The Networking Nuggets Podcast

Pull up a seat and grab your favorite drink — because today, we’re talking about how student engagement isn’t just campus fun… it’s career fuel. 

In this energizing episode, Dr. Janaya Hernandez is joined by two powerhouse guests: Dr. Tonya Coleman and Tashania Garner, Co-CEOs of EDUC2 Consultants and student success champions in higher education.

Together, they dive deep into:

• The power of showing up early in your career

• How student engagement opens doors to unexpected opportunities

• What to highlight and what to hide on your personal billboard

• Why building your platform starts with strategy, not just passion

With over 50 years of combined experience in higher education, these leaders are dropping gems on intentional networking, building authentic connections, and guiding students to network with purpose.

#NetworkingNuggets #StudentSuccess #EarlyCareerMoves #PowerOfConnection #HigherEdLeadership #BlackWomenLead #EDUC2 #CareerGrowthStartsNow

Episode Title: Lead Before the Title: How Leadership Shapes Your Network Before Your Resume Does

What if the promotion isn’t the start of leadership—but the result of it?

In this episode of Networking Nuggets, Janaya Hernandez breaks down the myth that leadership begins with a title. She shares personal stories, audience questions, and practical reflections to help you own your influence now—not later.

Tune in to learn:

• How presence shapes your network before your résumé does
• Why “leading quietly” is a strategic advantage
• What actions create real connection capital
• And how your character—not your credentials—opens doors

Plus: a special Toolbox or Trash segment and a mini leadership challenge you can start this week.

 Listen now and learn how to lead from wherever you stand.

What does it take to rise with purpose and power in your profession — especially in spaces where excellence is expected but access is limited? In this episode of Networking Nuggets, host Janaya Hernandez is joined by the inspiring Dr. Daileann Hemmings to discuss how networking can be a transformative tool for climbing the ladder of excellence.

From personal stories to professional strategies, Daileann shares how building genuine connections has shaped her 20+ year career — especially in advocating for equity in maternal health and mentoring others along the way.

 Inside this episode:

• The role of networking in professional advancement
• Practical steps to identify and align your networking goals
• The intersection of DEI, maternal health, and advocacy
• A guided exercise you can use today
• “Toolbox Trash” segment — what to keep and what to toss in your career journey

Whether you’re at the bottom rung or eyeing the executive suite, this episode delivers insight, energy, and encouragement to empower your climb.

Ready to level up your career, one connection at a time?

Welcome to Networking Nuggets with Janaya Hernandez — your go-to podcast for powerful tips on networking, mentorship, leadership, and climbing the ladder with purpose.

Each episode is packed with real stories, actionable gems, and guest insights that will help you turn conversations into career-changing opportunities.

 New episodes every Tuesday! 

#NetworkingNuggets #PowerOfConnection

You’ve taken on the work. The late nights. The leadership. But when it’s time to step into your next role, you’re met with:

“You’re not ready yet.”

Sound familiar?

In this powerful solo kickoff to Season 2, Janaya Hernandez unpacks the deeper meaning behind that loaded phrase and arms you with the tools to respond, reframe, and rise. Learn how to audit your readiness, build a strategic promotion plan, and advocate for your worth—without apology.

 Includes:

• High-level responses to that dreaded statement
• The “Not Ready Yet” Power Plan
• Visibility, value, and voice strategies to get unstuck
• A solo edition of “Toolbox Trash” you don’t want to miss

Whether you’re being overlooked or underestimated, this episode is your blueprint for turning “not ready” into next in line.

Join Janaya as she celebrates the conclusion of Season 1 of Networking Nuggets! With over 500 downloads, this milestone reflects the incredible support from listeners like you, whose enthusiasm inspires the team to deliver valuable insights on networking and career development.

But don’t fret—this is just the beginning! Season 2 is on the horizon, promising even more engaging content, expert interviews, and actionable tips. This season will also feature a new focus on mental health awareness, highlighting the importance of balancing professional connections with personal well-being.

Stay tuned for more exciting episodes that aim to empower your networking journey. Until then, keep nurturing those connections and prioritize your mental health. Thank you for being an integral part of the Networking Nuggets community!

In this episode of *Networking Nuggets*, host Janaya Hernandez is joined by the inspiring Maxine Legall, CEO and founder of Thrive Inclusively. Together, they explore the essential theme of Entrepreneurial Networking and how it can foster inclusivity and health equity in the business world.

Maxine shares her journey and the inspiration behind Thrive Inclusively, emphasizing the importance of creating healthy cultures and prioritizing the human experience. The discussion highlights key networking strategies that have proven effective in building meaningful connections, particularly within the context of Maxine's work.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into how networking can contribute to fostering a culture of inclusivity in business and practical advice for entrepreneurs who may feel hesitant about making connections. 

Join us for this empowering episode that emphasizes the importance of thriving together through intentional networking. If you find the insights valuable, be sure to share the episode with your network and leave a review!

Join hosts Janaya Hernandez and Guest Noelle Kohles in this insightful episode of Networking Nuggets as they explore the critical intersection of leadership development and networking. In Episode 8, titled “Leveraging Leadership Development Through Networking,” they discuss how cultivating a strong network can enhance your leadership skills and open doors to new opportunities.

Listeners will discover:

• The key traits of effective leaders and how networking can help develop these skills.

• Strategies for building and maintaining relationships with mentors and industry leaders.

• Real-life success stories that highlight the impact of networking on leadership trajectories.

• Practical tips for leveraging your network to access leadership development resources and opportunities.

Whether you’re an aspiring leader or looking to elevate your current position, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you navigate your professional journey. Tune in to learn how to harness the power of connection to amplify your leadership potential!

Join us for a heartfelt episode of Networking Nuggets as we celebrate the incredible bond of family in the nursing profession. In this special segment, we are thrilled to feature a remarkable family of healthcare heroes: Kimberly A. Lumia, MSN, MBA, RN, FACHE; her son, Jeffrey M. Lumia Jr., BSN, RN; and her daughter, Isabella M. Lumia, who is graduating as a GN on May 20th.

Together, they reflect on their unique experiences, the challenges and triumphs of being a nursing family, and how they support one another in their healthcare journeys. Through their stories, we’ll explore the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and community in nursing.

Tune in to hear their inspiring insights and learn how this family embodies the spirit of care and dedication that defines the nursing profession. Let’s celebrate the invaluable contributions of nurses and the strength that family brings to the field

In this uplifting episode of *Networking Nuggets*, join host Janaya Hernandez as she welcomes the remarkable Frankie Hamilton—a Healthcare Executive and Nursing Educator dedicated to fostering compassionate leadership in the healthcare sector. Together, they explore the vital role of networking in enhancing compassion and collaboration within the industry.

Frankie shares his inspiring journey into healthcare, shedding light on the importance of building genuine connections. Listeners will gain valuable insights into effective networking strategies that not only improve patient care but also empower professionals to thrive.

Get ready for some fun with the segment “Toolbox or Trash,” where Frankie assesses various networking tools with his unique blend of humor and wisdom.

Whether you’re a healthcare professional or simply interested in the power of connection, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiring anecdotes to help you navigate the world of networking with confidence. Tune in for a conversation that promises to enrich your professional journey and spread compassion like confetti!