Impostrix Podcast

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33. Our Journeys Uncovering Identity, Ambitions, and the Humor in Between with Kendra Beltran May 08, 2024

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This episode is a shared journey through the complexities of who we are and who we aspire to be. Whitney sits down with Kendra, the creator of Crushgasm Podcast, and together they peel back the layers of imposter syndrome where it entwines with race and their personal passions. Kendra shares about her experiences with emo and pop-punk scenes as a person of color, we tackle the pressures that come with standing out in professional spaces and the courage required to forge your own narrative against the grain of societal norms.
Our conversation meanders through the landscape of freelance writing and education, highlighting the pigeonholing that comes with racial expectations and the hunger for diverse representation. Whitney shares tales of feeling "too white" in Black spaces and the impact that has had on her career trajectory, while Kendra opens up about her role as a mixed race woman working in schools as an instructional aide, emphasizing the power of relatable figures for children. Whitney and Kendra stitch together a story of pursuing a career that reflects who they truly are, despite the external narratives and preconceived ideas that often come our way.
Wrapping up with some levity, Kendra reflects on her journey and aspirations, from her love of pop culture, her podcast, and her forever dream of writing for 'Saturday Night Live.' This conversation is sprinkled with laughter, affirmations, and the mantras we lean on while navigating career and identity.
Listen to Crushgasm podcast to hear fun stories about crushes! From first crushes (like Whitney's story) to celeb crushes and cartoon crushes, it's all there. And connect with Kendra on IG @crushgasmpodcast.
Find Whitney on IG @impostrixpodcast, and learn more about the show at impostrixpodcast.com.
Thank you DigitalREM for editing this episode!

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Wills for the People
Advancing wealth equity through intentional, accessible, culturally responsive and transformative estate planning services and education. Available in Georgia only.
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32. Women's Health, Self Advocacy and Having Boundaries At Work with Tanya Ambrose May 01, 2024

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In this episode Whitney is joined by her good friend Tanya to discuss women's health. Tanya is a doula, a non-profit founder, and a public health professional currently pursuing her graduate degree. You may recognize Tanya from a between-season crossover event where Whitney released an episode from the Tea with Tanya podcast for our listeners! This time Tanya joins us in the "flesh"!
Tanya shares her journey and insights into tackling women's health issues, advocating for menstrual health awareness, and breaking stigmas surrounding reproductive health, especially within the context of being a Black, Caribbean immigrant woman in the United States. The dialogue covers Tanya's personal experiences with health challenges, her proactive approach to wellness, and her efforts to educate and empower through her platform, Tea with Tanya, and her nonprofit organization, Scrub Life Cares.
Key topics include the importance of advocacy in healthcare, navigating professional life as a woman with health challenges, and the significance of mental health days. Tanya emphasizes the value of effective communication and support systems in advocating for health needs. The conversation also touches on broader issues like the lack of comprehensive health education and the need for greater empathy and understanding within the healthcare system towards women, especially those of color. Tanya's personal mantra, "nothing happens before its time," encapsulates her philosophy of perseverance and timing in life's journey.
This episode is a deep dive into women's health from the perspective of empowerment, advocacy, and resilience, highlighting the need for open conversations, education, and supportive communities to navigate health challenges and advocate for better healthcare experiences.
Learn more about Tanya through her podcast, the TEA with Tanya Podcast, and the non-profit she founded, Scrub Life Cares. In this episode, Tanya talks about the non-profit and the work they do to educate women and girls on women's health and specifically menstrual health. Learn how to get involved at her website!
And, join Whitney over on IG @impostrixpodcast and @willsforthepeople.
Thank you Chris at DigitalREM for editing this episode.

