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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
"It's okay to be flexible. It is okay to not know. It's okay if your plans change. To be a human being is to consistently evolve from a cellular level." - Janice Omadeke
Summary:
One year ago, BLKGirl Ambition launched with a vision — to create space for bold, brilliant, badass women to redefine success on their own terms. And fittingly, our first-ever guest, Janice Omadeke, returns for this anniversary episode to reflect on her own evolution. Janice, award-winning entrepreneur, author, and product marketing executive, opens up about what it looks like to outgrow old versions of yourself — to prune your circle, trust your intuition, and embrace curiosity as your compass. From building and exiting her company The Mentor Method to reimagining success beyond titles, she gets real about doing the inner work that fuels outer impact. We talk about reframing failure, navigating identity shifts after entrepreneurship, and why sometimes the biggest flex is knowing when to rest, reset, and reinvent. Janice also shares how she’s blending strategy with spirituality (yes, woo-woo can be tactical), what the “framing effect” teaches us about how we see our own progress, and her personal mission to make the world safer for the next generation of Black girls. This conversation is a full-circle moment — a reflection on ambition, evolution, and the grace it takes to grow.
Keywords:
Entrepreneurship, corporate careers, mentorship, personal growth, reframing success, inner work, evolution, storytelling, community empowerment, framing effect, consumer packaged goods,
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to BLKGirl Ambition
01:50 One Year In: The Evolution of Ambition
05:04 Janice Omadeke on Embracing Change & Curiosity
08:45 Reframing Challenges and Leading with Perspective
16:47 Identity Beyond Titles: Defining Who You Are (Not Just What You Do)
32:49 From Founder to Corporate: Rediscovering Passion & Purpose
37:14 Rest, Reflection & “Resting + Vesting” as a Power Move
39:46 The Power of Mentorship & Tactical Conversations
42:51 Tech Companies Changing Human Behavior
48:55 Trusting the Process: Evolving with Grace and Grit
54:01 Closing Reflections on Legacy, Politics & Empowerment
Takeaways
Evolution is central to personal growth.
Inner work attracts new opportunities and friendships.
Curiosity helps navigate uncertainty and change.
The framing effect influences perceptions of success.
It's important to separate identity from professional roles.
Resting and Vesting is a valid career strategy.
Mentorship is about sharing tactical skills and experiences.
Storytelling can empower and inspire others.
Ambition should focus on community and collective growth.
Connect with Janice!
IG: @janiceomadeke
LinkedIn: Janice Omadeke PMP
www.janiceomadeke.com
Thanks for all your love and support. Tag me while listening @blkgirlambition
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“The next generation of African innovators won’t wait for validation. They’re not asking to be included — they’re building their own tables." - MJ Jalloh
Summary:
In this episode of BLKGirl Ambition, host Niya Baxter sits down with Mariama “MJ” Jalloh, a powerhouse at the intersection of finance, regulation, and technology — and the founder of FinTech with MJ. A proud Howard alum and daughter of Sierra Leonean parents, MJ shares her remarkable journey from two decades at KPMG to becoming one of the boldest voices in Africa’s fintech revolution. Together, they unpack what it means to walk away from comfort and bet on yourself — even when the world doesn’t expect you to. MJ reveals what she’s learned about building in emerging markets, the importance of African-led innovation, and why resilience and resourcefulness are the new currencies of leadership. From confronting Western bias in global finance to empowering African founders to lead their own narratives, MJ’s story is a masterclass in courage, clarity, and conviction. For anyone redefining what leadership, ambition, and global influence look like — this conversation is a reminder that betting on yourself isn’t risky; it’s revolutionary.
This episode dives deep into:
✨ Leaving corporate comfort for purpose-driven impact
✨ Why Africa is the next frontier for fintech and innovation
✨ The real cost of scaling in emerging markets
✨ Lessons from global founders who failed — and what they teach us about risk, capital, and grit
✨ Redefining legacy as something bigger than personal success
Keywords:
Black Girl Ambition, FinTech with MJ, entrepreneurship, career transitions, fintech, tech, finance, Africa, innovation, mentorship, self-sufficiency, policy shifts, resilience, visionary
Chapters:
00:00 Welcome to Black Girl Ambition
00:59 Meet MJ: A Powerhouse in FinTech
02:44 Career Transitions: From Corporate to Startups
05:01 Mission-Driven Work: The Shift to Leading in Alliance for Innovative Regulation (AIR)
05:59 FinTech with MJ: Balancing Startup and Nonprofit
10:16 Investing in Africa's Tech Future
18:50 Policy Shifts and Industrialization in Africa
19:34 Transforming Raw Materials into Economic Power
22:09 The Challenge of Self-Sufficiency in Africa
24:57 The Invisible Hand: External Forces at Play
28:26 Navigating the Landscape of Emerging Markets
36:21 The Importance of Brand Storytelling for Founders
Takeaways:
Black Girl Ambition is a movement for empowerment.
MJ transitioned from corporate success to mission-driven work.
Innovation in Africa is crucial for global tech advancement.
Resilience is key for entrepreneurs in emerging markets.
Policy shifts can significantly impact industrialization in Africa.
Self-sufficiency is often undermined by global perceptions.
Founders need to understand their capital stack.
Mentorship is vital for navigating the entrepreneurial landscape.
A compelling brand story can attract investment.
Success is measured by the legacy one leaves behind.
Connect with MJ Jalloh:
website: www.fintechwithmj.com (visit the website to download Sources of Capital! If you're a founder looking to raise capital this resource is for you!)
IG & Tik Tok: @fintechwithmj
LinkedIn: Mariama Jalloh-Heyward
MJ's Book, Maximum Viable Product (MVP) is scheduled to be released in fall 2025, followed by the MVP app in winter.
