Shows
An Hour of Innovation with Vit LyoshinAI in the Real World: Dismantling AI Productivity Myths and Embracing Ethical Use | Yvette SchmitterIn this episode of An Hour of Innovation podcast, host Vit Lyoshin speaks with AI and ethics expert Yvette Schmitter about the practical use cases of AI, the ethical considerations surrounding its deployment, and the importance of quantifying productivity gains. They discuss the hype surrounding AI tools, the challenges of integrating AI into existing systems, and the need for proper training and implementation to achieve real business value.Yvette Schmitter is a trailblazing innovator and internationally recognized AI ethicist, dedicated to making technology more inclusive, ethical, and impactful. As Co-Founder and CEO of Fusion Collective and a...2025-05-231h 02
THE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTHow To Get Out Of A RutEveryone experiences being in a rut and it's hard to break out of a rut alone. In this episode, Yvette and Ericka discuss the importance of building a support system to help you on your journey. They also share their insights on the benefits of accountability partners, mentors, and community support. It’s our hope that by listening you’d find something that could give you an idea to try or what we share resonates with you to let you know you are not alone. We all find ourselves in a rut sometimes. “What lies ahead of us and what lies b...2023-10-1822 min
THE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTHow To Get Out Of A RutEveryone experiences being in a rut and it's hard to break out of a rut alone. In this episode, Yvette and Ericka discuss the importance of building a support system to help you on your journey. They also share their insights on the benefits of accountability partners, mentors, and community support. It’s our hope that by listening you’d find something that could give you an idea to try or what we share resonates with you to let you know you are not alone. We all find ourselves in a rut sometimes. “What lies ahead of us and what l...2023-10-1822 min
THE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTThe Power of Imperfect StartsIn this episode, Yvette and Ericka tackle the topic of imperfect starts and how to use the power of imperfect starts to change your life. “Failure should be our teacher, not our undertaker. Failure is delay, not defeat. It is a temporary detour, not a dead end. Failure is something we can avoid only by saying nothing, doing nothing, and being nothing.” - Denis Waitley2023-03-2212 min
THE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTThe Power of Imperfect StartsIn this episode, Yvette and Ericka tackle the topic of imperfect starts and how to use the power of imperfect starts to change your life. “Failure should be our teacher, not our undertaker. Failure is delay, not defeat. It is a temporary detour, not a dead end. Failure is something we can avoid only by saying nothing, doing nothing, and being nothing.” - Denis Waitley2023-03-2212 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTWomen's History Month: International Women's Day 2023It’s Women’s History month and today is actually International Women’s Day and this year’s theme is Embrace Equity. In addition to celebrating the countless contributions and achievements of women throughout history, in this episode, Yvette and Ericka discuss the importance between equity and equality and how actualizing both can change the world. “There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.” — Michelle Obama2023-03-0812 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTWomen's History Month: International Women's Day 2023It’s Women’s History month and today is actually International Women’s Day and this year’s theme is Embrace Equity. In addition to celebrating the countless contributions and achievements of women throughout history, in this episode, Yvette and Ericka discuss the importance between equity and equality and how actualizing both can change the world. “There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.” — Michelle Obama2023-03-0812 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTBlack History Month: Black People Making An ImpactIt’s Black History month and while Black History is officially recognized in the month February, its actually a longstanding history filled with firsts, innovation, science, medicine, architecture, engineering, art, music and sports. And such a rich and life changing history should be celebrated EVERY SINGLE DAY! In this episode, Yvette and Ericka highlight a few Black people making an impact. "The cost of liberty is less than the price of repression." - W.E.B. Du Bois, author and activist2023-02-2818 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTBlack History Month: Black People Making An ImpactIt’s Black History month and while Black History is officially recognized in the month February, its actually a longstanding history filled with firsts, innovation, science, medicine, architecture, engineering, art, music and sports. And such a rich and life changing history should be celebrated EVERY SINGLE DAY! In this episode, Yvette and Ericka highlight a few Black people making an impact. "The cost of liberty is less than the price of repression." - W.E.B. Du Bois, author and activist2023-02-2818 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTInspirations, Ideas and Insights That Moved UsWow, that was quick! It’s the end of 2022 and we’ve come to the final episode of Season 3. In this episode Yvette and Ericka recap some of the major happenings of 2022, reflect on their year and what they have in store for 2023. “The bad news is that time flies, the good news is that you are the pilot.” – Michelle Altshuler2022-12-2121 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTInspirations, Ideas and Insights That Moved UsWow, that was quick! It’s the end of 2022 and we’ve come to the final episode of Season 3. In this episode Yvette and Ericka recap some of the major happenings of 2022, reflect on their year and what they have in store for 2023. “The bad news is that time flies, the good news is that you are the pilot.” – Michelle Altshuler2022-12-2121 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTMe, Myself and IBeing comfortable in one’s own skin takes a long time, decades some say even a lifetime, but it’s well worth it. In this episode Yvette and Ericka share their views on the importance of being OK with being alone – alone with one’s thoughts, feelings, emotions and self. “Me, myself and I; all I got in the end – Beyonce Knowles”2022-12-0714 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTMe, Myself and IBeing comfortable in one’s own skin takes a long time, decades some say even a lifetime, but it’s well worth it. In this episode Yvette and Ericka share their views on the importance of being OK with being alone – alone with one’s thoughts, feelings, emotions and self. “Me, myself and I; all I got in the end – Beyonce Knowles”2022-12-0714 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTMicroaggressionsBy definition, microaggressions are brief and commonplace daily verbal, behavioral, or environmental indignities, whether intentional or unintentional, that communicate hostile, derogatory, or negative racial slights and insults toward people of color. Perpetrators of microaggressions are often unaware that they engage in such communications when they interact with racial/ethnic minorities. In this episode, Yvette and Ericka share how microaggressions affect them and share how, when and if they handle them.