BEYOND BARRIERS

September 11th was a defining moment for millions of people around the world. And for Maria Kim, it was just that. At that time, she was working in the insurance industry, but the impact of that tragic day made her want to work with purpose. She eventually found herself as President & CEO of REDF, focusing on creating jobs for others. The daughter of immigrants, she jokes her nurse mother and entrepreneur father made her a social entrepreneur determined to help others. In this podcast, Maria shares lessons learned from her wide variety of work experiences she describes as a “three-act play” in the areas of private, purpose, and now practice. Her path wasn’t always intentional but it was successful nonetheless and from that journey, she learned who she is and what she brings to the table. She is focused on fixing inequities in the workplace citing that even after all the work is done, 10 million people are still “boxed out of today’s economy.” We all have something we can learn from Maria’s unique insights. Visit https://www.iambeyondbarriers.com where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with Maria.   Highlights:  [02:15] Maria’s path to her current position [04:11] Finding your purpose [06:52] How she found herself working in the service industry [09:03] Taking a risk and stepping into the unknown [12:13] Discovering your strengths and learning new skills [13:50] Maria’s strength of building community [18:37] Bringing your unique skills to the table [21:49] How to make sure your talent stands out and overcoming stereotypes [25:19] Focusing on your goals [27:38] Work/life integration [30:55] Lighting round questions   Quotes: “You don’t have to be on the path you inherit. You can create your own path.” - Maria Kim “There’s something about listening to your inner you that I think gives you the courage to hustle you through those stages of working your way back up the ladder.” – Maria Kim “We just spent the last two plus years looking at everyone’s life through the screen of a Zoom room. We saw life in its full intersectionality—beautiful, ugly, everything in between, we saw all it, we saw kids, partners, everything. Let’s not forget what we saw.” – Maria Kim “There are 10 million people in our country that are boxed out of today’s economy, for a whole host of reasons that challenge the barriers they’re overcoming.” – Maria Kim   Lightning Round Questions: What book has greatly influenced you?  “Crying in the H Mart” by Michelle Zauner What is your favorite inspiring quote or saying?  “We can be a work in progress and a masterpiece all at the same time.” What is one word or moniker you would use to describe yourself?  Fly foxy fish What is one change you've implanted that made your life better?  Seeking first to understand, then be understood. What power song would you want playing as you walk out onto a stage?  “Good as Hell” by Lizzo  About Maria Kim: Maria is a reformed insurance professional who describes the chapters of her career as private, purpose, and now practice: private sector in insurance, purpose sector at Cara Collective helping people experiencing homelessness and poverty get back to work, and now consultative practice at REDF – a pioneering venture philanthropy investing in businesses that exist to hire overlooked talent across the country.  Maria serves on the advisory boards of the First Women’s Bank and the University of Chicago Inclusive Economy Lab. She is a 2008 Leadership Greater Chicago Fellow, a 2012 American Marshall Memorial Fellow, a 2018 Vital Voices Global Ambassador, a former co-chair within Chicago Mayor Lightfoot’s 2019 transition team, a 2020 Presidential Leadership Scholar, and a 2022 Distinguished Alumni in Public Service from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, where she received her MBA.    A social impact enthusiast, advocate, and entrepreneur, Maria knows firsthand we stand on the shoulders of those who came before us; and our job – or more like our opportunity – is to pave the way for others to stand on ours. She writes about that journey as it relates to her time leading Cara in Voice and Vocation: A workforce practitioner’s guide to building hopes, jobs, and opportunity. Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariasusankim/ https://twitter.com/mariasusankim Book: https://www.amazon.com/Voice-Vocation-workforce-practitioners-opportunity-ebook/dp/B093XZBGPV 

Lexi B didn’t grow up dreaming about working in the world of tech. In fact, she assumed anyone in the tech industry was skilled in coding, so a career in the tech world was just simply out of reach. So, imagine her surprise to now find herself in a Chief of Staff role for key leaders at Twitter. However, it is really no surprise that Lexi B forged her way into a leadership role. From an early age, Lexi has been a connector. Even as a freshman in her Stanford dorm, she realized that while her peers may not have important connections as 18-year-olds, their parents and relatives did. It was that moment that Lexi B discovered the power of community and her first networks were formed sparking her non-traditional path into Tech. Lexi’s a vibrant leader who believes in promoting other’s good work and providing them the tools to do their jobs well. Join us as we hear all about Lexi’s path and what earned her a leadership position at Twitter. Visit www.iambeyondbarriers.com where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with Lexi.  Highlights:  [02:24] Lexi B’s background and how she got into the tech industry [05:32] Lexi B’s definition of success starting out [07:50] Creating a personal brand [14:05) Overcoming limiting beliefs and fears [20:14] Getting help from mentors who don’t look like you  [25:33] How to ask people for help and to not feel like a burden [30:07] Staying authentic even in success and leadership guidance from mentors  [38:19] Habits and rituals that help in uncertainty [44:05] Lightning round questions Quotes: “Just because someone doesn’t look like you, or identify with you, whatever identity layer that is, does not mean they can’t pour into you in some capacity.”