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Facing a bully at work?    In this episode of Women of Color Rise, I speak with Dali Rivera—parenting coach, U.S. Army veteran, author, and founder of the Diversity and Anti-Bullying Academy (DABA). Dali transformed her pain over both her and her daughter's bullying into a powerful purpose, creating tools for confident advocacy in schools and in the workplace.   Dali shares advice for leaders to confidently address a workplace bully or a hostile situation: Stop Blaming Yourself: Immediately shift your mindset from shame or guilt to self-advocacy. Know you deserve respect. Document Everything (Your Paper Trail): Collect dates, times, witnesses, and specific details of every incident. If it's verbal, it's hard to prove. Know Your Resources & Suggest Solutions: Research your company's HR policies before you need them. When you report, bring a suggested, realistic resolution. Seek External Counsel: Remember that HR's loyalty is to the company, not the employee. Be smart—be prepared to seek an attorney or HR coach to protect yourself.   Dali's story is a powerful reminder that our pain can become our greatest purpose, giving us the strength to advocate not only for our children but for ourselves in the workplace. Do not be afraid of the power of your voice.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://analizawolf.com/episode-119-stop-bullying-at-school-and-in-the-workplace-with-dali-rivera

  How can neurodiversity become a leadership strength?   In this episode of Women of Color Rise, I speak with Nella Garcia Urban, CEO of DSST Public Schools. Nella came from YES Prep Public Schools, Houston, where she spent over 20 years in various roles leading and operating charter schools. Nella is also the Board Chair of LEAL, Latino Educators Advancing Leadership.   As a proud Latina and neurodiverse leader, Nella shares how embracing her identity—and being open about her needs—has made her a stronger and more authentic leader. What once felt like a challenge became her power: seeing the world differently, asking questions others might not, and showing up fully as herself in every space.   She shares lessons for rising leaders: •Celebrate neurodiversity. What sets you apart can be your greatest strength. •Ask for what you need. Self-advocacy is essential to thriving in leadership. •Model authenticity—unapologetically. By showing up as your true self, you give permission for other adults and kids to do the same. Nella's story shows that when we embrace neurodiversity, advocate for ourselves, and lead with authenticity, we not only rise—but create a culture where others can rise too.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://analizawolf.com/episode-118-neurodiversity-is-a-strength-with-nella-garcia-urban-ceo-of-dsst-public-schools

How can you unlock creativity to thrive in leadership and life?   In this episode of Women of Color Rise, I speak with Dr. Natalie Nixon—creativity strategist, author of The Creativity Leap and Move, Think, Rest, and CEO of Figure 8 Thinking. Recognized on the Thinkers50 Radar and named one of the Top 50 keynote speakers by Real Leaders, Natalie helps executives and organizations harness creativity as a strategic advantage.   A proud African American woman and Gen Xer, Natalie grew up on the East Coast in a family that modeled discipline, faith, imagination, and rest. From her father's example of Sabbath practice to her mother's encouragement of daydreaming, Natalie learned early that curiosity and movement fuel innovation and resilience.   She shares lessons for leaders: Embrace creativity everywhere. It's not just for artists—engineers, CFOs, and educators all thrive when they pair wonder with rigor. Build curiosity into culture. Ask better "what if" questions to unlock new possibilities. Honor natural rhythms. Movement and rest sharpen thinking and prevent burnout. Connect ROI to creativity. Collaboration and curiosity drive productivity, efficiency, and innovation. Trust intuition. Imagination and foresight are as powerful as logic in leadership. Natalie's story shows that by moving, thinking, and resting with intention, leaders can reimagine what's possible and create lasting impact.   Order Natalie's book Move Think Rest here.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://analizawolf.com/episode-117-move-think-rest-to-promote-creativity-with-natalie-nixon  

