Podcasts about alpha kappa alpha sorority incorporated

Have you contemplated sending your student to an all-Black school? Patricia Hogan Williams is Head of the Imani School, the largest black independent school in the U.S. Founded in 1988, the school serves 100% African American students and emphasizes faith, confidence, and self-belief. Williams highlights the importance of setting high expectations and providing a nurturing environment that fosters academic excellence and self-worth. The school's curriculum includes African American history and literature, aiming to instill pride and competence in students. Williams stresses the critical role of education in empowering black children and the need for intentionality in their learning environment.  ABOUT PATRICIA HOGAN WILLIAMS A graduate of Fisk University, Patricia Hogan Williams has more than 40 years of experience as an educator with students from preschool classrooms to university campuses. She is the Founding Head and Executive Director of The Imani School — now the largest independent, predominantly African American private Christian school in the nation, serving students from preschool through eighth grade. Williams continues to be the driving force behind the school's progression, prevailing at the school's helm since 1988. The institution has grown to include more than 350 students across pre-kinder, elementary, and middle school grade levels, receiving national and international recognition for its success in developing self-confidence and academic excellence in African-American children. Mrs. Williams also serves as an adjunct professor in Child Development at Texas Southern University, where she helps sow into the next generation of educators. For her commitment to improving the lives of children and youth, Williams has received numerous honors and awards including: U.S. News and World Report's “Twelve Indispensable Americans''; “Current History Maker” by KHOU –TV; the Distinguished Woman Award from Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated; Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church's Audrey A. Lawson Impact Award winner; the American Heart Association Award of Excellence as well as its Outstanding Educator Award; the National Association for Financial Assistance to Minority Students' Outstanding Educator Award; Links, Inc. Western Area for Outstanding Services to Youth; Texas Southern University Award for Excellent Service; and the Community Service Award from the Top Ladies of Distinction. Williams is the wife of Attorney Connie B. Williams, and the proud mother of three sons, Brian, founder of Step Afrika, the first professional company dedicated to the tradition of stepping; Christopher, owner of Lucille's Hospitality Group, which includes nationally acclaimed restaurant Lucille's and its non-profit Lucille's 1913; and Benjamin, the co-owner of Highway Vodka, the country's first of its kind spirit crafted with hemp seed. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating! Special thanks to Vibrant Health for sponsoring this episode of Articulating! We're thrilled to share an exclusive 20% discount for our listeners. Use code ARTIC20 and take a step toward vibrant living!

Community Connection Thursday, October 17th, 2024 Today on Community Connection, we welcome a panel led by Natrina Debow of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated to the show to discuss their efforts to connect voters to the candidates on ballot! Also, our weekly sports update with the Indianapolis Recorder's Danny Bridges!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Grab your earphones! Get ready to listen and learn!

In episode 177, Erik and Kerel talk with Cynthia Morgan Jenkins, Head of Supplier Diversity and Managing Partner at GroupM, the world's leading media investment company. Cynthia was born and raised in Long Island by two parents who grew up in the Deep South of North Carolina. She was a dancer through and through until one day she got injured and her mom pushed her to do something that wouldn't be affected by an injury like that. This was her start into media and advertising. Cynthia started her career as an intern in radio, then went into sales at the radio stations, getting her first job out of college working with Howard Stern, leading her to help start the first hip hop radio station in the country, eventually moving to BET where she stayed for ten years, and now at Group M. Cynthia also shares what her AKA sorority means to her, keys to great leadership, what gets her excited, advice she would give herself first starting out in her career, ways she's still growing and learning as a person and professional, and so much more. Timestamps 0:29: Cynthia Morgan Jenkins, Head of Supplier Diversity and Managing Partner at GroupM shares exactly what her role is, her responsibilities and how the role came available 2:10: Cynthia was raised in Long Island, a place she is so proud of, but feels a certain way about, she shares her family's heritage from the Deep South of North Carolina all the way to Long Island 5:26: The next place Cynthia would like to explore and to find connections to her culture 6:54: What Cynthia was pursuing before getting into media and advertising, the trials and tribulations she faced, including going against her mom's wishes, and how what she does now fulfills her in the same way 8:58: Self-proclaimed risk taker, Cynthia, shares the many other roles she's been in which were created for her to step into, getting into radio out of college, and launching the nation's first hip hop radio station 11:24: Cynthia's professional and personal learning experience at BET, where she worked for 10 years, the motto she kept there, and how that was the place she found her voice 14:03: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated is Cynthia's, her mother's, and now her daughter's sorority and she shares why that bond of sistership is so important and how she brings that to every part of her life and who she is 15:44: Cynthia's keys to leadership, knowing your why, being worthy of being followed, the ability to receive feedback and self-awareness 18:09: The types of stories that get Cynthia excited, her favorite color and what it means to her, and truly feeling a piece of art even if you don't understand it 100% 19:38: Advice Cynthia would give to herself today, which coincidentally is the mantra she has for herself right now, and how she deals with anxiety and overthinking 21:03: The one thing Cynthia wishes she were better at, how she discovered where her real opportunities came from, and how it's more about groups than parties nowadays 22:48: Music in Cynthia's rotation at the moment, including a song from West Side Boogie that reminds her of her mom, of motherhood, and hits close to home 26:33: How to connect with Cynthia on LinkedIn and Instagram Follow Us: Newsletter: bitly.com/2QLEY8U Linkedin: bit.ly/2ZZUBxG Twitter: bit.ly/2Qp0SzK Instagram: bit.ly/2QLfEQc

“Ms. Stampley was my inspiration…” Barbara Bennett Reading Interventionist, Pre K, K, 1st - 3rd "I had the best teachers."  This week we are joined by Ms. Barbara Bennett, a dedicated reading interventionist with a background in Pre-K - 3. Growing up in Clarksdale, Mississippi, Bennett was highly inspired by her teacher, Ms. Stampley, and experienced the profound impact of having Black educators who understood the urgency of her community's needs. Reflecting on her son's contrasting educational journey, she notes the systemic challenges he's encountered, including low expectations and lack of resources, like a science lab and the ability to apply to certain high schools.  "Black educators make their students see that they have the capability to do more and be more."  Barbara shares multiple stories of the impact Black educators can have on their students. From reflecting on her high school science teacher to her own pursuit of teacher licensure, her village (which included a lot of Alpha Kappa Alpha women!) prepared her to advocate for all students, including her own son. Her passion for education is rooted in the heart and empathy she brings to the classroom, mirroring the love and care she received from her mentor.  Sending special gratitude and a huge #Shoutout to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, Xi Nu Omega Chapter, where Barbara and Danielle are both active members. Danielle was invited to host a Black Educators Matter table at the March 2024 Chapter meeting, and Barbara signed up to share her story!

The Illinois Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. Day at the Capitol is coming up April 30th - May 1st in Springfield. They will be partnering with the ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated for a day of advocacy and education. Michael Gaines, a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. and Sherri Hale, a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. spoke to Community Voices about the history and legacy of their organizations, the different items they'll be advocating for, and the schedule for the two days of events. They also talk about the history and work of Black Greek-lettered Organizations in our community.

Congratulations, you've been accepted into the inaugural class of Therapy for Black Girls University. Whether packing for a new year on campus, thinking through your gap year, enrolling in a community college, or grabbing your stoles for graduation, TBG U is here to help you thrive at this stage of your life and beyond. One of the most alluring parts of the college experience is Greek Life, but many people don't know the ins and outs of sorority life. For those of you who don't know, I am a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated, so I decided to gather my fellow Divine 9 sisters for a conversation about sorority life and the impact of the Divine 9 at large.  Joining me for this roundtable are 4 impactful college-aged women who represent each of the D9 sororities. Their names are Ryann Phillips, Valesha Rhodes, Trinity Perkins, and Tumi Adeyoju (UH-DAY-JEW). They are members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Incorporated, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated, and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated, respectively.  In our conversation today, we dispel some common misconceptions about sorority life, bond over the joys of sisterhood, and discuss how we've balanced our mental wellness with our sorority responsibilities. Where to Find Our Guests Ryann Instagram TikTok Tumi Instagram TikTok YouTube Pinterest Valesha Instagram LinkedIn Listen to ‘The Venuisan Vault' Podcast Trinity Instagram LinkedIn   AFFIRMATIONS I am surrounded by sisters who uplift and support me in all aspects of my life I am a reflection of a strong legacy of black sisterhood within my community I am deserving of the sisterhood, mentorship, and lifelong connections that are ahead of me.   Make sure to follow us on social media: Instagram TikTok   Interested in being a part of a future TBG U episode or suggesting a topic for us to discuss, send us a note HERE.  Order a copy of Sisterhood Heals for you and your girls HERE.    Our Production Team Executive Producers: Dennison Bradford & Maya Cole Howard Producers: Fredia Lucas & Ellice Ellis Production Intern: Zariah Taylor TBG University Host & Coordinator: Jayna EllisSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week's episode of Fearless, Inspired and Free shares a conversation with a strong woman leader in the non-profit/public service space. A story of resilience, persistence and insistence upon her voice being heard from as early as six years old growing up in the foster care system, to becoming the lawyer she always wanted to be; serving communities in an equitable manner. You don't want to miss this conversation!  "Advocate, empowering, dedicated, kind, effective"...all words used by her peers to describe their experiences of engagement with her. But don't take our word for it…tune in and listen for yourself today. Lanetta Haynes Turner is renowned as the longest-serving Chief of Staff for Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle (in Chicago, IL) where she plays a pivotal role in steering the administration's agenda through policy development, program implementation, budget management, and executive functions. Before her tenure as Chief of Staff, Lanetta served as Deputy Chief of Staff, focusing on shaping the President's policy initiatives and pioneering the creation of the office's inaugural comprehensive strategic plan, with a particular emphasis on advancing racial equity. Additionally, she served as the Executive Director of the Cook County Justice Advisory Council, dedicated to driving criminal and juvenile justice reform in alignment with the President's vision. Lanetta's dedication to advocating for youth stems from her personal experiences within the Illinois foster care system during her childhood. With over two decades of legal, nonprofit, and public sector experience, she exemplifies a steadfast commitment to public service and improving the lives of society's most vulnerable. Educated at Northwestern University, Lanetta holds a degree in Education and Social Policy, complemented by a Juris Doctorate from Loyola University School of Law. She commenced her career as an attorney with the City of Chicago before transitioning to the nonprofit sector as an attorney with Life Span Center for Legal Services and Advocacy. Notably, she served as the Executive Director of CASA of Cook County for five years and as the inaugural Executive Director for Cook County Justice for Children. In recognition of her outstanding contributions to public service, Lanetta was honored in 2023 with the prestigious Excellence in Public Service Award, by The Civic Federation, underscoring her impact and leadership within the public sector. She has also participated as a Civic Leadership Academy Fellow at the University of Chicago and was a Leadership Greater Chicago Fellow. In past years, Lanetta has been recipient of the Athena International Young Nonprofit Professional and was named one of the "100 Women to Watch" by Today's Chicago Women Magazine. Beyond her professional endeavors, Lanetta remains actively engaged in professional associations, including memberships with the Black Women's Lawyer's Association and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, reflecting her commitment to fostering community and advancing the interests of underrepresented groups, women and children. You can find Lanetta on LinkedIn. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/danafif20/message

In the next episode of the Council of Firsts, Amanda Arriaga, first Latina president of the Austin Bar, talks to Toya Bell, first African American president of the Austin Young Lawyers Association. Did you know that Toya was also the first Black woman to receive the Volunteer Extraordinaire Award from the Junior League of Austin? She also hosted "Ask an Attorney," a live legal talk show sponsored by the Austin Bar Association, was the vice chair of the Austin Bar Foundation, where she formalized the Foundation's grant process, is a past president of the Association of Rice Alumni, and is part of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, Beta Psi Omega Chapter. Listen in and get to know more about Toya!

In this podcast episode, Dr. Angela Schill and Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talk with Dr. Danielle Williams about servant leadership and the importance of values congruence. Dr. Danielle E. Williams is a servant leader that for over 20 years has worked in the fields of Education, Leadership, and Healthcare. She holds degrees and certifications from Virginia State University, Norfolk State University, Harvard University, Nova Southeastern University and is currently studying in the School of Divinity with Regent University. Her work in Education and Leadership has been presented during numerous conferences, workshops, and leadership seminars. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, The Links Incorporated, ACE-The Virginia Women's Network and Core 4Women Incorporated. Dr. Williams currently serves as the Director of TRiO/Student Support Services at Norfolk State University. Check out all of the podcasts in the HCI Podcast Network! Check out the ⁠HCI Academy⁠: Courses, Micro-Credentials, and Certificates to Upskill and Reskill for the Future of Work! Check out the LinkedIn ⁠Alchemizing Human Capital⁠ Newsletter. Check out Dr. Westover's book, ⁠The Future Leader⁠. Check out Dr. Westover's book, ⁠'Bluer than Indigo' Leadership⁠. Check out Dr. Westover's book, ⁠The Alchemy of Truly Remarkable Leadership⁠. Check out the latest issue of the ⁠Human Capital Leadership magazine⁠. Each HCI Podcast episode (Program, ID No. 627454) has been approved for 0.50 HR (General) recertification credit hours toward aPHR™, aPHRi™, PHR®, PHRca®, SPHR®, GPHR®, PHRi™ and SPHRi™ recertification through HR Certification Institute® (HRCI®). Each HCI Podcast episode (Program ID: 24-DP529) has been approved for 0.50 HR (General) SHRM Professional Development Credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCPHR recertification through SHRM, as part of the knowledge and competency programs related to the SHRM Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge™ (the SHRM BASK™). Human Capital Innovations has been pre-approved by the ATD Certification Institute to offer educational programs that can be used towards initial eligibility and recertification of the Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD) and Associate Professional in Talent Development (APTD) credentials. Each HCI Podcast episode qualifies for a maximum of 0.50 points.

