The Working While Black Show

After working his way up to a director-level role at his job, Chris faced an unexpected reality... The company no longer valued his contributions. But instead of giving in to self-doubt, he made a bold move that caught even his boss—and his boss’s boss—off guard. This step allowed Chris to claim control over his future in a way no one saw coming. In this episode of The Working While Black Show, my guest, a Storytelling & Public Speaking Coach, shares how to transform career uncertainty into your greatest advantage. We also explore the power of building genuine relationships at work and using positive disruption to stand out in the workplace. Whether you're stuck in your current position or ready to level up your leadership presence, this episode provides actionable strategies to help you master confidence and stand out authentically in your career. Chris shares personal stories and practical wisdom from his journey from corporate leadership to entrepreneurship.ResourcesLearn how to tell your own story in 24 hours using Chris’s storytelling techniques: A Easy Guide to StorytellingLearn more about Notion, the all in one digital workspace: www.affiliate.notion.so/wd96duoqxmlk CONNECT WITH USLearn more about our guest and explore more resources in the show notes on our website: www.bosslocksmedia.com/wwbshow/chris-ward-jr-anxiety-into-confidence

Why is it essential to take bold risks in one's career?Cassidy Dansberry is a dynamic marketing manager, stylist, and strategist at Athlete's Foot, renowned for her expertise in curating impactful community events that transcend mere product showcase. In this episode of The Working While Black Show, Cassidy joins me to talk about taking risks in your career, navigating corporate spaces as a Black woman, and how she and The Athlete's Foot are creating impactful events for local communitiesLearn more about Notion, the all in one digital workspace: www.affiliate.notion.so/wd96duoqxmlkFOLLOW OUR GUESTConnect With Cassidy DansberryLInkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/cassidydansberryInstagram: @shesadandy_Cassidy's website: www.shedandyllc.comThe Athlete's Foot: www.theathletesfoot.comFOLLOW BOSS LOCKS MEDIALearn more about our guest: www.bosslocksmedia.comFollow us on your favorite social platforms: https://bosslocks.norby.liveYouTube: @bosslocksmedia

Why is it so hard to get a job that you're qualified for? Aliyah Jones is a marketing strategist and product designer who's worked with top brands like H&M, KSwiss, and more to drive sales through marketing campaigns and optimized user experiences. In this episode of The Working While Black Show, Aliyah shared the story behind her engaging Unemployment Series, Going from working in retail to working as a product designer and marketing strategist, her top tips for creating content on TikTok and LinkedIn, and the state of the job market. We learn the truth about what it's like to go months without receiving a job offer for roles you're overqualified for and she gives us an inside look into her world as a content creator. This episode was powered by PodflowFOLLOW OUR GUESTConnect With Aliyah Jones: - LInkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/aliyah-jones-81b447100- TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@iamaliyahjonesFOLLOW BOSSLOCKS MEDIA- Text us +1(914)-353-4176- Sign up for the I Love New Growth Newsletter: https://norby.link/c5YDwu- Follow us on your favorite social platforms: https://bosslocks.norby.live- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bosslocksmediaCHAPTERS(06:12) Transitioning from Retail to Product Design(12:08) Experiences in Toxic Work Environments(19:07) Being Fired and Maintaining Resilience(26:02) Passion for Product Design and Fashion(29:59) The Importance of Customer Service(33:03) The Tragic Job Market(37:15) The Power of Support Systems and a Positive Attitude(42:45) The Unemployment Series(51:48) Choosing the Right Platforms for Content Creation

Ornella Jacobs is a trailblazing figure in the Black community, showcasing the power of ambition and resilience. Navigating her professional journey in the UK, she became a senior customer success strategist at a global tech company, all while balancing multiple side businesses and freelancing. Jacobs felt isolated as a Black person in the customer success field until she discovered the Success in Black community, which resonated with her experiences and provided essential representation and support. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity in professional spaces, advocating for being valued for one's true self and not merely hired to fulfill diversity quotas.FOLLOW OUR GUESTConnect With Ornella: www.linkedin.com/in/ornella-jacobsFollow Success In Black: https://bit.ly/SuccessInBlackLIPageLearn More About Success In Black: https://bit.ly/SuccessInBlackWebsiteFOLLOW BOSSLOCKS MEDIA- Text us +1(914)-353-4176- Learn more about our guest: www.bosslocksmedia.com/- Sign Up For Updates On Our Knowledge Base: https://norby.link/c5Nf2p- Follow us on your favorite social platforms: https://bosslocks.norby.live- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bosslocksmediaCHAPTERS(00:04:04) Empowering Black Professionals in Customer Success Industry(00:09:55) Thriving in Customer Success: "Success in Black"(00:13:27) Representation in Tech(00:19:21) Jobs and Salaries in Customer Success(00:32:29) Career Advancement through Personal Vision Mapping(00:37:06) How DEI Leads To Profitability(00:41:32) Empowering Black Individuals in the Workplace(00:48:05) Inspiring Global Accountability for Racial Equality(00:54:53) Leveraging Personal Branding for Professional Growth(01:01:22) Authenticity and Audacity for Career Success

Walter goes live to share his thoughts on the attack on DEI, the ongoing struggle for Black entrepreneurs to secure funding, and the potential disruption AI poses to our jobs. We also highlight the inspiring yet bittersweet story of Kevin Ford, the dedicated Burger King cook, and discuss how better DEI policies could have transformed his career trajectory.From microaggressions and hair discrimination to the lack of mentorship and equitable funding, we pull back the curtain on the systemic barriers Black professionals face. Not just content with identifying the problems, we also talk solutions, spotlighting how companies are making a difference.7 free AI classes Microsoft fires DEI teamLeading Drive-Thru Innovation with Wendy’s FreshAIDrop In Venture Funding To Black-Founded StartupsVC Fearless Fund cannot issue grants to Black women

How do you strike a balance between building your brand and staying true to yourself? I'm sharing a replay of a live conversation with Storyteller and Brand Strategist Chris Ward Jr for a conversation on how to craft engaging content that resonates with your audience, whether you're a 9-to-5 professional, an entrepreneur, or a content creator on the rise.We'll be analyzing the communication styles of political pundit Candace Owens as she looks to build a following in the Black community. Is she a strategic communicator or is she intentionally triggering her audience? We'll break down her methods to understand the influence of provocative communication.Then we break down a new video platform that has emerged in the digital streets. LinkedIn's new video feed has caught everyone's attention with its new TikTok style video feed. Will provocative posts dominate or will authenticity win?Sign up for alerts about our next live event and how you can join us in the backstage here: https://norby.link/c5YDwuCHAPTERS:2:44 - Introduction to Authenticity4:58 - Defining Authenticity6:49 - Understanding the Game of Branding11:38 - Strategies for Rebranding17:40 - Living Authentically18:30 - Candace Owens's Marketing Strategy24:05 - Establishing a Value System27:54 - LinkedIn Video Strategy33:13 - Balancing Authenticity and Brand Growth34:26 - What Is The MVP Concept46:06 - How To Grow Your Audience Engagement 47:10 - Viewer Comments Segment48:53 - Podcasting Across Platforms51:11 - Key Takeaways52:15 - Advice for 9-5 Workers54:40 - Tips for Entrepreneurs57:40 - Guidance for Hybrid Professionals1:04:02 - Preview of The Working While Black Show

We’re exploring a billion-dollar industry that’s basically hidden within the healthcare field called Revenue Cycle Management.Our guest, Lance Gainer, is my cousin and a seasoned consultant in revenue cycle management within the healthcare industry, with a strong background in leadership and growth. His journey started at Labcorp, where he ascended through the corporate hierarchy. Gainer perceives revenue cycle management in healthcare as a lucrative niche filled with opportunities for growth and advancement. Learn more about our guest's business here: https://resilientrevenue.comFOLLOW BOSSLOCKS MEDIA- Text us +1(914)-353-4176- Learn more about our guest: www.bosslocksmedia.com/- Join the I Love New Growth Newsletter: https://norby.link/c5YDwu- Follow us on your favorite social platforms: https://bosslocks.norby.live- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bosslocksmedia(00:00:34) Healthcare Revenue Management: Navigating Financial Impacts(00:03:49) Adapting Career Trajectory Through Unexpected Turns(00:06:36) Mastering Revenue Cycle Management in Healthcare Operations(00:18:18) Healthcare Finance Impact on Revenue Stability(00:32:08) Networking Success: Optum Consulting Role Achievement(00:40:01) Hospital Revenue Management Business Success Story(00:43:47) Maximizing Efficiency Through Overseas Revenue Management Outsourcing(00:46:30) Enhancing Revenue Cycle Management with Diverse Platforms

Does job security still exist? Are the wonders of entrepreneurship just a fantasy?Evolve Benton is a speaking coach who got into the entrepreneurial game to teach others how to communicate what they know and profit from it.Their take on the challenges of entrepreneurship is rooted in real expectations vs the fantasy of overnight success stories So I asked Evolve to join me for a conversation about the complexities of being an entrepreneur who is also looking for a job, what it means to be financially free in 2024, how 9-5ers can make extra money while working full time, and more.Take advantage of Evolve’s free gift by texting the word SPEAK to 323-405-9492Evolve's favorite tool for public speaking: Talk A DotYou can also follow Evolve’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@speaking4profituniversityAnd connect with them on their site: https://www.speaking4profit.com/If you're in Atlanta, then you won't want to miss their event on June 21-22nd https://www.speaking4profit.com/S4PLiveLearn more about Noir Collective AVL and start planning your visit to Asheville, NC: https://noircollectiveavl.comFOLLOW BOSSLOCKS MEDIAText us +1(914)-353-4176Learn more about our guest: www.bosslocksmedia.com/Join the I Love New Growth Newsletter: https://norby.link/c5YDwuFollow us on your favorite social platforms: https://bosslocks.norby.liveYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bosslocksmedia

How does capitalism impact our sense of belonging at work?Having grown up as a military brat and living everywhere from Germany to Atlanta, Georgia; our guest, Drisana McDaniel, developed a unique perspective on societal norms and expectations. This perspective led her to become a sociology graduate as well as a Sr. Researcher & Instructor at the Acosta Institute.Her views on the topic of "Working While Black" are greatly influenced by her experiences of not fitting into pre-determined societal expectations of blackness and identity. She joined me during a live show I did for LinkedIn’s Creator Program and we talked about everything the 8000 Ways To Be Black, learning to look at anxiety as wisdom, and the side effects of calling out your organization for being toxic.FOLLOW BOSSLOCKS MEDIA- Text us +1(914)-353-4176- Learn more about our guest: https://drisanamcdaniel.com/- Join the I Love New Growth Newsletter: https://norby.link/c5YDwu- Follow us on your favorite social platforms: https://bosslocks.norby.live- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bosslocksmediaFOLLOW ALONG AS WE COVER(09:45) - Integrity vs your job's organizational values(23:08) - 8000 ways to be black and Respectability Politics(26:17) - Prioritizing Belonging and Values Alignment in Organizations(26:59) - Capitalism Is Not Structured To Care For You(32:10) - Your Integrity Vs Your Company’s Values(34:37) - Alchemy of Now: Integration for Empowerment(47:55) - There's Wisdom in Anxiety(52:03) - Embracing Anxiety for Personal Growth and Support

Imagine never having uncertainty about your career again! That’s the mission of The Working While Black Show, to curate a collection of stories and insight from leaders who have gone from surviving to thriving in the workplace.As I continue my reactivation campaign for Boss Locks and prep for the launch of The Working While Black Show, I decided to invite Chris Ward Jr, back to the studio to help me tell the story of what I've been up to behind the scenes.Sign up for the waitlist here: https://norby.link/cDXT25Plus, learn about our sponsors, MagicMind, the energy shot that keeps us sharp and focused - they're sponsoring today's episode, and we're thrilled about it! www.magicmind.com/bossJoin The Growth Club from Boss Locks Media for Patreon exclusives, first access to new content and ad-free episodes. Plus, unlock access to exclusive events and content for our podcast communityLearn more at: patreon.com/thegrowthclub

Imagine never having uncertainty about your career again! That’s the mission of The Working While Black Show, to curate a collection of stories and insight from leaders who have gone from surviving to thriving in the workplace.Think of this podcast as a career mixtape with a carefully curated collection of episodes designed to guide you on your path to new growth.The Working While Black show is dedicated to providing resources and information for Black professionals feeling discouraged about their growth. We're speaking to Black leaders who share the lessons they’ve learned navigating professional environments and entrepreneurial pursuits. Join the waitlist to get notified when the new episode drops: https://norby.link/cDXT25

We're exploring Mateo Askaripour's novel "Black Buck"! a captivating story that brings readers into the world of a Black 'twenty-something' who went from taking orders at Starbucks to being a global leader in sales. But this is more than just a sales book review. It's a story of love, loss, triumph, betrayal, and Working While Black. Our guest, Nya Peoples joins us for this review of Askaripour's novel and her own sales experience and how this book transformed her view of sales from grimy to grand. This episode speaks to overcoming toxic work environments and finding your true potential.If you're an avid reader or want to support a non-profit dedicated to literary advocacy and empowerment, text "donate" to our official SMS chat for instructions on supporting AAMBC Inc, which I am now a board member of.Plus, learn about our sponsors, MagicMind, the energy shot that keeps us sharp and focused - they're sponsoring today's episode, and we're thrilled about it! www.magicmind.com/bossJoin The Growth Club from Boss Locks Media for Patreon exclusives, first access to new content and ad-free episodes. Plus, unlock access to exclusive events and content for our podcast communityLearn more at: patreon.com/thegrowthclubCHAPTERS:(04:02) - First Sales Experience Insights(13:06) - Community in Sales Workplaces(18:18) - Discussing Magic Mind Product(21:04) - The Founding 50(24:10) - Nya Analyzes 'Black Buck' Novel(29:53) - Life-Changing Sales Moments(31:48) - Tactics for Overcoming Sales Objections(33:45) - The Emotional Side of Sales(36:59) - Embracing Rejection in Sales(39:01) - Addressing Spoilers in 'Black Buck'(41:33) - Exploring Nepotism in Sales Careers(43:54) - Balancing Responsibility and Accountability(49:05) - Origin of 'Buck's' Name in 'Black Buck'(53:24) - Career Growth Cheat Codes Discussion(55:24) - Networking with Guest Nya