At the Table

Join us in this episode as we chat with Ken Elliott, a seasoned Professional Web Developer and Digital Brand Consultant from Columbia, SC. With over 20 years of experience, Ken has shaped creative brand concepts for 500+ clients at BKreative Media Solutions. Beyond his tech prowess, Ken is a community builder, founding a local creatives support group and co-organizing the Columbia WordPress Meetup chapter. Discover Ken's insights into web development, social media, and online marketing, and learn about his passion for family time, travel, and tinkering with tech gadgets. Don't miss this engaging conversation at the intersection of technology, community, and creativity! Connect with Kenhere: ⁠Website⁠ Connect with Beth here: ⁠Website⁠ ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ --- Send in a voice message: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/message⁠ Support this podcast: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/support --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/support

In this episode, we're joined by Ellen, the passionate owner of Crazy for Ewe, a knitting haven. Ellen takes us back to 1983, sharing her humble beginnings with brushed acrylic, aluminum needles, and a Woolworth's pamphlet. Despite an initial tight, matted creation, she was hooked on knitting's allure. Discover Ellen's love for custom-fit sweaters and vibrant accessories, as well as her fondness for intuitive stitch patterns and the oddly satisfying art of finishing touches. In 2002, after a hiatus, she fulfilled her dream of opening Crazy for Ewe, a cozy space echoing her own introduction to knitting. Join us for a delightful chat with Ellen, exploring the warmth, creativity, and community that defines Crazy for Ewe. Whether you're a seasoned knitter or just starting, this episode promises inspiration and a peek into the heart of a knitting enthusiast. Welcome to the world of stitches and stories with Ellen! Connect with Ellen here: Website Connect with Beth here: Website LinkedIn Instagram --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/support --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/support

Join us for an inspiring episode as our guest, Sherry Jones, shares her perspective and her mission to empower women globally. Discover the daily practice that transformed her life and learn how she equips women to break free from stagnation, embrace authenticity, and fulfill their God-given assignments. Explore the transformative power of words as Sherry applies biblical principles, addresses negative self-talk, and shifts mindsets. From impactful coaching services to inspiring messages on various stages, she's on a mission to help women leverage their words for personal transformation. Say yes to the Journey, and don't miss this insightful conversation on embracing authenticity and unlocking your true potential with Sherry Jones. Connect with Shelly here: Website Facebook Instagram YouTube Connect with Beth here: Website LinkedIn Instagram --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/support --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/support

In this week's episode, we've had the pleasure of talking with Joanna Rawbone MSc, the person behind Flourishing Introverts.  Joanna created Flourishing Introverts with two main goals:  (1) to question the preference for extroverts in business and education and  (2) to empower introverted individuals to embrace their natural strengths without pretending to be someone else.  She starts by helping quiet introverts discover and confidently use their strengths through group coaching programs and one-on-one sessions. With a strong sense of purpose and enthusiasm, Joanna collaborates with companies and organizations to promote the valuable and gutsy contributions that introverts can bring to their businesses. It's a practical demonstration of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Joanna Rawbone is determined to change the bias toward extroversion and help introverts reach their full potential. We can't wait for you to hear her thoughts on our podcast. So, put on your headphones, get cozy, and let's look at a different perspective with Joanna.  You definitely don't want to miss it! Connect with Joanna here: Website Connect with Beth here: Website LinkedIn Instagram --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/support --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/support

This week, we're incredibly honored to welcome an exceptional guest, Dr. Aida, fondly known as Doc A.

“Understanding pain changes pain” – Lorimer Moseley This week, I chat with Deana Tsiapalis, pain coach, about how pain works and what we can do to recover and heal. Join us this week as we discuss: Understanding how pain works Recovery & healing Managing pain Self-compassion & self-permission The biopsychological model of pain Connect with Deana at: https://pain2possibilities.com/ Deana, with her rich background in Physical Health, Education, and Lifestyle Management from the University of Toronto and George Brown College, has dedicated her life to transforming pain into possibilities. As a certified Wellness Coach through the American College Of Sports Medicine, she's no stranger to the challenges of chronic pain and how to navigate them. She is the founder and head pain coach at Pain 2 Possibilities and the Change Pain Academy, providing resources and support for those grappling with chronic pain. Additionally, Deana hosts 'The Chronic Pain Experience' podcast, where she sheds light on chronic pain management and shares expert insights to improve the lived experience with pain. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/support

