Black Woman Leading

This podcast amplifies the needs and experiences of Black women leaders in the workplace with a holistic focus on three core areas -- leadership development, mental wellness, and relationship management. Our ultimate aim is to help Black women learn, heal, and grow in their leadership capacity.

S6E15: Season 6 Reflections & Recap 01/30/2025

S6E14: Getting Your Gut Health in Check with BB Arrington 01/23/2025

S6E13: Creating Your Personal Leadership Vision 01/16/2025

S6E13: Creating Your Personal Leadership Vision In this short, but powerful, solo episode, Laura shares her personal practice for creating a personal vision that provides guidance and inspiration for the year. Laura shares prompts for exploration and also explains the connection between your vision and values. After clarifying a guiding vision, Laura explains how you can then use that vision to inform your tactical goals, deadlines, and action steps. Your leadership vision is rooted in your WHY (purpose for this season). You deserve this dedicated time to clarify this for yourself! Grab your notebook and pen, let your thoughts flow, and follow along with Laura as she walks you through a guided reflection exercise to create your personal leadership vision for the year. About Laura Laura Knights is the Creator of Black Woman Leading® and host of the podcast. She is an executive coach, speaker, facilitator, and licensed clinical social worker with 20+ years of experience creating personal and professional development programs that have touched leaders worldwide. Her expertise and background in business, human resources, adult education, and social work uniquely equip her to teach others how to deal with both the "head work" and "heart work" required to succeed at work and in life. She is the Founder and CEO of Knights Consulting LLC, a leadership development consultancy that provides customized training and coaching programs to create more confident leaders and high-performing teams. Black Woman Leading® is a research-backed initiative which offers leadership development programming, a podcast, and an annual conference for Black women professionals. Black Woman Leading® is an initiative of Knights Consulting LLC. Learn more at blackwomanleading.com. Resources: Now enrolling for our spring 2025 leadership development programs starting in January 2025. Learn more at Event: Join us for the 2025 Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 27-30, 2025 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at BWL podcast episode S1E3 Getting in Alignment with Yourself (Values Clarification). Listen on or Credits: Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at Email Laura: Instagram: Facebook: Podcast Music & Production: Graphics: Téa Campbell Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms: /episode/index/show/blackwomanleading/id/34879580

S6E12: Navigating Life Changes with Kumari Williams 12/26/2024

S6E12: Navigating Life Changes with Kumari Williams In this episode, Laura discusses navigating life changes with Kumari Williams. Kumari shares her journey as an executive leader, and how she has navigated both personal and professional challenges and changes throughout her career. She emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence, resilience, and the need for support systems while navigating life transitions. Kumari reflects on her experiences in leadership, the significance of consistent self-checks, and the value of extending grace to oneself and others during difficult times. Overall, Kumari encourages listeners to embrace their humanity and seek help when needed. She vulnerably shares how she is navigating grief, embracing strengthening her areas of growth, and how she has given herself more space to lean on her personal relationships for support. About Kumari At the time of our recording, Kumari L. Williams held the position of Vice President of VIBE™ (Value, Inclusion, Belonging & Equity) at Workday. She was recently promoted to the position of Chief Diversity Officer at Workday. With a passion for fostering inclusive, supportive, and equitable work environments, she serves as a visionary thought leader in the talent domain. Kumari spearheads strategic initiatives, including the Employee Belonging Council, Giving & Doing, and Disability Inclusion programs. Her vision revolves around fostering an environment in which each person feels esteemed, respected, and equipped to unleash their fullest potential. With more than two decades of experience and a comprehensive track record in developing and executing effective strategies, Kumari brings her invaluable knowledge and insights to her position. Prior to joining Workday in 2021, Kumari worked in various senior leadership positions at HARMAN International and ADP. These roles included serving as the Senior Director of Global Talent Management & Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), Senior Director of Talent Acquisition & Employer Branding, and Director of Client Operations. Kumari and her devoted husband, originally from Metro Detroit, currently reside in Georgia. They actively engage in their church and community activities alongside their two sons, fostering a strong sense of belonging and purpose. Connect with Kumari on LinkedIn . Resources: Now enrolling for our spring 2025 leadership development programs starting in January 2025. Learn more at Event: Join us for the Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 27-30, 2025 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at Credits: Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at Email Laura: Instagram: Facebook: Podcast Music & Production: Graphics: Téa Campbell Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms: /episode/index/show/blackwomanleading/id/34623875

S6E11: Rising Above Injustice in the Workplace with Leah Davis 12/12/2024

S6E11: Rising Above Injustice in the Workplace with Leah Davis In this conversation, Laura discusses rising above injustice in the workplace with Leah Davis, Founder of Leah Davis Coaching. Leah shares her personal experience of workplace injustice, the impact of imposter syndrome, and the healing journey that led her to reclaim her voice and lean deeper into her community. She also shares insights on maintaining peace, power, and presence while advocating for oneself in difficult situations. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the significance of establishing boundaries, finding a supportive community, and the power of self-care as a form of resistance against oppression, particularly for Black women. About Leah Davis Leah Davis is a Wealth and Wellness Coach dedicated to empowering people of color by mastering their money mindsets, financial habits, and behaviors. Her coaching programs offer accessible and comprehensive education grounded in empathy, enabling her clients to achieve economic empowerment and personal autonomy. Leah has 10+ years of experience in the financial and nonprofit sectors, during which she has guided numerous families toward financial stability. In her private practice, she predominantly serves Black, Indigenous, Latina, and all women of color, with a special focus on addressing the needs of those impacted by gender-based and childhood domestic violence. Connect with Leah Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: Resources: Now enrolling for our spring 2025 leadership development programs starting in January 2025. Learn more at Event: Join us for the Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 27-30, 2025 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at Credits: Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at Email Laura: Instagram: Facebook: Podcast Music & Production: Graphics: Téa Campbell Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms: /episode/index/show/blackwomanleading/id/34410485