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31. Turning Traumas into Treasures: Stories of Resilience and Recovery Crossover Episode Apr 24, 2024

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Embarking on the profound intersection of mental health and societal barriers, Whitney is joined by life coach and co-host of the Pandora's Awareness Podcast, Asher Wright to interview Marlon Bacote.
Together, we peel back the layers of cultural stigmas that shroud the struggles of Black men seeking vulnerability in a world where it's often seen as weakness. Highlighting the celebration of Second Chances Month this April, our conversation takes a deep look into the resilience required to navigate life post-incarceration, and the dire need for a shift in systemic structures that currently hinder this journey.
Our discourse moves from the personal to the systemic, sharing stories like mine, from battling addiction to becoming a licensed mental health professional, and Marlon's relentless pursuit to utilize his certifications despite the roadblocks of 'barrier crimes.' The episode traverses through the complexities of re-establishing one's identity after significant life transitions, such as leaving the military or rejoining society post-prison. It's a narrative that intertwines the transformational power of education with the nuanced struggles of reintegrationwhere support systems play a pivotal role, and the echoes of past environments shape our paths forward.
As we wrap up, the conversation turns towards a journey of healing and self-care, emphasizing their importance against the backdrop of societal pressures and shame. I share my own introspections on mental health management and the steps taken towards somatic meditation, while Marlon reflects on his transformative realization that catalyzed his recovery from addiction. This episode isn't just a talk; it's a testament to the undying spirit of hope and the affirmation that our past does not dictate our future. Join us in a heartfelt affirmation that every step towards mental health is a stride toward triumph.
Get in touch with Asher at LifeChangingWisdom.com, and listen to Pandora's Awareness Podcast.
Catch up with Marlon on IG @bacotemarlon.
This episode was edited by Chris at DigitalREM. Thank you!

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30. From Prison to Promotions: A Story of Intention, Ambition, and Self-Acceptance with Martin Lockett Apr 17, 2024

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Feeling like an imposter and having self-doubt are common experiences, even for individuals who have achieved significant success. In this episode, Martin Lockett, who in just a couple years transitioned from being incarcerated to earning a director role in a nonprofit organization, candidly shared his personal struggles with imposter syndrome in his career. But first, Martin shared his journey of radical acceptance, reflecting on his past experiences of incarceration and the impact it had on his self-perception. He highlighted the importance of accepting the things we cannot change and focusing on how we respond to challenging circumstances. This message resonates with the concept of radical acceptance in overcoming adversity.
Martin's experience of reintegrating into the workforce after 17 and a half years of incarceration shed light on the challenges individuals face when reentering society. The societal stigma and biases associated with having a criminal history or being incarcerated can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and imposter syndrome. Martin's reflections on being the only Black individual in senior management meetings also underscored the added pressure and social responsibility that individuals from marginalized backgrounds may feel in professional settings.
Through Martin's story, we are reminded of the importance of normalizing conversations around vulnerability and self-reflection in the workplace. By sharing his internal dialogue and struggles, Martin encourages us to acknowledge and address our own insecurities, fostering a culture of authenticity and support in professional environments.
Martin Lockett is a writer and speaker whose words have impacted thousands of people, even before leaving prison. While incarcerated, Martin dedicated his life to making amends for crimes he committed resulting in the loss of life of two people. He did this by throwing himself into reflection, education, and physical and emotional sobriety. Martin has earned his MS in Psychology and his certification as a substance abuse counselor.
As a writer, Martin has used his time behind bars to write in various forms, all with the intention of helping others with his story and life experiences. Martin has published two books, his memoir, Prison to Purpose Pipeline, and My Prison Life, a collection of essays. Now released, Lockett continues his mission and message by helping those in need of counseling for mental health and substance use disorders and sharing his powerful story at DUI victim impact panels, high schools, conferences, and highway safety classes across the country.
Get in touch with Martin at martinlockett.com and on IG @MartinLLockett.
Learn more about Whitney, Impostrix Podcast, and our upcoming events at Impost

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29. Building a Career After Incarceration with Waleisah Wilson Apr 10, 2024

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Whitney is joined by Waleisah Wilson, a friend and colleague, in this really real episode on what it is like navigating life and career after incarceration.Waleisah Wilson is a dedicated criminal justice reform activist and organizer. She staunchly supports efforts that address disability justice, ending solitary confinement and mass incarceration, voter disenfranchisement, ending the stigmas associated with having a criminal record and eliminating the unjust barriers to reentry. Her passion stems from her personal struggles with reentry and is the reason why she founded NewLife Second Chance Outreach, Inc., a nonprofit organization that addresses the lack of direct employment services for those with criminal convictions.

In this candid conversation, Whitney and Waleisah discuss the systemic issues surrounding mass incarceration, the importance of language in humanizing individuals with criminal records, and the need for grace, forgiveness, and compassion in our communities. They highlight the impact of racial capitalism on employment opportunities for people of color and the barriers faced by those with criminal records.

Through personal anecdotes, Waleisah sheds light on the need for change in how we view and support individuals reentering society. This episode challenges listeners to rethink their perceptions and consider actionable steps to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all members of our community.

Waleisah holds two Masters degrees, one in Human Services and one in Nonprofit
Management, and a Graduate Certificate in Criminal Justice. She is the owner of two small businesses, Phoenix Recruiting & Employment Services, LLC., where she provides recruiting services to employers, training and business consulting services to those seeking to start their own small business or nonprofit organization, and Beautiful Pride, an ecommerce apparel store that allows its customers to support grassroots social and criminal justice organizations through its collection purchases.Tune in to this thought-provoking episode of the Impostrix podcast to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by formerly incarcerated individuals and the importance of providing opportunities for successful reentry and employment.This episode was recorded LIVE on Instagram on April 8, 2024. Follow Impostrix Podcast on Instagram @ImpostrixPodcast to stay up to date on future live podcast recordings and other events.Thanks, Chris at DigitalREM for the wonderful job you did editing and with such a

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28. Prioritizing Women Impacted by Incarceration with Gabrielle Perry Apr 03, 2024

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The Second Chances Mini-Series spotlights four people who are finding their way after incarceration and who have been able to build a career doing what they love. This mini-series are their stories. Up first is Gabrielle Perry, MPH. Thank you, Gabrielle, for sharing your very personal story with us.

In this powerful podcast episode, host Whitney Lee engages in a candid conversation with Gabrielle Perry, founder of the Thurman Perry Foundation. They discuss the challenges faced by women impacted by incarceration, discussing reentry into society, the impact of incarceration on individuals and communities, and the importance of dignity and empathy in the criminal legal system.

Gabrielle shares her personal journey of resilience having faced being a caregiver at a young age, incarceration, and homelessness, and having succeeded in becoming an epidemiologist. Her life story sheds light on the systemic barriers faced by formerly incarcerated individuals. Even one day in jail uproots an entire life and the community that that life touches. Gabrielle shares too about survivors guilt after beating the odds, and recalls the moment she had to decide whether she would be upfront about her history to future employers and educators.

Through their discussion, they challenge societal perceptions and biases towards those with criminal legal involvement or criminal convictions, emphasizing the need for compassion and support in the reentry process.

April is Second Chance Month in the United States. During Second Chance month, we bring awareness to the journey of formerly incarcerated people returning to society. Communities throughout the United States are in dire need of a stronger reentry ecosystem for those returning from incarceration and institutionalization. Formerly incarcerated people and people with arrest records, truancy records, or other involvement with the criminal legal system face a stigma that is life long and impacts the ability to someone to secure safe and affordable housing, and to secure gainful employment or access to certain careers, among other things.

Resources Mentioned:

Thurman Perry Foundation: https://thurmanperryfoundation.org/
The Thurman Perry Foundation is a Louisiana-based non-profit dedicated to improving the lives of women and girls impacted by incarceration. They have several signature programs including the Perry Second Chance Scholarship to fund higher education for women and girls impacted by incarceration (accepting applications through April 2024!) Girl Code - a program to end period poverty in prison, and the Mothers Day 365 housing relief fund. Donations to the Thurman Perry Foundation are tax deductible and always welcome!