Join me this week as I speak with author & executive coach, Gigi Gilliard. This week, we discuss: How to know your cup is empty Discovering your strengths Understanding where your strengths lie and what you need to display them Remembering your past successes The power of small beginnings Focusing on the one Author of The Loud Brown Round Girl, The Inclusion C.O.D.E. (2020) and Hello Beautiful, Get Well Soon (2021), Gigi Gilliard owns and operates her learning and organizational development consultancy – (affectionately referred to as GGD). A graduate of Rutgers University, (New Brunswick, New Jersey), with a Bachelors in Sociology and Communications, Gigi is a triple-certified Master Coach in the disciplines of leadership development, executive coaching and coaching for presentation/speech delivery for C-suite executives. She has also earned the prestigious and coveted Certified Diversity Executive, CDE ® distinction from the respected Society For Diversity/ Institute for Diversity Certification. Renowned for her work in the DEI&B space and leadership development, Gigi masterfully coaches professionals of all levels through the mindset and skill-building shifts necessary to help them elevate as inclusive leaders of influence. Under her brand Gigi Gilliard: Author| Speaker | Executive Coach, Gigi utilizes dynamic content and facilitation to share remedies designed to help organizations in the areas of leadership development, inclusive leadership, and inclusion strategy. She helps these organizations build solutions that encourage and embed inclusion, while coaching behaviors that promote the attitude of belonging. A stalwart enemy of exclusion and inequality for any group anywhere, DEI&B, (diversity, equity, inclusion, AND belonging) is her specialty. She has helped to popularize the moniker DEI&B and believes that creating the sentiment of belonging is a crucial, and often missed, part of the inclusion conversation. Recognized as “a conversation architect,” Gigi is a prolific orator and deeply skilled facilitator. An intuitive empath, she is regularly sought-out to lead the most difficult, painful, and challenging conversations about “otherness “and race. Here in the United States, she is excitedly partnered with several East Coast based C-suite executives and their teams like, Ryan Health, Hachette Book Group, Hudson River Museum, Young Audiences New York, Penguin Random House, and globally across the pond with Tempo Recruiting. A native and resident New Yorker, Gigi is devoted to her faith, family, and equality. She is committed to elevating principles of belongingness and inclusion to those interested in championing these crucial behavioral changes in their workspaces… and in their lives. Connect with Gigi here: LinkedIn Instagram Website --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/support

This week's guest is Dayna Heckstall, Clinical Social Worker, and Founder of Ms. Well and Woke. She is on a mission to spread Mental Health Awareness from the Black Millennial perspective. Ms. Well and Woke creates a community of wellness aimed toward educating and motivating the masses. Dayna enjoys spreading her message of betterment through music, physical fitness, and therapeutic services. She describes herself as a plant enthusiast socialite who enjoys traveling and R&B music.   On this week's episode, we discuss:   Getting comfortable with the uncomfortable Acknowledging when you need help Giving yourself permission to grieve Being present in the moment Using the present as your North Star Moving from trauma to healing Focusing on the small wins Collectivism Finding the right mental health provider    Links mentioned in this week's episode: https://nycwell.cityofnewyork.us/en/ https://www.hopecheck.org/    Get in touch with Dayna: Website: https://linktr.ee/mswellandwoke Email: wellandwoke.inc@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mswellandwoke/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MsWellandWoke/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/support

“Your goals need to be bigger than your fears.”   This week's guest, Julia C. Rock, provided that nugget of wisdom in this week's episode and I could NOT GET ENOUGH!   Julia C. Rock is a career and leadership development coach who has helped hundreds of ambitious Black and POC professionals break through career plateaus to secure six figure salaries and fulfilling job opportunities. Through her company Rock Career Development, she helps Black and POC former athletes and professionals in transition successfully find their next career play. Through her signature coaching methods, clients can secure dream positions while earning their value and then some. Julia is a published author, co-authoring two new books: The Six-Figure Athlete and Athlete to Entrepreneur (available soon). She has been featured in several major publications and platforms, including: Fortune, Business Insider, Monster, Blavity, and xoNicole.    This week, we discuss: 1.    Our tendency to disqualify ourselves 2.    The barriers we face when job searching 3.    Be willing to do the work 4.    Ask, Learn, Invest 5.    Knowing when it's time to transition your career/job 6.    The connection between your why and your impact 7.    Aligning with your why 8.    Finding worth outside of your job title    Connect with Julia here: Website: https://rockcareer.com IG: @thejuliarock or @rockcareer FB: @thejuliarock or @rockcareer X: @thejuliarock or @rockcareer The Six Figure Athlete Book: https://rockcareer.thrivecart.com/sixfigureathletebook --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/support

