Melody Stackhouse

The summer after my sophomore year of college, I won a radio contest that sent me to the Bahamas on an all-inclusive trip. The twist? I had to write and perform a jingle live on-air with my guitar to win. And be the “7th caller” to even get through. IYKYK. That mix of creativity, boldness, and a little bit of improvisation has followed me ever since — not as a musician (though I still write and perform), but in how I approach leadership and problem-solving in my work. Today, I lead strategic initiatives and executive operations in the Office of the CEO at Artera, an organization that’s working to improve the patient communication experience in healthcare. My role sits at the intersection of execution and strategy: translating vision into actionable plans, aligning cross-functional teams, and creating the conditions for executive leaders to focus on what matters most. I’m also driven by a deep belief that work — at its best — can be a vehicle for meaningful impact, social justice, and connection. Growing up between Papua New Guinea, Australia, and the U.S. taught me how to listen closely, move between worlds, and stay curious. These experiences shape the way I lead: with empathy, clarity, and a strong sense of purpose. Outside of work, I’m a lifelong artist and storyteller. Whether through songwriting or strategic planning, I’m always looking for the throughline — the story that connects people, challenges assumptions, and opens the door to change.