In this episode, I sat down with Dawn Trudeau—trailblazing civic leader, early Microsoft executive, and one of the majority owners of the WNBA’s Seattle Storm. We explored why women’s sports are having a cultural moment, how the Storm has built a franchise rooted in values and community, and what it takes to lead with conviction while bridging divides. From growing up in conservative Iowa to shaping tech and sports history, Dawn offers deeply personal lessons on believing in yourself, remaining courageous when the road is unclear, and how she and her partners have built one of the WNBA’s most successful franchises. Together, we unpack how the power women’s sports can bring people together during times of uncertainty and polarization.
The Power of Belief and Starting Before You’re Ready
Dawn’s story begins with a bold move—leaving home at 18 with two suitcases and $200 to chase a bigger life. She taught herself computer systems before “computer science” was even a major, helping automate manufacturing in the early days of tech. Her drive: a deep belief in her ability to figure things out. That same mindset helped her rise through Microsoft during its formative years and later scale the Storm into one of the most admired WNBA franchises. Her advice? Dream big. Invest fully. And don’t be afraid to start before you know how.
Why Women’s Sports Are Resonating Now
We talked about the extraordinary growth in women’s sports and what’s behind it. While fandom has grown steadily over decades, Dawn points to 2020—during the WNBA’s “Wubble” season in Florida—as a cultural inflection point. The season wasn’t just about basketball. It was about activism, community, and voice. Players collectively honored Breonna Taylor and took political action, even influencing the U.S. Senate race in Georgia. That season showed the country—and the world—that women athletes are powerful agents of change.
Building a Franchise on Values
The Storm’s approach to business is deeply rooted in social impact. Through initiatives like “Force for Change,” the franchise has invested over $1.5 million back into the Puget Sound community, with a focus on uplifting Black women, LGBTQ+ rights, and civic engagement. The team partners with mission-aligned organizations to amplify their impact, and offers free leadership and career development programming to local girls through Storm Academy. For Dawn and her co-owners, success is measured both in wins and in how much they give back.
Bridging Divides Through Sports
Dawn and I reflected on how women’s sports create rare spaces where people from different walks of life find common ground and joy. In today’s polarized world, that shared sense of connection is precious. Whether you’re high-fiving a stranger at a Storm game or marching alongside thousands for a cause, joy and empathy are powerful unifiers. Sports, at their best, remind us that we’re all human—and that collective experiences can soften even our deepest divides.
Leadership Lessons for a Fragmented World
As we wrapped up, Dawn offered this wisdom: listen more, talk less. Be curious about those who see the world differently. And always lead with empathy. When we approach each other with openness and a belief in shared humanity, we can begin to heal what’s broken. Her final wish for listeners? A magical downpour of empathy—enough to remind us that even when we disagree, every person’s story deserves to be seen and heard.
