Épisodes

  • Seeds & Strategies: Navigating a Layoff Season
    Sep 2 2025
    Are you preparing for a potential layoff? Or have you just survived a layoff and dealing with the aftermath? Or are you currently riding the wave of this layoff season, trying to remain encouraged as you wait for (or create!) your next opportunity? If so, you are not alone. In 2025, Black Women are experiencing a disproportionate rise in unemployment, but somehow have to find a way forward and to remain encouraged. Join us in this episode for an intentional conversation on navigating layoffs from a mental health, human resources, and career strategy lens.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, and YouTubeShow NotesIn this thoughtful discussion, host Alicia Cyrus is joined by esteemed guests April Preston, Carolyn Whiteman, and Kimmoy Matthews. Together they delve into the challenges faced by Black women navigating layoffs in today's workforce, sharing personal stories and offering practical strategies for overcoming the emotional and professional hurdles of job loss. The conversation explores:* significant impact of layoffs on Black women in 2025, highlighting the need for strategic resilience & planning in navigating career transitions* importance of having mental health strategies, including community support & self-care, to cope with the emotional challenges of job loss* necessity of regularly updating resumes & capturing feedback, providing practical tips for effectively documenting achievements and skills, and leveraging AI tools to identify your gaps* shift towards contract work, discussing its potential benefits for career flexibility & greater control over professional paths* strategies for recognizing early signs of layoffs, providing practical tips for preparation, including incorporating AI skills, & building skills presentations to drive attention during interviews* leveraging job loss as an opportunity for growth and reinventionThis episode is filled with practical advice and encouragement for anyone facing career transitions and is a beacon of hope and empowerment for Black Women affected by layoffs. Tune in to discover how to thrive and bloom where you're planted, even in the toughest of times.[00:00:00] Introduction: Alicia Cyrus opens the discussion on the disproportionate impact of layoffs on Black women in 2025, setting the stage for a conversation on resilience and strategy[00:07:30] April Preston delves into mental health strategies, emphasizing the importance of community support and self-care practices during job loss[00:16:00] Carolyn Whiteman discusses the necessity of updating resumes every six months, sharing tips on documenting achievements and skills effectively[00:24:00] Kimmoy Matthews explores the shift towards contract work, highlighting its potential for flexibility and control over career paths[00:32:30] Panelists discuss identifying early signs of layoffs, such as company restructuring, and setting personal boundaries to manage stress[00:41:00] Panelists discuss strategies for leveraging professional networks; building connections and using LinkedIn effectively to uncover new job opportunities[00:49:30] April Preston explains the stages of grief associated with job loss, offering guidance on navigating emotions like anger and denial[00:58:00] Closing Thoughts: Panelists provide encouragement, emphasizing the importance of viewing layoffs as opportunities for growth and reinvention.Connect with April Preston on LinkedIn | Instagram | WebsiteConnect with Carolyn Whiteman on LinkedInConnect with Kimmoy Matthews on LinkedIn | Instagram | WebsiteIn this episode Kimmoy also mentions:* AI Tools for resume improvement & skills-building* I Will Teach You to be Rich by Ramit SethiJoin our community:* TITG Newsletter* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivinginthegame/* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thrivinginthegame/* Bluesky: http://@thrivinginthegame.bsky.social* If you have a comment or recommendation, DM or Email: TITG PodcastMusic by Praz Khanal from PixabayProduced & Edited by Jay for Podcast Mechanic. Check out his portfolio and schedule a call at bit.ly/PodMechPro This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thrivinginthegamepodcast.substack.com
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    1 h et 12 min
  • B5. Profiles in Thriving: Black Women Rising Higher in Tech
    May 6 2025
