Episodios

  • S7E7: Driving the Narrative of Your Career with BWL Alums

    S7E7: Driving the Narrative of Your Career with BWL Alums
    May 1 2025
    In this episode, Laura hosts an alumni panel of Black Woman Leading alums from the Early Career and Mid-Career Programs (Alexys Anderson, Shelby Norman, and SherAaron Hurt) to discuss our season’s theme of Driving the Narrative of Your Career. Emphasizing the importance of setting a personal vision and advocating for oneself while balancing heart work and head work along the career growth journey, they explore the significance of mentorship, the challenges of navigating identity, and the importance of community support. The discussion highlights how embracing intersectionality and self-affirmation can empower Black women to take charge of their career narratives and pursue their professional visions with confidence. In this conversation, our program alums discuss the importance of intentionality in actions, the power of dreaming big, navigating fear and doubt, and the significance of self-advocacy. They also share their personal experiences and insights gained from the Black Woman Leading programs. The discussion also highlights transformative moments in their leadership journeys, encouraging listeners to embrace discomfort and give themselves grace in their career paths Guest Bios: ::Alexys Anderson Alexys Anderson is a Higher Education professional with a passion for supporting students on their journeys to and through graduation. Her professional roles have encompassed student success strategies, leadership development, and student retention.She received her Bachelor's in Psychology from Salisbury University and Master's degree in College Student Affairs from Rutgers University. Connect with Alexys LinkedIn. ::SherAaron Hurt SherAaron Hurt is a visionary leader in data science education and inclusive community building. As the Director of Workshops and Training for The Carpentries, she oversees global workshop strategy and leads instructor and trainer development, certification, and community engagement. With a background in Business Administration, Marketing, and Hospitality Management, SherAaron brings a service-first approach to advancing equitable, high-impact learning experiences around the world. She supports thousands of instructors and trainers across the globe, creating sustainable engagement and championing inclusive education through thoughtful programming and strategic leadership. She shares her insights on inclusive pedagogy, equitable access, and community-led learning at national and international conferences. Known for her warmth, intentionality, and authenticity, she builds lasting relationships and inspires teams to thrive. Outside of her professional pursuits, SherAaron is a luxury travel enthusiast, fur-mom to her Shih Tzu Oreo, and a certified fitness instructor affectionately known in gym circles as HypeChicSher. She teaches high-energy Cardio Kickboxing and proudly serves as a Brand Ambassador for Orangetheory Fitness. Her experience in the Black Women Leading (BWL) community helped spark her pursuit of a deeper calling—combining her passions for faith, flying, and fitness. Through her work and her workouts, SherAaron hopes to inspire others to elevate—one learner, one leader, and one lunge at a time. Connect with SherAaron on LinkedIn and Instagram @sherfitlife ::Shelby Norman Shelby Norman (she/her/hers) serves as the Associate Director of Professional Development & Outreach for the Office of Academic Excellence and Opportunity. Raised in Atlanta, Georgia, she has always been immersed in diverse expressions of southern culture and community. Shelby is an alumna of The University of Alabama, where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science with a concentration in Political Theory, and Master of Arts degree in Women's Studies with a research concentration in Critical Gender and Race Theories. As the Associate Director of Professional Development and Outreach, Shelby leads the strategic development and implementation of new professional development opportunities and initiatives for faculty and staff. Shelby also develops and enhances collaborative partnerships across university departments and promotes her office as a consultative resource to support all Tulanians reach their full potential. Shelby's diverse experiences in higher education span across student and academic affairs in small and large state institutions, as well as private. Shelby has a strong history with mentorship and leadership initiatives, especially those rooted in diversity, equity and inclusion practices. Shelby is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Tri Iota Honors Society ,Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership Honor Society, Order of Omega Honor Society and The XXXI Women's Honor Society. Connect with Shelby on LinkedIn and Instagram Resources: Event: Join us for the 2025 Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 27-30, 2025 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at bwlretreat.com Full podcast episodes are now on Youtube. Subscribe to ...
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    1 h y 16 m
  • S7E6: Managing Uneven Power Dynamics with Nicole S. Palmer

    S7E6: Managing Uneven Power Dynamics with Nicole S. Palmer
    Apr 17 2025

    In this conversation, Laura welcomes Nicole Palmer to discuss the unique experiences of Black women in corporate America, with regard to managing uneven power dynamics.

