Brown Ambition

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The Brown Ambition Podcast helps you unapologetically build wealth by saving, investing and making smart career choices — on your own d@mn terms! New episodes Wednesdays and Fridays.

  1. 42 MIN AGO

    Dr. Uché Blackstock on Burnout, Purpose & Walking Away

    This week on Brown Ambition, Mandi Money sits down with physician, author, entrepreneur, and health equity advocate Dr. Uché Blackstock for a deeply honest conversation about burnout, identity, purpose, and the courage it takes to leave spaces that no longer serve you. Dr. Blackstock opens up about her journey from Harvard Medical School to becoming one of the most trusted public voices on racism in medicine and public health. She shares the pivotal moment she realized that prestige and titles weren’t enough and why leaving a secure academic career during one of the most uncertain times in recent history ultimately changed her life.   Together, Mandi and Uché talk about: The emotional cost of staying in environments where you feel unseen Why Black women are often taught to tolerate misalignment for too long Navigating the backlash against DEI work in corporate America and healthcare The pressure of caregiving, entrepreneurship, and “holding it all together” Learning to listen to your body before burnout forces you to stop Motherhood, ambition, grief, and redefining success on your own terms AI in healthcare and what patients should know before their next doctor’s appointment Why joy, rest, creativity, and community are all part of wellness too   Dr. Blackstock also reflects on the legacy of her late mother, becoming older than the age her mother was when she passed away, and how that experience reshaped the way she thinks about health, purpose, and living fully.   Resources & Links Dr. Uché Blackstock’s memoir: Legacy: A Black Physician Reckons with Racism in Medicine Follow Dr. Uché Blackstock on Instagram: @ucheblackstockmd Learn more about Dr. Uché Blackstock: Uche Blackstock Official Website Keep Up With Brown Ambition Follow Brown Ambition on Instagram: Brown Ambition Podcast Listen to more episodes: Brown Ambition Official Website See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    48 min

  2. 6 MAY

    Through Mom’s Eyes: Sheinelle Jones on Motherhood, Grief & Career Success

    In this episode of Brown Ambition, Mandi sits down with Sheinelle Jones Today Show co-host, journalist, and New York Times bestselling author of Through Mom’s Eyes for an honest conversation about working motherhood, career growth, loss, and finding balance in real life. Sheinelle shares how her journey as a working mom of three shifted while writing her book, and how she continues to show up professionally while processing personal grief after the loss of her husband. This episode explores the realities of: Motherhood and career balance in high-pressure environments Grief and healing while maintaining professional responsibilities Building a career in journalism and media without a clear roadmap The importance of community, support systems, and “the village” Navigating mom guilt, burnout, and emotional overwhelm Why there’s never a perfect time to pursue your goals Drawing from her book Through Mom’s Eyes, Sheinelle also reflects on lessons from mothers of icons like Shaquille O’Neal, Kevin Durant, and more, highlighting themes of resilience, faith, parenting, and personal growth. Key takeaway:Tomorrow isn’t promised. Do the thing. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    38 min

  3. 1 MAY

    The Reality of “Having It All” [BA QA]

    Hey BA fam! In this Q&A episode, we’re diving into two conversations that have been all over your group chats, your timelines, and probably your own thoughts lately: what it really means to “have it all”… and what it costs to keep up the image that you do. First up, we’re unpacking the Emma Grede controversy  from her “three-hour mom” comments to her take on working from home being a career killer for women. As a working mom without billionaire resources, Mandi Money breaks down what’s actually realistic, what feels out of touch, and what ambitious women can really take from the conversation without spiraling into guilt or anxiety. Then we shift into a deeply personal listener question from a woman who, on paper, looks like she’s thriving  multi-six-figure business, speaking gigs, “that girl” energy. But behind the scenes? She’s carrying overwhelming debt, financial stress, and the constant fear of being “found out.” And if that hits a little too close to home… you’re not alone.   Key Takeaways: The quality of time matters more than the quantity especially in motherhood You can be successful and struggling at the same time Debt is a situation, not an identity Transparency builds trust with yourself first, then others You don’t have to maintain an image that’s costing you your peace   Join the Conversation: Got a question you want answered on the show?DM us @brownambitionpodcast or @mandimoney, or email brownambitionpodcast@gmail.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    41 min

