Rhonda Coleman Wandel Podcast

Episode SummaryKyla Denanyoh is a lawyer, storyteller, and founder of KD Creative, a multimedia agency that helps small business owners amplify their voice through podcasting. In this episode, Kyla shares her winding path through law school, bar exam setbacks, and eventual transition into entrepreneurship. Her story is one of resilience, reinvention, and radical self-trust; an empowering reminder that success doesn't always follow the traditional route. Whether you're navigating a pivot, recovering from a setback, or redefining what success means to you, Kyla's journey will leave you inspired.Key Takeaways:Why your bar exam results don't define your worth or your futureHow to reclaim your gifts after burnout or misalignmentThe mindset shift that helped Kyla stop hiding her legal background and start using it differentlyA simple exercise Kyla used to build confidence (and finally launch her podcast)What it really looks like to build a business rooted in authenticity, not approvalMeet Kyla DenanyohKyla Denanyoh is the founder of KD Creative, a podcast production agency that helps small business owners show up, speak clearly, and get visible. She's also the host of You Are A Lawyer, a podcast highlighting the real stories of lawyers doing meaningful work beyond the courtroom. With a background in law and a gift for storytelling, Kyla uses creativity to make entrepreneurship feel more human and more possible, for herself and her clients.Visit her website | Follow her on InstagramHow She PivotedAfter graduating law school, Kyla Denanyoh expected to follow the traditional path: pass the bar, become a lawyer, and work her way up. But when she didn't pass the bar (twice), everything she thought she knew about success started to unravel. She found herself hiding her education, taking basement jobs in law firms, and feeling like she'd failed. But little by little, she started to realise: she hadn't failed, she was just meant to build something different.“It took therapy. It took affirmations. I used to sit in the mirror and say, ‘You are a lawyer. You are a lawyer.' Over and over. Because I had to believe it before I could build from it,” shared Kyla Denanyoh on episode 27 of the Rhonda Coleman Wandel podcast.Kyla eventually launched her own creative agency and her own voice. Through podcasting, entrepreneurship, and years of unlearning what success was supposed to look like, she built a business that reflects her strengths and her story.Want More Like This?Be sure to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite platform so you never miss an episode. And if you're ready for even more honest stories, career inspiration, and powerful insights, join Rhonda's monthly newsletter. It's where ambitious women get the encouragement, tools, and behind-the-scenes wisdom to thrive—straight to your inbox. Subscribe to the newsletter and catch more episodes at RhondaColemanWandel.com

Whitney Harper shares her journey from small-town Florida to a dynamic legal career, reflecting on the power of community, career pivots, and balancing work with family. She discusses her move from firm life to in-house counsel, her innovative legal billing model through Advos Pro, and the importance of agency and well-being in the profession.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Summer Hamilton shares her journey from a small town in Arkansas to her current role at the Smithsonian American Women's History Museum. She discusses her upbringing, the impact of her family dynamics, and the challenges she faced in her education and career. Summer emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, finding one's voice, and the significance of pursuing work that aligns with personal values. Her story is one of resilience, growth, and the pursuit of happiness in both personal and professional realms.

Meet Amanda Turbeville, HR Leader at Blue River Pet Care. In this heartfelt conversation Turbeville shares her incredible journey—from being born to teenage parents and then adopted by her grandmother to becoming a leader in HR. She talks about growing up in Chicago, studying interior design, and how she unexpectedly found her way into human resources. Along the way, she's faced challenges in male-dominated industries, helped guide companies through the pandemic, and made a difference in the disability community. Now in corporate HR, she reflects on her career, her dream of returning to interior design, and why mentorship and personal growth matter so much.

In this engaging conversation, Yevedzo (Yeve) Chitiga shares her transformative journey from a successful career in securities law to becoming an executive coach. She discusses her upbringing in Zimbabwe, the influence of her mother, and the importance of education, especially for girls. Yeve reflects on her career path, including her experiences in banking and law, and how a layoff became a pivotal moment for her to embrace her true calling. The discussion also delves into the role of spirituality in her life, her intentional approach to parenting, and her insights on empowering women lawyers through coaching.

In this episode, Dawn Anderson-Thurmond takes us on an inspiring journey from her roots in Hamilton, Ohio, to her impactful role as Interim COO for YWCA Hamilton. Growing up in a tight-knit, predominantly African American community, she learned resilience, kindness, and independence from her supportive family. Dawn shares how stepping outside her comfort zone broadened her horizons and empowered her to redefine success on her own terms. From navigating academic setbacks and a career in the justice system to finding purpose in mental health advocacy, her story is a testament to perseverance and self-discovery. Tune in as Dawn reflects on overcoming adversity, embracing her identity, and the transformative power of self-care.

