April is ASK Month!  We are excited to officially welcome Spring... a time of new and fresh beginnings! One year ago, we were thrust into a global pandemic! We all experienced challenges and adjustments!  So many experienced losses, previously unimagined. While others experienced new beginnings, career advancement and tremendous success, also previously unimagined. This month, we discuss what separates aspects of the positive scenarios, through our theme: "The Art of the ASK:  Knowing and Getting What You Want”.

What does it mean to ASK?  Why ASK?  How to ASK?  Our definition for ASK - something asked for, requested, or required of someone —used especially in phrases like a big ask and a tough ask to say that what is being asked for or hoped for is difficult or unlikely

Our first guest, Ms. Maria Brennan is President & CEO - Women in Cable Telecommunications (WICT).  And what a guest she is!!  Maria's leadership perspectives and insights are life changing, in so many ways.  Her phenomenal listening and observation skills are the "super powers" she's used to transform WICT into a global powerhouse!  Listen as she enthralls, engages, and informs you through her wisdom and lessons learned from her incredible leadership journey!    

“The Art of the ASK:  Knowing and Getting What You Want"

Check out:  www.wict.org 

Welcome!  March, Women's History Month interview series - Theme:  "Collaboration:  Building a Supportive Team for a Successful Career".  This series highlights the achievements and leadership journeys of women who are making history in ways that positively impact the lives of others, in their communities and around the world.  Through our conversations, listeners hear and see the courage, strength and resilience of women that reflect our collective progress.  All individuals, regardless of gender, race or ethnicity, can find inspiration from a woman's perspective on collaboration, passion, courage, and creative problem-solving.  Likewise, organizations gain insight into how best to maximize the talent, creativity, and cognitive diversity of truly diverse teams.  Involvement of Women changes everything! Celebrating Women's History Month, speaks to our collective awareness of the importance of women to our society and to the stabilization and advancement of our civilization.

As we come to the close of this series... but not our women's focus and celebrations, our guest, today is the perfect person to close our loop. Susan Jin Davis, Esq., is a exceptional woman of courage, insight and energy.  Susan is very passionate about equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging and about "bringing others along".  She shares her leadership journey that is/has been infused with lessons from her immigrant parents and how collaboration changed the entire trajectory of her career.  Susan shares practical career development and organizational actions that ensure careers thrive in a collaborative environment and competitive advantages are sustained and expanded.  Listen, as she outlines the strategic collaboration steps for all women and especially for Women of Color.  Her message is clear, positive and timely.    Her wisdom is both applicable and action oriented!   

You'll leave inspired and motivated!

Welcome!  March, Women's History Month interview series - Theme:  "Collaboration:  Building a Supportive Team for a Successful Career".  This series highlights the achievements and leadership journeys of women who are making history in ways that positively impact the lives of others, in their communities and around the world.  Through our conversations, listeners hear and see the courage, strength and resilience of women that reflect our collective progress.  All individuals, regardless of gender, race or ethnicity, can find inspiration from a woman's perspective on collaboration, passion, courage, and creative problem-solving.  Likewise, organizations gain insight into how best to maximize the talent, creativity, and cognitive diversity of truly diverse teams.  Involvement of Women changes everything! Celebrating Women's History Month, speaks to our collective awareness of the importance of women to our society and to the stabilization and advancement of our civilization.

Today's guest, Dr. Barbara M. Littles, author, executive coach, entrepreneur, shares her passion for helping women build capacity through collaboration.  She emphasizes the importance of knowing who should comprise your supportive team, to achieve your goals.  Dr. Little's passion and purpose is to guide women leaders to achieve their career goal. Her message is clear:  "Collaboration is the key to everything!"

Dr. Littles' success is grounded in her extensive corporate career, helping organizations make decisions that achieved goals and ensured women leaders were supported and valued.  Listen, as she outlines the strategic collaboration steps for all women and especially for Women of Color.  Her message is clear, positive and timely.  Dr. Littles' life work is to prepare women leaders for high capacity opportunities.  Her wisdom is both applicable and action oriented! 

You'll leave inspired and motivated!

