We’re molded by those who support us along the way. These people come in the form of mentors, teachers, friends, and family. And for many of us, no figures are more essential than our parents.

My father, Peter Griffith, was born in Barbados and immigrated to Brooklyn, NY at 14 years old. For 20 years, he was married to Joan Donna Griffith (a.k.a. Mommy) and raised two kids. Then, the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001, took her life…but not her legacy.

In the first half of our conversation on the Branding Room Only podcast, we look back and celebrate a woman who was a foundational part of our lives and helped develop me as a person and motivated professional. You’ll learn about how my parents met and started a family, and take a deep dive into my mother’s legacy and who she was as a person.

1:47 - Challenging experiences and transformations that Peter underwent in junior high and high school after immigrating to the U.S.

10:01 - Peter’s early career struggles and his reflections on the socio-economic and racial barriers he encountered

16:04 - How Peter met Joan and the challenges and triumphs of blending families

24:39 - Anecdotes about Peter and Joan’s early life together and their loving and resilient partnership despite life’s hurdles

30:46 - Joan’s love of reading Harlequin romance novels and the family dynamic shift that came with the arrival of my younger sister

37:18 - The 1993 World Trade Center bombing and how Joan was a lifeline to what was happening while I went to boarding school

41:07 - Joan’s multitasking prowess while maintaining a polished appearance and high standards

44:43 - How music from the 60s and home videos captured everyday family moments and contributed to a rich tapestry of cherished memories

50:02 - Joan’s dreams and aspirations and how she earned respect and loyalty in her career

Mentioned In The Life & Legacy of Joan Donna Griffith: A Conversation with Peter Griffith

“A Tribute to My Mother Joan Donna Griffith”

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Sponsor for this episode

This episode is brought to you by PGE Consulting Group LLC.

PGE Consulting Group LLC is dedicated to providing a practical hybrid of professional development training and diversity solutions. From speaking to consulting to programming and more, all services and resources are carefully tailored for each partner. Paula Edgar’s distinct expertise helps engage attendees and create lasting change for her clients.

To learn more about Paula and her services, go to www.paulaedgar.com or contact her at [email protected], and follow Paula Edgar and the PGE Consulting Group LLC on LinkedIn.