S6E10: Building Trust on the Team 12/05/2024

S6E10: Building Trust on the Team In this solo episode, Laura shares the importance of trust as a foundational component of a high performing team. Research indicates that teams with higher levels of trust have better collaboration, increased productivity, higher levels of morale and employee engagement, yield better results, and have stronger employee retention. Laura provides an overview of key terms related to building trust on the team, and insight on how you can diagnose the root causes of trust issues in the workplace. She also shares the “hardware” and “software” components of trust, and what you can do to create more of it on your team. Finally, if your trust in the work environment has been negatively impacted, she provides insights to help you explore what your next steps should be. Whether you are the leader of the team or a member of the team that wants to do your part to cultivate an environment of trust where everyone thrives, this episode is for you! About Laura Laura Knights is the Creator of Black Woman Leading® and host of the podcast. She is an executive coach, speaker, facilitator, and licensed clinical social worker with 20+ years of experience creating personal and professional development programs that have touched leaders worldwide. Her expertise and background in business, human resources, adult education, and social work uniquely equip her to teach others how to deal with both the "head work" and "heart work" required to succeed at work and in life. She is the Founder and CEO of Knights Consulting LLC, a leadership development consultancy that provides customized training and coaching programs to create more confident leaders and high-performing teams. Black Woman Leading® is a research-backed initiative which offers leadership development programming, a podcast, and an annual conference for Black women professionals. Black Woman Leading® is an initiative of Knights Consulting LLC. Learn more at blackwomanleading.com. Resources: We are now enrolling for both our Early Career and Mid-Career leadership development programs. Learn more and see which program is best for you at https://blackwomanleading.com/programs-overview/ Event: Join us for the 2025 Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 27-30, 2025 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at Credits: Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at Email Laura: Instagram: Facebook: Podcast Music & Production: Graphics: Te’a Campbell Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms: /episode/index/show/blackwomanleading/id/34300015

S6E9: Giving as a Way of Life with Dr. Froswa Booker-Drew 11/14/2024

S6E9: Giving as a Way of Life with Dr. Froswa Booker-Drew In this conversation, Laura discusses the concept of giving as a way of life with Dr. Froswa Booker-Drew, a network weaver and philanthropy expert. They explore the importance of strategic giving and recognizing the value that Black women bring to philanthropy. Dr. Froswa' discusses the concept of giving circles and the importance of relationships and social capital in community building. She emphasizes that Black people have always been philanthropists, giving their time, talents, and resources to support others. Dr. Froswa encourages Black women to amplify their leadership by being strategic with their giving power and building intentional relationships. She highlights the value of mentorship, coaching, and sponsorship in personal and professional growth. They also discuss the need for Black women to ask for what they need and set boundaries. The conversation highlights the power of community and the role of “mirrors” in supporting Black women in their personal and professional growth. About Dr. Froswa Froswa’ Booker-Drew, Ph.D. is a Network Weaver who believes relationships are the key to our personal, professional, and organizational growth. She has been quoted and featured in several publications due to her extensive background in leadership, nonprofit management, philanthropy, partnership development, training, and education. She is the founder of Soulstice Consultancy, LLC providing DEI, leadership training, community engagement strategies and philanthropic/partnership guidance for institutions. She also founded The Reconciliation & Restoration Foundation in 2022 with a group of deeply experienced and invested nonprofit leaders with the intent to support the growth of Black-led nonprofit. Formerly the Vice President of Community Affairs for the State Fair of Texas, Froswa’ was responsible for grantmaking, educational programming and community initiatives. More than 70% of organizations funded were led by people of color. As the previous National Community Engagement Director for World Vision, she served as a catalyst, partnership broker, and builder of the capacity of local partners in multiple locations across the US to improve and sustain the well-being of children and their families. She is also co-founder of HERitage Giving Circle, one of the first Black women Giving Circles in the State of Texas and co-founder of both Power in Action-Dallas and the South Dallas Employment Project. Froswa’ graduated with a PhD from Antioch University in Leadership and Change with a focus on social capital, diverse women, change management, and relational leadership. She is currently an adjunct professor at Tulane University in the Master of Public Administration Program teaching the Governance, Leadership and Sustainability course and is an affiliate faculty member at the Graduate School of Leadership and Change at Antioch University. Connect with Dr. Froswa Website: https://www.drfroswabooker.com/ Resources: Event: Join us for the Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 27-30, 2025 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at Credits: Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at Email Laura: Instagram: Facebook: Podcast Music & Production: Graphics: Te’a Campbell Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms: /episode/index/show/blackwomanleading/id/33923642

S6E8: Defining Your Leader Story with Taiia Smart Young 10/31/2024

S6E8: Defining Your Leader Story with Taiia Smart Young In this episode, Laura chats with Taiia Smart Young, Book Coach, Writing Consultant & Story Strategist, to discuss the importance of defining your leader story to support your personal brand and professional growth. They emphasize the power of storytelling and emotional resonance in building connections and influencing others. They also highlight the value of integrating all of your experiences, including your #strugglestory and life-changing moments, into your narrative. Taiia shares the building blocks of your leader story and practical ways to share your story to amplify your brand. She emphasizes that everyone has a story to tell, and your story is what separates you from everyone else. Tune in to this insightful episode! About Taiia Taiia Smart Young is a book coach, writing consultant and story strategist. She teaches coaches, consultants, speakers and entrepreneurs how to use their expertise and experiences to write and self-publish brand-building, sticky stories that make bank. Ms. Young has interviewed celebrities including Michelle Obama, Mary J. Blige. Nas, 50, Tabitha Brown, La La Anthony and more. Her work has appeared in ESSENCE, Latina, Refinery29.com, TIDAL, Verizon.com and The New York Times. Taiia is the author of S.T.E.P. Into Your Story™: Position Your Expertise, Propel Your Brand and Prepare For Visibility by Writing a Best-Selling Book. The S.T.E.P. Into Your Story™ writing and publishing intensive is based on the book. Connect with Taiia Website: Resources: Event: Join us for the Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 27-30, 2025 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at Credits: Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at Email Laura: Instagram: Facebook: Podcast Music & Production: Graphics: Te’a Campbell Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms: /episode/index/show/blackwomanleading/id/33640012

