• "As girls, as females, we already feel a level down, but then you add race into it and you're another level or two down based on what type of race you are."

Summary

Join hosts Meera and Sara as they about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I), personal experiences and perspectives, including the challenges faced by underrepresented groups and the misconceptions and resistance to change. Hosts discuss the importance of diversity in personal relationships, the challenges of colorblindness, the impact of race on healthcare outcomes, and the lack of representation and inclusivity in various industries. They also touch on the limitations of race categories and the need for more nuanced understanding.

Takeaways

• Representation and inclusivity are crucial for underrepresented groups to have equal opportunities and access to resources.

• Embracing diversity and different perspectives leads to better outcomes and fosters innovation and growth.

• Colorblindness can overlook the experiences and struggles of marginalized groups.

• Race can have a significant impact on healthcare outcomes, and it is important to address systemic inequities.

• Industries like fashion and healthcare need to be more inclusive and representative of diverse bodies and experiences.

• Race categories often oversimplify and fail to capture the complexity of individual experiences.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Context

02:26 Challenges Faced by Underrepresented Groups

04:33 Misconceptions and Resistance to Change in DE&I

06:23 Embracing Diversity for Better Outcomes

22:03 Personal Relationships

25:08 Addressing Racial Disparities in Healthcare

27:21 Lack of Representation and Inclusivity in Industries

30:34 The Limitations of Race Categories

ABOUT MEERA HARDIN

Meet Meera, a seasoned professional and passionate advocate for women's empowerment and career success. As an immigrant who has faced her share of career setbacks, Meera's journey to the top has ignited a profound sense of purpose within her. However, her story is not just one of personal triumph—it's also about giving back.

Driven by the challenges and hardships she has overcome, Meera is determined to ensure that others do not have to endure the same struggles. This conviction fuels her mission to empower others to achieve their goals with confidence and speed. Meera's life is a testament to her unyielding spirit and her commitment to making a lasting impact on those around her.

Connect with Meera:

IG: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/browngirltrending⁠

TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@browngirltrending⁠

YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@browngirltrending⁠

Website: ⁠https://www.browngirltrending.com⁠

ABOUT SARA A.:

Sara A. is an executive leader of Environmental, Social and Governance at a major media company. In this role, Sara leads a global team dedicated to making inclusion a core value of the company and fostering a sense of belonging for every employee, both present and future.

Recognized for her exceptional contributions, Sara was named a Top 100 DEI Professional by OnCon and honored as one of the Top Women in Media & Ad Tech as a DEI Champion in 2022. Her work in DEI has also been acknowledged with an honorable mention from the Ragan Awards for Wellness in 2023 and as a finalist at SXSW.

Before joining her current company, Sara served in a dual role as the SVP of Client Services for the Digital Advertising team and as the Executive Partner for Diversity and Inclusion at a major broadcast network. She pioneered the creation of Women@21CF New York, an Employee Resource Group, and helped launch other ERGs across the East Coast offices.

In addition to her professional achievements, Sara is an entrepreneur, an avid crocheter, a theater enthusiast, and a food-loving mom to two joyful little kids.

Summary

In this conversation, Meera and Sara discuss their experiences in the corporate world and the importance of finding fulfillment in your career. They talk about the challenges they faced, including being undervalued and facing gender bias. Sara shares her transition from a successful corporate career to a role in DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) that gave her a sense of purpose. They emphasize the importance of self-reflection, learning, earning, and finding passion in your work. They also discuss the need for support, mentorship, and open communication in navigating career transitions.

Takeaways

• Finding fulfillment in your career is important for overall satisfaction and happiness.

• Challenges in the corporate world, such as being undervalued and facing gender bias, can be overcome with determination and support.

• Self-reflection and learning are key in identifying your career aspirations and making successful transitions.

• Earning enough to sustain your desired lifestyle is important, but it's also crucial to find passion and purpose in your work.

