In this episode of Women of Color Rise, I speak with Dr. Nancy B. Gutiérrez, President & Lead Executive Officer of The Leadership Academy, a nationally recognized nonprofit dedicated to developing transformational leadership for educators at all levels. Nancy also serves on the boards of The Hunt Institute, brightbeam, and The Neurodiversity Alliance, and is the Board Chair of Education Leaders of Color (EdLoC).

Nancy is the co-author of Stay and Prevail: Students of Color Don’t Need to Leave Their Communities to Succeed (2023), which shares powerful stories of leaders who choose to give back to their home communities. She shares her own journey serving East San Jose, the very place where she grew up—and where her mother once attended the school Nancy would later lead.

When asked to step into the principal role at that school, Nancy said to herself: “If I don’t step into this, who will?”

Nancy shares how building trust required:

• Listening deeply—not just to hopes and dreams, but to generational trauma. She asked, “How have schools harmed you?”

• Reflecting back what she heard, to show the community she was listening.

• Taking visible action—like redesigning the student referral system. Instead of referring students only for misbehavior, teachers began referring students who exhibited excellence. Families started receiving calls from the principal to celebrate their children—flipping the script on what school leadership could look and feel like.

Nancy now leads work that supports school leaders across 40+ states. Her story is a beautiful example of what it means to stay, to serve, and to prevail—not just locally, but nationally.

Thank you, Nancy, for your powerful leadership and for sharing your story with us.

Get full show notes and more information here: https://analizawolf.com/episode-109-stay-and-lead-in-your-home-community-with-dr-nancy-b-gutirrez-president-lead-executive-officer

In this episode of Women of Color Rise, I speak with Jillian Juman, CEO of Envision Education—a network of high-performing middle and high school charter schools in Oakland, CA. 

Jillian shares her powerful journey toward liberation and what it means to lead as a Black woman who embraces curiosity, intuition, and spiritual connection.

• Lean into curiosity and play: Jillian follows what sparks her interest—even if most things don’t lead anywhere—and trusts that the few that do are exactly where she’s meant to be.

• Notice when you don’t fit: She’s learned to recognize when something isn’t the right environment and no longer sees that as a personal failure.

• Trust your intuition: Jillian makes space to listen inward and has come to trust that she already knows what’s right for her.

• Create space for reflection: She schedules time to journal, reflect, and take retreats to stay grounded and lead with clarity.

Jillian reminds us that liberation is a lifelong journey—and that we already have the answers when we allow ourselves the space to hear them.

Get full show notes and more information here: https://analizawolf.com/episode-109-stay-and-lead-in-your-home-community-with-dr-nancy-b-gutirrez-president-lead-executive-officer

In this episode of Women of Color Rise, I speak with Angira Sceusi, Executive Director of redefinED atlanta, a nonprofit committed to ensuring every student in Atlanta can attend an excellent K-12 public school. Angira was named to the 2025 Atlanta 500, a list of the city’s most powerful leaders, and selected for the 2026 class of Leadership Atlanta.

Angira shares her journey from being a behind-the-scenes introvert to stepping into the spotlight and embracing her role as the face of the organization. Here’s what helped her:

1. Name the self-doubt. Even with advanced degrees and leadership experience, Angira realized she was holding herself back due to a quiet sense of imposter syndrome. She asked herself, “Why don’t I want to be the face of this organization?” and uncovered the self-doubt beneath the surface.

2. Use grounding mantras. To counter that doubt, Angira leans on a simple, powerful mantra: “I am enough. I am worthy.” She repeats it daily and whenever insecurity arises as a reminder of her value and strength.

3. Redefine what leadership looks like. Angira noticed that we often idolize a certain kind of leader—someone loud, charismatic, preaching from the mountaintop. But that’s not her style, and that’s okay. She’s a thoughtful, cerebral leader who needs time to reflect before responding. By embracing her authentic self, she realized she could lead powerfully as herself, not in spite of herself.

Angira reminds us that leadership doesn’t require becoming someone else. When we name our self-doubt, lean into our truth, and affirm our worth, we can show up with power—just as we are.

Thank you, Angira, for sharing your wisdom and your story.

Get full show notes and more information here: https://analizawolf.com/episode-107-embrace-being-the-face-of-an-organization-as-an-introvert-with-angira-sceusi

How can you find a mentor?

For this Women of Color Rise episode, I speak with Veronica Conforme, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Greenhouse E3, a national nonprofit developing diverse pipelines of future education leaders. Veronica describes herself as a rebel—she turned down her father’s advice to become an accountant and instead set out to change the world. Her career includes serving as COO of the NYC Department of Education, leading UP Education Network in Massachusetts, and serving as Chancellor of the Education Achievement Authority of Michigan. 

Veronica credits mentorship as a key to her success—but not as luck. It came through clarity, purpose, and values-aligned work. “You have to be really clear about what you're trying to achieve,” she says. “I grew up in the South Bronx, saw inequity firsthand, and knew I wanted to disrupt systems and change outcomes for communities like mine.”

