In this episode of The Trill MBA Show, Felicia is joined by marketing executive and leadership strategist Breana Jones to break down one of the most misunderstood concepts in the workplace: power.

Let’s be honest—corporate America wasn’t designed with Black women in mind. So how do we navigate it, win in it, and still protect our peace? It starts with understanding that power isn’t evil—it’s a tool. And knowing how to use it without burning out or getting fired? That’s the real flex.

Breana and Felicia get into what it means to break the rules strategically, how to stop performing for a system that doesn’t reward merit, and why playing nice isn’t the move if you want visibility, influence, and long-term security. They talk personal branding (not cosplay), networking with intention, and creating a power plan tailored to your strengths, your values, and your real-life constraints.

This episode is equal parts strategy session and soul check, with Breana dropping gems on how to lead with purpose, protect your peace, and still get your coin.

Power Is a Tool, Not a Personality – Stop equating power with ego or evil. Use it as a strategic asset to create security, freedom, and options in your career.

Do Less, Win More – Working harder isn’t the answer. Visibility, alignment, and relationships matter more than overdelivering behind the scenes.

Personal Brand ≠ Corporate Cosplay – Building your “brand” isn’t about changing your wardrobe or mimicking the execs. It’s about owning your story and controlling your narrative.

Break the Rules… Strategically – You can’t play this game like everyone else. Figure out how to bend the rules in a way that works for you—as a Black woman, as a leader, as a whole human.

No Power = No Stability – You can be the most competent employee in the room and still get laid off. This episode will help you flip the script.

Breana Jones is a seasoned marketing executive and leadership strategist with 20+ years of experience bridging brand and performance across Fortune 500s, start-ups, and mission-driven organizations. Known for her clarity, candor, and commitment to building high-performing teams, Breana helps leaders turn insight into impact.
Connect with her on LinkedIn: Breana Jones

Books: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please support the show by using the links below.

Access the Seven Rules of Power Free Worksheets
Career Fast-Track System – Felicia’s training session to help you create your promotion plan using the P.I.E. model
The Underachieving Overachiever – Breana’s upcoming book project and newsletter (coming soon)

Seven Rules of Power Book by Dr. Jeffrey Pfeffer – If you want to buy this book you can get it here. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)

Access Free Resources – Get the worksheets and guides based on episodes of the show to help you create your strategic career plan. Click here.

Career Consulting with Felicia – Facing challenges at work? Book a career strategy session to get personalized strategies for navigating your career.

Listener Letters – Send your questions to [email protected].

Subscribe & Leave a Review – Love the show? Subscribe on YouTube and leave a comment to help us grow and make more awesome content for you.  

Follow @TrillMBAshow – Stay updated with career tips and new episodes on LinkedIn.

Until next time, keep it trill!

In this episode of the Trill MBA Show, Felicia wraps up the 7 Rules of Power series with Rule #7 from Dr. Jeffrey Pfeffer’s book Seven Rules of Power: Once You Gain Power, Whatever You Did to Get It Will Be Forgotten, Forgiven, or Both.

Getting power is one thing—but keeping it? That’s where the real career management begins. In this power-packed finale, Felicia breaks down what it takes to sustain success, defend your position, and show up with unshakable leadership and influence.

If you’ve ever felt the pressure to constantly prove yourself—or worried about what happens after you finally level up—this episode gives you the real game. Because once you have power, you become a target. Felicia arms you with the strategies to stay grounded, strategic, and protected.

This episode is especially important for Black women navigating workplace politics, juggling professional growth, and trying to hold their position without burning out. You’ve worked too hard to lose your footing—now it’s time to build your empire, not just your résumé.

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

Success Alone Doesn’t Keep You Safe – The moment you rise, someone’s plotting your fall. You have to consistently show value, deliver results, and build a strong personal brand like your career depends on it—because it does.

Your Narrative Is Your Armor – You can’t control people, but you can control the story they hear. Be proactive about your reputation. It’s not about being liked—it’s about being respected and remembered.

Build Your Power Posse – Your networking game keeps you in power. Identify your personal board of directors and power crew who will challenge, support, and uplift you through every season of your career.

Reevaluate and Reinvest – Sustaining success means regular self-audits. Set quarterly check-ins to refine your career strategy, grow your network, and keep your edge in this game.

Your Challenge This Week: Create your long-term plan for power. List your next 3 power moves, identify 3 trusted allies to join your personal board, and reflect on how your career management approach is helping you maintain—not just gain—power.

Resources & Next Steps:

Seven Rules of Power Book by Dr. Jeffrey Pfeffer – If you want to buy this book you can get it here. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)

Download Your Free Guide – Get the worksheet for this episode to help you keep your power without hesitation. Click here.