S6E7: Strengthening Mindful Self-Talk 10/24/2024

S6E7: Strengthening Mindful Self-Talk In this solo episode, Laura shares the power of mindful self-talk and how it can transform your leadership journey. Our internal dialogue plays a pivotal role in shaping not just how we see ourselves but how we show up in the world—and especially in the workplace. Laura explores how positive self-talk can help rewire limiting beliefs and reduce stress, while also providing strategies to challenge negative thoughts and embrace your present without judgment. She shares mindfulness points for High Achievers, key elements of self-compassion, and how to consciously shift your internal narrative to foster growth and unlock your potential as a leader. Whether you're looking to advance in your career, build confidence, or improve your leadership mindset, this episode offers valuable tools for growth. Tune in! About Laura Laura Knights is the Creator of Black Woman Leading® and host of the podcast. She is an executive coach, speaker, facilitator, and licensed clinical social worker with 20+ years of experience creating personal and professional development programs that have touched leaders worldwide. Her expertise and background in business, human resources, adult education, and social work uniquely equip her to teach others how to deal with both the "head work" and "heart work" required to succeed at work and in life. She is the Founder and CEO of Knights Consulting LLC, a leadership development consultancy that provides customized training and coaching programs to create more confident leaders and high-performing teams. Black Woman Leading® is a research-backed initiative which offers leadership development programming, a podcast, and an annual conference for Black women professionals. Black Woman Leading® is an initiative of Knights Consulting LLC. Learn more at blackwomanleading.com. Resources: Event: Join us for the 2025 Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 27-30, 2025 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at Self-compassion resources: Credits: Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at Email Laura: Instagram: Facebook: Podcast Music & Production: Graphics: Te’a Campbell Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms: /episode/index/show/blackwomanleading/id/33596797

S6E6: Healing Together with Camesha Jones-Brandon & Dr. Marion Malcome 10/03/2024

S6E6: Healing Together with Camesha Jones-Brandon & Dr. Marion Malcome In this episode, Laura discusses the power of community-based mental health care with guests, Camesha Jones-Brandon and Dr. Marion Malcome. Camesha and Dr. Marion share about their work with the Chicago-based Heal TogetHER program, which provides peer support for Black women to be seen, heard, and build authentic connections that empower mental well-being. Heal TogetHER provides support to people who have mild to moderate mental health concerns with brief 1-on-1 emotional support, resource connections, and education about mental health conditions. They discuss preventative approaches in mental health, the significance of social connections for our overall wellness, and practical strategies we can implement in our daily interactions to support the mental health of our friends and family. Learn more about the Heal TogetHER program at . Guest Bios ::Camesha Jones-Brandon Camesha L. Jones, LCSW is a Community Mental Wellness Changemaker who serves at the intersection of culture, community, and social justice. She is the Executive Director of Sista Afya Community Mental Wellness, a social enterprise that provides mental wellness care that centers the experiences of Black women in Chicago. Since Sista Afya's founding in 2017, they've served over 1000 Black women through their innovative, community-driven programs. In 2020, she launched Sista Afya Community Care NFP, a nonprofit that provides free mental wellness care and education to women experiencing multiple barriers to care. Camesha's work at Sista Afya has been featured in the Chicago Tribune, Vogue, Allure, TEDx, and Rolling Out. Camesha is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who graduated from Spelman College with a Bachelor's in Sociology and received her Master's in Social Work from the University of Chicago. Camesha strongly believes in eliminating barriers in the mental health field that people of diverse cultural backgrounds experience by creating affordable and accessible care that centers the well-being of the whole person. Connect with Camesha Website: Connect on & - @sistaafya ::Dr. Marion Malcome Dr. Marion Malcome is a mother, scholar, social worker and a born-and-raised Chicagoan - south side! Dr. Malcome is currently an Assistant Professor at Loyola University Chicago School of Social Work where she teaches courses on clinical assessment and diagnosis and power, oppression, privilege and social justice. Her research is situated at the intersection of race, place and mental health in which centers the lived experiences of Black women and mothers to understand how where one lives coupled with experiences of racism shapes mental health and wellbeing over the life course. Dr. Malcome’s community work has long been focused on “helping people help people” through the lens of Black mental health and is grounded in close to 20 years of direct clinical social work practice experience. She also co-created the Becoming an Anti-racist Mental Health Clinician in 2013 which has trained just over a thousand clinicians across the country. Connect with Dr. Marion Resources: Event: Join us for the Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 27-30, 2025 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at Credits: Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at Email Laura: Instagram: Facebook: Podcast Music & Production: Graphics: Téa Campbell Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms: /episode/index/show/blackwomanleading/id/33313077

S6E5: Leveling Up on LinkedIn with Portia Obeng 09/19/2024

S6E4: Dreaming on Purpose with Ariane Hunter 09/05/2024

S6E4: Dreaming on Purpose with Ariane Hunter In this episode, Laura interviews Ariane Hunter, Speaker, Author, and Career Equity Expert, about her book 'Dreaming on Purpose: A Manifesto for Black Women on Taking the Leap, Building Your Dreams, and Being Your Own Boss.' Ariane shares her personal journey and the challenges she faced as a Black woman in the corporate world. She emphasizes the importance of self-discovery, defining success on your own terms, and centering care in your career. Ariane and Laura also discuss the importance of dreaming as a form of resistance and reclaiming oneself. Ariane emphasizes the need to acknowledge and validate our dreams, take action towards them, and ask for help when needed. About Ariane Ariane Hunter is a Speaker, Author, and Career Equity expert who champions work culture and career empowerment solutions for Black millennial professional women. With over twenty years of experience in career and leadership strategy, she is dedicated to helping marginalized groups thrive and cultivate healthy work relationships. As a mental health advocate for Black women, Ariane underscores the importance of firm boundaries and restful practices for a flourishing professional life. Ariane’s training encompasses social justice, technology, intersectionality, and futurist insights, aiming to foster sustainable and impactful change. Her professional background includes working with leading marketing and branding agencies in New York City, supporting high-profile clients to achieve industry leadership. She holds an MBA and is a certified career coach. Ariane’s debut book, "Dreaming on Purpose: A Manifesto for Black Women on Taking the Leap, Building Your Dreams & Being Your Own Boss," will be released by Indigo River Publishers on August 20, 2024. This business leadership book inspires and guides Black women on a care-centered approach to thriving in business, life, and beyond. She was among the 3% chosen for the Goldman Sachs Black in Business program and was selected for NYC's inaugural BE NYC mentoring program for entrepreneurs, endorsed by Bill De Blasio. Ariane has collaborated with prominent organizations such as Women in STEM Leadership at Stony Brook University, the Women’s Catalyst group at Hewlett Packard, and Oracle. She has spoken for The Grio, Ladies Get Paid, Jopwell, NYU Stern Women in Business, Advancing Women in Tech, Karen Millen, ABC Home, and Emerging Leaders for NY Arts. Ariane is also a published writer whose work appears in Time.com, Levo League, Ivy Exec, and The Muse. She has been featured on NBC, CBS, and other local media networks and quoted in Fast Company, Business Insider, CNBC, The Daily Worth, Her Agenda, and more. Connect with Ariane Resources: Event: Join us for the Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 27-30, 2025 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at Credits: Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at Email Laura: Instagram: Facebook: Podcast Music & Production: Graphics: Téa Campbell Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms: /episode/index/show/blackwomanleading/id/32906777