Today's podcast begins our March, Women's History Month interview series - Theme:  "Collaboration:  Building a Supportive Team for a Successful Career".  This series highlights the achievements and leadership journeys of women who are making history in ways that positively impact the lives of others, in their communities and around the world.  Through our conversations, listeners hear and see the courage, strength and resilience of women that reflect our collective progress.  All individuals, regardless of gender, race or ethnicity, can find inspiration from a woman's perspective on collaboration, passion, courage, and creative problem-solving.  Likewise, organizations gain insight into how best to maximize the talent, creativity, and cognitive diversity of truly diverse teams.  Involvement of Women changes everything! Celebrating Women's History Month, speaks to our collective awareness of the importance of women to our society and to the stabilization and advancement of our civilization.

Today's guest, Dr. Mary Bruce, author, professor, and minister, shares her passion for helping individuals build the supportive team needed to achieve their goals.  Dr. Bruce is energized through her work in education and  faith-based spaces, and shares lessons learned from those experiences, in this interview.

Listen, as she outlines the strategic steps necessary to effectively collaborate with like-minded individuals who can support you and challenge you to do THAT THING you've dreamed about. Her optimism is both refreshing and inspiring!

Dr. Bruce is committed to guiding individuals through their journey to life purpose.  Her insights offer helpful markers to utilize "pandemic time" to begin your own process to "follow through" with your dreams and purpose.

You'll leave inspired and motivated!

Check out her website:  www.followthroughtoday.com 

Today's podcast begins our March, Women's History Month interview series - Theme:  "Collaboration:  Building a Supportive Team for a Successful Career".  This series highlights the achievements and leadership journeys of women who are making history in ways that positively impact the lives of others, in their communities and around the world.  Through our conversations, listeners hear and see the courage, strength and resilience of women that reflect our collective progress.  All individuals, regardless of gender, race or ethnicity, can find inspiration from a woman's perspective on collaboration, passion, courage, and creative problem-solving.  Likewise, organizations gain insight into how best to maximize the talent, creativity, and cognitive diversity of truly diverse teams.  Involvement of Women changes everything!  Celebrating Women's History Month, speaks to our collective awareness of the importance of women to our society and to the stabilization and advancement of our civilization.   

Our first guest Ms. Wendy Davidson, President - Americas - Glanbia Performance Nutrition (GPN) shares her exciting leadership journey forged from a lifelong passion of intellectual curiosity and a laser focused drive to "build things".  Wendy's career is  remarkable, exhilarating and consistent...which is her brand.  I have had the honor of knowing her for several years and am constantly amazed at her courage and fearlessness to take on a challenge and to "speak truth to power".  Wendy "calls it like she sees it", as a way to begin the ideation process and to make you think!  She has a "Midas touch" that makes individuals, teams and businesses BETTER...despite disruptions!

Listen, as she outlines a strategic collaboration roadmap to navigate any individual, team or business through disruption.  Her "pandemic perspective" is refreshing and inspiring.

...and she has "mad storytelling skills"!

Today's podcast is the first in our February, Black History Month interview series - Theme:  "Making History Is Our Ancestors' Legacy".  This series highlights the achievements and leadership journeys of African American women and men who are making history in ways that positively impact the lives of others, in their communities and around the world.  Through our conversations, listeners are able to hear and see the courage, strength and resilience of African Americans that reflects the pain and joy of our collective history.  All individuals, regardless of race, gender or ethnicity, can find inspiration from their passion and courage, and innovation from their creative problem-solving.  Likewise, organizations gain insight into how best to maximize the talent, creativity, and cognitive diversity of a truly diverse team.  Understanding the significance of celebrating Black History Month, allows everyone to see other layers of diversity within our culture, beyond sports and entertainment, and see that the benefits to our communities, organizations and nation, are boundless.

Our Black History Month tribute brings our Theme: "Making History Is Our Ancestors' Legacy" to life, through the lives of incredible men and women, doing life-changing things each and every day.  Each guest shares his/her leadership journey and the lessons learned that ensured their successes. Listen as they share the twists, turns and their "ability to see and courage to do", that's "Making History that is Our Ancestors' Legacy".

