The Culture Soup Podcast®️

Show Notes - The Culture Soup Podcast In this episode, host L. Michelle Smith takes us on a reflective journey back to 2018, when she first launched The Culture Soup Podcast. She shares how an unexpected speaking career and a chance encounter led her to create both a podcast and a book, despite corporate challenges. She then shifts focus to the present, discussing the impact of recent executive orders on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), particularly in the corporate and federal sectors. With canceled sponsorships and shifting priorities, Michelle emphasizes resilience in times of uncertainty, urging leaders to embrace change as an opportunity for growth. Additionally, she delves into the power of artificial intelligence (AI) in leadership and decision-making, highlighting its potential beyond content generation. She teases upcoming AI workshops designed to help leaders integrate AI into their businesses strategically. Tune in for an engaging discussion on navigating change, leveraging AI, and strengthening resilience as a leader in today's fast-moving world.

In this episode, I take time to reflect on 5 lessons I've learned over the past five years of running my professional private coaching practice. We are celebrating NSC Coaching's 5th anniversary all this month, and we are also observing International Coaching Week. Listen for what I learned along this journey so far about perseverance, determination, focus, relationships and other important lessons that you can take away for your journey as well. I also tease a big announcement that's forth coming. It's a special episode, so tune in!

In 2019, I did what many corporate types would call "the unthinkable." I walked away from opportunities at a Fortune 10 after being "surplussed" without a job lined up. Sure, I had opportunities externally. Yes, I had a seedling of a business that I had started, but I wanted to take the time to think through my next step methodically. I had a mission that only a few were aware of, and that drove me to seek out the one thing that I needed to activate it. Could I do it and remain in corporate? I had interested organizations telling me that I could do both-pursue my calling to author books and speak across the country and internationally and work for them. But I knew that would eventually cause friction. I'd lived it already. That one piece was missing that would activate my mission, and a scroll through Instagram and an ad from a longtime sisterfriend and former client would ultimately become the the gateway to my destiny. I let that sisterfriend turn the tables on me this week, and I thought it would be great to finally share my story: how I went from there...to here, five years later with a thriving, global executive and personal coaching and consulting practice, a publishing journey that has been extraordinary and the speaker tour that began in 2015 and has yet to end. What took me from a 25+ year-long career in strategic communication, agency side, agency owner, and client side to here? I pass Valorie Burton, MAPP, MCC the mic on my show, The Culture Soup Podcast ® as she featured me in her global preview call for The Coaching and Positive Psychology (CaPP) Institute. That is where I earned my certification that would tee me up for credentialing at the world's most respected coaching organizations, International Coaching Federation. I began with her Coach Training Intensive (CTI). So it's befitting that I allowed Valorie to throw back the covers on my purpose-driven story. My pen as my sword, my speaking as my munitions, evidence-based coaching, I discovered, would ultimately become my armor. Join me and Val for this inspiring and powerful conversation about what it actually takes to take on coaching as a profession in this special, extended video edition of The Culture Soup Podcast ® brought to you in part by The CaPP Institute. We're continuing to celebrate the five years anniversary of NSC Coaching, and six years for the podcast with this exclusive rebroadcast of "Conversation with a Coach", and it streams everywhere Thursday afternoon.

Where have I been? What have I been up to, you ask? This episode will catch you up, and drop some Nuggets that you probably weren't expecting.

The Culture Soup Podcast LIVE: Yes Please! A C-Suite Chat We're kicking off a series that will take us into fall... The Culture Soup Podcast®️ presents A C-Suite Chat, where we highlight voices from my new book, Yes Please! 7 Ways to Say I'm Entitled to the C-Suite. This episode, we are featuring Kecia Kelly DNP, RN, NEA-BC, FACHE, SVP and Chief Nursing Officer at one of the largest healthcare networks in the nation. Dr. Kelly and I discuss

This special episode is dual streamed and sponsored by The Culture Soup Podcast(r) and PR Yourself Podcast with Leah Frazier who is my guest host for today's show. It is a replay of the DFW Book Signing for Yes Please! 7 Ways to Say I'm Entitled to the C-Suite. It was recorded before a live audience. Listen to part one of the Fireside chat between myself and Leah and then tune in to Part 2 on TCSP After The Show, exclusively on Apple Podcasts. It includes more of the conversation, my reading from the book and the Q&A, which took a surprising and delightful turn. TCSP After the Show is available on a subscription basis. Subscribe today! #YesPleaseBook #TCSPAfterTheShow #TheCultureSoupPodcast

