What happens when you decide it’s time to leave the corporate technology world behind? Define your vision and be steadfast. Join us in this episode as we examine how to successfully build a career beyond corporate tech.

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Show Notes

In this delightful conversation, host Alicia Cyrus sits down with Lesley "Lady Clipper" Bryant, as she shares her remarkable journey from an artistic teen to barber queen! Starting from her high school passion for art, Lesley details her journey to her 12-year career as a graphic designer. She reveals the pivotal moment that led to her redefining her career and ultimately, finding her true passion and success as a barber and business owner. Lesley shares the crucial elements that helped her to remain steadfast in her transition out of the technology industry, including:

* the power of customer service & building trust

* defining a clear vision, but being flexible

* establishing a consistent brand early on

* investing in a strong support system

* finding a sustainable schedule in managing work-life balance

Despite experiencing self-doubt and challenges as a woman in male-dominated fields, Lesley emphasizes the significance of planning, perseverance, and leveraging one's unique skills to forge a new career path. Her valuable insights provide a roadmap for Black Women looking to carve their own lanes, build confidence, and build a thriving career beyond corporate tech.

00:00 Introduction to Thriving In the Game

01:22 Profile in Thriving: Lesley "Lady Clipper" Bryant

03:13 The Turning Point: From Corporate Tech to Barbering

06:39 Navigating Challenges in a Male-Dominated Industry

17:19 Defining the Vision: The Lady Clipper Barber Shop

21:52 Setting the Standard for Customer Service

22:37 Empowering Early Career Black Women

24:37 Creating a Competitive Edge in Business

28:24 Creating an Inclusive Barbershop

30:12 Balancing Work and Self-Care

32:09 Finding Inspiration in the Future of Barbering

33:17 Structuring Your Support & Knowing When to Stretch

34:52 Final Thoughts and Reflections

In this episode Lesley also mentions:

* Corcoran College of Art and Design

Connect with Lesley “Lady Clipper” on Instagram | Website

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Music by Praz Khanal from Pixabay

Special thanks to Hiwote Getaneh and the Emerging Voices Podcast Accelerator! Join her newsletter or follow her Instagram @hiwote.getaneh and @emergingvoicespod. Interested in starting your own podcast? Book a call with Hiwote

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