Today's episode is sizzling with inspiration! We're thrilled to have Chef Tiffany Williams (Chef Mama), whose journey from teenage motherhood to becoming a powerhouse chef and entrepreneur is as remarkable as her guest list. Tiffany has catered for some of the biggest names out there—Beyoncé, Justin Bieber, and even President Barack Obama! She shares the ups and downs of her path, from breaking into the culinary industry as a woman of color to her backstage catering at high-profile events. Plus, she's making waves beyond the kitchen, advocating for fair pay, representation, and uplifting Black and brown chefs through her nonprofit and her business, Exquisite Catering. Get ready for a conversation that's as bold as the flavors Tiffany brings to the table!

In this conversation, Mary N. Chaney shares her inspiring journey from humble beginnings in Cincinnati to becoming a corporate leader in cybersecurity and an entrepreneur. She discusses her education, her experience with the FBI, and her transition to corporate America. Mary emphasizes the importance of diversity in the cybersecurity field and the challenges faced by minorities. She also addresses the impact of AI on society, the legal aspects of data protection, and how she balances her career with being a single mother. Throughout the conversation, Mary offers valuable insights on resilience, focus, and the importance of mentorship.

Victoria Watkins is Founder and Managing Partner of Inrichmint, an organization that sources curated deal flow for high net worth individuals and families. She previously served as Chief of Staff to the Co-CEO and Chief Investment Officer at Ariel Investments.  Prior to joining Ariel, Victoria worked for the City of Chicago in the Office of Mayor Rahm Emanuel, serving as Senior Advisor, and Deputy Director of Legislative Counsel & Government Affairs.  Victoria shares her journey from growing up in Chicago to working in government, venture capital, and private equity. She reflects on societal pressures discouraging women from STEM fields and her initial resistance to certain career paths, ultimately finding success by staying open to opportunities.  She also highlights her passion for fashion, entertainment, her online tea shop Joy and Magic, and her children's book, Little Valerie and her Big World of Options, encouraging others to embrace new opportunities.

Felecia Higgs Walker, executive career and business coach, is the CEO and Founder of the Focus Group by Felecia LLC,  a real-world career coaching company highlighted in her BRAND NEW BOOK "Paid On Friday, Broke By Tuesday: The Pathway to Unstoppable Success". Rhonda and Felecia discuss the new book, Felecia's journey to becoming a passionate financial consultant and balancing motherhood and career. 

Misty Hudek Giordano is a dynamic holistic health coach, and in this special edition episode, she delves into the four phases of the menstrual cycle, teaching us how to harness them to enhance our lives. Join us to discover valuable tips and strategies that will make you think, "I wish I had known this in my twenties." Misty reveals the empowering potential of understanding and utilizing your menstrual cycle to support and enrich your life.

Rhonda sits down with Katie Kohloff Mouat, a trailblazer in the field of sustainable engineering. Katie shares her journey from a small town in Kansas to leading NUMiX Materials, a startup focused on transforming industrial waste into valuable resources. Tune in to learn about Katie's experiences overcoming the unique challenges faced by female engineer and entrepreneurs and her insights on leadership and innovation. 

In this episode Rhonda talks to Saira Alikhan, attorney and senior commercial advisor at Google. The two discuss Saira's  experience with race in the US as a child of immigrants and the impact it's had on her career trajectory.  Also, Saira has charted a unique career path chock full of rich experiences and powerful pivots. If you're looking to pivot in your career or are just looking for inspiration, this episode is definitely for you! Lots of gems in this episode!

Porsha Goodman, Executive Director of non profit organization Door Of Hope in Memphis, TN, shares her story of growing up in the wake of a parent's trauma, the effect it had on her childhood, and the tools she has developed as an adult to overcome it. In this episode we also learn about Porsha's decision to attend an HBCU for college, her work at Door of Hope (top TN non-profit whose mission is to end homelessness) and the lasting impact her leadership has had on the organization. Lastly, Porsha introduces us to her newest passion project--a coffee and confections food truck! 

Ever wonder who comes up with the flavor of your favorite toothpaste? Carrita Hightower, PhD is one of only three Flavor Chemists in the entire Procter and Gamble corporation. In this episode we learn about Carrita's inspirational  journey to becoming a scientist. Let's give it up for black women in STEM!

