Join us for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Pamela Donnelly, founder of the American Access Institute, as she shares her mission to support vulnerable teens, including those aging out of foster care. Discover how the Catapult platform is transforming lives through trauma-informed care, AI mentorship, and innovative partnerships. Key Highlights: Dr. Donnelly's journey from college admissions professional to ed-tech innovator. The impact of the Catapult platform on justice-involved youth and foster children. Insights into trauma-informed care and its importance in education. The role of AI and digital mentors in career readiness. Challenges and triumphs in scaling educational equity. Call to Action: Explore more about the American Access Institute and the Catapult platform through the links in our show notes. For exclusive content, join our Patreon community for a deeper dive into Dr. Donnelly's personal experiences and motivations. Learn more:  https://americanaccessinstitute.org https://mentorship.pameladonnelly.com https://openthegate.usYouTube: @CollegeAdmissionsSimplified Instagram @pamelamdonnelly Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever wondered how growing up between worlds can actually make you see your own culture more clearly? This conversation with Dr. Holly Berkley Fletcher flips the script on what it means to be a missionary kid—not just as someone with wild stories or an identity crisis, but as a kind of secret decoder for understanding white evangelicalism’s grip on American politics. There’s a moment here where a single high school banquet in Kenya, complete with a Confederate flag, opens up a whole hidden history most of us never learned in Sunday school. What if the very things you thought were just “normal” missionary experiences are actually the missing puzzle pieces for understanding the rise of Christian nationalism today? Stick around, because the connections Holly draws between global childhoods and the current culture wars in the U.S. will surprise you—and might even change how you see your own story. In this episode, you will be able to: Explore how white evangelicalism shapes political landscapes and influences key decisions that affect society. Discover the unique role missionary kids play in decoding the complexities of evangelical culture worldwide. Understand the challenges third culture kids face as they navigate identity, belonging, and faith across different worlds. Trace the historical roots of Christian nationalism to see how it impacts modern cultural and political conversations. My special guest is Dr. Holly Berkley Fletcher Holly Berkley Fletcher is an author and historian who really knows what it means to live between worlds. Raised in Kenya as the daughter of Southern Baptist missionaries, Holly attended Rift Valley Academy and grew up balancing both her American roots and the culture around her. Her background extends far beyond childhood, though—she earned a PhD in American Studies, taught at the university level, and later worked as a CIA analyst specializing in Africa. Holly’s life as a third culture kid gives her a distinctive lens on white evangelicalism and Christian nationalism, while her research dives into how missionary kids navigate the complicated push and pull of belonging and identity. She brings a clear-eyed, honest perspective that connects personal experience with bigger questions about faith, power, and the impact of evangelical culture around the globe. The key moments in this episode are:00:11:00 - The Emotional Challenges of MKs: Privilege, Grief, and Sacrifice 00:13:30 - Impact of Missions on White Evangelicalism’s Global Narrative 00:14:05 - The American Influence on Global Evangelicalism and Missions 00:17:00 - Navigating the Complexities of Missionary Identity and Cultural Systems 00:19:01 - Missionaries’ Political Complicity and Moral Accountability 00:23:18 - Practical Ways Missionaries Can Advocate for Justice Amid Political Pressures 00:26:43 - The Disconnect Between American Evangelical Consumers and Missionary Realities 00:27:56 - Origins and Evolution of Christian Nationalism in White Evangelicalism 00:29:06 - Growing Up as a Missionary Kid Abroad and Its Impact 00:33:14 - The Authoritarian Culture of Evangelicalism and Biblical Inerrancy 00:36:40 - Favorite Books and Writers on Missions and Analysis 00:39:19 - Resilience of Missionary Kids and Comparing History Writing to Intelligence Analysis 00:41:07 - Common Stereotypes and Misconceptions About Missionary Kids 00:42:00 - Navigating Trauma and the Danger of Simplistic Narratives 00:43:44 - Complicity and Accountability Within Missionary Communities Order the book The Missionary Kids: Unmasking the Myths of White Evangelicalism by Dr. Holly Berkley Fletcher Join the Patreon community for exclusive content at https://patreon.com/aworldofdifference. Read A Just Mission by Mekdes Haddis for a non-white American perspective on missions. Subscribe to The Bulwark newsletter for insightful commentary (paid subscription recommended for Jonathan V. Last’s Triad newsletter). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Does this sound familiar? You keep hearing that the only way to thrive as a highly sensitive or neurodivergent leader is to just “toughen up” and push through—so you try to fit into that mold, but end up feeling exhausted, misunderstood, and on the edge of burnout. It’s frustrating, right? You’re told your sensitivity holds you back, but all that’s doing is making you question your worth and lose touch with your real strengths. What if embracing your unique wiring is actually the secret to authentic, impactful leadership (and way less burnout)? In this episode, you will be able to: Discover strategies that turn high sensitivity into a leadership superpower for more authentic and effective influence. Unlock the unique advantages neurodivergent leaders bring that boost innovation and team success in unexpected ways. Learn how to recognize early signs and create habits that prevent burnout before it takes hold in neurodivergent professionals. Embrace neurodiversity to build a workplace culture that values different minds and drives inclusive collaboration. Harness the power of empathy to transform leadership style and deepen connections that inspire lasting team loyalty. My special guest is Rachel Radway Rachel Radway is a certified leadership coach, mentor, speaker, and author with 25+ years’ experience in corporate leadership roles in startups, national nonprofits, and global enterprises. Rachel helps high-achieving, highly perceptive and neurodivergent clients learn to lead with confidence, clarity and authenticity—and without burning out. Her book, Perceptive, has received endorsements and rave reviews from leaders from diverse backgrounds across industries. The key moments in this episode are:00:01:13 - Rachel Radway’s Background and Purpose of Her Book "Perceptive" 00:07:33 - The Meaning Behind the Book Title "Perceptive" and Reframing Sensitivity 00:11:34 - Recognizing High Sensitivity and Neurodivergence in Yourself and Others 00:14:41 - Understanding High Sensitivity and Neurodivergence 00:17:00 - Navigating Disclosure and Accommodations in the Workplace 00:20:31 - Leveraging Neurodivergent Strengths in Leadership and Teams 00:24:00 - Creativity, Pattern Recognition, and Inclusion in the Workforce 00:27:05 - The Impact of Global Culture on Sensitivity and Inclusion 00:29:07 - Understanding Empathy and Cultural Sensitivity in Leadership 00:31:35 - The Challenges of Burnout for Highly Sensitive and Neurodivergent Leaders 00:37:26 - Strategies to Prevent Burnout in Neurodivergent and Highly Sensitive Individuals 00:40:47 - Embracing Neurodiversity and Cognitive Diversity in the Workplace 00:42:13 - Leveraging Perceptiveness as a Leadership Superpower 00:43:06 - Unlocking Blue Ocean Strategies Through Perceptive Leadership 00:44:04 - Exclusive Insights: Leaders Unlocking Perceptive Superpowers 00:44:48 - Amplifying Impact: Sharing and Supporting Leadership Growth Listen to the episode featuring Minette Norman to learn more about inclusion at work and psychological safety. Take the online high sensitivity assessment at sensitivityresearch.com to determine if you are highly sensitive. Purchase and read Rachel Radway’s book, Perceptive, for insights on turning sensitivity into a leadership advantage. Access the exclusive Patreon interview for additional behind-the-scenes content with Rachel Radway.Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. If you need professional help, such as therapy: https://www.betterhelp.com/difference If you are looking for your next opportunity, sign up for Lori’s Masterclass on Master the Career Pivot: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot Difference Makers who are podcast listeners get 10% offf with the code: DIFFERENT Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever wondered if your people strategy is actually holding your business back? Yvonne Jackson—who’s helped companies like Apple untangle their most stubborn people challenges—just dropped a truth bomb that might surprise you: equity isn’t a culture problem, it’s a process problem. And the fix? It’s way less complicated (and a lot quicker) than most leaders think. In this episode, you’ll hear how duct-tape solutions and “cute” values might be costing your business more than you realize—and what to do about it. But there’s one unconventional move Yvonne makes that flips the whole high-performing team playbook on its head… Want to know what it is? In this episode, you will be able to: Discover how crafting a future of work strategy can transform your leadership and keep your team ahead in a fast-changing world. Unlock the secrets to building high-performing teams that stay motivated and aligned with your business goals. Understand why treating equity as a process problem can shift your entire approach to creating a fair workplace. Learn how to operationalize equity in talent management to drive real, measurable change in your organization. Master succession planning techniques that fuel sustainable business growth and prepare your team for what’s next. My special guest is Yvonne Jackson Yvonne Jackson is an experienced business strategist specializing in organizational transformation, talent management, and operational equity. She has worked with major companies such as Apple and Oscar Health, where she led initiatives to align people strategies with core business objectives. Yvonne’s expertise includes business process reengineering and identifying process-driven solutions to equity challenges, making her a sought-after advisor for organizations aiming to build high-performing, equitable teams. Her academic background spans the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, as well as international study in Thailand and Milan, giving her a broad perspective on leadership and team dynamics. As the founder of her own leadership consultancy, Yvonne combines practical experience with a global outlook, focusing on sustainable succession planning and the integration of equity into everyday business operations. The key moments in this episode are:00:02:43 - Yvonne Jackson’s Background and Cross-Cultural Experiences 00:07:03 - Transitioning from DEI to Process-Driven Equity and Leadership 00:10:23 - Aligning Business Priorities with Equity for Sustainable Impact 00:12:53 - Operationalizing Equity through Process Improvement and Leadership Alignment 00:13:26 - Leveraging Tech and Process Reengineering in Talent Management 00:14:39 - Addressing Organizational Growth Challenges and Realignment Needs 00:17:19 - The Cost of Misalignment and Importance of Metrics in DEI 00:21:48 - Supporting Overwhelmed Leaders to Gain Strategic Clarity 00:25:32 - Revaluing Company Core Values as Decision-Making Tools 00:27:15 - Redesigning Organizational Values for Modern Equity and Decision-Making 00:31:09 - Embracing AI to Identify Workflow Inefficiencies and Drive Strategy 00:32:40 - Recommended Leadership Reading: The Courage to Be Disliked 00:34:07 - Prioritizing Sleep as a Key Productivity Ritual for Leaders 00:36:39 - Changing the World by Shifting Social Media Narratives 00:40:21 - Operationalizing Equity and Centering Humanity in the Future of Work Connect with Yvonne Jackson and her work by visiting her website or finding her on LinkedIn. Get 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp by visiting www.betterhelp.com/difference. Join the Master the Career Pivot course at www.loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot 10% off with the code: DIFFERENT Rate and review the podcast by tapping 5 stars and leaving a quick review to help more difference makers find the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever wondered what really happens when you bring together people from over a hundred countries—all tuning in for one simple reason: to embrace their differences and actually change the world? Five years ago, Lori was just longing for connection during lockdown, learning podcasting on the fly. Now, this community has quietly become a global experience, sparking conversations that ripple into boardrooms, classrooms, and living rooms everywhere. But there’s one lesson Lori never expected to learn along the way—and it’s something that could totally reframe how you see your own difference. Ready to find out what it is? In this episode, you will be able to: Discover how launching a podcast during challenging times can unlock new opportunities for authentic connection and leadership growth. Explore ways to use podcasting as a powerful tool to create inclusive spaces that amplify diverse voices and foster real community. Understand the transformative power of personal stories in shaping leadership styles that inspire trust and meaningful change. "Inclusion is not just some initiative. It's a mindset and a daily choice that shapes the future of work, leadership, and human connection." - Lori Adams-Brown The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Celebrating Five Years of A World of Difference Podcast 00:04:42 - The Vision and Impact Behind the Podcast 00:07:43 - Lessons Learned on Inclusion, Leadership, and Teamwork 00:09:42 - Looking Ahead: The Future Season and Community Engagement "Let your difference shine as your differentiator. The world needs what only you can bring to the table." - Lori Adams-Brown Send this episode to five people in your text threads, Slack channel, or group chat who care about making the world better. Hit the follow button on the podcast so you don't miss the next conversation. Scroll down, tap five stars, and leave a quick review for the podcast. Get 10% off your first month of therapy at www.betterhelp.com/difference. Join the Master the Career Pivot course at LoriAdamsBrown.com/CareerPivot. Difference Makers who are podcast listeners get 10% offf with the code: DIFFERENT "Change is a team sport, and the best solutions emerge when everyone has a seat and a say." - Lori Adams-Brown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Does this sound familiar? You’ve been told to just keep grinding it out in your current job until the “right” opportunity magically appears, but all that’s gotten you is more stress, second-guessing, and the nagging feeling you’re wasting your potential. It sucks watching your energy drain away while your values get sidelined and you wonder if you’ll ever feel truly fulfilled at work. You deserve a career that’s actually aligned with who you are and the impact you want to make. Let’s talk about how to break out of that cycle and make values-driven pivots with confidence. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover how navigating career transitions with purpose can unlock clarity and confidence for your next meaningful move. Learn to build a mission-driven organizational culture that inspires teams and drives lasting impact. Uncover effective strategies for overcoming burnout in leadership to sustain your passion and performance. Explore the powerful connection between personal fulfillment and professional success to elevate your career satisfaction. Embrace the role of culture and inclusion in innovative leadership to foster creativity and breakthrough solutions. My special guest is Dr. Esther Zeledón Dr. Esther Zeledón is a globally recognized life and leadership coach, bestselling author, and former U.S. diplomat. With a Ph.D. from UC Berkeley and decades of impact in international development, she’s worked with governments, NGOs, and global corporations alike. Featured on Univision, Ticker News, Medium, and top 1–5% podcasts, Dr. Z empowers leaders to unlock their limitless potential through a powerful blend of neuroscience, strategy, and soulful insight. The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Introduction to Trauma-Informed Leadership and Global Impact 00:04:19 - Reflections on Venezuelan Elections and the Importance of Collective Action 00:09:32 - U.S. Political Unity and Leadership Transition Insights 00:13:30 - Challenges and Opportunities in Diverse Political Coalitions 00:03:46 - Introducing Dr. Esther Zeledón: Strategist, Scientist, and Global Leadership Coach 00:14:43 - Collective Action and Individual Clarity for Social Change 00:18:20 - Empowering Communities Through Shared Vision and Ownership 00:21:33 - Challenging Scarcity Mentality in Immigration Narratives 00:24:50 - The Impact of Scarcity vs. Abundance Mindsets on Society 00:26:57 - Early Social Conditioning Shapes Scarcity or Abundance Mindsets 00:27:55 - Overcoming Scarcity Mindset and Embracing Abundance 00:29:23 - Immigration Realities and the Importance of Inner Work 00:32:43 - Personal Immigration Story and Access to Healthcare 00:35:46 - Navigating Systems, Networks, and Immigrant Challenges 00:38:01 - Bilingualism, Discrimination, and Overcoming Educational Barriers 00:40:36 - Overcoming Bias and Authenticity in Leadership 00:42:08 - Challenging Leadership Stereotypes and the Need for DEI Awareness 00:44:11 - Writing "Creating Your Limitless Life" to Inspire and Empower 00:48:02 - Navigating Scarcity Mindset and Building Empathy for Change 00:50:56 - Resources for Personal Growth and Creating a Limitless Life Send this episode to five people who care about making the world better. Tap 5 stars, and leave a quick review for the podcast. Join the Master the Career Pivot course at LoriAdamsBrown.com/CareerPivot. (Use the code: Different to get 10% off.) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Does this sound familiar? You’ve been told to just slap some “core values” up on the wall and trust that your executive team will magically become models of integrity. But all that’s done is leave you frustrated, watching the same old drama play out—burnout, trust issues, and a culture that feels more performative than authentic. If you’re tired of seeing leaders talk the talk but never walk the walk, you’re definitely not alone. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover how integrity in executive leadership transforms decision-making and builds lasting trust within your organization. Uncover the profound impact leadership integrity has on driving business success and shaping company reputation. Learn actionable strategies to embed ethical leadership deeply into your company culture for sustainable growth. Explore why transparency and accountability are game-changers in creating credible and resilient leadership teams. Understand how addressing burnout and practicing empathy can revitalize leaders and foster healthier work environments. The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Introduction and Invitation to Subscribe for Trauma-Informed Leadership Insights 00:01:39 - The Urgency of Integrity as an Executive Discipline in 2025 00:03:10 - The Neuroscience of Burnout and Its Impact on Leadership Integrity 00:05:10 - The Integrity Framework for Building Trustworthy Leadership Cultures 00:08:38 - Empowering Leaders to Model Integrity and Make Bold Career Moves "Integrity isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s also good strategy; it’s the foundation that builds trust, resilience, and lasting success in any organization." - Lori Adams-Brown Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube Substack FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon (for exclusive episodes just for Difference Makers) Bluesky TikTok Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. If you need professional help, such as therapy: https://www.betterhelp.com/difference If you are looking for your next opportunity, sign up for Lori’s Masterclass on Master the Career Pivot: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You won't believe how silence impacts leadership and team dynamics in the workplace. The unexpected truth about unlearning silence will leave you in awe. From cultural differences to the power dynamics, this conversation will challenge everything you thought you knew. Get ready to dive into a world of difference and discover the transformative power of reclaiming your voice. Are you ready to uncover the hidden impact of silence in your professional life? Stay tuned for a revelation that will change the way you lead and communicate. In this episode, you will be able to: Embracing Open Dialogue: Discover the power of unlearning workplace silence to foster a more inclusive and communicative team environment. Navigating Cultural Differences: Learn how cultural diversity influences communication in the workplace and gain insights into effective cross-cultural collaboration. Enhancing Team Communication: Uncover actionable strategies to boost team communication and productivity, leading to smoother workflows and stronger team cohesion. Leadership's Role in Open Dialogue: Explore the crucial role of leadership in fostering open dialogue and creating an environment where diverse voices are heard and valued. Leveraging Diversity for Problem-Solving: Understand the benefits of diversity and inclusion in problem-solving, and how embracing different perspectives can lead to more innovative solutions. My special guest is Elaine Lin Hering Elaine Lin Hering, author of "Unlearning Silence," brings a refreshing and insightful perspective to the topic of unlearning silence in the workplace. With a background in negotiation skills and cross-cultural experiences, Elaine delves into the nuances of communication, cultural differences, and the impact of silence on individuals and teams. Her personal journey as the youngest daughter of an immigrant family from Taiwan to the United States, and her professional expertise in teaching negotiation skills across industries, provide a rich foundation for her valuable insights. Through her engaging and thought-provoking approach, Elaine offers practical strategies for fostering open dialogue, enhancing team communication, and embracing the benefits of diversity and inclusion in problem-solving. The key moments in this episode are:00:01:05 - Importance of Speaking Up 00:03:22 - Origin Stories and Cultural Background 00:06:47 - Defining Silence 00:13:00 - Importance of Active Listening 00:14:41 - Understanding Voice 00:19:18 - Learning Silence 00:23:41 - Impact of Organizational Silence 00:24:24 - Encouraging Voice 00:28:12 - The Power of Different Perspectives 00:28:53 - Recognizing the Role of Silence 00:30:26 - Three Levers for Voice 00:34:19 - Cross-Cultural Communication 00:39:12 - Observing Silence in Teams 00:42:40 - Encouraging Action 00:43:12 - Your Voice Matters 00:43:27 - Call to Action Share this episode with five people who care about making the world better. Text it to them or share it in your group chat to spread the message of unlearning silence and making a difference. Leave a 5-star review and a quick comment to let us know how this episode made a difference for you. Your words help the show reach more difference makers and amplify the impact of the conversation. Grab a copy of Elaine Lin Hering's book, Unlearning Silence, and dive into the insights and strategies for reclaiming your voice and creating a more inclusive and empowering environment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Unexpectedly, trauma-informed leadership skills are not just for disaster relief workers, they're crucial for leaders in any workplace. Dive into this podcast to uncover the surprising stories from a world-renowned trauma therapist who translated pain into understanding and despair into dignity. Hear how trauma manifests in the body and why creating a psychologically safe environment isn't just a nice-to-have, it's essential for high performance. Plus, get insights on navigating workplace cultural conflict and becoming a change agent inside organizations. This isn't your typical leadership advice – it's a deep dive into the unexpected intersection of trauma, neuroscience, and leadership. Stay tuned to discover how trauma-informed leadership isn't just a buzzword but the key to leading differently in today's challenging world. In this episode, you will be able to: Learn how trauma-informed leadership skills can transform your team's well-being and productivity. Master the art of navigating workplace cultural conflict for a more harmonious and inclusive environment. Discover the secrets to creating psychological safety at work for enhanced employee well-being and engagement. Understand