Do Better with Debra

Do Better with Debra is a podcast rooted in real stories about becoming, choosing yourself, and living into your purpose with courage. Through thoughtful, honest conversations, host Debra Griffith sits with leaders, entrepreneurs, creatives, and change-makers to explore the moments that shape who we become, at work, in leadership, and in life. Episodes touch on topics like leadership, psychological safety, identity, boundaries, purpose, and growth, not as theories, but as lived experiences. This is a space for reflection, clarity, and courage, for anyone navigating change and learning how to show up more fully without losing themselves.

First-Gen Professional: Negotiating Identity, Power, and Belonging 02/05/2026

First-Gen Professional: Negotiating Identity, Power, and Belonging What does it really mean to be first-generation after college ends? In this episode of Do Better with Debra, I’m joined by Dr. Bryan Rojas-Araúz for a powerful, deeply human conversation about what it means to be first-gen forever. Together, we explore the reality of moving through professional and leadership spaces without a blueprint, negotiating identity, belonging, and authenticity in systems that were never designed with us in mind. Bryan shares his journey from being an undocumented, first-generation college student to becoming a licensed psychologist, professor, and scholar-activist. We talk about the moments that shaped him, the mentors who helped open doors, and the internal negotiations that followed him from college into professional life. We also name the pressure many first-gen professionals feel to overperform, code-switch, and constantly prove they belong just to earn a seat at the table. This conversation is about more than career paths. It’s about reclaiming identity, understanding lived experience as wisdom, and letting go of the need to ask permission to exist. We reflect on imposter syndrome, authenticity, and why belonging doesn’t come from institutions, but from clarity about who you are and why you’re here. If you are a first-generation professional navigating work, family, leadership, or identity, and feel like you are always negotiating who you can be in different spaces, this episode is for you. My hope is that you hear something that reminds you that you are not behind, you are not imagining it, and you do not need permission to take up space. Key Takeaways: First-gen identity does not end at graduation. It continues throughout professional and personal life. Negotiating systems often begins as a strategy for access, but awareness allows us to choose what we no longer need to negotiate. Overachievement, performance, and constant proving are common responses to navigating spaces without a roadmap. Authenticity is not just personal; it is a leadership practice and a form of resistance. Belonging does not come from institutions that were not built for us. It comes from community, purpose, and self-trust. About Dr. Bryan Rojas-Araúz: Dr. Bryan Rojas-Araúz is a bilingual, bicultural Afroindigenous immigrant of Costa Rican and Panamanian descent. He is a licensed psychologist, educator, and scholar-activist whose work centers trauma, immigration, culturally responsive and decolonial healing, and the social conditions that shape wellbeing. He is the founder of In Lak’ech Counseling, Education, and Consulting, where he provides trauma- and culturally responsive psychological services, immigration evaluations, training, consultation, and speaking engagements. Dr. Rojas-Araúz is also a Clinical Assistant Professor in the International Disaster Psychology: Trauma and Global Mental Health program at the University of Denver, where he facilitates Spanish-language supervision in the Trauma and Disaster Psychology Clinic. His work centers Latine and Indigenous wellness, critical consciousness, and collective care. He is a co-author of the Workbook for Social Action for Counselors, Psychologists, and Helping Professionals and identifies as a scholar-activist, hip hop educator, slam poet, and documentary filmmaker. Connect with Dr. Bryan Rojas-Araúz: Learn more about his work at In Lak’ech Counseling, Education, and Consulting at About the Host: Debra Y. Griffith, Ed.D. is an executive coach, consultant, and the voice behind the Do Better with Debra podcast. She currently serves as Chief Equity Programs Officer at Alliance College-Ready Public Schools in Los Angeles, where she leads network-wide equity strategy focused on college readiness, belonging, and postsecondary completion across 25 schools. With more than 25 years in education and leadership, Debra supports women of color leaders navigating transition, carrying a lot, and still committed to leading transformative change in their organizations and in their own lives. Through coaching, consulting, and storytelling, she creates spaces for reflection, clarity, and courage. Connect with Debra: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: @dobetterwithdebra Subscribe to Do Better with Debra on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. /episode/index/show/8380f3f6-b28c-44f3-9c15-0ccaa58c162b/id/39928930

