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S6 E5: Do The Work with Bea Dixon Mar 31, 2020

Show notes

Welcome to She Leads Podcast Season 6, Episode 5! This episode of She Leads Podcast features Beatrice Dixon founder of The Honey Pot Company. Beatrice Dixon has been successful in creating natural feminine wellness products being sold and used worldwide. Beatrice is revolutionary in what she does as well as how she approaches life. To hear Beatrice's leadership journey, check out her interview as she shares her experiences and insight with us!

Beatrice's Bio

When she was younger, Beatrice Dixon suffered with bacterial vaginosis for eight months. One night, an ancestor gave her the ingredients to heal herself in a dream. From that insightful dream, she created the formula for a healthy, clean feminine wash. In 2014, Dixon launched The Honey Pot Company, a plant-based feminine hygiene line created with a goal to provide women with a healthy alternative to feminine care that is free of chemicals, parabens, carcinogens and sulfates. The rest is history.

With experience in pharmaceuticals, retail and natural foods, Dixon has the insight and expertise to bring the innovative concept of a plant-based feminine care system to the marketplace. Unlike mass market and conventional feminine care brands, consumers will be able to get all of their feminine care needs met under one brand as The Honey Pot Company currently offers feminine washes, wipes, tampons, pads, mommy-to-be products, and soon-to-be additional offerings in both the feminine hygiene and feminine care segments.

Today, The Honey Pot Company's products can be found online and in stores nationwide at Target, Walmart, Urban Outfitters, Walgreens, Bed Bath and Beyond, Wegmans and Whole Foods, among other retailers.

An empowering African American female entrepreneur, Dixon has been a recipient of the Sundial and Unilever's multimillion-dollar New Voices fund; was 1 of the first 40 women of color to raise one million in venture capital; and has been featured in T-Pain's School of Business, BuzzFeed's Ladylike series, Today Show, The New York Times, Entrepreneur, ELLE, ESSENCE and Forbes, to name a few.

Most recently, she was named one of Entrepreneur's top 100 groundbreaking women entrepreneurs of 2019; her company won a 2020 ESSENCE Best in Black Beauty Award; and she received a CEW Indie 65 Award in 2019, honoring beauty's independent companies.

Through her diverse background and experience, Dixon continues to make a mark in the world of natural health and retail with a truly revolutionary approach to feminine health and sexual wellness.

"Be Empowered and Empower On" – Nicole Walker

S6 E4: Stretch Yourself with Nadege Fleurimond Mar 24, 2020

Show notes

Welcome to She Leads Podcast Season 6, Episode 4! This episode of She Leads Podcast features Nadege Fleurimond founder of ROAR Consulting. Nadege is an Author, Business Strategist, and Chef who leads her life like the Boss she is. To hear Nadege's leadership journey, check out her interview as she shares a glimpse into her life story with us!

Nadege has been an entrepreneur for nearly two decades, which has given her a wealth of knowledge and experience to share. She offers great advice on how to reinvent yourself and your business when times get tough, based on her experiences surviving the 2008 recession. This information is extremely timely for our current situation dealing with the Corona Virus, and trying to figure out how to pivot our businesses considering today's landscape.

Nadege's Bio

Nadege Fleurimond is an entrepreneur, speaker, author and business strategist living life in New York City. Utilizing her Haitian culinary background as a guide, As a chef, Fleurimond pulls a world of flavors from Asian, Latin American and European Cuisines to create tasty events that inspire, motivate and unify. Her catering company, Fleurimond Catering has catered for companies and institutions such as Ann-Hauser Busch, Columbia University, New York City Hall, BET News, and The Colbert Report, as well as notable individuals such as Vivica A. Fox, Al Jareau, and Dr. Mehmet Oz's organization Healthcorps. Nadege has also catered at the White House.

Nadege is the author of two books. Taste of Life, part cookbook, part memoir, Taste of Life offers readers an opportunity to view their own lives through a culinary lens and appreciate the beauty of food, family, friends, and tasty pleasures. The book is a humorous journey into the life of Nadege Fleurimond as she navigates her way through the world of food and the personal experiences with her family, friends and acquaintances she encounters. Her latest book,Haiti Uncovered, is a culinary travel coffee table cookbook that delves into the Art of Haitian Cuisine and brings into focus the beauty of Haiti through its diverse culinary traditions there by offering Haitians and non-Haitians an opportunity to explore and learn. The beautifully bound and illustrated, hard cover book, presents and represents the dishes, recipes, and cooking traditions, from all the 10 geographical Departments.

