Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer

17: Steph's Diary: Motivation will Follow Commitment

Sat, 30 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0400

I believe in the importance of commitment in achieving our goals, so when I saw this quote "Motivation will follow commitment," it resonated with me, particularly as I continue on this journey of building Pamoja. This episode is a reflection and celebration of the commitments we make for ourselves. The sky is the limit and anything is possible!

Topics Covered:

Reflection of our biggest accomplishment
Little by little, a little becomes a lot
Drawing inspiration from Beyonce Knowles Carter
Preparing for Pamoja's first collection launch

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16: Kamilah Thomas: A Conversation on Resilience and Self-Care

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 18:00:00 -0500

In this episode of "Diaries of a Modern Trailblazer," I had the pleasure of sitting down with the incredible Kamilah Thomas, a licensed mental health therapist, motivational coach, and women empowerment advocate. Together, we delved into Kamilah's inspiring journey, from her initial aspirations of becoming an attorney to her transformative shift into social work and entrepreneurship.

Kamilah shared her personal experiences and insights, reflecting on the challenges she faced and the pivotal moments that led her to where she is today. We explored the concept of being a Strong Black Woman, discussing the characteristics and struggles that often come with this identity. Kamilah emphasized the importance of self-care and total wellness, highlighting the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical health.

Throughout our conversation, Kamilah shared practical tips and advice for prioritizing self-care and maintaining well-being, from deep breathing exercises to the power of stillness and mindfulness. We discussed the significance of addressing emotional baggage and the impact it can have on our overall health and success.

Looking ahead, Kamilah expressed her excitement for expanding her therapy practice, coaching female entrepreneurs, and engaging in more speaking engagements. She emphasized the importance of resilience and perseverance, encouraging us to embrace the unexpected twists and turns of life with an open mind and a positive attitude.

Overall, this episode was a heartfelt and empowering conversation, filled with valuable insights and encouragement for anyone on their journey to personal growth and fulfillment. Join us as we navigate the path to success and well-being, one step at a time!

Topics Covered:

My transformative shift into private practice as a therapist
The Strong Black Woman
Prioritizing total wellness for sustainable success
The practice of deep breathing to reduce anxiety
The surprising things you'll learn about yourself by sitting in silence
Embracing life's unpredictability

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15: Steph's Diary: Operating in Abundance

Sun, 28 Jan 2024 19:00:00 -0500

This year I'm operating on abundance, and as we wrap up the first month of the year I'm sharing what that means to me.

Sometimes it can be scary to have big dreams and put yourself out there. But for me, what's the worst that can happen if I continue to push through, doing something that I love and enjoy?

Topics Covered:

Recognize the Power of Your Thoughts
Surround Yourself with People with an Abundance Mentality
Create Win-Win Situations
Incorporate Gratitude in Your Life
Recognize Opportunities Around You

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14: Jovanna Youssef Hill: The Power to Write Your Own Story

Sat, 30 Dec 2023 13:00:00 -0500

Born in Cairo, Egypt with aspirations to become an archaeologist, Jovanna later shifted focus stepping into the world of business launching a career in consulting, eventually merging her interest in technology and retail leading teams at Apple and Rent The Runway.

In addition to being a highly motivated career driven individual, Jovanna shares how she entered a new phase in life in 2023, becoming a mother while being intentional with prioritizing self and family.

Jovanna is a woman of many hats that will leave you motivated to explore your untapped potential.

Topics Covered:

How my American and Egyptian upbringing molded me
Career: Following the impact and the importance of sponsors
Transitioning into motherhood
My Partner/Husband is my secret weapon in balancing life
Utilizing systems to measure personal goals and outcomes
Fitness for longevity, stamina, and mental health
Acknowledging it’s ok if I didn't achieve the goal as long as I made progress
Importance of keeping receipt of your wins
Leaving space for the unknown/untapped opportunities in your life

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Organizational Resources/Tools:

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13: Steph's Diary: Greatness Takes a While

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 21:00:00 -0500

I recorded this episode on my Birthday, November 27th.