• Seeking support, mentorship, and open communication can help navigate career transitions and overcome obstacles.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Shared Frustrations

02:39 Transitioning to a Career Aligned with Values

04:57 Starting a Women's Group in a Corporate Setting

09:04 The Importance of DEI and Overcoming Challenges

12:37 Challenging Power Dynamics in the Workplace

15:35 Intro and Discussion on Toxic Work Environments

24:13 Self-Reflection in Career Transitions

26:22 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in a Career Transition

30:41 Networking and Seeking Guidance in Career Transitions

34:22 Dealing with Emotions and Fears in a Career Transition

ABOUT MEERA HARDIN

Meet Meera, a seasoned professional and passionate advocate for women's empowerment and career success. As an immigrant who has faced her share of career setbacks, Meera's journey to the top has ignited a profound sense of purpose within her. However, her story is not just one of personal triumph—it's also about giving back.

Driven by the challenges and hardships she has overcome, Meera is determined to ensure that others do not have to endure the same struggles. This conviction fuels her mission to empower others to achieve their goals with confidence and speed. Meera's life is a testament to her unyielding spirit and her commitment to making a lasting impact on those around her. Tune in to learn more about Meera's transformative journey and her dedication to helping women thrive in their careers.

Connect with Meera:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/browngirltrending

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@browngirltrending

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@browngirltrending

Website: https://www.browngirltrending.com

ABOUT SARA AXELBAUM

Sara Axelbaum is the Global Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and an Executive Sponsor at a major media company. In this role, Sara leads a global team dedicated to making inclusion a core value of the company and fostering a sense of belonging for every employee, both present and future. Recognized for her exceptional contributions, Sara was named a Top 100 DEI Professional by OnCon and honored as one of the Top Women in Media & Ad Tech as a DEI Champion in 2022. Her work in DEI has also been acknowledged with an honorable mention from the Ragan Awards for Wellness in 2023 and as a finalist at SXSW.

Before joining her current company, Sara served in a dual role as the SVP of Client Services for the Digital Advertising team and as the Executive Partner for Diversity and Inclusion at a major broadcast network. She pioneered the creation of Women@21CF New York, an Employee Resource Group, and helped launch other ERGs across the East Coast offices.

In addition to her professional achievements, Sara is an entrepreneur, an avid crocheter, a theater enthusiast, and a food-loving mom to two joyful little kids.

Connect with Sara:

https://www.instagram.com/axelbaumchickabaumbaum/

Summary

In this conversation, Meera interviews Aliyah Kissick, Miss Illinois United States 2023 and founder of the Financial Literacy Diaries. They discuss the importance of financial literacy and empowerment. Aliyah shares her journey of starting a business at a young age and the role financial planning played in her success. They emphasize the need for financial education in schools and the importance of budgeting and reducing debt. Aliyah also mentions the Financial Literacy Foundation, a nonprofit that offers free financial coaching services. They provide practical tips for young adults, such as career planning and creating a budget.

Takeaways

• Financial literacy is the ability to make effective financial decisions and improve one's financial situation.

• Financial empowerment is making resources and education available to individuals so they can make their own financial decisions.

• Career planning is crucial for income generation and financial stability.

• Creating a budget and practicing mindful spending are important steps in managing finances.

• Financial education should be taught in schools to equip young people with essential money management skills.

• The Financial Literacy Foundation offers free financial coaching services to those who need it most.

  
  

Keywords

financial literacy, financial empowerment, budgeting, reducing debt, career planning, financial education, Financial Literacy Foundation

Chapters

00:00 Introduction: Aliyah's Impressive Background

01:00 Defining Financial Literacy and Empowerment

05:22 The Importance of Financial Education in Schools

26:21 The Role of the Financial Literacy Foundation

Resources:

Aaliyah Kissick

Website: https://aaliyahkissick.com/

IG:https://www.instagram.com/aaliyahkissick

E-book: LINK COMING SOON

Checklist: LINK COMING SOON

ABOUT MEERA HARDIN

Meet Meera, a dynamic force in the media industry with nearly two decades of experience under her belt. She's not just a seasoned professional; she's also a passionate advocate for women's empowerment and career success.

As an immigrant who has faced her fair share of career setbacks, Meera's journey to the top has been nothing short of remarkable. It's a journey that has ignited a profound sense of purpose within her. But Meera's story isn't just about personal triumph; it's about paying it forward.