    What does it take to move to the next level in the corporate technology industry? Learn how to maneuver in “the game” with finesse. Join us in this episode as we analyze how to strategically play and successfully rise higher in corporate tech.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, and YouTubeShow NotesIn this captivating conversation, host Alicia Cyrus is joined by Charlitta Hatch, the inaugural Chief Data and Analytics Officer for the City of Charlotte, North Carolina. Charlitta shares her inspiring journey from a first-generation college student at Hampton University to a thriving career in the technology industry. She sheds light on the strategic decisions and impact of a pivotal connection made during a chance encounter in the airport - a connection that propelled her into a successful career in consulting with impactful roles at IBM, Accenture, and beyond. They discuss the key strategies for her career development and success in corporate tech:* the value of mentors, sponsors, & authentic connections in career advancement* learning to navigate corporate dynamics with strategic resilience* avoiding "career traps" & developing competitive technical skills* establishing a strong brand & saying "yes" to learning opportunities that align with one's core values* the necessity of having a strong supportive network & caring for your mental healthThroughout the episode, Charlitta offers personal anecdotes and practical advice on building confidence, operating with a learner’s mindset, and developing critical problem-solving skills. She provides invaluable insight for Black Women seeking to thrive in “the game” and rise higher in corporate tech with grace and confidence.00:00 Introduction to Thriving In the Game01:34 Profile in Thriving: Charlitta Hatch03:48 Charlitta's Early Career Journey05:33 Navigating Challenges and Building Confidence09:04 The Importance of Mentorship and Technical Skills18:34 Unspoken Skills for Success24:52 The Importance of Representation and Belonging25:39 Transition to Accenture: A Diverse Experience26:17 Building a Brand as a Problem Solver28:45 Professional Growth and Personal Challenges29:28 The Power of Saying Yes and Knowing Your Worth31:42 Aligning Roles with Personal Values34:27 Navigating Mental Health and Work-Life Balance39:37 Outsourcing and Building a Support System44:44 Final Thoughts for Early Career Black Women in TechIn this episode Charlitta also mentions:* Become the CEO of You, Inc.: A Pioneering Executive Shares Her Secrets for Career Success by Susan Bulkeley Butler* National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA)* National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)Connect with Charlitta on LinkedIn | Instagram | WebsiteJoin our community:* TITG Newsletter* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivinginthegame/* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thrivinginthegame/* Bluesky: http://@thrivinginthegame.bsky.social* If you have a comment or recommendation, DM or Email: TITG PodcastMusic by Praz Khanal from PixabaySpecial thanks to Hiwote Getaneh and the Emerging Voices Podcast Accelerator! Join her newsletter or follow her Instagram @hiwote.getaneh and @emergingvoicespod. Interested in starting your own podcast? Book a call with HiwoteProduced by Jay for Podcast Mechanic. Check out his portfolio and schedule a call at bit.ly/PodMechPro This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thrivinginthegamepodcast.substack.com
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    48 min
  • B4. Profiles in Thriving: Black Women Balancing a Business + Tech
    May 6 2025
    How do you know if you're really ready to take on building a business in addition to your corporate technology role? Be real and have your support in place. Join us in this episode as we walk through the journey of building a successful career in corporate tech alongside entrepreneurship.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, and YouTubeShow NotesIn this enlightening conversation with Amanda Dawson, she and host Alicia Cyrus reflect on her unconventional journey from aspiring pediatrician to tech professional and entrepreneur. Amanda opens up about her early journey in the technology industry, initially starting at a help desk and advancing to project and program management. The discussion also highlights the founding and growth of her event planning business, Urban Elegance LLC, noting the role of her Howard University network, faith, and hard work in sustaining the business for over 15 years. Amanda focuses on the factors that have been vital to her success:* identifying & operating in one's gifts* pushing past perfectionism & being open to making mistakes* being clear on the cost of entrepreneurship & securing funding* maintaining a balanced life while pursuing dual careers* the power of community support, mentorship, & self-care in sustaining growthAmanda shares personal anecdotes and practical advice on developing confidence in tech and building a business of your own. Her story is a testament to the leadership, adaptability, and strategic resilience that Black Women need to create joy and fulfillment in their corporate tech career and entrepreneurship.00:00 Introduction to Thriving In the Game01:20 Profile in Thriving: Amanda Dawson03:31 Amanda's Journey into Tech06:03 Building Confidence and Leadership07:45 The Importance of Community and Mentorship10:06 The Birth of Urban Elegance, LLC13:15 Balancing Two Careers16:26 Sustaining Success and Overcoming Challenges17:21 Withstanding the Test of Time21:19 Lessons Learned and Advice for Early Career Women22:54 Maintaining Balance and Self-Care32:08 Final Thoughts and Future GoalsConnect with Amanda on LinkedIn | Instagram | WebsiteJoin our community:* TITG Newsletter* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivinginthegame/* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thrivinginthegame/* Bluesky: http://@thrivinginthegame.bsky.social* If you have a comment or recommendation, DM or Email: TITG PodcastMusic by Praz Khanal from PixabaySpecial thanks to Hiwote Getaneh and the Emerging Voices Podcast Accelerator! Join her newsletter or follow her Instagram @hiwote.getaneh and @emergingvoicespod. Interested in starting your own podcast? Book a call with HiwoteProduced by Jay for Podcast Mechanic. Check out his portfolio and schedule a call at bit.ly/PodMechPro This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thrivinginthegamepodcast.substack.com