Thanks for all your love and support. Tag me while listening @blkgirlambition
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
"Technology will change fashion whether fashion likes it or not"
“Fashion doesn’t have a diversity problem — it has a data problem. If you’re not collecting and using data that reflects real women’s bodies, you’re not designing for us.”
"I’ve chopped my own head off so many times because I realized I get to a point emotionally where the person that I am — who made these decisions — can’t lead this company anymore."
Summary:
In this episode of BLKGirl Ambition, Niya Baxter sits down with Jessica Couch, fashion technologist, size and fit innovator, and founder of the pioneering platform, LooksAI that bridges data, design, and inclusivity in fashion. Together, they unpack what it means to build the future of fashion—one that actually sees and serves everyone. Jessica shares her unconventional journey from owning a brick and mortar store, to styling and consulting with global brands, to creating LooksAI - a first of its kind influencer platform that matches people to fashion products that they love and that work for them. She opens up about the barriers that Black women face in tech and creative industries, how data is reshaping consumer experience, and why representation must be built into the algorithm—not added as an afterthought. From personal branding to product fit to redefining luxury, this conversation is a masterclass in reimagining what’s possible when creativity meets courage. Jessica reminds us: the future isn’t something we wait for—it’s something we design.
Keywords:
Black Girl Ambition, Jessica Couch, fashion innovation, visionary leadership, women in tech, authenticity, size and fit, inclusivity, customer centricity, personal growth, founder, corporate, culture
Chapters:
00:00 The Intersection of Fashion and Technology
09:15 The Journey of Luxor and Finch
14:22 The Entrepreneurial Spirit
16:12 Corporate vs. Entrepreneurship
23:14 Technology's Role in Fashion Inclusivity
28:45 The Body Positivity Movement and Trends
32:48 The Future of Fashion and Looks.ai
37:11 Building Looks AI: A New Shopping Experience
43:47 The Journey of Innovation: Overcoming Challenges
49:47 The Future of Fashion: Trends and Technology
54:05 Advice for Future Innovators: Trust Your Vision
57:06 Introduction to Ambition and Superpowers
57:07 The Journey of Building Dreams
Connect with Jessica Couch:
website: www.luxorandfinch.com
email: jcouch@luxorandfinch.com
IG: @_jessicaveronica_
TikTok: jveronicac
Check out LooksAI (where everyone is a fashion influencer):
website: www.looks.clothing
IG:_looks.ai
Thanks for all your love and support. Tag me while listening @blkgirlambition & as always love to hear your thoughts :)
Join the BLKGirl Ambition community on IG and LinkedIn: @blkgirlambition and @glamourgirlniya
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"Luxury is not about a price tag—it’s about how something makes you feel, how it affirms your identity, and how it tells your story.” - Teri Johnson
“I wanted Harlem to be more than a neighborhood on a map—I wanted it to be an experience, a fragrance, a legacy that people could hold in their hands.” - Teri Johnson
“The real art of entrepreneurship is storytelling. If you can make people feel, you can make them believe. And if they believe, they’ll follow you anywhere.” - Teri Johnson
Summary:
In this episode of BLKGirl Ambition, host Niya Baxter sits down with Teri Johnson, CEO of Harlem Brands and the visionary force behind Harlem Candle Company. Teri’s story is one of reinvention—leaving behind a career in management consulting to build a brand rooted in culture, travel, and the magic of Black luxury.
Together, they unpack the power of taking risks, the discipline of personal growth, and the entrepreneurial mindset it takes to transform passion into legacy. From blending global influences into unforgettable scents, to creating products that honor Harlem’s rich history, Teri shares how she built a brand that’s both deeply personal and unapologetically ambitious. This conversation is about more than candles—it’s about culture, connection, and courage. It’s about daring to reimagine what’s possible and lighting the way for others to follow.
Keywords:
Black Girl Ambition, entrepreneurship, Teri Johnson, Harlem Candle Company, Harlem Perfume Company, Harlem Brands, travel, luxury, personal growth, fragrance development, business advice, women empowerment, cultural influence
Chapters:
00:00 Welcome to BLKGirl Ambition
02:38 Teri Johnson’s unconventional path to entrepreneurship
05:16 How travel shapes identity and perspective
07:56 The rise of Travelista Teri
10:17 Lessons learned from building a digital brand before its time
12:49 Founding Harlem Brands: turning passion into legacy
15:30 Building legacy through luxury fragrance
17:44 Storytelling as strategy: weaving culture into business
20:38 Facing challenges, fueling growth
22:43 Expanding into the Harlem Perfume Company
25:21 The mindset every founder needs to thrive
27:38 Practical gems for aspiring entrepreneurs
30:34 Dreaming forward: future aspirations & community impact
33:04 Final reflections on ambition and legacy
Support Teri Johnson and the Harlem Brands:
Purchase Harlem Candles, Totes, Mugs and Journals: www.harlembrands.com
Purchase Harlem Perfume: www.sephora.com and www.harlemperfumeco.com
Connect with Teri Johnson: @terijohnsonnyc on IG
Thanks for all your love and support. Tag me while listening @blkgirlambition & as always love to hear your thoughts :)
Join the BLKGirl Ambition community on IG and LinkedIn: @blkgirlambition and @glamourgirlniya
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this quick solo episode of BLKGirl Ambition, host Niya Baxter gets honest about the power of the pause. She shares a personal update on why she’s hitting reset—and what’s coming next. From building personal brands with intention, to reclaiming narratives through cultural storytelling, Season Two was full of bold, necessary conversations that pushed us to grow. As Niya reflects on the lessons and highlights, she invites the BLKGirl Ambition community to shape what’s next. Season Three is in the works, and your voice matters. What topics should we cover? Who should we feature? The future is being co-created—and you’re a part of it. Because ambition doesn’t thrive in isolation. It thrives in community.
***
Thanks for all your love and support. Tag me while listening @blkgirlambition & as always love to hear your thoughts :). As I prepare for season 3, please share episode ideas or potential guests you'd love to hear from at niya@blkgirlambition.com. Guest introductions from this community are greatly appreciated!