The Pivots and the Boundaries: The Truth About Betting on Yourself 01/08/2026

The Pivots and the Boundaries: The Truth About Betting on Yourself In this episode, I’m joined by two incredible women, Monica Varela, owner of The Brow Foundry in Old Pasadena, and Kalei Mahi, Chief Legacy Officer of NextGen Legacy NIL. Both of them took the leap from stability into the unknown, building businesses rooted in integrity, purpose, and a deep commitment to the people they serve. Together, we talk about the truth behind betting on yourself, the pivots you don’t expect, the boundaries you learn to hold, the imposter syndrome that creeps in, the intuition that guides you, and the courage it takes to walk away from the safety of an 8-to-5 to build something with your own name on it. Monica and Kalei share what it’s really like to be mothers, partners, and business owners while trying to create a life that honors their values. They speak honestly about fear, burnout, learning to ask for help, and the emotional stretch of navigating the early years of entrepreneurship. Their stories are powerful reminders that the leap isn't perfect but it is possible. If you’ve been sitting on a dream, feeling the tug to do something different, or talking yourself out of taking the next step, this conversation is for you. My hope is that you hear something that reminds you that you’re not behind, you’re not alone, and you are absolutely allowed to choose yourself. This episode is an invitation for the gifted, tired woman holding so much, the woman sitting on a dream she hasn’t fully given herself permission to pursue, to trust her intuition, set boundaries that protect her peace, and remember that she’s not behind… she’s standing at the edge of her next pivot. 🎧 Available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. Key Takeaways Taking the leap often starts with a quiet realization: “I can’t keep living my life this way.” Boundaries around time, energy, and integrity are the backbone of a sustainable business and a grounded life. Unlearning corporate conditioning (people-pleasing, over-functioning, equating worth with output) is essential to building a business that reflects who you are. Asking for help is not a weakness; it’s a practice of self-preservation that makes space for presence, purpose, and well-being. Women supporting women, through referrals, encouragement, and honest conversation, expands what’s possible for all of us. About Monica Varela Monica Varela is the owner of The Brow Foundry, a brow and beauty studio in Old Pasadena. A brow artist with over 14 years of experience, she’s known for her naturally defined brow style and her ability to make clients feel seen, safe, and at ease the moment they sit in her chair. Monica built her business in the midst of the pandemic, relying on intuition, deep client relationships, and a commitment to creating a one-on-one space where people can relax, connect, and leave feeling like the best version of themselves. 🌐 Learn more about “” 🔗 Connect with Monica on social media through @THE.BROW.FOUNDRY About Kalei Mahi Kalei Mahi is the Founder and Chief Legacy Officer of NextGen Legacy NIL, where she helps high school and college athletes and their families, navigate partnerships, contracts, financial literacy, and personal branding in the evolving NIL landscape. With more than 15 years of experience working with brands such as AT&T, The Coca-Cola Company, Sony, Lexus, and YouTube, and her background as a record-holding Division I swimmer, Kalei brings both expertise and empathy to her work. She teaches athletes how to protect their value, understand the business behind their opportunities, and make informed decisions that will serve them long after their playing careers end. 🌐 Learn more about NextGen Legacy NIL 🔗 Connect with Kalei and NextGen Legacy NIL Instagram: @nextgenlegacy_nil About Dr. Debra Griffith Dr. Debra Y. Griffith is an executive coach, consultant, and the voice behind the Do Better with Debra podcast. She currently serves as Chief Equity Programs Officer at Alliance College-Ready Public Schools in Los Angeles, where she leads network-wide equity strategy focused on college readiness, belonging, and postsecondary completion for more than 13,000 scholars across 25 schools. With over 25 years in education and leadership, Debra now supports women of color leaders navigating transition, carrying a lot, and still committed to leading transformative change, in their organizations and in their own lives. 🌐 Learn more about coaching and consulting at 🔗 Connect with Debra on /episode/index/show/8380f3f6-b28c-44f3-9c15-0ccaa58c162b/id/39376425

The Space Between the Dream and the Doing: A Conversation About Starting 12/30/2025

The Space Between the Dream and the Doing: A Conversation About Starting So many of us hold ideas we love, a script, a podcast, a book, a creative project that keeps tapping us on the shoulder but something gets in the way of actually beginning. Fear. Perfection. Comparison. Not knowing the “how.” Or simply believing we need everything in place before we take the first step. In this episode, I sit down with Valerie Frugé, an actor, audio producer, and creative who is developing a limited series rooted in history and storytelling, and Steve Moreno, a music enthusiast and host of the upcoming podcast Nostalgic Jamz, who brings a deep passion for the songs that shaped us. Both of them have been carrying powerful ideas for years and both are now choosing to move from intention into action. Together, we talk honestly about what holds us back, why starting often feels so heavy, and what shifts when you finally give yourself permission to begin. We explore fear, perfection, comparison, and the stories we tell ourselves that keep us stuck. And we talk about support, how the right conversation, the right question, or the right person can open the door to momentum. This episode is for anyone sitting on a dream… anyone who knows there’s more they want to create… and anyone standing in that uncomfortable space between knowing and doing. 🎧 Available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and You Tube. It’s time to move toward the thing you keep thinking about. Key Takeaways The first step doesn’t have to be big, it just has to be real. Fear shows up when something matters, not when we’re unqualified. Comparison keeps us stuck in our heads; community helps us move. Perfection is a distraction from purpose. Support and accountability make starting possible. About Steve Moreno Steve Moreno is an actor, audio producer, and creative based in Los Angeles. With years of experience in voiceover, comedy, and audio production, including work with Comedy Central, he brings a deep love of storytelling and collaboration to every project. He is currently developing a limited series inspired by historical events in Los Angeles, focusing on themes of identity, justice, and community. About Valerie Frugé Valerie Frugé is a creative, dancer, and lifelong music enthusiast based in Los Angeles. A self-described Xennial with a deep love for 70s–2000s music, she is the host of the upcoming podcast Nostalgic Jamz, where she explores the stories, memories, and meaning behind the songs that shaped a generation. Passionate, thoughtful, and rooted in connection, Valerie brings music and storytelling together in a fresh, grounded way. About Dr. Debra Griffith Dr. Debra Griffith is an executive coach, consultant, and host of the Do Better with Debra podcast. As Chief Equity Programs Officer at Alliance College-Ready Public Schools, she leads the network’s equity, belonging, and postsecondary strategy. Through Do Better Executive Coaching, she supports women of color leaders navigating transitions and designing lives and careers anchored in clarity, power, and purpose. 🌐 Learn more at 🔗 Connect with Debra on /episode/index/show/8380f3f6-b28c-44f3-9c15-0ccaa58c162b/id/39375730

