This episode of the Climb podcast features a deep dive into the complex experiences of women of color in the workplace, focusing on the impact of microaggressions and gaslighting. Hosts Felicia Smith and Rebecca Jackson explore how subtle, everyday interactions can undermine self-worth and perpetuate feelings of not belonging. They discuss the importance of naming these experiences to validate feelings and foster understanding. The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating...

Join us as we dive into an inspiring conversation with Lisa Grant, the deputy clerk of the US House of Representatives, who shares her extraordinary journey and insights on leadership. With over 35 years of experience in government and a notable transition from procurement to her current role, Lisa emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and strategic career moves. Throughout the discussion, she highlights the significance of mentorship and sponsorship, particularly for women of...

This podcast episode focuses on navigating the complex transitions faced by women of color in leadership roles, specifically addressing listener letters that highlight common challenges. The first letter discusses the difficulties of moving from a peer to a leader, emphasizing the need for respect and maintaining positive relationships with former colleagues. The second letter raises concerns about being overlooked for promotions despite strong performance and advocacy efforts. Felicia Smith...

In this episode of the Climb Podcast, I had the pleasure of welcoming Nadia Vanderhall, a multi-hyphenate financial planner and educator with over a decade of experience in the financial services industry. As the founder of the Brands and Bands Strategy Group, Nadia has made significant strides in promoting financial literacy, particularly among women of color. Her impressive background includes collaborations with major companies like Facebook, Google, and the National Urban League, and her...

In this enlightening episode of the CLIMB podcast, I, Felicia Smith, had the pleasure of hosting Dr. Tracy Powell, a renowned executive coach and author, to discuss a topic that is often shrouded in misunderstanding: the myth of "crabs in a barrel." This metaphor is frequently used to describe the competitive dynamics among marginalized groups, particularly within the African American community, where it is believed that individuals may pull each other down to maintain their own position. Dr....

In this empowering episode of the CLIMB Podcast, I, Felicia Smith, have the pleasure of speaking with the remarkable Stephanie Moore, a chief engineer and senior associate with nearly two decades of experience in supporting federal government clients in cybersecurity and space initiatives. As the founder of The Climb, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing the representation of women of color in leadership roles, I am thrilled to dive into Stephanie's inspiring career journey...

In this inspiring episode of The Climb Podcast, host Felicia Smith dives deep into the unique challenges and triumphs of women of color in the nonprofit sector. Joined by Madjeen Lorthe, an executive champion of The Climb and a seasoned nonprofit leader, they explore the complexities of navigating this field while breaking barriers and setting new standards for leadership. Madjeen draws from her extensive experience in social justice, mental health, and education, offering valuable insights...

In this empowering episode of The Climb Podcast, host Felicia Smith engages in a candid and insightful conversation with the remarkable Valary Alston, a woman of color who has shattered glass ceilings throughout her extraordinary career. The episode kicks off with Felicia introducing The Climb Podcast, a platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of extraordinary women of color and redefining the rules for women in leadership roles. Felicia sets the stage for an empowering journey as she...

Welcome to the CLIMB Podcast, where we empower women of color in the pursuit of leadership roles. In this episode, we delve into the taboo topic of self-sabotage and how it may be hindering your career growth. As women of color navigating the workplace, we face numerous obstacles, but the most detrimental one can often be the obstacles we create for ourselves. In the first segment, "Somebody Should Have Told Me," we explore the common forms of self-sabotage that many women experience in the...

The conversation between Felicia and Rebecca unfolds touching on the definition of workplace trauma and how it manifests individually, mentally, and physically. Rebecca sheds light on the impact of workplace trauma, including self-doubt, overworking, and heightened sensitivity to racial microaggressions. The discussion delves into the importance of acknowledging and processing trauma, as well as the role of community support and therapy in healing. Rebecca shares valuable coping mechanisms...

Hey there, it's Felicia Smith, your host of The CLIMB Podcast. In this episode, we delved into the intriguing topic of boundaries in the workplace. We explored the ups and downs of setting and maintaining boundaries as women of color leaders. We kicked off the episode by defining boundaries as the limits, rules, and guidelines that define our emotional, physical, and mental space. It's not just about giving or taking; it's about how we interact with others and what behaviors we find...

