Advertise on podcast: Ignite 2 Impact Podcast - Raise up and Inspire the Next Generation of Leaders

Grief is an impossible emotion to avoid. Throughout life, we may often find ourselves in moments of loss, no longer having a person whom we’d never imagined this journey without. While the pain of mourning is undeniable, the loss of a loved one does not have to halt your destiny and growth forever. Today we speak with Lori Tucker-Sullivan. Lori is an author whose writings have appeared in a number of world-renowned publications including the Washington Post, Motherwell, and The Sun. She holds a BA in Communications and Journalism from the University of Michigan and an MFA in Creative Nonfiction from Spalding University. Her Pushcart Prize-nominated essay “Detroit, 2015” told the story of her decision to move back to the city following her husband’s death. Following her own encounter with losing a life partner, Lori pursued a project titled “I Can’t Remember if I Cried”;  a book profiling the widows of famous rock and roll stars, slated for release in 2023. Lori shares her own story, as well as the countless gems she’s gathered through her process of speaking with other widows. Truly an insightful, motivating conversation!  

Meet Denise Fair Razo, who found herself at the forefront of Detroit's battle with Covid-19 when appointed as chief public health officer by Detroit's mayor just a few months before the pandemic's start. 2020 catapulted the American healthcare industry into the spotlight as never before. The Covid-19 pandemic altered every facet of our previous concepts of normality.  Detroit found itself at the epicenter of the chaos, at many points leading the nation in infection rates. Amongst the tragedy came opportunities for reflection and reformation of long-standing pillars we'd previously assumed unchangeable.  Denise and her team led efforts to keep Detroiters safe. In this conversation, Denise gives behind-the-scenes insight on what she's seen, heard, and learned, as well as shares her inspiring journey of finding her purpose in helping others. KEY TAKEAWAYS  Are we indeed in a post-pandemic society? Tips on becoming a better leader. How can we take better care of ourselves throughout this pandemic? QUOTES "If nothing else, healthcare should change in terms of how we are responsible for our own bodies." – Dr. Geneva Williams, 6:27 "Leadership is hard, especially during a crisis, but it is necessary." – Denise Fair, 24:40

Feeling out of balance during these times? Not sure how to stay happy and positive? Dr. Geneva talks with Dr. Michele Leno about personal development tips and ways to keep it together and be happy even in difficult times. This insightful conversation with one of the most renowned mental health experts will inspire YOU and help get you back in sync. Dr. Leno is a native of Detroit and a licensed psychologist in the state of Michigan. She completed her undergraduate studies at Marygrove College and later attended the Michigan School of Professional Psychology, and obtained her M.A. in clinical psychology. She completed her doctoral degree at Saybrook University in California. Dr. Leno is the owner of DML Psychological Services, PLLC, a company that provides consulting services throughout Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties. She is a member of the American Psychological Association (APA) and Psychology Today. Dr. Leno serves on the board of directors of the National Association of Women Business Owners(NAWBO). She has offered her expertise to several media outlets including WXYZ Detroit and The National Psychologist. Dr. Leno is currently a co-host on 3D View, which airs on WADL TV. Dr. Leno has several years of experience providing court-ordered psychological evaluations, therapy, coaching, and consulting services to individuals and organizations. She has worked with clients of all ages and backgrounds, including children, adolescents, adults, athletes, and various professionals. Dr. Leno offers special intensive therapy and coaching session to busy professionals. Some of her interests include performance anxiety, generalized anxiety, situational depression, and the effects of social media on mental health. Dr. Leno helps others get unstuck, transition, and cope with chronic and situational stressors. Her treatment is based on some guiding principles: first, she maintains that many physical symptoms and somatic complaints stem from poor mental health and coping; second, others often remain in positions with which they are unhappy due to fears and anxiety about change. She encourages others to recognize their own self imposed obstacles. Dr. Leno believes that by improving your mental health, you improve your life.

What’s the link between happiness and health? If you’re happy, you may be giving great benefits to your health, scientific evidence says. It seems being happy helps boost the immune system, reduce pain, protect against heart disease, and help fight stress. Being happy promotes a healthy lifestyle. And...guess what,  being happy may even increase your life expectancy. Join Dr. Geneva and her extraordinary guest, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and national leader, Florine Mark, as they talk about the link between happiness and health and give awesome advice and practical tips on living your best life. This is one of the best conversations to listen to especially during Women's History Month. Florine Mark, Detroit native, President, and CEO of The WW (formerly Weight Watchers) Group Inc. in Farmington Hills, MI, grew up in a poor and large but loving family. They taught her courage, perseverance, and faith, which gave her the confidence to build a business that is recognized as the largest franchisee of Weight Watchers International. Following are a few key highlights of Florine Mark’s many appointments and accomplishments: The Jewish Community Center of Metropolitan Detroit, Chairman of the Board Jewish Federation and United Jewish Foundation of Metropolitan Detroit, Board of Directors Committee of 200 Served on the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, Detroit Branch, Chair Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government Women’s Leadership Board, Board Member Vice-Chair, Henry Ford Health System West Bloomfield Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health & Sports, Governor Appointee Governor’s Council of Economic Advisors, Advisor University of Michigan Cardiovascular Center, National Advisory Board Member Wayne State University School of Business Administration, Board of Visitors Wayne State University School of Medicine, Board of Visitors Detroit Regional Chamber, Board of Directors, Executive Committee Economic Club of Detroit, Board Member & Executive Committee Florine’s career has been filled with numerous accolades. She was the first woman to be inducted into the National Management Association Hall of Fame. She was honored with the Entrepreneurial Visionary Award from the Women's Business Center in Washington, D.C. She was also the first woman to receive the Neil Shine Award. In 2004, she fulfilled a lifelong dream by publishing her first book, Talk to the Mirror. Recently, she was awarded the William Davidson Lifetime Achievement Award. Also, Crain’s Detroit Business Magazine named her one of the 100 Most Influential Women in Detroit. She received the Euro-American Woman’s Council Artemis Award in Greece and the C200 Luminary Award. At the Women's Leadership Board at Harvard University's John F. Kennedy's School of Government, Florine works to advance women in leadership and public policy globally. She was awarded the Endowed chair of Entrepreneurship at WSU and was named a Michiganian of The Year by The Detroit News. The coveted title is bestowed upon people who, through their good community deeds and the examples they set, make life in the state a richer experience. Florine’s honorary degrees include: Eastern Michigan University, Bachelor of Arts Central Michigan University, Doctor of Commercial Science Oakland University, Doctor of Humanities Walsh College, Doctor of Laws degree Wayne State University, Doctor of Laws degree Florine is the heart and soul of The WW Group, but she also devotes much time and energy to policy-making boards that set the bar for health and wellness issues in her home state of Michigan. She is committed to improving Michigan residents’ health and regularly encourages state and business leaders to join the effort. Florine is passionate about her work and involvement in numerous organizations, always seeking to advance the community in any way she can. Being the mother of seven children and 23 grandchildren, she has instilled in them the imp

The vision for your business may have taken a real turn during this past, very difficult year. When you started you most likely had an awesome vision as well as specific goals. Yet over time, and especially in the last year, perhaps you’ve become uncertain about your short and long-term business goals or feel your vision isn't as compelling as it once was.  Join in the conversation with Dr. Geneva and Dr. ZaLonya Allen, President & CEO of the National Entrepreneurs Association, as they discuss what small business owners need to do as they pivot in 2021. Dr. ZaLonya Allen leads the National Entrepreneurs Association, a 501c3 created to empower entrepreneurs to grow and sustain successful businesses through monthly networking events, training conferences, and educational programs. As a speaker. Allen has delivered hundreds of presentations for organizations throughout the country including, the Society for Human Resource Management, Ford UAW, Edison, RoanokeCollege, and the Federal Government to name a few. As a coach, she has worked with professionals in a variety of industries from corporate executives to professional athletes. Using the principles of psychology, Dr. Allen helps her clients master their mindset and get on a path to goal attainment. Dr.Allen has been the recipient of numerous awards including the Woman of Wonder Award from the University of Phoenix, Unsung Hero Award from Wayne State University Association of Black Business Students, and the Spirit of Detroit Award. Her work has been featured by numerous media outlets including Detroit News, Fox2News, CW50 StreetBeat, Crain'sDetroit, dBusiness, 910AM Superstation and105.9FM. Dr. Allen is a graduate of the University of Michigan, Wayne State University, and North CentralUniversity. She holds degrees in industrial relations, sociology and two degrees in psychology with a focus in I/O psychology. She continues to work as an online psychology professor to help students achieve their dream of a college education. Dr. Allenhas served on numerous boards including the National Speakers Association of Michigan and is a member of the American Psychological Association. To learn more visit zalonya.com       

