Episode 314: How Communication Helps Conscious Leaders Lead Better
Jul 08, 2025
In this powerful episode, host Kailei Carr brings together three exceptional communication experts and coaches with The Asbury Group to unpack the art and science of effective communication: Relationship Communication Expert & Executive Coach, Dr. Amber Wright, Executive Communication Expert & Transformational Coach, Pascale Bourne, and Executive Communication Coach & Storytelling Specialist, Alex Cohen. Together, they dive deep into the nuances of effective communication as a conscious leader including presentation preparation strategies, overcoming communication fears and remaining authentic and present in their personal power.
Whether you’re an emerging leader, seasoned executive, or professional looking to improve your communication skills, this episode offers invaluable insights that will transform how you connect with others. Want to know how you can work with any of these practitioners or bring them to your organization to speak? Feel free to reach out to us at hello@groupasbury.com.
ABOUT AMBER WRIGHT
Dr. Amber L. Wright is a relationship communication expert, facilitator and executive coach with The Asbury Group and founder of Words Well Said. As an executive coach and speaker, she guides leaders toward expressing their highest selves with confidence, authentic authority, and grace. Her popular TEDx Talk entitled, “Ask Better Questions to Build Better Connections,” has inspired people all over the world to become stronger communicators in their everyday lives. She has been mentioned in Fast Company,Essence, and Mashable.
Pascale Bourne wears many hats with The Asbury Group including a communication and voice expert, executive coach and transformational facilitator. She has over two decades of experience as a certified Speech Language Pathologist and people leader. Her career has been rooted in healing, nurturing, and mentoring others, helping hundreds of individuals—both literally and figuratively—find their voices and communicate with greater impact.
Driven by her passion and calling, Pascale transitioned from management into coaching, where she now bridges the science and soul of communication. As an Executive Communication Coach and Transformation Facilitator, she has worked with leaders from Fortune 500 companies, leading transformative workshops, delivering dynamic presentations, and providing tailored one-on-one coaching.
Pascale is deeply committed to helping people unlock their innate potential and step into their power as communicators. With a keen ability to uncover the tools that enhance voice and presence, she brings her gifts forward in service to others, empowering them to speak with clarity, confidence, and authenticity.
Alex believes you don’t need to become a great speaker—you already are one. You just need to access what’s already inside you. He combines his studies in communication sciences with over 10 years of coaching experience to help executives overcome speaking anxiety, think on their feet, and become master storytellers. With The Asbury Group, Alex takes an authentic, upbeat, and disarming approach to coaching. No rigid scripts. No forced poses. Just real strategies that tap into your natural strengths. He helps individuals build self-awareness—the key to confident communication. Alex has discovered that when you understand yourself, you understand how to connect with others. Once you feel that connection, speaking in any situation stops being awkward and starts feeling natural.
QUOTABLES:
“The quality of your life is directly influenced by your ability to communicate with confidence and with clarity.” – Dr. Amber Wright
“People want to know that you get where they are. Once they understand that you get where they are, then it opens them up for whatever else you want to share.” – Pascale Bourne
“For our work to be effective, we have to become really good listeners.” – Alex Cohen
You can watch the full video of this conversation here:
Episode 313: Building Trust with Minda Harts
Jun 19, 2025
In this powerful episode of Beyond the Business Suit, host Kailei Carr is joined by workplace equity consultant and bestselling author, Minda Harts, to explore the critical role of trust in the workplace. As a preview of her forthcoming book, Talk to Me Nice: Seven Trust Languages for a Better Workplace (coming July 2025), Minda introduces a transformative framework designed to help leaders and teams view trust not just as a value, but as a strategic asset.
During the conversation, Minda breaks down the seven trust languages and shares how each can be used to foster healthier, more productive work environments. Together, Kailei and Minda also discuss why trust is essential to combating burnout, improving retention, and enhancing team culture, especially when we spend over 90,000 hours of our lives at work.
Whether you’re a leader, team member, or change agent, this episode will leave you reflecting on how to build (and rebuild) trust with intention and impact.
ABOUT MINDA HARTS:
Minda Harts is a bestselling author, workplace consultant, and sought-after keynote speaker, helping organizations turn trust into their most significant competitive advantage. Through her groundbreaking Seven Trust Languages® framework, she equips leaders, teams, and professionals with actionable strategies to build high-trust, high-impact workplaces.
Minda has shaped conversations on workplace equity, self-advocacy, and leadership as the author of The Memo, Right Within, and You Are More Than Magic. Her impact spans boardrooms and conference stages worldwide, with companies like Nike, Google, Best Buy, and JPMorgan Chase calling on her to redefine leadership and workplace culture. LinkedIn has recognized her as the #1 Top Voice in the Workplace and by Business Insider as one of the top 100 People Transforming Business.
Minda’s next book, Talk to Me Nice: The Seven Trust Languages for a Better Workplace (July 22, 2025), is set to revolutionize how leaders and teams harness trust as their most valuable asset.
In addition to her work as a speaker and consultant, Minda is an assistant professor at NYU and the founder of The Memo LLC, where she is shaping the next generation of leaders.
QUOTABLES:
“How are we cultivating trust each and every day?”
“I want us to remember that the human element of the workplace…people are not robots.”
“People forget that trust is earned.”
“Sometimes we need to get under the hood and find out what we need more of in the workplace.”
“What does trust look like for you in the workplace?”
THE FINAL FIVE
When you were a child what did you want to be when you grew up? As a child, I wanted to work at the airport. I thought, they were around all these planes and they get to travel. At first it was a flight attendant but if you’ve ever met me in person I wasn’t going to be able to put anyone’s bags up top. I didn’t hit the height requirement. I felt it was a stable career at the airport and to have flight privileges.
What are some of the things that you do to keep your skills sharp? I am a been proponent in investing in yourself. I’m always taking courses, writing classes, or going to conferences because I always want to be learning. I feel like we can’t be creative if we’re not putting ourselves in the spaces to create and hear from others as well.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received? The best advice I’ve received is don’t be ambivalent about your career. I think it’s important and it’s always served me well because we’ve worked so hard to get to where we are and we shouldn’t want to lean out.
What is something that you love to do that some people may be surprised by? This is an exclusive that many people do not know at all…when I have the time I like to rent out a studio and I like to go rap. I like to spit bars in the booth. It’s a way for me to be creative again and I love music. I love rap lyrics and grits.
What is one book that has impacted your life? There’s so many. I know it sounds cliche but I would say the Bible. I grew up going to church but I didn’t start to dig in and find out what the truth meant for me until later in life. It really helps me figure out my advocacy. Jesus was an advocate for the folks in the streets and once I figured out my role and my purpose I realized my mission was to use my mouth and microphone as a truth teller for those who may not feel comfortable telling the truth in the workplace. It really helped give me agency in a way that I hadn’t looked at it before.
You can watch the full video of this conversation here:
Preorder Talk To Me Nice: The Seven Trust Languages For A Better Workplacehere.
Episode 312: The Power of Leading with Love with Nicki Anderson
Jun 06, 2025
Does leadership that is love-led have a place in the workplace?
On the next episode of Beyond The Business Suit podcast, Founder and CEO of The Asbury Group, Kailei Carr, is joined by Nicki Anderson, a visionary leader and founder of L3 Consulting. Nicki, with 30 years of leadership experience, emphasizes the importance of leading with heart and compassion. She shares her personal journey, inspired by a meditation session, and highlights the need for self-care and self-acceptance. Nicki stresses the significance of listening, staying curious, and having difficult conversations with kindness as a leader which create ripple effects of positive actions, both in personal and professional settings. Nicki also shares a few practical tips including starting the day with intention and taking midday pauses for self-assessment. This is your guide to start laying the foundation for leadership that is love-led!
ABOUT NICKI ANDERSON:
With over three decades of distinguished leadership, strategic growth, and team management experience, Nicki Anderson is a visionary leader known for consistently driving exceptional outcomes and surpassing organizational goals. Notable achievements include creating and spearheading a groundbreaking leadership program at Benedictine University and serving as the first female CEO of the Naperville Chamber of Commerce in its 112-year history. Nicki also owned and operated her own wellness company from 1993 to 2013 when it was sold. Most recently, Nicki launched her passion project, L3 Consulting. L3 = Love-led Leadership, and focuses on helping individuals develop a more compassionate, heart-centered relational approach to leadership professionally and personally.
When Nicki isn’t writing or speaking about Love-led Leadership, she is the Director of Strategic Partnerships for DuPage Foundation. Nicki is also committed to community service, serving on the Board of Directors for Loaves and Fishes and the Advisory Board for The Alive Center and volunteering for other community events. If you want anything personal, Nicki and her husband Bill live in Naperville, IL. They have four grown children and two grandchildren.
QUOTABLES:
“I believe we are all born to love and to be loved.”
“Showing up every day with love is not only extremely courageous, but vital for a business of collaboration, of trust, of connection and all the things that are lacking because we don’t bring that love.”
“Don’t confuse grace with boundaries.”
“Love isn’t a soft skill, it’s a life skill.”
“It’s amazing what happens when you come out on the other side of discomfort.”
Episode 311: The States of Consciousness
May 08, 2025
The Beyond the Business Suit podcast is back with another powerful episode led by Kailei Carr who reflects on what it truly means to lead in this new era of change, uncertainty and a collective yearning for something deeper. In this episode, Kailei invites us to explore a more conscious, human-centered approach to leadership that begins not with what we do, but with who we are being.
Kailei introduces the Asbury Group’s four states of consciousness—Existing, Thinking, Knowing, and Being—not as a hierarchy, but as a mirror for self-awareness and a path out of survival mode and into a more trusting flow within your leadership and beyond. Through reflections on her own personal leadership journey, Kailei equips leaders with the essential tools needed to evolve in this new era with presence, intentionality, and curiosity.
QUOTABLES:
“We are in a time where we need to deepen who we need to be and lead from a new place.”
“It’s more than just a framework: it’s a lens, a language and a mirror to help us see not just how we lead but who we are being while we lead.”
“Recognizing where you are can help you relate to yourself and others.”
“The goal is to be aware of where you are.”
“Presence is a key tool that we all have to expand our capacity and shifts us from a thinking state to a knowing or flow state.”
Episode 310: Examining Our Stories with Denitra Letrice
Mar 28, 2025
In this next episode, we’re exploring recovery — not just from addiction, but also from the internalized domestication that keeps us small, disconnected, and playing by someone else’s rules. As a coach, mentor, and disruptor, Denitra Letrice joins host Kailei Carr who invites you to question what truly lights you up and what it takes to get closer to the person and leader you’re meant to be. Together, they’ll dive into the common roadblocks that show up on professional leadership journeys, the challenges of breaking free from where you come from, and the radical investments that create generational impact. Denitra is all about modeling what it means to show up in all spaces as your whole self — not just for you, but for your children and everyone watching — because the legacy we leave starts with the risks we’re willing to take now.
ABOUT DENITRA LETRICE:
Denitra Letrice is an accomplished People Leader, Change Agent, and award-winning coach dedicated to helping individuals and organizations turn their ideal vision into reality. Whether working one-on-one or with groups of professionals, Denitra ensures that building the life or company culture you desire becomes more than just talk — it becomes action. With a proven track record in developing top talent, shaping corporate culture, driving operational excellence, and fostering cross-departmental collaboration, Denitra leads with a results-driven, people-centered approach. Known for her motivating and empowering leadership style, she is passionate about mentoring and coaching others to achieve both individual and organizational success.
QUOTABLES:
“Recovery from addiction doesn’t have to be your rock bottom.”
“So much of what the world needs right now is inside of people who are hiding it.”
“My passion is about helping people see themselves so that they can heal what needs to be healed and thrive to who they are called to be.”
“Give yourself permission to declare what you want your life to look like…full stop.”
“Let’s disrupt the shackles that we’ve put on our own beings.”
Episode 309: Fireside Chat – Transforming Leadership with Intention
Mar 17, 2025
In this episode, Myra Capri leads a conversation with two phenomenal women, Radiah Rhodes, Wellbeing Advisor, and CEO of Evók, and Kailei Carr, CEO of the The Asbury Group. These powerhouse women are transforming leaders globally by elevating consciousness and helping them understand the power of intention.
Together, they’ve developed Conscious Leadership development programs that help leaders show up fully aligned with who they truly are. They not only break down the difference between goals and intentions, vulnerability and intimacy, and being versus doing—but also offer a fresh perspective on leadership, embodiment, and personal evolution.
Be prepared to take a deep dive into transformation as not just a process, but a way of being—and how you can start creating the life and leadership you desire right now.
ABOUT RADIAH RHODES:
Radiah Rhodes is an Author, Operations Leader and a Well-being advisor to global, innovative, and conscious executive leaders. Radiah believes there’s a better way to succeed at higher levels and it’s directly tied to both personal and an organization’s well-being.
For more than 25 years, Radiah trained herself to execute and deliver results in tough environments and at high levels. Graduating in engineering, leading teams and organizations for some of the world’s greatest Fortune 500 corporations and building iconic brands.
As a trained engineer, Radiah resolved to break up that pattern and designed her way out of a cycle of stress and sacrifice where so many ambitious high-achieving professionals spiral. Radiah believes well-being is the source of your productivity, creativity, and power and individuals can’t truly be successful without it. Thriving individuals who draw from their well-being are not only successful themselves, but are the keys to a successful, powerful team as well.
ABOUT KAILEI CARR:
Kailei Carr is an award-winning speaker, executive coach, and the CEO & Founder of The Asbury Group, a global transformational development firm known for its “whole person” approach to leadership. Renowned as a trusted advisor and a “safe space” for global leaders and legacy makers, Kailei’s conscious leadership model—grounded in awareness, purpose, and well-being—has inspired leaders to transform themselves and their organizations from the inside out. Kailei earned her MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and holds a BA from Emory University. Outside of coaching and speaking engagements, she hosts the acclaimed podcast, “Beyond the Business Suit,” which reaches listeners in over 100 countries.
Through her work, Kailei has inspired countless leaders to unlock their personal power and reach their highest potential, all while prioritizing wellbeing. Her insights have been featured in major media outlets including Forbes, Fortune, and The Oprah Winfrey Network.
QUOTABLES:
“Your life is a direct match for who you’re being.” – Radiah Rhodes
“Surrender is not about giving up, it’s about letting go.” – Kailei Carr
“People can everyday access to transformation and to who they’re being.” – Radiah Rhodes
“Being [for me] is really being in full alignment and in conscious awareness of this present moment.” – Kailei Carr
Episode 308: Conscious Leadership Series – Optimize Your Health, Elevate Your Leadership
Feb 20, 2025
As season 9 of the Beyond the Business Suit podcast continues to unfold, we’re diving deep into the relationship that chronic stress has with our leadership success with Dr. Kanika Sims, a board-certified internal medicine physician and esteemed practitioner with The Asbury Group. In this kickoff to our Conscious Leadership Series, Dr. Kanika guides us through how we, as leaders, can optimize our health in order to become the best leaders we can be. Dr. Kanika explains the difference between good stress vs. harmful stress and what the impact of stress can to do to the mind and body. By listening to this episode, we hope leaders can gain a higher consciousness of the tools and practices that can support more effective leadership and lessen chronic stress.
ABOUT DR. KANIKA SIMS
Dr. Kanika Sims, a board-certified Internal Medicine physician and leadership coach, brings over 20 years of expertise in women’s health, workplace wellness, and leadership development. As a clinician and coach, Dr. Sims brings a unique perspective to fostering growth, resilience, and transformative change in organizations. She empowers women in leadership with tools and support that align well-being with leadership effectiveness. Dr. Sims has coached leaders across sectors such as healthcare, education, and corporate environments, focusing on optimizing performance health—the alignment of mental clarity, emotional resilience, and physical vitality necessary for peak leadership effectiveness. Her approach combines stress management techniques with leadership development strategies to help clients overcome burnout, enhance emotional agility, optimize cognitive performance and lead with confidence and intentionality. Known for her empathetic coaching style, Dr. Sims creates safe, growth-centered spaces where clients can clearly define their goals, develop purposeful strategies, and achieve meaningful outcomes. Her passion for empowering women in leadership is evident in her work, which emphasizes well-being, reflective practices, and science-based strategies to drive sustainable success.
QUOTABLES:
“Sometimes in the pursuit of success, we forget our health.”
“Your body is also a divine gift.”
“When you see an opportunity, it opens up possibility.”
“Being in the present moment is so powerful.”
“We are able to do the work so much better when our bodies are in balance.”
We’re back! Not only are we celebrating the return of Beyond the Business Suit with season 9, but we’re also celebrating the 10 year anniversary of the podcast. This episode is all about our evolution and highlighting what’s in store for this season and beyond. Join us for this exclusive look at what you have to look forward to in season 9, along with a few other BIG announcements as we expand and grow in new directions.
QUOTABLES:
“We’re committed to having you BE well so you can LEAD well.”
“Your growth, development and wellbeing is at the center of it all [for Beyond the Business Suit].”
Stay connected to our social channels for more updates on the Beyond the Business Suit podcast, the Beyonding Retreat and all things Asbury Group:
Register for “Mastering Stress For Leadership Success”, led by Dr. Kanika Sims, here.
Episode 306: BONUS – How to Manage Deep Disappointment with Kailei Carr
Nov 08, 2024
The days after a historic presidential election can leave us all feeling a range of different emotions. In this bonus episode of Beyond the Business Suit, co-host Kailei Carr, felt is necessary to dive into these complex emotions and arise from them—whether personal, professional, or even on a broader scale. In this episode, Kailei shares essential tools for self-awareness and healthy emotional processing, including self-listening practices and ways for us to move past the fear responses we may be experiencing. Not only does Kailei explore the power of reconnection, but how to also learn how to lean on supportive communities to stay grounded. This episode leaves us all with helpful resources to support us all through the journey of these challenging emotions.
QUOTABLES:
“No political candidate determines my destiny.”
“Isolation is trauma response.”
“It’s evident why we need to be together in community.”
Episode 305: BONUS – All About The 2024 Beyonding Retreat
Oct 25, 2024
With the 2024 Beyonding Retreat less than two months away, we are officially in countdown mode! In this BONUS episode of Beyond The Business Suit, we’re talking about all things retreat and giving you a preview of our upcoming podcast, Beyonding! In this episode, retreat co-hosts Kailei Carr and Pascale Bourne sit down with their co-facilitators Myra Herring and Dr. Naeema Olatunji to discuss their insights on what attendees can expect from their retreat experience and what it truly means to embody the theme and go “Beyond Limits.” Not only do the group of ladies share their personal stories of impact from being a former attendee, but they reinforce the importance of being fully present and open to the transformation that is sure to take place. They even share the foundation of the retreat and its evolution over time by going DEEP into the “soulular” level. This episode not only will leave you knowing if this experience is right for you, but it will also inspire you to go beyond limits in your own life!
With fewer than 10 spots left, you’ll want to register today at BeyondingRetreat.com. You deserve it!
ABOUT THE RETREAT:
The Beyonding Retreat is an all-inclusive, immersive women’s retreat designed to awaken your inner power and shatter the barriers that hold you back. Nestled amidst the lush Costa Rican jungle at the Imiloa Institute, this transformative journey will guide you to transcend personal limitations, activate your healing and deeply engage with your inner wisdom to take you to your personal next level.
Our 2024 Beyonding Retreat is taking place Saturday, December 7th – Thursday, December 12, 2024 at the Imiloa Institute (where we will have the entire retreat center to ourselves), immersed in the Costa Rican jungle just north of Dominical, deep in the Savegre Mountains and overlooking the Pacific ocean. Explore more at BeyondingRetreat.com.
Episode 304: Closed Mouths Don’t Get Fed with TianEn Stephenson
Aug 23, 2024
When was the last time you asked yourself: How did I get here? Digital Products and Delivery Consulting Executive, TianEn Stephenson, is no stranger to that question as she has used the reflections of her career as the inspiration behind her newly released book, Closed Mouths, Don’t Get Fed: The Recipe of Asking and Getting What You Want in the Workplace. No matter where “here” is, TianEn believes we all have a story to tell of the life experiences that have brought us up to this very moment. In the next episode of the Beyond the Business Suit podcast, Kailei Carr, unpacks TianEn’s personal journey to success, from her father’s lessons on speaking up for herself to navigating a significant career change that has landed her the opportunity to help others learn how to “win” within their careers. TianEn teaches us how to live in a state of alignment by not letting our insecurities drive our paths and encourages us to build strong professional relationships that keep us on a path of uncovering our true purpose.
ABOUT TIANEN STEPHENSON:
TianEn Stephenson is an author of Closed Mouths, Don’t Get Fed: the recipe of asking and getting what you want in the workplace, which released on June 4, 2024. Through her book, she provides practical knowledge and guidance on how to be successful through speaking up, being curious, and going after the career she wants. She is also a motivational speaker and career curator, where she helps others see their potential and ambitions in their careers.
TianEn is a Digital Products and Delivery Consulting Executive, bringing over 11 years of delivery excellence, product strategy and execution, and quality assurance experience. She is an associate member of Information Technology Senior Management Forum (ITSMF) and a board member of ScholarShots, a nonprofit organization. She is married to Dionta and has 4 sons (Maximus-11, Titus-7, Caius-3, and Emrys-4 months) and 2 dogs (Chewy and Layla). TianEn and her husband also serves the community with their nonprofit, youth sports organization for football, basketball and track.
QUOTABLES:
“Get people in your boat.”
“I’m in a state of alignment and courage.”
“Assumptions can change or define our reality or our deception.”
“Through my book journey, it’s been very telling but rewarding.”
“This is what God has given me as my gift and I’m happy to be answering that call.”
THE FINAL FIVE:
What are some of the things you do to recharge your energy? Sleep. I have to tell myself to take a nap some times.
What is something that you put on to feel powerful? Right now, it’s been the blazers. The colorful blazers have been my signature thing right now. It speaks columns because I love color, and showing up and feeling good.
What are some of the things you do, that when you do them, you feel the most like yourself? Writing poetry. That was the beginning of my writing journey. I started writing poetry in middle school. My sister and I have always done creative writing. I’ve found that poetry is one of those free-spirit outlets for me.
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? I thought I could be 4-5 different things. In my head, I wanted to be an actress, model and President of the United States. I had this fearlessness that I wanted to do all of those. The fourth thing was an inventor. I was always very crafty and came up with inventions around the house.
What is something that you can love to do that people may be surprised by? One thing I would love to do more of is surfing. I started surfing 2 years ago when I went to Bali for my sister’s wedding. I wanted to do something I had never done before…Once I figured it out and got the quickness of it, I was able to catch some waves.
When was the last time you looked yourself in the mirror and got to know yourself, if ever? The next episode of the Beyond The Business Suit podcast offers us all a special treat to do just that. Co-host, Kailei Carr, is joined by Breathwork and Resilience Expert, Zee Clarke, for some deep breathing and soul searching. Not only does Zee share her personal journey to self-liberation through her own “Eat, Pray, Love” experience, but she also teaches a few practical breathing practices that can help us better manage daily life. Kailei and Zee also dive deep into Zee’s book, Black People Breathe, as she advocates for meditation while debunking myths concerning meditation for people of color.
ABOUT ZEE CLARKE:
Zee Clarke is a breathwork and resilience expert and the author of the groundbreaking book, Black People Breathe. Trained in India, she is a Harvard MBA that went from leading teams at Fortune 500 companies to teaching powerful tools to improve our mental health and well-being in the workplace.
Her Breathwork@WorkTM program helps companies support their entire workforce in reducing stress, boosting productivity and prioritizing self-care. Her Black@WorkTM program focuses on helping people of color manage the chronic stress and professional development challenges resulting from microaggressions and systemic racism.
Companies like Google, Visa, and AMC Networks are supporting the wellbeing of their teams with these programs.
To purchase the book, Black People Breathe, visit here.
Episode 302: Soul to Soul Session with Ria Aiken
Jun 21, 2024
A trailblazer. A leader. An embodiment of resilience. These are all words used to describe a true change-maker, Ria Aiken, a renown Technology and Security Director and D&I Advocate as she works to drive digital transformation. Together, Ria and co-host, Myra Herring, peel back the layers of Ria’s personal journey from her childhood abroad to soaring into an unknown career of technology and security. Ria’s story is one of self-discovery, getting comfortable with pivoting and ultimately how to become at peace with ourselves. Driving from the inspiration of her Great Aunt Pauli Murray, a notable Civil Rights activist, Ria forges her own legacy as being many “firsts” within her company while dedicating her life to fight for equity and diversity, specifically with women. Ria’s journey ignites hope in all of us who need just a little push to embrace life to the fullest and be okay with stepping into our true selves no matter what.
ABOUT RIA AIKEN
A career shifter, Ria Aiken leverages 20+years of strategic planning, profit and loss (P&L) management, and change management in the global crisis and resilience space to partner with technology, security, and innovation teams in driving digital transformation while mitigating risk. She joined Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta (FRBA) in June 2019.
An advocate for diversity and inclusion initiatives, women’s leadership, and passionate about mentoring the next generation of business and technology leaders. She has served as a Mentor for Women-In-Technology (WIT) Single Mother’s Program and Executive Women’s Forum (EWF), and has served on multiple advisory boards, most recently as a member of the Georgia State University Andrew Young School Public Policy, Evidenced-Based Cybersecurity Research Institute and Pauli Murray Center for History and Social Justice. Ria has also been a Guest Lecturer for Carnegie Mellon – Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy. She is an Executive Member of Information Technology Senior Management Forum (ITSMF) and was the recipient of the Technology Leader on the Rise Award in 2023.
A wanderlust at heart, Ria is constantly planning her next international trip with her husband, Brian.
QUOTABLES:
“I realized I could fit in anywhere as long as I recognized who I was as an individual.”
Episode 301: “Indivisible” Leadership with Denise Hamilton
May 23, 2024
Are you truly operating at your highest level to make the most significant impact for all? This is what diversity and inclusion leader, author and speaker, Denise Hamilton, is calling us toward in her groundbreaking debut book, Indivisible. In our latest episode of the Beyond the Business Suit podcast, Denise dives deep into her work of building more inclusive communities and workplaces, and offers her insights on how leaders can make significant change and create conditions that allow people to thrive. She even highlights some of the biggest challenges she and other DEI leaders have been facing given the current landscape and how DEI has been perceived. Not only does Denise’s fortitude highlight the effort and patience required to see forward momentum, but her infectious optimism serves as a guiding light for us all toward a brighter future.
ABOUT DENISE HAMILTON
Denise Hamilton is a nationally recognized Diversity & Inclusion leader, specializing in Ally training. Denise is Founder and CEO of WatchHerWork, a digital learning platform for professional women. She is a highly requested speaker and trainer as well as media personality whose platform has reached and served people all over the world. Denise leverages her 25 years of executive experience with Fortune 500 organizations like AOL and CBRE to provide solutions that support the employees and the bottom line.
Clients have said Denise’s superpower is the ability to have the most challenging discussions and come out the other side with solutions and a positive direction. She uses this gift to lead workshops, design education programs, and coach senior leaders. The goal is to empower individuals and teams to mine and close the gender gap, understand differences, resolve conflict, and become better allies. Her clients include household names, like Meta, Apple, ExxonMobil, Hines, Amazon, Shell, the United Nations, and the WNBA.
Denise has been featured on NPR, Forbes, FOX, Huffington Post, CBS, NBC and on many other outlets.
She received her Master’s in Communication and her BSW in Social Work from Abilene Christian University. She currently resides in Houston, Texas.
QUOTABLES:
“Do this work from the scar, not from the wound.”
“If we don’t heal, we’re not in the position to help other people heal.”
“We’ve got to resist the temptation to reject truth.”
You can watch the full video of this conversation here:
Episode 300: Previewing the 2024 Beyonding Retreat
May 10, 2024
There’s no better time for an inner transformation than now! In the 300th episode of the Beyond the Business Suit podcast, retreat co-hosts, Kailei Carr and Pascale Bourne share an exclusive sneak peak into what’s to come directly from the 2024 Beyonding Retreat location — the Imiloa Institute in Costa Rica! From the rejuvenating retreat experience to the eco-luxury accommodations, Kailei and Pascale take you on a journey to unveil just what this year’s Beyonding Retreat is all about. Not only do they reflect on the evolution of the retreat from 2019 until now, they also highlight some of the best elements to expect from this first ever international iteration including the nourishing gourmet food, the connection to nature and the inner transformation that’s in store for all who are open to the transformative energy waiting in the Costa Rican jungle!
ABOUT THE RETREAT
The Beyonding Retreat is an all-inclusive, immersive women’s retreat designed to awaken your inner power and shatter the barriers that hold you back. Nestled amidst the lush Costa Rican jungle at the Imiloa Institute, this transformative journey will guide you to transcend personal limitations, activate your healing and deeply engage with your inner wisdom to take you to your personal next level.
Our 2024 Beyonding Retreat is taking place Saturday, December 7th – Thursday, December 12, 2024 at the Imiloa Institute (where we will have the entire retreat center to ourselves), immersed in the Costa Rican jungle just north of Dominical, deep in the Savegre Mountains and overlooking the Pacific ocean. Explore more at BeyondingRetreat.com.
QUOTABLES:
“Our retreat experiences are designed for women like us.” – Kailei Carr
“This is purpose-driven work.” – Pascale Bourne
“I could just feel the energy of this place.” – Kailei Carr
“There’s deep meaning and purpose in each [retreat] experience.” – Pascale Bourne
You can watch the video of our conversation here and see some of the retreat location yourself:
Stay connected to our social channels and our retreat website for updates regarding registration, retreat vision and more:
Episode 299: Soul to Soul Session with Brandee Lake
May 02, 2024
What would your life look like if you dropped everything and cruised around the world for almost a year? World traveler and travel influencer, Brandee Lake, has done just that. After leaving her corporate career behind, Brandee took her biggest leap of faith and joined the Ultimate World Cruise with Royal Caribbean to visit over 60+ countries over a span of nine months. She shares her experience with host, Myra Herring, on what she’s found to be the most rewarding adventure of her life. From racial prejudices to unlimited family time, Brandee has found that her next chapter as a travel influencer includes less focus on documenting herself and more storytelling of those who are often unseen in the cruise world. Join us as we explore Brandee’s journey of following her heart and honoring herself enough to go beyond limits!
ABOUT BRANDEE LAKE
Brandee Lake is a vibrant woman who’s all about exploring the world and soaking up its diverse cultures. With over 80 countries under her belt and currently living on the ultimate world cruise, she’s on a constant quest for adventure and new experiences.
After waving goodbye to her corporate gig, Brandee now spends her days traveling and capturing her adventures on social media. From lending a helping hand to immersing herself in local communities, she’s all about giving back while on the go.
Her journey includes stints living abroad in the United Arab Emirates and Puerto Rico, and as an exchange student in Costa Rica, Spain, and Greece. These experiences not only broadened her horizons but also fueled her passion for understanding different ways of life.
Brandee’s story is a testament to the magic of travel—how it opens our hearts, expands our minds, and connects us all. As she dives into her unexpected new role as a content creator, she’s excited to share her adventures with the world and inspire others to embark on their own journeys of discovery.
QUOTABLES:
“I have no obligations. It took some time to adjust to that. There is nothing we HAVE to do.”
“I’m starting to lean into what’s important to me.”
“Part of my genius is connecting with the people and just being real.”
Episode 298: Soul to Soul with Ryane LeCesne
Apr 04, 2024
Did you know that energy shows up in many different forms? There’s no better person to guide us through a discussion surrounding mindset and energy other than Mindset Advancement Coach, Ryane LeCesne. During this episode of Beyond the Business Suit podcast, Ryane shares with host, Myra Herring, what energy is in its many forms and how it contributes to a mindset of success. Not only does Ryane share her own personal journey through her identity crisis and how she pulled herself out of it, but also how she helps her clients shift and adapt themselves in order to live within their true authentic selves. She even walks through her eight-step process that shifts us out of the quicksand of imposter syndrome and into our true greatness.
ABOUT RYANE LECESNE:
Ryane LeCesne is the Mindset Advancement Coach. Since 2012, Ryane has coached nearly 1,000 high-achieving women – specializing in the unique needs of high-achieving Black women – to advance their professional dreams by overcoming and healing from the self-limiting mindsets of Impostor Syndrome, Perfectionism, and Distractionism. Ryane understands how frustrating it is to have followed the “blueprint to success” only to feel like you secretly lack the 3Cs – clarity, confidence, and courage – to advance your career or build your dream business. She knows what it feels like to have done “everything right” and still feel stuck and trapped second-guessing yourself and your dreams. She also knows the mindset required to take big, bold action in the face of your fears. Her coaching process is evidence-based, holistic, and proven to be instrumental in helping high-achieving women advance. Whether your professional dream is to quantum leap the corporate ladder or build and scale a passion-based business, Ryane’s coaching programs and energy management techniques will support you in overcoming your self-limiting beliefs and advance. Get started now; take Ryane’s free What’s Killing Your Confidence? Quiz and schedule your complimentary Discovery Call with her to help you gain clarity on the source of what’s killing your confidence.
QUOTABLES:
“Free yourself up to feel the beliefs you’re looking to put on so you can do the things aligned with your goals.”
“I learned to be adaptable.”
“I don’t look outside of myself anymore…I look inward.”
Episode 297: Soul to Soul Session with Dana Wright
Mar 22, 2024
What happens when we push past the expectations put on us by others and follow our own path? This exclusive session with Dana Wright, Corporate Security professional, coach, and podcaster, is an embodiment of what it means to truly live for yourself. Dana shares with host, Myra Herring, her journey of rejecting the traditional path her parents set forth for her and how she adjusted her focus to come into her own. From becoming a mother as a young adult, to making history as the first Black woman Deputy Chief, Dana proves what can happen after breaking away from the intense need to do what is expected and instead live her life for herself. It is clear that Dana’s servitude, walk of faith and continued passion for advocating for women in law enforcement has enabled her to serve her community in big ways!
ABOUT DANA WRIGHT:
Dana Wright is an innovative and results-orientated Corporate Security Professional, Coach, and Podcaster. Additionally, she has 20+ years of previous Law Enforcement and Executive Leadership experience with one of the largest Law Enforcement organizations in the nation, where she rose through the ranks and retired as the Chief Executive Officer.
Dana currently ensures there is security program compliance within approximately 40 properties and teams across 18 states in the eastern U.S. for one of the world’s largest real estate managers. She also serves as a conduit between multiple contract vendors, the surrounding communities, and her corporate partners, such as marketing, legal, property management, IT, and PR. Dana’s goal is to build a “women in security” network within her partner security teams to encourage increased female representation and support in the profession.
Dana has channeled her passion for coaching and collaborating with women by highlighting them on her podcast Fearless, Inspired, and Free. She is especially interested in lifting and supporting women; encouraging them to share their stories as a way to help others and to build a community of sharing, learning, resilience, and kindness.
Dana has a Bachelor of Arts in Management and a Master of Science in Leadership. She is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy and is a Certified Professional and Executive Coach. Dana is an empty-nester who lives with her husband and dog. She is the mother of two adult daughters and has one adorable grandson.
QUOTABLES:
“God has never ever let me fail.”
“I’ve been carried my whole life.”
“When you’re a woman in a male dominated space, you always feel like you are performing a little bit better.”
“I found out in my journey that I love hearing women’s stories.”
“I had a heart for service that was placed in me early.”
Listen to the Fearless, Inspired and Free Podcast with Dana Wrighton Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Episode 296: Climate Change, Sustainability, and Communities of Color
Feb 28, 2024
Have you ever thought about how much climate change impacts our communities and particularly communities of color? This next episode of Beyond The Business Suit, host Kailei Carr is joined by Michael Littlejohn, Founder and Managing Director of Sustainability Services Group, and Kahlilah Guyah, CEO of EHS Compliance Services Inc. Together, they have an in-depth discussion on climate change, sustainability and how organizations can aid in the advancement of these important issues. Not only do Michael and Kahlilah explain their career journeys and what ignited their interest in these areas, but they also discuss what they are doing individually and within their families to make more conscious decisions. While Michael reveals his six characteristics of climate driven impact, Kahlilah tells us the three E’s she uses to teach others of the measures they can take in their own lives to combat these issues. From greenwashing, to supply chain, to the racial wealth gap and more, you will be sure to learn a lot from this conversation.
You can watch the video of our LinkedIn Live conversation here:
ABOUT MICHAEL LITTLEJOHN:
Michael is a diverse leader, seasoned senior executive, entrepreneur, consultant, and driver of transformation with more than 35 years of experience with 3 global professional services and technology firms (PwC, IBM, and Ernst and Young). Over that time, Michael held numerous leadership roles with positions in General Management, Delivery/Practice Management, Strategic Growth, and Large Account Management. He has led services businesses with as many as 1,200 staff, and he has managed professional services P&Ls in the $100-$300m (US) range. He has had responsibility for designing portfolios of strategic growth services; and he has served as the lead client relationship executive for multiple large accounts generating up to $60m in annual fees. Michael has also been part of the integration team for multiple mergers/acquisitions, has overseen the divestiture of a services business, and has built and led the internal transformation unit of a Fortune 50 Technology company.
In 2022, Michael founded the Sustainability Services Group (SSG) a consulting firm focused on delivering advisory services in support of sustainability and climate change. Prior to founding SSG, Michael served as the Sustainability leader within EY’s public sector business where he was responsible for developing the strategy, and executing plays, for ESG and climate-related opportunities. He was also a member of the EY Public Sector Leadership Team. Prior to that role, Michael served 5 years as a Coordinating Partner overseeing EY’s Government business within NY State, and as an advisor to EY’s global Smart & Sustainable Cities initiative.
ABOUT KAHLILAH GUYAH:
Kahlilah is an entrepreneurial leader who has risen in the ranks of her profession during her nearly 25 year career. Kahlilah is the CEO at EHS Compliance Services Inc., a consulting firm that helps organizations create and implement strategies to protect workers, the environment, and corporate reputation. Kahlilah is a highly sought speaker who has been featured at national and organizational conferences across the US. She is the author of the article, “EHS Professionals: Elevate Your Impact Through Integrating Psychosocial Hazards” featured in the Winter 2022 edition of Leader. When not working with clients, you can find Kahlilah mentoring emerging EHS professionals, and participating in her hobbies: yoga and spending time with her family.
QUOTABLES:
“We are in the midst of this evolution.” – Kahlilah Guyah
“The topic of sustainability and climate change is the most important topic I have consulted on throughout my entire career. It’s an existential issue.” – Michael Littlejohn
“We tend to be a more vulnerable population.” – Kahlilah Guyah
“It’s no secret that the most traditionally underserved, the most underfunded communities are vulnerable to climate change.” – Michael Littlejohn
Episode 295: Soul to Soul Session with Dianna Moore
Feb 08, 2024
It’s time to live your BEST life! On this episode of Beyond The Business Suit podcast, Co-host Myra Herring, is joined by Professional Speaker and Business, Career and life Coach, Dianna Moore. Together, they dive deep into Dianna’s background of growing up in a multicultural and ethnically diverse family and her journey towards building a life she’s excited about. Not only does she share how she turned her challenges of being mixed race into her passion, but also expresses what she hopes to leave behind as her legacy. She now finds her purpose in her work of helping others live their life by design.
Originally recorded as a Beyonding Community Soul to Soul session, this episode gives us the blueprint for crafting a new zest for your life. For more conversations like this, join the Beyonding Community now by visiting Beyondingcommunity.com. Membership is now OPEN on a rolling basis, so don’t miss your opportunity to step into the best version of yourself!
Please note, this episode includes the n word, so please note if you have young ears.
ABOUT DIANNA MOORE:
As a Professional Speaker, Business, Career & Life Coach, Dianna helps people to “choose to make the rest of their life, the best of their life.” A once 18-year-old single mother, Dianna has managed to overcome the stereotypes and obstacles associated with being a black, single, and young mother.
After graduating from the University of Washington and earning a degree in Accounting with a baby (almost literally) on her hip, Dianna began her career in Aerospace and spent over two decades in various leadership roles and also served as COO in a venture-backed startup. Her genuine desire is to help others unleash their full potential, navigate the complexities within their organizations, and focus on intentionality in their personal lives.
With a proven track record and a strong commitment to supporting others in their breakthroughs, Dianna is dedicated to being her clients’ “partner in shine”!