Yes Please! Release Day Launch Event Be a part of the crucial conversation as award-winning, best selling 3X author L. Michelle Smith is joined by guest host Condace Pressley, host of Perspectives/WSB-Atlanta for an in depth fireside chat about the new book Yes Please! 7 Ways to Say I'm Entitled to the C-Suite: Secrets Women of Color Need to Know Now to Find their Happy and Win in an Exclusive Corporate Culture. We will also welcome special guest Dr. Jeff Gardere, "America's Psychologist" who penned the foreword for the new release. Yes Please! is a leadership development tool and coaching guide that is grounded in applied positive psychology and neuroscience that supports women of color in finding happiness in the midst of the uniques challenges they face as women of color. #YesPleaseBook #LiveEvent #BookLaunch #WomenLeaders

Ever finally get that sponsor and your high hopes are dashed because they just didn't deliver? My conversation with Dr. Christopher Butts, Learning & Development and DEI expert and a voice in my upcoming book Yes Please! 7 Ways to Say I'm Entitled to the C-Suite...we delve into the idea of sponsors who just aren't cutting the mustard and more reasons why Black women are stalled on their way to the C-Suite in droves. Check out part 2 of my conversation, and be sure to preorder the Kindle version of the book on Amazon leading up to pub day on Jun 15. Also, don't miss next week's episode where special guest host Condace Pressley of WSB-TV in Atlanta turns the mic around on me and special gues Dr. Jeff Gardere, America's Psychologist for a lively conversation about the book! #TheCultureSoupPodcast #YesPleaseBook #WomenLeaders

I grabbed some much needed catch-time with my friend Dr. Christopher Butts, Learning & Development and DEI Expert to talk about themes from my upcoming book, Yes Please! 7 Ways to Say I'm Entitled to the C-Suite. He is one of the expert voices in the book, and we discuss the pitfalls of sponsorship, especially for Black women and other women of color and what allies can do to step up fill these crucial gaps. We get pretty specific too. I hope you're ready.

Everyone is so concerned about getting that elusive sponsor, but what happens after you get one? I talk about it with Dr. Diana B. Allen, women-in-tech empowerment advocate and senior cyber security expert in part 2 of our conversation which began in Ep 177. We get down to business with this conversation, and you won't want to miss it. It will stream live on LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, and TheCultureSoup.com Thursday and the audio will stream wherever you get you podcasts. Also, if you are on Apple Podcasts, don't forget to subscribe to our bonus content called TCSP After the Show & Duets. We'll be posting another one of our favorite shows to the archive with a guest we all know and love. Subscribe to find out who it is. One hint—-he can find out all about your great granddaddy and where your people originated. It's a classic. Check it out!

Let's take a look back at my conversation with one f the world's most loved historians, Dr. Henry Louis Gates, Jr. This takes us back to Episode 51 where we discuss his hit show Finding Your Roots and his journey to the show.

Let's talk CULTURE...and when I say culture--I mean the ARTS! I'm throwing it back to one of my favorite episodes as I wrap up a year-long engagement with one of my favorite clients, Lyric Opera Chicago and round the corner on my last term on the board of Opera America. One of the most acclaimed mezzo sopranos of our time is joining me on The Culture Soup Podcast®, and I'm so proud to call her friend! She debuted at the Metropolitan Opera, She's sung for multiple Presidents. She is on the faculty at Juilliard. She even sang at the home going of Ruth Bader Ginsburg and she is on a mission to tell the story of Black people in opera. Meet the prolific and lovely Denyce Graves-Montgomery! She is the Founder of the Denyce Graves Foundation of which I am an advisory board member, and she is dedicated to telling the stories of Black people in Opera that you've never heard before. Tune in on Thursday to hear our conversation where we talk about the importance of seeing Black people in all aspects of Opera…from the stage to the composers, librettists and directors. We also talk about the importance of telling Black stories and seeing Black artist play characters that aren't historically cast that way. It's on this throwback episode of The Culture Soup Podcast®.

You probably saw the huge dustup over the two phenomenal women's NCAA basketball players who engaged in the same kind of trash talking that men do in sports and somehow wound up trending for days. ...and how one player was held to a different standard? Some would argue that even the First Lady stepped it in. Why was all of this even a topic of conversation? I discuss this issue along with other hot topics in personal development, advocacy and cause-driven storytelling with one of my "Day Ones," Lola Vinson, professional women's personal development coach and communications expert. Join us on Thursday for The Culture Soup Podcast, live here on LinkedIn and across all my socials as well as streaming everywhere you get your fine podcasts--ask Spotify, Alexa or Siri to play the show. They've got ya! #womensleadership #personalcoaching #womensissues#TheCultureSoupPodcast