the effects of global unrest on leadership and how to navigate them successfully. Explore effective strategies for overcoming employee burnout and fostering a resilient workforce. The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Introduction and Invitation to Subscribe 00:02:37 - The Importance of Trauma-Informed Leadership 00:09:02 - Neuroscience and Psychological Safety 00:10:35 - Insights from Catherine Matisse 00:13:17 - Leading with Curiosity and Humanity 00:15:02 - Advocating for Change 00:15:36 - The Power of Therapy 00:16:39 - Career Satisfaction 00:17:54 - Overcoming Challenges 🔗 Download the free guide: 3 Strategies for Trauma-Informed Leadership 📖 Pre-order Catherine Mattice’s book 🎧 Listen to the episode featuring Catherine Mattice 💼 Learn about trauma-informed executive coaching with Lori Subscribe to A World of Difference podcast and check out the link in the show notes for the free guide Three Strategies for Trauma Informed Leadership at loriadamsbrown.substack.com. Share the episode with five people in your text threads, slack channel, or group chat who care about making the world better. Hit the follow button to not miss the next conversation and scroll down to tap 5 stars and leave a quick review to help the show reach more difference makers. Get 10% off your first month of online therapy at www.betterhelp.com/difference to get matched with a licensed therapist based on your unique needs. Join the Master the Career Pivot course at loriadamsbrown.com/career-pivot to make bold, values-aligned career moves without losing yourself in the process. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Uncover the unexpected! Dive into a conversation that redefines leadership and human connection, challenging the way we view stress and emotional intelligence. Join us as we unravel the surprising truth about building confidence and embracing the power of mind, body, and spirit. Get ready to be seen, energized, and inspired in ways you never imagined. Don't miss out on this eye-opening journey of self-discovery and growth. Stay tuned for the big reveal. In this episode, you will be able to: Develop effective leadership skills through emotional intelligence. Manage stress effectively in high-pressure jobs. Experience the benefits of coaching for personal growth. Integrate mind, body, and spirit for success. Build confidence from the inside out. My special guest is Stephanie Simpson Stephanie Simpson, a professional dancer turned executive coach based in New York City, brings a unique perspective to leadership development. With a background in performing arts, Stephanie emphasizes the integration of mind, body, and spirit for success. Her coaching focuses on emotional intelligence, stress management, and building confidence from the inside out. Through her lived experiences and expertise, Stephanie offers valuable insights into the practical application of emotional intelligence in leadership, making her a compelling guest for this episode. The key moments in this episode are:00:04:08 - Introduction to Emotional Intelligence 00:07:07 - Developing Emotional Intelligence 00:12:47 - The Universality of Emotions 00:13:26 - Gender Stereotypes and Emotional Expression 00:14:23 - Emotional Expression and Gender Generalizations 00:16:20 - Importance of Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace 00:17:31 - Building Confidence from the Inside Out 00:23:42 - Applying Arts Background to Group Development 00:26:38 - Building Confidence and Empowerment 00:27:53 - Shifting Our Relationship with Stress 00:33:20 - Recognizing Good Stress for Personal Growth 00:35:20 - Leading Your Own Life 00:39:08 - Overcoming Unwritten Rules 00:39:24 - Reconnecting with the Body and Intuition in Leadership 00:41:50 - Embracing Human-Centered Leadership in the Future of Work 00:45:28 - Life-Changing Books and Morning Routines 00:46:27 - Power of Music for a Powerful Mindset 00:48:25 - Connecting with Stephanie 00:52:47 - Getting Unstuck and Taking Action Subscribe, rate, and share the podcast A World of Difference with five people who need it too. Help build a community of people who believe in empathy, equity, kindness, and the power of listening to those who are different from us. Join the Difference Makers community on Patreon for unfiltered behind-the-scenes conversations and support in doing the hard, beautiful work of becoming who you're meant to be. Post a clip of this episode, tagging the show on social media. You never know who needs this story today. Rate and review the podcast to help more people find the space and spread the message of empathy, equity, kindness, and the power of listening to those who are different from us. Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube Substack FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon (for exclusive episodes just for Difference Makers) Bluesky TikTok Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with 5 friends who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. If you need professional help, such as therapy: https://www.betterhelp.com/difference If you are looking for your next opportunity, sign up for Lori’s Masterclass on Master the Career Pivot: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey difference makers! Are you tired of feeling like your work environment is draining and uninspiring? Have you been told to just push harder and things will get better, only to find yourself feeling more checked out and unfulfilled? It's time to stop the cycle of outdated leadership and start fostering a culture of empathy and inclusivity in your organization. Let's talk about how to create a psychologically safe work environment where everyone feels valued and can thrive. Because the leaders who prioritize inclusivity are the ones who will truly thrive in the future. Are you ready to make a difference? In this episode, you will be able to: Cultivate a Safe and Supportive Workplace Culture: Learn how to foster an environment where every team member feels valued and respected. Lead with Empathy and Inclusion: Discover the power of leading with empathy and creating an inclusive environment that brings out the best in your team. Master Effective Meeting Management: Uncover strategies to streamline meetings and make them more productive for everyone involved. Combat Workplace Bullying: Understand the impact of workplace bullying on company culture and how to address and prevent it. Embrace Neurodiversity in Leadership: Explore the benefits of embracing neurodiversity in leadership and how it can drive innovation and success. My special guest is ⁠Minette Norman⁠ Minette Norman is an award-winning author, speaker, and leadership consultant who previously spent decades leading global technical teams in the Silicon Valley software industry and realized that we needed a new, more human model of leadership. As the author of The Boldly Inclusive Leader and the co-author of The Psychological Safety Playbook, Minette is committed to helping leaders unleash the full potential of the people in their organizations.Minette knows that when leaders create inclusive team cultures, performance soars, breakthroughs emerge, and innovation accelerates. Her most recent position before starting her consultancy was as Vice President of Engineering Practice at Autodesk. Responsible for influencing more than 3,500 engineers around the globe, she focused on state-of-the-art engineering practices while nurturing a collaborative and inclusive culture.Named in 2017 as one of the “Most Influential Women in Bay Area Business” by the San Francisco Business Times and as “Business Role Model of the Year” in the 2018 Women in IT/Silicon Valley Awards, Minette is a recognized leader with a unique perspective. The key moments in this episode are:00:02:22 - Creating Safe and Inclusive Leadership 00:09:26 - Link Between Psychological Safety and Inclusive Culture 00:11:46 - Navigating Language and Real Work of Inclusion 00:12:39 - Embracing Differences and Inclusivity 00:14:26 - The Importance of Meetings 00:16:31 - Harnessing Collective Genius 00:21:01 - Overcoming Bias in Promotions 00:23:27 - The Power of Listening 00:24:58 - Women in Leadership 00:25:32 - Leaving the Tech Industry 00:26:26 - Workplace Bullying 00:27:12 - Starting a Business 00:28:52 - Impact of Workplace Bullying 00:37:11 - The Impact of Fear-based Leadership in Organizations 00:37:43 - The Influence of Fear and Greed in Leadership 00:38:14 - Neuroscience Research and Social Exclusion 00:40:04 - The Need for Social Science in Leadership Share the show with five people who need it too. Join the difference makers ⁠Patreon⁠ community for exclusive bonus content, including an interview with Minette Norman where she gets vulnerable and real about a leadership failure that changed everything for her. Hit subscribe, drop a ⁠rating and review⁠. 