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The Next Best Thing

Author: Aundrea Cline-Thomas

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This is a podcast about making changes in all areas of your life, even when you don’t know where to start. This is the antidote to your Sunday scaries. It bucks cultural standards that can leave you burned out and broken. It’s not about activating a Plan B or a career pivot; both of those terms indicate abandoning how you started. No, this is about continuing on your path and using all of your experiences to make a shift your future self will thank you for. Each episode includes a different example of what navigating your NEXT could look like. So get comfy…we’re on this journey together!
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What are the pillars you live by and how do they align with your actions? Is your ambition running you or are you managing it to live a life of impact? We’re answering those questions and so much more. Our guest this week is three-time founder, sought-after speaker and C-suite/board advisor Kendra Bracken-Ferguson. Her ecosystem of leadership is rooted in her global conglomerate BrainTrust including a global brand consultancy and BrainTrust Founders Studio, the largest membership-based platform for Black beauty and wellness founders. She hosts the Business of the Beat podcast, offering insights and behind-the-scenes stories from BIPOC senior executives and operators as they navigate the journey of building and scaling their companies. Among her firsts, Kendra has the distinction of being one of the first 100 Black women to have raised more than $1MM in investment for her debut company, Digital Brand Architects. Kendra’s first book, The Beauty of Success: Start, Grow, and Accelerate Your Brand was released February 13, 2024 and named the #1 New Release in Business Entrepreneurship on Amazon. Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/Join The NEXT Best Thing community on IG/TikTok @nextbestthingpod Keep in Touch With Kendra:Website: https://kendrabracken-ferguson.com/Braintrust Agency: https://www.thebraintrust.com/homeThe Business of the Beat Podcast: https://kendrabracken-ferguson.com/podcasts“The Beauty of Success: Start Grow and Accelerate Your Brand” https://www.amazon.com/Beauty-Success-Start-Accelerate-Brand/dp/1394162944Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kendrabrackenferguson/
How do you access your joy, even in dark times? That’s the central question in this week’s episode. Our guest this week is storyteller, educator, curator of joy and healing Tracey Michae’l Lewis-Giggetts. Tracey shares some of her joy journey through personal tragedy that required her to understand the profound impact of simple pleasures. She also gives us a sneak peak into her new book” The Black Joy Playbook.” This episode is an exploration of joy as resistance, how to nurture emotional well-being, and the shared responsibility to progress for future generations. Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/Join The NEXT Best Thing community on IG/TikTok @nextbestthingpod Stay in touch with Tracey:Website: https://www.traceymlewis.com/IG: https://www.instagram.com/tmlgwriter/
In today's episode we're diving deep into the world of book publishing and its powerful impact on business and growing your personal brand. Danielle Mendoza shares how to connect book ideas to your business as a way to attract more customers and lucrative opportunities. We're also discussing the different publishing pathways, including traditional, hybrid, and self-publishing. Learn how self-publishing can offer more control, quicker market access, without requiring a large social media following.Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/Join The NEXT Best Thing community on IG/TikTok @nextbestthingpodJournalists join The Rewrite Community by getting your FREE Transferable Skills Guide: https://link.therewritecourse.com/widget/form/9bmFYXNewaeZ3l6NNH5FStay in touch with Danielle:Website: https://www.confidentconcept.com/Download Danielle’s FREE e-book “Timeless Visibility” https://www.confidentconcept.com/download-bestsellerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-mendoza-3059788a/
We’re just about halfway through the year, and it's time for an intentional check-in. In this episode we’re calling out some of the barriers that may have be in the way of you reaching your goals. It starts with your mindset and then your actions. And if no one told you today, no matter your background or current situation, you are absolutely worth it. Grab your notes, because this episode is packed with actionable steps to help you moving forward. Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/Join The NEXT Best Thing community on IG/TikTok @nextbestthingpodJoin The Rewrite Community by getting your FREE Transferable Skills Guide: https://link.therewritecourse.com/widget/form/9bmFYXNewaeZ3l6NNH5F