Driven by an unwavering commitment to mentor and coach women in her industry, Meera's motivation stems from her own challenges and hardships. She firmly believes that no one should have to endure what she went through, and that's why she's on a mission to empower others to achieve their goals swiftly and confidently.

Meera's life is a testament to her unyielding spirit and her burning desire to create a lasting impact on the lives of those she touches. Tune in to learn more about Meera's transformative journey and her dedication to empowering women to thrive in their careers.

Connect with Meera Hardin:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/browngirltrending

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@browngirltrending

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@browngirltrending

Website: https://www.browngirltrending.com

🎙️Host Meera Hardin
🎧Produced by Admin Avenger

• "Throughout my career, I have been disrespected, disrespected, respected and disrespected and all the things in between." –Meera Hardin

  
  

• Summary

  In this episode, Meera discusses the topic of disrespect, particularly in the workplace. She shares her personal experiences of being disrespected and offers advice on how to handle such situations. Meera emphasizes the importance of maintaining professionalism and not reacting impulsively. She suggests addressing the issue directly with the person involved, keeping records of disrespectful behavior, and seeking support from allies and HR. Meera also highlights the significance of emotional intelligence, self-care, and continuous personal growth in navigating and overcoming disrespect.

  Keywords

  disrespect, workplace, professionalism, reactions, addressing, records, support, emotional intelligence, self-care, personal growth

  Takeaways

  • Disrespect in the workplace is a common issue, particularly for women, and it is important to learn how to handle it.
  • Maintaining professionalism and not reacting impulsively is key when faced with disrespectful behavior.
  • Address the issue directly with the person involved, expressing how their behavior made you feel and seeking resolution.
  • Keep records of disrespectful behavior to support your case if escalation is necessary.
  • Seek support from allies, mentors, and HR to address and resolve the issue.
  • Develop emotional intelligence, practice self-care, and continuously work on personal growth to navigate and overcome disrespect.

  
  

  
  

  Chapters

  00:00 Introduction: Disrespect in the Workplace

  02:26 Maintaining Professionalism and Reacting to Disrespect

  08:41 The Consequences of Reacting to Disrespect

  12:36 Addressing Disrespect Directly

  16:00 Seeking Support and Allies

  19:17 Learning and Growing from Disrespectful Experiences

  21:42 Conclusion: Taking Control and Sharing the Episode

  
  

  Resources:

  Office Politics Episode

  Building your Network Episode

  
  

  ABOUT MEERA HARDIN

  Meet Meera, a dynamic force in the media industry with nearly two decades of experience under her belt. She's not just a seasoned professional; she's also a passionate advocate for women's empowerment and career success.

  As an immigrant who has faced her fair share of career setbacks, Meera's journey to the top has been nothing short of remarkable. It's a journey that has ignited a profound sense of purpose within her. But Meera's story isn't just about personal triumph; it's about paying it forward.

  Driven by an unwavering commitment to mentor and coach women in her industry, Meera's motivation stems from her own challenges and hardships. She firmly believes that no one should have to endure what she went through, and that's why she's on a mission to empower others to achieve their goals swiftly and confidently.

  Meera's life is a testament to her unyielding spirit and her burning desire to create a lasting impact on the lives of those she touches. Tune in to learn more about Meera's transformative journey and her dedication to empowering women to thrive in their careers.

  
  

  Connect with Meera Hardin:

  IG: https://www.instagram.com/browngirltrending

  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@browngirltrending

  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@browngirltrending

  Website: https://www.browngirltrending.com

  
  

  🎙️Host Meera Hardin

  
  

Tips for Navigating Office Politics

“She's just, like, in and well connected…no, they just know how to play the game. And that's just facts.”

~Meera Hardin

Love it or hate it, office politics are here to stay! If you are a corporate baddie like host Meera Hardin, this episode will help you to understand and navigate office politics in your favor.

Meera shares how office politics can help career advancement and even increase your happiness at work. Corporate women and women of color are often pinned against each other due to limited resources.

Meera shares how to leverage relationships and form alliances to navigate through office politics to climb that corporate ladder and get that BAG!

Key Highlights:

• Understanding and navigating office politics is important for career advancement and to be happy at work.

• Tips for navigating office politics through relationships with key players; networking effectively, documenting achievements, maintaining professionalism, and managing emotions.