Live Q&A Session – Listeners who download the guide will get exclusive access to a live Q&A with Felicia to discuss this episode’s strategies.

Career Consulting with Felicia – Facing challenges at work? Book a career strategy session to get personalized strategies for navigating your career.

Listener Letters – Send your questions to [email protected].

Subscribe & Leave a Review – Love the show? Subscribe on YouTube and leave a comment to help us grow and make more awesome content for you.  

Follow @TrillMBAshow – Stay updated with career tips and new episodes on LinkedIn.Until next time, keep it trill!

Use Your Power or Lose It: The Career Move That Separates Leaders From Everyone Else

In this episode of the Trill MBA Show, Felicia breaks down Rule #6 from Dr. Jeffrey Pfeffer’s book Seven Rules of Power: Use Your Power.

Let’s be honest—many of us have been taught that power is dangerous or reserved for “those people at the top.” But Felicia is here to shift your mindset. You’ve worked hard, built influence, and learned how to play the game… now it’s time to make power moves.

Power isn’t something you hoard—it’s something you use. And if you don’t use it? You lose it.

Felicia shares why hesitation is your biggest enemy, how to act quickly and strategically, and what real-world leaders (from Lyndon B. Johnson to Rekaya Adams) can teach us about stepping into power. If you’ve ever been told to “wait your turn,” this episode will remind you that your turn is now.

Power Unused Is Power Lost – If you’re waiting for the perfect time to use your influence, you’re already falling behind. Don’t play small.

Act Fast and Decisively – New leaders have a window of time to move before resistance builds. Use that “honeymoon” period to your advantage.

Restructure Your Environment – Align yourself with people who support your vision. Build allies and move strategically.

Signal Strength and Take Action – Power is about perception. Show up boldly and unapologetically—even if it makes people uncomfortable.

Your Challenge This Week: Identify one area in your work life where you’ve been playing small—and make one bold move to shift that dynamic. Whether it’s speaking up, negotiating, or stepping into leadership, use your power.

Resources & Next Steps:

Seven Rules of Power Book by Dr. Jeffrey Pfeffer – If you want to buy this book you can get it here. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)

Download Your Free Guide – Get the worksheet for this episode to help you use your power without hesitation. Click here.

Live Q&A Session – Listeners who download the guide will get exclusive access to a live Q&A with Felicia to discuss this episode’s strategies.

Career Consulting with Felicia – Facing challenges at work? Book a career strategy session to get personalized strategies for navigating your career.

Listener Letters – Send your questions to [email protected].

Subscribe & Leave a Review – Love the show? Subscribe on YouTube and leave a comment to help us grow and make more awesome content for you.  

Follow @TrillMBAshow – Stay updated with career tips and new episodes on LinkedIn.Until next time, keep it trill!

How to Network Relentlessly (Without Feeling Fake)

In this episode of the Trill MBA Show, Felicia breaks down Rule #5 from Dr. Jeffrey Pfeffer’s book Seven Rules of Power: Network Relentlessly.

Let’s keep it real: networking often feels transactional, awkward, or like something “extroverts do.” But Felicia flips that narrative. Networking isn’t about schmoozing—it’s about building genuine, mutually beneficial relationships.

If you’re only reaching out to people when you’re in need (like after a layoff), it’s time to shift your strategy. Your network is your net worth—and the people who know your name today could be the ones opening doors for you tomorrow.

Felicia shares real-world strategies to build authentic relationships, expand your power circle, and use tools (like AI and Calendly!) to stay consistent without burnout. If you’re serious about your career, this episode will give you the exact playbook to start building your power base now.

Access + Visibility = Opportunity – You can be the most qualified person in the room, but if nobody knows you’re there, it doesn’t matter. Networking gives you access to decision-makers and makes you visible in rooms that matter.

Be a Connector, Not a Climber – When you help others connect and win, you become a high-value resource in your network. Focus on giving—not getting—and watch your influence grow.

Make Small, Consistent Touchpoints – Build real relationships through low-pressure check-ins, LinkedIn messages, or coffee chats. Use tools like Calendly to make it easier and stay consistent.

Be Strategic About Who’s in Your Circle – Surround yourself with people who are going places. Identify 3 spaces or communities where you can meet high-impact individuals and contribute meaningfully.

Your Challenge This Week: Reach out to one new person and reconnect with one old contact. Don’t overthink it—just start the conversation and let it grow from there.

Felicia dives into How to Overcome the Discomfort of Networking on the Find Your Dream Job podcast hosted by Mac Prichard Founder of Mac’s List. Check out that episode Here!