Residing in the Miami area, Dianna is the mother of an adult son, and two of her favorite people on the planet call her “Coco” – her version of grandma! Beyond her speaking and coaching, you’ll often find her engaged in “Big Talk”, exploring international destinations (most recently Thailand, Bali & Dubai), leading indoor cycle classes, and pushing her limits in the gym.
QUOTABLES:
“No one is going to come save you.”
“We have the birthright to design a life that is worth living.”
“I’m super aware that I’m a miracle.”
“Joy is an inside job.”
“We can all do anything as long as we know it’s temporary.”
Episode 294: Advocating for Adventure with Melinda Spooner
Jan 19, 2024
When was your last adventure? The next episode of Beyond The Business Suit has us exploring the endless possibilities of travel and personal adventure with Melinda Spooner, a former C-level leader who left her successful corporate career to follow her passion for travel and adventure. She now hosts transformational outdoor and adventure vacations for Black women and women of color, thus creating a community she so desperately didn’t know she needed, and one that was severely underserved. After receiving an overwhelming response, Melinda shares her personal journey of self-discovery along with the results of what happens when we empower ourselves, and others, to make bold moves and move beyond limits! She even highlights some of her bucket list locations that have the potential to be a life-changing experience to those on their own path to personal adventure and exploration, just like her first hiking adventure did for herself.
ABOUT MELINDA SPOONER
Melinda has spent the majority of her career working to improve educational opportunities for underserved students across the country. She began her career running tutoring centers in Atlanta and has served in leadership roles at Chicago Public Schools and The Achievement Network (ANet). Melinda briefly left the education sector to earn an MBA from The Kellogg School of Management and to work as a management consultant at McKinsey & Co. Most recently however, Melinda spent about 10 years marrying her professional passions for organizational management and educational equity as an Executive Director, then as the Chief Talent and Equity Officer at ANet. In mid 2019 Melinda left her conventional career path to chase a personal passion: adventuring in the outdoors. In 2020 she launched SheTravels Adventure Company, a travel company that hosts transformational outdoor and adventure vacations for Black women and women of color.
QUOTABLES:
“Stop saying ‘yes’ to things that make you feel stressed out and pulling you away from things that don’t bring you happiness.”
“I had no room to imagine what a different universe could look like because the one I was in took all of my space, mental, and emotional energy.”
“Outside matters to me.”
“I want to do all these cool things with a trusted community.”
How to stay connected to Melinda Spooner:
For any inquiries for Melinda: Melinda@shetravels.com
Episode 293: Morning Motivation Session – Requirements for Going Beyond Limits
Jan 03, 2024
Every Monday Morning in the Beyonding Community, we come together to set the tone for the week with a motivational word, meditation or other inspiration. This past Monday, Kailei shared a message to set the tone for the year, aligned with the theme of BEYOND LIMITS. This message talks about what is required for us to go Beyond Limits — obedience, surrender and choosing ourselves first.
If you would like to go BEYOND LIMITS with us in the Beyonding Community, I encourage you to become a member at https://www.beyondingcommunity.com/.
“Imagine a new way of being where we are giving through our being.”
“What if we filled up our own well first?”
“Giving can be us being rooted in our being.”
“Going beyond limits does not mean that we are going to go beyond limits in our successes and then be sacrificing ourselves in the process.”
“Many of us have have been culturally conditioned to believe that we need to sacrifice ourselves FIRST, give FIRST, and then we get the crumbs.”
“We have the possibilities of creating a new narrative of…what a well woman looks like.”
“Going beyond limits requires us to be deeply well.”
Here’s the video version of the session as well:
Episode 292: Going Beyond Limits in 2024
Dec 28, 2023
As we begin to bring the year 2023 to a close, we have to ask ourselves, who are we being called to be? What the past post-pandemic years have taught us is that we need to operate differently than before in years to come. It’s time to start operating at a different level of consciousness and make our convictions for 2024. We are all called to do great things. It just takes a new sense of dedication and learning how to make ourselves a priority.
In this latest episode of The Beyond the Business Suit podcast, hear Kailei Carr share some of what is possible for all of us as we go into the new year.
If you’re ready to set your intentions for 2024 and experience unshakable healing, unlimited growth and an undeniable transformation, explore joining the Beyonding Community here. While our General Support membership is now open on a rolling basis, our Shift Bundle membership is open now until January 3rd.
QUOTABLES:
“Our ‘efforting’ does not equate to our value or worthiness.”
“We all have buried remains that need excavation.”
“We get to choose who we want to be.”
“You are being called to operate differently.”
“We do things because they are done.”
Stay connected:
Register for your Beyonding Community membership by visiting the website.
Join our Celebration of Transformation with the Beyonding Community on December 30th at 12pm EST. REGISTER HERE.
To explore 10x Is Easier than 2x: How World-Class Entrepreneurs Achieve More by Doing Less by Dan Sullivan, Dr. Benjamin Hardy: visit here
Episode 291: Soul to Soul Session with Leilani Mañulu
Dec 22, 2023
What would it look like if we bring our full selves to our workplaces? The next guest on the Beyond The Business Suit Podcast, Leilani Mañulu, has just the answer! As a queer, mixed-race leadership expert and intuitive executive coach, Leilani speaks on how she’s been able to tap into her gifts and nurture connectivity and divinity even within corporate spaces. She also reflects on her book, Paradox of the Water Bearer, where she navigates through her personal journey of her upbringing and she has learned to own and embrace her spiritual gifts. She leaves us with steps to completely trust our intuition to guide us through our life’s journey.
This conversation, led by Myra Herring, was originally recorded earlier in 2023 as a Soul to Soul session in the Beyonding Community.
ABOUT LEILANI MANULU:
Leilani Mañulu is a queer, mixed-race, invisibly disabled, cisgender woman and the founder and CEO of Leilani Mañulu, LLC. She is a leadership expert, intuitive executive coach, and seasoned speaker and storyteller with nearly two decades of experience in HR, business, leadership development, organizational design, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
She blends her corporate, non-profit, and consulting experience with her training as a shamanic practitioner to support leaders and organizations to be more intuitive, imaginative, and heart-centered. Her personal mission is to provide support and guidance to individuals and organizations in hopes of making the world better for generations to come.
Leilani received her BA in Accounting from the University of Washington (2007) and her MBA in Leadership Development from Seattle University (2012). Leilani spent most of her distinguished corporate career as a senior HR leader in the aerospace industry, trailblazing at the intersection of leadership development and DEI through her work envisioning, creating, and implementing leadership development programs, DEI-centered hiring processes, and various initiatives to improve culture, increase retention, and promote authenticity and belonging within teams and organizations.
Leilani believes that organizations that empower their people to stand in their authentic wholeness will be what restores balance to our world.
Episode 290: Soul to Soul Session with Dr. Kameron Sheats
Dec 05, 2023
It’s time to tap into our inner selves! Co-host, Myra Herring, guides an incredibly insightful discussion with Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Kameron Sheats, affectionally called “Dr. Kam” throughout this interview. Not only does Dr. Kam relay the importance of introspective work, but she also shares many nuggets of wisdom related to understanding ourselves more fully, including our temperament and how colorism can impact mental health. She even shares her experience as a Fulbright Scholar as well as her work curating multicultural books, driven by her desire for her daughters to feel represented in what they read, all while spreading as much joy as possible. You’ll leave this conversation feeling all the feels of joy, self-reflection and the unstoppable urge for true healing.
ABOUT DR. KAMERON SHEATS
Dr. Kameron Sheats is a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Georgia. She holds a Ph.D. from the University of Georgia’s clinical psychology program and completed post-doctoral work at UGA’s Owen’s Institute for Behavioral Research and Morehouse School of Medicine’s Satcher Health Policy Leadership Institute. She is a Fulbright scholar, completing her Fulbright research on correlates of depressive symptoms and colorism in the Dominican Republic and Trinidad and Tobago. She is currently a behavioral scientist focusing on preventing violence and violence-related outcomes and inequities through public health surveillance. Dr. Sheats owns and operates her private therapy practice, The Inner Joy Lab, where she helps people navigate stressors and work toward life goals while maintaining a sense of emotional well-being and wholeness. She also curates multicultural children’s books through her business and blog called ‘A Me I Can See.com.’ She’s a wife and a mom to two tween girls and enjoys reading, crafts, and engaging in the theatre and arts scene with her family.
QUOTABLES:
“I really do think it’s important that kids, and people in general, see themselves reflected.”
“Joy is my middle name!”
“I had this experience of being in certain worlds, but not of certain worlds.”
“For me, focusing on joy means not having to be a spectator, but creating a life to where we can enter into that joy.”
Episode 289: “Leap Fearlessly” with Dionne Vernon
Nov 09, 2023
When was the last time you took a calculated risk in your life? You never know what’s on the other side of fear until you take a leap into the unknown. In this episode of Beyond the Business Suit, Beyonding Community Member and corporate executive, Dionne Vernon, shares her inspirational journey of overcoming fear and transitioning through life with ease, which has become a testament for personal growth and success. Guided by her father’s entrepreneurial spirit, Dionne reflects on what has made her risks worth it by sharing her wisdom, experiences and counsel with those looking to feel empowered by their legacy. You’ll leave this episode equipped to embrace the unknown and propel yourself forward into your greatness!
ABOUT DIONNE VERNON
Dionne Vernon is an individual whose professional ethos revolves around the motto of getting “The Right Talent in The Right Role.” With a wealth of experience and a collaborative, inclusive leadership style, Dionne brings a unique set of skills to the table.
In a career marked by diverse industry exposure, Dionne has consistently excelled in designing comprehensive, organization-wide programs aimed at revitalizing employee engagement, retention, and growth, particularly in complex, matrixed environments. Her track record is punctuated by the development and implementation of pioneering, transformational initiatives and scalable solutions that fortify organizational systems and processes.
At the heart of her success lies an extraordinary ability to foster trustful relationships and strategic partnerships with senior leaders and key stakeholders, effectively steering enduring operational and cultural changes. Dionne Vernon’s leadership value is evident in her:
QUOTABLES:
“I work everyday to walk courageously and stand in confidence.”
“Even in the midst of feeling uncomfortable, I have to get comfortable with that feeling.”
“I’m not afraid of change.”
“I’m more passionate about work that moves me, instead of climbing the ladder.”
Episode 288: Soul to Soul Session with Kahlilah Guyah
Oct 27, 2023
We’re breaking barriers in this next episode of Beyond the Business Suit! Host, Myra Herring sits down with Certified Environmental, Health & Safety Consultant, Kahlilah Guyah. Together, they unpack Kahlilah’s powerful journey from former track star to relentless business owner. Her resilience shines through her story of overcoming immense obstacles throughout her path to entrepreneurship, as well as experiencing remarkable transformation from self-proclaimed workaholic to passionate advocate for change. Kahlilah’s story is not just one of personal triumph, but also a symbol for hope and perseverance for anyone seeking to create their own path toward purpose.
ABOUT KAHLILAH GUYAH
Kahlilah Guyah is the CEO, Founder, and Principal EHS Consultant at EHS Compliance Services, a consulting firm specializing in assisting organizations in the development of strategies to protect workers, the environment, and corporate reputation from operational risks. She has a notable presence in the professional community, frequently serving as a speaker and panelist on various topics, including psychological health and safety, mental health, DEI, and Inclusive Safety Leadership(TM), for organizations such as the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP), the Safety Center, the Cal/OSHA Summit, EHS Today, VelocityEHS, and the National Safety Council.
Kahlilah’s extensive credentials include certifications as a Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM), a Certified Safety Professional (CSP), as well as being an Environmental Management Systems (EMS) Auditor and an Occupational Health & Safety (OHS) Auditor.
QUOTABLES:
“One of my core values is wisdom.”
“I have an opportunity to bridge the racial wealth gap”
“It’s never really just about me and mine.”
“Sometimes my purpose is painful.”
“We can help each other rise to who we were created to be.”
Episode 287: Soul to Soul + Beyonding Book Chat with Lakysha Laing
Oct 20, 2023
We all have a story. When we find truly inspirational people that have the courage and initiative to tell theirs, we must celebrate them. That’s what this next episode of Beyond the Business Suit is all about! Author, positivity expert and Beyonding Community Ambassador and Founding Member, Lakysha Laing joins Kailei Carr as they have an insightful discussion surrounding her book, The Strength of Silk. In this hybrid episode that combines a Beyonding Community Soul to Soul session and an exclusive Beyonding Book Chat, we take a deep dive into Lakysha’s powerful journey through foster care, traumatic grief and a harrowing fight against breast cancer….just in time for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
In the Beyonding Community we love and appreciate Lakysha (who we affectionately call “LaLa”) for her enthusiasm, positivity and resilience. The beginning of her book idea started in the Beyonding Community and it has been amazing to be a part of her journey.
You can find more notes on this episode at www.beyondthebusinesssuit.com.
ABOUT LAKYSHA LAING
Lakysha is a purposeful leader with professional experience of over 30 years leading high-performing teams in Customer Service, Call Center, Marketing Event Management and Technical Support environments.
Born and raised in Brooklyn,NY as a child who experienced foster care and eventually adoption, Lakysha understands what it means to live paycheck to paycheck, feel excluded and to be weary of how her life would turn out.
Lakysha believes the keys to success are making a personal connection with your teams by finding out what motivates someone, being your authentic self by sharing the experiences that helped to shape who you are today and finding ways to connect with people with positivity, excitement & inspiration. This approach will only lead them to tap into their personal best and follow their dreams. Lakysha has been featured in countless initiatives for professional development offerings, shared my professional experiences, such as “Confessions of a Career Coach” initiative, and have spearheaded in-person & virtual events focused on career growth.
As a breast cancer survivor, Lakysha is highly engaged with efforts to raise funds for advanced research to eradicate the deadly disease so that men and women can live their lives without worrying about it. Since being diagnosed September 2018 and now in remission, Lakysha has been featured on WTKR-CBS, a featured speaker for Chesapeake Regional Hospital and partnered with the American Cancer Society on many initiatives as a top fundraiser and engaged participant & advocate.
QUOTABLES:
“I know what it felt like to not feel included.”
“If you don’t ask, the answer will always be no.”
“I would endure the pain but I would always find a way to laugh.”
Episode 286: What’s Ahead for the Beyond The Business Suit Podcast
Oct 13, 2023
As The Beyond The Business Suit podcast celebrates nine years of inspiring and engaging conversations, we’re happy to share with you how we’re growing, evolving and “leveling up” in the future. We’ve reached remarkable milestones; from over 285 published episodes distributed across 100+ countries, and over half a million unique downloads, we’re proud of our impact on your lives, both personally and professionally.
Looking ahead, we’re embracing the act of “Beyonding,” what we describe as a journey of self-actualization. You can expect more stories of growth, transformation, and leadership from remarkable guests including meeting our TAG Team at The Asbury Group and taking a peek inside the Beyonding Community. We’ll continue being a safe space for our guests to share and for YOU to elevate!
If you’re interested in joining the Beyonding Community, doors are open until October 15, 2023, for those ready to transform.
Episode 285: Hormones & Longevity: How Your Hormones Impact Your Healthspan
Oct 05, 2023
Your path to aging backwards begins here! Have you ever wondered just how much your hormones impact your overall health and well-being? Dr. Nicole Peoples, a board-certified physician in Internal Medicine, has just the answers to your burning questions about hormones and health. Originally recorded as a Beyonding Community masterchat session, this illuminating discussion delves into hormonal imbalance, functional medicine and how nutrition plays a role in the aging process. She even helps to demystify common misconceptions about birth control while exploring practical strategies to manage stress to achieve optimal health.
Want to experience sessions like this live? The Beyonding Community is currently accepting new membership applications. If you’re interested in hearing more conversations like this one, visit BeyondingCommunity.com to join! Do it TODAY before doors close for the remainder of the year.
ABOUT DR. NICOLE PEOPLES:
Dr. Nicole Peoples is a Board-Certified Physician in Internal Medicine based out of Atlanta, Georgia specializing in Functional Medicine. She attended Spelman College and then went on to obtain my medical degree at Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Why do some people get sick while others remain healthy into old age? This was the question that drove her to pursue a career in medicine. Osteopathy appealed to her because it allowed her to focus on the whole person. She completed her Residency in Internal Medicine at Alameda County Medical Center, UCSF Affiliate training program, where she focused on strategies in behavioral change through motivational interviewing and health coaching. Following her residency, she taught health promotion at Stanford University’s Cardiovascular Prevention Research Center and worked on worksite wellness and physician burnout. She then obtained additional board certifications in Integrative and Holistic Medicine and certified through the Institute of Functional Medicine. In addition to her private practice, she has also worked as a hospitalist for over 10 years. At the end of it all, she realized that medications alone don’t make people healthy, but a healthy lifestyle does.
Dr. Nicole Peoples is a mother to 3 beautiful children, a wife, and a daughter who recognizes the challenges that come with putting health first. She identifies with feelings of doing it all, but somehow still feels like she is not doing enough. She realized that if she wanted to help women like her stay healthy as we age, she was going to have to make it simple and practical. Taking care of yourself shouldn’t be hard but when you have a million things vying for your attention at some point you have to become intentional about taking care of yourself. Her practice aims to help you do this so that you can actually get healthier, stronger, more vibrant as you age.
QUOTABLES:
“I’m optimizing my life.”
“Food is information to the body.”
“In society, we’ve created systems that work in society, but not for individual people.”
“All of our systems are connected.”
“Change the way that you’re living your life so you can change the way that you feel.”
Episode 284: Finding Your Dharma with Suneel Gupta
Sep 27, 2023
What happens when you lose your dharma, otherwise known as your inner calling? If there’s one person who knows what it takes to lose your dharma and find it again, it’s Suneel Gupta, author of his new book, Everyday Dharma. With storytelling at his core, Suneel takes us through his journey and the lessons he’s learned along the way. With a discussion led by host, Kailei Carr, together they explore the magic of missed and hidden goals, the importance of taking moments of rest and the groundbreaking mindset shift he’s experienced around productivity and inner fulfillment. Suneel even gives his tips on how to analyze your inner alignment while finding your own version of success.
ABOUT SUNEEL GUPTA:
Once seen as the “face of failure” in the New York Times, Suneel Gupta understands that the road to success is not always smooth.
Suneel learned from his mistakes and went on to become a founding CEO of RISE, a breakthrough wellness company named App of the Year by Apple.
Now a bestselling author, renowned speaker, Harvard Medical School visiting scholar, and host of a global Documentary Series, Suneel studies leaders around the world to discover and share simple, actionable habits that lift our performance and deepen our state of well-being.
QUOTABLES:
“Dharma is your inner calling.”
“There’s profound things that can happen when you miss something.”
“When the heart breaks, it also grows.”
“Whenever possible, for any 55 hours of work, take 5 minutes of rest.”
“There’s a difference between outer success and inner success.”
THE FINAL FIVE:
What was your first job? I was a busboy! Salvatore Scallopini Italian Restaurant. I worked my way up from pasta boy, up to waiter and then host of the restaurant.
What is one book that has impacted your life the most?The Alchemist. It’s one of those books that is a simple read and it is just transportive. You feel like you’re in a different world. To take a reader there is an art form.
Who is someone you really admire? The person who is top of mind for me right now is Bob Marley. I spent a lot of time researching and reading about Bob Marley for the book; there was always a spirit and a vibe that always made me happy.
What is your favorite movie? I love The Graduate. It’s such a classic. I’ve always identified with Dustin Hoffman’s character. He sort of just doesn’t know what he’s doing and I’ve always sort of felt that way.
We are all weird in certain ways. What is your flavor of weird? I have really become anti-phone to a point where it drives my family nuts. But I’m so liberated by walking around with a little pad of paper. Like a post it, and just a pen. I’m constantly going into my pocket and writing notes. No one knows what my deal is. I find it so liberating to be phone-less.
You can watch the full video of this conversation here:
Episode 283: Soul to Soul Session with Stacie Newton
Aug 02, 2023
How has your career journey evolved over time? On this episode of Beyond the Business Suit, joining host, Myra Herring, is Stacie Newton, an accomplished Public Relations and Marketing strategist, who is baring her soul about just how much she’s evolved both personally and professionally. Not only does Stacie take us through her career in marketing, but she also dives deep into the lessons she’s learned along the way, including reflections on the fulfillment she has in her career and the different milestones that have moved her along the way professionally. This Beyonding Community Soul to Soul session is sure yo leave you inspired and with so much hope and joy for your future!
ABOUT STACIE NEWTON
With extensive executive experience in the healthcare industry, Stacie is accomplished in promotional planning, design, and execution of public programs and events targeting multicultural audiences.
She’s achieved objectives with various skills within her areas of expertise, including: strategizing marketing opportunities and managing promotional campaigns; experience serving as a liaison to executive boards and key spokesperson for community and media events; leading teams through program planning, implementation, and development of marketing materials; and development and execution of public and community relations strategies within multicultural markets or service areas.
QUOTABLES:
“Results help me to feel fulfilled in my career.”
“I feel like every 6 to7 years, I desire change.”
“I appreciate my mother because she did her best and it’s an honor to be able to do for her now.”
“There’s nothing like being able to come to decisions on your own in the stillness and in the quiet…it’s such a treasure that I value.”
“We don’t need somebody else to validate things that we already know.”
Episode 282: Soul to Soul Session with Mary Grate-Pyos
Jul 13, 2023
Life has a funny way of surprising you! No one knows this better than Financial Advisor long-time friend of the Beyond the Business Suit podcast, Mary Grate-Pyos. This episode, originally recorded as a Beyonding Community Soul to Soul session, drops SO many gems on the ups and downs that life can take you though. Co-host Myra Herring and Mary join forces to have an insightful, yet revealing, discussion on the life-defining moments that transformed Mary’s perspective on love, money, boundaries and expectations. This episode is sure to have you challenging your own mindset to get the most out of life.
To learn more about the community and how you can join, explore BeyondingCommunity.com while the doors are OPEN for our quarterly membership drive (closing July 15, 2023 and reopening in October 2023). By joining, you’ll hear more financial lessons from Mary and so much more! See you there!
ABOUT MARY GRATE-PYOS
Mary Grate-Pyos, MBA, considers herself a “Proud Geek in Pearls” and is determined to make a difference and have impact in the lives of others through financial literacy, simple wealth strategies and financial wellness discussion for peace of mind.
She has been a MassMutual Financial Advisor for the past 18 years and is a Certified Family Business Specialist, assisting business owners and families in building a solid financial foundation and create strategies for legacy building and generational wealth. Her work helps business owners, entrepreneurs and families to position for financial peace of mind and address the risks and threats that can negatively affect their vision and financial goals.
Mary is a trained mathematician, earning her B.A. degree from Newberry College, Newberry, South Carolina, and earned her MBA from Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York. She completed training in the Certified Leadership Development Program at George Washington University, Washington, DC, and training in “Resilient Leadership” from Babson College, Wellesley, Massachusetts. She has served as a mentor to business owners in the MassMutual Diverse Business Program at Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth.
Ms. Grate-Pyos is an author; a former newspaper Columnist, and previously a ‘Financial Expert’ on the syndicated radio show, “Serving Up Soul.”
She is a member of the Board of Trustees at Newberry College; a Resource Partner for the CEO Business School (Leesburg, VA) and a Presenter for WBENC We Thrive, serving and educating certified women business owners about business valuation and risk management strategies. She is a past board member of the Greater Washington Chapter of the National Association of Women’s Business Owners (NAWBO) and Dress of Success, Washington, DC.
She is located in Northern Virginia and is licensed and positioned to serve clients in 23 states. She can be reached at mgrate-pyos@financialguide.com; calendly.com/mgrate-pyos, and on LinkedIn.
QUOTABLES:
“Sometimes we’re in pain because we’re holding in other people’s stuff.”
“It’s only a failure if you don’t learn a lesson from it.”
“There’s a process of getting to where you want to be in life and holding on to your goals.”
Episode 280: Soul to Soul Session with Dr. Amber Wright
Jun 14, 2023
It’s time to get REAL about our communication! The next guest on the Beyond the Business Suit podcast is the esteemed Dr. Amber Wright, Relationship Communication Expert, Founder of Words Well Said and one of our team members at The Asbury Group. Through her conversation with resident Soul to Soul host, Myra Herring, Dr. Wright shares the importance of using conversation as a means for human connection. She takes us through the intentionality of your messaging, the foundation of small talk and the power of written communication. She even reveals the divine parts of her journey that have shown her the path she was meant to take and how this led to the meaningful work she does today.
This episode, originally recorded as an invigorating Soul to Soul Session in the Beyonding Community, will leave you feeling inspired to ignite your next conversation!
Stay tuned to the Beyonding Community website to know when the next quarterly membership drive is in order to complete your application for membership.
ABOUT AMBER WRIGHT:
Dr. Amber L. Wright is a relationship communication expert and founder of Words Well Said, a personal development company that helps organizations do a better job at making their people feel seen, heard, and valued. As an executive coach and speaker, she guides leaders toward expressing their highest selves with confidence, authentic authority, and grace. Her popular TEDx Talk entitled, “Ask Better Questions to Build Better Connections,” has inspired people all over the world to become stronger communicators in their everyday lives. She has been mentioned in Fast Company, Essence, and Mashable, and is based in Atlanta, GA.
QUOTABLES:
“I had to learn very quickly how to speak to people.”
“When you have intention to do something, God will provide for you.”
“Just say the thing…whatever it is.”
“The paper never judges you.”
“Do not hold someone accountable for something they are not aware of.”
Episode 279: Taking Control Over Your Health with Dr. Kanika Sims
May 22, 2023
In this special episode of Beyond The Business Suit, we’re experiencing a first…interviewing a medical doctor! Dr. Kanika Sims, a talented physician, author and founder of Invest Inclusion, joins the podcast for an insightful discussion. Not only does she share her helpful tips on how to best take care of our bodies, but she also sheds light on taboo topics such as the mortality rate of Black women and treating diseases. She even takes us through her personal life journey along with her inspirations for writing her new book, Diversity Is Not A Dirty Word.
ABOUT DR. KANIKA SIMS
The healthcare disparities for Black people in the USA are alarming. As a Physician and founder of Invest Inclusion, Dr. Sims disrupts and re-imagines our current systems of healthcare and wellness to ensure quality health outcomes for the Black community.
Dr. Sims is a native of South Georgia and obtained her medical degree from the Medical College of GA. She completed her Residency training in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics at the University of South Florida. She then completed Fellowship training in Preventive Medicine at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and obtained her Masters in Public Health from Johns Hopkins School of Public Health.
She is an Assistant professor of Medicine at Morehouse School of Medicine, public health expert, speaker, author of “Diversity is Not a Dirty Word”, wife, and mother (of 3 littles). She has practiced medicine for over 18 years and advocates tirelessly against healthcare disparities. She is excited to move beyond the exam room to advocate for healthier and more inclusive, equitable spaces in healthcare organizations, workplaces, and academia. When not championing the rights of the underserved, she spends her free time exploring Atlanta’s bike trails, searching for the best vegan/gluten-free donuts and meditating.
QUOTABLES:
“There were never any limits that were placed on me.”
“The healthcare system is not created for us.”
“We currently don’t have a system that keeps people well.”
You can watch the full video of this conversation here:
Episode 278: Soul to Soul Session with Jonetta Moyo
Apr 21, 2023
The next episode of Beyond The Business Suit podcast is full of inspiration! We are joined by Jonetta Moyo, Personal Growth Practitioner, Coach & Journal Artist, as she takes us through a journey of journaling. Throughout our time together, Jonetta outlines just how powerful and important journaling can be as a way of self-care, release and even therapy. She outlines how journaling can be seen as an experience for revealing our authentic selves while easing the stress and anxiety of life’s demands.
Originally recorded as a Soul to Soul Session in the Beyonding Community and hosted by Myra Herring, this episode will leave you feeling inspired to slow down your thoughts and take time to spend with yourself…and your journal!
ABOUT JONETTA MOYO
As a Personal Growth Practitioner, Coach and Journal Artist, Jonetta Moyo brings her gifts to the world by designing journals and facilitating journal based personal growth experiences. These experiences help nurture well-being and navigate life’s changes and challenges. A background in University Administration and Counseling, Educational Psychology provided a bridge for Jonetta to establish her own business over 15 years ago.
Jonetta uses journaling as a foundational tool to inspire a holistic pathway to self-awareness, self-expression and blissful self-care. She incorporates breath work and visualization into her process to encourage a deeper connection with who you are, who you are becoming, and your hopes and dreams for the future. Most days, you can find Jonetta curating and creating in her beloved space, My Inspiration Studio, located in Decatur, Georgia. Jonetta invites you to embrace the “journaling page” to establish a meaningful practice and foster well-being.
QUOTABLES:
“I am becoming more of myself every day.”
“When we take time to pause and write about it and think about the journey, it really is something to celebrate.”
“The cool thing about journaling is the benefit happens with just you doing it.”
Episode 277: From Surviving to Thriving in Leadership
Apr 14, 2023
We’re helping you take ownership of your leadership in the next episode of the Beyond the Business Suit podcast. Cheryl Bridges, a phenomenal executive coach and advocate for Black women in leadership, shares her perspective of self-leadership, setting healthy boundaries and the difference between leading vs. managing. During this conversation, she encourages us to get clarity on our God-given paths in order to truly thrive in leadership instead of simply surviving. She also gives her insights on what participants in the next ITSMF Emerge Academy cohort can look forward to with her as the new Director of the program.
ABOUT CHERYL BRIDGES:
After working 31 years as a highly respected business leader with a successful career history of leading business and personal transformation, Cheryl decided to pursue her passion of helping women realize their full potential and began to exercise her gifts of coaching, mentoring and training by launching Bridges 2 Life, LLC, a faith-based life coaching organization.
As an ICF Credentialed Life Coach and Certified Temperament Counselor, Cheryl offers support through coaching, mentoring and other strategies designed to uncover any unmet needs that often cause stress and conflict in professional and personal relationships. Cheryl leverages the Bridges 2 Life Pillars of Coaching (Be Curious; Be Confident; Be Committed) to challenge women to learn, love and lead while becoming exactly who they want to be. Cheryl is committed to coming alongside women to help them increase their self-esteem, clarify their vision and unlock their potential.
Cheryl is a high-integrity leader, coach and entrepreneur who is able to zero in on women’s issues while providing targeted and genuine feedback. She has a proven track record of building relationships of trust and authenticity to promote positive change. Cheryl has mentored numerous women to achieve top performance and promotion to roles of greater scope and responsibility. Cheryl leverages exceptional presentation skills which enables her to influence perspectives and assist women in reaching their goals. Cheryl’s successful “I Still Love Me” Women’s Conference and the “Self-Esteem Masterclass” are testaments to her commitment to helping women achieve their highest potential both personally and professionally.
QUOTABLES:
“I try my best to be as authentic as I can.”
“One of the most beneficial attributes of a good coach is the experiences that prepare you for what you will do with your clients.”
“People want to follow you if you’re a good leader.”
“Serving comes from trust, holding people accountable, having difficult conversations and having the courage to stand up for things.”
“Leading is really from your heart.”
THE FINAL FIVE:
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted to be a school teacher and then a principal.
2. What do you think makes someone a good leader? Authenticity makes someone a good leader. The ability to relate to people, approachable, trustworthy…that’s what people are looking for in their leaders.
3. If you could have brunch with 3 people, dead or alive, who would you pick? Michelle Obama. Martin Luther King, Jr. My late mother.
4. Who do you stan? My mother. She was everything. She taught me what I know, how to be, what not to be, how to do… and how to be myself.
5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? To be myself. I see the difference when I’m not being myself to when I am..which is 100% of the time now.
Find out more information about and apply for the ITSMF Emerge Academyhere
Episode 276: Soul to Soul Session with Monique Shields
Mar 28, 2023
Monique Shields, Founder of Seven Pines Leadership, is back for this episode of Beyond the Business Suit Podcast! This time, she has something special to share: a new podcast, “Ambition Without Compromise,” dropping March 29th that she dedicated to Women of Color who are daring to connect with their unique & bold True North. She shares with host, Myra Herring, more about the journey that has brought her thus far — what she’s learned, how she uses her ambition, and how becoming a new mother (for the second time) has not only challenged her, but has also afforded her a level of freedom she never knew she had.
This episode was originally recorded as a Soul to Soul Session in the Beyonding Community. To learn more about the community and upcoming membership intake information, visit BeyondingCommunity.com.
ABOUT MONIQUE SHIELDS
Monique Shields, Founder of Seven Pines Leadership and Podcast Host of “Ambition Without Compromise” (dropping March 29), is committed to liberating the professional imaginations of WOC Founders & CEOs. As a coach, Monique leverages her own entrepreneurial and executive experience – plus nearly a decade combined of training in Co-Active mindset coaching, motivational interviewing, interpersonal dynamics, team building and communications – to help her clients find higher forms of leadership and intention in their lives and their businesses. Monique was formerly on staff at the Stanford Graduate School of Business as a Facilitator for their Women in Management program as well as at UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business a Leadership Coach for current MBAs and alumni executives. Prior to launching Seven Pines, Monique was the Director of Coaching and then the Director of Partnerships at Joyable, a mental health technology start-up in San Francisco – employee #7. In her management roles, she built, led and scaled a client-facing team for a business that served nearly a half million users and managed relationships for the company’s largest, most strategic global accounts. Personally, Monique is a wife, a mom and a fierce friend to amazing women. She understands what it means to move through fear and distraction to clarify, communicate and act on a unique definition of success that refuses to compromise what matters most and she brings this perspective to the work she does with her clients.
QUOTABLES
“I’ve always had high standards for how I want to be treated. That flowed into how I made decisions into what spaces deserved me.”
“I have a great deal of privilege that I have to own up to.”
“I’m not someone who believes that you can have it all. I don’t like the framing of it.”
“My path will be laid as long as I focus on what matters most.”
“I’ve been giving to myself in ways I haven’t in the past.”
Episode 275: Introducing our New BTBS Co-Host, Myra Herring
Mar 15, 2023
There’s no better way to celebrate Women’s History Month than by introducing the Beyond the Business Suit Podcast’s newest co-host, a powerhouse in her own right, Myra Herring. This Wellness Coach, Speaker, Facilitator, and long-time friend of The Beyond the Business Suit podcast, uses her love for everything beautiful to empower women to recognize their beauty from the inside out.
Join Myra as she has a full-circle moment with host, Kailei Carr, as they dig deep into who Myra is, who she wants to be and more about her journey of life that has brought her to this very moment. Not only does she also serve as a host for the Beyonding Community’s Soul to Soul sessions, she’s a member of The Asbury Group team and a newfound entrepreneur carving out her path in this world one step at a time.
ABOUT MYRA HERRING:
Myra Herring is a fun-loving woman of purpose with lots of love to share with the world, especially other ambitious women who sometimes “do too much.” She started Capri Brand thinking it would be a makeup business, and it has evolved into a personal brand and coaching practice helping women who may not realize that they are enough as they already are tap into their inner beauty and personal power.
The word ‘Capri’ is not just her middle name, but means visionary or having an unrestrained imagination. And it is appropriate for the vision of the work that Capri Brand does. She sees beauty in everything and enjoy the art to beautification; finding, cultivating, and polishing that beauty is a personal journey she provides with the tools needed to reach self-mastery. She works with ambitious women who may need help adjusting their lens of where their value lies and how they can show up unapologetically in their personal power. You may be struggling with listening to lies that we tell ourselves which manifests as “doing too much”, negative self-talk, or people pleasing.
ltimately, the purpose is to accept and create a safe space for you to tap into your innate beauty without judgment or expectation so that you can feel confident to fulfill your purpose.
Myra can’t wait to work with you to help you see your true beauty and come to accept your value as you already are.
QUOTABLES:
“There was always something deeper in me that was burning.”
“Sometimes we may be inviting things into our lives that cause suffering.”
“This soul wants to be vulnerable.”
“Sometimes people see things in you that you can’t see for yourself.”
“God gives us more than what we can feel or think of.”
Episode 274: RESONANCE: A Masterclass Session with Amanda Miller Littlejohn
Mar 03, 2023
Are you intentionally visible or invisible?
On the next episode of the Beyond The Business Suit podcast, Amanda Miller Littlejohn, personal branding expert, writer and storyteller, is diving deep into the art of sharing your stories, experiences and perspectives in order to elevate your voice.
Originally recorded as a Masterclass in the Beyonding Community, this powerful session teaches you how to create a sustainable visibility strategy in order to build your brand equity, thought leadership and industry authority. Amanda uses this session to uncover the secret behind being a mouthpiece instead of a workhorse through analyzing the “seasons” of your life. You’ll walk away from this episode learning a wealth of knowledge about letting your excellence speak for itself using authentic visibility.
ABOUT AMANDA MILLER LITTLEJOHN
Amanda Miller Littlejohn is a journalist, strategist, publicist, executive coach, storyteller for thought leaders, and personal brand visibility coach to high achievers. She articulates the ideas of the brilliant while amplifying the missions of the brave.
For the past decade, Amanda held space for some of the most brilliant minds on the planet – helping them push past imposter syndrome, extract thought leadership content, erect personal brand platforms, make their ideas visible, land book deals, secure invaluable media coverage, and rightfully take up the space their ideas deserve.
High achievers think of her as their truth mirror and brand compass. Through training, coaching, and speaking she empowers people to stop shrinking, uncover their authentic path, and tell their stories so they can get paid handsomely to share the genius gift that lights them up the most.
Whether she’s helping a leader stop shrinking and FINALLY outline the book that will position her as an industry expert, or helping a CEO frame her ideas for her next big keynote, Amanda helps my clients get clear on what they uniquely have to say and share so they can command attention for their most important ideas.
QUOTABLES:
“There is a time and season for everything.”
“Tapping into your brand equity requires a clear shift in mindset.”
“It’s not that we need to do any more than what we’ve already done; we simply need to share that story and the thought process behind what we do.”
“The world needs our voices.”
“I personally believe in the brilliance of black women. It’s time for us to unmute ourselves.”
RESONANCE by Package Your Genius Academy 2023 Thought Leaders Program Application: Apply here.
Episode 273: Powered Presence with Kailei Carr
Feb 11, 2023
It’s time to talk about presence! In this episode of the Beyond the Business Suit podcast, Host, Kailei Carr talks through what it means to have strong leadership presence. Not only does she outline what presence is but also the attributes, behaviors and contributors that evoke leadership presence. She even delves into tools experts use along with her personal lessons she’s encountered throughout her professional journey. This episode will allow you to explore more about what Powered Presence means to you.
One of the topics explored in this episode was the concept of “Personal Power” – which is the unique combination of strengths, attributes, experiences, passions and purpose you possess. Here are some questions you can ask yourself in order to gain clarity on yours:
What are your greatest strengths — both innate and learned?
What do people come to you for the most?
What do people thank you for the most?
What activities energizes you?
What impact do you want to make through your leadership?
What experiences have shaped who you are?
The combination of these answers will reveal your personal power — it is like your fingerprint in how you show up!
QUOTABLES:
“For leaders, it [presence] is about your ability to inspire confidence and action in others. “
“As human beings, what we perceive is what we believe.”
“If you are intentional, purposeful and present, your presence can help you make the impact and legacy that you desire.”
“Presence is credibility, plus ease, divided by ego.”
Episode 272: Soul to Soul Session with Marla Teyolia
Jan 28, 2023
When do you know that you’ve done enough? We explore this question and more in the next episode of the Beyond the Business Suit podcast. This episode, originally recorded as a Soul to Soul session within the Beyonding Community, dives deep into the aspect of healing and wellness with Transformational Executive Coach, Marla Teyolia.
Together, we get REAL about the mental, emotional and physical toll our commitments, both personal and professional, can have on us over time. Marla guides us through her personal journey of revisiting holistic practices and modalities in order to nurse herself back to a place of overall health.
ABOUT MARLA TEYOLIA
Marla Teyolia, M.S., is a transformational coach and personal guide with over 20 years of experience working with executives, activists, artists, and change-makers. Her holistic coaching style empowers individuals and teams to fully assess the ways they think, behave, and work, to make lasting impact in their personal and professional lives.
Marla’s incredible talent lies in her ability to help others to unlock their individual power and voice, while transforming limiting mindsets. She specializes in working with individuals who want to develop their executive presence, improve communication goals, navigate career advancement, and grow and scale teams while identifying and maintaining their personal authenticity and values. She uses a Conversational Intelligence® (C-IQ) framework to support individuals and teams to leverage the power of neuroscience and language to establish high levels of trust that trigger growth and innovation, overcoming limiting conversational patterns and gracefully navigating difficult conversations.