Join us in this episode as Sofia Mohammed, an experienced educator, shares her incredible journey from teaching in Harlem to becoming a school principal and then transitioning into the ed-tech space. Hear how the challenges of the pandemic sparked a creative shift, leading Sofia to break into the tech industry and contribute her unique perspective. From being a school principal to leading educational organizations, Sofia reflects on the valuable skills educators bring to the table in the ever-evolving world of technology. Tune in to discover the highs, lows, and transformative moments in Sofia's career, and how she is now building something new as part of the Raspberry Pi Foundation in the United States. Don't miss the insightful conversation on leadership, career transitions, and the exciting fusion of education and technology.Follow Sofia Mohammed;LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sofmoh/ Recommendations:BooksLean in: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl SandbergPlease Rate & Review on your listening platform. Follow us on Instagram & LinkedIn @CareerCheatCode048 | Building a Better Future in Education with Sofia Mohammed

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.

DaGrip welcomes Cynthia P. Stitt to the podcast for Women's History Month.  Cynthia P. Stitt is an ordained minister, inspirational author, poet, songwriter, and stage-play writer. She became a licensed Minister in May of 2000 and was ordained in July 2006. She currently serves as the Youth Pastor at Mt. Zion Restoration Church in Gastonia, NC under the leadership of Pastor Rodney Freeman.  She has two sons Joshua and Jalen and played an active role in caring for her Goddaughter Cearra Crawford Friday. She is a native of Gastonia, North Carolina. Cynthia graduated from Hunter Huss High School and then later graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte with a Master's Degree in Health Administration. Cynthia P. Stitt is a military veteran who reached the rank of Captain in the United States Air Force before returning to Gaston County to give back to her community.  She is a certified Career, Life, Executive Coach, and Master Coach Trainer through Paradigm 360.  She is the owner of VisionWorks Enterprise, LLC, and her non-profit C & J Creative Expression, Incorporated.  Cynthia believes in perseverance and encourages others through her writing.  Cynthia is an active member of the community, and she has a passion for Public Health, and she retired in June 2020 from the Department of Health and Human Services - Public Health and has received the honor as one of the 100 Distinguished Public Health Nurses of North Carolina. She currently works with Gaston Business Association as the Leadership Gaston Coordinator.  She faithfully volunteers in the Highland Community at the Erwin Center where she works with a group of young men and women referred to as "My Sistahs and My Brothers."  She works with the youth in the community with the goal to provide mentorships and support to the youth so that they will be empowered to accomplish life dreams with a focus on academic achievement, life skills, and character building.  She has served the youth in the community for the past 25-plus years. She enjoys being a faithful volunteer on Thursday mornings with Bountiful Blessings Food Pantry at Mt. Zion Restoration Church. She has also served on several Community Executive and Advisory Boards in Gaston County.  She serves the community faithfully with her sisters she holds so true in the Zeta Mu Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated ®. Cynthia lives by the inspiring scripture "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength" Philippians 4:13.  She believes in God's purpose and destiny for her life and encourages all she meets to live purposeful so that God is glorified.

 Host Kim Singleton sits down with the award-winning filmmaker Cheryl Polote Williamson. Williamson is one of the executive producers of the acclaimed documentary TWENTY PEARLS, which chronicles the history of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated (r) the first Black sorority founded on the campus of Howard University in 1908. 

Host  Kim Singleton sits down with the award-winning filmmaker Cheryl Polote Williamson.  Williamson is one of the executive producers of the acclaimed documentary TWENTY PEARLS, which chronicles the history of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated (r) the first Black sorority founded on the campus of Howard University in 1908.

This is the second time Nicole Turner has been on the Empowering Educators Podcast! She was on the show a couple of years ago but a lot has changed since then! Tune in to hear what she's been up to and what all has changed in her life. While she shares her story, you'll also gain some valuable pieces of wisdom. You'll step away from this episode an Empowered Educator. Quotables *All quotables are from the interviewee  Choose one small thing to work on and get quick wins. Small little gains end up being a bigger impact. Coaches help to bring out the best in you. Make time for you. About Nicole Nicole S. Turner is a K-12 educational coach, author, speaker, trainer, and school improvement specialist, founder & CEO of Simply Coaching and Teaching Inc. She is also the founder of the Simply Coaching Summit—the first virtual summit exclusively for instructional coaches and teacher leaders. Nicole specializes in helping instructional coaches master their roles and helping teachers use engaging activities in the classroom. She has 18+ years of K-12 classroom and leadership experience in positions such as classroom teacher, lead teacher, differentiated accountability coach, district and building-level instructional coach, assistant principal, dean of students, AdvancEd diagnostic review team member, and school improvement and turnaround specialist for the Indiana Department of Education. Nicole has worked with thousands of educators, instructional coaches, and administrators across the United States through conferences, one-to-one & small-group coaching, and custom professional development sessions. Her professional memberships include Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Indiana State Teacher Association, Indiana State Reading Association, and the Indiana Council of Teachers of Mathematics. She is the author of two published books, Simply Instructional Coaching: Questions Asked and Answered from the Field and The S.I.M.P.L.E. Blueprint for Instructional Coaching Workbook and the creator of the Track My Coaching Planner and the Simply Coaching Hub. Nicole is a candidate for a doctor of education in Curriculum and Instruction at Oakland City University with research focused on the professional development of instructional coaches. When Nicole is not serving in various educational roles, she can be found spending time with her family, which consists of a supportive fiancée, three biological children, and three bonus children. Connect with Nicole: IG simplycoachingandteaching_ Facebook Simply Coaching and Teaching Website simplycoachingandteaching.com Come Chat on Clubhouse! Instructional Coaching Club- www.clubhouse.com/club/instructionalcoaching Join the Always A Lesson Newsletter Join here and grab a freebie! Connect with Gretchen Email: gretchen@alwaysalesson.com Blog: Always A Lesson Facebook: Always A Lesson Twitter: @gschultek Instagram: 

Today, our guest is Keisha D. Bussey. Keisha has been an educator for the past 20 years and has a love and passion for dance. She is a God-fearing woman. Keisha D. Bussey, is a true “Valley Girl”, originally born and raised in Harlingen, Texas. Keisha has been dancing since she was in her mother's womb. She discovered her love for dance at the Boys & Girls Club as a young girl. She later moved to Alexandria, Louisiana while at Bolton High School and continued to have a love for dance. She has been professionally trained at different dance studios and colleges. Her love for dance continues to grow daily as she teaches. She resides in Houston, Texas teaching dance to elementary students at Carter Academy Elementary School for the Performing Arts. She has also collaborated to create a written dance curriculum for grade levels K-5. Keisha is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated in the Houston area. Social Media: TeachHER Podcast (Instagram) The Innocent Brown Girl Project (Instagram) The Innocent Brown Girl Project (Website) Guest Social Media Info: Keisha D. Bussey (Facebook) Keisha D. Bussey (Twitter) Keisha D. Bussey (Instagram) Websites Mentioned: Keisha D. Bussey (Website)    

In the second installment of the new series, "I'm Too Young For This Ish!" where Dr. Randy Hines II interviews individuals who have received diagnosis' for intense conditions at a young age, we go on call with Angela Graves. Together, they unpack her story of her thyroid cancer diagnosis at the tender age of 18. Not only does she go in depth about her initial diagnosis, but she tells all about her symptoms and the mental and emotional effects the diagnosis had on her at such an early age. What you can expect in this episode:   4:05 - Diagnosis 11:15 - Surgery experience 20:10 - Mental and emotional effects  21:10 - Surgery complications  23:20 - Official diagnosis 25:25 - Family support and reactions  27:55 - Mortality fears  29:50 - Recovery process 32:25 - Adjusting to a new normal 42:00 - Treatment challenges 49:05 - Reflections 51:40 - Randy's Random Questions 55:20 - Words of wisdom   Tweetable Quotes: “The word ‘cancer' doesn't feel like anything positive should come with it.” - Angela Graves “I have to manage this because if I don't it could be the end of me.” - Angela Graves “One of a parent's worst fear is having to bury a child." - Angela Graves "If I didn't go through these things, I probably wouldn't look at life as such a gift." - Angela Graves “Live life and tell your story.” - Angela Graves   About Angela Graves: Angela Graves was born and raised in Charlotte, North Carolina. She went in for a routine pre-college physical shortly after her 18th birthday, which prompted her to be sent to a specialist to run tests and later be diagnosed on August 7, 2009. Surgery and treatment caused a few extended absences during her freshman year at Paine College where she was studying Mathematics on a Full academic scholarship. This did not delay or deter her as Angela is a proud graduate of Paine college and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. After 10 successful years in education, Angela is now a Training Analyst in Organizational Readiness for SL. King Technologies. When she's not working professionally, she's still working as a full-time mom, PTA Vice President, private math tutor, and travel agent. On Call With Dr. Randy Demographic Survey: Take the survey.   Contact Dr. Randy Hines II: https://www.drrandymd.com IG: @_drrandy FB: @HinesEntertainment   LinkedIn: Dr. Randy Hines II Twitter: @_DrRandy TikTok: @_drrandy

Rewind episode: Ronnika A. McFall is an Accomplished Mass Communications and Media Studies Professional with more than 9 Years of diverse experience in both Corporate America and Small Businesses. An innovative, hands-on leader with a track record for success. Known for relationship building amongst customers, employees, media and the community - at - large. Ronnika's recent attributes and work experiences come from contributions at Compassion in World Farming, American Red Cross, Cox Media Group, Yellow Pages, iGN Public Relations & Co and PR for a Day Consulting. Ronnika Ann, is the leader and visionary of every campaign she touches; she spearheads strategic campaigns and develops goals for each client. Every win and opportunity for growth is personal. That commitment to personal growth is at the heart of her team's efforts and she works relentlessly with top PR Heads in the industry, to focus on mastering relationship-based business to earn her clients' public support. Ronnika has gained 8 plus years of experience in leadership, event planning, production, public relations and journalism. Her most recent attributes have come from her contributions to IGN PR & Co., Yellow Pages Corporate Marketing Team, The Sun Herald Newspaper, The Atlanta Journal Constitution, Mississippi's Channel 23, and ABC's WAPT Channel 16. As a result of such vast experiences, she created, publishes and writes for the PR Insights and has published a book series called: "Putting The PR Back in EntrePReneurship" under her PR for a Day Consulting Service. Ronnika received her Master's in Business Administration from American InterContinental University and has a Bachelor's of Science degree in Mass Communications and Speech Communication from Jackson State University. She is a lady of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. Because of all of her achievements, Ronnika was awarded the "Keys to the City" from her hometown, Biloxi, Ms. Ronnika A. Joyner Day is official celebrated on January 4th. Update: iGN Public Relations & Co. is now McCall Enterprises MarCom. Carlton and Ronnika met as marketing consultants at the Yellow Pages. Individually they ran their own companies since 2012. Ronnika, founder of iGN Public Relations & Co. and PR for a Day Consulting and Training, and Carlton, founder of CMF Solutions Inc., were married in 2017. Together, they formed the organization McFall Enterprises LLC to create a one stop shop for integrated marketing and communication needs. https://mcfallenterprises.org https://mcfallenterprises.org/pr-for-a-day-training https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronnikamcfall/ https://www.instagram.com/ignpr https://www.facebook.com/RonnikaMcFall https://mcfallenterprises.org/pr-for-a-day-training   Deborah Bailey is a writer and host of Women Entrepreneurs Radio podcast. Learn more about her and her books and writing courses at: https://DBaileycoach.com For Deborah's paranormal and fantasy romance fiction, visit: https://dbaileycoach.com/brightbooks

Hey, Herspiration Happy Hour fans! Did you tune in tonight, Aug 31, 2022, at 7 pm EST on our FB, YouTube, or Twitch channel for Season 5 Episode 26 LIVE? Our guest was Author Ra Harmon.Ra Harmon is from the Eastern Shore of Virginia and is the mother of four children and one fur baby. She is a member of the illustrious sisterhood of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated.During her early education, she attended Accomack County Public Schools and graduated from Arcadia High School. After graduating high school, I furthered my education - obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Services from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and a Master of Education with a focus in Elementary and Secondary School Counseling from Wilmington University. Currently, Harmon is a School Counselor, and she is in pursuit of obtaining a Doctorate in Applied Behavioral Analysis at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Connect with her on IG: @ra.harmonDon't forget you can be a part of the conversation during the show!!Connect with us on IG:@iamdpgurley@thegirlfriendtherapist@thebluephoenixhealsCatch up on past episodes on Apple Podcast, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Amazon Music, Spotify, Google Podcast, and many other platforms.#podcast, #season5, #empoweringwomen, #goaldiggers, #ladybosstribe, #inspiration, #womanceo, #empowerher, #savvybusinessowner, #womensupportingwomen, #thisgirlmeansbusiness, #motivation, #womenempowermentSupport the show

This week, Dr. Jason Powers and Julie DeNofa are joined by Helena Washington, M.Ed., LCDC, ICADC, MAC. Helena is a licensed addiction specialist, mental wellness, behavioral health diversity authority, and media contributor with over 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and preserving family systems. Due to Helena's clinical rooting in mental health, her passion is working with a holistic and collaborative approach to mental wellness and educating communities, organizations, and corporations. She has worked for treatment programs, in corrections, and acute care settings, as a clinician and program manager, and for many years in private practice.    She obtained her Bachelor Degrees in Psychology and Sociology from Grambling State University and her Master's Degree in Counseling in 2001, from Bowling Green State University, with a focus on brain trauma, addiction, mental and emotional health, physical wellness, diversity, adolescent, and women's concerns. As a CBT/DBT trained practitioner, Helena is also trained in Trauma & Grief Component Therapy-Adolescents and Adults, a part of the Texas Children's Collaborative Group for Trauma Care and Trauma Informed Care.    Presently, she runs her private practice and behavioral health consulting firm, BraveBird Recovery and Wellness, PLLC, in Houston, Texas. Additionally, Helena is the current President Houston Chapter Texas Association of Addiction Professionals Board ( State of Texas Association of Addiction Professionals, governed by NAADAC); on the Houston Harris County Office of Drug Policy; former Board of Directors, Liberian Association of Greater Houston, and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated.    This dedicated mother of three, and grandmother of one, immigrated to the United States from Monrovia, Liberia, West Africa, as a child. She describes her greatest professional success as being an integral partner in the process of healing that takes place in those living with disruptive behavioral health challenges and promoting family preservation.   Topics Discussed: What it means to practice a holistic and collaborative approach Learning how to set healthy boundaries with your loved ones Post-Traumatic Growth: letting go of grief to find peace  Helping others recognize their bravery to live the best lives possible    Connect with Positive Recovery Centers:   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters/  Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/577870242872032  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/positiverecoverycenters/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg    Contact Positive Recovery Centers:   If you or someone you know needs help, visit the website, or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help.    Call: 877-476-2743 Address: 902 West Alabama Street Houston, Texas 77006 Website: https://positiverecovery.com  Services: https://positiverecovery.com/services/  FAQ: https://positiverecovery.com/faq/  ---  About Positive Recovery MD Podcast:   The Positive Recovery MD podcast is hosted by Dr. Jason Powers, Addiction Medicine Specialist and creator of Positive Recovery.    This podcast will not only inspire and motivate its listeners, but it will also provide the tools and foundation needed to thrive and flourish on their addiction recovery journey. Each week the Positive Recovery MD podcast community will come together to have authentic conversations around addiction, Recovery, and what matters – growth & progress, not perfection, all while developing positive habits for your life.    To join the community, visit https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/OtK48nO/dailypositiverecovery to sign up to receive the daily Positive Intervention that we'll review and gain access to EXCLUSIVE Positive Recovery content available only to Positive Recovery MD listeners.   About Positive Recovery Centers:   Positive Recovery Centers is a strengths-based addiction treatment program with locations across Texas. We offer a full continuum of care, from medical detox to sober living, all supported by an ever-growing alumni community network.    Our evidence-based curriculum blends the best of the old with the new, supporting our mission: that Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame.