Seven Rules of Power Book by Dr. Jeffrey Pfeffer – If you want to buy this book you can get it here. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)

Download Your Free Guide – Get the worksheet for this episode to help you create your networking plan and how to do it strategically. Click here.

Live Q&A Session – Listeners who download the guide will get exclusive access to a live Q&A with Felicia to discuss this episode’s strategies.

Career Consulting with Felicia – Facing challenges at work? Book a career strategy session to get personalized strategies for navigating your career.

Listener Letters – Send your questions to [email protected].

Subscribe & Leave a Review – Love the show? Subscribe on YouTube and leave a comment to help us grow and make more awesome content for you.  

Follow @TrillMBAshow – Stay updated with career tips and new episodes on LinkedIn.Until next time, keep it trill!

How to Build a Powerful Personal Brand That Opens Doors

In this episode of the Trill MBA Show, Felicia dives into Rule #4 from Dr. Jeffrey Pfeffer’s book Seven Rules of Power: Build a Powerful Brand.

If you’re working hard but still being overlooked, the issue might not be your skills—it’s how people perceive you. Your personal brand isn’t just a social media aesthetic; it’s what people say about you when you’re not in the room. If you don’t define your narrative, someone else will—and that’s not an option.

Felicia breaks down how to craft a power brand that commands respect, amplifies your reputation, and positions you for career-changing opportunities. This isn’t just about looking the part—it’s about owning your story, showing up in the right circles, and being so unforgettable that people advocate for you when it matters most.

Your Personal Brand = Your Reputation – If people don’t associate your name with something specific and meaningful, you’re forgettable—and forgettable people don’t hold power.

Craft Your Power Narrative – Own your story. Who are you? What do you stand for? What makes you different? Write a 2-3 sentence power statement that defines your brand with confidence.

  Expand Your Network Intentionally – You are the sum of the people you surround yourself with. Align with high-value people, organizations, and projects to elevate your status and visibility.

Show Up Consistently & Authentically – Update your LinkedIn, be active in professional spaces, and make sure your brand reflects your expertise and aspirations. If you don’t control your narrative, someone else will.

Your Challenge This Week: Write and refine your personal brand statement, share it with trusted friends or mentors for feedback, and start showing up in spaces that align with your goals.

Seven Rules of Power Book by Dr. Jeffrey Pfeffer – If you want to buy this book you can get it here. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)

Download Your Free Guide – Get the worksheet for this episode to help you identify which rules to break and how to do it strategically. Click here.

Live Q&A Session – Listeners who download the guide will get exclusive access to a live Q&A with Felicia to discuss workplace rule-breaking strategies.

Career Consulting with Felicia – Facing challenges at work? Book a career strategy session to get personalized strategies for navigating your career.

Listener Letters – Send your questions to [email protected].

Subscribe & Leave a Review – Love the show? Subscribe on YouTube and leave a comment to help us grow and make more awesome content for you.  

Follow @TrillMBAshow – Stay updated with career tips and new episodes on LinkedIn.

Until next time, keep it trill!

How to Command Presence and Project Power in Any Room

In this episode of the Trill MBA Show, Felicia breaks down Rule #3 from Dr. Jeffrey Pfeffer’s book Seven Rules of Power: Appear Powerful

If you’ve ever thought, “I should be judged by my work, not my presence,” it’s time for a reality check—perception drives influence. The way you walk into a room, how you speak, and how you carry yourself signals power before you even say a word.

Felicia shares the truth about executive presence, why shrinking yourself makes it easier for people to overlook you, and how you can start commanding respect and authority at work without changing who you are. Whether it’s through body language, voice, or style, projecting power is a skill you can master—and Felicia is here to show you how.

Powerful People Take Up Space – If you’ve been shrinking yourself to fit in, it’s time to stop. The most influential people own their space unapologetically—and you can too.

Perception = Power – People make snap judgments in seconds. Looking powerful makes people believe you are powerful, which leads to more opportunities, credibility, and influence.

3 Ways to Start Projecting Power Today –
1.  Own Your Space: Stand tall, shoulders back, make eye contact, and walk in like you belong there.
2. Strengthen Your Vocal Presence: Speak with clarity, confidence, and volume—no more “I think” or “I believe.” Make statements, not questions.
3. Dress for Power (Without Losing Yourself): Elevate your personal style in a way that aligns with your goals and signals authority.

Your Challenge This Week: Identify one way to improve your executive presence at work—whether that’s adjusting your posture, speaking up more in meetings, or refining your professional wardrobe.

