“A woman is the full circle. Within her is the power to create, nurture, and transform." — Diane Mariechild, author
Highlands Ranch City Lifestyle proudly shares our 2025 Women Movers & Shakers. They are women sitting in the C-suite and women standing behind a chair, counter or broadcasting table. One hangs upside down, and another cracks skulls in order to heal.
You'll find some common themes. The balance between work and family is elusive. Most had significant barriers in the journey. And none gave up. They innovated, created, nurtured, transformed, and succeeded.
Dr. Angela Bohnen
Neurosurgeon
Tell us about yourself.
I grew up on a farm in Eastern Kentucky. I studied at Northwestern University and the Mayo Clinic and am a dual fellow trained in complex spine surgery and neuro-oncology surgery. The growing market in Denver prompted the transition westward. I joined the NeurosurgeryOne team in 2019, which covers many of the AdventHealth hospitals.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Invest in Bitcoin, wear more sunscreen, and maybe don’t cut your own bangs.
Who is your muse, or tell us about someone who inspires you professionally?
My muse is the human body — the ultimate superhero — full of mystery, power, and surprises! Every patient teaches me something new about how it heals, adapts, and bounces back. It’s like solving the coolest puzzle, which keeps me excited to learn and inspires me to constantly level up my skills to give the best care possible.
What transformative challenges have you faced?
Stepping into a field with very few women. Neurosurgery is demanding — physically, mentally, and emotionally – but I’ve learned that true resilience comes from recognizing my own strengths and trusting in my ability to heal, not just with my hands, but with my heart and mind as well.
Shawn McArthur
IT executive, franchise owner
Tell us about yourself.
I’m an entrepreneur, devoted wife, and woman of faith. Originally from Pennsylvania, I moved to Denver as a teenager in the ‘80s. With a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and a Master’s in Computer Information Systems, I’ve built a career at the intersection of technology, business, and service.
As the president and CEO of McArthur Group LLC, I co-own multiple businesses with my husband, Dan, including Front Range IT Services LLC DBA TeamLogicIT Denver, a managed IT and cybersecurity services provider; BCM Global Technologies Consultants Inc., an IT consulting firm specializing in software development and staff augmentation; and Amaze Beauty Studios, a rebranded expansion of Amazing Lash Studio Highlands Ranch and other locations, offering high-quality lash and skincare services. I thrive on empowering others through innovation, service, and leadership.
What is your muse?
My faith is the foundation of everything I do. Integrity, resilience, and service are key to both personal and professional success. My husband and I work side by side, building businesses that provide solutions and create opportunities.
What advice do you give to other women?
Own your space, trust your abilities, and never be afraid to lead. Success is not just about growth; it’s about impact. Stay grounded in your values, and success will follow.
Nikita Jhaveri
Entrepreneur, Blush Now Owner
Tell us about yourself:
Originally from Highlands Ranch, I’ve never strayed far from Colorado. I studied architecture at CU Boulder, where I met my husband, and now we have two young boys. Four years ago, I founded Blush Now, an on-demand beauty platform bringing glam services directly into homes. With over 100 beauty pros, we are the official hair and makeup sponsors of the Denver Broncos Cheerleaders and Miss Colorado Pageant. We’ve expanded into Texas and Arizona.
What is your favorite thing about our community?
Growing up here and raising kids here, the local events are unmatched. There is a sense of belonging, and the support for local businesses is incredible. I have long-time local friends and have made new connections through the South Metro Denver Chamber. I love running into familiar faces at stores; it's a tight-knit feel in everyday life.
What transformative challenges have you faced?
Cultural pressure to follow a traditional collegiate path. As a teen, I worked at a salon and loved the environment, but I didn’t see it as a viable career. After graduating with a degree in architecture, I shifted my focus back to the beauty industry. Now, I help others follow their passion and determine their own career path. I’ve found fulfillment in supporting others while creating a positive impact.
Angela Fuller
Ninja Warrior, Adult Gymnast, Inspirational Speaker
Tell our readers about yourself:
I was born and raised in Littleton and graduated from Colorado State University in marketing. I’m married and have two amazing boys. Today, I am also an ACE-certified group fitness instructor, competitive gymnast, American Ninja Warrior, and motivational speaker.
What transformative challenges have you faced?
I grew up a competitive gymnast and cheerleader, even cheering at Colorado State University. After college, a car accident left me with a broken back, leading to years of inactivity and weight gain. My second pregnancy brought more complications: herniated discs, chronic pain, and postpartum depression.
Everything changed when my best friend was diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer. Her fight reignited my own. I deepened my faith, healed my back, and dedicated my career to teaching group fitness to help women find self-love.