5 stars if you think we did a great job and help more difference makers find the show. Check out the Mastering the Career Pivot masterclass at ⁠loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot⁠ Get 10% off your first month of online therapy at ⁠betterhelp.com/difference⁠. Connect with us: ⁠https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you heard these myths about toxic work environments? 1. "It's just part of the job, suck it up." 2. "If you speak up, you'll be seen as a troublemaker." 3. "You're overreacting, it's not that bad." I'll share the truth about these toxic workplace myths, but trust me, you'll want to stick around for the real strategies. In this episode, you will be able to: Mastering strategies for creating psychological safety at work can transform team dynamics and boost productivity. Navigating toxic work environments requires understanding the impact on employee well-being and organizational success. Identifying workplace bullying behaviors empowers leaders to foster a healthier and more inclusive work culture. Understanding the impact of abrasive leaders on team health is crucial for cultivating a positive and supportive work environment. Building healthier team dynamics in the workplace can lead to increased collaboration, engagement, and overall job satisfaction. My special guest is Catherine Mattice Catherine Mattice, MA, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, is the founder/CEO of Civility Partners, an organizational development firm focused on helping organizations create respectful workplace cultures and specializing in turning around toxic cultures. Civility Partners’ clients range from Fortune 500's to small businesses across many industries. Catherine is a TEDx speaker and an HR thought-leader who has appeared in such venues as USA Today, Bloomberg, CNN, NPR, and many other national news outlets as an expert. She’s an award-winning speaker, author and blogger, and has 50+ courses reaching global audiences on LinkedIn Learning. Catherine’s award-winning book, BACK OFF! Your Kick-Ass Guide to Ending Bullying at Work, was hailed by international leadership-guru, Ken Blanchard, as, “the most comprehensive and valuable handbook on the topic.” Her latest book is Navigating Toxic Work Environments For Dummies (Wiley). The key moments in this episode are:00:02:19 - Recognizing Toxic Behaviors in the Workplace 00:08:00 - Overcoming Gaslighting and Competence Questioning 00:10:39 - Shifting Toxic Culture in Organizations 00:13:22 - Misalignment of Organizational Values 00:02:55 - Impactful Conversation with Kathryn Matthias 00:13:54 - Challenging Narratives and Toxic Work Environments 00:15:33 - Dangers of Abrasive Leadership 00:19:37 - Perception and Behavior Change 00:23:25 - Impact of Workplace Bullying 00:25:37 - Uncovering Blind Spots in Organizations 00:27:02 - The Purpose of Core Values 00:29:02 - The Cost of Toxic Behavior 00:32:23 - The Importance of Self-Awareness 00:37:00 - Reimagining HR for Culture Management 00:38:56 - Preparing for Keynotes and Leadership 00:40:01 - Evolution of Workplace Trends 00:41:37 - Humanizing the Workplace 00:42:24 - Supporting Victims of Workplace Bullying 00:44:32 - Encouraging Empathy and Kindness Subscribe, rate, and share the show with five people to spread the message of empathy, equity, and kindness. Help build a community of people who believe in listening to those who are different from us. Join the Patreon community, Difference Makers, for behind-the-scenes content, extra questions, and a community that gets it. Hop on Substack for deeper conversations and thoughts, where the deeper conversations happen. Rate and review the show to provide feedback and shape the community. Share what challenges you are facing at work and what you would love to hear more of on the podcast. Check out the Mastering the Career Pivot masterclass to take control of your career pivot with confidence and land a job you love. Gain access to video training, self-paced exercises, a free career pivot guide, and the Pivot Package for a clear, actionable roadmap to make career moves. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Want to know the surprising truth about creating a workplace culture that actually works? Garry Ridge just shattered every excuse and showed us why every dumbass has what it takes to lead with courage, humility, and heart. And here's the kicker - he's got the blueprint for building a tribe where people feel safe, valued, and ready to innovate. Get ready to be inspired, because this is not your typical leadership advice. It's time to stop waiting for permission and start making a difference in your workplace. Sound intriguing? Keep listening to find out how your work culture can be a place of thriving. In this episode, you will be able to: Build Psychological Safety in Your Workplace: Learn how to foster an environment where every team member feels valued and comfortable contributing their ideas. Embrace Leadership Lessons from Garry Ridge: Discover actionable insights from Garry Ridge that can transform your approach to leadership and inspire your team. Create a Tribal Culture at Work: Uncover the secrets to cultivating a strong sense of community and belonging within your organization. Emphasize the Importance of Empathy in Leadership: Explore the powerful impact of empathy in leadership and how it can elevate your team dynamics. Implement Strategies for High Employee Engagement: Uncover effective tactics to boost employee engagement and create a more fulfilling work environment for your team. My special guest is ⁠Garry Ridge⁠ Garry Ridge is the Chairman Emeritus of WD-40 Company, where he spent 25 years as CEO, building a culture of trust, belonging, and engagement that drove both business success and human flourishing. Now, as The Culture Coach and founder of ⁠The Learning Momen⁠t, he shares his wisdom with leaders worldwide, helping them create workplaces where people feel safe, valued, and inspired.Named one of the Top 10 Most Admired CEOs in the World by Inc. Magazine and a Top 30 Global Guru in Organizational Culture, Garry is also an executive coach, adjunct professor, and co-author of Helping People Win at Work with Ken Blanchard. His latest book, ⁠Any Dumb-Ass Can Do It⁠, promises to challenge and inspire leaders to build cultures of learning and belonging. The key moments in this episode are:00:04:11 - The Bold Title of Garry's Book 00:08:33 - Creating a Safe Environment for Learning 00:10:41 - The Power of Tribal Culture 00:14:12 - The Future of Work and People-Centered Culture 00:18:37 - Workplace Culture and Its Impact Beyond the Office 00:23:22 - Talent Development and Engagement Strategy 00:26:20 - Shifting Mindset for a People-Centered Culture 00:28:19 - Importance of Self-Awareness in Leadership 00:28:45 - The Importance of Psychological Safety in Leadership 00:30:14 - Empathy and Understanding in Leadership During COVID 00:34:31 - Learning from Fijian Tribal Leaders 00:39:53 - Grounding Practices for Leadership 00:42:11 - Finding Joy in Purpose 00:42:24 - Paying It Forward 00:42:44 - Life's a Gift 00:43:26 - Human-Centered Leadership Check out Garry Ridge's book ⁠Any Dumbass Can Do It⁠ and consider purchasing a copy to gain insights into leadership, psychological safety, growth mindset, and creating a culture of belonging. Be different. Make a difference. Connect with us: ⁠https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com⁠ ⁠Patreon⁠ (for exclusive episodes just for Difference Makers) Make a difference: Subscribe to the podcast, ⁠leave a review⁠, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. Sponsors: If you need professional help, such as therapy: ⁠https://www.betterhelp.com/difference⁠ If you are looking for your next opportunity, sign up for Lori’s Masterclass on Master the Career Pivot: ⁠https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you heard these myths about women in STEM? Myth 1: Women leave STEM careers because they prioritize family over work. Myth 2: Women lack the skills and aptitude for