Abby Rose Green and Kat Herro co-own Pursuing HER Purpose, a business devoted to helping female entrepreneurs launch their own big ideas without losing themselves, their values, or their relationships along the way. They understand that our lives will look different and focusing on the titles that are important to each of us as we build our business needs to take priority. They offer online courses, coaching, guest speaking opportunities and a mastermind experience for collaboration and solidarity. Join us this week as we discuss: Finding your purpose Charging for your purpose Focusing on the start Powerful habits as a way to build motivation The good & bad of pivoting Impact through authenticity Links mentioned in this week's episode: https://melrobbins.com/5secondrule PursuingHerPurpose.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/support

Co-Founder of ThinkDEI, Sushmita Kirkland is an accomplished DEI professional that provides astute & proven strategies and tactical visioning for organizations to shift their Diversity, Ethics & Inclusion journeys. Join us this week as we discuss: Feeling othered Global citizenship Defining success for yourself Leading with your why Using your why as a filter Sharing your story Sushmita is a published children's book Author, TEDx speaker and a serial entrepreneur, that is never afraid to challenge the status-quo. Having lived in 7 countries and traveled to 42 countries, Sushmita comes with a strong multicultural and inter-cultural knowledge combined with her linguistic skills of speaking 4 languages fluently and 3 at intermediate levels. She helps leaders and organizations shift behaviors through cultural coaching, customized facilitations & consulting to create more positive outcomes and align teams to profoundly increase their feeling of belonging. Her approach is deeply rooted in empathy, intent and integrity that helps our clients see their blind spots through self-reflection. Check out Sushmita's TEDx Talk here  Check out Sushmita's books: Alphabets of the World and Religions of the World Connect with Sushmita: ThinkDEI | https://thinkdei.com/ LinkedIn ⁠sushmitakirkland@gmail.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/support

Rena P. Dixon, PhD, MPH, MCHES has worked her entire career in the rural southeastern United States. Currently serving as the Director of Community Investment and Impact at Fact Forward, she oversees staff working on program development and implementation, evaluation and professional learning related to adolescent health. She has extensive experience on providing quality reproductive health services for adolescents and young adults.  Join me this week as I talk with Dr. Rena Dixon about: Sexual health, reproductive health, and reproductive justice Race & racism in healthcare and health access Dr. James Marion Sims – learn more about the racist history of gynecology here Self advocacy in medicine How Black bodies are tied to funding in nonprofit work Sister Song – Women of Color Reproductive Justice Collective Advocacy through voting Dr. Dixon was born and raised in Augusta, Georgia. She graduated cum laude from Armstrong Atlantic State University, in Savannah, Georgia with a Bachelor's of Science in Health Sciences and a minor in Latin American studies. Dr. Dixon also holds her Master of Public Health from Armstrong and a PhD in Public Health with a focus on Health Promotion and Health Education from Walden University. She has a passion for public speaking, sexual health, health equity and social justice.  Before coming to Fact Forward, Dr. Dixon has worked for Planned Parenthood of Georgia and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Get in touch with Dr. Dixon: Fact Forward https://www.facebook.com/FactForwardOrg https://www.instagram.com/factforwardorg/ https://twitter.com/FactForwardOrg https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVs1B0_Qht24IabsPaZFAhg https://www.linkedin.com/company/factforwardorg --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/support

This week's guest is Erin B. Haag, the creator of Pricing Overhaul™️. This proven method helps her clients shift their mindset around money and math, overhaul their pricing for profitability, and make more money inside their businesses than they ever dreamed possible. She is a self-proclaimed “Math Nerd,” serial entrepreneur, full blooded Capricorn, mom of 2, and lover of travel, wine, & cheese. She has over 20 years' experience working intimately with numbers, metrics, and pricing for both large corporations and smaller, privately owned businesses. This week on the podcast, we discuss: How money can help you have freedom to live the life you dream of, to pay the people who work for you abundantly, and to help others. Charging what you're worth Erin's Pricing Overhaul™️ formula Monthly client value Seeing what's possible Check out her book, Give Yourself a Raise: The Mindset and Math You Need to Get to Your First Million Get in touch with Erin: https://www.facebook.com/pricingoverhaul https://www.facebook.com/luxuryinbusinessretreats https://www.instagram.com/pricingoverhaul/ https://www.instagram.com/luxuryinbusinessretreats/ Check out her book, Give Yourself a Raise: The Mindset and Math You Need to Get to Your First Million   Get in touch with Erin here: https://pricingoverhaul.com/ https://luxuryinbusinessretreats.com/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/support