In this episode of "The Climb Podcast," we delved into the transformative power of "The Four Agreements" by Don Miguel Ruiz and how they apply to the workplace. As the host, I shared personal insights and practical examples of how these agreements can empower women of color in leadership roles. The first agreement, "Be impeccable with your word," emphasizes speaking with integrity and using words to affirm rather than harm oneself. I shared a personal anecdote about overcoming self-doubt when...

We kick off the episode with a karaoke session to set the tone before diving into the topic. Drawing inspiration from Dr. Tracy Henry's insights on the power of silence, we explore the nuances of being quiet in a room and deciphering unspoken messages. I highlight the importance of emotional intelligence, specifically focusing on personal competence and social competence. By referencing the book "Emotional Intelligence 2.0" by Travis Bradbury and Jean Greaves, I emphasize the significance of...

00:00:00 - Introduction to The Climb Podcast 00:03:25 - Somebody Should Have Told Me 00:10:43 - Truth 00:20:42 - Another Rung Mended We started by exploring the concept that as women of color leaders, we represent more than just ourselves. We are symbols of hope, inspiration, and transformation for others. However, we also represent competition and a threat to some individuals who may feel threatened by our presence in certain roles. I shared a personal story of walking into a new position...

Throughout the episode, Jennifer shares valuable insights and lessons learned from her career journey. She emphasizes the importance of remaining teachable, seeking feedback, and nurturing relationships with others in leadership roles. Jennifer also discusses the challenges faced by women of color in leadership positions, including tokenism and the pressure to fulfill the "Black girl magic" stereotype. Introduction to the CLIMB Podcast: 00:00:03-00:00:36Introducing Jennifer Hampton:...

00:00:03 - Introduction to The Climb Podcast: Welcome to the CLIMB Podcast, where we are diving into taboo topics and redefining the rules for women of color leaders.00:04:32 - Somebody Should Have Told Me: Breaking down the things we wish we had known in our careers that could have made our journeys a little bit easier.00:07:53 - Truth Is: Discussing the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth regarding standing your ground and owning your space verbally.00:11:34 - Sponsorship by...

00:00:00 - Introduction to the CLIMB podcast 00:02:28 - Somebody should have told me: Tokenism in the workplace 00:07:59 - White women as the anchor of diversity 00:10:05 - Truth Is: Diversity without inclusion 00:15:08 - Advice for navigating a scenario where you are the diversity 00:18:02 - Discussion on belonging in the workplace 00:22:44 - Mending the broken rung for women of color 00:29:24 - Conclusion and how to reach out to Ama, the inclusion lady Listeners are encouraged to Connect...

Welcome to the inaugural episode of The Climb podcast! I am Felicia Smith, your host and the founder of The Climb, a platform dedicated to empowering women of color in their journey towards leadership roles. In this episode, we delve into the crucial topic of the pitfalls of solely relying on your work as your ticket to success. I kick off the episode by sharing my personal motivation behind creating this podcast - the lack of real and relevant conversations about how women of color navigate...

It's Felicia Smith, your host of The Climb Podcast. In this episode, we delved into the taboo topic of knowing when it's time to leave a job or stay put. We explored the signs that indicate you may have overstayed your welcome in a particular role. 00:00:00 - Introduction to The Climb Podcast00:02:23 - Somebody Should Have Told Me00:07:20 - Truth Is: Signs You've Stayed Too Long in a Job00:11:08 - Sponsorship Message: The Climb Incorporated00:12:04 - Signs You've Stayed Too Long: Toxic Work...

In this episode, we feature Dr. Tracy Henry ((17) Dr. Tracy H. | LinkedIn), the Chief Financial Officer at the Congressional Budget Office. Dr. Henry shares her inspiring career journey, filled with challenges, sacrifices, and valuable lessons learned along the way. Dr. Henry's career trajectory began with aspirations to be an auditor for the IRS, but her path led her to diverse roles in the federal government and the private sector. Despite facing the challenge of minimal training early in...

Episode 1: Introduction to The ClimbWelcome to the very first episode of The Climb, a podcast designed to empower women of color in their career journeys. I am Felicia Smith, your host, and I am thrilled to embark on this journey with you. In this episode, I introduce myself and share my own career experiences spanning over 17 years. I reflect on the challenges I faced and the lack of guidance and mentorship from women of color executives. This led me to create this podcast as a platform to...