In this inspiring episode of No Boxes: Just Verses, we sit down with powerhouse CEO Christiane Pendarvis. Are you a leader trying to navigate an unconventional career path, overcome self-doubt, or find your authentic leadership style? Christiane's journey is a powerful testament to the value of taking risks, embracing pivots, and finding your purpose beyond a career plan. From her upbringing in South Carolina to leading global brands like Savage X Fenty and PATTERN Beauty, this conversation reveals the songs and stories that shaped a true unboxed leader.

Christiane Pendarvis is a growth-oriented Chief Executive Officer with over 30 years of experience. She is currently the Co-CEO of PATTERN Beauty and previously served as Co-President of Savage X Fenty, where she grew revenues six times over and closed a major financing round. She brings a leadership style grounded in compassion and empathy and serves on the boards of public companies, including Him for Hers and Hootsuite.

Key Takeaways:

• Exposure Drives Growth: Learn how a childhood of black excellence in South Carolina, followed by a move to Harvard, taught Christiane that a leader's growth is often accelerated by new experiences and diverse exposure.
• The Power of Authentic Leadership: Discover how Christiane learned to overcome the fear of showing her whole self at work, realizing that full authenticity is the key to building genuine connections and career longevity.
• Pivots are a Pathway to Purpose: Hear how an unexpected maternity leave project at Gap and a risky move to a small startup prepared her with the exact e-commerce, strategy, and operational skills she needed to lead Savage X Fenty.
• The Key to a C-Suite Role: Find out why Christiane believes that the path to a CEO role isn't about a calculated plan, but about being deeply passionate, maniacally focused, and constantly learning what interests you.

Christiane’s story proves that a leader's journey is a beautiful, unpredictable path. What lessons will you take from her story to create your own unboxed career? Share this episode with a friend and remember to leave a rating and review!

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Theme Song: Pedal to the Medal by Martin Luther (Spotify | Apple Music)

In this special edition of No Boxes: Just Verses, recorded live at the Harold and Carol Pump Foundation's celebrity fundraiser, we sit down with basketball legend and Hall of Famer, Artis Gilmore. Have you ever wondered what it takes to rise from a childhood of poverty to a career of unprecedented success? Artis' journey is a powerful testament to the value of mentorship, perseverance, and a deep commitment to family legacy. This conversation goes beyond the court to reveal the songs and stories that shaped a quiet leader whose influence continues to impact generations.

Artis Gilmore is a Hall of Fame basketball legend who dominated both the ABA and NBA. A seven-foot-two center, he led Jacksonville University to the NCAA Championship game and went on to become the ABA's Rookie of the Year and MVP. He holds the NBA record for the highest career field goal percentage at nearly 60%. Known for his quiet leadership and efficiency, he remains one of the most respected big men in basketball history.

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of a Visionary Coach: Learn how a high school coach saw potential in a young Artis and created a path for him to leave his challenging upbringing to get an education and play basketball.
• The Leadership of the Long Game: Discover why Artis chose to turn down a pro contract early in his career to finish his degree, setting an example for his younger siblings and creating a generational legacy of education.
• Basketball as a Business: Hear how Artis' experiences in the competitive ABA and NBA taught him lessons on quick decision-making and being prepared for failure—skills that are essential in both business and life.
• Defining True Wealth: Find out why Artis believes a leader's true wealth is not the money or accolades, but the success and happiness of their family and the positive impact they have on their community.

Artis Gilmore's story proves that a leader’s journey is often shaped by a spiritual belief and a desire to make a difference in the world. Join us in building your own "unboxed" journey and check out the show notes to get Artis' unforgettable playlist!

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review the podcast!

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Theme Song: Pedal to the Medal by Martin Luther (Spotify | Apple Music)

In this special edition of No Boxes: Just Verses, recorded live from Beverly Hills, we sit down with legendary MLB All-Star and current Senate candidate, Steve Garvey. Have you ever wondered what it takes to build a career defined by consistency and durability, both on and off the field? Steve's journey is a powerful testament to the value of mentorship, seizing opportunity, and the courage to reinvent yourself. This conversation goes beyond the baseball diamond to reveal the songs and stories that shaped a leader known for his reliability and integrity.

Steve Garvey is a former Major League Baseball first baseman, best known for his iconic years with the LA Dodgers and San Diego Padres. A 10-time All-Star and 1974 NL MVP, he holds the National League record for consecutive games played with 1,207. Celebrated for his consistency and leadership, Garvey has amassed over 2,600 hits in his 19-year career. He is currently a candidate for the U.S. Senate.