To learn more and see data abou

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27. Bodybuilding, The Black Tax, and Generational Differences at Work with Shou Alexandre Mar 27, 2024

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Whitney is joined by fellow podcaster Shou Alexandre to have a winding conversation covering Shous body building journey, being a good employee, describing workplace dynamics known to some as the Black tax, and generational differences that exist in the modern workplace. The conversation explores the impact of race and gender on how questioning authority is perceived, generational differences in the workplace, and the expectations placed on people of color regarding appearance and behavior.

Shou is the host of Shou Talks podcast, a show where Shou interviews people of different backgrounds who share on their experiences navigating life. In her words, these stories offer raw honesty, edgy humor, authenticity, and insight.

Shou is an amateur bodybuilder in her first year of intensive training. She shares why she decided to document this journey and emphasizes the importance of representation in the sport.

Then Whitney and Shou push back on the workplace norm of simply following directions without questioning or understanding the why. They discuss experiences in Shous life where she has worked harder and longer, taken on additional tasks, just to be valued as much as her white colleagues. This Black tax is not unique to Shou but is an experience unique to people of color navigating the workplace. Whitney reflects on her tendency to always ask questions and seek reasons behind processes, even if it means being labeled a "bad (or difficult) employee."

The conversation touches on generational differences, with younger generations like Gen Z being more willing to advocate for their worth at work compared to previous generations taught to just follow instructions to earn an income. Shou acknowledges Gen Z has opened doors for pushing back on unfair treatment, despite her initial skepticism.

The overarching themes in this conversation explore unlearning cultural conditioning to better navigate workplace dynamics as women of color professionals.

Listen to Shou Talks Podcast on audio podcast players, and follow Shou @i_am_shouxperience.
Follow Whitney @impostrixpodcast and learn about upcoming events and other opportunities to engage at https://www.impostrixpodcast.com.

Thank you Digital REM for editing this episode!

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26. Unpacking the "Angry Black Woman" Narrative and Self-Preservation with Julia Washington Mar 20, 2024

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Whitney Knox Lee and guest Julia Washington continue their conversation unpacking common narratives about Black women. This time using scenes from the Amazon Prime original show "Harlem" to discuss the "angry Black woman" stereotype and the balancing act Black women face as they try not to overshoot their mark on being strong. (Fans of Angie, this one is for you!)
Julia Washington is a biracial (Black and Italian) solo mom, artist, writer, and the host of Pop Culture Makes Me Jealous and the Jelly Pops Book Club podcasts.

In this conversation, Julia and Whitney relate over scenes from "Harlem," share personal experiences, affirming mantras, and self-care practices to combat harmful narratives and protect their peace.

Here are three key self-preservation takeaways from this conversation:

Create Safe and Nurturing Spaces: It can be so significant and meaningful to surround ourselves with environments that nurture our well-being and provide a sense of belonging.
Normalize Naming Emotions: By openly expressing our emotions, we can better understand and address our needs, fostering emotional well-being and healthier relationships. Do this. Make it normal in your life.
Do Things That Fill Your Cup: Prioritize actual self-care, find joy in simple pleasures, and fill our cups to maintain balance and inner peace.

Connect with Julia Washington on Instagram @TheJuliaWashington and check out her work @JuliaWashingtonProductions. Do you love Julia's vibe and heart pop culture? Learn more about her podcasts at PopCultureMakesMeJealous.com.
Follow Impostrix Podcast on Instagram @ImpostrixPodcast and join the conversation on Facebook at the Impostrix Podcast Validating Space. Visit www.impostrixpodcast.com for more information.
This episode is available on YOUTUBE!

Stay tuned for more empowering discussions on navigating imposter syndrome and racial toxicity in the workplace. Be sure to like, share, and subscribe for more validating content. Thank you for listening!
Shout out to Chris @DigitalREM for editing this episode!