STEM fields. Myth 3: Women don't want leadership roles in STEM. But wait, I've got the truth that's going to blow your mind. Stay tuned to uncover the reality behind these myths and discover the game-changing strategies for retaining and empowering women in STEM. Get ready for a paradigm shift. In this episode, you will be able to: Mastering the art of retaining women in STEM careers. Unveiling the impact of workplace culture on STEM retention. Empowering with strategies for increasing female leadership in STEM. Confronting gender bias in corporate environments. Navigating the transition from corporate to co-founder in STEM. My special guest is Andrea Mohamed Andrea Mohamed is the Co-Founder and COO of QuantumBloom, a company dedicated to helping employers retain early-career women in STEM fields. Previously, as VP of Strategy, Innovation, Marketing and Communications at for a science and research organization, she drove growth strategies that increased revenue from $400M to $750M. She also led a 3,000-person organizational transformation and managed a $10M innovation portfolio. Andrea is known for creating cultures where authenticity, accountability, and adaptability thrive. She serves on the Semiconductor Research Corporation's Workforce Advisory Board; speaks frequently on the topics of STEM, women, and innovation; and is a NC Women in Business Awardee. The key moments in this episode are:00:02:11 - "Challenges in STEM" 00:04:09 - "Andrea's Insights on STEM Retention" 00:11:43 - "Reframing Imposter Syndrome" 00:12:50 - Impact of external signals on women 00:14:49 - Responsibility of senior women leaders 00:19:37 - Risk of inaction and the need for courage 00:21:51 - Challenging societal norms and expectations 00:24:58 - Transition from corporate America to Quantum Bloom 00:26:00 - Creating a Digital Marketing Machine 00:27:03 - Striving for Success in Corporate America 00:29:00 - Transitioning to Entrepreneurship 00:32:03 - Gender Disparities in Corporate Promotions 00:38:37 - Self-Worth and Empowerment 00:39:34 - Breaking Free from Gender Socialization 00:40:13 - Gender Bias in Performance Reviews 00:41:52 - Gender-based Privilege and Allyship Subscribe, rate, and share the show with five people who need it too. Share this episode to keep the conversation going and help reach more people who are ready to make a difference. Reach out to Andrea Mohamed on LinkedIn to connect and continue the conversation about women in STEM, leadership, and creating a groundswell of women prepared to lead and thrive authentically. Check out Quantum Bloom at quantumbloom.com to learn more about their mission to revolutionize women's retention in STEM and explore opportunities for collaboration or support. Join the Mastering the Career Pivot masterclass at loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot to take control of your career pivot with confidence and land a job you actually love. Explore Better Help online therapy at betterhelp.com/difference to get 10% off your first month and access licensed therapy that meets you wherever you are. Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube Substack FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon (for exclusive episodes just for Difference Makers) Bluesky TikTok Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. If you need professional help, such as therapy: https://www.betterhelp.com/difference If you are looking for your next opportunity, sign up for Lori’s Masterclass on Master the Career Pivot: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you heard these common myths about impactful careers? Myth 1: You have to choose between making money and making a difference. Myth 2: Internships are only beneficial in the early stages of your career. Myth 3: Networking is overrated in the job search. I'll reveal the truth behind these myths, but trust me, it's not what you think. Stay tuned for a mind-blowing reality check. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover how to align your income with real-world impact for a purposeful career. Uncover effective strategies for pivoting into a meaningful and fulfilling career path. Explore the vital importance of networking to elevate your job search and career prospects. Unlock the benefits of internships for gaining valuable experience and kickstarting your career. Learn how to harmonize your personal values with professional success for a more fulfilling work life. My special guest is Georgi Enthoven Georgi Enthoven is a globally recognized speaker, advisor, and debut author of Work That’s Worth It: The Ambitious Professional’s Guide for a High-Impact, High-Reward Career. Written for purpose-driven professionals aged 25–35, her book is a roadmap for aligning work with personal values and creating careers that merge environmental and social impact with professional growth. A graduate of UC Berkeley and Harvard Business School (MBA), Georgi’s mission is to help the next generation transform their careers into sources of fulfillment, connection, and positive change. With experience spanning global entrepreneurship, education, and impact-focused initiatives, Georgi offers fresh, actionable insights for anyone ready to build a career that truly matters. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introducing "Work that's Worth it" 00:05:24 - Making 90,000 Hours Count 00:07:34 - Becoming a Disruptor for Good 00:10:34 - Embracing Change in Perimenopausal Years 00:12:17 - Self-Discovery and Authenticity 00:13:14 - Normalizing Mental Health Awareness 00:13:50 - Impact of Geopolitical Shifts 00:14:52 - Aligning Income with Impact 00:16:09 - Combining Income and Impact Stories 00:23:41 - Personal Values and Compensation 00:26:07 - Navigating Career Crossroads 00:27:28 - Overcoming Career Pressures 00:29:22 - Redefining Success 00:30:58 - Navigating Workplace Dynamics 00:35:33 - Finding Opportunities 00:39:13 - Connecting Generations and Revolutionary Disruption Join the conversation over on Patreon to access exclusive content, including an in-depth Q&A with Georgi Enthoven about this episode. You can watch the video and ask any questions you have about the impact of this conversation. Share this episode with five people who need to hear it. Text it to a friend who's stuck in a job that doesn't light them up, or post it on your social media to bring someone else into this movement. Take 30 seconds to rate and review this podcast. Your small act of leaving a review helps others find the show and join the community. If you've been feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just not yourself lately, consider trying BetterHelp, an online therapy service that provides licensed professional support from the comfort of your own home. As a listener of A World of Difference, you get 10% off your first month. Visit https://www.betterhelp.com/difference to get started today. Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube Substack FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon (for exclusive episodes just for Difference Makers) Bluesky TikTok Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. If you are looking for your next opportunity, sign up for Lori’s Masterclass on Master the Career Pivot: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're feeling like you're ready for that corporate board seat but keep getting overlooked, then you are not alone! It's frustrating to see others land those opportunities while you're left wondering what's holding you back. Maybe you've been networking, applying for positions, or even serving on non-gov committees, but still not seeing the results you want. It's time to break free from the cycle of missed opportunities and finally get the recognition and opportunities you deserve. Let's unravel the mystery and unlock those boardroom doors together! Dr. Keith D. Dorsey is a seasoned board member, researcher, and speaker specializing in guiding executives toward corporate board service. His book, The Boardroom Journey, offers actionable strategies for leaders seeking their first or next corporate board seat. Keith’s insights have been featured in leading publications, including Harvard Business Review, MIT Sloan Management Review, Directors & Boards, Forbes, and Fast Company, where he writes extensively on leadership, governance, and board effectiveness. Keith is a member of the Private Directors Association and National Association of Corporate Directors Certified Director