Christi Ashby & Kate Slentz: The Mother-Daughter Duo Powering Women’s Voices in Central Florida

Some people build businesses. Others build legacies. For more than 15 years, Christi Ashby and Kate Slentz have done both—shaping the landscape of women’s leadership in Central Florida through storytelling, community building, and a shared mission of empowerment.

As the visionaries behind Orange Appeal Magazine and the founders of the Orlando Women’s Conference, this inspiring mother-daughter team has lifted up countless women, nonprofits, and organizations, creating platforms that amplify voices and spark real change. Their story is one of passion, purpose, and the belief that when women thrive, entire communities rise with them.

At the heart of their journey is a deep commitment to connection.

• Christi Ashby launched Orange Appeal Magazine with the goal of celebrating women’s stories, highlighting local philanthropy, and showcasing the cultural and business leaders shaping Orlando.

• Kate Slentz, bringing her own creative vision and leadership, joined forces with her mom to not only grow the magazine but also expand their impact through events and partnerships.

Together, they’ve built something rare—a family-led brand that champions women, builds bridges across industries, and puts Central Florida on the map as a hub of women’s empowerment.

When Christi founded Orange Appeal Magazine, the publishing world was shifting fast. Yet instead of following trends, she and Kate focused on what mattered most: authentic stories about women making an impact.

Over the years, Orange Appeal has become more than just a magazine—it’s a trusted voice in the community. Through its pages, readers find inspiring profiles, philanthropic spotlights, and insights into the causes and leaders shaping Orlando’s future. For many women and organizations, Orange Appeal has been their first major platform, giving them the visibility needed to grow their influence and reach.

In 2010, Christi and Kate took their mission one step further by launching the Orlando Women’s Conference. What began as an ambitious idea has grown into one of Central Florida’s most impactful annual gatherings for women.

The conference is more than a networking event—it’s a day of inspiration, education, and collaboration where women from all walks of life come together to learn, lead, and lift each other higher. From powerhouse keynote speakers to breakout sessions on leadership, health, business, and philanthropy, the Orlando Women’s Conference has become a cornerstone for the community.

Their commitment has ensured that this event continues to evolve while staying true to its mission: celebrating women and amplifying their impact.

💡 Key Takeaways from Christi & Kate’s Journey

• Storytelling matters: Sharing women’s stories creates visibility and sparks change.

• Connection fuels growth: When women come together, communities thrive.

• Collaboration is power: Building bridges across industries multiplies impact.

• Integrity builds legacy: Staying true to their mission has made their platforms timeless.

• Lift others first: Their success is measured in the lives and organizations they’ve elevated.

Conclusion

Christi Ashby and Kate Slentz are proof that when women use their voices to lift others, they create movements that outlast trends and transform communities. Through Orange Appeal Magazine and the Orlando Women’s Conference, they’ve built platforms that continue to shape Central Florida’s cultural and philanthropic landscape.

Their story isn’t just about business success—it’s about impact, legacy, and the ripple effect of women empowering women.

🎧 Listen to the full episode of The She Believed She Could™ Podcast to hear Christi and Kate’s inspiring journey in their own words.