Arivee Vargas shares her journey from a successful legal career to discovering her true calling in coaching and leadership development. Arivee explains the importance of creating a vision without self-judgment, setting aligned goals, and trusting oneself through a gradual progress. In this episode, Arivee discusses the challenges of leaving the comfort and security of her corporate life to follow her passion, and how motherhood and self-care play crucial roles in her journey.Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/Join The NEXT Best Thing community on IG/TikTok @nextbestthingpod Stay in Touch With Arivee:Website: https://www.ariveevargas.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ariveevargas/May 31st LinkedIn Event: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/linkedin-live-event-invitation-arivee-vargas-esq--vs55e/?trackingId=sYeYoTLCTx%2B%2FPSjyJgurFQ%3D%3D
Amy Shoenthal is a journalist and author of “The Setback Cycle: How Defining Moments Can Move Us Forward.” The "Setback Cycle," consists of four phases—establish, embrace, explore, and emerge—which provides a roadmap for navigating through times of adversity. In this conversation Aundrea and Amy discuss why setbacks don’t just have to be obstacles, but can also serve as catalysts for growth and creativity. Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/Join The NEXT Best Thing community on IG/TikTok @nextbestthingpod Keep in touch with Amy Shoenthal:“The Setback Cycle” book: https://www.amyshoenthal.com/the-setback-cycleWebsite: https://www.amyshoenthal.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amysho/
Hi Friends! Each week we bring you a guest who talks about how to navigate your NEXT. This week host Aundrea Cline-Thomas is giving you an update on her journey. She’s talking about the time in between jumping and seeing progress. It’s when your idea is vulnerable and the silence or no’s you receive can cut deep. What’s the conversation Aundrea has with herself to keep going? When does it begin to pay off? Aundrea candidly shares her experiences in hopes that it may inform your own. Subscribe to the YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@TheNextBestThingACTNEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/Join The NEXT Best Thing community on IG/TikTok @nextbestthingpod
We’re back with Part 2 of our conversation with  Lydia Hamilton. Lydia has always been a world traveler, but she embarked on a nearly 50 day solo adventure across the world seeking to better understand her NEXT chapter personally, her NEXT chapter professionally and become unshakably clear about who she was independent of anyone else. In this conversation we discuss how Lydia is reframing her idea of success, how pausing is allowing her to make better decisions and what you can do to implement these practices in your own life. Stephanie Perry on Career Breaks, Sabbaticals, Moving Abroad and Living with Ease: https://youtu.be/EJPHUblf-7USubscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/Join The NEXT Best Thing community on IG/TikTok @nextbestthingpod Stay in touch with Lydia:Website: https://www.lydonthago.com/IG: https://www.instagram.com/lhamilt77/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lydiahamilton/
Lydia Hamilton traded her title as a Vice President of Operations to Professional Wanderer. Then she set out on an epic journey that included working on a farm in Tennessee, exploring Antarctica on zodiac boats, and literally riding through the clouds of Vietnam. With each stop, Lydia was searching for answers about who she was and wanted to become. This episode takes you on a journey of what Lydia calls Transformational Travel in hopes that you reexamine what you think is possibile and discover who you really are. Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/Join The NEXT Best Thing community on IG/TikTok @nextbestthingpod Stay in touch with Lydia:Website: https://www.lydonthago.com/IG: https://www.instagram.com/lhamilt77/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lydiahamilton/Tamron Hall Show Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ty7DBPF3kGc&t=96s
Gemma Toner transitioned from the fast-paced executive life to the introspective satisfaction of retirement. But for Gemma, retirement was not an end, but a new beginning. She created the Tone Networks, an online micro-coaching and mentoring platform designed to connect, grow and retain early to mid-career employees at scale.In this episode we'll get into the nitty-gritty of confronting fears, developing resilience, and the importance of seeking support from a strong community—especially when venturing into uncharted territories.Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/Join The NEXT Best Thing community on IG/TikTok @nextbestthingpod Stay in touch with Gemma and the Tone Networks:Tone Networks: https://www.tonenetworks.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tone-networks/Gemma’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-toner/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonenetworks/
