About Our Guest:

Jessica is a highly experienced educator, mom of six, and advocate specializing in content monetization strategies. She turned to online monetization inspired by her own journey through postpartum depression and a desire to advocate for maternal mental health. Jessica's expertise extends to helping others, particularly from marginalized communities, understand their value and earn income by leveraging their online presence. She has built a successful business that focuses on content creation, strategy development, and online monetization.

Lexi B. chats with Jessica, an adept in content monetization, about the ins and outs of making money online. With a strong background in maternal mental health advocacy, Jessica shares her transition from non-profit blogging to becoming a strategic content monetizer. This conversation dives into how to convert every day online activities into profitable ventures, especially for those from systematically disenfranchised communities.

Jessica underscores the importance of recognizing one's value and strategically positioning oneself in the digital landscape. Learn how to identify the right platforms, create engaging content, and effectively pitch to potential sponsors. She also touches on the psychological shift required to move from a place of lack to one of abundance, all while managing to balance a household of six kids. If you're active online and ready to monetize your passion, this episode is a goldmine of insights.

Idara Otu is an Olympian, entrepreneur, and founder with a rich career spanning Wall Street to athletic achievements. Originally from Brooklyn, New York, Idara has Nigerian roots and has achieved notable success as an equity researcher and commodities trader at prestigious firms like Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan. A Stanford University alumna, she is also the founder of Let Girls Read, Run, Grow, a charity focused on empowering African girls through education, athletics, and entrepreneurship. Additionally, she is the creator of Notchok, a cocoa company aimed at funding her charity's initiatives.

In this compelling episode, Lexi B sits down with Idara Otu, an Olympian, Wall Street professional, and impactful entrepreneur. Idara dives into her fascinating journey from growing up in Brooklyn, New York, to making history as an Olympian for Nigeria. She discusses her professional stints on Wall Street, the pivot points that redirected her from medicine to finance, and how she found her calling in helping young women in Nigeria through education and entrepreneurship.

Throughout the episode, Idara shares insights on the incredible work her charity, Let Girls Read, Run, Grow, is doing to support African girls. Leveraging her Wall Street skills, she launched Notchok, a cocoa company whose proceeds fund the construction of an all-girls primary school in Nigeria. The conversation also explores Idara’s personal motivation, the importance of legacy, and practical advice on juggling multiple high-impact roles. This deep, inspiring episode encapsulates the essence of how passion, purpose, and diverse skill sets intertwine to create lasting change.

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Camille is a renowned privacy expert and strategist with a prolific career spanning significant contributions to both government and tech sectors. She served as the Deputy National Cyber Director at the White House, where she played a crucial role in shaping national cybersecurity policies. Camille is also known for her efforts in creating secure spaces for underrepresented communities within the tech industry, including her initiative "Share the Mic and Cyber." As a Jamaican American, Camille emphasizes the importance of diverse voices in national security and technology to enrich perspectives and innovation.

Throughout the conversation, Camille underscores the significance of creating supportive communities both within and outside professional spaces. She stresses the need for diverse perspectives in tech and cybersecurity, arguing that these are not just ethical imperatives but essential for national security and effective technology development. Using her own experiences, Camille shares practical advice on how to navigate and succeed in environments that were not originally designed for inclusivity. The episode wraps up with a discussion on the importance of making DEI initiatives integral to corporate and government strategies, especially in the face of current rollbacks.

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In this conversation, Lauren and Lexi discuss divorce and its impact on various aspects of life. They talk about their personal experiences with divorce and the emotional journey it entails. Lauren shares how her divorce affected her career and the challenges she faced as a single parent. They also touch on the stages of grief and the insecurities that arise during and after a divorce. The conversation explores the process of getting back to oneself and one's work after a major life transition, such as divorce. It emphasizes the importance of doing the emotional work and getting to the root of insecurities. The speaker shares her personal experience of working through her own insecurities and learning to trust herself again. The conversation also touches on the challenges of dating after divorce and the importance of taking the time to understand one's needs and emotional readiness. The speaker shares her own love story and highlights the lessons of not rushing or avoiding the healing process.

About Our Guest:

Pearlé is a seasoned professional in the trust and safety space, currently residing in London. She has a diverse background, having lived and worked in multiple countries including Nigeria, California (Bay Area), and Ireland. With a robust educational foundation from UC Berkeley and an extensive career in tech policy, Pearlé has established herself as a prominent figure in the intersection of technology, user rights, and safety. She's also known for embodying her alter ego, the "Yoncé of Tech Policy," showcasing her dynamic personality and commitment to her profession.

Lexi B welcomes Pearlé, a prominent figure in the trust and safety space, to explore the intriguing concept of building an alter ego for professional development. The episode kicks off with a warm exchange, highlighting their mutual admiration and the impactful work done in tech policy. Pearlé shares her journey from Nigeria to various global cities and her career evolution in tech. She emphasizes the importance of community and mentorship, mentioning how Lexi B's initiatives have been a significant source of support.

As the conversation deepens, Pearlé elaborates on how she constructed her alter ego—the "Yoncé of Tech Policy"—to navigate professional challenges and boost her confidence. She draws inspiration from iconic figures like Beyoncé and Kobe Bryant, explaining how their alter egos (Sasha Fierce and Black Mamba) motivate her. Pearlé provides actionable steps for listeners to develop their own alter egos, emphasizing the importance of defining one's purpose, understanding one's backstory, and continuously practicing and refining this heightened persona. The episode also touches on broader themes of personal growth, societal expectations, and the power of self-acceptance.

Christy Rutherford
Christy Rutherford is a distinguished veteran, leadership coach, and entrepreneur. Specializing in empowering people, particularly women, to understand their intrinsic value, Christy helps clients build confidence, achieve financial success, and create the life they deserve. She boasts a wealth of experience in leadership roles across various sectors and holds multiple degrees.

