We all have the power to propel our lives in a new direction.  Every moment is an opportunity to seize new opportunities, explore and evolve as human beings.  It can be scary to step forward into new horizons, but you have to break free from those fears and limits to truly move forward.   I’m your host, Ginny Clarke, a former executive recruiter who worked for global executive search firm, Spencer Stuart, and Google. I have assessed and coached thousands of executives and other leaders. I’m also the author of Career Mapping: Charting Your Course in the New World of Work.  In this final episode,  I am talking about exploring the unknown, breaking free of our own limiting beliefs, thoughts and fears. I am also sharing the next big step for  Fifth Dimensional Leadership. Things you will also learn in this episode: Get to know the Fifth Dimensional Leadership University (5DLU) offerings Why needing all the answers is a slippery slope and how to manage uncertainty How the need to please others can impair effective decision making Why releasing fear can clear a path to innovation, confidence, acceptance and love How our past can inform but doesn’t have to define our present and future

Deepa Purushothaman is an author, speaker, and co-founder of nFormation.com - a company for women of color by women of color. It provides brave, safe, new space for professional women of color.    Deepa is also a Women and Public Policy Program Leader in Practice at the Harvard Kennedy School. She also has a book The First, The Few, The Only. How Women of Color Redefine Power in Corporate America, which Harper Business published March 2022.   She spent more than twenty years at Deloitte and was the first Indian American woman and one of the youngest people to make partner in the company’s history. Deepa was a National Managing Partner of Inclusion at Deloitte and the US Managing Partner of WIN (Women’s Initiative), Deloitte’s renowned program to recruit, retain, and advance women.   Deepa experienced being an outcast at an early age as she was only one of three colored girls in a class of 500 students. And even after she got into the right schools and the right jobs, she never felt like she fit in. This is what prompted her to write her book.    In our conversation, Deepa talks about her journey to success, how she overworked until work is not working for her anymore, and how nFormation helps other people of color.    In this episode, you will learn:   Deepa’s unique, albeit unhealthy, superpowers How her illness changed her life How Corporate America was not made by women or designed for women and is not a meritocracy Knowing when it’s time to leave your job Acknowledging and healing the trauma that women have endured in the workplace How women of color should use their superpowers, especially in this moment   Quotes:   “Great leader helps people that work on their team find their power” - Deepa Purushothaman.    “If you continue to conform and do what you’re told, eventually, you will be unhappy and feel powerless” - Deepa Purushothaman.    “Not every culture is going to work for you” - Deepa Purushothaman.    Resources:   Deepa Purushothaman Website   The First, The Few, The Only. How Women of Color Redefine Power in Corporate America, Deepa Purushothaman   nFormation, for The First, The Few and The Onlys   TED Talk - 4 Ways To Redefine Power At Work To Include Women Of Color Rha Goddess and Deepa Purushothaman

Linda Johnson Rice is a former magazine owner who was born of John and Eunice Johnson. Linda's father in 1942, founded Johnson Publishing Company, which published Ebony and Jet magazines. And as a result, was the largest black-owned magazine publisher in the United States. In 1982, Johnson became the first African-American to appear on the Forbes 400.   Linda wanted to be an integral part of her father’s and mother’s business. She began training in the fashion department at age seven, and took notes during business meetings and reviewing her parents' incoming and outgoing mail.   Linda attended the University of Southern California and graduated with a BA in journalism from the Annenberg School for Communication. She received an MBA from Northwestern's Kellogg School of Management in 1987. Immediately after graduation, Linda became President and COO of Johnson Publishing until her promotion to CEO in 2002, becoming the first African-American female among the 100 largest black-owned companies in the United States.   In this second part of our conversation, Linda relives those dark days where she had to prepare the business for bankruptcy, and how a nurturing family and a loyal circle of friends helped her get through tough times.   We also talked about:   How Ebony Fashion Fair and Fashion Fair Cosmetics evolved out of Ebony the magazine. Selling the magazine business in hopes of saving the cosmetics business. Hiring people with more relevant skills, but arguably too late to save the businesses. Overcoming self-doubt and the feeling of failure The making of Empire of Ebony, a major documentary directed by Lisa Cortez and Oscar recipient African-American Director Roger Ross Williams The possibility of making a docu-series about Eunice Johnson, Linda Johnson’s mother with major companies in the industry. How Linda is creating her own legacy while preserving  her parents’ legacy Quotes:    “Consciousness is self-awareness without being self-absorbed”   “You find out who your real friends are when things are dark and stormy. It's the people that hand you an umbrella to keep you dry who are the real friends that you can really rely on.”

Linda Johnson Rice is a former magazine owner who was born of John and Eunice Johnson. Linda's father in 1942, founded Johnson Publishing Company, which published Ebony and Jet magazines. And as a result, was the largest black-owned magazine publisher in the United States. In 1982, Johnson became the first African-American to appear on the Forbes 400.   Linda wanted to be an integral part of her father’s and mother’s business. She began training in the fashion department at age seven, and took notes during business meetings and reviewing her parents' incoming and outgoing mail.   Linda attended the University of Southern California and graduated with a BA in journalism from the Annenberg School for Communication. She received an MBA from Northwestern's Kellogg School of Management in 1987. Immediately after graduation, Linda became President and COO of Johnson Publishing until her promotion to CEO in 2002, becoming the first African-American female among the 100 largest black-owned companies in the United States.   In our conversation, Linda passionately talks about what’s it like growing up in a huge publishing company, and the legacy of Ebony and Jet.   We also talked about:   The purpose of Johnson’s Publishing Company The Leadership style of her parents How she stays grounded even with a wealthy background The importance of self-care as a leader The difficulty of letting people go inside the company   Quotes: “You gotta make time for yourself. Whatever your passion is, whatever you enjoy. But at least at the end of the day, you can say you did something for yourself.” - Linda Johnson Rice  - Linda Johnson-RIce   “You can’t keep looking backward, that’s not helpful. You put that in its proper places and you gotta keep moving forward.” - Linda Johnson-RIce “It’s best to make decisions for yourself rather than having someone else make them for you.” - Linda Johnson-RIce

Torrence Boone is the Vice President Global Client Partner at Google. He also held senior agency leadership positions with WPP and Publicists. Before his two decades’ worth of experience at every level of the marketing and advertising industries, he was a senior manager at Bain & Company. He is also a Corporate Director on Macy’s Board.    Despite being named one of the most powerful people in New York, Torrence remains humble. Humility is at the forefront of his values and he believes that ego is the biggest enemy of leadership,   In our conversation, Torrence shares his journey to success and what does advertising look like inside Google. He also shares his principles of leadership and how important it is to know yourself before you can take care of other people.    In this episode you will learn: Torrence’s Leadership principles What does advertising look like in Google Importance of diversity for organizations Torrence being named being one of the most powerful people in New York How he overcome fears of being a leader The importance of having the right team How the hybrid model is going to stick around in the future of work The importance of self-awareness and self-care as a leader Quotes: “One of the biggest enemies of leadership is Ego”   “To build products for billions of people, you have to have diverse talent that is building those products and commercializing them.”   “When you're confronting something really difficult, you have to have the right people on the field that knows how to play together or it's a disaster.”   “You can't take care of people if you are not good with who you are.”   “Leaders who want to control people don’t recognize the fact that they are demoralizing the people that they’re supposed to be inspiring.” 

Arturo Nunez is the Chief Marketing Officer of Nubank, the world’s largest independent digital bank. He has started his career in marketing at the ripe age of 16 and has worked with the biggest brand names in the world such as Johnson & Johnson, Colgate Palmolive, PepsiCo, NBA, Nike, and Apple.    Being the son of Venezuelan and Cuban parents, he knows what it’s like to be part of the minority, even though he grew up in Harlem, New York. Today, he is a successful leader and an entrepreneur.    In our conversation, Arturo talks about the epitome of effective marketing, the importance of diversity in organizations, and how to foster an environment where people can speak their truth.    In this episode you will learn:   Arturo’s Journey to Success What is a Digital Bank His life experience being an Afro Latino What is the epitome of effective marketing The Importance of Diversity in organizations Why is there a Talent Shortage How to encourage people to speak their truth How Arturo Stays grounded Quotes: “Marketing starts with understanding and caring about the customer.” - Arturo Nunez   “Your potential is only limited by your capacity to dream. And the difference between a dream and a goal is a plan” - Arturo Nunez   “The mistake that companies are making over and over again is thinking that diversity and inclusion is about goodwill and not about business advantage” - Arturo Nunez

Vanessa Colella is the former Chief Innovation Officer at Citi Ventures and Citi Productivity. Her goal there was to accelerate and discover new sources of value by championing innovation so Citi can compete more effectively in a world of technological, behavioral, and societal change. She left Citi in early 2022 and will be announcing her next move. We can’t wait to hear!    She was a former partner at McKinsey & Company, and a junior high and high school science teacher. She has her Ph.D. from MIT media lab, as well as master's degrees from both Columbia University and MIT and an SB degree in molecular biology.   In our conversation, Vanessa passionately talks about the importance of diversity in leadership, and how it can help you create solutions and promote innovation. We also discussed:    What it means to be a Chief Innovation Officer The myths about ideas “The Generosity of Interpretation” Why diversity and inclusion are so important How motherhood has changed her leadership approach How her Ph.D. shaped her leadership style and perspective   Quotes   “The enemy of leadership is ego.”   “No one has all the answers anymore, leaders need to know how to ask the right questions, now more than ever.”   “As chief innovation officer, always have an eye towards what's not working and what's missing and how do you change the portfolio of what you do over time.”   “If you want to be the architect of solutions with staying power, they have to be crafted by people who come at those solutions with different experiences”   “Leadership is not just about the individual. It’s about the space that you can create for your team and organization, for them to accomplish things that might not be possible without that space.” 

Evan Sohn is a veteran entrepreneur, visionary executive, and the CEO of Recruiter.com. They are an on-demand recruiting platform that combines AI and video job matching techniques with the world's largest network of small and independent recruiters. Evan is a frequent contributor to CNBC, Yahoo Finance and has expertise in various industries such as Wi-Fi, instant messaging, and CRM.   Even from his earlier years, Evan likes to reinvent the wheels of industries. And with his mission-driven leadership style, he was able to steer Recruiter.com into a new direction that has paid off really well for them. From a media company, they are now one of the biggest recruiting agencies in the world.   In our conversation, Evan talks about what it means to be a mission-driven leader, why we are in the golden age of recruiting, and what inspired his involvement in a foundation for cancer-related diseases.    In this episode, you will learn:   What is mission-driven leadership How to overcome failures and find your strengths  Leading people to be more successful than you What defines a great leader How Recruiter.com has been a disrupter in the talent space What the “Golden Age Of Recruiting” is  Why we are experiencing “The War for Talent”   Quotes:   "A business doesn't rely on one person. It relies on lots of people who have a shared mission, and each one is executing against their piece of that overall mission." - Evan Sohn   "You are more than your resume. The resume is an antiquated document" - Evan Sohn   "It's much cheaper to keep an employee than to lose them" - Evan Sohn   "Your responsibility as a child is to learn from both the mistakes and the successes of your parents and improve upon them" - Evan Sohn

Wendy Berger is the CEO and founder of WBS equities. A real estate company, which she founded in 2004. Outside of WBS equities, she also brings decades of experience in strategic planning execution and exits for rapid growth startups. Very interestingly, she's on the board of directors of Green Thumb Industries - a national cannabis consumer packaged goods company and retailer.   At a very young age, Wendy was always encouraged to be strong and independent. She grew up in a family of real estate developers that shaped her future into becoming an industrial real estate developer.    In our conversation, Wendy shares what it's like being a leader in the industrial real estate business, which is a male dominated industry. She also shares the tragedies in her life that led her into a better and stronger state of mind. Wendy also discusses how he got involved in the Cannabis industry and how things changed in that business after the pandemic hit.    In this episode, you will learn: The best way to lead as a woman in a male dominated industry Developing your decision making skill as a leader Why the lack of diversity can be a great opportunity Why Wendy entered the Cannabis Industry How Cannabis is helping people battling anxiety How Judaism helped Wendy identify her place in the world How to build your confidence faster as a young individual   Quotes:  “Leadership is how you take information, digest it, and make courageous decisions.”- Wendy Berger   “If I (as a leader) don't get people at the table comfortable sharing their ideas, then I'm not going to be able to make the best decisions.” - Wendy Burger   “From chaos comes opportunity” - Wendy Berger   “I am no longer defined by my past, I was looking backwards questioning myself. My own definition of myself was holding me back, so I let go of my fears.” - Wendy Berger   “To have your success immediately rewarded with additional responsibility as a young person helps you build confidence in ways that in general takes a lot longer in our business lives versus in non-for-profit or civic work.” - Wendy Berger   “Big thinking precedes great accomplishments. And unless we let our minds wander and have unbounded thinking we aren’t going to accomplish all that we want to accomplish.” - Wendy Berger   “When five people get together and drink alcohol, they start a fight. When five people get together and consume marijuana, they start a band.” - Wendy Berger

Another episode of Fifth Dimensional Leadership, and another fabulous guest!   Howard Tullman is an incredibly accomplished serial entrepreneur. He is multi-faceted on several levels and has touched many different domains from software to art to gaming to education to business and much more. He is the founding Executive Director of the Kaplan Institute at Illinois Tech and is the current General Managing Partner for the Chicago High Tech Investors, LLC and G2T3V, LLC. He was also the long-time CEO of 1871; the #1 ranked private business incubator in the world that exists to support early-stage, growth-stage, and corporate innovators in building extraordinary businesses. Previously to this, he was the Chairman, President and CEO of Tribeca Flashpoint Media Arts Academy which he co-founded in 2007. Altogether, Howard has successfully founded more than a dozen high-tech businesses in his 50-year career and created more than $1 billion in investor value as well as thousands of new jobs.   As a futurist, a visionary, and an author of numerous books, Howard not only shares invaluable advice for like-minded entrepreneurs in today’s episode, but he also speaks to how he has personally brought many of his visions to reality. He speaks about his key lessons in his career, what mastery means to him, how he discovered his unique skills as a leader, and powerful insights on innovation and creating new jobs within communities. This is a fantastic conversation and I cannot wait for you all to tune in!   Key Takeaways: [:50] About today’s episode with Howard Tullman. [2:32] Welcoming Howard to the podcast! [2:52] How has Howard been able to bring so many visions to life across many different sectors? [5:58] How and where Howard grew up and how that has impacted his life both personally and professionally. [8:17] Howard’s insights on mastery and what it means to him. [9:23] The importance of honoring different kinds of employees. [12:58] When Howard considered himself a leader and his advice to up-and-coming leaders. [17:20] How Howard discovered his unique skills through lessons in his career. [21:46] Howard’s insights on how we can regenerate communities by creating business opportunities rather than focusing on technology. [24:41] About 1871, Howard’s vision for it, the legacy he left behind with it. [29:08] What Howard is proudest of. [31:09] Why education and healthcare are not currently aligned to support the youth of tomorrow and Howard’s ideas on what we could do to fix these issues and provide the youth with the important soft skills necessary to thrive in any industry. [33:53] Howard’s insights on why we should take a break from focusing on technology and instead focus on content. [40:18] Howard shares his mindset around entrepreneurship. [43:57] The difference between innovation and invention. [44:24] About Howard’s family and why he’s proud of them. [45:27] Howard shares a lesson on priorities and finding balance in life. [47:12] Thanking Howard for joining the podcast! [47:42] Howard leaves us with some final words of wisdom on the theme of love. [51:58] Thanking Howard once again for joining Fifth Dimensional Leadership and sharing his invaluable insights!   Mentioned in this Episode: Howard Tullman’s Website Howard Tullman’s LinkedIn Howard Tullman’s Twitter You Can't Win a Race With Your Mouth: And 299 Other Expert Tips from a Lifelong Entrepreneur, by Howard A. Tullman Tribeca Flashpoint Media Arts Academy 1871   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management.   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: GinnyClarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

Once again we are joined by another phenomenal guest! Tony Gauda is a serial industry disruptor and entrepreneur with 25+ years of experience in management and strategy, business development and partnerships, full lifecycle product management, complex software and infrastructure, engineering at scale, cybersecurity, and fraud prevention across multiple industries. He has founded consumer and enterprise SaaS companies that have developed cutting-edge technology products used by millions of people worldwide, is a 3x patent holder, and has managed company-wide multi-million dollar P&Ls and forecasting needs based in both start-up and enterprise environments. Currently, he is the CTO of Modern Products; an agency that elegantly designs and builds next-generation hardware and software products for makers, startups, enterprises, and government agencies.   In our conversation together today, Tony shares all about his fascinating background as a successful serial entrepreneur, highlights from his career, key insights into why some startups fail (and how to avoid being one of them), and the leadership behaviors that are most important for scaling a start-up. Tony also offers advice to fellow entrepreneurs on learning from failure, finding your calm amongst the storm, taking courageous action, and staying ahead of the curve. You won’t want to miss out!   Key Takeaways: [:50] About today’s episode with the incredible Tony Gauda! [1:40] Welcoming Tony to the podcast! [2:04] Tony shares how he got into tech and became a successful serial entrepreneur. [10:15] Main highlights and huge lessons from Tony’s career. [14:30] Key leadership behaviors for scaling start-ups. [16:48] Tony’s insights into why some start-ups fail (and how to avoid being one of them!) [18:07] Tony shares some of his own failures and the lessons within them. [21:24] Tony’s take on why there is not more diversity in the tech sector. [25:38] One of the five dimensions of leadership is ‘Activate Mastery.’ What does mastery mean to Tony? [26:40] What Tony sees for himself regarding growth in his career. [28:30] About Tony’s children and how he encourages them to follow their passions. [31:58] How Tony stays active and committed to his community. [32:55] With technology advancing so fast, what should the average consumer be embracing vs. be wary of? [34:50] The one skill that Tony encourages everyone to be good at. [36:26] The power of failure and how to begin to take your first courageous step towards failure. [38:45] Tony’s philosophy for life. [40:24] How Tony finds his inner peace and calmness even in stressful moments. [42:06] Tony’s parting words of wisdom for listeners. [44:52] Thanking Tony for joining the podcast!   Mentioned in this Episode: Tony Gauda’s LinkedIn   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management.   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: GinnyClarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

Today we are joined by an amazing CEO of a company many of you will recognize! Patrick Spence has been with Sonos for the last 9 years, with the last 4 serving as the CEO. If you don’t already have a Sonos device in your home, you should! Sonos is leading the charge with their outstanding wireless speakers and home sound systems that innovate your listening experience.   Sonos was originally founded by a small group of entrepreneurs that were determined to create a revolutionary home sound system — which they did! Sonos is now a billion-dollar brand with Patrick Spence at the helm since 2017.    Prior to Sonos, Patrick worked with Blackberry for 14 years in a variety of roles, eventually landing as the SVP and Managing Director of Global Sales and Regional Marketing.   In this episode, Patrick shares about his career journey that has led him to where he is today, how he first recognized his leader potential, his advice for aspiring leaders, how he fosters a culture of safety within his organization, how he manages to live a healthy work-life balance, and the key characteristics that he believes every leader should have.   Patrick is an elegant and sophisticated leader that I am thrilled to know and I cannot wait for you to hear today’s enlightening conversation with him!   Key Takeaways: [:50] About today’s episode with Patrick Spence! [1:04] Welcoming Patrick Spence to the podcast! [2:48] Patrick shares about his journey of discovering his leadership potential as well as his career history that has led him to where he is today. [4:02] How being Canadian has influenced Patrick’s perspective. [6:06] When and how did Patrick recognize his CEO potential? What separated him from his colleagues? [8:00] Patrick shares why living abroad for part of your career can be hugely impactful for growth. [10:10] Patrick’s advice for aspiring leaders. [11:23] How Patrick fosters an organizational culture that allows people to speak their truth. [14:53] Patrick highlights the language and phrases he uses to encourage employees to speak their truth. [17:51] What is an ‘evolved culture?’ How does Sonos exemplify this? [19:37] Why Sonos was in the news recently. [24:40] Patrick shares his gratitude for Sonos and their customers. [26:12] How has Patrick found a healthy work-life balance with his ear so close to the ground as a leader? [29:55] What Patrick sees as the single most important characteristic to have as a leader. [32:22] The importance of having integrity as a leader. [33:45] What success looks like for Patrick both personally and with Sonos. [35:14] Patrick’s thoughts on ‘The Great Resignation.’ [37:52] Patrick shares his final words of wisdom and inspiration. [38:55] Thanking Patrick for joining us in this episode!   Mentioned in this Episode: Patrick Spence’s LinkedIn Sonos   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management.   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: GinnyClarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

Today we are joined by yet another incredibly fascinating leader — Bill Nottingham! Bill is the Managing Partner and Vice President of Growth for Nottingham Spirk. He is also a member of numerous boards, professional associations, and is a speaker and a thought leader on all things innovation.   His family’s business, Nottingham Spirk, is an organization that was founded in 1972 and is one of the world’s longest-standing private innovation companies. As a firm, their mission is to improve lives throughout the world through innovative product solutions and even saving lives through breakthrough biomedical devices. This organization is truly a little-known gem that has contributed to the world in some really big ways.   In this episode, Bill shares about all of the cool stuff his organization has developed, the nature of his work, what leadership means to him, how they nurture and promote DEI at NS, how the pandemic has shifted the way that Bill and NS operate, and key lessons he has learned throughout his career.   Key Takeaways: [:51] About today’s episode with Bill Nottingham. [1:52] Welcoming Bill to the Fifth Dimensional Leadership podcast! [2:05] How Bill and I originally met through a mutual friend. [2:21] How and why Bill became a part of his family business, Nottingham Spirk. [5:30] What Nottingham Spirk does. [8:24] Bill’s experience with being a part of the second generation in his family’s business and the experiences that led him to be a part of it. [12:07] How did Bill’s leadership evolve? What was the process like when he first began at Nottingham Spirk? [16:21] Why large companies seek Nottingham Spirk to innovate and disrupt. [17:40] How has the process of innovation changed at Nottingham Spirk since COVID-19? And what has the pandemic taught us from both a leadership lens and a societal lens? [21:20] How being on several boards and a part of various professional associations impacts Bill’s leadership at Nottingham Spirk. [23:54] How Bill cultivates relationships as the VP of Growth at Nottingham Spirk. [24:17] What DEI means to Bill personally as an owner of a business that helps to create innovative products and solutions. [28:55] Bill highlights one of the greatest silver linings that came out of the pandemic. [32:02] How have supply chain issues from the pandemic impacted Bill and his work? [33:55] How Bill’s mindset and philosophies maintain his creative focus and inform how he leads. [36:57] Bill shares some parting words of inspiration  [39:46] Thanking Bill for joining the podcast!   Mentioned in this Episode: Bill Nottingham’s LinkedIn Nottingham Spirk Your Network Is Your Net Worth: Unlock the Hidden Power of Connections for Wealth, Success, and Happiness in the Digital Age, by Porter Gale   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management.   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: GinnyClarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

This week, I am once again reunited with my co-host and collaborator, Jackson Best to dive back into part II of our conversation on the 5 leadership essentials that all leaders should have going into the future of work.   In the previous episode, we explored three out of five must-have qualities that leaders should have as they are leading their organizations, teams, and employees through and beyond the pandemic. In this episode, we’re exploring the final two must-haves (and perhaps the most important): acting with integrity and maintaining a talent mindset. And, as a bonus, make sure to stay tuned until the end as we throw in one extra must-have quality that you need to have on your radar to future-proof yourself as a leader!   There were so many invaluable nuggets of wisdom in this episode so be sure to tune in!   Key Takeaways: [:50] Reuniting with Jackson Best for part II of our conversation! [1:44] Jackson provides a recap of the previous episode. [4:55] Our 4th leadership must-have: acting with integrity. [6:58] Are our leaders today acting with integrity? What does integrity really mean? [9:01] Themes of integrity. [9:45] The forms that fear can take in the workplace, and what leaders can do to overcome these fears and maintain integrity. [14:13] How fear can permeate an organization’s culture and create a toxic environment. [19:10] How to regain trust as a leader. [22:08] Our 5th leadership must-have: maintaining a talent mindset. [22:41] Why it is so critical to maintain an open talent mindset. [26:45] Discussing the concept of the ghost economy. [28:37] All talent matters (and what you can do to show that in your organization.) [29:11] The value of optimizing talent. [34:18] Our bonus leadership must-have (that will be critical for all leaders going forward!) [37:45] How to get in touch with me for personal consulting. [38:57] Closing out the show.   Mentioned in this Episode: Fifth Dimensional Leadership Ep. 32: “The Future of Work: 5 Leadership Essentials - Part I” (Previous Episode) Jack Welch Ghost Work: How to Stop Silicon Valley from Building a New Global Underclass, by Mary L. Gray and Siddharth Suri Ginny@GinnyClarke.com  Ginny Clarke on Leading Authorities   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management.   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: GinnyClarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

Today I am joined by my co-host and collaborator, Jackson Best, to take a deep dive into the future of work!   In our conversation together, we are exploring three (out of five) of our must-have qualities that leaders should have as they are leading their organizations, teams, and employees through and beyond the pandemic. More than ever before, we have an opportunity to rethink and rework the old ways of how we operate within organizations. If there has been a silver lining to this pandemic, it is the opportunity to change how we have always done things in the workplace going forward and make real, impactful change.   In this episode, Jackson and I discuss the important mindset shifts and behaviors that leaders need to begin adopting if they want things to change; what leaders can do to move their organizations through and beyond the pandemic; how to lead in a clear-minded, empathetic, and compassionate way; why mental health and consciousness are critical components to communicating with care as a leader; and the essential ingredients for leaders to lead effectively.   And be sure to tune in next week, for part two of this episode as we explore the final two must-haves for leaders!   Key Takeaways: [:50] About today’s episode with Jackson Best. [2:18] Welcoming Jackson back to the podcast! [3:13] More about today’s conversation. [4:24] Jackson and I catch up with one another! [9:26] The 1st must-have for leaders as we come out of the pandemic: leading with mental health and consciousness first. [13:35] How we are seeing leaders modeling behaviors of empathy and compassion. [14:25] What you can do as a leader to expand your awareness and consciousness. [18:38] Surviving vs. Thriving and the impact it has on you and your organization. [20:13] Reading an important quote from Steve Jobs: ‘I began to realize that an intuitive understanding and consciousness was more significant than abstract thinking and intellectual, logical analysis. Intuition is a very powerful thing. More powerful than intellect in my opinion.’ [21:39] Our 2nd must-have for leaders: being decisive. [25:49] The importance of having integrity and accountability as a leader. [26:56] The impact that indecision has on our employees, especially those that are underrepresented. [30:44] Why this is currently a rare opportunity for businesses and leaders to bring in innovative voices. [32:52] Now is the time to address the cracks in your organization as a leader. [36:30] Our 3rd must-have for leaders: communicating with care. [38:26] The art of storytelling and why it is so critical for leaders to master. [39:00] Why effective communication is a signal of respect for your audience. [40:00] Why it is important that the next generation of leaders must be able to assimilate multiple information streams and quickly pivot and adapt their message to the audience. [43:05] Why it is so critical as a leader to be in tune and conscious of what’s going on around you and within you to show up in an authentic, meaningful way. [46:03] The value of apprenticeship. [47:03] Summarizing our three key must-haves. [48:14] Be sure to tune in to the next episode to find out our final two must-haves!   Mentioned in this Episode: A Whole New Mind: Why Right-Brainers Will Rule the Future, by Daniel H. Pink   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management.   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: GinnyClarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

Today we are joined by another fascinating guest — Yvonne Wassenaar!   For the last 30 years, Yvonne has advised leaders on scaling, diversifying, and transforming their businesses globally. Currently, she is the CEO of Puppet; an infrastructure automation company that is eliminating soul-crushing work and empowering fearless and open innovation! Yvonne is also on the Board of Directors for Anaplan, Forrester (FORR), and Harvey Mudd College. Previously, she served as a Board Director for Airware, MuleSoft, Bitium, and the Athena Alliance. Some of her past executive roles include being the COO and CEO of Airware, CIO of New Relic, Office of the CXO at VMWare, and a Partner at Accenture where she began her career as a Software Engineer.   Above all else, Yvonne champions modern technologies for driving a safer, more efficient, and innovative planet. In today’s conversation, Yvonne shares her passion for modern technology (and the diversity we need to be seeing in the leadership roles behind it), lessons she learned over the course of the COVID pandemic, advice and insights around taking risks and nurturing your network, and all about her incredible career journey.   Key Takeaways: [:50] About today’s episode with Yvonne Wassenaar. [1:48] Welcoming Yvonne to the podcast. [2:00] Yvonne shares about her career journey and what led her to where she is today. [9:27] Yvonne shares about the challenging career transition of going from professional services to being an operator. [16:42] All about Puppet, the company that Yvonne is the CEO of. [20:44] What Yvonne learned about herself during the COVID pandemic. [26:42] Yvonne highlights some important changes that she wants to see for women in tech and diversity in the workplace in general. [31:36] Why Yvonne’s service on Corporate Boards is important to her and her company. [34:58] Yvonne shares some final words of wisdom for listeners on the theme of taking risks and nurturing your network. [37:24] Thanking Yvonne for joining the podcast and sharing her invaluable insights!   Mentioned in this Episode: Puppet Yvonne Wassenaar’s LinkedIn Anaplan Forrester (FORR) Harvey Mudd College Career Mapping: Charting Your Course in the New World of Work, by Ginny Clarke   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: GinnyClarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

Today I am joined by a woman with an incredible mission — Meggie Palmer! Meggie’s mission is to close the gender pay gap and leadership gap.   Meggie is a speaker, journalist, and the founder and CEO of PepTalkHer; an incredible organization that is empowering women all around the globe. They run corporate programming to help with learning and development training, helping women supercharge their careers through online courses, and more. They also have an amazing app that helps female entrepreneurs track success, build confidence, and better negotiate. Throughout her career, Meggie has worked for the likes of Vogue, Forbes, Marie Claire, BBC World, CNBC, Dateline, and NBC — just to name a few!   In today’s conversation, Meggie addresses the gender pay gap, what causes it, and what we can do about it. She shares personal stories from her own career, the key challenges she has overcome, the lessons she has learned, and enlightening moments of overcoming self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Meggie also gives advice around social media (and not let it negatively impact your psyche), how to become aware of imposter syndrome (in both yourself and others), and how to take courageous leaps of faith in your career.   Key Takeaways: [:50] About today’s episode with Meggie Palmer! [1:40] Welcoming Meggie to the podcast. [1:50] What Meggie is doing now, what brought her to the place she is today, and why she transitioned from a career in journalism to entrepreneurship. [5:08] The impact of the gender pay gap and what causes it. [8:13] How Meggie’s app, PepTalkHer, addresses the gender pay gap and helps aid women in having these difficult conversations around pay and gender bias. [13:25] Meggie outlines the best way to address these issues around the gender pay gap. [17:35] Meggie shares a personal story on her experience with imposter syndrome and it was an enlightening moment in overcoming self-doubts. [25:00] The rise of social media and the impact it has on comparing yourself to others. [26:03] From journalism to entrepreneurship from an employee to an employer and leader. [29:40] Meggie’s advice on how to combat negative self-talk. [32:55] How to stay top of mind in your company’s management or leadership through the method of the ‘FYI only’ email. [36:16] Why it is important to be aware of imposter syndrome (even if you don’t experience it yourself). [37:17] Meggie highlights other important aspects of imposter syndrome. [38:23] Skills and competencies that Meggie has developed as an entrepreneur, a leader, and an advocate for the people that she’s seeking to serve. [43:20] Meggie’s words of wisdom and encouragement for listeners of Fifth Dimensional Leadership. [45:58] Thanking Meggie for joining the podcast!   Mentioned in this Episode: Meggie Palmer PepTalkHer Career Level Up | PepTalkHer 16Personalities Gallup StrengthsFinder   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: GinnyClarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

Today I am joined by an incredibly fascinating guest, Ted Osius. Ted is a retired Ambassador to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. He spent many years with the Department of State and is known as a diplomat. He is a professor, author, and most recently, was the Google Vice President of Government Affairs and Public Policy for Asia-Pacific.   Ted has an underlying belief that international diplomacy can create a better world which has fueled his passion throughout his career. In this episode, he shares stories that illustrate this belief, takes us through the journey of his illustrious career, catches us up to the current state of affairs with Vietnam, and details about his upcoming book, Nothing is Impossible: America’s Reconciliation with Vietnam.    Ted also speaks about the critical component to being a great leader, the qualities that make a great diplomat, how his leadership style has evolved over the years, his experience in transitioning from a career as a public servant to working for a technology company, how to build a culture of inclusion, and advice for fellow leaders looking to make waves.   “That’s the art of diplomacy; it’s taking what you’ve learned and creating action that brings people together.” — Ted Osius   Key Takeaways: [:50] About today’s episode with Ted Osius. [1:33] Welcoming Ted to the podcast! [1:44] What led Ted to become a diplomat. [3:02] How did Ted get his start in working for the government? [5:23] About Ted’s upcoming book, Nothing is Impossible, where to find it outline, and when it will be available. [8:48] Ted brings listeners up to speed on Vietnam and how the country is currently fairing socially, economically, and politically. [12:20] Ted defines diplomacy and elaborates on his underlying belief that international diplomacy can create a better world. [15:17] When did Ted consider himself a leader? [18:22] Ted shares about his transition from working as a public servant for the government to working with Google. [21:43] Has Ted’s leadership style evolved throughout his career? If so, how? [24:17] What does it really mean to “have someone’s back” as a leader? What does that look like? [27:34] Why trust and safety are so essential in building a culture of inclusion. [28:46] Ted’s thoughts on the role of a parent in a child’s life and his own experience with being home with his family during COVID and what that meant to him. [31:10] Ted’s journey as a gay man, in an interracial marriage, working in countries that may not have the same views that we do in the United States. [37:33] Ted’s words of wisdom and inspiration for listeners of the podcast. [39:46] Thanking Ted for joining the podcast and sharing his incredible insights!   Mentioned in this Episode: Ted Osius Fifth Dimensional Leadership Ep. 9: “Talking Tough Love and Leadership with Ambassador Susan Rice” Nothing is Impossible: America’s Reconciliation with Vietnam, by Ted Osius Pete Peterson   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: GinnyClarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

Today, we are joined by an extraordinary woman who has written an extraordinary book!  Carole Robin was the Dorothy J. King Lecturer in Leadership at Stanford's Graduate School of Business where she helped to further develop the Interpersonal Dynamics Course including co-developing the Executive version. She also became the Director of the Arbuckle Leadership Fellows Program. Carole is known as the Queen of ‘Touchy Feely,’ and received the MBA Distinguished Teaching Award and the Silver Apple award for contributions to alumni programming. When she retired in 2017, a scholarship was established in her name.    In our conversation, Carole speaks about what makes an exceptional leader; key takeaways from her book, Connect; how to strengthen your interpersonal relationships; give (and receive) better feedback; why interpersonal skills are so incredibly important and impactful in all areas of your life (from your home to your workplace); and how you can take charge as a leader. Carole provides so many incredible insights in this episode that are not to be missed.   Key Takeaways: [:50] About today’s episode with Carole Robin! [2:00] Welcoming Carole to the podcast! [3:03] Carole shares her personal and professional journey, as well as one of the biggest epiphanies she ever had. [16:25] Bringing us to the present day, Carole speaks about starting up Leaders in Tech, a 1-year, all expenses paid program for leaders of high-growth tech companies. [18:46] How Carole and her collaborator, David Bradford, came together to write their book, Connect. [21:45] Carole explains her favorite acronym: AFOG (Another F*cking Opportunity Growth). [25:30] Carole shares the main mission and purpose that their book aims to address. [29:18] What to do if you really want to learn how to connect with somebody else. [32:30] The biggest takeaway that leaders can take away from Connect. [32:55] Why it is so hard to stand up for yourself and your team, why we experience bad outcomes, how to better receive feedback, and how to give more effective feedback. [37:27] Why are organizations not holding leaders accountable for giving and receiving feedback? What does it look like when organizations do work toward building a healthy culture? Why is feedback so incredibly beneficial to creating a healthy culture? [42:35] Why it is incumbent on leaders to start the dialogue around giving and receiving feedback. [44:03] Carole’s take on why the DEI conversation seems to be lost in translation for so many companies and what we can do better to begin this conversation in the workplace. [47:19] Carole shares a lesson and story from her book, Connect, on why every relationship cannot get to ‘exceptional,’ even if you may want it to. [50:09] Did Carole’s relationship with her mother fuel her passion around her work in interpersonal relationships? [51:35] Carole shares parting thoughts and words of wisdom for listeners on being a good leader and building interpersonal relationships. [52:17] Where to find Carole and her book online! [53:12] Thanking Carole for joining the podcast. Mentioned in this Episode: Connect: Building Exceptional Relationships with Family, Friends, and Colleagues, by David Bradford and Carole Robin Carole Robin’s LinkedIn Leaders in Tech ConnectandRelate.com — Visit for a free assessment, free resources, and to order Carole’s book!   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: GinnyClarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

Yet another amazing guest is joining Ginny Clarke this week! Rishad Tobaccowala is an advisor, author, educator, and speaker with four decades of leadership experience in change, innovation, and reinvention. He has been named as one of the top five marketing innovators by Time and also serves as a thought provocateur, pragmatic guide, and empathetic advisor to those in senior management.   His newest book came out just this last year and is called, Restoring the Soul of Business: Staying Human in the Age of Data. It is an absolute must-read on what every organization can and should be implementing in this day and age.   In this conversation, Rishad speaks about how the hidden key to successful transformation in any organization lies between human intuition and data-driven insights; shares his stories of transitioning, pivoting, and adapting; important lessons from his new book; and his advice to both senior leaders and Gen Zrs alike on what they can do to build their personal brand and claim agency.   Key Takeaways: [:50] About today’s episode with Rishad Tobaccowala. [1:30] Ginny welcomes Rishad to the podcast! [1:40] How Ginny became acquainted with Rishad. [2:00] Rishad shares about his background in India, how he got to where he is today, and how he came to write his book, Restoring the Soul of Business. [8:00] Where does Rishad get the inspiration for his thought pieces? What goes into writing them? [11:29] About Rishad’s incredible foundation, The Tobaccowala Foundation. [16:16] Rishad shares about his 40-year career in a multi-faceted business. [20:27] The main mission and vision of Rishad’s book, its key lessons, and what separates it from other business books. [23:44] Rishad highlights key lessons from chapter 7 on the themes of mastery, autonomy, purpose, and talent. [28:49] How Rishad’s book speaks to COVID. [31:15] Rishad explains what it means to have a personal brand and what is really underneath ‘the hood’ of someone’s brand. [36:29] How reputation comes into play with your brand. [37:25] Rishad’s advice for millennials and gen Zers for building their personal brand and claim agency. [43:21] What Rishad is seeing for the future of returning to work post-COVID. [53:23] Where to find Rishad online. [54:43] Ginny thanks Rishad for joining the podcast! Mentioned in this Episode: Rishad Tobaccowala The Tobaccowa Foundation Restoring the Soul of Business: Staying Human in the Age of Data, by Rishad Tobaccowala Daniel PinkRishad.Substack.com   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: GinnyClarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

Today I am joined by yet another amazing guest — Leslie Ehm! Leslie is a former TV host and advertising Creative Director. She has spent decades with her award-winning training company, Combustion, where she has worked with top organizations including Google, TD Bank, Uber, HBO, and many more. Leslie’s mission in life is to help people unleash their most powerful, authentic human self and help them overcome any doubts standing in their way.   Most recently, Leslie has written a book called, Swagger: Unleash Everything You Are and Become Everything You Want. It was just published in May of this year and is a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Amazon #1 Bestseller! If you have struggled with taking charge of your life, overcoming self-doubts, and moving into your personal power to achieve the incredible success that you’ve only dreamed of — you won’t want to miss out on this insightful conversation with Leslie! Leslie shares the keys to swagger, what it looks like to speak your truth in a meaningful and impactful way, how to maintain your swagger even if your environment is working against you, the mindset shifts leaders need to be aware of to lead in a healthy way, how to take your power back, set boundaries, and the defining characteristics of what make a great leader.   Key Takeaways: [:50] About today’s episode with Leslie Ehm. [1:56] Welcoming Leslie Ehm to Fifth Dimensional Leadership. [2:49] Leslie shares her personal and professional journey. [9:42] Leslie speaks about discovering her superpowers and how she leverages them. [11:37] How does Leslie coach or help those who are not ready to show up as themselves or ‘be seen?’ [14:40] How did Leslie land on the word ‘swagger’ for her book? [16:50] Leslie shares an anecdote from her book, Swagger, on what it can look like to speak your truth. [19:56] How Leslie helps people maintain their swagger when they have to return to their not-so-healthy work environment. [25:33] Are there differences in how swagger is displayed depending on a person’s gender? [29:37] Why it is so important that leaders within organizations build trust with those they work with. [32:38] Has COVID shifted the mindsets of senior leaders around reassessing how people are doing work? [36:04] Will the lessons we’ve learned and the new ways of working we’ve adapted to during COVID stick? [37:32] Discussing our hopes for organizations in reassessing the criteria for which they’re hiring leaders. [39:44] The power in realizing the choice that you have. [40:24] Leslie highlights key takeaways in taking your power back, believing in yourself, and setting healthy boundaries. [41:47] Is ‘badass’ and ‘swagger’ synonymous? [44:27] Leslie’s analogy for validation and the difference between external vs. international validation. [49:29] What Leslie believes to be the single defining characteristic of a great leader. [52:08] Leslie leaves some parting words of wisdom for listeners. [53:35] Why it’s not about being your “best self” but falling in love with who you are — flaws and all. [54:10] Thanking Leslie for joining the podcast and sharing her insights!   Mentioned in this Episode: Leslie Ehm Swagger: Unleash Everything You Are and Become Everything You Want, by Leslie Ehm Combustion The Self-Employed Life: Business and Personal Development Strategies That Create Sustainable Success, by Jeffrey Shaw   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: GinnyClarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

Jay Guilford has a very interesting background. He once worked with a bunch of clowns — literally. A few years ago, he ran away with Cirque du Soleil where he created their corporate training program called Spark. With Spark, Jay challenged corporate leaders to collaborate, communicate, and tap into their creative potential by working with Cirque performers on Cirque du Soleil stages!   Jay considers himself a cultural refugee, having migrated from the inner city to the ivy league. After sparking (pun-intended) the creative insights of many corporate teams at Cirque, Jay ran away once again to found CoWorks Leadership Strategists, a consulting firm specializing in leadership training, team building, and talent optimization.   As a former and reformed ‘bully boss,’ Jay personally understands how a leader can slide down the slippery slope of workplace toxicity — which is the focus of today’s episode! Jay shares how to begin addressing and remedying a toxic workplace as a leader, personal experiences and lessons learned from both sides of the coin of workplace bullying, and the importance of taking swift action when it comes to a hostile workplace environment.   Key Takeaways: [:50] Welcoming Jay Guilford to the podcast! [1:07] About Jay Guilford. [2:38] Jay shares what got him started on the path that has led him to where he is today. [4:58] How did Jay earn the title ‘the Boss whisperer?’ [7:57] How did Jay make the connection between a contemporary circus and corporate training events? How did he come up with the idea for Spark? [11:11] Jay defines workplace toxicity and outlines what the behaviors look like. [15:52] How to begin addressing and remedying a toxic workplace. [18:52] The importance of taking swift action when it comes to a toxic workplace. [21:54] Jay shares his experiences of being bullied in his workplace, what he learned from it, and how he addressed it head-on. [26:37] Sharing a personal experience of workplace hostility, what it taught me, and how I addressed it. [28:14] The importance of setting boundaries in the workplace (especially with those higher up in the hierarchy). [28:50] Jay shares his experience as a former (and reformed) bully boss and how he came to realize he was part of the problem. [32:22] Jay speaks to the five dimensions of leadership and shares what he believes are the most important qualities of a leader. [35:08] Jay shares some final words of wisdom for leaders in 2021. [38:02] Should you call out toxic behavior in the workplace? Jay offers some tips and advice to leaders on addressing a toxic work environment. [39:02] Giving thanks to Jay for joining the podcast!   Mentioned in this Episode: Jay Guilford Cirque du Soleil CoWorks Leadership Strategists Fifth Dimensional Leadership Ep. 23: “‘The Attributes:’ Leadership Lessons from Former Navy SEAL, Rich Diviney”   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: GinnyClarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

Another Fifth Dimensional Leadership episode, another fantastic guest! Today we are joined by an extraordinary leader, Jason Fischer; the President of Enterprise and Advisory at UL. Jason leads UL’s SaaS and Advisory business, connecting data and science to protect customer value chains by enhancing product quality, optimizing supply chains, and advancing enterprise sustainability.   As a global organization, UL works to help customers, purchasers, and policymakers navigate market risk and complexity. They build trust in the safety, security, and sustainability of products, organizations, and supply chains — enabling smarter choices and better lives.    In this episode, Jason Fischer shares about his career background, UL, how he has evolved as a leader over the years, how he has been deliberate in his learning, and key lessons he has learned in establishing himself as a leader. He also shares his leadership philosophy, what a day for him and his team looks like at UL, invaluable leadership advice, his hopes and predictions for the future, and how he helps foster an organizational culture that allows people to speak their truth.   Key Takeaways: [:50] About today’s episode with Jason Fischer. [1:28] Welcoming Jason to the podcast! [1:52] Jason explains his role at UL. [2:53] The history of UL and how it has evolved over the years. [5:42] Jason shares where UL is headed overall as a company. [7:39] Jason speaks about his career background, the lessons he has learned, and how he made his way to UL. [10:58] The importance of the apprenticeship model and how it accelerates learning and growth. [13:47] What Jason has learned as a leader and how he established himself as a leader. [16:39] Jason speaks about the tendencies (or triggers) that have steered him off course and how he got himself back on track. He also gives advice to fellow leaders who may have found themselves also steered off course. [19:38] The importance of understanding your team dynamic to create a well-balanced team. [22:03] One of the five dimensions of leadership is ‘speak your truth.’ How does Jason, as a leader, foster an organizational culture that allows people to speak their truth? [25:00] Jason shares his leadership philosophy. [26:46] What is on the horizon for UL as a global organization? What does Jason see happening in the next five years? [28:15] Jason explains the various elements of the supply chain. [30:22] Jason speaks about his and his team’s day-to-day at UL, as well as the importance of investing in your team and pushing your comfort zone. [34:37] What are the capabilities that Jason looks for in other leaders? What qualities does he want as a part of his team? And will these skills be different five years from now than they are today? [36:42] Jason shares his hopes for the future when it comes to technology advancing paired with the uniquely human skills (of emotions and subjectivity). [38:17] Jason’s parting thoughts, wisdom, advice, and hope to fellow leaders. [39:38] Thanking Jason for joining us today!   Mentioned in this Episode: Jason Fischer’s LinkedIn UL Mindset: The New Psychology of Success, by Carol S. Dweck   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: GinnyClarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

Today we are joined by yet another fascinating guest, Rich Diviney! Rich is a retired Navy SEAL commander with over 20+ years of experience. He has completed more than 13 overseas deployments, 11 of which were to Iraq and Afghanistan. As the officer in charge of training for a specialized command, he spearheaded the creation of a directorate that fused physical, mental, and emotional disciplines. He led a small team first-ever "Mind Gym" that helped special operators train their brains to perform faster, longer, and better in all environments — especially high-stress ones. Since his retirement in early 2017, Rich has worked as a speaker, facilitator, and consultant with the Chapman & Co. Leadership Institute and Simon Sinek Inc. He's taught about leadership and optimal performance to more than five thousand business, athletic, and military leaders from organizations such as American Airlines, Meijer Inc., the San Francisco 49ers, Pegasystems, Zoom, and Deloitte.    Recently, Rich wrote the book, The Attributes: 25 Hidden Drivers of Optimal Performance, which came out in January 2021. In it, he defines the core attributes that determine how resilient, perseverant, situationally aware, and conscientious we are. These attributes explain how we performed as individuals and as part of a team.   In our conversation together today, Rich explains what these attributes are, how understanding your own attributes (and those of the people around you) can create optimal performance in all areas of your life, the difference between peak performance and optimal performance, the key characteristics of a great leader, and the most important attributes to assess when hiring for leadership positions.   Key Takeaways: [:50] About today’s episode with Rich Diviney! [2:35] Rich defines what he means when he says ‘attributes’. [4:41] How and why Rich became interested in discerning what these core attributes are throughout his military career. [9:56] Rich expands on a sentiment from his book: “Leadership is a behavior. A leader is responsible for the development, growth, and success of the people in their charge.” [11:30] How to determine if a behavior is a skill or an attribute — and why that’s important. [12:39] The key differences between peak performance and optimal performance. [16:27] Is grit the same as resilience? [17:21] How companies are adapting their hiring criteria to understand and assess these core attributes. [22:55] The differences between competencies and attributes, and what Rich means by ‘unconsciously competent.’ [25:22] Rich elaborates on how important it is to evaluate someone’s domain expertise as well as their leadership competencies when considering having them take on a leadership role. [31:01] What is ‘unconscious competence?’ And the four levels of learning. [33:55] Why Rich sees authenticity as the single most-defining characteristic or attribute of a great leader. [37:38] What I see as the most important attribute when I’m assessing leaders: self-awareness. [38:00] Why narcissism isn’t entirely bad and can actually be a driver to optimal performance. [42:39] Key characteristics that are especially important now amongst leaders in this COVID era. [46:07] What Rich sees as the biggest impediments to companies not hiring underrepresented individuals into their organization. [50:01] What Rich wants to continue to learn and experience to enhance his mastery. [52:47] Thanking Rich Diviney for joining us in this episode and where to find him and his book online!   Mentioned in this Episode: Rich Diviney The Attributes: 25 Hidden Drivers of Optimal Performance, by Rich Diviney Antifragile: Things That Gain from Disorder, by Nassim Nicholas Taleb   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: GinnyClarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

Today, we are joined by an extraordinary woman, Alana Karen. Alana has spent the last 19 years at Google, she started in an online sales role, moved into a Director role at Google Fiber (later known as Access), and is currently a Director working in the Search Platforms area. Other than a few years here and there, Alana has spent the majority of her career with Google. An interesting fact about Alana is that she received her Bachelor’s Degree in History… and ended up in tech! She has also written an amazing called, The Adventures of Women in Tech: How We Got Here and Why We Stay.   We cover so much ground in our conversation together today! We take a deep dive into Alana’s career journey at Google; the genesis and motivation behind her book, The Adventures of Women in Tech; key lessons she has learned through being a female leader; and the lessons she has learned from other inspirational female leaders in interviewing them for her book.   Alana shares her reaction to the impact of COVID on women in the workplace, her predictions on what she believes is possible for women in tech in the future, and her insights on the 2018 Google walkout that made headlines. She also offers some incredibly invaluable advice and key takeaways around stepping up as a female leader, quieting the voice inside your head that tells you you can’t, and how to build a support system around you.   Key Takeaways: [:50] About today’s episode! [1:45] Welcoming Alana Karen to the podcast. [1:54] How Alana and I first met. [2:10] Alana shares about her upbringing and how she made her way into tech. [7:26] How has Alana made some of her career moves? Does she have a certain strategy or mindset that she is leveraging? [14:07] Alana shares more about her career journey. [20:33] Alana explains the distinction between being a manager vs. a leader. [25:00] Did being a mother of multiple children influence Alana’s perspective as a leader?[28:04] The genesis of Alana’s book, The Adventures of Women in Tech: How We Got Here and Why We Stay. [33:21] Alana speaks about the women that she interviewed for her book and what the process was like. [35:11] Alana highlights some of the key themes that emerged that she had not originally anticipated as the book was coming together. [38:02] Alana shares her insights on the 2018 Google walkout that made headlines. [42:05] Alana shares about another Google controversy that occurred while she was promoting her book. [43:07] What is it about tech that makes it so unique that we need to have these types of conversations? [48:39] Alana shares her reaction to the impact of COVID on women in the workplace and her predictions on what she believes is possible in the future. [52:27] Alana leaves women listening to the podcast with some advice and women. [55:07] Thanking Alana for joining the podcast and for writing an amazing book!   Mentioned in this Episode: Alana Karen’s LinkedIn The Adventures of Women in Tech: How We Got Here and Why We Stay, by Alana Karen “Google Walkout: Employees Stage Protest Over Handling of Sexual Harassment,” The New York Times “Google Faces Internal Backlash Over Handling of Sexual Harassment,” The New York Times   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: GinnyClarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

Today I am joined by a truly inspiring leader, Gerald Chertavian. Gerald is the founder & CEO of Year Up, a non-profit organization that is dedicated to closing the skills gap for thousands of young adults across the country. Since 2000, Year Up has served over 24,000 students across 25 cities nationwide. Prior to Year Up, Gerald was a successful technology entrepreneur and Wall Street banker.   Through a powerful experience in the Big Brother program, Gerald witnessed the disparities, inequities, and challenges that so many young people outside of the economic mainstream face every day. This inspired him to create Year Up and dedicate his life and business expertise to closing the opportunity gap that is so prevalent in today’s society.   In our conversation today, Gerald shares impactful stories that he has experienced through the Big Brother program; the incredible, transformative work he is doing now with Year Up; how to teach, enable, and support companies and leaders in hiring equitably; how to make a real impact on hiring and retention practices; and how to impart empathy and inspire love to all of those around you. This is a not-to-miss conversation with Gerald and I cannot wait for all of you to hear his powerful words of wisdom.   “Racism isn’t the shark; it’s the water. We all live in the water [and] we’ve absorbed the toxins that already exist in that water. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could liberate ourselves; all of us — white people included — from those toxins?” — Gerald Chertavian   Key Takeaways: [:50] About today’s episode with a truly inspiring guest, [2:04] Welcoming Gerald to Fifth Dimensional Leadership! [2:20] Gerald shares his journey in, and inspiration for, forming Year Up. [5:30] Gerald shares some impactful stories that he experienced with David, his little brother in the Big Brother program, that shed light on the injustices that minorities face each and every day. [9:05] Gerald shares about Year Up, their mission, and how the program participants have been doing during the Black Lives Matter movement and the pandemic. He also shares his hopes for the future of the world and Year Up. [12:25] More about the transformational and amazing work Gerald is doing through Year Up. [16:38] Discussing the importance of hiring for skills not school, high expectations, and the soft bigotry of low expectations. [19:15] What we can do to help companies hire for skills and not schools and for determination; not degrees. [21:19] How Year Up works with big companies to teach, enable, and support them in hiring equitably. [22:05] The essence of leadership and the key pieces of making a real impact on hiring and retention practices to become more equitable and inclusive. [27:20] Gerald shares his insights on how we impart empathy and inspire love. He also shares what they are doing at Year Up to inspire love. [31:48] Why white people also need to liberate themselves from racism. [36:54] Gerald shares some parting words of wisdom and advice for leaders. [39:11] Thanking Gerald for joining the Fifth Dimensional Leadership podcast!   Mentioned in this Episode: Year Up Grads of Life Big Brothers Big Sisters Racial Equity Institute   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: GinnyClarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

Today we’re trying out a different format on the Fifth Dimensional Leadership podcast and are joined by two leaders that are both early in their careers! This conversation is all about the generation of today. We’re talking college, what a young person thinks about their career path going into college today, whether or not college holds the same importance today, advice and insights around networking and mentorship, tips for those entering their first job, and what success looks like to the early-career leaders of today.   I am very excited to be joined in this conversation by two incredible young people that I know personally — Jessica Chang, and my son, Julian Clarke Mowatt. I first met Jess when she worked with me while I was at Google as part of my Internal Mobility team. She attended U.C. Berkely and went on to work for Teach for America. Currently, she continues to work for Google. My son, Julian, attended the University of Southern California and graduated with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration and Management with a minor in the School of Cinematic Arts. His passion lies in working in the entertainment industry. He first worked for WME out of college as a Floating and currently holds the position of Executive Assistant to filmmaker and actor, Kevin Smith.   This conversation is impactful for all generations. If you are a leader of my generation, you may find it particularly insightful as a parent of young folks going into college. We truly can learn a lot from the current generation’s ideas around what leadership needs to look like. I hope you’ll join me in listening to these two quick-witted early-career leaders.   Key Takeaways: [:50] About this episode’s new format and conversation with Jess and Julian. [2:30] Welcoming Jess and Julian to the podcast! [2:34] Jess introduces herself and shares about her education, career background, and passions. [3:27] Julian introduces himself and shares about his education, career background, and passions. [4:18] From a career standpoint, what was Jess thinking about when she was first thinking about going to college? [7:19] Julian shares about his upbringing and his path into college, during college, and after. [12:24] Key statistics on graduating from college and university. [13:39] Does Jess think that attending college still makes sense for people? [14:56] Julian shares his perspective on whether he believes it is still important for young people to attend college. He also shares his predictions on what the future of the college application process may look like. [17:09] Jess speaks about some of the other benefits of college. [17:57] My early dreams of going into college and the importance of using your time in college as a period of self-exploration. [19:29] Julian shares about one of his favorite classes in college, Strategic Management, and why it stood out to him. [20:12] Jess also shares her insights on the importance of self-exploration (and especially during these college years). [20:38] Jess opens up about what she looked for in a career post-college vs. what she should’ve looked for in a career, as well as what it was like for her to transition from a college student to a working professional. [22:40] Julian speaks about what some of his early work experiences were like in the entertainment industry. [26:24] The importance of networking and mentorship, and Jess’ advice on finding a good mentor and forming a good relationship. [29:20] Julian shares his insights, advice, and experiences with networking. [31:32] Jess asks: How do you make a good impression early on in your career? [33:38] How Julian approached the conversation of asking for more work at his current job. [34:47] Julian asks: What are the best methods for self-promoting and self-advocating within your current role and to potential employers? [38:32] Jess’ experience and thoughts on the importance of self-advocacy. [39:21] Julian shares advice and key insights as he reflects on his early career experiences. [41:35] The key characteristics of those who are able to let their guard down, empathy, vulnerability, and authenticity. [43:45] Talking imposter syndrome: what may be at the route of it and how to overcome it. [48:00] What does success look like to Jess? [50:41] What does success look like to Julian? [52:42] Jess shares a single piece of advice for early-career leaders. [54:27] Julian shares his one piece of advice for early-career leaders. [55:09] Jess and Julian share an additional tip for early-career leaders. [56:32] Sharing a few additional pieces of advice. [57:37] Thanking Jess and Julian for joining the Fifth Dimensional Leadership podcast!   Mentioned in this Episode: Jessica Chang Julian Clarke Mowatt Teach for America WME   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: GinnyClarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

February is Black History Month. To celebrate, we are airing a weekly four-episode series featuring exceptional African American leaders. I hope you will be inspired by these amazing leaders, just as I was, and share their stories with those you love and admire.   Joining me today is a longtime friend and someone whom I’ve always admired, Derrick Mashore. Derrick is a Senior Vice President for Advisory and Transactions Services at CBRE, the world’s largest commercial real estate services and investment firm. Over the course of his 30-year career, Derrick has been an attorney, focusing on corporate law, representing international institutions and Fortune 500 clients; an Executive Managing Director at Cushman & Wakefield; and a Managing Director at JLL. Additionally, in 2002, he founded Concordis Advisors, the largest national commercial real estate services company wholly owned and operated by minority professionals.   Having tons of experience in the business, I am thrilled to have Derrick on the podcast to share his insights and wisdom. In our conversation, Derrick speaks about diversity and inclusion in the workplace, his personal story of being a pioneer in the commercial real estate industry, how he is driving change, what a work environment can really do for productivity, and how to be a truly impactful leader.   As a voice of change, optimism, and empowerment, Derrick truly gave me a lot of hope for the future of the industry. This was a powerful conversation that I’m sure will bring you a lot of hope as well.   Key Takeaways: [:08] About this month’s special four-episode series. [1:26] About today’s episode with Derrick Mashore! [2:43] Derrick shares about what he does in his current role as Senior Vice President of CBRE. [3:46] What is a physical and metaphysical environment? How does Derrick explain this concept to his clients? [4:47] Derrick shares about his journey into the business, how and why he first got into the field, his early career, the minority gap in this industry, and what inspired him to become the kind of leader that he is today. [11:57] Reflecting on how we first met and what the environment looked like at the time. [13:22] About the genesis of Derrick’s incredible commercial real estate services company, Concordis Advisors. [15:56] Derrick reflects on the course of his career and shares what he has noticed in terms of similarities and differences with diversity and inclusion amongst the companies he has worked for and with. [20:44] Does Derrick ever get tired as a black leader? [23:24] How does Derrick think about leadership? What are some of the characteristics that we need from leaders today that we have not seen historically? What are some of the most important things you can do to be an impactful leader? [31:02] Derrick defines what metaphysical means, as well as the importance of having your physical and metaphysical space connected. [33:11] Derrick shares his predictions on the future of working from home. [36:06] How does Derrick see this companies’ investment approach changing, coming out of this COVID era? [40:24] Thanking Derrick for joining the Fifth Dimensional Leadership podcast!   Mentioned in this Episode: Derrick Mashore’s LinkedIn CBRE Concordis Advisors JLL Cushman & Wakefield Billie Jean King   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: GinnyClarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

February is Black History Month. To celebrate, we are airing a weekly four-episode series featuring exceptional African American leaders. I hope you will be inspired by these amazing leaders, just as I was, and share their stories with those you love and admire.   In today’s second episode of the series, Susan Chapman-Hughes joins us! Susan is a phenomenal woman who is currently the Executive Vice President and Global Head of Digital Capabilities, Transformation, and Operations for American Express. She was also named one of the 100 most creative people in business by Fast Company and has been recognized as one of the most influential women in payments by PaymentsSource. Additionally, Susan is the Director of JM Smucker Company, has served as a Director for Potbelly Corporation, and has served on the Board of Trustees of the National Trust for Historic Preservation and Girls Inc. As a Senior Business & Digital Transformation Executive, Susan defines and brings strategy to action to deliver results. Throughout her career, she has driven top and bottom-line performance, grown businesses, promoted efficiencies, and simplified operations at global companies.   In our conversation together, Susan inspires us with her story, her wisdom, her insights, and her dedication and authenticity in all that she does. She gives advice on how to become the best leader you can be, the key lessons that other leaders should take heed of, tangible next steps to take on elevating your leadership, the key attributes that differentiate successful leaders and CEOs from unsuccessful ones, why we need to pave the path for the leaders of tomorrow as the leaders of today, and much more.   Her powerful insights on transformational, innovative, and inspiring leadership are not to be missed. I hope you’ll join us.   “Your path is your path. If you lean hard into what’s for you, it’s going to work out. Nobody can keep you from that. And the best example you can set is one of just being yourself.” — Susan Chapman-Hughes   Key Takeaways: [:09] About this month’s special four-episode series. [1:24] About today’s episode with Susan Chapman-Hughes. [2:40] Welcoming Susan to the podcast! [3:00] Susan shares her story, how she came into the corporate world, how she discovered her passions, and what led her to work at American Express. [9:40] Susan shares some lessons that other leaders should take heed of and her best advice on the next steps to take in order to level-up. [16:50] What ELC is and how it has changed Susan’s life twice. [18:03] The big transition that Susan made from the commercial real estate world to corporate real estate, as well as being presented the opportunity of taking on a P&L role. [20:19] Susan describes the type of people-first leader she is, the lessons she learned about the grit of entrepreneurship, and the key attributes that differentiate successful leaders and CEOs from unsuccessful ones. [24:20] How to become the best leader you can be. [28:55] Why we absolutely need to pave paths for future leaders. [32:32] Susan reflects on what every big transition in her career has looked like. [33:10] Susan shares about her incredible daughter. [34:35] How Susan influenced her company’s maternity leave policy by being a vocal advocate for it. [35:58] Susan shares more about her beautiful life with her daughter and why companies need to become more flexible if they want to be competitive for talent. [37:18] Susan shares some final parting words of wisdom, looking back on the tough year we’ve all had. [38:17] Thanking Susan for all the work she has done and for sharing her wisdom on this week’s episode of Fifth Dimensional Leadership.   Mentioned in this Episode: Susan Chapman-Hughes’ LinkedIn “The Most Influential Women in Payments, 2020,” PaymentsSource Executive Leadership Council (ELC)   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: GinnyClarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

February is Black History Month. To celebrate, we are airing a weekly four-episode series featuring exceptional African American leaders. I hope you will be inspired by these amazing leaders, just as I was, and share their stories with those you love and admire.   In light of everything that went on in 2020 — from the murder of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor that sparked the Black Lives Matter Movement, to the emergence of the new, powerful voices like National Youth Poet Laureate, Amanda Gorman — I want to urge all of us to consciously lift ourselves up, and others, by focusing on all that we can be, and all we can become.   In our first episode of the series, we are joined by Jabari Hearn, an amazing marketing executive. He is the SVP of Marketing and Entertainment at Westbrook Media and the co-founder of an incredible organization that is focused on accelerating the advancement and impact of marketers of color, called Monday Night Mentorship. Previously, Jabari was a VP of Brand at Lyft, a Global Marketing Director at Google (where he launched many award-winning campaigns such as the Google Pixel 2 and 3), and a Sr. Brand Director at Nike.   In our conversation together today, Jabari speaks about his journey as a black leader in the marketing industry, the key lessons he has learned, and the wisdom he has for other leaders of color. He also shares about the exciting ventures he is currently a part of, how he has overcome struggles throughout his life and career, and his thoughts on what we can all do to propel the Black Lives Matter Movement forward and create more diversity as leaders.   Key Takeaways: [:09] About this month’s special four-episode series and today’s episode with Jabari Hearn. [1:24] Welcoming Jabari to the podcast! [2:26] Jabari shares about his career background, how he first became acquainted with the world of marketing, and how he has integrated the many passions of his life into what he is doing now. [6:18] Jabari is deeply committed to youth and understanding youth culture. He shares how this shows up in other aspects of his life today. [7:49] Jabari shares about the company he co-founded, Monday Night Mentorship, that is focused on accelerating the advancement and impact of marketers of color. [11:14] Jabari gives a shout out to his board of mentors at MNM. [11:45] Jabari speaks about the exciting opportunity he is now a part of with Will and Jada Pinkett Smith. [14:20] About Will and Jada Pinkett Smith’s new multimedia venture, Westbrook Media, and Jabari’s involvement. [18:42] Jabari shares his philosophy in life. [20:19] Sharing a principle that I believe in (that I also have tattooed on my body!) [21:14] Jabari shares about a conversation he recently had with a young candidate that felt limited by her credentials. [21:46] When did Jabari discover that he was a leader? [22:55] The two most important defining characteristics that are absolutely necessary for an impactful leader. [24:15] Can empathy be learned or is it innate? [25:18] Has Jabari ever struggled with fears or limiting beliefs throughout his career? What has he done to overcome these challenges and find support? [28:45] Where does Jabari see us going in light of the Black Lives Matter Movement? And what can we do through our communities and as leaders to continue to propel this movement forward? [31:52] What can we do at an organizational level to improve diversity and propel the BLM movement forward? What would that look like and how would that feel? [36:29] One of the five dimensions of leadership is ‘inspiring love.’ Jabari shares what inspiring love means to him. [37:57] Jabari shares some parting words of wisdom for leaders and his hopes for the future. [40:44] Thanking Jabari for joining us in this episode and taking the time to share his vision, excitement, skills, perspective!   Mentioned in this Episode: Jabari Hearn’s LinkedIn Jabari Hearn’s Twitter @MrJabariHearn Monday Night Mentorship (MNM) Westbrook Media   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: GinnyClarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

I am excited to be joined today by an utterly fascinating guest, Modupe Akinola! Modupe is an Associate Professor of Management at Columbia Business School where she also serves as the Director of Sanford C. Bernstein & Co. Center for Leadership & Ethics. Additionally, she is the host of the incredibly popular, TED Business Podcast, and has written for numerous academic journals.   What I love about Modupe is that she asked herself early in her career, ‘What are the things I’ve always loved?” And took stock. She listened to her gut, got comfortable with the uncomfortable, took a courageous leap of faith, and followed her true passion in life.   In our conversation together today, Modupe shares about the ways in which she is a leader, her philosophy in life, how she leads in the five dimensions of leadership (know yourself, expand your consciousness, speak your truth, activate your mastery, and inspire love), how she discovered her unique strengths, and what she wants the world to know as a black woman, scholar, and leader.   Key Takeaways: [:49] About today’s episode with special guest, Modupe Akinola. [1:26] Welcoming Modupe to Fifth Dimensional Leadership! [1:37] Telling the story of how Modupe and I first met. [2:32] Modupe shares her side of our first meeting. [4:05] The magic of taking action when you feel a connection with someone. [4:33] Modupe begins telling the story of her incredible journey. [10:55] The importance of listening to your gut and following your passion. [12:16] Modupe shares the ways in which she is a leader. [14:29] What does inspiring love, and leading in love, look like and mean to Modupe? [16:28] Modupe shares about her recent year-long sabbatical and what she learned from it. [20:44] We all have a choice — but it takes a lot of courage. [22:13] Modupe’s philosophy in life. [25:27] One of the five dimensions of leadership is ‘expand consciousness.’  What does consciousness mean to Modupe? How does it intersect with her philosophy in life? [27:07] The importance of being grateful and expressing gratefulness.[29:55] How did Modupe discover her strengths? [33:40] As a black woman, scholar, and leader, what does Modupe want other people to understand about race and gender around the world? [38:27] The responsibility that we also need to take as black people in order to heal. [41:16] Modupe shares about a recent interview she led with Jennifer Eberhardt on understanding and disrupting racial biases. In this interview, they also discuss this concept of ‘friction.’ Modupe shares what this means and gives some examples. [43:13] Would implementing a competency-based assessment framework when hiring, constitute friction? [44:37] Modupe shares her vision for the future and what we can do as leaders to fortify ourselves and align ourselves to be able to show up. [48:59] Thanking Modupe for joining the podcast.   Mentioned in this Episode: Modupe Akinola TED Business Podcast with Modupe Akinola Career Mapping: Charting Your Course in the New World of Work, by Ginny Clarke Ho'oponopono: The Hawaiian Forgiveness Ritual as the Key to Your Life's Fulfillment, by Ulrich E. Duprée  The Book of Ho'oponopono: The Hawaiian Practice of Forgiveness and Healing, by Luc Bodin M.D., Nathalie Bodin Lamboy, and Jean Graciet TED Business Podcast Ep: “How to Understand and Disrupt Racial Bias | Jennifer L. Eberhardt” Biased: Uncovering the Hidden Prejudice That Shapes What We See, Think, and Do, by Jennifer L. Eberhardt Ph.D.   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness, and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: GinnyClarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