Kara Stevens, the force behind The Frugal Feminista , began her journey grappling with hefty student loans and credit card debt. It led her to create a blog that turned into  a robust community dedicated to building wealth. In the meantime she leveraged her career as a teacher and administrator to reach financial freedom. Her experience confirms that traditional jobs, when combined with entrepreneurial savvy, can indeed pave the way to prosperity.Our conversation dives deep into Kara's recent life-changing move from New York to Ghana, motivated by the pursuit of quality of life, generational wealth, and providing a nurturing environment for her daughter. This move signifies not only a geographical shift but also a profound evolution in Kara's work-life balance and her connection to Africa.Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/Join The NEXT Best Thing community on IG/TikTok @nextbestthingpod Stay in touch with Kara:Frugal Feminista: https://www.thefrugalfeminista.com/IG: https://www.instagram.com/frugalfeminista/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kara-stevens-37882b12/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefrugalfeminista/?_rdc=1&_rdr
Today’s episode is a pause, a time to reflect on not just the achievements, but the bumps and stumbles along the way. We’ve built something incredible here, a safe space especially for marginalized voices. I want to express my deepest thanks to you—our dedicated listeners, amazingly generous guests, and the village that has helped put this whole thing together. So, in this solo episode, join me as we walk down memory lane, celebrate the growth, and reaffirm our commitment to heal, to learn, and to soar even higher.Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/Join The NEXT Best Thing community on IG/TikTok @nextbestthingpod
Keisha Hickson’s life changed when a diagnosis threatened her life expectancy. Faced with a renewed appreciation for time, Keisha is determined not to waste it and now urges all of us to combat complacency in all areas of our lives. This woman’s story is not just moving – it’s a masterclass in living life to the fullest despite the toughest of blows. Join us as we celebrate Keisha's journey, explore the lessons she's gathered along the way, and perhaps, find the encouragement we need to chase our own "Next Best Thing." Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter for a transcript and the lessons from this  interview: https://thenextbestthingact.com/Join The NEXT Best Thing community on IG/TikTok @nextbestthingpod Stay in touch with Keisha:Website: https://keishahickson.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keisha-hickson/IG: https://www.instagram.com/thereal_keishahickson/
Tricia Taitt was navigating the intensity of Wall Street when she was laid off during the Great Recession. She turned to her lifelong passion for dance to guide her through uncertain times and it led her to tour with a Broadway musical. Now Tricia is combining her unique background in finance and dance to help others build a strong financial core.In this episode Tricia discusses how she merged her passions into profit, tactics and principles for managing money, and the entrepreneurial skills that drive success. Tricia's story is not just about resilience, but rediscovery.Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter for a transcript and the lessons from this  interview: https://thenextbestthingact.com/Join The NEXT Best Thing community on IG/TikTok @nextbestthingpod Stay in touch with Tricia:FinCore Strong: https://fincorestrong.com/Dancing With Numbers Book: https://www.amazon.com/Dancing-Numbers-Financially-Business-Choreograph-ebook/dp/B0BGGRMZS9IG: https://www.instagram.com/fincorestrong/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/triciataitt/
Katrina Gamble, political strategist and founder of Sojourn Strategies, peels back the curtain on the efforts that drive social movements beyond the ballot box. We confront the hard truths about the rightful cynicism within Black and Brown communities that exit polling doesn’t capture, and the collective power communities can harness to get their needs met. If you’re feeling exhausted by the headlines or hopeless because of the realities of the world, this episode will not only inspire you but explain what YOU can do today to impact positive change.Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter for a transcript and the lessons from this  interview: https://thenextbestthingact.com/Join The NEXT Best Thing community on IG/TikTok @nextbestthingpod Stay in touch with Katrina:Sojourn Strategies: https://sojournstrategies.com/IG: https://www.instagram.com/femmepolitico/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrina-gamble/
With more than two decades in TV news, Renee Washington switched gears big time. Imagine managing 150 people, handling the crazy news cycle, then throwing in a pandemic, budget cuts, and a mountain of stress. Renee was in the thick of it when she decided to rethink success on her own terms. In this episode we're going on the wild ride that led her from being the boss of a bustling newsroom to her launching her own business, Resilience Wins Coaching. Curious about what coaching can do for you? Stuck in a rut at work? This episode will get you unstuck and increase your confidence as you navigate those career and life challenges.Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter for a transcript and the lessons from this interview: https://thenextbestthingact.com/Join The NEXT Best Thing community on IG/TikTok @nextbestthingpod Journalists: Free Guide To Redefine and Leverage Your Transferable Skills: https://link.therewritecourse.com/widget/form/9bmFYXNewaeZ3l6NNH5FThe Rewrite: Strategies To Reinvent Your News Career: https://therewritecourse.com/Stay In Touch with Renee:Resilience Wins Coaching: https://resiliencewinscoaching.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reneewashington-resiliencewins/IG: https://www.instagram.com/iamcoachrenee/
There’s no shortage of bad news right now from the wars abroad to the attacks on diversity, equity and inclusion right here at home. In this episode we explore how we can take a more active role in what’s NEXT for our community, our country and our world. Our guest Michellene Davis isn't holding back.With her diverse career in law, government, and healthcare, she's seen it all—from the toll of the personal sacrifices in her work to the harsh truth about why we need to check up on our strong friends. From the boardroom to personal battles, Michellene shares pearls of wisdom on how she keeps her cup filled and sets those ever-important boundaries to safeguard her mental health while still being an agent for change.If you are in a mental health crisis call the Suicide and Crisis Prevention Lifeline at 988.Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter for a transcript and the lessons from this interview: https://thenextbestthingact.com/Join The NEXT Best Thing community on IG/TikTok @nextbestthingpod Stay in Touch With MichelleneTwitter (@MichelleneDavis)Instagram (@michelleneesq)LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellenedavis/National Medical Fellowships: https://nmfonline.org/
What’s your earliest money memory? We're peeling back the layers on what’s getting in the way of our financial freedom and how the messages received in our childhood plays a major role in how we manage our finances as adults. From outlining the impact of a scarcity versus an abundance mindset to loud budgeting, in this episode financial therapist Aja Evans uncovers strategies to reshaping the way we think about money with the goal of finding balance between financial health and mental well-being.Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter for a transcript and the lessons from this interview: https://thenextbestthingact.com/Join The NEXT Best Thing community on IG/TikTok @nextbestthingpod Stay In Touch with Aja:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajaetherapy/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ajaetherapyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajaevans/Aja Evans Counseling: https://ajaevanscounseling.com/
From the allure of short-form video content to the finesse of building not just an audience, but a true community, Chris Russo has the lowdown on what it takes to go viral while creating genuine brand impact. His company, Russo Strategic Partners, has helped clients go from zero followers to hundreds of thousands, that’s led to corporate partnerships, national television appearances and real money for creators.Are you struggling to break through the tough shell of Instagram and its reel game or feel like you’re late to the party on TikTok? Or perhaps you're a Pinterest enthusiast itching to boost your SEO or a professional navigating LinkedIn's new frontier of video content? We're peeling back the layers on it all, and Chris is here with strategies guaranteed to push your digital presence from being unnoticed to unforgettable.Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter for a transcript and the lessons from this interview: https://thenextbestthingact.com/Join The NEXT Best Thing community on IG/TikTok @nextbestthingpod Stay In Touch with Chris:Website:https://www.russostrategicpartners.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherrussobc/
Deb Boulanger knows the corporate game all too well, after having served in senior roles for decades. But let's be real—the top spots are still a boys' club. Deb says, why wait for a seat at their table when you can build your own empire on your terms?As the President of The Great Do-Over Inc., Deb helps women entrepreneurs launch and scale their businesses. In this episode Deb explains why entrepreneurship is the key to true financial freedom and how to avoid the mistakes many entrepreneurs make.Subscribe to the Aundrea Cline Thomas' NEXT Nuggets Newsletter for a transcript and the lessons from this interview: https://thenextbestthingact.com/Join The NEXT Best Thing community on IG/TikTok @nextbestthingpodStay In Touch With Deb:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debboulanger-thegreatdo-over/Website: https://thegreatdoover.com/Life After Corporate Podcast: https://lifeaftercorporatepodcast.com/
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