Meet Kendra Moody, Head of Community
We are so excited to welcome Kendra Moody as a key player on to our team at The Thread!
Kendra has experienced The Thread from the inside out, as a member of Cohort One and Alumnae Board Communications Committee Lead. Kendra will be stepping into the role of Head of Community, working to provide the most intentional and impactful experiences to the women that we are honored to serve, while the organization focuses on growth.
Kendra brings with her 12 years of experience at Koch Industries, mostly recently serving as an HR Leader. Kendra started as an Operations Coordinator managing assets and insurance for clients. Moving into HR was not something she’d had planned, but soon realized that building relationships was something that she valued and was a strength. During her time in HR at Koch, Kendra built trusted relationships with various leaders and partnered with them on setting visions, strategic priorities and developing their employees. One of the most important foundational concepts that Kendra learned at Koch was the ability to critically think and problem solve.
We are extremely grateful to have her heart, mind, energy & experience focused on our community! Get to know her below.
Tell us about yourself & your family!
I have been married to my husband Wes for almost 12 years. We have two boys, Meyer (6) and Madden (1). Our furry son, Harry, is a 2.5 year old golden-doodle. We all have a love for Marvel movies, Cubs baseball, KU basketball and Chiefs football. I’m also currently working on obtaining my Personal Trainer and Nutritionist certification, as health and fitness has been a long time passion!
What time do you wake up in the morning?
I wake up at 5:30 each morning. I’m a creature of habit and love to get in a workout before the boys wake up and to have some “me” time.
Drink of choice?
Kombucha. Hands down, I drink one almost every day. We actually make our own, its easy and delicious!
Preference: In office, work from home or a mix of both?
I prefer a mix…I love being home and in the space that feels most comfortable and natural. But I also like the collaboration and relationship building that comes from working together in an office. Having a mixture of both allows you to do what makes the most sense for the day at hand.
What is essential to have in your home office?
Besides a refrigerator? (Kidding…sort of…) What is essential for me is pictures of my family and sunlight. I have a bulletin board of Meyer’s artwork right above my desk and pictures of my boys spread around my office. Seeing them throughout my day keeps a smile on my face. Having a window and being able to catch some sunlight is something that I value - it’s an instant mood lift!
So far, what’s life like at The Thread?
So far, what I love most about my job at The Thread has to be the environment and the focus on making women better versions of themselves. It’s so neat to see the energy around what we’re building and knowing that so many women want to be a part of a community that lifts everyone up. I love waking up in the morning knowing that the effort I’m putting in is going to be personally felt by so many women and that they’ll be able to then pour into others. It’s an amazing feeling!
What is one leadership lesson you’ve learned so far in your career?
Leadership is not about telling people what to do, it’s about empowering people to find the best outcomes and answers for themselves.
What is your definition of success?
I used to think that success meant you have a ton of money and a fancy title. Over the years, I’ve learned that success means doing something you love, living a life you’re proud of and being able to help others do the same. Success should look different to everyone and only you can define your success. In twenty years, if I look back and see that my boys are hardworking, kind, and living their dreams and that I’ve (hopefully) made an impact on others lives - I’ll feel pretty successful!
Favorite lunch?
My go-to lunch is grilled chicken with sweet potatoes, carrots and broccoli.
What is your best habit?
My best habit is finding a way to move and be active each day. I enjoy working out and realize that I am the best version of myself when I make my health a priority.
What is your top strength?
My top strength is building relationships. I thrive on connecting with people in a meaningful way. I want to learn about people and understand their goals and dreams and then offer what I can to help support them.
What is your favorite quote?
“I still remember the days I prayed for the things I have now” – a reminder to live in the day and be thankful for what you have, instead of wishing for more!
What advice would you give your fresh out of college self?
Take a step back and truly learn what YOUR strengths are and what would make YOU happy….then chase it, hard.
Favorite podcasts?
I’ll be the first to admit that I’ve spent way too much time listening to true crime podcasts….all of them…I can’t stay away! On the personal side, I love EveryDay Wellness with Cynthia Thurlow - it’s focused on providing tips for improving your overall health and wellness. My husband and I enjoy The Relationship School Podcast that focuses on marriage. And, from a professional perspective, I’ve recently started to listen to The Kelly Roach Show and The Goal Digger - both are excellent!
Favorite local spot in Wichita?
I have a few, but I’d say my (current) favorite local spot in Wichita is Piatto – it’s a Neapolitan pizza place that is absolutely delicious!
How do you like to spend your weekends?
On weekends I enjoy sleeping in, taking Harry for a walk in the morning and then spending as much time as I can with the boys. We’re fortunate to live in a wonderful neighborhood with a ton of kids, so we’re often on our driveway, letting the kids run wild and us parents enjoying a refreshing beverage!
What makes you come alive?
What makes me come alive (aside from a killer workout and time with my boys) is finding a solution or resolution to a problem. I really enjoy thinking through a situation and figuring out an answer and then seeing how that answer helped move the needle forward or had a positive impact.