Let's Take This Offline: The Podcast for Everyday Leaders

Most leaders agree that culture drives performance – but too often, it's reduced to a values exercise rather than a measurable, strategic asset. The reality is that negative workplace behaviours are among the strongest predictors of attrition, reputational damage and productivity decline. And in many cases, the warning signs are visible long before the damage becomes public.In this episode, we're joined by Charlie Sull – a globally recognised expert in corporate culture and AI. As co-founder of CultureX and a regular contributor to MIT Sloan Management Review, Charlie draws on one of the world's largest workplace culture datasets to help organisations decode what's really happening inside their walls – and take action where it matters most.He shares why culture must be measured and managed with the same rigour as financial or operational performance, and how AI is transforming the way we understand workplace dynamics.Thank you to HR Partner for sponsoring this season. If you want to explore a simple HR solution that streamlines your HR admin, you can book a demo today: https://bit.ly/4dAYxugSHOW NOTESLearning:Learn how to understand the basics of generative AI for HR with this short course from AHRI: https://bit.ly/40221k4Explore CultureX's thought leadership and culture champion profiles: blog.culturex.comConnect:Connect with Charlie on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4kTMV8HConnect with AHRI on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4kAaLWJAHRI members can join the AHRI LinkedIn lounge, exclusive to AHRI members to discuss some of the themes explored in this episode with their HR peers and access bonus content. Become a member today: https://bit.ly/41tcOFu

In a world of constant disruption, HR leaders are being asked to help people build the mindsets needed to navigate change. In this episode, leadership expert Richard Gerver — a former award-winning principal turned advisor to global organisations like Google and Deloitte — shares how HR can lead with curiosity, create psychological safety and offer stability during times of uncertainty.This conversation offers a taste of what Richard will expand on at AHRI's National Convention and Exhibition in Sydney this August.Thank you to HR Partner for sponsoring this season. If you want to explore a simple HR solution that streamlines your HR admin, you can book a demo today: https://bit.ly/4dAYxugSHOW NOTESLearning opportunities:Get your ticket to AHRI's National Convention and Exhibition to hear more from Richard: https://bit.ly/4dUw42MSign up to AHRI's short course to learn how to identify the change lifecycle steps required to effectively manage change using effective change management model and frameworks: https://bit.ly/3Ti5mHYExplore Richard's books: Change, Learn to Love it, Learn to Lead it; Simple Thinking; Education: a Manifesto for Change; and Creating Tomorrow's Schools Today.Connect:Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3FR2YF0Connect with AHRI on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4kAaLWJAHRI members can join the AHRI LinkedIn lounge, exclusive to AHRI members to discuss some of the themes explored in this episode with their HR peers and access bonus content. Become a member today: https://bit.ly/41tcOFu

Engaging with the board is a critical skill for HR leaders — but navigating board dynamics isn't always straightforward.In this episode, we're joined by Dr Juliet Bourke, a global authority on human capital, inclusive leadership and governance. With experience advising hundreds of organisations — including Apple, the UN and BHP — and a decade as a Deloitte Partner, Juliet brings rare insight into what boards expect from HR.Whether you're board-facing now or preparing for the future, this episode will help you sharpen your strategic edge.Thank you to HR Partner for sponsoring this season. If you want to explore a simple HR solution that streamlines your HR admin, you can book a demo today: https://bit.ly/4dAYxugSHOW NOTES:Learning opportunities:Give your HR leadership a point of difference by becoming a Certified HR practitioner: https://bit.ly/3MZnnreTransition from operational responsibilities to visionary leadership with AHRI's Strategic HR Leader short course: https://bit.ly/4kpDqxL Learn how to overcome stakeholder resistance with this short course from AHRI: https://bit.ly/3MR1droMore resources:Green shoots for change in the boardroom report (Deloitte, 2023): https://bit.ly/3ZOP397Read DrJuliet's book: Which Two Heads Are Better Than One? : https://bit.ly/4mLIIoWThe value of HR leadership at a board level (HRMOnline by Samantha Martin-Williams): https://bit.ly/4kql5ARConnect:Follow Dr Juliet Bourke on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3T8f5R0 AHRI members can join the AHRI LinkedIn lounge, exclusive to AHRI members to discuss some of the themes explored in this episode with their HR peers and access bonus content. Become a member today: https://bit.ly/41tcOFu

Feelings of self-doubt are not uncommon – especially for leaders stepping into more senior roles or navigating spaces where they don't fit the conventional mould. But what if impostor syndrome wasn't a weakness to correct, but a signal of growth? And more importantly, what if it could be reframed as a leadership asset?In this episode, we're joined by Kemi Nekvapil – a globally recognised leadership coach, author and keynote speaker who has guided thousands of leaders to find their voice, lead with conviction and build authentic presence. She will also be taking the stage at AHRI's National Convention and Exhibition this August in Sydney.If you're looking to lead with greater confidence and clarity, this conversation offers the tools to get you there.Thank you to HR Partner for sponsoring this season. If you want to explore a simple HR solution that streamlines your HR admin, you can book a demo today: https://bit.ly/4dAYxugSHOW NOTESHear more from Kemi Nekvapil at AHRI's National Convention and Exhibition in Sydney from 19-21 August 2025. Register today: https://bit.ly/3HbrcKlFurther learning:Give your HR leadership a point of difference by becoming a Certified HR practitioner: https://bit.ly/3MZnnreLearn leadership and management essentials with this short course from AHRI: https://bit.ly/3U1REKjExplore Kemi's books 'POWER' and 'The Gift of Asking': https://bit.ly/3Fk3gUI Connect with your peers:AHRI members can join the AHRI LinkedIn lounge, exclusive to AHRI members to discuss some of the themes explored in this episode with their HR peers. Become a member today: https://bit.ly/41tcOFuFollow AHRI on LinkedIn for more useful content: https://bit.ly/40Nu2wG

This episode delves into the journey from HR leader to non-HR executive, exploring how to blend the strengths of HR expertise with the commercial and operational capabilities needed to lead organisations.Chris Lamb FCPHR, former Deputy Commissioner of the New South Wales Public Service Commission, reflects on his four-year tenure in the role and shares key lessons from his transition to non-HR C-suite leadership.Discover practical insights to help you prepare for a non-HR leadership position and unlock your potential for broader organisational impact.SHOW NOTESFurther learning:Give your HR leadership a point of difference by becoming a Certified HR practitioner: https://bit.ly/3MZnnreHelp to support HR leaders of the future or learn from a seasoned HR practitioner to prepare for your next step by signing up to AHRI's mentoring program (exclusive to AHRI members): https://bit.ly/3PSP2M7Learn leadership and management essentials with this short course from AHRI: https://bit.ly/3U1REKjConnect with your peers:AHRI members can join the AHRI LinkedIn lounge, exclusive to AHRI members to discuss some of the themes explored in this episode with their HR peers. Become a member today: https://bit.ly/41tcOFuFollow AHRI on LinkedIn for more useful content: https://bit.ly/40Nu2wG