The Courage to Rest: Redefining Strength 10/22/2025

The Courage to Rest: Redefining Strength Jasmine Brett Stringer, MAPP, is a dynamic keynote speaker, award-winning author, television personality, and Founder & CEO of Carpe Diem with Jasmine LLC. Known for her vibrant presence and grounded wisdom, Jasmine blends the science of positive psychology with real-world experience to help individuals and organizations flourish. In this episode, Jasmine and I talk about the R.E.S.T. framework she created, born out of one of the hardest seasons of her life, while studying positive psychology and caring for her father through illness. Her framework, designed especially with Black women in mind, reframes rest not as a luxury but as a necessity for our healing and wholeness. Together, we explore how recovery, emotional agility, support, and time can transform the way we lead and live. Jasmine shares what it means to practice emotional agility, redefine strength, and reclaim time as an act of self-preservation. This conversation is an invitation for every woman holding so much to pause, breathe, and give herself permission to rest. 🎧 Available now on Apple Podcasts & Spotify. Key Takeaways Rest is not a reward—it’s a requirement for your well-being. Emotional agility helps us feel, name, and move through emotions with awareness. Support means offering what’s in your toolkit and receiving help with grace. Reclaiming your time is an act of self-love, not selfishness. About Jasmine Brett Stringer Jasmine Brett Stringer, MAPP, is a keynote speaker, award-winning author, television personality, and Founder & CEO of Carpe Diem with Jasmine LLC. Through her signature frameworks, A.C.I.R., R.E.S.T., and Seize Your Life. she helps people build emotional agility, overcome overwhelm, and unlock joy. Jasmine’s clients include the Federal Reserve Bank, Land O’Lakes, Airbnb, General Mills, Bayer, and the University of Minnesota. Based in Minneapolis, she holds a Master of Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania and brings both warmth and rigor to her work helping others flourish. 🔗 Connect with Jasmine on 🌐 Learn more at About Dr. Debra Griffith Dr. Debra Griffith is an executive coach, consultant, and the voice behind the Do Better with Debra podcast. She currently serves as Chief Equity Programs Officer at Alliance College-Ready Public Schools, where she leads the network’s equity strategy focused on college readiness, belonging, and postsecondary success across 25 schools serving more than 13,000 scholars. With over 25 years in education and leadership, Debra now supports women of color leaders navigating transitions and leading transformative change. 🌐 Learn more at 🔗 Connect with Debra on /episode/index/show/8380f3f6-b28c-44f3-9c15-0ccaa58c162b/id/38733905

Trust, Generosity, and the Work That Matters 10/01/2025

Trust, Generosity, and the Work That Matters Rodolfo “Rudy” Elizondo is an equity-driven leader who has spent more than two decades in public education and the nonprofit sector. Recently appointed Chief of Education at College Track, Rudy brings deep experience as a system-level strategist, a champion for first-generation scholars, and a leader whose philosophy centers real-world problem solving, collaboration, and trust. In this episode, Rudy and I reflect on our rare partnership as two Chiefs working side by side one grounded in data and analysis, the other in intuition and human connection. We talk about what it takes to build trust across differences, how generosity and humility change the way leaders show up, and why leaving ego at the door creates space for the work that really matters. Together, we explore moving past imposter syndrome, leading with our whole selves, and creating partnerships that allow us to focus on scholars, not titles. This conversation is for every leader navigating complex systems who has ever wondered: What would it feel like to lead without ego? 🎧 Available now on Apple Podcasts & Spotify. Key Takeaways Leadership without ego creates space for trust, generosity, and impact. Partnerships thrive when leaders align on purpose, not titles. Imposter syndrome loses power when you choose to lead as your full self. True collaboration honors both data and intuition as sources of wisdom. About Rudy Elizondo Rodolfo “Rudy” Elizondo is the Chief of Education at College Track, a national organization equipping first-generation and underserved students to earn their bachelor’s degrees and lead lives of purpose and power. Previously, he served as Chief Instructional Officer at Alliance College-Ready Public Schools, overseeing 26 middle and high schools serving nearly 13,000 scholars. A first-generation Mexican-American, Rudy’s leadership is grounded in equity, innovation, and a belief in education as a pathway to mobility and transformation. He is a Broad Fellow, a Cambiar Catalyst Fellow, and trained in Culturally Responsive Principal Supervision at the NYC Leadership Academy. 🔗 Connect with Rudy on About Dr. Debra Griffith Dr. Debra Griffith is an executive coach, consultant, and the voice behind the Do Better with Debra podcast. She currently serves as Chief Equity Programs Officer at Alliance College-Ready Public Schools, where she leads the network’s equity strategy focused on college readiness, belonging, and postsecondary success across 25 schools serving more than 13,000 scholars. With over 25 years of experience in education and higher education leadership, she now supports women of color leaders and executives navigating professional transitions and leading transformative change. 🌐 Learn more at 🔗 Connect with Debra on /episode/index/show/8380f3f6-b28c-44f3-9c15-0ccaa58c162b/id/38418850

Leading with Love: Dr. Jonathan Grady, Healing, Hope & The Helpers Story 09/17/2025

