Originally published on newsroom.marykay.com
If you’ve ever wondered who keeps things running seamlessly at the very top, look no further than Barbara Podbelsek, Senior Executive Assistant to our CEO Ryan Rogers – and now, the proud recipient of Mary Kay’s Employee Go Give Award. Barbara is far more than an exceptional executive assistant. She is a guardian of Mary Kay Ash’s legacy, a steward of the company culture, and a driving force behind projects that preserve the heart of the iconic brand.
At the Mary Kay Museum in Addison,Texas she plays a vital role in curating the meaningful collections of the trailblazing female entrepreneur, focusing on the stories behind the objects while establishing cultural and historical significance. From archiving rare documents and photographs to preserving handwritten notes and treasured artifacts, Barbara ensures that Next Gen can experience the rich heritage that shaped the timeless Mary Kay brand and iconic company.
Beyond her role as a culture-keeper, “Barb” is also recognized for her impact, connecting the dots and getting the job done while staying calm under pressure. It is her quiet leadership, and her ability to anticipate needs, connect people, and strengthen the foundation of the company that truly set her apart.
Barb is also dedicated to serve the Mary Kay Ash Foundation®, spending countless hours, making the dream work, with a commitment to making a difference in the community we serve.
The Go Give award honors employees and Independent Sales Force members who consistently go above and beyond to support, uplift, and serve others. Whether it’s through everyday acts of kindness, mentoring teammates, or quietly making a difference behind the scenes, Go Give recipients are known for:
- Living with integrity and heart.
- Putting others first without seeking recognition.
- Inspiring those around them with positivity and generosity.
- Helping preserve the core values Mary Kay Ash built the company on.
This award honors not only the excellence of Barb’s work, but the depth of her character. Genuine, generous, and endlessly dedicated, Barbara embodies the spirit of Mary Kay Ash in every detail, every project, and every act of service. We’re proud to celebrate this incredible milestone and to share a little more about the woman behind the award.
Barb, how did you begin working at Mary Kay, or what made you want to work here?
Back in the “old days” – 1990, to be exact – I submitted a paper resume through an employment agency that happened to represent Mary Kay. At first, they didn’t disclose the name of the company, but once they did, I was genuinely thrilled. I had already been familiar with Mary Kay’s products before moving to Texas, and I had a lot of admiration for the brand. The idea of working for a company that not only offered great products but also upheld strong values and empowered women was incredibly appealing to me – and it still is.
What’s one thing people might be surprised to know about you?
Most people don’t guess this, but I grew up on a dairy farm in central Wisconsin. Long before I ever got behind the wheel of a car, I was driving a tractor! It was just part of everyday life on the farm. It taught me a lot about responsibility and hard work from a young age… but let’s just keep that early tractor driving between us and not share it with the Department of Public Safety.
What’s one item on your desk or in your office that you can’t live without?
Back in the 1990s, the must-have item on my desk was definitely my Rolodex – it was my lifeline to people and information. Fast forward to 2025, and that role has long been taken over by my cell phone. It’s where our lives are kept. It’s essentially my modern-day Rolodex, but with a few more bells and whistles.
Who outside of Mary Kay has most influenced your life and how?
Without a doubt, my parents. My mother always encouraged me to treat everyone with kindness, no matter who they are or where they come from. My dad added another layer to that life lesson; he taught me to approach life with a bit of sass and humor. Together, they instilled in me the values of compassion, resilience, and authenticity, and I carry those lessons with me every day.
What advice would you give others at Mary Kay (whether they’re new or tenured)?
Never underestimate the impact of your work here. Whether you’ve just started or have been here for decades, always remember that we are all part of a team working to keep Mary Kay Ash’s dream alive. That legacy isn’t just a nice tagline – it’s a call to action and a reflection of the purpose behind what we do. So give your best, support each other, and keep the heart of the business strong. Let that sense of purpose be your guide in your professional life.
Did You Know?
- The annual Go Give Award was originally created in 1978 to celebrate and recognize Mary Kay’s Independent Beauty Consultants who embody the true spirit of Mary Kay Ash’s “Go-Give” philosophy – a principle she held dear throughout her life and leadership. Mary Kay Ash believed in the idea that success isn’t just about what you achieve personally; it is about what you give to others. The “Go-Give” mindset encourages selflessness, generosity, encouragement, and kindness, especially when there’s no expectation of anything in return.
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About Mary Kay
One of the original glass ceiling breakers, Mary Kay Ash founded her dream beauty brand in Texas in 1963 with one goal: to enrich women’s lives. Learn more at marykayglobal.com. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, or follow us on X.
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