Join the BLKGirl Ambition community on IG and LinkedIn: @blkgirlambition and @glamourgirlniya
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
"Personal branding isn’t a vanity project. It’s strategy. It’s insurance. We all need it." - Niya Baxter
"You owe it to yourself to show up for yourself. A corporation should never own your entire professional identity." - Niya Baxter
Summary:
In this solo episode of BLKGirl Ambition, host Niya Baxter gets real about what it actually takes to build a personal brand while navigating the demands of a 9-5. From the corporate grind to creative breakthroughs, Niya shares the mindset shifts, strategies, and risks behind growing BLKGirl Ambition while staying true to herself in the workplace. She breaks down the macro environment that’s forcing Black women to rethink their career playbooks—from mass layoffs to the rise of AI—and makes the case for why personal branding is no longer optional, but a non-negotiable. Through personal anecdotes, bold truths, and case studies from powerful women like Brooke DeVard, Bozoma Saint John, and Dara Chike-Obi, Niya offers a framework for building a brand rooted in truth, resilience, and cultural power. This episode is your reminder that personal branding isn’t a vanity play—it’s a strategic tool for self-definition, career protection, and creative liberation. Whether you’re just getting started or already making moves, this conversation will leave you empowered to take up space—loudly, visibly, and on your own damn terms.
Keywords:
personal branding, Black women, career strategy, visibility, community, empowerment, corporate culture, authenticity, networking, ambition
Takeaways:
Building a personal brand is essential for career growth.
Visibility is key; you must be comfortable being seen.
Letting go of perfectionism can enhance your branding efforts.
Define what you want to be known for in your personal brand.
Community and networking are crucial for success.
LinkedIn is a powerful tool for personal branding.
Surround yourself with supportive and ambitious individuals.
Understand your company's guidelines when building your brand.
Authenticity in your brand will resonate with others.
Your ambition is a unique strength that should be showcased.
Chapters:
00:00 Welcome to BLKGirl Ambition
01:50 The Importance of Personal Branding
06:43 Visibility and Authenticity in Branding
09:10 Defining Your Personal Brand
11:28 Case Studies of Successful Personal Brands
15:21 Building Community and Networking
21:48 Final Thoughts on Personal Branding
Use ChatGPT as your Personal Brand Coach! Try this prompt and let me know how it works for you.
“Help me clarify and strengthen my personal brand across social media. I want to show up with more intention and ensure that my platforms reflect who I am, what I stand for, and what I want to be known for…”
Ask ChatGPT to guide you through:
✅ 2–3 core themes or values your brand represents
✅ Your tone, style, and voice
✅ A platform-by-platform brand audit
✅ Where you’re aligned vs. where you need a glow-up
✅ Quick wins you can implement this week
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
"We’re building the African Disney — and we’re doing it our way." - Esther Paul
"I want to build a headquarters in Accra that employs hundreds of African creatives. AfroToons isn’t just storytelling — it’s economic empowerment" - Esther Paul
Summary:
In this episode of BLKGirl Ambition, host Niya Baxter sits down with Esther, the trailblazing founder and CEO of AfroToons Animation Studio. Esther shares her bold mission to build the next African Disney — a global storytelling empire rooted in African culture, imagination, and brilliance. From her journey growing up in Ghana to becoming a visionary creative, strategist, and human rights advocate, Esther breaks down what it takes to dream big and build even bigger. This episode explores her commitment to centering African youth in media, investing in cultural authenticity, and creating a platform where African animators, writers, and artists can thrive. Together, Niya and Esther dive into the power of representation, the realities of creative entrepreneurship, economic empowerment, and the importance of community and collaboration. Esther’s ambition isn’t just personal — it’s legacy work. And her message is clear: Africa’s stories belong on the global stage, and AfroToons is the studio to make that happen.
Keywords:
Black Girl Ambition, Esther Paul, AfroToons, animation, cultural representation, entrepreneurship, African stories, economic empowerment, women empowerment, global impact, storytelling
Takeaways:
Esther's upbringing in Ghana shaped her desire for global impact.
The lack of culturally relevant children's books in Africa inspired Esther to create AfroToons.
Collaboration and surrounding oneself with passionate people is crucial in entrepreneurship.
Representation in media is vital for African children to see themselves positively.
Intra-African travel should be encouraged to explore the continent's diversity.
Esther's animation projects aim to reflect present day African life and culture.
Entrepreneurship requires resilience and the ability to pivot during challenges.
Building a strong team is essential for success in any venture.
Feedback from the community is important for refining creative projects.
Esther's ultimate ambition is to create something that improves lives.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to Black Girl Ambition
01:09 Meet Esther Paul: A Visionary Strategist
02:23 Influences of Upbringing on Career Choices
03:55 From Education to Animation: A Journey of Impact
08:43 The Power of Collaboration in Entrepreneurship
09:37 The Gap in African Representation in Media
11:36 Cultural Nuance in Storytelling: Solase's Adventures
15:22 Highlighting Contemporary Africa in Storytelling
16:49 Feedback and Lessons from the Animation Studio
18:13 Entrepreneurship: Challenges and Lessons Learned
20:22 Vision for AfroTunes: Growth and Impact
22:07 Building a Strong Team and Community
22:13 Supporting AfroTunes and Future Ambitions
24:09 Introduction to Black Girl Ambition
24:11 Economic Empowerment Through Community
Support AfroToons Animation!