She integrates decades of experience with mindfulness, meditation, and yoga to support clients in building resiliency while bringing their BEST selves to the workplace.
Marla started her career working in the field of domestic violence in the early 90’s. The first women’s group she every facilitated was at a shelter for survivors who had risked everything… their home, personal belongings, and physical safety, to carve out a new life for themselves and their children. This experience taught her that sustainable change is possible when people aredeeply supported over a period of time to bring forth the best parts of themselves while healing and releasing aspects that have kept them small.
QUOTABLES:
“Sometimes we feel like we have to bypass what’s really happening in our lives.”
“This year for me is about integration – no longer about trying to heal.”
“I had to look at what the agreements are that I’m making in how I’m going to show up.”
“I come from a lineage of women that are fear-based!”
Marla is hosting the Pause and Press Play Retreat taking place in Mexico June 24th – July 1st. You can learn more and apply to attend here.
Episode 271: Who Do I Want to Be in 2023?
Jan 13, 2023
The year 2023 is coming at us HARD and it begs for us to ask ourselves the question: “who do you want to be in 2023?” This next episode of Beyond the Business Suit is set to explore — and answer — just that!
Take a peek into the Beyonding Community through this interactive session, facilitated by Chief Curator, Kailei Carr, and CEO and Founder of Evók, Radiah Rhodes. Together, we dive deep into understanding the difference between what we want and who we want to be when planning for a new year. You’ll even gain access to our Growth Workbook that will help you in all your personal 2023 development planning!
QUOTABLES:
“This year is hitting a little different.”
“If I can own it, then I can shift it.”
“The most authentic thing about human beings is that we can be anything we want at any point in time. We are dynamic.”
“You are not your thoughts.”
“Who you’re being is your choice.”
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Episode 270: Soul to Soul Session with Kailei Carr
Jan 04, 2023
As we are kicking off 2023, the Beyond the Business Suit podcast just finished off 2023 on a high note with a previously recorded Soul to Soul Session with Founder and Chief Curator, Kailei Carr. Facilitated by Myra Herring, the ladies discuss what they are looking forward to in 2023, while reflecting back on the successes of the past year. Not only do they touch on the origin story of the Beyonding Community, but Kailei reveals how God has called her to be a vessel and to elevate the brand of Black women. You’ll leave this episode feeling elevated and excited for what’s to come in the new year!
QUOTABLES:
“I’m most proud of my obedience.”
“If God gave you a vision, you don’t need to know the how, all you have to do is say ‘yes.’”
“We’re not meant to do it all alone.”
“Remember who you are.”
“I am Divine presence.”
“This life is not mine. I’m here to pour into others.”
Episode 269: Soul to Soul Session with Nikki Frechette
Dec 21, 2022
We all could use a little lesson in self-love! On this episode of Beyond The Business Suit podcast, Kailei Carr dives deep into lessons on self-worth and resilience from Boomerang Wellness Director and co-founder of the NamaSlay Network, Nikki Frechette. As a self-proclaimed advocate for self-love, Nikki takes us through her personal journey of inner peace and finding her true happiness after her harrowing experience with overcoming domestic violence. Originally recorded as a Soul to Soul Session with the Beyonding Community, Nikki reminds us that there is always light, love, peace and plenty of self-respect on the other side of adversity.
ABOUT NIKKI FRECHETTE:
Nikki Frechette is an advocate for self-love whose higher purpose is empowering women to overcome low self-worth and push through self-limiting beliefs. Her passion for personal development prompted her to become a Domestic Violence Counselor Advocate and she later earned her Life Coach and Transformational Coach Certifications from The Health Coach Institute.
She began her career teaching aesthetics and mastered her craft working for elite spas in Southern California. She sits on the Mentoring Committee with The Association of Women in the Metal Industries, whose four cornerstones include Educate, Network, Grow, and Mentor. She designed the AWMI’s National Mentoring Program which offers an additional layer of support in the mentorship journeys of women across the U.S. In 2021 Nikki was invited by BoomerangKit.com, a digital diagnostic testing company, to design their Wellness Lifestyle Program which matches patients with fitting health coaches, nutritionists, life coaches, and personal fitness trainers. She is dedicated to taking all fields of coaches and mentors to their highest success and potential.
In addition to all her meaningful roles, Nikki is the co-creator of a podcast titled The NamaSlay Network, where she and her co-host Severina Hernandez interview accomplished women from around the globe who share the challenges and mindset tools along the journey to their higher purpose.
QUOTABLES:
“It got harder before it got easier.”
“It feels really scary when you’re trying to unlearn something, or rewire, or face the reality.”
“I’m an uplifter.”
“Allow your inner strength and guidance to show you the way, because it will and it always does.”
Episode 268: Soul to Soul Session with Danielle Hawthorne
Dec 07, 2022
Fortunately, the Beyond the Business Suit podcast has the ability to not only pull at your heart strings, but encourage you to light the fire inside of you to push past anything in order to reach the highest version of yourself! Originally recorded as a Beyonding Community Soul to Soul session, this episode features the gifted speaker, Danielle Hawthorne, who tells her personal story of resilience and personal redemption. She takes us through her journey of the challenges of being a single mom, to rising above and soaring to new heights she never even knew existed, having God by her side every step of the way. She’ll leave you feeling blessed and ready to give yourself the attention YOU never thought you needed.
ABOUT DANIELLE HAWTHORNE:
Danielle Hawthorne is a Senior Executive, Speaker, and Program Consultant committed to helping people and organizations reach their full potential. She is passionate about eliminating systems of oppression, which led her to Code2040, where she champions strategic in initiatives with transformative results as Vice President of Programs. As a responsive leader, Ms. Hawthorne restructured and expanded service offerings in her prior role as Director of Early Career Programs. Her shared efforts toward completely liberating Black and Latinx people in tech ultimately aim to impact every industry.
Danielle’s keen ability to elevate organizations was evident in her role as Program Director at The Crossing. She used her full suite of talents to execute program activates that enriched 500 families. Ms. Hawthorne simultaneously navigated entrepreneurial endeavors in the retail space while inspiring and mentoring women on the best business practices. She is a keynote speaker with a unique talent for connecting with her audience through captivating stories, vulnerability, and solutions to real-life challenges. Danielle is comfortable in the spotlight as a licensed wedding officiant who has married hundreds of couples.
As a respected thought leader, Ms. Hawthorne has shared insights withBloomberg, CBS News, and other media outlets. She actively champions women’s rights, voter and voting rights, and education equity. She volunteered to assist California High School’sCulture and Climate Committee with obtaining a “No Place for Hate”banner from the Anti-Defamation League.
In her fulfilled life, Danielle enjoys time with her four children during their many academic and extracurricular activities. She relishes moments with her husband and vacationing in Mexico and Hawaii. Her weekends involve walking, hiking, live music events, and good food with family. You can sometimes find Danielle reading a good book, wine tasting, and enjoying brunch with her girlfriends. She also binge-watches Netflix to decompress.
Raised in the heart of Compton, California, Ms. Hawthorne dreamed of attending Loyola Marymount, and she did, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree as a first-generation graduate of a four-year college.
QUOTABLES:
“Everytime that I was with someone else’s family, I wasn’t with my own.”
“I wanted to be with an organization that saw me.”
“When we make life better for black and brown folks, it makes life better for all.”
“A different way of life not only possible, but was accessible to me if I wanted it. But I had to choose it.”
Episode 267: Soul to Soul Session with Dr. Roni Ellington
Nov 03, 2022
Grab a pen and paper, you’ll want to take notes for this one! This episode of the Beyond the Business Suit Podcast is full of gems from none other than Dr. Roni Ellington, STEM education scholar, inspirational speaker, mentor and personal development expert. Originally recorded as a Soul to Soul Session in the Beyonding Community, this episode dives deep into understanding your personal story and how to use it, along with our personal perspectives of what achievement and success are. Dr. Ellington even gives us some special tips on how to fully show up in your life while being able to live in the fullness of who you truly are.
ABOUT DR. RONI ELLINGTON
Mathematics education professor, inspirational speaker, executive coach, and STEM education scholar and mentor, Dr. Roni Ellington has spent the last 18 years cultivating her undeniable talent as a teacher, speaker, scholar and personal development expert. Trained as a mathematics educator and life coach, Dr. Roni knows firsthand how to help people get clear and achieve excellence despite the challenges they face. Her work is grounded in the philosophy that we are all winners and can do anything we choose, even the hard stuff. She draws on her humble beginnings as a student that was placed in low track classes until one of her teachers realized that she could succeed in more rigorous courses. When she moved into the advanced classes in the 8th grade, she realized her own genius, which was cultivated by caring adults and teachers. The rest is history! She graduated valedictorian of her high school class and was awarded a full scholarship to study mathematics at Morgan State University, earned her Master’s in Mathematics and a PhD in Mathematics Education. Now she is on a mission to encourage others to excel in their lives and realize their dreams.
Often referred to as the inner clarity expert, Dr. Roni’s belief is: You are NEVER really confused. You always know what’s in your best interest; you just have to get out of your own way to see it. Dr. Roni is laser sharp at asking the questions that give you the space and open the door for you to actually acknowledge what you already know but don’t see. Clarity is the ultimate transformative experience; it is true perception that actually empowers you to get what you want. When you get clear, you can get moving and get unprecedented results in your life.
Dr. Roni was featured as a TEDx Baltimore Speaker in 2013 and her moving and thought-provoking talk on the future of STEM education was so well received that she was highlighted as one of the featured speakers on the TEDx website. Her authenticity, wisdom, and straight talk about what is needed to transform STEM education inspired a standing ovation.
QUOTABLES
“You’re not who you think you are. You’re not who your story says you are. You’re bigger than that.”
“Achievement is just a narrative…The biggest indicator of achievement is socio-economic status.”
“When your being is well, you show up in your life well.”
“Look at your life and it will tell you exactly what you’re winning at.”
Episode 266: The Journey To a Purpose-Driven Career with Adrienne Lofton
Oct 27, 2022
Sometimes being the “only” means that you’re paving the way for the many. The Beyond the Business Suit podcast sits down with Adrienne Lofton, Vice President of Global Brand Marketing at Google, to discuss getting out of your comfort zone in order to move forward in your career. Not only does she take us through her experience going to an HBCU, but she defines what success looks like when you’re open to growth. From working with brands like Under Armour, Target, Nike, The Gap and now Google, she is no stranger to being the first Black woman in many places and spaces. In our conversation, she reflects on how her journey has led her to making a significant impact at a number of iconic brands, and what she has learned along the way.
Adrienne also shares how her team led the “Get The Message” campaign, which encourages people to speak up to Apple about the importance of adopting RCS messaging that allows equal messaging opportunities for Android and Apple users. This campaign has gained a lot of traction recently and is sparking much-needed dialogue about messaging between different operating systems.
ABOUT ADRIENNE LOFTON:
Adrienne Lofton is a marketing executive in tech with extensive experience in developing differentiated brand strategies, leading digital acceleration, and building unbreakable, authentic consumer relationships. Her career has focused on breakthrough storytelling and transformative experiences for some of the nation’s most well-known brands. She is Vice President of Global Brand Marketing at Google overseeing the end-to-end Marketing funnel for Google’s Platforms & Ecosystems portfolio (inclusive of Android, Chrome, Play and Education).
Prior to joining Google, Adrienne held executive positions at several leading Fortune 100 brands including Nike where she served as the Head of North America Marketing for Nike’s largest geographical segment, emphasizing being a brand with a purpose and supporting and strengthening consumers and communities through tangible action. As SVP of Under Armour’s Brand, Operations, and Philanthropy, unlocking the brand’s potential by creating the company’s first Woman’s Marketing Division and women’s category and contributing significantly to the growth of the company. She also served as CMO of the global Dockers brand at Levi Strauss & Co., and held marketing roles with Target Corporation, Starcom where she focused on the General Motors portfolio, and Gap Inc. where she began her career.
With over 20 years of cross-industry experience, Adrienne is known for driving transformation and always advocating a team-first internal mentality. She is an unabashed supporter of DEI, opening the door and amplifying the voices of minorities to create highly inclusive, valuable spaces. Adrienne prides herself in leading efforts that have consistently resulted in new market domination, multicultural and purpose-driven magnification, and the ability to identify and address unmet consumer needs.
An industry leader, Adrienne has been recognized for her contributions and impact by: Ad Age Brand Genius Award, Ad Week Most Powerful Women in Sports, NBC News Most Powerful Women in Sports, The Holmes Report’s Influence 100, Black Enterprise Most Powerful Women in Business, Ebony Magazine Most Powerful Women in Business, and many more.
Adrienne serves on the Board of Directors of Alaska Air Group, Inc. and sits on the Advisory Board to Howard University’s School of Business, where she is a proud graduate and member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Adrienne is an avid fitness enthusiast and resides in Los Angeles with her partner Eli Kumekpor and their puppy Kosi Langston.
QUOTABLES:
“I will not allow people to give me these biases, and allow it to seed in my head, that I am not exactly who I need to be exactly where I am at this moment, I will not change.”
“The younger stages of our career are so defining.”
“My passion is value-driven storytelling.”
“I am constantly navigating finding flow.”
“Everything I do is grounded in values-driven, purpose-driven narrative building, strategic planning and how I think about leading a team.”
QUICKFIRE QUESTIONS:
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? When I was in high school, I wanted to be a storyteller. When I was a kid, I wanted to be a doctor (veterinarian).
Where is your favorite place to vacation? Islands. Beaches. Water. My new favorite place may be Marrakesh. It used to be Greece, but I think it’s gotten overrun. Travel is my safe space. It felt like we were home. Somewhere far, far away to just completely escape from the every day.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received? It was a two-piecer. One was just start saying “yes.” Step into the world and say “yes”. If you say yes to the right things, you’ll be deeply uncomfortable. And then, take on the challenges even when they scare you. And as you feel those moments, get comfortable in it.
Back in September, we hosted the 2022 Beyonding Retreat and it was SO POWERFUL! This episode of the Beyond the Business Suit podcast dives deep into the experience, featuring some of the members of the Beyonding Community. In it, they share many of their lessons learned and what we can all take with us now that we have had time to sit with our transformation. For some, it was a spiritual experience, while for others, it became an opportunity for release. From internal healing to the connections that were built, experience just a taste of what Beyonding is.
If you are looking to experience beyonding yourself, consider joining the Beyonding Community. Our doors are open until Friday, October 21, 2022. Become a member now by visiting here.
FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE:
Anika Apple (Beyonding Community Coach)
Myra Herring
Mercedes Harris
Yolanda Rayside
Laura Tshilumba
Dionne Vernon
REFLECTIONS:
“I’m now vibrating differently.”
“This transformation happened because I feel this new sense of calm and peace.”
“What I took away is the connection and the community.”
“I am not the person that I left.”
“I truly grew in my leadership.”
You can watch the full video of this conversation here:
And here are some photos from the Beyonding Retreat weekend:
Episode 264: Finding Your Power in Leadership with Carla Harris
Oct 12, 2022
The Beyond The Business Suit podcast is BACK with season 7! After our short hiatus, we are kicking things off with an insightful conversation with the legendary, Carla Harris, a talented singer, mother, author, motivational speaker and powerful board member. This multi hyphenate powerhouse is giving us her playbook on finding and envisioning our power within our leadership. With so much experience under her belt, the gems that Carla Harris leaves behind will be sure to keep you fired up about your future and beyond!
ABOUT CARLA HARRIS:
Carla Harris is a Senior Client Advisor at Morgan Stanley. She was most recently as a Vice Chairman responsible for increasing client connectivity and penetration to enhance revenue generation across the firm. She formerly headed the Emerging Manager Platform, the equity capital markets effort for the consumer and retail industries and was responsible for Equity Private Placements. In her 30+ year career, Ms. Harris has had extensive industry experiences in the technology, media, retail, telecommunications, transportation, industrial, and healthcare sectors. In August 2013, Carla Harris was appointed by President Barack Obama to chair the National Women’s Business Council.
For more than a decade, Ms. Harris was a senior member of the equity syndicate desk and executed such transactions as initial public offerings for UPS, Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Ariba, Redback, the General Motors sub-IPO of Delphi Automotive, and the $3.2 Billion common stock transaction for Immunex Corporation, one of the largest biotechnology common stock transactions in U.S. history. Ms. Harris was named to Fortune Magazine’s list of “The 50 Most Powerful Black Executives in Corporate America”, Fortune’s Most Influential List, U. S. Bankers Top 25 Most Powerful Women in Finance (2009, 2010, 2011), Black Enterprise’s Top 75 Most Powerful Women in Business (2017), and “Top 75 African Americans on Wall Street”, and to Essence Magazine’s list of “The 50 Women Who are Shaping the World”, Ebony’s list of the Power 100 and “15 Corporate Women at the Top” and was named “Woman of the Year 2004” by the Harvard Black Men’s Forum and in 2011 by the Yale Black Men’s Forum.
QUOTABLES:
“I had a good support system of peer mentors. They will tell you the good, the bad and the ugly.”
“Power means being able to affect an outcome.”
“Leadership is a journey from execution to empowerment.”
You can watch the full video of this conversation here:
Episode 263: All About the 2022 Beyonding Retreat
Jun 28, 2022
We are finally on our way to the Beyonding Retreat! After a 3-year hiatus, the Beyonding Retreat, formally known as the Beyond the Business Suit Retreat, is back and better than ever. Covid-19 and the global pandemic caused us to put our transformations on hold back in 2020, therefore, we’ve had the opportunity to evolve our retreat experience and can’t wait to share what this experience is all about and how you can be a part of it. This next episode is dedicated to unveiling all the details about this retreat including the new theme, availability and what you can expect during our time together.
The Beyonding Retreat is being held on September 23-25, 2022 at the Boulders Resort & Spa in Scottsdale, Arizona. Don’t wait and reserve your spot today!
What you can expect:
To Register for the Beyonding Retreat please visit here.
To stay connected and learn more about the Beyonding Retreat, follow:
Episode 262: Beyond The Business Suit Live Masterchat with Harvey Coleman
Jun 14, 2022
This episode of the Beyond the Business Suit podcast features a true legend! In this live recording, we had the chance to hear from Founder of Coleman Management Associates, Harvey Coleman, the legendary author of Empowering Yourself and creator of the PIE method. Harvey Coleman’s PIE method has been adopted by countless organizations around the world and has helped thousands of leaders “empower themselves.” You will hear Harvey take us through his PIE method, while educating leaders on understanding what it truly takes to both rise up the ranks in corporate environments. He not only shares his powerful personal journey, but also shares his wisdom and insights on the current shifts happening within our society concerning people of color in senior level positions.
ABOUT HARVEY COLEMAN:
Harvey Coleman started his career by being very active in the Civil Rights movement, having been arrested twice in “sit-ins,” was a Mississippi Freedom Rider and has had crosses burned on the lawns of three house in which he has lived. He served three years with the U. S. Army Security Agency where he was named Europe’s Soldier of the Year while serving in Germany during the Berlin crisis. He then spent a total of fifteen years with Xerox and IBM in a variety of sales and Human Resource management positions.
Recognized both nationally and internationally as a public speaker, Mr. Coleman has been a regular guest speaker at Emory University’s executive MBA program, IBM’s International School in Belgium, IBM’s and GE’s Senior Management Schools. He and has been a quest speaker at Wharton’s MBA School of Business, and the MBAs programs of Carnegie Mellon and Georgia Tech.
Mr. Coleman has produced a ten-module video tape and workbook program entitled, “A World of Diversity,” which seeks to capitalize on the opportunities inherent in a diverse workforce. His first book Empowering Yourself…The Organizational Game Revealed is targeted toward the American worker and is receiving widespread critical acclaim across the country. Recently he has published “Rules of the Game for High School/College/Life” aimed at helping young people to understand how our system works. He has also written a Discussion Guide for parents, teachers and youth leaders to lead young adults through topics outlined in the book.
QUOTABLES:
“Are you developing the image of the level that you want to go to?”
“Everyone is replaceable.”
“The rules, are the rules, are the rules.”
“We have to start to apply ourselves to make a greater impact in the system.”
“We’re at a threshold, that we no longer can wait for our society to change, we have to take the bull by the horns and learn how the system works.”
Episode 261: Soul to Soul Session with Leslie Maxie
May 18, 2022
There is so much power that comes from vulnerability, and this episode demonstrates that so beautifully. In this Beyond the Business Suit, we are joined by Olympian and international speaker, Leslie Maxie, who is sharing her story of resilience, healing, determination and personal progress. Originally recorded as a Soul to Soul Session within the Beyonding Community, Leslie courageously shares her story of overcoming trauma and stepping into her voice. Throughout her journey, she’s discovered her light which she shines so brightly on all those who come into her path.
ABOUT LESLIE MAXIE:
1988 US Olympian and media professional Leslie Maxie is a born entrepreneur and no stranger to achievement or pushing herself to optimal performance.Leslie began her media career as a reporter. Over the years, she has interviewed some of the biggest names in entertainment and sports, including Jesse Owens, Brad Pitt, Denzel Washington, Angelina Jolie, Serena Williams, Barry Bonds, and Mike Tyson. She did this while being the 1st professional athlete to cover the world’s premier entertainment and sporting events outside of her primary sport.
More than being a media powerhouse, Leslie is most proud of her role as mom to Daughter Andrea (28), son Nicholas (26), and wife to attorney and award-winning photographer Phillip Dowdell.
QUOTABLES:
“You don’t have to do tricky things when the person you answer to is God.”
“All things work together for the good of those who love God and are called on his purpose.”
“I can’t fix what’s not mine.”
“I’m proud of myself for the progress that I made.”
Episode 260: Rest to Rise Session & Beyonding Community Overview Session
May 09, 2022
This episode of the Beyond The Business Suit, listeners get a two-for-one special! Originally recorded on Easter Sunday as a Beyonding Community preview session, the first portion of the episode explores an in-depth look at our relationship with rest and how we can give ourselves permission to rest with Beyonding Community coaches, Anika Apple and Denitra “Dee” Letrice. We go deep into the emotional, physical, mental and spiritual effects that rest can have within us.
The second portion of the episode takes us through the Beyonding Community and what it has to offer its members. Listeners can learn how they can elevate their lives and join a network of other high-achieving women who are walking through their journey of purpose accountability. Doors to the Beyonding Community are now closed (this is pre-recorded), but will reopen in July 2022.
I also mentioned a poem called “Get Your Rest, My Sister” which you can find here:
“Get Your Rest, My Sister”
by Kailei Carr
When the world is resting on your shoulders, I need you to rest, my sister.
When the world feels like it is crumbling around you, I need you to rest, my sister.
When the laundry is still undone, I need you to rest, my sister.
When you’re too tired to have fun, I need you to rest, my sister.
I know it feels like a luxury for you to rest, my sister.
But it is an imperative, you’ll see, for you to rest, my sister.
Because if you don’t give yourself permission to rest, my sister.
Your body will do it for you, so please get your rest my sister.
If you know anyone who needs to hear any of the messages from this episode, please share it with them.
ABOUT ANIKA APPLE:
Anika Apple is a divine channel and a “Spokesperson for the Light.” Anika is the author and host of the Anika Apple YouTube Channel, where she uses her gifts to provide spiritual guidance from the etheric realm. Her signature show, “Wisdom Daily with Anika Apple” features a series called “The Pearls of Proverbs,” where Anika provides practical application for the wisdom and instruction found in the book of Proverbs. She has a distinctive voice and is a gifted storyteller. She believes that stories are the key to changing people’s hearts and bringing forth healing. She is a gifted motivational speaker and writer.
Anika is a HR executive with over 20 years of strategic business leadership. A former Market Director and GM, Anika has broad sales, operations and people leadership experience. Anika, also known as “The Career Advocate,” provides executive coaching to individuals and organizations. She is a passionate change agent, culture catalyst and has spent many years working with companies and clients to reimagine the intersection of business and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
Anika has an MBA from the University of Phoenix and is a graduate of Rutgers, the State University of NJ, where she graduated with a B.S. degree in Criminal Justice. Outside of work, Anika loves to travel, cook and write. She enjoys spending time with her children, yoga and painting in her downtime.
ABOUT DENITRA “DEE” LETRICE:
More than two decades of success providing extraordinary customer experiences across multiple industries to both internal and external clients. Inspiring, mentoring, and coaching teams to achieve their individual highest potential and organizational goals. Effective communicator and strong leader, who proficiently uses verbal and written communication to outline goals, objectives, and monitor client satisfaction. In depth experience in building, maintaining and growing successful client relationships including engagements with companies that rank on Fortune’s Top 100 list.
In addition, through the power of storytelling, Denitra developed the “Change Your Story, Change Your Life,” coaching methodology. With it, clients examine their personal story with compassion, courage, and clarity. Through experience, exercises, and examples, Denitra helps them to write a new story that aligns with their desired life.
QUOTABLES:
“If there is purpose that you have already recognized in your life, perhaps when you hear from God, if you don’t rest, God would put you on pause.” – Anika Apple
“There is a season where the world is listening to Black women now.” – Dee Letrice
“There is no shame in rest.” – Anika Apple
“Will you be ready for this work that you are called to do?” – Dee Letrice
You can watch the full video of this conversation here:
Episode 259: Developing Black Leaders in Tech
Apr 25, 2022
Calling all Black leaders in tech! The Information Technology Senior Management Forum (ITSMF) joins the Beyond The Business Suit podcast in diving deep into the development of Black leaders in technology with a powerful panel that includes Robert D. Scott, Dean of ITSMF’s Global Institute for Professional Development, Dr. James Rodgers, Director of ITSMF’s Executive Academy and Dr. Reginald Turner, Director of ITSMF’s Management Academy.
Throughout this episode, we discuss more on the relationship between the mind, body and soul and leadership development while unblocking the barriers for career success, specifically for People of Color. We also learn a little more about what the ITSMF academies have to offer in pursuit of paving the way for our leaders in the future.
ABOUT DR. JAMES RODGERS
“The core message of the diversity movement is a call to recognize and acknowledge that differences and similarities are a fact of life in any group of humans.”
As an Executive Coach, Author and Public Speaker specializing in Diversity Management, I help my corporate clients and senior leaders develop the capability to manage diversity effectively so they unlock the full potential of the individual, and by extension, of the entire enterprise. I have spent over 3 decades researching best practices and refining methods of building a strong infrastructure for positive and lasting change that can be measured and sustained to continually raise the bar in the management of both diversity and performance.
More than 300 organizations of all types from Fortune 500 companies, non-profit, government, academic etc. have called on my expertise to help them develop an appropriate response to the increasing diversity in their workplace.
ABOUT DR. REGINALD TURNER
Strategic, data driven, and visionary leader, manager, and trainer dedicated to achieving organizational objectives collaboratively, utilizing strategic planning and resource management/leadership skills. Experienced leader in human resources, human diversity, strategic transformation, turnarounds, building new business, cultural change, and translating strategic ideas into organizational action. More than twenty years of experience in customer service, managing budgets, community and civic engagement, recruiting and managing volunteers, fundraising, leadership development and management training.
Expert and highly experienced in compliance and employment laws. Adept at interpreting and applying federal, state, and local regulations, policies and standards to affect quality operations with integrated technology. More than 23 years of extensive higher education experience spanning systems management as well as superb presentation and speaking abilities, written communications, and fostering effective interpersonal relationships to both internal and external customers and stakeholders.
Senior Human Resource Manager who has shaped high performing cultures and major growth brands with progressive technical resources, prolific communications, and robust development programs that bring double-digits revenue growth. Employ first class current human capital practices that attract and retain diverse and high-potential talent. Develop executable strategy that motivates teams individually and financially to exceed organizational objectives through various economic cycles.
ABOUT ROBERT D. SCOTT
Robert D. Scott serves as Vice President and Dean for the Global Institute for Professional Development of the IT Senior Management Forum (ITSMF), a national organization dedicated exclusively to fostering upper-level executive talent among African-American IT professionals. In this capacity, he oversees academies and online platforms dedicated to the development and career progression of African-American technology executives with a focus on information technology career fields. Mr. Scott has been a member of ITSMF for over 10 years and served as the National Program Chair for four years. Additionally, Mr. Scott is a director within the Center for Engineering Diversity & Outreach, part of the University of Michigan College of Engineering. As Special Counsel, Mr. Scott supports the diversity and outreach strategy and programs across the Engineering College. Founded by Mr. Scott, the Center for Engineering Diversity & Outreach is an academic excellence community committed to developing engineers who are innovative leaders in a global society. The Center broadens participation, increases academic performance and provides personal support for diverse students from all backgrounds.
Mr. Scott is a former business executive, retired from the Procter & Gamble Company after over 32 years of service. His background includes demonstrated leadership in strategic planning and analysis, IT management, product distribution, and global learning systems.
Mr. Scott also serves as a Cutter Fellow, with consulting responsibilities to CIOs and other senior IT executives. He is an emeritus member of the CIO Executive Council; Mr. Scott has also been a member of the Research Board and Conference Board CIO Roundtables.
QUOTABLES:
“When you are as good as you are, the world needs your talents and capacity.” – Dr. James Rodgers
“Once you know who you are, then you don’t settle for less than that. We deserve to be here.” – Dr. Reginald Turner
“Leadership is a contact sport…it requires engagement.” – Robert D. Scott
How you can connect with the Information Technology Senior Management Forum (ITSMF):
You can watch the full video of this conversation here:
Episode 258: Beyond the Business Suit Live with Minda Harts
Apr 15, 2022
We’re going “Right Within” with our next special guest, author and workplace and equity consultant, Minda Harts. On this episode of the Beyond the Business Suit podcast, we’re diving deep into how women of color can embrace their healing journeys due to workplace trauma using tools from her new book, Right Within. By allowing us to tap into her own personal journey that inspired her to write this book (along with 2 others), together we unpack just how we can advocate, affirm and protect our humanity in order to become the most healthiest versions of ourselves.
ABOUT MINDA HARTS:
Minda Harts is a Workplace and Equity Consultant. She is also the bestselling and award-winning author of The Memo and Right Within. Her third book, You Are More Than Magic for Young Adults, will be released in the Spring of 2022. Minda is a Professor at NYU Wagner. She is a frequent guest on MSNBC and featured on ABC News, Forbes, Fast Company, and Time Magazine. Minda is a highly sought-after speaker for companies such as Liberty Mutual, American Family Insurance, Nike, Google, Pepsico, and Salesforce.
In 2020, she was named the Top Voice for Equity in the Workplace by Linkedin. Minda hosts a live weekly podcast called Secure The Seat. Minda is accepting speaking engagements for 2022 please contact her at www.mindaharts.com
QUOTABLES:
“We deserve to be the most healthiest versions of ourselves.”
“My success was not a solo sport.”
“We don’t have to wait for someone else to affirm us; we can affirm ourselves.”
“When we lean into our courage and push aside our caution, we leave the workplace better for the next generation.”
“Part of our healing is not trying to convince someone of our humanity.”
Find out more information about Minda’s latest book for teenage girls of color, You Are More Than Magic, here.
Find out more information on Minda’s first book The Memohere.
You can watch the full video of this conversation here:
Episode 257: Beyond the Business Suit Conversations – Taking Care of Our Mental Health During This Time with Dr. Reisha Moxley
Mar 30, 2022
For the past few episodes, we’ve jumped back in time to our Beyond the Business Suit Conversations series, previously recorded live on Zoom March 16-20, 2020, a time when the majority of people in the Unites States were working from home due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We close out the series with an informative discussion with Dr. Reisha Moxley, Behavioral Psychologist and Asst. Professor of Clinical Medicine & Rehabilitation at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. She shed light on how to cater to our souls and gave us insights on using the time we were in wisely. Dr. Moxley also walked us through what has perhaps been one of the most impactful, and still relevant, topic areas — mental health practices during a time of increased isolation and fear of the unknown.
ABOUT DR. REISHA MOXLEY:
Dr. Reisha Moxley earned her master’s degree in Human Development Counseling at Vanderbilt University’s Peabody College. She completed her doctoral internship at Johns Hopkins University and earned her doctoral degree in Counseling Psychology at the University of Georgia. Dr. Moxley has worked as a mental health professional for over 12 years in various settings including behavioral health, community mental health and university counseling centers.
Dr. Moxley currently works as a Behavioral Health Psychologist and professor in Nashville, TN. She also works as a consultant and executive performance coach at Package Your Genius Academy, a personal branding program that empowers high achievers to own their genius and make their work visible in the digital age.
Dr. Moxley’s coaching clients, patients and students consistently identify her keen ability to recognize and challenge faulty patterns and emotional roadblocks with practical tools in support of desired outcomes.
Dr. Moxley is not currently accepting executive performance coaching clients. Be sure to join the email list for updates on any upcoming group performance coaching sessions facilitated by Dr. Moxley.
You can watch the full video of this conversation here:
Episode 256: Beyond the Business Suit Conversations – Practices for Staying Well and Building Resiliency with Radiah Rhodes and Marla Teyolia
Mar 25, 2022
As we continue to take a step back to 2020 during our Beyond the Business Suit Conversations series, we’re featuring a powerful discussion with Well Being Activist and Visionary, Radiah Rhodes and Holistic Executive Coach, Marla Teyolia. In this conversation, we dove into how to build resiliency using meditation and breathing exercises while managing our intentions using the intention scale. This episode was originally recorded during March 16-20, 2022 at the start of the pandemic while we were on lockdown at home and just trying to figure things out.
QUOTABLES:
ABOUT RADIAH RHODES:
Radiah Rhodes, PMP, CPC is a an accomplished well-being innovator, author, brand builder, product designer, executive coach and energy practitioner. After two decades of experience leading in small businesses and Fortune 100 companies in the beauty and information technology industries, Radiah became known for her strategic insights, impeccable design aesthetic, and natural ability to connect, lead, and get results. She has led and coached many executives and organizations to deliver exceptional business results and launched a strong portfolio of multi-million dollar products and services around the globe.
Most recently Radiah authored the book, Being is the New Doing: A Divine Guide to Owning Your Energy, Time and Peace of Mind. She also launched a collection of brands and products designed to transform and expand your intention and well-being. As an entrepreneur, corporate leader, wife, and mother of two amazing and active children, Radiah knows what it takes to be extraordinary in life and leadership. She trains clients on how to tap into and leverage their intention as the fuel and fire to create any desired outcome with ease and authenticity. Whether it’s personal expansion programs, business launches, or products on the shelves of Target and Walmart, her expertise can be seen, touched, and felt in the client experience and results.
ABOUT MARLA TEYOLIA:
Marla Teyolia, M.S., is a transformational coach and personal guide with over 20 years of experience working with executives, activists, artists, and change-makers. Her holistic coaching style empowers individuals and teams to fully assess the ways they think, behave, and work, to make lasting impact in their personal and professional lives.
Marla’s incredible talent lies in her ability to help others to unlock their individual power and voice, while transforming limiting mindsets. She specializes in working with individuals who want to develop their executive presence, improve communication goals, navigate career advancement, and grow and scale teams while identifying and maintaining their personal authenticity and values. She uses a Conversational Intelligence® (C-IQ) framework to support individuals and teams to leverage the power of neuroscience and language to establish high levels of trust that trigger growth and innovation, overcoming limiting conversational patterns and gracefully navigating difficult conversations.
She integrates decades of experience with mindfulness, meditation, and yoga to support clients in building resiliency while bringing their BEST selves to the workplace.
Marla started her career working in the field of domestic violence in the early 90’s. The first women’s group she every facilitated was at a shelter for survivors who had risked everything… their home, personal belongings, and physical safety, to carve out a new life for themselves and their children. This experience taught her that sustainable change is possible when people aredeeply supported over a period of time to bring forth the best parts of themselves while healing and releasing aspects that have kept them small.
Transformation is sustainable when it is embodied, holistic, and calls forth the most powerful versions of who we really are.
Marla holds a Master of Science in Social Work from Columbia University where she served as a diversity trainer for incoming students. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from the University of California at Berkeley where she graduated magna cum laude. Marla has worked with executives, teams, and individuals at Facebook, McDermott, Will & Emory, Columbia University, Bard College, Mount Holyoke College, Southern Methodist University, MTV, NYC Department of Education, C. Moore Media International Public Relations, and the Youth Development Institute, among many others. Marla is also a Certified Empowerment Workshop Facilitator and a registered yoga teacher.
How you can contact Radiah Rhodes and Marla Teyolia:
You can watch the full video of this conversation here:
Episode 255: Beyond The Business Suit Conversations – Staying in Alignment with Our Highest Selves with Rod White and Patrice Ford Lyn
Mar 17, 2022
In this episode, we’re continuing to take a step back to March 16-20, 2020 when the pandemic first started and the majority of us were on lockdown at home trying to figure out how to cope. I got inspired to invite a few special guests to lend us their support, insight and perspective during that unprecedented time and among them were Energetic Healer, Rod White and Executive Life Coach, Patrice Ford Lyn. During our conversation, we discussed ways to manage our energy while staying in alignment with our highest selves, which we can all still benefit from today.
QUOTABLES:
ABOUT ROD WHITE:
Rodney White is a certified Bioenergy Balancing practitioner, Reiki Master, and skilled energetic healing medium. Often referred to as a (“Healer’s Healer),” he has had a private practice for the past 15 years, in which he has worked with over 1,300 clients. Rod provides energetic healing assistance to his clients by helping them identify, transmute, and rebalance, at the vibrational level, the root causes of their physical, emotional, or mental disorderly state.
As a practitioner and educator, Rod gives his clients a fresh perspective that they can recognize within themselves. From there, they can ideally discover that they are empowered to do healing work on their own body, mind and spirit. By bridging the material world with unseen worlds, Rod supports the relief and healing of a variety of diverse conditions, based on key principles of Natural Law that govern one’s state of health and well-being (see “Intro to Energetic Healing”).
Rod’s journey has taken him through decades of investment and business experience, to an increasing awareness of his intuitive skills and healing abilities as he has been integrating spiritual wisdom with the practical necessities of life. He has over 30 years of operating and investment experience with a broad range of emerging growth and mature stage companies in various industries. Currently he is Co-Founder of Plasma Solutions, LLC, a biologics company that develops, manufactures, and markets regenerative medicine products for the repair, restoration and revitalization of damaged and diseased cellular tissue.
He was a Founding Partner and former Managing General Partner of NuCapital Access Group, Ltd., and the Impact Capital Funds, L.P., private-equity venture funds with financial backing from major financial institutions that made direct equity and debt investments in emerging-growth and lower, middle-market companies. The investment funds managed by NuCapital sought competitive returns on investment, and were at the forefront of impact investing, promoting sustainability/conservation, quality of life and economic development. His transaction experience encompasses a range of industry sectors, including technology/software, biotechnology, environmental, diagnostics and medical devices and financial services.
Rod’s background also includes operations management experience with Johnson & Johnson, Syntex Corporation, and several venture-stage companies. He has served on the Boards of Directors of a number of emerging-growth companies in various industries, is an experienced derivatives trader, and holds a NASD General Securities License (Series 7 inactive). He graduated from Stanford University with a degree in Economics, and has an M.B.A. from The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania.
ABOUT PATRICE FORD LYN:
Patrice Ford Lyn has B.A. in sociology from Yale University, a master’s degree in non-profit management from Harvard’s Kennedy School, and advanced certification as a professional coach from the International Coaching Federation.
Her leadership in business spans more than 20 years and her guidance as a coach for personal transformation and wellness spans more than a decade. In addition to guiding the start up of three national-level organizations, as a management consultant with Booz Allen Hamilton, she has worked with corporate, government and nonprofit leaders to build their organizations while supporting them through their own personal growth.
This background coupled with her training as an energy practitioner and yoga instructor means that she knows how to support you powerfully – mind body and spirit. In fact, she became a certified Yin Yoga teacher to deepen her understanding of the mind body connection so that she can help you to deepen yours. Patrice has a depth of experience, passion for helping people thrive and commitment to guiding transformational outcomes.
Patrice shows up and coaches you fiercely – like your life depends on it, because it does. She creates a safe space for you to explore your truth and move forward in a way that feels right for you. Whether you are feeling stuck in your personal or professional life, she can help you to thrive.
