Career Safari

Career Safari is a monthly podcast featuring multicultural women sharing honest conversations about the realities of their career journeys. We unpack the risks, the pivots, and the lessons that shape how women grow and succeed at work.

Dr. DeShanna Reed on Caregiving vs. Career 04/07/2026

Dr. DeShanna Reed on Caregiving vs. Career Dr. DeShanna Reed shares her journey across military service, education, and entrepreneurship - while navigating life as a sibling-caregiver and mother to neurodivergent children. Dr. Reed dicusses: Her "hustle with grace" philosophy Sibling caregiving and advocacy Career pivots and entrepreneurship Supporting families with disabilities Personal resilience and mental health Join our Torchbearer community for more stories: /episode/index/show/careersafari/id/40735035

Kathy Tuccaro on Trauma, Strength & Steel Courage 03/04/2026

Kathy Tuccaro on Trauma, Strength & Steel Courage In this episode of Career Safari, Kathy Tuccaro shares the story she calls “Steel Courage.” After years in nursing, Kathy made a bold pivot into the world of heavy equipment operation. But this career shift wasn’t just professional. It was personal. It was healing. It was transformative. Kathy opens up about: Facing trauma and finding strength Transitioning from nursing to heavy equipment operation Her journey from homelessness to success Writing her book Dream Big Embracing empowerment, self-identity, and mental health If you’re changing careers, rebuilding your confidence, or betting on yourself in a season that feels uncertain, this conversation is for you. Join our Torchbearer Community for more: /episode/index/show/careersafari/id/40307935

Season 3 Trailer 02/26/2026

Season 3 Trailer Season 3 of Career Safari begins March 3rd. This season examines the decisions that quietly shape the direction of our careers. The risks we circle. The opportunities we delay. The cost of staying where we are when we know we’ve outgrown it. Join the chat on March 3rd. www.thecareersafari.com /episode/index/show/careersafari/id/40183260

Special Episode: Season 2 Reflection 01/19/2026

Special Episode: Season 2 Reflection Season 2 of Career Safari was about the moments we don’t always name: the risks we paused on, the systems we learned to navigate, and the support that made the difference. In this special episode, host Wamite reflects on the women and conversations that shaped Season 2 - honest discussions on mentorship, resilience, and what it really takes to build a career that doesn’t demand burnout as the entry fee. This is a pause before what comes next. 00:00 Introduction to Career Safari 02:12 Reflecting on Season 2's Torchbearers 41:05 Looking Ahead to Season 3 Join our community: https://www.thecareersafari.com /episode/index/show/careersafari/id/39771110

209. The Unusual Circumstances w/ Natalie Poindexter 10/20/2023

209. The Unusual Circumstances w/ Natalie Poindexter SEASON FINALE: Natalie Poindexter (Black-American) passionately pursues more inclusive, authentic leadership and systems - you can call her a disruptor, and she's proud of it! After dedicating part of her career to the healthcare sector, Natalie strategically shifted her focus to assist businesses in their pursuit of funding, with a particular emphasis on grant funding. In this episode we discuss: our new partnership, Net-Do Community; how a serendipitous moment with Mark Cuban opened doors; and teaching people how to maneuver in the grant world. Join the Career Safari Community for more: Watch us on Episode Edited by: Yamini Ranjan /episode/index/show/careersafari/id/28372889

208. Finding Abundance in the Opportunities You Have w/ Amrutha Jindal 09/07/2023

208. Finding Abundance in the Opportunities You Have w/ Amrutha Jindal For over 10 years, Amrutha Jindal (Indian-American) has worked on the front lines defending individuals that have been accused of border crimes along the US & Mexico border. While her career started in corporate law, she came to realize that representing corporate clients wasn't why she became a lawyer. She has since dedicated her career to addressing disparities in the legal system. In this episode we discuss: Finding peace and opportunities even when job offers don't work out Not being satisfied in corporate law Life lessons from being a public defender Episode Edited by: Yamini Ranjan Watch on Join our community for more: /episode/index/show/careersafari/id/27964482

207. We Are The Outsiders w/ Dr. Christine Ngaruiya 08/08/2023

207. We Are The Outsiders w/ Dr. Christine Ngaruiya In many regards, Dr. Christine Ngaruiya (Kenyan-American), considers herself an outsider. Being born in the US to immigrants - then moving to Kenya and living there as a Kenyan-America. Nevertheless, throughout her life she has been brave enough to make her voice heard. She found a space to channel her voice within the medical research field, exploring topics around noncommunicable diseases. At the time of this recording she was a Director and Associate Professor at Yale School of Medicine. She has now taken on a new role at Stanford University's medical school. In this episode we discuss: Being an outsider - being bullied in Kenya and dealing with racism in the US Learning how to create work boundaries Recognizing her role as a leader and advocate Watch the full episode on Episode edited by Yamini Ranjan. /episode/index/show/careersafari/id/27689394

