Trust Your Voice

In this episode of "Trust Your Voice", host Sylvie Legere explores the transformative power of AI and smart technology with guests Patrick Bryant and Charlotte Creech. They unpack how emerging technologies are shaping the future of work and redefining growth for businesses and communities. Charlotte opens the conversation by sharing her personal journey and underscoring why cultivating an innovative mindset is essential for leaders today. Patrick then dives into his work with Workforce Wave, where digital voice agents are transforming customer engagement. Tune in and discover practical insights and innovative strategies at the juncture of human potential and artificial intelligence. Patrick Bryant Patrick Bryant is a seasoned entrepreneur and innovator with a robust history in technology and business development. As a partner at Code and Trust, a software development firm, and the CEO of Workforce Wave, Patrick is at the forefront of integrating AI into business operations, with a focus on deploying digital voice agents. His journey, which started with Macintosh desktop publishing, spans numerous successful startups, making him a thought leader in digital transformation. Charlotte Creech With a strategic mind for fostering innovation, Charlotte Creech has carved a niche in helping organizations harness technological advancements. Currently serving at Hire Heroes USA, Charlotte has previously worked across various sectors, focusing on driving meaningful change through technology. Her experience with startups and large corporations equips her with a unique perspective on nurturing innovation as a mindset critical for leadership. Resources and Links Code and Trust Hire Heroes USA Policy Circle Leadership Summit (Oct 2025)

In this episode of Trust Your Voice, host Sylvie Légère engages in a conversation with crisis communication expert Lissa Druss. As the CEO of Strategia Consulting and a highly decorated television journalist, Lissa shares her expertise in steering through crises, a valuable skill for leaders in politics, business, and community organizations. They explore the art of crisis management and provide essential insights into identifying, addressing, and mitigating challenges that could impact one's reputation.Lissa Druss offers an in-depth exploration of the dynamics of crisis management, beginning with the fundamental question of what constitutes a crisis and how to recognize one. She emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between rumors and genuine issues by relying on gut feelings and informed decision-making. Furthermore, Lissa provides a roadmap for preparing for a crisis, stressing the need to maintain a positive public image through consistent communication and building a network of support. Her advice extends to strategies for responding effectively to media inquiries and managing the narrative to prevent others from defining one's story.Tune in to the full episode to learn more about practical wisdom on handling crises with confidence and poise.  Links and Resources:Strategia Consulting - Lissa Druss's firm specializing in crisis communication. The Policy Circle - Organization co-founded by Sylvie Légère focused on engaging women in public policy dialogues.  About Lissa Druss:For more than 35 years, Lissa has established a powerful reputation– across the country – as a highly seasoned public affairs strategist, crisis management leader, nine-time Emmy award-winning television journalist, media consultant, guest lecturer, and tireless client advisor. In addition to leading the Strategia team, she counsels clients on issues at the intersection of government affairs and lobbying, crisis communications, municipal relations, media relations/training, corporate communications, internal/external communications strategy, and social media. Lissa is also the national government relations director for Riot Hospitality Group, a national hospitality management company based in Scottsdale, AZ.  

In this episode of the Trust Your Voice podcast, hosted by Sylvie Légère, the focus is on educational choice and the challenges faced by homeschooling families in Illinois due to the House Bill 2827. The show brings together Leslee Dirnberger and Aziza Butler, two leaders in the homeschooling community, to discuss the implications of this bill. Leslee and Aziza share their personal journeys in homeschooling and the benefits of individualized education for their neurodiverse children. The conversation emphasizes the flexibility, diversity, and tailored nature of homeschooling as opposed to traditional public schooling. The episode delves into the content of House Bill 2827, which mandates homeschooling families in Illinois to register with local school districts and submit curriculum reviews, sparking concerns about increased government oversight and limited parental choice. Utilizing SEO-focused keywords, the discussion highlights key issues such as government overreach, educational innovation, and the constitutional rights of parents. Aziza and Leslee articulate their viewpoints on how the bill might stifle educational innovation and infringe on parental rights, encouraging listeners to engage with legislators to voice opposition.  About the Guests: Leslee Dirnberger is the founder of Aspire Education, a consultancy dedicated to helping families create individualized education plans for their children. As a former homeschooler of four neurodiverse children who are now thriving, Leslee combines her personal experience with her professional expertise to support parents seeking alternative educational paths. Aziza Butler is a homeschool mom of six and the founder of We School Academy, a flexible schedule learning community based in Chicago. A former Chicago Public Schools teacher, Aziza is committed to removing barriers for families choosing to homeschool or privately educate their children. Her diverse teaching experience and passion for educational choice make her a leading advocate in her community. Resources: Aspire Education: Aspire Education US Illinois Christian Home Educator Association (organization engaged in the bill discussion) Illinois Homeschool Association (organization engaged in the bill discussion) Homeschool Legal Defense Association: A national organization providing updates on homeschooling legislation.