Special Note: As a bisexual, black, immigrant woman, Patrice brings a deep appreciation of the ongoing pressures faced by marginalized groups and the ways these truths can manifest in their lives. It is important to her that members of marginalized communities, those working with marginalized communities and/or in trauma- rich environments have safe spaces for reflection and rejuvenation.
Patrice Ford Lyn’s Email: patrice (a) catapultlifecoaching.com
You can watch the full video of this conversation here:
Episode 254: Beyond The Business Suit Conversations – Agatha Achindu and Dr. Naeema Olatunji
Mar 14, 2022
As we continue to take a look back at the Beyond the Business Suit Conversations that took place March of 2020, we dive into a conversation featuring Certified Integrative Nutritionist and Founder of Yummy Spoonfuls, Agatha Achindu and Chiropractor and Owner of Elevate Family Chiropractic, Dr. Naeema Olatunji. This important conversation highlights how we can take care of our bodies, along with our families’ bodies, during a time where we were stationed majorly at home, which still proves to be relevant two years later.
This conversation tackled tactical things to boost your immune system, thinking twice before drinking milk, the use of hand sanitizer along with eating meat. We even discussed Agatha’s family diet at the time to prevent sickness and Dr. Naeema’s daily routine to protect their bodies.
QUOTABLES:
ABOUT AGATHA ACHINDU:
Agatha Achindu is a wellbeing change agent focused on seeing people thrive through her expertise in integrative health and nutrition. As the founder and lead coach of Life Unprocessed, a boutique wellness coaching and consulting firm for high achieving professionals, she leads her team to help clients discover their unique optimal lifestyle design by demystifying and deconstructing wellness, ending diet destruction and creating simple & sustainable strategies to reclaim a state of wellness.
She is also the founder of Yummy Spoonfuls, a line of fresh-frozen organic food for kids, and since 2006, she has been on an unrelenting mission to make families and communities healthier. A Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach and Yoga instructor, she extends her mission further as a social media influencer and speaker which amplifies her message of whole living for modern times.
Agatha grew up on an organic farm in Cameroon, West Africa, where eating fresh food grown from the earth was a right, not a privilege. This notion was the driving force behind how she fed her own family as a married mom of three, with a demanding career as an IT executive. Teaching other time-strapped moms how to make nutritious meals from scratch became the foundation for the career she leads today as a food activist, advocate, and businesswoman. A voice of authority and respected leader in her field, Agatha has appeared in notable media outlets such as the Today Show, CNN, CBS, Forbes, Fortune, and People Magazine and her work has been published in Parents, Huffington Post and Washington Post.
As a speaker, Agatha is known for delivering passionate talks on a variety of topics, including organic food and farming, children’s health and nutrition, business development, marketing, supply chain, and more. Having built a global brand from the ground up, she is a champion for women in business and seeks to empower them with practical strategies to pursue their dreams without sacrificing their well-being. A highly sought-after international speaker, she has spoken at events including SXSW, W.E.L.L. Summit, EXPO West, BlogHer, AmericaPack Summit, BroccoliCon, and the HOPE Global Forum.
Agatha’s platform represents what it means to live a whole, full, and vibrant life that nourishes the mind, body, and soul. Her burgeoning wellness empire offers something for everyone – from the curious toddler to the wisest elder – and she won’t rest until they all have what they need to live and be well.
ABOUT DR. NAEEMA OLATUNJI:
Dr. Naeema Olatunji is not only a chiropractor; she is a mom of three beautiful children, a business owner, an author, and host of the Elevate NOW! podcast, where she champions women to pursue their passions with practical advice, resources, and more.
Her personal life experiences inspired her to go back to school later in life to become a Doctor of Chiropractic, and she is now the founder and owner of Elevate Family Chiropractic, a family wellness practice where she serves hundreds of families each year.
Raised As A Lie, her debut book, explores her story growing up amidst deceit, denial, and racism. Outside of writing, Naeema enjoys spending time with her children, traveling, and as a foodie, eating delicious cuisines. Her one true desire is to combine all three things together.
Watch the video of our Beyond the Business Suit Conversation here:
Episode 253: International Women’s Day Panel with Leaders in Tech
Mar 10, 2022
How would things be different if Black women were better represented in leadership in technology? For International Women’s Day this year, we collaborated with the Information Technology Senior Management Forum (ITSMF) and brought together a powerhouse group of women in tech that helped us to #ImagineAWorld where Black women in tech leadership were more widely represented. In our discussion, Errika Moore – Executive Director for the national STEM Funders Network, Lizette Williams – Global Head of Vertical Solutions Marketing, Nicole Keaton Hart – Site Director for Microsoft Atlanta, and Regina Gwynn – Co-Founder of Black Women Talk Tech, discuss everything from encouraging STEM leadership, Black women-led companies and the support they’ve received in their career along the way.
QUOTABLES:
ABOUT ERRIKA MOORE:
Errika is the inaugural Executive Director for the national STEM Funders Network. Previously she was the Senior Program Officer at the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta leading the team focused on creating equity in education and workforce development for over 900,000 students. Prior to this she served as the Executive Director of TAG-Ed (Technology Association of Georgia Education Collaborative) focused on K-12 STEM Advocacy throughout the state of Georgia, Vice President of Member Services and External Affairs for IT Senior Management Forum (ITSMF) – the only national organization focused on increasing the representation of black professionals at senior levels in technology, the Vice President of Operations for the Gifted Education Foundation, Southwire, BMC Software and IBM.
ABOUT LIZETTE WILLIAMS:
Lizette Williams is a leading marketing and advertising executive with expertise at driving the convergence of brand, culture and tech. She has worked across Fortune 50 companies driving consumer-centric growth strategies focused on cultural relevancy. In 2020 she was named one of “Advertising Woman of the Year” by the Chicago Advertising Federation. She is one of the foremost-awarded marketing executives in the field and was also inducted into the American Advertising Federation Advertising Hall of Achievement, the premier industry recognition for leaders under 40 who are making a significant impact in the industry and their communities. She has been listed as Crain’s Chicago Business “40 under 40,” Advertising Age “Women to Watch,” and Black Enterprise “Top Women Executives in Advertising and Marketing.”
ABOUT NICOLE KEATON HART:
Nicole Hart has a deep background in cyber security, enterprise strategy, large complex system development and disruptive technology integration. Nicole’s business operations expertise includes serving as an innovative change-maker, helping organizations from start-up to Fortune 500 devise strategies to solve their most complex technology challenges. With over 25 combined years of technology leadership and oversight expertise, Nicole can see where technology risk can erode an organization’s ability meet business objectives. She has previously held key leadership roles such as Senior Vice President for SunTrust Bank and Chief Information Officer for Fulton County Government.
ABOUT REGINA GWYNN:
Regina is a Brand & Digital Marketing Executive with 15+ years of experience at The Apparel Group, Macy’s and Monitor Group. Strong project management skills with cross-functional Marketing, Creative, Visual and Merchant teams. Led integrated marketing communications programs with ROC, Sports Illustrated, SXSW, Details, and GQ magazines. Effective communicator with ability to motivate and persuade while working in a fast-paced team environment. Outstanding leadership skills, high levels of resourcefulness, creativity, and regular interaction with C-suite leadership. Drives clear line of sight from data analysis to strategy to implementation. Marketing & Entrepreneurship MBA from Kellogg School of Management.
Watch the video replay here:
Episode 251: “Raised As A Lie” – A Soul to Soul Session with Dr. Naeema Olatunji
Feb 21, 2022
Originally recorded as a Soul to Soul session within the Beyonding Community, this episode goes DEEP into the trenches of the childhood and background of Dr. Naeema Olatunji as she discussed her new book, Raised As A Lie.
Dr. Naeema tells her harrowing story of how she only learned she was a Black woman at 18-years old. Being raised in an all-white family while suffering to fit in every step of the way, Dr. Naeema shares how she navigated through understanding herself and her childhood traumas of hurt and lack of belonging. She takes us with her through her journey to meeting herself while continuing to build herself from the inside out.
ABOUT DR. NAEEMA OLATUNJI
Dr. Naeema Olatunji is not only a chiropractor; she is a mom of three beautiful children, a business owner, an author, and host of the Elevate NOW! podcast, where she champions women to pursue their passions with practical advice, resources, and more.
Her personal life experiences inspired her to go back to school later in life to become a Doctor of Chiropractic, and she is now the founder and owner of Elevate Family Chiropractic, a family wellness practice where she serves hundreds of families each year.
Raised As A Lie, her debut book, explores her story growing up amidst deceit, denial, and racism. Outside of writing, Naeema enjoys spending time with her children, traveling, and as a foodie, eating delicious cuisines. Her one true desire is to combine all three things together.
QUOTABLES:
“We make decisions about what things mean. We don’t realize how those decisions impact our everyday decisions throughout the rest of our lives.”
“I needed to unearth my past hurts and traumas.”
“What I know for sure is that I’m a work in progress.”
“How you build yourself comes from inside.”
“The struggles are necessary – don’t be afraid of them.”
How you can get in contact with Dr. Naeema Olatunji:
Episode 250: A Masterchat with Nick F. Nelson
Feb 02, 2022
Make way for the Breandprenuer! The digital and creative strategist, Nick F. Nelson, is taking us through his original tips for creating, maintaining and enhancing your digital presence online. Originally recorded in the summer of 2021, Nick takes us through his methods for authentic storytelling, while also encouraging us to use our voice and analyze what our internal powers are in order to truly make an impact within your digital landscape.
ABOUT NICK F. NELSON:
Nick Nelson is an award winning visionary Marketing and Brand Executive. Over the past 20-years Nelson has driving transformative solutions for revolutionary startups, growth-stage companies, and multi-billion-dollar conglomerates at breakneck speeds by optimizing the consumer journey and building marketing ecosystems. Nelson has proven expertise in the Entertainment, Media, and Information Technology industries implementing strategic marketing initiatives, guiding teams, and ensuring process efficiency through organizational effectiveness, emerging digital technologies, and service delivery. He utilizes a collaborative approach to build partnerships, high-engagement programs, with a keen ability to balance technical and product strategy to accelerate profitable growth.
QUOTABLES:
“I always hang to the left because there’s nothing right about me.”
Episode 249: Learn More About the Beyonding Community!
Jan 13, 2022
This episode of the Beyond the Business Suit is a bonus episode featuring an Info Session about the Beyonding Community that was recorded on January 10, 2022. In the episode, we provide an overview of the Beyonding Community, formerly called the Beyond Community, which is an amazing space I have the honor of curating where high achieving, purpose-driven and soulful women come to connect, elevate, be inspired and go on a journey of transformation that we call beyonding.
Doors to the Beyonding Community are now open and you can join and learn more by going to beyondingcommunity.com. Registration for Q1 closes Saturday, January 15, 2022.
More About the Beyonding Community
Here’s some more info about the Beyonding Community
What is the Beyonding Community?
The Beyonding Community (formerly the Beyond Community) is a soulfulsisterhood of high achieving women, designed to be an oasis for growth and expansion so that they can thrive at work and beyond. This community elevates, expands and uplifts the WHOLE woman. By doing what we call beyonding, we are collectively committed to our personal, professional and leadership development, so that we can ALL become the highest versions of ourselves. This process is a combination of action and intention.
Why You Should Join Us
To get where you’ve never been you have to do things you’ve never done. If you are called to not only do but bemore, this community may be for you. If you’re looking to stay in the status quo, are looking to effort your way into your next level, or want to stay in the “hustle and grind” of life, this community isn’t for you. We are here to provide you what you need on your journey of beyonding:
Episode 248: A Masterchat with Leigh Davenport
Jan 06, 2022
Who runs the world…GIRLS! Writer and Director, Leigh Davenport, takes us through her journey of “beyonding” in creating her scripted series for Starz entitled Run The World in the next episode of the Beyond the Business Suit Podcast.
Recorded in the summer of 2021, not only does Leigh take a deep dive into her creation process, but she further tells her story involving impactful decision-making, her self work and how her transition from New York to Los Angeles transformed her career. You’re in for an inspirational story of resilience and determination in making your dreams come true! Though it had not been announced yet, after this was recorded, Run the World got renewed for season 2!
ABOUT LEIGH DAVENPORT
Leigh Davenport is a writer and director with a focus on creating content that explores the intersection of the woke and whimsical. Davenport is the creator of the forthcoming series, “Run The World” on Starz, which is loosely based on her life as an ambitious twenty-something living in Harlem, New York.
Additionally, Davenport wrote the screenplay for the upcoming Netflix film “The Perfect Find” starring Gabrielle Union and the screenplay for Lifetime’s Wendy Williams Biopic.
Davenport is the former Editorial Director of HelloBeautiful.com, where she led the site to record breaking traffic as the leading site for Black women. Over the last decade, Davenport has worked in entertainment media in various capacities including writing for The Black Girls Rock! Awards and in unscripted production at BET, TV ONE and VH1.
Davenport is a native of Chicago, Illinois and a proud graduate of Spelman College.
QUOTABLES:
“Having people in your life that you can be absolutely honest with you is really important”
“I wasn’t creating impact in my job anymore.”
“That’s a huge shift when you see yourself differently.”
“We deserve reflections of ourself that can allow others to see us.”
Episode 247: Breaking Through Fear – A Fireside Chat with Luvvie Ajayi Jones
Dec 09, 2021
We’re kicking off Season 6 of Beyond the Business Suit podcast with a bang! Host, Kailei Carr is joined by New York Times bestselling Author and Speaker, Luvvie Ajayi Jones for a groundbreaking discussion surrounding breaking through fear upon the release of her new book, Professional Troublemaker: The Fear-Fighter Manual.
You’re sure to leave this conversation feeling motivated and inspired (and maybe even a little called out), as Luvvie reminds us to dream bigger than ever while staying in the mindset of manifestation. From reminiscing on where she began, to revealing what she has in store for her future legacy, Luvvie takes us through her journey of how her mindset has made all the difference in her path to success.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS for the release of the paperback version of Professional Troublemaker: The Fear-Fighter Manual dropping December 28 and the “Young Readers Edition” of her book called Rising Troublemaker: A Fear-Fighter Manual for Teens that drops May 2022!
ABOUT LUVVIE AJAYI JONES
Luvvie Ajayi Jones is a New York Times bestselling author, podcast host, and sought-after speaker who thrives at the intersection of comedy, media, and justice.
Her debut book I’M JUDGING YOU: The Do-Better Manual was released to critical acclaim, hitting the New York Times bestselling list at #5. Her new book Professional Troublemaker: The Fear-Fighter Manual dropped on March 2, 2021 and hit #3 on the list in its debut week.
An 18-year blogging veteran, Luvvie writes on her site, AwesomelyLuvvie.com, covering all things culture with a critical yet humorous lens. That same razor-sharp voice spurred her wildly popular TED talk “Get Comfortable with being uncomfortable” to over 5 million views. She’s an internationally recognized speaker who takes on dozens of stages every year around the globe, and has spoken at some of the world’s most innovative companies and conferences, including Google, Facebook, Amazon, Twitter, MAKERS, SXSW. She’s an internationally recognized speaker who takes on dozens of stages every year around the globe, and has spoken at some of the world’s most innovative companies and conferences, including Google, Facebook, Amazon, and Twitter. She is also co-creator of the #SharetheMicNow global movement.
Luvvie connects with her audience through her social network, LuvvNation, where she is the go-to source for elevated conversations about all things buzzworthy and doing better at life. It serves as a safe space in a dumpster fire world, and has over 14,000 members.
She has received numerous accolades including being chosen by Oprah Winfrey as part of her inaugural SuperSoul100 list as someone who “elevates humanity.” Her alma mater, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, honored her with the Outstanding Young Alumni Award and the Council of Urban Professionals presented her with their Breakthrough Award. Her work has been featured in outlets such as The New York Times, NPR, Forbes, Inc, Fortune, Essence, Chicago Tribune and more.
She hosts a podcast called Professional Troublemaker where she has amazing conversations with incredible people who have committed to living life loudly, with courage and conviction.
Born in Nigeria, bred in Chicago and comfortable everywhere, Luvvie enjoys laying around in her plush robe, eating a warm bowl of jollof rice in her free time. Her love language is shoes.
QUOTABLES:
“My decisions are not for community council.”
“Behind the fear is the real action.”
“What’s most important about our hopes and our dreams is not about chasing it; it’s about doing the thing that feels right!”
“You should share certain parts of your dreams with everybody because you never know who could help you.”
Episode 246: Going Soul to Soul with Kailei Carr
Oct 12, 2021
In the latest episode of the Beyond the Business Suit podcast, we are featuring another Soul to Soul session from the Beyond Community, but this time the tables are turned! In this episode, Kailei Carr isn’t interviewing a guest but instead is being interviewed by Anika Apple! Anika Apple is one of our Beyond Community coaches, as well as a corporate executive, soon to be minister, master storyteller and host of the Remarkable Orator podcast. During this soulful fireside chat, Anika she asked some questions that uncovered some things that Kailei has not shared on the podcast before. They also talked about Kailei’s vision the Beyond Community, her backstory in starting the community, what she wants her legacy to be and much more! You can think of this as a sneak peek of the Beyond Community, as we have Soul to Soul sessions every month. So if you are interested in or intrigued by the Beyond Community, membership is now open until this Friday, October 15th! This will be the last time the Beyond Community has opened registration until 2022. You can learn more about the Beyond Community and even register for the Beyond Community atbeyondingcommunity.com.
And if you would like to join us for a special Beyond Community Info Session, please join us on Wednesday, October 13th from 12-1 pm ET/9-10 am PT. In order to attend, you can register at kaileicarr.com/bcinfosession. Hope to see you there!
QUOTABLES:
“I saw the Beyond Community as a way to bring a group of women together to elevate each other.”
“Every experience that we have are supposed to give us growth opportunities.”
“When we are operating in survival, there’s no way we are our best selves.”
Episode 245: Creating a Life You Love with Dr. Krystal Conner
Oct 06, 2021
Did you know that you have the ability to create a life that you love without having to sacrifice? Life Coach, Dr. Krystal Conner, teaches us a few things about how we can live a life that is a 10 out of 10 in all areas! Together we discuss the parallels between the limits we place on ourselves in relation to the things we do in our lives that we tolerate. From eliminating distractions to overcoming the obstacles within us, learn how to determine what your most fulfilled life looks like.
This episode was originally recorded as a Beyond Community Soul-to-Soul session as we prepare for our upcoming membership drive. To learn more, visit here.
ABOUT DR. KRYSTAL CONNER:
AFTER EXPERIENCING VARIOUS PERSONAL STRUGGLES IN DIFFERENT STAGES OF MY LIFE…
I realized that even in my “success”, I was still not at 10 when it came to my overall happiness.
And after some deep self-examination, it was clear to me that I needed some serious work from the inside out. In all honesty, I knew my own “mess” was the real cause of me not experiencing joy, peace, and fulfillment. My own concept of who I was was preventing me from believing it was possible for me to “have it all” in every area of my life.
I wasn’t the woman I knew I could be, and I knew it was going to take more than prayer to get me back on the right path.
It’s then that I realized that…
My thoughts created all of the results that I had in life.
All my thoughts caused me to feel a certain way. I acted on those feelings and ended up with results that I didn’t want. I never realized that because of that, ultimately my thoughts created my results. I knew the Bible says to “take every thought captive”, but I never considered that was literally the key to life.
If I wanted to have better results, I had to examine my thoughts. Understand why I thought the way that I did and decide how I wanted to think moving forward.
Changing my thoughts would change my results. I knew I would need help doing, and that is where I discovered life coaching.
QUOTABLES:
“Every woman I know needs a coach.”
“We usually attract people who are very similar to us.”
“You can do everything you’ve dreamed of and beyond without sacrificing.”
“Take the limits off of what you think you can do.”
Episode 244: Crush Your Career, Find Your Calling & Launch Your Future with Dee Ann Turner
Sep 21, 2021
It’s time for you to crush your career! That’s exactly what we’re discussing in the next episode of the Beyond the Business Suit podcast featuring special guest, author, speaker and podcaster, Dee Ann Turner. As a former executive of talent acquisition, Dee Ann Turner enlightens us with all the career gems to find our calling and beyond.
Together, we dive deep into her new book, Crush Your Career, and through our shared passion for igniting the fire in others, we discuss how to align yourself with who you want to be within your career and truly experience success, on your own terms.
ABOUT DEE ANN TURNER
Dee Ann Turner understands the importance of stewarding talent.
A 33-year veteran of Chick-fil-A, Inc, she was selected as the company’s first female officer in 2001 and served as the Vice President, Talent and Vice President, Sustainability. During her long career, she worked closely with Chick-fil-A’s founder, S. Truett Cathy, and other key leaders as an architect of their organizational culture. Additionally, she led Staff Learning and Development, Diversity and Inclusion, and Culture and Engagement, and Talent Management. More recently, Dee Ann launched and led Chick-fil-A’s sustainability function focusing on a strategy to implement sustainable practices at the then $10.5 billion company.
Dee Ann was instrumental in building and growing Chick-fil-A’s well-known culture and talent systems, responsible for selecting thousands of Chick-fil-A franchisees and corporate staff members. Under her leadership, Chick-fil-A enjoyed industry-leading employee engagement scores and became known for selecting the best talent in the hospitality business, maintaining a 95% retention rate for corporate staff and franchisees. She has also mentored and championed hundreds of people to discover their unique vocational callings and build careers they love.
Today, she leads her own organization, Dee Ann Turner & Associates, LLC, focused on writing books and speaking to audiences both virtually and in-person on how to steward extraordinary talent. She’s the author of two best-selling books covering the topics of corporate culture, customer service and career success. It’s My Pleasure and its newer version, Bet on Talent, teaches leaders how to find and keep extraordinary talent. Her latest book, Crush Your Career, teaches talent how to be extraordinary. Additionally, Dee Ann serves as Executive in Residence at High Point University teaching students career development skills and serving in the Access to Innovators Program.
Through her books and keynotes, she leverages her experience to help you steward the extraordinary talent entrusted to you, whether you are responsible for creating a remarkable organizational culture or focused on building your own exceptional career. She is a graduate of Clayton State University with a degree in Management. She also completed executive education courses at Emory University, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the University of Virginia’s Darden Business School. She is a 2009 alumnus of the prestigious Harvard Business School Advanced Management Program. Dee Ann has been married to her husband, Ashley for 37 years and they are the parents of three grown sons. She has served numerous non-profit boards in the past including The Kenya Project, Eagle Ranch and Proverbs 31 Ministries. She has also served on the board of advisors for Lubbock Christian University and First Care Clinics. Currently, she serves on the board of advisors for Unconventional Business Network Women and the advisory board for the Pure Hope Foundation. When she is not traveling, she can often be found on her Peloton bike in her home outside of Atlanta or on her stand up paddleboard at Lake Hartwell in northeast Georgia.
QUOTABLES:
“I’m a lifelong learner.”
“We don’t ever retire, we just go to our next calling or application of our last calling.”
“Do some self-evaluation: what do I do best that’s better than most people?
“Don’t focus on balance, just focus on presence.”
“You want to collect relationships almost as if it were a hobby.”
THE FINAL FIVE:
What is one book that has significantly impacted our life? I have to tell you 2: the most impactful book to my life and career is Dr. Henry Cloud’s book Integrity: The Courage To Meet The Demands of Reality. It was pivotal for me. The book I’ve read since I retired is Atomic Habits by James Clear.
If you could have brunch with 3 people, dead or alive, who would you pick? First, my maternal grandmother. She died before I was born. Second, my future great grandchild. I’m not sure I’ll be around for that. Then, the Apostle Paul. I have a heart for mission and his work is so influential in that space.
Who is one person you absolutely adore and look up to? My mother. She is an incredible woman and has been a role model in so many ways in my life.
What are 3 of your favorite things, people not included? My husband gave me an e-bike for Christmas. I live in a community with 100 paths and just about every day I ride 10-15 miles. Next, my paddle-board. Then, for number 3, that electronic item that keeps me connected to the world; my iPad.
What is some of the best advice you’ve ever received? I shared some of it today, but probably just that statement: Take good care of yourself. People tell us that all the time but do you really take it to heart?
In many of the programs. and experiences I lead, especially for women of color, I ask them to do two things: remove your masks and and your capes. For many of the women I work with, they feel obligated to mask who they are (which is whole ‘nother conversation) and also often wear their Superwoman capes proudly. However, I can attest that Superwoman is a fictitious super hero who, if she was a real person, would have needed some rest and a team of people to help her be at her best.
And that’s why this episode of the Beyond the Business Suit podcast is so important!
This episode features a discussion with author and speaker, Elayne Fluker, previously recorded as a Soul to Soul Session for the Beyond Community. Elayne takes us through her new book Get Over ‘I Got It’ while highlighting ways in which women of color, in particular, may hold themselves back from being their best selves by not accepting support, help and guidance from others. Not only does she encourage us to live unapologetically, but she embraces the art of NOT being Superwoman all the time, even if we feel like we are.
ABOUT ELAYNE FLUKER
ELAYNE FLUKER is author of the new book, Get Over ‘I Got It’ (HarperCollins Leadership, May, 2021). Her mission is to help unapologetically ambitious women get over what she calls, “I Got It” Syndrome, embrace support and know that having it all doesn’t mean doing it all alone.
Whether entrepreneur, top executive or rising star, successful women often resist the idea of asking for support. Instead, they struggle alone, fearing they might appear weak or incompetent. As a result, they sacrifice not only their success, but their peace of mind.
Elayne Fluker believes this dangerous mindset is partially the reason so many seemingly successful women end up depressed, overwhelmed, isolated and unfulfilled.
In Get Over I Got It, Elayne helps women learn how to build their own networks, make meaningful connections, and get the support they damn well deserve!
As host of her popular podcast, Support is Sexy— which has 800,000+ downloads and reaches listeners in 130 countries, Elayne has personally interviewed more than 500 diverse women entrepreneurs about their journeys and struggles with support. A dynamic speaker, who has appeared at 200+ events around the world and been featured often in the media, Elayne delivers her signature talk on how to “Get Over ‘I Got It’ Syndrome” and teaches her “5Rs of making an empowered ask.” The audience leaves knowing how to confidently ask for and accept support, collaborate rather than compete and enroll others in their vision!
QUOTABLES:
“I associated support with desperation.”
“There’s some unlearning that has to be done.”
“Are you giving space for other people, situations, opportunities to show up for you?”
“Ask yourself: what really matters to you?”
“There are a lot of questions I’m living right now.”
Episode 242: Tools for Women of Color and Active Allies To Break Through Non-Inclusive Spaces with Angel Henry – A LinkedIn Live Session
Aug 14, 2021
In the latest episode of Beyond The Business Suit, we are joined by sought-after speaker, trainer and author, Angel Henry. Together we dive deep into a conversation centered around allyship for people of color — and especially Black women — in the workplace: what we need, where the opportunities are, and how people of color can change their mindset towards breaking glass ceilings. She not only gives us her tips for how to keep moving forward, but also reveals how to be intentional about showing our value through her own personal experiences. You can find her new book,Dents in the Ceiling: Tools Women & Allies Need to Breakthrough on Amazon.
ABOUT ANGEL HENRY
L. Angel Henry is a highly sought-after speaker and trainer that brings candor and extensive experience to help audiences apply Agile principles that foster an environment of innovation and productivity. Angel has over 20 years of experience in IT, primarily in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries, and 15 years in the project management discipline. She is also an Adjunct Instructor at Ivy Tech helping students realize their full potential in the field of IT. Angel’s Master’s Level research of project management methodologies has led to national speaking engagements. Angel’s passion for diversity in the field of IT and knowledge of how women and minorities are oftentimes missing from the C-Suite will enable IT leaders to help advance the conversation of inclusion.
QUOTABLES:
“Set your intention, and go for it completely.”
“Get well, and stay well.”
“If we’re going to keep climbing, we have to armour up. It means wellness.”
“Having a girl tribe that can lift you up is critical.”
“For you [allies] to have some sort of power within an organization, and you’re willing to cash those chips in for a minority, is brave.”
THE FINAL FIVE
What was your first job? It was a modeling gig. I’m an only child and spent summers with my grandmother and she enrolled me in a modeling agency.
What are some of the things you do to recharge your energy? I love, love, love, a large jet tub in our basement. That’s my favorite place because that’s my room. It’s off limits to the kids.
If you could have brunch with 3 people, dead or alive, who would you pick (omitting Oprah and Michelle Obama)? The first person is my favorite musical artist Prince. I only got to see him in concert one time and it was magical. Another person is John Maxwell. He was the first person of notoriety that exemplified Christian principles in the workplace. It’s going to have to be Belle Hooks. When there was so much turmoil going on with the social unrest, me feeling like I wanted to do something, Belle Hooks says people resist when they tell their stories.
We are all weird in certain ways, what is something that makes you weird? It’s unusual, I’m particular about the type of seafood and meals I like that’s kind of exotic. I will build my own favorite meal. It would take me 1.5 to get this meal from different places.
What is some of the best advice you’ve ever received? My parents, even though they weren’t together, would write little inspirational notes to me and always say, “keep God first.” That’s what I remember when I was at my lowest point.
Episode 241: Growing On Purpose with Amber Smith
Jul 17, 2021
This episode of the Beyond the Business Suit podcast is a special replay of a Beyond Community Conversation with one of our Founding Beyond Community Members, Amber Smith. Amber is a STEM teacher turned Project Manager turned Farmer who has had such an amazing path to purpose.
In this session, you will absolutely be inspired by Amber’s journey to becoming a farmer (and how the Beyond the Business Suit Retreat 2019 was a part of her path). You will easily see why we love Amber so much in the community and how amazing her story is.
About Amber Smith
Here’s more about FarmherAmber in her own words:
I started gardening five years ago, to manage depression and anxiety that arose after losing a close friend, Peggy, to cancer. She loved plants and when she passed I had a whole bunch of them to take care of! That commitment to growing something turned into a passion that led me to increase the school garden from 5 beds, to 8 beds, and 3,500 square feet using the football field, in my first year as Garden Club Sponsor. Watering all that was an eventful experience, but it was extremely important that those students know and understand where and how to grow their own food.
I started farming full time on April 19, 2020, my 41st birthday. I wish I could say I had some grandiose story that brought me to it, but I don’t. My full time position as a Program Manager ended April 10 because of Covid-19, unemployment was terribly disorganized and I have a son that loves cool drinks from Starbucks and likes to grab a few things from Target (because they are the proud sponsors of PBS kids. We watch that channel a lot!) My first week, I had 4 families and I was so thankful for them!
Our farm is licensed, registered and certified as MBE (Minority Business Enterprise) / WBE (Women Business Enterprise) in the state of Missouri. We are a registered and recognized farm by the United States Department of Agriculture and Food Safety Administration. We are certified farmers using Food Safety Modernization Act and Good Agricultural Practices. I completed Master Gardener certification through Louisiana State University, but you can only become “certified” in your home state. Currently, I am on the waiting list for the Master Gardener program through the University of Missouri. It is my hope that one day our farm will be a certified “organic” farm, but that’s a whole bunch of hoops – that I’m willing to jump through but I need more time. In the meantime, we grow using organic practices, companion planting, and the Lion King method (Insert Circle of Life song – think prey and predator).
I am an urban farmer. I grow primarily in garden beds, containers and now hydroponically. I love the process of growing. Watching a seed, submit itself to the soil, despite the darkness that surrounds it, only to break forth and produce a bounty – reminds me of me. In the dirt, I am reminded of my humanity, my frailty, my limitations, my areas of control (lack thereof) and of my God. When I am overwhelmed, depressed, stressed, and anxious – I go to the dirt. I remind myself that God is mindful of me. Just as I am of Ms. Swiss Chard, Ms. Brussel Sprouts (all the plants are females) and the evil squash bugs. He sees me! In the dirt, sometimes stinky and always dark – I can settle down into remembering that God always perfects the things that concern me in his time. The most beautiful flowers emerge only because of the foulest of fertilizers. (It’s totally changed the way I look at problems and I’ve grown a passion for fertilizers – they don’t all do the same thing). Despite drought and darkness, the roots of the plant still determine the foliage – so focus on the roots.
To join or learn more about the Beyond Community, please check out this page. Doors are open for membership this quarter until July 21, 2021. We’d love for you to join the community!
In this episode of Beyond the Business Suit we’re sharing a conversation with Melissa Ingram, Esq., Senior Vice President of Multicultural Networks & Strategy for UP Entertainment. This conversation is an excerpt of a Soul to Soul session that was recorded live with the Beyond Community back in May. Soul to Soul sessions are special, soulful sessions we have monthly in the Beyond Community where we invite amazing people to go deep with us, beyond the surface of their success and into the depths of their journey, wisdom and insights they have learned along the way. In this session we dig into Melissa’s leadership path and how she exemplifies “Servant Leadership.”
If you’re interested in learning more about the Beyond Community, join our email list on this page.
About Melissa Ingram
Melissa is the Senior Vice President of Multicultural Networks & Strategy for UP Entertainment, and is responsible for driving the growth and success of AspireTV, Cine Romantico and other multi-cultural brands from parent company UP Entertainment across all distribution platforms. In her new role and as a member of the Executive Team, Ingram provides guidance and strategy on how to best serve multi-cultural audiences for all UP Entertainment brands and champion a winning work environment for its diverse employee base.
In her previous role as Vice President, General Manager, Ingram oversaw the content, brand and operations for AspireTV, the television network, founded by Earvin “Magic” Johnson, that reflects contemporary black culture and urban lifestyle in programming that is inspiring, authentic and entertaining. Ingram oversaw the network’s content, brand and operations, and was responsible for long-term strategy, planning and personnel.
Under Ingram’s leadership, AspireTV emerged as a premium lifestyle content brand that serves a fast-growing, dynamic audience of black xennials with the promise #SeeYourselfHere.
Ingram earned a Juris Doctorate (J.D) from the University of California, Berkeley (Boalt Hall) School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English, magna cum laude, from Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia. Ingram is a former board member of the Southeast Board of Directors for WICT and is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and The Links, Incorporated.
Quotables
“Lean into the uncomfortable, because there’s growth on the other side.”
“Servant Leadership is a powerful tool.”
“God’s Plans and desires for us can be greater than what we can even imagine.”
“The power of life and death is in the tongue.”
“When God’ gives vision, He gives provision.”
“There is something bigger than us that’s at work in us.”
Beyond Community Membership opens again from July 12-16! Join us for one of these Beyond Community previews (all taking place on Zoom from 8-9 pm ET/5-6 pm PT). Sign up for the email list on this page to receive the details.:
July 11 (8-9 pm ET/5-6 pm PT): Soul to Soul Session Featuring Elayne Fluker
July 14 (8-9:30 pm ET/5-6:30 pm PT): Mid-year Check In/Refresh
July 15 (8-9 pm ET/5-6 pm PT): Holding Space Session with Kailei Carr and Beyond Community Coaches
Episode 239: Find Your Fierce + Bankroll Your Brilliance with Nicole Roberts Jones
Jul 01, 2021
In this episode of Beyond the Business Suit, I’m joined by Nicole Roberts Jones, Bankroll Your Brilliance Expert & CEO of NRJ Enterprises. This is one power-packed episode! We talked about how Beyonce allowed her to find her fierce, the importance of getting the help we need and not trying to “do it all and be it all,” her definitions of O.P.P. and D.N.A. and the client she saved from divorce and despair with one simple change. We also discuss what can help you bankroll your brilliance as how she can help you find your purpose.
About Nicole Roberts Jones
Nicole Roberts Jones is uniquely gifted at one thing – drawing out what’s best in YOU and helping you take your Brilliance to The Bank. A veteran of the entertainment industry, Nicole worked in Talent Management and Casting before shifting her talents to help others Bankroll Their Brilliance through her Brilliance Mastery Academy.
She now works with entrepreneurs to create multiple streams of income from what they already know in order to build an empire from their expertise. Additionally, Nicole works with corporations to assure their executives and middle managers push their internal edge, and step into the true power of their gifts and talents at work. Her clients have included the Steve Harvey World Group, Dell EMC, McDonalds, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Lisa Nichols and Motivating the Masses, Coach Diversity Institute, the BOSS Network and Working Mother Magazine to name a few.
Nicole is also a nationally recognized transformational speaker, bankroll your brilliance expert and best-selling author of four books, the most recent being Find Your Fierce. She lives with her husband in a suburb of Boston, MA, consulting, writing and creating breakthroughs for her clients.
Quotables
“Fierce is my word for purpose on fire.” “Your comfort and conviction can never coexist.” “It’s only scary because you’ve never done it before.” “What you do is not about you, it’s for all of the people who need you.”
The Final Five
1. What are some of the things you do to keep your skills sharp? I’m always going to a training, seminar or working with a coach…If I’m not sharp, how can I sharpen someone else?
2. Who is one person you adore or look up to? Beyonce because she keeps outdoing herself.
3. What are some of the things you do, that when you do them you them you feel most like yourself? Speaking. When I was little I got in trouble everyday for talking too much. I feel like a conduit and I can feel God move through me…I love those God moments.
4. What is something that you love to do that people may be surprised by? One of the things I’ve been wanting to do since college is be a voice actor. So I’m taking voice acting lessons right now.
5. What is some of the best advice you’ve ever received? My aunt said to me once “don’t you limit God’s ability to bless you.”
How you can connect with Nicole online and in social media: Instagram: @nrobertsjones
Episode 238 | Living and Leading on Purpose with Jovian Zayne
Jun 19, 2021
In this episode of the Beyond the Business Suit podcast, we are joined by my friend, colleague, sister on purpose and soror, Jovian Zayne! Jovian talks about motherhood, her work, upcoming International Day of Purpose which is taking place on Sunday, June 20, what is “ours to do” and more!
Jovian created the International Day of Purpose as a day to inspire people of all generations to celebrate and activate the power of discovering their purpose. The OnPurpose Movement, which Jovian leads, is a firm committed to developing value-driven leaders through coaching, public speaking and facilitated experience. Check out the Day of Purpose website where you can join the movement, create your #OnPurpose meme and even get your Reclaiming Your Purpose Guide.
About Jovian Zayne:
Jovian Zayne is an international speaker and certified leadership and professional development coach with years of experience in change management, global diversity and leadership development. She is the CEO and Founder of The OnPurpose Movement®, a firm committed to developing values-driven leaders through targeted coaching, public speaking and facilitated experiences. Her firm’s client list includes Google, Spotify, The New York Times, Facebook, Goldman Sachs, Columbia University, Harvard University, The Aspen Institute, Janelle Monáe’s Wondaland Records, and Teach For America to name a few.
A frequent podcast guest and popular conference speaker, her work has been featured in Fast Company, NPR-StoryCorps, The Huffington Post, Facebook Watch – Red Table Talk, Essence, and Black Enterprise, among others.
In response to the continued injustice towards Black People, Jovian was invited to be a part of the historic 2020 viral #SharetheMicNow campaign that partnered leading Black Women with influential White Women, including, Julia Roberts, Brene Brown, Luvvie Ajayi and Bozoma St. John. In 2019 Jovian was named an Aspen Ideas Festival Scholar, and alongside notable individuals such as Tarana Burke, Serena Williams, and Lebron James, Jovian was named to the 2018 Root 100, an annual list of the most influential African Americans, ages 25 to 45.
She is the Founder of the annual International Day of Purpose®, a day created to inspire people of all generations to celebrate and activate the power of their purpose. In partnership with The Obama Administration, KIND Snacks®, Big Brothers Big Sisters, YWCA-NYC; and various organizations and celebrities, its global reach has touched over 18 million people around the world.
Prior to entrepreneurship Jovian was successful as a former Managing Director of Talent Recruitment at Teach for America (TFA), where she led an initiative that increased the diversity of new hires from 23% to over 51%, resulting in the most diverse staff in
Teach For America’s history, and in various marketing and sales roles at Black and Decker Corporation where she was promoted three times in as many years.
Jovian is an IGNITE leadership fellow at NYU’s Wagner Graduate School and an “Its all about Business” fellow at the Wake Forest Graduate School of Business. She is a proud graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where she was the first African-American woman to be elected President.
Jovian and her family enjoy a bi-coastal lifestyle, often between Los Angeles, and New York City, though she claims Winston-Salem, North Carolina as home.
Quotes:
“You know your values are good when they can remind you of who you are when you’ve forgotten.”
