The Climb podcast

26:58

The conversation on 'Choosing Joy' within the Climb podcast encapsulates a profound exploration of the intersection between personal well-being and professional success for women of color. The hosts articulate that joy is not merely an emotional response but an active choice that individuals must consciously make, especially in the face of systemic challenges that pervade the workplace. They advocate for the practice of celebrating small wins, suggesting that acknowledging incremental achievements can significantly bolster one's sense of self-worth and motivation. The episode further delves into the mental fortitude required to maintain joy, positing that individuals must cultivate a mindset that focuses on control over one's thoughts and reactions rather than succumbing to external pressures. A salient point made during the discussion is the necessity of establishing boundaries to protect one's energy and well-being. The hosts share strategies for creating a work environment that nurtures joy, including the importance of advocating for oneself and fostering deep connections with supportive colleagues. They emphasize that surrounding oneself with uplifting individuals is essential for sustaining joy, particularly in high-pressure environments. This episode not only resonates with the personal experiences of the hosts but also serves as a call to action for listeners to reclaim their joy and navigate their careers with intentionality and authenticity. Links referenced in this episode: www.the-climb.org…

The Climb

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Doubling Down 21:59

21 days ago21:59

21:59

The salient point of our discussion today revolves around the imperative to double down on our commitment to elevating women of color in leadership positions. As we navigate through tumultuous times, we recognize that our collective strength lies in fostering a supportive community and creating opportunities for one another. This episode serves as a clarion call for action, emphasizing not only the importance of opening doors to new opportunities but also the necessity of amplifying the voices of those who have been historically marginalized. We delve into practical strategies that individuals can employ to effectuate meaningful change, including mentorship, sponsorship, and the acknowledgment of contributions made by women of color in various spheres. Ultimately, we assert that community is the bedrock upon which we build our ascent, and we invite our listeners to join us in this empowering journey. Links referenced in this episode: www.the-climb.org comejointheclimb.org…

The Climb

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The Power of Unplugging 33:05

28 days ago33:05

33:05

This podcast episode explores the profound necessity of unplugging from social media and its beneficial implications for mental well-being, particularly for women of color in leadership roles. Our esteemed guest, Ama Agyapong (@thatinclusionlady) recounts her transformative experience of disconnecting from social media for thirty days, which enabled her to regain clarity and focus on her mental health. We delve into the psychological impacts of constant online engagement and the importance of recognizing when it is essential to step back. Throughout the discussion, we emphasize practical strategies for integrating self-care into daily routines, ensuring that individuals can cultivate joy independent of external validation. Join us as we navigate the complexities of unplugging and the empowerment that arises from prioritizing one's mental space and authentic self. Takeaways: Throughout the episode, we emphasize the significance of unplugging from social media and its impact on mental health, especially during challenging times. Ama recounts her personal journey of unplugging from social media, highlighting the mental clarity and self-discovery that ensued during her 30-day hiatus. The conversation delves into the importance of recognizing one's emotional responses and understanding how to manage them effectively in daily life. Listeners are encouraged to explore their hobbies and interests beyond social media consumption, promoting a healthier balance in their lives. The episode concludes with actionable steps for listeners to consider when contemplating their own unplugging journey, emphasizing the necessity of self-care. Links referenced in this episode: comejointheclimb.org inclusionenterprises.org…

The Climb

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Leading at Work, Loving at Home: Balancing Career & Special Needs Parenting with Shatanese Reese 31:45

