In this dynamic episode of Just Us, Liz and Kere tackle a career topic that many professionals—especially Black women navigating corporate spaces—find confusing and intimidating: sponsorship.

Responding to a listener who calls herself “Looking for a Sponsor, Not Just a Cheerleader,” the hosts break down the real difference between mentorship and sponsorship. They explain why a sponsor isn’t just someone who gives advice—but someone who uses their influence, social capital, and reputation to advocate for you when you’re not in the room. Liz reframes sponsorship as a “strategic faith walk,” reminding listeners that while you can’t control who sponsors you, you can control the frequency you’re broadcasting through your work, relationships, and personal brand.

From practical strategies like doing your own 360-degree feedback to intentionally managing your professional reputation, this conversation delivers both mindset and tactical tools for positioning yourself for advancement—even when you don’t see who’s advocating behind the scenes.

Then the mood shifts into fan-favorite segment Boss It or Toss It, where Liz and Kere hilariously debate iconic talk show hosts—from Oprah (original vs. modern), Gayle King, and Tamron Hall to Wendy Williams, Sherri Shepherd, Maury, Jerry Springer, Phil Donahue, and more. Along the way, they unpack authenticity, cultural responsibility, chaos vs. empathy in media, and what it really takes to build a lasting platform.

It’s part career masterclass, part cultural commentary, and all Just Us—where ambition meets assignment, and even the jokes come with leadership lessons.

Liz Nolley and Kere Thomas kick off Season 2 of Just Us by reflecting on the joy (and work!) of Season 1—and shouting out the growing community of listeners and YouTube subscribers. Liz opens with a “Teachable Moment” that’s perfect for a new year and a new season: “Pause as an action” and “silence speaks volumes.” Together, they unpack how Black women—often expected to do the most—can reclaim power by practicing discernment: knowing when to speak, when to listen, and when silence is the strongest move in the room.

Then the episode shifts into a fun, culture-forward “Top 10” segment: Top 10 Business Lessons from The Book of Eddie Murphy—with chapters from Coming to America and Trading Places. From protecting your intellectual property to asking for what you want, learning the unspoken rules, building the right team, and not resting on privilege, Liz and Kere translate classic movie moments into real workplace strategy—without losing the laughs.

They wrap with a special listener perk: a limited-time merch discount (20% off) tied to Divine Nine Founders’ Day season, plus an invitation to join the Inner Circle community for future tools, discounts, and bonus resources.

Not Your Gratitude Project + Boss It or Toss It: Vacation Edition

In this episode of Just US, Liz Nolley and Kere Thomas dive into a letter from “Not Your Gratitude Project,” a high-performing Black woman whose boss keeps hitting her with the same undermining line: “You should be thankful you even have a job.” And whew…Liz and Kere are immediately triggered—because they’ve lived it.

They break down why that phrase isn’t “just a joke,” but a classic corporate gaslighting and intimidation tactic meant to control behavior and shrink confidence. From documenting every incident (and every win), to pulling receipts, gathering third-party praise, and getting HR involved when necessary, they outline real strategies to protect your peace and your career. They also talk about reading the room: is this one manager, a toxic culture, or a warning sign about layoffs? And no matter what—keep your “corporate go bag” ready: updated resume, active network, and a financial cushion.

Then the episode shifts into a lighter (but still very real) round of Boss It or Toss It: Vacation Spots Black Folks Love (Besides Martha’s Vineyard)—with hot takes on Atlantic City, Dubai, Jamaica, cruises, Miami, Vegas, Ghana, and the undefeated favorite: staying home.

Come for the coaching, stay for the laughs, the culture, and the mic-drop moments.