Download this week's journal page here. Episode 7: Tell Your Story Authentically “Surrounding ourselves with others who pull greatness out of us is important.” Penda L. James describes herself as a writer, scribe coach, and creator.  The gift for words is genuinely in Penda James' DNA. When her beloved mother passed on, Penda discovered that she had written beautiful poetry in her youth and was considered by many to be the next Maya Angelou. A gifted Scribe Coach, she is highly adept at identifying and breaking through writing blocks, having dealt with them herself. She has guided several authors through the completion of published books, music, plays, articles, and academic projects. Her goal is to help people clarify their vision, write down their rite of passage moments, and tell their story authentically. A proud graduate of both Wilberforce University and Bowling Green State University, Penda developed a love of history and storytelling. Her education, work experience, and faith in God all contribute to her mastery in helping writers and leaders reach their goals through words on paper. Penda's message is a simple one. She has been called to help you: Get Unstuck. Execute Your Goals. InSCRIBE Your Legacy. In today's episode, we discuss: Setting boundaries & staying focused Getting in the bubble and working with intention Reviewing your vision Building a village of people who believe in you Speaking life to yourself Loving deeply and finding strength in others “Your story is about you, but now for you.” Cheryl Wood Connect with Penda: Website: www.inscribedinspiration.com Website: www.pendaljames.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScribeCoach  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/penscribed/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/support

Episode 6: Take the Leap with Jason Szczuorowski Download today's journal page here Jason Szczurowski retired from the US Coast Guard after 24 years of service.  After enlisting in 1999, he served in Telecommunications, Operations, Communications Security, Crypto Management, Search & Rescue, and Command Center, finalizing his career as a Chief Warrant Officer.  He's served throughout the US including VA, PA, NJ, CA, DC, and the Bahamas.  He's a huge Philadelphia Sports fan and enjoys staying active through running or playing basketball.  Jason wants to get into politics so he can continue serving his country.  He is enjoying retirement with his lovely wife and keeping up with his 3 beautiful children.  This week on the podcast, Jason shares with us his wisdom and expertise from 24 years of military service. Join us as we discuss: Jason's FACE method for insisting on your own success How to manifest your destiny The importance of social awareness in making an impact Learn more about Jason and connect with him: https://www.instagram.com/sailorsportcall/ https://www.facebook.com/jason.szczurowski Behind the Player Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1qQrB5XFMHQ4A24uZBeBYY --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/support

Check out this week's journal page here Episode 5: Adrienne King - Create Your Own Party “I don't believe in balance.  Instead, I flex in & out of different spaces - putting my energy where I'm most needed at this time.” These wise words come from this week's guest, Adrienne King. Adrienne has worked in the pharmaceutical industry for over 20 years and has proven leadership in Quality, External Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Employee Business Resource Group, Diversity Equity & Inclusion and Project Management. Adrienne is a transformative change leader and a voice for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at work and in her community.  She serves on multiple DE&I Advisory Boards in her community, the Executive Community for the Bucks County NAACP and the African American Museum of Bucks County Foundation Board. She also led the effort to start the first ever DEI community of parents and educators in her daughter's elementary school. Adrienne holds a B.S. in Chemistry and an M.S. in Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs, as well as completing Leadership Programs at Duke and Cornell.  She is the recipient of the Bucks County Community College 2023 Martin Luther King Jr Dream Builder Award.  She lives in PA with her husband and 2 daughters, while also running a family business - So Fresh & So Green Juice Company - and running a nonprofit - The PairUP Society.  In this week's episode, Adrienne and I discuss how to stand out when you're the only one who looks like you in the room and she discusses the concept of “creating your own party.” “I need to be authentically myself and you are either gonna love it or not. But I am who I am and that's who I'm going to show up as. And if who I'm showing up as. Isn't right for the table that you have. Then I'm going to move over here and open my own door, create my own table, and keep it moving” Follow Adrienne & her work with the PairUP Society: Instagram: The PairUP Society (@pairupsociety) | Instagram Facebook: The Pair UP Society | Perkasie PA | FacebookWebsite: Non Profit | The PairUP Society | Perkasie --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/support