I missed the thrill of flipping and flying. I became the oldest female competitor from Colorado on American Ninja Warrior, and I also represented the USA at the Masters Gymnastics World Cup. Today, I still compete in all-around events.
The greatest blessing has been discovering the power of perseverance, self-love, and community. True strength is not about muscles or accomplishments, but the determination to keep going through tough times. Dreams don’t expire, and age is never a barrier.
Deborah Takahara
DougCo Sheriff's Office Public Information Director
Tell us about yourself.
I grew up as an Air Force “brat” and traveled all over the world. I went to high school and college in Southern California. I thought I wanted to be a detective, but my career took me into journalism, which was odd because I was incredibly camera-shy growing up. My TV news career took me to several states, including Arkansas, California, Texas, and finally Colorado. I spent 28 years as a reporter and anchor before deciding to use my storytelling skills to showcase the fantastic work of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Life passes by faster than you can imagine—don’t blink. One moment, you’re dreaming about the future; the next, you’re wondering where time went. Don’t wait for the “perfect moment”—take chances, make memories, and appreciate little things.
How do you practice self-care?
I like to run (flat and downhill). I have completed four marathons, including the Boston Marathon, and countless 5k, 10k, and half-marathon races. It helps clear my head and stay in shape.
What is your favorite thing about our community?
The strong sense of public safety and how people look out for each other. I also appreciate Sheriff Darren Weekly’s no-nonsense crime-fighting approach. Criminals know they don’t stand a chance in Douglas County!
Natalie Tysdal
Teacher, podcaster, former TV anchor
Tell us about yourself.
I grew up in Nebraska and attended the University of Nebraska, earning a Bachelor’s degree in journalism with minors in political science, history, and sociology. My family and I moved to Denver 22 years ago for my career in broadcast journalism. Over the years, I’ve built a deep connection with the South Metro Denver community, and I love raising my family here. I’m married and have three incredible kids who keep life exciting.
Today, I run the Natalie Tysdal Podcast, a platform for expert-driven insights on health. I coach women on cutting through health misinformation and creating sustainable wellness habits. Additionally, I teach multimedia journalism and podcasting at Valor Christian High School.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Trust the process, and don’t let fear hold you back. Early in my career, I was a perfectionist, always worrying about getting everything just right. Over time, I’ve learned that taking risks is what leads to true growth.
What transformative challenges have you faced?
Stepping away from my long career in TV news. It was my identity for so long, and making the transition to entrepreneurship, podcasting, and consulting was both exciting and scary. But through that challenge, I discovered new passions, deeper purpose, and a better work-life balance.
NatalieTysdal.com
Floyd’s 99 Barbershop
Karen O'Brien, President; Mary Wehrer, VP of Marketing; Amy Hunn, VP of Facilities
What advice would you give your younger self?
Mary: Don't sweat the small stuff. Stay true to yourself.
Karen: It's OK not to know what you want to do. Find something you are interested in, get curious about it, learn about it, pursue it and go from there. Stay curious, give everything you have through the struggles, then make your decision to stick with it or get curious about something else.
Who is your muse, or inspires you professionally?
Mary: Entrepreneurs. I’m inspired by their ability to think big and realize their dreams.
Karen: My muses are my children. Both of my kids are going through the same things I go through in my role leading our company. We are all learning from each other and as a professional who is a parent, I can't think of anything more inspiring.
Amy: I spent a brief time living in L.A. where I had the privilege of meeting an incredible group of women from diverse backgrounds, professions, and life experiences. Over the years, I’ve learned so much from them and continue to lean on their wisdom for both my personal and professional life.
What challenges have you faced that you consider transformative?
Mary: Balancing motherhood and a challenging career. Feeling comfortable that I am happy on both sides and confident that I have served both sides well.
How do you spend your free time?
Amy: My husband and I enjoy biking, brunching on weekends, and traveling.
What is your favorite thing about Highlands Ranch & Lone Tree?
Karen: I love the open spaces and the ability to take a walk in the beautiful place we live.
Three women sit in your C-suite. What does Floyd's gain as a result?
Amy: Leadership isn’t just about making big decisions; it’s about building a culture where people feel valued, heard, and empowered. A diverse team brings different life experiences and leadership styles,. We want employees—barbers, stylists, shop managers—to feel represented at the highest levels, because when your team feels supported, they perform better, stay longer, and contribute to a successful workplace.
Mary: And it isn’t just about representation, but also results. When we challenge each other with alternate perspectives, we innovate in ways that might not happen in a more homogenous leadership team. In marketing, leadership that reflects our diverse clientele strengthens our ability to connect with a broad audience.
Karen: In operations, success is about efficiency, execution, and adapting quickly. The women on our team bring a unique mix of problem-solving, collaboration, and emotional intelligence to leadership. We foster a culture where communication is clear, and decision-making is balanced.