Advancement comes in many shapes and forms but courage, intentionality and faith separates potential from achieving.  Today's guests, Pastor Kareem Bowen, Serial Entrepreneur and Sandra Ware, STEM entrepreneur embody advancement through courage, intentionality and faith.  Their work focuses on key population groups, who otherwise are left behind.  Sandra's passion for children and their future inspire her to create the space for fun STEM preparation.  "Pastor K's" passions focus on Black men and their desires to be better fathers, better partners and contributing members of society.  His ministry clearly defines his drive to make the world a better place. 

Their dialogue is a wonderful guide for current and "would be" entrepreneurs and collaborative partners! They offer real-time tips and "break through" solutions that anyone can use, immediately.

Listen as they each share their leadership journey and the individuals who inspired them to dive into their passions and to always strive for excellence.

Today's podcast is the first in our February, Black History Month interview series - Theme:  "Making History Is Our Ancestors' Legacy".  This series highlights the achievements and leadership journeys of African American women and men who are making history in ways that positively impact the lives of others, in their communities and around the world.  Through our conversations, listeners are able to hear and see the courage, strength and resilience of African Americans that reflects the pain and joy of our collective history.  All individuals, regardless of race, gender or ethnicity, can find inspiration from their passion and courage, and innovation from their creative problem-solving.  Likewise, organizations gain insight into how best to maximize the talent, creativity, and cognitive diversity of a truly diverse team.  Understanding the significance of celebrating Black History Month, allows everyone to see other layers of diversity within our culture, beyond sports and entertainment, and see that the benefits to our communities, organizations and nation, are boundless.

Our Black History Month tribute brings our Theme: "Making History Is Our Ancestors' Legacy" to life, through the lives of incredible men and women, doing life-changing things each and every day.  Each guest shares his/her leadership journey and the lessons learned that ensured their successes. Listen as they share the twists, turns and their "ability to see and courage to do", that's "Making History that is Our Ancestors' Legacy".

Today's guest is Dr. Dorsey Miller - 35th Grand Basileus - Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.  He has an unbelievable leadership story of public service, faith and being in the right place at the right time.  From Civil Rights, Education Reform, and Affordable Housing to Economic Empowerment, Dr. Miller has been on the front lines of positive change. He has made and continues to make history that is anchored in his mission of public service.  His passion and energy center around giving back to the Black community, that, as he says "has given him so much".  

Dr. Miller is known for his dedication to a cause and his focused attention to details, that ensure plans become reality.  He makes things happen!  Listen as he responds to two different interview questions, I posed:  "What about our current societal situation gives you pause...what would you caution us about?" And finally, "What about our society gives you hope?"  

Tune in to hear his fascinating and insightful responses.

Today's podcast is the first in our February, Black History Month interview series - Theme:  "Making History Is Our Ancestors' Legacy".  This series highlights the achievements and leadership journeys of African American women and men who are making history in ways that positively impact the lives of others, in their communities and around the world.  Through our conversations, listeners are able to hear and see the courage, strength and resilience of African Americans that reflects the pain and joy of our collective history.  All individuals, regardless of race, gender or ethnicity, can find inspiration from their passion and courage, and innovation from their creative problem-solving.  Likewise, organizations gain insight into how best to maximize the talent, creativity, and cognitive diversity of a truly diverse team.  Understanding the significance of celebrating Black History Month, allows everyone to see other layers of diversity within our culture, beyond sports and entertainment, and see that the benefits to our communities, organizations and nation, are boundless.

Our Black History Month tribute brings our Theme: "Making History Is Our Ancestors' Legacy" to life, through the lives of incredible men and women, doing life-changing things each and every day.  Each guest shares his/her leadership journey and the lessons learned that ensured their successes. Listen as they share the twists, turns and their "ability to see and courage to do", that's "Making History that is Our Ancestors' Legacy".