In the world of HR, change is often seen as a catalyst for innovation and growth. But HR leaders also need to champion stability without stifling progress. In this episode, we explore themes from Ashley Goodall's latest book, The Problem with Change, which challenges the assumption that constant disruption is always beneficial for business. Goodall draws on his extensive experience leading people and learning functions at Deloitte and Cisco, offering practical examples and fresh insights into how perpetual change can erode employee wellbeing and performance. This is a must-listen episode for HR and business leaders alike.Show notesResources and learningAHRI members can join the AHRI LinkedIn lounge, exclusive to AHRI members to discuss some of the themes explored in this episode with their HR peers. Become a member today: https://bit.ly/41tcOFuLearn how to manage change more effectively with this short course from AHRI: https://bit.ly/3Drj9HwFurther readingExplore Ashley Goodall's latest book: The Problem with Change And The Essential Nature of Human Performance: https://bit.ly/4gNCMIpExplore Ashley Goodall's book 'Nine Lies About Work', co-authored with Marcus Buckingham: https://bit.ly/4iLbKmrA Radical Rethink of HR (MIT Sloan article) by Ashley Goodall: https://bit.ly/4iKYcre

In this episode, we unpack the shift from viewing psychosocial safety as a compliance exercise to embracing it as a strategic imperative. Tanya Heaney-Voogt, a mentally healthy workplaces expert, shares how HR practitioners can influence and enable organisations to create environments where employees feel supported, engaged and safe to speak up.Listeners will gain practical advice on demystifying complex psychosocial concepts, fostering open dialogue and adopting sustainable work design practices. By focusing on long-term cultural and behavioral change, HR practitioners can better support leaders, balance performance pressures and enhance both people and business outcomes.Free resourcesAHRI members can join the AHRI LinkedIn lounge, exclusive to AHRI members, to access a range of free templates from Tanya, including a great 1 on 1 template and a 6-step change plan template.Become a member today: https://bit.ly/41tcOFuCited researchUniversity of South Australia research which includes great proof-points for getting buy in psychosocial safety initiatives: https://bit.ly/4ffFzbSAmy Edmondson's research into psychological safety: https://bit.ly/3DcnIW4Michelle McQuaid's research into thriving work cultures: https://bit.ly/3Vz3Vq4Professor Sharon Parker's research into work design: https://bit.ly/41wJVZeGallup State of the Global Workplace Report 2024: https://bit.ly/3ZAuAEaFurther reading Comcare code of Practice: https://bit.ly/41BISH8Tanya's books: Finding Equilibrium, Transforming Norm and Creating Space (coming soon: free download): https://bit.ly/3Df7s6UGood versus bad stress (HRM article): https://bit.ly/3Bs64x4

In this episode, we explore the evolving role of HR and the expanding remit of people practitioners in today's complex work environments.Isa Notermans, Chief People Officer at Fleet Space Technologies and former HR leader at Spotify, Airtasker and Google, shares her insights on how HR can move beyond transactional functions to become trusted strategic advisors.Listeners will gain practical advice on fostering collaboration across the business, leveraging data and storytelling to influence decision-making, and redefining HR's role to drive both people and business outcomes.Further learning and resourcesAustralian HR Capability Framework: https://bit.ly/4g4RJ8mPosition yourself for an HR leadership position with this short course from AHRI: https://bit.ly/3U1REKjLearn how to overcome stakeholder resistance with this short course from AHRI: https://bit.ly/3MR1droNot yet an AHRI member? Sign up for resources, networks and learning opportunities to help you build careers that have an impact – https://bit.ly/3Vhu50oFurther reading/listening:Learn more about Isa via this HRM profile article: https://bit.ly/4eMSHpAHear more about aligning your business strategy with your DEI initiatives in this podcast episode with Liz Griffin FCPHR: https://bit.ly/3B2qMU1Hear more about how to take care of your own wellbeing as an HR practitioner with this podcast episode from Dr Adam Fraser: https://bit.ly/3AYK8cJ

In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of deep listening and how it can elevate diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) strategies beyond surface-level intent. Liz Griffin, a seasoned DEI leader with experience at Qantas, Commonwealth Bank, EY and Minderoo Foundation, explores the nuances of building inclusive cultures, navigating DEI maturity and crafting strategies that resonate with business objectives. Listeners will gain real-world examples and practical advice to help HR leaders make impactful, systemic change in their organisations.

As the HR profession continues to evolve, the competencies required for effective HR leadership are quickly becoming more complex and wide-ranging.  In AHRI's latest podcast episode, host Beth Hall FCPHR, speaks with Tiffany Blight CPHR, First Assistant Secretary – People and Culture at the Department of Home Affairs, about how practitioners can arm themselves with the right skills to thrive in HR leadership roles. In this episode, you'll learn: Key capabilities for aspiring HR leaders Practical steps to build these skills and experiences Tips for positioning yourself for leadership roles in HR. SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK: Take our 2-minute survey to share your thoughts on seasons one and two of AHRI: https://bit.ly/3BjN5Ey SHOW NOTES Let us know what you think of the podcast so far. Take our 2-minute survey to share your feedback with us: ⁠https://bit.ly/47yzZiN⁠ ⁠Access the episode transcript here – https://bit.ly/3zpjp8p⁠

Around 15% of the population identify as neurodivergent. However, this is sometimes invisible within organisations, often because employees don't feel safe enough to disclose their neurodivergence to their employer.  In this episode, we speak with Aron Mercer, founding team member at Xceptional, a social enterprise that creates meaningful careers for neurodivergent individuals, about how to create safe, neuro-inclusive cultures. In this episode, you'll learn: How to combat the fear of getting it wrong. Practical ways that HR practitioners can factor neurodiversity inclusion into the employee lifecycle. How to avoid tokenistic initiatives and instead have a meaningful, positive impact on employees' experience at work. SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK: Take our 2-minute survey to share your thoughts on seasons one and two of AHRI: https://bit.ly/3BjN5Ey TRANSCRIPT Access the episode transcript here: https://bit.ly/4ccg7Cz SHOW NOTES

HR practitioners are often tasked with 'fixing' cultural issues, but as Siobhan McHale, Executive General Manager of People, Culture and Change at Dulux, asserts, they are actually the culture leaders. They set the stage and equip leaders and managers with the tools needed to authentically and effectively embody organisational values. In this episode, you'll discover: * How to frame HR roles for greater impact at the executive level * Ways to embrace group intelligence within organisations * Insights into her seven-year culture transformation project at ANZ Bank, turning it from Australia's worst-performing financial institution to one of the best SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK: Take our 2-minute survey to share your thoughts on seasons one and two of AHRI: https://bit.ly/3BjN5Ey SHOW NOTES TRANSCRIPT

In this episode, Ravin Jesuthasan, global thought leader and Senior Partner and Global Leader for Transformation Services at Mercer, talks about how HR practitioners can navigate the evolving skills landscape. You'll learn how to take advantage of the shift towards skills-based hiring, how AI might reinvent the graduate-level position, and models and frameworks to think about skills and job design as a small, medium or large-sized business. View the episode transcript here. SHOW NOTES

HR is an incredibly rewarding profession, tackling some of the most pressing workplace challenges, from navigating layoffs to meeting the high expectations of leaders and employees. But this kind of work can take a toll.In this episode, we speak with Dr Adam Fraser, peak performance researcher and workplace wellbeing expert, to explore how HR can care for their own mental health and wellbeing as they navigate the ever-evolving business landscape.In this episode, you'll learn how Dr Fraser's research on vicarious trauma in the education sector can be applied to HR , along with some valuable, research-backed tips to help manage your mental health. SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK: Take our 2-minute survey to share your thoughts on seasons one and two of AHRI: https://bit.ly/3BjN5EyTRANSCRIPTView here.SHOW NOTES

A key part of being an effective HR practitioner is about building strong, strategic and trusting relationships with key stakeholders in order to build your influence and help move your organisation towards its goals. In this episode, coaching expert and author Michael Bungay Stanier shares insights from his latest book 'How to work with (almost) anyone' and provides listeners with insights to make their relationships at work stronger and more resilient. SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK: Take our 2-minute survey to share your thoughts on seasons one and two of AHRI: https://bit.ly/3BjN5Ey SHOW NOTES

In a world where the HR profession has been elevated to new heights, how can HR professionals maintain the momentum they've gained over the past few years to continue adding strategic value to a business's long-term goals? In this episode, we speak with Lucy Adams, CEO of Disruptive HR and former HR Director at the BBC, who shares her thoughts on fresh ways to think about HR, including her EACH framework, (which stands for Employees as Adults, Consumers and Humans), and shares practical examples of different ways organisations are trialling new ways of working.