Today's episode of part of my #MindfulMay series that I'm running on Instagram: Beth Ruffin | Inclusion Coach (@thebethruffin) | Instagram So what is mindfulness?  Put simply - it's being present in the moment, aware of our surroundings. Tune in to hear: 1. How I've made mindfulness a daily practice 2. How you can benefit from mindfulness 3. How to embody this practice into your self inclusion journey This week's journal page here Please remember to like, comment, and share! For any inquiries, send an email to: info@bethruffin.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/support

I'm super excited to chat with my daughter, Bella, in this week's episode about belonging as a teenager! While she is detailing her experience as a teenager, I think you'll find some helpful information that you can implement in your own life. If you haven't already, like & subscribe this podcast. Download this week's journal page: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/643eefac46aaeb64ed6a0240 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/support

This week, we're going to discuss how being in a constant state of fight is harmful and how we can get out of it.   Psychology Today Article: Are you thriving? Here is a checklist | Psychology Today For this week's journal page, click here: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/64355e3ffa28aa2f3031ffe2 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/support

Welcome to the very first episode of You Belong Here with Beth Ruffin podcast!  I'm so excited to have you here.  Today, we're going to learn about self-inclusion, a concept I developed to help you foster your own sense of belonging.  Today, we'll define self inclusion, talk about why it's important, and briefly discuss my 5-step framework for implementing self inclusion.  Ready, Set, Go! For this week's journal page, click here: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/6429a237a69c8edeb129c11f --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bethruffin/support

Inclusion is a behavior. You must make the intentional consistent effort to include yourself. Implement and improve. Practice. It's time to include yourself so you can be the best version of yourself. That goal you have. The dream you can't shake. That passion you want to fulfill. The finish line you see in your future. It starts with including yourself. Start this week with these 3 tips. This Week's Journal Page You Belong Here with Beth Ruffin is a production of The Everyday Inclusionist and can be found wherever you listen to podcasts. Please follow/subscribe, share, and leave a review. Check out the show notes for this week's journal page. Have a question you'd like to me to address – send an email to info@bethruffin.com. Thank you! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/bethruffin/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/bethruffin/support

Do you ever find yourself questioning the impact you make on the world and asked yourself, 'What am I even doing?'? In this episode we explore this question and discuss how you can remove the unrealistic expectations you put on yourself to truly appreciate what you do and the impact you make. Click here for today's journal page You Belong Here with Beth Ruffin is a production of The Everyday Inclusionist and can be found wherever you listen to podcasts. Please follow/subscribe, share, and leave a review. Check out the show notes for this week's journal page. Have a question you'd like to me to address – send an email to info@bethruffin.com. Thank you! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/bethruffin/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/bethruffin/support

Join me this week as I chat with Alexis Johnson about the inclusion of Blacks in the newsroom. In June 2020, Alexis sued her employer, the Pittsburgh Post Gazette, alleging the news outlet was engaging in racial discrimination and illegal retaliation. On May 31, Alexis posted a tweet about the different ways Blacks and whites are portrayed after acts of property damage. After catching wind of the tweet, her editors told her she could no longer cover stories on the Black Lives Matters movement across the city of Pittsburgh. Alexis had already planned stories on jailed protestors and social media efforts to raise bail funds which had to be shut down. Her suit states that white reporters who have posted similar social medial posts did not receive the same treatment. Because of the ongoing litigation, Alexis could not talk about the lawsuit with me during our conversation. But, you can read more about that story online. Let me tell you more about Alexis and her background. Almost a decade of journalism experience, first appearing on the News Station of her undergrad college, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, where she majored in communication & media studies. After receiving her Master degree in Media Studies & Production from Temple University, she went on to work as a production assistant at NBC-10 in Philadelphia. Her experience also includes working as a multimedia journalist at WVVA in West Virginia, a breaking news reporter for NJ.com, a freelance writer for Urban Islandz and a digital news editor at the Pittsburgh Post Gazette before landing her current role at the Pittsburgh Post Gazette as a Trending News Reporter. In this role, she is responsible for publishing multi-media content for post-gazette.com and all social media platforms. You can connect with Alexis on Twitter here --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/bethruffin/message