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    36 min
  • B3. Profiles in Thriving: Black Women Flourishing in Business Beyond Tech
    May 6 2025
    What happens when you decide it’s time to leave the corporate technology world behind? Define your vision and be steadfast. Join us in this episode as we examine how to successfully build a career beyond corporate tech.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, and YouTubeShow NotesIn this delightful conversation, host Alicia Cyrus sits down with Lesley "Lady Clipper" Bryant, as she shares her remarkable journey from an artistic teen to barber queen! Starting from her high school passion for art, Lesley details her journey to her 12-year career as a graphic designer. She reveals the pivotal moment that led to her redefining her career and ultimately, finding her true passion and success as a barber and business owner. Lesley shares the crucial elements that helped her to remain steadfast in her transition out of the technology industry, including:* the power of customer service & building trust* defining a clear vision, but being flexible* establishing a consistent brand early on* investing in a strong support system* finding a sustainable schedule in managing work-life balanceDespite experiencing self-doubt and challenges as a woman in male-dominated fields, Lesley emphasizes the significance of planning, perseverance, and leveraging one's unique skills to forge a new career path. Her valuable insights provide a roadmap for Black Women looking to carve their own lanes, build confidence, and build a thriving career beyond corporate tech.00:00 Introduction to Thriving In the Game01:22 Profile in Thriving: Lesley "Lady Clipper" Bryant03:13 The Turning Point: From Corporate Tech to Barbering06:39 Navigating Challenges in a Male-Dominated Industry17:19 Defining the Vision: The Lady Clipper Barber Shop21:52 Setting the Standard for Customer Service22:37 Empowering Early Career Black Women24:37 Creating a Competitive Edge in Business28:24 Creating an Inclusive Barbershop30:12 Balancing Work and Self-Care32:09 Finding Inspiration in the Future of Barbering33:17 Structuring Your Support & Knowing When to Stretch34:52 Final Thoughts and ReflectionsIn this episode Lesley also mentions:* Corcoran College of Art and DesignConnect with Lesley “Lady Clipper” on Instagram | WebsiteJoin our community:* TITG Newsletter* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivinginthegame/* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thrivinginthegame/* Bluesky: http://@thrivinginthegame.bsky.social* If you have a comment or recommendation, DM or Email: TITG PodcastMusic by Praz Khanal from PixabaySpecial thanks to Hiwote Getaneh and the Emerging Voices Podcast Accelerator! Join her newsletter or follow her Instagram @hiwote.getaneh and @emergingvoicespod. Interested in starting your own podcast? Book a call with HiwoteProduced by Jay for Podcast Mechanic. Check out his portfolio and schedule a call at bit.ly/PodMechPro This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thrivinginthegamepodcast.substack.com
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    35 min
  • B2. Profiles in Thriving: Black Women Strategically Transitioning into Tech
    May 6 2025
    What does it look like to transition your career into the technology industry? It requires persistence and flexibility. Join us in this episode as we contemplate how to strategically prepare and navigate transitioning to corporate tech.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, and YouTubeShow NotesIn this insightful conversation, host Alicia Cyrus is joined by Simone Thomas, a seasoned digital marketing professional who outlines her non-linear career transition from the advertising industry to becoming a Product Marketing Manager at Meta. Simone shares her calculated career changes, the importance of networking, and the strategies she leveraged as the key to a successful transition. Together, their candid discussion highlights the:* value of assessing & evolving perspective on your definition of success* importance of career progression aligning with personal values* significance of mentorship & building networks* the necessity of setting boundaries & prioritizing wellbeing* benefits of staying curious & adaptable as your transition