Many HBCU grads expect that their children will follow their path. Whether it's a family tradition or a desire for a once-in-a-lifetime educational experience, many HBCU alums encourage their kids to pour into the rich legacy. But what if it's not what the child wants to do? Even better, what if you're a college advisor who knows more about colleges and college admissions than most and all you want is for your child to find themselves and their academic happy place. Meet Lisa Fuller, a first-generation college student and founder of College Primed, LLC an educational consultant company offering personalized college planning and admissions advising for 8th-12th graders and their parents. Lisa is also the mom of two college graduates (both from PWIs) who wholeheartedly believes that Black students should explore a range of colleges to find places where they feel they can thrive. She was recently quoted in New York Times article: Why Students Are Choosing H.B.C.U.s: ‘4 Years Being Seen as Family' As an active Spelman alumna, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated member, and Associate of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated, Inc., Lisa personally knows the value of and proudly advocates for HBCUs. She also co-moderates the “Parents of Black and Brown and College Bound” Facebook group, a forum for families that works to demystify the college search process and offers first-hand information on an expansive list of colleges.

Today's episode features the amazing Cool Soror Trina Braxton who is an award winning singer, actress, TV personality & entrepreneur. Her first big break in music came in 1992 as a founding member of the R&B group The Braxtons, formed with her sisters. This Braxton Family Values star, wife & mom is sharing: Her lessons learned both professionally & personally How she's navigating grief through the loss of her ex husband and sister The importance of carving out your own lane Her journey to becoming a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated later in life.   Trina reminds us that it's not how you start but how you finish with her mantra “All I do is win win win no matter what!”   Get ready to laugh, shed some heartfelt tears and get the behind the scenes of what you may not see on TV.   Catch all these gems they are dropping throughout this powerful conversation between sister friends & former colleagues.   To find out more about Trina, follow her at @trinabraxton1 on Instagram & @TrinaBraxton on Twitter.

Today's episode features Danielle "Dani" Canada who is a seasoned entertainment journalist with over a decade of experience. She currently serves as the Managing Editor of BOSSIP.com where she manages staff, conducts interviews, and pens snarky headlines centered around Black and BIPOC news in the celebrity realm. Dani is sharing her experience as a journalist in a highly competitive industry and giving us insight on what it took to rise to the top. She also has some advice for up and coming journalists in the entertainment industry. As a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, Dani reminds us that we "Cannot Skip the Work" on our journey to success. You have to put in the time, effort and sweat in order to make your dreams come true. Don't miss this conversation! To find out more about Dani, follow her at @iamdanicanada on Instagram & Twitter.

Today's episode features former Deputy Director of Government Affairs at the City of Atlanta Charletta Wilson Jacks. Charletta has 30+ years of experience in planning/community development, construction/project management (including the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games) and several architectural and engineering firms. Charletta is an illustrious member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated and is a pillar in the Atlanta community. In this episode she shares the importance of tooting your own horn and sharing your story to empower others. Rashan & Charletta talk navigating leadership and legacy building. To find out more about Charletta, follow her on IG @charlettawilsonjacks.

This week's episode is dedicated to the ascent and rising to meet your potential.   Tricia Lee is a Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker with incredible savvy, passion and drive.  An accomplished entrepreneur and a prominent voice within the Brooklyn brokerage and business communities, Tricia Lee is the founder and leader of the highly talented Tricia Lee Team at SERHANT. After breaking into the industry with record-breaking numbers, Tricia and her Brooklyn-based team have since done more than $200M in sales in a little over five years, helping buyers, sellers, and developers achieve their real estate goals throughout the city.    Tricia's experiences as a property owner, landlord, and former tenant give her unique insights and perspectives into the entire buying, selling, and renting process.  She is a consummate entrepreneur who continues to achieve greatness.  Interestingly, before she became a record-breaking realtor, she owned and operated an award-winning chain of nail and beauty bars, Polish Bar Brooklyn, in Fort Greene/Clinton Hill and Prospect Heights neighborhoods of NYC.  She keeps giving back to empower her community as well.     Tricia is highly invested in improving and giving back to her community, regularly organizing and running events that support, educate, and empower women in real estate and other small businesses. Her event series, Money Matters with Tricia Lee, focuses on financial wellness and features guest speakers and experts. She also leads a Bed-Stuy Small Business Saturday and a Shopping Crawl. She has contributed to financial education events such as Chase & Essence magazine's Currency Conversations and Bank of America and Her Agenda's Financial Workshops.   Tricia's altruism extends to her being an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated (welcome Soror!), the Brooklyn Museum, and the Brooklyn Academy of Music.  She also sits on the Board of Advisors for Clinton Hill's V-ELMS.      Catch the latest episode of the Forever F.A.B. podcast on Apple podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, iheartradio, Podbean, and wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.  For past episodes featuring guest star interviews, beauty product reviews and innovations in plastic surgery, visit ForeverFABpodcast.com.     Dr. Shirley Madhere is a NYC-based plastic surgeon and Founder of Holistic Plastic Surgery.  This philosophy is based on a whole-body, mind, and spirit approach to beauty and incorporates wellness, integrative nutrition, functional aesthetics, and complementary medicine.   Dr. Madhere's approach to optimal outcomes in plastic surgery is through a lens of wellness, and is grounded in science and backed by ivy league medical study, research, and extensive surgical training.  View her menu of services at ElementsandGraces.com.  Consultations are available in-office, virtually, and online via Click-lift.com.   Coming soon: Dr. Madhere offers beauty on call services through Jet Set Beauty Rx, a mobile medical aesthetics unit delivering beauty in the privacy of your own home.  Reserve at JetSetBeautyRx.com.   As a creative outlet and means to broaden the perspective on the “spectrum of beauty,”  Dr. Madhere created Forever F.A.B., a podcast dedicated to Fashion, the Art of living well (i.e., wellness), and all things Beauty.  Visit ForeverFABpodcast.com for past and new episodes.     If you enjoy listening to the Forever F.A.B. podcast, get more audio and visuals with a membership through Patreon.  Choose the Gold, Platinum, or Diamond tier for premium added content, special co-hosts, lifestyle videos, branded merchandise, and private access to Dr. Shirley's Clubhouse by visiting patreon.com/ForeverFAB.   Catch the latest episode of the Forever F.A.B. podcast on Apple podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, iheartradio, Podbean, Amazon podcasts, and wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.  For past episodes featuring guest star interviews, beauty product reviews and innovations in plastic surgery, visit ForeverFABpodcast.com.   The F.A.B. Five according to Tricia Lee:  Recommendations/The F.A.B. Five according to Tricia Lee: Get real with yourself by deciding how you want to work on yourself. Recommendations/The F.A.B. Five according to Tricia Lee: Surround yourself with people that pour into you. Recommendations/The F.A.B. Five according to Tricia Lee: Work hard but live well; it's the anti-hustle.  Avoid burnout by living a good life while you work hard. Recommendations/The F.A.B. Five according to Tricia Lee: Take time for yourself; enjoy your own company. Recommendations/The F.A.B. Five according to Tricia Lee: Be authentic.  Be yourself to find where the love is.   Looking to get into real estate?  Contact Tricia Lee at serhant.com.  Sign up for her workshop series at tricialee.com. Also check it out on social: @lovetricailee and @soldbytricialee. ***** As always, if you liked this episode of the Forever FAB podcast, please share it and subscribe to the feed. Listen to past episodes or check out who's coming up next on foreverfabpodcast.com.   If you enjoy listening to the Forever F.A.B. podcast, get more audio and visuals with a membership through Patreon.  Choose the Gold, Platinum, or Diamond tier for premium added content, special co-hosts, lifestyle videos, branded merchandise, and private access to my Clubhouse by visiting patreon.com/ForeverFAB.   If you are the Founder of or represent a beauty brand and want to be featured on an episode of the Forever FAB podcast segment of Fifteen Minutes of FAB, send me some stuff.  Visit ForeverFABpodcast.com and fill out the Contact form.   For general holistic beauty tips or to set up an appointment with me to discuss your personalized options for leveling up your beauty, go to ElementsandGraces.com and sign up for my newsletter.   And for an online e-consultation on time, anytime and on your time, visit Click-Lift.com for your wellness, plastic surgery, and beauty questions on the go. And… if you don't want to go anywhere or leave your home, look out for Jet Set Beauty Rx offering mobile aesthetic medical services, such as injectable fillers and multi-vitamin facial treatments.  Jet Set Beauty Rx is coming to your neighborhood soon.   Credits: Video backdrop: NYC Fashion: T-shirt by the Gap; sweater by N. Peal; blue-blocking glasses by Tom Ford Beauty: skincare by Wonderskin Purevoc   Makeup: n/a Produced by www.oneofoneproductions.com Recorded, mixed, edited and original music by www.23dbproductions.com   Podcast Medical Disclaimer The purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. It is no substitute for professional care by your doctor or your own qualified healthcare professional. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this podcast or in any linked materials. Guests who speak on this podcast express their own opinions, experience and conclusions, and Dr. Shirley Madhere neither endorses nor opposes any particular opinion discussed in this podcast. The views expressed on this podcast have no relation to those of any academic, hospital, practice, institution or other entity with which Dr. Shirley Madhere may be affiliated.