• Maintaining integrity and engaging in ongoing learning are crucial in navigating office politics.

RESOURCES:

Managing Difficult Colleagues (APPLE)

Managing Difficult Colleagues (SPOTIFY)

ABOUT MEERA HARDIN

Meet Meera, a dynamic force in the media industry with nearly two decades of experience under her belt. She's not just a seasoned professional; she's also a passionate advocate for women's empowerment and career success.

As an immigrant who has faced her fair share of career setbacks, Meera's journey to the top has been nothing short of remarkable. It's a journey that has ignited a profound sense of purpose within her. But Meera's story isn't just about personal triumph; it's about paying it forward.

Driven by an unwavering commitment to mentor and coach women in her industry, Meera's motivation stems from her own challenges and hardships. She firmly believes that no one should have to endure what she went through, and that's why she's on a mission to empower others to achieve their goals swiftly and confidently.

Meera's life is a testament to her unyielding spirit and her burning desire to create a lasting impact on the lives of those she touches. Tune in to learn more about Meera's transformative journey and her dedication to empowering women to thrive in their careers.

Connect with Meera Hardin:

https://www.instagram.com/browngirltrending

https://www.youtube.com/@browngirltrending

🎙️Host Meera Hardin

🎧Produced by Admin Avenger

In this episode, Mohini Gima shares her personal journey of breaking free from societal and cultural expectations to find her true self. She discusses the pressure to conform to norms and the emptiness she felt despite achieving external success. Mohini emphasizes the importance of living authentically, empowering the next generation, and setting boundaries. She also highlights the role of supportive communities and her organization, Ronnie Rising, which aims to create a space for South Asian women to come together and celebrate each other. Throughout the conversation, Mohini reflects on the pivotal moments that led her to question her path and embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing.

• Living Authentically
• Cultural Expectations
• Navigating Cultural Pressures
• Advocating for Oneself
• Healing and Self-Discovery
• Empowering the Next Generation
• Supportive Communities and Boundaries
• Societal expectations
• Finding oneself
• Empowerment
• Community
• Boundaries
• Support
• South Asian women
• Authentic living
• Cultural expectations
• Societal norms
• Pressure
• Success
• Self-discovery
• Healing
• Codependency
• Identity

• Key Takeaways

• • Navigating societal expectations and finding one's own path can be challenging but rewarding.

  • Empowering the next generation to make their own decisions and live authentically is crucial.

  • Having a supportive community and setting boundaries is important for personal growth.

  • Living authentically means breaking free from societal expectations and cultural norms.

  • External success does not guarantee fulfilment and happiness.

  • Listening to your intuition and questioning societal norms can lead to personal growth and self-discovery.

  • Advocating for oneself and setting boundaries is crucial in navigating cultural pressures.

  • Healing and self-reflection are essential in finding one's true identity and living a fulfilling life.

  • Ronnie Rising provides a space for South Asian women to come together, celebrate each other, and rise into their true selves.

  Resources:

  Mohini Gima

  IG: https://www.instagram.com/iammohinigima/

  Rani Rising - IG: https://www.instagram.com/ranirising/

  Web: https://ranirising.com/

  
  

  ABOUT MEERA HARDIN

  Meet Meera, a dynamic force in the media industry with nearly two decades of experience under her belt. She's not just a seasoned professional; she's also a passionate advocate for women's empowerment and career success.

  As an immigrant who has faced her fair share of career setbacks, Meera's journey to the top has been nothing short of remarkable. It's a journey that has ignited a profound sense of purpose within her. But Meera's story isn't just about personal triumph; it's about paying it forward.

  Driven by an unwavering commitment to mentor and coach women in her industry, Meera's motivation stems from her own challenges and hardships. She firmly believes that no one should have to endure what she went through, and that's why she's on a mission to empower others to achieve their goals swiftly and confidently.

  Meera's life is a testament to her unyielding spirit and her burning desire to create a lasting impact on the lives of those she touches. Tune in to learn more about Meera's transformative journey and her dedication to empowering women to thrive in their careers.