S6E3: Leading with Authenticity with Shayla Atkins 09/05/2024

S6E3: Leading with Authenticity with Shayla Atkins In this episode, Laura Knights interviews Shayla Atkins, Founder and CEO of Atkins Impact Consulting, about leading with authenticity. Shayla shares her personal journey of code-switching and conforming in the corporate world, and how she eventually found success by embracing her authentic self. They discuss the importance of alignment, clarity, and healing in leadership, and how authenticity is the new leadership currency. Shayla introduces the concept of SPICE (Savvy, Performance, Image, Communication, and Exposure) as the key skills for effective leadership. She also emphasizes the need for building networks, finding mentors, and creating environments that allow individuals to show up authentically. About Shayla Shayla N. Atkins has a proven track record in the private sector earning her the coveted title of award-winning DE&I leader as her team was awarded "The Most Innovative DE&I Team". Her thought leadership, results, and commitment to community service earned her the 2022 Lifetime Presidential Achievement Award presented by President Joseph R. Biden and now as a CEO of a consulting firm, a certified Lean Six Sigma blackbelt, executive coach and organizational effectiveness strategist making a global impact, she challenges the norms, systems, and practices in the corporate landscape to "level the playing field" for every person and business to thrive. She is the Bestselling Author of "Black Women Lead With S.P.I.C.E." underscoring her belief that “Authenticity is the new leadership currency”. Shayla strives to change the leadership landscape by advancing authentic and effective women into senior leadership through her talks, development programs, courses and books. Shayla N. Atkins not only boasts education in Organizational Effectiveness and a myriad of certifications (Lean Six Sigma Blackbelt, DE&I Certified, Organizational Change Management, etc.), but she has also nearly two decades of real-world global senior HR leadership experience and emerged as an award-winning authority in leadership development, diversity, equity and inclusion, and workplace culture transformation in leading mid-size and large companies. Connect with Shayla Website: Get her book on amazon: Download her free guide: Resources: Event: Join us for the Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 27-30, 2025 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at Credits: Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at Email Laura: Instagram: Facebook: Podcast Music & Production: Graphics: Téa Campbell Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms: /episode/index/show/blackwomanleading/id/32906717

S6E2: Leaning into Community with BWL Alums 09/05/2024

S6E2: Leaning into Community with BWL Alums In this episode, Laura hosts an alumni panel of Black Woman Leading alums (Shaneka Stanley, Lekeshia Hicks, and Jada Hamm) to discuss the importance of community care in professional development. They share their experiences as Black women leaders and the role of community in their journeys, the importance of “mirrors” and support systems, and the challenges and triumphs of setting and maintaining boundaries. They emphasize the importance of showing up authentically, taking up space, and making meaningful connections. They also highlight the power of being a connector and the impact it can have on others. Guest Bios: ::Jada Hamm Jada Hamm is a dynamic professional with over six years of experience in consulting, employee relations, policy development, and talent management. Based in Philadelphia, she is actively involved in nonprofits, entertainment, and events industries, holding multiple roles across these sectors. Jada holds a BBA in Human Resource Management and is currently pursuing further education in strategic management next fall. She is passionate about creating inclusive workplaces and dedicates her time to community service, volunteering with the Community Hero Action Group INC. ::Lekeshia Hicks Lekeshia Angelique Hicks is a passionate Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) Strategist and the founder of Lekeshia Angelique Consulting. An Army veteran and doctoral candidate at Austin Peay State University, she brings a unique blend of academic knowledge and real-world experience to her work. Lekeshia serves as the Education Committee Chairperson for the NAACP Clarksville-Montgomery Chapter, a Board Member of the Clarksville-Montgomery Public Library, and the Board Chair of The STEAM Institute. Her expertise spans healthcare, technology, and higher education sectors, where she develops customized DEIA solutions. A dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother, Lekeshia's personal experiences inform her professional mission: to foster environments where diversity is not just recognized, but celebrated. Through her consulting work, speaking engagements, and community involvement, Lekeshia is committed to transforming DEIA principles into actionable, empathetic practices. Connect with Lekeshia on , or . ::Shaneka Stanley Shaneka L. Stanley, MA, MS, SHRM-SCP, is a wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, Christian, Proud HBCU alum (University of Arkansas Pine Bluff), active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc and soon to be a certified Life and Organizational Development Coach. She engages with leaders of nonprofit organizations across the country as a Senior Human Resource Consultant. With close to 25 years of experience, Shaneka is a dynamic leader and genuine influencer who promotes continuous improvement by employing a flexible problem-solving approach that balances business goals with employee needs. She has comprehensive experience in the full HR lifecycle with proven success in aligning business and people strategies, building dynamic teams and transforming cultures. Shaneka earned her Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in English Education from the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff, Master of Arts (MA) degree in Communications & Training from Governors State University and Master of Science (MS) degree in Human Resources Management from Roosevelt University. She has been a certified HR professional since 2006. Public service is at the core of her being as she serves her community and advocates for positive change. Shaneka is a Founding Board Member of South Suburban Cook County HR Association, a SHRM affiliate chapter located in Chicago’s south suburbs. She serves as the Senior Chair for the PTO at her son's school and she is also a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc, Joliet Area/South Suburban Alumnae Chapter. Resources: Event: Join us for the 2025 Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 27-30, 2024 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at Credits: Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at Email Laura: Instagram: Facebook: Podcast Music & Production: Graphics: Téa Campbell Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms: /episode/index/show/blackwomanleading/id/32906662

