Episodes
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In this enriching episode of Beyond Barriers, Monica Marquez sits down with Julissa McWashington, a Senior Manager at Starbucks and a champion for community resilience.
Julissa’s journey from Honduras to the U.S. and her rise within Starbucks exemplifies the power of the bicultural advantage. She candidly shares how she has navigated the complexities of dual identities, maintaining her Honduran heritage while thriving in the American corporate landscape. Julissa’s passion for community, especially within the Latino community, shines through as she discusses her leadership philosophy and the significance of staying authentic in every aspect of life.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation that will resonate with anyone striving to lead with both heart and heritage.
Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.
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In this powerful episode of Beyond Barriers, host Brooke Skinner Ricketts delves into the incredible story of Travis Hunter, the Office Managing Partner at KPMG in Chicago. Travis opens up about his journey from growing up as a military child—moving over 20 times before the 9th grade—to becoming a leader in corporate America. Despite facing numerous obstacles, Travis credits his success to his unwavering perseverance and the support of key mentors who believed in his potential.
You’ll hear Travis recount the challenges of being the only African American in his office and how he navigated through adversity. With a focus on mentorship, Travis shares how he has used his leadership position to create opportunities for others and reshape the narrative around diversity in corporate leadership. This episode offers a rare glimpse into the mindset of a leader who rose above his circumstances to succeed.
Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest
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Join host Brooke Skinner Ricketts in a compelling conversation with Laura Desmond, CEO of Smartly and a powerhouse in the world of advertising and media. Laura has built her career on a foundation of bold leadership and transformative thinking, taking on roles that have shaped the future of global brands like Samsung, Coca-Cola, and Spotify.
In this episode, Laura delves into the three key bets that have defined her leadership journey: betting on yourself, betting on your team, and betting on your mission. She shares how her experiences, from leading Starcom Mediavest Group to becoming the CEO of Smartly, have taught her the importance of clarity and resilience in leadership.
Laura also reveals the strategies she used to overcome obstacles, adapt to new challenges, and lead with purpose in an ever-changing industry. Whether you’re just starting out or are well into your career, Laura’s wisdom offers a powerful reminder that true leadership requires courage, intentionality, and a willingness to embrace the unknown.
Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.
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In this episode of Beyond Barriers, host Brooke Skinner Ricketts engages in an insightful conversation with Gavriella Schuster, a trailblazer in the tech industry with over 25 years at Microsoft and a passionate advocate for lifelong learning and leadership.
Gavriella is a seasoned strategic business leader known for transforming companies and driving impactful change. A fierce advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, she is a founding sponsor of WIC and the WIT Network and serves on the boards of multiple DEI-focused nonprofits. As a TEDx speaker, host of the podcast “The Big Idea,” and author of an eBook and training on #ALLIES, Gavriella continues to lead initiatives that empower and inspire others.
In this episode, Gavriella shares her extraordinary journey from being one of the few women in the room at Microsoft to becoming a powerful voice for allyship and inclusive leadership. Whether you’re seeking to advance in your career, build stronger professional relationships, or find inspiration in your leadership journey, Gavriella’s story will encourage you to take bold steps and lead with integrity in today’s fast-paced world.
Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.
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In this episode of Beyond Barriers, host Brooke Skinner Ricketts engages in a powerful conversation with Heather Aranyi, a globally recognized educator and innovator. Heather is The Department of State's U.S. Speaker in Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Director of the ICON NIL Incubator at Northwestern University and Founder and CEO of Aranyi Enterprises.
With a diverse background that spans opera, child development, and entrepreneurship, Heather brings a unique perspective to redefining success and fostering inclusive ecosystems.
Heather delves into the importance of creating thriving communities by reshaping traditional entrepreneurial paradigms. She shares how her trauma-informed approach empowers underrepresented voices and drives social change.
Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned leader, Heather’s insights will inspire you to rethink how you engage with your community and leverage entrepreneurial ecosystems for greater impact.
Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.
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In this episode of Beyond Barriers, we join host Brooke Skinner Ricketts as she dives into a transformative conversation with Christine Sandman Stone, CEO and Founder of Deliver At Scale, a global tech leader known for her modern management expertise and her relentless focus on driving results.
Christine shares her unique perspective on how joy can be a powerful data indicator in both personal and professional growth. Discover how she has harnessed this insight to lead teams through crisis, drive organizational change, and mentor the next generation of leaders.
Whether you’re navigating your own career progression or looking to inspire your team, Christine’s actionable strategies and insights will equip you with the tools to make a meaningful impact.
Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.
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Get ready to be inspired by Jenna Lange’s incredible story of personal transformation and professional excellence. In this episode, Jenna, the founder and CEO of Lange International, shares her secrets to mastering high-stakes communication. You’ll learn how to harness the power of your authentic selves, build resilience, and communicate with confidence when it matters most.