5 weeks ago31:45

31:45

This podcast episode delves into the intricate dynamics of leading in professional environments while simultaneously nurturing family responsibilities, particularly when parenting children with special needs. We endeavor to illuminate the experiences of women of color leaders, sharing poignant narratives that resonate with many who navigate similar challenges. Our guest, Ms. Shatanese Reese, brings forth her extensive background in human resources, coupled with her personal journey as a mother of a child with unique abilities. Throughout our discourse, we explore the vital importance of empathy, the necessity of self-care, and the strategies for advocating for oneself in the workplace. We invite listeners to join us on this enlightening journey as we collectively redefine the paradigms of leadership and parenting. In this episode of the CLIMB Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Ms. Shatanese Reese Reese, a seasoned human resources professional and the CEO of Shatanese ReeseReese LLC. We delved into the intricate balance of leading at work while loving at home, particularly through the lens of special needs parenting. Connecting with Shatanese Reese: https://shatanesereese.com/ Instagram, Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter, and YouTube @ShataneseReese Shatanese Reese shared her inspiring journey, which includes over 25 years of experience in human resources and her personal experience as a mother of six, including her youngest son, Josiah, who has special needs. We discussed the challenges and triumphs of navigating the workplace while managing the emotional and mental load of parenting a child with unique abilities. Throughout our conversation, we emphasized the importance of self-awareness, empathy, and communication in both personal and professional settings. Shatanese Reese highlighted the need for parents to advocate for themselves in the workplace, ensuring that their responsibilities at home are understood and accommodated. We also touched on the significance of self-care and the necessity of taking breaks to avoid burnout. As we wrapped up, Shatanese Reese shared valuable insights on how our experiences as special needs parents can shape us into more empathetic leaders. We concluded with a reminder that while the journey may be challenging, it is also filled with blessings and opportunities for growth. I encourage you to connect with Shatanese Reese through her social media platforms and check out her books, including a children's book series that explores the experience of having a special needs sibling. Thank you for joining us on this empowering journey, and remember to keep thriving and climbing! Links referenced in this episode: professionalsplanning.com ShataneseReese.com comejointheclimb.org…

The Climb

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Why Every Women of Color Needs a Coach 31:11

6 weeks ago31:11

31:11

Every woman of color needs a coach to navigate the complexities of career growth and personal development. In this insightful conversation, host Felicia Smith and expert coach Dr. Donna Welch explore the transformative power of coaching, emphasizing how it provides a judgment-free space for women to articulate their goals and challenges. Dr. Welch shares her journey into coaching, highlighting the importance of empowering clients to discover their own answers and move forward in their careers. They discuss the differences between coaching, mentoring, and therapy, clarifying how coaching focuses on helping individuals unlock their potential rather than providing direct advice. With practical examples and personal anecdotes, this episode sheds light on how coaching can be a vital tool for women of color striving to overcome obstacles and achieve their aspirations. Takeaways: Coaching empowers women of color by providing a safe space for self-discovery and personal growth. The relationship between a coach and a client is collaborative, focusing on the client's agenda. Women of color face unique challenges in leadership; coaching helps navigate these obstacles effectively. Understanding the difference between coaching, mentoring, and therapy is crucial for personal development. Coaching can help identify and overcome self-limiting beliefs that hinder career progression. Engaging with a coach can facilitate the process of setting and achieving personal and professional goals. Links referenced in this episode: www.professionalsplanning.com www.comejoinetheclimb.org www.the-climb.org…

The Climb

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HER CLIMB with Desiree Goldey 42:04

7 weeks ago42:04

42:04

Connect with Desiree Goldey on these platforms: Blue Sky: @DoBetterPeople, Linkedin: Desiree Goldey, and www.dobetterconsulting.net This episode of the Climb Podcast features Desiree Goldie, a dynamic leader dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace. Desiree shares her nonlinear career journey, emphasizing the importance of intentionality and the value of continuous learning. She highlights the challenges faced by women of color in corporate environments, particularly the struggle against being perceived as a token or DEI hire. The discussion delves into the political nature of the workplace, the unseen dynamics that influence decisions, and the necessity of being organized and prepared to succeed. Desiree encourages listeners to prioritize their own needs and aspirations, reminding them that it’s okay to step back and reassess their career paths if they no longer align with their goals. Takeaways: Women of color often face challenges in being perceived as tokens or DEI hires in corporate environments. Intentionality in career progression is crucial; actively seek opportunities that align with your goals. Navigating the corporate landscape requires understanding the political dynamics that influence decision-making. Failure is a natural part of growth; embrace it as a learning opportunity for future success. Creating equitable workplaces involves more than just diverse hiring; it requires inclusive practices and ongoing education. Organizational skills are essential for career advancement, especially for women of color in leadership roles. Links referenced in this episode: www.professionalsplanning.com…