    Nicole shares the inspiration behind her book, and the concept of 'Black womaning' as a way to navigate the challenges faced in the workplace. They explore themes of fear, purpose, and the shared experiences of Black women across various industries, emphasizing the need for support and understanding in overcoming obstacles.

    Nicole also shares her personal journey of navigating a toxic work environment, the impact of PTSD, and the steps she took towards healing from workplace trauma, including self-forgiveness and practicing emotional detachment. Through Nicole’s story, they explore the challenges of navigating uneven power relationships and the importance of setting boundaries to foster healthy workplace relationships.

    About Nicole

    Nicole S. Palmer is an author, founding partner of publishing company Delnic Media, and host of 5-star rated podcast Black Womaning in Corporate America™. She is also the author of “Playing the Game While Black Womaning in Corporate America.” When she isn’t writing, she’s speaking, and she’s usually talking about equity.

    Connect with Nicole

    Website: https://delnicmedia.com

    Instagram @nicolespalmer

    Nicole on LinkedIn ​​

    Purchase Nicole’s book on Amazon or Barnes & Noble.

    Resources:

    • Event: Join us for the 2025 Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 27-30, 2025 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at bwlretreat.com

    • Full podcast episodes are now on Youtube. Subscribe to the BWL channel today!

    Credits:

    Learn about all Black Woman Leading® programs, resources, and events at www.blackwomanleading.com

    Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at https://knightsconsultinggroup.com/

    Email Laura: info@knightsconsultinggroup.com

    Connect with Laura on LinkedIn

    Follow BWL on LinkedIn

    Instagram: @blackwomanleading

    Facebook: @blackwomanleading

    Youtube: @blackwomanleading

    Podcast Music & Production: Marshall Knights

    Graphics: Téa Campbell

    Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms:

    • Apple Podcasts

    • Spotify

    • Stitcher

    • iHeartRadio

    • Audible

    • Podbay
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    1 h y 5 m
  • S7E5: Getting Attuned to Your Body’s Wisdom with Lauren Dike

    S7E5: Getting Attuned to Your Body’s Wisdom with Lauren Dike
    Apr 3 2025

    In this conversation, Laura welcomes Lauren Dike to explore the importance of attuning to one's body wisdom, particularly for Black women. Lauren shares her journey from corporate America to becoming a nervous system resilience expert

    They discuss the significance of understanding one’s nervous system, the impact of societal expectations on Black women, and practical steps for self-regulation. The conversation highlights the importance of professional support in the healing process and the need to reconnect with our body's sensations, while emphasizing the need for self-awareness and emotional processing.

    With regard to workplace experiences, they explore the themes of fawning and people-pleasing, particularly among Black women in the workplace. They discuss the historical context of these behaviors, the impact on mental health, and the importance of self-awareness and self-advocacy. The dialogue emphasizes the need for healing, understanding one's body, and the significance of self-care in navigating personal and professional challenges.

    About Lauren

    Lauren Dike is a certified somatic practitioner, nervous system resilience expert, and DEI consultant dedicated to fostering safety, openness, and connection within organizations and individuals.

    Her work helps organizations evolve by witnessing behaviors rather than shaming them, understanding that behaviors incongruent with compassion, openness, and connection often stem from stress, trauma, or a lack of capacity.

    By addressing these root causes, Lauren enables transformative behavior change, making authentic connection and collaboration more accessible. She specializes in working with Black women, focusing on the disproportionate workplace and racial trauma they face.

    Lauren partners with collectives like IKONI Collective, CRIADO Studios, and the Center for Black Women’s Wellness to create spaces for healing and empowerment through somatic practices, workshops, and speaking engagements.