Because she led with purpose, mentors found her through the work. “I wasn’t from the education sector, but when I helped principals rethink how to use their budgets to serve their communities, people noticed. They’d say, ‘Come work with us.’ That’s where mentorship happened—in the work, through shared values.”

Veronica offers this advice for finding a mentor:

1. Get clear on your mission. What change do you want to make in the world?

2. Be open. Stay open to help, new relationships, and new perspectives—even if they come from unexpected places.

3. Do the work. Lead with your values, show what you’re about, and opportunities will follow.

4. Make it mutual. Mentorship should be a two-way street. “You're not only pouring into me,” she says. “I'm bringing something to the table too.”

Thank you, Veronica, for your leadership and your wisdom.

Get full show notes and more information here:https://analizawolf.com/episode-106-how-to-find-a-mentor-with-veronica-conforme-co-founder-and-co-ceo-of-greenhouse-e3

In this episode of Women of Color Rise, I speak with Dr. Judith Brown Clarke, VP for Equity & Inclusion, Chief Health Equity Officer, and Chief Diversity Officer for Stony Brook University and Health System. A 1984 Olympic Silver Medalist and former collegiate champion, Dr. Clarke now leads transformational change in health equity and inclusive excellence.

Dr. Clarke shares how an Olympic mindset strengthens leadership:

Focus on execution, not outcomes. In high-pressure moments—whether on the Olympic track or in a policy meeting—Dr. Clarke emphasizes executing core strategies over fixating on the outcome. “You don’t go into a race thinking ‘I must win.’ You focus on form, precision, and the next hurdle.”

 Use form and fundamentals as your anchor. Fatigue will come. Pressure will rise. In those moments, leaders must default to form—policy, strategy, and best practices—not panic. “Just like runners lean into form when tired, we lean into structure: What’s the process? Who’s the decision-maker? What’s needed for buy-in?”

Game theory mindset: anticipate, don’t react. Dr. Clarke approaches leadership with the same strategic thinking as athletic competition—asking, What are the key factors that lead to success? She maps out opposition, support, timing, and execution steps, treating meetings like races with defined phases and checkpoints.

 Strategy and relationship go hand in hand. Even when it’s not a “win,” clarity around process and relationships sustains momentum. “You may not get consensus, but if you know the rules—it’s a majority vote, or a policy practice—you keep the path clear for next steps.”

Thank you, Dr. Clarke, for showing us how Olympic discipline meets inclusive leadership.

Get full show notes and more information here: https://analizawolf.com/episode-105-lead-like-an-olympian-with-dr-judith-brown-clarke-vp-for-equity-inclusion

In this episode of Women of Color Rise, I speak with Yordanos Eyoel, Founder and CEO of Keseb, a nonpartisan organization advancing inclusive and resilient democracies through transnational civil society. An Ethiopian-American democracy entrepreneur, Yordanos is an Ashoka and Aspen Institute Fellow and has received awards from the Elevate Prize Foundation and Unorthodox Philanthropy. Previously, she was a Managing Partner at New Profit, where she rose from Portfolio Analyst—the first to do so in the organization's history. Her work has been featured in TED, NPR, and Harvard Business Review.

Yordanos shares how her faith has shaped her leadership:

• Faith provides grounding in uncertainty. As a leader, Yordanos acknowledges that she doesn’t always have the answers. Her faith offers a steady anchor—something to return to when decisions are complex and the path forward isn’t clear.

• Faith strengthens resilience as a woman of color. Navigating leadership as a woman of color comes with unique challenges. Yordanos credits her faith with helping her stay centered amid external pressures, giving her the courage to lead authentically.

• Her leadership is deeply values-driven. Yordanos’ sense of purpose, integrity, and commitment to service are all rooted in her faith. It’s not just a personal belief—it’s a leadership compass that guides how she shows up for others and makes decisions.

Thank you, Yordanos, for your insightful advice!

Get full show notes and more information here:https://analizawolf.com/episode-104-faith-and-leadership-with-yordanos-eyoel-founder-and-ceo-keseb

How can you make your voice heard?

We’ve all heard the saying: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” This episode of Women of Color Rise is an example of that.

I’m joined by fellow leaders Christian Green, Zainab Abbas, Ian Esquibel, and Derek Burtch—all part of the Culture of Health Leadership Institute for Racial Healing. Together, with Cecily Relucio, we’re supporting Equity Week 2025, a national movement grounded in collective action for justice.

Each of my guests brings a powerful perspective:

• Derek Burtch, a high school English teacher and Executive Director of Erase the Space, focuses on education equity.

• Zainab Abbas, founder of SciTech to You, works to disrupt the preschool-to-prison pipeline.

• Christian Green, a college professor, advocates for transitional-age youth facing housing insecurity.

• Ian Esquibel, a leadership coach and consultant, supports communities fighting for systems that serve all students.

Though we come from different places and lived experiences, we’re united by one goal: to make systemic change through Equity Week—a week of learning, advocacy, and organizing in Washington, D.C., June 11–14, 2025.

Equity Week 2025 is a national initiative uplifting equity-centered practices in education, civic engagement, and public history. It includes:

• Sessions on the Hill as National Advocates for Equity

• Training in advocacy and community organizing

• Equity Ball—a joyful celebration filled with dance, art, and connection

We’d love for you to join us. Come be part of this movement.

• June 11–14, 2025

• Washington, D.C.

• Learn more and sign up here: https://nbjc.org/equity-week/

• Watch the Equity Week video: YouTube link

Get full show notes and more information here: https://analizawolf.com/episode-103-multi-racial-coalition-building-equity-week-with-christian-zainab-ian-and-derek

How can leaders turn perceived limitations into strengths?

On Women of Color Rise, I speak with Alia Abbas, Chief of Staff at New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority. With a career spanning Estee Lauder, Warner Bros. Discovery, Prudential, and Citi, Alia has led in strategy, operations, and innovation—proving that disability and faith are not barriers but strengths.

Alia didn’t realize she was blind until she was diagnosed in college, thanks to parents who instilled confidence and adaptability. She also made a pivotal choice in her career—to wear a hijab, deepening her connection to her Muslim faith. Though both blindness and belief come with stereotypes, Alia sees them as value-adds in leadership and teams.

Her insights:

• We are capable – People with disabilities develop adaptability, resilience, and unique problem-solving skills.

• Diversity strengthens teams – Multi-generational, multi-background, and multi-ability teams drive stronger ideas and outcomes.

• No ceilings on possibility – Instead of limiting others, empower them to pursue their goals.

Alia’s journey is a powerful reminder: Own your identity, use your voice, and lead with confidence.

Thank you, Alia, for sharing your inspiring stories!

Get full show notes and more information here: https://analizawolf.com/episode-102-strength-in-blindness-and-faith-with-alia-abbas

In this episode of Women of Color Rise, I speak with Angie Kamath, Dean of NYU School of Professional Studies. Under her leadership, NYU SPS has been ranked as a top higher education institution, recognized for its career-connected, industry-focused degrees and courses.

Angie shares tips about how to turn imposter syndrome into your superpower:

• Reframe It as a Strength: Imposter syndrome isn’t a sign of failure—it’s proof that you’re growing. Angie explains that feeling like an outsider means you’re pushing yourself into new and challenging spaces where real learning happens.

• Stay Curious: Instead of letting doubt hold you back, use it as motivation to ask questions, explore, and expand your knowledge. Angie emphasizes that the most successful people aren’t the ones who "know it all" but those who remain inquisitive and open to growth.

• Seek Challenging Spaces: The moment you feel like the smartest person in the room, it’s time to move on. Angie encourages others to embrace environments that push them outside their comfort zones, because that’s where true transformation occurs.

• Embrace the Outsider Mindset: Rather than seeing self-doubt as a weakness, recognize it as a tool for problem-solving and innovation. Angie highlights that the best leaders and hires aren’t those who have all the answers—they’re the ones who are hungry to learn, work hard, and can see old problems with a new and fresh outside perspective.

Thank you, Angie, for sharing your inspiring advice and strategies!

Get full show notes and more information here: https://analizawolf.com/episode-101-how-to-turn-imposter-syndrome-into-your-superpower-with-angie-kamath

In this episode of Women of Color Rise, I speak with Christie Wong Barrett, former CEO and owner of MacArthur, a global manufacturer of innovative labels and functional components with operations in the U.S., China, Mexico, and Poland. Christie currently serves as an Independent Board Member for DMI Companies, a Lecturer at the University of Michigan Ross School of Business, and Co-Director of AmplifyD, a nonprofit incubating startups led by minority and women founders. She has also advised on national manufacturing policy through her appointment to the White House Advanced Manufacturing Partnership.

Christie shares her framework for evaluating opportunities—when to say yes and when to say no:

• Is it new? If it’s a fresh opportunity, consider saying yes.

• Are you passionate? Ensure it aligns with your interests, passions, and goals.

• Will it build your skillset? Growth potential makes an opportunity worthwhile.

• Can you realistically succeed? You should have at least one foundational strength—whether it’s knowledge of the industry, clients, or team—to set yourself up for success.

• Does it create multiple benefits? Look for opportunities that offer value beyond just work—advancing your career, expanding your network, or opening future doors.

While it’s tempting to say yes to everything, Christie emphasizes the importance of prioritizing what truly matters. Ideally, we should only say yes when all these criteria align.

Thank you, Christie, for your insightful advice!

Get full show notes and more information here: https://analizawolf.com/episode-100-when-to-say-yes-with-christie-wong-barrett