In episode two of AHRI's new podcast, host Shelley Johnson speaks with McKinsey and Company's Expert Associate Partner Rod Farmer about how HR professionals can get cut through with their learning and development programs. We're moving from a jobs-based economy to a skills-based economy, says Farmer, which is why we need to rethink how we embed the right skills in our organisations. He shares useful frameworks and an interesting case study from some work he's done with the Department of Regional NSW to create more digital literacy within its workforce.  SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK: Take our 2-minute survey to share your thoughts on seasons one and two of AHRI: https://bit.ly/3BjN5Ey Show notes

In the inaugural episode of AHRI's brand-new podcast, host and HR professional Shelley Johnson talks all things culture with Shane Hatton, a culture and leadership expert and author. Shane shares a range of helpful frameworks, a case study and practical advice that any HR professional listening can take away and apply to their organisation after listening – no matter what industry you work in. SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK: Take our 2-minute survey to share your thoughts on seasons one and two of AHRI: https://bit.ly/3BjN5Ey TRANSCRIPT SHOW NOTES

In This Episode . . . We're not playing nice in this one, friend! This episode features the creatively talented Rochelle Sodipo, Creative Director at Roseredd. In it, we discuss the widespread practice of faux vulnerability, the art of intellectualizing, and how you can start bringing out your own authentically vulnerable creativity. Meet Rochelle Sodipo: Rochelle is best known for Brand Identity and Brand Strategy. She is the founder and Creative Director of Roseredd, Etc.®, a brand support agency focused on branding and design. As a consultant and coach, Rochelle partners with executives, entrepreneurs, artists, and influencers to build and cultivate individual and organizational brands across their stages of growth, from start-up to scale. She supports clients that range in size from small businesses to multi-million dollar organizations. A fine artist and educator by training, Rochelle pairs her passion for the aesthetics of art with her expertise in scaffolding and pedagogy to work with clients to understand and refine a brand vision that reflects their core values. Her signature service, “Soul Level Branding,” leverages the Roseredd, Etc.®️ framework to go beyond design by defining, highlighting, and amplifying the personality and value proposition of a brand before curating a complementary visual identity. Rochelle self-identifies as a creative leader. As a designer, she prides herself on using standard tools in non-traditional ways and finding clear connections between what others may see as disparate ideas to create a cohesive vision. Outside of running day-to-day operations for Roseredd, Etc.®, Rochelle teaches tools and tactics to support solo-entrepreneurs and other students in understanding how to effectively mix brand theory and creative artistry to drive impact while retaining the heart of a brand. Episode Highlights: (10:50) Weapons of distraction; (26:36) Faux vulnerability; (32:15) Leverage good storytelling; (46:39) Introspection; Connect with Rochelle Facebook: @rosereddetc Instagram: @rosereddetc LinkedIn: @rochellesodipo Episode Resources: Roseredd Course (https://www.rosereddcourses.com) For more Management Mastery head over to Kish Camp (https://kishcamp.co) Get weekly inspiration from our podcast host, Kishshana Palmer: Text “CREW” to +1 (917) 810-3061 Sticky Teams: Retaining a Thriving Team (https://kishshanaco.com) Support the Show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline)

In This Episode . . . We are featuring the wonderfully regal Liz Miranda, State Representative 5th Suffolk District, MA House of Representatives. In it, Miranda shares her journey about being an immigrant in the United States, how the killing of her brother shaped her career, and the importance of being an effective political leader in underrepresented communities. Meet Liz Miranda: Liz is best known for leading the police reform bill in Massachusetts to passage and her Social Moniker is Betti! Since elected in 2018 and re-elected in 2020, Elizabeth "Liz" Miranda has served as State Representative for the 5th Suffolk District of Roxbury and Dorchester. Representative Miranda currently serves as the Vice Chair of the Committee on Human Resources and Employee Engagement, and serves on the Joint Committee(s) on Community Development and Small Businesses, Public Safety and Homeland Security, and Veterans and Federal Affairs. In her first term, Representative Miranda has filed and passed legislation to reimagine public safety, improve racial disparities in maternal health, promote environmental justice within disproportionately impacted communities, and ensure a just recovery for micro-to-small businesses most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, she was the first legislator in the Commonwealth to establish a district-led community care program which connected 3,000 vulnerable residents with support and resources. As a result of Rep. Miranda's Covid Vaccine Equity Bill, Governor Baker implemented nearly all of the core tenants of the legislation- reimagining health to include socioeconomic determinants. As the daughter of Cabo Verdean immigrants, Representative Miranda has been a tireless advocate for immigrant rights, while leading the fight for an equitable recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to serving in the Massachusetts Legislature, Representative Miranda was a non-profit executive, entrepreneur, and community organizer, which began as a teen living in the Dudley triangle. In 2017, Representative Miranda lost her 28-year-old brother, Michael Miranda, to gun violence. After her decades long advocacy for gun violence prevention, losing her brother was a catalyst in her entrance to electoral politics. Her lived experience and commitment to community propels her fight for immigrant rights, criminal legal system reform, improved black maternal health outcomes, and economic justice. Her professional roles have included serving as the Executive Director for the Hawthorne Youth and Community Center and Director of Youth Opportunity Development at Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative (DSNI). Rep. Miranda's career has aimed to build resident-led leadership and advocacy for youth development, violence prevention, and economic justice. Representative Miranda is a Wellesley College alumna and proud graduate of Boston Public Schools, graduating from the John D O'Bryant School of Mathematics and Science. She is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Boston Alumnae Chapter, and the Wellesley Club of Boston. Episode Highlights: (10:04) Demand more and demand better; (12:03) Leadership is both a privilege and a responsibility; (17:59) Being a little too much in leadership; Connect with Liz: Email: liz@lizmiranda.com Website: https://lizmiranda.com Instagram: @replizmiranda Episode Resources: For more Management Mastery head over to Kish Camp (

