Conversation Highlights In this episode of Thriving in Intersectionality, host Lola Adeyemo welcomes Carrie M. Sawyer, an international bestselling author, speaker, design researcher, CEO, and nonprofit founder who has dedicated her career to creating inclusive environments where everyone can thrive. During this thought-provoking discussion, we explore career navigation from biomedical engineering to advocate and corporate consultant, plus the intersection of design thinking and inclusion work. Carrie shares insights from her bestselling book, "Ripples of Inclusion: Turning Your Questions abou ..read more

In this enlightening episode, Lola Adeyemo sits down with Irene Valdés Wochinger, Chief of Staff at the Gates Foundation's Communications Division. From her multicultural upbringing in Puerto Rico to her pivotal Fulbright research in Mexico and current leadership role, Valdés Wochinger shares how her diverse background has shaped her approach to social impact work and professional growth. Her journey from academia to international development offers valuable insights for professionals navigating multiple cultural identities in the workplace. In this episode, listeners will learn: How to lever ..read more

In this compelling episode of the Thriving in Intersectionality podcast, host Lola Adeyemo speaks with Ukeme Awakessien Jeter, who made history as the first person of color to serve as Mayor of Upper Arlington, Ohio. Born in Nigeria and educated across multiple countries, Ukeme shares her remarkable journey from engineer to lawyer to civic leader. Her story illuminates the unique challenges and opportunities faced by immigrant professionals in America, while offering practical insights for career development and community engagement.   Key Takeaways: The power of intersectionality as a p ..read more

At the start of a new year, many professionals reassess their career paths and goals. In this episode of Thriving in Intersectionality, host Lola Adeyemo shares insights from a recent mentoring conversation with a senior director, exploring how professionals with multiple minority identities can navigate career success while maintaining cultural authenticity. She provides practical frameworks for measuring success beyond traditional metrics and offers strategies for implementing these measures in daily work life. In this episode, you'll learn: How to recognize and address the hidden costs of ..read more

In this episode, podcast host Lola Adeyemo interviews Gianna Driver, a recognized Filipina-American Global HR leader, to explore Gianna's journey and the valuable lessons she has to share with aspiring professionals. The discussion covers a range of topics, including: - Gianna's organic path into HR and discovery of her passion for people-focused roles - Understanding the nuances of intersectional identity and how it evolves over time - The importance of vulnerability and creating inclusive spaces to embrace one's full self - Advice for early-to-mid career professionals on overcoming fears, bu ..read more

In this episode, host Lola Adeyemo explores the concept of community and its profound impact on personal and professional growth. Reflecting on her experiences in Nigeria and the U.S., Lola discusses the importance of intentionally building and engaging with communities that meet specific needs.  She shares insights on:  Creating effective communities The challenges immigrant professionals face in corporate America The role of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) in fostering a sense of belonging If you are ready to join a community of immigrant professionals just like you, be sure to j ..read more

In this episode, Lola discusses the 4 key lessons she learned in 2023, what she is building into her 2024 schedule and some tips and tricks you can use to prioritize the things you care about this year. If you like what you hear, the new Thriving in Intersectionality Membership was made for you! Join here to get videos like this and ask your career and goal-setting questions: https://www.immigrantsincorporate.org/membership  Connect with Lola: NEW! Join our Membership: https://www.immigrantsincorporate.org/membership  Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/428192995622965&nb ..read more

In this episode, Lola interviews Dr. Sheila Gujrathi, a seasoned biotech entrepreneur, healthcare investor, and drug developer with over 25 years of expertise in the biotech and pharmaceutical sectors.  Shelia has founded and led multiple biotech companies, pioneering the development and approval of transformative drugs for immunology and oncology patients. In her recently delivered transformative TEDx talk, she highlights ways to build a powerful network of supporters and become an inspiring mirror for others. Key highlights of the episode include:  Exploring how the layers of inte ..read more

In this episode, Lola interviews Summie Yeung, a Life & Career Transition Coach, dedicated to empowering multicultural people in English-speaking countries to break free from traditional career paths and cultural expectations. In this episode, they explore: The challenges and identity shifts of being an Asian immigrant in the UK. Embracing a "third culture" as a blend of her Hong Kong roots and British experiences. The challenges of belonging and confidence in professional spaces as an immigrant. How to view one's career as an exploratory journey rather than a fixed path. A unique three-s ..read more

In this episode, we talk to Patricia Vazquez Topete, who works in economic and community development efforts in the banking sector and previously held positions in the governor's office.    In this episode, we cover:   The importance of prepping for an interview and being over-prepared Applying for a fellowship and how it can improve your resume before getting a full-time position How an immigrant background has an impact on your experience at work How to use your immigrant story in your role at your job   Connect with Patricia:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.c ..read more