This week's episode is dedicated to the ascent and rising to meet your potential.   Tricia Lee is a Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker with incredible savvy, passion and drive.  An accomplished entrepreneur and a prominent voice within the Brooklyn brokerage and business communities, Tricia Lee is the founder and leader of the highly talented Tricia Lee Team at SERHANT. After breaking into the industry with record-breaking numbers, Tricia and her Brooklyn-based team have since done more than $200M in sales in a little over five years, helping buyers, sellers, and developers achieve their real estate goals throughout the city.    Tricia's experiences as a property owner, landlord, and former tenant give her unique insights and perspectives into the entire buying, selling, and renting process.  She is a consummate entrepreneur who continues to achieve greatness.  Interestingly, before she became a record-breaking realtor, she owned and operated an award-winning chain of nail and beauty bars, Polish Bar Brooklyn, in Fort Greene/Clinton Hill and Prospect Heights neighborhoods of NYC.  She keeps giving back to empower her community as well.     Tricia is highly invested in improving and giving back to her community, regularly organizing and running events that support, educate, and empower women in real estate and other small businesses. Her event series, Money Matters with Tricia Lee, focuses on financial wellness and features guest speakers and experts. She also leads a Bed-Stuy Small Business Saturday and a Shopping Crawl. She has contributed to financial education events such as Chase & Essence magazine's Currency Conversations and Bank of America and Her Agenda's Financial Workshops.   Tricia's altruism extends to her being an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated (welcome Soror!), the Brooklyn Museum, and the Brooklyn Academy of Music.  She also sits on the Board of Advisors for Clinton Hill's V-ELMS.      Catch the latest episode of the Forever F.A.B. podcast on Apple podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, iheartradio, Podbean, and wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.  For past episodes featuring guest star interviews, beauty product reviews and innovations in plastic surgery, visit ForeverFABpodcast.com.     Dr. Shirley Madhere is a NYC-based plastic surgeon and Founder of Holistic Plastic Surgery.  This philosophy is based on a whole-body, mind, and spirit approach to beauty and incorporates wellness, integrative nutrition, functional aesthetics, and complementary medicine.   Dr. Madhere's approach to optimal outcomes in plastic surgery is through a lens of wellness, and is grounded in science and backed by ivy league medical study, research, and extensive surgical training.  View her menu of services at ElementsandGraces.com.  Consultations are available in-office, virtually, and online via Click-lift.com.   Coming soon: Dr. Madhere offers beauty on call services through Jet Set Beauty Rx, a mobile medical aesthetics unit delivering beauty in the privacy of your own home.  Reserve at JetSetBeautyRx.com.   As a creative outlet and means to broaden the perspective on the “spectrum of beauty,”  Dr. Madhere created Forever F.A.B., a podcast dedicated to Fashion, the Art of living well (i.e., wellness), and all things Beauty.  Visit ForeverFABpodcast.com for past and new episodes.     If you enjoy listening to the Forever F.A.B. podcast, get more audio and visuals with a membership through Patreon.  Choose the Gold, Platinum, or Diamond tier for premium added content, special co-hosts, lifestyle videos, branded merchandise, and private access to Dr. Shirley's Clubhouse by visiting patreon.com/ForeverFAB.   Catch the latest episode of the Forever F.A.B. podcast on Apple podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, iheartradio, Podbean, Amazon podcasts, and wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.  For past episodes featuring guest star interviews, beauty product reviews and innovations in plastic surgery, visit ForeverFABpodcast.com.   The F.A.B. Five according to Tricia Lee:  Recommendations/The F.A.B. Five according to Tricia Lee: Get real with yourself by deciding how you want to work on yourself. Recommendations/The F.A.B. Five according to Tricia Lee: Surround yourself with people that pour into you. Recommendations/The F.A.B. Five according to Tricia Lee: Work hard but live well; it's the anti-hustle.  Avoid burnout by living a good life while you work hard. Recommendations/The F.A.B. Five according to Tricia Lee: Take time for yourself; enjoy your own company. Recommendations/The F.A.B. Five according to Tricia Lee: Be authentic.  Be yourself to find where the love is.   Looking to get into real estate?  Contact Tricia Lee at serhant.com.  Sign up for her workshop series at tricialee.com. Also check it out on social: @lovetricailee and @soldbytricialee. ***** As always, if you liked this episode of the Forever FAB podcast, please share it and subscribe to the feed. Listen to past episodes or check out who's coming up next on foreverfabpodcast.com.   If you enjoy listening to the Forever F.A.B. podcast, get more audio and visuals with a membership through Patreon.  Choose the Gold, Platinum, or Diamond tier for premium added content, special co-hosts, lifestyle videos, branded merchandise, and private access to my Clubhouse by visiting patreon.com/ForeverFAB.   If you are the Founder of or represent a beauty brand and want to be featured on an episode of the Forever FAB podcast segment of Fifteen Minutes of FAB, send me some stuff.  Visit ForeverFABpodcast.com and fill out the Contact form.   For general holistic beauty tips or to set up an appointment with me to discuss your personalized options for leveling up your beauty, go to ElementsandGraces.com and sign up for my newsletter.   And for an online e-consultation on time, anytime and on your time, visit Click-Lift.com for your wellness, plastic surgery, and beauty questions on the go. And… if you don't want to go anywhere or leave your home, look out for Jet Set Beauty Rx offering mobile aesthetic medical services, such as injectable fillers and multi-vitamin facial treatments.  Jet Set Beauty Rx is coming to your neighborhood soon.   Credits: Video backdrop: NYC Fashion: T-shirt by the Gap; sweater by N. Peal; blue-blocking glasses by Tom Ford Beauty: skincare by Wonderskin Purevoc   Makeup: n/a Produced by www.oneofoneproductions.com Recorded, mixed, edited and original music by www.23dbproductions.com   Podcast Medical Disclaimer The purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. It is no substitute for professional care by your doctor or your own qualified healthcare professional. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this podcast or in any linked materials. Guests who speak on this podcast express their own opinions, experience and conclusions, and Dr. Shirley Madhere neither endorses nor opposes any particular opinion discussed in this podcast. The views expressed on this podcast have no relation to those of any academic, hospital, practice, institution or other entity with which Dr. Shirley Madhere may be affiliated.

Bukky George-Taylor shares on Trusting but being intentional about your journey. Bukky George-Taylor is a Strategic Communications & Special Events Expert, Public Speaker and an Entrepreneurial Coach with experience in working in both Corporate America and Canada. Bukky attended the University of Massachusetts, Amherst at a young age where she studied African/African American History and Women's Studies.In 2007, at the age of 25, she founded ‘The Bobby Taylor Company' in Winnipeg Manitoba, Canada; a certified Public Relations Company. In 2017, the company evolved to become a prominent household African Strategic Communications agency now known as “Robert Taylor Media”. In 2020, she also became a Director of one of Nigeria's first digital publications “The Lagos Today Newspaper” which covers stories, sights and happenings around one of Africa's most prominent cities, Lagos (Nigeria).www.thelagostoday.com. She was also recognized under the category of Media and Culture in Africa under the MIPAD Global Top 100 under 40 in support of the United Nations. In 2021, Bukky alongside two of her partners launched Africa's #1 Social Calendar App, CRAWL to boost tourism within and around major African Cities (www.mycrawlapp.com).For well over a decade, Bukky has consulted for both local and global organizations and personalities; conveying relatable and unique brand stories to targeted audiences, communities and stakeholders. Recognized for applaudable work by the ‘Under 40 CEO's' in Nigeria, Bukky and her agency have represented local and global brands like Dubai Tourism, Pernord Ricard, Moet Hennessy, Estee Lauder, Fela! On Broadway, BAP Productions, ONE Org., WARIF, Cece Yara, Lagos Social Media Week, GT Fashion Week, Eterna PLC, British Petroleum and more, delivering impeccable and professional communications strategies that have gotten her the well-deserved recognitions. Robert Taylor Media has built a strong reputation specializing in Strategic Communications, Media Relations, Project Management, Advisory & Crisis Management, Brands Strategy, Competitive Analysis and Special Events Management. Bukky has a passion for telling positive African stories through her works and believes that positive story-telling, via innovative channels, can significantly redefine the African narrative. Her directorship with The Lagos Today Newspaper plans to do just that! Changing the perception of Nigeria and Nigerians, one city at a time. Bukky George-Taylor's expertise and dedication to her community has seen her land on publications such as Forbes Africa, Business Day CEO Magazine, Thisday Style, Genevieve Magazine, TW Magazine, Schick Magazine, Shoppe Black USA amongst other prominent publications. She is a member of the Public Relations Society of America, The Canadian Public Relations Society, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, a graduate from the Nellie Quander Leadership Institute, a Fellow of the Institute of Brand Management of Nigeria and also holds membership with organizations such as Board Room Africa, Valence Community, The Gathering Spot Atlanta and more.

What better way to support Black Girls than to speak with them directly and ask what they need? The Black Girls Research report did exactly that. The National Coalition of 100 Black Women has partnered with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc Zeta Omega Chapter which is marking its 100th year anniversary. They have compiled the lived experiences of Black girls across the state of Delaware and how they feel about their futures as Part of The Year of the Black Girl Campaign. I speak to Dr. Javette Lane, 100th Anniversary Committee Chair, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, Zeta Omega Chapter and Melanie S. Daniels, President, National Coalition of 100 Black Women Incorporated, Delaware Chapter about the groundbreaking report and how it ties into Zeta Omega's 100th Anniversary.www.akazetaomega.orgwww.ncbwde.org https://youtu.be/aTRw0x3nxo0

Subscribe, Rate & Review Up On Game Presents right here “How do we transform our society for the better? Because we can't do it in ways that are destructive. Because at the end of the day, we're all connected now and interconnected. And we've got to find a way to coexist in this world and ensure that there is justice and equity, fairness and dignity and respect.” - Dr. Bernice King Welcome to Stay a While with Tommi Vincent! There is no doubt that we stand on the shoulders of those who've come before us. And we reap the benefits of the callings they chose to answer. Dr. Bernice A. King joins the Stay A While Podcast today to discuss not only the beauty of the legacies that have changed entire world systems but also the beauty and importance of placing our own bricks to continue those heritages. Dr. King shares beautiful moments with her mother, the late Coretta Scott King, and how her mother's perseverance helped her to thrive in not one, but two male-dominated vocations. She also gives a word on what it means to be the daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the ways in which her calling and purpose are inextricably bound to what came before her. Dr. Bernice A. King is a global thought leader, strategist, solutionist, orator, peace advocate, and CEO of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center For Nonviolent Social Change (The King Center), which was founded by her mother as the official living memorial to the life, work, and legacy of her father. In this position, Bernice continues to advance her parents' legacy of nonviolent social change through policy, advocacy, research, as well as education & training through the Kingian philosophy of nonviolence, which she re-branded Nonviolence365® (NV365®). She is a licensed attorney and member of the State Bar of Georgia; a certified Mediator with the State of Georgia; a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, the International Women's Forum (IWF), the National Council of Negro Women; a Board member of the National Black Bank Foundation as well as Faith and Prejudice. Dr. King is an innovative, inspirational, and transformational leader. She is dedicated to ensuring that her parents' legacy and teachings, The King Center, as well as the work of creating the Beloved Community, with Nonviolence365® as the pathway, are introduced to new generations of influencers. In this episode we cover [01:00 - 11:19] What It Takes to Leave a Legacy as a Woman [11:20 - 18:01] Sweet or Sour Moments with Food Bring Unforgettable Memories [18:02 - 38:49] Living a Purposeful Life Amidst the Weight of the World [38:50 - 41:25] Closing Segment Key Quotes “It's so important for us to keep people in our life that are more seasoned than us. Because there are some things about learning how to be a good human that comes along with being able to glean from the wisdom of people who've lived life longer than you have.” - Tommi Vincent “If there's somebody who's trying to gain the whole world and yet lose their soul, you know, I try to get them back to center them, understand it's okay to have a healthy self-centered concern, you know, to take care of yourself… Don't be a public success and a private failure.” - Dr. Bernice A. King “Love is never going to be outdistanced or outwon. In the end, it's going to prevail.” - Dr. Bernice King Connect with Dr. Bernice King Instagram: @BerniceAKing Twitter: @BerniceKing Website: www.thekingcenter.org Connect with Me! You can reach Tommi on Instagram @cheftommiv Visit https://vincentcountry.com and get connected with us on Vincent Country's Instagram @vincentcountry This episode was Produced By: Tommi Vincent, Tanner Vincent, and Skai Blue Media Music By: Stichiz - Big T. Music /Roj&TwinkiEbr... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Subscribe, Rate & Review Up On Game Presents right here “How do we transform our society for the better? Because we can't do it in ways that are destructive. Because at the end of the day, we're all connected now and interconnected. And we've got to find a way to coexist in this world and ensure that there is justice and equity, fairness and dignity and respect.” - Dr. Bernice King Welcome to Stay a While with Tommi Vincent! There is no doubt that we stand on the shoulders of those who've come before us. And we reap the benefits of the callings they chose to answer. Dr. Bernice A. King joins the Stay A While Podcast today to discuss not only the beauty of the legacies that have changed entire world systems but also the beauty and importance of placing our own bricks to continue those heritages. Dr. King shares beautiful moments with her mother, the late Coretta Scott King, and how her mother's perseverance helped her to thrive in not one, but two male-dominated vocations. She also gives a word on what it means to be the daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the ways in which her calling and purpose are inextricably bound to what came before her. Dr. Bernice A. King is a global thought leader, strategist, solutionist, orator, peace advocate, and CEO of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center For Nonviolent Social Change (The King Center), which was founded by her mother as the official living memorial to the life, work, and legacy of her father. In this position, Bernice continues to advance her parents' legacy of nonviolent social change through policy, advocacy, research, as well as education & training through the Kingian philosophy of nonviolence, which she re-branded Nonviolence365® (NV365®). She is a licensed attorney and member of the State Bar of Georgia; a certified Mediator with the State of Georgia; a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, the International Women's Forum (IWF), the National Council of Negro Women; a Board member of the National Black Bank Foundation as well as Faith and Prejudice. Dr. King is an innovative, inspirational, and transformational leader. She is dedicated to ensuring that her parents' legacy and teachings, The King Center, as well as the work of creating the Beloved Community, with Nonviolence365® as the pathway, are introduced to new generations of influencers. In this episode we cover [01:00 - 11:19] What It Takes to Leave a Legacy as a Woman [11:20 - 18:01] Sweet or Sour Moments with Food Bring Unforgettable Memories [18:02 - 38:49] Living a Purposeful Life Amidst the Weight of the World [38:50 - 41:25] Closing Segment Key Quotes “It's so important for us to keep people in our life that are more seasoned than us. Because there are some things about learning how to be a good human that comes along with being able to glean from the wisdom of people who've lived life longer than you have.” - Tommi Vincent “If there's somebody who's trying to gain the whole world and yet lose their soul, you know, I try to get them back to center them, understand it's okay to have a healthy self-centered concern, you know, to take care of yourself… Don't be a public success and a private failure.” - Dr. Bernice A. King “Love is never going to be outdistanced or outwon. In the end, it's going to prevail.” - Dr. Bernice King Connect with Dr. Bernice King Instagram: @BerniceAKing Twitter: @BerniceKing Website: www.thekingcenter.org Connect with Me! You can reach Tommi on Instagram @cheftommiv Visit https://vincentcountry.com and get connected with us on Vincent Country's Instagram @vincentcountry This episode was Produced By: Tommi Vincent, Tanner Vincent, and Skai Blue Media Music By: Stichiz - Big T. Music /Roj&TwinkiEbr... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode we interview Ms. Angellica Grayson who serves as the Women's Head Flag Football Coach at the University of Saint Mary in Leavenworth, Kansas.Coach Grayson is the first head flag football coach for the University of Saint Mary. She is also a WNFC's (Women National Football Conference) Texas Elite Spartans (TES) linebacker who has received awards in women's tackle football including the first class of Women's Hall of Fame 2018 and a World Gold Medal for Team USA in 2017. She serves as a "Player Coach" for TES where she both plays and coaches her teammates in football. Grayson has added "international coach" to her resume and is one of the NFL's flag football ambassadors who has traveled to Egypt to share her love for the sport of football. She is one of nine that was selected to be part of the Bill Walsh Diversity Coaching Fellowship with the Washington Football Team now the Commanders in the Summer of 2021 with the NFL. After her first inaugural season with NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics), the team was recognized as a “Team of Character” which focuses on community service and core values. Her program was presented with a banner now hanging accordingly for all to admire in the university. With the foundation now in place, Coach Grayson's legacy and vision for the Flag football program will remain in place for many years to come. Angellica graduated from Grambling State University with a B.S. in Kinesiology, a concentration in sport management and a minor in coaching. While there, she joined Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated and was voted the captain of her volleyball team. 