Jenna’s journey from a timid figure skater to a sought-after advisor for executives worldwide will leave you with practical tips and a renewed sense of courage to tackle your own high-stakes moments. Don’t miss her advice on constructing a strong support network and the value of letting go and trusting the process.
Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.
Our conversation with Jenna begins now.
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In this episode of the Beyond Barriers podcast, host Brooke Skinner Ricketts delves into a thought-provoking conversation with Mike Gamson, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Permanent Capital Ventures. Discover how Mike's extensive career, from scaling LinkedIn's global operations to leading AI and biotech companies, has shaped his unique perspective on leadership and human connections in a hybrid work world.
Mike shares personal stories, including transformative experiences at Burning Man and insights from his Outward Bound adventures, that highlight the importance of community, compassion, and adaptability in today's fast-paced business environment.
Tune in to learn how to navigate and thrive in the evolving landscape of work relationships.
Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.
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Tune in to Beyond Barriers for an enlightening conversation with Daina Middleton, a dynamic leader with a wealth of experience in global expansion and nurturing company culture. Daina opens up about her unique path to success, from riding horses in the vast landscapes of Oregon to spearheading innovative marketing strategies at Hewlett-Packard and Twitter.
You will hear how Daina's dedication to hard work and continuous learning has driven her career forward. She also shares practical tips on building strategic relationships, maintaining work-life balance, and fostering resilience in the face of adversity. This episode is a must-listen for anyone eager to learn from a leader who has consistently broken new ground and thrived against the odds.
Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.
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https://www.gobeyondbarriers.com/podcast/Raudline-EtienneThis week on Beyond Barriers, Brooke Skinner Ricketts interviews Raudline Etienne, Founder and CEO of Daraja Capital, in an episode brimming with insights on leadership and personal growth. Raudline shares her captivating story, from her childhood in Brooklyn to her ascent in the investment world.
She discusses the critical moments that defined her career, the importance of self-awareness, and her mission to support diverse fund managers. Listeners will gain a deep understanding of Raudline’s guiding principles, including her policy of “no A-holes” and her dedication to pursuing what brings joy.
Tune in to learn how Raudline’s unique perspective on combining art and science in finance can inspire you to lead with integrity and purpose.
Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.
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In this episode, host Brooke Skinner Ricketts reconnects with her longtime friend and trailblazing marketing and branding expert, Henrietta Pepper. Tune in for a dynamic and inspiring conversation as Henrietta shares her remarkable journey from her education and early career in advertising to leading her own brand communications firm for 14 years and eventually founding GCJ Consultants, where she serves as Chief Strategist.
Discover how Henrietta, a true pioneer in the industry, navigated the challenges of her career, embraced lifelong learning, and developed a revolutionary approach to personal branding that emphasizes authenticity and self-discovery. Brooke and Henrietta delve into essential themes such as giving oneself grace, overcoming imposter syndrome, and harnessing the power of continuous curiosity.
Henrietta also discusses the inspiration behind her two published books, including her latest, "Unbranded: Emerge a Brand New You." She shares invaluable insights into the significance of asking for help, fostering strong relationships, and maintaining a balance between professional and personal life. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain practical advice on building a resilient and genuine personal brand from a true industry trailblazer.
Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.
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In this empowering episode of the Beyond Barriers podcast, host Monica Marquez introduces us to Millie Guzman, a dynamic executive at Morgan Stanley and a steadfast champion for the Latino community.
Born and raised in a lively Puerto Rican family in the Bronx, Millie narrates her remarkable rise from the family's youngest child to a formidable leader in global finance. Her journey from an entry-level assistant to a top compliance officer encapsulates the challenges and triumphs of navigating the complex finance industry, where she has mastered the art of executive presence, strategic innovation, and keenly assessing the business atmosphere at every turn.
Millie also delves into how her cultural heritage and family values have not only molded her career but also her leadership approach, driving her to achieve peak performance and influence positive change. This episode celebrates her professional growth, her passionate advocacy for Latinos, and the enduring cultural values that underpin her success and resilience in the corporate world.
Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.
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In this episode, Brooke Skinner Ricketts sits down with Ellen Havdala to explore her fascinating career journey and the profound lessons she’s learned along the way. Ellen, a Managing Director at Equity Group Investments, shares how she transitioned from a successful finance career to pursuing a divinity degree, and how these experiences have enriched her professional and personal life.
Discover the strategies Ellen employs to balance her ambitious career goals with her spiritual calling, and gain insights into her leadership style, mentorship approach, and personal growth practices. Whether you're contemplating a career change or looking for ways to integrate your personal values into your professional life, this episode provides invaluable guidance and inspiration.
Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.
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Celebrate Pride Month with Monica Marquez and Brooke Skinner Ricketts in this empowering episode of Beyond Barriers. Monica and Brooke share their compelling stories of coming out and breaking barriers in the corporate world.