206. Safari of Innovation with Hilla Ovil-Brenner 06/21/2023

206. Safari of Innovation with Hilla Ovil-Brenner Warning: You'll want to take a lot of note this episode. Hilla Ovil-Brenner (South African-Israeli) started her career journey as a lawyer, but it didn't take her very long to determine that was not the path for her. She then poured her energy into something that she loved - grammar - and founded Whitesmoke, an English grammar checking software. Her company accomplished what few tech startups achieve, it became a publicly traded company. Hilla has since become one of the most influential tech and start up leaders in Israel & the Middle East.( Read the last sentence again.) In our conversation we discuss the stigma against being a mom and an entrepreneur, how she plans to change the tech landscape and her advice to founders. Watch Full Episode on Episode Edited by: Yamini Ranjan Music By: /episode/index/show/careersafari/id/27209178

205. The Journey Back To Me w/ Amanda Koonjbeharry 05/01/2023

205. The Journey Back To Me w/ Amanda Koonjbeharry Early in her career, Amanda Koonjbeharry (Guyanese American) found herself in different leadership positions in her home state of Minnesota. As a public servant she led the statewide Super Bowl LII anti-sex trafficking committee. She was then the Director of Public Policy where she co-led several projects on public safety and policing during the aftermath of George Floyd's murder. In our conversation she reflects on her experience being a young government leader, racial disparities in Minnesota and the weight of being one of a few women of color in leadership. Watch full episode on Episode Edited by: Yamini Ranjan Music from: /episode/index/show/careersafari/id/26664630

204. The Light in Times of Darkness w/ Janine Hernandez 02/13/2023

204. The Light in Times of Darkness w/ Janine Hernandez Janine Hernandez's (Colombian American) story is equally about her journey back to herself AND all the amazing work she does as an author and book coach. Not many can say they wrote their first book at 12! Yet while she was making her career dreams happen, she was also faced with one of the darkest moments of her life - finding herself in a relationship with someone that was verbally/emotionally abusive. Then as she left that relationship and healed, her creative spirit reached new heights. In this episode we discuss - the signs of narcissistic abuse, writing her first book at 12 and pushing past the fear of becoming a published author. Watch full episode on For more information on domestic abuse: Episode Edited by: Yamini Ranjan Music from: /episode/index/show/careersafari/id/25918638

203. Hope, My Social Compass with Susan De Toledo Hulley 01/09/2023

203. Hope, My Social Compass with Susan De Toledo Hulley Our advice, listen to this episode and ask yourself, "What are you here to teach me?" That's because it doesn't take long for you to recognize the magic of Susan De Toledo Hulley(Brazilian American). Within a few minutes of talking with her, you feel as if your soul is seen and being cleansed. Throughout her life, her goal has been to learn, connect and share with people. That has been evidenced by her fierce fight for human rights - including protesting the Vietnam war and being part of student led protests in Brazil in the '60s. In this magical conversation we talk about: the importance of having hope, retiring from teaching and starting her healing/therapy practice. She also answers some audience questions: How do we overcome trauma? Episode Edited by Yamini Ranjan Watch the /episode/index/show/careersafari/id/25536435

202. Think Big w/ Emily Tsitrian 11/22/2022

202. Think Big w/ Emily Tsitrian Before the recent upheaval in the tech sector, we had an all encompassing conversation with Emily Tsitrian (Greek-Armenian American) about the excitement and challenges of being in the tech community. Emily has led several teams at different tech startups. She reflected on her journey by writing, "Make Me the Boss: Surviving as A Millennial Manager in the Corporate World," to help first time managers successfully lead teams. In our chat we discuss our experiences in the tech world - including the obstacles that prevent women and people of color from being hired to the risky decisions hiring managers make. Watch the entire episode: Episode Edited by: Yamini Ranjan /episode/index/show/careersafari/id/25080828

201. The Fabulous Adventures of the Well Dressed Women w/ Dr. Tiffany Ingram 10/17/2022

201. The Fabulous Adventures of the Well Dressed Women w/ Dr. Tiffany Ingram In our Season 2 premiere, we have a free-spirited conversation with Dr. Tiffany Ingram. Tiffany is so firmly rooted in her family's history and the legacy of being a Black Detrioter, it's no surprise that she has blossomed and continues to shine as bright as she does. At several points in her life she tenaciously took chances on building a new life for herself and creating safe spaces for others. We explored - why she loves doing "the most", her role as influencer on her platform Policy & Fashion - a space for plus sized professional women to thrive and what her doctorate research said about career advancement for African-American women. Watch the entire episode on Episode Edited by: Yamini Ranjan /episode/index/show/careersafari/id/24710241