“How do we transform our society for the better? Because we can't do it in ways that are destructive. Because at the end of the day, we're all connected now and interconnected. And we've got to find a way to coexist in this world and ensure that there is justice and equity, fairness and dignity and respect.” - Dr. Bernice KingWelcome to Stay a While with Tommi Vincent! There is no doubt that we stand on the shoulders of those who've come before us. And we reap the benefits of the callings they chose to answer. Dr. Bernice A. King joins the Stay A While Podcast today to discuss not only the beauty of the legacies that have changed entire world systems but also the beauty and importance of placing our own bricks to continue those heritages. Dr. King shares beautiful moments with her mother, the late Coretta Scott King, and how her mother's perseverance helped her to thrive in not one, but two male-dominated vocations. She also gives a word on what it means to be the daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the ways in which her calling and purpose are inextricably bound to what came before her.Dr. Bernice A. King is a global thought leader, strategist, solutionist, orator, peace advocate, and CEO of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center For Nonviolent Social Change (The King Center), which was founded by her mother as the official living memorial to the life, work, and legacy of her father. In this position, Bernice continues to advance her parents' legacy of nonviolent social change through policy, advocacy, research, as well as education & training through the Kingian philosophy of nonviolence, which she re-branded Nonviolence365® (NV365®). She is a licensed attorney and member of the State Bar of Georgia; a certified Mediator with the State of Georgia; a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, the International Women's Forum (IWF), the National Council of Negro Women; a Board member of the National Black Bank Foundation as well as Faith and Prejudice.Dr. King is an innovative, inspirational, and transformational leader. She is dedicated to ensuring that her parents' legacy and teachings, The King Center, as well as the work of creating the Beloved Community, with Nonviolence365® as the pathway, are introduced to new generations of influencers.In this episode we cover[01:00 - 11:19] What It Takes to Leave a Legacy as a Woman[11:20 - 18:01] Sweet or Sour Moments with Food Bring Unforgettable Memories[18:02 - 38:49] Living a Purposeful Life Amidst the Weight of the World[38:50 - 41:25] Closing Segment Key Quotes“It's so important for us to keep people in our life that are more seasoned than us. Because there are some things about learning how to be a good human that comes along with being able to glean from the wisdom of people who've lived life longer than you have.” - Tommi Vincent “If there's somebody who's trying to gain the whole world and yet lose their soul, you know, I try to get them back to center them, understand it's okay to have a healthy self-centered concern, you know, to take care of yourself… Don't be a public success and a private failure.” - Dr. Bernice A. King“Love is never going to be outdistanced or outwon. In the end, it's going to prevail.” - Dr. Bernice KingConnect with Dr. Bernice KingInstagram: @BerniceAKingTwitter: @BerniceKingWebsite: www.thekingcenter.org Connect with Me! You can reach Tommi on Instagram @cheftommivVisit https://vincentcountry.com and get connected with us on Vincent Country's Instagram @vincentcountry This episode was Produced By: Tommi Vincent, Tanner Vincent, and Skai Blue MediaMusic By: Stichiz - Big T. Music /Roj&TwinkiELEAVE A REVIEW + and SHARE this episode with someone who wants food for the soul, and the key ingredients to embracing their true, authentic self. Listen to previous episodes on Spotify, Spreaker, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!

What do you do when you start your new Nurse Practitioner career and in the first year and a half, there is a worldwide pandemic, an active shooter at work, and you're in a major car accident? Bianca shares her story of finding herself through all of the change and chaos. Bianca Pierre-Louis is a Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner, Entrepreneur, International Travel Retreat Host, Founder & Creator of Spooky Melanin Magic a year round Spooky Blog, and in the process of building her own empowerment brand, Elevate Your Essence. Bianca is also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, and a member of Luminous Energy Collective, a group of healers for caregivers, and enjoys world traveling the world, creating new experiences and memories. You can find Bianca on Instagram at https://instagram.com/Hey_Nursebee https://instagram.com/spookymelaninmagic www.spookymelaninmagic.com

In This Episode of The Couple-preneurs Show with LaNiece Nekai Frazier of Liquid Gold Hair Products and Carolina Runners, we discuss:– The Startup Process– Finding Motivation– Difficulties of starting a business with a partnerAbout LaNiece:LaNiece Frazier is an entrepreneur and visionary currently living in Charlotte, North Carolina. She has held leadership roles in many industries including social services, hair care and logistics. When she is not engaged in business matters, she enjoys spending time with her family, engaging in community service activities and helping to empower other entrepreneurs. LaNiece is an alum of Johnson C Smith University and Ohio State University as well as a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated.Resources:www.LiquidGoldHairProducts.com Connect with LaNiece:https://www.linkedin.com/in/laniecewww.facebook.com/liquidgoldhairwww.instagram.com/liquidgoldbeauty About the Couple-preneurs Show:The Couple-preneurs Show, affectionately known as the providers of The Secret Sauce of Power Couples, is focused on helping couples in business develop structure and strategies that nurture the balance between business and home. Being in business with your significant other includes the good, the bad, and the ugly. Not all couples in business thrive from working together. Working closely together is a dream that grows from love and enthusiasm. Capture unique and informative ways to create, build, or advance your entrepreneurial journey via listening to other successful entrepreneurs' stories of triumph, trials, and lessons learned. Learn more about the show or be a guest by visiting our website here: https://kothoughtleaders.com/ Learn more about being a guest on our show: https://mailchi.mp/ndemandconsulting/share-your-story-with-other-entrepreneurs Grab a copy of Oscar & Kiya's book, Confessions: The Truth About Perfect Timing here: https://www.amazon.com/Confessions-Perfect-Couples-Reaching-Everything/dp/0615963463 The Couple-preneurs Showhttps://businessinnovatorsradio.com/the-couple-preneurs-show/Source: https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/episode-11-the-startup-process-and-finding-your-motivation-laniece-frazier-of-liquid-gold-speaks-with-oscar-and-kiya-frazier

This month, getting four phenomenal black women has been a true joy and pleasure. All of which are not only dominant in their respective lanes, but able to pull up the next person to continue a legacy of excellence. In this episode, I speak with a woman of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, a fellow Ball State alum, & current Director of Public Engagement for the Governor's office in North Carolina, Mrs. Stephanie Pigues. In the episode, you will hear her unique story of being a first generation American, the values that have shaped her into the woman she is, if she has any political ambitions after fulfilling her current position, and what's it been for her as a newlywed navigating through the pandemic. And due to the nature of her position, I had to ask about the Voting Rights Act that is currently in Congress being held up. To reach out to Stephanie, you can find here on Instagram: @stephsaidit. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/therealsix5/message

Is failure determined by your definition of failure or your definition of success? Andrea Hill, CVA shares profound knowledge that she learned from Kenny Rogers, talks about the importance of mentorship, how the 6 degrees of Kevin Bacon works in volunteer management and how volunteer management is similar to the NBA.Contact Info:Website: www.Volunteermemphis.org Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-hill-mpa-cva-28285818/ BIO - Andrea Hill has received her Bachelor of Science in Human Services Management from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and her Master in Public Administration from Kennesaw State University. She is certified in Volunteer Administration through the Council for Certification in Volunteer Administration. In May 2020, Andrea was able to recertify through the Council for Certification in Volunteer Administration because of her accomplishments in the field of volunteer engagement and management. Andrea is the Director of Volunteer Memphis. As Director, Andrea is a humble servant leader, knowledge and has a "work alongside you" attitude which makes her a powerful leader in our community. She has tremendous experience in the areas of volunteer management, project and event management, fundraising, resource development, and youth development. She tirelessly strives to encourage volunteerism across the greater Memphis community. Her work fosters collaboration between various non-profits and corporations. She has been appointed to the Volunteer Tennessee board. She is a Community Foundation of Greater Memphis- GIVE 365 member, a board member of Association of Leaders in Volunteer Engagement, Leadership Memphis Alumni, and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated.She is the 2017 Junior League of Memphis- Provisional of the Year. She has been named one of the 2017 Top 40 Under 40 Urban Elite professionals. She was also named one of the 2018 Memphis Business Journal Top 40 Under 40 professionals. Because of her community work, she was awarded the National Urban League Young Professionals Inaugural Heroes In The Movement Award. Andrea is also a 2020 Association of Leaders in Volunteer Engagement Exemplary Leader Impact Award recipient. Andrea is also a proud supporter of WKNO.

This episode is part of our special series focused on Diversity and Inclusion. In this series I will be talking with leaders in the payments industry (and maybe some experts from outside of the industry) about diversity and inclusion. It has been proven that a diverse workforce and diverse management team leads to increased creativity, better decision making, reduced employee turnover and increased profit – as well as many other benefits that we will be talking about. This special series is brought to you by the Wnet and Paysafe.The Wnet or The Women's Network in Electronic Transactions is celebrating 15 years of helping women achieve greater personal success, influence, and professional parity in the payments industry. Wnet is a not-for-profit organization with a mission of creating a stronger and more diverse industry by empowering and investing in women. Learn how at wnetonline.org.Paysafe is a leading, global specialized payment provider. They’ve been driving innovation in and around payments for over 20 years all over the globe for both businesses and consumers. Paysafe believes Diversity and Inclusion is not just a checkbox, but rather a journey in which they are fully committed to being on around the world. Learn more at www.paysafe.com. I’m honored to be joined on the seventh episode by Nasiya Acklen the DE&I Manager at Discover. Nasiya Acklen is a native of Nashville, TN. She received her undergraduate degree from Hampton University and began her career with General Mills in the Consumer Food Sales division. After receiving her MBA from Cornell University in 2015, she transitioned into Human Resources at ExxonMobil. Eventually she became the first to serve as the company’s Inclusion & Diversity Advisor focused on creating a more coordinated global strategy for the 3rd largest Fortune 500 company. Since that time, she has joined Discover Financial Services as Diversity Equity & Inclusion Manager. She is hailed as a strategic and courageous leader that is passionate about helping others internalize the value of giving a seat and a voice to all those at the table. In addition to her daily responsibilities, Nasiya is a highly regarded speaker, holds training workshops, offers DEI consultation services, and has launched an Executive Coaching practice. Nasiya is proud to have been inducted into the Hampton University 40 Under 40 Society in 2019. In addition, she serves as the MLT Alumni Council lead for the Houston area and is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated.As a self-professed foodie, good dancer, and lifestyle blogger, Nasiya has adopted Maya Angelou's quote as a personal mantra: My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.

Kerel Pinder is an energetic Creative who’s mission in life is to inspire others to become the most authentic version of themselves. A woman who is rarely afraid to take a leap of faith, she runs to the beat of her own drum. She credits all of her success to her trust in the Almighty Creator. A travel enthusiast and personal development advocate, Kerel is definitely a woman who’s determined to change the world. Over the years she has established a strong personal brand that has led her to become an author, international and TEDx Talk speaker, and an award-winning playwright. Equipped with a Bachelors’s degree in Psychology, a Master’s Degree in Education, and a second Master’s degree in Communication and Leadership; Kerel uses her educational and experiential knowledge to help clients tell their story. Kerel is also an active member of her local community as a member of the Freeport Players Guild, Youth Leader and the current local President of Pi Upsilon Omega Chapter, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. @KerelPinder1908

Avery and Jackson teamed up with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, Phi Psi Omega Chapter to talk about the arts (Music, Dance, Visual) and expose our listeners to people that have paved the way for many of the things we love today. Episode Sponsor: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated | Phi Psi Omega Chapter Episode Guests: Tracy Turney-Smith | Phi Psi Omega Chapter, President Brandon Hawkins | Soul Palette, LLC

Sirr interviews Ms. Asha Staples of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated! Former FOX10 News anchor discusses her beginnings and exposure to "greek-life". --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the2020podcastllc/support

There is always a story and reason behind the choices we make and the belief systems we subscribe to and as Dr. Osefo says “if there isn’t a story” then the conversation opens itself up for discovery and to begin to answer that important question: why. As an educator, Dr. Wendy Osefo shares with us that there is always room to have the conversation regardless of which side of the aisle you stand on and that even if you disagree, you can still share a glass of wine!About The Guest:An award-winning researcher, Dr. Wendy Osefo is a Nigerian-American television personality and progressive political commentator. She is a Contributor to The Hill, the Founder and CEO of the 1954 Equity Project, and a Professor of Education at The Johns Hopkins University. Dr. Osefo has a weekly radio segment on Radio One 93.9FM WKYS, entitled "Three Things You Need to Know, With Dr. Wendy O". Wendy served on the Obama Administrations Anti-Poverty Initiative. She holds a B.A. in Political Science from Temple University, an M.A. in Government from The Johns Hopkins University, and an M.Sc. in Public Affairs from Rutgers University. Dr. Osefo made history when she became the first black woman to earn a Ph.D. in Public Affairs-Community Development from Rutgers University. Dr. Osefo is a Board Trustee of the Children’s Scholarship Foundation of Baltimore, and a board member for The Education Foundation, Congressman Elijah Cummings Youth to Israel Program and The Obama Green Charter School. Dr. Osefo is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated and The National Urban League. Wendy is the 2017 recipient of the Johns Hopkins Diversity Recognition Award, the 2017 recipient of the Johns Hopkins University Outstanding Graduate Award, a 40 Under 40 Honoree, 25 Women to Watch Honoree, and a Black Women in Media Honoree.Twitter & Instagram: @WendyOsefoTo inquire about my coaching program opportunity visit https://mentorship.heathermonahan.com/Review this podcast on Apple Podcast using this LINK and when you DM me the screen shot, I buy you my $299 video course as a thank you! My book Confidence Creator is available now! get it right HEREIf you are looking for more tips you can download my free E-book at my website and thank you! https://heathermonahan.com*If you'd like to ask a question and be featured during the wrap up segment of Creating Confidence, contact Heather Monahan directly through her website and don’t forget to subscribe to the mailing list so you don’t skip a beat to all things Confidence Creating! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The Bible commands us to care for the widow. I was honored to speak with today's guest, Cherisse Branch regarding her experience as a widow in the church. Ms. Cherisse Janelle Branch was born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1974. Ms. Branch graduated from Benedict College with a degree in Marketing and Business. While going to college full time, she paid her way through Kenneth Shuler Cosmetology School and is a licensed professional hairstylist. She is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, UOO chapter. Ms. Branch married the love of her life and soul mate Mr. Chamberlain Branch in 2001, and they have three beautiful children; Chyann, Chamberlain Jr., and Chaniya. She and her family have been active members of Bethlehem Baptist Church for over ten years. On December 14, 2012, Ms. Branch's life dramatically changed when her husband was killed in a tragic car accident. Through that tragedy, she started a nonprofit organization in 2013 called Storm Survivors, LLC. Storm Survivors' primary purpose is to inspire, encourage, and motivate women to move through life disappointments through education, writings, speeches, workshops, and spiritual growth. Storm Survivors has collectively donated over 150lbs of food to Harvest Hope and adopted over ten families for the Christmas holidays! The group gathers every few months to discuss various topics that impact their daily lives and struggles. This group is not just for widows, but all women! Ms. Branch's motto is; I was created; therefore, I am purpose-filled and destiny driven. Her message to women is, "You held on, you didn't give up! You came out stronger and UNHARMED!!! Created, molded, tested, but you survived…YOU ARE A STORM SURVIVOR!!" Interview Highlights * Cherisse shares her and Chamberlain's love story and his tragic death. Timestamp 3:48 * "I looked to the officers and said 'I don't know if you're married or not or if you have any issues with your spouse or your husband, but get it right. Because you don't want the knock that I got at the door'." - Cherisse Branch * Cherisse educates us regarding the things we shouldn't say to a grieving spouse. Timestamp 13:05 * "Let's be careful with I know how you feel. It's insulting to widows. That's the worse thing you can say." - Cherisse Branch * We discuss the necessity for ministries for widows and widowers in the church. Timestamp 20:15 * We discuss dating for widows and misconceptions about widows. Timestamp 24:06 Relevant Links * Connect with Cherisse on Facebook at Cherisse Branch, Storm Survivors, Personal Touch by Cherisse Accessories & Personal Touch by Cherisee. * Order Finding Peace in the Journey: One Widow's Story of Resilience by emailing her at wearestormsurvivors@gmail.com. Cost: $10 + $2 for shipping. * Follow We Are The Church with Sherry Jones on Instagram & Twitter. *Email wearethechurchpodcast@gmail.com to share your thoughts, topic suggestions, and receive email notifications about new episodes. Take care, be blessed, be safe, and remember, the church is not a building. We are the church!