– Lexi B “Your career is not just your career, it is personal.” – Lexi B “If a bodyguard and a Power Ranger and a program manager and a strategy leader had a baby, that’s how I look at my job.” – Lexi B   Lightning Round Questions: What book has greatly influenced you?  “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” by Maya Angelou, “Shoe Dog” by Phil Knight, and anything by Toni Morrison. What is your favorite inspiring quote or saying?  From my mom: “Do you boo.” From my dad: “All you have to do in this world is stay black and die.”  What is one word or moniker you would use to describe yourself?  Candid, to a fault. What is one change you've implanted that made your life better?  I got clarity on what I wanted to be when I grow up. What power song would you want playing as you walk out onto a stage?  “Rhythm Nation” by Janet Jackson and anything by Janelle Monáe. About Lexi B: 2020 WomenTech Network “Speaker of The Year” winner and one of Silicon Valley’s most candid and prominent voices, Alexandria “Lexi B.” Butler is an expert storyteller and workplace freedom fighter.  Her expertise in career growth and branding, executive leadership, and workplace equity have graced the world’s most enormous stages, including Stanford University, Anita B. Org’s Grace Hopper Celebration, Perspektywy Women In Tech Summit, Facebook, Instagram and many more. A program manager at one of the largest tech companies globally, she is  frequently tapped to share her thought-provoking advice and opinions on how to create a more equitable work environment.  In April 2017, Lexi B founded Sista Circle: Black Women in Tech. Today, it is one of the largest virtual communities of its kind to exist, boasting a 10,000+ membership of professional women from over 72 countries in tech and tech-adjacent careers. This international society has been nationally and locally recognized by Instagram, Youtube, Linkedin, Slack, Black Enterprise, Rolling Out, Phenomenally, The Ladders, Built-In, and more.  The Stanford graduate and St. Louis, MO native believes, “people deserve to live the life that caters to their strengths and passions. By truly understanding what they need and offer, everyone can implement tools to realize their path and thrive.” She shares her reflections and views on social media at @lexibspeaks. Links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lexibspeaks/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/LexiBSpeaks  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lexib/ Website: https://www.lexib.com/ 

How did you decide what you wanted to be when you grew up? Some of us are still trying to decide. Things don’t always go as planned, especially when it comes to our careers. Whether we were looking to get promoted, change jobs, or transition into a new role — being curious and taking risks is part of growing professionally. For this podcast, Robyn Shepherd, Partner and Head of Corporate Engagement at Bridgewater Associates tells us about her risk-taking experiences and making her voice heard. She also tells us about how to ask for the help you need to succeed.  Robyn grew up with an exposure to a great education but lacked awareness for the vast possibilities it could take her in her career. As she grew in her professional life, she understood that she needed to prepare to seize the moment when opportunities unexpectedly came her way. She feels it is as important to know what you don’t want to do as it is to know what you do want to do and be aware of what you’re passionate about. Success involves building great professional relationships and the best way to make those connections is being authentic–something Robyn is known for. Her positive energy will lift you up and give you ideas on how to take a new path at work. Visit https://www.iambeyondbarriers.com where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with Robyn. Highlights:  [02:22] Robyn’s journey [10:10] Stepping into new opportunities with courage [13:28] How to make important decisions [16:25] Creating opportunities and forging your own path [19:22] How to locate the decision makers [21:45] Making sure your voice is heard [24:15] Habits and hacks for think time [26:09] The importance of realizing what you don’t want to or can’t do [30:18] The vital role of community, advocates, and mentees [35:29] Asking for help [40:21] Looking for an advocate [43:42] Being authentic about building professional relationships [45:58] Lightning round questions Quotes: “When you don’t know what you want to do, do the hardest thing you can so that you’re set up when opportunity comes knocking.” – Robyn Shepherd “Preparing for the worst isn’t the only thing, it’s also about imagining the opportunity.” – Robyn Shepherd “Saying yes to something means you are saying no to something else.” – Robyn Shepherd Lightning Round Questions: What book has greatly influenced you?  “The Daily Stoic” by Ryan Holiday What is your favorite inspiring quote or saying?  “How long are you going to wait before you demand the best for yourself?” - Epictetus, Greek Stoic Philosopher What is one word or moniker you would use to describe yourself?  Tough What is one change you've implanted that made your life better?  When my kids get home from school, I do everything I can to not be working and having half-hours of transition.  What power song would you want playing as you walk out onto a stage?  “Black and Yellow” by Wiz Khalifa  About Robyn Shepherd: Robyn Shepherd joined Bridgewater Associates in 2004 and is currently the Head of Corporate Engagement. Reporting to the CEO, Robyn oversees the firm’s public affairs, communications and branding functions, as well as the company’s initiatives for operational sustainability, social responsibility, and plays a leading role in Bridgewater’s Diversity and Inclusion efforts. She is a Partner of the firm and a member of the Operating Committee and Commercial and Business Strategy Committee. Robyn began her career at Bridgewater as a Senior Investment Associate in the Account Management group and later took on other key roles within the firm’s Client Service and Marketing team — first as an Associate Client Advisor covering the firm’s international client and marketing relationships, and later as the Head of Client Service Analytics. Subsequently, Robyn served as Chief of Staff to CEO David McCormick, partnering with him on the firm’s strategic agenda, business oversight, management of the Client Service and Marketing department, and corporate governance. Robyn was a founding member of the firm’s Diversity and Inclusion Council, and the Co-Founder and Senior Sponsor of Bridgewater’s Women’s Influence Network (WIN). She was recognized by The Hedge Fund Journal as one of the “50 Leading Women in Hedge Funds” in 2020, and was named the 2021 “Women of Excellence: Trailblazer” by Seramount, in partnership with Working Mother and the National Association for Female Executives. Before joining Bridgewater, Robyn was an Analyst at Lime Rock Partners and an Investment Analyst at HarbourVest Partners. She serves on the boards of Susan G. Komen and Oakland Catholic High School, an all-women’s college preparatory school in Pittsburgh, PA. Robyn received her BA in economics from Brown University. Links: Website: https://www.bridgewater.com/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robyn-shepherd-a959985/ 

Do you worry about being liked by others? Do you hold back from what you really think or want for fear of upsetting others? The desire to be liked, whether it’s right or wrong, has a critical relationship to power. The characteristics we tend to “expect or accept” in women like modesty and humility are not the qualities that get professional recognition. Which is unlike the qualities that society likes to see in men such as self-confidence and assertiveness. These are the qualities that get talent ahead in their careers. However, women who are self-confident and assertive usually experience pushback for breaking the social norm.  The bitter reality is that no matter how hard you try, there will always be people out there who don’t like you. Learning to be okay with that is hard work, but you’ll like yourself so much more for it and have a more fulfilling career. Meet our guest, Amber Chenevert, Group Director of Strategy & Insights and Culture Studio Lead at VMLY&R, who is familiar with these roadblocks herself. Her parents raised her not to worry about being liked but rather to treat everyone fairly–and that has earned her respect at work. As an expert in marketing and building brands, she allows herself to be challenged. She has always been a deep thinker and described as wise beyond her years. Join us as she shares and teaches us about setting boundaries, living out your purpose, and giving people opportunities to tell their stories. Visit https://www.iambeyondbarriers.com where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with Amber. Highlights:  [01:19] How Amber found what she wanted to do for a living [06:58] Dealing with insecurities, fears, and limiting beliefs [11:12] Building a personal brand and storytelling [14:57] Moving forward with what you truly believe  [15:36] Being fair vs. being liked [19:37] The difficulty of self-promotion [24:24] The importance of think time and journaling  [27:28] Setting boundaries with other people [29:54] The importance of community [36:18] The book that has greatly influenced Amber [37:50] Amber’s favorite quote [38:55] One word Amber would use to describe herself [39:57] One habit that has changed Amber’s life [42:06] Amber’s power song Quotes: "I have prioritized fairness." –Amber Chenevert “‘Do the work, put your head down and people will notice’, is just not true. You have to do the work and you have to be seen.” –Amber Chenevert “Don’t judge a book by its cover, even if it’s beautiful.” –Amber Chenevert Lightning Round Questions: What book has greatly influenced you?  “The Warmth of Other Suns” by Isabel Wilkerson What is your favorite inspiring quote or saying?  Always believe and invest in yourself. What is one word or moniker you would use to describe yourself?  Perseverance What is one change you've implanted that made your life better?  Taking rest seriously. Rest is multi-dimensional and I have to prioritize it and engage in so many different aspects of it in order to be whole and healthy. What power song would you want playing as you walk out onto a stage?  “All the Stars” by Kendrick Lamar About Amber Chenevert: Amber Chenevert, PhD Group Director, Strategy & Insights; Culture Studio Lead Amber Chenevert’s mix of academic and agency experience gives her a unique perspective on brand strategy that empowers clients to embrace fresh ways to engage consumers and champion industry inclusion. Her global CPG and health technology experience showed her that customer basic needs around the world are quite similar. While her culture acumen allows her to identify nuance that helps marketing messages stick. Amber holds a B.S. in marketing from Hampton University, and a M.A. in advertising from Syracuse University.  She earned her doctorate in advertising from The University of Texas at Austin, specializing in consumer behavior and marketplace diversity. Amber has taught both undergraduate and graduate marketing and advertising courses at The University of Texas at Austin, St. John’s University and New York University.   As a brand strategist and the Culture Studio lead at VMLY&R,  her goal is to tell human centered stories based on atypical truths. She wants to give more people the opportunity to both tell and be at the center of those stories. A marketplace diversity perspective serves as a guiding light toward her goal. Marketplace diversity considers age, ethnicity, race, gender, sexual orientation, and physical ability. It also considers the history, systems, and structures that gives insight into how today’s consumers navigate their access to products, services and assert their collective power. Using marketplace diversity as a base, Amber helps brands unearth their disconnect in culture and find their connection to new market opportunities. Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-chenevert-phd-027a4b1/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/AskDrC_PhD 

Ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things when they expect more of themselves. That’s the message from our guest, Keisha Bell, who has overcome obstacles and achieved extraordinary success by ignoring the doubts and doubters.  Keisha Bell is the Managing Director and Head of Diverse Talent Management and Advancement at DTCC where she is responsible for developing the next generation of leaders through focused sponsorships and talent advancement strategies.  Keisha understands what it takes to go beyond barriers. She believes in changing mindsets, forging progressive practices, and views each employee as an agent of change. Keisha says that the role of a leader is to make decisions that move things forward. Her secret is to never overcomplicate things and to keep it simple. While it’s important to seek trusted feedback, eventually, a choice needs to be made. That’s why sometimes, the most important decision you can make is just making a decision. So if you’re feeling stuck and overwhelmed with options, remember that unless you’re a surgeon, there is “no patient on the table”, just make the decision! In this episode, Keisha tells us about her career path, what helped her achieve her goals, and why it’s important to find joy in everything you do.   Visit www.iambeyondbarriers.com where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with Keisha.  Highlights:  [02:15] Biggest lessons learned  [03:15] Overcoming underestimating yourself  [04:55] How Keisha’s career path unfolded  [07:06] From college to current role - coming full circle [10:19] Advice on find clarity in your career path [13:22] Keisha’s framework for decision-making  [16:01] Overcoming limiting beliefs  [18:24] Most pivotal lessons learned from family of strong women [21:26] The importance of creating opportunities for others [20:34] The difference that access makes early on in life [26:29] Continuous learning and growth  [28:42] Developing valuable relationships  [30:27] Keisha’s approach to effective execution  [33:19] Staying grounded [31:47] Lightning round questions   Quotes: “Be intentional about where you direct your energy and skill set and let people know what you are capable of.” - Keisha Bell “Show up, be authentic, be accountable, do the right thing and act ethically.” - Keisha Bell “You have to be ruthlessly honest with yourself about what you’re good at.” – Keisha Bell “You don’t have a patient on the table. No one is going to die if you don’t do this right.” – Keisha Bell Lightning Round Questions: What book has greatly influenced you?  “The Warmth of Other Suns”  by Isabel Wilkerson What is your favorite inspiring quote or saying?  “If you want to fly, you have to give up the sh*t that weighs you down.” and “Dream a little before you think.” By Toni Morrison What is one word or moniker you would use to describe yourself?  Fierce What is one change you've implanted that made your life better?  Working on negative self-talk What power song would you want playing as you walk out onto a stage?  “I’m Every Woman” by Chaka Khan About Keisha Bell: Keisha Bell is Managing Director and Head of Diverse Talent Management and Advancement at DTCC, where she is responsible for recruiting and retaining the best diverse talent and developing DTCC’s next generation of leaders through focused sponsorships and talent advancement strategies. She believes in changing mindsets, forging progressive practices, and views each employee as an agent of change. Keisha partners with business leaders to identify diverse talent across all levels of the organization focusing on their growth and mobility, and with Human Resources to ensure diversity and inclusion are fully integrated into working practices. Additionally, Keisha leads Corporate Philanthropy and Social Responsibility for DTCC. Previously, Keisha was Managing Director of DTCC’s Risk Management Reporting, Governance, Analysis and Program Management group. She successfully led the firm’s Board and Management Risk Committees, regulatory, audit and compliance reporting, management control testing, and program management of the Financial and Technology Risk initiatives. Prior to that, she served as Executive Director of Wealth Management Services. She was also a member of DTCC’s Global Diversity and Inclusion Council and a founding leader of the LGBTQA professional network. Keisha serves as a member of the board of directors of The NYC Anti-Violence Project and is a member of the World Economic Forum’s Partnering for Racial Justice in Business initiative. Keisha has been named to the World Federation of Exchanges’ 2021 Women Leaders List and to the 2021 OUTstanding LGBT+ Role Model List of 100 business leaders for her impact on LGBT+ inclusion inside and outside the workplace, her business achievements, and the seniority and influence of her role. She also represented DTCC at The Alliance, an inaugural gathering of the influential LGBTQ leaders held in Lisbon, Portugal. Keisha has more than 20 years of experience in the financial services industry, spanning broker/dealer operations, technology transformations, program management and business analysis. She earned her B.S. in Organizational Behavior from New York University.  Keisha has received the following awards: 2021 World Federation of Exchanges Women Leaders List 2020 OUTstanding LGBT+ Role Models - Top LGBT Executives Links: Website: https://www.dtcc.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keishabell/ 