Nadege graduated with a degree in Political Science from Columbia University. She is the recipient of the New York Media Alliance's Ethnic Press Fellowship for 2010, and the 2011 Feet in Two Worlds Food Writers Fellowship from NYC Media. Nadege has appeared on Food Network's Chopped and has received a US Embassy grant to provide Culinary Diplomacy work utilizing the culinary arts as a tool for empowerment, entrepreneurship, and self-esteem.

Through her own quest for self-discovery, Nadege has learned and wants to reinforce, that the sky is indeed the limit. Who you are is not tied to a job title. Your true self will manifest no matter where you place yourself. Thus, through her ROAR (Reach, Organize, Act, Realize) Living method, she encourages a life of passion and purpose.

"Be Empowered and Empower On" Nicole Walker

S6 E3: Spend Time With You with Electra Davis Mar 17, 2020

Show notes

Welcome to She Leads Podcast Season 6, Episode 3! This episode of She Leads Podcast features Electra Davis founder of Mysteek Naturals. Electra is a Scientist, Veteran, and Mother who leads her life like the Boss she is. To hear Electra's leadership journey, check out her interview as she shares her life story with us!

Electra's Bio

Electra S. Davis, founder of Mysteek Naturals, is believed to be one of the first women to have created a chemical free hair color product – having started developing the product in 2016.

Electra's company is a Black woman, veteran-owned small business. She's a 35-year old divorcee who let that fire push her further to the top, and mother of two beautiful children, and Bachelor's in business administration with a concentration of accounting.

Electra started her company because, like so many other women, she was looking for an alternative to the rinses that weren't giving her the vibrant popping color that she so badly wanted yet with the harmful chemicals and process of using a developer to bleach her hair to get that vibrant color she so badly desired.

She began using the color on herself and other people began to ask her how she was changing her hair weekly and sometime daily without damaging it. Once she told them, they requested she start making them some as well and this is how the company was birthed.

She started her toothpaste line after learning the color code on the commercial toothpaste she used at the time were chemical indicators and poisonous to her and her children's health. Also, she began to research and realized that fluoride was a poison and no longer wanted to use the toothpaste. She loves to live and use naturals products as humanly possible. So, she officially launched the Mysteek Naturals, LLC business in May 2017.

Electra wants to assist her customers in remaining health conscience along with maintaining a personal relationship with her customers to obtain their feedback both positive and negative to better assist them over time, and make the company evolve for the better over time.

She has created a cream based poppin' hair color line that assists in obtaining vibrant color customers want without drying the hair. There is no need for developer, bleach, pre-lightening, or chemical dyes in this product to obtain these bright colors. Just a rock star in a jar! This isn't a rinse so there is nothing to washout.

The customer simply adds the color and moves on with their fantastic lives! The only "give and take" with this product is that with a being cream based she ask all customers to wear a bonnet at night to protect the pillows. There are currently 13 available colors with 1 more special color to release this year.

For more details and/or to make a purchase from Mysteek Naturals, visit their official web site at www.mysteeknaturals.com or follow the brand on Instagram @mysteeknaturals

Electra also offered a coupon for 20% off of her products, use MYSTEEKME20 to take advantage of this savings.

"Be Empowered and Empower On" – Nicole Walker

S6 E2: Make a Difference with Crystal Swain-Bates Mar 10, 2020

Show notes

Welcome to She Leads Podcast Season 6, Episode 2! This episode of She Leads Podcast features Crystal Swain-Bates founder of Goldest Karat Publishing. Crystal Swain-Bates is an Author, Publisher, and World Traveler who leads her life like the Boss she is. To hear Crystal's leadership journey, check out her interview as she shares her life story with us!

Crystal's Bio

Crystal Swain-Bates is a celebrated children's book author on a mission to positively reshape the way children of color all over the world see themselves. Fed up with the lack of black children's books on the market, Crystal founded Goldest Karat Publishing in order to address the lack of diversity in children's literature.

With over 234,000 books sold, Crystal and her books have been featured in Forbes, CNN, Essence, the Huffington Post, and used as props on popular television shows. Known as a "Diversity Publishing Pro", Crystal regularly consults with major publishing platforms such as Amazon and Ingram on how aspiring underrepresented authors can leverage those platforms to find success. She offers done-for-you publishing services and courses to authors who want to bring their books to life through self-publishing.