S6E1: Welcome to Season 6! 09/05/2024

S6E1: Welcome to Season 6! Welcome to Season 6 of Black Woman Leading, the podcast! This podcast is an extension of the Black Woman Leading learning experience. The theme for season six is “Community Care is Critical.” In addition to the focused topics we’ll explore this season, the core questions this season will explore how embracing community has fueled our personal and professional growth. In keeping with our core pillars, the episodes will continue to have a holistic focus on three core areas--leadership development, self-care and mental wellness, and relationship management. We’ll explore these areas through the lens of our theme for season six in both solo and guest episodes. Laura also shares some highlights about the Black Woman Leading® programs and events. Tune it to get some quick insights into what we’ll cover this season! About Laura Laura Knights is the Creator of Black Woman Leading® and host of the podcast. She is an executive coach, speaker, facilitator, and licensed clinical social worker with 20+ years of experience creating personal and professional development programs that have touched leaders worldwide. Her expertise and background in business, human resources, adult education, and social work uniquely equip her to teach others how to deal with both the "head work" and "heart work" required to succeed at work and in life. She is the Founder and CEO of Knights Consulting LLC, a leadership development consultancy that provides customized training and coaching programs to create more confident leaders and high-performing teams. Black Woman Leading® is a research-backed initiative which offers leadership development programming, a podcast, and an annual conference for Black women professionals. Black Woman Leading® is an initiative of Knights Consulting LLC. Learn more at blackwomanleading.com. Resources: Event: Join us for the 2025 Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 27-30, 2025 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at Credits: Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at Email Laura: Instagram: Facebook: Podcast Music & Production: Graphics: Téa Campbell Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms: /episode/index/show/blackwomanleading/id/32906592

S5E14: Reflections on Identity & Season 5 Recap with Elizabeth Ann Rogers 07/05/2024

S5E13: Transitioning from an Operational to a Strategic Leader 06/20/2024

S5E12: BWL Retreat Recap 06/06/2024

S5E11: Rewriting Your Money Story with Kara Stevens 04/25/2024

S5E11: Rewriting Your Money Story with Kara Stevens In this episode, we welcome Kara Stevens, CEO & Founder of the Frugal Feminista, to discuss uncovering and rewriting your money story. Your money story is the narrative you tell yourself about money and your rights and relationship to it based on your values, beliefs, and life experiences. Our money stories are often “borrowed” from the people who raised us. Depending on what was borrowed, you may want to rewrite your money story once you gain awareness and clarity about your own desires and needs. In the episode, Kara educates on how to identify your money story and the importance of healing our relationship with money if our stories create negative connections to our worth, value or happiness. She shares her own personal journey, and how an aligned money story can become a vehicle for creating more wealth and freedom in your life. Tune into this inspiring episode to gain insights on how to move from a mindset of lack to one of abundance with regard to your relationship with money. About Kara Kara Stevens is the founder of The Frugal Feminista, a thriving personal finance and personal development company committed to helping people heal their relationships with money and themselves. Her relatable financial advice has been featured on Forbes, CNN, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo Finance, ESSENCE, Women’s Day Magazine, The Washington Post, and other nationally recognized media outlets. She is also the author of heal your relationship with money, The Happy Finances Challenge, and Unmasking the Strong Black Woman. Connect with Kara Website: Instagram: X (Twitter): LinkedIn: Facebook: Get Kara’s books here: Upcoming events Join us for the Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 13-16, 2024 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at Credits: Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at Email Laura: Instagram: Facebook: Podcast Music & Production: Graphics: Te’a Campbell Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms: /episode/index/show/blackwomanleading/id/30980918

S5E10: Regulating Your Central Nervous System with Dr. Telesa Hart 04/04/2024

S5E10: Regulating Your Central Nervous System with Dr. Telesa Hart In this episode, we welcome Dr. Telesa Hart, Chiropractor and Burnout Coach, to help us to explore self-care strategies we can use to regulate our central nervous system. Your central nervous system includes your brain and your spinal cord. It plays a role in everything you do, and helps you to move, think, and feel. The central nervous system carries your body through its ‘rest and digest’ functions as well as ‘fight or flight.’ When experiencing different forms of stress, your central nervous system may move out of its healthy functioning state to a dysregulated state, which may contribute to disease and other mental and physical challenges. When considering many of the stressors Black women face, it’s not uncommon to experience dysregulation in this way. This is why Dr. Hart encourages listeners to integrate a regular self-check into your daily wellness practice. She provides a brief overview of the functions of the central nervous system, and provides examples of symptoms and signs that may indicate that our system is overloaded. She shares practical self-care activities we can use to regulate our central nervous system, and also provides insight on when we may need to contact a professional medical provider for support. Dr. Hart describes the link between burnout and central nervous system dysregulation, sharing her own powerful story of burnout and how she overcame a very difficult moment in her life that inspired her work today. About Dr. Telesa Hart Dr. Telesa Hart is a passionate chiropractor and burnout coach, dedicated to promoting wellness and nervous system regulation. Born in Ft. Benning, GA, and raised in Germany, Dr. Hart brings a unique perspective to her practice, currently based in Atlanta, GA. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Langston University, a Master of Science in Positive Psychology from Life University, and a Doctor of Chiropractic degree, also from Life University. Dr. Hart's expertise lies in the field of Central Nervous System Regulation, where she combines her knowledge of chiropractic care with a focus on holistic well-being. In addition to her professional endeavors, Dr. Hart is an avid practitioner of acting and poetry, using creative expression as a means of personal growth and connection. Driven by her vision for holistic wellness, Dr. Hart aspires to grow The You Center into a global symbol of wellness, addressing the physical, spiritual, emotional, and mental aspects of well-being. With her unique blend of expertise, creativity, and unwavering commitment to wellness, Dr. Hart continues to inspire and empower individuals on their journey to a balanced and thriving life. Connect with Dr. Hart Suicide Prevention Resources If you're thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, contact the Suicide Prevention Lifeline 24/7, free of charge. Call or text 988. https://988lifeline.org/ Upcoming events Join us for the Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 13-16, 2024 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at Credits: Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at Email Laura: Instagram: Facebook: Podcast Music & Production: Graphics: Te’a Campbell Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms: /episode/index/show/blackwomanleading/id/30664668

S5E9: Navigating the Workplace with Power & Vulnerability with Kristen V. Carter 03/21/2024