    Connect with Lauren

    Website: www.harmonna.org

    Instagram @harmonnawellbeing

    LinkedIn

    Resources:

    • Event: Join us for the 2025 Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 27-30, 2025 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at bwlretreat.com
    • Full podcast episodes are now on Youtube. Subscribe to the BWL channel today!

    Credits:

    Learn about all Black Woman Leading® programs, resources, and events at www.blackwomanleading.com

    Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at https://knightsconsultinggroup.com/

    Email Laura: info@knightsconsultinggroup.com

    Connect with Laura on LinkedIn

    Follow BWL on LinkedIn

    Instagram: @blackwomanleading

    Facebook: @blackwomanleading

    Youtube: @blackwomanleading

    Podcast Music & Production: Marshall Knights

    Graphics: Téa Campbell

    Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms:

    • Apple Podcasts
    • Spotify
    • Stitcher
    • iHeartRadio
    • Audible
    • Podbay
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    43 m
  • S7E4: Becoming Financially Unstoppable with Breanna Colón

    S7E4: Becoming Financially Unstoppable with Breanna Colón
    Mar 20 2025
    In this episode, Laura welcomes Breanna Colón to discuss the journey to becoming financially unstoppable. Breanna shares her insights on financial freedom, the importance of money behavior, and practical strategies for achieving financial goals. The discussion emphasizes the need for a shift in mindset regarding money and the significance of understanding one's financial behavior to break free from cycles of debt to achieve true financial independence. Breanna emphasizes the importance of viewing budgeting as a financial planning tool rather than a chore. She discusses the significance of savings, debt management, and understanding insurance and retirement planning. The conversation also delves into the emotional aspects of financial decision-making, highlighting the need for self-awareness and acknowledgment of spending habits. Breanna encourages listeners to take control of their financial futures by being intentional with their money. She also shares insights on the vital role of financial planning in driving career paths and life choices, particularly for Black women. About Breanna Breanna Colón is the Founder of Integrity Financial Solutions, Inc. and Managing Partner of Wright Time Financial, LLC. She is a dynamic and driven financial strategist, two-time author and professional speaker with roots in Augusta, Georgia, and currently living in the Washington, D.C. area. Breanna and her team bring over 20 years of combined financial industry experience to help individuals and families achieve financial freedom. Passionate about personal finance, Breanna offers more than just advice; she creates a transformative journey for families. Her mission is to instill confidence towards financial success with honest, customer- first service. Armed with a Bachelor’s Degree in Management/Accounting, her expertise spans retirement planning, college savings, insurance, investments, mortgages, and budgeting.​ Host of Your Life Your Money with Breanna Colón podcast, she has inspired audiences nationwide, speaking at churches, seminars, conferences, and women’s events, where her energy and insights leave a lasting impact. As an author of the book & The Secrets of Saving Money: Experiencing the Unlimited and currently working on her second book, she shares practical strategies and inspiring stories to empower others on their financial journey. Connect with Breanna Website: ​​https://www.breannacolon.com Website: https://www.wrighttimefinancial.com/ Instagram @iambreannacolon Facebook Youtube @IAmBreannaColon Resources: Event: Join us for the 2025 Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 27-30, 2025 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at bwlretreat.comFull podcast episodes are now on Youtube. Subscribe to the BWL channel today! Credits: Learn about all Black Woman Leading® programs, resources, and events at www.blackwomanleading.com Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at https://knightsconsultinggroup.com/ Email Laura: info@knightsconsultinggroup.com Connect with Laura on LinkedIn Follow BWL on LinkedIn Instagram: @blackwomanleading Facebook: @blackwomanleading Youtube: @blackwomanleading Podcast Music & Production: Marshall Knights Graphics: Téa Campbell Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms: Apple PodcastsSpotifyStitcher iHeartRadio AudiblePodbay
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    59 m
  • S7E3: Healing Out Loud with Sandria Washington