“The phrase “be realistic” used in any form is a microaggression.”2022-11-2324 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTMicroaggressionsBy definition, microaggressions are brief and commonplace daily verbal, behavioral, or environmental indignities, whether intentional or unintentional, that communicate hostile, derogatory, or negative racial slights and insults toward people of color. Perpetrators of microaggressions are often unaware that they engage in such communications when they interact with racial/ethnic minorities. In this episode, Yvette and Ericka share how microaggressions affect them and share how, when and if they handle them.“The phrase “be realistic” used in any form is a microaggression.”2022-11-2324 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTPositivity During Stressful TimesTo say we’re living through challenging times sounds like both a cliché and an understatement. In recent months, news about the pandemic, economic woes, and bitter political debates have triggered tremendous anxiety and sadness for many Americans. But when people look back on their lives, it is usually the most difficult challenges that gave them a new perspective or caused them to grow the most. Of course, in the midst of a crisis, it doesn’t feel that way. In this episode Yvette and Ericka share how they go about keeping positive in stressful times. “Trying to stay positive in a ne...2022-11-0923 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTPositivity During Stressful TimesTo say we’re living through challenging times sounds like both a cliché and an understatement. In recent months, news about the pandemic, economic woes, and bitter political debates have triggered tremendous anxiety and sadness for many Americans. But when people look back on their lives, it is usually the most difficult challenges that gave them a new perspective or caused them to grow the most. Of course, in the midst of a crisis, it doesn’t feel that way. In this episode Yvette and Ericka share how they go about keeping positive in stressful times. “Trying to stay positiv...2022-11-0923 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTTo WFH or Not, That Is The QuestionWorking from home is dominating our lives. If you haven’t experienced the phenomenon directly, you’ve undoubtedly heard all about it, as U.S. media coverage of working from home jumped 12,000 percent since January 2020. This change in working arrangements is impossible to overhype. As big as it is, it’s even bigger than people think – this is the largest societal change in America since the end of World War II. In this podcast, Yvette and Ericka discuss the state of working from home as well as their personal views to the pros and cons of working from home. “Successfully working fr...2022-10-2634 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTTo WFH or Not, That Is The QuestionWorking from home is dominating our lives. If you haven’t experienced the phenomenon directly, you’ve undoubtedly heard all about it, as U.S. media coverage of working from home jumped 12,000 percent since January 2020. This change in working arrangements is impossible to overhype. As big as it is, it’s even bigger than people think – this is the largest societal change in America since the end of World War II. In this podcast, Yvette and Ericka discuss the state of working from home as well as their personal views to the pros and cons of working from home. “Successful...2022-10-2634 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTLeveraging Your SuperpowersIn this episode, Yvette and Ericka chat about leveraging your superpowers at work and how to use your superpowers to help others. “The things that make us different those are our superpowers” ~ Lena Waithe2022-10-0519 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTLeveraging Your SuperpowersIn this episode, Yvette and Ericka chat about leveraging your superpowers at work and how to use your superpowers to help others. “The things that make us different those are our superpowers” ~ Lena Waithe2022-10-0519 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTUsing Influence To Create Meaningful ImpactIn this episode, Yvette and Ericka share how they use their influence to create meaningful impacts on those around them and how others have used their influence to impact their lives. “Each of us should be aware of the energy we are putting out into the world. Are we a positive influence or a negative one.” – Laurence Overmire2022-08-3126 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTUsing Influence To Create Meaningful ImpactIn this episode, Yvette and Ericka share how they use their influence to create meaningful impacts on those around them and how others have used their influence to impact their lives. “Each of us should be aware of the energy we are putting out into the world. Are we a positive influence or a negative one.” – Laurence Overmire2022-08-3126 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTLoving What You DoSteve Jobs said “your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is GREAT work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking, and don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart you’ll know when you find it.” In this episode Yvette and Ericka share how they found their passion(s) and go about loving what they do – everyday.2022-08-1719 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTLoving What You DoSteve Jobs said “your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is GREAT work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking, and don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart you’ll know when you find it.” In this episode Yvette and Ericka share how they found their passion(s) and go about loving what they do – everyday.2022-08-1719 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTConstructive ConversationsProviding and soliciting constructive feedback can be difficult, and in this episode Yvette and Ericka tackle how to handle constructive conversations, specifically, how to ask for and give constructive feedback. “Sometimes speaking the truth feels as if we are being unkind, especially when sharing difficult information or feedback. But in reality, dancing around the truth is unkind. When we avoid stating the truth—when we are vague or ambiguous under the guise of being kind—it is often because we are trying to lessen the discomfort for ourselves, not for the other person.” – Brene Brown2022-08-0339 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTConstructive ConversationsProviding and soliciting constructive feedback can be difficult, and in this episode Yvette and Ericka tackle how to handle constructive conversations, specifically, how to ask for and give constructive feedback. “Sometimes speaking the truth feels as if we are being unkind, especially when sharing difficult information or feedback. But in reality, dancing around the truth is unkind. When we avoid stating the truth—when we are vague or ambiguous under the guise of being kind—it is often because we are trying to lessen the discomfort for ourselves, not for the other person.” – Brene Brown2022-08-0339 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTPermission to GlowDo you let your light shine? Do you step into your greatness? Do you refuse to shrink or play small? Ah, yes, the power of giving yourself permission to glow. Many have a hard time wielding it. In this episode, Yvette and Ericka chat about how they give themselves permission to glow and share 5 ways that could help you give yourself the power, and the permission to glow. “As we let out light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. – Nelson Mandela”2022-07-0624 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTPermission to GlowDo you let your light shine? Do you step into your greatness? Do you refuse to shrink or play small? Ah, yes, the power of giving yourself permission to glow. Many have a hard time wielding it. In this episode, Yvette and Ericka chat about how they give themselves permission to glow and share 5 ways that could help you give yourself the power, and the permission to glow. “As we let out light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. – Nelson Mandela”2022-07-0624 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTYour TribeIn this episode, Yvette and Ericka discuss the importance of your tribe, building your tribe, how it evolves and the varying roles people play. It’s important to note, your tribe is not you “squad.” Your tribe is a small group of people who want the best for you, are there for you, refills your well, tells you about yourself and vice versa. The level of vulnerability and intimacy that comes with a tribe makes it impossible to have a gaggle of people in it. During this episode, Yvette and Ericka share how they’ve built their tribes and who’s in it.2022-06-0828 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTYour TribeIn this episode, Yvette and Ericka discuss the importance of your tribe, building your tribe, how it evolves and the varying roles people play. It’s important to note, your tribe is not you “squad.” Your tribe is a small group of people who want the best for you, are there for you, refills your well, tells you about yourself and vice versa. The level of vulnerability and intimacy that comes with a tribe makes it impossible to have a gaggle of people in it. During this episode, Yvette and Ericka share how they’ve built their tribes and who’s in2022-06-0828 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTDoing It AllIn this episode, Yvette and Ericka tackle the elusive question of “how can you do it all?” But it’s more about not doing it ALL but doing the right things for you. Stephen Covey reminds us that learning to choose well in a world of unlimited possibilities comes down to one thing: focus. What do we truly value? He asks us to consider: “If you were to pause and think seriously about the ‘first things’ in your life — the three or four things that matter most — what would they be?”"It is that a meaningful life is not a matter of speed or efficie...2022-05-2520 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTDoing It AllIn this episode, Yvette and Ericka tackle the elusive question of “how can you do it all?” But it’s more about not doing it ALL but doing the right things for you. Stephen Covey reminds us that learning to choose well in a world of unlimited possibilities comes down to one thing: focus. What do we truly value? He asks us to consider: “If you were to pause and think seriously about the ‘first things’ in your life — the three or four things that matter most — what would they be?”"It is that a meaningful life is not a matter of speed o...2022-05-2520 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTSupremely QualifiedThe confirmation hearings of Judge Jackson highlighted what highly qualified Black women go through every single day in the workplace. Hostility and devalued for the breadth and depth of experience, and talent they bring. This episode, Yvette and Ericka dive into the disparities on the Supreme Court and how for the first time in over 115 years, a Black woman is nominated to be seated on the Supreme Court.2022-05-1122 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTSupremely QualifiedThe confirmation hearings of Judge Jackson highlighted what highly qualified Black women go through every single day in the workplace. Hostility and devalued for the breadth and depth of experience, and talent they bring. This episode, Yvette and Ericka dive into the disparities on the Supreme Court and how for the first time in over 115 years, a Black woman is nominated to be seated on the Supreme Court.2022-05-1122 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTThe OnlyBeing 'The Only Woman In The Room' is not the same as being the only Black woman in the room - while all women can face sexist discrimination at work, the stakes for Black women have always been much higher. In this episode, Yvette and Ericka share their experiences and a few tips on how they handle being the “only” in the room/concert/meeting and/or event."My mother would look at me and she’d say, 'Kamala, you may be the first to do many things, but make sure you are not the last,'" "That’s why breaking...2022-04-2730 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTThe OnlyBeing 'The Only Woman In The Room' is not the same as being the only Black woman in the room - while all women can face sexist discrimination at work, the stakes for Black women have always been much higher. In this episode, Yvette and Ericka share their experiences and a few tips on how they handle being the “only” in the room/concert/meeting and/or event."My mother would look at me and she’d say, 'Kamala, you may be the first to do many things, but make sure you are not the last,'" "That’s...2022-04-2730 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTBlack Excellence Spotlight: Stacy-Ann BurkeThe world premiere of the “Black Excellence Spotlight” with the Melanin Pearls. Each quarter Yvette and Ericka will highlight Black men and women who demonstrate and represent Black excellence. The inaugural episode highlights Stacy-Ann Burke, Managing Director, Deloitte Consulting.“I was raised to believe that excellence is the best deterrent for racism or sexism. And that’s how I operate my life. – Oprah Winfrey”2022-03-1636 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTBlack Excellence Spotlight: Stacy-Ann BurkeThe world premiere of the “Black Excellence Spotlight” with the Melanin Pearls. Each quarter Yvette and Ericka will highlight Black men and women who demonstrate and represent Black excellence. The inaugural episode highlights Stacy-Ann Burke, Managing Director, Deloitte Consulting.“I was raised to believe that excellence is the best deterrent for racism or sexism. And that’s how I operate my life. – Oprah Winfrey”2022-03-1636 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTWomen Doin' The Damn ThingJoin Yvette and Ericka as they highlight women out there doin' their damn thing! From inventions to freedoms we enjoy but are unaware of who paid the price for them. we are going to share elevate those who deserve it the most. “Define Goal. Take Action. Stay Focused. Expect Success. Nothing Less. – Michele Ruiz”2022-03-0223 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTWomen Doin' The Damn ThingJoin Yvette and Ericka as they highlight women out there doin' their damn thing! From inventions to freedoms we enjoy but are unaware of who paid the price for them. we are going to share elevate those who deserve it the most. “Define Goal. Take Action. Stay Focused. Expect Success. Nothing Less. – Michele Ruiz”2022-03-0223 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTWhat Being Black Means to MeIn this episode, Yvette and Ericka will share what it means to be Black to them.2022-02-1621 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTWhat Being Black Means to MeIn this episode, Yvette and Ericka will share what it means to be Black to them.2022-02-1621 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTBlack Leaders: Then and NowIn this episode, Yvette and Ericka highlight Black leaders then and now. Some you may know and some you may learn about! “The cost of liberty is less than the price of repression.” – W.E.B. Du Bois2022-02-0247 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTBlack Leaders: Then and NowIn this episode, Yvette and Ericka highlight Black leaders then and now. Some you may know and some you may learn about! “The cost of liberty is less than the price of repression.” – W.E.B. Du Bois2022-02-0247 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTLiving IntentionallyWe are starting 2022 with a question, are you willing to live your life intentionally? What does that mean? In this episode, The Melanin Pearls will unpack that question and Yvette and Ericka will dive into how they’ve embraced living intentionally and what that means to them.“An unintentional life accepts everything and does nothing. An intentional life embraces only the things that will add to the mission of significance.” John C Maxwell2022-01-0529 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTLiving IntentionallyWe are starting 2022 with a question, are you willing to live your life intentionally? What does that mean? In this episode, The Melanin Pearls will unpack that question and Yvette and Ericka will dive into how they’ve embraced living intentionally and what that means to them.“An unintentional life accepts everything and does nothing. An intentional life embraces only the things that will add to the mission of significance.” John C Maxwell2022-01-0529 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCAST2021: Year In ReviewThe final episode of Season 2 and the year! This episode Yvette and Ericka reflect on the year, how fast it went, what they learned and hope for in 2022.Never miss an episode and subscribe to The Melanin Pearls podcast on iTunes, Spotify, Google, Pandora, iHeartRadio or anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts.2021-12-2225 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCAST2021: Year In ReviewThe final episode of Season 2 and the year! This episode Yvette and Ericka reflect on the year, how fast it went, what they learned and hope for in 2022.Never miss an episode and subscribe to The Melanin Pearls podcast on iTunes, Spotify, Google, Pandora, iHeartRadio or anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts.2021-12-2225 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTWhy Wait?One thing for certain is that the pandemic emphasized the impermanence of life. Life is short and tomorrow is not promised – for anyone, no matter your position in life, fame or how much money you have in the bank. So, why wait to live it? In this episode, Yvette and Ericka share how they embrace the impermanence of life and embody living each day to the fullest. “Somebody should tell us, right at the start of our lives, that we are dying. Then we might live life to the limit, every minute of every day. Do it! I say. Whatever you...2021-12-0827 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTWhy Wait?One thing for certain is that the pandemic emphasized the impermanence of life. Life is short and tomorrow is not promised – for anyone, no matter your position in life, fame or how much money you have in the bank. So, why wait to live it? In this episode, Yvette and Ericka share how they embrace the impermanence of life and embody living each day to the fullest. “Somebody should tell us, right at the start of our lives, that we are dying. Then we might live life to the limit, every minute of every day. Do it! I say. What...2021-12-0827 min
THE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTPreparing for the HolidaysPreparing for the holidays…are you going to be zooming Thanksgiving and Christmas like last year? During this episode, Yvette and Ericka discuss how they are approaching and preparing for the holidays. “Christmas is a time when you get homesick – even when you are home. – Carol Nelson”Never miss an episode and subscribe to The Melanin Pearls podcast on iTunes, Spotify, Google, Pandora, iHeartRadio or anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts.2021-11-1022 min
THE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTPreparing for the HolidaysPreparing for the holidays…are you going to be zooming Thanksgiving and Christmas like last year? During this episode, Yvette and Ericka discuss how they are approaching and preparing for the holidays. “Christmas is a time when you get homesick – even when you are home. – Carol Nelson”Never miss an episode and subscribe to The Melanin Pearls podcast on iTunes, Spotify, Google, Pandora, iHeartRadio or anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts.2021-11-1022 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTSocial Butterflies or Cocooning Caterpillars?It’s a first for most of us of living through a pandemic. From restricted travel, social distancing to being completely sequestered in one’s home; some people have a lot of anxiety of entering back to the new “normal.” In this episode, Yvette and Ericka talk about how they are handling going back to work, traveling, taking public transportation and if they are going to make any changes to their social life and activities.2021-10-2720 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTSocial Butterflies or Cocooning Caterpillars? It’s a first for most of us of living through a pandemic. From restricted travel, social distancing to being completely sequestered in one’s home; some people have a lot of anxiety of entering back to the new “normal.” In this episode, Yvette and Ericka talk about how they are handling going back to work, traveling, taking public transportation and if they are going to make any changes to their social life and activities.2021-10-2720 min
THE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTThe Melanin Pearls Podcast Turns 1Can you believe it? One year ago, Yvette and Ericka launched The Melanin Pearls Podcast and what a year it’s been! During this episode, Yvette and Ericka reminisce about how it all started, where the podcast is going and how they’ve grown along the way.2021-10-1320 min
THE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTThe Melanin Pearls Podcast Turns 1Can you believe it? One year ago, Yvette and Ericka launched The Melanin Pearls Podcast and what a year it’s been! During this episode, Yvette and Ericka reminisce about how it all started, where the podcast is going and how they’ve grown along the way.2021-10-1320 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTHelping Others Achieve SuccessHelping others achieve their success is most possibly the main key to your success. Sounds confusing right? It’s not and during this episode Yvette and Ericka will share how helping others achieve success has impacted and propelled their own careers. Using their experiences, they will show you how you can start to help others reach their goals and how that effort brings you closer to your own. “Help others achieve their dreams and you will achieve yours.” Les Brown2021-09-2928 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTHelping Others Achieve SuccessHelping others achieve their success is most possibly the main key to your success. Sounds confusing right? It’s not and during this episode Yvette and Ericka will share how helping others achieve success has impacted and propelled their own careers. Using their experiences, they will show you how you can start to help others reach their goals and how that effort brings you closer to your own. “Help others achieve their dreams and you will achieve yours.” Les Brown2021-09-2928 min
THE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTUnlocking Your PotentialDo you know what it means to “unlock your potential?” Better yet, do you even how to do it? In this episode, Yvette and Ericka share tips and actions you can take to unlock your potential by finding your WHY and resources to help you live it. “First, it's essential to determine precisely what you want to achieve. Just wanting to be “successful” is too general.” ― Derric Yuh Ndim2021-09-1531 min
THE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTUnlocking Your PotentialDo you know what it means to “unlock your potential?” Better yet, do you even how to do it? In this episode, Yvette and Ericka share tips and actions you can take to unlock your potential by finding your WHY and resources to help you live it. “First, it's essential to determine precisely what you want to achieve. Just wanting to be “successful” is too general.” ― Derric Yuh Ndim2021-09-1531 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTGratitudeGratitude. The pandemic forced people to take stock of their life, who and what brings them joy and what/who is important. But it’s also super important to reflect on all that you have to be grateful for and all you have. Expressing gratitude isn’t just left for the 4th Thursday in November, weddings or funerals. It’s an everyday activity. In this episode, Yvette and Ericka share how having gratitude changed their lives. “Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life the foundation for all abundance.” – Eckhart Tolle2021-09-0133 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTGratitudeGratitude. The pandemic forced people to take stock of their life, who and what brings them joy and what/who is important. But it’s also super important to reflect on all that you have to be grateful for and all you have. Expressing gratitude isn’t just left for the 4th Thursday in November, weddings or funerals. It’s an everyday activity. In this episode, Yvette and Ericka share how having gratitude changed their lives. “Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life the foundation for all abundance.” – Eckhart Tolle2021-09-0133 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTUrban Farms: How Urban Farms Are Helping Communities in NeedContinuing the important topic of food injustice, food deserts and food swamps, in this episode Yvette and Ericka are on location at East New York Farms! located in East New York Brooklyn. The community surrounding Pink Houses refused to wait for help as they watched the systematic reduction of green spaces and the health index of the community steadily decline. While on location, Yvette and Ericka interview the farmer and her team of dedicated volunteers who operate the farm and distribute its bounty to the neighborhood weekly for free. “Help the life of one person and you can help th...2021-08-1815 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTUrban Farms: How Urban Farms Are Helping Communities in NeedContinuing the important topic of food injustice, food deserts and food swamps, in this episode Yvette and Ericka are on location at East New York Farms! located in East New York Brooklyn. The community surrounding Pink Houses refused to wait for help as they watched the systematic reduction of green spaces and the health index of the community steadily decline. While on location, Yvette and Ericka interview the farmer and her team of dedicated volunteers who operate the farm and distribute its bounty to the neighborhood weekly for free. “Help the life of one person and you can help the co...2021-08-1815 min
THE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTThe Power of "NO"There's a lot of talk about the power of Yes. Yes supports risk-taking, courage, and an open-hearted approach to life whose grace cannot be minimized. But No…no is a metal grate that slams shut the window between one's self and the influence of others and is rarely celebrated. It's a hidden power because it is both easily misunderstood and difficult to engage. Many of us are unaware of the surge of strength we draw from No because, in part, it is easily confused with negativity. During this episode Yvette and Ericka talk about gaining perspective on what “no” really means...2021-08-0431 min
THE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTThe Power of "NO"There's a lot of talk about the power of Yes. Yes supports risk-taking, courage, and an open-hearted approach to life whose grace cannot be minimized. But No…no is a metal grate that slams shut the window between one's self and the influence of others and is rarely celebrated. It's a hidden power because it is both easily misunderstood and difficult to engage. Many of us are unaware of the surge of strength we draw from No because, in part, it is easily confused with negativity. During this episode Yvette and Ericka talk about gaining perspective on what “no” really...2021-08-0431 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTCareer Checkpoint: Are You Ready for Mid-Year Reviews?We are mid-year so it’s time to see where we are with our 2021 professional/career goals and how we can tracking from a progress standpoint in our current positions. This episode is all about assessing where we are, identifying any outstanding gaps, recapping and highlighting our wins to date and prepping for our mid-year review meeting with our people manager. Yvette and Ericka share their process on how they prepare for their mid-year reviews and share tips and tricks on how you can get started and/or enhance your preparation process. “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” – Seneca2021-07-2130 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTCareer Checkpoint: Are You Ready for Mid-Year Reviews?We are mid-year so it’s time to see where we are with our 2021 professional/career goals and how we can tracking from a progress standpoint in our current positions. This episode is all about assessing where we are, identifying any outstanding gaps, recapping and highlighting our wins to date and prepping for our mid-year review meeting with our people manager. Yvette and Ericka share their process on how they prepare for their mid-year reviews and share tips and tricks on how you can get started and/or enhance your preparation process. “Luck is what happens when preparation meets oppo...2021-07-2130 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTRelationshipsThis episode is all about relationships. Join Yvette and Ericka as they chat about how they learned how to keep healthy relationships with their friends, partners and family. No one is perfect and neither is every relationship but there is a balance between imperfection and unhealthy. During this episode, Yvette and Ericka describe the “definition” of a healthy relationship, what that means to them and how they maintain healthy relationships today. “Your relationships can only be as healthy are you are. – Neil Warren”2021-07-0741 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTRelationshipsThis episode is all about relationships. Join Yvette and Ericka as they chat about how they learned how to keep healthy relationships with their friends, partners and family. No one is perfect and neither is every relationship but there is a balance between imperfection and unhealthy. During this episode, Yvette and Ericka describe the “definition” of a healthy relationship, what that means to them and how they maintain healthy relationships today. “Your relationships can only be as healthy are you are. – Neil Warren”2021-07-0741 min
THE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTSpecial Unscheduled Episode on Voter SuppressionThis is a special unscheduled episode on voter suppression. Record turnout will always be swiftly followed by a tidal wave of voter suppression efforts. This is a factual trend. Lawmakers in 47 states have introduced bills that would make it harder to vote. Do you that there are about 61 forms of voter suppression. Can you name a few? Ericka and Yvette discuss voter suppression and how WE THE PEOPLE need to make sure democracy remains in tact which means WE THE PEOPLE need to do the work as Americans.2021-06-0217 min
THE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTSpecial Unscheduled Episode on Voter SuppressionThis is a special unscheduled episode on voter suppression. Record turnout will always be swiftly followed by a tidal wave of voter suppression efforts. This is a factual trend. Lawmakers in 47 states have introduced bills that would make it harder to vote. Do you that there are about 61 forms of voter suppression. Can you name a few? Ericka and Yvette discuss voter suppression and how WE THE PEOPLE need to make sure democracy remains in tact which means WE THE PEOPLE need to do the work as Americans.2021-06-0217 min
THE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTMeditation May: Practical Lessons from a Meditation TeacherLast episode Yvette shared her meditation journey and Ericka made the commitment to start. This episode Julie Stewart, meditation teacher from Kadampa Meditation Center in New York City is the special guest. Julie shares how society’s definition of success and happiness leads most people to being perpetually unhappy, the basics of meditation, how to start and how integrating mediation into your daily habit can and will change your life. “Meditation is the journey from sound to silence, from movement to stillness from limited identity to unlimited space. – Sri Ravi Shankar2021-05-2627 min
THE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTMeditation May: Practical Lessons from a Meditation TeacherLast episode Yvette shared her meditation journey and Ericka made the commitment to start. This episode Julie Stewart, meditation teacher from Kadampa Meditation Center in New York City is the special guest. Julie shares how society’s definition of success and happiness leads most people to being perpetually unhappy, the basics of meditation, how to start and how integrating mediation into your daily habit can and will change your life. “Meditation is the journey from sound to silence, from movement to stillness from limited identity to unlimited space. – Sri Ravi Shankar2021-05-2627 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTMeditation: Why It's Important and Potentially Life ChangingMeditation, we’ve all heard about it in some shape or form. But what is it? Does it work and more importantly is it hard? In recent decades, public interest in mindfulness meditation has soared. In this episode, Ericka interviews Yvette on her meditation journey and how it’s impacted her life – for the better. During this episode we will talk about the different types of meditation and practice types as well as the benefits and how to start. “The quieter we become, the more we can hear.” – Ram Das2021-05-1222 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTMeditation: Why It's Important and Potentially Life ChangingMeditation, we’ve all heard about it in some shape or form. But what is it? Does it work and more importantly is it hard? In recent decades, public interest in mindfulness meditation has soared. In this episode, Ericka interviews Yvette on her meditation journey and how it’s impacted her life – for the better. During this episode we will talk about the different types of meditation and practice types as well as the benefits and how to start. “The quieter we become, the more we can hear.” – Ram Das2021-05-1222 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTDefining Self-CareMost people default to the Instagram and Facebook posts descriptions of self-care of spa like pampering, weekends with the girls or getting your nails done. That's NOT self-care. Join us and our special guest, Dr. Jamie Lauren DSW, LCSW as she helps us unpack self-care and what it truly means. “Breathe. Let go. And remind yourself that this very moment is the only one you know you have for sure.” - Oprah2021-04-1431 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTDefining Self-CareMost people default to the Instagram and Facebook posts descriptions of self-care of spa like pampering, weekends with the girls or getting your nails done. That's NOT self-care. Join us and our special guest, Dr. Jamie Lauren DSW, LCSW as she helps us unpack self-care and what it truly means. “Breathe. Let go. And remind yourself that this very moment is the only one you know you have for sure.” - Oprah2021-04-1431 min
THE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTBlack HERstory Month: Women Who Planted the SeedIt's Black HERstory Month and we celebrate the unsung black women heroines who sacrificed emotional and physical comforts to make it better and pave the way for women they will never meet. Yet these women, the contributions they made and the ambitions, goals and challenges they wrestled with—remain, by and large, absent from media coverage. Join Yvette and Ericka as they raise a glass and shine a light on women who changed the world and we should thank every day. Women’s History Month is a time to honor the women who paved the way and inspire the HERstory-maker in a...2021-03-3131 min
THE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTBlack HERstory Month: Women Who Planted the SeedIt's Black HERstory Month and we celebrate the unsung black women heroines who sacrificed emotional and physical comforts to make it better and pave the way for women they will never meet. Yet these women, the contributions they made and the ambitions, goals and challenges they wrestled with—remain, by and large, absent from media coverage. Join Yvette and Ericka as they raise a glass and shine a light on women who changed the world and we should thank every day. Women’s History Month is a time to honor the women who paved the way and inspire the HERs...2021-03-3131 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTBoss Lady PanelBoss Ladies lead by example, are empowering, inspirational, open, amazing, influential, talented, skilled and successful. This is a powerful and provocative episode where we bring together two inspiring boss ladies from different backgrounds to share their experiences, perspectives and examine the impact female boss ladies can have on women. Panelists, Oniki Hardtman Lead Creative Designer and Event Planner and Danielle Williams, celebrity hair artist share their life lessons from finding their voice and the lessons that propelled their careers. "Think like a queen. A queen is not afraid to fail. Failure is another stepping stone to greatness." — Oprah Winfrey2021-03-1732 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTBoss Lady PanelBoss Ladies lead by example, are empowering, inspirational, open, amazing, influential, talented, skilled and successful. This is a powerful and provocative episode where we bring together two inspiring boss ladies from different backgrounds to share their experiences, perspectives and examine the impact female boss ladies can have on women. Panelists, Oniki Hardtman Lead Creative Designer and Event Planner and Danielle Williams, celebrity hair artist share their life lessons from finding their voice and the lessons that propelled their careers. "Think like a queen. A queen is not afraid to fail. Failure is another stepping stone to greatness." — Oprah Winfrey2021-03-1732 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTThe Most Disrespected Woman In AmericaIt’s Women’s History Month and we are raising a glass and toasting women all month but this episode is highlighting the Most Disrespected Woman in America – the Black Woman. This episode we unpack the famous quote taken from a speech Malcom X made in 1962.“It’s not about supplication; it’s about power. It’s not about asking, it’s about demanding. It’s not about convincing those who are currently in power, it’s about changing the very face of power itself.” - Kimberle Williams Crenshaw2021-03-0322 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTThe Most Disrespected Woman In AmericaIt’s Women’s History Month and we are raising a glass and toasting women all month but this episode is highlighting the Most Disrespected Woman in America – the Black Woman. This episode we unpack the famous quote taken from a speech Malcom X made in 1962.“It’s not about supplication; it’s about power. It’s not about asking, it’s about demanding. It’s not about convincing those who are currently in power, it’s about changing the very face of power itself.” - Kimberle Williams Crenshaw2021-03-0322 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTBlack History Month - The Game ChangersRounding out Black History Month, this episode is all about Black History Game Changers, black people who helped forge the path to uplift and make the world a better place for us all. By the end of this episode, you will know the names of people who changed the game in aerospace engineering, home security, electricity, and many more. “I really don’t think life is about the I-could-have-beens. Life is only about the I-tried-to-do. I don’t mind the failure but I can’t imagine that I’d forgive myself if I didn’t try.” – Nikki Giovanni2021-02-1726 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTBlack History Month - "Our" HistoryIt’s February and the “official” recognition of Black History, but what history is that? This episode is a history lesson about the Black History not taught in school. Yvette and Ericka along with their special guest Corey Andrew, discuss significant pieces of Black history that will leave you speechless. At the end of this episode, you will learn some truths that will not only piss you off due to the amount of “our” history that’s been hijacked and omitted but will empower you to walk taller and take control of the black historical narrative. “The more you know of your h...2021-02-0354 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTBlack History Month - "Our" HistoryIt’s February and the “official” recognition of Black History, but what history is that? This episode is a history lesson about the Black History not taught in school. Yvette and Ericka along with their special guest Corey Andrew, discuss significant pieces of Black history that will leave you speechless. At the end of this episode, you will learn some truths that will not only piss you off due to the amount of “our” history that’s been hijacked and omitted but will empower you to walk taller and take control of the black historical narrative. “The more you know of your histor...2021-02-0354 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTYou Are The Architect of Your CareerNew Year, New Career Goals! It’s a new year and many of us are either just finishing up or starting year-end reviews and setting 2021 goals. Yvette and Ericka go deep in on the importance of owning your career path and based on their experience share their respective experiences from career planning to one-on-ones to preparing for year-end performance reviews. Whatever you do you are the architect of your career. Do what you love and what aligns with you. Being the architect of your career involves more than showing just up and working 40 hours a week. That’s ju...2021-01-2047 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTYou Are The Architect of Your CareerNew Year, New Career Goals! It’s a new year and many of us are either just finishing up or starting year-end reviews and setting 2021 goals. Yvette and Ericka go deep in on the importance of owning your career path and based on their experience share their respective experiences from career planning to one-on-ones to preparing for year-end performance reviews. Whatever you do you are the architect of your career. Do what you love and what aligns with you. Being the architect of your career involves more than showing just up and working 40 hours a week. That’s just doing your...2021-01-2047 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTUnapologetically YouNew year, new season. It’s Season 2! In Episode 1 of The Melanin Pearls Podcast Yvette and Ericka kick off the new season with a deep discussion about the importance of being Unapologetically You and how being true to oneself is not only the key to happiness but to a fulfilled, passionate, successful life.2021-01-0631 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTUnapologetically YouNew year, new season. It’s Season 2! In Episode 1 of The Melanin Pearls Podcast Yvette and Ericka kick off the new season with a deep discussion about the importance of being Unapologetically You and how being true to oneself is not only the key to happiness but to a fulfilled, passionate, successful life.2021-01-0631 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTYear In ReviewFor the final episode of 2020 of the Melanin Pearls Podcast, Yvette and Ericka recap how 2020 changed their lives – personally, professionally and spiritually. “One thing: you have to walk, and create the way by your walking; you will not find a ready-made path. It is not so cheap, to reach to the ultimate realization of truth. You will have to create the path by walking yourself; the path is not ready-made, lying there and waiting for you. It is just like the sky: the birds fly, but they don't leave any footprints. You cannot follow them; there are no footprints left...2020-12-2323 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTYear In ReviewFor the final episode of 2020 of the Melanin Pearls Podcast, Yvette and Ericka recap how 2020 changed their lives – personally, professionally and spiritually. “One thing: you have to walk, and create the way by your walking; you will not find a ready-made path. It is not so cheap, to reach to the ultimate realization of truth. You will have to create the path by walking yourself; the path is not ready-made, lying there and waiting for you. It is just like the sky: the birds fly, but they don't leave any footprints. You cannot follow them; there are no footprints left behi...2020-12-2323 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTBalancing Remote Work and SchoolIn episode five of the Melanin Pearls Podcast, Yvette and Ericka discuss the challenges of now “living at work” and balancing it all with remote learning with their special guest, New York City School Principal, Renee Belton. “The human capacity for burden is like bamboo – far more flexible than you’d ever believe at first glance.”– Jodi Picoult”2020-12-0242 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTThe Holidays - The Struggle Is RealIn episode four of the Melanin Pearls Podcast, Yvette and Ericka discuss how to stay healthy and discuss ways to keep from adding additional pounds during the holidays, with their special guest, lifelong coach and fitness professional Marcell Harrison. “The greatest gift you can give your family and the world is a healthy you. – Joyce Meyer”2020-11-2443 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTThe AftermathIn episode three of the Melanin Pearls Podcast, Yvette and Ericka discuss the “Aftermath” of the 2020 Presidential election, their thoughts and what we as a community and country need to focus on next to bring about the change we all want to see. “I can be changed by what happens to me, but I refuse to be reduced by it” – Maya Angelou2020-11-1130 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTVOTE LIKE YOUR LIFE DEPENDS ON IT...BECAUSE IT DOESIn episode two of the Melanin Pearls Podcast, Yvette and Ericka welcome Patricia D. Williamson and Aaron Greene to the show to talk about the importance of voting and how voting at every level and in every election is the only way we can effectuate the legislative change required to move the needle. In this moment it’s just not possible to reimagine the system, but absolutely necessary to do so and voting is a necessary step in the direction of change. Every election is determined by the people who show up. “You’ve got to vote, vote, vote, vote...2020-10-2848 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTInaugural Podcast and Get Out The VoteIn episode one of the Melanin Pearls Podcast, we introduce ourselves, talk a little bit about our backgrounds, why we’re doing this podcast and what you can expect from it. We will also share with you the importance of voting and our personal experiences with voting. We are so excited about starting the Melanin Pearls Podcast. We’ve spent the past several months thinking, planning and preparing for this show and we’re very excited about what this show is going to do. Please listen as we explain what the show will be all about and what our plans...2020-10-1434 minTHE MELANIN PEARLS PODCASTIntroducing The Melanin Pearls PodcastIn this welcome message, Yvette Schmitter and Ericka Shoulars introduce their upcoming project - The Melanin Pearls Podcast. The series features deep dives with their tribe about topics ranging from what's going on in the world today to the importance of voting and how to visualize your best self and show up as her. The Melanin Pearls Podcast debuts on October 14, 2020.“The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away” – Pablo Picasso2020-09-1001 min