In This Episode . . . This episode features the brilliant Lenita Dunlap, Principal at Not Just Fundraising, as she discusses what it means to cut through the chaos. Lenita tells us what led her to provide trauma-informed care, the world of nonprofits, and her mission to provide access to mental health and equitable education for marginalized communities. Meet Lenita Dunlap: Known as The Chaos Whisperer, Lenita loves working through crisis situations and helping individuals and organizations experience freedom. She has such a heart for the third sector and believes we can truly change the world with proper resources and support. Lenita's an advocate for change and will help leaders achieve their goals. For the past 20 years, Lenita has dedicated her life to service and advocacy for access to mental health and equitable education for marginalized communities through working in educational and nonprofit organizations that uplift and empower young people and their families. As a consultant and thought partner, she specializes in guiding teams through crisis situations and introducing their missions to various stakeholders. As a Community Development and Mental Health expert, Lenita combines research, policy, and expertise to empower, motivate, and rally teams through facilitation and leadership development. Lenita's commitment to mental health access was birthed from advocating for her family's mental health journey. She witnessed firsthand the difficulty in finding proper support, as well as the lack of affordability, diversity, and cultural competency needed to create safe psychological spaces for healing. Leveraging this experience led her to revamp a failing after-school program to a creative and innovative after-school program based on research centered around the effects of trauma on refugee children. Instead of focusing solely on academics, she introduced trauma-informed care to the refugee serving space within after-school work that later received international recognition and accolades. In this previous leadership role, Lenita grew the organization's annual budget by 300% within five years, led a rebranding campaign, expanded program reach, garnered international attention, and earned certification for all sites. Lenita was a featured speaker at the 2019 Australia and New Zealand Refugee Trauma Recovery in Resettlement Conference in Brisbane, Australia, and the North American Refugee Health Conference in Toronto, Canada. Both platforms provided an opportunity to share her unique perspective. Her presentation highlights included addressing mental health during after-school programming, diving deeper into the effects of trauma on the brain in the context of refugees, and observing different models of implementation for various therapies. She has also co-led and facilitated presentations for the local and global chapters for the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP). Within these platforms, she taught participants how to diversify their board and staff, pivot and twirl during challenging times, and shared with nonprofit leaders the need to SLOW DOWN, BREATHE AND CELEBRATE. Currently, VP of Operations at Abide Women's Health and as a PhD student in Public Administration and Policy at the University of Texas at Arlington researching burnout, refugee resettlement, equity, and, leadership, Lenita understands the trials and triumphs of nonprofit leaders not only practically but theoretically. She holds two masters: one in Education and the other Public Administration. Lenita also earned certificates in nonprofit management and marketing from the Center for Nonprofit Management. Episode Highlights: (4:05) Cutting through the chaos; (12:59) What do you need as a leader; (17:52) What's happening to our leadership pipeline?; (22:00) Healthy...

In This Episode . . . The talented principal and CEO at The Board Pro, Christal Cherry shares with us the struggles she faced in her dating life, the challenges she faced when she decided to adopt at 45, and how her little boy has not only made her a better person but has taught her to be a better leader. Meet Christal Cherry: Christal's Social Moniker is I'm a Bold Bitch! and she's best known for being direct, loyal, and vocal! “She pushed through her fear and did it anyway!” Christal M. Cherry is a nationally recognized nonprofit executive and professionally trained fundraiser. With over 20 years in the nonprofit sector, she has supported higher education institutions, human services organizations, and faith-based missions. Christal also served as a Senior Consultant at the GA Center for Nonprofits and is currently the CEO of The Board Pro, a consulting firm designed to transform leaders through board service. As The Board Pro, Christal's works with nonprofit boards to coach, train, and counsel them to be effective governing and fundraising arms for their organizations. She also assists with finding qualified and diverse talent to add to boards, onboarding, culture assessments, and diversity, equity, and inclusion training. Christal earned a MA in Counseling from Hampton University, a BA in Liberal Arts from Hofstra University, and professional development certifications in nonprofit leadership, social media fundraising, and nonprofit management. She currently serves on the board of the Greater Atlanta chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and the Villages of Carver YMCA. She is a regular trainer and facilitator with CANDID, Qgiv, Network for Good, Bloomerang, Kindful, and the Mississippi Alliance of Nonprofits and Philanthropy where she facilitates webinars and teaches courses in fundraising, board development, and equity and inclusion. Christal has been a guest on multiple podcasts and enjoy serving as a requested expert on board matters. She is contributing author in Collecting Courage, a documenting of racism and survival by fourteen accomplished Black fundraisers working across the United States and Canada. Her first children's book: Mac and Cheez: Being Different is Okay will be released on Amazon on November 21, 2021. Christal also enjoys her membership in the African American Development Officers Network, Toastmasters, and F3, Fabulous Female Fundraisers which she founded. Episode Highlights: (14:05) Challenges of adopting; (19:15) How life changed after adoption; (41:19) The Board Pro; Connect with Christal: Facebook: @theboardpro LinkedIn: @Christal M Cherry The Board Pro: https://www.theboardpro.com Episode Resources: For more Management Mastery head over to Kish Camp (https://kishcamp.co) Get weekly inspiration from our podcast host, Kishshana Palmer: Text “CREW” to +1 (917) 810-3061 Sticky Teams: Retaining a Thriving Team (https://kishshanaco.com) Support the Show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline)

In This Episode . . . We are featuring award-winning speaker Aiko Bethea, the Founder of RARE Coaching & Consulting. In the episode, Aiko addresses the hard questions. How are you showing up for your team as a conscious leader? While creating a diverse team is great, Aiko discusses why creating a culture that amplifies and encourages diversity is even better. Meet Aiko Bethea: Known as the Seeker of Justice, Aiko is a leader, builder, and connector. She successfully navigated leadership roles in government, philanthropic, nonprofit, and private sectors. In each sector, she created and served in inaugural roles to meet growing organizational needs. Aiko is an award-winning and highly sought-after equity consultant, executive coach, and speaker. She is the founder of RARE Coaching & Consulting, a consulting practice focused on coaching leaders and organizations to remove barriers to inclusion. Her practice integrates operations, leadership coaching, and education strategies that yield measurable outcomes. Aiko is Sr. Director of the Daring Way™ and Dare to Lead™ communities of Brené Brown Education and Research Group. She oversees development and implementation of the overall strategy for the communities, as well as the specific diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging strategy and oversite of the global 1000+ member facilitator community. Episode Highlights: (11:09) Accountability; (14:47) Intention of the work; (19:27) Performative authenticity and assimilation; (26:28) Perfectionism and toxic productivity; (48:04) Authentic Leadership; Connect with Aiko: Instagram: @rare_coach LinkedIn: @AikoBethea Episode Resources: For more Management Mastery head over to Kish Camp (https://kishcamp.co) Get weekly inspiration from our podcast host, Kishshana Palmer: Text “CREW” to +1 (917) 810-3061 Sticky Teams: Retaining a Thriving Team (https://kishshanaco.com) Support the Show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline)

In This Episode . . . We are featuring the amazing Danielle Henry, the Senior PM / OD Consultant at Great Dane 921 LLC. We're taking on the topic of Cultural EQ, a topic that's been dominating boardroom conversations in the workplace: emotional intelligence in ourselves and the people on our teams. Danielle doesn't hold back as she tells us all about what we think we know, what we don't, and how to bridge the gap between the two. Meet Danielle Henry: Danielle Antoinette Henry has a demonstrated history of working in the management consulting industry for-profit and nonprofit entities with a focus on social impact digital marketing, branding, web development, and operations. Currently, Danielle is a Senior Manager, Client Partnerships for Sarankco Creative Studio. She is the Founder and CEO of Great Dane 921 Consulting, LLC, a consultancy firm focused on developing solutions that are based upon the foundation of empathetic understanding and the need for more compassion and transparency at work. She has conducted professional development training for nonprofits such as WestHab (NY), Youth Shelter Program of Westchester (NY), Junior League of Orange County, NY, and The Rooted Collaborative conferences centered on topics such as leadership development, cultural intelligence, DEI, effective communication strategies, team building, and conflict management and resolution. She has also conducted a diversity dialogue series for the town of Warwick, NY as a diversity facilitator for We the People Warwick. Danielle is a third-year doctoral student in the Organization and Leadership Psychology program with a concentration in the Neuroscience of Leadership at William James College. She obtained her MPA in Public and Non-Profit Management and Policy with a specialization in General Finance from the Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service at New York University and BA in American Politics from the College of Arts and Science at New York University. She holds a certificate in project leadership from the Cornell University – School of Engineering and is a Certified Scrum Master from the Scrum Alliance. She was a 2021-2022 Opportunity Hub (OHUB) South by Southwest student fellow. In addition, she is a Registered Parliamentarian under the National Association of Parliamentarians, and is an arbitrator for FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority). With public service in her heart, Danielle has been an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and is the Immediate Past President of the Westchester Alumnae Chapter serving Westchester County, NY. She is also the Past President and sustainer member of the Junior League of Orange County, NY. A born and bred New Yorker, in her spare time, you can find Danielle doing monthly cultural outings to museums, gardens, or immersive exhibits with her Fur, Floral, Culture, and Cocktails crew around NYC, doing Reiki as a certified Reiki Practitioner, roller skating at her local skating rink, or as a podcast co-host for the Empress High Council whose focus is on self-care and entrepreneurship. Episode Highlights: (6:42) It's all in the Q; (12:57) DEI has been lacking CQ; (21:15) How do leaders weave in CQ?; (22:25) Organization Development Levels; (36:05) Steps toward CQ; Connect with Danielle: LinkedIn: @danielleahenry Instagram: @greatdanedannie Episode Resources: Reinventing Organizations by Frederic Laloux (

