Get ready to be inspired by Jenna Lange’s incredible story of personal transformation and professional excellence. In this episode, Jenna, the founder and CEO of Lange International, shares her secrets to mastering high-stakes communication. You’ll learn how to harness the power of your authentic selves, build resilience, and communicate with confidence when it matters most. Jenna’s journey from a timid figure skater to a sought-after advisor for executives worldwide will leave you with practical tips and a renewed sense of courage to tackle your own high-stakes moments. Don’t miss her advice on constructing a strong support network and the value of letting go and trusting the process. Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest. Our conversation with Jenna begins now.  

In this episode of the Beyond Barriers podcast, host Brooke Skinner Ricketts delves into a thought-provoking conversation with Mike Gamson, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Permanent Capital Ventures. Discover how Mike's extensive career, from scaling LinkedIn's global operations to leading AI and biotech companies, has shaped his unique perspective on leadership and human connections in a hybrid work world.  Mike shares personal stories, including transformative experiences at Burning Man and insights from his Outward Bound adventures, that highlight the importance of community, compassion, and adaptability in today's fast-paced business environment.  Tune in to learn how to navigate and thrive in the evolving landscape of work relationships. Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.

Tune in to Beyond Barriers for an enlightening conversation with Daina Middleton, a dynamic leader with a wealth of experience in global expansion and nurturing company culture. Daina opens up about her unique path to success, from riding horses in the vast landscapes of Oregon to spearheading innovative marketing strategies at Hewlett-Packard and Twitter.  You will hear how Daina's dedication to hard work and continuous learning has driven her career forward. She also shares practical tips on building strategic relationships, maintaining work-life balance, and fostering resilience in the face of adversity. This episode is a must-listen for anyone eager to learn from a leader who has consistently broken new ground and thrived against the odds. Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.

https://www.gobeyondbarriers.com/podcast/Raudline-EtienneThis week on Beyond Barriers, Brooke Skinner Ricketts interviews Raudline Etienne, Founder and CEO of Daraja Capital, in an episode brimming with insights on leadership and personal growth. Raudline shares her captivating story, from her childhood in Brooklyn to her ascent in the investment world.  She discusses the critical moments that defined her career, the importance of self-awareness, and her mission to support diverse fund managers. Listeners will gain a deep understanding of Raudline’s guiding principles, including her policy of “no A-holes” and her dedication to pursuing what brings joy.  Tune in to learn how Raudline’s unique perspective on combining art and science in finance can inspire you to lead with integrity and purpose. Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.  

In this episode, host Brooke Skinner Ricketts reconnects with her longtime friend and trailblazing marketing and branding expert, Henrietta Pepper. Tune in for a dynamic and inspiring conversation as Henrietta shares her remarkable journey from her education and early career in advertising to leading her own brand communications firm for 14 years and eventually founding GCJ Consultants, where she serves as Chief Strategist. Discover how Henrietta, a true pioneer in the industry, navigated the challenges of her career, embraced lifelong learning, and developed a revolutionary approach to personal branding that emphasizes authenticity and self-discovery. Brooke and Henrietta delve into essential themes such as giving oneself grace, overcoming imposter syndrome, and harnessing the power of continuous curiosity. Henrietta also discusses the inspiration behind her two published books, including her latest, "Unbranded: Emerge a Brand New You." She shares invaluable insights into the significance of asking for help, fostering strong relationships, and maintaining a balance between professional and personal life. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain practical advice on building a resilient and genuine personal brand from a true industry trailblazer. Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.

In this empowering episode of the Beyond Barriers podcast, host Monica Marquez introduces us to Millie Guzman, a dynamic executive at Morgan Stanley and a steadfast champion for the Latino community.  Born and raised in a lively Puerto Rican family in the Bronx, Millie narrates her remarkable rise from the family's youngest child to a formidable leader in global finance. Her journey from an entry-level assistant to a top compliance officer encapsulates the challenges and triumphs of navigating the complex finance industry, where she has mastered the art of executive presence, strategic innovation, and keenly assessing the business atmosphere at every turn. Millie also delves into how her cultural heritage and family values have not only molded her career but also her leadership approach, driving her to achieve peak performance and influence positive change. This episode celebrates her professional growth, her passionate advocacy for Latinos, and the enduring cultural values that underpin her success and resilience in the corporate world. Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.  

In this episode, Brooke Skinner Ricketts sits down with Ellen Havdala to explore her fascinating career journey and the profound lessons she’s learned along the way. Ellen, a Managing Director at Equity Group Investments, shares how she transitioned from a successful finance career to pursuing a divinity degree, and how these experiences have enriched her professional and personal life.   Discover the strategies Ellen employs to balance her ambitious career goals with her spiritual calling, and gain insights into her leadership style, mentorship approach, and personal growth practices. Whether you're contemplating a career change or looking for ways to integrate your personal values into your professional life, this episode provides invaluable guidance and inspiration. Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.  

Celebrate Pride Month with Monica Marquez and Brooke Skinner Ricketts in this empowering episode of Beyond Barriers. Monica and Brooke share their compelling stories of coming out and breaking barriers in the corporate world. From Brooke’s supportive activist mother to Monica’s journey of self-discovery and acceptance, their experiences highlight the importance of authenticity and inclusion. Learn how they navigate the complexities of being queer professionals, the significance of building safe and equitable workplaces, and the value of fostering genuine curiosity about diverse perspectives. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on the intersections of identity, leadership, and community.  Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with us.  

Tune in to this week’s episode as host Brooke Skinner Ricketts sits down with her friend and colleague, Marita Hudson Thomas, Chief Communications Officer at Cars.com Inc., d/b/a Cars Commerce. Marita is responsible for the internal and external communications strategy and events across Cars Commerce. Since her promotion, she has transformed their communications practices by delivering meaningful campaigns, press initiatives, and events that drive measurable results and business impact. Marita dives deep into her path to leadership, emphasizing the importance of purpose-driven work and the value of patience in professional growth.  You’ll be inspired by Marita’s dedication to community involvement and mentoring, and how these commitments have been pivotal in her career. Learn from Marita’s experiences on maintaining confidence, navigating through challenges, giving oneself grace, and the power of preparation.  This episode is packed with valuable lessons for anyone aspiring to lead with integrity and impact. Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.  

Tune in to an uplifting conversation with Marcy Moneypenny, Principal and Managing Director at Avison Young, as she shares her remarkable journey from a single mother to a prominent leader in the male-dominated commercial real estate industry. Host Nikki Barua delves into Marcy's early struggles, her rise in the commercial real estate sector, and the core values that have driven her success. She discusses the importance of turning pain into purpose, the power of self-belief, and the crucial role of mentors and sponsors in her career.  Marcy’s story is a powerful reminder that even the most challenging obstacles can be converted into stepping stones toward a fulfilling and impactful career. This episode is packed with insights and strategies for anyone looking to break barriers and achieve their full potential. Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.