Seven Rules of Power Book by Dr. Jeffrey Pfeffer – If you want to buy this book you can get it here. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)

Download Your Free Guide – Get the worksheet for this episode to help you identify which rules to break and how to do it strategically. Click here.

Live Q&A Session – Listeners who download the guide will get exclusive access to a live Q&A with Felicia to discuss workplace rule-breaking strategies.

Career Consulting with Felicia – Facing challenges at work? Book a career strategy session to get personalized strategies for navigating your career.

Support the show on Patreon here.

Listener Letters – Send your questions to [email protected].

Subscribe & Leave a Review – Love the show? Subscribe on YouTube and leave a review to help us grow and make more awesome content for you.  

Follow @TrillMBAshow – Stay updated with career tips and new episodes on LinkedIn and all your favorite social platforms.

Editing and Sound Design by Chris Mann of Podshaper

Until next time, keep it trill!

How to Break the Rules (Strategically) and Get Ahead at Work

In this episode of the Trill MBA Show, Felicia dives into Rule #2 from Dr. Jeffrey Pfeffer’s book Seven Rules of Power: Break the Rules (but do it strategically).

If you’ve been working twice as hard, following all the rules, and still feel stuck, it’s time to shake things up. The reality? Power doesn’t reward compliance, it rewards confidence. The people who rise in their careers don’t just follow the book; they strategically bend and break the rules to their advantage.

Felicia shares real-world examples, including how one woman finessed her way into a VIP event at Sundance by taking bold action and how breaking the “no direct access” rule with senior leadership can make you visible and indispensable.

She also gives actionable steps on how to break unspoken workplace rules, from challenging the idea that junior employees should stay silent in meetings to directly connecting with high-level decision-makers.

Power Rewards Confidence, Not Compliance – The assumption? If you broke a rule, you must have the power to do so. Instead of asking for permission, take bold action and let the results speak for themselves.

Break Small Rules First to Test the Waters – Challenge unwritten norms in your workplace by speaking up in meetings, emailing the CEO, or setting up a coffee chat with senior leadership. Small, strategic rule-breaking builds credibility and influence.

Surprise Gives You Power – People are wired to follow the rules. When you break them strategically, you shift power dynamics in your favor because people don’t know how to react—and they’re forced to take you seriously.

Understand the Rules Before You Break Them – Read your employee handbook (yes, for real). Know both the written and unwritten rules so that when you break them, you do it with purpose and precision.

Your Challenge This Week: Break One Rule – Identify one workplace rule holding you back and challenge it this week. Whether it’s speaking up in a meeting or reaching out to a high-level executive, take the leap.

Seven Rules of Power Book by Dr. Jeffrey Pfeffer – If you want to buy this book you can get it here. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)

Download Your Free Guide – Get the worksheet for this episode to help you identify which rules to break and how to do it strategically. Click here.

Live Q&A Session – Listeners who download the guide will get exclusive access to a live Q&A with Felicia to discuss workplace rule-breaking strategies.

Career Consulting with Felicia – Facing challenges at work? Book a career strategy session to get personalized strategies for navigating your career.

Support the show on Patreon here.

Listener Letters – Send your questions to [email protected].

Subscribe & Leave a Review – Love the show? Subscribe on YouTube and leave a review to help us grow and make more awesome content for you.  

Follow @TrillMBAshow – Stay updated with career tips and new episodes on LinkedIn and all your favorite social platforms.

Editing and Sound Design by Chris Mann of Podshaper

Until next time, keep it trill!

The Power of Mindset in Career Success

In this powerful kickoff to Season 9 of the Trill MBA Show, Felicia explores the first rule from Dr. Jeffrey Pfeffer’s book Seven Rules of Power: Get Out of Your Own Way.

Too often, we hold ourselves back with limiting beliefs, playing small, and waiting for permission to step into leadership. But real career success isn’t just about working hard, it’s about understanding and navigating power. Felicia breaks down how Black women in corporate spaces can reclaim their power, overcome self-doubt, and position themselves as indispensable.

Through real-life examples like Rukaiyah Adams, who leveraged her authenticity into a power move in finance, Felicia shares practical strategies to shift your mindset, own your narrative, and make yourself indispensable in your workplace.

If you’ve ever felt stuck, overlooked, or unsure about how to move forward in your career, this episode is your roadmap to taking action and positioning yourself for success.

Power is a Tool, Not a Bad Thing – Power isn’t good or bad, it’s how you use it that matters. You don’t have to become someone else to gain influence, you just need to understand how to play the game strategically.

Three Strategies to Step Into Your Career Success

Take Action Now – This week, challenge yourself to one power move, whether that’s leading a meeting, advocating for yourself, or making your contributions known. Download the digital guide for this episode to help you implement these strategies.