From Brooke’s supportive activist mother to Monica’s journey of self-discovery and acceptance, their experiences highlight the importance of authenticity and inclusion.
Learn how they navigate the complexities of being queer professionals, the significance of building safe and equitable workplaces, and the value of fostering genuine curiosity about diverse perspectives.
Tune in for an inspiring discussion on the intersections of identity, leadership, and community.
Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with us.
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Tune in to this week’s episode as host Brooke Skinner Ricketts sits down with her friend and colleague, Marita Hudson Thomas, Chief Communications Officer at Cars.com Inc., d/b/a Cars Commerce. Marita is responsible for the internal and external communications strategy and events across Cars Commerce. Since her promotion, she has transformed their communications practices by delivering meaningful campaigns, press initiatives, and events that drive measurable results and business impact.
Marita dives deep into her path to leadership, emphasizing the importance of purpose-driven work and the value of patience in professional growth.
You’ll be inspired by Marita’s dedication to community involvement and mentoring, and how these commitments have been pivotal in her career. Learn from Marita’s experiences on maintaining confidence, navigating through challenges, giving oneself grace, and the power of preparation.
This episode is packed with valuable lessons for anyone aspiring to lead with integrity and impact.
Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.
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Tune in to an uplifting conversation with Marcy Moneypenny, Principal and Managing Director at Avison Young, as she shares her remarkable journey from a single mother to a prominent leader in the male-dominated commercial real estate industry.
Host Nikki Barua delves into Marcy's early struggles, her rise in the commercial real estate sector, and the core values that have driven her success. She discusses the importance of turning pain into purpose, the power of self-belief, and the crucial role of mentors and sponsors in her career.
Marcy’s story is a powerful reminder that even the most challenging obstacles can be converted into stepping stones toward a fulfilling and impactful career. This episode is packed with insights and strategies for anyone looking to break barriers and achieve their full potential.
Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.
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Join us for a compelling episode as host Brook Skinner Ricketts delves into Erin Gallagher’s transformative journey from a marketing maven to a champion of women's empowerment and leadership.
In this inspiring discussion, Erin reveals the critical moments at the age of 40 that catapulted her from behind-the-scenes roles to a leading voice in advocacy, establishing influential platforms such as Ella and The Hype Women Movement. These initiatives not only disrupt the status quo by providing women with critical resources but also strive to create generational wealth and propel women into powerful and influential roles.
Explore the profound impact of diversity in the workplace, the significance of trusting your intuition, and strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome. Erin highlights the necessity of setting clear boundaries, embracing the power of vulnerable storytelling, and redefining traditional work-life paradigms to cultivate leadership and ensure enduring success. This episode offers a deep exploration of how facing personal challenges can ignite breakthroughs, empowering listeners to expand their influence and secure financial autonomy.
Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.
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In today’s episode, the focus is on uncovering the human-centric revolution happening within the private equity sector, challenging the norm of focusing solely on financial transactions.
Hosted by Nikki Barua, the episode features Caroline Kung, a visionary leader and the founder of SagePath Capital. Caroline shares her journey from a first-generation immigrant with humble beginnings to becoming a transformative figure in private equity, executing three billion dollars in transactions while creating value at portfolio companies. Her commitment extends beyond traditional investment strategies, aiming to nurture genuine connections and advocate for diverse, purpose-driven entrepreneurs.
The episode explores Caroline's strategic initiatives for fostering business growth and the inception of the Beacon Program, which sets new standards by equipping diverse business owners with essential financial knowledge, expanding their potential for growth and impact in their communities.
Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our guest.
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In this episode, you'll dive into the power of recognizing and leveraging your unique mix of skills and experiences with host Brooke Skinner Ricketts and guest Heidi Anderson Hupe, CEO of The Nora Collective. Heidi reveals her philosophy on the importance of 'leaning in' during moments of uncertainty and doubt in your career.
She shares the pivotal moments that led her to embrace her true self, underscoring the transformative impact of authenticity on her career trajectory. Together, you'll explore how embracing career pivots and delving into diverse facets of your industry can open up new pathways for growth and fulfillment.
Tune in for an engaging narrative on self-discovery, leadership, and the art of maintaining your core identity amidst the dynamics of career evolution.
Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.
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Welcome to a journey of leadership, personal growth, and impactful change. Brooke Skinner Ricketts hosts an inspiring conversation with Melissa Healy, who shares her journey from creative director to SVP at Leo Burnett, focusing on Employee Belonging and Participation.
Melissa opens up about her evolution from early creative ambitions, through the trials of motherhood, to advocating for her disabled daughter. She illustrates how her unique, nonlinear path led to a fulfilling role that focuses on enhancing workplace culture and fostering employee engagement.
The conversation explores the profound importance of community building, cultural enrichment, and the pivotal role of personal values in driving business success and societal impact.
Melissa’s narrative is a testament to the power of authenticity, strategic relationships, and value-driven leadership.
Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.
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