Did you know you could be on your way to living in or near poverty with an entirely different lifestyle as you age? Dr. Geneva discusses this real-life phenomenon with aging expert Elizabeth White and offers solutions and practical advice to avoiding financial insecurity and limited finances as we age. Elizabeth White, author of 55, Underemployed and Faking Normal (Simon and Schuster), advocates aging solutions for older adults facing uncertain work and financial insecurity.  When she could not find a book that met her needs during her own bout of long-term unemployment, she wrote it herself. She wrote it as a 65-year-old woman who has lived the stories she describes and as a Harvard MBA, former retail entrepreneur, and C-suite executive who never expected to land here.   55, Underemployed, and Faking Normal is about the millions of older Americans who, despite a history of career choice and decent incomes, are facing the prospect of downward mobility in old age. Based on expert research and interviews with older adults, Fifty-five looks at the tools and strategies Boomers, and GenXers can utilize to make sense of changed circumstances and better manage financial hardship. Containing over 100 online resources, Fifty-five is the book to read to navigate the emotional aspects of finding oneself suddenly and unexpectedly among the long-term unemployed. Ms. White is a frequent guest blogger and speaker at conferences and workshops and has been named one of the top influencers on aging in the country. Her essays and work have appeared in Barron’s, Forbes, The Huffington Post, MarketWatch, Next Avenue, and The Washington Post. She has been featured prominently in three segments on the PBS NewsHour.  And her TEDx Talk has been elevated to the main TED stage, where it has garnered over 1.9 million views. Ms. White has been featured on the TED Radio Hour and was recently invited to testify before the Senate Special Committee on Aging.

When you think of a good leader, what comes to mind? Leadership affects every aspect of our lives, from the workplace to our homes.  Meet Reverend Dr. Patricia Butler, respected clergy leader, and education expert who shares her innovative trademark approach to effective leadership. Through her educational career, teaching experience, and years of pastoring, Rev. Butler has developed a system of leadership known as the “4 M’s”. Join us as she elaborates on the 4-M Model of Leadership process and shares tips on how you can implement effective leadership practices in your everyday life. As always, we bring you the best of the best here at Ignite 2 Impact!  KEY TAKEAWAYS  The importance of leading by example. How good leadership skills benefit our professional and personal lives.  QUOTES “Mentoring doesn’t mean that you become me; mentoring means that you take what you need from me, to become a better you.” – Rev. Dr. Patricia Butler, 38:10 “Leave a legacy through your leadership.” – Rev. Dr. Patricia Butler, 41:50 “My best sermons are those that I act out, not speak out.” – Rev. Dr. Patricia Butler, 46:00     RESOURCES MENTIONED drgenevaspeaks.com   Rev. Butler is the pastor of St. Luke Tabernacle Community Church-Detroit. She also serves as Chair and President of the Cody Rouge Community Action Alliance Board, where she led an 84-member community group to implement a community revitalization plan to promote and secure resources  Her impressive educational background includes an Associate’s of Science, Bachelor’s of Science in Education, Master of Education in Instructional Technology, Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, and an array of additional certifications qualifying her to teach children and young adults, including those with mental or physical impairments. 