  4. 29 APR

    Ambition Reboot ft. Amina AlTai

    The week on Brown Ambition Mandi sits down with returning guest and career coach Amina AlTai, author of The Ambition Trap, to unpack what it really looks like to reboot your career in this season of life. Not the cute LinkedIn rebrand version but the real, messy middle where you’re balancing responsibilities, financial pressure, and the fear of starting over. Together, they get honest about navigating burnout, layoffs, and career pivots as women of color—especially when the stakes are higher and the margin for risk feels smaller. From redefining ambition to untangling your identity from your job title, this conversation is about building a career that actually supports your life, your health, and your peace. If you’ve been feeling frozen, overlooked, or unsure of your next move, consider this your reminder: you don’t have to blow everything up but something does need to shift.   What We Cover in This Episode: Why career “reboots” feel harder at more senior stages of life The difference between painful ambition vs. purposeful ambition How burnout, boredom, and misalignment show up (and what to do next) The role of core wounds (rejection, betrayal, abandonment) in career decisions Why your “messy middle” is actually part of the process not failure How to rebuild your career one “right action” at a time Letting go of shame and rewriting your career story with confidence Why you’re not meant to navigate big transitions alone   Key Takeaways: Your career is allowed to evolve, even if it doesn’t make sense on paper. Feeling stuck doesn’t mean you’re failing, it may mean you’re outgrowing something. You don’t need a perfect plan just your next right step. Healing your relationship with ambition is key to sustainable success. The way you tell your story can open (or close) doors.   Connect With Us:We want to hear from you, BA Fam. Have you been navigating a career pivot or feeling the pull to start over? Share your thoughts with us on Instagram @brownambitionpodcast or email brownambitionpodcast@gmail.com. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    1hr 4min

  5. 24 APR

    How She Leveled Up After a Layoff: LaKesha’s Story

    In this week’s special flashback episode, we’re revisiting a live coaching session with LaKesha J., who is trying to figure out how to position herself for career growth after she was laid off by her company and narrowly escaped unemployment by finding a role on a different team. Next up, we get into the messy, grown-up decision-making that comes with a career crossroads. Do you take the severance and walk away clean—or stay for the long game, with perks like full vesting, pension benefits, and even a company-covered master’s degree? We’re breaking down the pros and cons, talking real numbers, and helping you think through how to align your career moves with your long-term goals. And to close things out, we’re diving into two fields where the future is already here: data analytics and cybersecurity. Whether you’re eyeing a new lane or looking to level up where you are, we’re talking certifications, AI trends, and the skills that’ll keep your résumé future-proof. It’s a reminder that learning is a lifelong flex and staying curious is the best career insurance out there. This episode is a celebration of courage, clarity, and the power of making moves—even when it’s scary. Tap in for real talk, big insights, and a whole lot of motivation to keep betting on yourself LET’S STAY CONNECTED Instagram: [@brownambitionpodcast](https://www.instagram.com/brownambitionpodcast)   Website: [brownambitionpodcast.com](https://www.brownambitionpodcast.com)   Subscribe & leave us a review—because we love hearing from our BA fam! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    44 min

  6. 22 APR

    The Director Behind Bridgerton’s Viral Dance on Money, Mentors & Saying 'No' to the C‑Suite

