In this episode of the Here We Glow Podcast, Kia Smith offers wisdom for young professionals who are new to the non-profit sector. Ashley and Kia discuss the the logistics to starting a non-profit including start-up costs and filing, fundraising, sponsorship, and more. Kia also shares her passion for cultivating accessible dance opportunities to the south side of Chicago for all ages and skill levels. 

A Chicago native, Kia Kia trained intensely on scholarship at The Hyde Park School of Dance, The Joel Hall Dance Center, ETA Creative Arts Foundation, and StoryCatchers Theatre. She is a recipient of the American Dance Festivals tuition and staff assistant scholarships, and graduated in 2010 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance from Western Michigan University. Kia has toured and performed on many stages, nationally and internationally.  Her collaborative and choreographic credits include; Nike, HBO, Chicago Opera Theatre, the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians and many more.

In this episode of the Here We Glow Podcast, Corbin Thomas shares his passions of serving his community through sports, fashion, and youth development. Corbin and Ashley discuss the process to starting a non-profit organization and clothing brand. Corbin also shares how his Christian values and walk in faith has shaped his life and career. 

In this episode of the Here We Glow Podcast, Amy M. Gardner offers practical advice for emerging professionals who strive to find the right mentors and build relationships during our early careers. She emphasizes that now is the perfect time to develop leadership skills that will be necessary to thrive during career elevation. Amy and Ashley also discuss non-cliché tips on building strong application materials such as resumes, cover letters, and references. 

Amy is a former dean of students at a top 5 law school, former partner at a mid-size law firm, and former big law associate.  She holds a law degree from the University of Chicago Law School, a Master’s degree from Northwestern University, and a Bachelor’s degree from Luther College.

In this episode of the Here We Glow Podcast, Elijah Seay, MHRIR, shares how he overcame a quarter-life crisis, which shifted his passions and career interests to the realm of human resources and leadership coaching. Elijah and Ashley also dive into their struggles with imposter syndrome as a young professional striving to live big dreams. 

In this episode of the Here We Glow Podcast, filmmaker & speaker, Vanessa McNeal MSW, shares her journey of starting her own media company, speaking on national stages, and creating films that advocate for social change. Vanessa highlights her upcoming film, "Gridshock" and how she raised funds to produce & direct the film.

In this episode of the Here We Glow Podcast, I wrap up the "in transition" series by sharing my checklist of moving to a new city as a young professional. I share strategies and lessons learned from my relocation experiences, while emphasizing saving money and making connections in your dream city in the months prior to a move. I also stress the importance of making sure you are emotional and mentally ready for a big move post-graduation or in you new career before making the big move!

In this episode of the Here We Glow Podcast, recent grad, Obie Obumseli shares his non-traditional journey to earning his degree. He also tells his personal and professional goals in his next chapter of life. Obie and I discuss growth opportunities for young men and how your inner circle can impact your professional development. 

In this episode of the Here We Glow Podcast, I'll chat with emerging marketing guru, and my dear friend, Lauren Boyer. Lauren shares her journey of transitioning from a college student from Cedar Rapids, Iowa to starting her career in Chicago. Lauren emphasizes the importance of creating your own path while moving to a new city and cultivating new personal and professional relationships. We also discuss Lauren's decision to begin her career in the niche area of legal marketing versus a general marketing agency.