Key Takeaways:

• Mentorship Starts Early: Learn how a chance encounter with Jackie Robinson and Roy Campanella when he was a seven-year-old bat boy gave him a foundational lesson on working hard and doing well in school to have options beyond baseball.
• The Courage to Seize the Moment: Discover how a last-minute opportunity to play first base during a doubleheader changed his entire career trajectory and taught him to always be prepared to seize the moment, no matter how small the chance.
• Humility and Preparation for Life After the Game: Hear how Garvey used his off-seasons to work for companies and learn about business, recognizing that a professional career is short and that a leader must prepare for "after the cheering stops".
• Civility as a Leadership Principle: Learn how a conversation between President Reagan and Tip O’Neill inspired Garvey’s belief in the importance of political civility and discourse, even with people who have completely different ideologies.

Steve Garvey’s journey proves that the best leaders are those who are open to new experiences and never stop trying to make a difference. What lessons from his story will you carry with you?

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review the podcast!

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Theme Song: Pedal to the Medal by Martin Luther (Spotify | Apple Music)

In this amazing episode of No Boxes: Just Verses, we're joined by the one and only Shaun Robinson. Are you a leader trying to navigate a changing industry, find your purpose beyond your career, or make a lasting impact on your community? Shaun’s journey is a powerful testament to the value of hard work, strategic career-building, and using your platform to empower others. We explore her unboxed path from her Detroit roots to the red carpet, and how her friendships with music legends taught her some of the most profound lessons on leadership and self-worth.

Shaun Robinson is a television host, actress, and producer best known for her 16 incredible years with Access Hollywood and her role as the face of TLC’s 90 Day Fiancé reunion specials. A proud graduate of Spelman College, she is a passionate advocate for girls and women, running the Shaun Foundation for Girls to support programs in STEM, health, arts, and more. She has also written a book to help girls build self-esteem and has produced and acted in numerous films and TV shows.

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of Seeing It to Believe It: Shaun shares how seeing a Black female news anchor on TV as a child inspired her to become a journalist and gave her the conviction to succeed despite facing doubt.
• Longevity Comes from Skill: Learn how Shaun’s long and hard grind in local news markets prepared her for her big break at Access Hollywood and why a real skill set, not just being "cute," is the key to lasting success in a volatile industry.
• Turning a Platform into Purpose: Hear why Shaun left a 16-year career at Access Hollywood to create the Shaun Foundation for Girls, and how she built a nonprofit that supports other organizations in her community's pillars.
• Lessons from Legends: Discover the leadership wisdom Shaun gained from her friendships with Aretha Franklin and Prince, including the importance of reading a contract and owning your own content.

Shaun’s story proves that every step of your journey—from childhood dreams to professional pivots—is part of your purpose. Join us in building our leadership playlists and support the Shaun Foundation for Girls in their mission to empower the next generation.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review the podcast!

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Theme Song: Pedal to the Medal by Martin Luther (Spotify | Apple Music)

In this powerful episode of No Boxes: Just Verses, we sit down with financial leadership expert Jack McCullough, founder of the CFO Leadership Council. Are you a leader battling imposter syndrome, navigating personal setbacks, or trying to build a career that goes beyond the numbers? Jack’s story is a masterclass in turning personal challenges into empathetic leadership. From being a wimpy kid (his words!) to leading a global network of thousands, he reveals how his journey forged a deep commitment to community, mentorship, and building a safe space for others.

Jack McCullough is a recognized financial leadership expert and the founder of the CFO Leadership Council, a global network of over 2,500 senior financial executives. A former CFO for multiple organizations, he has played a key role in helping CFOs expand their influence beyond finance to become strategic business leaders. Jack has published three books, including MBA for Lunch earlier this year, and serves a senior contributor to the Forbes CFO Network, and host of the Secrets of Rockstar CFOs podcast. His insights have been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, CNBC, and he has appeared on Fox Business Network and Your World with Neil Cavuto. Jack earned his MBA from MIT Sloan School of Management.

Key Takeaways:

• The Scars That Build Empathy: Jack shares how being a bullied, socially awkward kid gave him a lifelong mission to stand up for others and taught him that niceness is a sign of strength, not weakness.
• Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Learn how Jack, despite his achievements, felt like an admissions error at MIT Sloan. He discovered that his unique background was a valuable asset that his classmates respected and sought advice from.
• From Personal Pain to Purpose: Hear how the defining challenge of his life—raising two autistic sons—made him a more patient, kinder, and empathetic leader, inspiring him to mentor others going through similar struggles.
• Building a Community from Rejection: Discover the origin story of the CFO Leadership Council, which was born after Jack was rejected by another professional group. He created the network he needed, fostering a judgment-free community of operators.

Jack’s story proves that a leader's true strength is not in a perfect background, but in the lessons they learn from their personal journey.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review the podcast!