Today's guest is Mr. Wilson Lester, Co-Founder, Partners in Equity, Inc.  He has a phenomenal story that is framed by passion, faith and giving back, all grounded in family history,.  He is making history in the area of financial parity within Black and Brown communities.  Wilson has carved out a wedge for Black and Brown-owned small businesses to survive and competitively thrive during and beyond this pandemic.  Listen as he shares his Calls to Action for Individuals and Organizations.  Wilson's words are a  mandate for intentionality and commitment to the vitality of Black and Brown communities. His life's work offers hope and support to small business owners whose perseverance is making history and building a legacy.  Mr. Wilson Lester, entrepreneur, visionary and profile in courage, extends our Black History Month theme, "Making History is Our Ancestors" Legacy", in new and exciting ways.  This young man champions individual and community empowerment through entrepreneurship, faith and courage, to deeper levels of personal and collective responsibility.  

His passions and energy will stir you to get moving on your dream...in your community!

Follow Wilson's work:  piedmontbusinesscapital.org and resilnc.org  

Today's podcast is the first in our February, Black History Month interview series - Theme:  "Making History Is Our Ancestors' Legacy".  This series highlights the achievements and leadership journeys of African American women and men who are making history in ways that positively impact the lives of others, in their communities and around the world.  Through our conversations, listeners are able to hear and see the courage, strength and resilience of African Americans that reflects the pain and joy of our collective history.  All individuals, regardless of race, gender or ethnicity, can find inspiration from their passion and courage, and innovation from their creative problem-solving.  Likewise, organizations gain insight into how best to maximize the talent, creativity, and cognitive diversity of a truly diverse team.  Understanding the significance of celebrating Black History Month, allows everyone to see other layers of diversity within our culture, beyond sports and entertainment, and see that the benefits to our communities, organizations and nation, are boundless.  

Our Black History Month tribute brings our Theme: "Making History Is Our Ancestors' Legacy" to life, through the lives of incredible men and women, doing life-changing things each and every day.  Each guest shares his/her leadership journey and the lessons learned that ensured their successes. Listen as they share the twists, turns and their "ability to see and courage to do", that's "Making History that is Our Ancestors' Legacy".

Today's guest is Dr. Valerie Daniels-Carter, President/CEO of V&J Foods, Holdings Company, Inc.  She has a phenomenal story that is grounded in resilience, faith, courage, passion and giving.  She has made history...and continues to do so in ways that change the world around her as she goes!  Dr. Valerie Daniels-Carter sets the tone for Black History Month and the legacy we build upon!  Her passions and energy will stir you to get moving on your dream!

Today's podcast is the second in our January interview series - Theme:  "The Joy and Power in Finding Your Place in 2021".  This series is designed to help guide individuals as they embark upon a brand new year and support their career plans and aspirations to maximize their talent and find their joy and power in 2021.  Likewise, organizations are provided objective insights useful in their efforts to maintain a competitive advantage, retain top talent and to thrive, regardless of the industry or external factors.  This month's theme focuses on self- awareness, self-care and courage from a "control what you can control" perspective.  How brave! 2020 "happened" to everyone and every organization...how you choose to face 2021 is totally within your control.  

Our guests support you with "future-focused" guidance and advice based on their expertise and unique practical, real-life experiences.  Each interview/conversation offers positive steps, clear markers and guideposts that support your developmental intentions.

Today, Dr. Jennifer Martineau and Ms. Portia R. Mount, are the perfect guests to conclude this month's conversations and the perfect beginning to this new era in our collective history.  Their perspectives and forward-thinking provide deeper insights to our Theme:  "The Joy and Power in Finding Your Place in 2021". As our nation inaugurated, the first Woman and Woman of Color Vice-President, Jennifer and Portia discuss their passions for women's empowerment and leadership, and the need to make an impact.  

Listen, as they share their leadership journeys and the process and purpose behind their best selling book:  "Kick Some Glass:  10 Ways Women Succeed at Work on Their Own Terms".  Now, more than ever, everyone should lean into their dreams and be about the business of making them realities...not just for ourselves...but for our society.

You will be inspired, enlightened and motivated to "Kick Some Glass" of your own!

A powerful conversation that gives us all hope and a plan!

Connect with Jennifer on LinkedIn:  Jennifer Martineau & www.leapandinspireglobal.com 

Connect with Portia:  Instagram:  @themanifista | Twitter: @portiarmount