Seven Rules of Power Book by Dr. Jeffrey Pfeffer – If you want to buy this book you can get it here. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)

Download Your Free Worksheet – Get the worksheet for this episode to map out your career power moves. Click here.

Live Q&A Session – Listeners who download the guide will get exclusive access to a live Q&A session with Felicia. Don’t miss your chance to ask questions!

Career Consulting with Felicia – Need help navigating career challenges? Book a coaching session to get personalized strategies.

Support the show on Patreon here.

Listener Letters – Send your questions to [email protected].

Subscribe & Leave a Review – Love the show? Subscribe on Apple Podcasts and leave a review to help us grow and make more awesome content for you.

Follow @TrillMBAshow – Stay updated with career tips and new episodes on Instagram.

Editing and Sound Design by Chris Mann of Podshaper

Until next time, keep it trill!

How To Defend Yourself At Work Without Seeming Defensive

In this episode, Felicia explores a difficult but vital workplace challenge: defending yourself professionally without appearing defensive. Many Black women face added pressures around tone, expression, and self-advocacy, often needing to navigate feedback and microaggressions in ways that don’t compromise their professionalism or peace. Felicia shares real-life insights on how to defend yourself and handle these situations confidently and constructively.

Felicia introduces her “strategic questioning” approach—a technique to respond to uncomfortable comments or feedback by asking clarifying questions that deflect defensiveness and encourage accountability. This approach helps redirect the conversation back to clarity, allowing you to communicate with strength while maintaining control.

Felicia also dives into boundary-setting, explaining how to use actions to enforce boundaries without needing to announce them openly. She offers tips on protecting your peace by stepping back from unproductive situations and handling interactions in ways that prioritize your well-being. Plus, she covers the importance of tone and how to balance authenticity with adaptability to prevent misinterpretations.

Whether you’re dealing with difficult feedback, setting boundaries, or managing workplace dynamics, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you defend yourself while staying true to who you are.

Career Consulting Services:
If you’re preparing for a job interview and want to ensure you’re fully prepared, Felicia is offering interview prep sessions. You can sign up for a session using this LINK. If you’re struggling with workplace issues, Felicia offers one-on-one consulting to help you navigate your career journey. Visit trillmba.com/coaching to book a strategy session.

Additionally, Patreon members will have access to a objectives setting guide to help them in their career journey. Join our Patreon for access here: https://www.patreon.com/trillmbashow

Listener Letters: If you have a situation that we can all learn from, email us at [email protected].  We will not use real names.  Put Listener Letter in the subject line to let us know we can read your letter on the show.

Learn How To Save Money On Student Loans with JUNO

Have you received some Trill Lessons from this podcast?  If yes, could you help us out by subscribing and leaving a quick review in iTunes?  Hitting subscribe and leaving a review makes a HUGE difference and should only take a minute. 

Editing and Sound Design by Chris Mann of Podshaper

Mastering Impactful Communication at Work: Elevate Your Career with EQ

n this episode, Felicia reveals key strategies for mastering impactful communication at work, showing how EQ (emotional intelligence) can elevate your career and help you navigate challenging workplace dynamics. From dealing with microaggressions to handling feedback with grace, Felicia dives into the essentials of communicating with confidence and empathy—skills that are critical for standing out and advancing professionally.

If you’ve ever struggled with feeling misunderstood or overlooked at work, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you refine your communication style. Felicia shares her personal experiences and hard-won lessons, showing how empathy, perspective-taking, and clear boundaries can transform your workplace interactions. She also connects these lessons to broader themes, highlighting how mastering communication can empower you both personally and professionally.

With a candid tone and practical advice, Felicia encourages listeners to engage in thoughtful communication and embrace EQ to create meaningful impact. Tune in to learn how impactful communication can become your superpower in the corporate world, opening doors to new opportunities and deeper professional relationships.

Career Consulting Services:
If you’re preparing for a job interview and want to ensure you’re fully prepared, Felicia is offering interview prep sessions. You can sign up for a session using this LINK. If you’re struggling with workplace issues, Felicia offers one-on-one consulting to help you navigate your career journey. Visit trillmba.com/coaching to book a strategy session.

Listener Letters: If you have a situation that we can all learn from, email us at [email protected].  We will not use real names.  Put Listener Letter in the subject line to let us know we can read your letter on the show.

Learn How To Save Money On Student Loans with JUNO

Have you received some Trill Lessons from this podcast?  If yes, could you help us out by subscribing and leaving a quick review in iTunes?  Hitting subscribe and leaving a review makes a HUGE difference and should only take a minute. 

Editing and Sound Design by Chris Mann of Podshaper