I believe in the importance of commitment in achieving our goals, so when I saw this quote "Motivation will follow commitment," it resonated with me, particularly as I continue on this journey of building Pamoja. This episode is a reflection and celebration of the commitments we make for ourselves. The sky is the limit and anything is possible!

Topics Covered:

• Reflection of our biggest accomplishment
• Little by little, a little becomes a lot
• Drawing inspiration from Beyonce Knowles Carter
• Preparing for Pamoja's first collection launch

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Thanks to Pamoja for supporting Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer

In this episode of "Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer," I had the pleasure of sitting down with the incredible Kamilah Thomas, a licensed mental health therapist, motivational coach, and women empowerment advocate. Together, we delved into Kamilah's inspiring journey, from her initial aspirations of becoming an attorney to her transformative shift into social work and entrepreneurship.

Kamilah shared her personal experiences and insights, reflecting on the challenges she faced and the pivotal moments that led her to where she is today. We explored the concept of being a Strong Black Woman, discussing the characteristics and struggles that often come with this identity. Kamilah emphasized the importance of self-care and total wellness, highlighting the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical health.

Throughout our conversation, Kamilah shared practical tips and advice for prioritizing self-care and maintaining well-being, from deep breathing exercises to the power of stillness and mindfulness. We discussed the significance of addressing emotional baggage and the impact it can have on our overall health and success.

Looking ahead, Kamilah expressed her excitement for expanding her therapy practice, coaching female entrepreneurs, and engaging in more speaking engagements. She emphasized the importance of resilience and perseverance, encouraging us to embrace the unexpected twists and turns of life with an open mind and a positive attitude.

Overall, this episode was a heartfelt and empowering conversation, filled with valuable insights and encouragement for anyone on their journey to personal growth and fulfillment. Join us as we navigate the path to success and well-being, one step at a time!

Topics Covered:

• My transformative shift into private practice as a therapist
• The Strong Black Woman
• Prioritizing total wellness for sustainable success
• The practice of deep breathing to reduce anxiety
• The surprising things you'll learn about yourself by sitting in silence
• Embracing life's unpredictability

Guest Info:

• KBT Counseling and Consulting
• Boss Up Wellness Coaching and Consulting
• She Can Work - Rooted Workshop (Feb 23rd)
• Kamilah's Instagram
• Kamilah's Linkedin

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• Follow us on Instagram 

Sponsors:

Thanks to Pamoja for supporting Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer

This year I'm operating on abundance, and as we wrap up the first month of the year I'm sharing what that means to me. 

Sometimes it can be scary to have big dreams and put yourself out there. But for me, what's the worst that can happen if I continue to push through, doing something that I love and enjoy?

Topics Covered:

• Recognize the Power of Your Thoughts
• Surround Yourself with People with an Abundance Mentality
• Create Win-Win Situations
• Incorporate Gratitude in Your Life
• Recognize Opportunities Around You

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• Follow us on Instagram 

Sponsors:

Thanks to Pamoja for supporting Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer

Born in Cairo, Egypt with aspirations to become an archaeologist, Jovanna later shifted focus stepping into the world of business launching a career in consulting, eventually merging her interest in technology and retail leading teams at Apple and Rent The Runway.

In addition to being a highly motivated career driven individual, Jovanna shares how she entered a new phase in life in 2023, becoming a mother while being intentional with prioritizing self and family.

Jovanna is a woman of many hats that will leave you motivated to explore your untapped potential.

Topics Covered:

• How my American and Egyptian upbringing molded me
• Career: Following the impact and the importance of sponsors
• Transitioning into motherhood
• My Partner/Husband is my secret weapon in balancing life
• Utilizing systems to measure personal goals and outcomes
• Fitness for longevity, stamina, and mental health
• Acknowledging it’s ok if I didn't achieve the goal as long as I made progress
• Importance of keeping receipt of your wins
• Leaving space for the unknown/untapped opportunities in your life

Guest Info:

• Jovanna's Instagram
• Jovanna's LinkedIn

Organizational Resources/Tools:

• Google Spreadsheets
• Apple Notes
• Notion

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• Follow us on Instagram 

Sponsors:

Thanks to Pamoja for supporting Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer

I recorded this episode on my Birthday, November 27th.

As I celebrate my birthday today, I reflect on where I was a year ago and where I am today. I have a lot to be thankful for. Life is not black and white, and it's never going to be a straightforward path to achieve what you want.

I'm learning to appreciate the hurdles because it's growth at the end of the day. And that's what makes my story unique, but yet relatable. And I truly hope that you're able to take tidbits of what I'm sharing and apply it to your life.