How can you accelerate your path to CEO?   In this episode of Women of Color Rise, I speak with Dr. Rahesha Amon, CEO of City Teaching Alliance. With 25+ years of leadership experience, Rahesha has been a teacher, coach, principal, and senior executive at NYC DOE before stepping into her current role.   A proud Black woman and fourth-generation New Yorker, Rahesha never dreamed of being a CEO—she once wanted to act, then pursued pre-med. But her all-girls school experience, community encouragement, and resilience helped her find her voice and chart her own leadership path.   She shares lessons for rising leaders: •Own your identity. Authenticity is power. •Trust the process. Successes and failures both teach. •Keep building your toolkit. Seek experiences that stretch you. •Find your board of directors. Surround yourself with mentors and advocates. •Believe in yourself. Look to the light and draw strength from those who came before you. Rahesha's story shows that with identity, faith, and community, we can accelerate our own path to CEO.   Get full show notes and more information here:https://analizawolf.com/episode-116-accelerate-your-path-to-ceo-with-dr-rahesha-amon-ceo-of-city-teaching-alliance

What does it mean to play the game to change the game?   In this episode of Women of Color Rise, I speak with Erica Mosca—Nevada State Assemblymember and Founder/Executive Director of Leaders in Training. Her nonprofit now empowers over 200 students annually with a 100% college acceptance rate and 81% postsecondary persistence. Erica is also the first Filipina elected to the Nevada State Legislature and is running for her third term.   Growing up, Erica didn't see herself represented in classrooms, on television, or in politics. When she learned that only 1% of elected officials were APIA, she realized she needed to "play the game to change the game." For her, that meant running for office. She shares powerful lessons for anyone looking to lead and serve:   Lead with values. It's not about you—it's about advocating for your community. Seek support. Programs like APAICS, New American Leaders, Emerge America, and Leadership for Educational Equity offer training even if you're not ready to run yet. Reframe fundraising. Fundraising isn't asking for money—it's giving people a chance to have their voice at the table. Navigate politics with humility. Listen, meet people where they are, and show up consistently—even outside election season. Know you are enough. Your lived experiences matter more than degrees or titles.   Through her leadership, Erica has helped create meaningful change across Nevada. She truly embodies what it means to play the game to change the game.   Donate to Erica's campaign at ericamosca.com. Even $14 is meaningful!   Get full show notes and more information here: https://analizawolf.com/episode-115-play-the-game-to-change-the-game-with-erica-mosca

What does it mean to bring feminine energy into leadership and parenting?   In this episode of Women of Color Rise, I speak with Shavon Terrell-Camper, a Realignment Coach and former therapist with over 3,000 hours of coaching experience helping individuals build self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and authentic leadership. Shavon shares how to shift from default masculine approaches—power, control, being right—into a more expansive definition of leadership and parenting grounded in feminine energy.   Go beyond default definitions: Strong leadership doesn't have to mean domination or control. Feminine energy invites us to evolve past fear, hold space, and lead with authenticity.   See the benefits of feminine energy and choice points: In a culture of "go, go, go," we can pause and ask, What do I need to nourish my business, family, and self? or How can I hold space instead of forcing outcomes?   Start with you: Leadership and parenting begin with the relationship we have with ourselves. Rather than fixing others, we can focus on treating ourselves with compassion and presence.   Shavon's wisdom is a powerful reminder that we don't have to lead or parent from default settings—we can choose to bring more feminine energy to care for ourselves, our families, and our teams.   Check out Shavon's family workshop offering to improve communication and connection here.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://analizawolf.com/episode-114-embrace-feminine-energy-in-leadership-and-parenting-with-shavon-terrell-camper/  

In this episode of Women of Color Rise, I speak with Gloria Lee—Social Entrepreneur, Lecturer at UC Berkeley and Stanford, and visionary behind a new venture focused on helping elders thrive while aging in place. A seasoned educator and nonprofit leader, Gloria's career includes Founder, CEO of Educate78, President and COO of New Schools Venture Fund, and Area Superintendent and COO of Aspire Public Schools.   Gloria didn't just dream about traveling the world with her husband and two sons—she made it happen. In our conversation, she shares how she turned this bold vision into reality. Leverage career transitions: When her nonprofit reached a natural inflection point, Gloria chose not to leap into her next role right away. Instead, she seized the moment to make their family travel dream a reality. Make it financially possible: Renting out their Bay Area home and choosing more affordable destinations meant their year abroad cost less than staying home. Mindful spending made the dream sustainable. Think about the long-term impact: Rather than focusing on reasons not to go, Gloria envisioned how the experience could strengthen their family—and it did. They returned with deeper bonds and shared memories that will last a lifetime. Support your children's growth: Gloria's introverted sons embraced "worldschooling" instead of traditional homeschooling. They returned with more gratitude, broader perspectives, and even a newfound passion for environmental conservation.   Gloria's story is a reminder that we can make space for both impact in our work and dreams that feed our souls. Sometimes, the bravest career move is to step away and explore the world—with the people you love most.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://analizawolf.com/episode-113-take-a-yearlong-sabbatical-with-an-around-the-world-family-trip-with-gloria-lee

How do you get real team buy-in?   In this episode of Women of Color Rise, I talk with Jana Reed, COO of Nonprofit Finance Fund. Jana brings years of experience as a systems-level leader—previously serving as COO of iMentor, co-founder of Ascend Learning, and Chief of Schools at Citizens of the World Charter Schools.   Jana walks us through how her leadership has evolved—from focusing on modeling hard work to now prioritizing shared values, clear communication, and co-creation with her team.   We discuss: The importance of frameworks like operating agreements and shared values to set expectations and build culture Why asking for help is a strength, not a weakness How transparency in vision and strategy builds alignment and trust What co-creation really takes—and why involving your team early leads to stronger outcomes This episode is for leaders who want to move from top-down decision-making to more inclusive, sustainable leadership practices. Thank you, Jana, for sharing your advice!   Get full show notes and more information here:https://analizawolf.com/episode-112-inclusive-leadership-with-jana-reed-coo-of-nonprofit-finance-fund  

Thinking of running for school board? In this episode of Women of Color Rise, I speak with Judith Cruz, Former Board President, Houston Independent School District. Judith has over twenty-five years of experience as an educator, non-profit leader, and volunteer in public schools.   Judith shares her path to school board leadership—and what it really takes to serve well. Know your why – Serving on a school board is a powerful way to create change, but it's not easy. It's unpaid, political, and full of competing priorities. Judith reminds us that while advancing student outcomes is essential, sometimes the most urgent fight is preventing students from falling further behind. Be ready to work across differences – Even among seemingly aligned colleagues, interpersonal dynamics and politics can derail progress. Judith shares how she built trust and found common ground—internally within the board and externally with the broader community. Don't compromise your values – The toughest moments came when Judith had to vote against the wishes of those who helped her get elected. Her advice: stay grounded in your values and make decisions based on what's best for all kids—not just the loudest voices. Go grassroots or go home – To win her campaign, Judith knocked on 3,500 doors in six months, seven days a week. Her message: people matter. Conversations matter. That's how trust—and leadership—is built. Do your homework – Before running, Judith suggests attending civic and board meetings, asking questions, and learning how the system really works. Because once you're in, the work is real—and it's relentless.   Thank you, Judith, for sharing your inspirational and powerful journey.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://analizawolf.com/episode-111-run-for-your-school-board-with-judith-cruz

Do you mentor others?   In this episode of Women of Color Rise, I speak with Fernande (Nan) Duffly, the first Asian American Judge appointed to the Massachusetts Supreme Court.   Nan shares how mentorship played a critical role in her journey. Her mentor, Sam Adams, encouraged her to consider becoming a judge—something she hadn't envisioned for herself. At the time, there were very few people who looked like her in those roles.   Now, Nan pays it forward. She actively mentors young lawyers and students, especially those from diverse backgrounds. For Nan, mentoring isn't about formal programs—it's about real conversations. Demystify the role: Nan is intentional about helping others see that judges aren't untouchable. "I was you once," she says. "And you could be me." Build belief: She focuses on helping others believe they're capable and ready. It's not about who you know—it's about being prepared, having the right experience, and doing the work. Stay grounded: Nan makes space for real connection. She listens, shares her story, and lets people see the person behind the title.   Thank you, Nan, for sharing your story—and for showing how powerful mentoring can be.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://analizawolf.com/episode-110-be-a-mentor-with-fernande-nan-duffly  