    What happens when you’re doing everything “right” climbing the corporate ladder, getting promoted, securing the salary and still feel completely out of alignment? This week, Mandi sits down with writer and director Rayne Harris, whose journey from pre-med at UPenn to directing episodes of Bridgerton is anything but traditional. Rayne gets real about walking away from stability, navigating financial insecurity, and trusting her instincts even when the path didn’t make sense on paper. From quitting a steady job (twice) to applying to fellowships last minute, she shares how rejection, resourcefulness, and a whole lot of self-awareness helped her break into an industry that isn’t built for easy access especially for women of color. This conversation is a masterclass in betting on yourself responsibly. Rayne breaks down how she funded her pivots, why being “frugal but fearless” mattered, and how mentorship, preparation, and authenticity opened doors she didn’t even know existed. If you’ve ever felt stuck between security and purpose, this episode will challenge you to rethink what’s actually possible.   Key Takeaways: You don’t have to have it all figured out clarity often comes after you make the move Financial stability matters, but so does alignment find a balance that works for your risk tolerance Rejection isn’t a stop sign it’s part of the process (and sometimes the strategy) Mentorship doesn’t always come from where you expect—seek proximity, not perfection Being yourself is the advantage authenticity opens doors that performance can’t   Stay Connected   - Email your questions: brownambitionpodcast@gmail.com.- Send a voice note or DM on IG: @brownambitionpodcast  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    1hr 11min

  7. 15 APR

    The Day After the Crash: How I Move After a Full System Shutdown

    On this week’s episode of Brown Ambition, Mandi keeps it all the way real about something we don’t talk about enough, what happens when your nervous system says, “Yeah… we’re done for today.” After a Monday that looked like being frozen in the car and glued to the couch, Mandi walks us through the emotional aftermath: the shame spiral, the self-talk, and the decision to reframe the entire day as a win instead of a failure. Because sometimes surviving the day is the victory. She breaks down how she found her way back with three small but powerful “day after” wins: A body win  reconnecting with herself physically, even in the smallest way An environment win  shifting her space to support her energy A future-you win doing one thing that tomorrow’s version of her would be grateful for   If you’ve been dealing with long-term stress job searching, money worries, or just carrying too much for too long this episode is your reminder that you’re not broken… you’re overwhelmed. And there’s a way forward that doesn’t require you to have it all together.   What You’ll Take Away: Why “crash days” happen and what your body is trying to tell you How to interrupt the shame spiral with compassion and honesty Simple, realistic ways to start moving again when you feel stuck Permission to redefine productivity and celebrate small wins   Stay Connected   - Email your questions: brownambitionpodcast@gmail.com.- Send a voice note or DM on IG: @brownambitionpodcast  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    32 min

  8. 10 APR

    How to Avoid Credit Card Honey Traps [BA QA]

    BA fam, we’re diving deep into the world of credit cards this week! Mandi, Yanely (aka MissBeHelpful), and Chris Browning break down the newest updates to premium cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, and Capital One Venture X. From new streaming perks to rising annual fees (hi, $795!), they weigh in on what’s actually worth it and what’s just hype. If you’re thinking about upgrading your card or just want to travel smarter, this one’s for you. 💳 What You’ll Learn: Which card perks are actually worth the fee Smart ways to use cards for travel, groceries, and rent The real cost of carrying a balance Tips for maximizing rewards with tools like Travel Freely New here? Join us three times a week: 💼 Washday Woosah (Sunday interviews with inspiring guests) 🪑 Brown Table Wednesdays (group chat energy, always) 🎤 BA Q&A Fridays + Conversations! (your money + career questions answered) We launched a Patreon, too! 🎥 Get early access, video recordings, and exclusive book club perks: 👉 patreon.com/brownambition Stay Connected: 🔗 @brownambitionpodcast 🌐 brownambitionpodcast.com 💌 Leave a review—your feedback fuels us, BA Fam! Let’s keep rising, building, and showing out. 💼💰✊🏾 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    24 min
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The Brown Ambition Podcast helps you unapologetically build wealth by saving, investing and making smart career choices — on your own d@mn terms! New episodes Wednesdays and Fridays.

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  • Channel
    iHeartPodcasts
  • Creator
    iHeartPodcasts
  • Years Active
    2015 - 2026
  • Episodes
    869
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    2026 iHeartMedia, Inc. © Any use of this intellectual property for text and data mining or computational analysis including as training material for artificial intelligence systems is strictly prohibited without express written consent from iHeartMedia
  • Show Website
    Brown Ambition

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