
Leadership Tea
On Leadership Tea, we talk about what it takes to reach the executive level, and how to thrive when you get there. Powerful leaders share their journeys, insights, and triumphs in conversations with hosts Shelby Smith-Wilson and Belinda Jackson Farrier.Join us every other Wednesday to be inspired by the unvarnished stories of amazing executives who know what it's like to be "the only" at the table and who have succeeded regardless. They have proven leadership experience in their respective fields, from international affairs to the private sector to academia, and want to help others create their own success stories.
Latest episodes

Jun 16, 2024 • 39min
Leadership Lessons from Our Fathers | S1 EP14
Belinda and Shelby celebrate Father's Day with a discussion with our dads. From transitioning careers to overcoming humble beginnings, we share the stories of these incredible men and their profound impact on our lives.Is leadership something you're born with, or is it a practical skill that can be cultivated over time? Our dads share their journeys, with twists and turns that required adaptability and effective communication. They explore the balance between being a generalist and a specialist and how mastering bureaucratic processes can give you a professional edge.Our fathers' career transitions and management experiences underscore the importance of patience, understanding human behavior, and staying true to oneself. Happy Father's Day to all the dads, mentors, and father figures out there!Send us a comment!We publish new episodes every other Wednesday. Subscribe to the Leadership Tea Podcast Subscribe to Leadership Tea on YouTube! Follow us on Instagram @Leadership_Tea for more inspiration and insights. Get your FREE copy of our Strategic Change WorkbookLearn more about us at stirringsuccess.com

Jun 12, 2024 • 36min
Leading with Generosity, Empathy & Kindness, with Dr. Debernee Privott | S1 EP13
What if leadership was less about authority and more about generosity, empathy, and kindness? In this episode, we have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Debernee Privott, a distinguished professor and community leader.The principles of understanding, sacrifice, and inclusivity, instilled in her by her supportive family, have shaped Dr. Privott's leadership style. Her faith and values guide her to create environments where collective success is the ultimate goal.This conversation redefines leadership as an act of love, where caring for oneself and others brings out the best in everyone.About Dr. Privott Send us a comment!We publish new episodes every other Wednesday. Subscribe to the Leadership Tea Podcast Subscribe to Leadership Tea on YouTube! Follow us on Instagram @Leadership_Tea for more inspiration and insights. Get your FREE copy of our Strategic Change WorkbookLearn more about us at stirringsuccess.com

May 29, 2024 • 25min
How the Pandemic Challenged Us to Grow (Part 1) | S1 EP12
The COVID pandemic has challenged even the most seasoned leaders, forcing us to navigate uncharted waters without a playbook. We're reimagining leadership and fostering trust in a workplace transformed by the pandemic. Belinda and Shelby share their journeys of "leading in the grey" amid the chaos of the pandemic. We discuss how the pandemic amplified leadership responsibilities and challenged us to rethink our strategies, providing invaluable lessons on adapting and supporting our teams in an uncertain world.We also discuss the dynamics of remote work, exploring the role of trust in team performance. Pre-pandemic behaviors helped us predict remote work success when commuting, work-life balance, and flexibility matter more than ever. Reflecting on the societal issues laid bare by the pandemic, we emphasize the need for open communication and adaptability, offering strategies to create compelling work environments in these unprecedented times. Send us a comment!We publish new episodes every other Wednesday. Subscribe to the Leadership Tea Podcast Subscribe to Leadership Tea on YouTube! Follow us on Instagram @Leadership_Tea for more inspiration and insights. Get your FREE copy of our Strategic Change WorkbookLearn more about us at stirringsuccess.com

May 15, 2024 • 30min
Transitioning to a New Leadership Role? Create Your 90 Day Plan | S1 EP11
How can you build trust and credibility when transitioning to a new leadership position? In this episode, we talk about how to master the first 90 days in your new role, as you transition from colleague to commander. We discuss strategies that have worked for us as we've navigated change management, tough conversations, financial restraints, and the dynamics of managing former peers. Send us a comment!We publish new episodes every other Wednesday. Subscribe to the Leadership Tea Podcast Subscribe to Leadership Tea on YouTube! Follow us on Instagram @Leadership_Tea for more inspiration and insights. Get your FREE copy of our Strategic Change WorkbookLearn more about us at stirringsuccess.com

May 12, 2024 • 42min
How Our Mothers Planted Seeds of Leadership | S1 EP10
In this special Mother's Day episode, we're joined by two extraordinary women, Cora and Gloria, our own mothers, who bring a rich mix of experiences and wisdom. The lessons they learned from their mothers (and other mother figures in their lives) deeply impacted their leadership styles. Many of these lessons were instilled in our childhood homes and have become the bedrock of our leadership philosophies, including respect for others, taking calculated risks, and leaning on our villages.In our mothers' stories, you may hear echoes of your own family's legacy and, we hope, find a deeper appreciation for the matriarchs who have helped pave your path.Send us a comment!We publish new episodes every other Wednesday. Subscribe to the Leadership Tea Podcast Subscribe to Leadership Tea on YouTube! Follow us on Instagram @Leadership_Tea for more inspiration and insights. Get your FREE copy of our Strategic Change WorkbookLearn more about us at stirringsuccess.com

8 snips
May 1, 2024 • 29min
A Diplomat's Perspective on Leadership, Mentorship & Vulnerability | S1 EP9
Emily Haber, former German ambassador to the United States, shares her wisdom in this conversation about advocacy and allyship. Emily embodies leadership's true essence: responsibility, adaptability, and a steadfast commitment to lifting those who are most vulnerable. This episode is for anyone looking to steer their ship with integrity.About Emily Haber International Women's Forum Leadership FellowshipSend us a comment!We publish new episodes every other Wednesday. Subscribe to the Leadership Tea Podcast Subscribe to Leadership Tea on YouTube! Follow us on Instagram @Leadership_Tea for more inspiration and insights. Get your FREE copy of our Strategic Change WorkbookLearn more about us at stirringsuccess.com

Apr 17, 2024 • 18min
Managing Peer Dynamics with Grace | S1 EP8
Belinda and Shelby reflect on our efforts to form strong bonds with our peers. We discuss why regular check-ins and internal diplomacy aren't just routine practices but are essential for any leader seeking to build a team that thrives.Learn strategies for creating a culture of support and collaboration that will elevate your leadership and your team.Send us a comment!We publish new episodes every other Wednesday. Subscribe to the Leadership Tea Podcast Subscribe to Leadership Tea on YouTube! Follow us on Instagram @Leadership_Tea for more inspiration and insights. Get your FREE copy of our Strategic Change WorkbookLearn more about us at stirringsuccess.com

Apr 3, 2024 • 33min
Meet our Mentors: Ambassador Harry Thomas and Ambassador Teddy Taylor | S1 EP7
Belinda and Shelby discuss the unwritten rules of mentorship with our mentors, Ambassador Harry Thomas and Ambassador Teddy Taylor. With a combined 73 years of public service, our "uncles" speak about creating genuine connections and the commitment required to nurture talent and uplift others. We discuss the delicate balance of guiding, providing support, and rooting for the success of your mentees. Send us a comment!We publish new episodes every other Wednesday. Subscribe to the Leadership Tea Podcast Subscribe to Leadership Tea on YouTube! Follow us on Instagram @Leadership_Tea for more inspiration and insights. Get your FREE copy of our Strategic Change WorkbookLearn more about us at stirringsuccess.com

Mar 20, 2024 • 45min
Tough Leadership Decisions: Tips & Best Practices | S1 EP6
As a leader, have you ever stood at the crossroads of a tough decision? This episode highlights a few principles we have used to navigate complex situations. From ethical dilemmas to strategic choices, Belinda and Shelby share insights we gleaned from navigating the murky waters of high-stakes decisions while staying grounded and leading with empathy.Send us a comment!We publish new episodes every other Wednesday. Subscribe to the Leadership Tea Podcast Subscribe to Leadership Tea on YouTube! Follow us on Instagram @Leadership_Tea for more inspiration and insights. Get your FREE copy of our Strategic Change WorkbookLearn more about us at stirringsuccess.com

Mar 6, 2024 • 34min
Reading the Tea Leaves: Should I Stay Or Should I Go? With Dr. Renée Rattray | S1 EP5
Have you ever been offered a huge opportunity, only to be held back by doubts and uncertainty? In this episode, we talk with Renée Rattray, whose inspiring story of a major career transition serves as a reminder that, even in moments of self-doubt, clarity of purpose can propel us toward remarkable achievements. Renée shares her story and urges us to take up space, seize opportunities, and embrace our authentic selves. Send us a comment!We publish new episodes every other Wednesday. Subscribe to the Leadership Tea Podcast Subscribe to Leadership Tea on YouTube! Follow us on Instagram @Leadership_Tea for more inspiration and insights. Get your FREE copy of our Strategic Change WorkbookLearn more about us at stirringsuccess.com