A native of Atlanta, GA, Crystal holds a Master's degree in International Affairs and is an avid world traveler.

S6 E1: Live Limitlessly with Althea Lawton-Thompson Mar 03, 2020

Show notes

Welcome to She Leads Podcast Season 6, Episode 1! This episode of She Leads Podcast features Althea Lawton-Thompson founder of Aerobics, Yoga, & More. Althea Lawton-Thompson is an Author, Wellness Advocate, and World Traveler who leads her life like the Boss she is.

To hear Althea's leadership journey, check out her interview as she shares her life story with us! Learn about Althea's childhood and how she evolved into the LeadHer she is today, the turning point that changed her life and her direction, and how she recognized a weakness she has then figured out how to work around it.

Althea's Bio

Althea lives by her trademarked tagline, Living Life Limitlessly™. A former corporate executive, this serial entrepreneur is the President of Aerobics, Yoga & More™, an Atlanta-based corporate wellness company; co-founder of the online stock photo company, DiversityPhotos.com; and a founding partner of the business consulting firm, Consultuoso. Her fiction novel, Losing Control, and entrepreneur how-to book, Twenty, are both available in paperback and ebook on Amazon and in the Kindle store, and her album, Guided Meditation with Althea, topped Amazon's Bestsellers list. As a 24-year certified fitness expert, Reiki Master, Yoga and meditation guide, and NOLScertified outdoor leader, Althea has led 17 wellness retreats to Bali, Costa Rica, South Africa, Puerto Rico, Turks & Caicos, Dominican Republic, Bahamas, Grand Canyon, and the Georgia mountains.

Before starting her Atlanta-based business ventures, Althea designed the youth fitness program for Johns Hopkins Hospital pediatric center, created the postnatal wellness program for Sinai Hospital's obstetrics department in Baltimore, and led the Healthy Living exercise program for 13 Kaiser Permanente Medical Centers in Atlanta. As a media personality, she hosted the Altheatized cable fitness show, was the weekly wellness expert on an NPR radio show, and was the weekend fitness reporter for WBAL Channel 11 news in Maryland. Althea has been highlighted in magazines including Mantra Yoga + Health, Best Self, Essence, Parenting, Upscale, and Oxygen.

In her spare time, Althea volunteers with many community organizations and has served on the board of several non-profits. During her three-year tenure as the President of the non-profit Gwinnett Pearls of Service Foundation Inc., she and her board doubled the organization's scholarship giving to provide more than $170,000 in scholarships in one year alone.

Althea has been married to her college sweetheart, Maurice Thompson, for twenty-four years and they are the proud parents of two sons, Maurice III and Malik. Her key to balancing family, business and life is daily early-morning meditation, spending time in nature, and travel.

Contact Althea @ 678-774-YOGA (9642)

Althea@AltheaLawtonThompson.com

Althea's Site: AltheaLawtonThompson.com

IG: @AltheaLawtonThompson

FB: https://www.facebook.com/AltheaLawtonThompson

Youtube: Living Life Limitlessly with Althea

PR Inquiries: PR@theOMG.biz

S5 E18: Push Through To Achieve with Tiffany S. Williams Dec 31, 2019

Show notes

Welcome to She Leads Podcast Season 5, Episode 18! This episode of She Leads Podcast features Tiffany S. Williams founder of Rich Girl Collective. Tiffany S. Williams is an Author, Digital Marketing Consultant, and Speaker who leads her life like the Boss she is. To hear Tiffany's take on leadership, listen to her interview as she discusses investing in yourself, the importance of asking for help, and the necessity for self-assessment.

Tiffany S. Williams Bio

When it comes to describing Tiffany S. Williams, MBA, the phrase "Real women support other women," is an understatement.

A motivational and inspirational force to be reckoned with, Williams is Founder and CEO of Rich Girl Collective, an online training academy for women who are looking to turn their passion into a side hustle or a successful full-time business. After unsubscribing from the narrative that women can't "have it all" as a working professional, Tiffany has made it her life's work to assist other women in transitioning from full-time employee to full-time entrepreneur using online businesses as their vehicle.

Tiffany is a firm believer in the idea that "great reward follows hard work" and she uses this mantra to encourage others to get out of their own way so that they can live a life that brings them joy and fulfillment.