Adriane Johnson- Williams, Ph.D.,  author of Not Your Father's Capitalism:  What Race Equity Asks of U.S. Business Leaders  discusses her new book, her work, boarding school, transitioning to college, family, and love.  Adriane is also the founder and principal of Standpoint Consulting. 

Kelis Rowe, author of young adult fiction novel Finding Jupiter, talks about balancing your needs with those of your family.  She also shares her journey to becoming a writer. 

Have you ever wondered what boarding school is really like? Have you considered it for your children? Karen Massey, former college admissions officer, and current educational consultant shares the benefits of boarding school and her personal experience of being a boarding school parent. 

Meet Anjli Garg,  executive coach,  mother,  and lawyer.  Anjli's clients love her.  She is an amazing coach who can help you reach your professional goals and your life goals. In this podcast episode, Anjli coaches us on obtaining clarity around what we want out of life, the benefit of acknowledging our feelings,  how to  "bring yourself into your life" and more. Her words are so full of love, wisdom and healing.  Whether you listen to the entire 45 minutes or focus on one of the Coaching Segments,  this podcast episode will change your life. 

Leora is a lawyer, mother, and survivor of childhood sexual assault.  In this episode, Leora talks about how this trauma followed her into adulthood and the steps she took to overcome it. She talks about how she uses her experiences to help others, and she and Rhonda also explore parenting in blended families. 

Jecara Rivera is a Success Strategist, a Jack Canfield  Success Principle Certified Trainer and CEO of Empower You, LLC.  In this episode, Jecara  shares her personal journey from teenage mom who was told she wouldn't succeed to an accomplished speaker, trainer, and coach. Jecara also shares with us her top tips on how to get to from where you are to where you want to be.  

In this eye-opening episode, Awatif Yahya redefines what it means to be a leader. Drawing on her experience as a Fortune 500 HR executive, Awatif shares her top tips on how corporations can build strong leadership teams. A favorite of her many tips in this podcast is "leadership is not a title, it's a conduct".  Another is "at the heart of being a good leader is simply being a decent human being".  Whether you're looking for ways to improve your own leadership skills or looking for ways to improve leadership at your company, you will be inspired by this episode. Awatif is the Founder of Awe Horizons, LLC a consulting firm that provides leadership development workshops to corporations. 

Jorelle Salisipan came to the United States from the Philippines at the age of 16. Today, she is a tax attorney, certified public accountant (CPA), entrepreneur, and mother of four.  In this podcast, you will learn how she navigates maintaining the delicate balance between building a career and raising strong kids. She reveals her secrets in reassessing parenting priorities to preserve some energy for herself. You don't want to miss this episode!

In this episode Rhonda jams with Lila.  Lila is an electric violinist and life virtuoso,  social influencer, community leader, screenwriter, performer, music producer, and all around amazing woman.  In the podcast the two women talk about Lila's inspiring journey from humble beginnings in Memphis to the red carpet of Los Angeles.  They also explore Lila's dream album "Dreamcatcher" and her award winning screenplay that chronicles her son's  eventual triumph over a rare disease. Tune in--you're in for a fun ride!

Rachel Hooks is a finance manager at Pfizer, 2nd place winner of the Toastmasters District Finals Table Topics Speech Contest in April 2021, and dynamic public speaker of how to develop good money habits. In this podcast we explore Rachel's top tips to developing a millionaire mindset which include creating SMART goals, maintaining a positive outlook on achieving those goals,  and much more.  Listen in as Rachel drops golden nuggets of information that will leave you wanting more. 

Need to check your money mindset or create your financial roadmap?  Meet Renee Cohen, financial planner to women in sports, media, and tech. Renee talks about how she pivoted from her dream job in sports media to her new dream job as a financial planner.  Learn about finding your purpose, building your legacy, and developing a healthy money mindset.   Listen all at once, or pick a chapter of the episode that resonates with you.  We hope you walk away feeling empowered to take steps to improve your money mojo no matter where you are on your financial journey.

Join Rhonda as she interviews her very first podcast guest, Pamela Euring.  Pam is an attorney leader in the Health and Public Services industry. Rhonda and Pam have a real conversation about balancing all life throws at us, self-care,  "falling-apart" on purpose and discovering your passions.  The conversation was actually a test podcast that was not going to be aired, but the two share such wonderful nuggets of information that we couldn't risk losing it on a redo. The start is a bit rocky, but it's smooth sailing after the first 50 seconds so stick with it! Such is life, right?  Sometimes things start off a bit rocky, but often work out in the end. Thanks for listening!