Elevate & Celebrate Podcast

How do you stay in touch with potential clients? Are you actively adding value to them so they know YOU are the subject matter expert to help them best? Michael V. Morgan shares his best networking tips to land high-profile clients and position yourself as a trusted voice to win more business. About the Guest: Michael Morgan obtained his BS from Penn State University and his MBA from Carnegie Mellon University. Coupled with his educational background, he has over 15 years of work experience across companies such as Amazon, Walmart, J.P. Morgan Chase, and Chevron. His ability to build and maintain his network throughout his educational and career journey has been fruitful in his success. He has a passion for teaching and inspiring others to achieve their goals, which led him to write his first book “The Power of Networking” and begin his journey as a motivational speaker. “The Power of Networking” has won the Literary Titan Book Award, Global Book Award, International Impact Award, PenCraft Book Award, and Firebird Book Award. Website + Social Media links: https://michaelvmorgan.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelvmorgan https://www.instagram.com/michael.v.morgan https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSl_cb0c8_XeAokZNHdsTbw https://www.tiktok.com/@michael.v.morgan Timestamps: 00:00 Opening Credits 00:28 Show Intro 02:25 Michael shares how being a best-selling author has affected his business 05:40 Michael reveals two keys to networking 11:03 How does Michael recharge himself and stay productive? 15:30 Michael shares his origin story and professional background 18:00 How Michael deals with complicated clients 24:30 Michael describes his ideal client 27:45 Michael reveals several resume hacks 32:01 Connect with Michael 34:40 Final thoughts and acknowledgments 41:28 Ending Credits

In this powerful episode, Krystal Vernee’ shares her journey from corporate America to becoming a successful entrepreneur, revealing her 5-part framework for building a multi-6-figure brand. Learn how to overcome limiting beliefs, create systems that scale, and design a business that supports the lifestyle you truly want - not what others expect of you. Krystal unpacks the shocking statistic that women-owned businesses average only $30,000 in annual revenue (compared to $80,000 for men) and provides actionable strategies to close this gap. Whether you're a multi-passionate entrepreneur struggling to find focus or seeking to transition from your 9-to-5, this episode delivers the tough love and practical wisdom you need. 🔥 DISCOVER: Why your 9-to-5 is actually "the best business loan you could ever have" The mindset shifts required to break the $100K barrier How to embrace both the creative and logical sides of business Why systems are essential for scaling beyond solopreneur status When to keep your dreams to yourself (and who to share them with) About the Guest: Krystal Vernee’ is a serial womenpreneur, author, speaker, business coach and brand strategist. She owns Divas & Dolls Fitness, a pole and sensual dance studio; Cirque Sensual, a sensual aerial dance brand; Simply SHE, a coaching and consulting firm and Krystal Vernee’ is her personal brand. An engineer by trade, Krystal knew that entrepreneurship was the ultimate goal early in her professional career. With over 20 years of experience in the entrepreneurship space, she has always been passionate about empowering women, creating a safe space for them to unapologetically be themselves and providing the support they need to transform their passion into profits. Krystal encourages others to tap into her zone of genius through her signature coaching program, podcast and tv show: The Brand BuildHER BlueprintTM. She teaches entrepreneurs how to monetize their expertise and create multiple streams of income so that they can build a profitable and sustainable business. Website + Social Media links: http://www.isimplyshe.com http://www.instagram.com/i_simply_she http://www.linkedin.com/in/krystalvernee http://www.facebook.com/isimplyshe https://krystalvernee.co/4-figures-less-than-1000-followers-gift-1162 #WomenEntrepreneurs #BusinessGrowth #SixFigureBusiness #BrandBuilding #EntrepreneurMindset #BusinessStrategy #SystemsAndScaling #WomenInBusiness #BusinessCoaching #LifestyleByDesign

