Yvette McGee Brown was the first African American woman Justice on The Ohio Supreme Court. Today, after years in public service, Justice Brown is a prominent attorney in private practice at the firm Jones Day, in Columbus, Ohio.

But her path to success wasn’t always easy. Little Yvette was born Ohio to a single, teenaged mother whose goal was just to get Yvette through high school without getting pregnant. Her mother insisted that Yvette learn to type, so she would always have a job.

On today’s episode, Justice Brown talks with guest host, and retired Judge, Tom Hodson about the keys to her success. Her career has been empowered by mentors, role models, listening to a broad range of people, and a willingness to take up challenges.