In this thought-provoking episode of "Sit with Lexi B," host Lexi B engages in a deep conversation with Christy Rutherford, a dynamic speaker, and veteran who uses her vast experience to help people maximize their potential and financial success. Christy and Lexi explore the crucial question: "Do degrees give you more money?" Together, they dissect historical perspectives, personal experiences, and societal expectations surrounding higher education and financial achievement. As they delve into the intricacies of the topic, Christy shares her journey from a South Carolina upbringing to becoming a celebrated coach and entrepreneur residing in the Bahamas.

Throughout the episode, Christy and Lexi portray how an overemphasis on obtaining multiple degrees can obscure the real value of experience and self-worth. Christy highlights the importance of understanding one's worth, negotiating effectively, and seeking continuous growth without relying solely on formal education. The conversation turns to practical strategies for building financial success and living a fulfilled life, challenging listeners to rethink their perceptions of education, career advancement, and personal growth.

Tune into this impactful episode on Spotify or watch it on YouTube to get deeper insights into valuing your experience over excessive credentials and making informed decisions for a fulfilling career and life. Stay connected for more enlightening conversations on "Sit with Lexi B."

About Our Guest:

Joy Ofodu is a Nigerian-American creative executive, voice actor, and comedian known for her captivating authenticity and humor. With roots deeply embedded in Nigerian culture and a vibrant personality that resonates with many, Joy has quickly made a name for herself in the entertainment industry. She has voiced characters in numerous animated films and continues to expand her influence as a public figure advocating for actor rights, particularly concerning financial equity and AI technologies in her field.

Lexi B sits down with the multifaceted Joy Ofodu to explore the realities and challenges of navigating the entertainment industry as an actor and creative. Joy talks about her Nigerian heritage, the significant influence of her family, and her journey toward self-discovery and professional success. They delve into the importance of advocacy, particularly around financial equity and the challenges posed by advancing AI technologies.

Starting with a refreshing conversation about embracing authenticity and the love for putting a unique twist on ordinary scenarios, Joy and Lexi touch upon how humor can be a powerful healing tool. The dialogue transitions into a discussion about the vital need for advocating for oneself in the often ruthless entertainment business. They candidly address the financial intricacies and responsibilities involved in sustaining a career in this industry, spotlighting the experiences of renowned actors like Taraji P. Henson.

About Our Guest:

B. Pagels-Minor is an accomplished professional with a rich background in tech and venture capital. They have held positions at notable companies such as Apple and Netflix, where they were recognized for their strategic impact and leadership. B. Pagels-Minor is currently navigating the venture capital world, running their own firm, and continuously advocating for diversity and inclusion. Additionally, they are passionate about uplifting others through mentorship and community-building initiatives, exemplified by their nonprofit work with wealth salons focusing on women executives and LGBTQ+ individuals.

Episode Summary

In this engaging episode, our host Lexi B sits down with the dynamic B. Pagels-Minor to delve into the nuances of igniting confidence and harnessing what they term 'Big D Energy' to succeed in professional settings. The discussion starts with a personal anecdote about punctuality and transitions into powerful insights about career development, authenticity, and self-belief.

B. Pagels-Minor shares their journey from the humble beginnings in Mississippi and Tennessee to becoming a respected thought leader in the tech and venture capital sectors. Keywords like "career confidence," "authenticity in leadership," and "venture capital success" lace the narrative, making it rich with actionable advice. B. talks about their initial struggles with professional identity and how embracing their true self, including their unique style and personality, ultimately paved the way for greater career success. The episode also explores the importance of storytelling in leadership and the role of authenticity in building meaningful workplace relationships.

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Natalie Daise is widely recognized for her role as a co-star on the beloved '90s television show "Gullah Gullah Island," aired on Nickelodeon. Along with her husband Ron Daise, Natalie showcased the rich culture and heritage of the Gullah Geechee people to a broad audience. Born and raised in New York, but deeply connected to her Southern roots, Natalie is a storyteller, professional artist, and cultural advocate. She continues to inspire through various artistic endeavors and educational presentations, preserving and celebrating her cultural heritage.

In this episode, Lexi B engages in a heartwarming and enlightening conversation with Natalie Daise, the revered TV "auntie" from the iconic '90s children's show "Gullah Gullah Island." They discuss the profound impact of representation on television and the cultural significance the show holds for many, especially within the Black community. Natalie recounts the serendipitous journey that led to her family starring in the show, the importance of authentic storytelling, and their dedication to showcasing the Gullah Geechee culture.

Throughout the episode, Natalie offers insights into the creation of "Gullah Gullah Island," emphasizing the serendipity and grace that shaped its inception. She shares touching stories of her encounters with fans, illustrating the show's role in helping many see themselves represented on screen for the first time. Lexi B and Natalie also delve into broader themes of cultural preservation, the challenges of current representation in media, and the troubling trend of book bans and reduced support for diverse storytelling in today's media landscape.

About Our Guest:

Kimberly Clark is a highly respected professional known for her ability to tell the truth in a loving and respectful way. With a background in management consulting and a passion for driving results, Kimberly has built a reputation as a truth teller who is also kind and supportive. She is currently working on writing a leadership book and is active on LinkedIn and Instagram.

Summary:

Kimberly Clark, a renowned professional known for her ability to tell the truth in a loving and respectful way, joins the conversation. She shares her journey of becoming a truth teller and the impact it has had on her career. Kimberly emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and delivering results while also being kind. She discusses the challenges and rewards of being a truth teller, as well as the need to build strong relationships and protect one's team. Kimberly encourages listeners to embrace their truth-telling abilities and offers tips for activating their own truth telling with authenticity and grace.

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