Leading with Love: Dr. Jonathan Grady, Healing, Hope & The Helpers Story Dr. Jonathan Grady is an influential leader, scholar, and equity strategist whose work centers transformative justice, radical imagination, and leading with love. As Senior Associate Vice President for Equity & Belonging at Cal Poly Pomona, he brings more than 17 years of experience driving systemic equity strategies, cultivating holistic workplace cultures, and building communities where people can recognize their inner strength, brilliance, and magic. In this episode, Jonathan and I talk about what it means to lead with love inside systems that often strip away humanity, and how his framework, The Helper’s Story, offers language for the cost of constant caregiving while also pointing us toward healing and sustainability. We talk about legacy, connection, and why true leadership requires vulnerability, accountability, and joy. This conversation is for every leader who has ever given until emptyand is ready to believe that caring for themselves is not indulgence but resistance. 🎧 Available now on Apple Podcasts & Spotify. Key Takeaways Love is not just a feeling, it is an action, a framework, and a leadership practice. The Helper’s Story invites us to begin within, make meaning, embody action, and embrace transformation. True leadership creates healing spaces where mistakes become opportunities for learning. Rest, joy, and boundaries are revolutionary acts for helpers and caretakers. About Dr. Jonathan Grady Dr. Jonathan Grady is the Senior Associate Vice President for Equity & Belonging at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. A nationally recognized scholar, speaker, and administrator, his work challenges us to rethink how we show up for ourselves and others. Through his Helper’s Story framework, he helps leaders and organizations cultivate cultures rooted in love, healing, and accountability. 🔗 About Dr. Debra Griffith Dr. Debra Griffith is an executive coach, consultant, and the voice behind the Do Better with Debra podcast. With a career rooted in education and equity-centered leadership, she now supports women of color leaders and executives navigating professional transitions and leading transformative change. 🌐 🔗 /episode/index/show/8380f3f6-b28c-44f3-9c15-0ccaa58c162b/id/38247515

Truth, Power & Patriarchy 09/03/2025

Truth, Power & Patriarchy Anna Malaika Tubbs is a bestselling storyteller and truth-teller whose work pulls back the curtain on the erasure of Black women and the systems never built for us. Her latest book, Erased: What the American Patriarchy Has Hidden From Us, is part manifesto, part mirror, helping us see the system clearly and reminding us that our stories matter. In this episode, Anna and I talk about what it means to live and lead boldly inside structures designed to silence us, and how she turns painful erasure into powerful storytelling. We talk about joy, creativity, and faith as acts of resistance, and why young people deserve these conversations just as much as adults do. This is a conversation for every woman who has ever wondered if the problem was her only to discover the truth: it was always the system. 🎧 Available now on Apple Podcasts & Spotify. Key Takeaways Patriarchy is not personal, it’s structural, and we can name it. Writing and sharing our stories is a radical act of visibility. Young people are not too young for the truth, they are the leaders who will carry it forward. Joy and creativity are not luxuries; they are tools of survival and power. About Anna Malaika Tubbs Anna Malaika Tubbs is the New York Times bestselling author of The Three Mothers and Erased: What the American Patriarchy Has Hidden From Us. Her work has been featured in TIME Magazine, CNN, The Guardian, and more. A sought-after speaker and educator, Anna is dedicated to celebrating difference, advocating for women of color, and helping us all see the systems around us more clearly. 🔗 Connect with Anna on Instagram: 🌐 Learn more at About Dr. Debra Griffith Dr. Debra Griffith is an executive coach, consultant, and the voice behind the Do Better with Debra podcast. With a career rooted in education and equity-centered leadership, she now supports women of color leaders and executives navigating professional transitions and leading transformative change. 🌐 Learn more at Do Better Executive Coaching 🔗 Connect with Debra on LinkedIn /episode/index/show/8380f3f6-b28c-44f3-9c15-0ccaa58c162b/id/38068435

The Courage to Choose You with Maria Elena De Guevara (Part 2) 08/27/2025

The Courage to Choose You with Maria Elena De Guevara (Part 2) The Courage to Choose You with Maria Elena De Guevara (Part 2) In Part 2 of our conversation, Maria Elena introduces the ACE framework a powerful tool she’s used throughout her life and leadership journey to navigate hard choices with clarity and intention. We talk about knowing when to accept what is, when to push for change, and when to make the brave decision to walk away. Maria shares how she used this framework during one of the most demanding seasons of her life, and how it helped her hold onto her values while navigating toxic systems. We also get into salary negotiation, advocating for your worth, and why leadership at its core is personal. Maria doesn’t hold back, and this conversation is full of the wisdom, strategy, and heart she’s known for. If you’ve ever struggled to speak up for yourself, stayed too long in a role that drained you, or needed a reminder that your values don’t make you difficult, they make you powerful, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways The ACE Framework is a leadership tool. Accept, Change, Exit, three options for navigating challenges with intention, clarity, and power. Toxic environments don’t define your worth. Sometimes staying is strategic. Sometimes leaving is survival. Either way, you get to decide. Advocating for yourself isn’t selfish, it’s strategy. Do your homework, know your impact, and speak their language when it comes to salary and worth. Leadership is deeply personal. The way you show up fully, unapologetically is as important as the systems you try to change. Legacy isn’t just what you do, it’s who you empower. Maria Elena’s impact lives on through the women she mentored who now lead with courage of their own. About Us Maria Elena De Guevara is a retired Director of Human Resources with over 40 years of leadership experience across city, county, manufacturing, and higher education. As Principal Consultant of HR Works!, she has guided organizations and individuals in building stronger systems and healthier workplaces. 🔗 Connect with Maria on Dr. Debra Griffith is an executive coach, consultant, and the voice behind the Do Better with Debra podcast. With a career rooted in education and equity-centered leadership, she now supports women of color leaders and executives navigating professional transitions and leading transformative change. 🌐 Learn more at 🔗 Connect with Debra on /episode/index/show/8380f3f6-b28c-44f3-9c15-0ccaa58c162b/id/37974620