Join me this week as I speak with Diversity Strategist Torin Ellis about the current state of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, how you can own this work for yourself, intersectionality, microaggressions, covering, and some common myths about the DEI work! This week's episode is brought to you by my new book, You Belong Here: Your Guide to Self-Inclusion. You can get your copy here. Torin is a Diversity Strategist, Published Author, and workplace issues Host of Career Mix on SiriusXM where he discusses challenges and progress regarding career progression, diversity, and disruption. As a consultant/strategist, he assists clients in optimizing their recruiting efforts using a collaborative approach built on transparency, objective clarity, actionable strategy, and rigorous performance monitoring. He is also a sought after speaker at some of the industry's most recognized events. In short, a passionate practitioner committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. His approach, influence and results are the reason some of the world's most forward thinking companies have trusted him to make DEI a thriving force for their enterprise and constituents. Learn more about Torin here: http://torinellis.com/ Sirius XM Crazy & the King Podcast --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/bethruffin/message

Listen this week as I talk with legendary director, producer, and choreographer, Otis Sallid, about the inclusion of blacks in Hollywood and on Broadway. Otis Sallid is one of the most notable producer, director, and choreographer in theater, television, and film. His work spans decades in the entertainment industry and includes beloved classics such as School Daze, Do the Right Thing, Malcolm X, Black Nativity, A Different World, Living Single, Sister Act 2, Fame, and the Wiz. Born and raised in Harlem, New York, Otis Sallid's tremendous talent became apparent early in his life while studying dance with the Harlem Youth Unlimited. Instructors such as Alvin Ailey recognized his affinity for dance and encouraged him to audition for the High School of Performing Arts. He was awarded a four-year scholarship to the Julliard School. After Juilliard, Otis worked his way as an actor-dancer through numerous Broadway shows and dance companies. The experience on Broadway and in acting companies served to expand Sallid's interest as he realized his dream to write, produce, choreograph and direct. In 1995 Sallid conceived the hit Broadway show SMOKEY JOE'S CAFÉ and in 1996 he choreographed the 69th ANNUAL ACADEMY AWARDS. He also directed and choreographed the live segment event for the 40th Super Bowl featuring Stevie Wonder, John Legend, India Arie, and Joss Stone. For the rest of the decade Otis went on to work with such artists as Faith Hill, Brooke Shields, Patti Labelle, Tony Bennett, Loretta Devine, Denzel Washington, Sam Jackson, Gregory Hines, Spike Lee, Lawrence Fishbourne, Sarah Jessica Parker, Prince, Vanessa Williams, Whoopi Goldberg, Debbie Allen, Vanessa Williams, James Ingram, Viveca Fox, Don Cheatle and Queen Latifah. Otis's commercial directing career began with his own production company Creative Otis Inc. Within the first year, the company produced and directed more than a dozen national commercials for clients such as FORD, COCA-COLA, McDonald's, SPRITE, GEORGIA STATE LOTTERY, AND GENERAL MOTORS. On the international stage, Otis Sallid produces and directs the live events for the Middle East International Film Festival in Abu Dhabi. He's won several awards, including the Bob Fosse LA Choreographers Dance Award, several commercial awards, the MTV and the Music Video Producers Awards. When he is not running his production company Creative Otis Inc., he spends his time speaking and teaching in colleges, universities and arts programs around the world, The Boston Conservatory, Berklee School of Music, Pace University in New York City, The Broadway Dreams Foundation and Perry Mansfield in Steamboat Springs in Colorado just to name a few. To learn more about Otis, you can visit his website at: www.creativeotis.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/bethruffin/message

Canvases with Candace https://www.instagram.com/canvaseswithcandace/ https://www.facebook.com/CanvaseswithCandace/ Maria A. Martin works at PASOs of SC, a community-based organization that helps the Latino community and service providers work together for strong and healthy families. Born to Mexican and Puerto Rican immigrant parents, she has always sought to utilize her skills for the betterment of Latino populations. Maria is a social worker who has a heart for the work and understands how to meet our communities where they are and how to build upon their strengths. As Co-Interim Director of PASOs of SC, Maria is one of the organization's key management leaders that works collaboratively with the Board of Advisors and leadership team in leading the mission and vision of the organization. Maria is responsible for ensuring high quality service delivery, maintaining and procuring financial sustainability, and leading the continued development of a successful and efficient organization. She enables and guides the organization in achieving short and long-term goals and objectives aligned with the organization's mission and vision. You can reach Maria at https://www.scpasos.org/ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/bethruffin/message