Website: https://www.afrotoons.com
Instagram: @afrotoons_animation
Email: info@afrotoons.com
Thanks for all your love and support. Tag me while listening @blkgirlambition & as always love to hear your thoughts :)
Join the BLKGirl Ambition community on IG and LinkedIn: @blkgirlambition and @glamourgirlniya
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
"Perfectionism almost killed me." - Nadia Marie Sasso
"I wasn't interested in performing scholarship for institutions. It was about making my community feel seen and heard [through filmmaking] and looking for resonance, not approval" - Nadia Marie Sasso
Summary:
In this episode of BLKGirl Ambition, Niya Baxter sits down with creative visionary and cultural storyteller Dr. Nadia Sasso for a rich conversation on identity, innovation, and the evolving power of digital storytelling. Nadia shares how her upbringing as a first-generation Sierra Leonean-American shaped her lens as a filmmaker, unconventional scholar, and community builder. From her critically acclaimed documentary Am I Too African to Be American, Too American To Be African? featuring Issa Rae to her latest initiative, The See Yah Project, a cutting edge edu-tech platform focused on community advocacy and AI, Nadia’s work explores what it means to honor your roots while building something radically future-facing. Together, Niya and Nadia unpack the tension between visibility and vulnerability, the myth of perfectionism, and the responsibility of using your voice—and your platform—to tell stories that free and affirm. This episode invites listeners to reimagine personal branding not as performance, but as cultural preservation and intentional legacy-building.
Keywords
Black Girl Ambition, Nadia Sasso, filmmaker, cultural storytelling, digital innovation, unconventional career paths, identity, scholar, community empowerment, personal branding, perfectionism
Takeaways:
Nadia Sasso blends storytelling with cultural impact.
Childhood experiences shape creative identities.
Unconventional scholarship prioritizes community engagement.
Film can capture complex identities and experiences.
Recreating iconic album covers celebrates black womanhood.
Digital storytelling is essential for personal branding.
Perfectionism can hinder creative expression.
Cultural homecomings like Dirty December foster identity.
Advocacy through technology can level the playing field.
Chapters:
00:00 Welcome to Black Girl Ambition
02:44 Nadia Sasso: A Creative Force
03:40 Childhood Influences on Creativity
07:32 The Unconventional Scholar
10:12 Exploring Cultural Identity Through Film
15:08 Digital Storytelling for Personal Branding
18:46 Perfectionism and Creative Expression
21:37 Detty December: A Cultural Homecoming
26:53 The See Yah Project: Community Advocacy Through AI
31:24 Building Legacy and Community
Get in Touch with Nadia!
W: www.seeyahproject.com and www.nadiamariesasso.com
E: hello@nadiamariesasso.com
IG: @nadiamariesasso
Thanks for all your love and support. Tag me while listening @blkgirlambition & as always love to hear your thoughts :)
Join the BLKGirl Ambition community on IG and LinkedIn: @blkgirlambition and @glamourgirlniya
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
"No one celebrates high performers. They just expect it. That’s why you have to celebrate yourself—loudly and often." — Queirra Fenderson
"Burnout starts the minute you negotiate away your boundaries. It’s a power leak—and the water rises fast." — Queirra Fenderson
"Ambition doesn’t have to mean burnout. When you shift from external validation to inner alignment, you unlock a new level of power." — Queirra Fenderson
Summary:
In this episode of BLKGirl Ambition, I’m joined by Queirra Fenderson, CEO of The Ambition Studio, for a conversation that flips the hustle narrative on its head. We dig into what it means to pursue Balanced Ambition—a framework Queirra developed after her own experience with burnout nearly took her out. Together, we explore how Black women can reimagine success in a way that honors our wholeness, not just our output. From setting boundaries without guilt to leaning into joy, rest, and feminine energy as leadership strategies—we’re giving you permission to lead without sacrificing impact. This episode is a love letter to the woman who’s ambitious and tired—and is finally ready to do things differently.
Keywords:
Black women, ambition, burnout, leadership, coaching, empowerment, wellness, motherhood, feminine energy, personal growth
Takeaways:
Women leaders face significant burnout costs to companies.
Celebrating wins is crucial for high achievers.
Ambition often stems from personal need and experience.
The Balanced Ambition Framework prioritizes wellness.
Recognizing early signs of burnout is essential.
Mindset shifts can unlock transformation for women.
Letting go of external validation is key to success.
Investing in women leaders yields significant ROI for companies.
Navigating motherhood requires acceptance of different life seasons.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to Black Girl Ambition
01:47 Meet Queirra Fenderson: CEO of Ambition Studio
03:11 The Journey to Founding Ambition Studio
05:52 Celebrating Wins: A Key to Success
06:55 The Balanced Ambition Framework
10:13 Morning Rituals and Integration
11:16 Recognizing Early Signs of Burnout
12:37 Mindset Shifts for Transformation
13:30 The Refresh Framework: Stop Caring What Others Think
15:36 Surrounding Yourself with the Right People
16:35 The Importance of a Supportive Circle
16:52 Organizational Impact of Coaching
19:43 Navigating Motherhood and Ambition
23:10 Awakening Feminine Energy in Ambition
25:16 Transforming Self-Relationship for Success
28:12 Setting Boundaries for Wellness
Get in touch with Queirra Fenderson!
website: www.theambitionstudio.com
LinkedIn: Queirra Fenderson and The Ambition Studio
IG: @the.ambition.studio and @ambitiously_queirra
Thanks for all your love and support. Tag me while listening @blkgirlambition & as always love to hear your thoughts :)
Join the BLKGirl Ambition community on IG and LinkedIn: @blkgirlambition
Stay in touch with me at @blkgirlambition and @glamourgirlniya
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
"All the rules are fake. If that’s the case, I’m going to make my own. And I’m going to make them with other like-minded women beside me." - Dara Chike-Obi
For the short holiday week, we're re-releasing this powerful episode with Dara Chike-Obi—because sometimes the most important lessons come in the form of a pivot.
When we first recorded, Dara was the co-founder of GRIO, a baby feeding tech company designed to support new mothers and reduce infant colic symptoms. But what started as a conversation about motherhood and innovation unfolded into something much deeper—an honest reflection on what it means to evolve, to listen to your own voice, and to build something aligned with your truth. In this episode, we talk about Dara’s journey from oil and gas attorney to tech entrepreneur—and now, her shift into beauty aesthetic education for Black women and women of color navigating midlife. Through every chapter, Dara’s throughline has remained clear: a commitment to wellness, legacy, and community for women.
Keywords:
motherhood, entrepreneurship, identity, community, innovation, Griot, parenting, women empowerment, business, personal growth
Takeaways:
Dara's journey reflects the challenges faced by new mothers in balancing identity and motherhood.
The concept of 'griot' emphasizes the role of parents as storytellers and guides for their children.
Community support is crucial for new mothers, contrasting with the individualistic approach often seen in Western culture.
Dara's innovation in the baby bottle market highlights the importance of addressing real needs in parenting.
The transition into motherhood can be overwhelming, and societal expectations often add to the pressure.
Dara's partnership with Lydia was pivotal in navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship.
Understanding the target market requires direct engagement and feedback from consumers.
Risk and failure are opportunities for growth and learning in business.
Maintaining personal ambitions while being a mother can enhance family dynamics.
Continuous learning and curiosity are essential for personal and professional growth.
Chapters:
04:40 Cultural Perspectives on Motherhood
09:31 Innovating in a Crowded Market
15:47 Navigating Identity and Ambition
21:14 Building GRIO from the Ground Up
28:11 Understanding Risk and Failure
36:30 Future Aspirations and Community Support
36:51 Supporting Mothers in the Workplace
Interested in learning more about beauty aesthetic treatments?
Follow Dara on TikTok: @daradossier
LinkedIn: @Dara Chike-Obi
Thanks for all the love and support. Tag me while listening @blkgirlambition & as always love to hear your thoughts :)
Join the BLKGirl Ambition community on IG and LinkedIn: @blkgirlambition
Stay in touch with me at @glamourgirlniya and @blkgirlambition
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
"Humility is not what drives success for Black women in the workplace. Humility holds us back" - Grace Mosuro
"Fake it until you make it. Fake it until it feels natural" - Grace Mosuro
“Build your network before you need it. The people pitching you in rooms you’re not in? You meet them now.” - Grace Mosuro
Summary:
In this episode of BLKGirl Ambition, host Niya Baxter is joined by Grace Mosuro, a global culture strategist, for a conversation that challenges how Black women are taught to navigate ambition, visibility, and voice. Together, they explore the tension between audacity and permission, the often-overlooked skills Black women develop in professional spaces, and the radical act of choosing joy and softness in environments that don’t always make space for either. Grace shares her personal journey toward authenticity, the importance of knowing your worth in salary negotiations, and why collaboration—not competition—is key to collective success. This episode is a reminder that your ambition is not up for negotiation—and neither is your value.
Keywords:
Black women, empowerment, humility, career growth, authenticity, negotiation, joy, hidden skills, collaboration
Takeaways:
Audacity is crucial for success; stop asking for permission.
Choosing softness and joy is essential for well-being.
Negotiating salaries is a skill that needs practice.
Collaboration can enhance success without competition.
Black women often possess unrecognized skills in the workplace.
Joy is an intentional choice, not a constant state.
Building a network is vital for future opportunities.
Discussing salary openly can empower others.
Self-care and prioritizing oneself is not selfish.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Black Girl Ambition
00:39 Meet Grace Masuro: A Journey of Resilience
02:45 The Audacity to Be Authentic
08:28 Navigating Corporate Spaces: Audacity vs. Collaboration
13:05 Negotiating Your Worth: Strategies for Success
16:21 The Importance of Transparency in Salary Discussions
18:35 The Hidden Resume: Unspoken Skills of Black Women
21:15 Choosing Selfishness: Prioritizing Personal Well-being
25:19 Networking: Building Relationships Before You Need Them
27:12 Choosing Softness and Joy in a Challenging World
34:37 Parting Wisdom: The Importance of Financial Transparency
Reach out to Grace Mosuro to connect!
Website: https://www.aquaintzconsulting.co.uk/
Social Media: @gracemosuro on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok
Thanks for all the love and support. Tag me while listening @blkgirlambition & as always love to hear your thoughts :)
Join the BLKGirl Ambition community on IG and LinkedIn: @blkgirlambition
Stay in touch with me at @blkgirlambition and @glamourgirlniya
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
"Perfectionism will kill your dream. The version of you that got you here will not get you there." - Niya Baxter
"It's uncomfortable to try out loud, but there's so much freedom in it - 10/10 recommend" - Niya Baxter
"My greatest ambition is freedom. Freedom to live in joy, in alignment, and in abundance" - Niya Baxter
Keywords:
Black Girl Ambition, empowerment, career growth, intentional choices, perfectionism, community building, personal development, podcasting, women empowerment, self-discovery
Summary:
In this solo episode of BLKGirl Ambition, host Niya Baxter gets real about what this season has taught her—from behind-the-scenes lessons to internal breakthroughs. She unpacks what it means to move with intention, embrace the stretch of discomfort, and silence perfectionism in favor of purpose. Niya also shares why intuition > unsolicited advice, the necessity of building a circle that gets it, and the freedom that comes from making bold, audacious asks. This one’s part reflection, part reset—and full of reminders that your greatest ambition doesn’t have to be the loudest. It just has to be yours. Tune in to hear what’s next, what’s shifting, and why freedom—not approval—is the goal.
Takeaways:
Black Girl Ambition is a movement for empowerment.
Making choices with intention is crucial for personal growth.
Embracing discomfort is part of the creative process.
Perfectionism can hinder progress and dreams.
Ignoring unsolicited advice can lead to clarity and peace.
Trusting your intuition is essential for decision-making.
Being clear on your purpose helps in finding your community.
Making audacious asks can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Playing to your strengths accelerates growth and success.
Freedom is the ultimate ambition in life.
Chapters:
00:00 Welcome to Black Girl Ambition
01:05 Lessons Learned from Launching Black Girl Ambition
02:13 Making Intentional Choices
04:56 Embracing Discomfort in Creation
08:00 The Dangers of Perfectionism
12:25 Ignoring Unsolicited Advice
14:39 Finding Your Community
17:14 Making Audacious Asks
23:17 Playing to Your Strengths
25:23 Niya's Greatest Ambition
Thanks for all your love and support. Tag me while listening @blkgirlambition & as always love to hear your thoughts :)
Join the BLKGirl Ambition community on IG and LinkedIn: @blkgirlambition
Stay in touch with me at @glamourgirlniya and @blkgirlambition
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"There's a science to sponsorship." - Dr. Diana B. Allen
Keywords:
cybersecurity, leadership, empowerment, sponsorship, women in STEM, AI, women in tech, career advancement, networking, visibility, authenticity, career advancement, structural empowerment, sponsorship, relationships, professional growth, women in leadership, mentorship, leadership, workplace dynamics, gender equality, organizational culture
Summary:
In this episode of BLKGirl Ambition, Niya Baxter sits down with Dr. Diana B. Allen—cybersecurity leader, researcher, and empowerment strategist—to unpack what it really takes to thrive at the intersection of leadership, legacy, and visibility.
Together, they explore the power of sponsorship, the necessity of structural empowerment in the workplace, and what women—especially in STEM and tech—need to advance without shrinking. From owning your ambition to building authentic relationships that open doors, this conversation is a must for anyone navigating leadership and career clarity on their own terms.
Takeaways:
The intersection of technology and leadership is evolving with AI.
Empowerment and sponsorship are crucial for women in leadership.
Diversity in leadership leads to greater organizational success.
Sponsorship is often more impactful than mentorship for career advancement.
Performance is key to attracting sponsorship.
Asking smart questions can enhance visibility in the workplace.
Following up with leaders is essential for building relationships.
Creating a one-pager can help showcase your achievements. Do your research and prepare a one-pager of accomplishments.
Set up brief meetings to leave a strong impression.
Come with specific asks during networking meetings.
Social capital is built on trust and relationships.
Visibility and authenticity are key to career advancement.
Building relationships is crucial for sponsorship opportunities.
Advocate for yourself and present solutions
Empowerment requires addressing structural barriers in organizations.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Black Girl Ambition
01:54 Dr. Diana Allen: A Cybersecurity Leader's Journey
04:32 The Intersection of Technology and Leadership
09:14 Empowerment and Sponsorship in Female Leadership
15:52 Attracting Sponsorship: Practical Strategies
25:25 Effective Networking Strategies
32:13 The Importance of Visibility and Authenticity
39:09 Building Relationships for Career Advancement
44:11 Navigating Structural Empowerment Challenges
48:05 Establishing Clarity in Roles
51:12 Empowerment and Structural Barriers
52:30 Navigating Gender Dynamics in the Workplace
56:24 The Importance of Sponsorship
01:01:17 Taking Initiative and Seizing Opportunities
01:06:00 Defining Personal Ambitions and Freedom
Connect with Dr. Diana B. Allen:
LinkedIn: Dr. Diana B Allen
Subscribe to The Leadership Lens Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/the-leadership-lens-with-dr-d-7302385165832462336/
Instagram: @diana_b_allen
Thanks for all the love and support. Tag me while listening @blkgirlambition & as always love to hear your thoughts :)
Join the BLKGirl Ambition community on IG and LinkedIn: @blkgirlambition
Stay in touch with me at @glamourgirlniya and @blkgirlambition
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
"I wrote the, The Price of Nice, because I was tired of being told to be palatable while I was busy out here in the world trying to be powerful." - Amira Barger
"Patriarchy tells you you're too much. Racism tells us we're not enough, and being a Black woman means living in that pressure cooker and yet still cooking up excellence." - Amira Barger
Summary:
In this episode of BLKGirl Ambition, Niya Baxter sits down with communications executive, professor and author, Amira Barger to explore why being “nice” is costing Black women their power—and what it means to lead with nerve instead. From her childhood on the island of Guam to the boardrooms of Edelman, Amira unpacks how systems of racism and patriarchy intersect, how ambition has evolved from survival to liberation, and why it’s time to stop waiting for permission and start disrupting the status quo. This conversation is a powerful call to action for Black women to define success on their own terms—and build the tables we’ve been waiting for.
Keywords:
Black women, ambition, community, empowerment, equity, justice, leadership, liberation, The Price of Nice, personal growth
Takeaways:
Community was life growing up on Guam.
Ambition has evolved from survival to liberation.
Niceness is a tax we pay to maintain comfort.
True leadership often comes without titles.
We need to challenge the status quo for real change.
Empathy is crucial for collective responsibility.
You are the permission slip for your own success.
Liberation means dismantling oppressive systems.
Legacy is about laying foundations for future generations.
We must create our own spaces instead of waiting for permission.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Black Girl Ambition
01:55 Amira Barger's Unique Upbringing on Guam
04:30 The Influence of Community on Ambition
06:50 Exploring 'The Price of Nice'
12:53 The Antithesis of Nice: Embracing Nerve
16:33 Voting for Change: A Broader Perspective
17:47 Empathy and Selflessness in Ambition
19:02 The Evolution of Ambition
23:37 Empowering Others Through Ambition
26:54 Intersection of Patriarchy and Racism
28:44 Defining True Liberation for Black Women
30:28 Nerve Over Niceness: A Call to Action
32:02 Building Foundations for Future Generations
Reach out to Amira Barger to connect & pre-order her new book The Price of Nice!