As a dynamic online business coach, digital marketing consultant, two-time best-selling author, and speaker. Tiffany has grown her tribe to over 70,000 women in her private online communities. As an online business strategist, she teaches her students the same strategies that she learned and implemented while working in corporate America that have propelled her to unprecedented levels of online business success.

When she isn't helping her students build their business, she is consulting corporations on their digital marketing strategy and workplace community culture.

To date, Tiffany has been featured by and contributes to Forbes, Thrive Global, and Addicted 2 Success. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family, working out at the gym, and traveling the world.

If you are looking for a relevant, relatable and real voice to pour into your employees, students, or clients, Tiffany S. Williams, is your match. Tiffany is available for keynote presentations, expert panels, workshop host, or corporate "lunch and learn" sessions.

Nicole Walker's Interview Commentary

I really enjoyed this interview with Tiffany and I hope you did as well.

I agree with Tiffany's viewpoint on the importance of being receptive to advice and feedback. As Tiffany stated, we don't know everything. This is why having the ability to receive advice and feedback is essential to our success as leaders. Advice and feedback can help us obtain a better understanding, give us a different perspective to consider, and assist us in avoiding pitfalls. If we want to be more effective, then we must become comfortable with seeking and receiving advice and feedback! A quote by Bill Gates reads, "We all need people who will give us feedback. That's how we improve."

I admire Tiffany's willingness to step-up into leadership roles during undergrad and grad school, by leading the business club and business projects. Leaders seek opportunities, as Tiffany has shown. I find this type of behavior truly admirable considering the different options and numerous distractions that college students face daily. Personally, I love to hear stories of individuals who chose to walk the path less traveled at such a young age. A quote by Wilma Mankiller reads, "Every single person has leadership ability. Some step up and take them. Some don't. My answer was to step up and lead."

I can relate to Tiffany's personal and professional assessment practices, as I have the same. As Tiffany mentioned, it is super beneficial to step back and assess ourselves so we can determine where we are and how we can approve. Self-assessment gives us the opportunity to learn on a deeper level, improve our judgement skills, and increase our engagement. Knowing where we are gives us the foundation necessary to determine where we would like to be. A quote by Eliyas Mohammad reads, "Look into the mirror of self-assessment, clean your character, comb your thinking, shave off your bad habits, and brush your skills."

Nicole Walker's Takeaway of the Week

Tiffany mentioned how leaders should lead others individually based on the needs of each person, as opposed to our own desires. To do this effectively, we have to take the time required to learn about the needs of those we lead.

I will make it my business to learn what my people need, so I can provide the solutions they desire. Although I am very knowledgeable in many areas, I realize that I cannot accurately determine another person's needs without observing, surveying, and/or talking to my people.

A quote by Mandy Hale reads, "There is nothing more beautiful than someone who goes out of their way to make life beautiful for others."

Nicole Walker's Leadership Challenge

My leadership challenge for you would be to think about the one thing you can take away from this episode and adopt into your life. I know it's hard to absorb too much information at one time and it's even harder to try and implement too many changes at once. When I attend a training or listen to podcasts I aim to walk away with a least one thing that stuck out to me and one way that I can change as a result. I challenge you to do the same!

Don't forget to subscribe to She Leads Podcast for first access to future episodes. And also, like and share this episode of She Leads Podcast entitled "Push Through To Achieve with Tiffany S. Williams".

Thanks and until next time "Be Empowered and Empower On"!

S5 E17: Success Must Be Taken by Kearn Cherry Dec 24, 2019

Show notes

Welcome to She Leads Podcast Season 5, Episode 17! This episode of She Leads Podcast features Kearn Cherry founder of PRN Home Care. Kearn Cherry is an Author, Coach, and Speaker who leads her life like the Boss she is. To hear Kearn's take on leadership, listen to her interview as she discusses the importance of taking care of yourself first, the necessity of going after what you desire, and helping others along the way.

Kearn Cherry Bio

Kearn Cherry is a speaker, coach, entrepreneur, author and collaborator. Some of her topics are "How to Put Butts in the Seats", How to Raise Funds for Your Event/Conference", "Turning Connections into Major Collaborations", "How to Get the Most Out of Your Conference Booth", and many more. She is the owner of PRN Home Care which is 22 years old. She's vested over 30 years in the healthcare field and holds a degree in Occupational Therapy. She is co-founder and director of Success Women's Conference which produced over 1100 participants in 2019. She is host/executive producer of "Unwrinkled Heart Caregivers' Journeys". She is a co-author in two anthologies: Women Inspiring Nations Volume 2 - "Success Must Be Taken" and "Unboxed". Mrs. Cherry will be starting her new podcast K Konnections in this year.