“You can’t be your best self by yourself.”
“The shoulds disrupt what’s yours.”
“Motherhood has given me a better perspective on what really matters most, how to take up space confidently, and everybody came the same way.”
“If you go back and pick up the breadcrumbs life provided, we can end with a full meal. And that full meal will allow us to have a better understanding of ourselves.”
Final Five
What are some of the things you do to take care of yourself? Pushing away resentment that I have in which I take care of myself. Hanging out with friends, traveling, brunch, quiet time, radio hour with my favorite podcast and working out.
What are some things you do to recharge? I recharge when I am around great people that can pour into me and reading a good book that can take me out of my own world.
What are your favorite things? (People not included) Fries, family time, and time with my husband
If I asked 10 people to describe you in 3 adjectives, what would they be? Purpose, Joy, and Friend.
What is amongst the best advice you have received? 1) From an early manager and also my mentor and big soror, Karla Harris, “ Under promise and overachieve.” 2) From Maya Angelou, “ People may not remember what you said or what you did but they will remember how you made them feel.”
Episode 237: Sujatha Alluri | How the Covid Crisis in India Can Teach Us Our Ability to Impact Others
Jun 06, 2021
Over the past couple of months, India has been one of hardest hit places with COVID-19 and though conditions seem to be improving on the right trend, the country is still experiencing over 100,000 new cases per day, as of this post. I recently had a conversation on Beyond the Business Suit Live on LinkedIn with my friend Sujatha Alluri, who shared some things we all can do to support our teams, friends and colleagues during this time. And her advice even transcends this situation as so often we may hear of devastating things going on and feel paralyzed by what we can do. She is a living example of how we all have the capacity to impact the world.
During the conversation, Sujatha mentioned theUS V-Care Campaign, which had not launched yet, but now it has. Please see learn more and see how you can support.
The objective of the US V-Care Campaign is to raise $50,000 to drive vaccination rollout by incentivizing through distribution of 2 weeks of food supplies, hygiene kits and education material. Funding of hygiene kits and education material has been taken care of locally, and vaccinations are free. However there is immediate need to help procure 2 weeks of food supplies, which costs less than $15 for a family of 4. This will allow families to stay indoors and be better prepared to safeguard themselves, in addition to help overcome vaccination hesitancy.
Please consider making a donation!
About the funding platform and partnering organization:
Milaap.org is a India based platform (very similar to GoFundMe), and has been chosen for the ability to quickly dispense funds. Milaap has waived all the fees for India Covid Relief efforts, so 100% of your donation will go directly for intended purposes.
XLRI Alumni group has been identified to be a partnering organization to channel the funds for vendor payments. XLRI is a leading and reputed management institute in India, and has closer ties to the grassroots initiative to drive vaccination rollout. They are waiving off all fees as well, so the funds are fully utilized. Project updates will be provided frequently on the fundraising site.
Please note that because XLRI Alumni is an FCRA licensed India based organization, only payments from India will have tax benefits. Due to the long period of time and fees involved with raising money on US platforms and transferring to FCRA licensed organizations in India, this was the best option available.
About Sujatha Alluri
Sujatha Alluri is a Technology Senior Manager, and serves as a Business Relationship Manager at Deloitte. She sits on the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council of the Technology Firm. She has been with Deloitte since 2013, and has served in varying capacities with the Program Management Office and Business Relationship Management organization in the United States and India. Prior to that, she has worked in Fortune 100 companies such as Cisco, Apple, and at the American India Foundation. Outside of work, she is passionate about coaching, writing, meaningful relationships and making a difference.
Episode 236: Ignite and Accelerate Your Career with Jeannine K. Brown
May 17, 2021
From social justice issues to recognizing your own worth in the workplace, Managing Director of diversity and workplace performance consultancy firm, Everyday Lead, Jeannine K. Brown is giving us all the advice we need to step up our career advancement game.
In this episode, Jeannine shares a multitude of tips and nuggets of knowledge on how to light the fire inside to accelerate our careers. She not only gives insight on how we can support one another, but also reveals the responsibilities that women have to each other in order to move the needle forward within organizations. Sit back and gain the expertise you need to make the changes necessary in order to thrive in your life and career!
About Jeannine Brown
Jeannine K Brown is the author of the highly anticipated book, Unstuck and Unstoppable: Six Proven Strategies to Leverage Your Value, Increase Your Visibility and Gain Recognition to Accelerate Your Career.
Jeannine is the Managing Director and founder of the of the talent development and diversity consultancy firm, Everyday Lead. She is a thought leader and active advocate for increasing women and Black professionals to advance their career to fulfilling executive role. She is results oriented with a true passion for people. She works closely with clients, delivering solutions to assist corporations increase retention, decrease attrition cost, attract new talent, and create competitive advantages through the power of inclusion. Jeannine has an active role and voice to champion the importance of diversity, equity, belonging and inclusion among individuals, culture and systems.
Since 2011, Jeannine has provided executive coaching and career strategy services to senior level professionals and executives in many professions to include accounting and finance, entertainment, higher education, law, healthcare, sports, and technology.
Her solutions have helped clients expand their networks, leverage their skills to create value, increase their compensation and get result. With her clients reporting increase confidence, expanded influence, clear and focused performance goals.
Jeannine has held leadership and consulting roles in state and local taxation in government, in public accounting at Deloitte, and in industry as a Tax Director.
Jeannine was named a “Female Success Factor” in Rolling Out Magazine for her work in Diversity and Inclusion, and has been the featured cover story for “Voyage Atlanta” and “Business Men and Women of Color (BMWOC) Magazine”, and is a contributing thought leader and content designer for Leadercast and the Business Leader’s Institute (BLI). Jeannine has held board leadership roles with the National Association of Black Accountants, Inc. (NABA) and program partnerships with the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and the State CPA Societies. Jeannine serves on the Alabama State University Foundation Board of Directors and the City of South Fulton, Georgia Planning Commission.
She has a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Alabama State University and a Masters, Business Administration from Robinson College, Georgia State University. She completed her training as a professional coach at the Institute of Professional Excellence in Coaching (IPEC). Jeannine is an Executive Coach and Public Speaker. She travels extensively as a conference and corporation keynote speaker on leadership and inclusion topics.
QUOTABLES:
“Sometimes we have to turn off the opinions and outrage so we can get back in tune with ourselves.”
“We have to bring compassion to people in order to help them.”
“Our assumptions about others are typically a reflection of ourselves.”
“Women have to be allies to one another.”
“Figure out who you’re supporting in the workplace..”
THE FINAL FIVE:
What do you think makes someone a good leader? Self mastery. A great leader first leads themselves. They spend time working on personal relationships, work relationships, investing in themselves and mastering how they spend money.
What is one of your superpowers? To bring fun to stuff! I got that from mom and grandmother. I love bringing laughter to our serious situations.
Who do you stan? My grandmother (RIP). She was everybody’s grandmother: smart, creative, fun, trustworthy. We called her “baby.” Not just her children, but the adults in the community. She is the blueprint.
What are some of the things that when you do them, you feel the most like yourself? Laughing. If I can sit around and cut up with my friend, I feel safe and there is no judgement. And also when I’m in jeans and a t-shirt.
What is something that you love to do that people may be surprised by? Riding my bicycle. I can ride for hours.
Episode 235: The Wealthy Girl – A Soul to Soul Session with Charisse Conanan Johnson
Apr 28, 2021
Let this be your signal to step your wealth game up to its highest level! Chartered Financial Analyst and Author, Charisse Conanan Johnson, is teaching us all about how to become “A Wealthy Girl,” based on her new book.
In this episode, which is an excerpt from an exclusive Soul to Soul Session with the Beyond Community, Charisse takes us through her book, A Wealthy Girl: 7 Steps to Prosperity, Peace, and Personal Power and what it means to be a wealthy girl. She touches on how we can shift our mindset and use the power of community to live the life we’ve always dreamed of. She touches on aspects of faith, mindset, freedom and more to inspire us to step into the life specifically prepared for you.
A Wealthy Girl is our book of the month for the Beyond Community, so this was a great way to kick off us starting to read her book. You can find more info about the Beyond Community here.
About Charisse Conanan Johnson
Charisse Conanan Johnson, CFA (chartered financial analyst), is the original Wealthy Girl. Charisse is author of A Wealthy Girl: 7 Steps to Prosperity, Peace, and Personal Power. Charisse is a wealth expert, investor, business strategist, public speaker, and TV personality. Charisse is a managing partner and head of the advisory practice at Next Street and creator of the Charisse Says platform. She has pursued a life of purpose by investing in financial markets, teaching, building businesses, and stepping out on faith. A graduate of Yale University and the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, Charisse resides in Chicago with her husband, George, and daughter, Gabrielle.
QUOTABLES:
“A wealthy girl is someone who has a mindset around the wealth that they want for their lives.”
“Wealth isn’t obtained by your individual effort.”
“When faith stops you from where you thought you might go, God’s real direction for your life pulls you in a different direction.”
Episode 234: Self-Advocacy with Selena Rezvani
Apr 15, 2021
How often can you say you qualify yourself and stand up for what you deserve? Selena Rezvani, Speaker and Leadership Consultant, is helping the Beyond the Business Suit family uncover how life-changing self-advocacy can be in your life.
In this episode, Selena takes us through the common types of advocacy and which one she uses to stand up for herself in negotiations, her quality of assignments, the way people treat her and much more! You can expect to gain a new sense of confidence for tapping into your inner negotiator and fighting for your rights as a woman and as a human in general.
About Selena Rezvani
Selena’s mission is to help women carve out paths to leadership – and to activate allyship at all levels. She also consults with employers on how to make work truly “work” for women – by creating culture change that improves working women’s experience. She’s the author of 2 leadership books, “Pushback” and “The Next Generation of Women Leaders.” In 2018 Selena delivered a TEDx talk called “Interrupting Gender Bias Through Meeting Culture,” which was recognized with The Croly journalism award. Selena is based in Philadelphia where she lives with her husband Geoff and 8 year old boy-girl twins.
QUOTABLES:
“Asking for what you need can change the course of your life.”
“If somebody has told you ‘No,’ or this is impossible, how can you write a different ending to that story?”
“It’s important to qualify yourself.”
“Negotiate with the person and not the power.”
“You are the chief negotiator of your time, sanity and opportunities.”
QUICKFIRE QUESTIONS:
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? I used to play a talk show host with my cousin.
What is one quote that you live by or has inspired you? My self advocacy mantra is “do no harm, but take no [bleep].” That has helped me be strong in these conversations. I can be hard on the problem, but respectful of the person.
What is one book that has impacted your life? I’m reading it now! It’s About Damn Time: How to Turn Being Underestimated Into Your Greatest Advantage, by Arlan Hamilton. Her quotes, her life, her being unapologetic of being has been a huge positive influence on me. One of y favorite quotes from the book is, “I’m here for the cake, not the crumbs.”
If you could have brunch with 3 people, dead or alive, who would you invite? Definitely Michelle Obama, my dad (maybe not at the same brunch) and my grandmother, Helen, on my mom’s side.
What is the best advice you have ever received? Bet on yourself. You have to bet on yourself, not just on the big gestures but on the little things. So much of my life has been disqualifying myself.
*BONUS:What was your first job ever? It was at a bakery called “Rolling in Dough”. I got to do that teenager job with 4 of my best girlfriends and it was so fun! They were so nice to us.
We as human beings have always thrived when in community with others! In this special episode of the Beyond the Business Suit podcast, I felt compelled to share more about how powerful collective experience communities can be and why they are so necessary within our communities.
I feel greatly that part of my purpose and assignment in life is to encourage everyone to band together in order to help one another achieve their full level of potential. We all have a greatness inside of us and if we open ourselves up to learning through the experiences of others, we can become an immovable force!
And that’s why I believe so strongly in the power of community, as well as why I created the Beyond Community. We just opened up the doors to membership until Friday, April 16, at which time they will be closed until July. You can learn more about the Beyond Community and sign up for membership here.
You can also join us for a Masterclass preview this Wednesday, April 14 from 8-9:30 pm ET/5-6:30 pm PT, where I will be walking you through Beyonding 101, where I will talk about what it means to have a life without barriers and limits. You can register to join us on the Zoom meeting here.
QUOTABLES:
“We are meant to be in community with others.”
“You are on a journey to transformation and becoming your best self.”
“There’s a benefit of a group of people going through a shared experience and growing through that.”
“Community can lift you up when you don’t feel like you have anything else to give.”
“We are not meant to do life alone.”
Episode 232: Digging Into Who You Really Are with Trina Washington
Apr 02, 2021
Faith, family and a lot of life experience has taught Director of Security at PSEG Nuclear, Trina Washington, a few things about herself and where she truly wants to be in life. By sharing her personal journey, Trina evokes a passion for understanding what her life’s purpose really is.
In this episode, we learn how to listen to ourselves in order to understand where our next turn should be in life. We take a deep dive into reflecting on what our journey has been thus far, and how our faith can truly guide our future. Trina also helps us explore how feeding into others can be the answer we needed all along.
About Trina Washington
Trina Washington is the Director of Security at PSEG Nuclear. She leads a multi-disciplined, high-performing group of defense specialists tasked with preserving the integrity of the organization’s nuclear assets, while simultaneously protecting the wellbeing of the public and the local employee base. The vision for Trina and her organization is to be a Leader in Safety, Security, and Service. As a servant leader, this is a staple for Trina, she prides herself on serving others, both professionally and personally, as well as inspiring them to discover their best selves.
Prior to joining PSEG, Trina dedicated twenty years of service to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, ascending to Senior Executive rank in the second largest field office in the country after completing several counterterrorism and specialty assignments – both Domestic and International.
While with the Bureau, Trina focused on catalyzing process improvements and investigating high-profile assignments. She came to the agency after starting her career as a State Trooper with the Pennsylvania State Police, a monumental chapter in her life where her roots of strength, and endurance would be grounded. .
Trina received her Bachelor of Political Science from Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia and earned her Master of Arts degree in Strategic Foresight from the School of Business & Leadership at Regent University, Virginia. Trina finds divine treasure in spending time with her family, spiritual circle, cooking, and unwinding on the beach.
QUOTABLES:
“My motto is to never, ever come in last.”
“When you can inspire and motivate yourself, there’s always someone that’s watching.”
“If your heart isn’t right, you’ve got to reflect.”
“I lean on my ability to sit back and allow others to do things differently than how I would do them.”
“We all have a seed inside of us that we just have to get to.”
QUICKFIRE QUESTIONS:
What are some of the things you do to take care of yourself? That’s something I’m still working on. We’re all guilty, especially women, of not taking care of ourselves the way we should. I’m trying to spend more time building my spirit through meditation, carve out time to work out, and what brings me great joy is spending time with my family.
What is one quote, or a quote, you live by? You reap what you sow. That is something that I really try to live by every single day. If you can pour into others and you can help someone else, then it will come back to you, God will reward you for taking care of his children.
What do you put on to feel most powerful? Wow! My attitude. I try to check my attitude to make sure I can put on the right attitude. My attitude is really important for people to hear what I have to say.
Where is your favorite place to vacation? The beach. It doesn’t matter where. My family and I went to St. Maarten and it was lovely.
What are some of the things you do that when you do them, you feel like you are most yourself? When I’m in my prayer circle and we’re studying and lifting one another up. When I’m spending time with my best girlfriends and I can let my hair down, but not in a way that is offensive to someone else. Also, time with my husband. We are in a new relationship in our marriage.
View the full LinkedIn Live session:
Episode 231: Exponential Living: A Soul to Soul Session with Sheri Riley
Mar 16, 2021
“Stop spending 100% of your time on 10% of who you are!” This is not only a subtitle for Author, Sheri Riley’s book, Exponential Living, but doubles as a key perspective in understanding how to obtain overall peace in life.
This episode of Beyond the Business Suit was originally recorded as a Soul to Soul Session, exclusive to the Beyond Community. The Beyond Community selected Exponential Living as our February book and let me tell you, the timing was PERFECT. During our conversation with Sheri, she dives deep into how she’s been able to put herself first in order to transform her life into one worth living. Together we discuss how to have peace, clarity and joy while finding the courage to live as our true selves!
About Sheri Riley
Sheri Riley is a wife, mother, daughter, and entrepreneur and we all know this is not easy, but she has figured out how to make it simple. After 20 years of creating innovative marketing strategies for Usher, TLC, Toni Braxton, Converse, the NBA, BMW, and Turner, to name a few, she now serves as an Empowerment Speaker and Life Strategist.
Her NAACP Image Award nominated book, Exponential Living® won several self-help book of the year awards. It helps goal-oriented individuals stop spending 100% of their time on 10% of who they are.
She has spoken at JP Morgan Chase, Humana, Prudential, The Coca-Cola Company, CNN, Delta Air Lines, ThinkAtion2019 (Lagos, Nigeria) and appeared on The Steve Harvey Show, Essence, and The Huffington Post, to name a few.
She is a founding member of the global John Maxwell Team, serves on the University of Louisville Alumni Board of Directors, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc’s National Arts & Letters Commission, and the GPA Board for her daughter’s middle school.
She travels around the world sharing her message… Peace is the New Success®.
QUOTABLES:
“The most valuable asset we have is our time.”
“Everything had to fall apart before I crawled over the finish line of obedience.”
“I had everything I ever wanted and felt empty.”
“Peace is always available to us when we choose to live in the power of it.”
“I am my first and most important client.”
THE FINAL FIVE:
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? A pediatrician.
What is one book that has impacted your life, except for your own?Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown. It was the book that finally allowed me to know Exponential Living was a viable book that could provide financial prosperity for my family. And it’s a great book!
What is one of your superpowers? Listening. I’m always listening. That is truly my gift and my anointing.
What is something that you love to do that people might be surprised by? I love to sit quietly by myself. I’m truly an introvert that lives as an extrovert. I love to sit in crowded rooms and not speak to anybody.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received? From my Dad: “find what you love to do and you’ll never have to work.”
Episode 230: Rediscovery of Self – A Beyond Community Conversation with Anika Apple
Mar 09, 2021
Let’s start rediscovering ourselves! This Beyond the Business Suit episode features a portion of a community session with Divine Channel, “Spokesperson for the Light” and Beyond Community member, Anika Apple, that was previously recorded exclusively for the Beyond Community.
During her session, which in the Beyond Community we call “Community Conversations,” Anika shared her journey through exploring her passions, purpose and what ultimately brings her joy and how that can change throughout life. Together, we dive deep into how spirituality can play a huge part in the journey to rediscovery and what it truly means to embrace what life has to offer each and every one of us.
About Anika Apple
Anika Apple is a divine channel and a “Spokesperson for the Light.” Anika is the author and host of the Anika Apple YouTube Channel, where she uses her gifts to provide spiritual guidance from the etheric realm. Her signature show, “Wisdom Daily with Anika Apple” features a series called “The Pearls of Proverbs,” where Anika provides practical application for the wisdom and instruction found in the book of Proverbs. She has a distinctive voice and is a gifted storyteller. She believes that stories are the key to changing people’s hearts and bringing forth healing. She is a gifted motivational speaker and writer.
Anika is a HR executive with over 20 years of strategic business leadership. A former Market Director and GM, Anika has broad sales, operations and people leadership experience. Anika, also known as “The Career Advocate,” provides executive coaching to individuals and organizations. She is a passionate change agent, culture catalyst and has spent many years working with companies and clients to reimagine the intersection of business and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
Anika has an MBA from the University of Phoenix and is a graduate of Rutgers, the State University of NJ, where she graduated with a B.S. degree in Criminal Justice. Outside of work, Anika loves to travel, cook and write. She enjoys spending time with her children, yoga and painting in her downtime.
QUOTABLES:
“I’m not interested in just kind of making it through.”
“There is nothing that I won’t give up for God.”
“My joy comes from the relationship that I have with God and from Him being responsible for me while placing purpose and direction in my path.”
“You teach people how to treat you.”
“It feels good to pour out to others.”
THE FINAL FIVE:
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted to be a pastor on Sundays, an actor, flight attendant, nurse, teacher and an attorney. I was going to fly to Hollywood, do a show, teach during the week, be a nurse on the plane and preach on Sundays.
What are some of the things you do to take care of yourself? Reiki, I’ve never really done it. I meditate almost every day, I journal every day (sometimes multiple times a day), I drink water, I exercise and I’ve lost 70 pounds over the course of a year. I’ve also learned the importance of setting boundaries for myself.
What are some of the things you do to keep your skills sharp? I hang around with a lot of smart women. The iron sharpens iron. I also read a lot and research a lot on the internet.
What is one of your super powers? I want to say being a mom during COVID, but I think there’s something to being able to connect with someone and feel how they’re feeling. That genuine power of empathy.
What is your favorite movie?Love and Basketball. I just love that movie. I can’t get through it without crying.
Episode 229: Developing Meaningful Professional Relationships
Feb 23, 2021
Previously recorded on LinkedIn Live on my mother’s birthday, February 18th, this episode is dedicated and inspired by her and one of her favorite subjects: building relationships. She was the best relationship builder I knew. She had a knack for connecting with people and making them feel appreciated. Everyone who was in her “inner circle” (all 400 or so of them!) would get sent greeting cards on their birthday (even if they lived in Malaysia!), and a photo holiday card in December. Her signature workshop, “The Art of Networking” was a staple at many Fortune 500 companies.
While many people get overwhelmed by the concept of networking, in this episode, I’m sharing five methods for networking and how to build better relationships with those you actually want to build relationships with. From intentionality, to authentic connectivity and mentorships, I’ve got you covered with everything you need to enhance your professional relationship-building skills and overcome any hesitation about the “Art of Networking.”
QUOTABLES:
“The term ‘networking’ puts people in a certain space.”
“How close are you to people of power and influence?”
“At the end of the day, you’re working with people.”
“People need to know, like and trust you.”
View the full LinkedIn Live session:
Episode 228: It’s Time to Give Yourself Some Love
Feb 13, 2021
It’s Valentine’s Day weekend and a time when so many people are thinking about love. In today’s episode of Beyond the Business Suit, I want to talk about self-love and giving yourself permission to love on yourself. Think about someone you love dearly. What are some of the ways in which you show them love? I encourage you to think about the ways you can love on yourself the way you would love on others — you deserve it!
I hope through this episode you are inspired to make some decisions that will impact you in the most positive way.
Quotables
“I want to encourage you to give yourself permission to love on yourself”
“How do you love on yourself?”
“Giving myself support is an act of love.”
“I’m not being loving to myself if I’m trying to do everything myself.”
“Love on yourself the way someone who loves you dearly would.”
I would love to hear how you are showing yourself love during this month of love! Leave a comment and let me know!
Episode 227: #FreeTheHair: Discussing The Crown Act with Wendy Greene
Feb 08, 2021
As women of color, we should be proud of our crowns! It’s time for the world to be proud too! This is exactly what Law Professor and Civil Rights Advocate, Wendy Greene, dedicates her life to combatting every day throughout her career.
As a way to reengineer Civil Rights advocacy, Wendy joins this episode to help us explore what forms of discrimination people of color may experience while in the workplace. Together, we discuss how the law identifies race while empowering women to live in their authentic selves.
About Professor Wendy Greene
The daughter of American civil rights activists, Professor Doris “Wendy” Greene is a trailblazing U.S. anti-discrimination law scholar, teacher, and advocate who has devoted her professional life’s work to advancing racial, color, and gender equity in workplaces and beyond. Professor Greene’s legal scholarship and public advocacy, which illuminate how constructions of identity inform and constrain anti-discrimination law, have generated civil rights protections for victims of discrimination throughout the United States. Through her award-winning publications and activism in these areas, Professor Greene crafted the legal blueprint for historic civil rights legislation known as the C.R.O.W.N. Acts (Creating a Respectful World for Natural Hair Acts) while also shaping the enforcement stance of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), federal courts, administrative law judges, and civil and human rights organizations in groundbreaking civil rights matters.
Professor Greene is the first tenured African American woman on the Drexel University Thomas R. Kline School of Law faculty. Prior to joining the Drexel Law faculty, she was a faculty member at Samford University’s Cumberland School of Law (Birmingham, Alabama) from 2007-2012 where she was one of the youngest women of color to earn tenure and full professorship.
A native of Columbia, South Carolina, Professor Greene is a graduate of Xavier University of Louisiana (B.A. cum laude with Honors in English and a double-minor in African American Studies and Spanish); Tulane University School of Law (J.D.); and The George Washington University School of Law (LL.M.)
QUOTABLES:
“All individuals who are rocking natural hair styles have equal protection under the law.”
“Our civil rights laws don’t provide a definition for what race is.”
“Natural hair discrimination is race discrimination.”
“We want women to be comfortable expressing themselves in their most authentic way.”
Episode 226: Are Your Ready For Your Moment?
Jan 22, 2021
“The new dawn blooms as we free it!” Words spoken by this year’s inaugural poet, 22-year old Amanda Gorman. This seems to be the theme for this year and has me thinking, ‘are we really prepared for our new opportunities? Are we really prepared for our big moments?’
In this episode, I explore the multitude of messages I received during the 2021 inauguration of our new president, Joe Biden and Vice President, Kamala Harris. It caused me to analyze how fellow leaders are stepping into their new opportunities I share what our new President, Vice President and Poet Laureate, Amanda Gorman helped me reflect upon. I also reveal my 5C’s that can help any leader dismiss negativity and prepare for their next success!
QUOTABLES:
“It’s a lot to feel like you are not valued by leadership.”
“Acknowledge the moment.”
“We are carrying things we didn’t even know we were carrying.”
“It takes courage to stand up against fear.”
“Inclusivity comes down to belonging.”
Episode 225: Soul To Soul Session – Change Your Story, Change Your Life with Denitra Ross
Jan 12, 2021
Take a sneak peak into our soulful sisterhood, the Beyond Community! On January 11, 2021 we launched the BEYOND COMMUNITY, an exclusive membership community designed to be an oasis for purpose-driven, high-achieving women to grow, elevate and expand. Each month we have special programming including Soul to Soul sessions where we go DEEP with someone who can really go there. This month’s session featured, IT executive, master storyteller and coach, Denitra Ross.
In this episode, Denitra and I have a profound and enlightening conversation surrounding her personal life story and how she was able to change her mindset and perspectives in order to turn her life into one worth living. By telling her story through some of life’s twists and turns, we hope that her journey can empower others to take control over their lives and have the faith to overcome adversity!
Registration to become a Founding Member of the Beyond Community is open only until 10 pm EST on Wednesday, January 13th. We will then close the doors until late March/early April. You can find the full details of what you get as a part of the Beyond Community as well as the link to register to be a Founding Member by going to kaileicarr.com/the-beyond-community. So far, our Founding Members include executive coaches and industry experts, authors, an award-winning actress, business owners, attorneys, executives, corporate professionals, consultants and more. What connects us all is a commitment to personal and professional development as well as being a part of a loving, nurturing soulful sisterhood. I hope you’ll join us and I hope you enjoy this Soul to Soul Session with Denitra Ross.
QUOTABLES:
“Let today take care of today, tomorrow has to take care of its own.”
“I move always with an expectancy of being loved, cared for, and provided for. I let God navigate the rest.”
“Focus more on right now in this moment.”
“Keep your mind where your butt is.”
“The moment I made the decision that I was going to come back in possession of my life, I was going to be who I was born to be.”
Episode 224: Creating Cultures and Nurturing Spaces Where Black Talent Can Thrive with Tara Jaye Frank
Jan 07, 2021
As we enter into a new year and begin our journey towards a better tomorrow, it’s important we take notes from individuals who can help guide us through the process such as Equity, Culture and Leadership Expert, Tara Jaye Frank.
In this episode, Tara shares her strategy for making leaders understand what modern racism looks like in the workplace and how we can combat it in order to help Black and brown employees thrive. She takes a deep dive into her approach to the work and even reveals what her most impactful call to action is for leaders leading in this era.
QUOTABLES:
“Diversity and inclusion are two sides of one coin.”
“Part of the divide is that we need to provide equal opportunity for everybody.”
” I believe each and every human being has creative power and we are inherently good.”
“We do not expose ourselves to people who are not like us.”
“Sometimes opportunities come to you because of the people who know you.”
THE FINAL FIVE:
What was your first job? I worked in a retail store called Merry-Go-Round. I sucked at it. I am not your typical sales person, person.
What are 3 things that make someone a good leader? Every single human being at work wants to be seen, respected, valued and protected. That is my new definition.
If you could have brunch with 3 people, dead or alive, who would you pick? (Who are not Oprah or Michelle Obama :)) Brené Brown, I’m a big fan. Auntie Maxine Waters, I’m curious about her journey. Dr. Johnnetta Cole, she was the President of Spelman College when I was there.
Who do you stan? I stan all of the people that are doing God’s work, which means making life and living better for everyone. I have a thing for Soraya Chemaly and I stan humanity in people.
You have a free day to do whatever you want for 24 hours, what would you do? I would eat cake! Chocolate cake. My favorite thing is P.F. Chang’s Wall Of Chocolate Cake.
Episode 223: 2020 Hindsight and Ways for You to Go Beyond with Us in 2021
Dec 31, 2020
Hi there and welcome to the last episode of the Beyond the Business Suit podcast for the year! In this last episode, I wanted to share with you: how this year has redefined two phrases, my reflections on this year and two exciting announcements.
This year has redefined what the terms “2020 hindsight” and “2020 vision” mean. So, as I think about the 2020 vision and hindsight I have gained throughout this year, here are just a few lessons I’m sharing in this episode:
We need more stillness.
Health is wealth.
Prioritize people over profits.
Technology should be used to engage with, not escape from, others.
We we all need to embrace VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity).
I also shared a mini year in review:
Though personally I miss seeing and hugging my family and friends and feeling the energy of in person gatherings, from a business perspective, my company, The Asbury Group, had a pretty good year. Through programs, events, workshops and speaking engagements we served thousands of people. I saw over 200 women graduate from programs I was a part of and started over 400 more leaders and emerging leaders in programs that will end in 2021. The Beyond the Business Suit podcast had over 90,000 listeners in 106 countries as of today. Thanks to my team, we produced 60 episodes this year which was 5X what we produced last year!
Finally, I shared a few ways we are looking to take you beyondin 2021:
Vision Setting and Vision Boarding on Saturday, January 2nd at a session we are calling Beyonding: Setting Your Vision and Intentions for 2021! We are going to visualize, journal and do some vision boarding and put things into place to go beyond in 2021. Last December I had some visioning sessions with two of my sister friends, Ekene Onu and Marla Teyolia and in these sessions we poured into each other and we each helped do things like getting grounded, setting vision and creating the support needed to manifest what was to come in 2020. Let me just say that all three of us have had an amazing year! In our session on Saturday I am going to to take you through some of that process to help you start your year off right. This is an absolutely FREE session taking place on Zoom. All you have to do to join is register is go to http://www.kaileicarr.com/intentionsetting2021. Since we are going to have some special parts of the session like a meditation and visualization exercise, I would ask you to plan on being there the entire two hours so you can get the most of out it. I hope to see you there!
We are OFFICIALLY launching the BEYOND COMMUNITY! The Beyond Community as a sisterhood and place for growth and expansion. The word that came to me was “oasis.” The definition of oasis is fertile ground in the middle of the desert, which is what this community intends to be. Here, regardless of what is going on in your life or in the world, you can grow an be nourished. The Beyond community officially launches on January 11, 2021. Some of the things community members will receive as a part of the community are:
Office hours with me and other Beyond coaches
Monthly Soul-to-Soul Sessions, which are intimate conversations with some of my favorite people where we go DEEP.
Exclusive Level-Up Professional/Leadership Development Masterclasses and Masterchats
Relevant and meaningful content in the community that will allow you to flourish personally and professionally.
Monthly Manifestation Guidance
Ability to join a Beyond Circle (10-12 week small groups focused on a particular topics)
“Books & Bubbly” book of the month conversations
Exclusive content, offers and discounts
Membership opens next week and will be open until January 10th, 2021. Make sure you follow us on social media or stay tuned here on beyondthebusinesssuit.com for the registration link when it launches. Once registration closes on January 10th it will not reopen until the end of March.
If you are interested in hearing more about the Beyond Community, join us for a Beyond Community information session Monday, January 4th, 2021 at 8 pm EST. You’ll also get the chance to hear from some of the women who have been a part of other Beyond programs and were a part of the Beyond Community kick off this summer (when it was only open to those who were a part of our Beyond Signature Series). Register at: kaileicarr.com/beyondcommunityinfo. Even if you cannot attend or the timing doesn’t work for your time zone, still register because we will be recording it and will be sending out the recording after the session.
Join our Goal Crushers CLAIM Morning Routine Challenge. The CLAM Morning Routine is one that has impacted many lives. Join us for our January challenge by joining our Facebook group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/760372294038305. One of the books I am working on is an audiobook on the CLAIM Meditation and how it has impacted others. You can learn more about CLAIM here.
Thank you for listening! I will see you in the new year!
Episode 222: Leading Effectively in 2021 With Uneeka Jay
Dec 23, 2020
Let’s get ready for 2021 leadership with President of Rewrite 365, Uneeka Jay! Not only does she help organizations with Training and Diversity and Inclusion initiatives, but she also is highly skilled in being an integral part of the strategic planning for organizations of any size.
In this episode, Uneeka is happy to share what we can do better to lead more effectively in 2021. She takes us through her thoughts on what leaders get wrong, how leaders show up and what metrics leaders should use to measure performance. We even have an in-depth discussion on vision casting and leading with intention.
We’re excited to get prepared for the upcoming year while evaluating our own leadership plans in order to step into our full potential. It’s time to embrace the rewards of being bold leaders! How will you boldly step into 2021?
QUOTABLES:
“It all comes back to intention.”
“We don’t decide what the vision is going to look like when it is alive.”
“Put your money, time, resources and mindset, where your mouth is.”
“I’m all about performance.”
“Find someone that’s going to hold you accountable.”
QUICKFIRE QUESTIONS:
What are some of the things you do to keep your skills sharp? I’m constantly in professional development. I believe that all coaches should have a coach. I have 2 accountability coaches, I get certifications and I have a therapist. I believe that you have to always sharpen yourself.
What is one of your superpowers? The ability to wak in a room, identify the key players, the weak links and identify what it takes to close the gap between the two.
What is something that you love to do that people might be surprised by? I love to cook from scratch. I make a mean Lemon Sour Cream Poundcake. I love making anything I can make. Cooking is a way that I can give back my love to my family.
Episode 221: Real Talk on Women’s Entrepreneurship Day
Dec 17, 2020
Back in November, The Beyond the Business Suit Podcast celebrated Women’s Entrepreneurship Day with three special female entrepreneurs including, Kahlilah Guyah of EHS Compliance Services, Shila Nieves Burney of Zane Venture Fund and Dr. Naeema Olatunji of Elevate Family Chiropractic.
In this episode, we all explore the trials and tribulations that the ever-evolving entrepreneurship journey can bring along with the wins that make it all worthwhile. We reflect on what keeps us going while evaluating the immense power we hold with each step that we encounter throughout our path.
As four Black female entrepreneurs, we strive to encourage and inspire our fellow women of color to take the leap of faith and bet on themselves! Be the light in someone else’s life by simply using your courage to invest back in yourself. You never know who’s watching!
QUOTABLES:
“It’s important that we have real talks about entrepreneurship. We are not islands. We have support around us.”
“Do it, and do it big!”
“There is no perfect plan.”
QUICKFIRE QUESTIONS:
What is the best advice you’ve ever received: My motto, ‘do it afraid.’ There’s so much paralysis in fear. Just taking that first step, there are doors waiting to open to you for whatever the universe and God has meant for you to be. – Kahlilah Guyah
What was your first job ever? KFC in high school and college. They asked me to be a manager and I said “no.” I was just there for the money to get by. – Shila Nieves Burney
Who do you stan? It’s super cheesy but its you [Kailei Carr]. When I think about the things you have created in your life. Sometimes you don’t realize who you bless through the work that you do. You have blessed me by your walk. The walk that you walk gives the rest of us courage. – Dr. Naeema Olatunji
Episode 220: Leaders and Speakers: Are You Taking Care Of Your Voice?
Dec 11, 2020
How do you use your voice? This is what Speech Language Pathologist, and my personal friend and sorority sister, Pascale Bourne, teaches us in this episode originally featured as a LinkedIn Live session.
Not only does Pascale share ways we can take care of our voices, but she also reveals how our voices can be one of our biggest assets if we choose to use it powerfully. This episode contains a wealth of information about vocal hygiene, how pitch leads to presence, and even which strategies are the best for using the perfect tone.
Don’t take for granted how powerful our voices can be, especially when used to evoke our inner power!
QUOTABLES:
“Take care of the instrument you’ve been given.”
“We need our voices at this time.”
“Pitch can lend itself to your presence.”
“Our voice is really a mirror for ourselves.”
“God opens doors that you didn’t even know existed.”
THE FINAL FIVE:
What was your first job? I worked at Domino’s Pizza. I put on my application that I was 16 instead of 15. I didn’t want to ask her to buy me a pair of Jordache jeans.
What do you think makes someone a good leader? I think being able to be in the trenches with your team, understanding where your team is coming from, and working towards being a ‘barrier-buster’ instead of creating barriers.
What is one book that has had an impact on your life? Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom. I have a fascination with the afterlife. I believe that there is so many wonderful things that happen when our spirit leaves the body. I think it’s a beautiful thing.
If you could have brunch with 3 people dead or alive, who would you pick and why? Maya Angelou (I named my daughter after her), Oprah Winfrey and Michelle Obama. I just love them!
What do you put on to feel most powerful? I like jewelry. I love the way it makes me look and feel. I like putting together outfits with the right jewelry.
Episode 219: Decluttering Your Life with Pia Thompson
Dec 03, 2020
Have you ever heard of the Marie Kondo effect? Home Organizing Consultant, Pia Thompson, is bringing it directly to you! Not only is she a professional home organizer who bases are approach on Marie Kondo’s KonMari Method, but she takes decluttering one step further by coaching and guiding you through all the emotions you may experience while turning your home into your sanctuary.
In this episode, Pia and I explore what it truly means to be comfortable with who you are and live in your truth. She not only shares her top tips for a more organized living space, but she also teaches you how to listen to your intuition while exploring the power of choice.
As we are all looking at ways to end this year strong and make space for new beginnings, clearing out the clutter in your home is one of the best ways to do so!
QUOTABLES:
“My power is in my ability to choose.”
“The only person I have to please is me.”
“Your intuition speaks to you, you just have to learn how to listen.”
“Are you going to adhere to the vision that you set out for yourself?”
“Be comfortable with who you really want to be and let go of who you were in the past.”
THE FINAL FIVE
What are some of the things that you do to take care of yourself? I have a morning routine that I swear by. When I don’t do it, my day feels different. From affirmations and mantras, to working on my to-do list. I have a whole recipe for my morning and it really sets the tone for my day.
What are some of the things that you do to recharge your energy? Chatting on the phone with my friends really helps. I have a weekly family Zoom with my Dad’s side of the family in Barbados. Connecting helps me to recharge.
What is one of your superpowers? Inspiring other people. Sometimes you’re feeling so one with what you’re doing and the person on the other end reflects that back to you.
Who do you stan? Who do you absolutely adore and look up to? Alexandra Elle. She is an author in the self-care space. She’s really focused on self-love and she’s got this incredible story about having a daughter as a teenager. Her words really helped me to look deeper.
What are 3 of your favorite things, people not included? First all the live DJ-ing since quarantine started. Second, I love new perspectives. I love to learn. I love when the way I see the world is challenged. Third, I love reading, especially about self-evolution. My favorite book is The Conscious Parent by Shefali Tsabary
Episode 218: Soul to Soul Session – The Worthy Wardrobe with Morgan Wider
Nov 25, 2020
One new type of episode that we are bringing to the Beyond the Business Suit Podcast this season is what I’m calling “Soul to Soul” sessions. Initially recorded exclusively for the Beyond Community, a virtual community where you learn to become the best version of yourself, these are fireside chats with some of my favorite people, soul sisters and inspirational women where we go beyond the surface and hear true soulful journeys.
In this session, I connect with author, speaker and wardrobe stylist, Morgan Wider, about her best-selling book, The Worthy Wardrobe. Together, we dive deep into her hopes and aspirations for what she wants the book to represent to others, the creation process and her personal journey through her own self-worth that inspired the book.