S5E9: Navigating the Workplace with Power & Vulnerability with Kristen V. Carter In this episode, we welcome Kristen V. Carter, award-winning executive producer, entrepreneur, and speaker to discuss navigating the workplace with power & vulnerability. While many may view the words “power” and “vulnerability” as diametrically opposed, we do not in the Black Woman Leading world! Acknowledging that some Black women have found it risky to show vulnerability in the workplace, Kristen shares her experience with this from her work as a showrunner and executive producer leading high-profile projects. Additionally, she shares negotiation tips that have helped her to secure great visibility in the entertainment industry, and she provides specific wisdom gems for our early career listeners. Finally, Kristen shares behind-the-scenes highlights from her most recent project, GOSPEL Live! presented by Henry Louis Gates, Jr. on PBS, and some personal notes on how she is embracing our season five theme of our evolving identity. About Kristen V. Carter Kristen V. Carter is an award-winning executive producer, entrepreneur and speaker from Newark, New Jersey. Currently, Kristen serves as Showrunner and Executive Producer for the upcoming live gospel music celebration entitled GOSPEL Live! Presented by Henry Louis Gates, Jr. that airs on PBS in February 2024. In 2022, Kristen served as an Executive Producer for the Discovery Plus four-part documentary series Profiled: The Black Man about debunking stereotypes that Black men in America face in society. The series received special recognition from the Television Academy for social justice content. Notably, Kristen directed and showran Chase’s digital financial literacy series Hart of It All which starred Kevin Hart. Within her dual role as Showrunner and Director, she developed the series format while simultaneously overseeing creative execution from pre-production to post. She enjoys contributing to social impact programming including the 2019 Facebook live stream event National Day of Racial Healing, curated by Ava DuVernay, and the 2020 Virtual Commencement special Show Me Your Walk: HBCU Edition, which featured President Barack Obama as the honored commencement speaker. In addition to entertainment, Kristen is actively engaged in mentorship and empowering students and professionals about self-actualization. Kristen is the founder of Trust Your Magic™, an inspirational brand that reinforces the power of honoring one’s gifts and talents. She hosts a podcast of the same name that features guests who have taken a significant leap of faith to shift their lives. Through the brand, she also facilitates an interactive workshop for freelancers and emerging entrepreneurs to catapult their lives and become six figure-plus earners. Connect with Kristen: Website: Instagram: @kristenvcarter FB: Upcoming events Join us for the Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 13-16, 2024 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at Credits: Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at Email Laura: Instagram: Facebook: Podcast Music & Production: Graphics: Te’a Campbell Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms: /episode/index/show/blackwomanleading/id/30474318

S5E8: Optimizing Your Health with Dr. Tiffany Smith 03/08/2024

S5E8: Optimizing Your Health with Dr. Tiffany Smith In this episode, we welcome Dr. Tiffany Smith, Founder of Aroma Functional Nutrition Psychiatry to discuss optimizing your health. Dr. Tiffany educates on why it’s critical to take a whole-body, whole-person approach to our mental health, and highlights some particular challenge and resilience areas for Black women regarding our holistic health. Additionally, she provides tips and insights about what we can do preventatively to avoid a critically unhealthy state and how to track our progress. Finally, Dr. Tiffany elaborates on how she is embracing our season theme of our evolving identity. She shares how she came to this work and found her calling by helping her combat veteran husband recover from debilitating pain, PTSD, and other conditions. Tune into this inspiring episode and leave with tips on how to optimize your health! About Dr. Tiffany Smith: Dr Tiffany Smith is a trailblazing functional psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of Aroma Functional Nutrition Psychiatry. With her practice, Aroma Functional Nutrition Psychiatry, Dr Smith aims to help her patients live better lives by identifying the root cause of their conditions and creating a customized treatment plan that incorporates lifestyle changes, counseling, coaching, and natural supplements. She believes that medication should be a last resort and that empowering her clients to take control of their health is the key to lifelong wellness. Dr Smith is a visionary who sees a world where mental health care is more than just a pill. She has created the Mental Health Resuscitation program, a community that provides access to her expertise and resources to help people recover from mental illness and live their fullest lives. She also hosts webinars, trains in perinatal mental health care, and plans to start a podcast to spread the word about the power of complementary and alternative medicine. Her ultimate goal is to help people across the world understand that their lifestyle choices have a significant impact on their health and well-being. Connect with Dr. Tiffany: Website: Instagram: Resources: To access Dr. Tiffany’s 21-day Love Thyself private podcast, text “self love” to 702-919-4249 Event: Join us for the Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 13-16, 2024 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at Credits: Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at Email Laura: Instagram: Facebook: Podcast Music & Production: Graphics: Te’a Campbell Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms: /episode/index/show/blackwomanleading/id/30286873

S5E7: Knowing Your Rights with Latisha Newby 02/22/2024

S5E7: Knowing Your Rights with Latisha Newby In this episode, we welcome Latisha Newby to discuss knowing your employment rights. Latisha is the Chief People and Legal Officer at Girl Scouts- North Carolina Coast Pines, as well as the CEO of Cultivate HR Consulting. Research indicates that Black women experience higher levels of discrimination in the workplace, so it’s important for us to know our rights and appropriate steps to address any violations of the law. Latisha provides an “employment rights 101” overview, and shares about some of the common legal issues that Black women face. She breaks down the definitions of commonly used legal terms and highlights pending law changes and trends that are relevant to many Black women in the workplace. Additionally, Latisha also advises on the initial actions you should take if you feel your employment rights have been violated. In addition to sharing this insightful information about knowing our employment rights, Latisha also gives a glimpse into her professional journey and how she is embracing our season theme of our evolving identity as Black women leaders. About Latisha Latisha Newby, is the dynamic Chief People and Legal Officer at Girl Scouts – North Carolina Coastal Pines as well as the founder and CEO of Cultivate HR Consulting, an HR Consulting firm focused on supporting HR professionals and organizations with their HR needs. With over 15 years of rich experience in Human Resources, Latisha has been a transformative force at various levels. Not just an HR expert, she is also a licensed attorney in North Carolina, showcasing a unique blend of legal and people management skills. Latisha's educational background is as impressive as her career, holding a Juris Doctorate from North Carolina Central University School of Law and a Master of Science in Human Resources Development from Villanova University. Her dedication to strategic human resource management is evident in her approach to fostering an organizational culture anchored in equity, inclusivity, and growth. Beyond her professional endeavors, Latisha is an active volunteer with the Raleigh Metro SHRM Diversity Committee, balancing her busy life with family time with her husband, four children, and their beloved dog, Milo. Latisha takes the stage of life and provides an enlightening perspective that highlights creating positive and inclusive work environments. Connect with Latisha Website: Resources: Book: Sacred Self-Care: Daily Practices for Nurturing Our Whole Selves by Dr. Chanequa Walker-Barnes Event: Join us for the Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 13-16, 2024 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at Credits: Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at Email Laura: Instagram: Facebook: Podcast Music & Production: Graphics: Te’a Campbell Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms: /episode/index/show/blackwomanleading/id/30063058