As I celebrate my birthday today, I reflect on where I was a year ago and where I am today. I have a lot to be thankful for. Life is not black and white, and it's never going to be a straightforward path to achieve what you want.

I'm learning to appreciate the hurdles because it's growth at the end of the day. And that's what makes my story unique, but yet relatable. And I truly hope that you're able to take tidbits of what I'm sharing and apply it to your life.

Topics Covered:

What I'm Thankful For
Not Falling Into The Trap of Self Sabotage
Celebrating The Growth & Wins - Design Patent
Your Door is a Platform for Others

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12: Adrienne Blanks: Life Gets Better when You See Redirection as an Upgrade

Sun, 29 Oct 2023 15:00:00 -0400

Being a multi-hyphenate creative at heart, Adrienne Blanks has always balanced multiple projects at a time.

If you ask Adrienne, Nail Polish chose her and it ultimately became the vessel that steered her into business coaching after experiencing burnout in her very own creative venture. Adrienne has pushed the boundaries, and now she’s entering into a new era of purpose working with entrepreneurs to help find clarity and strategy in launching their business projects, so they are set up for success in the long run.

Topics Covered:

The one way ticket to NY to pursue my dream career in media
How unemployment forced me to pivot into entrepreneurship
Acknowledging burnout and when it’s time to move on
Embracing the numbers when you’re a creative
Dismantling the lack of capital and access for minorities
Working from an empty cup, learning to slow down and pour into myself

Guest Info:

Adrienne's Website
Brainstorm Sesh - Mindful Business Planning

Resources:

Backstage Capital Catalyst Program
News Article - Fearless Fund Legal Challenges

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11: Steph's Diary: Not The Plan, But I am Exactly Where I Need to Be!

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 22:00:00 -0400

If you've been tuning into this podcast, you know I've been very adamant about hitting a big milestone, which was to present a collection this month in September during Fashion Week. Well long story short, that didn't happen.

I’m not going to lie, I felt defeated, but that feeling lasted for a short period of time. Because I realized I’m exactly where I need to be. There is so much more for me to observe and learn over the next few months so I’m ready for Fashion Week in February!

Topics Covered:

Remaining Focused On My Goals
Taking Time Off To Rest & Reset
Beyonce Renaissance Tour & Bey Good Foundation
Setting Goals and Taking Action

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10: Sasha Simmons: How Facing My Biggest Fear Gave Me a New Level of Power

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 23:00:00 -0400

Taking the biggest leap of faith, Sasha Simmons shares the battles and the fears she faced when deciding to no longer associate herself with everything she knew and everything that defined her as a person growing up. She stepped away from her religious cult.

Today, Sasha is a professional speaker and empowerment activist helping people navigate life to the absolute fullness.

Topics Covered:

Being raised in a very strict religious cult
The eye opening move to New York from Jacksonville, FL
The journey with Semester at Sea
Being strategic and intentional to reach your North Star
Living my life for Me and deciding to leave my religion
How I learned so much about myself with Vipassana 10 day meditation

Guest Info:

Resources:

Vipassana
Garrain Jones TEDx Talk, Using Artist Power to Reclaim Your Authentic Self

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09: Steph's Diary: What Showing Up for Myself Looks Like

Sun, 23 Jul 2023 14:00:00 -0400

In the ninth episode, you’re hearing from yours truly, Stephanie—the Originator of this podcast and the Founder of Pamoja.

I'm being honest on this podcast about where I stand and what I'm going through because I want to share this journey. I want people to understand where I started, where I'm coming from, and witness the great progress of what it is I'm executing.

Not everything is rosy. Not everything goes as planned. But it’s not an excuse to throw in the towel and give up. Failure is inevitable, but it is also a great opportunity to learn and grow for the better.

So what are you waiting for?

Sit back. Have a listen. And be inspired.

Topics Covered:

The key is persistence
What I’m reading
Walking blindly in faith doing what you’re called to do
Where I stand with the vision I set for myself in 2023
The importance of not holding out on opportunities for yourself

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08: Aunt Lil: The Fascinating Things You'll Learn From The Generations Before Us

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 21:00:00 -0400

In this episode, I have a seat at the table with my Great Aunt Lil, my Maternal Grandma’s youngest sibling of twelve.

At 89 years young, Aunt Lil is what I call a Modern Trailblazer, with the wit and grit to do anything she sets her mind to. It was such a treat hearing her story and endless determination to reach her ultimate career goal of becoming a Social Worker.

It was also a great privilege to have access to some of my family’s history that traces back to the mid 19th century. It is such an honor to be able to discuss the significance of Juneteenth for my late Great Grandma “Mamma Myrt,” and learn the history of Willow Grove, TX, a community founded by A. W. Crawford and my Great Great Great Great Uncle Buck who sought more opportunity as an ex-slave migrating from the Manning Plantation in Shubuta, MS.

There is always so much to learn from the generations before us. If you have the opportunity, I encourage you to take the time and unleash your curiosity.

Topics Covered:

Setting goals and making them a reality
The draw and determination to become a Social Worker
Willow Grove, TX familial roots
The importance of Juneteenth
Acknowledging the detours in life before reaching your destination

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07: Rozella Haydée White: LOVE, The Simple Yet Transformative Ways to Improve Our Relationships

Sun, 28 May 2023 21:00:00 -0400

Hailing from New York to Houston at a young age, Rozella Haydée White is the rose that grew from concrete. Rozella is none other than the Love Big Coach who focuses on nurturing and cultivating the transformative power of love, publishing her first solo book in 2019, “Love Big: The Power of Revolutionary Relationships to Heal the World.”

I’ve known Rozella for nearly a year and have learned so much from this phenomenal individual I would describe as an Optimist, Romantic, and Inspiration.

So what does it mean to “Love Big” you ask? Tune into our 7th episode to find out!

Topics Covered:

The powerful lessons and growth from intergenerational living
The origin of Love Big
Living life in abundance - mindset, present moment, gratitude
The push to write the first solo book
The correlation between loving others and loving self
Elements of a successful relationship
Free will is ultimately choice

Guest Info:

Resources:

Tricia Hersey, The Nap Ministry
Sonya Renee Taylor, The Body is Not an Apology
Adrienne Maree Brown, Emergent Strategy

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06: Steph's Diary: From High School to Now, Keeping the Dream Alive

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Episode Summary:

The seeds were planted in high school—the thought of starting a fashion brand. Who knew that would stick with me. A thought that seemed so far fetched for a young girl from Texas City is starting to shape up as I mold this fashion brand, Pamoja, into something great.

Topics Covered:

My daily affirmation
One thing leads to another, the journey
Thoughts being the pre-requisite to manifestation

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05: Joanna Maiden: Cutting A New Pattern For The Fashion Industry

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 22:00:00 -0400

Episode Summary:
Joanna shares her fruitful journey in building Soko Kenya, diving into the world of fashion as a vehicle for poverty reduction, positive change, and positive impact. Her idea to build a clothing factory in Kenya started off with 4 employees and has now grown to 150 employees with a sewing training program for employment, a charity, and period poverty school program. Joanna truly embodies success in the sense of doing what she always wanted to do with more great things to come!

Show Notes:
In this conversation Joanna shares how she dived into the world of fashion as a vehicle for poverty reduction, positive change, and positive impact. With the mindset to just give it a try, Joanna muscled enough courage to uproot herself to Kenya at age 24, which has now become 14 years in Kenya.

With a little knowledge on fashion and clothing manufacturing, Joanna's eagerness to learn and adapt allowed her to hit the ground running building Soko Kenya with 4 employees, which has now grown to employ 150 people.

In this conversation, Joanna shares her take on success as continuously learning, improving, and addressing the challenges of her employees and the community, which has allowed her to further push the envelope and branch out into new initiatives and partnerships, while doing what she loves.

Topics Covered:

The trip to Kenya that sparked the idea for Soko Kenya
Defining success as doing what you always wanted to do
Sustainability put into practice, not just ticking off a checkbox
The Kujuwa Initiative and addressing period poverty
The power of the unconscious mind
Disconnecting career from self worth

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04: Steph's Diary: Pivoting and Taking Steps Forward

Sat, 25 Feb 2023 18:00:00 -0500

Episode Summary:

I dedicate this episode in memory of my father, Jerome Evans who made it very clear I can do anything I set my mind to. I am recording this episode in the home I just purchased in Houston, and sharing the hurdles I’m overcoming in product development which is a huge step towards progress in growing Pamoja. I have big plans, strong faith, and I believe anything is possible.

Topics Covered:

Walking in faith, stepping into opportunities unimaginable
Testing and learning, growing from my mistakes in product development
Being Intentional around Time, Myself, and Relationships
Mantras by Yvonne Orji

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03: Christine Baptiste-Perez: I Am More, and I Can Do Anything. Why Not?

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 02:00:00 -0500

Episode Summary:

I’m joined by one of my amazing friends from college, Christine Baptise-Perez, a mother and a lawyer who holds multiple hats on a journey making her life and community better.

Show Notes:

In this conversation Christine shares her story. Originally from Brownsville, Brooklyn NY, Christine shares how the pursuit for higher education as a first generation college student was ignited by her father who pushed her to be the best and accomplish what he wasn’t able to do. A career in law was always in the cards, but Christine pivoted to a career in education with Teach for America after graduating in 2010 during a challenging economic climate. In a full circle moment, Christine currently serves as Vice Chair of Bridgeport, CT Board of Education while growing her litigation experience across multiple areas of law.

In this conversation, Christine reveals the complexities around identity and representation as a Black and Hispanic Woman, why breaking barriers and showing up is critical to inspire the next generation of leaders, and a quick glimpse into what’s next on Christine’s horizon.

Topics Covered:

Being a first generation college student
Identifying as Black and Hispanic in educational and professional spaces
Creating purpose around passions in law and education
Why representation matters across the board with lots of trails to be blazed!
Mindset: I am more, and I can do anything
Calendaring to balance among the many priorities in life
Moving the needle through educational policy to support the next generation of leaders

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02: Steph’s Diary: Stepping Into Greatness

Sat, 31 Dec 2022 01:00:00 -0500

Episode Summary:

In this episode, I take a step back at the end of the year and reflect on what I’ve accomplished as the founder of Pamoja and this new venture and leap of faith I’m stepping into, launching this podcast. Stepping outside of my comfort zone is only leading to continued growth. I have faith and the utmost belief that I can do anything I put my mind to. Great things are to come in the future!

Topics Covered:

The inkling for entrepreneurship and why I launched leather goods brand Pamoja
Why this podcast came about
Optimism for the great things to come in the future

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01: Zawadi Bryant: On Taking An Unexpected Leap Of Faith Into Entrepreneurship

Sat, 26 Nov 2022 16:00:00 -0500

Episode Summary:
I’m joined by Zawadi Bryant, my amazing mentor who is the former CEO and Co-Founder of NightLight pediatric urgent care clinic, to discuss her entrepreneurial journey all the way from her humble beginnings.

Show Notes:
In this conversation Zawadi shares her story. Prior to NightLight, Zawadi had a successful corporate career as an engineer. Entrepreneurship was not in her sight at all, but the opportunity came while helping a church member (a Pediatrician) create the business plan for NightLight. Building a business from the ground up proved to have its ups and downs, but it created flexibility as Zawadi grew her family and has ultimately placed her in a position to now focus on other passions after selling NightLight—one being bridging the income and wealth gap for black households.

In this conversation, Zawadi reveals what she wishes the younger version of herself knew, the decision to sell NightLight and ultimately step away after 1 year into the acquisition, taking time to reflect and shift focus, and what’s on the horizon in this next chapter of her life after 15 years of major hustle.

Topics Covered:

Why your circumstances don’t dictate your capacity or capabilities
Early career influences
Lessons learned while expanding NightLight
Navigating motherhood as a co-founder of a growing business
Shifting focus during different times and seasons of your life
What’s next for Zawadi

Guest Info:

Zawadi's LinkedIn

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