You can listen to previous Beyond the Business Suit conversations we’ve had with Morgan Wider below:
Episode 217: Feminine Leadership with Ekene Onu
Nov 19, 2020
Season 5 of the Beyond The Business Suit podcast is in full swing!
Do you know the difference between masculine and feminine leadership? Feminine Leadership Coach and Speaker, Ekene Onu, who also is a long-time guest of the Beyond the Business Suit Podcast, shares some of her powerful insights on what it truly means to lead with feminine energy and why it’s so important to our society.
Whether it’s using intuition, emotional intelligence, relationships and even spiritual guidance, feminine leadership is what we need to rise into connecting deeper within ourselves and discovering “soulful success!”
This episode of Beyond the Business Suit is a recording from a LinkedIn Live session we held a few weeks ago. During our session, Ekene mentioned her Iconic Womanhood Live conference which took place in early November. Though the event passed, I encourage you to check out all of the great things Ekene is doing at IconicWomanhood.com!
You can listen to previous Beyond the Business Suit conversations we’ve had with Ekene Onu:
“In order for feminine leadership to rise, we have to rise.”
“Masculine leadership is the way we have been taught to gain success.”
“It’s critical for the feminine leader to lead with compassion.”
“Who you are is maybe yet to be discovered.”
“Your purpose is always seeking you.”
Episode 216: Season 5 Premiere!
Nov 12, 2020
Welcome to a new season of the Beyond the Business Suit podcast!
In this season premiere, I’m encouraging you to take a look at the past year and embrace the journey of it all. For some, this year forced us to slow down and take a good look at ourselves, our goals, our dreams and what we need to work on in order to achieve them. For others, this year proved to be challenging and led us down deep paths of learning, growing and pivoting.
No matter what 2020 has taught you, it’s time to unearth all of these feelings, release the negative energies and look forward for what’s to come in 2021. My mission for this next season is to send you messages of positivity to keep you refining your purpose and dig deep into what you want your legacy to be. This season will include a mix of LinkedIn Live recordings (like this one) along with introducing a brand new virtual community where you can learn to become the best version of yourself, in order to become the best leader you desire to be.
So, sit back, relax and enjoy the ride that will be Season 5 of the Beyond the Business Suit podcast! And if there are topics you would like for us to explore this season, feel free to post them in the chat below.
QUOTABLES:
“What we fear, is what we feed.”
“We can’t control what happens out there around us, we can control how we respond to it.”
“There’s an ‘ow’ in the middle of growth.”
“We need to be focused on our self-care, centering practices, becoming more connected with other people”
“There’s a lot for us to be thankful for.”
Episode 215: We Have Three Big Announcements!
Oct 16, 2020
Today we are beyond thrilled to share some exciting news. Three big announcements in one day!
The Beyond Leadership Academy
Through our parent company, The Asbury Group, we are excited to extend the Beyond brand by launching the Beyond Leadership Academy. The first cohort of this academy is designed for high potential Black women and will kick off in January of 2021. Why Black women? Black women are represented at senior leadership at abysmal rates and often do not have the internal and external support necessary to not only elevate to the senior ranks, but thrive once they are there.
This six-month transformational leadership program is designed for Black female leaders to experience exponential growth and development.
Different than typical leadership development programs that specialize on general leadership skills, this program on the whole woman. The program’s journey is designed to help participants ascend and thrive, while improving their wellbeing, helping them hone their authenticity and maximizing on their power within.
Applications are open now and will be until November 15, 2020 at 11:59 pm EST. You can find more information on the Beyond Leadership Academy at https://www.groupasbury.com/beyond-leadership and you can also submit your application here.
Beyond Sisters Celebration
We made it to mid-October!!! 2020 was trying to take us down, but we made it! And I am so proud of us! There has been so much that we have not been happy about this year but there is so much to be thankful for and to celebrate. So let me ask you: when was the last time you celebrated?
Last week I realized that despite what has been happening in 2020, I have reached almost all of my 2020 goals AND I am booked until June 2021! But yet, I felt like, “ok, that’s good, but let’s focus on what needs to be done now!” But then, my friend Amber said, “Girl! Can we just celebrate for a moment? You are BOOKED until June!” Whew. I needed that. And it’s not just me. Over the past few weeks I’ve talked to several women in my tribe who have been caught between “keep it moving” mode and feeling guilty to feel joy because of all that’s happening in our world right now. But let me tell you: we DESERVE to celebrate! Celebration is sooooo good for our souls. So join me next Wednesday, October 21st from 7:30 – 9 pm ET/4:30 – 6 pm PT for a celebration on Zoom! Feel free to wear something fun, sip on some bubbly and put on your dancing shoes. We are going to have a DJ spinning some tunes and will also be celebrating some special women who have made 2020 their year. I will also be making a special announcement too! Register for our Beyond Sister’s Celebration at kaileicarr.com/beyondsisterssession. I would also love to celebrate YOU specifically! If there is something that you are celebrating and want to share, send me an email at kaileicarr[at]groupasbury.com with “what I’m celebrating” in the subject line and in the body, just one line on what you are celebrating. We will be making a slide show of those who have been submitted.
I look forward to celebrating with you!
Beyond Community
The last announcement I wanted to make is one that I also mentioned during the 30 Days of Inspiration series, and that is that we will be launching the Beyond Community in November 2020! The Beyond Community first launched as a component of the Beyond Signature Series as a way for us to stay connected in between sessions. What ended up happening is that the community took on a life of its own and now is a thriving community, so much so that we want to open it up for more women. There will be more to come on this in the coming weeks, but some of what you can look forward to are personal, professional and leadership development, small groups to connect with each other, office hours from me, coaching sessions from others and more! And community is important now more than ever. More to come…
Episode 214: How Will You Go Beyond? [Beyond Black Women – Day 30]
Sep 30, 2020
Episode Description: We’ve made it! It is the final day of the Beyond Black Women: 30 days of Inspiration Series. In Day 30 of the series, it’s nowtime to really go ‘beyond.’ As I reflect on the inspiration that led me to create this series to begin with, I’m also empowering you to stay uplifted, motivated and connected to the things that help you thrive. The final affirmation of our series is: Everything I seek, is seeking me too!
QUOTABLES:
“I was inspired to create this series because my black female clients needed more support than other clients.”
“You can’t think your way into personal growth and transformation – you have to feel your way through it.”
“Community is essential now more than ever.”
“These messages come from a different place than where we normally receive information.”
Episode 213: Be The Light [Beyond Black Women – Day 29]
Sep 28, 2020
We are almost at the end of our Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration Series! As we enter Day 29 of the series, let’s work on being the light in our own lives. This has been a trying year, and we still have more left to go. In this episode, I’m helping youremain in a high-vibe zoneso that you canovercome any negativity that comes your way. The affirmation for today is: I always choose light over darkness.
QUOTABLES:
“You have so much light within you to give.”
“Stay as much as possible in a high-vibe zone.”
“We have a long road ahead of us – let’s not be disappointed about it.”
“All that’s around us, wants to pull you into the noise.”
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Episode 212: Could You Be More Present? [Beyond Black Women – Day 28]
Sep 28, 2020
Welcome back to the Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration Series! In Day 28 of the series, I am empowering you to be more present in this moment in order to ignite your inner power! In this episode, we will explore how to be present at work and in our personal lives while remembering today’s affirmation: All of my attention is present in this moment.
QUOTABLES:
“When we can be present and in the moment, we are able to read the room, check in with ourselves and the people with whom we’re meeting with.”
“All that matters is this moment.”
“Yesterday is gone, tomorrow is not promised. There’s so much power in the now.”
“Presence in our personal lives means putting the phone down when we are engaging with our children and partners. It’s really listening beyond what our friends and family members say and listening for what they’re not saying.”
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Episode 211: Less Hustle, More Flow [Beyond Black Women – Day 27]
Sep 27, 2020
In Day 27 of the Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration Series, I am here to share with you that it’s okay for things to come easily to you. I am giving you the permission you may have never known you needed to reevaluate your idea of hustle and grind. Our affirmation for today is: I am constantly in flow of the current of my life.
QUOTABLES:
“We have been taught that if we work the hardest, we may achieve the most.”
“Hard work does pay off a lot of the time, but it is not the only way. It’s not even the best way.”
“I have learned that when something is too hard or I am pushing upstream, it is likely not for me.”
“When something comes easily for me, I don’t question it anymore.”
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Episode 210: There’s Enough For Everybody [Beyond Black Women – Day 26]
Sep 26, 2020
You’ve likely heard of the “crabs in a barrel” mentality. In Day 26 of the Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration Series, I’m challenging you to reimagine the idea that there is only so much abundance, success and room for advancement in this lifetime. Understand that you don’t have to choose to accept that perspective by remembering our affirmation for today: There is always more where that came from.
QUOTABLES:
“Many of us have been conditioned to think that there’s only so much for everybody.”
“We tend to assume that survival of the fittest is the name of the game and only someone at the top will achieve it.”
“You can have more than enough of anything that you need and you won’t have to take from other people to get it.”
“Reimagine some of the ideas you may be holding on to that may be keeping you from the abundance that is waiting for you.”
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Episode 209: Who Are You At Your Best? [Beyond Black Women – Day 25]
Sep 24, 2020
Welcome to Day 25 of the Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration Series! In today’s topic, we are embracing our inner power to embody the best versions of ourselves that we want to present to the world. I’m challenging you to ask yourself what your entire package looks like and what needs to change in order for you to achieve it. Today’s affirmation is: I show up as the best version of myself each day.
QUOTABLES:
“I have been guilty of showing up in a way inconsistently of who I am and how I want to be perceived.”
“In order for me to show up, I need to be intentional about how I show up.”
“All we have is right now!”
“If you want to elevate yourself higher or shift your life in some way, It’s important to embody that person today.”
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Episode 208: How To Start Your Day Off Right [Beyond Black Women – Day 24]
Sep 24, 2020
How do you start your day? In Day 24 of the Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration Series, I’m sharing the morning routine formula that helps me get in the right mind space for a positive and productive day. There’s so much power in visualizing your intentions each and every day. Today’s affirmation is: I live each day with an intention to be my best self and attract all that is good.
QUOTABLES:
“Over the years, I have learned how important it is to start off the day in the right headspace.”
“When I start my day off in a certain way, I am less likely to become flustered because of it.”
“Do something for yourself to get yourself in the right mindspace for the day, first thing in the morning.”
“Take a few minutes of meditation and elevate the energy and visualize your ideal outcomes for the day.”
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Episode 207: How Are You Showing Up? [Beyond Black Women – Day 23]
Sep 23, 2020
Did you know that what we wear is a reflection of what we think about ourselves? We are talking all things outer appearance on Day 23 of the Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration Series. In this episode, I’m encouraging you to show up as your best, even if you’re working from home! The affirmation for today is: I look great and I feel great.
QUOTABLES:
“What we wear is a reflection on what we think about ourselves.”
“Research shows that our wardrobe and overall appearance can be a powerful tool and can not only shape perceptions, but can impact our performance.”
“I want to challenge you that…just because you can, doesn’t mean that you should.”
“I start feeling better when I look better.”
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Episode 206: Are You Celebrating Yourself? [Beyond Black Women: Day 22]
Sep 22, 2020
We have made it to Day 22 of the Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration Series! It also happens to be the 6-year anniversary of the Beyond The Business Suit Podcast! As I reflect on everything this podcast is and has done for me, its guests and my audience, I want to give you permission to celebrate yourself! This episode is all about recognizing all of our accomplishments and allowing ourselves to admire where we are and what we have done. Today’s affirmation is: I celebrate my wins and honor my impact.
QUOTABLES:
“People look at you and wonder how you do it every day!”
“Instead of thinking about the things you have done, you likely think about the things you have NOT done.”
“I give you permission to celebrate.”
“I have opened myself up to be a vessel of the Divine.”
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Episode 205: Are You Giving Yourself Grace? [Beyond Black Women – Day 21]
Sep 21, 2020
Have you experienced feelings of anxiety, worry or loneliness lately with the weight of 2020 or feel like you may be dropping many of the balls in your life? In Day 21 of the Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration series, I am helping you explore if you are giving yourself enough grace along with feelings of disappointment that can arise when we try to appear as if we always have everything under control. Today’s affirmation is: Grace follows me wherever I go.
QUOTABLES:
“So much of our lives are surrounding us.”
“Girl, you are doing the best you can.”
“Many of us are so worried about what people would think if we didn’t have it all together all the time.”
“For many of us, we put on a facade that we have it all together; if we would allow ourselves to show some humanity, and give others the opportunity of giving us grace, we may be surprised at what we receive back.”
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Episode 204: Things Don’t Happen TO You, They Happen FOR You [Beyond Black Women – Day 20]
Sep 20, 2020
Day 20 of the Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration Series, let’s dive deep into turning our negative experiences into new possibilities. In this episode, I’m helping you to realize that you are not a victim in your negative experiences while we remember our daily affirmation: I am delighted when doors close because I know that bigger opportunities are coming my way.
QUOTABLES:
“This moment that we are in may just be the beginning for you.”
“When we allow ourselves to assume the victim role, we attract more negative energy and don’t open ourselves up to possibilities.”
“You don’t want to block a blessing.”
“Just because we are in a negative moment, doesn’t meant that you will be negatively impacted.”
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Episode 203: What Do You Need To Do That You’re Not Doing? [Beyond Black Women – Day 19]
Sep 19, 2020
Welcome to Day 19 of the Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration Series! Today’s topic is all about evaluating what you can do to make healthy changes to ensure that your mind, body and spirit are fed. Today’s affirmation is: I listen to my mind, body and soul and give it exactly what it needs.
QUOTABLES:
“Maybe someone is supposed to learn from my experiences.”
“What changes would you make If you found out today that you were going to leave this earth?”
“We are all going to leave this Earth.”
“I’m more motivated now more than ever to make changes.”
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Episode 202: Are You Playing Too Small? [Beyond Black Women – Day 18]
Sep 18, 2020
In Day 18 of the Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration Series, I want to ask you, “are you playing too small?” Often it is fear of success, not fear of failure, that keeps us playing small. In this episode we explore this and more. Today’s affirmation is: I courageously shine my light brighter and brighter and ignite other lights in the world.
QUOTABLES:
“Many times we are not afraid of failing. We are afraid of what happens if our light shines as bright as we know it can.”
“When we rise up to the destiny that is placed on our lives, as Marianne Williamson put it, it liberates others and gives them permission to do the same.”
“Your playing small does not serve ANYBODY. Your playing small does not allow you to fulfill what you are here on earth to do. And your playing small does not enable another young woman to see what is possible.”
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Episode 201: What Do You Need To SHED? [Beyond Black Women – Day 17]
Sep 17, 2020
In Day 17 of the Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration Series, it’s time to start SHEDding! In this episode, I reveal the acronym that I use for evaluating what you need to release in your life. I’ll tell you how to analyze what’s scaring you, hurting you, endangering your wellbeing or depleting your energy. I also share a visualization exercise to help you do just that. Today’s affirmation is: I release anything that does not serve me.
QUOTABLES:
“We think that fear and worry have a purpose and they do in the sense that they are trying to protect us, but they often hold us back from living our best, most incredible lives.”
“What in your life is causing you pain and discomfort?”
“Identify anything that is an energy suck in your life.”
“Maybe you need to change new habits to prevent the pain from continuing.”
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Episode 200: What Are You Consuming? [Beyond Black Women – Day 16]
Sep 15, 2020
What are you consuming that needs to be reevaluated? In Day 16 of the Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration Series, I am addressing how what you eat, drink, eat and think can affect your mental, emotional, physical and spiritual state. Let’s kick the bad habits together while remembering today’s affirmation: I consume what is nourishing to my mind, body and soul.
QUOTABLES:
“If you are what you consume, what is what you are consuming saying about who you are?”
“Many of us are raised on bad habits.”
“Each of us have different needs and triggers that need to be evaluated and mitigated.”
“Is what you’re taking in contributing to how you feel?”
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Episode 199: Whose Advice Are You Receiving? [Beyond Black Women – Day 15]
Sep 14, 2020
Our Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration Series is still heating up with Day 15! Today’s topic is inspired by a quote from Bishop T.D. Jakes, “when you are a giraffe and you receive criticism from turtles, they are only reporting the view from the level they are on.” I’m inspiring you to use your discernment to understand how to accept others and their criticism depending on what their vantage point is. The affirmation for today is:I attract those who can give me what I need when I need it.
QUOTABLES:
“If you need perspective from someone to help you advance in your life, think about if they have the perspective to help you.”
“Sometimes the people who are around us, are not able to give us what we need to soar because their vantage point is completely different than ours.”
“When we expect turtles to understand our experience as a giraffe, we may feel disappointed.”
“Accept everyone for where they are and be mindful of what we expect from them.”
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Episode 198: Finding Your Mentors [Beyond Black Women – Day 14]
Sep 14, 2020
Welcome to Day 14 of the Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration Series! In today’s topic, I’m challenging you to evaluate your “outer” circle and your opportunities for mentorship. What mentors do you have? What mentees do you have? Let’s analyze that as you reflect on our affirmation of the day: I am constantly investing in others and others are constantly investing in me.
QUOTABLES:
“Who can you identify with to build a mentor relationship with?”
“If you aren’t sharing your knowledge with other people, now is the time to do so.”
“Lift as you climb.”
“When you mentor others, it lets you see how much you know, how much you’ve learned and how much you’ve grown.”
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Episode 197: 2020 Is Not Cancelled: Nothing Can Get In The Way Of What Is Meant For You [Beyond Black Women – Day 13]
Sep 12, 2020
As we enter into Day 13 of our Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration Series, let’s stop the negative talk about 2020 and open up our hearts and minds to the possibilities it can bring us. In this episode, I’m encouraging you to look past the disappointment this year may have brought and remember our affirmation for the day: Anything that is meant for me will happen regardless of my circumstances.
QUOTABLES:
“The start of a new decade is meant to teach us.”
“Many of us have been going through mental, physical and emotional trauma over the last few months.”
“There is so much beauty and opportunity in this moment and still more in store for what’s to come.”
“I’m on track for everything I set out to do this year.”
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Episode 196: Do You Need To Refresh Your Tribe? [Beyond Black Women – Day 12]
Sep 11, 2020
Welcome to Day 12 in the Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration Series! Today’s topic was inspired by the Jim Rohn quote, “you are the average of the 5 people you spend the most time with.” I challenge you to evaluate the people in your life while embracing today’s affirmation: I surround myself with people who help me elevate, evolve and expand.
QUOTABLES:
“I’ve personally seen how influential it can be to be around people who are always elevating themselves.”
“What changes do you need to make in your tribe to help you become who you want to be?”
“Think about those people you spend the most time with on ZOOM calls, phone calls and text messages. Think about their personalities, their values, beliefs, income. Now divide by 5 and that’s you.”
“Spending significant time around people that don’t have the same philosophies, values, ambitions that we do may negatively impact us.
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Episode 195: Are You Recharging Your Energy Enough? [Beyond Black Women – Day 11]
Sep 10, 2020
Today is a new day to recharge your personal power! Day 11 of the Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration Series captures how to pause and recharge in order to thrive in your life. Our affirmation for today is: My energy stays fully charged so that I can get the most out of life.
QUOTABLES:
“I don’t want you to reach your breaking point in order to make a change.”
“Just like your personal power is unique to you, so is what recharges you.”
“Our ancestors didn’t have the luxury to rest.”
“Reflect on what those relaxation practices are that when you do them, you have the energy to keep on going.”
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Episode 194: What Legacy Do You Want To Leave? [Beyond Black Women – Day 10]
Sep 10, 2020
Welcome to Day 10 of the Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration Series! In this episode, I’m tapping into your legacy and sparking you to think about the impact you want to have in your lifetime. I challenge you to live in this moment and uncover the opportunities you have to truly make a difference. Today’s affirmation is: I live my life in alignment with the legacy I want to leave on this planet.
QUOTABLES:
“What impact do you want to have in your lifetime?”
“Not all of us are meant to impact millions of people. Some of us are meant to impact just one person.”
“Think about what impact you want to make in your life.”
“Think about what contribution you can make to make this world a better place or make someone’s life better.”
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Episode 193: What Are You Here To Learn? [Beyond Black Women – Day 9]
Sep 09, 2020
Welcome back to the Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration Series! In Day 9 of our series, I dive into the question “What Are You Here To Learn?” I help you explore how to understand what we learn throughout our lifetime in order to promote growth and expansion in our spirit. Today’s affirmation is: Every day provides me an opportunity to learn and grow and I learn from these lessons the first time.
QUOTABLES:
“I believe we are on this planet to learn, to grow, to give and to create.”
“Before we come into this lifetime, we decide what we will use this lifetime to learn and in what ways our spirit needs to grow and expand.”
“What things have you learned from your experiences already?”
“Each day we are on this earth is an opportunity to learn and grow.”
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Episode 192: Every Experience You’ve Had Is A Gift [Beyond Black Women – Day 8]
Sep 08, 2020
In Day 8 of our Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration Series, we’re talking all about your life experiences. From the toughest times in our lives to how they shape who we are, our experiences are our own with a purpose to mold us into who we are meant to be. The affirmation for today is: Every experience has a divine purpose for the greater good.
QUOTABLES:
“No one in this world has the same experience that you have.”
“There is no wasted experience.”
“There is good that can comes out of every experience.”
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Episode 191: How Do People See You? [Beyond Black Women – Day 7]
Sep 07, 2020
We’ve made it through our first full week of the Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration Series! In this episode, I share more effective ways to uncover your strengths. Our affirmation for today is: I use my strengths to serve others and I am appreciated for it.
QUOTABLES:
“What do other people come to you for the most?”
“How are you serving the world?”
“We are all here to serve in some way even if you don’t feel like you’re actively serving.”
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Episode 190: Rediscovering Your Strengths: Gifts & Skills [Beyond Black Women – Day 6]
Sep 06, 2020
Are you embodying your personal power? In Day 6 of the Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration Series I am telling you everything you need to know about rediscovering your strengths which is the first step in helping you develop. Understand more about your innate talents while remembering this affirmation of the day: My talents and skills have uniquely equipped me to contribute to this world!
QUOTABLES:
“Your purpose in life is to become the ‘youest’ you you can be.”
“It is no accident that you have the strengths that you have.”
“Your talents, gifts, and skills are all a part of your strength.”
“When we lean into the fullness and wholeness of who we are, the core of our being is essentially good because we’ve been made in the image of God.”
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Episode 189: Stop Shrinking: Unapologetically Shine In ALL Your Brilliance [Beyond Black Women – Day 5]
Sep 05, 2020
Have you ever felt imposter syndrome at work? Day 5 of the Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration Series is all about silencing our inner critics and recognizing our brilliance. This episode is all about reminding you of the divine purpose over your life and remember this affirmation: I am brilliant and meant to be in whatever room I’ve been divinely called to.
QUOTABLES:
“Get over yourself sis, it’s not about you!”
“When that little voice inside of us tells us we are not worthy, or we are not good enough, oftentimes we believe it.”
“Take a look inside yourself to understand who you are.”
“Shine your light bright!”
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Episode 188: What habits, cultural norms and “brules” aren’t serving you? [Beyond Black Women – Day 4]
Sep 04, 2020
Day 4 of the Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration Series is here and I’m diving into the concept of the habits and cultural norms we do that may not serve our greater good. Explore this topic with me and remember our affirmation for today: “I only take actions and make decisions that serve my greater good!“
QUOTABLES:
“So much of what we do is not because we want to do them or because they’re serving us, but it’s out of habit and we’ve always done them.”
“Pay attention to the things you do and the actions you take.”
“I’ve learned that with my family, I am very conscious about the decisions that are being made.”
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Episode 187: The Power of Gratitude [Beyond Black Women – Day 3]
Sep 02, 2020
In Day 3 of the Beyond Black Women Series: 30 Days of Inspiration, I take a hard look at gratitude and how it can affect us mentally, physically and emotionally while I extend my challenge of how we can keep the gratitude going from person to person!
QUOTABLES:
“The ability to be grateful is something to be grateful for.”
“Extend your gratitude to someone else.”
“Is there someone who has made an impact on your life in some way that you haven’t told? Tell them now!”
“The more we express gratitude, the easier it becomes.”
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Episode 186: Self-Care and Black Joy as an Act of Political Warfare [Beyond Black Women Series – Day 2]
Sep 02, 2020
Episode: 186: Self-Care and Black Joy as an Act of Political Warfare [Beyond Black Women Series – Day 2]
In Day 2 of the Beyond Black Women Series: 30 Days of Inspiration, I explore one of my favorite quotes by Audre Lorde:
“Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.”
During this episode, we explore self-care, joy and decolonizing the behavior of prioritizing work over rest.
What can you do to reclaim your power?
QUOTABLES:
“Give yourself permission to have joy.”
“There’s always today to start a new routine.”
“Liberate yourself!”
“There’s power in the intuition that we have. Our inner divine often tells us what our body needs.”
Episode 185: Excellence Is In Your DNA [Beyond Black Women Series – Day 1]
Sep 01, 2020
Welcome to the first episode of the Beyond Black Women Series: 30 Days of Inspiration! In this first episode, I explore who we are as it relates to our ancestry as I encourage our brilliance, tenacity and resilience.
QUOTABLES:
“How much did your ancestors have to go through in order for you to exist today?”
“As a descendant of slaves, you can’t NOT be resilient.”
“Some of us are the wildest dreams of our ancestors.”
“Remember that you are brilliant. You are excellent.”
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Episode 184: Announcing Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspo Series
Aug 31, 2020
In this episode of Beyond the Business Suit, we’re announcing a new series we’re hosting during the month of September called Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspo.
Here’s some background: If you remember back to Episode 177: A Call for Black Women in Leadership that released in June of 2020, I shared that I have been feeling a particular call to Black American women in this season and also that it does not mean that I am only focusing on Black women through my practice or that I am not thinking about or caring about my clients, listeners or audience who are not Black women. Instead, I’m prioritizing them in this season because I do see the collective trauma they are experiencing right now and the heightened need they have for support, care and community, now more than ever.
So for the month of September I am going to release daily inspiration especially for my Black American sisters who may need a boost right now. Here’s more on the series here.
And though these messages will be delivered with Black women in mind, the content of the message is universal. If you have enjoyed Beyond the Business Suit, there is obviously something in you that has called you to elevate, to live and lead with more intention. And over the next month you will hear daily messages here on the podcast to help you do just that.
So tomorrow, September 1st, look out for day 1 of the Beyond Black Women: 30 Days of Inspiration series. If you’d like to sign up to receive it into your inbox you can sign up at:
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And make sure you share this with any of your friends who need some extra inspiration too!
Episode 183: Staying Grounded In Life and Career with Monique Shields
Aug 29, 2020
Episode 183: Staying Grounded In Life and Career with Monique Shields [A LinkedIn Live Event]
While the global pandemic has been a challenge to navigate, we have learned to adjust to a new way of life and mindset. This episode features the talented Monique Shields who is a Women’s Executive Coach and Founder of Seven Pines Leadership.
Together, Monique and I have a heart-centered conversation centered around how to balance life, career, motherhood, and leadership as women. We touch on taking risks, prioritizing our greatest needs and the stigmas relating to asking for help as a woman of color. We even dive into how the pandemic could be an opportunity for re-engineering our lives and Monique even shares her spirited journey through creating a well respected and fulfilling career for herself and guiding other women to do the same.
MONIQUE’S BIO:
I help ambitious women leaders move through fear and distraction to clarify, communicate and act on their unique definition of success without compromising what matters most. My truth is that I NEVER saw this life shift coming. I started my career as a lost young English major in New York City. In the wake of 2008, I gratefully found myself in an “I have no idea what she does for work” back-office job at an investment bank where I remained for six years feeling completely disconnected.
I was in hiding. I was hiding in the superficial concerns of this vague notion of an “everyone” for whom I needed to “make sense” so that I could become “successful.” And it was such an unnecessary and fruitless burden to carry.
When my husband and I moved to California, I decided it was my chance to start giving my “improbable” career ponderings a chance to breathe. With very little time and lots of faith and intention, I dreamt up and materialized (I have the journal entries to prove it) my ideal team and role. There was no job posting or recruiting process to step into. I moved with expectation, I spoke with expectation and it’s because I’d spent time with my vision and my strengths… not everyone else’s opinions.
I was employee number seven at our mental health tech startup and I quickly became the Director of Coaching and then Director of Partnerships. The exponential growth I experienced through the intensity of helping to build and grow a company – alongside becoming a mother and feeling the imperative to own my time – propelled me into now being at the helm of my own business.
Today, I get to spend each day having powerful conversations with powerful women – and earn a great living doing it. I have to pinch myself.
QUOTABLES:
“There’s a way to step into yourself and your career.”
“You’re not supposed to have it all.”
“We assign ourselves things that we don’t have to.”
“Design it and make it SO!”
“Our dependency for not asking for help comes from a place of ‘I don’t deserve to receive.’”
If you could have brunch with 3 people, dead or alive:Madame CJ Walker, Josephine Baker and Issa Rae
If I asked 10 people to describe you using:Calming, quirky, transparent and likes to laugh and connected.
We are all “weird” in certain ways. What is something that makes you weird? I want to go deep with people really fast.
What is one experience that has shaped who you are? Becoming a mother, especially the first year of motherhood. It has been the greatest catalyst of courage in my life.
Episode 182: Having a Money Mindset with Mary Grate-Pyos
Aug 15, 2020
Finances is one area that I think we can always use some guidance in and I have the perfect person to guide the conversation. In this episode of the Beyond the Business Suit podcast, I’m happy to have Author, Financial Advisor and Certified Family Business Specialist, Mary Grate-Pyos discuss how to maintain a money mindset while we build wealth and manage our finances.
While Mary is skilled in being a financial partner, she specializes in putting strategies in place in order for others to reach their financial goals. During our talk, we dive deep into having an accountability mindset, tips for assigning our money, and how our childhood perspectives with money shape our adult mindset for our finances. She also shares her 5 D’s for how to spend money.
MARY’S BIO:
Mary Grate-Pyos, Chief PearlPreneur of My Pearl Power, is committed to encouraging, empowering and educating others to live positively; believe in possibilities; and achieve prosperity in life.
She is the author of Wealthy Woman – Wise Choices and is featured as a Financial Expert on a Syndicated Radio Show, Serving Up Soul with Dorinda Clark. She is the former Personal Finance Columnist for the Capital Spotlight Newspaper, Washington, DC.
Calling herself a ‘Geek in Pearls,’ she graduated with a Master’s in Business Administration from Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York, and a Bachelor’s of Arts Degree in Mathematics from Newberry College, Newberry, South Carolina.
Her writing has appeared in countless publications including, Financial Woman Today Magazine; Today’s Christian Woman Magazine; Ebony Magazine; Milwaukee Times Newspaper; Coalition of Black Investor’s Newsletter; and Christianity Today website.
QUOTABLES:
“Is your finances built for crisis or a life of peace?”
“Every dollar you gain should have an assignment. What assignment have you given your money?”
“Don’t dream so small about where you are financially.”
“You can’t have a landlord and a Land Rover.”
“The things you say to yourself is what’s going to move you forward.”
THE FINAL FIVE:
What was your first job? “In sales at a beachwear store in Myrtle Beach, SC. In high school, I also drove school buses at the age of 16 and also worked another job at a restaurant .”
What is one quote that has impacted you or that you live by? “‘Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm’ by Ralph Waldo Emerson. I also refer to a ton of Bible verses. My favorite is Ephesians 3:20.”
If you could have brunch with 3 people, dead or alive, who would you select? “First it would be Bozoma Saint John, [formally] the CMO of Endeavor. She is fierce! Second would be Bishop TD Jakes and his wife. So much wisdom! Third would be, Mark Cuban. He is smart and a risk-taker who has a great entrepreneurial spirit.”
What is one of your superpowers? “A combination of praying and fasting. I’m in my zone and I’m so optimistic when I’ve gone before God praying and fasting. I put the prayer out there and then I fast.”
We are all weird in certain ways. What is something that makes you weird? “I won’t go without wearing pearls. It doesn’t matter if I have on workout clothes or something just casual. It’s the first thing I put on and the last thing I take off every day. I’m known for that. Even if I don’t have makeup on, I have my pearls on.”
Episode 181: One Pitfall Preventing Many People of Color from Leadership
Jul 24, 2020
Episode 181:One Pitfall Preventing Many People of Color from Leadership [A LinkedIn Live Event]
This is a call to all of my people of color in leadership! Earlier this month, I hosted a LinkedIn Live session for all of my people of color in, or aspiring to be in, leadership. In this episode, I share my number one pitfall for all people of color to consider when they may not be right where they want to be professionally. From human connectivity to my personal journey through corporate management, tune in to hear just what you need to know about leadership and relationship building in order to get to your next step in your career.
QUOTABLES:
“People assume that we [all] don’t have a lot in common.”
“If we are only talking about the work, we don’t have the ability to connect human to human.”
“We tend to advocate for people we have a connection with.”
“Trustworthiness is communicated through warmth, while competence is communicated through confidence.”
“People do business with people they like and have relationships with.”
If you don’t already subscribe to our mailing list, you can go to our homepage and scroll down to the bottom to subscribe.
Episode 180: The Reinvention: Job Searching & Interviewing for Marketers During COVID with Lizette Williams
Jul 10, 2020
Episode 180: The Reinvention: Job Searching & Interviewing for Marketers During COVID [A Fireside Chat with Lizette Williams]
I’m excited to share this session that was recorded back in May as a live virtual fireside chat featuring award-winning marketer, powerhouse, and my friend and b-school classmate, Lizette Williams.
In this episode, Lizette and I walk through the steps and resources needed to search and land a dream job despite the COVID-19 health pandemic. Lizette takes us through her journey of researching, interviewing and eventually landing her current position with social media giant, Facebook. If you’re currently in job search mode or think you may be soon this episode will leave you with the tools you need to position you for the job you want! Lizette proves that with preparation, relationship-building and by being intentional, job seekers don’t have to let the unprecedented times of 2020 stop them from getting the job they deserve!
LIZETTE’S BIO:
Lizette Williams is a leading marketing and advertising executive with expertise at driving the convergence of brands and culture. She has worked across Fortune 50 companies driving consumer-centric growth strategies focused on cultural relevancy. In 2019 she was named an Adweek “Innovator” and Chicago Business Journal “Woman of Influence.” She is one of the foremost-awarded marketing executives in the field and was also inducted into the American Advertising Federation Advertising Hall of Achievement, the premier industry recognition for leaders under 40 who are making a significant impact in the industry and their communities. She has been listed as Crain’s Chicago Business “40 under 40,” Advertising Age “Women to Watch,” and Black Enterprise “Top Women Executives in Advertising and Marketing.”
A respected thought leader and subject matter expert, Lizette is a sought-out speaker, lecturer, and advisor on marketing and culture. She has provided expertise as a keynote speaker and panelist at several premiere industry conferences, including SXSW, Advertising Week, Essence Fest, and multiple Association of National Advertisers conferences. She is frequently invited to keynote events at major companies to discuss cultural growth strategies including the Kraft Heinz Company, LinkedIn, and Ogilvy & Mather.
Lizette has worked in major marketing roles at McDonald’s, Kimberly-Clark Corporation and PepsiCo. She has consistently remained at the cutting-edge of driving innovative approaches that bring brand and culture together.
In May 2020, Lizette will be joining Facebook as the Global Head of Vertical Solutions Marketing where she will lead a global marketing team tasked with developing progressive marketing approaches to inspire and enable businesses in industries like eCommerce, Retail, Gaming, Travel, CPG, Tech/Telco, Entertainment, Auto and Government, Policy & Advocacy to maximize their potential on Facebook. This combination of platform and digital work will allow her to continue to drive cultural relevancy and impact on a broader scale.
Lizette’s love of all things “culture” comes from being a born-and-raised New Yorker (and proud “Afro-Latina.”) Currently based in Chicago, she serves on the Board of the Chicago Advertising Federation where she chairs the Diversity Thought Leadership Council. She has a passion for serving young people and women and as a result, has a countless number of mentees across the country. Lizette is also a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., a historically African American sorority, and serves in national board position. She spends her free time inspiring college students and has keynoted events at Northwestern University and Lincoln University as well as guest lectured classes at several other universities. Lastly, Lizette is a proud mother of two children who keep her filled with laughter and purpose.
Lizette received her MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. She received her BA in Economics/ Political Science through a joint program with Columbia University in New York City and the London School of Economics.
QUOTABLES:
“My life in centered around my 3 C’s: Christ, Culture and Community.”
“I studied for my interview the way I’d study for a college exam”
“You have to develop warmth and rapport with the interviewer while also showing your competency.”
“Oprah taught me, ‘you get in life what you have the courage to ask for.’”
“Don’t assume that you’ll get recognized for doing good work.”
Episode 179: Cultivating Passion and Leadership in Our Kids [A Podcast Panel]
Jul 02, 2020
Episode 179: Fueling Your Family For Global Impactwith Toria Frederick, Amanda Miller Littlejohn & Nicole Thompson
Nurturing your children’s passions and natural gifting may just result in the family business you never knew you’d have. This is the story for Toria Frederick, Amanda Miller Littlejohn and Nicole Thompson; all successful leading ladies in their careers and rockstar mothers in their households.
Get to know these ladies, their stories and the journeys they each have taken as mothers to inspire their children for greatness, which has allowed them to create new endeavors for their families. These ladies not only know what it takes to be powerful leaders, but also have proven they know how to develop the new generation of leaders coming from their families.
And let me tell you, as a mother of a four-year-old, I was all ears!
Quotables
“All kids want to experience a sense of accomplishment.” – Toria Frederick
“It’s important to be open to your child’s gift not being the same as yours.” – Amanda Miller Littlejohn
“The greater the gift, the greater the call to inspire other people.” – Nicole Thompson
“Every parent sees something special in their children.” – Kailei Carr
How you can connect with Toria, Amanda and Nicole:
Coming Soon: We Are Not Threats Campaign (Launching July 9, 2020) – Challenging businesses to stand with the Black community beyond this moment by amplifying the real human stories of the Black experience in America.
Here’s the video version of the episode:
Episode 178: Leilani Raglin | Standing Up For What You Believe
Jun 18, 2020
Passionate about empowering women of color leaders, Leilani Raglin is a leadership coach, people strategist, and Founder of the EmpowerWOC Project who believes in advocating for positive change in our community.
In this episode, Leilani discusses with me her journey from accounting to teaching leaders how to lead while empowering women of color. Leilani is a true representation of being unapologetically dedicated to impacting the entire world, not just stopping at healing her friends and family. We recorded this back in March and though so much has transpired since then, this discussion is more relevant than ever. Leilani’s hard work and dedication prove that by combining healing and passion, true leadership emerges.
LEILANI’S BIO:
Leilani is a social entrepreneur with a robust background in business, leadership, organizational development, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). A seasoned professional speaker, facilitator, writer, leadership coach, and people strategist, Leilani works diligently to facilitate understanding and healing across racial lines. She specializes in growing radically authentic, empowered, and equity-minded organizations, leaders, parents, and families, while creating intentional, positive change in the community.
Leilani has a robust business and leadership background, having designed and deployed several enterprise-wide leadership development programs for a Fortune 50 company, with a focus on authenticity, DEI, and mindful leadership. She has years of experience as an emotional intelligence instructor and coach, partnering with Dr. Bill Weis of Seattle University to facilitate the MBA course domestically and abroad. Leilani is an expert on the mixed race experience, supporting parents and communities in understanding how to engage mixed race children thoughtfully in order to promote healing and self-acceptance.
Leilani has worked with a number of corporations, non-profits, schools, and organizations to advance various social and racial justice causes. A brilliant strategist, innovative visionary, and daring activist, Leilani regularly challenges systems of authority and oppression for more equitable outcomes. She describes herself as someone who aims to bring light to even the darkest of spaces.
QUOTABLES
“It’s part of our culture as people of color to have a stable job around a priority rather than what actually fuels you.”
“I want to have a positive impact on the world.”
“Noticing unfairness is something that I was trained to do.”
“I’m really good at celebrating myself.”
“If I see a vision and I feel strongly about it, I will create it.”
THE FINAL FIVE:
What are some of the things you do to recharge your energy? “Mindfulness first and foremost and belong on solitude. Journaling, writing, hanging out with my dog and my family and yoga.”