The Courage to Choose You with Maria Elena De Guevara (Part 1) 08/20/2025

The Courage to Choose You with Maria Elena De Guevara (Part 1) The Courage to Choose You with Maria Elena De Guevara (Part 1) My friend and former colleague, Maria Elena De Guevara, is someone I’ve admired for years. She’s a brilliant HR leader whose career spans higher ed, government, and county leadership but what makes her unforgettable is how she’s navigated those spaces with courage, heart, and honesty. In this episode, Maria shares how she learned to walk away from environments that demanded everything and gave little back. We talk about what it means to reclaim your power, protect your peace, and decide that choosing yourself isn’t selfish it’s survival. This is a conversation for anyone who’s ever felt the weight of toxic leadership, questioned when it’s time to move on, or wondered if it’s possible to lead without losing yourself in the process. Part 1 is about the decision to leave the turning point that reshaped Maria’s relationship with work and herself. Listen in and take what you need. 🎧 Available now on Apple Podcasts & Spotify. Key Takeaways Leadership isn’t just titles: it’s how you reclaim your power in spaces not built for you. Healing is part of leadership: walking away, reflecting, and returning stronger is as valuable as any strategy. Legacy lives in people: the impact you leave behind is measured in lives touched, not job descriptions. Courage is a practice: choosing yourself, your values, and your joy is leadership in action. About Us Maria Elena De Guevara Maria Elena De Guevara is a retired Director of Human Resources with over 40 years of leadership experience across city, county, manufacturing, and higher education. As Principal Consultant of HR Works!, she has guided organizations and individuals in building stronger systems and healthier workplaces. 🔗 Connect with Maria on About Dr. Debra Griffith Dr. Debra Griffith is an executive coach, consultant, and the voice behind the Do Better with Debra podcast. With a career rooted in education and equity-centered leadership, she now supports women of color leaders and executives navigating professional transitions and leading transformative change. 🌐 Learn more at 🔗 Connect with Debra on /episode/index/show/8380f3f6-b28c-44f3-9c15-0ccaa58c162b/id/37885700

Don’t Wait to Hit Empty with Lindsey Fuller Burnout, Boundaries & Microdosing Wellness 08/06/2025

Don’t Wait to Hit Empty with Lindsey Fuller Burnout, Boundaries & Microdosing Wellness Don’t Wait to Hit Empty with Lindsey Fuller: Burnout, Boundaries & Microdosing Wellness What if you didn’t wait until you were completely depleted to take care of yourself? In this episode of Do Better with Debra, Lindsey Fuller, Executive Director of Teaching Well shares why she’s committed to healing out loud and how microdosing wellness has become her way to stay grounded, present, and whole. We talk about: The real cost of burnout — emotional, financial, and relational Why rest is not a luxury, but a daily practice The power of trusted confidants in your healing journey How to choose boundaries without apology If you’ve been running on empty, this episode is your reminder: you don’t have to break yourself to serve others. 🕒 34 minutes | Authentic, heart-centered conversation If this episode spoke to you, follow Do Better with Debra on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube (coming soon) and share it with someone who needs the reminder. About the Guest Lindsey Fuller (she/her) Executive Director of Teaching Well Lindsey Fuller is a leader, visionary, and advocate committed to creating trauma-sensitive environments that sustain the adults at the center of schools. Through her leadership at Teaching Well, she helps educators and leaders reimagine wellness as a daily, necessary practice not an afterthought. Lindsey’s work centers on resilience, boundaries, and healing out loud. 📩 Contact Lindsey LinkedIn: Website: About the Host Dr. Debra Y Griffith Founder & CEO, Do Better Executive Coaching & Do Better by Design Debra Griffith is an executive coach, consultant, and host of Do Better with Debra. With over 26 years of leadership experience across K-12, community colleges, and universities, she partners with women of color leaders to navigate career strategy, resilience, and transformative leadership. Debra’s work is rooted in equity, authenticity, and the belief that we don’t have to wait for permission to lead differently. 📩 Contact Debra LinkedIn: Website: Email: debra@dobetterexecutivecoaching.com Instagram: @dobebrawithdebra /episode/index/show/8380f3f6-b28c-44f3-9c15-0ccaa58c162b/id/37698585

Creating Your Own Lane with Mike Norice, Art, Purpose & Healing Through Expression 07/23/2025