In This Episode . . . We are featuring the ever-empowering Jarius McNair Edens. Jarius is a Holistic Personal Growth & Leadership Trainer at The Kreative Lounge & Social Kollective. Kishshana and Jarius chat about what it means to lead with joy. As leaders, we have to know that if we can come to the table, to the meeting, to our team with that joy and internal insight of excitement about what we're doing, we can ultimately spread that out to everyone else. Jarius explains that when you do work that is deep, you have to lead with joy and it starts with personal growth. Think about what you are doing in your personal life to awaken joy within you because as a leader, who we are is what we bring.Meet Jarius McNair Edens Jarius is best known for writing compelling stories and empowering women to do what feels good to them. As a conscious thought leader and intuitive advisor, she is known for teaching, leading, and guiding women to their own desired level of contentment, confidence, and bliss. She is a former English teacher turned serial entrepreneur. In 2017, a successful collaborative workspace and community hub in Springfield, Il. After the opening of TKL, she explored other creative outlets such as writing and coaching. She enjoys things that bring her and others joy, and she wants to share joy with the world. Jarius does several things to cultivate bliss for herself---from hosting personal growth classes to doing Zumba in her living room. She hopes to help women cultivate this same joy in their own lives. She speaks to over 100 women (and a few good men) daily in her tribe. She currently resides in North Carolina. Episode Highlights: (7:04) Talk to me about Zest; (8:08) Pathways to being a leader; (16:28) Do we want a kiddie pool or an olympic sized pool?; (21:08) Start with your own personal joy; (35:15) Encourage family centering; Connect with Jarius: LinkedIn: @jarius-edens Episode Resources: For more Management Mastery head over to Kish Camp (https://kishcamp.co) Get weekly inspiration from our podcast host, Kishshana Palmer: Text “CREW” to +1 (917) 810-3061 Sticky Teams: Retaining a Thriving Team (https://kishshanaco.com) Support the Show (https://buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline)

In This Episode . . . Kishshana and Mama J discuss our obsession with credentials and the importance of developing ​​a liberatory mindset so you can break out of the confining boxes you've put yourself in and unlock new levels of potential. Mama J is on a quest for love and revolution, acknowledging and accepting the lifelong evolution of unbecoming. She talks about unlearning and how to transform pain into power and how we can do so collectively. Meet Jillian "Mama J" Love: Jillian “Mama J” Love (she/they) is in a pivot season—a both/and of embracing the dance of being the Founder & Designer of Lovelution Inc at 40 while also being ready to put their two decades of lived and professional experience to work for a values-aligned organization. Mama J models Justice & Joy with bite-sized and deliberate action every damn day by embodying the revolution to radically rest to sustain oneself. Most mornings you'll find me with a cup of coffee amidst the dance of parenting, a sink full of dishes, and figuring out what's for breakfast with my 8-year-old daughter and partner. Episode Highlights: (16:20) Unlearning in relationships; (23:50) What does success mean; (31:24) Radical Rest; (55:49) Questions for Mama J; Connect with Mama J: Instagram: @mamajlove1 LinkedIn: @mamajlove Podcast: Beyond Allyship Episode Resources: For more Management Mastery head over to Kish Camp (https://kishcamp.co) Get weekly inspiration from our podcast host, Kishshana Palmer: Text “CREW” to +1 (917) 810-3061 Sticky Teams: Retaining a Thriving Team (https://kishshanaco.com) Support the Show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline)

In This Episode . . . This episode features the always-inspiring Katrina Strohl, Psychological Safety Consultant and host of podcast Absolutely Not! Kishshana and Katrina discuss how a toxic work environment led Katrina to decide to take her own life and how that experience kickstarted their journey toward advocating for mental health and encouraging others to set personal boundaries at work and enforce their own psychological safety. Is your work making you ill? This conversation addresses what messages you are receiving in your work environment and knowing that your worth has nothing to do with your work. We need to learn how to observe the behavior, learn to label where necessary, and find the vocabulary to define the harm in our work environments. Meet Katrina Strohl: Katrina is best known for serving others through work with boundary strategy, mental health, suicide prevention, and veteran disability. Katrina (she/they) is a Navy veteran who served as an Aviation Structural Mechanic (AM). Now, with over 10 years of Human Resources (HR) experience and a passion for psychological safety, Katrina continues to serve others. In 2018, Katrina decided to take her own life after internalizing the behavior of a toxic workplace. Since then she has become a huge advocate of mental health and works to reduce the stigma through their show, Absolutely Not! Absolutely Not! is the weekly live podcast dedicated to providing examples of setting personal boundaries at work and the vocabulary needed to name harm in those spaces. Episode Highlights: (3:10) Learn more about Katrina; (3:37) Your worth has nothing to do with your work; (6:40) Observing and labeling the harm in a work environment; (15:58) Is work making you ill?; (18:50) How do I start setting boundaries at work; (29:21) Different ways to set boundaries; Connect with Katrina: Instagram: @k.m.strohl LinkedIn: @katrina_strohl Host of @absolutelynotwithk Website: https://www.katrinastrohl.com Episode Resources: For more Management Mastery head over to Kish Camp (https://kishcamp.co) Get weekly inspiration from our podcast host, Kishshana Palmer: Text “CREW” to +1 (917) 810-3061 Sticky Teams: Retaining a Thriving Team (https://kishshanaco.com) Support the Show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline)

What's Up Friends! We are back for Season 3 of Let's Take This Offline, the podcast for everyday leaders. Join me back in the studio for some of the best conversations with experts on leadership, management, wellness, DEI, and topics about how we live our lives, what matters to us and our families and about the work we do, and why we do it! The Rooted Collaborative For those of you listening for the first time, Kishshana founded The Rooted Collaborative, a community and organization focused on black and brown women who are doing social good. This global community is about wellness and wellbeing, financial fortitude, personal and professional development, building real community, and leveling up women who are moving into the ranks of leadership. Episode Resources: For more Management Mastery head over to Kish Camp (https://kishcamp.co) Get weekly inspiration from our podcast host, Kishshana Palmer: Text “CREW” to +1 (917) 810-3061 Support the Show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline)

