In this episode, Dawn Anderson-Thurmond takes us on an inspiring journey from her roots in Hamilton, Ohio, to her impactful role as Interim COO for YWCA Hamilton. Growing up in a tight-knit, predominantly African American community, she learned resilience, kindness, and independence from her supportive family. Dawn shares how stepping outside her comfort zone broadened her horizons and empowered her to redefine success on her own terms. From navigating academic setbacks and a career in the justice system to finding purpose in mental health advocacy, her story is a testament to perseverance and self-discovery. Tune in as Dawn reflects on overcoming adversity, embracing her identity, and the transformative power of self-care.

Today’s episode is sizzling with inspiration! We’re thrilled to have Chef Tiffany Williams (Chef Mama), whose journey from teenage motherhood to becoming a powerhouse chef and entrepreneur is as remarkable as her guest list. Tiffany has catered for some of the biggest names out there—Beyoncé, Justin Bieber, and even President Barack Obama! She shares the ups and downs of her path, from breaking into the culinary industry as a woman of color to her backstage catering at high-profile events. Plus, she’s making waves beyond the kitchen, advocating for fair pay, representation, and uplifting Black and brown chefs through her nonprofit and her business, Exquisite Catering. Get ready for a conversation that’s as bold as the flavors Tiffany brings to the table!

In this conversation, Mary N. Chaney shares her inspiring journey from humble beginnings in Cincinnati to becoming a corporate leader in cybersecurity and an entrepreneur. She discusses her education, her experience with the FBI, and her transition to corporate America. Mary emphasizes the importance of diversity in the cybersecurity field and the challenges faced by minorities. She also addresses the impact of AI on society, the legal aspects of data protection, and how she balances her career with being a single mother. Throughout the conversation, Mary offers valuable insights on resilience, focus, and the importance of mentorship.

Victoria Watkins is Founder and Managing Partner of Inrichmint, an organization that sources curated deal flow for high net worth individuals and families. She previously served as Chief of Staff to the Co-CEO and Chief Investment Officer at Ariel Investments.  Prior to joining Ariel, Victoria worked for the City of Chicago in the Office of Mayor Rahm Emanuel, serving as Senior Advisor, and Deputy Director of Legislative Counsel & Government Affairs.  Victoria shares her journey from growing up in Chicago to working in government, venture capital, and private equity. She reflects on societal pressures discouraging women from STEM fields and her initial resistance to certain career paths, ultimately finding success by staying open to opportunities.  She also highlights her passion for fashion, entertainment, her online tea shop Joy and Magic, and her children's book, Little Valerie and her Big World of Options, encouraging others to embrace new opportunities.

Felecia Higgs Walker, executive career and business coach, is the CEO and Founder of the Focus Group by Felecia LLC,  a real-world career coaching company highlighted in her BRAND NEW BOOK "Paid On Friday, Broke By Tuesday: The Pathway to Unstoppable Success". Rhonda and Felecia discuss the new book, Felecia's journey to becoming a passionate financial consultant and balancing motherhood and career. 

Misty Hudek Giordano is a dynamic holistic health coach, and in this special edition episode, she delves into the four phases of the menstrual cycle, teaching us how to harness them to enhance our lives. Join us to discover valuable tips and strategies that will make you think, "I wish I had known this in my twenties." Misty reveals the empowering potential of understanding and utilizing your menstrual cycle to support and enrich your life.

Rhonda sits down with Katie Kohloff Mouat, a trailblazer in the field of sustainable engineering. Katie shares her journey from a small town in Kansas to leading NUMiX Materials, a startup focused on transforming industrial waste into valuable resources. Tune in to learn about Katie’s experiences overcoming the unique challenges faced by female engineer and entrepreneurs and her insights on leadership and innovation. 

In this episode Rhonda talks to Saira Alikhan, attorney and senior commercial advisor at Google. The two discuss Saira's  experience with race in the US as a child of immigrants and the impact it’s had on her career trajectory.  Also, Saira has charted a unique career path chock full of rich experiences and powerful pivots. If you’re looking to pivot in your career or are just looking for inspiration, this episode is definitely for you! Lots of gems in this episode!

Porsha Goodman, Executive Director of non profit organization Door Of Hope in Memphis, TN, shares her story of growing up in the wake of a parent's trauma, the effect it had on her childhood, and the tools she has developed as an adult to overcome it. In this episode we also learn about Porsha's decision to attend an HBCU for college, her work at Door of Hope (top TN non-profit whose mission is to end homelessness) and the lasting impact her leadership has had on the organization. Lastly, Porsha introduces us to her newest passion project--a coffee and confections food truck! 

Ever wonder who comes up with the flavor of your favorite toothpaste? Carrita Hightower, PhD is one of only three Flavor Chemists in the entire Procter and Gamble corporation. In this episode we learn about Carrita's inspirational  journey to becoming a scientist. Let's give it up for black women in STEM!