Dr. Rònké A. Òké is an executive leader in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging, and Access (DEIBA), renowned for her transformative impact across academic, corporate, and nonprofit sectors. With over two decades of experience, she has driven significant organizational change, strategic development, and capacity building, fostering inclusive environments and enhancing cultural competence. Dr. Òké's expertise spans a wide array of fields, including DEI strategy, organizational management, learning and development, instructional design, innovation, and employee engagement. Her pioneering work in race and identity formation, particularly transnational Blackness, Afro-feminism, and anti-racist social justice, has made her a sought-after thought leader and public speaker. Dr. Òké's leadership extends to her role as CEO & Founder of RAO Consultants, where she provides strategic guidance to corporations and educational organizations, supporting new diversity professionals and helping employees navigate workplace culture. Her innovative approaches have led to significant improvements in client satisfaction, company culture, and executive awareness of DEI issues. Her groundbreaking contributions include the theory of racial jetlag, the Developing Your Worth Ethic framework, the Framework for Inclusive Excellence, and the Diversity Practitioner’s Creed. Dr. Òké is a passionate advocate for developing a worth ethic, leading the charge in The Worth Ethic Revolution --a movement that challenges the societal norm of defining self-worth through productivity and achievement. Dr. Òké believes that it is time to break free from grind culture, redefine success, and encourage individuals to embrace a life of well-being, fulfillment, and alignment with their deepest values. Website + Social Media links: Website: www.drronkeoke.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ronkeoke IG: @thediversitydoc Timestamps: 00:00 Opening Credits 00:28 Show Intro + Announcements 02:19 Alex welcomes Rònké to the show + she shares her origin story 08:20 Rònké speaks on releasing the pressure to be perfect 11:14 Who inspired Rònké and contributed to her success 16:00 The future for DEI practitioners 24:50 The differences between Nigerian and American entrepreneurs 27:29 Rònké shares the benefits of her Worth-Ethic Bootcamp 34:00 What about the skeptics? 37:15 Final thoughts + acknowledgments 40:43 Ending Credits #bipoc #coaching #thoughtleadership #globalcommunity #professionaldevelopment #businesscoaching #executive coaching #leadershipcoaching #professionalcoaching

If you want to keep others happy, follow rules set by others, and live a normal, conventional life then stay far away from this episode. Our guest this month is known as the “Nice Tiger”, Judy Tsuei, who lives live on the edge and out of the box. She charts her journey of divorce, raising her child with her partner, breaking traditional expectations, and thriving as an entrepreneur. Judy walks us through trusting our intuition and moving with intentionality. About the Guest: Judy is a branding and marketing coach for women entrepreneurs of color. She recently won the San Diego Magazine 2024 Media & Marketing Pioneer Award. Judy is the author of "The Little Book of Tibetan Rites and Rituals" and the Kickstarter-funded, "How to Disappoint Your Parents in 10 Shameless Steps: A Modern Asian American Guide." She hosts the "F*ck Saving Face" podcast, empowering mental health for voices of color. She's a Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses participant and Tory Burch Foundation Fellow. Featured in Fast Company and NASDAQ, Judy is a sought-after speaker on mindset and marketing. Website + Social Media links: https://www.judytsuei.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/judytsuei/ Kickstarter campaign: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/shamelessbook/book-how-to-disappoint-your-parents-in-10-shameless-steps Timestamps: 00:00 Opening Credits 00:28 Show Intro + Announcements 02:43 Alex welcomes Judy to the show + we dive into her background 07:30 How did Judy disappoint her parents? 14:00 Judy shares her reconnection with family 17:10 How Judy became an Author 21:26 The lessons and stories we pass down to our children 25:46 Being present with our loved ones 29:42 Judy’s origin story into Coaching 33:20 What is it like to work with the Nice Tiger? 38:20 Judy’s big plans for 2025 41:38 How to connect w/ Judy + Bonus Question 46:00 Final acknowledgments 47:20 Ending Credits #bipoc #coaching #thoughtleadership #globalcommunity #professionaldevelopment #businesscoaching #executive coaching #leadershipcoaching #professionalcoaching