The Crown You Already Have - with Lawrence Carroll 07/09/2025

Living Your Purpose: A Conversation with Dr. Regina Stanback-Stroud 08/08/2024

Living Your Purpose: A Conversation with Dr. Regina Stanback-Stroud Episode 10 In this episode, we're honored to have Dr. Regina Stanback-Stroud, an accomplished leader who has held numerous titles including Dean, Chancellor, and President, in various educational institutions. She discusses the nuances of her leadership journey, which is a combination of intentional efforts and unforeseen opportunities. Dr. Stanback-Stroud shares invaluable lessons on leadership, sacrifice, and purpose. In this episode we discuss: The influence of her early community and the weight of ancestral hopes and dreams. The big sacrifices of her ancestors: More than money, it was about lives. How others recognized her potential and 'pushed her up' in her career. Leadership lessons from unexpected mentors. The transformative power of understanding your purpose. Key Quotes "I had to fulfill and live up to the hopes and aspirations of people that I now call my ancestors." "If you understand your purpose and what you stand for, it is your beacon. It is your guiding framework." More About Dr. Regina Stanback-Stroud Dr. Regina Stanback-Stroud is the and co-founder of The Village Demands. With a career spanning over 35 years in education, Dr. Stanback-Stroud has held a range of prestigious roles, including serving as President and Chancellor at several community colleges. She's lauded for her initiatives in student equity, diversity, and community development. A transformative leader, she has spearheaded programs like the Skyline College Promise and the Equity Institute. Awarded the title of President Emerita by the San Mateo County Community College District Board of Trustees, she continues to make an impact on both regional and state educational policies Stay tuned for our next episode where we'll dive deeper into the practicalities of leadership. Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Get your Do-Better SWAG! USE CODE: DOBETTER20 for a special gift just for our podcast listeners! My coaching books are officially open! Learn more about my Executive Coaching for Women of Color and Leadership Coaching by booking your free consultation ! To learn more about the Do Better Revolution, visit and follow us on social! YouTube: Instagram: /episode/index/show/8380f3f6-b28c-44f3-9c15-0ccaa58c162b/id/28391360

Top 5 Lessons Learned in 2023: A Year of Growth and Discovery 12/05/2023

Self Love, Diversity, Personal Empowerment 11/29/2023

Self Love, Diversity, Personal Empowerment Episode 13 In this engaging episode, we delve into a captivating conversation with Kamelle Mills, Senior SoulCycle Instructor. We explore his remarkable journey, highlighting the transformative effects of his unwavering passion, steadfast perseverance, and commitment to self-empowerment. The episode delves into Kamelle's multifaceted career and life experiences, exploring themes of diversity, personal growth, and the impact of representation in leadership and wellness spaces. Through his stories and reflections, Kamelle illuminates the path to self-love and empowerment, offering valuable insights and inspiration. Insights into Kamelle's personal growth strategies, including how he embraces vulnerability and authenticity to inspire and empower not only others but also himself. The importance of representation and diversity in leadership, particularly for people of color, and his personal experiences navigating these challenges. Strategies for personal empowerment and self-love, including overcoming self-doubt and the transformative power of authenticity in both personal and professional realms. Kamelle is a vibrant embodiment of creativity and determination. Defining himself as a creative self-starter with a deep-rooted passion for people, Kamelle brings an extraordinary energy to every facet of his life. As a trained actor and esteemed senior instructor at SoulCycle, NYC, he seamlessly blends his artistic talents with a profound commitment to wellness and personal growth. Kamelle's daily mission is to inspire others through a transformative mind-body experience, deeply rooted in the interplay of physical vigor and mental resilience. He wears many hats with equal aplomb – as a healer, coach, speaker, and performer. Kamelle's career is more than just a job; it's a testament to changing lives professionally while restoring spirits as a true calling. His presence is not just felt – it's experienced, leaving a lasting impact on everyone he encounters. Connect with Kamelle Get your Do-Better SWAG! USE CODE: DOBETTER20 for a special gift just for our podcast listeners! Take Charge of Your Professional Growth! My executive coaching books are currently open. Specifically designed for Women of Color in leadership. Don't miss this opportunity— your discovery call now and let's embark on a journey of impactful and meaningful development together." To learn more about the Do Better Revolution, visit and follow us on social! YouTube: Instagram: /episode/index/show/8380f3f6-b28c-44f3-9c15-0ccaa58c162b/id/28793793

Harnessing the Power of Manifestation and Taking Proactive Steps Towards Your Goals 10/30/2023

Harnessing the Power of Manifestation and Taking Proactive Steps Towards Your Goals Episode 11: Harnessing the Power of Manifestation and Taking Proactive Steps Towards Your Goals In this episode, I have an inspiring conversation with Niki, where we delve into the fascinating techniques she employs to manifest her dreams. Niki has a unique approach, blending the realms of the right brain and left brain, creating a holistic vision for her life. What's remarkable is that Niki constantly keeps her vision board in her line of sight, spending around six hours a day at her desk, allowing her to stay connected with her goals throughout the day. This deep interaction with her vision board serves as a powerful reminder, helping her stay focused and centered on her journey. Tune in as we explore the significance of this practice and how it influences Niki's path to success In this episode we discuss: An approach of dividing your vision board into quadrants for a holistic view of both your personal and life goals. How the constant interaction with your vision board serves as a powerful reminder of objectives and helps maintain focus and motivation. Learn more about my guests passion for helping others: Niki Riga Website: Connect: Niki Riga, an experienced fitness studio owner turned coach, brings over a decade of insight into the world of boutique fitness. Having weathered every challenge in the industry, she's passionate about empowering clients to break barriers and achieve their goals. Niki's coaching style is akin to a supportive big sister, offering clear guidance and unwavering accountability to fellow studio owners. Her coaching journey began when peers, overwhelmed by business ownership, sought her expertise. She's now dedicated to helping entrepreneurs reach their long-term aspirations with practical to-do lists and a knack for celebrating milestones along the way. Get your Do-Better SWAG! USE CODE: DOBETTER20 for a special gift just for our podcast listeners! My coaching books are officially open! Learn more about my Executive Coaching for Women of Color and Leadership Coaching by booking your free consultation ! To learn more about the Do Better Revolution, visit and follow us on social! YouTube: Instagram: TikTok: LinkedIn: Stay tuned for our Do Better Revolution Community! /episode/index/show/8380f3f6-b28c-44f3-9c15-0ccaa58c162b/id/28467944

