WAIT. HOLD UP...WHAT?

Believe it or not, I once had a co-worker show up on Halloween dressed as Aunt Jemima, complete with blackface. To complicate matters, this person was also a person of color. In this episode, we delve into the crucial importance of having Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and harassment policies in the workplace that address such micro-aggressions. We discuss the significance of providing channels for reporting and opportunities for education, all aimed at creating a safe and inclusive space for everyone.

There are all sorts of self help books out there for women promising to help them be a better version of themselves but what if we didn’t need to read them. What if, instead we just believed in our worth and did the things we want to do? What if we pushed back the doubters and trusted ourselves instead? What if we understood the power we have to do and get whatever we want?

Whether true or not you have to believe it to push past the doubters and get to your happiness

Liberation and self empowerment. For some that is easier said than done for others, like our guest, Anna Sweet of Artist Wine Block, it is innate to who they are and they use it to build the life they want. In today’s episode we hear how Anna leaned into her own confidence and built a business in the process.

Advocating for ourselves and others starts with a crucial step: understanding our limitations and embracing them as part of our growth process.

In this enlightening discussion, we uncover the significance of knowing what you truly desire, the power of continuous learning, and the importance of holding space not only for ourselves but also for those around us. Discover how letting your passions shine through can inspire not only yourself but also the next generation, fostering a culture of authenticity and empowerment.

We confront the pervasive mindset that success is solely defined by accolades and prizes, challenging the notion that if you can't be the best, you shouldn't even try. Instead, we advocate for a shift towards confidence over competition, emphasizing the value of supporting each other's journeys regardless of perceived achievements.

Moreover, we explore the vital role of taking up space and making noise in today's society. Why does it matter, and how does it contribute to the collective advancement of all individuals? Tune in as we unpack these questions and more, inviting you to join the conversation and be part of the movement towards a future where everyone's voice is heard and valued.

Years ago, in a “Required after-work” meeting with a client, a high-level executive had. a little too much to drink and without saying a word, he reached over and grabbed my leg, hoisting my foot onto his lap. I attempted to jerk away, but he held my foot firmly in his hands, took off my shoe and started to rub my feet. I protested and continued to try and free my foot. Others in the room looked on with a clear feeling of discomfort on their face, but nobody said anything or offered assistance. What he did next was so brazen and inappropriate, I still cringe when I think of it. In this episode, we tackle the uncomfortable and blatantly inappropriate situations that women all too often encounter in the workplace. These moments have been traditionally dismissed as 'part of the game,' but it's time to shift the narrative. We delve into strategies to prevent such scenarios from occurring in the first place and, more importantly, how to respond when faced with them. Our focus is on creating and nurturing a work environment where safety and respect are paramount. Join us as we explore the path to fostering a culture that supports and empowers everyone.”

In this episode, we delve into the journey of Janelle Suzanne, a successful entrepreneur, single mother, and advocate for women and girls. Janelle's story begins with a reflection on her childhood, where her "strong-willed" nature was often viewed through a negative lens in a culture that expected girls to be meek, quiet, and submissive. Despite this, Janelle harnessed her determination and resilience to overcome personal and professional obstacles, leading her to thrive as a Managing Partner and Chief Marketing Officer of Louder Agency, and a devoted mother.

I openly embrace my emotional nature, and there's absolutely nothing wrong with that. However, it's often challenging to reconcile this authenticity with the expectations of a corporate environment. Ironically, displays of anger, shouting, insults, name-calling, and even profanity may sometimes be tolerated or brushed aside, while shedding tears often becomes a line that most leaders won't cross. Strangely, it makes them uncomfortable and is unfairly viewed as a weakness, becoming a pretext for the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles. We will challenge this perception and discuss why embracing and expressing emotions in a healthy manner at work can boost productivity and enhance employee retention.

In today's world, the art of self-promotion reigns supreme. Everyone appears to be an influencer. The days of quietly working hard in the background seem to be long gone, and for many, it might have been a myth to begin with. We've come across numerous studies and reports that highlight a gender imbalance in self-promotion, often suggesting that it's our responsibility to assert ourselves and fight for our place, only to face criticism when we do so. From crafting resumes to negotiating and seeking promotions, there seems to be a double standard on how we should promote ourselves and the level of assertiveness that's acceptable. What is often celebrated in men is met with skepticism when women do the same.

It's a moment etched in my memory, one that reshaped my perspective on the challenges many of us encounter in the workplace. I had always known that such thoughts could exist, but what struck me was the audacity of hearing an executive openly articulate this concept in a room full of employees, including women. It was unapologetic, leaving no doubt that this person genuinely considered this question to be reasonable. This pivotal moment marked a turning point in my career. It unveiled the realities that most of us tend to overlook, often brushing them off as the status quo. However, in that instant, I found myself compelled to ask why.

You are at school, work, out with friends, family, colleagues; when someone says or does something that makes you stop in your tracks, tilt your head and say WAIT. HOLD UP... WHAT?