Brandee Brown stops by to share her 20+ years as a leader, advocate, speaker, and community builder. You’ll learn how Brandee has mastered magnifying the success of others and supporting them from the sideline. About the Guest: Brandee Brown's remarkable life and career journey epitomize her ability to overcome challenges and turn them into accomplishments. Throughout this transformative path, she has harnessed her unique strengths, emphasizing the significance of fostering connections between individuals and resources to drive achievements. Presently, Brandee holds a prominent position as the Partnership Director at the Impact Innovation Foundation (IIF). In this role, she adeptly brings together partners, collaborators, and communities to support the organization's mission of mentoring, funding, and aiding the launch of entrepreneurs, particularly those from underserved communities. Working alongside CEO Diane Tucker, Brandee is poised to introduce her independent entrepreneurial venture, Magnify Success. This venture aims to redefine success by offering community bureau services, serving as a keynote and panel event speaker, providing speaker bureau services, mentoring, coaching, and designing business strategies that maximize human potential. Above all, Brandee is dedicated to sharing knowledge and connecting individuals with the resources essential for their growth and success. Throughout her illustrious 22-year tenure at Comcast, Brandee has demonstrated excellence across a diverse range of roles, spanning client services, learning and development, executive support, project management, and overseeing project delivery for construction and engineering teams. Her proficiency extends to adeptly steering multimillion-dollar projects from inception to successful completion. A standout achievement in Brandee's career is her instrumental role in establishing and overseeing the STEM Council for Good, which significantly expanded its outreach to over 700 community members across the United States through LinkedIn under her leadership. Brandee's active participation on various boards empowers women in leadership roles, solidifying her position as a distinguished figure within the Cable Telecommunications industry, where she spearheads impactful global initiatives. In addition to her professional commitments, Brandee collaborates with and supports various organizations, enhancing her ties within communities. Connect with Brandee: Website + Social Media links: https://magnify-success.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandee-brown Timestamps: 00:00 Opening Credits 00:28 Show Intro + Announcements 02:25 Alex welcomes Brandee to the show + speaks about how she connects masterfully 04:38 Brandee’s origin story + her philosophy about success 07:50 What drives Brandee to succeed? 14:42 What makes a “good” leader? 22:27 The vision of Magnify Success 29:45 Brandee speaks about her influences and encouragers 34:25 Final acknowledgments + how to connect w/ Brandee 36:18 Ending Credits #bipoc #coaching #thoughtleadership #globalcommunity #professionaldevelopment #businesscoaching #executive coaching #leadershipcoaching #professionalcoaching

This month’s guest, Christian Harris, stops by to share his social justice advocacy work alongside his coaching and speaking practice. Learn from an amazing entrepreneur what it takes to build a successful practice and navigate responsibilities as a partner and parent. About the Guest: Christian Harris is a dynamic speaker, coach, and consultant with extensive professional experience. He began his career as an entrepreneur, founding MS Clean and Sons LLC, a successful cleaning service in Chicagoland, and later a limo service. Christian's political involvement includes volunteering on various campaigns, serving on the Oak Park Public Library Board (2017-2021) where he was Finance Officer, and working as the West Side Regional Field Organizing Director on Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson’s campaign. He also served as Director of DEI and Operations for DM Burton LLC. Since 2015, Christian has coached individuals and organizations on leadership, DEIJ, and other professional challenges, working with OVP Management Consulting Group and independently. He has consulted for organizations like the California Department of Public Health and the Delaware Department of Labor. Christian is a passionate public speaker, engaging audiences at events such as the Oak Park Public Library Kwanzaa Celebration and the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago’s Black History Month program. He is deeply committed to community service, serving on various boards and participating in social justice demonstrations. In 2020, he co-founded Walk the Walk, focusing on anti-gentrification and reparations, and launched the Oak Park Reparations Task Force. In 2023, Christian founded Kindred Keynotes and Coaching to empower nonprofits, DEI practitioners, government agencies, and social justice advocates. He lives on Chicago’s west side with his wife Richelle and their new child. Certifications: 34 Strong Gallup Clifton Strengths Coach (2019) Race Forward - Building Racial Equity (2020) Race Forward - Racial Equity in Libraries (2018) Website + Social Media links: www.Kindred-KC.Com https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-harris-b216b626/ https://reparationgeneration.org Timestamps: 00:00 Opening Credits 00:28 Show Intro + Announcements 02:20 Alex welcomes Christian to the show + he shares his intro 11:17 Christian describes what it means to be Black in America 16:04 How clients thrive with Kindred Coaching 22:34 Christian shares his vision for 2025 27:43 How Christian uses speaking + storytelling to amplify his message 36:42 Final thoughts + ways to connect with Christian 40:00 Final acknowledgments 40:29 Ending Credits #bipoc #coaching #thoughtleadership #globalcommunity #professionaldevelopment #businesscoaching #executive coaching #leadershipcoaching #professionalcoaching

What if you could slow down and pause? For high-powered, high-performing entrepreneurs, this seems impossible. Our month’s guest, Kibi Anderson, details her secrets for finding joy in the pause and how it has helped her business grow. Learn from her insights and the impact her bestselling book is making worldwide. About the Guest: Kibi Anderson is a keynote speaker, coach, and Emmy Award-Winning content producer. She is the founder of Life Editor, a firm that provides communications and leadership coaching to C-Suite & Senior Leaders. She has helped drive millions of dollars in annual revenue, created international content campaigns, and offered counsel to global Fortune 100 and startup clients. She has traversed an illustrious career in international management consulting, film production, and technology entrepreneurship, while also managing a chronic auto-immune condition. A life-altering conversation, which forced her to face the stark truth that her overworked lifestyle was going to kill her, was the catalyst to her current project, a book chronicling her journey back to 100% health, and to realizing that despite what society teaches, the key to ultimate professional success not through working harder, but embracing the power in the pause. Website + Social Media links: @kibianderson www.kibianderson.com Get Your Copy of Point Taken: Brilliant Business Advice from Women at the Top Here: https://www.amazon.com/Point-Taken-Brilliant-Business-Advice/dp/B0D2NJPHRC Timestamps: 00:00 Opening Credits 00:28 Show Intro + Announcements 01:44 Alex welcomes Kibi to the show and she dives into her bestselling book 11:35 Kibi speaks on intentionally practicing joy 14:35 Kibi shares her origin story as a professional coach 20:40 The importance of pausing for elite achievers and having a strong support system 25:13 Kibi shares tips on effective communication and receiving feedback 27:50 Kibi speaks on the power of community within the BIPOC Coach Collective 32:05 What’s next for Kibi? 36:40 Kibi’s tip for longevity and fulfillment 38:01 Final thoughts + acknowledgments 40:29 Ending Credits #bipoc #coaching #thoughtleadership #globalcommunity #professionaldevelopment #businesscoaching #executive coaching #leadershipcoaching #professionalcoaching

How does one handle the pressures of success in predominantly “white” spaces? Our Champion member, Dr. Janet Lockhrt-Jones shares her insights into navigating a 25+ career as a speaker, facilitator, and coach. Janet walks us through her corporate background, the importance of DEI work, and creating resources for individuals experiencing mental un-wellness. About the Guest: Dr. Lockhart-Jones brings over 25 years of experience in leadership coaching and training, team and group facilitation, public speaking, entreprenuership, and talent assessments. She has a strong passion for and a professional mission of elevating talent to achieve results, excellence and purpose. Since 2004, Dr.Lockhart-Jones has been at the helm of Project Partners Consulting Inc. as Founder and President. In this capacity, she has serviced clients across multiple industries and across the globe to design, develop and deliver impactful talent and organizational development solutions. She has led project planning sessions for the aerospace industry; delivered training and coaching sessions in project management to healthcare managers business leaders and clinicians; delivered leadership coaching to emerging leaders at high-tech firms; led several organizational change initiatives for a government agency and high-technology organizations; and, she has delivered on many pubic speaking requests which is currently her passion. Website + Social Media links: https://drjanetspeaks.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjanetlockhartjones Timestamps: 00:00 Opening Credits 00:28 Show Intro + Announcements 02:03 Alex welcomes Janet to the show + she shares her origin story 10:00 Janet’s transition into professional speaking 21:10 The Leadership Experience Tour + creation of Janet 2.0 30:00 The importance of mental wellness 40:00 Facilitating in the workplace 48:00 Expanding a phrase that pays + Janet’s speaking services 52:40 How Janet discovered the collective 57:10 Final thoughts + acknowledgments 1:00:32 Ending Credits #bipoc #coaching #thoughtleadership #globalcommunity #professionaldevelopment #businesscoaching #executive coaching #leadershipcoaching #professionalcoaching

If you have ever experienced the pressure to be perfect and dutiful, then this episode is for you. Our guest and Champion member, Shilpa Alimchandani, shares how she coaches powerful women of color to breakthrough implied social pressures to never make mistakes and find their authentic voice. About the Guest: Shilpa Alimchandani is the Founder and Principal of Mookti Consulting. In Sanskrit, mookti means liberation. Shilpa has more than 20 years of experience in diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), leadership development, and intercultural learning. She is a DEI consultant, leadership coach, and facilitator who partners with clients to develop holistic solutions that lead to transformational change. Shilpa has worked in many sectors - nonprofit, higher education, government, and corporate - constantly seeking to advance racial equity. In her coaching practice, Shilpa helps women of color leaders to live with purpose and clarity through a liberatory approach to individual and small group coaching. She is an Associate Certified Coach with the International Coaching Federation. Website + Social Media links: https://mookticonsulting.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/shilpaalimchandani Timestamps: 00:00 Opening Credits 00:28 Show Intro + Announcements 02:16 Alex welcomes Shilpa to the show and explores her liberation story 09:00 Shilpa shares her work coaching women of color 16:50 The shift from rule follower to rule breaker 20:00 Shilpa’s advice for coaches 25:34:Shilpa’s self-reflection from challenges 27:41 Shilpa shares her experience as a Champion member 30:10 The forecast of Shilpa’s coaching practice 32:00 Final thoughts + acknowledgements 34:50 Ending Credits #bipoc #coaching #thoughtleadership #globalcommunity #professionaldevelopment #businesscoaching #executive coaching #leadershipcoaching #professionalcoaching