Tune in this week as I talk with Brandon Brooks of Inventrify about small businesses. Brandon Brooks is an American Businessman and founder of the popular community oriented crowdfunding platform, Inventrify. Combining his hunger for the hustle and his passion to help others is the secret to Brandons' success. Brandon is the true definition of an entrepreneur, but he does not focus on just creating opportunities for himself but is always looking for innovative ways to help other entrepreneurs along their journey. You can contact Brandon here: Facebook: @inventrify Instagram: @inventrify_ Website: www.inventrify.com Email: brandonbrooks@inventrify.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/bethruffin/message

Join me this week as Shanea and I talk about the queer community! Rev. Shanea D. Leonard, B.A., M.Div. (they/them/theirs) is a modern-day abolitionist, pastor, teacher, consultant, community activist, and justice warrior. Shanea has been an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church (USA) for over twelve years. A native of Philadelphia, they received her their B.A. from the University of Pittsburgh and M.Div. from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. They has been serving communities and congregations in various capacities for over fifteen years. Pastor Leonard has done extensive work with urban areas to eradicate systemic oppression in the areas of race, gender, sexual orientation, and socio-economic despair and has spent time doing international outreach in Africa, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic. Furthermore, they are also the moderator of the Pastor's Council for the Fellowship of Affirming Ministries, a global network of faith leaders & communities with an affirming theology. Shanea believes that God has given them a burden for people whom others have disregarded, oppressed, forgotten, or simply don't even see. You can reach Shanea at: Shanea.leonard@pcusa.org Facebook @Shanea Leonard Instagram @shaneadl Twitter @judahfellowship Judah Fellowship: judahfellowship.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/bethruffin/message

Join me this week as I speak with Mandy Medlock about women in politics! Mandy Medlock - Marketing Manager with Genoa Healthcare, Mandy is a long-time mental health advocate in the Midlands community. She formerly worked as Executive Director for both NAMI Mid-Carolina & Justice 360. Mandy passionately advocates for those in the Eating Disorder recovery community as well as those recovering from alcohol and drug addiction; she serves on the SC Mental Health State Planning Council & is a dedicated founder & active member of SC Women in Leadership. South Carolina Women in Leadership is a multi-partisan group of women whose mission is to move South Carolina forward – socially, economically, educationally, and environmentally – through information, connection and engagement of women in leadership. In addition, she currently serves on the board of directors of Work in Progress, a non-profit which assists persons with mental illness obtain employment. In her free time, Mandy enjoys practicing yoga & meditation. She is a proud, single mom of two grown children, ages 24 & 21 and an adorable 8-year-old Maltese named Penelope. You can learn more about Mandy at: Facebook - Mandy Medlock scwomenlead.net --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/bethruffin/message

Listen to this week's episode with Lester Young, Jr. as we discuss how to support formerly incarcerated people. Lester Young, Jr is a native of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. At the age of 19, Lester was given a life sentence (with the possibility of parole after serving 20 years). During his time in prison, Lester struggled with finding redemption and often wondered what his purpose was. While journaling he asked himself this question, “What is the footprint you want to leave in this world?” It was then that he realized his purpose was to be “that” voice to help at risk youth. With approval from the warden, Lester along with the prison chaplain began meeting to create outlines, programs, and classes to instruct and mentor fellow inmates. This is where the idea of him establishing his non-profit organization “Path2Redemption” got its start. On May 15, 2014 (22 years and 5 months later), Lester was released on parole. Even after his release, the outlines of his programs are still being taught in prison. Mr. Young is setting a new standard for “living a life of redemption”. His commitment to advocating for criminal reform is changing the way society has been proportioned to deal with incarcerated individuals transitioning back into society upon release from prison. As the “Statewide Organizer for South Carolina at JustLeadershipUSA, he specializes in developing and managing innovative campaigns in multiple cities. Lester is widely known for his work with the Mayor of Columbia, SC; in having the first statewide ordinance passed for JustLeadershipUSA's current campaign entitled “#Banthebox”. This campaign gives incarcerated individuals the chance to complete applications, job and/or housing, without being discriminated against for past convictions You can reach him at: Facebook - Lester Young Twitter - lester972 Instagram - path2redemption Email - path2redemption515@gmail.com lester young - FB lester972 - TW path2redemption - IG path2redemption515@gmail.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/bethruffin/message