Strong leadership is rooted in intellectual curiosity about how things work and what drives people. But how do you build relationships and find your voice when you are an introvert?   Our guest, Shifra Ansonoff, a brilliant leader and an introvert, reveals what helped her reach the top of her industry and build a powerful professional network. Shifra believes the key is caring about people and helping them achieve their goals, rather than focusing on what you can get from them. When you follow your curiosity, you will find your way to success whether it’s with relationships or results.  Shifra followed her passions even as a young mom of twins, and with the help of her supportive husband, has become a global leader in her industry. She loves helping people find their voices and seeing where curiosity takes her.  Today, Shifra is the Global Head of Research at Preqin, carrying the remit of obtaining valuable data and insights on alternative assets contributing to the industry’s most comprehensive private capital and hedge fund data sets. Previously, Shifra was with Qontigo, BlackRock Solutions and Bloomberg.  In addition to being a top executive, Shifra has been an active mentor at Rutgers Business School, for which she received a Mentorship Excellence Award in 2018 and was shortlisted by Waters Technology’s Women in Technology and Data Awards for Risk Professional of the Year. She is a proud life-long nonconformist who has a lot of stories to tell us about how to build great relationships and lead a team. Visit https://www.iambeyondbarriers.com where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with Shifra. Highlights:  [02:20] Shifra’s formation story [04:37] Figuring out the right path forward  [06:06] Shifra’s career journey  [09:56] Stepping into the unknown [12:02] Overcoming fears & limiting beliefs  [14:39] Speaking up and sharing your perspective  [18:48] Staying ahead of the curve  [21:10] Focusing on the right thing at the right time  [23:15] Self care on a daily basis  [24:42] The key to building great relationships [26:22] Advice for introverts  [28:43] Lightning round questions Quotes: “I believe mentorship sponsorship should be a two-way street, and when it isn’t or it becomes transactional, it’s no longer fun.” – Shifra Ansonoff “I’ve built such meaningful relationships through the years in business and across groups of friends by just letting people know that I’ve been thinking about them.” – Shifra Ansonoff Lightning Round Questions: What book has greatly influenced you?  “Give and Take” by Adam Grant What is your favorite inspiring quote or saying?  Learning to love myself and not being my own worst critic. What is one word or moniker you would use to describe yourself?  Nonconformist What is one change you've implanted that made your life better?  Learning cognitive strategies that put me in control of situations. What power song would you want playing as you walk out onto a stage?  "Invincible" by Pat Benatar   About Shifra Ansonoff: Shifra is the Global Head of Research at Preqin, carrying the remit of obtaining valuable data and insights on alternative assets via conversations with GPs and LPs, thus contributing to the industry’s most comprehensive private capital and hedge fund data sets. A 20+ year veteran of fintech, Shifra has acquired expertise in risk management, product and relationship management, and data governance.  Previously, Shifra led the global operations team for the analytics solutions division at Qontigo (previously Axioma). Prior to, Shifra was with BlackRock Solutions and Bloomberg. Shifra has been an active mentor at Rutgers Business School, for which she received a Mentorship Excellence Award in 2018 and was shortlisted by Waters Technology’s Women in Technology and Data Awards for a Risk Professional of the Year award. She holds a bachelor’s in Economics from Sarah Lawrence, and an MBA in Finance from Rutgers University. Links: Website: https://www.preqin.com/    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shifra-ansonoff-274ab46/

Twenty years ago, when I first came to America, I felt like a complete outsider. I didn't look like, sound like, or dress like people around me. I chased goals that I didn’t really care about because I thought that’s what was expected of me. But the harder I tried to fit in, the more I struggled personally and professionally. You see, I was defining success from other people’s perspective. Our guest today is US Congresswoman Sharice Davids, from Kansas’ Third Congressional District, who shares her inspiring story of overcoming obstacles and rising to the top by defining success on her own terms.  Sharice was raised by a single mom who spent more than 20 years serving in the US Army. A proud graduate of Leavenworth High School, Sharice was the first person in her family to attend college. She worked her way from Johnson County Community College to Cornell Law School, juggling multiple jobs to put herself through school. Sharice went on to work in economic and community development on Native American reservations, helping tribes to create programs and initiatives for growth. This work inspired her to apply for the prestigious White House Fellowship program, where she served under President Barack Obama and continued to create economic opportunity for others. Sharice ran for Congress to give Kansans a voice, and to make sure everyone has the same opportunities to achieve their goals that she did. In 2018, Sharice was elected to represent Kansas’ Third District, becoming one of the first two Native American women ever to serve in Congress.  In 2020, she was re-elected to her second term. She has spent her time in office working tirelessly to tackle the issues most important to Kansas families, including strengthening small businesses, lowering the cost of healthcare and prescription drugs, and making sure the government is working for the people — not special interests. In this episode, Rep. Davids shares her perspective on why it's important to first embrace who you are for others to embrace and accept you as you are. She also shares why service matters, how to build a thriving community, and what strategies helped her achieve her goals. Visit www.iambeyondbarriers.com where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with Rep. Davids.    Highlights:  [03:57] What shaped Representative Davids’ life[09:22] Gaining clarity on your career path[12:50] How Representative Davids got into politics[15:31] First time running for office[24:18] Facing the possibility of failure[26:52] Campaigns are entrepreneurial[29:22] Owning her seat at the table[35:23] Advice to other on pursuing a career in politics[41:36] How to engage with Representative Davids[43:07] The meaningful work of LPAC Quotes: “When dealing with rejection on the campaign trail, I had to remind myself that  this is not about me, this is about the future of our country, our democracy.” - Rep. Sharice Davids “The biggest opportunities for growth come from moments when you are experiencing something that is hard and challenging.” - Rep. Sharice Davids "Running a campaign is a very entrepreneurial process." - Rep. Sharice Davids  "One thing that changed my life was realizing that I get to decide what success means to me." - Rep. Sharice Davids About Sharice Davids: Sharice Davids is currently serving Kansas’ Third Congressional District in Congress. Sharice was raised by a single mom who spent more than 20 years serving in the US Army. A proud graduate of Leavenworth High School, Sharice was the first person in her family to attend college. She worked her way from Johnson County Community College to Cornell Law School, juggling multiple jobs to put herself through school. Sharice went on to work in economic and community development on Native American reservations, helping tribes to create programs and initiatives for growth. This work inspired her to apply for the prestigious White House Fellowship program, where she served under President Barack Obama and continued to create economic opportunity for others. Sharice ran for Congress to give Kansans a voice who represents our values and interests, and to make sure everyone has the same opportunities to achieve their goals that she did. In 2018, Sharice was elected to represent Kansas’ Third District, becoming one of the first two Native American women ever to serve in Congress. In 2020, she was re-elected to her second term. She has spent her time in office working tirelessly to tackle the issues most important to Kansas families, including strengthening our small businesses, lowering the cost of healthcare and prescription drugs, and making sure the government is working for the people — not special interests. Sharice was raised by a single mom, who spent more than 20 years in the Army followed by a career in civil service at the US Post Office. Sharice graduated from Leavenworth High School. She attended Haskell Indian Nations University and the University of Kansas before graduating from Johnson County Community College and later the University of Missouri-Kansas City. She went on to earn a law degree from Cornell Law School. Sharice calls herself a “former” first generation college student, since her mom earned a degree in history from UMKC in 2016. Sharice is a member of the Ho-Chunk Nation, a Native American tribe in Wisconsin. Sharice is highly trained in martial arts and has competed as both an amateur and professional in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). Sharice was one of 16 selected to participate in the prestigious White House Fellowship program (2016-2017). Sharice has lived and worked on Native American reservations, working with tribes to create economic development opportunities, programs, and initiatives. Sharice regularly speaks at conferences as a nationally recognized expert on economic and community development in Native communities. Sharice, along with her brother, created Starty Pants – a video podcast that highlights entrepreneurs in the Greater Kansas City area with a focus on women, people of color and LGBTQ founders. Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharicedavids/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShariceDavids

Do you have trouble knowing when to say no or being authentic in your everyday life at work? Many of us spend a significant amount of time devoted to our jobs, and if we aren’t honest about ourselves and our situations, we add stress to our already full lives. A rewarding work-life involves authenticity, tapping into our passions, and finding the right support. Theresa Ludvigson is the Senior Vice President of People at Qualified, the #1 pipeline generation platform for Salesforce, where Theresa previously held multiple management positions. A natural people person, Theresa, is keenly aware of what makes a great manager and loves helping and coaching others. In this episode, she enthusiastically shares stories from her past experiences. She discusses the challenges of learning new skills when switching jobs and the importance of staying true to who you are. You’ll love her honesty, optimism, and electrifying energy.   Visit https://www.iambeyondbarriers.com where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with Theresa. Highlights:  [02:22] Theresa’s career path[04:46] Overcoming fears and limiting beliefs[10:09] How to ask others for support[13:20] Tapping into your passion[15:59] Staying ahead of the curve[18:15] Knowing your limits and saying no[21:02] Leading by example[22:36] How to integrate work with life[25:25] Finding mentors & building relationships[28:20] Finding clarity and direction in the workplace[31:22] Creating and promoting your personal brand[33:16] Lightning round questions[37:46] Where to find Theresa online Quotes: “Simply asking ‘Hey, how can I support you?’ opens up the door and allows an individual to share how you can best help them.” – Theresa Ludvigson “Leading with transparency and authenticity is key.” – Theresa Ludvigson Lightning Round Questions: What book has greatly influenced you?  Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery What is your favorite inspiring quote or saying?  “Surround yourself with only people who are going to lift you higher.” - Oprah Winfrey What is one word or moniker you would use to describe yourself? So Glam What is one change you've implanted that made your life better?  Caffeine to fuel my energy. What power song would you want playing as you walk out onto a stage?  “Hollaback Girl” by Gwen Stefani About Theresa Ludvigson: Theresa Ludvigson is the Senior Vice President of People at Qualified, the #1 pipeline generation platform for Salesforce. She joined the company in January of 2022 and leads Qualified's overall people experience strategy, which includes talent acquisition, leadership development, diversity and inclusion, compensation and benefits, HR operations and technology, and employee relations. Under her leadership, she’s created a team of employee-focused culture champions that touch every point of the employee lifecycle, and help Qualified employees feel empowered to do their best work while inspiring each other to learn and grow. Prior to Qualified, Theresa led global new hire onboarding, employee loyalty programs, and the alumni network as Vice President, Global Onboarding and Loyalty Programs at Salesforce. She also held positions in Talent Development, Employee Engagement, Sales Effectiveness, Customer Marketing, and Sales while at Salesforce.  Theresa holds degrees in Journalism and Ethnic Studies from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo and lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her two sons. Links: Website: https://www.qualified.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tludvigson/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/tludvigs 

Everyone faces fears. But, what some people do better than others is pushing through that fear to get to the other side of it. In our work and personal lives, we make a lot of decisions on a daily basis, and some of those decisions impact other people. How do we stay on track and focus on accomplishing our goals when we face these challenges? Our guest, Dr. Kerry Murphy Healey is the inaugural president of the Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream in Washington, DC. In this episode, she candidly shares stories with us about her two failed runs for office which led to her winning the position of Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts—a much higher position than she originally sought out. Dr. Healey had to overcome a lot about fears of being on stage and on television, but overcoming those fears led to new opportunities. Dr. Healey is full of actionable advice and pearls of wisdom about how to succeed at work and in life. Visit https://www.iambeyondbarriers.com where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with Kerry. Highlights:  [02:26] Kerry’s journey [07:46] How Kerry overcame her fears and limiting beliefs [10:31] How to reframe failure and what failure teaches you  [14:27] Making decisions without creating division [17:25] Going where your skills are needed [22:52] Identifying mentors and sponsors  [25:02] Building strategic relationships, building communities, and asking for help [28:33] Showing people what you have to offer  [30:05] Leveraging self-promotion   [32:27] Kerry’s goals for the Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream [34:26] Lightning Round Questions [39:01] How to get in touch with Kerry Quotes: “Forcing myself repeatedly to do things that were uncomfortable and that scared me, is what helped me learn to take off all the edges and just do whatever I needed to do.” – Dr. Kerry Healey “When you decide, you allow for a conversation, because it’s very hard to have that conversation unless someone has a point of view.” – Dr. Kerry Healey “You can’t really join a community and say ‘What is this community going to do for me?’ You have to put something into that community first.” – Dr. Kerry Healey   Lightning Round Questions: What book has greatly influenced you?  The Gulag Archipelago by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn What is your favorite inspiring quote or saying?  “I never lose, I only win or learn.” – Nelson Mandela What is one word or moniker you would use to describe yourself?  Optimistic What is one change you've implanted that made your life better?  Sleeping and learning to make time for sleep. What power song would you want playing as you walk out onto a stage?  “Take Me to the River” by The Talking Heads About Kerry Healey: Dr. Kerry Murphy Healey is the inaugural president of the Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream in Washington, DC. Kerry Healey’s career spans higher education, elected office, and foreign and domestic policy. In July 2019, she capped six years as the first woman president of Babson College, the 100-year-old business school consistently ranked as the country’s leading institution in entrepreneurship education. During her tenure at Babson, Healey championed women entrepreneurs, created greater affordability and access for students, and oversaw a dramatic $200 million renewal of the Wellesley campus. Previously, Healey served as Massachusetts Lieutenant Governor, where she led bipartisan efforts to improve services for the homeless, tackle the opioid crisis, and increase protections for victims of child abuse, drunk driving accidents, and sexual and domestic violence. She was also integral in crafting the state’s pioneering health care reform legislation. Dr. Healey has been a fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government’s Institute of Politics and Center for Public Leadership, and is on the International Council of the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs. She holds an AB in government from Harvard College and a PhD in political science and law from Trinity College, Dublin. She is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations, Trilateral Commission and a trustee of the American University of Afghanistan. Links: Website: https://www.mcaad.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kerrymurphyhealey/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerry-healey-1626701b4/ 

A good leader sets the tone for an organization. Without good leadership, employees won’t know the right direction to take or what they can improve upon. While men and women may generally have different needs and motivations, the qualities that make a good leader are the same for both. What is also important and needed for all leaders to succeed is to continuously seek out next level mentors with fresh perspective so they don’t get caught up in their own echo chamber and get left behind. Dr. Annalisa Jenkins, M.B.B.S., F.R.C.P. is a biopharma thought leader and a board member for several growing companies. She shares with us her experiences, from the British military to the boardroom, and what it’s been like to work in this age of life science innovation and digital advances. Coming from a generation where male mentors were common, Dr. Jenkins speaks about working as a woman in her industry and how she’s learned to be a “tough but fair” leader under their direction. Her broad array of experiences in health sciences shows us how to bring vision to our workplace as leaders. Visit https://www.iambeyondbarriers.com where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with Annalisa. Highlights:  [02:27] Annalisa’s global background [05:09] Annalisa’s career goals [08:08] What five things make a successful leader [13:35] Is there a difference between male and female leaders? [16:08] Other important qualities of a leader in the workplace [19:52] Identifying potential leadership mentors [29:21] Coping with division created by making decisions [35:19] The importance of feedback and not taking it personally  [42:38] Working in the age of life science innovation and digital age  [46:56] Identifying the waves that affect your industry [50:51] What book has greatly influenced Annalisa? [51:47] Annalisa’s favorite quote [52:50] Annalisa’s moniker to describe herself [53:19] One habit that makes a big difference in Annalisa’s life [55:00] Annalisa’s power song [56:41] How to connect with Annalisa Quotes: “Great leaders have a clarity of vision.” –  Dr. Annalisa Jenkins “People that can bring teams together and get them to collaborate are always going to be successful.” –  Dr. Annalisa Jenkins “Great leadership comes from those who are willing to lean in and take decisions.” – Dr. Annalisa Jenkins Lightning Round Questions: What book has greatly influenced you?  Who Says Elephants Can't Dance? By Louis V. Gerstner, Jr. What is your favorite inspiring quote or saying?  “Live the life you love and love the life you live.” What is one word or moniker you would use to describe yourself?  Gracious What is one change you've implanted that made your life better?  Carving out two hours every morning to go to the gym. To think, reflect, prepare myself. It creates mindfulness. What power song would you want playing as you walk out onto a stage?    “Paradise” by Coldplay, the song and video. About Dr. Annalisa Jenkins: Annalisa Jenkins, M.B.B.S., F.R.C.P. is a biopharma thought leader with over 25 years of industry experience. Dr. Jenkins has extensive recent experience in building and financing biotech companies pursuing cures for the most challenging rare diseases to address important medical issues globally. She has consistently built and led teams advancing programs from scientific research through clinical development, regulatory approval, and into healthcare systems around the world. In addition, she is an advocate for diversity and inclusion, particularly for women in science. Dr. Jenkins served as president and CEO of Dimension Therapeutics a leading gene therapy company that she took public on the NASDAQ and subsequently sold to Ultragenyx. Prior senior leadership roles have included the head of global research and development at Merck Serono Pharmaceuticals from 2013 to 2014, where she also served as executive vice president global development and medical from 2011 to 2013 and several leadership roles at Bristol Myers-Squibb (BMS) from 1997 to 2011, most recently serving as senior vice president and head of global medical affairs. Earlier in her career, Dr. Jenkins was a medical officer in the British Royal Navy during the Gulf Conflict, achieving the rank of surgeon lieutenant commander. Dr. Jenkins graduated with a degree in medicine from St. Bartholomew’s Hospital in the University of London and subsequently trained in cardiovascular medicine in the U.K. National Health Service.  Dr. Jenkins is a board member of several growing companies, including Oncimmune, AVROBIO, COMPASS Pathways, AOBiome, AgeX, Phaim Pharma, Conduit Connect, Affimed, Genomics England, Blue Advent Ltd, Cocoon Biotech Inc. (Non-Executive Chair), and Kuur Therapeutics (Non-Executive Chair). She also is a medical trustee for the British Heart Foundation and a committee member of the Science Board to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, which advises FDA leadership on complex scientific and technical issues, board member at Faster Cures a center of The Milken Institute and Chair of The Court of The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.  Additional appointments reflect Dr. Jenkins’ commitment to advancing the opportunities of women in science and the need for new models of health care in resource poor settings. She serves on the boards of Women in Bio, an organization promoting careers, leadership, and entrepreneurship for women in the life sciences, and the Center for Talent Innovation (U.K.), dedicated to driving ground-breaking research that leverages talent across gender, generation, geography, and culture. She also is an executive committee member of Springboard Enterprises, and is on the Advisory Panel of the Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association, which elected Dr. Jenkins as Woman of the Year in 2014. She co-founded and serves on the board of directors of YouBelong, a UK based charity developing and delivering new models of care to people currently living with mental health diseases and incarcerated in institutions in sub Saharan Africa.  Links: Websites: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annalisajenkins/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenkinsannalisa