In this episode of Career Gems for the Journey podcast, Leah C. Murphy is joined by Arika Pierce Williams CEO and founder of Piercing Strategies, for a powerful conversation on leadership, confidence, and claiming your space.
Arika shares her journey from corporate law to leadership coaching and breaks down how women, especially women of color, can step fully into their power — without waiting for permission. This episode is filled with gems about personal branding, speaking up, and navigating career pivots with clarity and purpose.
✨ “You don’t have to wait for someone to hand you a seat — claim it and bring your own chair if needed.” — Arika Pierce Williams
In this episode, we discuss:
💎 How to build leadership presence before you have the title
💎 Why self-advocacy is a career non-negotiable
💎 The difference between mentorship and sponsorship
💎 How Arika found her voice and purpose after leaving corporate
💎 Encouragement to stop playing small and own your impact
Whether you're early in your career or leading a team, this episode will challenge you to speak up, show up, and take action.
Make Your Journey Work For You!
Stay Connected:
🎟️ Secure your spot at the 2nd Annual Career & Care Summit!✨ Early bird tickets are available now
💎 Subscribe to the Career Gems for the Journey podcast for more conversations that empower your personal and professional growth.
💎 Stay engaged with Career Gems for the Journey by subscribing to the ‘CareerGems for YOUR Journey’ newsletter and gain access to exclusive content just for you!
💎 Catch Leah LIVE every Tuesday at 12 PM EST on YouTube for fresh insights, real-time discussions, and career-building conversations.
💎 Visit gemsforthejourney.org for upcoming events, resources, and more leadership gems.
About Our Guest
Arika Pierce Williams is an award-winning leadership strategist and best-selling author who helps organizations build human-centered leaders that drive growth and retain top talent. With over 15 years of leadership experience—from Fortune 500 companies to startups—she brings deep insight into what it takes to lead effectively at scale. A former Senior VP of Growth and Strategy, Arika reached her first VP role before age 30 and has led cross-functional initiatives across industries.
She’s the author of I Can. I Will. Watch Me., and a sought-after speaker for organizations like the American Bankers Association and General Mills. Arika’s approach blends strategic thinking, emotional intelligence, and a passion for equipping leaders with skills that technology can’t replicate.
In this inspiring episode, Leah C. Murphy, welcomes KwameSarfo-Mensah, educator, speaker, and founder of Identity Talk 4 Educators, for a powerful conversation about purpose-driven teaching and community impact.
Kwame shares his personal journey through the education system, the challenges Black male educators face, and how he's reshaping what success looks like in and outside the classroom. From burnout and cultural expectations to building a platform that centers identity and authenticity, this conversation is both a wake-up call and a rallying cry for educators, mentors, and change agents alike.
If you've ever felt called to do more than just followthe rules—this episode is for you
In this episode:
💎 Why Kwame walked away from the classroom to amplify his impact
💎 The deeper meaning of "being the change" as an educator
💎 What schools often get wrong about success and representation
💎 The mindset shift needed to thrive as a leader and advocate
💎 How to turn frustration into movement—and legacy
Stay Connected:
🎟️ Secure your spot at the 2nd Annual Career & Care Summit!✨ Early bird tickets are available now
💎 Subscribe to the Career Gems for the Journey podcast for more conversations that empower your personal and professional growth.
💎 Stay engaged with Career Gems for the Journey by subscribing to the ‘CareerGems for YOUR Journey’ newsletter and gain access to exclusive content just for you!
💎 Catch Leah LIVE every Tuesday at 12 PM EST on YouTube for fresh insights, real-time discussions, and career-building conversations.
💎 Visit gemsforthejourney.org for upcoming events, resources, and more leadership gems.
About Our Guest
Kwame Sarfo-Mensah is an educational consultant, author, and podcast host dedicated to culturally affirming and identity driven teaching practices. He is the founder of Identity Talk Consulting, LLC, which supports schools globally in implementing anti-bias, anti-racist, and student-centered approaches. Kwame’s work spans professional development, curriculum design, and thought leadership, including his book Learning to Relearn and his podcast Identity Talk 4 Educators LIVE. He is committed to empowering educators and students to thrive in inclusive and transformative learning environments.
Check out Kwame's new book "Learning to Relearn"
Connect with him on LinkedIn Instagram and YouTube
Are you owning your voice or still shrinking in rooms where you belong?
In this episode of Career Gems for the Journey podcast, Leah C. Murphy sits down with Dawana Holmes, an accomplished leadership strategist and executive coach, for a conversation that speaks directly to anyone who's ever second-guessed their power.
Dawana opens up about what it truly means to take up space as a woman, especially as a woman of color, in corporate and leadership settings. From dismantling the “be grateful to be here” mindset to challenging the ways we’re taught to dim our light, this episode is a call to reclaim your brilliance without apology.
🔎 In this episode, you’ll learn:
💎 How Dawana’s personal leadership journey shaped her bold approach
💎 The importance of claiming your value in high-stakes environments
💎 How to reframe self-doubt and imposter syndrome
💎 What it looks like to lead without constantly seeking permission
If you’ve been playing small or waiting for a signal to level up—this is it.
MAKE YOUR JOURNEY WORK FOR YOU!
Stay Connected:
🎟️ Secure your spot at the 2nd Annual Career & Care Summit!✨ Early bird tickets are available now
💎 Subscribe to the Career Gems for the Journey podcast for more conversations that empower your personal and professional growth.
💎 Stay engaged with Career Gems for the Journey by subscribing to the ‘CareerGems for YOUR Journey’ newsletter and gain access to exclusive content just for you!
💎 Catch Leah LIVE every Tuesday at 12 PM EST on YouTube for fresh insights, real-time discussions, and career-building conversations.
💎 Visit gemsforthejourney.org for upcoming events, resources, and more leadership gems.
About Our Guest
Dawana Holmes is a Talent Management Consultant at Penn Medicine, where she leads New Employee Orientation and professional development programs across the Philadelphia region. With a strong background in recruitment, training, and leadership development in both retail and healthcare, Dawana is passionate about cultivating talent and creating impactful learning experiences. She holds degrees in Adult and Organizational Development from Temple University, is SHRM-CP certified, and was recently nominated for the 2025 Delaware Valley HR Person of the Year.
How do you continue showing up with integrity when the culture around you still needs to catch up?
In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Leah C. Murphy continues her discussion with Dominic George—speaker, author, and former Chief People Officer—about what it takes to navigate leadership, workplace culture, and authenticity in real life.
This episode explores:
💎 What it really means to shift culture from within
💎 How to stay grounded in your values under pressure
💎 Strategies for navigating difficult workplace conversations
💎 The difference between being “included” and being “valued”
💎 Why internal work is just as critical as external change
Dominic’s real talk and lived experience offer insight for leaders, changemakers, and professionals who are tired of the status quo—and ready to show up differently.
MAKE YOUR JOURNEY WORK FOR YOU!
Stay Connected:
🎟️ Secure your spot at the 2nd Annual Career & Care Summit!✨ Early bird tickets are available now
💎 Subscribe to the Career Gems for the Journey podcast for more conversations that empower your personal and professional growth.
💎 Stay engaged with Career Gems for the Journey by subscribing to the ‘CareerGems for YOUR Journey’ newsletter and gain access to exclusive content just for you!
💎 Catch Leah LIVE every Tuesday at 12 PM EST on YouTube for fresh insights, real-time discussions, and career-building conversations.
💎 Visit gemsforthejourney.org for upcoming events, resources, and more leadership gems.
About Our Guest
Dominic George is a leadership strategist, real estate developer, and founder of Vision Leadership for Life, a coaching company that empowers Black men to lead with clarity, confidence, and emotional wellness. His work bridges personal growth with community transformation by challenging outdated models of success and redefining what it means to lead with purpose.
Dominic combines trauma-informed coaching, spiritual insight, and executive mentorship to help high-performing individuals build legacies rooted in healing and impact. He is a respected voice on Black male leadership, mental resilience, and purpose-driven living.He is also the author of Just Lead: The No-Fluff Playbook for Leadership in Real Life, a practical and empowering guide for leaders who are ready to move beyond outdated playbooks. With real-world insights and actionable strategies, the book challenges readers to lead with integrity, courage, and authenticity—especially in environments where conformity often overshadows true leadership.
What does it really mean to shift culture from the inside out?
In this powerful first part of a two-part series, Leah C. Murphy, CEO of Career Gems for the Journey, sits down with Dominic George—a seasoned talent strategist, executive coach, and DEI leader—to unpack the realities of showing up authentically in professional spaces, especially as a Black man navigating corporate systems.
Dominic gets real about the unspoken pressures, emotional labor, and leadership masks that many professionals of color are expected to wear. He also shares what it takes to stop code-switching, lead with authenticity, and build inclusive cultures where people don’t just survive—they thrive.
Whether you're an emerging leader or a seasoned executive, this conversation will challenge you to rethink how you show up and how you use your influence to shift culture for good.
In this episode:💎 Why showing up authentically is a radical act in some environments
💎 The hidden costs of code-switching and how to reclaim your voice
💎 The importance of self-reflection and internal alignment before influencing others
💎 What leaders must unlearn to create psychologically safe teams
💎 How career success and cultural change can go hand-in-handMAKE YOUR JOURNEY WORK FOR YOU!
Stay Connected:
🎟️ Secure your spot at the 2nd Annual Career & Care Summit!
✨ Early bird tickets are available now
💎 Subscribe to the Career Gems for the Journey podcast for more conversations that empower your personal and professional growth.
💎 Stay engaged with Career Gems for the Journey by subscribing to the ‘CareerGems for YOUR Journey’ newsletter and gain access to exclusive content just for you!
💎 Catch Leah LIVE every Tuesday at 12 PM EST on YouTube for fresh insights, real-time discussions, and career-building conversations.
💎 Visit gemsforthejourney.org for upcoming events, resources, and more leadership gems.
About Our Guest
Dominic George is a leadership strategist, real estate developer, and founder of Vision Leadership for Life, a coaching company that empowers Black men to lead with clarity, confidence, and emotional wellness. His work bridges personal growth with community transformation by challenging outdated models of success and redefining what it means to lead with purpose.
Dominic combines trauma-informed coaching, spiritual insight, and executive mentorship to help high-performing individuals build legacies rooted in healing and impact. He is a respected voice on Black male leadership, mental resilience, and purpose-driven living.He is also the author of Just Lead: The No-Fluff Playbook for Leadership in Real Life, a practical and empowering guide for leaders who are ready to move beyond outdated playbooks. With real-world insights and actionable strategies, the book challenges readers to lead with integrity, courage, and authenticity—especially in environments where conformity often overshadows true leadership.
In this transformative episode Leah C. Murphy, CEO of Career Gems for the Journey, sits down with licensed social worker, speaker, and author Tashia Martin to discuss what it means to lead, heal, and grow during life’s most challenging transitions.
Tashia brings nearly two decades of experience working across education, government, and nonprofit systems, specializing in healing-centered leadership, trauma-informed care, and building cultures of wellness. She shares her journey of supporting young people and adults navigating hardship and reveals how leaders can create environments rooted in authenticity and collective care.
In this episode, you’ll gain:
💎 Insight into trauma-informed and healing-centeredleadership practices
💎 Practical ways to integrate self-care and emotional wellness into your daily life and workplace
💎 How leaders can support themselves and their teams through personal and professional challenges
💎 A glimpse into Tashia’s New Leaf Journal and how it can guide you—or your whole team—through healing and growth
💎 Strategies to create psychologically safe spaces thatfoster authentic connections and resilience
Stay Connected:
💎 Subscribe to the Career Gems for the Journey podcast for more conversations that empower your personal and professional growth.
💎 Stay engaged with Career Gems for the Journey by subscribing to the ‘CareerGems for YOUR Journey’ newsletter and gain access to exclusive content just for you!
💎 Catch Leah LIVE every Tuesday at 12 PM EST on YouTube for fresh insights, real-time discussions, and career-building conversations.
💎 Visit gemsforthejourney.org for upcoming events, resources, and more leadership gems.
About Our Guest
Tashia Martin, MSW, LSW, is the author of 'New Leaf: Reflecting on Life’s Transitions' a 52-week guided journal rooted in ancestral wisdom, trauma-informed care, and holistic healing. Tashia draws from nearly 20 years of experience in school- and community-based mental health, social-emotional learning, equity-focused leadership, and spiritual practice to support individuals and communities navigating deep change.
You can find her on LinkedIn and IG @restoring_legacy
In this eye-opening episode of the Career Gems for the Journey podcast, Leah C. Murphy, CEO of Career Gems for theJourney, sits down with Lindsey Schultz—CEO of MRC Recruiting—for a behind-the-scenes look at what really matters in today’s hiring landscape.
Whether you’re a job seeker, a hiring manager, or simply reevaluating your next career move, this episode offers must hear insights to help you make intentional, values-aligned decisions. Lindsey pulls back the curtain on what recruiters actually prioritize, how to position yourself authentically, and why resumes only tell part of the story.
Listen in to learn:
💎 What recruiters are actually looking for beyond the résumé
💎 How to align your career with your values—and why it matters
💎 Common myths about what makes someone a strong candidate
💎 Practical ways to stand out during your job search
💎 What leaders need to know to build inclusive, high-performing teams
Ready to take your career or hiring strategy to the next level? This conversation is packed with real talk, tactical advice, and fresh perspective.
Stay Connected:
💎 Subscribe to the Career Gems for the Journey podcast for more conversations that empower your personal and professional growth.
💎 Stay engaged with Career Gems for the Journey by subscribing to the ‘CareerGems for YOUR Journey’ newsletter and gain access to exclusive content just for you!
💎 Catch Leah LIVE every Tuesday at 12 PM EST on YouTube for fresh insights, real-time discussions, and career-building conversations.
💎 Visit gemsforthejourney.org for upcoming events, resources, and more leadership gems.
About Our Guest:
Lindsey Schultz is the CEO of MRC Recruiting, a Colorado based executive search firm specializing in the mining and resource sectors. With nearly 20 years of experience, she’s passionate about helping companies build strong, inclusive teams and connecting people with meaningful careers.
When she’s not working, Lindsey enjoys getting outdoors with her husband—a committed DIY’er—and their two adventurous boys. Life is full with hikes, house projects, travel, cooking, and keeping up with their spirited Bernedoodle, Bluey.
🔗 Connect with Lindsey:
In this episode Leah C. Murphy, CEO of Career Gems for the Journey, sits down with career counselor and author Shell Mendelson, MS, to talk about what it really takes to find your path—especially if you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or navigating your career as a neurodivergent adult.
Shell brings decades of expertise to the conversation and shares how her own late-life ADHD diagnosis deepened her commitment to helping others discover meaningful and realistic career options. Together, Leah and Shell explore what it looks like to move from uncertainty to confidence, and how the right support and strategy can help you unlock the next step in your journey.
Whether you’re in a season of transition, burnout, or exploration, this episode offers powerful insight on how to align your passion, purpose, and profession—without the pressure to do it perfectly.
💎 What makes career clarity harder for neurodivergent individuals?
💎 Why traditional career advice often falls short?
💎 The difference between purpose and passion
💎 Shell’s personal ADHD journey and how it reshaped her career
💎 Tools and next steps for anyone reevaluating their path
Stay Connected:
💎 Subscribe to the Career Gems for the Journey podcast for more conversations that empower your personal and professional growth.
💎 Stay engaged with Career Gems for the Journey by subscribing to the ‘CareerGems for YOUR Journey’ newsletter and gain access to exclusive content just for you!
💎 Catch Leah LIVE every Tuesday at 12 PM EST on YouTube for fresh insights, real-time discussions, and career-building conversations.
💎 Visit gemsforthejourney.org for upcoming events, resources, and more leadership gems.
About Our Guest
Shell Mendelson, MS is a seasoned career counselor with over 35 years of experience helping both neurodivergent and neurotypical clients find clarity in their career journey. Trained by What Color Is Your Parachute? author Richard Bolles and holding a Master’s degree in Vocational/Career Counseling, Shell combines deep expertise with a personal understanding of how ADHD can affect career paths—having received her own diagnosis later in life.
She is the author of Unlock Your Career Path: A Course for Neurodivergent Adults and Teens, widely praised as one of the most ADHD-friendly career guides available. Through this book, her coaching, and her Your Next Career Move Masterclass, Shell equips individuals with the tools to move from overwhelm to action using structured, clear, and sustainable steps.
In addition to her counseling work, Shell is also the founder of the international children’s art franchise KidzArt. Her mission is to help people uncover fulfilling, purpose-driven work by simplifying complex decisions and championing their strengths—especially those who feel overlooked or uncertain about their next move.
🎯 Her next masterclass begins July 16
📘 Learn more at www.unlockyourcareerpath.com
🔗 Connect with Shell:
Instagram: @shellmendelson
Facebook: @CareerCoachingwithShell
LinkedIn: Shell Mendelson
In this powerful episode of the Career Gems for the Journey podcast, Leah C. Murphy, CEO of Career Gems for the Journey, sits down with award-winning journalist Aundrea Cline-Thomas to talk about her bold decision to leave the anchor desk—and what came next.
Aundrea shares her story of stepping away from the traditional news cycle to answer a deeper calling and focus on storytelling that uplifts and inspires. From the early days of her broadcast career to navigating the unique pressures of being a Black woman in media, Aundrea opens up about identity, legacy, and the cost of staying silent.
💎 What happens when you realize the dream job isn’t your dream anymore?
💎 How do you redefine success after walking away from the spotlight?
💎 What does it look like to answer your calling, even when it doesn’t fit the mold?
This episode is full of insight for anyone navigating a transition, questioning their current path, or seeking more alignment between their work and their values.
Stay Connected:
💎 Subscribe to the Career Gems for the Journey podcast for more conversations that empower your personal and professional growth.
💎 Stay engaged with Career Gems for the Journey by subscribing to the ‘CareerGems for YOUR Journey’ newsletter and gain access to exclusive content just for you!
💎 Catch Leah LIVE every Tuesday at 12 PM EST on YouTube for fresh insights, real-time discussions, and career-building conversations.
💎 Visit gemsforthejourney.org for upcoming events, resources, and more leadership gems.
About Our Guest
Aundrea Cline-Thomas is a three-time Emmy Award-winning journalist, entrepreneur, and host of The NEXT Best Thing podcast where she guides professionals through career transitions and personal reinvention. Through candid conversations with accomplished guests like Andre Iguodala, Bozoma Saint John, and Aurora James, Aundrea explores how successful professionals reframe challenges and embrace change with purpose.
Drawing from her 15-year career as a television reporter and anchor in markets including Philadelphia and New York City, Aundrea founded strategic storytelling agency Mountain Court Media to help thought leaders craft authentic, impactful narratives.
Aundrea combines journalistic excellence with a passion for helping professionals transform their stories and confidently step into their next chapter.
Where you can find her:
The NEXT Best Thing Community
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aundreact/
IG: @nextbestthingpod
IG: @aundreact
In today’s episode, Leah C. Murphy, CEO of Career Gems for the Journey, sits down with the dynamic and thoughtful Pam Moyo to explore what it truly means to lead with humanity intoday’s fast-paced, high-pressure professional world.
As a wellness leader, DEI strategist, and founder of Soul Informed, Pam brings a refreshing perspective to leadership. One that centers emotional intelligence, compassion, and holistic wellness. She shares her personal journey of shifting from a hustle-and-burnout mindset to a more intentional, soul aligned way of working. Together, Leah and Pam unpack how to set boundaries, advocate for yourself in the workplace, and reimagine what sustainable success can look like, especially for women of color in leadership.
Highlights
💎 Why emotional wellness should be a leadership priority—not an afterthought
💎 How to lead teams with authenticity and courage
💎 The importance of rest, reflection, and alignment in both life and career
💎 What it takes to sustain a purpose-driven career without sacrificing yourself in the process.
Stay Connected:
💎 Subscribe to the Career Gems for the Journey podcast for more conversations that empower your personal and professional growth.
💎 Stay engaged with Career Gems for the Journey by subscribing to the ‘CareerGems for YOUR Journey’ newsletter and gain access to exclusive content just for you!
💎 Catch Leah LIVE every Tuesday at 12 PM EST on YouTube for fresh insights, real-time discussions, and career-building conversations.
💎 Visit gemsforthejourney.org for upcoming events, resources, and more leadership gems.
About Our Guest
Pam Moyo has spent over 20 years working in the mining industry as a Professional metallurgical engineer. She graduated from the University of Zimbabwe in 1999. She went on to study her Masters in Mineral Processing at McGill University in Montreal Canada. She has worked in various metallurgical areas including engineering consulting, process operations and research. She has contributed to the mining industry by publishing papers of her work including 1 patent. Her love and passion for empowering people with tools that create results in people’s lives has led her to being certified as DreamBuilder Coach and Life Mastery Consultant. In the ground-breaking DreamBuilder program Pam shares principles that will skyrocket peoples’ success by linking their purpose/vision with their work and all area of their life thereby resulting in better effectiveness professionally and personally.
Visit her at visionsuccessnow.com
In this powerful episode, Leah C. Murphy CEO of Career Gems for the Journey, is joined by Nicole S. Palmer—bestselling author, equity strategist, and public health advocate—for a conversation that pulls no punches on what it takes to survive and thrive in corporate America as a Black woman.
Nicole shares her journey from healthcare communications to the public health frontlines, and how lived experience, chronic pain, and burnout led her to write her transformative book: Playing the Game While Black: A Black Woman’s Guide to Surviving Corporate America.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
💎 What burnout really looks and feels like—and why it often gets ignored until it’s too late
💎 How chronic illness and workplace inequity forced Nicole to step away and rewrite her life
💎 Why it’s not “selling out” to protect your peace in the workplace—it’s survival strategy
💎 The emotional cost of being mission-driven in organizations that don’t return the same care
💎 How to balance purpose and boundaries as a high-achieving woman of color
💎 Why Nicole says bringing your whole self to work can be harmful—and what to do instead
Nicole also breaks down the inspiration and strategy behind her book, which uses chess as a metaphor to reveal how Black women are expected to navigate unwritten rules, coded language, and systemic barriers in corporate culture—while still delivering results.
This episode is packed with gems that will help you protect your health, reclaim your voice, and thrive without compromise. 💎💎
Stay Connected:
💎 Subscribe to the Career Gems for the Journey podcast for more conversations that empower your personal and professional growth.
💎 Stay engaged with Career Gems for theJourney by subscribing to the ‘CareerGems for YOUR Journey’ newsletter and gain access to exclusive content just for you!
💎 Catch Leah LIVE every Tuesday at 12 PM EST on YouTube for fresh insights, real-time discussions, and career-building conversations.
💎 Visit gemsforthejourney.org for upcoming events, resources, and more leadership gems.
About Our Guest
Nicole S. Palmer is a public health professional, bestselling author, and founding partner of Dell Nick Media. She’s on a mission to make health data and workplace wellness tools accessible to Black women navigating corporate systems. With lived experience in chronic illness, burnout, and inequity, Nicole brings a sharp, unapologetic voice to the conversation—and her book is a must-read for anyone seeking real talk on corporate survival and self-preservation.
Visit her at nicolespalmer.com and download her free guide, The 7 Unspoken Rules of Corporate America.
You can also find her on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and beyond @Nicolespalmer.
In this episode of the Career Gems for the Journey podcast, Leah C. Murphy CEO or Career Gems for the Journey, sits down with international keynote speaker, author, and leadership consultant Amir Ghannad to explore what it truly means to lead from within. As the founder of the Ghannad Group and author of The Transformative Leader, Amir brings over 30 years of global leadership experience to the conversation, offering powerful insights into self-awareness, culture, and career fulfillment.
In This Episode, You'll Learn:
💎 Why culture drives outcomes—and how to create a work environment that supports both growth and satisfaction
💎 The difference between intrapreneurship and entrepreneurship—and how to navigate both
💎 How to lead without a formal title and the importance of owning your influence
💎 What it means to show up for yourself as a leader and protect your own well-being
💎 The five questions every professional should ask when considering a career pivot
💎 How The Transformative Leader became a global leadership resource used in over 30 countries
Amir also opens up about transitioning from corporate leadership into building a family-owned consulting firm with his wife and children, working with clients worldwide to build breakthrough cultures and lasting impact.
Stay Connected:
Subscribe to the Career Gems for the Journey podcast for more conversations that empower your personal and professional growth.
Catch Leah LIVE every Tuesday at 12 PM EST on YouTube for fresh insights, real-time discussions, and career-building conversations.
Visit gemsforthejourney.org for upcoming events, resources, and more leadership gems.
About Our Guest
Amir Ghannad is an international leadership speaker, author, and founder of the Ghannad Group, a boutique consulting firm specializing in culture transformation and leadership development. He’s also the creator of On The Court Leadership, a digital learning platform that equips individuals and organizations with practical tools to lead with clarity, courage, and connection. His book The Transformative Leader has inspired professionals across the globe to unlock their leadership potential—starting from within.
Learn more about Amir’s work at theghannadgroup.com and onthecourtleadership.com
In this dynamic episode of the Career Gemsfor the Journey podcast,Leah C. Murphy sits down with Courtney Andersen, a powerhouse Supply Chain Executive and co-host of the She Supply Chains podcast.
Courtney shares her inspiring journey of leadership, career transformation, and what it means to navigate corporate spaces with authenticity and boldness.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
💎 Finding Your Career Audacity: How personal challenges like divorce and a failed adoption helped Courtney redefine success and take ownership of her journey.
💎 The Power of Lateral Moves: Why stepping sideways in your career can be the key to long-term leadership and success.
💎 Balancing Boldness and Effectiveness: How to be a strong, outspoken leader while fostering collaboration and driving results.
💎 The Importance of Representation and Mentorship: Why having mentors and advocates in your corner can accelerate your career.
💎 Owning Your Leadership Journey: How to take charge of your career growth while staying true to your values.
MAKE YOUR JOURNEY WORK FOR YOU!
💎💎 Stay engaged with Career Gems for theJourney by subscribing to the ‘CareerGems for YOUR Journey’ newsletter and gain access to exclusive content just for you!
About Our Guest
Courtney Denise Andersen is a Supply Chain Executive known for transforming global operations, plant management, engineering, and people leadership. With over 20 years of experience, she has successfully led multimillion-dollar initiatives, optimized supply chain strategies, and fueled business performance, innovation, and revenue growth.
Beyond her corporate success, Courtney is deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, championing initiatives that empower the next generation of leaders. As a co-host of the She Supply Chains podcast, she amplifies the voices of women in STEM and shares insights on navigating career growth with confidence and authenticity.
🎙 Want to hear more? Leah was also a guest on She Supply Chains! Check out her episode here.
In this episode of the Career Gems for the Journey podcast, Leah C. Murphy, CEO of Career Gems for the Journey and the visionary behind the inaugural Career and Care Summit, offers a heartfelt, behind-the-scenes recap of this transformative in-person event held on March 15, 2025 in Philadelphia.
Leah walks us through what it took to bring the summit to life—from the divine inspiration and months of planning to the unforgettable keynotes, dynamic panels, and breakout sessions. With a focus on career, community, and care, this episode is more than a recap—it’s a testimony of what’s possible when women come together to support each other holistically.
💎 Leah shares her own personal highs and hurdles—from taking a leap of faith to execute the summit with no initial sponsors, to curating a day that addressed the real-life needs of women navigating their second act of life.
💎 She celebrates the incredible partners, speakers, advisors, and vendors who helped make the day unforgettable—and speaks honestly about how fulfilling it was to see women connecting, building community, and leaving empowered.
💎 You’ll also hear how powerful conversations around burnout, ambition, menopause, fertility, and self-care took center stage—led by expert voices who spoke truth with vulnerability, insight, and courage.
💎 Leah reflects on the breakout sessions that allowed women to dig deeper, share experiences, and walk away with actionable tools for both their personal and professional journeys.
This episode is a heartfelt thank you to everyone who believed in the vision of the summit and helped make it a reality. Whether you attended in person or are just tuning in now, you’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of why this experience was more than just a moment—it was the start of something bigger.
MAKE YOUR JOURNEY WORK FOR YOU!
💎💎 Stay engaged with Career Gems for theJourney by subscribing to the ‘CareerGems for YOUR Journey’ newsletter and gain access to exclusive content just for you!
For too long, women’s health—especially topics like perimenopause, hormonal changes, and reproductive health—has been pushed to the background in professional spaces. But the reality is, our health impacts how we show up in our careers, our confidence, and our overall success.
In this powerful and eye-opening episode of the Career Gems for the Journey podcast, Leah C. Murphy sits down with Dr. Sophia Lubin, a board-certified OBGYN, to break the silence on the health challenges that women face—and why it’s time to start having real conversations about them.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
💎 Why women’s health is still a taboo topic in the workplace—and how to change that.
💎 Understanding perimenopause: What it is, how it affects your daily life, and why so many women don’t realize they’re experiencing it.
💎 The real impact of hormonal changes on career women: Brain fog, anxiety, exhaustion—how these symptoms affect leadership, productivity, and career growth.
💎 How to advocate for yourself: At work, at the doctor’s office, and in conversations with family and colleagues.
💎 Why prioritizing your health is an act of self-care and career empowerment.
This conversation is a must-listen for every woman navigating the demands of career growth while managing the realities of their health.
MAKE YOUR JOURNEY WORK FOR YOU!
🎟️ Want to hear more? Meet Dr. Sophia Lubin in person!
She will be speaking LIVE at the Career and Care Summit on March 15, 2025, in Philadelphia, alongside an incredible lineup of experts covering career growth, wellness, leadership, and more. Don’t miss this chance to gain powerful insights, connect with inspiring speakers, and take charge of your health and career!
💎💎 Stay engaged with Career Gems for theJourney by subscribing to the ‘CareerGems for YOUR Journey’ newsletterand gain access to exclusive content just for you!
About Our Guest
Dr. Sophia Lubin is a board-certified OBGYN, passionate advocate for women’s health, and host of the podcast Dr. Sophia, ObGyn - Embrace Your Body. EmbraceYourself. With over 15 years of experience, she provides comprehensive care at Symphony Medical in New York City, offering everything from routine wellness exams to advanced surgical procedures.
Dr. Sophia is dedicated to educating and empowering women about their bodies, helping them navigate everything from reproductive health to perimenopause and beyond. She believes that women’s well-being is just as important as their careers—and that prioritizing health should never come second.
This episode breaks the silence on women’s health—because your well-being is just as important as your career. 💎💎
In this transformative episode of the Career Gems for the Journey podcast, Leah C. Murphy sits down with Cledra Gross, CEO and founder of Next Level Life and Business, to discuss the profound impact of life coaching on personal and professional success. From navigating career pivots to designing a life aligned with your true purpose, Cledra shares invaluable strategies for leveling up.
Key Takeaways:
💎 Turning Setbacks into Comebacks: Cledra’s journey from a successful career in pharmaceutical sales to becoming an internationally recognized life coach.
💎 The Challenge of Gold Star Fatigue: How high achievers can break free from burnout and rediscover meaningful motivation.
💎 The Role of a Life Coach: Why coaching is a vital tool for women looking to find clarity, confidence, and actionable steps toward their goals.
💎 Designing Your Next Level Life: Practical tips for letting go of societal pressures and creating a life that feels authentic and fulfilling.
💎 Investing in Personal Growth: Insights into the importance of self-awareness, emotional integrity, and intentional decision-making.
MAKE YOUR JOURNEY WORK FOR YOU!
🎟️ Tickets are on sale now! secure your spot—space is limited, and this event is expected to sell out!
💎💎 Stay engaged with Career Gems for the Journey by subscribing to the ‘Career Gems for YOUR Journey’ newsletter and gain access to exclusive content just for you!
About Our Guest
Cledra Gross is a Life and Business Strategist dedicated to helping entrepreneurial women make more money and live better lives. After more than 20 years as a top performer in pharmaceutical sales—where she managed multimillion-dollar territories and earned the prestigious President’s Award Cledra experienced personal challenges that led her to discover life coaching. As she says, "I didn’t choose life coaching; life coaching chose me."
Today, Cledra is a Master Life Coach, author, speaker, and entrepreneur with a global clientele. Her mission is to empower women to persevere, redefine success, and thrive, even when life doesn’t go as planned. Through her company, Next Level Life and Business, Cledra helps women entrepreneurs create a life of purpose, balance, and financial success.
Cledra also highlights her upcoming mastermind program in Raleigh, NC, where high-achieving women can connect, grow, and thrive in a supportive environment.
In this exciting episode of the Career Gems for the Journey podcast, Leah C. Murphy shares exciting details about the Career and Care Summit, hosted by Gems for the Journey on March 15, 2025, at the Community College of Philadelphia. This transformational event is designed for professional women in their second act of life (ages 35-55) who are ready to invest in their careers, personal growth, and well-being.
Leah shares the inspiration behind this groundbreaking event, emphasizing the need for a space where powerhouse women can focus on leadership, career pivots, and self-care while connecting with like-minded professionals.
Key highlights include:
💎 What is the Career and Care Summit? An in-person, transformational experience centered on career growth, community, and well-being.
💎 Who It's For: Women in their second act of life—leaders, executives, entrepreneurs, and career pivoters.
💎 What to Expect: Expert panels, hands-on workshops, wellness resources, and powerful networking opportunities with like-minded leaders.
🎟️ Tickets are on sale now! secure your spot—space is limited, and this event is expected to sell out!
Join Leah in this inspiring episode as she reflects on why 2025 is the year of bold moves and how the Career and Care Summit will help women step into their next chapter with clarity, confidence, and community support.
