In this episode of the Two Piers Podcast, Erica D’Eramo is joined by Naeemah Elias, a TEDx speaker, leadership coach, and founder of Elias Presence Ventures.

Naeemah’s signature message, “Thriving as an Outsider,” explores how difference can become a source of influence and impact. In this conversation, Erica and Naeemah discuss what it means to navigate spaces that were not designed with you in mind, and how outsider identities shape the rules, assumptions, and survival strategies we carry into work and life.

Together, they explore:

• What it means to experience yourself as an outsider
• How family, class, culture, race, neurodivergence, and professional norms shape the “rules” we inherit
• Weaponized gratitude and how it can discourage people from advocating for themselves
• The value of mentors, sponsors, coaches, and trusted advisors
• Why networking is really about building relationships that help us interpret unfamiliar systems
• How to navigate salary negotiations with more clarity and confidence
• The difference between useful adaptation and unsustainable code-switching
• Why authenticity matters during interviews and career transitions

Naeemah also shares practical guidance for people navigating unfamiliar professional environments, including the importance of asking for feedback, building a personal board of advisors, taking time before responding to job offers, and learning the unspoken rules without losing yourself in the process.

Her key takeaway for listeners: phone a friend. When something feels uncomfortable, confusing, or unfamiliar, find someone who understands the terrain and can help you interpret what is happening. You do not have to navigate it alone.

About Naeemah Elias

Naeemah Elias is a TEDx speaker, leadership coach, and founder of Elias Presence Ventures. A former finance executive turned entrepreneur, she helps leaders and organizations create environments where people can speak up, show up, and thrive.

Her work focuses on leadership development, belonging, communication, and helping people who identify as outsiders navigate professional spaces with more clarity, agency, and impact.

Resources & Links

• Connect with Naeemah on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/naeemahelias
• Follow Naeemah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladyelias/
• Visit Naeemah’s YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@eliaspresence
• Watch Naeemah’s TEDx Talk, “Thriving as an Outsider”: https://youtu.be/lnNXcA28J30?si=IkVeQLbsbbu-aU5_
• Watch the “What Would Naeemah Do?” YouTube playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxA1sArIOZ_CGCMdhq8Xd7uX68HXchrvQ
• Learn more about Two Piers Consulting: https://www.twopiersconsulting.com
• Browse podcast episodes, summaries, and transcripts: https://www.twopiersconsulting.com/podcast