In This Episode . . . Kishshana zeros in on faux vulnerability versus real vulnerability and how that works for you as a leader. How do vulnerabilities from your life or previous work experiences carry over into your current work and your leadership? They show up in you being closed off, not allowing people and coworkers to get to know you, striving to achieve, and being extra hard on yourself and therefore on others.  Have you asked yourself whether your faux vulnerability is preventing you from bringing a level of realness and openness to your leadership? And remember to pay attention to the fact that vulnerability goes two ways. How are you making space to be vulnerable? And how are you creating space for others to be vulnerable with you? Episode Highlights: (3:23) Summer well series powered by Bloomerang;  (4:26) Faux vulnerability versus real vulnerability;   (7:28) Examples of vulnerability;   (10:40) How to be vulnerable as a leader;   (12:44) Your leadership journey;   (14:01) Can I actually be vulnerable;   (15:30) Vulnerability goes two ways; Episode Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by our sponsor https://bloomerang.co/ (Bloomerang) Episode Resources: Join us at https://therootedretreat.com/ (The Rooted Retreat) in Jamaica or virtually online For more Management Master head over to https://kishcamp.co/ (Kish Camp) https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline (Support the Show)

In this Episode . . . Kishshana points out that you all carry a leadership role in some aspect of your life whether in your career, in your faith-based organization, social organizations, or as a leader at home. She suggests contemplating what you need in a leadership roadmap for yourself, to set your leadership foundation, in order to figure out how to be a good leader.  Your Leadership Roadmap Have you dug into the foundation of who you are so you can create and grow your leadership roadmap? Are you fortified enough? Are you self-aware? Are you introspective? Can you take feedback? Where are you in that journey for yourself? Once you determine what is in your actual foundation you've got to learn how to build, how to sustain, and how to give social capital. How are you building relationships with your peers, with folks that you want to be in alignment with, who may not be your peers, and with folks who look up to you? And ultimately, who is on your support team, and are you leveraging that support in a way that is allowing you to prop up your wellness game plan, inviting goodness into your atmosphere, and releasing the things that are not good for you or your leadership? Episode Highlights: (4:25) Each of us carry a leadership role; (6:00) Think about your leadership foundation; (7:42) Building relationships; (12:47) Leveraging support tools for your wellness game plan; Episode Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by our sponsor https://bloomerang.co/ (Bloomerang) Episode Resources: Join us at https://therootedretreat.com/ (The Rooted Retreat) in Jamaica or virtually online For more Management Mastery head over to https://kishcamp.co/ (Kish Camp) https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline (Support the Show)

Welcome Fab Friends! Kishshana continues with the Summer Well Series and in this episode, she checks in on your wellness and well-being and what that really means for you as a leader right now in your work and in your life. Her mission is to make sure that you are leading a life you love, that you have a career you love and that you are healthy AF!  Are You Well?You must ask yourself and answer the question, “Are we well?” because leaders tend to spend their time focusing on everything else but themselves. How is stress showing up for you and are you paying attention to the signs or the clues? It's okay to name the places where you need help and to wonder what will happen if you say you're not well. It's a real sign of leadership to know it, and then to be able to be conscious enough to redirect that energy, redirect that work, and reallocate those resources.  Wellness Game PlanAs a leader, when you think about your own wellness there is a consciousness about how the things you do to activate or aggravate your practice of wellness implicates other people, your team members, your family members, your business, and yourself. When you think about answering the question, Are We Well?, you need to consider if you have an actual wellness game plan. When things feel like they are spiraling out of control do you have a game plan to turn to that helps get you back on track?   Episode Highlights: (1:04) You're invited to the 2022 Rooted Retreat;  (4:12) Focus of this episode is the question, “Are We Well?”;   (10:09) Navigating the question “Are We Well?”;   (11:07) What if I say “I am not well?”;   (14:47) Your wellness journey as a leader;   (15:29) Your wellness game plan;  Episode Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by our sponsor https://bloomerang.co/ (Bloomerang) Episode Resources: Join us at https://therootedretreat.com/ (The Rooted Retreat) in Jamaica or virtually online For more Management Mastery head over to https://kishcamp.co/ (Kish Camp) https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline (Support the Show)

In This Episode . . .  Kishshana talks about all things planning and pausing. She shares her experience with planning in her career and professional life as well as in her personal life. Are you getting caught up in the cycle of planning or are you putting off taking a pause? Since Season 2, Kishshana has dug in to really learn about herself and understand what it is that she's looking for, what she needs, and the voids that she's felt in her life. Here are four key things to be thinking about as you listen to this episode: “Is it time to pause?”, “Have I pressed the pause button too long so that I'm now on a break?”, “How do I plan for a pause?”, and then “How do I know when it's time to take an unplanned pause?”. How to Navigate Planning vs Pausing Kishshana gives you her three tips for how to navigate planning vs. pausing. First, sit in gratitude for the things that you have, that you've done, that you've accomplished, and most importantly, who you are. Second, think about planning it out loud. Speaking your plans out loud allows you to give voice to the things that are rumbling and bumbling around in your head and allows you that space to give yourself the energy to imagine a different possibility. Third, get a friend, a thought partner that's there to walk alongside you as you put the planning and/or pausing into action. As we think about our wellness and we think about well-being as it relates to the planning and pausing in our personal and professional lives, remember that we will grow where we are watered. Episode Highlights: (2:11) You're invited to the 2022 Rooted Retreat; (3:20) How many of us are planners?; (5:21) Do you feel like you're in planning mode?; (7:44) Slowing down enough to take a pause; (12:04) Too much planning in my planning; (13:00) Navigate planning versus pausing; Episode Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by our sponsor https://bloomerang.co (Bloomerang) Episode Resources: Join us at https://therootedretreat.com (The Rooted Retreat) in Jamaica or virtually online For more Management Mastery head over to https://kishcamp.co (Kish Camp) https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline (Support the Show)

Welcome Back Fab Friends! For this summer mini series Grow Where You are Watered, Kishshana talks about what she's been doing, seeing, and experiencing since ending Season 2 of Let's Take This Offline.  The Rooted Collaborative For those of you listening in for the first time, Kishshana founded The Rooted Collaborative, a community and organization focused on black and brown women who are doing social good. This global community is about wellness and wellbeing, financial fortitude, personal and professional development, building real community, and leveling up women who are moving into the ranks of leadership.  Supporting The Rooted Collaborative Community The Rooted Collaborative has a hybrid event coming up in September,https://therootedretreat.com/ ( The Rooted Retreat), happening in Jamaica and virtually online, September 29th through October 2nd. The Retreat supports the conversations about giving voice to the things that matter for women and particularly for women of color and specifically for black women happening right now in the sector, as it relates to wellness, wellbeing, and to leveling up to leadership. The Summer Well Series This is our summer well series for all of you who are thinking “How do I do life better?”, “How do I shift?”, “How do I pivot?”, and “What is in it for me right now in this season?”. Grow Where You are Watered is the well series right here on Let's Take This Offline and Kishshana is ready to answer all of those questions and more. Episode brought to you by our sponsorhttps://bloomerang.co/ ( Bloomerang) Join us at https://therootedretreat.com (The Rooted Retreat) For more Management Mastery head over to https://kishshanaco.com/kish-camp (Kish Camp) https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline (Support the Show)

In this wrap up of Season 2, Kishshana breaks down some of the lessons she learned within this past season about herself and about what it means to be a strong leader.  We have to swallow our pride and ask for help when needed. Stay tuned for Season 3! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline (Support the show) (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline)