Women+ leaders in tech have access to sponsors, at the same rate as their male counterparts. That isn't the issue. It's that once women have sponsors, what happens next is often very different. There is also some discrepancies in titles between the genders. Both become obstacles for women leaders who are looking to walk in their power in rooms and at tables as they aspire to E- and C-Suite roles. That's a preview of just a couple of the findings in new research from Dr. Diana B. Allen, Empowerment Champion and Senior Cyber Security Expert. She is also yet another of my fantastic ELC Strategic Pathways sisters. Catch part one on of her episode of The Culture Soup Podcast on Thursday! #podcastsofLinkedin #womenintech #womenleaders

In this current touch-and-go environment, both economically and socially, what should leaders consider now? I speak to inclusive leadership & psychological safety expert Sacha Thompson, ACC the founder of The Equity Equation and faculty member of SOAR Women's Leadership Academy about it. Join us Thursday March 16, streaming everywhere podcasts play, and live at noon across all of my social platforms. And don't forget to subscribe to the bonus content, TCSP After the Show & DUETS. Sacha and I are members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated...and we have a little Soror talk.

Mid- career, mid life...and in the middle. I'm talking about my generation... Gen X. So much attention is paid to the Boomers and the Millennials and now Gen Z...but make no mistake, we are trending upward--that is when we place some intention behind it. Thursday, I'm talking to fellow ELC adjunct faculty member Adrion Porter who is a Gen X expert when it comes to mastering the middle. He is also faculty for SOAR Women's Leadership Academy and kicks off a series where I'm introducing each of my team members to you so that you'll know what to look forward to as you apply and enroll. Have you done that yet? Chop chop! lmichellesmith.com/soar Adrion joins Thursday on The Culture Soup Podcast. PLUS: Subscribe to our bonus content! Brand new episodes of TCSP After the Show & DUETS is avaiable beginning Mar 9.

BONUS CONTENT IS HERE! Beginning this month, you will be able to subscribe to gated content from the show. In fact, the conversations may surprise you. Since most of my shows spur additional conversation about some of the most random things, I intend to share. Introducing TCSP After the Show and DUETS. You may have guessed what both are all about, but you'll need to subscribe and listen to the trailer to hear details. I'll give away this much: during one of them, since many of my guests are musically inclined or music fanatics (after all music is culture and deeply a part of my brand), we will pick and random tune and sing it together. After the Show... well, that's where it gets deep... or totally off the rails. We'll also have special offers on services and products including my books and unfettered access to archived episodes. Curious? There is much more to come... so stick around for more deets!

What if you could predict the success of a company based on stock price and revenue based on the mindsets of their leaders?It's already happening, and there are huge implications for all of us, but especially women and women of color. It's everything you haven't yet learned about fixed and growth mindsets...and put some machine learning with it. Prepare to have your mind blown.

This week's episode is all about the message that keeps on giving. It's the message that organization after organization continues to ask for. It's all about knowing your value and how it's a powerful tool in your life and leadership aspirations. We dive in deep as I broadcast from Washington D.C. at the Executive Leadership Council's Mid-level Management Symposium where I delivered the talk twice--once as a keynote in a standing-room only session of about 200+ professionals and once virtually to hundreds more. Be enriched.

Ever considered how language can be leveraged to dictate the rules of a culture? Tonight's episode of The Culture Soup Podcast® is a Coaching Corner episode, and we discuss exactly how that it happens in world events and the workplace and what that works to the detriment of those who are not centered. We also take a deeper dive into today't #YesPlease Ask Me Anything question: How do you get opportunity to pursue you instead of the other way around. Get your journals ready to explore your actions on both topics, and I will also share some of NSC Coaching news and the latest on my recent and upcoming speaking and book signing experiences. Episode 172 drops later tonight. Ask Siri, Alexa, Google or Spotify to play the latest episode of The Culture Soup Podcast®, so simply look for it on any of the great podcast platforms. Thanks for your patience. We had to navigate some tech issues, but we're here!! #tech #culture #executivecoaching

Today's show begins with a special message from me from the #NABJNAHJ22 Convention as I prepare for my booksigning this afternoon at Caesar's Palace. Then we dive deep on a topic that seems to have some people in their feelings. That topic is the browning of America.Let's face it, some people just despise the thought that our country is changing, but the numbers don't lie, so what does that mean for media and the way people consume it? That is shifting too. But with today's touchy environment, how has it impacted how this message is being received in the corporate realm?I talk to my friend, media and marketing insights expert Adriana Waterston . She discusses how the temperature has shifted even in the corporate towers. While there has absolutely been a desire to do more with their content as it pertains to inclusion, some have resisted what's real—and that's the data.The data doesn't lie.We also learn what these multicultural audiences are saying about the content they are seeing and how it impacts their feelings. It's from some research that you will learn more about in my upcoming book, Yes, Please! 7 Ways to Say I'm Entitled to the C-Suite: Secrets Women of Color Need to Know Now to Find Their Happy and Thrive in an Exclusive Corporate Culture, as we look at the power of positive emotion to impact one's success.  