Mrs. Cherry is a community activist who engages in developing community activities such as Blessed Gyrls Rock! and the creator of the R.I.P.E. Conference (Resources, Information, and Planning for the Elderly). She sits on numerous boards: Girls Scout State Board, Rebekah's House, Mental Health Association, Lighthouse Business & Professional Women and other organizations. She encourages women to network to increases their "Net" while building relationships that can lead to major collaborations. She often says "When one door is close go to the next one, if that would is close go around to the back, if that one is close, Create Your OWN, but never give up."

Mrs. Cherry has been featured twice in Essence Magazine. Once as the "Comeback Queen". She received numerous awards and recognition. She recently was recognized as one of the Top 50 Leading Business Women in Mississippi and the Governor's GIVE Award for Outstanding Achievement in Empowerment Initiatives. (see attached Awards list). Mrs. Cherry and her husband/business partner, Dennis are proud parents of three successful children. Their son, Dannan Cherry, who is the owner of Handy Dandy Moving Services; Dr. Jasmine Padgett, MD; Dr. Denise Cherry, DMD and their grandson Dannan Jr.

HONORS – AWARDS – RECOGNITION

2001 - ESSENCE MAGAZINE (INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE) - FEATURED BUSINESS OWNER - "COMEBACK QUEENS"

2005 ESSENCE HARDBACK BOOK (INTERNATIONAL) – SELECTED AS A FEATURED BUSINESS OWNER IN MAKING IT HAPPEN – CREATING SUCCESS AND ABUNDANCE

2003- 2004 – BILOXI BAY CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP DRIVE & AMBASSADOR AWARD

2007 -2010– MEMBERSHIP DRIVE TEAM CAPTAIN & AMBASSADOR AWARD

2010 - MHA'S ANNETTE O'KEEFE HUMANITARIAN AWARD

2010 - SOUTH MS OUTSTANDING COMMUNITY LEADERS - CLASS OF 2010

2010 - CITY OF BILOXI COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

2010 – 2011 - HEART ASSOCIATION'S GO RED FOR WOMEN – 2011 HARRISON COUNTY GO RED WOMAN REP.

2012 - LIGHTHOUSE BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL WOMEN MEDICAL PERSON OF THE YEAR

2015 - ENTERPRISING WOMEN HONORABLE MENTIONED

2018 - GOODWILL AMBASSADOR

2018-2019 - TOP 50 LEADING BUSINESS WOMEN OF MISSISSIPPI

2019 - COVEY AWARDS TOM TANDLER - LIFETIME AWARD FOR SUCCESS

2019 - MS GULF COAST BLACK NURSES ROCK - EMPOWERING WOMEN THROUGH COMMUNITY SERVICES AWARD

2019 - GOVERNOR'S INITIATIVE FOR VOLUNTEER EXCELLENCE (GIVE) AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN EMPOWRMENT INITIATIVES

2019 - - COAST TOP 10 COMMUNITY LEADERS AWARD

2019 - GULF COAST GOSPEL MUSIC AWARD'S TELEVISION HOST OF THE YEAR

2019 - ACHI MAGAZINE ENTREPRENEUR AND WOMAN OF ACHIEVEMENT NOMINEE

Nicole Walker's Interview Commentary

I really enjoyed this interview with Kearn and I hope you did as well.

I agree with Kearn's viewpoint on the necessity to step up and seek opportunities. As Kearn stated, we cannot wait for someone to give us something, we must go out and get what we desire ourselves. To effectively do this, we can't be afraid to lead and take the challenges that come our way. We have to be tenacious and understand that our first, second, third, or whichever attempt may not work; however, we must push and press on if we want to achieve our goals. A quote by an unknown author reads, "Step up to the challenge, believe in yourself, and do what it takes. Right now is a great time to start."

I admire Kearn's longevity as an entrepreneur, ability to pivot and expand, as well as her awareness of the lessons that each endeavor has taught her. Being crowned the "Come Back Queen" by Essence Magazine definitely solidifies her tenacity and persistence. When we refuse to quit, we continue to excel; it's so simple, yet can be so hard. Kearn has given us a great example of how to play the long game with her entrepreneurial efforts thus far. A quote by Josh Shipp reads, "Perseverance is stubbornness with a purpose."

