Shows
The ClimbStop Waiting for Permission: Building the Career They Won’t Hand YouIn this unapologetic and power-packed episode of The Climb Podcast, host Felicia Smith sits down with returning guest and executive champion Dionne Baker to talk about what it really takes to build a career that no one is going to hand you.If you grew up believing that “hard work speaks for itself,” this conversation will lovingly shake that myth loose. Felicia and Dionne get honest about the unspoken rules of advancement for women of color — from breaking free of “be grateful and keep your head down” conditioning to owning your value, your voice, and your visibility.Together, th...
2025-11-1933 min
The ClimbBeyond the Pivot: Navigating Your Next Career MoveIn this fireside chat, Felicia Smith sits down with Desiree Goldey, Madjeen Lorthe, and Eliana Cardeno to talk about navigating career pivots with courage and clarity. From layoffs to new beginnings, they explore what it means to redefine success, embrace uncertainty, and step boldly into your next chapter.
2025-11-1257 min
The ClimbRecharge Mode: Yoga, Sound, and Soul with Rika HolmesLet’s be real — life has been a lot lately. Between work, family, and everything happening in the world, it’s easy to find yourself running on empty. In this episode of The Climb Podcast, I’m joined by Rika Holmes, founder of Master of Transformation (M.O.T.) Yoga, to talk about what it truly means to recharge — not just physically, but mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.Rika shares how yoga, meditation, and sound healing can help us slow down, get centered, and reconnect with our peace. We talk about the power of stillness, the beauty of...
2025-10-2933 minThe ClimbEnergy Ain’t Free: Protecting Your Power and Peace During Tough SeasonsIn this solo episode of The Climb Podcast, host Felicia Smith takes a powerful pause to talk about something every woman needs to hear: protecting your energy. Drawing from personal reflection and experience, Felicia unpacks what it means to preserve your peace, especially when life—and people—demand more than you have to give.Grounded in the law of conservation of energy, she reminds listeners that energy can’t be created or destroyed—it can only be transferred. The key is learning how to manage where yours goes, who gets it, and how you recharge it.Felici...
2025-10-2225 min
The ClimbRooted Journeys: Black Women Reconnecting, Exploring, and Thriving in AfricaWhat happens when a return to your roots becomes a pathway to healing and purpose?In this deeply moving episode of The Climb Podcast, host Felicia Smith sits down with Amma Asamoah—an architect, sustainable design visionary, and founder of The Legacy Project—to explore the power of reconnecting with heritage and thriving on the African continent.Amma shares her transformative journey to Ghana, where inheriting family land became more than a personal milestone—it became a calling. Through stories of community engagement, cultural exchange, and navigating the realities of development projects, she reveals what it tru...
2025-10-1534 minThe ClimbStanding on Her Shoulders Leadership Development Program – Redefining Leadership for Women of ColorWhat does it take to rise as a leader when the ladder wasn’t built for you?In this powerful episode of The Climb Podcast, we shine a spotlight on the Standing on Her Shoulders Leadership Development Program—a groundbreaking initiative designed to equip women of color with the tools, mentorship, and confidence to thrive as leaders.Our guests, Jasmine Luke and Kimiko Purvis, both members of the inaugural cohort, open up about their personal journeys through the program. They share how mentorship, coaching, and dynamic peer discussions helped them:✨ Confront and overcome the un...
2025-09-2920 min
The ClimbHer Climb with Sheryl Raphael WhitakerIn this episode of The Climb Podcast, Felicia sits down with Sheryl Whitaker—executive coach, leadership strategist, and author—to explore the realities of being a woman of color in leadership.With over 35 years of experience in insurance and financial services, Sheryl shares her journey from claims adjuster at State Farm to executive leader and now coach, offering hard-won lessons on resilience, intentionality, and joy.💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The systemic barriers women of color often face in leadership roles—and strategies to overcome themWhy imposter syndrome is so prevalent, and how to navi...
2025-09-2446 min
The ClimbDefining Success on Your Own Terms with Dr. Taharee JacksonIn this powerful episode, Dr. Jackson challenges the narrow idea of success as titles, accolades, or financial gain. Instead, she paints success as something far more personal—rooted in happiness, well-being, passion, and impact.Her story, from aspiring pediatric neurosurgeon to becoming a leader in education and diversity, reveals the twists and turns that shape our journeys. Alongside Felicia, Dr. Jackson explores the pressures women—especially women of color—face when stepping into leadership, and she offers candid reflections on resilience, adaptability, and the courage to define success on your own terms.Throughout the conversation, Dr. Ja...
2025-09-1736 min
The ClimbLeveraging Linkedin and Social Media for Career GrowthLinkedIn isn’t just for when you’re job hunting—it’s your career story in real time. In this episode, we sit down with Alexandria Sauls, Senior Program Manager at Google, to uncover how women of color can harness LinkedIn and social media to step into leadership with confidence.Too often, LinkedIn gets overlooked until a crisis forces us back to the platform. But Alexandria shares why showing up consistently, refining your profile, and engaging with your network can open doors long before you’re in need. From crafting a headline that commands attention to treating your profi...
2025-09-1031 min
The ClimbNo Blueprint, Just Grit: The Story Behind The Climb and The FounderOur host, Felicia Smith, shares her personal journey, illustrating how her formative experiences shaped her leadership style and her commitment to empowering others. Additionally, we explore the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in leadership, emphasizing that such traits can cultivate a more inclusive workplace environment. Join us as we unpack these vital themes and celebrate the remarkable achievements of women of color in leadership roles.Takeaways: This podcast episode emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive community for women of color leaders, enabling them to thrive professionally and personally. Listeners are encouraged to recognize and embrace...
2025-09-0354 min
Talking TaiwanEp 317 | The Great Recall Explained by Courtney Donovan SmithIn Taiwan recall bids have been filed against 35 of the 39 Chinese Nationalist Party (the Kuomintang or KMT lawmakers who were directly elected to the legislative yuan in January, 2024. Recall campaigners have said that they want to restore order to Taiwan's legislative yuan, by removing pro-China KMT legislators who have passed amendments to expand the legislature's powers, undermined Taiwan's constitutional order by paralyzing the constitutional court, cut budgets and made Taiwan vulnerable to infiltration by the Chinese Communist Party. Related Links: https://talkingtaiwan.com/the-great-recall-explained-by-courtney-donovan-smith-ep-317/ Just a few days ago we...
2025-07-2258 minThe ClimbBooked, Busy, and Burned Out?The Climb Podcast presents a compelling discourse on the often unspoken realities faced by women of color in leadership positions, particularly focusing on the phenomenon of being 'booked, busy, and burned out.' This episode sheds light on the myriad responsibilities that many high-achieving women juggle, ranging from professional obligations to familial commitments, which can effortlessly spiral into a state of exhaustion without proper self-management. The host, Felicia Smith delve into the critical need for intentionality in recognizing when one is approaching burnout, thereby advocating for a proactive approach to self-care that includes establishing boundaries and prioritizing rest.
2025-05-1431 minThe ClimbThe Only or The First: Thriving When No One Looks Like You At The TableThis podcast episode addresses the phenomenon of being the only or the first woman of color in leadership positions, a subject that resonates deeply with many in this demographic. I, Felicia Smith, founder of The Climb, delve into the complexities surrounding this experience, particularly the emotional and psychological burdens that accompany such roles. We examine the intricate dynamics of hypervisibility and invisibility that often afflict women of color in predominantly white and male environments. Furthermore, I elucidate the dual pressures of representation and the desire to be recognized for one's merit rather than just filling a quota. As we...
2025-05-0726 min
Talk With TAS ShowHealing Through Theater: Felicia Brookins on Student Growth | Talk With TASHost Dr. Teresa A. Smith, Dr. TAS welcomes author, playwright, and director Felicia Brookins to talk about how theater helps students heal, express emotions, and turn pain into purpose. If you work with youth or care about emotional wellness, this one’s for you.Follow Felicia Brookins Connect with Dr. TAS at Linktree Bio Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/talk-with-tas-show--6128538/support Thanks for listening to Talk With TAS Podcast with Dr. Teresa A. Smith (Dr. TAS). Prefer to watch instead of listen? Catch Talk With TAS Podca...
2025-04-3030 min
The ClimbUnpacking Code Switching in Leadership for Women of ColorToday, we engage in a profound discourse surrounding the concept of code-switching, particularly as it pertains to women of color navigating leadership roles. This episode elucidates the complexities and nuances inherent in the practice of adapting one’s communication style and behavior according to the social context. We delve into the duality of code-switching as both a survival strategy and a means of adaptation, exploring how it manifests differently across various environments. Through personal anecdotes and shared experiences, we illuminate the emotional labor involved in code-switching and the importance of understanding one’s audience while remaining authentic to oneself. Join...
2025-04-2343 min
THE KOSHEpisode 160: Dr. Felicia Houk, D.C. - Shifting Tides ChiropracticGet to know Dr. Felicia Houk.This podcast episode features Dr. Felicia Houk, a neurologically based chiropractor. The conversation explores a broader understanding of chiropractic care, moving beyond traditional spinal adjustments to focus on the brain's role in overall health and healing. Dr. Houk challenges the misconception that chiropractic solely addresses back pain, revealing its historical roots in treating various functional issues and its modern application in balancing the body's fight-or-flight and healing-and-repair modes. She highlights the impact of stress, particularly around pregnancy and birth, on children's neurological development and discusses how societal and systemic factors, like ins...
2025-04-212h 13
The ClimbLeaving the 9-to-5: Transitioning to Entrepreneurship with Dr. Cristi HaygoodThis podcast episode delves into the intricate process of transitioning from traditional employment to entrepreneurship, a journey that is both daunting and enlightening. We explore the reality that corporate environments may not be conducive to everyone's growth, particularly for women of color leaders, and the implications of such a transition. Our esteemed guest, Dr. Cristi Alyse Haygood, shares her personal narrative of leaving the corporate sphere, offering invaluable insights and practical strategies for those contemplating a similar path. We discuss the importance of understanding one's motivations, recognizing personal strengths, and developing a structured approach to time management and discipline...
2025-04-1842 minThe ClimbMastering Money Moves with Nadia VanderhallThis podcast episode centers on the imperative discussion regarding financial stability amidst uncertain times, particularly for women of color. We delve into the complexities of navigating economic turbulence and the importance of mastering personal finance to ensure resilience in the face of adversity. Our esteemed guest, Nadia Vanderhall, a financial planner and educator, shares invaluable insights drawn from her extensive experience in the financial sector. Together, we explore the evolving landscape of job security and the necessity of adjusting one’s financial strategies to adapt to current challenges. By the conclusion of our dialogue, listeners will be equipped with pr...
2025-04-0934 min
The ClimbThe Reinvention Blueprint with Amma AsamoahAmma Asamoah, a distinguished figure in sustainable design and education, as we explore the multifaceted journey of reinvention. Amma articulates her experiences of personal loss and the transformative power of navigating life's challenges, providing listeners with a profound understanding of the complexities involved in such transitions. The conversation delves into the significance of recognizing pivotal moments that catalyze change, illustrating how personal trauma can serve as a catalyst for a renewed sense of purpose. Amma’s narrative is not merely a recounting of her struggles; it is an empowering blueprint for those contemplating their own paths of reinvention. She ad...
2025-04-0244 min
The ClimbBeyond the Room: How to Network and Make Connections That MatterIn the latest episode of the Climb podcast, a thought-provoking dialogue unfolds as Felicia Smith and Rashedia Mayhane delve into the often-overlooked topic of networking for women of color in leadership roles. The conversation begins with an exploration of Rasheeda's remarkable journey through the realms of finance and philanthropy, where she has established herself as a formidable figure in securing resources for underrepresented communities. As the discussion progresses, Rashedia shares her perspective on networking as a strategic endeavor, highlighting the importance of building authentic relationships that transcend mere professional exchanges. The episode presents a rich tapestry of...
2025-03-2629 min
The ClimbBuilding Your Professional Advisory Board– How to Surround Yourself with the Right People for Career GrowthDownload the Advisory Board Graphic: Professional Advisory Board Graphic — S.O.A.R. CoachingThe Climb Podcast presents an insightful exploration into the significance of establishing a professional advisory board for women of color aspiring to leadership positions. The host, Felicia Smith, articulates the concept of an advisory board as a strategic assemblage of individuals—comprising mentors, sponsors, and peers—who collectively offer guidance, feedback, and support essential for career advancement. The discourse emphasizes that success is rarely a solitary endeavor; rather, it thrives in an ecosystem of collaborative support and diverse perspectives.As the episod...
2025-03-1928 min
Impact Innovators with Felicia Ford053 | Protecting the Vision: Attorney Casey Hand-Smith on Contracts, Creatives and ControlEntrepreneurs create valuable content, but too many don’t realize they’re leaving it unprotected—until someone else profits from their work. Contracts, trademarks, and copyrights aren’t just legal formalities; they determine who truly owns what you build.
In this episode, Casey Handysmith, founder of C. Hardy Law, explains:
The hidden risks in handshake deals and informal agreements. Business owners assume an email confirmation or a simple invoice is enough, but without the right legal protections, you may be giving away more rights than you think.
Why trademarks and copyrights aren’t interchangeable. If you think secu...
2025-03-0438 min
The ClimbChoosing Joy: Navigating Challenges with Grace and IntentionThe conversation on 'Choosing Joy' within the Climb podcast encapsulates a profound exploration of the intersection between personal well-being and professional success for women of color. The hosts articulate that joy is not merely an emotional response but an active choice that individuals must consciously make, especially in the face of systemic challenges that pervade the workplace. They advocate for the practice of celebrating small wins, suggesting that acknowledging incremental achievements can significantly bolster one's sense of self-worth and motivation. The episode further delves into the mental fortitude required to maintain joy, positing that individuals must cultivate a mindset...
2025-02-2626 min
The ClimbDoubling DownThe salient point of our discussion today revolves around the imperative to double down on our commitment to elevating women of color in leadership positions. As we navigate through tumultuous times, we recognize that our collective strength lies in fostering a supportive community and creating opportunities for one another. This episode serves as a clarion call for action, emphasizing not only the importance of opening doors to new opportunities but also the necessity of amplifying the voices of those who have been historically marginalized. We delve into practical strategies that individuals can employ to effectuate meaningful change, including mentorship...
2025-02-1921 min
The ClimbThe Power of UnpluggingThis podcast episode explores the profound necessity of unplugging from social media and its beneficial implications for mental well-being, particularly for women of color in leadership roles. Our esteemed guest, Ama Agyapong (@thatinclusionlady) recounts her transformative experience of disconnecting from social media for thirty days, which enabled her to regain clarity and focus on her mental health. We delve into the psychological impacts of constant online engagement and the importance of recognizing when it is essential to step back. Throughout the discussion, we emphasize practical strategies for integrating self-care into daily routines, ensuring that individuals can cultivate joy independent...
2025-02-1233 min
The ClimbLeading at Work, Loving at Home: Balancing Career & Special Needs Parenting with Shatanese ReeseThis podcast episode delves into the intricate dynamics of leading in professional environments while simultaneously nurturing family responsibilities, particularly when parenting children with special needs. We endeavor to illuminate the experiences of women of color leaders, sharing poignant narratives that resonate with many who navigate similar challenges. Our guest, Ms. Shatanese Reese, brings forth her extensive background in human resources, coupled with her personal journey as a mother of a child with unique abilities. Throughout our discourse, we explore the vital importance of empathy, the necessity of self-care, and the strategies for advocating for oneself in the workplace. We...
2025-02-0531 min
The ClimbWhy Every Women of Color Needs a CoachEvery woman of color needs a coach to navigate the complexities of career growth and personal development. In this insightful conversation, host Felicia Smith and expert coach Dr. Donna Welch explore the transformative power of coaching, emphasizing how it provides a judgment-free space for women to articulate their goals and challenges. Dr. Welch shares her journey into coaching, highlighting the importance of empowering clients to discover their own answers and move forward in their careers. They discuss the differences between coaching, mentoring, and therapy, clarifying how coaching focuses on helping individuals unlock their potential rather than providing direct advice...
2025-01-2931 min
The ClimbHER CLIMB with Desiree GoldeyConnect with Desiree Goldey on these platforms:Blue Sky: @DoBetterPeople, Linkedin: Desiree Goldey, and www.dobetterconsulting.netThis episode of the Climb Podcast features Desiree Goldie, a dynamic leader dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace. Desiree shares her nonlinear career journey, emphasizing the importance of intentionality and the value of continuous learning. She highlights the challenges faced by women of color in corporate environments, particularly the struggle against being perceived as a token or DEI hire. The discussion delves into the political nature of the workplace, the unseen dynamics that...
2025-01-2242 min
The ClimbMentorship UnscriptedThis episode of the Climb Podcast focuses on the vital topic of mentorship, particularly for women of color navigating leadership roles. Host Felicia Smith discusses why mentorship is crucial for professional growth and addresses common misconceptions that may prevent individuals from seeking mentors. She emphasizes that mentorship is not solely for the young or inexperienced; rather, it's a lifelong journey of learning and development. Felicia outlines three key reasons why someone might lack a mentor, including undervaluing mentorship, neglecting self-prioritization, and self-doubt in approaching potential mentors. The episode also highlights the importance of building a professional advisory board and...
2025-01-1527 min
The ClimbFrom Gatekeeping to Bridge Building: Networking with a PurposeThis episode of the Climb Podcast focuses on the critical importance of networking for women of color in advancing their careers. Host Felicia Smith shares her insights on how networking can transform professional opportunities, providing five key reasons why building connections is essential for career development. She delves into the unique challenges faced by women of color when it comes to networking, highlighting issues such as gatekeeping and the perception of credibility. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, Felicia encourages listeners to embrace networking as a vital tool for empowerment and growth. By fostering meaningful relationships and supporting one...
2025-01-0831 minThe ClimbREPLAY: How to Recover from Workplace TraumaWorkplace trauma is a significant issue for women of color, often leading to feelings of self-doubt and emotional exhaustion. In this episode of the Climb Podcast, host Felicia Smith engages with Rebecca Jackson, a seasoned facilitator and coach, to explore how to recover from such trauma. They discuss the subtle manifestations of workplace trauma, including overworking, numbing, and the impacts of microaggressions, highlighting that these experiences can deeply affect one's mental and emotional well-being. Jackson emphasizes the importance of creating supportive communities and seeking professional help to navigate these challenges. The conversation encourages listeners to acknowledge their experiences and...
2024-12-1838 min
The ClimbImposter What? The truth and impact of imposter syndromeImposter syndrome is a prevalent issue among women of color, often manifesting as self-doubt and a fear of being exposed as a fraud despite their accomplishments. This episode delves into the complexities of imposter syndrome, particularly how it affects women of color differently compared to other demographics. Felicia Smith discusses the origins of the term and its historical context, highlighting the need to recognize the environmental factors that contribute to these feelings. She identifies five key traits associated with imposter syndrome, including perfectionism and the fear of success, urging listeners to take inventory of their experiences. Ultimately, the conversation...
2024-12-1224 min
IT'S GOOD OVER HEREDanyel Smith On Pushing the Culture Forward for Decades & Learning How to Drive (Literally)Send us a textFelicia Pride chats with award winning journalist Danyel Smith about how GOOD her three decades long tenure as a champion for the Culture has been and the role music has played in her life. The two also discuss the wisdom and grace that come with age, being GOOD with ambition, and Danyel’s latest adventure: learning to drive post 50.For bonus podcast content, more Honey storytelling, shenanigans, and community, subscribe to YES, HONEY: https://yeshoney.substack.com/Keep up with new episodes and our other Honey projects by signing up...
2024-12-031h 00
The ClimbHow to Recover from Workplace Trauma Part 2 with Rebecca JacksonThis episode of the Climb podcast features a deep dive into the complex experiences of women of color in the workplace, focusing on the impact of microaggressions and gaslighting. Hosts Felicia Smith and Rebecca Jackson explore how subtle, everyday interactions can undermine self-worth and perpetuate feelings of not belonging. They discuss the importance of naming these experiences to validate feelings and foster understanding. The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating professional environments while dealing with internalized biases, particularly among women of color. As they wrap up the season, Smith and Jackson emphasize the necessity of creating supportive...
2024-10-1633 min
The ClimbHER CLIMB with Lisa GrantJoin us as we dive into an inspiring conversation with Lisa Grant, the deputy clerk of the US House of Representatives, who shares her extraordinary journey and insights on leadership. With over 35 years of experience in government and a notable transition from procurement to her current role, Lisa emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and strategic career moves. Throughout the discussion, she highlights the significance of mentorship and sponsorship, particularly for women of color, and the need for strong interpersonal skills in leadership. Lisa also reflects on the sacrifices she made to maintain balance in her personal and professional...
2024-10-0936 minThe ClimbListener Letters: Real Talk on Leadership ChallengesThis podcast episode focuses on navigating the complex transitions faced by women of color in leadership roles, specifically addressing listener letters that highlight common challenges. The first letter discusses the difficulties of moving from a peer to a leader, emphasizing the need for respect and maintaining positive relationships with former colleagues. The second letter raises concerns about being overlooked for promotions despite strong performance and advocacy efforts. Felicia Smith provides insights and advice on how to address these situations, encouraging open communication, fairness, and the importance of building relationships within the workplace. Listeners are invited to reflect on their...
2024-10-0224 min