In this episode of "Trust Your Voice," host Sylvie Légère invites Melinda Oakes, to explore a fresh approach to New Year's resolutions. Sylvie discusses her past habit of setting resolutions and words for the year, she dives into how "owning your journey" provides an empowering alternative by highlighting personal growth and success through positive acknowledgment of one's journey, as inspired by Melinda’s book.  Sylvie and Melinda address setting clear, measurable goals and evaluating risk tolerance regarding career choices. They reflect on examples like Dolly Parton's incremental success, emphasizing the importance of perspective in career planning and life. With a nod to societal changes, they discuss adapting to the rapid pace of innovation and the evolving job market, encouraging listeners to embrace civic engagement and nurture community connections for broader personal and professional impact.  Key Takeaways:  Owning Your Journey: Embrace positivity by focusing on current successes and learning from past experiences rather than merely fixing what's broken.  Reflective Evaluation: Maintain awareness of career direction, risk tolerance, and how personal goals align with broader industry trends.  Relationship Dynamics: Differentiate and nurture relationships with family, friends, and community for a well-rounded support system.  Personal Growth and Faith: Invest time in self-reflection, confidence-building, and spirituality to enrich personal development.  Health as a Priority: Establish a simple, consistent routine for physical activity and balanced nutrition to sustain well-being on your journey.  Resources Mentioned:  The Cheerleader's Guide to the Workplace by Melinda Oakes  The Everyday Philanthropist by Dan Pallotta  ChatGPT - Suggested for career advice and exploration  Toastmasters - Organization for improving public speaking skills  Bible Recap by Tara-Leigh Cobble - Bible study resource  The Gap and the Gain by Dan Sullivan and Benjamin Hardy

In this episode of the Trust Your Voice podcast, Sylvie and Melinda examine the contexts of personal achievements, leadership roles, and community involvement, advocating for positive communication and emphasizing the importance of lifting others through sincere compliments and acknowledgment. Throughout, they underscore the power of individual influence, stressing that even small actions can spearhead significant changes, thereby igniting a ripple effect of positivity and growth in various spheres of life. Resources:  Melinda Oakes' Book: "The Cheerleader's Guide to the Workplace"  Sylvie Legere's Book: "Trust Your Voice: A Roadmap to Influence and Focus"  Book Mentioned: "The Gap and the Gain" by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy  Jen Gottlieb's Book: "Be Visible"

Inspired by the Policy Circle brief on Women and Economic Freedom, this episode navigates through economic models in the intelligence revolution era and explores various dimensions of economic freedom.  Using examples from global cities and historical contexts, the discussion touches on gender mandates, property rights, and addressing poverty, highlighting research from the Fraser Institute, Bridwell Institute, and insights from "She Rises Up," a film about women entrepreneurs.  Sylvie and Melinda reflect on systemic challenges and opportunities, offering insights into the roles and responsibilities that individuals and communities can assume to foster a more inclusive economic environment. Resources mentioned:  The Policy Circle Brief on Women and Economic Freedom: thepolicycircle.org  Fraser Institute's Economic Freedom of the World Index  She Rises Up Film Website: sherisesupfilm.com  Women Impacting Public Policy  SMU Bridwell Institute for Economic Freedom 

No matter your background or the resources available to you, there are many ways to help empower voters and prepare for the next election. In this episode, host Sylvie Légère is joined by Melinda Oakes to discuss the importance of being informed about candidates and issues that allow for more meaningful decision-making that aligns with your values.   Tune in and learn how to actively contribute to shaping the future of your community and country.  Resources mentioned:   The Policy Circle: Provides resources like the Active Voter Guide to help voters prepare. Website   Vote.org - For registration, polling place information, and more.  League of Women Voters - Non-partisan information on voting and elections.  Ballotpedia: A valuable resource for researching ballot initiatives and candidate information. Website  I Side With: Helps voters understand which candidates align with their values. Website

In this episode, host Sylvie Légère and Melinda Oakes, discuss the national debt using The Policy Circle’s brief to examine the current state of the U.S. federal debt, the effects of ongoing deficit spending, and potential reforms. The conversation underscores the importance of financial literacy and the role of informed citizens in holding representatives accountable. Tune in for insights on the national debt and how you can contribute to change. Interested in learning more? Check out these three helpful websites: Truth in Accounting shows the budget of every state Open The Books has reports on government spending The U.S. Treasury shows our debt to the penny 

In this episode of the Trust Your Voice podcast, host Sylvie Légère engages in an enlightening conversation with Melinda Oakes, author of "The Cheerleader's Guide to the Workplace." They discuss the importance of the little things in the workplace and life, and how these small details can have a significant impact. Melinda shares anecdotes from her career and offers practical advice on how to excel by focusing on the details. The conversation also touches on the concept of compound interest as a metaphor for growth and the importance of reflection and active listening in identifying what truly matters. Tune in for insights on resilience, growth, and the power of owning your story.

In this episode, host Sylvie Legere and guest Jennifer-Ruth Green dive deep into the art of effective leadership and team management. Sylvie and Jennifer explore the crucial strategies for developing organizational values, clear communication, and empowering individuals to thrive within their roles. They also unravel the importance of recognizing individual preferences, instilling leadership values from a young age, and balancing affirmation with direction and correction in guiding future leaders.  Jennifer, a military veteran and author, shares practical insights from her extensive experience, emphasizing the profound impact leaders have on their teams' well-being. From discussing her book "People Don't Quit Their Jobs. They Quit Their Bosses" to touching on her company, Battle Proven Leadership, Jennifer reveals the key characteristics of respected leaders and the foundational principles every leader should embody.  This episode promises actionable advice for both new and experienced leaders and is a must-listen for anyone dedicated to improving their organizational impact.       Guest bio Jennifer-Ruth Green served in the U.S. Air Force and the California Air National Guard, and serves in the Indiana Air National Guard. Green earned a B.S. in foreign area studies (Asia) from the United States Air Force Academy in 2005, a master's degree in ministry from Golden State Baptist College in 2013, and a B.S. in aeronautics/aviation/aerospace science and technology from Liberty University in 2021. Her career experience includes working as the chief information officer with the Indiana Air National Guard, an AFVentures fellow with SecurityScorecard, and the director of the Student Employment Resource Center of Hyles-Anderson College. Green founded and serves as the director of MissionAero Pipeline.    Amazon: People Don’t Quit Their Jobs, They Quit Their Bosses  Visit the Battle-Proven Leadership website

In this episode, we explore the direct impact of online platforms and big tech in facilitating various forms of sexual abuse, including the exploitation of minors and the proliferation of deepfake pornography. Insights from our guests highlight significant campaigns aimed at holding major tech companies accountable, the ongoing challenges survivors face in finding comprehensive support, and the complexities of legal frameworks dealing with these heinous crimes.  Personal stories from Brenda and Jessica, who have not only survived exploitation but are now front-line warriors helping others navigate through recovery, emphasize the necessity of sensitive victim support systems that do not compel survivors to relive their trauma.  Moreover, Lina Nealon will critique the role of mainstream corporations in the commercial exploitation industry and shed light on the adverse effects of decriminalizing the sex trade.  Be informed, moved, and motivated to act as we navigate these challenging but crucial discussions aimed at sparking change and offering hope.    Guest bios    Jessica Lamb is a survivor leader and expert in tattoo iconography, specializing in identification and education on trafficking and gang-related tattoos. She founded Atlanta Redemption Ink and built a national network supporting survivors of exploitation and teaches on her experiences, contributing to anti-trafficking advocacy for over a decade. Recognized for her impact, Jessica has received numerous accolades and trained thousands of professionals in the field.    Lina Nealon is the Vice President and Director of Corporate Advocacy at the National Center on Sexual Exploitation. She spearheads the “The Dirty Dozen List” an annual campaign calling out twelve mainstream entities for facilitating, enabling, and even profiting from sexual abuse and exploitation. Lina poses as a teen online to collect evidence of to what and to whom children are exposed in the digital landscape.  📌Read more about Lina Nealon here    The Honorable, Brenda Myers-Powell is based in Chicago and is the founder and CEO of Ernestine’s Daughter that fights human trafficking. She is a dynamic, beautiful POWERHOUSE and survivor. She also sits on the US Advisory Council on Human Trafficking.  📌Read more about Brenda Myers-Powell here

Episode Overview In this episode, we explore the direct impact of online platforms and big tech in facilitating various forms of sexual abuse, including the exploitation of minors and the proliferation of deepfake pornography. Insights from our guests highlight significant campaigns aimed at holding major tech companies accountable, the ongoing challenges survivors face in finding comprehensive support, and the complexities of legal frameworks dealing with these heinous crimes.  Personal stories from Brenda and Jessica, who have not only survived exploitation but are now front-line warriors helping others navigate through recovery, emphasize the necessity of sensitive victim support systems that do not compel survivors to relive their trauma.  Moreover, Lina Nealon will critique the role of mainstream corporations in the commercial exploitation industry and shed light on the adverse effects of decriminalizing the sex trade.  Be informed, moved, and motivated to act as we navigate these challenging but crucial discussions aimed at sparking change and offering hope.    Guest bios  Jessica Lamb is a survivor leader and expert in tattoo iconography, specializing in identification and education on trafficking and gang-related tattoos. She founded Atlanta Redemption Ink and built a national network supporting survivors of exploitation and teaches on her experiences, contributing to anti-trafficking advocacy for over a decade. Recognized for her impact, Jessica has received numerous accolades and trained thousands of professionals in the field.    Lina Nealon is the Vice President and Director of Corporate Advocacy at the National Center on Sexual Exploitation. She spearheads the “The Dirty Dozen List” an annual campaign calling out twelve mainstream entities for facilitating, enabling, and even profiting from sexual abuse and exploitation. Lina poses as a teen online to collect evidence of to what and to whom children are exposed in the digital landscape.  📌Read more about Lina Nealon here    The Honorable, Brenda Myers-Powell is based in Chicago and is the founder and CEO of Ernestine’s Daughter that fights human trafficking. She is a dynamic, beautiful POWERHOUSE and survivor. She also sits on the US Advisory Council on Human Trafficking.  📌Read more about Brenda Myers-Powell here 

In this episode of Trust Your Voice podcast, we dive deep into understanding judgment, its impact on our behavior, and how to navigate it. Melinda Oakes, author of the book ⁠⁠The Cheerleader's Guide to the Workplace: How an awesome attitude and a peppy perspective will help you go, fight and win at work!⁠⁠ and Sylvie, share their insights on differentiating between judgment and feedback, accepting human nature, and choosing a response to judgment. Sylvie also shares personal anecdotes from her book "⁠⁠Trust Your Voice⁠⁠," exploring the features of human nature that drive judgment. Join us as we discuss strategies to deal with judgment and embrace self-acceptance. Tune in and let us know how you deal with judgment at work. Share your thoughts on LinkedIn or email ⁠⁠sylvie@trustyourvoicepodcast.com⁠⁠. If you enjoy this episode, please give us 5 stars, leave a review, and share it with a friend.

In this episode of the Trust Your Voice Podcast, host Sylvie Légère engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Congresswoman Laurel Lee. Throughout the conversation, they delve into Lee's journey into politics, her unwavering commitment to public service, and the challenges she faced in stepping into a new role. They also tackle the pressing issues of restoring trust in American political institutions and the importance of constructive engagement in the democratic process. This enlightening dialogue offers valuable insights into the responsibilities of a House representative, highlighting the complexities and nuance of their work.  By sharing Lee's experiences and perspectives, this episode gives a compelling reminder of the significance of active participation in shaping our communities. It serves as an invitation for listeners to consider the impact of their own voices and engagement in the democratic process, encouraging thoughtfulness and introspection on the role each individual plays in contributing to the broader conversation of civic leadership and engagement.    Guest speaker bio:  Congresswoman Laurel Lee, representing Florida's 15th District since January 2023, has a rich background in public service. Born in a military family at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, she has a deep commitment to representing her district in Congress. Prior to her congressional role, Laurel served as Florida’s Secretary of State under the DeSantis Administration, where she enhanced the state's election infrastructure and cybersecurity. Before that, she was a Circuit Court Judge in Florida’s Thirteenth Judicial Court, appointed by then-Governor Rick Scott, and worked as a federal prosecutor handling a wide range of criminal offenses.

In this episode, Sylvie Légère dives into the essence of civility in our modern society. She is joined by an inspiring trio: author Alexandra Hudson with her wisdom from 'The Soul of Civility', Beth Feeley with her grassroots community activism insights, and Yani Manson, the CEO of Girls Inc. of Chicago, discussing the pivotal role of youth in shaping a respectful future. This episode serves as a profound journey, exploring the internal disposition of the heart, respect towards others, and the golden rule, interweaving historical anecdotes and personal experiences.

In this episode, host Sylvie Légère leads an informative discussion on aging, health, and fitness with guests Mona Antwan, Alex Rodriguez, and Ashanti Johnson. Rounding out the conversations, we explore the role of discipline and intentionality, making mindful wellness a daily habit. Join us as we delve into life's low hanging fruits - the things we all can do to age better, live healthier, and promote overall well-being. Let's unlock the secrets to creating a happier, healthier future together. The Policy Circle Brief: Health Disparities and the Determinants of Health Mindfulness Leader

Episode Summary:  Sylvie Légère hosts a discussion on the pillars of a good life, specifically focusing on financial readiness, technology literacy, and community engagement in the context of aging. The guests share their perspectives and experiences on these topics, highlighting the importance of financial education, the challenges of navigating technology as one ages, and the role of community and government in supporting the elderly population. They also discuss the prevalence of scams and fraud targeting older adults and the need for better support and resources in dealing with these issues.  About The Guests: Sylvie Légère: A civically engaged entrepreneur, co-founder of the Posse Circle, and a mom.  Derek Kreifels: CEO of the State Financial Officers Organization, representing state treasurers and auditors across the country.  Ferona Lee: CEO of Near Technology, a company that provides tech support and education for older adults.  Sheila Brown: A senior executive at Medtronic with over 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry.  Key Takeaways: 1. Financial education is crucial for individuals of all ages to ensure financial readiness and stability throughout their lives.  2. Technology literacy is essential for older adults to stay connected, access services, and protect themselves from scams and fraud.  3. Community engagement and support are vital for the well-being and quality of life of aging individuals.  4. Scams and fraud targeting older adults are prevalent and often result in significant financial losses.  Great Quotes from The Episode: "Women live longer and are inheriting the largest transference of wealth in American history." - Derek Kreifels  "When someone retires, they often lack practice with technology, which can lead to challenges in various aspects of their lives." - Ferona Lee  "Having an advocate is crucial when navigating the complexities of aging and accessing support services." - Sheila Brown  Helpful Resources: Resources from the Policy Circle: https://www.thepolicycircle.org/brief/aging-in-the-21st-century/ https://www.thepolicycircle.org/brief/financial-literacy/ Resources from Derek Kreifels: ourmoneyourvalues.com 1792exchange.com https://swsmmagazine.com/ Resources from Ferrona Lee: feelnear.com  

In this episode of the Trust Your Voice podcast, host Sylvie Légère sat down with Magatte Wade, Founder and CEO of Skin is Skin, to talk about the complexities and nuances of Africa's challenges and opportunities.  Magatte Wade challenges the traditional narrative surrounding sub-Saharan Africa and sheds light on the missing middle in foreign aid. Drawing from her own experiences and expertise, she questions the effectiveness of international aid and explores how it often fails to reach local entrepreneurs and stimulate economic growth.    About Magatte Wade:  Magatte Wade is passionate about creating jobs and prosperity in Africa through entrepreneurship and economic freedom. She was born in Senegal, educated in France, and launched her entrepreneurial career in San Francisco. She is fluent in and conducts business in Wolof, French and English. Magatte's current product line, manufactured in Senegal, is Skin is Skin, a lip balm dedicated to reducing racial discrimination. Her previous companies, Tiossan and Adina, brought Senegalese recipes and ingredients to U.S. markets in skin care and beverages.  Based on her experiences creating consumer brands and building agricultural and manufacturing capacity in Senegal, Magatte has spoken at dozens of universities including Harvard, Yale, Columbia, MIT, etc. as well as at global conferences on innovation and economic development in France, England, Dubai, Guatemala, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Rwanda, Gabon, Senegal, and more. She writes for the Huffington Post, Barron’s, and the U.K. Guardian. She is a Young Global Leader with the World Economic Forum at Davos and has appeared on the cover of Forbes Afrique. She was also named one of the “Twenty Young Power Women of Africa” by Forbes U.S.    Connect with Magatte:  Instagram - @magattw  Twitter - @magattw  LinkedIn - @magattw    Resources:  https://magattewade.com  https://www.amazon.com/Juice-How-Electricity-Explains-World/dp/B088N9SBC8 

In this episode of the Trust Your Voice podcast, host Sylvie Légère sat down with Lindrea Reynolds, an agency founder, strategist, and visionary to talk about how to define and integrate the various aspects of our personal identity, professional persona, and our many-sided selves. As the Founder and CEO of LR Brand Consulting (LRBC), Lindrea leverages over 15 years of marketing and design experience to help businesses and professionals find focus, articulate their value and prioritize well-being practices. Emphasizing a human-centered approach to brand-building, Lindrea believes that empathetic storytelling is essential for cultivating purposeful interactions. She has shared her philosophy with top-performing enterprises, educational institutions, and influential figures spanning both the public and private sectors. Lindrea's strategies have secured collaborations with the NBA, Google, iHeart Media, Amazon, and others. A zealous educator and advisor, Lindrea is shaping the future of inclusive brand marketing. Her expertise has earned her invitations to share her insights on various platforms and stages. Additionally, Lindrea has taught for the University of Chicago’s Department of Professional Education, sharing her knowledge with rising marketing professionals. As a sought-after mentor and brand builder, her influence extends globally, enhancing stakeholder experiences from employee to consumer. PRSA, Communication Arts, Ad Age, the City of Chicago, Academic leaders, and business influencers have acknowledged Lindrea's insights and contributions to the design and brand marketing industries. When Lindrea is not building brands, she dedicates her time to promoting positive youth development and fueling her creativity through oil painting, DIY projects, lots of laughs with family and friends, and enjoying sports-related activities. She shares these joyful experiences with her husband, Solomon, and their Pomeranian, Adobe (yes, named after the software). https://www.lrbrandconsulting.com/ Other resources:  Lindrea’s example of one of the best personal branding - https://www.bozomasaintjohn.com/  Bozoma Saint John is a Hall of Fame inducted marketing executive, author, and entrepreneur. Her book “The Urgent Life” is a memoir of grief that had ultimately driven her to thrive in the face of loss. 

In this episode of the Trust Your Voice podcast, host Sylvie Légère sat down with Craig Scalise, a distinguished economist with a Ph.D. from the University of Chicago and who also taught at the University of South Carolina. His publications include the book, “Intellectual Property Protection: Theory, Evidence and Policy” and the “Entrepreneurial Energy: It’s Creation and Capture” series of journal articles about innovation policy. In this conversation, Sylvie and Craig discussed: What is the essence of behavioral economics and how it delves into the complexities of human decision-making The differences between the traditional vs behavioral economics The 'nudge' concept which involves designing choices and decision environments Other behavioral economics key concepts We hope you enjoy the episode! Tell us what you think by leaving a review on Apple podcasts. Stay tuned for more episodes and be sure to subscribe to the Trust Your Voice podcast on your favorite podcast player.