Today we are joined by Tariq Shaukat, the current President for Bumble; the dating/social app!   Tariq has had some amazing experiences in the consulting world and the entertainment industry from gaming to technology. Previous to his role at Bumble, he served as the President of Google Cloud, the Chief Commercial Officer at Caesars Entertainment Corporation, and a Partner at McKinsey & Company. In addition, he is currently a Member of the Board of Trustees of Public Storage and a Member of the Board of Directors of Ellipsis Health.   In this episode, Tariq shares some of his rich stories of how he took risks and leveraged his varied experiences and competencies to become an exceptional leader and operator in some of the world's top companies. He speaks about the importance of having range and being a generalist in a specialized world, the key components of what leads to success in any industry, and some of his insights around soft networking.   This was a fascinating episode and I cannot wait for you all to tune in!   Key Takeaways: [:50] About today’s episode with Tariq Shaukat! [1:20] Welcoming Tariq to the podcast. [1:26] Tariq shares about his background, standout career highlights, and what led him to do what he does today. [6:38] Tariq shares about his early years in consulting. [7:49] Key lessons that Tariq took with him from his years in consulting into his first General Manager role. [9:25] How and why did Tariq become the Chief Commercial Officer at Caesars Entertainment Corporation? What are some of the common threads between the industries Tariq has been a part of? [14:28] Tariq has many competencies that he is able to apply across many different industries and roles regardless of not having been formally trained or having previous experiences in them. Many people have the self-limiting belief that if they don’t have the “proper experience” they shouldn’t apply to a certain role when, in actuality, your competencies are what truly matter. Tariq shares his thoughts on this topic. [17:15] The importance of having range and being a generalist in a specialized world.[18:31] Some of the downsides and challenges to being a generalist. [20:07] Tariq shares some key components of what our success is often tied up in. [23:44] About Tariq’s time as President for Google Cloud for four years. [27:10] Tariq elaborates on the geographical movies he made throughout his career and how it impacted his family. [31:03] Has Tariq’s awareness of his wife’s experiences with gender disparities and inequalities in the workforce informed his leadership decisions? [34:27] What attracted Tariq to Bumble? [38:21] The difference between a CEO and a President. [40:34] Tariq shares some final words of wisdom on soft networking. [42:57] Thanking Tariq for taking his time to share his insight and wisdom with us on Fifth Dimensional Leadership!   Mentioned in this Episode: Tariq Shaukat Bumble Crossing the Chasm: Marketing and Selling Disruptive Products to Mainstream Customers, by Geoffrey A. Moore McKinsey & Company Caesars Entertainment Corporation Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World, by David J. Epstein   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: GinnyClarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

In today’s episode, I am joined by two gentlemen, Brad Johnson and David Smith. They are both experts on gender equality in the workplace. As a sociologist and a clinical psychologist, Brad and David are both Professors and former naval officers with a mission to help men become more effective allies, accomplices, mentors, and collaborators with women to create a more inclusive workplace.   In our discussion together, Brad and David share about why and how men have a critical role in promoting gender equality at work. They give advice for men on how they can become more effective allies, how to be better collaborators with women, how to forge more equitable allyships and mentorships with underrepresented individuals, and more. They also share key insights and takeaways from their two books, Good Guys: How Men Can Be Better Allies for Women in the Workplace and Athena Rising: How and Why Men Should Mentor Women.   This is a powerful, important conversation that I highly recommend both men and women alike tune in for.   Key Takeaways: [:49] About today’s episode. [1:29] Welcoming Brad and David to the podcast! [1:39] About Brad and David’s two books, Good Guys and Athena Rising. [1:56] Brad and David introduce themselves and share what led them to write these two books. [8:54] What is gynophobia? And how is it impacting mentorship and allyship? [11:42] How is it that we haven’t expected more from our leaders in regards to gender equality in the workplace and supporting underrepresented individuals? [16:09] Brad and David share their top pieces of advice for men in being better allies for women in the workplace from their books. They break up the advice into three buckets: home, interpersonal, and public allyship. [31:44] How you can be helpful as a male mentor or ally. [36:25] How to give constructive or critical feedback to a woman as a man, without biases. [37:19] Brad and David discuss women’s intersectional identities, share some key insights, and why it is important to understand. [42:20] Advice for women and men on forging equitable allyships and mentorships. [48:29] What is Brad and David’s vision for the future of gender equality in the workplace? How long do they think it will be before we no longer have to have this conversation? What might expedite or impede this process? [52:00] Thanking Brad and David for joining the podcast!   Mentioned in this Episode: Workplace Allies Good Guys: How Men Can Be Better Allies for Women in the Workplace, by Brad Johnson and David Smith Athena Rising: How and Why Men Should Mentor Women, by Brad Johnson and David Smith   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: GinnyClarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

Happy New Year, leaders! 2021 is here at last! I think we are all ready to turn the page and move forward into the realm of pure possibility that lies ahead.   In our previous episode, we launched the ‘Activating Your Mastery Series;’ a collection of episodes dedicated to helping you realize and optimize your full potential. In that, we kicked off our two-part series, ‘Building Your Career Narrative,’ where I shared my methodology and tips for crafting a compelling, holistic narrative.   In this episode, we will be continuing the conversation with my favorite collaborator (and a master storyteller in his own right!), Jackson Best. Together, we are answering questions that you — our listeners and leaders — have posed, all about building your career narrative, as well as some questions you may have been too afraid to personally ask a recruiter! If you want to know about the most common mistakes we see people make in interviews, how to better articulate your qualifications in both your resume and in interviews, better position yourself to attract the roles that you want, and much more — stay tuned in!   Key Takeaways: [:50] About today’s episode with my favorite collaborator, Jackson Best. [1:44] Welcoming Jackson back to the podcast! [1:50] Jackson shares his thoughts and insights on the previous episode, “Building Your Career Narrative — Part I.” [3:55] The three categories of questions we will be answering in today’s podcast: getting noticed, interviewing, and recruiting in the talent landscape. [4:19] Answering our first question from the ‘getting noticed’ category: “You talked about the narrative as the being so important but we’re taught that the resume is the most important thing to get noticed. Which is true?” [6:17] Getting noticed: “Is it worth it to pay to have a resume writer?” [7:57] Getting noticed: “I have an engineering degree and have been working in technical roles for the last eight years but I’m interested in moving into a non-technical role. How can I position myself to be considered for those types of roles?” [11:13] Interviewing: “What is the most common mistake you see people make in interviews?” [14:00] Interviewing: “I’ve been in interviews where I feel like I don’t have enough time to articulate my qualifications. What should I do in that situation?” [17:05] Interviewing yay-or-nays: Summary statements on resumes, cover letters, and thank you notes to recruiters or interviewers. [20:56] Recruiting: “If I am working with a recruiter and I have not heard from them in a while, how often should I reach out to stay top of mind?”[25:25] Recruiting: “What do you think companies will be looking for in talent and leadership coming out of COVID?” [28:53] What my professional resolution is for 2021. [30:57] Jackson shares his professional resolution for 2021! [32:07] Remember: it’s your choice to make 2021 your best year yet. [32:40] Thank you for joining the podcast! We will see you next time.   Mentioned in this Episode: Jackson Best Previous Episodes of Fifth Dimensional Leadership Topgrading: The Proven Hiring and Promoting Method That Turbocharges Company Performance, by Bradford D. Smart   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: ginnyclarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

Welcome back to the podcast, leaders! As the holidays approach and we wind down for the year I hope you take the time to be kind to yourself.   In this episode, we’re starting the first part of a two-part series about building your career narrative. The biggest mistake that I see people make in planning or driving their careers is that they can’t tell their own story; they don’t have a narrative. Wherever you are in your career journey — whether you’re stable in your current role, actively seeking a new opportunity, or somewhere in-between — I invite you to join me today to invest in yourself as we move forward into 2021.   In this first part, we go over a brief history of storytelling, how to build your narrative, and why your story matters. I share the best ways to communicate your value to others, deconstruct the elements of a great narrative, and breakdown how to recognize whether your story is enabling you or blocking you from your full potential or career opportunities.   Having a cohesive, coherent, and compelling career story and being able to tell that story for different audiences in different contexts is table-stakes — or, in other words, expected. And the best news is: in this world of change and possibility, it’s one of the few variables that is entirely within your control! So let’s get to work and get your story straight.   Key Takeaways: [:50] Be sure to take the time to be kind to yourself as you wind down for this year. Honor.                                                                                         the strength, endurance, and perseverance it took to reach this truly challenging year. [2:07] The concept of liminality and how it perfectly describes where we currently all are. [3:25] The exciting part about being within these moments of liminality: we can encounter the realm of pure possibility, or, the first law of pure potentiality. [4:11] My current experience with being in this liminal state and what I am excited about going forward. [5:13] However you are experiencing your own liminal moment, I want you to experience the realm of pure possibility with me. [5:32] About today’s special episode on building your career narrative. [6:58] A brief history of storytelling and why it is so universal all around the globe. [10:05] The essential pieces of making sure your career narrative is current, crisp, and strong. [10:56] What our season 1 guest, Shellye Archambeau, can teach us about building a strong career narrative. [13:11] The first step you should take in building your narrative: build a master resume. [14:28] How to speak to the fundamentals of your story using these essential ingredients (that are a part of every story.) [16:12] How to focus and refine your narrative as you progress. [16:45] What the focus of your career narrative should be on. [16:54] What previous guest, Gotham Chopra, can teach us about the importance of being honest and vulnerable in telling your story. [19:51] Why your narrative is so vitally important. [22:12] The psychological advantages to speaking your story aloud. [24:05] The most compelling and important reason for building and sharing your story. [24:53] What my guest Dorri McWhorter taught us about the power of manifesting possibilities through sharing your story. [26:06] Closing thoughts and key lessons from the various archetypes of leaders I have encountered over the course of my career. [30:31] A summary of all that we’ve covered in this episode. [31:18] What’s to come in the next episode of this two-part series! [31:35] Be sure to tweet us or send us an email if you want your question answered in the next episode!   Mentioned in this Episode: Liminality The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success: A Practical Guide to the Fulfillment of Your Dreams, by Deepak Chopra The Hero with a Thousand Faces, by Joseph Campbell The Hero’s Journey (or, the Monomyth) Fifth Dimensional Leadership Ep. 2: “Defying the Odds: Shellye Archambeau’s Journey to Becoming Unapologetically Ambitious” Fifth Dimensional Leadership Ep. 7: “Filmmaker Gotham Chopra on Leadership and the Religion of Sports” A Whole New Mind: Why Right-Brainers Will Rule the Future, by Daniel H. PinkGestalt Therapy “What Makes Storytelling So Effective For Learning?”, by Vanessa Boris | Harvard Business Publishing Fifth Dimensional Leadership Ep. 4: “‘You Can’t Do Good Business with Bad People’: Dorri McWhorter on Creating Inclusivity, Empowering Women, and Eliminating Racism”   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: ginnyclarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

We have today a truly exciting, innovative, and dynamic gentleman joining us — Derek Blasberg! Derek is Youtube’s Director of Fashion and Beauty and a New York Times best-selling author.   Derek was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri. He attended NYU, graduating in 2004 with two degrees in Journalism and Dramatic Literature. His first job was as an Assistant at Vogue. Throughout his career, he has been an editor-at-large for Harper’s Bazaar, Glamour, Vogue, Vanity Fair, and many more. Additionally, he is Vanity Fair’s ‘Our Man on the Street,’ a senior staff member at the Gagosian gallery, and the host of the TV show, ‘CNN Style.’   Leadership takes so many different forms. And in this episode, Derek shares about leadership in the context of fashion and beauty. He discusses how the fashion and beauty scene has evolved over the decades, common traits amongst successful leaders in fashion and beauty, networking tips, where he sees fashion headed, and how major events (such as COVID, #MeToo, and BLM) impact the space.   Key Takeaways: [:50] About our fascinating guest, Derek Blasberg. [1:33] Welcoming the incredible Derek to the podcast! [1:42] Derek provides further background on his fascinating career journey in fashion and beauty. [7:32] Derek discusses the transition with magazines going from paper to digital. [9:13] Derek shares how he has built followership and highlights some of the techniques and commonalities between influencers and leaders. [11:05] An important lesson on authenticity that Derek learned when he first joined Youtube. [11:53] Derek’s presence online and how the fashion and beauty scene has evolved over the decades. [13:42] The common traits that Derek has observed among the successful leaders in fashion and beauty whose company he keeps. What is the secret to their success? [17:02] Derek highlights an especially successful leader who has been making milestones during quarantine: Naomi Campbell. [19:30] Where Derek sees fashion going and how major events (such as COVID, #MeToo, and BLM) impact the space. [22:50] Derek highlights leaders who he sees having pushed the envelope and driven innovation in beauty and fashion this year. [27:09] How this past year with COVID has impacted the fashion and beauty space. [29:58] Derek shares what he has learned as a leader since joining Youtube 2 years ago. [34:56] Rapid-fire fashion questions! Kaftans or Muumuus? Pants that are too long or too short? Black or blue? Floral or plaid? Power Suit or business casual? Irony or sincerity? Face masks: solid or patterned? Zoom or Meet? London or Paris? Early or fashionably late? [39:40] Derek shares some parting words.   Mentioned in this Episode: Derek Blasberg @DerekBlasberg on Instagram Very Classy: Even More Exceptional Advice for the Extremely Modern Lady, by Derek Blasberg Classy: Exceptional Advice for the Extremely Modern Lady, by Derek Blasberg Naomi Campbell on Youtube Youtube.com/Fashion Everlane Face Masks Skims Face Masks Emily in Paris (TV Series)   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: ginnyclarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

Today I have on a truly inspired and inspiring guest; Aila Malik. When I first met her, I was immediately drawn to her spirit because she is doing some incredible things for non-profit organizations looking to make a difference in the world.   Aila is a values-driven leader who lives with intention. She is a compassionate advocate of community kindness, planet protection, and family togetherness. She’s deeply committed to contributing to a world in which disparity does not limit people’s access to opportunity. Her organization, Venture Leadership Consulting, pairs a Venture Leader with a non-profit organization to “turn their ‘idea’ into I did!” They help these organizations uplevel their performance and scale solutions that close systemic gaps of inequity. Through this work, she has received recognition for her leadership, activism, and tireless service.   Aila truly is an absolute gem. In our conversation today, she touches on the five dimensions of leadership that are so essential. She shares her insights on the non-profit sector, how globetrotting for a year informed her leadership, what led her to embrace the terms ‘activism’ and ‘advocacy’ within her role as a leader, what she has learned when serving as an Interim Executive in several organizations, and the key characteristics and competencies that leaders in non-profits should display.   Key Takeaways: [:50] About today’s inspiring guest, Aila Malik. [1:44] Welcoming Aila to Fifth Dimensional Leadership. [2:08] Aila shares about her organization, Venture Leader; why she originally founded it, and what their mission is. [5:04] Aila’s thoughts on the for-profit sector vs. the non-profit sector. [8:22] The daring leap of faith Aila took early on in her business, globetrotting and experientially building empathy within her and her husband’s three littles. [12:26] How globetrotting for a year with her family informed Aila’s leadership and future goals within her own company. [15:09] When did Aila consider herself a leader? How did she get to this place? [19:16] Aila defines leadership and speaks about a word she recently began to embrace within her leadership: activism. [22:40] Aila elaborates on this expanded notion of advocacy within her leadership. [25:00] Aila’s work requires a high EQ (emotional intelligence) and the ability to code-switch. She explains what this means and why it is key in the work that she does. [29:25] Aila has sat as an Interim Executive in several organizations. She shares how this works and one of her many experiences. [31:43] What Aila offered as an Interim Executive; how she showed up and created trust, transparency, and safety with the organization. [34:41] The importance of holding space for yourself and others — especially now, during the pandemic. [36:00] Aila offers some onboarding tips for getting to know the organization you’re working with better and vice versa. [37:28] Are there characteristics and competencies that leaders in non-profits need that might be different than for-profit leaders? [42:48] Aila shares her vision for the future and offers some inspiring words of encouragement for leaders in how they need to be showing up in the world right now. [46:57] Thanking Aila for all that she does and for joining the podcast!   Mentioned in this Episode: Aila Malik’s Websites:  AilaMalik.com VentureLeader.org FranklinStreetGlobetrotters.org Pocket Mommy Life Notes Aila Malik’s Twitter @MalikAila Fifth Dimensional Leadership Ep. 4: "You Can't Do Good Business with Bad People": Dorri McWhorter on Creating Inclusivity, Empowering Women, and Eliminating Racism   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: ginnyclarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

Today it is my honor and privilege to welcome Ambassador Susan Rice to the podcast!   Though Susan needs little introduction, she is an incredible woman and I would like to take the time to appreciate all of her auspicious accomplishments. From 1993-1997, Susan served as President Bill Clinton’s National Security Council staff. Then, at 32-years-old, Rice became the youngest person in U.S. history to serve as the Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs at the State Department (which she served from 1997-2001). As a former Brookings Institution fellow, Rice served as a Foreign Policy Advisor to Democratic presidential nominees Michael Dukakis, John Kerry, and Barack Obama. After Obama won the 2008 presidential election, Rice was nominated as Ambassador to the United Nations until 2013. From 2013-2017, she led the National Security Council Staff and chaired the Cabinet-level National Security Principals Committee.   Currently, Ambassador Rice is a Distinguished Visiting Research Fellow in the School of International Service (SIS) at the American University, a Non-Resident Senior Fellow at the Belfer Center of Science and International Affairs at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government, and a contributing opinion writer for the New York Times. She also currently serves on the board of Netflix and is a member of the Aspen Strategy Group, American Academy of Diplomacy, and Council of Foreign Relations. I don’t know how she finds all the time!   In our conversation today, Rice shares about her life journey from a personal and professional perspective; the fascinating history of her incredible family and how they’ve persevered through prejudice; her recent book, Tough Love: My Story of Things Worth Fighting For; and her hopes for the future of America. Rice also shares what “tough love” means to her; how she has personally persevered through ageism, sexism, and racism throughout her career; and some of the many incredible highlights and stories from her and her family’s lives. Don’t miss out on this one.   Key Takeaways: [:39] About today’s fantastic guest, Susan Rice. [2:26] Welcoming Susan Rice to the podcast! [2:30] The story of how Susan and I first became acquainted. [3:48] Susan shares the meaning behind her book’s title, Tough Love: My Story of the Things Worth Fighting For. [5:42] Rice shares some powerful stories about how her family has overcome many trials and tribulations, and still managed to find incredible success. [12:17] How Rice and her brother found their paths through the help of their parents. [15:02] Did Rice (or her brother) ever feel pressured to find success just as their parents had? [15:48] Now a parent of two young adults, Rice shares about her early days of balancing family and her career. [22:12] Rice’s first conversation with Barack Obama where he asked if she would serve as his Ambassador to the United Nations. [23:54] Rice gives a current update about what her sons are currently doing and pursuing. [25:30] Rice speaks about the experiences in her career through the perspective of often being the only black woman in the room. She shares what she has learned from this perspective, how the lessons her parents have taught her have informed her, and how she handles being prejudiced against. [31:48] In Rice’s memoir, she is quoted to say that one of her most gratifying initiatives during the Obama administration was leading the NSC’s Principal’s push to diversify the national security workforce. She elaborates on why it is important for the national security workforce to reflect the diversity of America. [35:53] An expert of the afterword in Rice’s book, Tough Love, reads, “American presidents take responsibility. They lead. Especially in times of crisis.” Rice elaborates on this and spreads some hopeful and encouraging words about the ongoing pandemic and the future of America. [42:46] Thanking Susan Rice for joining the podcast.   Mentioned in this Episode: Tough Love: My Story of the Things Worth Fighting For, by Susan Rice Management Leadership for Tomorrow   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: ginnyclarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

Welcome to the season finale of Fifth Dimensional Leadership! I am so happy that you are joining me today.   Since starting my podcast, I have had the pleasure of welcoming leaders from a variety of industries and backgrounds. My guests have generously shared their insights, their wisdom, and their invaluable perspectives on leadership. They’ve shared their hopes, dreams, fears, successes — and yes — their failures too.   Though each guest was unique and provided invaluable wisdom in their own right, they all shared a common language: the language of leadership. Their words and voices were a unified call to action from that fifth dimension where we vibrate at a higher frequency; where we’re more soul-based and less ego-based, and where we focus on unity rather than separation.   Joining me once again is my favorite collaborator, Jackson Best, who you may recognize from episode 6 of the podcast! Together, we are taking a look back at this season’s episodes and sharing the moments we have found particularly meaningful, that have yielded clarity, wisdom, and inspiration. As we reflect on the season, we’re going to anchor ourselves in the five dimensions of leadership: knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness, and activating your mastery. My intention for this episode is not just to look back, but to send you forth. I can’t wait for you to join us.   Key Takeaways: [:38] About today’s season finale episode on looking back and sending forth. [2:30] Welcoming Jackson Best back to the podcast! [2:42] Jackson reflects on the first season. [3:20] Grounding ourselves in the first dimension of leadership, Jackson asks: “What was a standout moment for you this season around the concept of knowing yourself?” [4:24] Sharing a standout clip from episode 2 with Shellye Archambeau on knowing yourself, combatting imposter syndrome, and surrounding yourself with champions [7:05] Sharing about a recent conversation I had with Angela Chee on her podcast, The Power of the Only, about the dimension of knowing yourself. [8:01] A powerful clip from William (Bill) Osborne’s episode on identity in the workplace as it pertains to racial equity, the importance of knowing yourself, and how authenticity and standing in your values transparently can become a virtuous cycle. [10:38] Transitioning to the second dimension of leadership, speaking your truth, we share a clip from Stephon Cerrone. In this clip, Stephen shares that knowing yourself is a value proposition grounded in courage, and that truth-speaking, or ‘brutal honesty,’ is the essence of leadership. [12:11] The significance of the ordering of the five dimensions of leadership. And the layers to the second dimension, speaking your truth. [13:18] Bill Osborne’s thoughts on this concept of speaking your truth and the key concepts of being a leader. [14:05] What ‘speaking your truth’ means to me and how it shows up within exceptional leaders. [14:45] A clip from Dorri McWhorter, who speaks about this balancing act between being centered in your truth and being open to the ‘wonder’ of what’s possible. [16:34] Transitioning to the third dimension, inspiring love, we share a clip from Dorri on inspiring love as a universal mandate and work as an expression of love. [18:04] The best leaders inspire love and tapping into people’s unique essence which leads to developing followership. [18:40] In this clip, Gotham Chopra highlights a key aspect of inspiring love and followership, the concept of servant leadership, and what the best leaders do to elevate the unique capabilities of each team member. [22:17] A leader that modeled inspiring love for me: my dad. [24:15] Jackson shares how he connects to this concept of inspiring love and how his mother modeled it for him. [25:30] The symbiotic nature between the last two dimensions, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. [25:52] Why the next frontier for talent is consciousness. [27:58] My favorite example of a leader who tapped into a larger consciousness: Steve Jobs. [28:37] Where the future of humanity lies: in putting our egoic minds aside and allowing ourselves to connect to something that will lead to richer lives, happier people, and a better world. [29:38] What consciousness is in its purest form: love. [30:18] I urge you to tap back into your essential self. Sit with yourself. Fifth Dimensional Leadership is about the deep collective knowing and intuition. [30:57] Standout thoughts from guests on continuous learning, growth, and pushing boundaries to activate your mastery. [32:52] How Shellye was intentional about curating her career and was craftsman-like in her approach to expanding her consciousness and activating her mastery. [34:03] A profound clip from Bill on activating your mastery. [35:16] A clip from Gotham Chopra on the importance of putting in the hard work. [37:08] What we have in store for the next season of Fifth Dimensional Leadership! [37:45] Thank you, to our audience, for supporting us in our inaugural season.   Mentioned in this Episode: Jackson Best Past Episodes of Fifth Dimensional Leadership Unapologetically Ambitious: Take Risks, Break Barriers, and Create Success on Your Own Terms, by Shellye Archambeau The Power of the Only Podcast with Angela Chee The Power of the Only Ep. 27: “Google Executive Ginny Clarke — Fifth Dimensional Leadership and the Power of Self-Awareness and Consciousness” Tough Love: My Story of the Things Worth Fighting For, by Susan Rice   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: ginnyclarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

In this week’s episode, I am joined by another fantastic guest, Gotham Chopra.   Gotham Chopra is an American author, filmmaker, and entrepreneur. He is the co-founder of the Religion of Sports, an Emmy Award-winning sports media company built on the thesis that sports are religion. They are a diverse, forward-thinking collective of thinkers and makers who believe in the power of storytelling to illustrate why sports matter so deeply to communities around the world.   In our conversation today, Gotham shares his backstory and why sports have played such a huge role in his life, ultimately motivating him to found the Religion of Sports. He outlines the characteristics that make certain sports figures especially exceptional, the key lessons we can learn from these athletes, and the qualities of strong servant leaders in the world of sports. He also highlights some invaluable lessons from his own life and career and shares how he is continuing his journey to becoming a better leader each and every day.   “I think that’s what real leaders do; they look at failure as an opportunity to get better.” — Gotham Chopra   Key Takeaways: [:38] About today’s episode with special guest, Gotham Chopra. [:57] Welcoming Gotham to the podcast. [1:01] Gotham shares his backstory and why sports played such a huge part in his life, ultimately motivating him to found the Religion of Sports. [3:50] Gotham shares how he discovered his own unique strengths and turned them into his vocation. [7:18] Gotham shares how their movie, Kobe Bryant’s “Muse,” came about. [11:42] What is it about certain sports figures that makes them so exceptional and leaders in their field? [15:17] Are servant leadership skills inherent to some sports figures? Or is it learned over time? [17:38] Gotham shares some of the invaluable lessons that we can learn from athletes during these difficult times. [21:29] Gotham outlines the strong characteristics and key qualities of strong servant leaders. [24:57] Gotham shares some of the struggles and limiting beliefs he dealt with early in his career and how he overcame them. [25:57] Key lessons Gotham has learned over the last couple of months during the quarantine. [28:48] How fatherhood has played an important part in Gotham’s life. [30:58] As Gotham continues his journey toward enhancing his mastery, is there a particular area he plans on focusing his effort and intention to? [34:00] Thanking Gotham for joining the podcast.   Mentioned in this Episode: Gotham Chopra’s Instagram @GChopra Gotham Chopra’s Twitter @GothamChopra Religion of Sports Kobe Bryant’s Muse (2018)   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to the people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: ginnyclarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