I can relate to Kearn's passion to ensure women are recognized, as I have the same. I totally agree with Kearn, that women do not get the same exposure and respect as men; so, I also make it my business to fill this gap. Hence, She Leads Podcast. Women, and especially Women of Color, are doing some great things that go unnoticed. This is why Kearn and I do the work we do to elevate women and give us the pat on the back that we deserve and need. A quote by Stephanie Sparkles reads, "I love when people that have been through hell walk out of the flames carrying buckets of water for those still consumed by the fire."

Nicole Walker's Takeaway of the Week

Kearn mentioned the importance of taking care of ourselves before we give ourselves to others. According to Kearn, it is extremely important for us to get our life straight and take care of ourselves first. When we choose to take care of ourselves, we allow ourselves to become filled and show up as a whole person. This in turn allows us to fully show up for those around us.

I will make it my business to take care of me first, which can be hard because I am a mother, employee, podcaster, business owner, daughter, sister, niece, cousin, friend, homeowner, etc., etc. However, I now know that I can't fulfill these other roles properly if I am not good, so I will focus on me so I can focus on everything else.

A quote by Katie Reed reads, "Self-care is giving the world the best of you, instead of what's left of you."

Nicole Walker's Leadership Challenge

Don't forget to subscribe to She Leads Podcast for first access to future episodes. And also, like and share this episode of She Leads Podcast entitled "Success Must Be Taken with Kearn Cherry".

Thanks and until next time "Be Empowered and Empower On"!

S5 E16: Be Confident with Erin McFarley Dec 17, 2019

Show notes

Welcome to She Leads Podcast Season 5, Episode 16! This episode of She Leads Podcast features Erin McFarley founder of The Rising Phoenix Form. Erin McFarley is an Author, Confidence and Leadership Coach, and Speaker who leads her life like the Boss she is. To hear Erin's take on leadership, listen to her interview as she discusses the necessity for confidence to be an effective leader, the importance of paying to attention to our energy and the energy of those around us, and the value of helping others see their gifts and light.

Erin McFarley Bio

Erin McFarley is a native of St. Petersburg, FL. Erin is a realtor and the CEO of The Rising Phoenix Firm, a confidence and leadership consulting firm. The Rising Phoenix Firm specializes in public speaking, confidence and communication coaching. Erin has over 25 years of experience in public speaking as well as experience in training. She has trained over 200 instructors and children combined in building their self-confidence to BELIEVE in themselves.

Erin has recently released her first book entitled: "Rise Up: Overcoming Depression". Which is available on Amazon now. In this book Erin shares her struggles with postpartum depression and the tools she used to overcome.

Through all of her many business ventures her greatest accomplishment to date is being the mother of her intelligent, funny and handsome 6 year old son, Emory.

Nicole Walker's Interview Commentary

I really enjoyed this interview with Erin and I hope you did as well.

I agree with Erin's viewpoint on the importance of paying attention to the energy around us. As Erin stated, energy sets a wave in our life and we must be conscious of our own energy as well as the energy of those we choose to be around. The energy in our atmosphere shapes our days and our life. This includes first ourselves, then those around us. It is essential that we assess all energies so we can make the necessary changes to increase our vibe. A quote by Bryce Lewis reads, "If you don't like something, just take away its only power: Your attention."

I admire Erin's understanding of the importance of our elders and the value of their presence, advice, and insight. When we realize that the input of elders helps to make the journey smoother, we will seek and appreciate their insight. This may seem fundamental to some; however, it can be foreign to others. The fact that Erin realized this and willingly received this input at a young age is awesome! Elder provide a knowledge and wisdom that only comes with age and experience, so it important for us to acquire all the information we can from the elders in our lives. A quote by an Unknown Author reads, "Listen to your elder's advice. Not because they are always right, but because they have more experience of being wrong…"

I can relate to Erin's love for and mission to help others see their light and build their confidence, as I have the same. As Erin mentioned, there is something about seeing a person change for the better based on your help that is priceless. Erin and I share the same understanding that "Broken Crayons Still Color", and we both work to empower others to keep pushing regardless of anything. I absolutely love Erin's reference to the Coronel Sanders story, as this story actually changed my life. Once I discovered that he did not start KFC until he was 65, a spark in me that had went out reignited and I realized that my story was not over. A quote by Wayne W. Dyer reads, "See the light in others, and treat them as if that is all you see."

Nicole Walker's Takeaway of the Week

Erin mentioned that she starts each of her days with meditation to set her mood and intentions. Meditation helps to reduce stress, control anxiety, promote emotional health, enhance self-awareness, generate kindness, increase attention span, and more. I know first-hand about the benefits of meditating daily, yet I have not followed this practice lately.

I will make it my business to set and stick to a morning routine that consists of meditating as I believe in and have experienced the benefits it provides. I aim to show up at my best at all times, and know meditating will help me to do so which is why I will add this practice back into my daily routine.

A quote by Deepak Chopra reads, "The most powerful benefits of meditation come from having a regular daily practice."

Nicole Walker's Leadership Challenge

Don't forget to subscribe to She Leads Podcast for first access to future episodes. And also, like and share this episode of She Leads Podcast entitled "Be Confident with Erin McFarley".

Thanks and until next time "Be Empowered and Empower On"!

S5 E15: Organize Your Operations with Tonya Thomas Dec 10, 2019

Show notes

Welcome to She Leads Podcast Season 5, Episode 15! This episode of She Leads Podcast features Tonya Thomas founder of Team Delegate. Tonya Thomas is a Pioneer, Virtual Assistant, and Writer who leads her life like the Boss she is. To hear Tonya's take on leadership, listen to her interview as she discusses the importance of allowing looking at the bright side, being personable yet firm, and the necessity of organization for operational success.

Tonya Thomas Bio

Tonya Thomas is the Founder/CEO of Team Delegate, LLC a virtual assistant staffing company. She began her career in the virtual assistant industry in 2001 when she started The Small Office Assistant. While running her company as a solo entrepreneur, Tonya worked with many entrepreneurs from various industries, supporting them with travel, calendar management, email management, client care, and much more. In an effort to scale and grow her company, Tonya rebranded her business in 2015 and Team Delegate was born.

Tonya has become a leader in the virtual assistant industry, having been featured in Black Enterprise Magazine, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Inc. Magazine. She frequently writes about virtual assistance, delegating and productivity. Tonya currently resides in the Dallas, TX area with her husband and two sons.

Nicole Walker's Interview Commentary

I really enjoyed this interview with Tonya and I hope you did as well.

I agree with Tonya's viewpoint on the importance of having structure in place for our businesses to avoid issues, create consistency, and foster growth. As Tonya mentioned, knowing the When, How, and Why is pivotal to smooth operations. Organizational structure helps to boost employee creativity and performance, expand operations, improve decision making, increase sales, and streamline operations. Structure counteracts confusion, and confusion can prolong or misdirect the attainment of goals. To be effective structure is a must! A quote by James Cash Penney reads, "No business can succeed in any great degree without being properly organized".

I admire Tonya's longevity as an entrepreneur. Closing in on 20 years of working for yourself, is definitely a great achievement! I believe Tonya's willingness to improve processes, personable nature, and business acumen all have a direct correlation to her many years as an entrepreneur. Tonya is also very fortune to have had a manager that also served as a mentor. I'm sure this also plays a part in her continued entrepreneurial success. A quote by Megan Hilty reads, "I look at the people's careers who I want to emulate, like Audra McDonald, Kristin Chenoweth, Bernadette Peters... They've all found the key to longevity in this business, and that is diversifying, doing as many things as possible to keep yourself relevant, and so hopefully I'm on the same track as all those amazing women."

I can relate to Tonya's experience of not realizing she was a leader although she held a distinguished leadership role, as I experienced the same. Tonya didn't see running her business as leadership and I didn't see managing myself as leadership. Tonya's realization of her role helps her make changes to lead her company better. My realization of my role helps me make changes to lead my life better. As with Tonya, once I realized my role as a leader I also reflected back to times where I displayed my leadership, yet didn't realize. A quote by Steve Jobs reads, "Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower".

Nicole Walker's Takeaway of the Week

Tonya mentioned the importance of checks and balances within our business operations, to assist in avoiding issues and pitfalls. Tonya shared a story with us about a business venture she entered into, with a known and respected agency which ended up hurting her business while also teaching her a valuable lesson. During this experience Tonya operated in a Laisse Fair way, and as a result of this she lost a big business client.

I will make it my business to continue to add the structure needed for my business operations, as I aim to grow and scale. I know that structure is necessary for longevity, so I will make it my business to implement and update my organizational as needed.

A quote by Christina Scalise reads, "Organization isn't about perfection; it's about efficiency, reducing stress and clutter, saving time and money and improving your overall quality of life."