Indira C. Turney, Ph.D. is a postdoctoral research scientist at the Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain at Columbia University Medical Center in New York City. She graduated from the University of the Virgin Islands with a Bachelor in Psychology.   During her undergraduate career, she was a member of several academic and non-academic organizations and honors societies and she pledged Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. She went on to earn her Ph.D. in Cognitive Neuroscience from Pennsylvania State University.   Her dissertation thesis focused on reducing false memories and examined training-related changes in brain function in older adults. Dr. Turney’s current research uses molecular, structural, and functional neuroimaging to identify socio-cultural sources and neural correlates in Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias among racially and ethnically diverse older adults.   Connect with her: Instagram: @IndiraTurney Twitter: @IndiraTurney   Connect with me: Website: TheResearchHer.com Instagram: @TheResearchHer Twitter: @TheResearchHer Facebook: @TheResearchHer   Ways to subscribe to The Research Her podcast Google Apple Stitcher Spotify RSS feed   Have feedback? Download the FREE "The Research Her" APP on iOS and Android (to directly send feedback) Email HitUsUp@TheResearchHer.com

Zach sits down with former StubHub and Facebook alum Bärí A. Williams to chat about intersectional identities. Bärí also talks about her upcoming book "Diversity in the Workplace: Eye-Opening Interviews to Jumpstart Conversations about Identity, Privilege, and Bias" dropping March 31st. She shares what inspired her to write it and talks a bit about the challenge she faced in efficiently categorizing so many intersectional identities when it came to the 25 people she interviewed for the book.Pre-order Bärí's book on Amazon.Connect with Bärí on LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram. Check out her personal website by clicking here.Find out how the CDC suggests you wash your hands by clicking here.Help food banks respond to COVID-19. Learn more at FeedingAmerica.org.TRANSCRIPTZach: What's up, y'all? This is Zach with Living Corporate, and, you know, you know what we do, right? It's a Tuesday. Hopefully you're bunkered in somewhere, not panicked--what's the word? Oh, using an abundance of caution and, you know, keeping away from folks that don't wash they hands. You already--okay, anyway, we're not gonna talk about that. The point is you're taking care of yourself. Maybe you're listening to some smooth jazz and you realize, "Oh, snap, I need to listen to the Living Corporate podcast," and here we are, so what's up? You know that we are centereing black and brown voices at work, and we do that by having authentic conversations with folks across a wide array of industries, okay? I'm talking about energy to transportation to telecommunications. I'm talking about lawyers and doctors and professors and, shoot, hourly employees, activists, influencers. I mean, anybody really, as long as they're willing and ready to really talk about the folks that are most impacted, most marginalized, in this world that we live in, and today is no different. We have Bärí Williams on the show. Bärí Williams, you know, she's a lot of different things to a lot of different people. You know, for me to try to, you know, wrap that up in a quick little intro would be inappropriate, so we're gonna get to know Bärí in this conversation and talk a little bit about what she has going on, and we hope you enjoy it. And with that being said, Bärí, what's up? Bärí: How are you doing?Zach: I'm doing really good, I'm doing really good. I know we were talking off-mic about, you know, staying rona free. Bärí: Man... that rona.Zach: That rona. [both laugh] It's not playing doe. They said Chuck got the rona?Bärí: Yeah. Yeah.Zach: Chuck got that rona... When Tom Hanks--Bärí: Tom Hanks got the rona.Zach: When Tom Hanks--when Tom Ladarius Hanks got the rona I said, "Okay, we need to slow down."Bärí: Fire yourself. [both laugh] Tom Ladarius. But also yes, because he's from Oakland.Zach: He's from Oakland. And this is the thing, when he called [?] I said, "Oh, okay."Bärí: Oh, no. So here's the thing. The funny part about that is Tom Hanks was in my uncle's graduating class, in the same high school and all that. So that's a real thing. Like, Tom Hanks knew about [?].Zach: Man. Well, see, I knew--so, you know, the apple don't fall far from the tree.Bärí: That doesn't explain Chet Hanks though.Zach: We not gonna talk about Chet? [laughs]Bärí: I don't have anything for Chet.Zach: Man. Boy, that blackness went away when he realized his parents was sick doe.Bärí: Right. That patois was gone.Zach: That patois was--I didn't hear--no patois ting--[laughs]Bärí: "Mom and Dad are sick, guys. Thanks for your prayers."Zach: Snap. He was tatted up doe. But yeah, [laughs]--Bärí: He tried.Zach: He did, he did. But yeah, okay, okay, okay. Look, there's a variety of things we could talk about, right? Like, a lot of stuff is going on. This is not typically a current events podcast. I do want to talk a little bit about the book that you have.Bärí: Yeah, yeah. Out March 31st. Diversity in the Workplace: Eye-Opening Interviews to Get Your Conversations Poppin'. I interviewed 25 different people, and what was super interesting about it was it was 25 people that I picked, and I got probably five or six interviews deep and I told the editor, "Hey, I know we want to segment these into five different categories, but all of these people are intersectional. So you can figure out where you want to put 'em. I'm not gonna make that determination." Because who am I to say that somebody being LGBTQ and Christian outweighs, you know, maybe how they're genderfluid or express themselves? I'm not gonna--Zach: Yeah, you're not gonna rank that.Bärí: Yeah, or how when I talk to two black women in the spirits industry I'm not gonna rank whether they feel that they're black first or a woman first. "So you put them where you want them, but here they are."Zach: You're absolutely right. I mean, I think when you force--I think about, like, Feminista Jones. Like, she talks about this from time to time. It's, like, this idea that you make black women choose between their femininity, their womanhood or their blackness, and, like, that's violence, right? Like, you need to let people be all of who they are.Bärí: I totally agree. I would say what's hard for me with that though is that I can only speak for my experience, but I have always been black first, and the reason being is that all of the experiences in my life would not be different if I were still black and a man, and that's, like, wow.Zach: Let's talk about that. Break down that down a little bit for me.Bärí: Child, we can talk about it. My mama literally just texted me and said "I feel asleep reading your book. This is really good. I didn't know people were out here living like this." [both laugh] But yeah, I feel like--and I've been told this before, and it probably isn't a secret to you. I can have a bit of a dominant personality. [laughs] And that is--but I feel like that is not abnormal for black women. Period. Zach: It's not. My mom is like that.Bärí: Exactly, and my mom was like that, and my son's mom is like that. Which means me. [both laugh] So... I mean, if you're used to it you know how to deal with it, but the harder part, at least for me, is working within that framework in a corporate environment. What does that mean, to be a strong black woman in a white, predominantly male, sort of passive aggressive environment? And the answer is I still don't know, 'cause they say they want one thing, and then when they get it they're like, "Ooh... this is a little-- This is more than I thought."Zach: Well, I think a lot of folks do say that they want certain things, but it's like--you know, when you finally experience this, particularly when it comes to--you know, people say they want diversity, they want inclusion, and it's like, "Yeah, but until you're--"Bärí: Until it makes you uncomfortable.Zach: "You're in a room and you're doing a presentation and then three people who don't look like you raise their hand asking you a bunch of questions that you weren't prepared for. Then all of a sudden you ain't really like that," right?Bärí: Yeah, that's exactly it. And, like, I touch on that a lot in the book. So, in the book, it's segmented into five different categories. So it's Race, Gender, Age and Ability, Religion and Culture, and LGBTQ. And when I say that there were only--I interviewed 25 people. I actually interviewed more than 25 and let the editor decide what she thought--the editor was also a black woman, which was, like, fantastic. So, like, she got me, and that's very rare, particularly in publishing. And she read it and she was like, "Yeah, these are really, really good, and this is hard to figure out where to put folks," because you have people who are, you know, dealing with issues around culture and race, and then you have issues dealing with, you know, sexuality and race, and then you have people dealing with gender and religion, and so yeah, where do you put them? So out of the 25 people that we ended up selecting, in the end, only two sit cleanly in one bucket, and what was interesting about that is they were both Asian men. Zach: Okay, yeah. Bärí: Everyone else, you know, fit into multiple categories, and that's one thing we talk about is, like, how do you navigate being in multiple categories and fitting into a predominantly straight white male able-bodied world?Zach: And, you know, I think also, like, it pushes up against this narrative of, or just this binary mindset that we have about everything, right? You're either this or you're that or it's this or it's that, and it's like, that's just not the way the world works, and, like, people are really complex, but I think, like, part of, like, this decentering of whiteness, particularly white male straight able-bodiedness, is forcing people to realize that not only--like, these concepts are not new. It's just that certain things are happening now where you can't ignore those non-white male groups anymore.Bärí: Yeah, and I think people are very, very uncomfortable with that, very, and so part of it is in the book there are takeaways from each chapter. There are key--it starts with definitions in terms of, like, what are some things you're gonna see in here that people have said in their interviews that's gonna be prevalent and super relevant? Like white saviors, okay? And I didn't feel afraid to go there. Like, I know some people are gonna be like, "Ooh, white savior? So you're insulting--" No, I'm not, but you also think you're wearing a cape and you can save us all, and that's now what we're asking you to do, and also, like, you need to know that you're doing this. It's white saviors, it's understanding the difference between, you know, being cis and--like, people just--just terms and things that people may not be familiar with and to get them comfortable with the idea of that terminology and then how to use it.Zach: I think that's really important too, right? So, you know, we talk about white fragility. There are different types of fragility too. Black men can exhibit a certain level of fragility. I think, like, people who are in any position of relative privilege--relative privilege, now. Relative privilege. Have a potential to exhibit fragility, and I think folks don't necessarily like being educated when they're wrong. So, like, having something, a resource... and, like, Google is free, y'all, so don't... but anyway.Bärí: Child, I tell people that all the time.Zach: [laughs] Even if, like, getting corrected in public or by another human makes you uncomfortable, I mean, you could at least--I mean, you could engage with your own fragility in prviate. But anyway, the point is, having a book--Bärí: I will tell you, my husband is a product manager for Google, and he works on the Android wearables team, so he doesn't even actually work for the search engine, but when I ask him a question and he thinks it's dumb, he'll just send me the link--I'm trying to remember the acronym, but basically the acronym stands for "Let me Google that for you." Zach: Yeah, somebody sent that to me one time and--like, but this is the thing about that... and that's cute, and that's your husband and stuff, but let me tell you something. I remember one time I was at work and I asked somebody a legitimate question--Bärí: If somebody did that to me at work though I would want to fight.Zach: I said, "Wait a second. Let me tell you what it's not gonna be. You gonna answer my question, okay?" Don't play. Don't play with me. [laughs] Bärí: Like, there is a whole song out here in the Bay that was made that's called "What You Ain't Gon' Do," so... [Zach laughs]Zach: That's 'cause if I didn't have to talk to you I wouldn't, so don't--Bärí: Go YouTube that, and you might want to make that the outro music, 'cause--[laughs] 'Cause yeah, it's fine for Jamie to do that to me, but if somebody else did that to me I would probably roll up on your desk. Zach: [laughs] "So explain this. Why did you send this?"Bärí: Right? "So let's talk, Bob. Let me tell you what you ain't gon' do."Zach: And what ain't gon' be. Okay, so no, that's--let me ask you this. So, like, what was the inspiration to write the book?Bärí: Many things. I think--and this is gonna be long-winded and, but I remember being five years old--and my mom is a retired teacher from the Oakland [Unified?] School District, and she and a couple of colleagues sat around our dining room table in our apartment and they created what ended up being the oratorical festival, which to our surprise was made into a documentary on HBO last month. And she didn't know and I didn't know, and she was like, "Oh, look at this!" And I was like, "Yeah! Also, why are you not in it?" But I let that go. I let that go. I'ma let that go and let God. [both laugh] And she actually--what's funny about it is she was like, "I don't care." Like, if somebody's talking about this and it still exists, like, that's enough. Like, that was her goal. And so I remember sitting there looking at that, and I remember participating in the first year, and I won in the first grade for, like, my category, and I was like, "Did you rig this?" And she was like, "No," but what it did was it gave me a voice, and she cultivated that throughout my entire life when I wasn't, you know, doing debate time in high school and junior UN League. Like, all of that. So I always felt like I had something to say and, you know, everything doesn't deserve a response. I mean, I'm still learning that at 40. [laughs] But she taught me, like, when something does deserve a response, make sure you have a very calculated thing to say about it, and so I started to do that, and then I decided to write, and it was writing articles and op-eds in New York Times and Fast Company and Fortune and Forbes, and it made me think, "There's a [?] there, and there are things that people are not discussing in these tech companies that I see because I'm in them, and we can't fix it if more people don't know it's a problem." So that's what led to it, but it was more than that. It was like, there are other people going through different struggles and different departments in other companies, in other industries, and what does that look like? And that's why I ended up talking to, you know, two black women in the spirits industry. The spirits industry is dominated by older white men. And these are two, you know, 30-something-year-old black women with their own spirits, and they're Christian, and so that was one of the things where I told the editor, "I don't know where you want to put them. Do you want to put them in race or gender or religion?" But yeah, they've had people ask them in their church, like, "What are you doing? This is wrong" They've had people talk to them in the spirits industry, like, "Hey, girl, do you know what you're doing?" You know, they get it on all levels, and then I was talking to [Rabya?]. She's fantastic. She's the woman who did the defense for [?] in... what is the name of the podcast? I'm blanking now. That's terrible. Serial, and she talked about being, you know, a woman, being Muslim, wearing a hijab, and people--she knows she's a good attorney, but people would want her to write the briefs and do the background work but not show up in court. Zach: It's interesting, 'cause that's the kind of stuff--there's a pattern of that, right? Of exploiting black labor or using black folks' thought capital, wringing them dry for it, only for you to then take center strage and publicity and really interface, right? like, you see it--I'm sure that you've--'cause you've [?] in tech. Like, you've been with StubHub and Facebook. Like, you've been all over the place, right? Like, you've seen where, like, a lot of times black folks will come from, like, these HBCUs or, like, with these engineering degrees and then, like, work in the back in security. Security, y'all, is not--like, not tech security. Securing the building. Anyway. [?, both laugh]Bärí: I will tell you the funniest thing to me when I got to Facebook was it was 2014--Facebook started in 2004, so it was 10 years afterward. I was the first black woman in legal. There weren't black people in legal, so I was the first black person and the first black woman. There were no AKAs at all in the company, so I was the first AKA in the company. They had no Links in the company. I was the first Link in the company. Like, what are you doing? Like, if you want a highly qualified workforce, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated will get that done for you, The Links, Incorporated will get that done for you. And there were only, like, three Deltas in the entire company.Zach: Shout-out to my sorority sisters. What's up, y'all? You know, and my mom is also an AKA, but you're really repping. Like, you really got on this podcast and, like, inserted that plug. I respect that. I like that a lot. Bärí: You know, plug plug plug, but that's the thing that I wanted people to understand too was, like, if you want a highly qualified workforce--and yes, they may not have direct, on-point experience, but we all have analogous experience from doing this non-profit work, and that's the thing that people discount or don't see. So, like, you want to hire Brad in accounting and he, like, did an internship for two months at his dad's firm. Like, what do you value?Zach: Right? Well, when you start holding them accountable--so when you hold them accountable to the standards that they give you, right? So if you say, well, "You know, you don't really have X, Y and Z. Show me somebody else who does have X, Y and Z experience." Bärí: Yeah, show me what's comparable. Zach: Yeah, and they pull 'em up and it's like, "Yo, this person was... he was, like, a DJ, or he worked at a GNC. Like, what are you talking about?" And so then things just crumble because it's like, "This is not about this." Like, you're creating rules--Bärí: Yeah. Like, that's not really what you want, and that's fine, but, like, let's call a thing a thing.Zach: I think, again, it just fits the meta narrative of white people, like, creating new rules for marginalized people. Bärí: Well, it's something that I actually told a long bost and said, like, every time I hit the benchmark, you move the goal posts. Are you aware of that? And he was like, "What are you saying?" And I said, "What I'm saying is what I said." Zach: I just said it, first of all.Bärí: Yeah. Like, child, when I tell--and that's the thing, like, my mom should've never told me I should advocate, because I literally said, I was like, "No. I hit this benchmark, and you told me if I did this it would be that. If I did X, it would be Y, but now you're saying, "Hm, but in order to get to Y you really need to do--" And I was like, "Nah, bruh. You said this, and I have it in writing." And I did that. So now what are we doing? And he was like, "Why are you so angry?"Zach: What do you mean?Bärí: I was like, "What do you mean? I'm not angry. I'm just telling you this is what you said and now you're going back on it," and he's like, "But you're angry," and I said, "I'm not angry. I'm just holding you accountable, and maybe you're not used to that, but that's also not my job. Like, that, you should go home and talk to your mom or your wife about that."Zach: But you know what though? Like, just as a thought exercise, let's just say I am angry. Okay. Bärí: Then what?Zach: Then