilation to empowerment and how honoring her Chinese American identity has helped her lead more authentically and inclusively at scale.

 

What you’ll hear:

 ✨ The turning point where Nancy chose authenticity—and didn’t look back

💬 The three questions she uses to check in with herself as a leader

🌱 Why diversity isn't fluff—it’s fundamental to business

☕️ How coffee tastings at Starbucks turned into moments of cultural connection

⚖️Why clarity on your core values makes leadership (and life) a lot less overwhelming

 

Nancy’s powerful reflections on human connection, integrity, and courageous leadership will challenge you to bring more of yourself to your work and help others do the same.