The Climb

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Mentorship Unscripted 27:42

8 weeks ago27:42

27:42

This episode of the Climb Podcast focuses on the vital topic of mentorship, particularly for women of color navigating leadership roles. Host Felicia Smith discusses why mentorship is crucial for professional growth and addresses common misconceptions that may prevent individuals from seeking mentors. She emphasizes that mentorship is not solely for the young or inexperienced; rather, it's a lifelong journey of learning and development. Felicia outlines three key reasons why someone might lack a mentor, including undervaluing mentorship, neglecting self-prioritization, and self-doubt in approaching potential mentors. The episode also highlights the importance of building a professional advisory board and finding community among peers to support career advancement. Takeaways: Mentorship is a lifelong journey that transcends age and experience levels, providing continuous learning opportunities. Women of color in the workplace should prioritize their own development and seek mentorship actively. Your mentor doesn't have to look like you; valuable insights can come from diverse backgrounds. It's common to talk yourself out of seeking mentorship, but you should approach relationships with curiosity. A mentor can open doors for you and help you navigate your career path effectively. Building a professional advisory board with multiple mentors can enhance your growth and learning. Links referenced in this episode: www.professionalsplanning.com comejointheclimb.org…

The Climb

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From Gatekeeping to Bridge Building: Networking with a Purpose 31:22

9 weeks ago31:22

31:22

This episode of the Climb Podcast focuses on the critical importance of networking for women of color in advancing their careers. Host Felicia Smith shares her insights on how networking can transform professional opportunities, providing five key reasons why building connections is essential for career development. She delves into the unique challenges faced by women of color when it comes to networking, highlighting issues such as gatekeeping and the perception of credibility. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, Felicia encourages listeners to embrace networking as a vital tool for empowerment and growth. By fostering meaningful relationships and supporting one another, women of color can navigate their career journeys more effectively and create spaces for future generations. Takeaways: Networking is essential for career development, especially for women of color seeking leadership roles. Building genuine relationships through networking empowers individuals and enhances career opportunities significantly. Women of color often face unique challenges in networking that can hinder their professional growth. Creating mentorship opportunities outside one’s organization can provide valuable support and guidance. Networking is a two-way street; sharing information and opportunities benefits both parties involved. Authenticity in networking is crucial; being true to oneself fosters deeper connections. Links referenced in this episode: www.professionalsplanning.com…

The Climb

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REPLAY: How to Recover from Workplace Trauma 38:20

12 weeks ago38:20

38:20

Workplace trauma is a significant issue for women of color, often leading to feelings of self-doubt and emotional exhaustion. In this episode of the Climb Podcast, host Felicia Smith engages with Rebecca Jackson, a seasoned facilitator and coach, to explore how to recover from such trauma. They discuss the subtle manifestations of workplace trauma, including overworking, numbing, and the impacts of microaggressions, highlighting that these experiences can deeply affect one's mental and emotional well-being. Jackson emphasizes the importance of creating supportive communities and seeking professional help to navigate these challenges. The conversation encourages listeners to acknowledge their experiences and implement coping strategies to foster healing and resilience in their professional lives. Takeaways: Workplace trauma can manifest in subtle ways, often leading to self-doubt and overwork. It's essential to identify and process workplace trauma to foster personal healing. Creating a supportive community among peers can help mitigate feelings of isolation and trauma. Practices like meditation, physical activity, and therapy can support healing from trauma. Recognizing the signs of trauma in yourself can lead to better coping strategies. Building open communication with supervisors about past experiences can pave the way for healing. Connect with Rebecca Jackson at (2) Rebecca Jackson | LinkedIn…

The Climb

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Imposter What? The truth and impact of imposter syndrome 24:42