    S7E3: Healing Out Loud with Sandria Washington
    Mar 20 2025
    In this engaging conversation, Laura and Sandria Washington explore the themes of healing, self-discovery, community, and self-advocacy. They discuss the concept of 'healing out loud,' which highlights the importance of vulnerability and stretching outside of your comfort zone through everyday moments. Sandria shares her own experiences and insights, emphasizing the significance of authenticity and the need to break cultural stigmas surrounding mental health and personal struggles. She shares her profound journey of discovering her adoption at the age of 38, the subsequent healing process that followed, and her own quiet revolution of healing out loud through this journey. Sandria emphasizes the importance of community, vulnerability, and breaking generational curses through open conversations about personal experiences. The discussion highlights the unique challenges faced by Black women in sharing their stories and the significance of community care in fostering healing and connection. Additionally, the conversation emphasizes the need to challenge fears, and how being unapologetically self-serving in pursuit of personal and professional growth can also be an avenue to serving others. About Sandria Sandria M. Washington is an author, wellnesspreneur, podcaster, speaker and media personality with a passion for personal development and collective healing. As the creator and Chief (Self) Exploration Officer of She Field Trips, Sandria empowers Black women to utilize the power of self discovery and play to "come back for yourself" in their healing journeys through workshops, curated events, online community, and inspiring offline tools and products from her Real G's Move In Alignment brand. Sandria is also our resident emcee of the annual Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference + Retreat. Connect with Sandria Instagram - Personal: https://www.instagram.com/sandriawashington/ Instagram -Black to the Beginning: https://www.instagram.com/blacktothebeginning_/ The Black Adoption Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6552wLTLZ2qAsMT14NUids Black to the Beginning Official Website: https://www.blacktothebeginning.com/ "A Year of Black Joy" Children's Book (Sandria is a contributing author "The Joy of Owning Your Voice"): Resources: Event: Join us for the 2025 Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 27-30, 2025 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at bwlretreat.comFull podcast episodes are now on Youtube. Subscribe to the BWL channel today! Credits: Learn about all Black Woman Leading® programs, resources, and events at www.blackwomanleading.com Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at https://knightsconsultinggroup.com/ Email Laura: info@knightsconsultinggroup.com Connect with Laura on LinkedIn Follow BWL on LinkedIn Instagram: @blackwomanleading Facebook: @blackwomanleading Youtube: @blackwomanleading Podcast Music & Production: Marshall Knights Graphics: Téa Campbell Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms: Apple PodcastsSpotifyStitcher iHeartRadio AudiblePodbay
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    56 m
  • S7E2: Mastering Strategic Networking with Daphne Valcin

    S7E2: Mastering Strategic Networking with Daphne Valcin
    Mar 20 2025

    In this episode, Laura welcomes Daphne Valcin to discuss the importance of mastering strategic networking for career growth. They explore Daphne's journey as a leader, the definition of strategic networking, and the cultural nuances that affect networking for Black women. The conversation also delves into the connection between confidence and networking, as well as practical tips for introverts to navigate networking events effectively.

    They explore the nuances of networking, particularly in virtual environments. They also discuss strategies for setting networking goals, the importance of follow-up, and how to advocate for oneself in professional settings. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of intentionality in networking and the need to prepare before engaging in networking opportunities. They also share personal anecdotes and practical tips to enhance networking effectiveness, especially in a hybrid professional context.

    About Daphne

    Daphne Valcin is a keynote speaker, trainer, and executive coach who has facilitated leadership and team development programming for over 400 individual clients and for over 200 organizational clients across 4 countries. She is the CEO and founder of Valcin Strategic Solutions, a boutique consulting firm focused on leadership and team development who has been featured in Forbes.com and Voyage Magazine and recognized as a 40 Under 40 recipient for her professional work.

    As a results-driven corporate trainer and consultant, Daphne's clients have enhanced their team dynamic, increased productivity, enhanced their personal brand, exponentially increased their annual revenue, and moved up multiple levels in seniority. She resides right outside of Atlanta, GA, with her husband and two little girls, and looks forward to continuing to make an impact through her work.