If you're a longtime listener, you know that when it gets a little crazy in our culture, I phone a friend.Episode 170 is no exception. I don't know about you, but after putting $112 dollars in my tank, hearing more of my friends and family contract Covid, still tearing up about Buffalo and Uvalde and the many mass shootings since, and watching parts of the January 6 hearings...it was time to dial up a bestie.Eva Green Wilson, my soror and sisterfriend for more than 25 years joins me on The Culture Soup Podcast®️ tonight as we discuss how the wheels have literally come off the wagon in our world.Join us as we explore everything from the January 6 hearings, the pandemic, monkey pox, wars and rumors of them, the sweltering heat across the country, gas prices and inflation, anti-Blackness, gun violence, bored-in-the-house-and-being-in-the-house bored and parenting through it all.We even answer the burning question: which are we ready for now, zombies or locusts... because it's getting Biblical out there.And I wouldn't be a good coach if I didn't close the show by asking what's the opportunity in it all. The answer may surprise you.Eva Wilson, J.D. is an entrepreneur, creator and mom and the founder of The SocaMom Summit. She is the best-known Caribbean parenting blogger and has even been seen on Oprah...yes, THAT version of the show.Ask Alexa and Siri to play the latest episode, or stream it whereever you find your favorite podcasts. This special, extended edition starts streaming this evening after 6 p.m. CT.#tech #business #culture

e're carrying a very heavy load as leaders these days, so I'm speaking directly to you on Thursday's episode of The Culture Soup Podcast®️, The Coaching Corner. We're going back to our roots with all audio streams for the summer, and we are kicking off with three hot topics that are important to you as high-performing leaders: ✔️Dealing with the barrage of gun violence and the trauma we all feel as leaders as a result of the tragedies ✔️Annual reviews—what to do when you receive a scathing one and you suspect that its personal, and finally ✔️ Discussing what's really behind the hesitancy to return to the workplace—what's behind companies who are pushing for it and what leaders are saying We'll even touch on the Juneteenth holiday and what leaders are grappling with nationwide when it comes to how to commemorate or celebrate it despite a tremendous knowledge gap on the topic. It's just you and me, keeping it

What does it take to be a bosswoman in radio?Kim Nelson-Ingram has her own approach, and it is high octane. She is at the helm at one to the nation's top syndicated morning shows, The Ricky Smiley Morning Show, and she sometimes does two cities in one day, even as a busy mom and wife!But she had a great mentor who modeled that for her, none other than the legendary Tom Joyner, The Fly Jock himself. Hear the story of how she landed in radio and took flight with Mr. Joyner on the first Black syndicated radio show...and continues the voyage with none other than the hysterical Ricky Smiley.I also share about my adventure on the very first broadcast of that show and how Mr. Joyner touched my life--guess which huge music icon I got to interview for the TV station??Part two of my conversations with Kim airs this evening on The Culture Soup Podcast®, streaming in more than 70 countries and nearly every continent on Thursdays.I have all the women in tech on this podcast, including Siri, Alexa and Google.

When Kim Nelson-Ingram graduated from Florida A&M University, she wanted to be in TV, but little did she know that her first job search would land her in some incredible roles in the world of radio, making history too, and eventually as a children's book author with a vision for more.Her message is simple, and she's lived by it: You can BEE anything. It's a mantra that comes from an unlikely source.Meet my friend Kim. She is the author of an inspiring new children's book you'll want to get your hands on and she is the Executive Producer, the woman in charge, of The Ricky Smiley Morning Show.We talk about all the behind the scenes of publishing a children's book and some inside skinny on big-time syndicated radio, including some shoutouts to syndicated radio legend Tom Joyner.

Who else is exhausted with the Internet relationship gurus and all their advice?

When is the last time you saw a therapist? If you haven't seen one since the pandemic, gentle nudge.All this week my social campaigns have been discussing languishing, the blahs, brain fog and I've provided some guidance on what you can do; however, there is nothing better than sitting with a licensed therapist to really get underneath what is bothering you.So that's what we are doing on episode 165, and I didn't have to look very far. My friend of more than 20 years, fellow singer and leader at a well- known non-profit Tina L Robertson, LCSW-S graced the show and we talked about what's ailing us all in the midst of our current crisis sandwich. She is a licensed clinical social worker and practicing trauma therapist.In this two part series, we discuss everything from "TikTok psychology" and the need to label everyone with some ailment that actually requires a diagnosis or professional designation (ie narcissism to bipolar or sociopath) and even the trend of unqualified coaches, counselors and therapist who are now swarming the Internet.She even provides tips on how to know the real ones from the others.Can a date gone wrong simply be a mismatch, or do we instantly resort to to "cut-off" culture or brand them with one of the many popular terms that are swirling? You know, from one of the several attachment styles to a ghost or brand crumber.Is that really imposter syndrome you are feeling, or is it simply self doubt?Tina helps us all to take several seats in the name of a profession that is sorely needed right now and in the quest for better mental health.Tune in Thursday for part 1 of this conversation on The Culture Soup Podcast®