S5E6: Thriving as We Lead with Dr. Tamara Wilds Lawson 01/18/2024

S5E6: Thriving as We Lead with Dr. Tamara Wilds Lawson In this episode, we welcome Dr. Tamara Wilds Lawson, President and CEO of the Washington Area Women’s Foundation, to discuss the Foundation’s new research report, “Thrive as They Lead: Advancing the Infrastructure to Support Black Women Leaders in the D.C. Metro Area Nonprofit Sector.” The report explores and addresses 10 critical issues faced by Black women and Black gender-expansive nonprofit leaders in the Washington D.C. Metro area, and outlines a path to establish the necessary infrastructure to help them thrive. While the report was a regional initiative, the data it produced is consistent with the same challenges we see with Black women nonprofit leaders that we work with all over the country. In this insightful discussion, Dr. Wilds Lawson shares more in depth insights about the report results, recommended infrastructure components to meet the needs of Black women nonprofit leaders, and shares her vision for what organizations must do to create more equitable workplaces where Black women can thrive. About Tamara Tamara is the president and CEO of Washington Area Women’s Foundation, where she leverages her extensive expertise and influential leadership to actively advance The Women’s Foundation’s mission of fostering economic security for women and girls of color throughout the Washington metropolitan region. Prior to her appointment, she served as the Movement, Issue, and Charitable Organizations (MICO) Director at ActBlue—an organization that raises funding and awareness for progressive political causes and campaigns—and led a 20-person team that supports nonprofits raising funds on the platform and develops strategic partnerships with nonprofits. Previously, she spent over a decade in nonprofit leadership as Chief Community Impact & Inclusion Officer for Washington Nationals Philanthropies and Director of the Posse Foundation’s Washington, DC office. In addition to her diverse professional portfolio in higher education, Tamara gained national political organizing experience as Director of African American Outreach for the Democratic National Committee during the 2000 election cycle. Currently, she serves on the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) Executive Committee and the Board of Directors for the Academy of Hope Public Charter School, which serves adult women. Tamara received her B.A. from Occidental College and Ph.D. in American Studies from the University of Maryland, College Park. In 2019, she was selected as a Washington Business Journal 2019 Women Who Mean Business Honoree and is a member of Leadership Greater Washington. A proud Washingtonian, Tamara lives in Southeast Washington, D.C., with her family. Connect with Tamara Website: Resources: Event: Join us for the Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 13-16, 2024 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at Credits: Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at Email Laura: Instagram: Facebook: Podcast Music & Production: Graphics: Te’a Campbell Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms: /episode/index/show/blackwomanleading/id/29543288

S5E5: Separating Identity from Achievement 01/05/2024

S5E4: Conquering Mindset Matters with BWL alumni 12/21/2023

S5E4: Conquering Mindset Matters with BWL alumni In this intimate discussion, four alumni participants of the Black Woman Leading Mid-Career (Samira Payne, Keira Braxton, Trenity Dobbey) and Early Career (Tiana Bryan-Okeke) programs share their stories of conquering mindset matters and doing their heart work along their professional journeys. Together, we explore mindset concepts that we navigate as leaders such as leaning into a growth mindset, overcoming negative thinking, challenging your internal saboteur, conquering fears, and aligning your “come from.” They share how they leaned into community and accessed collective healing to support them during this work, and their key takeaways from their experience in the Black Woman Leading program. Join us to reflect on your own journey, celebrate your growth, and build your own resolve as we explore the inner work that goes into being a thriving leader. Guest Bios: ::Tiana Bryan-Okeke Living her life to the beat of Alien Superstar by Beyonce, Tiana Bryan-Okeke has created her own path. This CUNY Medgar Evers College alumnus has 5+ years of executive support allowing leaders across industries to focus on and execute their mission and vision. While streamlining operations and building cohesive teams; Her passion for project management allows her to transform fragmented systems into interconnected workflows that break down silos across expanding initiatives. After joining the inaugural cohort for the BWL Early Career, she has aspirations to continue being luminous while sharing her talents to help others execute their strategic plans. ::Keira Braxton (formerly Brown) Keira, a native San Diegan, is a passionate and dedicated Human Resources professional with a wealth of experience in developing and implementing HR strategies that align with business goals. She is recognized as an experienced workshop facilitator and is known for her ability to translate complex concepts into practical advice that business leaders can use to build and maintain high-performing workforces. In addition to her work as a People Business Partner, Keira serves as a member of the DEI advisory board at Teradata where she provides guidance and recommendations on the company's DEI initiatives. She also serves as chair for the community outreach, networking and events steering committee for the San Diego chapter of Teradata Alliance of Black employees (TABE). As a leader in the DEI space, Keira is committed to helping organizations create more inclusive workplaces where everyone feels valued and respected. ::Trenity Dobbey Trenity K. Dobbey, a seasoned professional with over a decade of experience in social and human services, holds a Master's in Criminal Justice. Her journey began in corporate America, managing financial portfolios for major banks, before transitioning to a impactful role at the Chicago Children's Advocacy Center. There, she skillfully managed the citywide intake line for child abuse reports, showcasing exceptional skills in handling sensitive cases. Currently, at DFSS City of Chicago, Trenity oversees a diverse portfolio of 50+ agencies citywide, managing a $10 million annual budget within the Workforce Services Division. Her strategic vision and hands-on management style have left a lasting impact on the lives of Chicago residents. Building on her extensive professional and personal background, Trenity is an accomplished life coach. Drawing on her extensive experience, she offers practical guidance rooted in real-world expertise, uniquely positioning herself to drive transformative outcomes for individuals and organizations alike. ::Samira Payne Samira is currently the Director of Community Revitalization and Network Education at Rebuilding Together, a national nonprofit that supports safe and healthy housing in communities across the country. She participated in the Mid-Career Black Woman Leading Program in Fall 2023. Resources: Programs: We are now enrolling for the January 2024 sessions of our Mid-Career and Early Career leadership development programs. Learn more at Event: Join us for the Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 13-16, 2024 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at Credits: Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at Email Laura: Instagram: Facebook: Podcast Music & Production: Graphics: Téa Campbell Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms: /episode/index/show/blackwomanleading/id/29186858