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25. Strong Black Woman with Julia Washington Mar 13, 2024

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What is the stereotype of the strong Black woman and how does it show up in every day life?
In this episode, Whitney is joined by fellow podcast hostess Julia Washington to discuss the portrayal of Black women in media and the tropes or stereotypical roles that Black women are assigned, the challenges this raises and the impact it can have in the life of a woman.
The conversation covers scenes from the comedy drama Amazon Prime Original TV series "Harlem" that highlight the struggles faced by Black women in healthcare settings and the workplace. They also touch on data from the Georgetown Law study "Girlhood Interrupted: The Erasure of Black Girls' Childhood" discussing the adultification of Black girls and the disproportionate burden of diversity, equity, and inclusion work falling on Black women in corporate environments.
Join Whitney and Julia as they explore these important topics and share their personal experiences and insights.
Julia Washington is a California based, bi-racial, writer, artist, solo-mom and podcast host. She is the creator and host of Pop Culture Makes Me Jealous and Jelly Pops Book Club podcasts. Julia loves to read, watch television and moves, has a subscription to the New Yorker, and will give you unsolicited book/movie/tv recommendations. Julie also writes a monthly column in Jennifer magazine and, seriously, she knows EVERYTHING about pop culture. You can find her on Instagram or TikTok @ theJuliaWashington.
For more content from Whitney, visit impostrixpodcast.com and follow her on Instagram @impostrixpodcast.
Monthly Brown Bag Discussion Series REGISTER HERE
Sources:
Harlem, Season 1, Episode 6 Cuffing Season, and Episode 7 The Strong Black Woman. On Amazon Prime Video
Girlhood Interrupted: The Erasure of Black Girls Childhood, 2017, Center on Poverty and Inequality, Georgetown Law.
"Women in the Workplace" Study 2023, by Lean In.
Editor: Digital REM

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24. Black Women Don't Owe You Likeability... And Other Reflections on Misogynoir Mar 06, 2024

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Black women encounter unique challenges in the workplace, particularly concerning likability and stereotypes that can significantly impact their professional experiences. In this episode, Dr. Katrina Gipson joins Whitney to explore how Black women are often forced to navigate misogynoir - hatred or prejudice against Black women - and how this shows up in the workplace.
Pulling from personal experience with health care in Georgia, Whitney and Dr. Gipson start by discussing medical racism. The conversation then shifts to the subject of one of Dr. Gipson's article titled "Black women don't owe you likeability," and the pair explore how Black women are expected to be likable in the workplace. They are judged based on their friendliness, approachability, and ability to make others feel at ease.
Black women face penalties for not meeting these likability criteria. Penalties that become apparent in performance reviews and promotion decisions, and are noted with coded language like "not being a team player," "needs improvement in proactivity," and "could show more enthusiasm for her job." This can create a hostile work environment where Black women feel pressured to conform to certain expectations to avoid negative outcomes.

The episode underscores the importance of allyship and solidarity in addressing the challenges faced by Black women in the workplace. It is crucial for individuals, especially those in positions of power, to actively support and advocate for Black women, challenging stereotypes and biases as they arise.
Dr. Gipson emphasizes the necessity of creating inclusive work environments where Black women can be themselves without fear of judgment or backlash. By prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and ensuring that all voices are valued and respected, organizations can work towards dismantling harmful stereotypes and fostering a more equitable workplace.

Dr. Gipson's message to listeners: you are enough and you are worthy.

Subscribe to Impostrix Podcast here or on Youtube.
Katrina A. Gipson, MD, MPH is an ER Physician, an Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine at Emory University School of Medicine and Public Voices Fellow of AcademyHealth in partnership with The OpEd Project. Connect with Dr. Gipson on LinkedIn.
Read articles by Dr. Gipson:
"Black Women Don't Owe You Likeability" (Boston Globe)
"As A Black Woman and Physician, It's Time To End Microaggressions in Medicine" (Ms. Magazine)

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