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Theme Song: Pedal to the Medal by Martin Luther (Spotify | Apple Music)

In this inspiring episode of No Boxes: Just Verses, we're joined by trailblazing board director and former senior executive, Barbara Adachi. Are you a leader trying to navigate an unconventional career path or facing a moment of doubt? Barbara's journey is a masterclass in resilience, mentorship, and building a legacy of impact. We explore her upbringing in a diverse community, her rise through the ranks at Deloitte as the first minority and female partner to lead her practice, and her current mission to pay it forward by mentoring the next generation.

Barbara Adachi is a trailblazing board director and former senior executive known for her expertise in human capital strategy and inclusive leadership. As the first minority and female partner to lead the national human capital consulting business at Deloitte, she championed the firm's Women’s Initiative. She currently serves on the boards of VSP Vision and Old Republic International. Barbara is also the Lead Executive Advisor for Ascend Pinnacle, a network focused on increasing AAPI representation on corporate boards.

Key Takeaways:

• Discover how a diverse upbringing taught her the power of a supportive community and perseverance.
• Learn how a visionary mentor changed her career trajectory by seeing her potential and giving her a chance.
• Hear why she was willing to walk away from a job she wanted to stay true to her own principles.
• Find out why paying it forward through mentorship is a leader's most fulfilling work.

Barbara’s playlist is a joyful anthem of resilience, proving that anything can happen when you're willing to try. What songs have shaped your journey?

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review the podcast!

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Theme Song: Pedal to the Medal by Martin Luther (Spotify | Apple Music)

In this episode of No Boxes: Just Verses, we're joined by global communications leader Debbie Frost, a woman who has helped build two of the biggest tech companies in the world: Google and Meta (formerly Facebook). Are you a professional feeling pressured to follow a specific career path? Do you want to pivot your career but fear the risk?

Debbie’s journey is a masterclass in breaking free from expectations and finding your own lane. We explore how her upbringing across three continents shaped her into a leader who thrived during the hyper-growth of these tech giants and who now dedicates her time to philanthropic causes she cares deeply about.

Debbie Frost is a seasoned global communications leader who served as Vice President of International and Policy Communications at Facebook (now Meta). Prior to that, she built the Global Communications and Public Affairs function at Google during its super-hyper growth years.

Debbie was a member of the executive leadership team at Facebook, where she helped grow the company from 100 million to over 2 billion users. Her journey is a testament to the power of following your own path and finding your purpose in the intersection of law, policy, and human impact.

Key Takeaways:

• Break Free from the Box: Debbie shares how she pivoted from a law career to public relations, teaching us that sometimes the path we're expected to follow isn't the one meant for us.
• The Importance of Global Context: Learn how a diverse upbringing across Hong Kong, Australia, and the UK prepared Debbie to lead international communications at a global scale and to understand the impact of policies on people.
• Building Resilience in Hyper-Growth: Discover how facing immense personal challenges while working at a high-pressure, scaling startup forged a "titanium" level of resilience.
• The Power of an Empathetic Leader: Find out how a compassionate boss during a difficult time taught Debbie the value of leading with empathy and supporting women in the workplace.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review the podcast!

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Theme Song: Pedal to the Medal by Martin Luther (Spotify | Apple Music)

In this episode of No Boxes: Just Verses, we're joined by the multitalented actress, director, and producer, Terri J. Vaughn. Are you a leader trying to balance your career with your personal life, stay true to your purpose, or pivot when life throws you a curveball? Terri’s story is a masterclass in heart, humor, and honesty. This conversation goes beyond the spotlight to explore the roots of her resilience and the five songs that shaped her journey from a childhood in the Bay Area to a Hollywood powerhouse.

Terri J. Vaughn is an award-winning actress, director, and producer known for her iconic roles in shows like The Steve Harvey Show and films like Friday. She is also a three-time NAACP Image Award winner and a powerhouse behind the camera, directing for major networks and streaming platforms. Terri is the founder of the Take Wings Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to mentoring young girls.

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of Purpose: Learn how Terri’s humble beginnings and family support led her to create a foundation to empower young girls and why finding your purpose is the key to a lasting career.
• Faith Over Fear: Discover how Terri took a leap of faith to pursue a career she never even dreamed of and how her belief in a higher power guided her steps when things got tough.
• The Leadership Lesson of the Pivot: Hear how Terri embraced an unexpected marriage and family, teaching us that true leaders must be willing to pivot and change their plans when life presents a new pathway.
• Leading with Joy and Empathy: Find out how Terri, as a director, uses music to shift the energy on set, bringing her team together with empathy and humor to create great content.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review the podcast!

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Theme Song: Pedal to the Medal by Martin Luther (Spotify | Apple Music)