What is one quote that has impacted you or that you live by? “From the movie Vanilla Sky, Penelope Cruz says “Every passing moment is a chance to turn it all around.” I love that notion of ‘we have the power’ ‘we are so powerful’ Every single moment of our day is a choice and that’s the way that I live my life.”
What do you think makes someone a good leader? “Some of the best leaders that I’ve had see me as a human that may or may not be similar to them. They see me as an individual with individual needs and individual motivations. The best leaders I’ve had have gotten a chance to get to know those needs and have helped me be seen, especially as a woman of color. It’s easy for us to assume that all women of color are the same and want the same things and it’s just not true.”
What are some of the things that when you do them, you feel most like yourself? “The one thing that comes to mind is rolling around on the floor playing with my son. I think that I have this child-like spirit and it’s not anything that I’ve really been in touch with growing up because I had to take care of my siblings, so i had to grow up really quickly. Being on the floor playing with my son is my ability to go and be a kid. So he enriches my life so much in that way.”
We are all weird in certain ways. What is something that makes you weird? “Something that most people find weird is that I feel most at home when I’m eating with my hands. It’s a cultural thing. It’s a comf thing. Philipinos don;t use chopsticks, we use our hands. It’s almost physically impossible for me to eat it with a knife and fork.”
Episode 177: A Call for Black Women in Leadership
Jun 09, 2020
I felt compelled to record this episode of Beyond the Business Suit to discuss where we are in the world, especially in the United States, given what has been going on with not only the pandemic, but also the awful deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery. Over the past week or so I have experienced a range of emotions including exhaustion, sadness, anger and this week even hope.
Though I have a very diverse set of clients, the majority of my clients are Black American women and they have been experiencing a lot of hurt and pain right now. And though I will continue to serve a diverse set of clients, I know that right now, in this moment, I’m being called to give some special attention to Black female leaders.
In this episode, I’m explaining why as well as encouraging any woman who is listening who needs to be a part of the Beyond Signature Series, to join us. Though I talked about being “healed and whole” in this episode, it’s likely that some of us may never reach complete healing or a feeling of wholeness. However, what I do believe is that we can repair. We can restore. And we can mend. And that’s what I hope the Beyond Signature Series will do for all who are a part of it.
I’m keeping the registration doors open until June 12th. I hope you’ll join us.
Episode 176: Kimberly Cummings | Manifesting a Life and Career You Love
May 22, 2020
If you’re looking to shatter glass ceilings in both your life and career, Kimberly Cummings is a powerhouse that can help you do it! As a Career Leadership Speaker and Coach, Kimberly uses her experience as a career development advisor to empower others to take control over their lives and push forward towards success.
Kimberly discusses with me the importance of goal management and intention setting to build a career that you can be proud of. From navigating through a career transition, to negotiating a salary you feel you deserve, Kimberly shares her professional perspective on building necessary relationships to foster a powerful network.
KIMBERLY’S BIO:
Kimberly B. Cummings is a career + leadership professional whose mission is to help women and people of color navigate the workplace, make more money and become industry leaders. Her personal and professional development company, Manifest Yourself, LLC, provides in-person and virtual workshops, training, and consulting to organizations looking to empower and educate their workforce. Through her experience as a career development adviser in some of the nation’s top universities and diversity + inclusion professional in a Fortune 500 company, she has learned that there is so much more to career + leadership development besides having a high paying job; it’s about creating actionable strategies that enable professionals to do more, be more, and achieve more.
Kimberly has had the opportunity to speak to and create workshops for many organizations, including the New Jersey Conference for Women, Ellevate Network, Urban League, Princeton University, Salesforce and National Sales Network, among others. Her work has been featured on Forbes, Blavity, MONEY Magazine, TeenVogue, Glassdoor, Fox 5, and more. She is also on the Board of Directors for The Power of You Teens organization.
Kimberly is a graduate of Long Island University and received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Master of Science in Counseling.
QUOTABLES
“I need to create a plan for me to thrive!”
“I’ve created a career that creates opportunities for itself.”
“When you start to make progress in one area, you start to steamroll progress in others.”
“People forget about being intentional.”
“What is your thing that can make an impact? Make it specific and measurable.”
THE FINAL FIVE:
What is one quote that you live by or are inspired by? “You must believe in yourself and your vision. When you do this, you manifest the life that you desire.”
What is one book that has impacted your life? It was a devotional called, “The Prayer of Jabez.” It was about expanding your territory for the year; consistently prayer over expanding my business and my personal life. I read that one at least 6 times last year.
What is something that you put on to feel most powerful? I purchased this robe from a resort in Mexico that I love! When I put that robe on [at home] it just helps everything. I start my day in that robe.
This is a scenario: You have a free day to do whatever you want for 24 hours. What would you do? Normally I’d go to the spa. I would get up a little later than usual, no alarm clock, and be able to arise when I was ready. I would take the hottest shower known to man. I would grab breakfast at Buttermilk Channel in Brooklyn, which is one of my favorite little spots. And then I would head to a day spa and do a half day special. I’d then take myself out to dinner at Seasons 52, it’s one of the places that has a seasonal, all organic menu. Then, I may end up taking myself to a movie.
We’re all weird in certain ways. What is something that makes you weird? Years ago when I started public speaking, I was so self-conscious. Someone told me to embrace my quirks. It was the biggest thing that someone had told me because people will like you because of your quirks. I tell really bad jokes. I’ve gotten a little better, but my jokes are fairly bad and I end up sitting on the floor laughing at my own jokes. That probably makes me a little weird. I also notice in videos, I only talk out of one side of my mouth.
Episode 175: Announcing the Beyond Signature Series
May 15, 2020
In this episode of Beyond the Business Suit we are thrilled to announce the Beyond Signature Series, a soulful leadership experience designed to equip and restore a global community of women during and beyond this moment. While COVID-19 may have impacted our ability to meet together in person for the Beyond the Business Suit Retreat, it can’t stop our commitment to transformation and personal development, especially in moments that matter most.
So what is it? The Beyond Signature Series is a three-month virtual experience dedicated to serving a global community of high achieving women. This part leadership program, part retreat, part sisters circle will meet during seven Soulful Saturday Sessions beginning May 30 and ending August 22.
What is clear is that this is a moment full of potential for us to learn, grow, connect and thrive not only as leaders, but also as women. You can find out more about the Beyond Signature Series at beyondthebusinesssuit.com/signature
We are also excited to welcome Delta Air Lines as our Title Sponsor for the Beyond Signature Series. Thank you, Delta Air Lines for your continued support!
Episode 174: Taking Care Of Our Mental Health During This Moment with Dr. Reisha Moxley
May 06, 2020
For the past few episodes, I have been sharing some Beyond the Business Suit Conversations that were recorded live on Zoom with some of our Beyond the Business Suit audience March 16-20, 2020, which was the first full week that the majority of the people in the United States were working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic. What was placed heavily on my heart was to invite several people to give us support, insight and perspective during this time. Wherever you are in the world, I hope this perspective is comforting and helpful for you. You can find the full list of episodes here.
In this conversation, I spoke with Dr. Reisha Moxley, Behavioral Psychologist and Asst. Professor of Clinical Medicine & Rehabilitation at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Though we certainly explored how to maintain mental health during this time of self quarantine and global pandemic, Dr. Moxley also spoke to our souls and gave us so many wise insights into how to use this time we are in wisely.
Episode 173: Practices for Staying Well and Building Resiliency with Radiah Rhodes and Marla Teyolia [BTBS Conversations]
Apr 29, 2020
Episode 173: Practices For Staying Well and Building Resiliency with Radiah Rhodes and Marla Teyolia
For the next few episodes, I am sharing some Beyond the Business Suit Conversations that were recorded live on Zoom with some of our Beyond the Business Suit audience March 16-20, 2020, which was the first full week that the majority of the people in the United States were working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic. What was placed heavily on my heart was to invite several people to give us support, insight and perspective during this time. Wherever you are in the world, I hope this perspective is comforting and helpful for you.
In this conversation, we discussed how to build resiliency using meditation and breathing exercises and manage our intentions using the intention scale with Well Being Activist and Visionary, Radiah Rhodes, and Holistic Executive Coach, Marla Teyolia.
You can watch the full video of this conversation here:
Episode 172: Staying in Alignment with Our Highest Selves with Rod White and Patrice Ford Lyn
Apr 14, 2020
For the next few episodes, I am sharing some Beyond the Business Suit Conversations that were recorded live on Zoom with some of our Beyond the Business Suit audience March 16-20, 2020, which was the first full week that the majority of the people in the United States were working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic. What was placed heavily on my heart was to invite several people to give us support, insight and perspective during this time. Wherever you are in the world, I hope this perspective is comforting and helpful for you.
In this conversation, we talked about how we can manage our energy and stay in alignment with our highest selves with Executive Life Coach, Patrice Ford Lyn, and Energetic Healer, Rodney White.
You can watch the full video of this conversation here:
Episode 171: Taking Care of Your Body During the Pandemic with Agatha Achindu and Dr. Naeema Olatunji [BTBS Conversations]
Apr 07, 2020
For the next few episodes, I am sharing some Beyond the Business Suit Conversations that were recorded live on Zoom with some of our Beyond the Business Suit audience March 16-20, 2020, which was the first full week that the majority of the people in the United States were working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic. What was placed heavily on my heart was to invite several people to give us support, insight and perspective during this time. Wherever you are in the world, I hope this perspective is comforting and helpful for you.
In this conversation, we talked about how we can take care of our bodies (and our families’ bodies) during this time. I invited Certified Integrative Nutritionist and Founder of Yummy Spoonfuls, Agatha Achindu and Chiropractor and Owner of Elevate Family Chiropractic, Dr. Naeema Olatunji. This is such an important conversation that you will want to share with your families and friends.
During the conversation we talked about tactical things you can do to boost your immune system and keep your body healthy now more than ever. We discussed why you should think twice about drinking milk, using hand sanitizer and eating meat during this time (and please listen for more context). We also talked about what Agatha and her family eat to avoid getting sick, and what Dr. Naeema and her children take daily to protect their bodies.
Episode 170: BTBS Conversations | Léonce Crump, Sr. Pastor of Renovation Church
Apr 03, 2020
For the next five episodes, I am sharing some Beyond the Business Suit Conversations that were recorded live on Zoom with some of our Beyond the Business Suit audience March 16-20, 2020, which was the first full week that the majority of the people in the United States were working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic. What was placed heavily on my heart was to invite several people to give us support, insight and perspective during this time. Wherever you are in the world, I hope this perspective is comforting and helpful for you.
This first episode is with Pastor Léonce Crump, Senior Pastor at my home church, Renovation Church which is located in the Atlanta Metropolitan Area. Pastor Léonce spoke to us about faith, leading through a crisis like this and why African-Americans specifically should be leading the way in how to respond to this pandemic.
Quotables
“There is nothing more resilient than the African-American soul. And so for us…to be panicked right now? We have generations of ancestors that have prepared us for this very moment with both the resilience of the African American spirit and the power of the ever present God.”
Renovation Church is streaming live on Sundays at 9:30 am and 11:15 am ET. You can learn more about Renovation Church here (and you can find a list of sermons here).
Follow Pastor Léonce Crump on Instagram: @leoncecrump
Watch the video of our Beyond the Business Suit Conversation here:
Episode 169: Update & What You Can Do to Be Kind to Yourself in this Moment
Mar 28, 2020
It has been a while since I recorded an episode of Beyond the Business Suit because, like so many of you around the world, the rise of this global pandemic we are experiencing with COVID-19 has taken quite a toll on so many of us.
In this episode, I am sharing an update on the Beyond the Business Suit Retreat and how we had to make the tough decision to postpone it until conditions are safer, what this moment has given me as well as what we can all do to not see this moment as one that is taking things away from us, but rather the gifts that this moment is giving to us.
Here are 5 things you can do to be kind to yourself in this moment:
Give yourself grace
Be mindful of the media you’re consuming
Listen to yourself
Rediscover the things that bring you joy
Reconnect with others (virtually)
Over the next five episodes I’m sharing 5 Beyond the Business Suit Conversations that were recorded live over Zoom March 16-20, the first week that the majority of the United States was working from home and starting to adjust to this new normal. You will be able to come back to beyondthebusinesssuit.com to watch the videos of most of those sessions as well.
If you don’t already subscribe to our mailing list, you can go to our homepage and scroll down to the bottom to subscribe.
What are some of the things you are doing to take care of yourself during this time?
Episode 168: Shellye Archambeau on Being Unapologetically Ambitious
Mar 11, 2020
Measured. Strategic. Bold. Visionary. Trailblazer. Planner. Shellye Archambeau is all of those things and more. In this episode of Beyond the Business Suit we are featuring corporate board member, former CEO and author, Shellye Archambeau. This episode is jam-packed with insights, inspiration and practical advice. Get your notebook out and get ready to take lots of notes!
Some of what makes Shellye so impressive: She was the first African American woman IBM sent on an executive assignment overseas to President of Blockbuster.com to the CEO responsible of the turnaround of MetricStream, she’s currently serving on boards including Nordstrom and Verizon and she has proven time and time again that she is unapologetically ambitious (which is also the name of her new book!). In this episode Shellye shares some of her backstory including her upbringing and how she decided back in high school that she wanted to be a CEO.
Shellye’s Bio
SHELLYE
ARCHAMBEAU is one of high tech’s first female African American CEOs. Formerly
an executive at IBM and CEO of Blockbuster.com, Archambeau was recruited to be
the CEO of a then-struggling Silicon Valley startup, which is now MetricStream,
a recognized global leader in governance, risk, and compliance software
solutions based in Palo Alto, California. She is credited with being
responsible for its turnaround which has been referred to as “the most stunning
Silicon Valley turnaround you’ve never heard of,” by Reid Hoffman.
She currently serves on the Boards of
Verizon, Nordstrom [NYSE: JWN], Roper Technologies, Okta Inc and the Silicon
Valley Leadership Group, a public policy organization. She is also an Advisor
to RBC Capital Markets. She has held executive positions for numerous companies
including IBM, Blockbuster and Loudcloud. She has been featured frequently in
Forbes, the New York Times, Business Insider, Wall Street Journal, Fortune and
more.
Her life told in stories amplified with inherent lessons – Unapologetically Ambitious: Take Risks, Break Barriers, and Create Success on Your Own Terms will be available in hardcover, ebook, and audiobook on October 6, 2020 and is available now for pre-order on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2uHpM5C and Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/2whz6gI
Quotables
“It’s important to make home wherever the pillow is.” “I’m a big believer that homework does not stop at school.” “I think the best first job for anyone is in sales.” “When somebody tells you ‘no,’ it doesn’t mean no forever. No typically just means not now.” “You can become a leader long before you become a manager.”
~Shellye Archambeau
The Final Five
What was your first job? Cleaning stalls in a horse barn
What is one book that has impacted your life? Trillion Dollar Coach by Bill Campbell
What are three of your favorite things? I love performing arts, I like to entertain and I enjoy spending time with family (especially grandkids)
What are some of the things you do that when you do them, you feel most yourself? I am in my element when I am planning things!
What is one experience that has shaped who you are? Paraphrased: When I was at IBM, I was asked who I wanted my mentor to be. The person I askedtold me “Shellye, you’ve got me, so go ask someone else!” That taught me that I could have more than one and I’ve had a bunch of mentors in my career.
Episode 167: Patrice Ford Lyn Helps Us Get Back into Alignment with Ourselves
Feb 25, 2020
In this episode of Beyond the Business Suit I’m interviewing Patrice Ford Lyn. She is an Executive Life Coach and leads Catapult Life Coaching and Consulting. She is truly one of the best people I know in terms of lovingly helping people get back into alignment with themselves. I am honored that she will be one of the Executive Coaches joining us at the Beyond the Business Suit Retreat taking place April 17-19 in Scottsdale, AZ. You can learn more about the Beyond the Business Suit Retreat at http://beyondthebusinesssuit.com/retreat.
Patrice’s Bio
Patrice Ford Lyn transforms her clients’ understanding of what’s possible. By empowering them to free themselves of mediocrity and dissatisfaction, she supports them in stepping into their greatness.
Her
clients are CEOs, executives, entrepreneurs, and other coaches. With a depth of
experience and passion for helping people thrive, she facilitates her clients’
journeys to transformational outcomes.
Since receiving an undergraduate degree in sociology from Yale University and a graduate degree in nonprofit management from the Kennedy School at Harvard University, she has guided the startup of three national-level organizations. For decades, she has worked with leaders in national corporations, nonprofits, federal agencies, and international development multilaterals to build their organizations while supporting them through their own personal growth. As such, she is a thought partner on both personal and organizational challenges.
Whether it is working with
a leadership team
or coaching an individual, Patrice
thrives at facilitating
strategic conversations that lead clients to important insights, needed
interventions and meaningful action.
Quotables
“When we are in alignment, the things that show up for us, show up for us and we see them for what they are. When we are out of alignment, we’re fuzzy.”
“When you let people shine in their zone of genius, it’s better for the organization and it’s better for them.”
The Final Five
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? At first I wanted to be an educator…but I didn’t have the vision or the imagination of what that could be. Then in college, I read Savage Inequalities and thought I could help others be their best lives in a way that doesn’t look like formal education. What are some of the things you do to take care of yourself? I’m a big fan of sleep. Resetting my body allows me to settle. I’m also very intentional about being in nature, especially by the ocean.
If you could have lunch with three people, who would you pick? A part of me wants to say all of the prophets. I would love to sit down with Jesus…with Buddha…and just to make it a little more practical, I would love to sit down with Mandela.
What do you put on to feel most powerful? I feel most beautiful in a tank top and cut offs, barefoot at the beach. I also love garments that are flowing. When I was in corporate America, I have on a fly tailored suit with some heels. That is another sense of power.
How you can connect with Patrice online and on social media:
Episode 166: Dr. Kym Harris-Lee Helps Gives Us a M.O.R.E. Mindset
Feb 14, 2020
Today on the Beyond the Business Suit Podcast I’m excited to have executive coach and author, Dr Kym Harris-Lee. Dr. Kym is an Emotional Intelligence expert and a coach of leaders who I have had the pleasure of working with through the EMERGE Academy program at ITSMF. We had such a great conversation! If you are a leader or emerging leader and/or if you are a Black women in corporate America, there is a lot you will get out of this episode.
Dr. Kym’s Bio
Dr. Kym helps leaders take bold action to authentically achieve
more visibility, connectivity, influence, and success without compromise.
She is an expert at helping leaders deepen their understanding of
themselves and others and she awakens the courage of her clients to explore
uncharted possibilities.
Dr. Kym is a board-certified executive coach,
speaker and published author. Described as a “velvet hammer,” she
utilizes a strategic and intuitive approach to guide clients out of their
comfort zones in a way that minimizes discomfort and amplifies desired results.
Along with coaching individuals and corporate clients, Dr. Kym has also served
as a personal coach for the Kennesaw State University Coles Executive MBA and MBA
Programs.
Having enjoyed a career as an executive
focused on talent and leadership development, Dr. Kym has learned a lot about
what it takes to masterfully manage and negotiate a successful career. Her
lessons come from helping senior leaders identify and develop their high
potential talent; conversations with other leaders working to navigate
organizational cultures; and from her own personal experiences and missteps as
a leader and executive. What she has learned from all of this is that
competence is more than performance. Dr. Kym has used
her knowledge to develop the M.O.R.E.® Mindset coaching methodology, which
capitalizes on the individual uniqueness of her clients, while fine tuning the
way they show up and the experiences they create with every interaction.
Dr. Kym’s career in Human Resources and Talent
Development represents leadership and executive roles in higher education
(University of Miami and Emory University), and corporate organizations (The
Home Depot and Cox Enterprises). She holds a bachelor’s degree in
Psychology from Rutgers University, a master’s degree in Business
Administration from Nova Southeastern University, and a Doctorate degree in
Organizational Leadership from Argosy (pronounced R-GA-SEE) University.
Dr. Kym is originally from New Jersey and has
enjoyed life in Atlanta for twenty-seven years. She and her husband, Bernard,
split their time together between Atlanta and Montgomery, Alabama; and she is
the proud Auntie of four brilliant and beautiful nieces – Kalila, Zakiya, Sydni,
and Adeera.
Quotables
“Just because this is your standard doesn’t mean that is the standard.” “How do people experience you?”
“The more we know about others and the more they know about us, the more likely it is that we will find some common ground.”
“Don’t value other people’s experiences more than you value your own.”
The Final Five
1. When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? I always saw myself on a stage, as a speaker and someone really good at what they did. I’m doing what I saw myself doing. 2. What was your first job? I was a camp counselor at the YMCA. I got fired because I had a crush on one of my coworkers and my mother called my boss to tell my boss to fire me. 3. What do you think makes someone a good leader? Fundamentally, being human and being accepting. From a leadership perspective it’s ok to show your flaws and to speak to your vulnerabilities, but do it in a way that teaches others. 4. What are some of the things you do to keep your skills sharp? I always say, “don’t trust a coach that doesn’t have a coach.” I have a coach, I listen to a lot of YouTube videos and other people who are doing what I do with a different perspective and surround myself with boss women. I am always looking for ways to be better. 5. If I asked 10 people to describe you using 3 adjectives, what do you think they would say: Calm, bold and authentic.
Episode 165: Connecting the Dots of Who You Are with Energy Leadership Coach Carla Ogunrinde
Feb 10, 2020
Today I had the chance to have a conversation with one of my favorite coaches and people in the world — Carla Ogunrinde. Carla is a Certified Professional Coach, a Master Practitioner in Energy Leadership, a former IT executive and a beautiful soul. She is masterful in connecting with people and helping them understand and access the power their energy holds for them. I am excited to share that Carla will be one of our Executive Coaches joining us at the Beyond the Business Suit Retreat taking place April 17-19, 2020 in Scottsdale, AZ!
In this conversation we talked about how Carla got into this work, how she has always been a coach even when she didn’t have the “coach” title, the importance of our stories, why understanding energy can make an impact in our lives and more.
About Carla
As a Certified Professional Coach, I specialize in Leadership and Life
Coaching. After a successful career as a corporate executive, I created Intend
Coaching & Consulting, LLC. with a mission to help people discover what
they really, really want and then articulate their intention to make it happen.
As a perpetual student of the human potential for growth and discovery, my purpose is fulfilled by helping others reveal theirs. The results are nurtured, empowered, and authentic leaders who live and lead consciously for the greatest impact.
Final Five
1. Where is your favorite place to vacation? Amsterdam
2.What do you think makes someone a good leader? The courage to share all aspects of themselves, the vision, of how to get it done. If you hoard it, you’re by yourself and being able to share yourself and know that it adds is so important. A person doesn’t follow an org chart or strategy, they follow a person.
3. What is one experience that has shaped who you are? Her oldest daughter was premature and Carla was quickly taken to a support group for grieving parents even though her daughter was alive. It was the first time that she declared that she was fine and she is going to be fine. That clarity of her voice was something she put her energy behind and 32 years later her daughter is still a beautiful person and spirit.
4. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? In her early 20s she would drop her g’s and say “aks” instead of “ask.” She worked at a high end hotel, hadn’t gone to college and one of the polished women pulled her aside and said “stop saying ‘aks,’ it’s ‘ask.'” Carla never forgot that. It stung, but she appreciated her honesty and advice.
Episode 164: Michelle Glover Talks about Fulfilling Your Purpose at Work
Jan 18, 2020
In the latest episode of Beyond the Business Suit, we are talking how you can fulfill your purpose at work with coach Michelle Glover. We had such a great conversation and dispelled the myth that you have to live out your purpose by becoming an entrepreneur or a noble profession like a non-profit. Michelle and I had so much fun and I’m sure you will be able to tell that from our conversation. Enjoy!
What We Covered in this Episode
Michelle talks about her journey to the work she does
We discuss some of the steps you can take to align your purpose in your career
Michelle clarifies that you don’t have to become an entrepreneur to fulfill your purpose
How Michelle helps her clients align their cultures and themselves to their purpose
The importance of discernment during this process
Quotes from the Episode
Michelle Glover’s Bio
Michelle Glover is a certified coach and owner of Journey Unlimited, LLC, a professional coaching firm based in Atlanta, GA. Michelle is a talented human resources executive with 15+ years’ experience in the field. An expert in helping her clients “find their purpose,” Michelle guides the self-discovery process, helps clients build mental resiliency, and develops a strategic roadmap for that delivers proven results.
Prior to starting her business, Michelle spent 12 years working for Siemens Corporation in various fields of human resources to include consulting, strategy, coaching, and leadership development. She received multiple awards for her leadership on company-wide initiatives, including serving as the Change Management Lead for one of the biggest restructures in company history. In 2015, she took a leap of faith and started her company, Journey Unlimited, with the goal of helping professionals align their purpose with the careers. She has devised her own Vision to Results coaching model which views clients holistically by addressing their personal and professional well-being for career visioning and advancement.
In addition to running her company, Michelle serves as the Chair for the Women’s League of Atlanta Black Chambers and serves in multiple organizations focused on developing people and the community: NCNW, Greater Atlanta; National Black MBA; and National Association of African Americans in HR (previous Board Member), to name a few. Michelle also enjoys volunteering at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.
Michelle graduated from Winthrop University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and received her Master of Human Resources from the Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina. She is a Certified Professional Life Coach through the Christian Coach Institute.
The Final 5 (or New Pick 5)
Here are five questions to get to know Michelle a little more:
1. What was your first job? Working at Bath and Body Works
2. What are some of the things you do to recharge your energy? Being around family and friends.
3. What is one quote you live by or you have been inspired by? The destiny of thousands is tied to the obedience of one”
4. If you could have brunch with three people, who would you choose? Michelle Obama, Oprah, my mom
5. What do you put on to feel the most powerful? Lipstick!
Watch the video of this interview with Kailei Carr and Michelle Glover:
Episode 163: Questions to Ask Yourself to Know if You Should Attend a Conference or Event
Jan 11, 2020
In this episode of the Beyond the Business Suit podcast, I am sharing with you details about the Beyond the Business Suit Retreat 2020 as well as sharing with you some of the questions to ask yourself to determine whether you should attend a conference or event.
Mentioned in the show:
Registration is now open for the Beyond the Business Suit Retreat 2020, which is taking place April 17-19, 2020 in Scottsdale, Arizona at The Boulders Resort & Spa. You can get over $200 off of full registration if you register by 2/14/20!
Some questions to ask yourself when thinking about attending a conference or event include:
What are the intentions of the people or organization putting on this event?
Is it likely to deliver on your “why?”
Is it aligned with your greater goals and intentions?
Will the other attendees enhance your experience?
Is what it intends to deliver commensurate with the pricing?
I hope this episode was valuable you. If you know someone who needs to hear it, please share!
Episode 162: How to Start the 2020s with Intention
Dec 31, 2019
Welcome to the last episode of Beyond the Business Suit for 2019! In this episode, we are covering three things you can do to bring in 2020 and the 2020s with intention. This is an episode you will want to take notes with, so get out your pen and paper, laptop or phone notes to capture your responses as you go through this episode. Your three steps to starting 2020 with intention:
1. Set your vision, goals, intentions and objectives
What are you doing differently to start the 2020s off on the right foot?
Episode 161: The Paradox of Success
Dec 19, 2019
Do you think that the harder you work in your job, the more successful you will be? Then this episode of the Beyond the Business Suit podcast is for you! In this episode, I unpack what I’m calling the “paradox of success” and revealing some of the “real deal” when it comes to success. I also let you in on a sneak peek into some of the people we will be hearing from this season.
What do you think about the Success Paradox? Have you had to learn this lesson the hard way?
Note: we are taking next week off of the podcast and will be back with a new episode on December 30, 2019!
Episode 160: Welcome to Season 4!
Dec 16, 2019
Welcome back to Season 4 of the Beyond the Business Suit Podcast! After a five month hiatus we are back! And in this episode I am sharing with you five things that I have been up to in the past five months as well as what you can look forward to in this new season of the show.
Are there any topics or people you would like to see on the Beyond the Business Suit Podcast? Please post them in the comments here!
Episode 159: Fear, the BTBS Retreat & Introducing the BMA
Jul 16, 2019
This episode of Beyond the Business Suit is the last episode of the season! And during the episode, I am covering three main things:
A recap of the Beyond the Business Suit Retreat
How I’ve been somewhat paralyzed by the success of the Beyond the Business Suit Retreat
I announced the Beyond Mastermind and Accelerator
I have to be honest with you. I almost didn’t post this episode. After recording it “off the cuff,” I sat with it a few days before posting. Then I started thinking, Maybe it’s too all over the place. Maybe it’s not structured enough. Maybe I’m being too vulnerable.
So this morning, I woke up and decided I would re-record. When I was about to record I noticed my microphone wasn’t working. I was wiggling the cord to make sure it was in the jack properly and it completely broke! One thing people who have worked with me know: I don’t believe in coincidences. So I took the microphone breaking as a sign that I needed to post it in the form it was in and that someone would be blessed by it.
Recap of the Beyond the Business Suit Retreat
Attendees of the inaugural Beyond the Business Suit Retreat being led by Marla Teyolia in some energy movement exercises. (More at http://beyondthebusinesssuit.com/retreat)
On March 15-16, 2019, I hosted the very first Beyond the Business Suit Retreat! If I could pick a few words to describe it, I would say: transformational and life-changing. You can find the video recap and photos here. You can also get on the list to learn about the registration launch for our 2020 BTBS Retreat at http://beyondthebusinesssuit.com/retreat.
Announcing: The Beyond Mastermind & Accelerator
The Beyond Mastermind & Accelerator (the BMA) is designed to take you beyond your career and into your calling. The BMA is a six-month mastermind and accelerator designed specifically for women who feel called to become the highest expression of themselves and do work that aligned with who they were created to be. In the BMA we will all go far BEYOND what we could have done and who we could have become without being a part of this collective and this program. Applications are being accepted now until July 26, 2019. We have extended the deadline to July 31, 2019 at 11:59 EDT.
How do you apply?
There are three components to the application and acceptance process:
1) Application: You must complete an online application. Only the first 25 applications will be accepted. The deadline to apply is July 31, 2019 at 11:59 EDT. You can apply here
2) Phone Interview: Each applicant will receive a phone interview with Kailei.
3) Tuition Payment: Your first payment will be due upon acceptance into the program.
For the first time, I also recorded a video of this episode. It has a little more content than the podcast episode. Please note: I made a mistake and called one of my team members and moderator for our BTBS Retreat panel Patience Jackson instead of her actual name, Praise Jackson. I know women with beautiful names Praise and Patience and in my off-the-cuff-ness, I miss-spoke on Praise’s name.
Well, season 4 of Beyond the Business Suit podcast is a wrap! Though we are planning on launch the next season in September/October, you may hear from us in the interim with some bonus episodes. Make sure to subscribe to the podcast to hear our next episode when it airs. Thanks so much for listening!
Episode 158: Ekene Onu | Slay from the Soul
Jun 12, 2019
In this episode of Beyond the Business Suit I’m delighted to have Ekene Onu back on the show! You may remember Ekene from episodes22, 91 or 153. If you haven’t heard her backstory, make sure to listen to episode 22 to hear her story of transformation. In this episode we dug deep into several topics. It was are refreshing conversation with sister-friends that I hope you will enjoy!
Wounded masculine and wounded feminine energy and how that shows up
How to be “Iconic”
Ekene’s Iconic Woman Mastermind program with special discount code for Beyond the Business Suit listeners: asbury1920. Schedule your clarity call with Ekene at: calendly.com/refreshwithekenerefreshwithekene.com
Quotables
“You can’t be duplicated…at your highest level, you are untouchable!” “Slay with strategy…slay from the soul!” “I know how to be a masterpiece and a work in progress at the same time.”
The Final Five
1. What Ekene does to take care of herself: Gets out in nature and walks. She also enjoys swimming as well as praise and worship music.
2. Some of the things Ekene does to recharge: Learning lights her up. Whether it’s listening to podcasts like Beyond the Business Suit :), taking courses or reading, she loves to do those things that help her learn. She also enjoys receiving information that will elevate her.
I’m happy to be an affiliate of Ekene’s Iconic Mastermind.
Episode 157: Venivia Arnold Talks Rebellion, Skincare and Following Her Soul’s Desire
May 31, 2019
In this episode of Beyond the Business Suit we have Venivia Arnold, the mastermind behind Flawless Skin and Beauty, who was also a presenting sponsor at the Beyond the Business Suit Retreat. In this episode, Venivia shares her path to discovering her passion for skincare and leaving consulting to follow that path. If you have been reluctant to follow your heart’s desire, this episode is for you. If you’re wondering how to best take care of your skin, this episode is for you. She even shares the three products every woman should have!
Venivia’s Bio
Venivia Arnold is a technology consultant and licensed esthetician. Yes, esthetician! After years of being unfulfilled in Corporate America, Venivia decided to explore a career in beauty. While attending esthetics school in the evenings, she fell in love with the industry and began working on a plan to create her own beauty business. After years of recalibrating, Venivia was able to transition to being an independent consultant, allowing for more time to pursue entrepreneurship opportunities. November 2017, Venivia accomplished a major goal by opening Flawless Skin and Beauty, Skincare and Waxing. She now spends the majority of her time being a beauty boss while casually consulting. She continues to work hard on her goals and is looking forward to the day that she is able to fully transition into the beauty industry. Flawless Skin and Beauty is located in Dunwoody, GA and services are available by appointment only. Interested parties are able to book online at www.fsandb.com.
Quotables
“When we feel oppressed or when we’re not able to live in who we are authentically…our soul, it really starts to rebel”
“I help people feel better about themselves through beauty therapy”
“Those are the three things you need to do: cleanse, correct and moisturize!”
The Final Five
1. Some of the things she does to take care of herself: Physically, she is consistent in the gym and is even a fitness and Zumba instructor at an LA Fitness in the Atlanta area. She’s also a big reader. She tries to take 10 minutes before falling asleep to read.
2. Some of things she does to recharge her energy: She loves going to the spa
3. Some of the things she does to keep her skills sharp: She also owns a the Skin Institute of Atlanta and she feels like it is imperative to learn from the other instructors. And when she travels to other countries she learns about what some of the trends are in those areas.
4. One of her superpowers is: Adaptability
5. What she puts on to feel most powerful: Anything black
How you can connect with Venivia online and on social media:
Episode 156: Agatha Achindu on Paying Attention to What We Feed Our Children and Ourselves
Apr 23, 2019
I’m back! It has been a few weeks since I’ve posted an episode. The past few weeks have been busy and amazing. Between the Beyond the Business Suit Retreat that I’ve been talking about for the whole season (which was absolutely incredible) and other speaking engagements and workshops with companies like NBC Universal and Yum! Brands, and my own “pausing and recharging,” it has been quite a past 6 weeks! But I am so glad to be back to share this episode of Beyond the Business Suit with you. In this episode I had the absolute pleasure of interviewing Agatha Achindu, founder of Yummy Spoonfuls, nutrition expert and advocate for healthy eating for babies and children. We had such an amazing conversation.
Heard in this episode:
Agatha’s upbringing
How Agatha got her start with Yummy Spoonfuls
How she got distribution in grocers like Whole Foods, Target and now Walmart
One thing you should never give to your children
Why healthy eating is so important especially for kids
Quotables:
“Healthy, nutritious and delicious food should be a birthright, not a privilege.”
“When God has something planned for you, your path is honestly your path.”
“Our children are only as good as the choices that are available to them.”
“I didn’t look for Yummy Spoonfuls, Yummy Spoonfuls found me”
“It’s never too late to start.”
Bio
Agatha Achindu, IT Executive turn Integrative Nutrition Coach and Yoga Teacher, is the founder of Yummy Spoonfuls Organics For Kids. A farm girl at heart, she was raised on her parents’ organic farm in Cameroon, West Africa. Her passion for sharing this deep knowledge of healthy food inspired her to leave a corporate IT career to change the way Americans feed their children. Change agent and innovator, Agatha shook the grocery industry with a new approach to convenience food. Now she engages audiences worldwide as a panelist, keynote speaker, media personality, and writer. She regularly contributes to the Washington Post, and lectures graduate-level business classes at leading universities. Agatha encourages people to create a better world by living their dreams, and realizing their full potential.
The Final Five
1. Some of the things she does to take care of herself: she pays attention to what she eats. She’s also pays attention to her thoughts and what she breathes life into. 2. Some of things she does to recharge: She loves going to the gym, playing cards with her boys at home and cooking. If she’s home, she cooks everyday. 3. Some of the things she does to keep her mind and skills sharp: She is always learning. She just finished an integrated nutrition program. She believes you can never stop learning. 4. One of her superpowers is: Motherhood. She doesn’t think those of us who are mothers give ourself enough credit. 5. What she puts on to feel most powerful: God. She gets up early to pray and mediate. When she is able to do that, the confidence that comes along with her makes her feel like everything is under control.
Episode 155: Morgan Wider on the Business of Looking Good
Mar 02, 2019
In the latest episode of Beyond the Business Suit, we interviewed Morgan Wider, Personal Style Expert for professional women. We had such a great conversation about why wardrobe and image is more than and has more impact than the clothes you wear. During the interview, Morgan and I share the serendipitous story of how we met and how that has turned into a great friendship and Morgan is also not only speaking at the Beyond the Business Suit Retreat, she’s also part of our co-creation team!
Please note: we recorded this episode in January and during the interview Morgan mentions a workshop that took place in January. Even though it has already passed, make sure you join Morgan’s email list (you can find it at the bottom of her homepage) so you can learn about her upcoming events!
Mentioned in the show
How going to TJ Maxx with her mom growing up led to her working in retail and now a wardrobe stylist
Why having diversity in retail companies is so important
How meditation led to her deciding to leave her job and go out on her own
Morgan A. Wider is a Personal Style Expert, Speaker and founder of Wider Style, a style consulting firm based in Atlanta, Georgia. Before launching her business, Morgan studied Economics at Georgetown University and spent 10 years working at the corporate headquarters of Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic, OshKosh and Carter’s. She grew several businesses with her knowledge of merchandising, apparel production, pricing strategy and international development.
With her firm, Wider Style, Morgan now advises executives, entrepreneurs and college students on how to increase their performance through their image.
Quotables
“Put on some color. Be bold. Show that you’re here and that you’re proud of it!”
“Show something memorable about yourself. Show that you put a little more effort than the average person is doing.”
“It’s okay to be pretty and smart. It’s okay to be well dressed and smart. Those things are not mutually exclusive”
The Final Five
1) What are some of the things you do to take care of yourself? Sleep
2) What are some of the things you do to recharge your energy? Sleep
3) What are some of the things you do to keep your mind and skills sharp? Sleep, people watching and reading leadership and professional development books.
4) What is one of your superpowers? One of your gifts that makes you different than other people? She’s able to see people. I can see past their bad clothing their inherent spirit and personality and help them shine.
5) What is your favorite “power outfit” or something you put on to feel your most powerful self? Anything leopard — it adds a little bit of badass to any look. How you can connect with Morgan Wider: Instagram:@morganwiderstyleFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/widerstyleWebsite:www.widerstyle.com
Episode 154: Marla Teyolia | Mindfulness & Resiliency Practices for Success
Feb 15, 2019
In this episode of Beyond the Business Suit I am interviewing Marla Teyolia. You heard from Marla in episode 153 on How to Live Your Best Life in 2019. In today’s episode, this coach — who prides herself as being “part woo-woo and part get sh*t done” — is helping us be more mindful and resilient. Marla is part of our co-creation team for the Beyond the Business Suit Retreatand is our lead retreat coach where she will be leading a three-hour immersive group coaching session.
In this episode I also mention the giveaway where you could get a chance to receive a complementary session with Marla or one of our other amazing coaches. But you’ll need to register before Friday, February 15, 2019 at 11:59 PM ET. Learn more about the giveaway here.
What we discuss in this episode
Marla’s career path that led her into mindfulness work
How stress impacts our executive functioning
Resiliency practices at work
Her ABC process that drives the work she does with clients
Marla Teyolia, M.S., is a transformational coach and personal guide with over 20 years of experience working with executives, activists, artists, and change-makers. Her holistic coaching style empowers individuals and teams to fully assess the ways they think, behave, and work, to make lasting impact in their personal and professional lives.