MAKE YOUR JOURNEY WORK FOR YOU!
💎💎 Stay engaged with Career Gems for the Journey by subscribing to the ‘Career Gems for YOUR Journey’ newsletter and gain access to exclusive content just for you!
In this episode of the Career Gems for the Journey podcast, Leah C. Murphy CEO of Career Gems for the Journey, shares a powerful story about stepping out on faith and showing up for your vision—even when doubt creeps in. Reflecting on her experience at the National Black MBA Conference, Leah discusses how taking action and remaining flexible in the face of challenges can unlock new opportunities and transform your career.
Key takeaways include:
💎 Overcoming Doubt: How to move past hesitation and take action toward your goals, even when the outcome feels uncertain.
💎 The Power of Showing Up: Why being present, prepared, and ready to pivot can open doors you didn’t anticipate.
💎 Lessons from the Conference: Leah shares her experience navigating unexpected obstacles, building relationships, and finding inspiration at the National Black MBA Conference.
Leah’s journey is a reminder that growth often happens outside of your comfort zone. By committing to your vision and taking calculated risks, you allow space for opportunities to align in ways you never imagined.
Tune in for this inspiring episode and learn how to take your next big step from doubt to action.
MAKE YOUR JOURNEY WORK FOR YOU!
💎💎 Stay engaged with Career Gems for the Journey by subscribing to the ‘Career Gems for YOUR Journey’ newsletter and gain access to exclusive content just for you!
Looking ahead, we are thrilled to announce the upcoming Gems for the Journey Summit on March 15, 2025, in Philadelphia! 🎉 This event is dedicated to empowering women through career, community, and care. Limited tickets are available, so don’t wait—secure your spot today!
In this episode of Career Gems for the Journey podcast, Leah C. Murphy, CEO of Career Gems for the Journey challenges you to take a hard look at what might be holding you back from reaching your goals—and spoiler: it might just be YOU.
With a blend of personal insights and practical advice, Leah dives deep into how ego, fear, and the “self-made” myth can stop you from tapping into the power of your network and community.
Key takeaways include:
💎 Get Out of Your Own Way: How ego and the fear of asking for help can keep you stuck and how to overcome it.
💎 The Power of Community: Why success is rarely a solo journey and how involving others in your vision creates a ripple effect of opportunity and support.
💎 Leverage Your Network: Strategies for reconnecting with trusted people in your network and asking for the help you need to move forward.
This is a reminder that while you are 100% responsible for your vision, you’re not meant to do it all alone. The myth of being “self-made” doesn’t reflect the true value of collaboration and community. By letting go of the barriers we build for ourselves, we open the door to support, resources, and connections that can transform our careers.
This episode is your call to action: ask for help, lean into your community, and—most importantly—get out of your own way to make your journey work for you!
MAKE YOUR JOURNEY WORK FOR YOU!
💎💎 Stay engaged with Career Gems for the Journey by subscribing to the ‘Career Gems for YOUR Journey’ newsletter and gain access to exclusive content just for you!
Looking ahead, we are thrilled to announce the upcoming Gems for the Journey Summit on March 15, 2025, in Philadelphia! 🎉 This event is dedicated to empowering women through career, community, and care. Limited tickets are available, so don’t wait—secure your spot today!
In this special episode of Career Gems for the Journey podcast, Leah C. Murphy CEO of Career Gems for the Journey, is joined by her husband, Cameron Murphy, for the first-ever Husband Takeover!
This candid and heartfelt conversation offers a unique perspective on the behind-the-scenes dynamics of running a business, supporting a partner in entrepreneurship, and the power of teamwork in both life and work.
Cameron shares his experience as Leah’s biggest supporter, from helping execute the Pennsylvania Conference for Women to celebrating Career Gems for the Journey’s three-year milestone. Together, they dive into topics like:
💎 Building Together: What it’s like to navigate marriage, parenting, and running multiple businesses as a team.
💎 Conference Reflections: Cameron’s take on being one of the few men at the Pennsylvania Conference for Women and how events like these create vital spaces for empowerment and growth.
💎 Dreaming Big: Manifesting future goals, from keynote speaking opportunities to hosting transformative events for women.
This episode is a celebration of partnership, perseverance, and the incredible impact of working toward shared goals. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a supportive partner, or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes of Leah’s journey, this episode is full of insights, inspiration, and a few laughs along the way.
Join us for this unique episode and see how teamwork truly makes the dream work!
MAKE YOUR JOURNEY WORK FOR YOU!
💎💎 Stay engaged with Career Gems for the Journey by subscribing to the ‘Career Gems for YOUR Journey’ newsletter and gain access to exclusive content just for you!
Looking ahead, we are thrilled to announce the upcoming Gems for the Journey Summit on March 15, 2025, in Philadelphia! 🎉 This event is dedicated to empowering women through career, community, and care. Limited tickets are available, so don’t wait—secure your spot today!