takes shapeThrough her compelling story and personal anecdotes, Simone emphasizes the importance of authenticity and flexibility in one's career path. Her insights on balancing ambition with personal well-being and staying true to one's path - despite the inevitable twists and turns - aims to inspire Black Women seeking to carve out their unique paths in transitioning to corporate tech.00:00 Introduction to Thriving In the Game01:10 Profile in Thriving: Simone Thomas02:34 Simone's Career Journey and Insights05:41 Navigating Career Transitions08:52 The Importance of Networking and Community11:41 Balancing Career and Personal Life14:45 Strategic Career Growth and Leadership24:35 Future Goals and Entrepreneurship30:15 Maintaining Health and Well-being34:12 Final Thoughts and AdviceIn this episode Simone also mentions:* 2005 Stanford Commencement Speech: Steve Jobs* Management Leadership for Tomorrow: Programs and InitiativesConnect with Simone on LinkedIn and follow her forge new paths at The Meaningful ShiftJoin our community:* TITG Newsletter* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivinginthegame/* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thrivinginthegame/* Bluesky: http://@thrivinginthegame.bsky.social* If you have a comment or recommendation, DM or Email: TITG PodcastMusic by Praz Khanal from PixabaySpecial thanks to Hiwote Getaneh and the Emerging Voices Podcast Accelerator! Join her newsletter or follow her Instagram @hiwote.getaneh and @emergingvoicespod. Interested in starting your own podcast? Book a call with HiwoteProduced by Jay for Podcast Mechanic. Check out his portfolio and schedule a call at bit.ly/PodMechPro This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thrivinginthegamepodcast.substack.com
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    37 min
  • B1. Profiles in Thriving: Early Career Black Women Navigating “The Game” in Tech
    May 6 2025
    What does it look like to navigate your early career in the technology industry? Learn how to play “the game.” Join us in this episode as we reflect on how to develop your strategies for successfully planning and navigating intentional career growth in corporate tech.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, and YouTubeShow NotesIn this engaging conversation, host Alicia Cyrus welcomes Lola Adesina, an early career project manager in the consulting space. They delve into her career journey - beginning with an internship that led to a pivotal shift from development to finding fulfillment in her current role. The conversation highlights the importance of:* seeking out mentorship & building influential networks* setting intentional career goals & tracking growth* learning to sift through feedback* professional development strategies for real-life applicationTune in as they discuss personal stories and practical strategies for cultivating resilience, strategically applying feedback, and maximizing opportunities for personal & professional development while navigating as an early career Black Woman in corporate tech.00:00 Introduction to Thriving In the Game01:48 Profile in Thriving: Lola Adesina02:47 Lola's Path to Project Management04:00 Building Relationships and Mentorship06:59 Navigating Feedback and Personal Growth09:52 Setting Strategic Career Goals11:07 Remaining Relevant in "The Game"12:33 Continuous Learning and Upskilling25:04 Applying New Skills and Mentoring Others27:21 Final Thoughts and Networking AdviceIn this episode Lola also mentions:* LinkedIn Learning* AfroTech Conference* RenderATL ConferenceConnect with Lola on LinkedInJoin our community:* TITG Newsletter* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivinginthegame/* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thrivinginthegame/* Bluesky: http://@thrivinginthegame.bsky.social* If you have a comment or recommendation, DM or Email: TITG PodcastMusic by Praz Khanal from PixabaySpecial thanks to Hiwote Getaneh and the Emerging Voices Podcast Accelerator! Join her newsletter or follow her Instagram @hiwote.getaneh and @emergingvoicespod. Interested in starting your own podcast? Book a call with HiwoteProduced by Jay for Podcast Mechanic. Check out his portfolio and schedule a call at bit.ly/PodMechPro This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thrivinginthegamepodcast.substack.com
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    29 min
  • EP10. Be Encouraged: Reflections on Learning to Thrive as a Black Woman in Tech
    Apr 1 2025
    How are you learning to thrive in “the game?” Decide where you will put your focus. Join us in this episode as we reflect on the journey and inspiration behind the ‘Thriving in The Game’ podcast.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, and YouTubeShow NotesIn this milestone episode, host Alicia Cyrus, creator of 'Thriving in the Game,' celebrates the culmination of the first season as she reflects on the journey of creating the podcast and reveals the inspiration behind it as she delves into her personal journey. She highlights the challenges she faced and some of the pivotal moments that inspired this series - channeling yearslong frustrations into the purpose of affirming, validating, and encouraging Black Women in tech. She underscores the importance of mentorship, being strategic in one's career, and creating a supportive community for Black Women in technology through her mission to foster community and connection. Alicia invites listeners to connect and build community on Substack, shares insights for future episodes, and concludes the season with a special announcement.00:00 Introduction and Season Reflection01:54 Alicia's Early Career Journey05:30 Challenges & Lessons in Tech08:19 Creating a Space for Encouragement12:22 Lessons Learned and Advice15:54 Final Thoughts & a Special AnnouncementConnect with Alicia on LinkedIn | InstagramJoin our community:* TITG Newsletter* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivinginthegame/* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thrivinginthegame/* Bluesky: http://@thrivinginthegame.bsky.social* If you have a comment or recommendation, DM or Email: TITG PodcastMusic by Praz Khanal from PixabaySpecial thanks to Hiwote Getaneh and the Emerging Voices Podcast Accelerator! Join her newsletter or follow her Instagram @hiwote.getaneh and @emergingvoicespod. Interested in starting your own podcast? Book a call with HiwoteProduced by Jay for Podcast Mechanic. Check out his portfolio and schedule a call at bit.ly/PodMechPro This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thrivinginthegamepodcast.substack.com
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    17 min
  • EP9. Life Outside 'The Game': Black Women Thriving in Tech While Embracing Balance & Joy
    Mar 25 2025
    Are you only living for the weekends or the next vacation? It’s time to recenter and choose YOU. Join us in this episode as we explore how to thrive in your career while embracing balance and joy.*A note for our listeners - this episode references statistics regarding suicide.*Listen now on Apple, Spotify, and YouTubeShow NotesIn this compelling episode, host Alicia Cyrus is joined by Roxy Couse, an e-commerce leader and content creator known as the "Millennial Manager," as they discuss real-life lessons and strategies for Black Women balancing career success with personal well-being in corporate tech. Roxy shares her own career journey, emphasizing the necessity of living in the moment and creating joy while climbing the corporate ladder. This conversation also highlights the unique challenges Black Women face in corporate environments and offers actionable advice on how to successfully navigate these spaces while nurturing life outside of work. Together, they discuss:* navigating corporate dynamics and the impacts of psychological safety* creating a well-rounded life and maintaining mental health* building community and seeking out diverse mentorship* intentionally creating balance and joy around oneselfThis episode is a treasure trove of insights and actionable advice for early and transitioning career Black Women looking to thrive in their careers while also creating rich, fulfilling lives outside the workplace.00:00 Introduction to Thriving in the Game03:00 Roxy's Journey Up the Corporate Ladder05:56 Understanding the Corporate Game10:22 The Importance of Wellbeing20:20 The Emotional Toll of High-Earning Black Women22:09 Balancing Career and Mental Health23:31 Navigating Toxic Work Environments25:45 The Value of Mentorship and Diverse Perspectives28:07 Learning to Live in the Moment34:28 Final Thoughts and ResourcesIn this episode Roxy also mentions:* The P.I.E. Model by Harvey J. Coleman from his book, “Empowering Yourself: The Organizational Game Revealed”* Building a Non-Anxious Life by Dr. John DelonyConnect with Roxy on LinkedIn. Check out your fav Millennial Manager @roxycouse on Instagram | TikTok | YouTubeJoin our community:* TITG Newsletter* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivinginthegame/* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thrivinginthegame/* Bluesky: http://@thrivinginthegame.bsky.social* If you have a comment or recommendation, DM or Email: TITG PodcastMusic by Praz Khanal from PixabaySpecial thanks to Hiwote Getaneh and the Emerging Voices Podcast Accelerator! Join her newsletter or follow her Instagram @hiwote.getaneh and @emergingvoicespod. Interested in starting your own podcast? Book a call with HiwoteProduced by Jay for Podcast Mechanic. Check out his portfolio and schedule a call at bit.ly/PodMechProResourcesLooking for an organizational and creative tool that empowers women in prioritizing their mental health, self-care, and spiritual growth? 98 Fig Press (@98figpress) is a Black Woman owned company that has designed The Imperfect Planner with you in mind! In support of Black History Month and Women’s History Month they are offering a 15% discount now through March 31, 2025. Use code: THRIVINGIN2025 and order yours today! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thrivinginthegamepodcast.substack.com
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    38 min