what? I am angry, because you said you were gonna do something and you didn't, or you said it was gonna be one way and it isn't, or I have written documentation and you're gaslighting me by acting like this isn't real. So yeah, maybe I am angry. Does that make my point less valid?Bärí: And it doesn't. Like, these are stories that people go through in the book about how people gaslight them in the same way, whether it's about them being a woman or about them being black or about them being LGBTQ. There is such a powerful story in there from a woman who's Asian who talks about, like, how her family essentialy made her feel like she had to whitewash herself to be successful, and then when she got to college it was like, "I don't know how to relate to Asian people now." And then when she got in the workplace she's like, "Now I have to relate to both, and how does that work?" I mean, that's real. Like, you know, how you're socialized is how you end up projecting yourself to the world.Zach: That's right, unknowingly or unknowingly, and that's the scary part, right? Like, you end up doing this thing, like, where you're raised. You're just growing up. Like, you're raised a certain way, and then you hit the real world and you realize like, "Dang, I have a lot of internalized depression and, like, I didn't even know that." Bärí: Mm-hmm, and that is--that honestly is one of the--it's funny, 'cause my son, he's now 9-and-a-half, but when I had to finish this book towards the middle of October, I was so tired. When I tell you, child, on the last day before I had to hit the bit I was like, "Ugh." I stopped to watch, like, a Real Housewives marathon, and he came to me. He was like, "What are you doing?" And I was like, "Excuse you?" And he said, "Mommy, what are you doing?" And I said, "I'm taking a break." And he's like, "Are you done yet?" And I said, "Do you understand what break means?" And he was like, "Well, you let me take a break, but you give me a time. Like, you've been watching this for, like, three hours. Have you hit Send?" And I was like, "No, I haven't," and he's like, "Okay, so then you get one more hour and then you need to finish." But to me, what I took that as was, like, he wasn't being defiant, he was actually imposing the rules that I put on him, which I was like, "Oh, so my parenting isn't totally failing."Zach: No, he has internalized that level of accountability and he is giving you that same energy back.Bärí: Yeah, but the same energy I had to give him was, like--I listen to so many stories about, you know, marginalized communities, interviewing these folks, particularly black men and their experiences, and you don't get to mess up, and I've told him that, and so he's like, "Why are you sitting here watching a Real Housewives marathon for three hours? You haven't pressed Send. Like, girl, get it done." And I was like, "Okay, yeah. You're right." But it's that same energy. Like, you have to be twice as good to get half as far, and that story was all of these people in the book, which was crazy, because it cuts across everything. It cuts across disability. It cuts across sexuality. It's like you have to make up for who you are by doing more work.Zach: You know, I think about a conversation we just had with Ruchika Tulshyan, and we were talking about how black men are often times left ot of the corporate D&I initiatives, right? So now, sometimes people think they're being really radical when they talk about "the angry black man." It's like, okay, I get it. That is a thing, and that's real, but, like, just the larger conversation about how black men are treated, and like you said, we don't have opportunities to mess up, and the same thing could be said for black women of course, for sure. It's just this idea of labor and, like, having to do more just to--Bärí: And you're not getting farther. It's just--Zach: Oh, my gosh. Thank you. It's like, "I'm not doing more to get further or to get farther ahead. I'm doing more just to be equal. I'm doing more just to receive what I've earned," right?Bärí: I can tell you, my husband, he interviewed at a former employer of mine. My husband is 6'6" and, like, 235 pounds on a good day.Zach: Oh, he's lean lean.Bärí: Eh... I said on a good day. [laughs] But the way that he's built though is, like, very Michael Phelps. So he's broad. So he looks bigger than he is, and the feedback that they had is--and also, because of his size and because he is black, he has been socialized--and also he's light as hell. Like, I've had people ask me multiple times, "Oh, so your husband's biracial?" No, he isn't, but people just assume that he is. And so based off of his profile, he's very light-skinned, he's 6'6", he's built like a swimmer, and people--so he has been socially conditioned to basically... I don't want to say tamp down who he would be, but he's more docile. Super reserved, which is why our dynamic works, because I'll be, like, the person in your face, and he'll--Zach: Yeah, it's tough to be big when--yeah, I've learned that in a variety of different ways, but yeah. I keep that--I would say I'm probably more like you, Bärí. I'm like, "Ayo," but I'm like, 6'2", like, 280, so I'm like, a big dude. [laughs]Bärí: And you know that scares people.Zach: And I'm not that--and I'm lighter-skinned, but I'm not, like, light-skinned, right? So it's like, you know.Bärí: And that is so scary for me with our son, because our son is--he is darker than I am, and I'm brown-skinned, and he's already 5 feet and he's 9. Zach: Yeah, he's gonna be a big boy.Bärí: Yeah, he will be. And I believe he'll be taller than his dad, and even if he isn't, it's like, if you are 6'6" and you're a brown-skinned boy and you're in Oakland, I have to keep you safe. And so everything I do is about "How do we keep you safe?" And that sucks, 'cause, like, I wish you could just be free, but--Zach: And it's not... and not even to be a super downer, but I say this as someone who, shoot, maybe by the time of this podcast my daughter's gonna be here, but, like, I think about having black kids in this world and, like, there's the physical safety, but then there's a certain level of, like, psychological safety that you really can't protect them from, and, like, there's certain things they're gonna just have to--again, I'm not trying to be fatalist or, like, super down or whatever, but they just have to go. They're just going to have to experience. And it's, like, the feeling of being isolated or alone or otherized or not quite fitting in spaces. Like, that's a thing, right? That's a thing, and somebody that I really admire--like, there are a bunch of folks I really admire, but I think about, like, Bomani Jones, right? Like, he's somebody I see, like, in these spaces, and he never, like--on his platforms, like, ever talks about being one of the onlys or whatever. And some people are just built like that. He's just like, "I don't really whatever." He doesn't come across, like, really vulnerable in that way, and I don't know--and this is not about Bo specifically, but I think about, like, other black men in media or, like, in these really big profile spaces, and I wonder, like, to be successful in these hyper-white spaces, do you just have to have, like, a certain level of just, like armor, and just almost be really calloused?Bärí: I think you do. That's one of the things also that I learned from doing interviews in the book, and that's not even unique to us. Like, the folks who are dealing with LGBTQ gender issues and gender expression, they had to deal with that in terms of, like, people questioning them and, like, what are you doing? Why are you doing that? Like, all of that stuff. And full discretion, like, I know Bo. Like, Bo and I are cool, and we've had that conversation, and part of it is like--to your point, it's not intentional. He doesn't mean to not say that. He just is like, "I am who I am, and you're gonna take it or you're not." And honestly, I've talked to him and have said, like, I want that energy for my son. I don't want him to feel like you have to have the burden of all black people ever on your back. Like, [?] does Bo, but he still reps us, and that's what I want, and that's what I want. Even, like, that I see with my husband. It's funny because I look at him--we're very, very different. He has had probably every advantage you can have in life. Like, he has gone to private school since he was born until he graduated. Like, he literally went to private pre-school, then he went to a private elementary school, private high school, he went to Harvard and then he went to Stanford, and I was like, "Bruh. You do not know, like, what it's like to live in, like, a real dorm." But he still came to--like, and he's from here too. He's from Oakland and came back and, like, tried to get in the valley and couldn't beat down the door. [Zach: Hm.] Right. And this is what everybody says that they want, right? These credentials. [Zach: Yeah, you know, he's checked every box.] And also, this is a light-skinned dude, right? So he's less-threatening. Zach: Right, and I'm sure he talks very proper. He enunciates his words well.Bärí: Child, I call him MC Carlton.Zach: So, like, literally his only knock is that he's black, and light black at that. Diet. [laughs]Bärí: Well, not even that. Also that was one of the things--so when I said my former... I had an employer who interviewed him. He got to the end of the round, and they decided that they didn't want him. They cut him. Like, they were hiring between him and one other person. They cut him because they said, "Oh, he didn't show enough passion. He wasn't willing to bang on tables." So when they gave me that--no, no, no, when they gave ME that feedback, I said, "Okay, so let's stop and envision this. Do you want a 6'6" 235-pound black man banging on tables? You're gonna be comfortable with that?" [Zach: And they said what?] They were like, "Well, what are you implying?" And I said, "I said what I said."Zach: Yeah, don't play with me. I'm not implying anything.Bärí: I said what I said. I didn't imply anything, I just said what I said. So if you saw that, you would feel safe? You would be cool? Zach: I mean, real talk. Would you? Answer the question.Bärí: They were like, "I mean, he just didn't show passion," and I was like, "That's not what I asked. What I asked was that if you saw a 6'6" bald black man banging a table to motivate engineers, you're cool with that?" And nobody could answer it definitively, and I was like, "And that's why you didn't hire him, so thank you, and I'ma go catch the shuttle." Like, I'm not gonna participate in this. This is bull. Zach: Yeah, this is ridiculous. It's super ridiculous.Bärí: 'Cause he's super reserved, and he's super reserved because he knows that he is a large black man and he can't do that. Zach: I remember I applied to--this is when I was first getting into consulting and it was between a few different firms, and one of the firms--and they were all, like, Big 4, right? So one of the firms I applied to, I went through the process and they said, "Oh, he was too passionate. He was too excited about the job. He smiled too much." So I'm just laughing at you, laughing at this situation, because it's like, okay, so you can't win for losing, right? I literally was the one smiling talking about how excited I was, and they said, "Well, he looked like he knew what he was doing, but he just seemed a little too smiley, a little too excited. He was a little too passionate for us." Bärí: But if he had been extra excited y'all would have been like, "Oh, my god. The black guy scared me because he's so big." [Zach: Exactly. [laughs]] And what I hate about this is, like, having to teach my son these rules of the road, because it's different in certain ways. He has my complex--actually he's darker than my complexion and he has his daddy's stature, and so you're gonna be extra targeted because you are a super brown boy and you're gonna be very tall, so you have to be on your P's and Q's at all times. Zach: Yeah, you're not wrong.Bärí: And he's so mad, because he does Kumon in addition to his regular schoolwork, and he's like, "Ugh, Mommy, I'm tired all the time," and I was like, "What do you think my life is? What do you think your daddy's life is? What do you think brown people's life is? Like, that's what it is, and like, I hate to tell you that, but you have to do more and do it faster and do it better, and you're gonna have to do it even faster and even better than your dad, because your dad gets some sort of benefit from having been, you know, a Harvard legacy, and he's light-skinned. Like, when you're light-skinned--light-skinnned [?] go farther, I'm sorry. It's true.Zach: We have yet to talk about colorism on the podcast, like, explicitly, but we need to talk about it because--Bärí: Let's talk about it. We can do it right now. [both laugh]Zach: I want to respect your time 'cause we went over, but nah, it's a global phenomenon, right? And I think, like, it goes beyond just, like, the African diaspora.Bärí: That's true. That's so true for our Indian comrades. That is very true for our Latinx comrades. Like, that's just the truth.Zach: I was in the HEB. HEB, for the folks who are not in Houston, is a huge grocer. So I was in HEB and I was getting some different, like, sauces and stuff, and I was in, like, the cultural food aisle and walked right on by some lightening cream. You know what I mean? So it's super common, and I think, like, even when you look at, like, these corporatized D&I groups, the Latinx folks are typically European--like, white-presenting, you know what I mean? Like, they're not, like--you don't see a lot of... again, it's common, but because it's so pervasive and--I don't want to say subtle, 'cause it's not subtle if you're paying attention, but it's just common, right? Like, the lighter-skinned people... it's hard to be dark and in power, you know? Bärí: Yeah, and that is for me just a personal thing that I want my son to embrace, and the reason being is, like, you know, everybody--my mom is light-skinned, and my dad was not, and they got divorced when I was three, so I don't even remember--like, I have no memory of living with them together, and so it was really my mom and her family, and everybody in her family is light-skinned and I'm the only brown person, and I was like, "What's going on here?" Yeah. But what's interesting here is my husband is light-skinned and I'm brown. Our daughter is lighter than my husband and our son is darker than me, so it's like... they don't match at all. [laughs] Zach: I love that y'all have, like, a whole kaleidoscope going though. Bärí: We do, and we actually have shirts. I have a whole shirt. Like, I need to send you one. It's real--it's ghetto. [laughs] It's a unicorn throwing money [?], and there are different shades of the unicorn, and I picked the different shades off the people in our family. So yeah, but I mean, like, get this money. Do this work. You can do it whatever shade you are. That's my point. But for him, I want him to understand there's gonna be different restrictions for you, because you're likely to walk out of here one day when you're sixteen and you're gonna be 6'6" and you're gonna be super brown, and you're really fine, and people need, you need, to be aware of the danger. And then opposite is like, "Your sister is light-skinned. She has very loose, curly hair, and so people are gonna treat her in a completely different manner and think she's fine even though she may not be, and--" Not that I'm saying she's not cute, she is, but I'm like, "You know, people--" Zach: Yeah, there's biases that come with being [?]. Yeah, there's a certain aesthetic that she could fit into that then makes it easier.Bärí: And she does, and I want to make sure that she doesn't buy into that and, you know, that's what we're dealing with her, and that's what I deal with in the book, like, how do you handle this? You have people in multiple categories. What are the proper terms? What are the issues that are around them? How do you deal with it? Like, even something as simple as the fact that I literally have never had braids or crochets or anything in my entire life, and I decided to get it last summer because I was tired of doing my hair and then my daughter's hair. And my daughter has a looser curl than I do, but her hair is thick. Like, I'm not spending three hours on a Sunday doing this, so I took her to the salon so that they could do it, and then I started getting crochets, but now she's like, "I want to go to the salon!" So now it's like, okay, now we have to reset in terms of privilege, right? Because everybody doesn't get to go to the salon. Like, my momma did my hair until I was 13, so holla at Grandma. [both laugh]Zach: So let's get back to this book, right? It's coming out March 31st. Eye-opening interviews. The goal is to help jumpstart conversations about identity, privilege and bias, y'all. The book is called Diversity in the Workplace. Listen, y'all, make sure you check it out. Right now, maybe because of that rona we might be having these conversations on Zoom or Skype. I don't--Bärí: Now, I think you're gonna be quarantined 'cause of that rona anyway, so you might as well read this while--Zach: You definitely should. You know what, why don't you challenge yourself?Bärí: And there's an audiobook version too if you don't even want to read it. Somebody can just read it to you. Zach: Come on, now. Like, challenge yourself to read the group, and then that way when you go back to work--Lord say the same, the rona won't be here forever, okay? So you eventually will have to go see people, right?Bärí: I mean, the rona won't. It will be replaced by something else.Zach: Oh, goodness. You're right though.Bärí: I mean... it's Trump, so...Zach: Yeah, that's true. [laughs] Bärí: Something else might kill us in the meantime, I don't know.Zach: Who knows? I don't know. They said they got all these locusts over in Africa. There's, like, hundreds of billions of them over there. I don't know.Bärí: I saw that too, and I was like, "What disease are they carrying?"Zach: Listen. Bärí: Okay, I'ma let that go. Zach: Shutter the thought. [laughs] So look, y'all, this has been Living Corporate. We do this, right? We have conversations. We're really excited and we're thankful--you know, all jokes aside, please make sure you're washing your hands, okay? We have information from the CDC in the show notes. You know, hopefully you're washing your hands as you listen to this podcast. Like, wash your hands, okay? Soap is important also. Now--Bärí: Very. Water is not--Zach: Water is not soap. I want to--hold on. Sound Man, put that little record scratch in here. [record scratch] Water is not soap, okay? So you want to use some--you know, use the hard, industrial stuff. Use that Irish Spring if you need to. I personally use [?] because I am bougie, but you can use--Bärí: I use Olay, but, you know, whatever.Zach: Use something that is frankly a little abrasive, okay? Get that first, like, half-layer off your skin. Like, wash your hands, y'all. And then, you know, just take care of yourself, you know? Fist bumps and head nods only. You know, this would actually be a good opportunity for allyship and learning.Bärí: Well, here's the thing. So even with the fist bumps... so with the social distancing blah-blah-blah, it's supposed to be six feet. If you bump into someone, no, you're not within the six feet.Zach: You know what, you're right, no fist bumps. So this would be a good time actually for those--Bärí: Head nod at people and wave.Zach: So we all know how to do a head nod, but this may be the time for my less-melanated folks, my aspiring allies, to learn how to effectively head nod. Don't throw your neck out of your body when you do it. Bärí: Oh, I didn't know that was a thing.Zach: Just nodding too hard, right? Like, the head nod is supposed to be subtle, nuanced. Right? Like, maybe it's a cultural thing. I feel like in the South, like, our head nod is different, and I definitely believe, between the various melanin levels, head nods can be various levels of aggression. That's all. That's all I mean. Maybe a little salute also, with two fingers at the head. Just "Hello, I see you over there." But just be careful. Take care of yourselves, and we'll get through this together. In the meantime, make sure y'all check out the links in the show notes as well for Diversity in the Workplace: Eye-Opening Interviews to Jumpstart Conversations about Identity, Privilege and Bias written by Bärí A. Williams. Until next time, y'all, this has been Zach. Peace.

This week's Leadership Tidbits with Coach Tee Wilson features the inspiring Dr. Karen M.R. Townsend. Dr. Townsend is an inspiring speaker whose messages are always relevant and on point. Whether delivering keynote presentations to corporate executives who lead fortune 500 companies, conducting seminars for educators who are impacting the lives of today's diverse students, or encouraging busy women to make themselves a priority, Dr. Townsend’s messages always deliver.  Dr. Karen holds degrees from Kentucky State University, The Ohio State University, and University of Dayton. She is the CEO of KT Consulting, where she works with leaders to create inclusive environment and build strong teams so that they can effectively and efficiently meet the needs of their diverse clients and customers. She is a recognized subject matter expert, whose articles on diversity have been featured in local, regional, and national publications and media outlets.Dr. Karen is also the founder of “About My Sisters,” an organization on a mission to empower one million women and girls. In 2018, her annual conference “Sister to Sister” celebrated its 25th anniversary and was recognized as one of the longest-running women's events in the United States. She is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, Tabernacle Baptist Church, and the Kentucky State University Alumni Association. Dr. Townsend’s honors and awards are numerous. She was named a Woman of Influence by YWCA Dayton, One of the 25 Women to Watch by Women in Business Networking, and most recently she was selected as a 2019 Dayton Skyscraper. Over it all, Dr. Karen Townsend says that her greatest accomplishments include being a wife and mother. Right off the bat, Dr. Townsend starting dropping leadership gems. She first discovered what it meant to truly be a leader in the seventh grade when she successfully ran for a seat on the student council. She stated that even though she was only 12 years old at the time, it really set the foundation for every other leadership position that she sought thereafter. She went on to explain, “I learned as a middle school student that in order to get the support of your peers you have to speak their language, you have to be interested in things that were important to them, and you have to communicate that you are able to represent their interests and concerns to those around them.” She believes that the best leaders are those who are committed to serving others.For those of you that are looking to embark on your entrepreneurial journey, Dr. Townsend advises you to be brave.“Sometimes you have to be bold, you have to invest and believe in yourself, and trust that if you take one step, that there will be others around you if asked, that can support you in taking the next steps”. Dr. Karen Townsend truly is a living and breathing success story. She encourages you all to believe in yourself no matter where you come from. “I am a person that came from very humble beginnings. I grew up a person that would be considered a statistic. My mother used to always say, 'You may live in the projects but the projects don’t have to live in you.’ So live your life because of, not in spite of.” To conclude, Dr. Townsend reminds you that it doesn’t matter whether you have all the tools people think you should have, “if you show up being who you are, being honest, walking in your integrity, you can achieve your goals.”Check out the full show to hear more of Dr. Karen Townsend’s thoughts!!

Constance Jones is a two-time Emmy-nominated TV News Anchor & Reporter who recently worked at WAGA-TV/ FOX 5 Atlanta. Before her stint in Georgia, Constance was at WPLG-TV in Miami for 9 years, where she was an anchor/reporter for several years.  Constance has covered life-changing events, including the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, President Obama's election campaign, the BP Gulf oil spill, along with devastating hurricanes, tornadoes, floods and ice storms. She has extensive live and breaking news reporting experience. Constance has been honored by the National Academy of Television Arts and Science, the Texas Associated Press, and the National Association of Black Journalists for Excellence in News Reporting. She was recently featured as Miami's Top 40 under 40 Leaders of Tomorrow in the Miami Herald. She has worked in several television markets, including New York City, Oklahoma City and Houston. Constance has also worked with veteran Dan Rather with the CBS Evening News. Her career started while she was producing and hosting videos at Educational Video Network. She also spent time anchoring and reporting at KETK-TV in Texas & KOCO-TV in Oklahoma.  Constance was born in Stuttgart, Germany, and spent most of her childhood overseas. She also spent time in Timisoara, Romania.  Constance is a proud member of the National Association of Black Journalists and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/themichaelcalderinshow/message

Ronnika Ann, has dedicated her life in helping others through Communications and Public Relations under iGN PR & Co. Ronnika Ann, is the leader and visionary of every campaign she touches; she spearheads strategic campaigns and develops goals for each client. Every win and opportunity for growth is personal. That commitment to personal growth is at the heart of her team's efforts and she works relentlessly with top PR Heads in the industry, to focus on mastering relationship-based business to earn her clients' public support. Inside the office walls, Ronnika "keeps the light on". She makes sure everyone she works with has just the right amount of light. When things get hectic, she smiles and goofs off, lighting the way to solution based relief. And since a little happy dance never hurt anyone, each win is celebrated, in real-time. It's a priority of hers to keep her team and her clients full of faith, spirit and, well, happy. It is Ronnika's integrity based leadership and purpose driven character that make her campaigns a growing success. Passing this persistence and passion to her clients makes every difference in her business as well. Ronnika has gained 8 plus years of experience in leadership, event planning, production, public relations and journalism. Her most recent attributes have come from her contributions to IGN PR & Co., Yellow Pages Corporate Marketing Team, The Sun Herald Newspaper, The Atlanta Journal Constitution, Mississippi's Channel 23, and ABC's WAPT Channel 16. As a result of such vast experiences, she created, publishes and writes for the PR Insights and has published a book series called: "Putting The PR Back in EntrePReneurship" under her PR for a Day Consulting Service. Ronnika received her Master's in Business Administration from American InterContinental University and has a Bachelor's of Science degree in Mass Communications and Speech Communication from Jackson State University. She is a lady of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. Because of all of her achievements, Ronnika was awarded the "Keys to the City" from her hometown, Biloxi, Ms. Ronnika A. Joyner Day is official celebrated on January 4th. www.PRforaDay.net www.iGNPR.com

Let it be known that  Allante Whitmore is a phenomenal woman in every way. Her education and primary focus through both her undergraduate and masters degree programs was agricultural and bio-engineering. She is a lady of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated with great enthusiasm for educating people about the opportunities bio-fuel will bring in the… Continue reading Small Business Sunday: Napier Designs