13 weeks ago24:42

24:42

Imposter syndrome is a prevalent issue among women of color, often manifesting as self-doubt and a fear of being exposed as a fraud despite their accomplishments. This episode delves into the complexities of imposter syndrome, particularly how it affects women of color differently compared to other demographics. Felicia Smith discusses the origins of the term and its historical context, highlighting the need to recognize the environmental factors that contribute to these feelings. She identifies five key traits associated with imposter syndrome, including perfectionism and the fear of success, urging listeners to take inventory of their experiences. Ultimately, the conversation emphasizes that feeling like an imposter is not a personal failing but rather a reaction to systemic challenges, encouraging listeners to acknowledge their worth and embrace their achievements. Exploring the complexities of imposter syndrome through the lens of women of color, this episode delves into how societal expectations and workplace environments contribute to feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy. Felicia Smith, the podcast's host, draws upon her own experiences and research to illustrate how imposter syndrome is not merely a personal failing but often a reaction to systemic issues, particularly for marginalized groups. She discusses the history of the term, its origins in studies of white women, and how this context shapes the ongoing conversation about its relevance for black women and others in similar situations. The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding the external factors that catalyze feelings of being an imposter, arguing that the narrative often shifts blame onto individuals rather than addressing the environments that foster these sentiments. Through this nuanced discussion, listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences and the triggers that perpetuate feelings of inadequacy, ultimately fostering a sense of community and empowerment among women of color in leadership roles. Takeaways: Imposter syndrome often stems from environmental factors rather than individual shortcomings, especially for women of color. Recognizing and understanding your triggers can help manage feelings of imposter syndrome effectively. Perfectionism can lead to procrastination, as striving for flawlessness may hinder progress. Superheroism in the workplace can create undue pressure, pushing individuals to overprepare excessively. Denial of one's competencies is common, leading to undervaluing personal achievements and skills. Fear of success can prevent individuals from celebrating their accomplishments, creating a cycle of dissatisfaction. Links referenced in this episode: professionalsplanning.com…

The Climb

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How to Recover from Workplace Trauma Part 2 with Rebecca Jackson 33:44

21 weeks ago33:44

33:44

This episode of the Climb podcast features a deep dive into the complex experiences of women of color in the workplace, focusing on the impact of microaggressions and gaslighting. Hosts Felicia Smith and Rebecca Jackson explore how subtle, everyday interactions can undermine self-worth and perpetuate feelings of not belonging. They discuss the importance of naming these experiences to validate feelings and foster understanding. The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating professional environments while dealing with internalized biases, particularly among women of color. As they wrap up the season, Smith and Jackson emphasize the necessity of creating supportive spaces for open dialogue, where individuals can thrive and challenge systemic barriers. Takeaways: This episode emphasizes the importance of naming trauma in the workplace for women of color. Microaggressions are subtle but impactful actions that convey messages of exclusion and disrespect. Gaslighting occurs when someone dismisses your lived experiences, making you question your sanity. The discussion highlights the significance of finding allies who will support and validate your experiences. It's essential to challenge respectability politics that police the behavior and appearance of marginalized individuals. Creating safe spaces for vulnerable conversations can empower women of color in leadership roles.…

The Climb

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HER CLIMB with Lisa Grant 36:24

22 weeks ago36:24

36:24

Join us as we dive into an inspiring conversation with Lisa Grant, the deputy clerk of the US House of Representatives, who shares her extraordinary journey and insights on leadership. With over 35 years of experience in government and a notable transition from procurement to her current role, Lisa emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and strategic career moves. Throughout the discussion, she highlights the significance of mentorship and sponsorship, particularly for women of color, and the need for strong interpersonal skills in leadership. Lisa also reflects on the sacrifices she made to maintain balance in her personal and professional life, stressing that authenticity and open communication are vital in the workplace. Tune in to discover how Lisa's commitment to excellence not only shaped her career but also empowers others to navigate their own paths to success. Takeaways: The podcast emphasizes the importance of mentorship and networking for women of color leaders. Lisa Grant's career journey showcases the value of continuous learning and adaptability. Establishing genuine connections with employees can greatly enhance leadership effectiveness and team loyalty. Women of color should strive for certifications to demonstrate their expertise in their fields. The significance of work-life balance is highlighted, especially in supporting family commitments. Leadership requires not just technical skills but also strong interpersonal and communication abilities.…