Embracing the Storm with Dr. Debra Griffith 09/04/2023

Harnessing Your Power with Dr. Debra Griffith 08/07/2023

Bridges Unbuilt with Dr. Jenn Wells and Sharon Chia Claros 07/24/2023

Bridges Unbuilt with Dr. Jenn Wells and Sharon Chia Claros In this episode, I sit down for a discussion with two inspiring leaders in the world of education, Dr. Jenn Wells and Sharon Chia Claros. Be prepared to take notes, friends. This is a meaty conversation where we excavate leading edge approaches and insights on cultivating a truly equitable and inclusive workplace. We also lift up an absolutely essential conversation around building a community where women of color are nourished through one another’s support. In this episode, we discuss: Assumptions we often make about workplace allyship. Building relationship-rich community that fosters safety through visibility. The generational factors that continue to frame how we interact as professionals. Debra’s intrinsic “do no harm” leadership style. The capitalist and class motivators that continue to be pervasive in the workplace. Dismantling the conformity and “not enoughness” that emerges from archaic workplace structures. How to create a truly inclusive workplace. Learn more about my guests and the heart-centered purpose-work they’re doing in the world: Jenn Wells, Ed. D. Website: Connect: Jenn Wells, Ed. D. owner of JW Change Design, Dr Wells is an experienced professional with over 12 years in the field of education, holding her Bachelor of Arts degree in American Literature and Culture with an Education Studies minor from UCLA and her Master of Arts degree in Higher Education/Student Personnel Administration from New York University. Jenn’s approach to consulting is grounded in the belief that “the knowledge is in the room” and utilizes the lived experiences of participants to give life to theories and conceptual frameworks of inclusion, equity, and justice. She values authenticity, an ethic of care, and individual efficacy in order to move toward and sustain change. Sharon Chia Claros Connect: Sharon Chia Claros (she/her/siya) is an accomplished Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion educator and practitioner-scholar with close to a 20-year proven track record for delivering sustainable and thoughtful change to in the field of education and beyond. She has been a trusted partner to senior faculty and leadership for bringing DEI initiatives and promising practices to promote cultures of inclusion, belonging, trust, authenticity and accountability. Sharon has also presented numerous workshops in national conferences such as ACPA, NASPA and NCORE. She is proud to be a collaborative, inclusive and empathetic leader known for bringing holistic and nuanced perspectives to various facets of the organizational cultures. She currently serves as the inaugural Director for DEI at Rolling Hills Prep and prior to that role she served as the Assistant Dean of Students and Director for the Queer Resource Center at the Claremont Colleges. Lastly, Sharon recently launched Mabuhay with Love LLC where she is committed to collaborating and being in community with individuals and organizations who are committed to the ongoing and life-long journey of living out and actualizing DEI. ------- Show the world how YOU Do Better with our statement swag! USE CODE: DOBETTER10 for a special gift just for our podcast listeners! My coaching books are officially open! Learn more about my Executive Coaching for Women of Color and Leadership Coaching by booking your free consultation ! To learn more about the Do Better Revolution, visit and follow us on social! YouTube: Instagram: TikTok: LinkedIn: Stay tuned for our Do Better Revolution Community! /episode/index/show/8380f3f6-b28c-44f3-9c15-0ccaa58c162b/id/27534780

We Can & We Deserve with Master John Ozuna 07/10/2023

Shame to Power with Dr. Debra Griffith 06/26/2023

Manifesting a New Path with Dr. Liz Lehman 06/12/2023

Manifesting a New Path with Dr. Liz Lehman In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Liz Lehman for an illuminating conversation on how she manifested a massive life-path shift from doctor to candle creatrix and six-figure entrepreneur. As a former anesthesiologist, Dr. Liz is no stranger to the scientific method and science-based thinking, and in this episode, she explains why manifestation is not “woo-woo,” but is indeed grounded in science. Liz also speaks to her own application of manifestation with respect to building her wildly successful candle business, expanding on how she brings a holistic healing lens, intention, and purpose, to the art of creating clean candles. In this episode, we discuss: The science of manifestation. Turning goal setting into grounded action. Being patient with the process once you begin calling in your desires. Listening to your inner knowing and taking action. How purpose is the ultimate compass to achieving success. More About Dr. Liz: Dr. Liz Lehman is the founder and CEO of Aluminate Life. She transforms health and well-being by connecting the therapeutic benefits of scent with the healing powers of crystals. Aluminate Life is a collection of physician-formulated self-care products that promote mind-body healing in your sanctuary, your body, and your home; redefining and elevating wellness. Connect with Liz + learn more about her purpose-work: Website: LinkedIn: Liz’s IG: Aluminate Life’s IG: —------------------------------ EXCITING NEWS! My coaching books are officially open! Learn more about my Executive Coaching for Women of Color and Leadership Coaching by booking your free consultation ! To learn more about the Do Better Revolution, visit and follow us on social! YouTube: Instagram: TikTok: LinkedIn: Stay tuned for our Do Better Revolution Community, launching this summer! /episode/index/show/8380f3f6-b28c-44f3-9c15-0ccaa58c162b/id/27096144