Topics Covered:

• What I'm Thankful For
• Not Falling Into The Trap of Self Sabotage
• Celebrating The Growth & Wins - Design Patent
• Your Door is a Platform for Others

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Sponsors:

Thanks to Pamoja for supporting Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer

Being a multi-hyphenate creative at heart, Adrienne Blanks has always balanced multiple projects at a time.

If you ask Adrienne, Nail Polish chose her and it ultimately became the vessel that steered her into business coaching after experiencing burnout in her very own creative venture. Adrienne has pushed the boundaries, and now she’s entering into a new era of purpose working with entrepreneurs to help find clarity and strategy in launching their business projects, so they are set up for success in the long run.

Topics Covered:

• The one way ticket to NY to pursue my dream career in media
• How unemployment forced me to pivot into entrepreneurship
• Acknowledging burnout and when it’s time to move on
• Embracing the numbers when you’re a creative
• Dismantling the lack of capital and access for minorities
• Working from an empty cup, learning to slow down and pour into myself

Guest Info:

• Adrienne's Website
• Brainstorm Sesh - Mindful Business Planning

Resources:

• Backstage Capital Catalyst Program
• News Article - Fearless Fund Legal Challenges

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• Follow us on Instagram 

Sponsors:

Thanks to Pamoja for supporting Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer

If you've been tuning into this podcast, you know I've been very adamant about hitting a big milestone, which was to present a collection this month in September during Fashion Week. Well long story short, that didn't happen.

I’m not going to lie, I felt defeated, but that feeling lasted for a short period of time. Because I realized I’m exactly where I need to be. There is so much more for me to observe and learn over the next few months so I’m ready for Fashion Week in February!

Topics Covered:

• Remaining Focused On My Goals
• Taking Time Off To Rest & Reset
• Beyonce Renaissance Tour & Bey Good Foundation
• Setting Goals and Taking Action

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• Follow us on Instagram 

Sponsors:

Thanks to Pamoja for supporting Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer

Taking the biggest leap of faith, Sasha Simmons shares the battles and the fears she faced when deciding to no longer associate herself with everything she knew and everything that defined her as a person growing up. She stepped away from her religious cult.

Today, Sasha is a professional speaker and empowerment activist helping people navigate life to the absolute fullness.

Topics Covered:

• Being raised in a very strict religious cult
• The eye opening move to New York from Jacksonville, FL
• The journey with Semester at Sea
• Being strategic and intentional to reach your North Star
• Living my life for Me and deciding to leave my religion
• How I learned so much about myself with Vipassana 10 day meditation

Guest Info:

• Sasha's Website
• Sasha's Instagram

Resources:

• Vipassana
• Garrain Jones TEDx Talk, Using Artist Power to Reclaim Your Authentic Self

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• Follow us on Instagram 

Sponsors:

Thanks to Pamoja for supporting Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer

In the ninth episode, you’re hearing from yours truly, Stephanie—the Originator of this podcast and the Founder of Pamoja.

I'm being honest on this podcast about where I stand and what I'm going through because I want to share this journey. I want people to understand where I started, where I'm coming from, and witness the great progress of what it is I'm executing.

Not everything is rosy. Not everything goes as planned. But it’s not an excuse to throw in the towel and give up. Failure is inevitable, but it is also a great opportunity to learn and grow for the better.

So what are you waiting for?

Sit back. Have a listen. And be inspired.

Topics Covered:

• The key is persistence
• What I’m reading 
• Walking blindly in faith doing what you’re called to do
• Where I stand with the vision I set for myself in 2023
• The importance of not holding out on opportunities for yourself

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• Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer Blog
• Follow us on Instagram 

Sponsors:

Thanks to Pamoja for supporting Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer

In this episode, I have a seat at the table with my Great Aunt Lil, my Maternal Grandma’s youngest sibling of twelve.

At 89 years young, Aunt Lil is what I call a Modern Trailblazer, with the wit and grit to do anything she sets her mind to. It was such a treat hearing her story and endless determination to reach her ultimate career goal of becoming a Social Worker.

It was also a great privilege to have access to some of my family’s history that traces back to the mid 19th century. It is such an honor to be able to discuss the significance of Juneteenth for my late Great Grandma “Mamma Myrt,” and learn the history of Willow Grove, TX, a community founded by  A. W. Crawford and my Great Great Great Great Uncle Buck who sought more opportunity as an ex-slave migrating from the Manning Plantation in Shubuta, MS.

There is always so much to learn from the generations before us. If you have the opportunity, I encourage you to take the time and unleash your curiosity.

Topics Covered:

• Setting goals and making them a reality
• The draw and determination to become a Social Worker
• Willow Grove, TX familial roots
• The importance of Juneteenth
• Acknowledging the detours in life before reaching your destination

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• Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer Blog
• Follow us on Instagram 

Sponsors:

Thanks to Pamoja for supporting Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer