BEYOND BARRIERS

Even at the highest levels in companies large and small, many otherwise strong and bold women struggle in meetings. Many say their voices are drowned out; others say they are ignored or overlooked, and others can't find a way into the conversation at all. And, in this new era of virtual meetings, the problem has become harder to manage. In this episode, Monica shares women's stories and experiences in meetings, what the research by Harvard Business Review shows, and how to take your power back in meetings. Highlights: [00:34] Women's experience in meetings [02:25] What the research shows [04:25] How to take your power back [08:00] Using muscular language [12:38] Practice and prepare in advance Quotes: "It's less about what we say and more of how we say it." – Monica Marquez "You can learn to take your power back. You must practice, test, and learn." – Monica Marquez About Nikki Barua: Nikki Barua is a digital innovator, serial entrepreneur, author & speaker. Website: https://www.nikkibarua.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thenikkibarua/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenikkibarua/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thenikkibarua/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NikkiBarua About Monica Marquez: Monica Marquez is a senior corporate leader, ex-Googler, and diversity expert. Website: https://themonicamarquez.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMonicaMarquez/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themonicamarquez/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themonicamarquez/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/themmarquez

In the age of uncertainty, you must make it a priority to invest in your own development. That's the only real security that exists when disruptive change can eliminate jobs or derail businesses unexpectedly. When assessing where you can invest time, energy, and the rest of your resources, spend it on the one thing that no one can take from you — yourself. In this episode, Monica shares why it's important to invest in yourself, why some women are not investing in themselves, and advice on creating the budget and habit for learning. Highlights: [00:39] Why invest in yourself [01:53] What the research shows [04:46] Why women are not investing in themselves [07:04] Create a budget for education [14:56] Make learning a habit Quotes: "Investing in yourself in terms of becoming a lifelong learner is now one of the most critical things that you can do in this current age of uncertainty." – Monica Marquez "The best leaders are constantly learning." – Monica Marquez "Invest in yourself with time and energy, not just dollars." - Monica Marquez "Learning in this day and age is a superpower and enables you to grow and learn and put yourself in uncomfortable situations." – Monica Marquez About Nikki Barua: Nikki Barua is a digital innovator, serial entrepreneur, author & speaker. Website: https://www.nikkibarua.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thenikkibarua/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenikkibarua/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thenikkibarua/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NikkiBarua About Monica Marquez: Monica Marquez is a senior corporate leader, ex-Googler, and diversity expert. Website: https://themonicamarquez.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMonicaMarquez/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themonicamarquez/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themonicamarquez/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/themmarquez

We've all been hearing, reading and in some cases witnessing the talent tidal wave of employee departures during this "Great Resignation". Most assume that employees are leaving for money or better benefits. However, based on the latest research and our own anecdotal data from our Beyond Barriers Accelerator cohorts, what talent is really seeking is a sense of purpose and belonging. In this episode, Monica shares the real reason people are leaving and what organizations can do to stop the attrition. Highlights: [00:34] The real reason people leave companies [03:57] How organizations can stop the attrition [10:43] It's not all about the money, it's about purpose Quotes: "According to a report by Working Mother Media, only 15% of women had clarity on where they wanted to be five years in their careers." – Monica Marquez "If your organization doesn't have leaders who create a sense of belonging, a sense of purpose, and make those that report to them feel valued, those employees will leave." – Monica Marquez About Nikki Barua: Nikki Barua is a digital innovator, serial entrepreneur, author & speaker. Website: https://www.nikkibarua.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thenikkibarua/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenikkibarua/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thenikkibarua/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NikkiBarua About Monica Marquez: Monica Marquez is a senior corporate leader, ex-Googler, and diversity expert. Website: https://themonicamarquez.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMonicaMarquez/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themonicamarquez/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themonicamarquez/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/themmarquez

Did you know that, according to the 2020 State of Latino Entrepreneur Report, the number of Latino owned businesses has grown 34% over the last 10 years compared to just 1% for all other small businesses? In this episode, Monica shares her story of leaving corporate for entrepreneurship and celebrates winning ALPFA's Latina Entrepreneur Award. Nikki and Monica also discuss why diversity in entrepreneurship matters, the struggle of scaling your business, and share advice on how diverse founders can gain access to capital. DISCOVER YOUR STRENGTHS & BARRIERS TO SUCCESS Take the free assessment and get your personalized report. Go to https://www.iambeyondbarriers.com/quiz Highlights: [00:39] ALPFA Latina Entrepreneur Award Winner Monica Marquez [02:55] Switching from corporate to entrepreneurship [05:22] Why diversity matters in entrepreneurship [07:44] Scaling your company [12:10] Advice to diverse founders on accessing capital Quotes: "The definition of urgency for an entrepreneur is 100 times fold than what it is when working in a big corporation." – Monica Marquez "The advantage that diverse entrepreneurs have is the insight into what pain point their community is dealing with. And can help solve because of their unique perspective." – Monica Marquez "There is so much insight and direct, firsthand lived experience that diverse founders can bring to the table that represents a massive and perpetually growing market opportunity." – Nikki Barua About Nikki Barua: Nikki Barua is a digital innovator, serial entrepreneur, author & speaker. Website: https://www.nikkibarua.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thenikkibarua/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenikkibarua/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thenikkibarua/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NikkiBarua About Monica Marquez: Monica Marquez is a senior corporate leader, ex-Googler, and diversity expert. Website: https://themonicamarquez.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMonicaMarquez/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themonicamarquez/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themonicamarquez/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/themmarquez

Do you struggle with indecision and hesitate to take risks? Do you become paralyzed when trying to decide whether to apply or take on a new job? Being indecisive is exhausting. It's just no fun. But, even worse, it robs you of opportunity! No need to worry. Making decisions might be difficult sometimes. But like any skill, you can get better at it with practice. In this episode, Monica shares why it is important to practice decision-making, how to take risks and minimize uncertainty, and the 5 steps to making decisions with confidence. DISCOVER YOUR STRENGTHS & BARRIERS TO SUCCESS Take the free assessment and get your personalized report. Go to https://www.iambeyondbarriers.com/quiz Highlights: [00:55] Why it is important to focus on being decisive [01:56] The upsides and downsides of indecision [06:10] How to take risks and minimize uncertainty [08:29] The 5 steps to making decisions with confidence Quotes: "When you refuse to take any action, you're making a decision by default and choosing to do nothing." – Monica Marquez "Fear is described as false evidence appearing real." – Monica Marquez "Weighing the pros and cons of a decision is important. But do not spend too much time as it can lead to analysis paralysis." – Monica Marquez "When weighing a decision, ask yourself, will this matter in 10 years?" – Monica Marquez "Life is inherently risky. There is only one big risk you should avoid at all costs, and that is the risk of doing nothing." – Denis Waitley About Nikki Barua: Nikki Barua is a digital innovator, serial entrepreneur, author & speaker. Website: https://www.nikkibarua.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thenikkibarua/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenikkibarua/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thenikkibarua/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NikkiBarua About Monica Marquez: Monica Marquez is a senior corporate leader, ex-Googler, and diversity expert. Website: https://themonicamarquez.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMonicaMarquez/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themonicamarquez/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themonicamarquez/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/themmarquez

One of the most significant challenges in the workplace, and in everyday life for that matter, that women and women of color have to cope and strategically manage are microaggressions. Dealing with these energy-draining and disempowering comments can take a toll on you. It's like, "Death by 1000 papercuts". In this episode, Monica shares why it is important to address microaggressions when they happen, how to address a microaggression, and what to do if if you've committed a microaggression. DISCOVER YOUR STRENGTHS & BARRIERS TO SUCCESS Take the free assessment and get your personalized report. Go to https://www.iambeyondbarriers.com/quiz Highlights: [02:01] Microaggression defined [03:49] Examples of microaggressions [07:43] How to address a microaggression [16:21] What to do if you've committed a microaggression Quotes: "Be specific when you address a microaggression, don't generalize. Let the other person know how their action or words made you feel." – Monica Marquez "Turn a microaggression committed against you into a teachable moment. Take the opportunity to help that person grow." – Monica Marquez About Nikki Barua: Nikki Barua is a digital innovator, serial entrepreneur, author & speaker. Website: https://www.nikkibarua.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thenikkibarua/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenikkibarua/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thenikkibarua/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NikkiBarua About Monica Marquez: Monica Marquez is a senior corporate leader, ex-Googler, and diversity expert. Website: https://themonicamarquez.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMonicaMarquez/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themonicamarquez/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themonicamarquez/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/themmarquez

Have you struggled with advancing your career and don't know what steps to take? Do you feel stuck and don't know who to turn to for help? The key to success is not doing it alone and proactively seeking out the "right" mentors and sponsors. Research has shown that 75% of executives credit their mentors with helping them reach their current positions. That's a large number and demonstrates the importance of mentors and sponsors on ones' career. In this episode, we'll discuss the important differences between mentors and sponsors and how to identify them and where to find them. DISCOVER YOUR STRENGTHS & BARRIERS TO SUCCESS Take the free assessment and get your personalized report. Go to https://www.iambeyondbarriers.com/quiz Highlights: [01:59] Research on mentors and sponsors [03:32] Identifying the right mentors and sponsors [04:51] The difference between mentors and sponsors [07:15] Mentors don't have to look like you [11:08] Be strategic in seeking out mentors [13:49] Exercise to help you identify the best mentors & sponsors for you [15:22] Where to find mentors Quotes: "Career success really is one of the things that you cannot do alone." – Monica Marquez "75% of executives credit their mentors in helping them reach their current positions." – Monica Marquez "Research has shown that if you want to get ahead and move up in your career, you need a sponsor." – Monica Marquez "Mentors are everywhere - they can be in your organization, outside of your organization, within the industry that you're in or looking to transition to." – Monica Marquez About Nikki Barua: Nikki Barua is a digital innovator, serial entrepreneur, author & speaker. Website: https://www.nikkibarua.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thenikkibarua/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenikkibarua/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thenikkibarua/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NikkiBarua About Monica Marquez: Monica Marquez is a senior corporate leader, ex-Googler, and diversity expert. Website: https://themonicamarquez.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMonicaMarquez/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themonicamarquez/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themonicamarquez/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/themmarquez

Happy Hispanic Heritage Month! Have you ever wondered how to address someone Hispanic or felt lost with the nuances of Latino/x culture? Do you say Hispanic, Latino, Latinx? When it comes to this Spanish speaking population, it is very tricky, and even counter-productive, to lump 62 million people and 20+ cultures into one collective group. In this episode, Monica will share insights and best practices to raise awareness of the rich cultural nuances within the Hispanic and Latino diaspora. Don't miss this opportunity to learn to build a more inclusive workplace. Subscribe to get new episodes every Monday and Wednesday. Visit https://www.iambeyondbarriers.com where you'll find show notes and links. Highlights: [01:50] What is Hispanic Heritage Month [05:01] The difference between Hispanic, Latino, or LatinX [09:50] Pew Research on use of Hispanic, Latino, and LatinX [13:47] Never judge a book by it's cover [17:38] Teachable moments Quotes: "This year's theme for Hispanic Heritage Month is Esperanza, a celebration of Hispanic heritage and hope. And the theme invites us all to celebrate Hispanic heritage, but also reflect on the resiliency we have all shown over the course of the last 18 months, two years, over the decades, over the centuries." – Monica Marquez "When someone asks you, what are you or where are you from? Let's use that as a teachable moment to create the awareness to let people know that we aren't just one big umbrella, share the uniqueness of who you are, where your ancestry came from." – Monica Marquez About Nikki Barua Nikki Barua is a digital innovator, serial entrepreneur, author & speaker. Website: https://www.nikkibarua.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thenikkibarua/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenikkibarua/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thenikkibarua/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NikkiBarua About Monica Marquez: Monica Marquez is a senior corporate leader, ex-Googler, and diversity expert. Website: https://themonicamarquez.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMonicaMarquez/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themonicamarquez/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themonicamarquez/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/themmarquez

Do you shy away from experiences which require you to stand up and speak in front of a group? Do you break out in a cold sweat while making your way up to the stage to speak? In this episode, Nikki shares her first experience with public speaking and the fear that caused her to freeze on stage. She also shares the 3 "P"s to overcoming the fear public speaking. Subscribe to get new episodes every Monday & Wednesday. Visit https://www.iambeyondbarriers.com where you'll find show notes and links. Highlights: [01:04] Nikki's first experience on stage [06:34] How Nikki overcame her fear of public speaking [08:56] Practice, practice, practice [15:12] Get clear on your WHY Quotes: "You can't get better at something if you don't invest time in it, and you can't invest time in it, if you never schedule it." – Nikki Barua "The best way to overcome your fear of public speaking is to practice by seeking opportunities to speak whenever you have the chance." – Nikki Barua "To overcome your fear of public speaking you must practice the three "P"s - you need to prepare, you need to practice and you need to be patient." – Monica Marquez About Nikki Barua: Nikki Barua is a digital innovator, serial entrepreneur, author & speaker. Website: https://www.nikkibarua.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thenikkibarua/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenikkibarua/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thenikkibarua/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NikkiBarua About Monica Marquez: Monica Marquez is a senior corporate leader, ex-Googler, and diversity expert. Website: https://themonicamarquez.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMonicaMarquez/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themonicamarquez/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themonicamarquez/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/themmarquez

Research shows that it takes 10,000 hours to master a skill or craft. That's why it's so important that you're clear on your passion so that you don't expend that energy and time on something that you simply find boring. Honing your craft takes time, but first it takes awareness of what you love to do. In this episode, we'll share why it's important to have clarity on your passion, the steps to identifying your passion, and how to integrate your passion with your work. Take the free assessment and get your personalized report. Go to https://www.iambeyondbarriers.com/quiz Highlights: [01:18] What do you love to do? [03:05] Why it's important to have clarity on your passion [04:41] Marrying your passion with your work [08:06] How Monica found her passion [10:54] The steps to identify your passion Quotes: "If you want to be the best at something, you have to put in a long amount of time honing your craft." – Nikki Barua "If your day job does not correlate with your passion, then effectively you're spending all your free time and all your mental energy in developing a competency in something and not getting paid for." – Nikki Barua About Nikki Barua: Nikki Barua is a digital innovator, serial entrepreneur, author & speaker. Website: https://www.nikkibarua.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thenikkibarua/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenikkibarua/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thenikkibarua/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NikkiBarua About Monica Marquez: Monica Marquez is a senior corporate leader, ex-Googler, and diversity expert. Website: https://themonicamarquez.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMonicaMarquez/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themonicamarquez/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themonicamarquez/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/themmarquez