and was recognized as an honoree of the 2023 NACD Directorship 100TM, an annual recognition of 100 leading corporate directors and corporate governance experts who impact boardroom practices and performance. He serves as a board member at Vimly Benefit Solutions, a private technology and third-party administration company; Continu, a private learning management system SaaS company; Pepperdine University’s Graziadio Business School, Pacific Crest Trail Association; and the Chair of the City of La Quinta’s Financial Advisory Commission. Former Board Member, Orion Talent is a talent acquisition firm. Keith holds a Doctorate in Organizational Change and Leadership from the University of Southern California. The key moments in this episode are:00:00:02 - Introduction to A World of Difference Podcast 00:00:49 - Importance of Cognitive Diversity in Boardrooms 00:01:23 - The Boardroom Journey for Women 00:02:28 - Overcoming Barriers to Board Service 00:03:51 - Landing a Board Position 00:16:19 - The Power of Networking and Visibility 00:18:44 - Unconscious Bias and Gender Disparities 00:23:18 - Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion 00:26:11 - Systemic Challenges and Building Stronger Pipelines 00:31:54 - Breaking Gender Narratives in Boardrooms 00:32:27 - Assessing Board Member Competencies 00:35:07 - Strategic Interviewing for Board Positions 00:36:21 - The Importance of Strategic Thinking in Board Interviews 00:38:04 - Embracing Multiple Perspectives in Board Appointments Share this episode with five people in your network who could benefit from the insights and strategies shared in this conversation. Start a conversation with them about leadership and making a difference together. Purchase Dr. Keith D. Dorsey's book The Boardroom Journey to gain valuable insights and strategies for securing a corporate board seat or expanding board opportunities for women. The book provides practical advice and actionable steps for aspiring board members. Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube Substack FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon (for exclusive episodes just for Difference Makers) Bluesky TikTok Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. If you need professional help, such as therapy: https://www.betterhelp.com/difference If you are looking for your next opportunity, sign up for Lori’s Masterclass on Master the Career Pivot: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover the unexpected journey of a powerhouse woman who defied cultural norms, navigated loss, and redefined success. From smashing glass ceilings in the biopharmaceutical world to overcoming the sudden death of her beloved husband, Samina Bari's story is a masterclass in resilience and self-discovery. But here's the twist: in the wake of personal tragedy, she's now on a mission to revolutionize how we approach grief and loss. Her forthcoming book promises a practical and profoundly insightful handbook on navigating spousal death, filling a void in the conversation around grief and mortality. Stay tuned as Samina's wisdom and compassion light a fire in your soul, proving that even in the face of adversity, it's possible to lead with love and make a powerful difference. Are you ready to be inspired? Samina Bari is a force to be reckoned with in the biopharmaceutical industry, with over three decades of experience smashing glass ceilings and facilitating high-stakes deals worth $40 billion. As a first-generation American and a woman of color, she has navigated significant adversity and emerged as a trailblazer, mentor, and advocate for women's empowerment. Samina's unwavering courage, resilience, and commitment to authenticity make her a true powerhouse, and her dedication to redefining success and creating space for others to rise is truly inspiring. Her journey is a testament to the transformative power of perseverance and self-belief. This episode promises a candid and enriching conversation that will resonate with anyone looking to overcome obstacles, cultivate resilience, and make impactful career pivots. Overcoming adversity as a woman in business: Unleash your potential and conquer challenges with resilience and determination. Navigating grief and loss in life: Harness the power to turn pain into purpose and find strength amidst adversity. The role of mentorship in female empowerment: Discover the transformational impact of guidance and support on your entrepreneurial journey. Cultivating resilience and self-love: Embrace inner strength and confidence to thrive in the face of adversity. Making career pivots with confidence: Master the art of transitioning with courage and conviction in your professional pursuits. The key moments in this episode are:00:00:02 - Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:01:27 - Samina's Journey and Resilience 00:03:40 - Lessons in Redefining Success 00:07:56 - Empowering Women to Pursue Their Dreams 00:12:39 - Trusting Your Instincts 00:13:52 - Embracing Authenticity 00:16:16 - Leadership Mindset 00:18:40 - Power of Community 00:21:52 - Role Models and Leadership 00:23:01 - Navigating Identity and Values 00:26:53 - Choosing the Difficult Path 00:27:55 - Facing Loss and Moving Forward 00:32:28 - Writing a Handbook on Grief 00:35:03 - Preparing for End-of-Life Planning 00:39:35 - Making a Difference 00:39:53 - Self-Care and Impact 00:40:11 - Life's Challenges 00:40:21 - Benefits of Betterhelp 00:40:42 - Take the First Step Subscribe to the podcast and leave a review to help spread the word and support the community's growth. Share this episode with someone who might need to hear it, to help spread the message and impact more lives. Buy Samina's book I Can, I Will, and I Did and share your thoughts on it, as it may bring healing, hope, or a new perspective. Invest in women-owned businesses, aligning your financial decisions with your values and supporting women's empowerment. Seek professional support from BetterHelp, an online therapy platform, to get the help you need for processing life challenges, setting boundaries, and getting unstuck. Use the code difference for 10% off your first month. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're feeling the frustration of trying to lead in a disconnected workplace, where external messaging takes priority over internal communication, and silence creates fear and rumors, then you are not alone! Leaders at all levels in organizations often struggle with prioritizing communication to connect with their teams and provide emotional clarity during high-stress moments. In this episode, you will be able to: Mastering internal communication for a harmonious workplace. Elevating leadership communication to inspire and motivate teams. Fostering trust through transparent corporate communication. Navigating career pivots with confidence and clarity. Infusing corporate values into daily operations for a thriving culture. My special guest is Alejandra Ramirez Bringing two decades of expertise in internal communications, Alejandra Ramirez is a seasoned professional dedicated to transforming organizational culture. Drawing from her background in law and a natural curiosity, Alejandra founded Ready Cultures to help leaders lead with authenticity. Her passion lies in bridging the gap between values and everyday practices, ensuring that organizational culture reflects its mission. Alejandra's unique perspective, fueled by her diverse cultural upbringing and neurodivergence, has shaped her ability to anticipate and connect the dots in communication strategies. With a focus on clarity and connection, Alejandra is committed to helping leaders navigate the complexities of culture and communication with confidence. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction to the A World of Difference podcast 00:00:38 - The Importance of Internal Communication in Times of Crisis 00:01:06 - The Missing Link in Workplace Culture 00:03:43 - Alejandra's Personal Inspiration and Lesson from Experience 00:13:50 - One Small Impactful Change for Leaders 00:14:39 - Effective Leadership Communication 00:17:36 - Overcoming Communication Anxiety 00:19:45 - Importance of Transparency and Trust 00:24:45 - Rapid Fire Q&A 00:26:51 - Admired Leader in Communication 00:27:39 - The Power of Communication 00:28:15 - Embracing Humanity in Communication 00:29:23 - Making Work Matter 00:30:08 - Sharing and Supporting 00:31:41 - A Message of Gratitude Visit loriadamsbrown.com/career-pivot to sign up for the Mastering the Career Pivot masterclass. This masterclass includes one hour of video training, self-paced exercises, a free career pivot guide, and a powerful Pivot package with detailed workbook and spreadsheets to track your job search, networking, and applications. Explore the 3H framework for effective communication on the website readycultures.com. This framework focuses on addressing the head, heart, and hands in communication to ensure clarity, emotional connection, and actionable guidance. Consider seeking support from BetterHelp for online therapy that fits your life. As a listener of A World of Difference, you can get 10% off your first month by visiting www.betterhelp.com/difference. Share this episode with five people who would benefit from the insights on corporate communication and workplace culture. Encourage them to engage in discussions about the content and its relevance to their own experiences. Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube Substack FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon (for exclusive episodes just for Difference Makers) Bluesky TikTok Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feeling overwhelmed at work? This conversation will open your eyes to a whole new approach to company culture and leadership. Discover how to lead with clarity, fight for better workplace environments, and keep your humanity intact. Join us as we dive deep into the wisdom of Tamesa Rogers, a powerhouse in tech who spent 25 years building global teams and shifting company cultures. You'll be amazed by her insights and empowered to make a difference in your own workplace. Stay tuned for the exclusive deep dive with Tamesa on our Patreon community. This is the conversation you didn't know you needed. In this episode, you will be able to: Cultivate a Positive Company Culture: Discover the secrets to fostering an uplifting and motivating work environment that drives success. Navigate Successful Career Pivots: Uncover the strategies to pivot your career path and achieve fulfillment in your professional life. Lead Global Teams Effectively: Master the art of leading international teams to maximize productivity and collaboration across borders. Foster Inclusive and Innovative Workplaces: Learn how to build a culture of inclusivity and innovation that fuels innovation and growth. Overcome Toxic Workplace Environments: Explore effective ways to address and resolve toxic work environments for a happier and more productive team. My special guest is Tamesa Rogers Tamesa Rogers is an experienced, results-oriented Chief People Officer with 25 years in the tech industry who is known for her deep expertise in organizational problem-solving, leading growth, and culture shift while building global teams. Most recently, Tamesa served as Chief People Officer at NETGEAR where she spent over 20 years with the company. As the company’s first in-house Human Resources leader, she built the full HR organization from scratch, scaled the company from $300M to over $1B in revenue, and led numerous cultural and organizational transformations. Before joining NETGEAR, Tamesa served as an HR Manager at TriNet and HR Options. Tamesa is active with How Women Lead, HR Executive Exchange and is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She holds an MS in Counseling from California State University, East Bay, and a BA in Communication Studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara. Tamesa is an avid yet mediocre golfer, traveler, and reader of non-fiction and human capital research. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction to the podcast 00:03:37 - Tamesa's Journey in HR 00:10:25 - HR's Role in Supporting Employees 00:13:43 - Aligning HR Strategies with Business Goals 00:14:45 - Evolving Tech and Pushback 00:15:53 - Business Strategy and Work Environment 00:18:53 - Psychological Safety and Workplace Productivity 00:21:14 - Building Inclusive Teams 00:26:07 - Leading Across Cultures 00:28:59 - The Importance of Company Culture 00:30:01 - Aligning Culture with Business Goals 00:32:14 - Clarity and Change in the Workplace 00:33:33 - Leading with Courage and Values 00:37:17 - Bringing Humanity into Leadership Share this episode with five friends who need to hear it, and then send it to your manager to have a conversation about it. Send this episode to your friend who's quietly quitting and to that person you know could really change a room if they just believe they're enough and their voice mattered. Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone you think might need to hear it. Start with a free trial to join us at patreon.com/AWorldofDifference to check out exclusive episodes with our guests. Head to www.betterhelp.com/difference to get 10% off your first month of online therapy with BetterHelp. Know who you are and what your values are. If you are not comfortable doing that, it may be challenging for you to effectively do your job as a chief people officer. - Tamesa Rogers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover the shocking truth about toxic rock stars in business and the unexpected impact on workplace safety. Dive into the surprising revelations about psychological safety and its critical role in creating thriving, innovative, and productive workplaces. Uncover the unexpected strategies for handling toxic behavior and fostering a safer, more inclusive work environment. Get ready to be amazed by the eye-opening insights that will revolutionize the way you approach leadership and team dynamics. Are you prepared to challenge the status quo and make a real difference in your organization? Stay tuned for the jaw-dropping revelations that will leave you rethinking everything you thought you knew about workplace culture and success. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the crucial role of psychological safety in nurturing a thriving workplace culture. Uncover effective strategies for managing and reforming toxic behaviors within the business environment. Learn how to successfully navigate career transitions and pivot strategies for professional growth and fulfillment. Cultivate trust and safety within teams to enhance collaboration, communication, and productivity. Explore powerful strategies for fostering innovation and driving sustainable productivity in the workplace. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction to Psychological Safety 00:03:53 - The Impact of Psychological Safety 00:08:08 - Identifying Toxic Rock Stars 00:10:53 - Solutions for Dealing with Toxic Rock Stars 00:14:24 - Importance of Addressing Toxic Behavior 00:15:04 - Training Managers on Psychological Safety 00:16:09 - Impact of Toxic Work Environments 00:18:09 - Taking Action for a Safer Workplace 00:20:16 - Spreading the Message of Psychological Safety "Psychological safety isn't just a nice to have. It's a must have for business success." - Lori Adams Brown Visit loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot to sign up for Mastering the Career Pivot masterclass and access one hour of video training, self-paced exercises, a free career pivot guide, and a Pivot package with a detailed workbook and three essential spreadsheets for job search, networking, and applications. Explore www.betterhelp.com/difference to get 10% off your first month of online therapy with licensed professional support from the comfort of your own home, tailored to your schedule and needs. Connect with Lori Adams Brown on LinkedIn, Substack, or Bluesky to share your experiences and implementation of the calls to action discussed in the podcast. Share the podcast episode with someone who may benefit from the conversation around psychological safety, toxic rock stars, and creating a safer workplace environment. Subscribe to the A World of Difference podcast and leave a review to help the community grow and continue having important conversations about making a difference in the world. Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube Substack FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon (for exclusive episodes just for Difference Makers) Bluesky TikTok Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. If you need professional help, such as therapy: https://www.betterhelp.com/difference If you are looking for your next opportunity, sign up for Lori’s Masterclass on Master the Career Pivot: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices