Women Leveling Up

Women Leveling Up

This podcast is about women’s journey to leveling up in the personal and professional lives.

Episodes

May 20, 2025 14 mins
In this episode, Mary Davis explores the hidden realities behind positive economic headlines, revealing how national job growth can mask significant employment crises for Black women. Drawing on expert insights and recent data, she unpacks the systemic barriers, the impact of reduced DEI initiatives, and the resilience of Black women entrepreneurs. Tune in to understand why disaggregating economic data matters, and how we can all p...
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In this episode, we explore the transformative philosophy that your next breakthrough isn't dependent on external resources, but on the faith, determination, and resilience you already possess. Drawing from Markeatha Murphy's powerful insights, we challenge the belief that success requires perfect timing, connections, or capital. Instead, we highlight real stories of Black women who moved forward in uncertainty, built thriving busi...
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In this episode, we explore how to step into the role of Executive Life Producer and intentionally design a life where love and leadership coexist. Drawing on lessons from Tera Stidum’s journey from TV production to life coaching, we discuss how to pivot with purpose, apply production principles to personal fulfillment, and challenge the false choice between professional success and meaningful relationships. Discover actionable str...
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Discover how authentic leadership begins with healing in this transformative episode inspired by Donna Williams. Explore the urgent need for Black women to address their wounds, reclaim their voices, and set boundaries for sustainable leadership. Learn how embracing your story and building supportive communities can turn pain into purpose, foster resilience, and create real change. This episode offers practical steps to lead from w...
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This episode confronts the harsh realities faced by Black girls who experience trauma within their own homes, challenging the myth that disclosure always leads to safety. Drawing on the insights of Queen Brown, we examine how systems meant to protect often fail, forcing many girls to choose silence as a means of survival. We highlight the urgent need for community-driven solutions, survivor-led advocacy, and systemic reform to brea...
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Discover how moments of profound adversity can become catalysts for transformation as we explore LaShea Johnson’s journey from incarceration to empowerment. This episode dives into the power of reclaiming identity, building supportive communities, and turning setbacks into opportunities for growth and leadership. Learn how women are redefining their worth beyond stigma and using their experiences to create change for themselves and...
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Discover how holistic leadership is transforming the definition of success for Black women professionals. Inspired by Celestea Deanes, this episode explores the integration of wellness, metaphysical practice, and scientific rigor as the foundation for sustainable achievement. Learn how embracing wholeness—rather than sacrifice—can fuel vibrant leadership, redefine aging, and empower you to bring your full self to your entrepreneuri...
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In this episode, we explore how Celestea Deanes is revolutionizing the concept of eldership by blending science, metaphysics, athletics, and holistic wellness. Discover how intentional balance across mind, body, and spirit can redefine aging, fuel innovation, and empower Black women professionals to thrive at every stage of life. Learn practical strategies for integrating meditation, plant-based nutrition, and physical fitness to u...
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Discover how Black women transform pain into power in this inspiring episode featuring Joy Smith-Reid. Explore the generational legacy of resilience, the practice of building strength through adversity, and the evolution from survival to leadership. Learn how intentional community, storytelling, and legacy-building empower not just individuals, but entire communities. Tune in for actionable insights on honoring your resilience inhe...
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In this episode, we explore Shawan's powerful journey from surviving childhood cancer and personal adversity to transforming pain into purpose. Discover how resilience is more than just bouncing back—it's about using your scars as a map to become stronger and help others heal. Through stories of faith, service, and community, learn how sharing your struggles can create connection, foster healing, and ignite collective growth. Your ...
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Step into your power and discover why your presence truly matters. In this episode, we explore the journey from invisibility to influence, highlighting how Black women are creating transformative spaces, reclaiming their narratives, and building communities where every voice is valued. Through real stories of overcoming isolation, breaking barriers, and embracing authenticity, you'll be inspired to honor your unique path and take u...
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Discover how ancestral wisdom and intuitive intelligence can transform your business journey. Inspired by Celestea Deanes, this episode explores the power of trusting your intuition, integrating meditation and dream analysis into your decision-making, and reclaiming spiritual practices as tools for overcoming systemic barriers. Learn how embracing your natural gifts can unlock creativity, resilience, and a revolutionary edge in the...
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Explore how the promise of education as the great equalizer falls short for Black women in America, despite their status as the most educated demographic. This episode unpacks persistent wage gaps, underrepresentation in leadership, and the rise of Black women entrepreneurs who are redefining success on their own terms. Discover how systemic barriers are being challenged through innovation, political advocacy, and new models of bus...
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In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of educational liberation with insights inspired by Monica Hill. Discover how dismantling standardized education can empower marginalized voices, foster critical thinking, and create more inclusive learning environments. Through real-life case studies, we explore the challenges educators face, the impact of self-directed learning, and the importance of breaking artificial barri...
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Explore the invisible barriers Black women face in corporate America and discover revolutionary strategies for navigating bias, code-switching, and authenticity at work. Inspired by LaShea Johnson’s journey, this episode reveals practical tools like strategic visibility, collective advancement, and reframing injustice as organizational inefficiency. Learn how intentional community and system-level change can create true equity and ...
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Discover how to unlock your innate, divine confidence in this empowering episode inspired by Shannon McGlathery. Explore the transformative power of self-acceptance, abundance mindsets, and community for Black women professionals. Learn practical steps to shift from seeking external validation to embracing the confidence and worth already placed within you, and walk away with affirmations and actionable insights to help you lead au...
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This episode explores the paradox at the heart of Black women’s entrepreneurial progress: while business ownership is rising at unprecedented rates, profitability remains elusive for many. Drawing on powerful insights and real-world case studies, we examine the systemic barriers Black women face in accessing capital, networks, and sustainable growth opportunities. Discover how supporting Black women entrepreneurs generates ripple e...
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In this episode, we explore how personal pain can be transformed into purpose, inspired by Angela Harris's journey from brokenness to breakthrough. Discover the power of faith, community, and authentic storytelling as catalysts for healing and empowerment. Learn how sharing your story—especially its hardest chapters—can become a beacon of hope for others and create ripples of change far beyond your own life. If you've ever wondered...
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In this episode, we explore the transformative insights inspired by Jessica Highsmith’s philosophy on unapologetic brilliance and breaking free from performance-based living. Discover how Black women can move from merely surviving in systems not built for their brilliance to thriving authentically, embracing their unique voices as catalysts for change. Through powerful stories of strategic resilience and community building, learn h...
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This episode dives into the powerful reality behind the perception gap facing Black women entrepreneurs. Despite being the most educated and fastest-growing group of business owners in America, Black women receive less than 1% of venture capital funding and remain underrepresented in leadership roles. Drawing on insights from Petronellah Bensen, we explore how these entrepreneurs defy expectations, innovate out of necessity, and cr...
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