Hey Fab Crew!!! We are back and almost wrapping up the season with another great episode!  In this episode, Kishshana sits with organizational leader and community developer Taneshia Nash Laird to discuss the something that is almost human nature but can be so destructive in our growth & mental stability and that is comparing ourselves to others and their journeys.  You won't want to miss this episode!!! The change agent Taneshia Nash Laird is a social change agent and community developer who centers cultural equity in her work. She is the President and CEO of Newark Symphony Hall, a historic performing arts center located within the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Newark, NJ. Since her appointment in November 2018, she has expanded programming to respond to community needs and announced plans to restore the 1925 vintage concert hall in a $40 million renovation and leverage it for neighborhood revitalization in a process she calls Symphony Works. Taneshia previously served as Executive Director of the Arts Council of Princeton, notably as the first person of color in that role.  Taneshia has also served as Director of Economic Development & Acting Director of Housing Production for the City of Trenton (NJ), Regional Director of the U.S. Women's Chamber of Commerce, and was the Executive Director of the Trenton Downtown Association, where she initiated Destination Trenton, an award-winning arts and tourism program in NJ's capital city. Taneshia is an adjunct professor in Drexel University's Entertainment & Arts Management Bachelor of Science degree program.   Widowed in 2013 and a pink lady warrior since an early-stage breast cancer diagnosis in 2019, Taneshia is most proud of being a mom to aspiring ballerina and budding cellist Naima, age 10, and self-proclaimed future doctor Imani, who in 2019, two months shy of her 13th birthday, played violin with her youth orchestra in Sicily. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline (Support the show) (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline)

Hey Fab Crew!!!   IT'S KISHSHANA'S BIRTHDAY!!!!!  Another trip around the sun marks not only a new year but a new outlook on how to approach the year ahead.  It's different from the New Year's saying - "New Year, New Me!"  Let's look at it with the lenses of "New Year, BETTER ME"... It's a great time to sit back and really reflect on what worked and what didn't work.   In this episode, Kishshana sits back and really takes a personal inventory of what she has noticed throughout the year.  In this raw and very intimate conversation, she digs deeper into the meaning of what it really means to be a "woman of a certain age". https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline (Support the show) (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline)

Hey Fab Crew!  So glad to have you back for another episode of Let's Take This Offline! In this episode, Kishshana sits down with a long time friend and customer service expert, Briana McKenzie.  This conversation is eye opening and can help you get your service mind right if you want your business to thrive.  Having a Customer Service Orientation mindset is more than just the customer is always right but more so finding ways to make the customer happy especially when the customer isn't actually right!  This episode is packed with some great tips on how to be of service to not only the customer but the organization as well. Briana's Bio: The Sweetest Gal you'll ever meet! People who know Bri (as she is affectionately called by friends and family) will tell you that she's “ the sweetest gal” you'll ever meet.  Brianna proudly hails from South Jamaica Queens.  Raised in a Guyanese household, she learned early the importance of treating people with kindness and respect.. “Do unto others.....” and has continued to do so in her 20 plus years in the customer service industry.  Her current position as an Airport Operations Lead for a Major US Airline carrier, has given her the chance to use her customer service expertise on another level.  Brianna is a “Young Leader for Change'' award recipient.  She holds an associate's degree from SUNY Farmingdale University in Urban Studies and Communications.  Her 3 nieces, 2 godsons & 1 goddaughter are the lights of her life! Social handle: thisisbris@gmail.com https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline (Support the show) (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline)

Hey Fab Crew! In this episode, Kishshana sits down with her cousin & parenting coach Jelaine to discuss how our parenting styles show up in our work life and how to separate the two to live a well balanced life.   Known as the The Liberation Educator Born in Miami but a true child of the islands. Jelaine is a first generation immigrant woman who has centered her life on the liberation of black communities on purpose. With extensive experience in education, she focuses on addressing the trauma that comes with parenting while black. Handle: @Blackparenting101 https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline (Support the show) (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline)

Hey Fab Crew! in this episode Kishshana sits down with executive coach and published author Marc A. Pitman.  We have a great conversation about what it means to understanding the stories we tell ourselves do not reflect our management styles.  We also talk about taking control of how we understand our mission within organizational leadership. Marc's Bio Concord Leadership Group founder Marc A. Pitman, CSP® helps leaders lead their teams with more effectiveness and less stress. His latest book is The Surprising Gift of Doubt: Use Uncertainty to Become the Exceptional Leader You Are Meant to Be. He's also the author of Ask Without Fear!® – which has been translated into Dutch, Polish, Spanish, and Mandarin. Marc's expertise and enthusiasm engages audiences around the world both in person and with online presentations. And has caught the attention of media organizations as diverse as The Chronicle of Philanthropy, Al Jazeera, Fox News, SUCCESS magazine, and Real Simple. Marc tweets regularly at @marcapitman. He is the husband to his best friend and the father of three amazing kids. And if you drive by him on the road, he'll be singing 80's tunes loud enough to embarrass his family! Social Media handle:  https://www.facebook.com/concordleadershipgroup/ https://www.facebook.com/marcapitman/ https://instagram.com/marcpitman https://instagram.com/concordleaders https://twitter.com/marcapitman https://twitter.com/concordleaders https://linkedin.com/in/marcapitman https://youtube.com/marcpitman (https://youtube.com/marcpitman) https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline (Support the show) (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline)

Hey Fab Crew!!! You guys are going to love this episode!  Kishshana sits down with one of my amazing friends and experienced executive coach, Larnell Vickers.  We get down to the nitty gritty on what it means to look further than what's in front of you or even what's on your resume.  Learning the possibilities starts with a pause, take a moment, pivot and move into the career of your choosing based on the skills you possess.  All great information, especially during this time of COVID, it is important that we not only like what we are doing, but we like ourselves in the process. BIO: Larnell Vickers is an experienced executive coach and talent professional within the social good/impact space with over 10+ years of experience. From one-on-one executive coaching, to talent placement and talent recruitment and hiring; he has worked with non-profits, educational organizations and for-profits to help enhance and drive forward their strategic talent plans. Also, he has worked tirelessly to help organizations to get very clear about their “who” when hiring and to then identify top talent that is game changing for the organization.  Currently he serves as CEO and Founder of Larnell Vickers Enterprises, LLC, a firm positioned in matching great to great organizations and supporting individuals to live from their highest and best self both in career and life. Over the course of five years, the firm has supported over 25+ organizations in finding phenomenal talent, placed over 100+ professionals in mission driven organizations and has provided top tier coaching to over 150+ professionals.  Along with being an Executive Recruiter, Larnell is an executive career and leadership coach where he has worked with executive professionals ranging from CEOs, Chief Talent Officers, Chief Financial Officers and other senior leadership team members to help build awareness of their leadership styles to hit key organizational goals, visualize success outcomes and identify the skills and tools needed to fulfill potential. He has also provided skilled group career coaching to individuals across the country with the intent to shift individuals from a place of survival to a new realm of possibility. Last, Larnell has received his training from an accredited International Coaching Federation program, Accomplishment Coaching, the World's Finest Coaching Program.  Larnell has extensive experience leading recruiting efforts for National education focused nonprofits such as Democracy Prep Public Schools and Uncommon Schools. Larnell is from Miami, Florida and currently lives in New York City. He attended the University of Florida and studied Political Science and Communication Studies for his Bachelor's Degree and Business Management for his Master's degree. In his spare time, he enjoys swimming, hiking, reading and traveling around the world.  Social media handle: @larnellvickers https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline (Support the show) (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline)