Listen to this week's conversation with Brianne Benness as we discuss chronic illness. Brianne Benness is a writer, editor, TEDx speaker, and the host of No End in Sight, a podcast about life with chronic illness. Brianne is also a co-founder of a monthly Toronto-based storytelling event called Stories We Don't Tell, which recently published its first anthology of vulnerable stories about tough topics. You can connect with Brianne at noendinsight.co or on Twitter @bennessb. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/bethruffin/message

Kayla Mallett is a Black woman organizer and mom. In the summer of 2019, Kayla launched Black Women 2020, a project designed to explore what it means for Black women (especially in the state of South Carolina) to feel safe, seen, and supported. Since it's inception the project has hosted over 17 discussions with Black women, including events with 2020 Democratic primary candidates. A native of Manning, SC, Kayla's values are rooted deeply in the ideals of community and collectivism. Kayla believes everyone wins when Black women win. Listen as we discuss how Kayla elevates the voices of Black women through her activism. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/bethruffin/message

Introducing the "At the Table" podcast with Beth Ruffin! Hi, I'm Beth Ruffin and I'm committed to making our world more inclusive through consulting, coaching, and speaking. I believe everyone deserves a seat at the table, so I started this podcast to highlight the underrepresented. The marginalized. The diminished. The underappreciated. I wanted to create a platform to elevate their voices. So come join me, have a seat At the Table, and let's chat! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/bethruffin/message

Wil Hansen is the co-founder and chef at White Pepper, an award-winning catering company in Portland, Oregon. With a commitment to locally-sourced, seasonally-driven ingredients, White Pepper is reimagining what it ... The post #30: Building a Locally-Sourced, Seasonally-Driven Catering Company with Wil Hansen appeared first on At The Table.

Joel Solomon is a founding partner at Renewal Funds, a $98 million mission-driven venture capital firm. He’s invested in more than 100 early growth-stage companies, and his work is proof ... The post #29: Doing Well by Doing Good with Joel Solomon appeared first on At The Table.

Today, we talk with Kait Bowdler, the Director of Sustainability at Philabundance, about the role sustainability can play in ending hunger. Philabundance is a Philadelphia based organization that serves more ... The post #28: Feeding the Line While Shortening the Line with Kait Bowdler appeared first on At The Table.

Join us on the floor of Seafood Expo North America as we check in with seven companies working to build a better, more sustainable seafood industry. We’re covering everything from ... The post #27: The Future of Seafood (Recorded LIVE at Seafood Expo North America) appeared first on At The Table.

Founder of the “Asian in America” and “Wednesdays” dinner series, Chef Jenny Dorsey is using art and storytelling to fuse food with social good. In this interview, we talk to ... The post #26: Food as a Force for Social Good with Jenny Dorsey appeared first on At The Table.

Renewal Mill is a next-generation ingredients company that upcycles byproducts like okara, a pulp created during the soymilk production process. Renewal Mill is working to transform traditional food production byproducts ... The post #25: Upcycling Food Byproducts with Claire Schlemme appeared first on At The Table.

The Executive Director of Pilot Light in Chicago, Alexandra DeSorbo-Quinn joins us to talk about using hip hop to address public health problems, the key metrics Pilot Light uses to build ... The post #24: Feeding Young Minds with Alexandra DeSorbo-Quinn appeared first on At The Table.

What’s the difference between commercial and artisan flour? How do our staple crops influence our lives? These are just a few of the questions Amy Halloran, author of The New Bread ... The post #23: Revitalizing Regional Grain Production with Amy Halloran appeared first on At The Table.

Bestselling cookbook author Julia Turshen joins us to talk about the cookbook writing process, how she uses food as a means to get people involved in their communities, and the ... The post #22: Cookbooks, Small Victories, and Getting Involved with Julia Turshen appeared first on At The Table.

Hear from Jillian Hishaw, founder and director of F.A.R.M.S. (Family Agriculture Resource Management Services), a nonprofit dedicated to protecting small and family farmers while fighting hunger in their communities. In ... The post #21: Protecting Family Farmers with Jillian Hishaw appeared first on At The Table.