S5E3: Navigating Perimenopause & Menopause with Dr. LaKeischa McMillan 12/21/2023

S5E3: Navigating Perimenopause & Menopause with Dr. LaKeischa McMillan We invited Dr. LaKeischa McMillan for this episode to discuss hormone health, perimenopause, menopause, and everything in between! Research indicates that perimenopause (the pre-menopause stage) is starting earlier for many women, with Black women transitioning even earlier than other races with symptoms starting as soon as the early 30s. This impacts our mental and physical health, as well as our relationships and work experience. Dr. LaKeischa provides a master class in the episode, breaking down the physiology of what’s happening in our bodies, symptoms of perimenopause and menopause, and gives tips on when we may need to reach out for additional medical support when going through this natural transition. She also provides insights into Black women’s particular experience, and shares wisdom on how we can move beyond a deficit-based understanding of menopause and be empowered to thrive in this transition phase of life. About Dr. LaKeischa Dr. LaKeischa Webb McMillan was born and raised in Huntsville, Alabama. She earned her undergraduate degree in Biology (cum laude) from Oakwood College, now Oakwood University, and continued her studies at Loma Linda University School of Medicine. In addition to her academic degrees, Dr. LaKeischa is certified in the use of the DiVinci Robotic System for Minimally Invasive Laparoscopic Surgery. Her ability to reach and teach women has expanded through her Best Seller, The Other PMS TM : Your Survival Guide for Perimenopause and Menopause. Her passion for helping women in perimenopause and menopause included her contribution to being on the advisory board of the only FDA Approved physician designed vaginal lube line, Momentum Intimacy. A gifted speaker, Integrative OB-GYN, hormone specialist, and Amazon Best-Selling Author; Dr. LaKeischa helps women in perimenopause and menopause who are struggling with depleting hormones get their hormones balanced, regain mental sharpness, and have energy to last the entire day. Connect with Dr. LaKeischa Website: IG: Hormone Quiz: Resources: Programs: We are now enrolling for the January 2024 sessions of our Mid-Career and Early Career leadership development programs. Learn more at Event: Join us for the Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 13-16, 2024 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at Credits: Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at Email Laura: Instagram: Facebook: Podcast Music & Production: Graphics: Téa Campbell Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms: /episode/index/show/blackwomanleading/id/29186783

S5E2: Understanding Racial Inequalities in Your Workplace with Adia Harvey Wingfield 12/21/2023

S5E2: Understanding Racial Inequalities in Your Workplace with Adia Harvey Wingfield In this episode, we welcome Dr. Adia Harvey Wingfield, sociologist and leading race and labor expert, to discuss her new book, “Gray Areas: How the way we work perpetuates racism and what we can do to fix it.” Adia breaks down her research findings about “gray areas”--the relationships, networks, and cultural dynamics integral to companies that exist apart from the specific expectations and duties required for any given job. These gray areas are a key reason why employees of color, particularly Black workers, remain less likely to be hired, stall out at middle levels, and rarely progress to senior leadership positions. We discuss the particular relevance of this research to Black women in the workplace, and why a “race-blind” approach in organizations actually harms more than it helps. Additionally, Adia offers key insights into what organizations can do to fix these issues and create more supportive environments for Black employees. About Adia Dr. Adia Wingfield is a sociologist who researches racial and gender inequality in professional occupations. She is currently the Mary Tileston Hemenway Professor of Arts and Sciences at Washington University in St. Louis, where she also co-directs the Program for Public Scholarship and served as Vice Dean for Faculty Development and Diversity. She has served as President of Sociologists for Women in Society (SWS), the Southern Sociological Society (SSS), and in 2023 she was elected the 116th President of the American Sociological Association. In addition to her academic work, she also writes regularly for mainstream outlets including The Atlantic, Vox, Slate, and Harvard Business Review. Connect with Adia Website: X (formerly Twitter): @adiahwingfield Resources: Programs: We are now enrolling for the January 2024 sessions of our Mid-Career and Early Career leadership development programs. Learn more at Event: Join us for the Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 13-16, 2024 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at Credits: Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at Email Laura: Instagram: Facebook: Podcast Music & Production: Graphics: Téa Campbell Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms: /episode/index/show/blackwomanleading/id/29186558

S5E1: Welcome to Season 5 12/21/2023

S5E1: Welcome to Season 5 Welcome to Season 5 of Black Woman Leading, the podcast! This podcast is an extension of the Black Woman Leading learning experience. The theme for season five is “Who are you and who do you want to be?” In addition to the focused topics we’ll explore this season, the core questions this season will center on embracing our identity and core values, and amplifying the message that who we are right now is worthy and who we choose to become through our learning and growth is worth the effort. In keeping with our core pillars, the episodes will continue to have a holistic focus on three core areas--leadership development, self-care and mental wellness, and relationship management. We’ll explore these areas through the lens of our theme for season five in both solo and guest episodes. Laura also shares some highlights about the Black Woman Leading® initiative, and some exciting programming that will be rolling out in the near year to continue the work to support Black women throughout the lifecycle of their careers. Tune it to get some quick insights into what we’ll cover this season! About Laura Laura Knights is the Creator of Black Woman Leading® and host of the podcast. She is an executive coach, speaker, facilitator, and licensed clinical social worker with 19+ years of experience creating personal and professional development programs that have touched leaders worldwide. Her expertise and background in business, human resources, adult education, and social work uniquely equip her to teach others how to deal with both the "head work" and "heart work" required to succeed at work and in life. She is the Founder and CEO of Knights Consulting LLC, a leadership development consultancy that provides customized training and coaching programs to create more confident leaders and high-performing teams. Black Woman Leading® is a research-backed initiative which offers leadership development programming, a podcast, and an annual conference for Black women professionals. Black Woman Leading® is an initiative of Knights Consulting LLC. Learn more at blackwomanleading.com. Resources: Programs: We are now enrolling for the January 2024 sessions of our Mid-Career and Early Career leadership development programs. Learn more at https://blackwomanleading.com/programs-overview/ Event: Join us for the Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 13-16, 2024 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at Credits: Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at Email Laura: Instagram: Facebook: Podcast Music & Production: Graphics: Téa Campbell Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms: /episode/index/show/blackwomanleading/id/29186468

S4E14: Season Four Recap 11/08/2023

Black Woman Leading

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