Nicole Walker's Leadership Challenge

Don't forget to subscribe to She Leads Podcast for first access to future episodes. And also, like and share this episode of She Leads Podcast entitled "Organize Your Operations with Tonya Thomas".

Thanks and until next time "Be Empowered and Empower On"!

S5 E14: Dig Deeper with Allysen Kerr Dec 03, 2019

Show notes

Welcome to She Leads Podcast Season 5, Episode 14! This episode of She Leads Podcast features Allysen Kerr founder of Prymel Elements. Allysen Kerr is a Brand Developer, Graphic Designer, and Storyteller who leads her life like the Boss she is. To hear Allysen's take on leadership, listen to her interview as she discusses the importance of setting boundaries, leading with compassion, and the necessity of self-awareness.

Allysen Kerr Bio

Allysen enjoys working with people and organizations making a difference in the world. A true renaissance woman, Allysen's expertise lies in a variety of areas including business and brand development, strategy, and marketing.

Originally from New York, this brand strategist, multidisciplinary designer, and entrepreneur launched her first venture at the age of 20, learning how to take a vision and turn it into a reality at a young age. During a rough season in her life, God revealed to Allysen that strong identity and a clear vision were essential to her foundation but also essential to the success and growth of an organization or business.

Out of that rough season, she launched what would become Prymel Elements (formerly the Antebellum Design Co.). As its CEO and creative director, Allysen works to develop brands, plan impactful marketing strategies, and create unique designs for start-ups, nonprofits, and small businesses. To date, the Tampa-based agency has served 100-plus clients and brands.

Allysen received her bachelor's from the University of Florida's College of Journalism and Communications. She currently serves as President-Elect of the Tampa Gator Club and is an advisory board member to the Mentoring with Purpose Charity.

Nicole Walker's Interview Commentary

I really enjoyed this interview with Allysen and I hope you did as well.

I agree with Allysen's viewpoint on the importance of setting proper boundaries with ourselves, as a tool for better decision making. Setting boundaries requires self-awareness and self-reflection. When we know who we are and how we operate we have the power to choose more wisely. As Allysen shared, boundaries give us the ability to avoid burnout, when necessary, by providing the confidence to say No and the understanding to Slow Down. A quote by Anna Taylor reads, "Love yourself enough to set boundaries. Your time and energy are precious. You get to choose how you use it. You teach people how to treat you by deciding what you will and won't accept."

I admire Allysen's ability to self-reflect and accept her role in situations that do not turn out the way she envisioned. As an effective leader, we must examine ourselves to figure out how we can course correct for the future. Allysen's realization of herself as a laissez-faire leader helped her to see where she could've done better and avoided some unnecessary issues amongst her team. Allysen's ability to process at this level is wonderful, and is definitely what successful leaders do. A quote by Stephen R. Covey reads, "Don't argue for other people's weaknesses. Don't argue for your own. When you make a mistake, admit it, correct it, and learn from it immediately."

I can relate Allysen's issues with getting distracted easily and procrastinating, as I experience the same. Learning to accept our weaknesses is not easy, yet it is absolutely necessary if we want to get pass them. Because Allysen knows herself, she has figured out a way to…as she says "trick herself" into getting the job done in spite of her flaws. When we know better, we have the opportunity to do better! Unfortunately, many people do not know better and are stuck; don't be those people! A quote by Baltasar Gracián reads, "Self-reflection is the school of wisdom."

Nicole Walker's Takeaway of the Week

Allysen mentioned that we should "always give people the benefit of the doubt", and "never assume the worse" because we never know what people are going through. Allysen gave great advice to, look beneath the surface and try to find the root cause of people's actions and behaviors so we can have a larger view of the picture.

I will make it my business to continue to dip deeper into occurrences, and not take things at surface level so I am a more compassionate leader. I understand that shallow observations provide shallow findings, so I will dig deeper as I want a deeper understanding.

A quote by Jill Bolte Taylor reads, "When we are being compassionate, we consider another's circumstance with love rather than judgement…To be compassionate is to move into the right here, right now with an open heart consciousness and a willingness to be supportive."

Nicole Walker's Leadership Challenge

Don't forget to subscribe to She Leads Podcast for first access to future episodes. And also, like and share this episode of She Leads Podcast entitled "Dig Deeper with Allysen Kerr".

Thanks and until next time "Be Empowered and Empower On"!

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