109. Do It Afraid w/ Dr. Christine Chin-Sim 03/21/2022

109. Do It Afraid w/ Dr. Christine Chin-Sim Season Finale Dr. Christine Chin-Sim (Jamaican) found herself dealing with a major life change at 42. For the past two decades she was a devoted mother and housewife, but it was time to face her divorce and rebuild her life - and that she did! In the years that followed, Dr. Christine got her PhD in Psychotherapy in Marriage and Family Counseling. Now with her growing and practice, Leverage 4 Change, she helps people navigate relationships, attachment styles and changes in their life. She chats with us about her life changes and answers audience questions about relationships. Episode Edited by: Yamini Ranjan /episode/index/show/careersafari/id/22522277

108. (Mis)Adventures of a Dreamchaser with Ariane Hunter 02/23/2022

108. (Mis)Adventures of a Dreamchaser with Ariane Hunter When someone's profession includes words like "dream builder" our ears perk up. Ariane Hunter was on a well respected path in her career. She studied information system, received her MBA and had the salary/benefits many people aspire to. But at some point, she realized she wasn't on her authentic path. Now 10 years later, as the founder of My Mentors Circle and a coach to dozens of entrepreneurs - she has never looked back. We talk about what finally made her start her own business, how she's helped people define and live a life of their dreams. We also ask her advice on how work is being redefined since the pandemic. Episode Edited by: Yamini Ranjan /episode/index/show/careersafari/id/22233629

107. People + Serendipity with Rediate Tekeste 01/16/2022

107. People + Serendipity with Rediate Tekeste Rediate Tekeste (Ethiopian-American) entered a new phase of leadership as Sr. Brand Director when she realized that everything we do ties back to our emotional intelligence and self-awareness. "You can't lead from a place of emptiness." /episode/index/show/careersafari/id/21789314

106. Be The Author & Director of Your Own Life with Dr. Illona Willken 12/04/2021

106. Be The Author & Director of Your Own Life with Dr. Illona Willken Dr. Illona Willken (South African) has reinvented her career more than anyone we've interviewed so far - from being a ballet teacher, working in weapons and ammunition to becoming a medical doctor at 48.She started her journey not wanting to have any career but realized if she and her children were to have a better lifestyle, she would have to be all in. We discuss the difficulties of being a working mom to how her personal battle with chronic fatigue changed the course of her career. /episode/index/show/careersafari/id/21377762

105: Confident & Natural with Parry Burton 10/01/2021

105: Confident & Natural with Parry Burton For many years Parry Burton was living her life as an actress and maî·tre d in Los Angeles. As a Biracial American, she dealt with struggling to embrace her curls and that curiosity led her to building her own business. In this episode we talk about her what brought her to this moment, the beauty of being in a business partnership with her mother and flexing her muscles as a new entrepreneur. /episode/index/show/careersafari/id/20678036

104 - The Phoenix: A Story of Sales and Success with Chiraz Bensemmane 08/29/2021

104 - The Phoenix: A Story of Sales and Success with Chiraz Bensemmane This month's Torchbearer, Chiraz Bensemmane, decided to establish her own business at 21. After she struggled starting her career in the corporate world in France; she finally found her stride as a world-traveling business development professional. This is when she realized how much her skills were in demand and created her own company, Pitch World Fast. We have a hilarious conversation about her journey and she shares advice on how to close the deal! /episode/index/show/careersafari/id/20301035

From Ordinary To Extraordinary with Olamide Ajibesin 07/26/2021

From Ordinary To Extraordinary with Olamide Ajibesin Our Torchbearer, Olamide (Lami) Ajibesin, is a DEAL. MAKER. not only for the businesses and entrepreneurs she guides as a deal advisor and mergers & acquisitions expert - But even in how she has navigated her own career. As a Nigerian-American woman learning and breaking the rules, she has determined to make her journey extraordinary. /episode/index/show/careersafari/id/19926794

Shining your Light: A Story of Miracles & Ministry with Hyepin Im 06/22/2021

Shining your Light: A Story of Miracles & Ministry with Hyepin Im In this candid talk we chat with Hyepin Im, a Korean-American non-profit executive and community advocate. She started her career in the accountant and venture capital world. After she faced multiple layoffs and challenges she found the good in her goodbyes by answering God’s calling. /episode/index/show/careersafari/id/19572722

Powered by Grit & Resilience with Pallavi Agarwal Becoming a Consultant and Owning Your Own Business - In our first episode we talk with Pallavi Agarwal, an Entrepreneur from India. Grit and resilience is what took Pallavi from asking “what is software?” – to owning her company, Kander. She shares with us how she stumbled upon consulting at a time when she was unsure about the next direction in her life and how that turned it into her own an international business. /episode/index/show/careersafari/id/19137065

Career Safari Trailer 04/26/2021

Career Safari Trailer Welcome to Career Safari, our space to disrupt the views on what it means to be a career woman. Join us as we showcase the career journey of multicultural women, . Here's our sneak peak. /episode/index/show/careersafari/id/18857933

Career Safari

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