Pre-order: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-price-of-nice-amira-barger/1147082932
Website: www.AmiraBarger.com
Social Media: @Amirabarger on IG, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook, Youtube
Thanks for all the love and support. Tag me while listening @blkgirlambition & as always love to hear your thoughts :)
Join the BLKGirl Ambition community on IG and LinkedIn: @blkgirlambition
Stay in touch with me at @glamourgirlniya and @blkgirlambition
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
"Can we live our lives beyond just the opposition to oppression?"- Danielle Locklear
Softness and ambition can coexist. In this episode of BLKGirl Ambition, host Niya Baxter sits down with licensed marriage and family therapist Danielle Locklear for a powerful conversation on healing, rest, and reclaiming worth beyond the grind. Together, they unpack the importance of culturally responsive therapy for Black women, the deep harm of toxic hustle culture, and the liberation that comes from setting boundaries without guilt. Danielle shares her journey into therapy, how community shapes healing, and why rejecting capitalist definitions of productivity is an act of resistance. If you’ve been craving space to live softer, this episode is your reminder that you don’t need permission to choose peace—just the courage to honor yourself.
Keywords:
Black women, mental health, therapy, empowerment, boundaries, hustle culture, community, capitalism, self-care, nervous system
Takeaways:
Culturally responsive therapy is crucial for Black women.
Toxic hustle culture pressures Black women to overachieve.
Living a soft life can coexist with ambition.
Setting boundaries requires internal permission.
Capitalist narratives often dictate our self-worth.
Rest is not laziness; it's a necessity.
Community plays a vital role in healing.
Self-care is essential for managing stress and anxiety.
Chapters:
00:00 Empowerment and Community Building
03:10 The Journey to Becoming a Therapist
06:03 Culturally Responsive Therapy for Black Women
08:53 Rejecting Toxic Hustle Culture
12:13 Living a Soft Life vs. Ambition
14:52 Setting Boundaries and Internal Permission
17:53 Understanding Capitalist Narratives
22:46 Resetting the Nervous System
28:00 The Role of Community in Healing
Reach out to Danielle Locklear to connect:
www.daniellelocklearcounseling.com
@dlcounselingatx on Instagram
Thanks for all the love and support. Tag me while listening @blkgirlambition & as always love to hear your thoughts :)
Join the BLKGirl Ambition community on IG and LinkedIn: @blkgirlambition
Stay in touch with me at @glamourgirlniya and @blkgirlambition
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
"Your personal style is your silent introduction." - Liz Wendler
“Show up authentically—bold, bright, beautiful, fabulous—and they’ll judge you anyway. You might as well do you.” - Liz Wendler
On this episode of BLKGirl Ambition, Niya Baxter sits down with style expert Liz Wendler to unpack how fashion can be your fiercest self‑brand and confidence booster—especially for Black women carving out space in corporate and entrepreneurial worlds. We trace Liz’s leap from the 9-to-5 grind to building her own styling empire, and she shares her insider tips for discovering your unapologetic style voice. From boardroom-ready power outfits to the magic of a consistent personal brand, we dig into the real‑world challenges and rewards of dressing with intention. And of course, we celebrate the community that lifts us up—because authenticity isn’t just an aesthetic, it’s a movement. Tune in for your next style glow‑up!
Keywords:
fashion, personal branding, self-confidence, black women, entrepreneurship, corporate style, wardrobe essentials, community support, styling business, style direction
Takeaways:
Fashion is a powerful tool for personal branding.
Self-confidence can be built through style choices.
Transitioning from corporate to entrepreneurship requires courage.
Understanding client needs is crucial for stylists.
Avoiding trends helps in defining personal style.
Wardrobe essentials create a strong foundation.
Regularly refreshing your wardrobe is important.
Documenting your closet can prevent overbuying.
Community support is vital for black women entrepreneurs.
Authenticity in style can be a differentiator in corporate spaces.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Black Girl Ambition
01:03 The Journey to Fashion and Self-Expression
05:53 Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneurship
11:01 Building a Styling Business: The Process
13:56 Understanding Client Needs and Style Direction
17:59 Navigating Trends and Personal Style
22:08 Wardrobe Essentials and Style Foundations
26:03 Common Style Traps and How to Avoid Them
30:04 The Double-Edged Sword of Style in Corporate America
34:01 The Power of Community and Support
40:03 Final Thoughts and Ambitions
Reach out to Liz Wendler to connect:
www.lizwendlerstyling.com
@Lizwendlerstyling on Instagram and Liz Wendler and/or Liz Wendler Styling on LinkedIn
Thanks for all the love and support. Tag me while listening @blkgirlambition & as always love to hear your thoughts :)
Join the BLKGirl Ambition community on IG and LinkedIn: @Blkgirlambition
Stay in touch with me at @glamourgirlniya and @Blkgirlambition
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
“Your genius is in your normal—lean into what comes naturally to you, and stop chasing someone else’s path.” - Quinn Conyers
"If you keep telling people that you’re going to help them, they’ll discount your value—because we’re not the help. Stop helping and start coaching, assisting, partnering, elevating, empowering.” - Quinn Conyers
Keywords:
public speaking, women empowerment, entrepreneurship, personal brand, elevator pitch, abundance mindset, Black women, business strategies, community support, ambition
Summary:
In this episode of Black Girl Ambition, host Niya Baxter speaks with Quinn Conyers, a dynamic public speaker and entrepreneur, about her journey into public speaking, the importance of personal branding, and how women, especially Black women, can leverage their voices to grow their businesses. Quinn shares insights on crafting effective elevator pitches, the significance of community support, and the mindset shift needed to embrace abundance over scarcity. The conversation emphasizes the power of ambition and the necessity of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals to thrive in entrepreneurship.
Takeaways:
Quinn Conyers emphasizes the importance of using your voice to grow your business.
Public speaking can be a significant revenue stream for entrepreneurs.
Women, especially Black women, often undervalue their services and charge too little.
Crafting a compelling elevator pitch is crucial for business success.
Using wealthy words can elevate the perception of your services.
Community support is vital for recognizing and affirming one's genius.