Marla’s incredible talent lies in her ability to help others to unlock their individual power and voice, while transforming limiting mindsets. She specializes in working with individuals who want to develop their executive presence, improve communication goals, navigate career advancement, and grow and scale teams while identifying and maintaining their personal authenticity and values. She uses a Conversational Intelligence® (C-IQ) framework to support individuals and teams to leverage the power of neuroscience and language to establish high levels of trust that trigger growth and innovation, overcoming limiting conversational patterns and gracefully navigating difficult conversations.
She integrates decades of experience with mindfulness, meditation, and yoga to support clients in building resiliency while bringing their BEST selves to the workplace.
Marla started her career working in the field of domestic violence in the early 90’s. The first women’s group she every facilitated was at a shelter for survivors who had risked everything… their home, personal belongings, and physical safety, to carve out a new life for themselves and their children. This experience taught her that sustainable change is possible when people are deeply supported over a period of time to bring forth the best parts of themselves while healing and releasing aspects that have kept them small.Transformation is sustainable when it is embodied, holistic, and calls forth the most powerful versions of who we really are.
Marla holds a Master of Science in Social Work from Columbia University where she served as a diversity trainer for incoming students. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from the University of California at Berkeley where she graduated magna cum laude. Marla has worked with executives, teams, and individuals at Facebook, McDermott, Will & Emory, Columbia University, Bard College, Mount Holyoke College, Southern Methodist University, MTV, NYC Department of Education, C. Moore Media International Public Relations, and the Youth Development Institute, among many others. Marla is also a Certified Empowerment Workshop Facilitator and a registered yoga teacher.
The Final Five
1. What she does to take care of herself: She has a meditation practice, she makes sure her food is deeply nourishing and she prioritizes her relationships. She also incorporate rituals in her life.
2. What she does to recharge: Exercise, walks, laying on the couch and zoning out can be really helpful for recharging.
3. What she does to keep her mind and skills sharp: Lots of reading and actively participating in workshops with people doing work she does. She realized she needs to invest in herself in the way that she asks her clients to work with her.
4. One of her superpowers is: The power of discernment.
5. Her favorite power outfit: Depends on context :). When she does retreats she typically wears white since it doesn’t absorb energy. When she does a corporate workshop, she brings her feminine energy usually with something fitted and out the box — likely a fly dress or pantsuit where she feels beautiful and powerful.How you can connect with Marla:
Instagram: @marlateyolia
Website: http://cultureshift.agency
If anyone wants to get some breathing exercises you can email Marla at marla[at]cultureshift.agency. Make sure to include that you listened to this podcast in the email.
Episode 153: How to Live Your Best Life in 2019 | Beyond the Business Suit Live Atlanta
Feb 01, 2019
In this episode of Beyond the Business Suit I’m sharing the recording of the Beyond the Business Suit Live event we held in Atlanta at The Gathering Spoton January 10th (and big thanks to The Gathering Spot for hosting us!). The topic of the night was “How to Live Your Best Life in 2019.” And I know what you’re probably thinking, “same ol’ topic.” But let me tell you, this was not the same ol’ conversation!
On the panel were some of the best, heart-centered transformational coaches I know: Marla Teyolia from Culture Shift Agency, Ekene Onu from Refresh with Ekene (you may remember her from episode 22) and Monica Bey (you may remember her from episodes 150 and 151). We had a soul-stirring, transformation-starting conversation about how you can truly be the best person you can be in 2019.
You can also watch the full video from the live taping here:
These three amazing women will be a part of the Beyond the Business Suit Retreattaking place on March 15-16 in Atlanta. Marla is our lead group coaching facilitator, Ekene is one of our keynote speakers and Monica is leading one of our breakout sessions. If you are ready to live your best life this year, register at beyondthebusinesssuit.com/retreat. Registration is only open until Feb 7th!
Here’s an overview of the experience:
Episode 152: Minda Harts | Unapologetically Helping Us Secure Our Seat
Jan 26, 2019
In this episode Beyond the Business Suit I’m joined by Minda Harts. Minda is an adjunct assistant Professor of Public Service of NYU’s Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service and the founder of The Memo LLC, a career development company for women of color. In 2018, she was named one of 25 Emerging Innovators by American Express. And her book The Memo: What Women of Color Need To Know To Secure A Seat At The Table comes out August 2019 with Hachette Book Group.
Heard in this episode
Tiffany Dufu’s episode on Beyond the Business Suit
Minda Harts is an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Public Service of NYU’s Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service. She is the founder of The Memo LLC, a career development company for women of color. In 2018, she was named one of 25 Emerging Innovators by American Express. And her book The Memo: What Women of Color Need To Know To Secure A Seat At The Table comes out August 2019 with Hachette Book Group.
“The more that we can tap into our becoming…unapologetically whatever you identify with — being that and owning that…will allow us to be the best versions of ourself”
The Final 5
1) What are some of the things you do to take care of yourself? She has a monthly membership to Massage Envy and cooks for herself as much as possible to ensure she’s eating healthy.
2) What are some of the things you do to recharge your energy? Spending time with her family and friends and also has a record player. The last record she spun on her record player is Whitney Houston.
3) What are some of the things you do to keep your mind and skills sharp? She listens to a variety of podcasts from a really diverse set of voices so that she can understand what they are talking about and learn more about their perspectives. She also goes to public speaking conference and retreats so that she continues to grow.
4) What is one of your superpowers? One of your gifts that makes you different than other people? Emotionally intelligence in terms of leading from the heart. Being able to discern when to button things up or give someone a hug has been a superpower.
5) What is your favorite “power outfit” or something you put on to feel your most powerful self? Her favorite power outfit is a searsucker suit from J Crew.
How you can connect with Minda online and on social media:
– MindaHarts.com
– The Memo
– Twitter: @MindaHarts
Episode 151: Monica Bey | The Healer in Heels (Part 2)
Jan 17, 2019
This episode of Beyond the Business Suit is part 2 of my conversation with Purpose Alignment Coach & Energy Healer, Monica Bey. If you haven’t listened to part 1 yet, be sure to do so. In that episode we had a DEEP energy healing session that was profound.
In this episode you’ll learn more about Monica Bey and her journey to the work she does.
Mentioned in this Episode
Monica’s journey to the work she does and how stress caused her to have difficulty walking and typing.
Monica mentioned a free pdf. To get it, email Monica at happiness@monicabey.com with “Beyond the Business Suit” in the subject line.
Monica’s Bio
After more than a decade of grit and hard work to climb from the bottom to the top of a publicly traded finance company, Monica Bey, walked away from it all to pursue a more meaningful, spiritual, and emotionally fulfilling career. She now spends her time helping others realize their divine purpose and true life path, particularly women who have all the outward signs and appearance of success but feel deeply unfilled inside.
Monica holds a bachelor’s degree in Social Science and is a Certified Life Coach, Certified Reiki Master and Certified Hypnotist. After walking away from corporate America, she went back to her roots—revisiting the power of her natural spiritual gifts and abilities to help others redirect the mission of their lives to one of authenticity and empowerment.
Quotables
“Purpose drives fulfillment”
“So much wisdom comes in silence”
The Final Five
1) Some of the things Monica does to take care of herself: She has a morning routine that she does every morning which includes self healing, affirmations (she says them 108 times), gratitude, exercise, meditation (she meditates twice per day) and listening to podcasts.
2) Some of the things Monica does to recharge her energy: The main thing for her is to stop to turn off her phone and take some downtime for herself. She also loves to travel.
3) Some of the things she does to keep her mind and skills sharp: She is a constant study of a lot. She listens to podcasts and reads a lot (she used to read a book per week and now she gets about one in per month). Anything she can learns about any area, she’s excited to do so. One book she’s read over the past year is The Power of When by Michael Breus, PhD.
4) One of Monica’s superpowers is: Her ability to see the light inside of people and make that light shine.
5) Her favorite “power outfit”: A good pair of heels! How you can connect with Monica online:
Website: www.monicabey.com
Instagram: @therealmonicabey
Twitter: @realmonicabey
Facebook: facebook.com/therealmonicabey/
Episode 150: Energy Healing Session with Monica Bey (Part 1)
Jan 10, 2019
This episode of Beyond the Business Suit is like no other I have done before. In this episode, I am sharing an energy healing session with Monica Bey, who is a Purpose Alignment Coach and Energy Healer. When I met Monica, I knew I had to have her on the podcast but I also knew a typical interview would not be enough. I felt strongly you need experience her to truly understand her magic. So she agreed to give me a mini energy healing session that I would record. She also told me that she goes deep and whatever is at the root of any issue I have will be revealed, so I was warned! I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it was an incredible, life altering experience. Though this is the most personal episode I have shared to date and is really testing my vulnerability comfort level, if it can help you learn and grow and perhaps help you uncover the things that may be holding you back, I’m happy to do so.
This episode will also be the longest I’ve published so far — almost an hour and a half and will be the recording from the session. Since there were many long pauses while she was doing her magic, I removed some of that silence. There were times when I so much into it that forgot the microphone was there, so you may hear my voice faintly in some areas. In the next episode I will share my interview with Monica that took place after the session where you will learn more about her and her background.
After more than a decade of grit and hard work to climb from the bottom to the top of a publicly traded finance company, Monica Bey, walked away from it all to pursue a more meaningful, spiritual, and emotionally fulfilling career. She now spends her time helping others realize their divine purpose and true life path, particularly women who have all the outward signs and appearance of success but feel deeply unfilled inside.
Monica holds a bachelor’s degree in Social Science and is a Certified Life Coach, Certified Reiki Master and Certified Hypnotist. After walking away from corporate America, she went back to her roots—revisiting the power of her natural spiritual gifts and abilities to help others redirect the mission of their lives to one of authenticity and empowerment.
The affirmation Monica mentions in the episode:
Tell me what you think — what did you think of the session? Have any questions for me or Monica? Post them below.
Episode 149: The 2nd Morning Routine That Changed My Life
Dec 31, 2018
About four years ago I came across the book The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod that really changed my life. At the time, I knew I wanted to accomplish a lot in the upcoming year and I knew I needed some help to get there whether it was habits, mindset or more. Finding The Miracle Morning was exactly what I needed and even launched morning routine challenge and Facebook group called the Goal Crushers. In 2018 during my January morning routine challenge, I came up with a new morning routine that also changed my life this year called CLAIM Your Day. In this episode of Beyond the Business Suit I share with you my morning routine that has made such a big impact on my life.
UPDATE: The Goal Crushers Facebook group is now closed
Has doing a morning routine changed your life in some way? Please leave a comment and let us know!
Episode 148: Why It’s Time for You to Pause, Recharge and Level Up
Dec 16, 2018
In this episode of Beyond the Business Suit, I am digging in deeper into the theme of this season: Pause, Recharge, Level Up . In case you were wondering, this theme was created before I heard Ciara’s song, “Level Up,” but I am pretty sure those leaving out of the retreat will be feeling like this
Here are some of the things we talk about in this episode:
“Superwoman Syndrome”
Why it is important for us to pause, recharge and level up
Why it’s necessary to pause and recharge before leveling up
Episode 147: Beyond the Business Suit Live with Leaders Esi Eggleston Bracey, Michelle Gadsden-Williams and Keisha Smith-Jeremie
Nov 29, 2018
In this episode of Beyond the Business Suit we are celebrating our first episode of season 3 with the Beyond the Business Suit Live podcast that was taped on October 13 in NYC. The event featured Michelle Gadsden- Willliams, Managing Director and head of Inclusion and Diversity at Accenture, Esi Eggleston Bracey, EVP & Chief Operating Officer of Beauty and Personal Care at Unilever, and Keisha Smith-Jeremie, Chief People Officer at Tory Burch, the Founder & CEO of Sanaia Applesauce and life and executive coach.
It was an honor sharing the stage with these three ladies. When I selected them to be a part of this conversation I had no idea they all knew each other! So what started as a panel discussion with three leaders turned into a conversation amongst friends. Listening to this recording again, I personally got so much out of it. The candor, the wisdom, the insights — so great! And these women keep them coming all the way to the end, so this is one you will want to listen to all the way to the end and likely more than once.
During the episode I also announce THE BEYOND THE BUSINESS SUIT RETREAT which is taking place on March 15-16, 2019 right outside of Atlanta, GA and I am so proud of what we’ve created and excited to share this experience with you. The registration site is live now and you can go to beyondthebusinesssuit.com/retreat for more information of what you can expect and registration details. Early bird pricing is open now — $200 off for this transformational event (until 11:59 pm ET on 12/1/18), plus and we also have some exclusive bonuses for the first people who register including a free coaching session with me and a special VIP experience during the conference with our speakers and special guests.
About the Panelists:
About Esi:
Esi Eggleston Bracey is a seasoned executive leader with nearly 27 years experience in general management and brand building. She has a proven track record of success in creating, accelerating and turning around business results across categories, sectors and geographies.
Esi currently leads the multi-billion dollar Personal Care portfolio for Unilever North America which includes responsibility for the Hair, Skin Cleansing, Skin Care and Deodorant businesses with iconic brands like Dove, Degree, TRESemmé and Axe as well as newly acquired Shea Moisture and Schmidt’s Naturals.
Prior to joining Unilever, Esi held the position of President of Coty’s Global Consumer Beauty Division and General Manager and global leader of P&G’s COVERGIRL and Max Factor brands.
An energetic and dynamic leader known for creativity and out-of-the-box thinking, she is consistently recognized for her ability to guide organizations through brand-building excellence, agility and operational discipline in light of competitive pressure and a rapidly-evolving marketplace.
A native of Chicago, Illinois, Esi graduated from Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire with a Bachelor of Arts in Engineering Sciences. Esi currently lives with her family in New York City.
About Michelle:
As Managing Director of North America & Canada Inclusion and Diversity, Michelle Gadsden-Williams is responsible for further strengthening and accelerating the company’s efforts to foster an inclusive culture. Michelle joins Accenture with more than 25 years of experience as an advocate for equality within corporate America and a thought leader around diversity and inclusion. Michelle is a seasoned diversity practitioner with experience working in the consumer goods and pharmaceutical industries before transitioning to financial services in 2011.
Michelle is the former, Managing Director and Global Head of Diversity & Inclusion at Credit Suisse AG. She provided strategic direction, thought leadership and championed the development of an inclusive environment by integrating diversity practice into all aspects of the business. She has held positions of global responsibility in the diversity management arena by living in Switzerland for close to 10 years of her corporate career and managed staffing functions for large multinational corporations such as Credit Suisse, Novartis and Merck & Co, Inc. Prior to her tenure at Merck & Co., Inc, Michelle has also held positions in Human Resources and Product Development at PhilipsVan Heusen Corporation and Wakefern Food Corporation, both headquartered in New Jersey.
Michelle has acquired a multitude of community service awards and accolades for her work as a diversity practitioner. Most recently, she was recognized by Black Enterprise Magazine as one of the 2018 Top Corporate Diversity Executives. The Reverend Al Sharpton recognized her as a 2016 honoree at the National Action Network “Woman of Power” Luncheon, an honoree at the Black Institute Awards Gala in NYC and a 2015 Ebony Magazine Power 100 honoree.
Michelle earned a B.S. in Marketing, a B.A. in Communications from Kean College of New Jersey and an M.S. in Organizational Dynamics from the University of Pennsylvania. She is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated and the Executive Leadership Council. Michelle serves on several boards including the Jackie Robinson Foundation, the SLE Lupus Foundation and a member of the Women’s Leadership Board of the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. Michelle and her husband David Jamal Williams, CoFounder and CEO of Ceiling Breakers, LLC, live in New York City.
About Keisha:
Keisha is the Chief People Officer for Tory Burch. Prior to Tory Burch, she was Chief Human Resources Officer for News Corp, the largest news and information services provider in the English-speaking world, a position she has held since January 2013. Prior to joining News Corp, Ms. Smith-Jeremie served as Managing Director and Global CoHead of Talent Management for Morgan Stanley.
Ms. Smith-Jeremie earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Relations from the University of Virginia in 1997. She has also been certified by the Hudson Institute as an Executive Career and Life Coach. Ms. Smith-Jeremie currently resides in New York City with her husband. She serves as a Director and Chair of the Nominating and Governance Committee for the Eagle Academy Foundation, a charitable organization that provides transformative life outcomes for the lives of young men of color through their all-boys public schools in New York and Newark.
In 2017, while managing her day job at News Corp, Keisha successfully launched her own entrepreneurial venture sanaia, a gourmet applesauce product. Seeing a whitespace in the healthy food market Keisha has placed a bet that she’s not the only adult who loves applesauce. Her signature line infuses granny smith apples with exotic fruits and botanicals from all around the world.
What led Esi to leave leading a large beauty company to take a sabbatical
How Keisha decided to join Tory Burch after launching her applesauce line
Michelle’s advice on what all of us need to think about as we are climbing in our career
Quotes & Key Messages
On Purpose:
“Your purpose is your why and your passion is your conviction” ~Michelle Gadsden Williams
Esi’s purpose: “Inspiring greatness through beauty, confidence, wellbeing and passion fulfilled.”
Keisha’s purpose “Helping people transform and release themselves from what is holding them back and so I can help them claim their future.”
There is power in the pause
Follow your intuition
Flying stealth is not an option
Continue to lift as you climb
Self care is incredibly important
You can find the photos from Beyond the Business Suit Live on our Facebook Page!
We want to hear from you! What did you hear in the episode that resonated with you? Any questions or comments for our guests? Please post it in the comments!
Episode 146: Denise Hamilton on Getting Uncomfortable: “You’re Not Gonna Die”
Nov 21, 2018
For my folks in the US who are reading/listening to this when it goes live, Happy Thanksgiving! before I get into today’s interview I wanted to share something special with you. First of all, this is our season finale! As we are technically in season 2 of Beyond the Business Suit (mind you, season 1 was about 2 years long, but I digress), next week we will be kicking off not only season 3 but a HUGE announcement happening on Monday, November 26th. This announcement will only be going out to special friends and family as well as my list. So if you would like to hear about this special announcement and get a sneak peek to it, head over to beyondthebusinesssuit.com/retreat(there’s a hint!) and you can sign up to get more information.
In our season finale of Beyond the Business Suit, I interviewed Denise Hamilton — the dynamic Founder & CEO of WatchHerWork.com, a digital learning platform for professional women. Denise has archived the professional experiences of hundreds of women to build a a library of over 6,000 videos with one goal in mind: closing the gap for today’s professional women by giving them the advice they need when they need it.
In this episode you will hear:
Some of Denise’s background and career journey
What led her to launch Watch Her Work
The impact of support staff has on new executives
Why it’s important to not only build a network, but also operationalize and leverage it
Why more women need to get more money and aggregate their power
Why she doesn’t take feedback from critics
Denise’s Bio
DENISE HAMILTON is Founder and CEO of WatchHerWork.com, a digital learning platform for professional women. Denise is a highly requested speaker and trainer as well as media personality whose platform has reached and served thousands of women all over the world. At WatchHerWork, Denise has archived the professional experiences of hundreds of women to build a a library of over 6,000 videos with one goal in mind: closing the gap for today’s professional women by giving them the advice they need when they need it.
As Founder of WatchHerWork, Denise has developed workshops and programs that have empowered the lives of women, and altered the trajectory of careers and businesses all over the country. To do this, she built upon her over 25 years experience as a corporate executive with Fortune 500 companies like AOL and CBRE, as well as her experience as an entrepreneur and as a mentor to thousands of women over the course of her career.
Denise has appeared on NPR, ABC, Fox, and the Root.com. She has been featured in Huffington Post, Ebony Magazine, Xconomy, Black Enterprise, and the Houston Business Journal. She was named one the 41 Most Fascinating People in Houston by the Houston Chronicle and one of Houston’s Most Influential Women by Houston Woman Magazine.
Denise believes that you shouldn’t have to have powerful friends to have powerful information. She is committed to making sure that the information needed for women to build a business, climb the corporate ladder, and get on boards is available to every woman and the men that support them.
Quotables
“I have a fundamental belief system that you shouldn’t have to have powerful friends to have powerful information.”
“If I fail, I’m going to fail on my terms, it’s not going to be because I was afraid to try.”
“Women have to acquire the ability to skip the line.”
“The more you sabotage or delay your success, the more success is delayed for all of us.”
“Comfort is a dream killer.”
The Final Five
How she describes her personal brand: Hard truths
The best advice she’s ever received: You’re the expert — stop looking to other people to understand how things should be. You have to be the expert in your dream, in your plan.
One thing in her career that she wishes she could get a “do over” for: She wished she realized the importance of her relationships earlier in her career. She regrets losing touch with some people who she wishes she would have been able to nurture better.
Some of the things she does to manage all of the priorities in her life: She doesn’t “expect” to be able to manage everything. Something has to suffer sometimes.
Denise’s favorite “power outfit”: She has some gold sneakers that make her feel like anything that comes at her, she can take it.
Episode 145: Robin Young on How to Behave Wealthy
Nov 13, 2018
In my latest episode of Beyond the Business Suit, I have a conversation with Robin Young. If you’ve been listening to Beyond the Business Suit at least since the beginning of this year you may have heard my interviews with two women who are focused on mindset and wealth: Patrice Washington, America’s Money Maven and the host of the Redefining Wealth podcastas well as Dr. Venus Opal Reese who wrote the book, Black Woman Millionaire. Well today we’re going to get back into that money and mindset conversation with Robin Young. Robin is the founder of Behaving Wealthy and she has a WEALTH (no pun intended) of knowledge to share with us about how we think about money. During her career she has managed over a BILLION dollars in assets for over 500 millionaires. And no, she didn’t come from from wealth herself.
Heard in this episode:
How Robin got into wealth management
What Robin has learned about wealth from working with over 500 millionaires and hundreds of other investors
The difference between income earners and wealthy people
The five milestones you have to master in order to behave wealthy.
Robin’s Bio
Robin A. Young, a Certified Financial Plannerä, managed a billion dollars for over 500 millionaires (her average client had a minimum of $2 million in investment assets). During her 18-year tenure of working with high net worth individuals, she cracked the wealth code:
The only difference between rich and broke is how you behave.
Robin is committed to sharing with you 18 years of insider information of what you really need to know, believe, and do.” Think of her as your “No Conflict-of-Interest” Insider.
Robin founded, Behaving Wealthy, as a resource just for you. There is so much information available to you but what do you do with all of it. Behaving Wealthy has culled all that financial information into a simple, yet defined approach for busy people like you to easily follow for BIG results.
When Robin realized that the vast majority of overachievers needed a place to get schooled on money so that they could achieve the freedom to afford their ultimate lifestyles NOW and for the rest of their lives – NO MATTER WHAT. Hence, Behaving Wealthy was born.
National media such as CBS and Black Enterprise TV, The New York Times, About.com, Black Enterprise, Essence, Ebony, The Michael Eric Dyson Show, and Beauty & The Bull have featured Robin’s message. Robin speaks to smart people about their relationship with money on many national stages from Black Enterprise’s Women In Power Conference to sharing the stage with speaking veterans Larry Winget and Suzanne Evans.
Robin holds the following certifications: Accredited Asset Management Specialist (2002), Certified Financial Planner designation (2003), Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (2007), and Level 1 Chartered Financial Analyst exam (2010).
Successful earners are not keeping enough. In fact, most people only earn enough to get by…not enough to live the life they REALLY want without worries; not enough to increase their savings and retirement accounts; and not enough to decrease their debts. Too many successful income earners are on the rat race.
Robin A. Young, Certified Financial Planner, schools you on how to know enough, earn enough, keep enough, grow enough, and give enough.
Robin’s Behaving Wealthy Method shows you how to stop worrying about money once and for all. Robin’s clients have a great relationship with money that allows them to focus on what they can control and what they really want.
Quotables
“We’re on a parallel journey of worth and wealth and if you have a wealth problem, you have a worth problem. All you have to do to close your freedom gap…is just to take baby steps.”
“The one word that made me start behaving wealthy…is the word ‘disconnect’ because there was a disconnect between success and satisfaction. Income and wealth. Disconnect between income and freedom.” “I assumed that if you have income or you have success, then of course, you’ll have freedom and independence and literally wealth.”
The Final Five
1. Three words she would use to describe her personal brand: courageous, thoughtful, powerful.
2. One book that has significantly impacted her personally or professionally: Psycho-Cyberneticsby Maxwell Maltz
3. If she could have brunch with three people dead or alive, she would select: Tom Brady, Hillary Clinton, her grandmother
4. The best advice she’s ever received: when her mind is quiet, she hears God’s voice and that always works out for her.
5. Her favorite “power outfit”: she works out a lot, so her power outfit is workout clothes. Exercise is her way to push herself which enables her to push herself in her business.
How to connect with Robin: Behaving Wealthy website
Episode 144: Melodie Nakhle | Taking Risks, Building Your Network and Leading Globally
Oct 08, 2018
In this episode of Beyond the Business Suit, I interviewed Melodie Nakhle, global business leader and Chief Sales Officer for Amway Japan. Melodie has such an interesting background both personally and professionally and, as you will hear, has had a truly impressive career.
Heard in the episode
Melodie’s career journey
Her upbringing as a daughter of missionaries
The importance of taking risks
Her advice for women earlier in their career
How she and her husband handle big careers, global travel and living in Tokyo
Why having a good support structure is necessary and who is in hers
How she’s been able to drive change and meaningful transformation within companies
Melodie Nakhle has spent her entire career not only transforming products impacting day-to-day living for people around the world, but also the organizations behind them. Look around your home. From the appliances in your kitchen to the tiles on your floor to the health and wellness products in your cabinets, Melodie Nakhle has expert knowledge on how it works, why you love it, and how it ultimately landed in your home. Her professional journey can be considered a playbook on global citizenship and radical change. She has lived and worked on four continents, and is fluent in English, Spanish, and Italian.
Nakhle is currently the Vice President, Sales and Chief Sales Officer for Amway, Inc., the world’s No.1 direct selling business with sales of $8B in over 100 countries. In her role, Nakhle is responsible for leading the sales function for the $1B Japanese market including managing key accounts, sales force training, event planning and execution, customer care and service, and sales compensation. She oversees a total budget of $100M and a massive distributor sales force of over 700,000 people.
Nakhle’s most recent campaign for Amway Japan, “Osusowake,” was named one of the world’s 40 best integrated marketing campaigns by R3 Worldwide. The campaign also received coveted industry recognition as a 2016 APAC EFFIE Award Finalist.
Prior to her current role, Nakhle was the Regional Chief Experience Officer for the Asia Pacific Region where she was responsible for digital and growth strategies, and leading all promotional initiatives. She was also Director, Marketing/New Business Development for Japan where she successfully led a business turnaround for the market, achieving growth after a 10-year decline and led activations with talent including Jon Bon Jovi and Jennifer Lopez. Her career at Amway began as Global Brand Manager for Nutrilite.
A self-described change champion, Nakhle’s reputation as a global leader with an ability to navigate complex corporate structures while tackling and implementing big changes was developed long before she arrived at Amway. As Director of Global Marketing for Florim Ceramiche, a global leader in premium design ceramic tiles with flagship stores in Milan, New York, and Moscow, Nakhle managed a €10M budget and team of 30 globally. She reduced costs, expenditures, and time to market while improving ROI and customer service. She also spearheaded the grand opening of Florim Solutions flagship showroom for their US headquarters in Atlanta.
Nakhle dedicated almost 10 years during her early career to the Whirlpool Corporation, rising from Fabric Care Technician to Senior Category Manager. Two of those years were spent as a textile engineer at the company’s Germany office. Her work as a senior marketing leader responsible for multi-million dollar category portfolios produced integrated marketing campaigns that garnered industry recognition as best- in-class.
Nakhle earned her MBA from the University of Illinois-Chicago, and received her Bachelor of Science degree in Health Psychology from Andrews University. She is an avid marathon runner, wife and mom of two.
Quotables
“My family has been the foundation that has allowed me to be able to really manage my career.”
“Make sure that you build a strong network around you”
The Final 5
1. When Melodie was younger, she wanted to be: a surgeon. She even attended a surgery when she was 11.
2. 3 things she can’t live with: great food (especially Japanese, Italian and Thai food), great wine (especially Italian wines) and sports (from scuba diving to running to yoga — her body needs to be active)
3. Some of her favorite things to do to recharge: travel someplace with a beach with no schedule, some yoga, food and scuba diving.
4. Some of her favorite places she’s traveled to: Argentina, Italy and Thailand
5. Her favorite “power outfit”: A good pair of heels (the higher the better) and a black powerful pant suit and a great lipstick.
Connect with Melodie on LinkedIn
Episode 143: Celebrating 4 Years and Announcing Beyond the Business Suit LIVE!
Oct 01, 2018
Just a few days ago, we hit the four year anniversary of the Beyond the Business Suit podcast and I couldn’t be more excited, proud and thankful for the past four years, as well as what is to come! When I started this podcast four years ago I would have never expected that four years later we would still be going strong, with over 140 episodes and downloaded in over 100 countries.
Shared in this episode
A big THANK YOU to all of you
The significance of 4 years
The significance of 5 years
What you can expect in the next season
Where you can find me in October and November
Announcing Beyond the Business Suit LIVE!
Announcing: BEYOND THE BUSINESS SUIT LIVE!
We are hyped to hold our FIRST live podcast taping coming up on Saturday, October 13 in New York City! We have an amazing group of women for our C-Suite panel where we will talk about their career journey and how they pause, recharge and level up in their lives.
So join me, Esi Eggleston Bracey, Michelle Gadsden-Williams, Keisha Smith Jeremie (who you can also find in episode 115) in New York in less than two weeks! Tickets are only $25 and can be found here. Light bites will be served and attendees will also receive a copy of Michelle Gadsden-Williams’ book CLIMB:Taking Every Step with Conviction, Courage, and Calculated Risk to Achieve a Thriving Career and a Successful Life .This will be an intimate discussion with only40 seats so please make sure to reserve your ticket today!
October 5th: Atlanta at The Gathering Spotwhere I will be hosting a members only women’s empowerment brunch featuring Ros Gold-Unwude from Turner Sports.
October 11th: I’ll be in Baltimore where I’ll be moderating a panel for Exelon with some of their senior executives at Constellation and BG&E talking about the UN Women’s HeForShe movement.
October 12th: I’ll be at the PA Conference for Women where I’ll be talking about personal branding with a private breakfast with 200 women from Comcast in the morning and on a panel discussion for the conference at 10 am.
October 13:Beyond the Business Suit LIVE in NYC!
October 15th: I’ll be in NJ joining the Ocean County Library system where I have the pleasure of talking about Power Presence to their staff in the morning and Building your Brand at Work in the evening with the Ocean County community.
October 24-27: I will be in Orlando with the IT Senior Management Forum’s Q4 symposium where I’ll also meet with my EMERGE Academy cohort.
November 9th: I’ll be in Austin at the TX Conference for Women leading a branding workshop for USAA and a personal branding panel.
Thank you for every download, listen, comment, rating, review and every time you’ve shared this podcast to someone you know. I appreciate you tremendously and I look forward to continue being on this journey with you!
Episode 142: Why It’s Time to Show Your LinkedIn Profile Some Love
Sep 03, 2018
This episode of Beyond the Business Suit is going to be a rather short but important one. Lately I have been receiving a lot of questions and requests from clients about their digital presence, which for many of my clients, starts with LinkedIn (since LinkedIn, in my opinion, is the #1 place for you to develop your professional brand online). And based on my clients experiences with LinkedIn and my own, I have seen the importance it can play in someone’s professional life.
And let’s be honest, some of you haven’t taken the time to update your LinkedIn profile in a long time.
And I get it.
You’re busy!
You have a lot more important things going on.
However, you don’t know what opportunities you may be missing out on because of your lack of attention to LinkedIn. Someone may be looking at your LinkedIn profile RIGHT NOW. So let me ask you: when they go to your profile, are you happy with what they see? If the answer is no or you’re not sure, you’ll definitely want to listen to this episode so you can learn why your LinkedIn profile needs some love.
Here’s why your LinkedIn profile needs some love (listen to the episode for more details):
1) It is likely your first impression. It only takes 40 milliseconds to make a first impression, and over 70% of people search for you before meeting you in person professionally.
2) Your next job or business opportunity could come from there. Over 85% of recruiters use LinkedIn to search for candidates, not to mention, at your level, many of your colleagues could be in the position to refer you to positions they are aware of.
3) It can help you create connection points to people you know and who you don’t know yet.
So if you’re sitting there feeling like you absolutely need to make some changes but you don’t know where to begin, I have created something especially for you. LinkedIn deep dives and assessments are a part of my Power Presence program as well as some of my branding packages. So I’ve created a 2 hour stand alone masterclass for those of you who just want to dive into LinkedIn, called “Upgrade Your LinkedIn Profile” that is taking place on Wednesday, September 19th from 12 – 2pm Eastern time/ 9 – 11 am Pacific time.
During this virtual masterclass we will cover things like:
– The key components of a great LinkedIn profile
– How to select the ideal profile photo
– Some of the biggest mistakes people make in their LinkedIn profile
– How to use your LinkedIn profile to best position yourself for new opportunities
– Update your profile in real time and capture what needs more work after the session
– Other ways to build your brand using LinkedIn
– You’ll get the rare chance to ask me questions about your LinkedIn profile live
– You’ll also get access to the recording afterwards to replay as often as you would like
Though the class is taking place on Wednesday, September 19th, registration will close either on Monday, September 17th at 12 noon Eastern time or when all of the seats are filled since we do have a certain capacity in the system. So don’t wait to register!
Episode 141: Lara Dalch on Nutrition, Health and Listening to Your Body
Aug 11, 2018
In this episode of Beyond the Business Suit I interviewed Lara Dalch, health and lifestyle coach and host of the popular podcast, Women on the Rise. Lara is a former entertainment marketing executive turned entrepreneur who truly understands the challenges of balancing good health with a busy schedule, and is passionate about helping women harness the power of good health to fuel their lives through a realistic, “whole life” approach to health. We recorded this episode earlier this year and I also had the pleasure of being a guest on her podcast, Women on the Rise. Lara was generous enough to share a free guide which includes 3 surprising ways to reactivate the healthy, confident, and powerful you.
Heard in the episode
Lara’s career path and what led her to the work she does today
Lara’s philosophies on health and nutrition
How Lara approaches her own health
Why being healthy doesn’t mean giving up indulgences
Lara Dalch is a health and lifestyle coach who helps women go from “formerly active” to feeling confident, healthy, and powerful again – so they can wake up with the power to take on their goals.
As a former entertainment marketing executive and busy entrepreneur, Lara understands the challenges of balancing good health with a busy schedule and is passionate about helping women harness the power of good health to fuel their lives through a realistic, “whole life” approach to health.
Lara is a contributor to popular health and wellness website MindBodyGreen and has been a featured by Refinery 29, Town & Country, Microsoft, Flywheel Sports, the University of Virginia, and the University of California, Berkeley. She holds a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Virginia, is a Certified Pilates Instructor and received her training to practice health coaching via the State University of New York and the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. Lara is also the producer and host of the Women on the Rise podcast.
The Final 5
1. What is one book that has made a significant impact on your life personally or professionally? The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer
2. What are some of the morning or night time routines you incorporate into your daily life? Her morning routine is what she appreciates most. It consists of having water, lighting a candle, doing a meditation and some exercise. Her morning routine is really important.
3. If you could have brunch with three people, dead or alive, who would you select? Her friend Mark (because he always orders “brunch dessert” with her), Oprah and Dan Pashman (from The Sporkful podcast)
4. What are three of your favorite things (people excluded) that you can’t live without? Her yoga mat, SkinCeuitcals retexturing activator and her Blue Bottle coffee subscription.
5. What is your favorite “power outfit” or something you put on to feel most powerful? She has a Diane von Furstenberg dress that she absolutely loves.
How you can connect with Lara:
Episode 140: Trudy Bourgeois on Having More Courageous Conversations
Jul 30, 2018
In my latest episode of Beyond the Business Suit I interviewed Trudy Bourgeois. Trudy is one of America’s leading experts on transformational leadership and a highly regarded leader in the field of workforce performance and diversity and inclusion.
When I learned about Trudy and her background, I couldn’t wait to talk to her. And let me tell you, she does not disappoint. And make sure you listen all the way to the end. She shared such a touching story about her son that will touch your soul.
Some of what we covered in this episode
How Trudy got into the work she does
The challenges facing the diversity and inclusion space
Her perspective on why we haven’t made much progress with diversity and inclusion
What companies can do to to effectively create an inclusive workplace
Why more courageous conversations are needed
how we can have more courageous conversations
A whole lot more!
Trudy’s Bio
Trudy Bourgeois is one of America’s leading experts on transformational leadership and a highly regarded leader in the field of workforce performance and diversity and inclusion. An expert at developing managers and leaders how to unleash the greatest potential of every employee, Bourgeois is a highly sought-out resource. She is the founder and CEO of the Center for Workforce Excellence and has been leading the organization for nearly two decades.
Dollars and Sense Magazine honored Bourgeois as one of the “Best and Brightest Women Leaders.” In her various roles as author, speaker, teacher and researcher, Bourgeois continues to utilize her superb management and interpersonal skills. Known as the “truth teller,” Bourgeois has a rare ability to tackle very difficult subjects such as race and bias without stirring negative emotions. She operates from a principle that “everyone has something to learn” on the journey to accepting each other across differences and building workplaces that are truly inclusive.
In 2016 The Network of Executive Women honored Bourgeois for her tireless efforts in advancing women’s leadership in the consumer goods, retail and service industries. She has been married to her husband for 38 years and is the mother of two. Trudy resides in Prosper, Texas.
Quotables
“A lot of leaders espouse that they believe diversity and inclusion is a business imperative but…I don’t think we’re tracking it like a business imperative.”
“We’ve got to find a way to display empathy as leaders because maybe you’ re never going to know what it’s like to be an African American female or be a person of color or be a member of a minority group, but you can have empathy.”
“We’ve lost empathy for human feelings – for humanity!”
“If you don’t create environments where people can be authentic on the inside, you never get the emotional investment from them and therefore you don’t innovate and if you don’t innovate you’ve lost your competitive advantage and as you lose your competitive advantage, you get left behind.”
The Final Five
Her 1st job ever: a babysitter at 9 years old
The best advice she’s ever received: when it’s all said and done, no one will remember how many widgets you sold, people will remember how you treated them. She wants her legacy to be that she used her gifts and talents to make a difference in others and that she treated people well.
One thing she wishes she would have learned sooner: that life goes by really, really fast and you need to enjoy the journey. And that you are more than your career.
How she manages all of her priorities: organization, puts her tools down and focus on her family. She’s been married for 38 years. She’s intentional about setting goals in each area of her life and takes semi-annual retreats to see how she’s tracking toward her established goals.
Her favorite “power outfit”: Where she invests her energy is in shaping her thoughts and believing that things are possible. She is also into affirmations that speak to her spirit and speak to her mind. If you’re not in a space where you believe you can, then you can’t.
Episode 139: Are You Showing Up as a Leader?
Jul 12, 2018
This episode of Beyond the Business Suit was sparked by a class I am teaching later this month on my signature executive presence program called Power Presence. What I found is that many people do not understand what executive presence is, how to get it, or if they have it. So in this episode I break down some of the questions you can ask yourself to help you understand your level of executive presence and what you can do to elevate it.
Episode 138: Two Things to Help You Overcome Feeling Overwhelmed
Jun 27, 2018
In today’s episode of Beyond the Business Suit, I want to share something with you that has continued to come up over the past several weeks that I felt like I had to share. When I see someone who is frazzled, anxiety-ridden, overwhelmed or in crisis mode, I know that one of two things (or both) are out of whack. In this episode I am going to break down those things and let you know how to get back on track.
Heard in this episode:
The two things that can help you battle overwhelm
Why self care is so important
The significance of Psalm 46:10
If you know someone who needs to hear this episode, please share it. And if you haven’t already, would love it if you left a rating and review on Apple Podcasts!
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, and focuses on helping individuals develop a more compassionate, heart-centered relational approach to leadership professionally and personally.
“My family has been the foundation that has allowed me to be able to really manage my career.”
“Make sure that you build a strong network around you”
October 11th: I’ll be in Baltimore where I’ll be moderating a panel for Exelon with some of their senior executives at Constellation and BG&E talking about the UN Women’s HeForShe movement.
October 12th: I’ll be at the 