Leaps of Faith with Laila Alchaar 05/25/2023

The Power of Feeling Our Grief with Rev. Dr. Jamie Washington 04/28/2023

The Power of Feeling Our Grief with Rev. Dr. Jamie Washington In this episode, I sit down with the brilliant Rev. Dr. Jamie Washington, President of Washington Consulting Group, to discuss grief, the power of feeling it when we’re in it, and the critical importance of holding space for those grieving…instead of trying to fix, manage, or control their grieving process. Dr. Washington and I dig into our personal experiences with grief and explore how community impacts the grieving process, in addition to how grief shows up differently for folks based on the impact of culture and identity. In this episode, we discuss: Why our Western society tends to be so averse to grief. Becoming a safe container for those who are grieving, instead of a “fixer.” How grief is related to transformation, not just physical death. What “pre-grieving” is. Things that you shouldn’t say to someone who is grieving. Lessons from legacy and facing our own mortality. About Rev. Dr. Jamie Washington: Rev. Dr. Jamie Washington, (He/Him/His) is the President & Founder of the Washington Consulting Group (WCG). The Economist named WCG as one of the Top 10 Global Diversity Consultants in the world. Dr. Washington has served as an educator, administrator, and consultant in higher education for over 36 years. He serves as an invited instructor at the Harvard Graduate School of Education and the Lancaster Theological Seminary. He is the President and Co-Founder of the Social Justice Training Institute and a Past President of the American College Personnel Association (ACPA). Dr. Washington earned his B.S. degree from Slippery Rock State College; double Master’s of Science degrees from Indiana University/Bloomington; a Ph.D. in College Student Development from the University of Maryland College Park; and a Master of Divinity from Howard University School of Divinity. He has received many awards and honors. He was honored with the University of Maryland Baltimore County’s Legends of Excellence Award for his contribution to the lives and education of Black and LatinX faculty, staff, and students. In May 2019, he received an honorary Doctor of Business Administration from Shepherd University in West Virginia. He received the 2020 Annuit Coeptis Senior Leader Award from ACPA. He is a member of Omicron Delta Kappa, Golden Key, Alpha Phi Omega, Phi Delta Kappa, and a life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. In addition to his work in higher education, Dr. Washington has an extensive list of corporate, non-profit, government, and faith organization clients. Some of his clients include Starbucks, Wachovia and Wells Fargo, Shell Oil, Boston Bank, Green Peace, Human Rights Campaign, The Taskforce, The Peace Corps, the Government Office of Accountability, The Presbyterian Church International, Metropolitan Community Church, and the Baptist Church Convention. Connect with Jamie + learn more about his purpose-work: —------------------------------ To learn more about the Do Better Revolution, visit and follow us on social! YouTube: Instagram: TikTok: LinkedIn: Stay tuned for our Do Better Revolution Community, coming soon! /episode/index/show/8380f3f6-b28c-44f3-9c15-0ccaa58c162b/id/26684295

Naming Your Purpose with Dr. Becky Martinez 04/14/2023

Naming Your Purpose with Dr. Becky Martinez Welcome to the Do Better Revolution Podcast! For our inaugural episode, I sit down with Dr. Becky Martinez, a fellow organizational change consultant who applies a social justice advocacy lens to help organizations (and individuals) get back to their humanity. In this episode, we discuss: The nuances of what it means to “do better.” Expanding beyond mind-work and engaging with soul-work to catalyze organizational shifts. Discovering and naming your purpose. The organic unfolding of one’s path once purpose is acknowledged. The liberation that comes with living authentically. About Dr. Becky Martinez: Dr. Becky Martinez is an organization development consultant and trainer with a focus on social justice, leadership, and organizational change. Her work centers on dismantling systems of oppression through critical dialogue and reflection intertwined with theoretical foundations. She works with organizations seeking to meet shifting demands, resources, and leadership to develop goals, vision, and purpose. She believes that while organizations may have a depth of diversity, there is a great deal of work to do to create equity, and it is our responsibility to do so. She is also a faculty member of the Social Justice Training Institute, a Co-Lead facilitator for the LeaderShape Institute, a certified trainer for the Anti-Defamation League, a certified trainer for the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network, a member of the Southern California Trainer’s Institute, and certification as counselor-advocate through Peace over Violence (previously Los Angeles Commission on Assaults Against Women) and works with a Title I elementary school in California regarding college. She holds a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership from the University of La Verne, a Master of Science in Student Affairs in Higher Education from Colorado State University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from the University of La Verne. Connect with Becky: — To learn more about the Do Better Revolution, visit and follow us on social! YouTube: Instagram: TikTok: LinkedIn: Stay tuned for our Do Better Revolution Community, coming soon! /episode/index/show/8380f3f6-b28c-44f3-9c15-0ccaa58c162b/id/26547669

Do Better with Debra

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