  
  

  Connect with Meera Hardin:

  IG: https://www.instagram.com/browngirltrending

  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meerahardin

  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@browngirltrending

  Website: https://www.browngirltrending.com

  
  

  🎙️Host Meera Hardin

  
  

“...Understanding your colleagues, especially the difficult ones, It's going to help you to overcome those difficulties and thrive despite these colleagues.”

~Meera Hardin

No work environment is perfect. The challenges of dealing with difficult colleagues in the workplace is easier when you are equipped properly!

Meera Hardin draws from her own experiences, while sharing practical tips and techniques to help you navigate a less-than-perfect work environment. Whether it's handling passive-aggressive behavior, managing micromanagers, or confronting gossip, Meera offers valuable insights to ensure you can thrive despite these challenges.

Meera emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and emotional intelligence in overcoming workplace conflicts. Meera highlights the necessity of effective communication, active listening, and managing emotions to maintain professionalism and create a more harmonious work atmosphere.

Key Highlights:

• Self-reflection and identifying your own workplace behaviors.

• Strategies for managing micromanagers and passive-aggressive colleagues.

• Importance of effective communication and setting boundaries in the workplace.

Get ready to take Meera’s actionable advice on transforming your workplace interactions and achieving a more peaceful and productive work environment!

ABOUT MEERA HARDIN

Meet Meera, a dynamic force in the media industry with nearly two decades of experience under her belt. She's not just a seasoned professional; she's also a passionate advocate for women's empowerment and career success.

As an immigrant who has faced her fair share of career setbacks, Meera's journey to the top has been nothing short of remarkable. It's a journey that has ignited a profound sense of purpose within her. But Meera's story isn't just about personal triumph; it's about paying it forward.

Driven by an unwavering commitment to mentor and coach women in her industry, Meera's motivation stems from her own challenges and hardships. She firmly believes that no one should have to endure what she went through, and that's why she's on a mission to empower others to achieve their goals swiftly and confidently.

Meera's life is a testament to her unyielding spirit and her burning desire to create a lasting impact on the lives of those she touches. Tune in to learn more about Meera's transformative journey and her dedication to empowering women to thrive in their careers.

Connect with Meera Hardin:

https://www.instagram.com/browngirltrending

https://www.youtube.com/@browngirltrending

🎙️Host Meera Hardin

🎧Produced by Admin Avenger

In today's hyper-connected world, taking a break from screens is more crucial than ever. Join host, Meera Hardin, as she explores the transformative power of a digital detox, sharing tips and strategies to help you reclaim your time, boost your well-being, and find balance.

Key Topics Covered:

• Digital Detox Basics: What it is and why it matters.
• Signs of Digital Overload: Learn to recognize when it's time to unplug.
• Amazing Benefits: Discover the mental, physical, and emotional perks of going offline.
• Practical Tips: Easy steps to start your detox and stick with it.
• Maintaining Balance: How to integrate tech breaks into your routine for lasting impact.
• Action Steps: Start Small, Create Tech-free Zones, Engage in Offline Activities

• 
  

  Highlights:

• Mental Health Boost: Reduce stress and anxiety.

• Better Sleep: Improve your sleep quality.

• Stronger Relationships: Deepen real-life connections.

• Enhanced Productivity: Focus and get more done.

ABOUT MEERA HARDIN

Meet Meera, a dynamic force in the media industry with nearly two decades of experience under her belt. She's not just a seasoned professional; she's also a passionate advocate for women's empowerment and career success.

As an immigrant who has faced her fair share of career setbacks, Meera's journey to the top has been nothing short of remarkable. It's a journey that has ignited a profound sense of purpose within her. But Meera's story isn't just about personal triumph; it's about paying it forward.

Driven by an unwavering commitment to mentor and coach women in her industry, Meera's motivation stems from her own challenges and hardships. She firmly believes that no one should have to endure what she went through, and that's why she's on a mission to empower others to achieve their goals swiftly and confidently.

Meera's life is a testament to her unyielding spirit and her burning desire to create a lasting impact on the lives of those she touches. Tune in to learn more about Meera's transformative journey and her dedication to empowering women to thrive in their careers.

Connect with Meera Hardin:

https://www.instagram.com/browngirltrending

🎙️Host Meera Hardin