The Climb

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Listener Letters: Real Talk on Leadership Challenges 24:45

23 weeks ago24:45

24:45

This podcast episode focuses on navigating the complex transitions faced by women of color in leadership roles, specifically addressing listener letters that highlight common challenges. The first letter discusses the difficulties of moving from a peer to a leader, emphasizing the need for respect and maintaining positive relationships with former colleagues. The second letter raises concerns about being overlooked for promotions despite strong performance and advocacy efforts. Felicia Smith provides insights and advice on how to address these situations, encouraging open communication, fairness, and the importance of building relationships within the workplace. Listeners are invited to reflect on their own experiences and seek strategies to overcome obstacles in their professional journeys. Takeaways: Transitioning from peer to leader can be challenging, requiring open communication and acknowledgment of changes. Maintaining relationships while asserting authority is crucial for new leaders to succeed. Feedback from colleagues can provide insight into why promotions may be overlooked. It's important for leaders to establish fairness and impartiality to earn team respect. Building relationships with colleagues is essential for leadership visibility and advancement opportunities. Women of color often face unique challenges in being perceived as assertive rather than bossy. Links referenced in this episode: www.standingonhershoulders.com…

The Climb

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Coins & The Climb: Mastering Money Moves with Nadia Vanderhall 43:01

24 weeks ago43:01

43:01

In this episode of the Climb Podcast, I had the pleasure of welcoming Nadia Vanderhall, a multi-hyphenate financial planner and educator with over a decade of experience in the financial services industry. As the founder of the Brands and Bands Strategy Group, Nadia has made significant strides in promoting financial literacy, particularly among women of color. Her impressive background includes collaborations with major companies like Facebook, Google, and the National Urban League, and her insights have been featured in prominent media outlets such as Bloomberg and the Washington Post. We kicked off our conversation by diving into the critical topic of wealth gaps, particularly focusing on the disparities faced by women of color. I shared some staggering statistics about median wealth among different racial groups, highlighting the challenges that Black and Hispanic families face compared to their white counterparts. Nadia emphasized the importance of understanding not just the wealth gap but also the concept of intergenerational wealth, which encompasses the financial responsibilities that extend beyond immediate family to include extended relatives and community members. As we transitioned into the segment "Somebody Should Have Told Me," we discussed the lessons that many of us wish we had learned earlier in our financial journeys. Nadia shared her own experiences, reflecting on the importance of budgeting and the need for an emergency fund. She pointed out that many people, especially those from marginalized communities, often lack the financial education necessary to navigate their new income levels effectively. We also touched on the significance of understanding how to manage money as one's financial situation evolves. In our "Truth Is" segment, we tackled common misconceptions about money management. Nadia highlighted the necessity of having an emergency fund, especially in today's volatile economy, where layoffs and unexpected expenses can arise at any moment. She stressed that understanding one's financial habits and the true cost of living is crucial for effective budgeting and saving. Finally, in the "Another Rung Climbed" segment, Nadia shared three key takeaways for our listeners. She encouraged everyone to recognize their current financial season and to be flexible in their financial planning. She also emphasized the importance of accountability in managing finances and understanding one's personal money story, which can significantly influence financial behavior. This episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice for women of color looking to navigate their financial journeys and climb the ladder of success. Nadia's expertise and relatable anecdotes make this conversation not only informative but also empowering. I encourage you to listen closely and take notes, as there are many gems to be found in our discussion. Don't forget to check out Nadia's work at the Brands and Bands Strategy Group ( The Brands And Bands — The Brands + Bands The Brands And Brands Strategy Group - Financial Planning + Education ) and subscribe to her newsletter for ongoing financial education and tips. Keep climbing and building your wealth!…

The Climb

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The Myth of Crabs in a Barrel with Dr Tracey Powell 23:33

25 weeks ago23:33