The Culture Soup Podcast LIVE: Ep 164: What Women of Color Should Do NowIn celebration of hashtag#WomensHistoryMonth, The Culture Soup Podcast® streamed LIVE on LinkedIn and my other social channels with a panel with some amazing, high-performing women of color discussing this critical juncture in which we find ourselves in the current cultural context.From the pandemic to race and equality, the future of work to wars and rumors of them, what should women of color do now? Join us as we discuss what's on our minds and what organizations should be considering when it comes to their diverse leadership as we navigate perilous times. I was joined by my friends Bernadette Brown, Christina Steed, M.A. (She/Her/Ella), TeNita Ballard, MBA, Shakria Hall, MBA and Juliana J. Bolden representing 5 different industries to discuss these topics and share from their experiences.

Riddle me this:If you wouldn't ask an abused spouse to fix their abusive partner, why would we ask BIPOC and other underrepresented groups to help the companies that do not center them to become an anti-racist workplace or even build diversity, equity and inclusion programs?Someone else built the system, so why can't they dismantle it? And if what author John Graham Jr. proposes in his book Plantation Theory is true, why would so many members of marginalized groups try? And is there trouble in store for the allies who take up the mantle to do the real work? If you don't want to go deep with us, don't listen, but we explore all of this on Thursday in part 2 of our Black History Month series on The Culture Soup Podcast®, now heard in more than 70 countries worldwide, on all but one continent, and I'm not even sure they have Internet there.

Is it possible to have the freedom and security you need and desire as a Black leader in Corporate America if the very structure was built on ideologies that other you?It's a very special Black History Month two-part episode of The Culture Soup Podcast® today as I welcome my friend John Graham Jr. back to the show to talk about his new book Plantation Theory: The Black Professional's Struggle Between Freedom and Security.I share the moving story of how we met and when we first discussed his book, and as always, John and I go deep on our topic, and he offers solutions, on Episode 162 of The Culture Soup Podcast®.WARNING: If you are sensitive or fragile around the topics of race, this episode may rattle you, but this is how we learn and grow.Join us for part one this Thursday, Feb 10. Part two will air Feb 24.It's available wherever fine podcasts stream or visit theculturesoup.com for more information on the show.

Shhh... hear that?It's the sound of progress.When Abby West (she/her) worked for the likes of People Magazine, Entertainment Weekly and Essence, you couldn't have told her that one day she would be leading the charge for digital audio content for creators of color at one of the most cutting-edge content and tech companies on the planet. In fact, like most of us, back then, she didn't even know what that role actually was. Mostly, it didn't exist yet.But she stepped out on faith and had a conversation with a mentor who helped her see her skill set in a different light. Now, she is the head of multicultural content for Audible. Abby met back in 2016, and we sat down recently to discuss the power of the medium, and what special magic creators of color bring to it—storytelling and the spoken word.Culturally, people of color have owned this space, now she has the joy of bringing it to life one project at a time for one of the largest audio platforms in the world. Go behind the scenes with me and Abby on The Culture Soup Podcast®️ this Thursday. Read about one of her latest projects that is just being released here: Ras Baraka's Audible Original, The Book of Barakahttps://www.audible.com/about/newsroom/newarks-40th-mayor-reinvents-the-political-memoir-in-the-book-of-baraka

It's been a while, but the show streamedLIVE this afternoon, We talked about what it takes to set a goal and then systematically smash it. Bring your leadership dreams and aspirations with you and let's hack them. I speak on the topic, have a series of journal prompts

Does your workplace culture smell? It just might, and it didn't just happen.There's been a lot of conversation about why people are quitting their jobs. In fact, you know that I choose to refer to it as The Great Opt Out because what The Great Resignation ignores is the insight that people have more options than ever, thanks to the democratization of the Internet.I took some time to speak to "The Workplace Doctor" herself, Natasha Bowman, JD, SPHR about other nuances leaders should be aware of in the workplace. Is it possible that the pandemic revealed the true toxicity of the workplace? And what can companies do to address the whole person instead of simply throwing free food, a couple days off and a happy hour at it?We'll talk about it on Thursday's edition of The Culture Soup Podcast®. It streams tonight everywhere you find fine podcasts.#tech #business #culture #workplace

Do you have a "side resume"? Mohammed Farshori says that everyone should have one in order to bolster their #personalbrand.In today's episode of The Culture Soup Podcast, I speak with the global culture expert about why it matters that you aren't just living out your purpose at work. We discuss the importance of understanding your purpose and then not playing small about it. Mohammed is walking his talk as he is spreading messages of unity and compassion in communities and bringing people together.His latest project is something that binds us—faith. He is helping lead the effort to launch one of the first employee resources groups at a Fortune 100 focused on how people connect spiritually. It's so ironic that when I met Mohammed, I was involved in a similar effort, and he still has the selfie he took with Rev Run.We talk about what inspires us including what connects us.