Today is a special episode. I’ve invited my good friend, colleague, and collaborator, Jackson Best, on as a guest host to switch the script and interview me. Jackson is a Senior Executive Recruiter at Google Cloud and has worn a number of hats over the course of the four-plus years he has worked there. He was also on my team where he led Executive Recruitment for Youtube and partnered closely with me to build out and lead a portion of our non-tech Executive Recruitment team.   Right now, there is an urgency with the moment we’re in regarding diversity and inclusion in corporate America. The facts are irrefutable that black people have been oppressed, shutout, denied access — and not just for decades, but centuries. That’s why, in this important episode, Jackson will be interviewing me by asking important and timely questions around leadership and racial equity in America.    I share my personal thoughts and experience as a black woman and leader in the workplace, important lessons from black leaders of the past, offer timely advice on how we can begin to address systemic racism on both a personal and an organizational level, and how we can start to create real impactful change starting today.   We cover a lot of ground in this episode and I cannot wait for you to tune in and join this important conversation.   Key Takeaways: [:36] About today’s special episode with guest host, Jackson Best! [2:15] Welcoming Jackson to the podcast. [2:22] Jackson reflects on when and where we first met and connected. [2:40] Jackson leads the conversation, explaining what we will be discussing today. [3:17] Sharing my thoughts about this current moment we’re in, in corporate America. [5:37] How I am experiencing this current moment as a black woman in America. [9:44] What has kept me ‘in the game’ regardless of the discrimination I have faced. [12:01] Profound lessons from Steve Biko, a South African activist who led the Black Consciousness Movement in the late 1690s and ‘70s. [16:21] Discussing concepts around white supremacy and how white people (of all walks of life) can begin to reflect on their inherent privileges, as well as question and challenge their own assumptions. [20:11] Reflecting on how I’m experiencing this moment in time as a professional and leader, and sharing how you can create real impactful change right now in your organization. [25:20] Practical steps organizations and leaders can begin to take in approaching the systemic work that needs to be done to create an equitable future. [29:15] How to see real, meaningful, sustainable change in the composition of your company by implementing equitable hiring and recruiting practices, and through building strong relationships. [35:30] Why we need to measure diversity and how we can measure it. [38:07] The importance of accountability: how we can fairly and equitably hire as recruiters and leaders, and create a healthy work environment. [42:17] Microaggressions and the major role that they play in systemic racism. [46:16] The hallmarks of an exceptional, effective, and equitable leader. [48:40] The one thing I would like white colleagues in the workplace to know that might surprise them. [50:12] Sharing some parting words of hope, healing, and remembrance as we leave this conversation on leadership and race.   Mentioned in this Episode: Jackson Best Steve Biko Cry Freedom (Film, 1987) Between the World and Me, by Ta-Nehisi Coates 1619 Podcast by Nikole Hannah-Jones Howard Thurman   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to the people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: ginnyclarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

In today’s episode, I am joined by a fascinating guest, William (Bill) Osborne; a gentleman who has built his career in the industrial sector. He is the Senior Vice President of Enterprise Operations at The Boeing Company, the world’s largest aerospace company. Prior to this role, he was the SVP for Global Manufacturing and Quality at Navistar Corporation. And before that, he was the President and CEO of Federal Signal Corporation, a billion-dollar industrial organization. William first started his career as a technical specialist product engineer for Ford Motor Company. Over the last 19 years, he has moved into many leadership roles, including President and CEO for Ford Australia as well as Ford Canada. Bill also currently holds board positions with Quaker Chemical Company and Rush System for Health. In our conversation today, Bill shares his career background in-depth and his experience going from a from President and CEO of a billion-dollar company to being an SVP at Boeing — a nearly 95-billion dollar company. He offers invaluable advice to young leaders in any industry with regards to failing forward, career strategies to accelerate growth and development, and the dos and don’ts of becoming an exceptional leader. He also shares his thoughts on how we can better manage as leaders through the current COVID-19 crisis as well as his thoughts regarding the current BLM movement and how corporations and individuals can do their part.   Key Takeaways: [:37] About today’s fascinating guest, William (Bill) Osborne. [1:54] Welcoming Bill to the show! [2:00] What drew Bill into the industrial sector and why he has stayed. [3:55] Bill speaks about how he ensures that he and his team stay up to date on what’s new in the industry. [5:30] Bill shares his experience on what it was like to go from President and CEO of a billion-dollar company to being an SVP at Boeing (which is a nearly 95-billion dollar company). He speaks about the day-to-day, how that has changed, and the different challenges. [7:20] How is Bill leading the company during the COVID-19 pandemic? How has his leadership changed due to it and what does he consider to be some of the key ways to lead — especially during a crisis? [9:15] Bill’s vision for how we’re going to come out of this pandemic economically and as a society. [11:20] Bill speaks more about how he is managing the company during this crisis and how a turn-around might look. [13:30] Bill’s advice for young leaders. [14:30] A failure Bill experienced in his career and the big lesson that he learned from it. [16:37] Bill’s thoughts on the importance of maintaining a reputation. [18:44] Has Bill had sponsors throughout his career? How did that impact his career? [20:04] Bill’s career strategy for identifying specific leaders and how it made a massive difference in his growth and development. [21:29] How to open yourself up to working for the right leaders in the industry. [22:20] The do’s and don’ts for young professionals, how to make yourself an indispensable leader, and the three phases of an executive leader. [25:57] Bill shares his thoughts on where we are going through as a society in light of the current Black Lives Matter movement, as well as what he and Boeing are doing as a corporation to support diversity and inclusion. [29:25] Bill shares his thoughts and feelings when non-black individuals approach him to ask what they should or can do to help. [33:41] What do we need to do as black people to keep the forward momentum with the BLM movement? [37:15] Bill shares his belief about how young people are the catalyst for change. [38:07] What role do boards play in the seminal change that we’re seeking in corporate America? [40:05] Bill shares his parting thoughts. [41:25] Thanking Bill for his incredible insights and for joining the podcast.   Mentioned in this Episode: Executive Biography of William (Bill) Osborne William (Bill) Osborne’s LinkedIn   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership — knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to the people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management To find more episodes or learn more, visit: ginnyclarke.com

Welcome back to Fifth Dimensional Leadership! I’m your host, Ginny Clarke.    Today, I’m delighted to bring you a conversation I had with Dorri McWhorter! She is someone I have known for a number of years and is a truly remarkable woman. Currently, she is the CEO of YWCA Metropolitan Chicago. What makes Dorri so unique is that she is truly a socially-conscious business leader, committed to creating an inclusive marketplace, empowering women, and eliminating racism. When she first joined YWCA seven years ago, they were a $10 million organization losing about $1 million a year. Since then, she has tripled their growth into a $30 million organization.    In our conversation, Dorri shares her perspective on the current political environment from a leadership point of view, the programs that she’s instituted at YWCA and how they really have worked wonders for the organization, what has been the biggest catalyst in creating massive change in YWCA, how she discovered her unique superpower (vision), and her philosophy that supports and informs the work that she’s doing. Dorri is a true pioneer in this space and I’m so excited to share this episode with all of you!   Key Takeaways: [:38] About today’s guest, Dorri McWhorter. [1:27] Welcoming Dorri to the podcast! [1:32] Dorri shares about her transition and journey from the corporate world to the nonprofit world. [3:47] Since day one as CEO of YWCA Metropolitan Chicago, how did Dorri formulate a vision and align everyone on the same strategy and structure? [5:36] Dorri speaks about some of the programs that she’s instituted at YWCA and how they really have worked wonders for the organization. [8:35] Dorri explains what she means when she says, “Businesses are a function of the consciousness of the leader.” [9:58] Dorri shares her perspective on the current political environment from a leadership point of view. [12:47] Dorri’s perspective on the convergence of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Black Lives Matter movement and racial injustice. [15:37] The difference between reacting vs. responding. [17:12] Dorri shares how she has been able to structure her organization (from the programs to the people to the teams and more) as well as what has been the biggest catalyst in creating massive change from when she first joined until now. [23:17] How did Dorri discover her unique superpower of vision? And is there someone in particular that she admires with the same superpower? [25:31] Dorri shares her philosophy that supports and informs the work that she’s doing. [27:53] Navigating the reframing of work in the current circumstances. [30:26] As a visionary, Dorri shares what she sees for the future of our society. [32:29] Thanking Dorri for joining the podcast and sharing her insightful thoughts!   Mentioned in this Episode: YWCA Metropolitan Chicago About Dorri McWhorter   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership - knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to the people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: ginnyclarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

Welcome back to Fifth Dimensional Leadership! I’m your host, Ginny Clarke.    In this episode, I’m excited to be joined by a guest that is a really accomplished human resources leader — Stephen Cerrone! Stephen is a Human Resources Executive and advisor to CEOS, executive teams, and boards of directors on business strategy and talent priorities. He is an international business leader who drives transformational HR strategies and helps executives improve their effectiveness as leaders. He has been in a variety of industries from food and beverage to banking to retail and more. Currently, he’s teaching an advanced HR course at the University of Miami Business School.   As a recruiter, I’m thrilled to be able to talk to Stephen today and hear his perspectives on the themes of leadership, HR, and fostering a culture of safety within an organization. In this episode, Stephen shares his insights on the key characteristics that are most important for leaders to have, how the role of HR has developed over time, how we can (and should) adapt as leaders going forward in an increasingly remote world, and the mindset pieces young business professionals should be putting in place to accelerate their careers. Today’s conversation was a great one and I cannot wait for you all to tune in!   Key Takeaways: [:38] About today’s episode with my guest, Stephen Cerrone. [1:15] Welcoming Stephen to the podcast! [1:24] How we first became acquainted.  [1:35] About Stephen’s background and career. [2:12] How Stephen ended up in the human resources industry. [4:45] Stephen’s take on the role of HR when he first started vs. now. [6:35] When did Stephen consider himself a leader in HR? [10:05] Key characteristics that are important in a leader. [11:00] Stephen highlights some more of the key characteristics he has seen in the best leaders across various industries. [14:25] As someone who has been through several big economic cycles over the course of his career, how does Stephen think leaders will adapt going forward in light of this current economic crisis due to COVID-19? [18:58] Stephen offers some invaluable tips and advice to young business professionals on what they can do to continue building their careers in this increasingly remote environment. [23:21] How can a company or organization foster a culture where the employees feel safe to speak their truth? [27:46] From Stephen’s observations and personal experience, does he believe that boards are holding CEOs accountable to the extent that they should? [30:18] Does Stephen have a mindset or mantra that he practices or follows that has helped him get through life and work? [33:46] Stephen shares some insightful parting words regarding COVID-19 and leadership. [37:30] Thanking Stephen for joining Fifth Dimensional Leadership!   Mentioned in this Episode: Stephen Cerrone’s LinkedIn   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership - knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to the people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: ginnyclarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

Welcome back to Fifth Dimensional Leadership! I’m your host, Ginny Clarke.    In this second episode, I’m joined by my guest, Shellye Archambeau! Shellye is the former CEO of MetricStream; a governance, risk, and compliance software company based in Palo Alto, California. Under Shellye’s leadership, MetricStream was built into a global market leader with over 1200 employees that served customers around the globe. Shellye also serves on four corporate boards: Verizon, Nordstrom, Roper Technologies, and Okta; and is a Strategic Advisor to the Royal Bank of Canada, Capital Markets Group.   Shellye is such a great example of a truly ambitious woman who has ascended the ranks and created a name for herself in the technology industry. She’s incredibly purposeful, intentional, and driven and has a powerful story to share on defying the odds.    In this episode, you will hear how she propelled herself into becoming a fabulous leader, how she became the CEO of a company, how she positioned herself to serve on corporate boards, and why she decided to write her new book, Unapologetically Ambitious. Shellye also shares some invaluable tips and advice regarding how to manage imposter syndrome, how we can nurture and grow our inner leader during this time of disruption due to COVID-19, and how to turn your ambitions into every-day decisions (which is the key to achieving your dreams).   Key Takeaways: [:38] About today’s episode with my guest, Shellye Archambeau! [1:05] Welcoming Shellye to the podcast. [1:12] How Shellye and I first met. [1:28] Shellye shares about her background and how it has propelled her into becoming a fabulous leader. [4:57] Why Shellye chose to go to Wharton as an undergrad. [7:24] Why Shellye decided to join IBM and how the experience of working there set her up for the future. [11:40] Shellye speaks about her incredible family and reflects on balancing her family and career. [12:35] Shellye shares some touching words about her late husband, the pact they made, and what he taught her. [15:07] About Shellye’s new book, Unapologetically Ambitious; what it is about, when it will be out, and what inspired her to write it. [18:14] Imposter syndrome: why it is an important topic, Shellye’s personal experience with it, and how we begin to manage it and not let it take control. [23:06] Shellye speaks about the four corporate boards she is currently serving on and how she came to be a part of them. [25:46] What Shellye foresees in terms of how people are going to work going forward due to the impact of COVID-19.  [29:26] Shellye’s tips and suggestions on how people can nurture and grow their inner leader during this time where many are feeling disempowered, trapped at home, and disenfranchised. [33:18] Why Shellye came to be the CEO of MetricStream and how she transformed it from the brink of failing to a top innovative software company. [38:55] Where to find, follow, and get in touch with Shellye online! [39:42] Shellye leaves the podcast with a few words of wisdom. [40:09] Thanking Shellye for joining the podcast!   Mentioned in this Episode: Shellye Archambeau Unapologetically Ambitious: Take Risks, Break Barriers, and Create Success on Your Own Terms, by Shellye Archambeau — Pre-order today! Shellye Archambeau’s LinkedIn Articles Shellye Archambeau’s Twitter: @ShelArchambeau   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership - knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to the people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: ginnyclarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube

This is not business as usual.    The new world we have now calls for new leaders to operate, and only when we revolutionize our ways of leading can we truly see the biggest change.   I’m your host, Ginny Clarke, a former Executive Recruiter who has assessed and coached thousands of executives and other leaders. I’m also an author of the book Career Mapping: Charting Your Course in the New World of Work. My goal is to bring a unique perspective to leadership and the whole of who you are.   In this pilot episode of Fifth Dimensional Leadership, I want to take you back to the core of what it truly means to be a Fifth Dimensional Leader.   What is Fifth Dimensional Leadership  How to speak and act with intention The universal truth, best practices, and components of extraordinary leadership Fifth Dimensional Leadership is NOT business as usual Why do we all need to step up and lead from where we are How to be a great leader in trying times Why titles and roles don’t define who you are and how you lead. Quotes “Education, knowledge, and experience alone don't necessarily make you smart or competent; only curiosity, self-awareness, courage, and a growth mindset can drive intelligence and competence.”   “This is not business as usual, but let that empower you to try something different, to do something better, to be bold, and to lead from where you are with what you have.”   “You own your career.”   “We’re being called right now more than ever to inspire love.”   “Lead the way with kindness. Be the light into a deeper knowing of yourself and for the benefit of the world.”   “Pour the positive energy of doing your job into yourself for a change. Your work is a platform, it's not your final destination.”