    Connect with Daphne

    Website: Valcinstrategicsolutions.com

    Connect on LinkedIn

    Get her book: Becoming the Ripple: Your Guide to Exponentially Increasing Your Professional Success and Influence

    Resources:

    • Event: Join us for the 2025 Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 27-30, 2025 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at bwlretreat.com
    • Full podcast episodes are now on Youtube. Subscribe to the BWL channel today!

    Credits:

    Learn about all Black Woman Leading® programs, resources, and events at www.blackwomanleading.com

    Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at https://knightsconsultinggroup.com/

    Email Laura: info@knightsconsultinggroup.com

    Connect with Laura on LinkedIn

    Follow BWL on LinkedIn

    Instagram: @blackwomanleading

    Facebook: @blackwomanleading

    Youtube: @blackwomanleading

    Podcast Music & Production: Marshall Knights

    Graphics: Téa Campbell

    Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms:

    • Apple Podcasts
    • Spotify
    • Stitcher
    • iHeartRadio
    • Audible
    • Podbay
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    59 m
  • Welcome to Season 7!

    Welcome to Season 7!
    Mar 20 2025

    Welcome to Season 7 of Black Woman Leading, the podcast!

    In this episode, Laura introduces season seven of the Black Woman Leading podcast, focusing on the theme of 'Driving the Narrative of Your Career.' She emphasizes the importance of setting a personal vision and advocating for oneself while balancing heart work and head work, all core elements that will be revisited from multiple angles with solo and guest episodes this season.

    Laura answers the core questions for this season, sharing her personal journey of entrepreneurship, the growth of the Black Woman Leading iniative, the significance of self-advocacy, and the necessity of self-care in achieving professional goals. The episode sets the stage for an exciting season filled with valuable insights and discussions.

    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 bwlretreat.com
    • Full podcast episodes are now on Youtube. Subscribe to the BWL channel today!

    Credits:

    Learn about all Black Woman Leading® programs, resources, and events at www.blackwomanleading.com

    Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at https://knightsconsultinggroup.com/

    Email Laura: info@knightsconsultinggroup.com

    Connect with Laura on LinkedIn

    Follow BWL on LinkedIn

    Instagram: @blackwomanleading

    Facebook: @blackwomanleading

    Youtube: @blackwomanleading

    Podcast Music & Production: Marshall Knights

    Graphics: Téa Campbell

    Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms:

    • Apple Podcasts
    • Spotify
    • Stitcher
    • iHeartRadio
    • Audible
    • Podbay
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    22 m
  • S6E15: Season 6 Reflections & Recap

    S6E15: Season 6 Reflections & Recap
    Jan 30 2025

    We are celebrating the completion of our sixth season! Our season theme was “Community Care is Critical,” as our core questions throughout the season explored how embracing community fuels our personal and professional growth.

    We define community care as the ways we intentionally support and uplift each other, and how we create and nurture the spaces where we feel seen, supported, and empowered to grow.

    In addition to this theme, which connected all episodes, we covered various topics with our guest experts. And, some organic themes emerged across episodes about self-awareness, self-care, and personal branding.

    Tune in to this episode to get a high-level summary of all the wisdom shared, as Laura provides a recap and shares her personal highlights and takeaways from the season.

    Resources:

    • Event: Join us for the Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 27-30, 2025 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at bwlretreat.com

    Credits:

    Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at https://knightsconsultinggroup.com/

    Email Laura: laura@knightsconsultinggroup.com

    Connect with Laura on LinkedIn

    Follow BWL on LinkedIn

    Instagram: @blackwomanleading

    Facebook: @blackwomanleading

    Podcast Music & Production: Marshall Knights

    Graphics: Te’a Campbell

    Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms:

    • Apple Podcasts
    • Spotify
    • Stitcher
    • iHeartRadio
    • Audible
    • Podbay
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    24 m
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