  What’s stopping you from enjoying your life to the fullest? There’s nothing worse than untapped potential. We all have dreams, goals, and visions of an ideal life that...believe it or not, is attainable. What’s stopping us from reaching it?  Today, Dr. Geneva speaks to Silver Rae Fox, renowned coach and popular blog writer, about why many of us have failed to reach our “best life” status and how to overcome many of the roadblocks that prevent us from doing so.  Silver deposits countless gems that everyone needs to hear. You don’t want to miss this!  KEY TAKEAWAYS    The dangers of complacency. How rushing our goals hurts us.  Tips for perseverance.    QUOTES  “You have to want to – no one is going to make your dreams happen for you.” Silver Rae Fox, 6:20 “Enjoy the journey. There are things that happen along the way that are priceless.” – Silver Rae Fox, 11:30 RESOURCES MENTIONED drgenevaspeaks.com https://www.amazon.com/Silver-Rae-Fox/e/B073WH7VFK%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share   Best known formerly by her birth name, Pat Evans, Silver Rae Fox rebranded and brought a heightened dedication to uplift and motivate others by sharing inspiration via public speaking engagements and radio show FOXOLOGY TODAY. Silver’s admirable career has spanned over 35 years of empowering others as a life consultant, coach, instructor, speaker, and presenter.  As radio host of her own show, FOXOLOGY TODAY on Blog Talk Radio, Silver continues her life’s mission to uplift and motivate through sharing inspiration on the airwaves and speaking venues. Through her genuine desire and determination to help make the world a little bit brighter, Silver brings a confident, commanding, and engaging presence to every stage. As a skilled MC, Media Host, and speaker, she is poignant, expressive, and has the gift to flavor her dialog with wisdom, wit, and humor. Whether speaking in intimate groups, churches, corporate trainings, conference seminars, or in the spotlight on stage, Silver is passionate and powerful in her delivery. Her messages are always entertaining, enlightening, guaranteed to be insightful, and good for the heart and soul. Some of her signature presentations include ”What’s The Plan? Discovering Your Passion and Purpose in Life”, ”The ‘F” Word: What Failure Really Means,” and ”Be a Dreamer: You Can Be What You See.” Silver is also the author of an audio ebook, an entertaining and humorous modern-day folktale entitled ”Colored People,” and a workbook for aspiring speakers entitled ”Talk Is Productive.”

Do you ever wonder how you can help others?  Today we have a special treat: a Morgan State University connection! Dr. Geneva speaks to fellow alumnus Matthew Reeds, millennial philanthropist and founder of the Reeds Fund, about how to turn your enthusiasm into ways to help others. The Reeds Fund is a Baltimore-based not-for-profit that educates, advocates, and liberates families impacted by autism and sarcoidosis.  After experiencing inadequacies within Baltimore, Maryland’s healthcare system first-hand, Reeds took action. He aims to destigmatize those who struggle with these issues, inform others who may be unaware of them, and fight against the socio-economic barriers that prevent many from receiving care. Reeds is also a proud alumnus of the Baltimore Polytechnic Institute. He is a strong and youthful force in Baltimore in philanthropy, business, and community service.  Matthew Reeds' inspiring story will motivate you all to take action and use life’s circumstances to make a difference in the lives of others. KEY TAKEAWAYS  Turning personal passions into life-long ventures. An in-depth look at the challenges autistic individuals may face.    “If challenges aren’t arising, then you aren’t pushing yourself; you’re being comfortable.” – Matthew Reeds, 13:45 “When you’re building something, sometimes it’s very hard for people to see the vision until it manifests.” – Matthew Reeds, 15:10 “In leadership, it’s critical to live in the present, but also think three steps ahead.” – Matthew Reeds, 31:33 RESOURCES MENTIONED drgenevaspeaks.com

Are you dealing with challenges at your workplace? Studies say women of color, especially Black women, experience huge barriers, unfair treatment, and lack of opportunities in the corporate workplace.  Today, we speak with Linda Taliaferro, successful corporate executive and career advisor, about strategies to successfully navigate the workplace in corporate America, especially as a woman of color. KEY TAKEAWAYS  Imposter Syndrome at the workplace and how to deal with it Examining the relationship between personal lives and professional lives. How important are “work friends”? How are we preventing ourselves from succeeding in the workplace? QUOTES “Negative self-talk can be a career-killer” – Linda Taliaferro (6:05) “We should be eager, and understand the responsibility, of shifting the landscape.” – Linda Taliaferro (29:15) RESOURCES MENTIONED drgenevaspeaks.com lindataliaferro.com [email protected] Linda Taliaferro is the Vice President of Global Quality for Meritor, Inc.  Meritor Inc. is a leading global supplier of drivetrain, mobility, braking, and aftermarket solutions for commercial vehicle and industry markets. Linda has oversight for 38 sites and joint ventures located in 18 countries on 5 continents. Linda is the Founder of The TEE – The Extra Effort, LLC, a career advisory service-based business helping women of color professionals shift their mindset, successfully leverage their strengths to be seen as a leader, positioned to get their shoulder tapped for the next level opportunity. Before joining Meritor, Linda held the position of Global Quality, Environmental Health, and Safety Director at Littelfuse, Inc.  Before joining Littelfuse, Linda held the position of Ford North America Advanced Quality Director at Johnson Controls.  She has held positions of increasing responsibility within Hayes Lemmerz, Inc., which is now Maxion Wheels.  Director of Quality for both the Suspensions and Powertrain business units, Director of Quality, Operational Excellence and Program Management in the Wheels business unit, a Global Director position.  Linda has also worked for Bosch, BMW MC, Detroit Diesel within Operations, Quality, Purchasing, and Supplier Development throughout her extensive career.  In December of 2020, Linda was awarded the Automotive Women’s Alliance Foundation Industry Achievement Award.  In February 2020, Linda was named one of Michigan Chronicle’s Women of Excellence Honorees.  She was named one of Savoy’s 2019 Most Influential Women in Corporate America.  In the same year, out of over 30 candidates, she was selected one of 3 women named Alternative for Girls Role Model of the Year.  In 2017, she was awarded Woman Worth Watching in STEM by Profiles in Diversity Journal.  In 2015, Linda received the Women of Color STEM Special Recognition award.  From 2016-2018 Linda was President of the Automotive Women’s Alliance Foundation (AWAF) and now serves on their Executive Advisory Council (EAC). Linda is a board member of Girl Scouts of Southeast Michigan, a member of the American Society of Quality (ASQ), member of Inforum Women’s Professional Alliance and Women in Manufacturing (WIM).  Linda is a member of Jack and Jill, Inc, a member of the Greater Wayne County Chapter of The Links, Inc., and Pi Tau Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.  Linda was born in New Castle, PA.  She has earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Michigan Ross School of Business.  She holds a certification as a Six Sigma Greenbelt and is proficient in German. Linda is married to Christopher L. Taliaferro.  Her daughter and AKA Soror Alexis C. McCullough, is a summa cum laude graduate of Howard University and is currently enrolled in law school.

There’s a difference between getting older and getting old. Who said that we had to let a little age slow us down? Today we speak with Wendy Adlerstein in part two of a series focusing on the myths and misconceptions of aging, as well as ways to stay vibrant as we grow.  Wendy holds a B.A. from Clark University in Psychology with a concentration in Sociology and Human Services. In addition to her Massachusetts License in Social Work, she holds a Certificate in Gerontology from the Worcester Consortium Gerontology Program. She is a member of the Aging Life Care Association. Join us for more tips on manifesting a long, vibrant and healthy life! KEY TAKEAWAYS  The common myths about aging Maintaining mental health in our later years Tips to combat the physical aspects of growing older The importance of planning ahead QUOTES “Frame your mindset on how you want to live.” - Wendy Adlersetein, 18:50 “Enjoy the ride, enjoy the journey” - Wendy Adlerstein, 32:15 “One of the most important things that I can do is to find, and give, joy.” - Dr. Geneva Williams 32:50 RESOURCES MENTIONED drgenevaspeaks.com

Are you struggling with sticking to an exercise routine?  Do you say to yourself, “I know I should be working out, but…” Join us as we talk with Milton Oliver, my personal trainer and coach, and a CSCS (Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist) about the best ways to stick to your exercise routines so that you can look and feel good. What’s holding you back from achieving the body you’ve always dreamed of? We discuss these barriers, ways to defeat them, and a wide array of healthy habits that we all could benefit from adopting. With more than 15 years of experience changing bodies, minds, and lives, Milton’s growing career includes flexibility/mobility training for Saginaw’s Arthur Hill High School’s athletic programs, personal training at the Detroit Athletic Club, one of the nation’s most prestigious athletic clubs, and collaborative work with renowned strength coach Mike Barwis. Milton holds a Bachelor of Science in Exercise from Saginaw Valley State University and a Master’s of Administration from Wayne State University. Tune in! KEY TAKEAWAYS  Tips for sticking to your workout routine.  How often should we be working out? What is the difference between “exercise” and “physical activity”? RESOURCES MENTIONED drgenevaspeaks.com CONNECT [email protected]