In this episode of Women of Color Rise, I speak with Dr. Nancy B. Gutiérrez, President & Lead Executive Officer of The Leadership Academy, a nationally recognized nonprofit dedicated to developing transformational leadership for educators at all levels. Nancy also serves on the boards of The Hunt Institute, brightbeam, and The Neurodiversity Alliance, and is the Board Chair of Education Leaders of Color (EdLoC).   Nancy is the co-author of Stay and Prevail: Students of Color Don't Need to Leave Their Communities to Succeed (2023), which shares powerful stories of leaders who choose to give back to their home communities. She shares her own journey serving East San Jose, the very place where she grew up—and where her mother once attended the school Nancy would later lead.   When asked to step into the principal role at that school, Nancy said to herself: "If I don't step into this, who will?"   Nancy shares how building trust required: Listening deeply—not just to hopes and dreams, but to generational trauma. She asked, "How have schools harmed you?" Reflecting back what she heard, to show the community she was listening. Taking visible action—like redesigning the student referral system. Instead of referring students only for misbehavior, teachers began referring students who exhibited excellence. Families started receiving calls from the principal to celebrate their children—flipping the script on what school leadership could look and feel like.   Nancy now leads work that supports school leaders across 40+ states. Her story is a beautiful example of what it means to stay, to serve, and to prevail—not just locally, but nationally.   Thank you, Nancy, for your powerful leadership and for sharing your story with us. Get full show notes and more information here: https://analizawolf.com/episode-109-stay-and-lead-in-your-home-community-with-dr-nancy-b-gutirrez-president-lead-executive-officer

In this episode of Women of Color Rise, I speak with Jillian Juman, CEO of Envision Education—a network of high-performing middle and high school charter schools in Oakland, CA.    Jillian shares her powerful journey toward liberation and what it means to lead as a Black woman who embraces curiosity, intuition, and spiritual connection.   Lean into curiosity and play: Jillian follows what sparks her interest—even if most things don't lead anywhere—and trusts that the few that do are exactly where she's meant to be. Notice when you don't fit: She's learned to recognize when something isn't the right environment and no longer sees that as a personal failure. Trust your intuition: Jillian makes space to listen inward and has come to trust that she already knows what's right for her. Create space for reflection: She schedules time to journal, reflect, and take retreats to stay grounded and lead with clarity. Jillian reminds us that liberation is a lifelong journey—and that we already have the answers when we allow ourselves the space to hear them.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://analizawolf.com/episode-109-stay-and-lead-in-your-home-community-with-dr-nancy-b-gutirrez-president-lead-executive-officer

In this episode of Women of Color Rise, I speak with Angira Sceusi, Executive Director of redefinED atlanta, a nonprofit committed to ensuring every student in Atlanta can attend an excellent K-12 public school. Angira was named to the 2025 Atlanta 500, a list of the city's most powerful leaders, and selected for the 2026 class of Leadership Atlanta.   Angira shares her journey from being a behind-the-scenes introvert to stepping into the spotlight and embracing her role as the face of the organization. Here's what helped her:   Name the self-doubt. Even with advanced degrees and leadership experience, Angira realized she was holding herself back due to a quiet sense of imposter syndrome. She asked herself, "Why don't I want to be the face of this organization?" and uncovered the self-doubt beneath the surface. Use grounding mantras. To counter that doubt, Angira leans on a simple, powerful mantra: "I am enough. I am worthy." She repeats it daily and whenever insecurity arises as a reminder of her value and strength. Redefine what leadership looks like. Angira noticed that we often idolize a certain kind of leader—someone loud, charismatic, preaching from the mountaintop. But that's not her style, and that's okay. She's a thoughtful, cerebral leader who needs time to reflect before responding. By embracing her authentic self, she realized she could lead powerfully as herself, not in spite of herself. Angira reminds us that leadership doesn't require becoming someone else. When we name our self-doubt, lean into our truth, and affirm our worth, we can show up with power—just as we are.   Thank you, Angira, for sharing your wisdom and your story. Get full show notes and more information here: https://analizawolf.com/episode-107-embrace-being-the-face-of-an-organization-as-an-introvert-with-angira-sceusi

How can you find a mentor?   For this Women of Color Rise episode, I speak with Veronica Conforme, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Greenhouse E3, a national nonprofit developing diverse pipelines of future education leaders. Veronica describes herself as a rebel—she turned down her father's advice to become an accountant and instead set out to change the world. Her career includes serving as COO of the NYC Department of Education, leading UP Education Network in Massachusetts, and serving as Chancellor of the Education Achievement Authority of Michigan.    Veronica credits mentorship as a key to her success—but not as luck. It came through clarity, purpose, and values-aligned work. "You have to be really clear about what you're trying to achieve," she says. "I grew up in the South Bronx, saw inequity firsthand, and knew I wanted to disrupt systems and change outcomes for communities like mine."   Because she led with purpose, mentors found her through the work. "I wasn't from the education sector, but when I helped principals rethink how to use their budgets to serve their communities, people noticed. They'd say, 'Come work with us.' That's where mentorship happened—in the work, through shared values."   Veronica offers this advice for finding a mentor: Get clear on your mission. What change do you want to make in the world? Be open. Stay open to help, new relationships, and new perspectives—even if they come from unexpected places. Do the work. Lead with your values, show what you're about, and opportunities will follow. Make it mutual. Mentorship should be a two-way street. "You're not only pouring into me," she says. "I'm bringing something to the table too."   Thank you, Veronica, for your leadership and your wisdom.   Get full show notes and more information here:https://analizawolf.com/episode-106-how-to-find-a-mentor-with-veronica-conforme-co-founder-and-co-ceo-of-greenhouse-e3

In this episode of Women of Color Rise, I speak with Dr. Judith Brown Clarke, VP for Equity & Inclusion, Chief Health Equity Officer, and Chief Diversity Officer for Stony Brook University and Health System. A 1984 Olympic Silver Medalist and former collegiate champion, Dr. Clarke now leads transformational change in health equity and inclusive excellence.   Dr. Clarke shares how an Olympic mindset strengthens leadership: Focus on execution, not outcomes. In high-pressure moments—whether on the Olympic track or in a policy meeting—Dr. Clarke emphasizes executing core strategies over fixating on the outcome. "You don't go into a race thinking 'I must win.' You focus on form, precision, and the next hurdle."  Use form and fundamentals as your anchor. Fatigue will come. Pressure will rise. In those moments, leaders must default to form—policy, strategy, and best practices—not panic. "Just like runners lean into form when tired, we lean into structure: What's the process? Who's the decision-maker? What's needed for buy-in?" Game theory mindset: anticipate, don't react. Dr. Clarke approaches leadership with the same strategic thinking as athletic competition—asking, What are the key factors that lead to success? She maps out opposition, support, timing, and execution steps, treating meetings like races with defined phases and checkpoints.  Strategy and relationship go hand in hand. Even when it's not a "win," clarity around process and relationships sustains momentum. "You may not get consensus, but if you know the rules—it's a majority vote, or a policy practice—you keep the path clear for next steps."   Thank you, Dr. Clarke, for showing us how Olympic discipline meets inclusive leadership.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://analizawolf.com/episode-105-lead-like-an-olympian-with-dr-judith-brown-clarke-vp-for-equity-inclusion