Ambition should be embraced as a superpower, not downplayed.
The mindset of being 'peaceful and paid' is essential for sustainable success.
Avoid the pitfalls of a one-on-one business model; leverage one-on-many strategies.
Your natural talents can be your greatest asset in entrepreneurship.
Chapters:
00:00 Empowering Ambition: The Journey Begins
01:40 Quinn Conyers: A Voice for Black Women in Business
03:43 The Evolution of a Public Speaker
06:55 Corporate Experience: A Stepping Stone to Entrepreneurship
09:31 Defining Personal Brand and Niche in Speaking
12:10 Empowering Women Entrepreneurs Through Speaking
14:28 Maximizing Opportunities: The Power of Public Speaking
17:56 Crafting the Perfect Elevator Pitch
20:31 Reframing Language: From Help to Empowerment
24:34 Building Wealth Through Public Speaking
27:44 Rewiring for Abundance: Peaceful and Paid
32:25 Common Pitfalls for Black Women Entrepreneurs
36:39 Community: The Key to Recognizing Your Genius
37:10 Ambitions and Aspirations: The Future of Quinn Conyers
38:14 Final Words of Wisdom: Embrace Your Ambition
Reach out to Quinn Conyers to connect:
www.QuinnConyers.com
@Quinnconyers on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook
Thanks for all the love and support. Tag me while listening @blkgirlambition & as always love to hear your thoughts :)
Join the BLKGirl Ambition community on IG and LinkedIn: @Blkgirlambition
Stay in touch with me: @glamourgirlniya and @Blkgirlambition
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
“We need to redefine what success and ambition actually look like… how do we make it every day in the sense of what brings me fulfillment, satisfaction, and joy within my title and outside of that title” - Marissa Nelson
On this episode of BLKGirl Ambition, your host Niya Baxter sits down with award-winning relationship & sex therapist Marissa Nelson to flip the script on what success—and pleasure—really look like. We get unapologetically honest about the power dynamics that show up when ambition meets intimacy, why control can derail our closest connections, and how couples can tackle everything from mismatched desire to sexual dysfunction. Along the way, Marissa reminds us that dreaming, play, and self-reflection aren’t luxuries—they’re essential fuel for personal fulfillment. If you’re ready to reclaim pleasure, redefine your ambition, and build relationships that honor your boldest self, this conversation is your blueprint.
Keywords: ambition, vulnerability, success, relationships, intimacy, black women, entrepreneurship, self-worth, personal growth, therapy, relationships, intimacy, vulnerability, sexual fulfillment, couples therapy, dating, emotional support, pleasure, joy, black women
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Ambition and Vulnerability
02:11 The Challenge of Starting Something New
08:31 Redefining Success and Ambition
12:55 Navigating Relationships and Power Dynamics
18:00 Dreaming and Play in Ambition
26:20 The Impact of Control on Relationships
27:24 Navigating Vulnerability and Intimacy
28:45 Understanding Sexual Fulfillment in Long-Term Relationships
30:10 Addressing Sexual Dysfunction and Low Desire
31:20 The Reality of Low Sexual Activity in Relationships
32:41 Defining Connection Beyond Intimacy
34:05 The Importance of Commitment in Relationships
36:29 Red Flags in Dating
38:49 The Role of Support in Healthy Relationships
41:34 Reclaiming Pleasure and Joy
49:41 Empowering Women to Reclaim Their Pleasure
Reach out to Marissa Nelson to connect:
www.IntimacyMoons.com
IG: @xomarissanelson
Thanks for all the love and support. Tag me while listening @blkgirlambition & as always love to hear your thoughts :)
Join the BLKGirl Ambition community on IG: @Blkgirlambition
Stay in touch with me: @glamourgirlniya and @Blkgirlambition
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
"Everything you need to get your AI on" - Jade Williams
In this episode of Black Girl Ambition, Niya speaks with AI expert, Jade Williams @ThatAIGrl to discuss the transformative impact of artificial intelligence across industries, the importance of understanding AI for career advancement, and the need for representation of women, particularly women of color, in tech. They explore the structure of AI, the role of large language models, the potential for bias in AI systems, and practical resources for learning about AI. The conversation emphasizes the proactive approach needed to thrive in an AI-driven world.
Keywords:
AI, artificial intelligence, women in tech, productivity tools, learning resources, bias in AI, large language models, career development, responsible AI, technology
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to AI and Its Importance
02:57 Understanding AI: Structure and Components
05:56 The Role of Large Language Models
09:05 Addressing Bias in AI
11:58 Building Expertise in AI
15:04 Resources for Learning AI
17:59 AI Tools for Productivity
20:55 The Future of Work with AI
Resources mentioned:
@ThatAIGrl weekly LinkedIn newsletter, https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7282515015784398848
AI for Humans podcast
The AI podcast by NVIDIA
Consider This from NPR podcast
www.ElementsofAI.com
Thanks for all the love and support. Tag me while listening @blkgirlambition & as always love to hear your thoughts :)
Join the Black Girl Ambition community on IG: @Blkgirlambition
Stay in touch with me: @glamourgirlniya or @Blkgirlambition
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Black Girl Ambition, Niya connects with Whitley Miller, a wellness entrepreneur and founder of @healingbarre . STAY TUNED for a 10-minute workout at the end! This conversation explores the significance of barre fitness, its accessibility, and the importance of creating inclusive spaces for Black women and women of color. Whitley shares her journey from ballet to wellness founder emphasizing the need for representation and community in fitness. The episode highlights the intentionality behind centering Black women in wellness and the healing journey that both Niya and Whitley have experienced. In this conversation, Whitley discusses her journey in creating an inclusive fitness space, the challenges faced by entrepreneurs of color, and the importance of mental mindfulness for women of color. They emphasize the need for transparency in business practices, the role of wellness in managing stress, and Whitley's long-term vision for the Healing Barre community.
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