This week, Marissa sits down with one of her besties, Melissa Tureaud, VP of Early Learning Programs. The two start the conversation reflecting on the start of their 30 year friendship and how they both took the unconventional path towards success (5:32). Melissa emphasizes that she’s always had an affinity for youth which is what led her to her passionate career in early childhood leadership (7:47). Melissa then reflects on what her leadership gift allowed her to learn about the childhood industry (10:21). As the first black woman executive in her organization, Melissa reflects on key workplace experiences she had to navigate with grace in order to find continued success in this role (18:03). Marissa gives Melissa an opportunity to reflect on some of the biggest shifts that she has made over her 8 year tenure as VP (22:30). The pair chat about the importance of utilizing your natural gifts to help you find a career that brings you joy (31:53).