My guest, Leslie Short, believes the answer lies in the concept of culture and not necessarily segmentation. Ring a bell? In my last days in integrated marketing, I was applying the same principal (inclusion marketing). Leslie is now applying it to people resources in organizations.My conversation with Leslie Short Founder of The Cavu Group couldn't have been more timely, as themes from my latest message to DE&I decision makers in North Texas recently at the #DCEODiversity Equity & Inclusion Symposium.Leslie and I talk about what it means to decode and deprogram DEI, and we go deep on topics that will help disseminate the values and culture of real change throughout organizations everywhere— if only leaders are willing to look at the whole person and do the real work.You will also hear Leslie's amazing story, from international ballet dancer, to brand marketing agency founder, to the mastermind behind the @FUBU and Shark Tank's Daymond Johns' brands, to her founding of The Cavu Group a DEI consultancy. Put up your dukes, too—she is also a feather-weight boxer!

Are you controlling? Is someone trying to control you?   If you are a woman, chances are that the answer could be "both-and." In today's episode of The Culture Soup Podcast®, we explore this idea, and it's interactive with journaling prompts throughout.   Ready to get coached?   I take you through 5 journaling prompts throughout today's discussion on this episode, and you will be able to explore why you may not be respecting the boundaries of others or perhaps others may be breaching your own boundaries.   Breached boundaries break down relationships because it erodes trust.   It's all related to a free digital tool for you that I developed. It's the NSC Boundary Breakers Tool. It's part assessment, part-5-day-personal journaling exercise, and executive coach all in one virtual box. It will get underneath whether you're the controller or if you are being controlled, or both.   There is even a Trust Erosion Metric that may lead you to insights about your relationships and why there are snags in certain processes.   You know, you have to let go of a lot to get to that C-Suite.   Who's ready? Tune in late tonight. We stream everywhere. Ask Alexa or Siri.

When I met Nicole Britenriker, it was for one of the many speaking opportunities at a business networking event. Sure, it was all about sports, and her posture did hint toward an athletic pedigree, but little did I know that she spent most of her sports career as a university standout and elite international volleyball champion. Now, she sits in the front office of one of the most impactful organizations in sports, the National Basketball Association. Her journey to now is fascinating, and for those of you looking to break into sports and not necessarily on the field or on the court, this episode will appeal to you. Find out how this high-performing, Millennial professional parlayed her time on the court into the career of her dreams all while advocating for people of color, women and other underrepresented groups. This all-video episode streams tonight on The Culture Soup Podcast. Ask Alexa to play the show, watch on Apple Podcasts, YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts.

Ready to set some goals and celebrate wins?I brought The Coaching Corner episode back in June as an all-video episode that would air on Thursday when the marquis episodes air...only once monthly. This month, because my plate is extremely full, I posted an audio episode.In fact, you'll get to hear everything that my little company is into currently as well as set some goals with me. You see, I've started list number two, and I thought it would be a great opportunity to bring you along with me so that you could set goals of your own--the way that will move you forward faster. We will also learn the power of reflection--on your accomplishments both personal and professional and the lessons that you may have learned along the way.I

We are at a very interesting inflection point in our society.  The Delta variant of the COVID-19 virus is here and wreaking havoc on the unvaccinated, and we have a large number of people who are unvaccinated.  With school starting this fall, this has many of us questioning--have we learned from the past?  We may need some of the lessons that we learned in 2020, so I'm turning back the clock to a conversation with American's Psychologist, Dr. Jeff Gardere. It's pretty handy for me as well since I just took some time off for myself and went on holiday with my family.  With two books on the way, I'll continue to work while you enjoy. ICYMI, we're finding the good in the bad.

One of the most acclaimed mezzo sopranos of our time is joining me on The Culture Soup Podcast®, and I'm so proud to call her friend!She debuted at the Metropolitan Opera, She's sung for multiple Presidents. She is on the faculty at Juilliard. She even sang at the home going of Ruth Bader Ginsburg and she is on a mission to tell the story of Black people in opera.Meet the prolific and lovely Denyce Graves-Montgomery! She is the Founder of the Denyce Graves Foundation, and she is dedicated to telling the stories of Black people in Opera that you've never heard before.Tune in on Thursday to hear our conversation where we talk about the importance of seeing Black people in all aspects of Opera…from the stage to the composers, librettists and directors. We also talk about the importance of telling Black stories and seeing Black artist play characters that aren't historically cast that way.We also get into the issue of how the Black community can deem artists in this art form or the genre itself “not Black enough.”What is Black?What's Black about the Opera?We have answers, and you may be surprised.It's on the next episode of The Culture Soup Podcast®.We're everywhere the best podcasts stream!

While I put some final touches on my daughter's debut children's book, No Thanks for Girls: 7 Ways to Say I'm Beautiful, Strong and Enough, we're embracing a #ThrowbackThursday on The Culture Soup Podcast®.This one has layers of significance to the #NoThanks series:1) I chat with fellow National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) member and friend Charisse Jones of USA TODAY who covers retail and workplace issues about her coverage of the historic election of Vice President Kamala Harris and the implication for women leaders, especially those of color and Black women in particular.2) If you picked up No Thanks, The Remix, you know that the story of Kamala's election to VP tees up one of the bonus chapters that highlights ways to handle micro-aggressive bullies. Pick it up on Amazon if you haven't already: https://lnkd.in/egPuFvj3) You may also know by now that No Thanks has been selected for NABJ's Outstanding Book Award which is a part of their Author's Showcase that happens at their annual convention and career fair. Charisse will be the journalist who interviews me before convention goers during the showcase, and I'm absolutely thrilled about it.So it seemed befitting to revisit this episode, which kicked off 2021 for the podcast.Ask Alexa, Siri or Spotify to play the latest episode of The Culture Soup Podcast®, and you'll be streaming with the best. It will air with a special pre-show monologue--unscripted as always--from yours truly.

Larry Lundy and I talk sports in today's episode that streams this afternoon—from back office to the playing field—and how social issues have impacted it all. We also discuss breaking into sports, no cleats required. Jobs in the corporate offices may have your name written all over them.   But who can talk sports without mentions of Lebron James, Naomi Osaka, Emmitt Smith and more?   We have it all on today's edition of The Culture Soup Podcast®.   We also have a new show open, and you get to see my non-scripted, one-take monologue unfold before your eyes...   As the kids say, "Who dis?!"   Let your eyes and ears take it all in this week.   #tech #business #culture #sports

When was the last time you allowed yourself to dream—intentionally?   Tonight, I'm hosting a very special The Culture Soup Podcast®. It's a video edition, and it will resemble The Coaching Corner episode, which I've decided to make a once monthly recurring episode during the Thursday timeslot.   We are living through a time of unprecedented change. What would happen if you took the change by the horns? Times of turbulence may seem like the time to hunker down and just wait it out... but if you know anything about my story, you'll know that there is always an opportunity in the storm to thrive and not simply survive.   If you're ready to allow yourself to dream and put a plan to it, join me tonight and bring your journal. Let's have a session with VIDEO.

In the bonus edition of No Thanks: 7 Ways to Say I'll Just Include Myself, The Remix, we go back to the plantation, and you may wonder why a business book does that.   It was necessary.  If you want to understand the mindset of the primary microaggressive bully for Black women as identified by a large percentage of them responding to a survey I issued, you need to know where she comes from and why she thinks the way she does. This is a generational problem that never healed, and now it has morphed into something even more covert.   To frame up the discussion, I introduce the idea of my friend Shannon Lanier and his famous ancestors.  He is the 6th great grandson of Thomas Jefferson and his slave Sally Hemings.  This is just one American family, but what he learned could help us all today.   Want to know how it all connects to the book?   HINT: It call comes down to one person and the one decision that s/he makes.  It You have to listen!   We are streaming late tonight, so be on the look out for it to drop.   And don't forget to get No Thanks, The Remix, exclusively on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/dp/1735470651?ref=ab_qro_dp_d_re_ad_1_1    

This goes out to all the boss ladies out there! And it's about the boss lady who was the first millionaire in U.S. history. Did you know that Madam CJ Walker hosted one of her first Mary Kay-like conventions in 1917? Do you know what date that was in history? Just on the heels of the so-called “Spanish Flu” the only other pandemic in American history, and much like the #bossbabes of today, she had to weather the storm with her business during her era's own #covid19. Other “did you knows”? Alex Hailey of the legendary book turned mini-series Roots was the first to option the story of Madam Walker, but he died before he could produce it. Maya Angelou was one of the names floated to play in the movie. Ooooooohhhh... it gets deeper! This conversation with @aleliabundles will blow your mind! She is the author behind the book that inspired the @Netflix original #SelfMade with Octavia Spencer and Blair Underwood! And you know that series came with its own controversies. Hear about them straight from the source and why composite characters may work for Hollywood, but not always for the good of black history. It streams later today on The Culture Soup Podcast®.

I've been grinding away during launch week, but we still have a fresh new bowl of soup for you!  This time, I'm in conversation with my brother from another mother in HOTlanta, The @brandprenuer himself, Nick F. Nelson (brand / pre / nuer).   We talk about what it was like going through the thick of the pandemic with our corporate executive and small business personal brands as they considered how to position themselves during that unimaginable time, and I also asked Nick to read some tealeaves as businesses begin to look at operating at full capacity and companies begin to invite workers back to their headquarters.   What's a brand to do?  How then, should a brand act?  Are you going to wait and see?  Or will you be intentional?  We talk about where a plan will get you...and how far taking bold steps will take you.   And as always, we go to church.  Stay up late with us tonight.  The show will begin streaming after 9 p.m. CT./10 p.m. ET.   Look for the full episode on Youtube this weekend.   See you online.   LMS   #personalbranding #podcasts #alphaphialpha #atlanta #dallas #entrepreneurs #tech #business #culture

While I continue to prepare for the launch of No Thanks, The Remix and the online course and discussion guide, I thought this conversation was still particularly timely.Woke-washing.  Pink Washing. Pride-Painting.You've seen it in marketing and advertising, or maybe you don't know what any of it is.  Either way, you need to tune in for this #TBT episode later today.  I'm talking to the global practice lead for consumer brand marketing at one of the largest communications and integrated marketing agencies in the world, FleishmanHillard.    She and her teams are on a mission to ensure that brands “don't borrow culture.” Holding up the banner for authenticity, my friend Candace (Candy) Peterson speaks with me about the leadership imperative and how it can have a positive impact for brands that do their homework to understand culture, align with key values and then move forward with well-thought out campaigns. It's a heavy lift in this digital age, but it isn't impossible. We'll dive into some best practices for all you marketers out there attempting to stay out of hot water. No one wants to get dragged on Twitter.

While I'm in the lab, preparing for the release of the new No Thanks, The Remix Online Course and Discussion Guide, I thought it'd be a great time to throw things back to Episode 58.This is one half of the powerhouse podcasting duo that is Reid This Reid That. If you are curious about the vegan lifestyle, this episode is for you. I talk to one of the gurus out there, TV and Radio journalist Jacque Reid. She making vegan sexy and cool again.It's more than just a diet. You need to hear this. Eat better, do better....feel better.A healthier you will be a better you in life and work.

We're happy to bring you this new episode that was held hostage to technical difficulties for a bit! We unleash it later today!It was great reconnecting with my friend Gina McCray who happens to be the sitting CEO of one of the oldest employee resource groups in corporate America--The NETwork National Integrated Communications Professionals of AT&T.We sat for a bit to discuss the importance of these organizations, especially in the context of times like these--muddling through bad news headline after bad news headlines whether it is about the pandemic and the disproportionate rates at which Black professionals are impacted, or the string of black lives lost at the hands of police only for starters.She also shared with me how this organization managed through the tough times of 2020 on the heels of an incredible 2019 when the org celebrated their 50th anniversary.I also have a special tribute to our friend, former Network National CEO Latya Taylor during the show's monologue that you won't want to miss.You'll want to hear from Gina.

Making up for lost time, we're flashing back on a Friday because the Thursday spirits worked against us.  Technical difficulties did us in, so we're aiming for next Thursday to bring you Gina McCray from The Network National of AT&T.  Until then, enjoy the incredible Cheryl Grace talking about my new book, No Thanks: 7 Ways to Say I'll Just Include Myself.  The Remix drops in May.

I had the pleasure to chopping it up with my friend, the President of D Partners, Gillea Allison this afternoon. She is a media executive, a master marketer and a changemaker.I grew up in Dallas and recall seeing her flagship magazine on the racks in line at the grocery store. Was this really my Dallas?Well, within the last three years, Gillea and her team have transformed D Magazine and all of its brands across platforms to reflect a truer picture of my city. They did it in the digital age...in fact, the pivot to move all their live events online during Covid-19 was a feat that Gillea was born for.You see, she spent some of her career doing digital and social media on a team that changed the way we all do social media today... she worked for the Obama campaign.We also talk about what working moms face during this season of uncertainly, and how important it is for women and women of color to lead these conversations and companies through this time of unprecedented change.Yes, there are lessons to be learned from Big D, and I'm proud to bring this conversation to all 38 countries that listen to my show.It airs Thursday on The Culture Soup Podcast. You can even tell Spotify to play us with their new voice command integration. #podcast #tech #culture #business