Hey Fab Crew! On this episode, Kishshana sits down with certified Gallup Strength Finder Coach., Damali Smith Tolson.  We get to the nitty gritty on how can we make our strengths work for us in the corporate sector.   Learn more about the strength finder at https://www.gallup.com (https://www.gallup.com) Damali Smith Tolson is the Director of Student Life at Baruch College, where she is responsible for developing and enhancing a supportive and nurturing environment for undergraduate and graduate student populations.  As a higher education administrator, she has dedicated over 18 years to creating a valuable institutional experience for both alumni and students.  Her ultimate desire is to assist students in learning how to be good citizens of their respective communities while obtaining their personal goals. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline (Support the show) (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline)

Hey Fab Crew, In this episode, Kishshana sits down with longtime friend and amazing spirit, Maria Smith Dautruche to discuss the idea of just "being basic" as a Black woman.    Listen friends, this episode will have you laughing so hard your sides will hurt.  Be sure to stick around until the end for this week's Kish Tip (Vitamin K) for the week!!! Maria's Bio: Married to Minister Lopez-Joel Dautruche, and mommy to Imena, Maria Smith Dautruche spends her time healing, cultivating, connecting, and agitating.  Maria has been a professional frontline fundraiser for more than 15 years.  She is a member of the recently launched The Rooted Collaborative™ - a global community focused on the holistic evolution and advancement of female leaders of color in the social impact sector. She is currently a Senior Advisor to the President and CEO of the National Urban League after more than 5 years as Vice President in the Partnerships & Advancement Office of the historic civil rights organization. In addition to raising $51 million during her time as a Vice President at NUL, Maria played a critical role in shaping the organization's current racial equity partnerships.  Prior to this role, Maria was Assistant Director of Foundation Relations in the Central Office of the Smithsonian Institution during the organization's history-making $1.5 billion comprehensive campaign.   Maria is also a proud co-founder of New Voices for Reproductive Justice – a powerful organizing force for the health and well-being of Black women and girls, women of color and LGBTQ+ people of color at the local, state (PA and OH) and national level. Maria is from Mount Vernon, NY where she is a member of the Westchester Black Women's Political Caucus and Community Voices Heard. Maria is an Elias Foundation Activist Fellow and led the organization of Westchester County's first observance of National Day of Racial Healing on January 19, 2021. Best known for:  Profound jokes. Honest observations. Raising the monies. Keeping it real. Former shape-shifter and code-switcher. I am also an exceptional friend. Social Handle: @MariaDautruche

This conversation takes place on a zoom call for the Rooted Collaborative Retreat for successful women in leadership and business.  In this conversation, Kishshana is joined with long time friend and inspiration, Ify Walker.  Get your pen and notepad and take some notes!  There are some gems shared by Ify that take authenticity to a whole new level.  Ify Walker is the Founder & CEO of Offor* - the national talent brokerage (www.offor.co). Clients come to Ify for her trademark no-nonsense counsel on building high performing teams; debunking the meritocracy myth; abolishing performance reviews; and exploring how to ensure that the future of work is a virtual 25-hour workweek. Her work has been featured in the Stanford Social Innovation Review, Fast Company, and PBS News Hour.  Ify is an attorney by training and a proud product of Nigerian parents, the original dairy state, and Head Start. She is a mother of two, a sister to five, and wife to the best decision she's ever made. When she's not questioning everything, you can find her running Mom's School of Excellence. Follow her on Twitter @ifywalker or on LinkedIn #DearBlackWomen. She also writes on her blog,https://www.offor.co/posts ( Pass the Baton) Fab Crew,  make sure you stay tuned in until the very end for a new added segment, "Kish Tips" Kish Tip of the day - "Black Women Are Made For More Than Work" Book Recommendations Tiffany Dufu - Drop the Ball https://www.amazon.com/Drop-Ball-Achieving-More-Doing/dp/1250071739/ref=sr_1_1?crid=21K8FNFPUY2AN&dchild=1&keywords=drop+the+ball+by+tiffany+dufu&qid=1616272175&sprefix=drop+the+bal%2Caps%2C154&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Drop-Ball-Achieving-More-Doing/dp/1250071739/ref=sr_1_1?crid=21K8FNFPUY2AN&dchild=1&keywords=drop+the+ball+by+tiffany+dufu&qid=1616272175&sprefix=drop+the+bal%2Caps%2C154&sr=8-1) Adam Grant - Think Again: The Power Of Knowing What You Don't Know https://www.amazon.com/Think-Again-Power-Knowing-What/dp/1984878107 (https://www.amazon.com/Think-Again-Power-Knowing-What/dp/1984878107) https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline (Support the show) (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline)

Hey Fab Crew!!! With only a week away,  season 2 is slowly approaching.   In this upcoming season, Kishshana will focus on Professional Development. Kishshana is going to talk with armchair experts on authenticity, seek out possibilities and thrive. Subscribe, Comment, Share &  Rate us 5 Stars!!! If you haven't already,  catch up on Season 1 and let's continue on this journey together. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline (Support the show) (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline)

In this special bonus episode, we are gifted with the words of wisdom of none other than Kishshana's Jamaican Daddy, Bernard Palmer. He breaks down his thoughts of the season and shares great gems.   https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline (Support the show) (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline)

In this season closer, Kishshana recaps the lessons of the season from her guests and sends us into the spring with one charge own your Leadesh*t.  We are responsible for our lives. Our life is our choice and what we've done with these choices up until this point is done.  So what's next? Let's talk about it.  https://www.kishshana.co (https://www.kishshana.co) https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline (Support the show) (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline)

This conversation with Kishshana and her guest Ajuah Helton (who happens to be one of her best friends) needed cocktails because THIS conversation explores women of color in the workplace and the winding road we take from honeymoon Helen to “have a nice life” Harriot. Get ready to unpack the “problem” women of color in the workplace and how companies and organizational leaders at every level have a responsibility to make sure we cut this destructive mess OUT! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline (Support the show) (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline)

Summary: After being booed up with her business for the last 5.5 years, Kishshana has decided she's ready for love and calls up Dr. Cassandra Henriquez b.k.a. Coach Cass to talk about Love on the Leaderboard. Leaders need love too! Why does it feel so challenging to meet amazing humans the more successful we become? Coach Cass breaks down her Real Love success formula  https://www.inspiremany.comhttps://wwwkishshanaco.com (https://www.inspiremany.com) https://www.inspiremany.comhttps://wwwkishshanaco.com (https://wwwkishshanaco.com)

For many leaders, finding time to be creative can be tough. But making time to play feels impossible. Kishshana gets one of her best friends and long-time Creative Director for the Kishshana & Co. family of brands, Rochelle Sodipo to talk about the magic (and necessity) of making time to play as an HOV lane to joy, rest, innovation and fuel as a leader.  https://www.rosereddetc.comhttps://www.kishshana.co (https://www.rosereddetc.com) https://www.rosereddetc.comhttps://www.kishshana.co (https://www.kishshana.co) https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline (Support the show) (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline)

Kishshana gets on the phone with HR expert, Joy Pittman to talk about authenticity, exceptionalism, being an influencer from any seat and why you never know what kind of effect you will have on people when you're out in the world. How does your generation affect how you identity at work? Is Diversity Equity and Inclusion just lip service?  https://www.HRfortheculture.com (https://www.HRfortheculture.com) https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline (Support the show) (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline)

Kishshana is back to talk about money and our relationship with money. From Solo mama adventures to not picking up the phone when the bill collectors called, we get into how our money stuff and how it's tied to so many things that seemingly have nothing to do with money. Do all roads lead to the coin? I Got My Mind On My Money and My Money On My Mind.  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline (Support the show) (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/takethisoffline)