If you're a Black woman who's been dismissed, interrupted, or silenced in the workplace, this episode is for you. Executive coach Karen Donaldson returns with her powerful ACT Framework to give you the exact words to say when someone tries to shut you down.

What You'll Learn:✅ The ACT Framework for workplace advocacy (Advocate, Communicate, Thrive)✅ Exact scripts for when someone shushed you in a meeting✅ How to handle bad performance reviews with confidence✅ When to address microaggressions in the moment vs. later✅ Powerful vs. powerless language that changes everything✅ How to know when it's time to leave vs. set boundaries

Featured Expert:Karen Donaldson - Executive Coach who's worked with C-suite executives, politicians, and athletes. Her confidence training has helped leaders at every level advocate for themselves with power and precision.

Episode Timestamps:(0:00) Introduction: When advocacy becomes necessary(5:43) The ACT Framework explained (Advocate, Communicate, Thrive)(8:58) Step 1: Know your value and what you need(14:14) Setting intentions and boundaries before problems start(19:10) Building your case with facts and documentation(25:28) Handling microaggressions that get minimized(32:05) What to do when they shush you in a meeting (EXACT SCRIPTS)(36:01) Zoom meeting version of the response(38:12) Whether to follow up after calling it out(42:13) Preparing for performance reviews with documentation(48:27) Powerful vs. powerless language in the workplace(51:23) Deciding when to stay vs. leave a toxic situation(54:40) Where to find Karen Donaldson

Connect with Karen:🌐 karendonaldsoninc.com📱 @therealkarendonaldson🎓 globalconfidenceacademy.com

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Coffee No Cream is a podcast unapologetically dedicated to Black women, sharing the tools and strategies we need to thrive in professional spaces.