BEYOND BARRIERS Beyond Barriers

Get ready to be inspired by Dr. Virnitia Dixon, a powerhouse in the world of diversity, equity, and inclusion. With a background in insurance and strategy, Virnitia has spent her career helping organizations extract potential and build high-performing teams. After realizing her true passion for people and culture, she pursued her doctorate in organizational leadership and later transitioned into her current role as Chief Diversity Officer at Santander. Virnitia's unique approach to DEI emphasizes the power of human connection and community, making her a key voice in the industry.
Dr. Dixon introduces and discusses the SAM model (Sponsorship, Advocacy, and Mentorship), explaining that each element carries its distinct importance in career advancement. Through mentorship programs focused on skill development, career and cultural navigation in advocacy, and social capital investment in sponsorship, individuals can maximize their opportunities for growth and success.
Don't miss the chance to learn from her insights on continuous growth and success in today's world, taking risks and leading with passion and purpose to create human connections and bridge the gaps in our society.
Visit gobeyondbarriers.com where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with Virnitia.
Highlights:
[02:38] Virnitia’s background
[08:10] Weighing risk vs. reward and saying yes
[10:45] Continuing to learn
[14:38] Building a community
[18:31] Finding mentors and sponsors
[23:43] Accepting feedback and listening to others’ truth about you
[28:52] Mindset and tapping into your authentic self
[32:14] Introspection and learning about yourself
[35:33] Lightning round questions
Quotes:
“Building bridges between people is the core of inclusion.” – Dr. Virnitia Dixon
“For me to be authentic and vulnerable, and share with you who I am, it opens the floor for you to do the same, and that’s how we create community.” – Dr. Virnitia Dixon
“The time in contemplation with oneself really helps us connect with others.” – Dr. Virnitia Dixon
Lightning Round Questions:
What book has greatly influenced you?
- “Good is Not Enough: And Other Unwritten Rules for Minority
Professionals” by Keith R. Wyche
What is your favorite inspiring quote or saying?
- Good better best. Never let it rest. Until your good is better and your better
is best.
What is one word or moniker you would use to describe yourself?
- Blessed (and privileged to serve)
What is one change you've implemented that made your life better?
- Understanding it’s the journey and not the destination. Knowing myself.
Having a balance of confidence and humility.
What power song would you want playing as you walk out onto a stage?
- "Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield
About Dr. Virnitia Dixon:
Dr. Virnitia Dixon is the Chief Diversity Officer and Head of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Office at Santander US. Prior to joining Santander, Dr. Dixon was an executive coach and consultant working with Fortune 500 senior executives to transform corporate culture through leadership development, organizational effectiveness, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Her background is primarily in financial services, where she previously held roles as a Corporate VP of Strategy for New York Life and VP of Operations for Travelers Property Casualty. Dr. Dixon is an Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching (IPEC) certified professional coach and holds a Doctorate of Management in Organizational Leadership from the University of Phoenix, a Masters of Business Administration in Management, and a Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies, both from the University of Hartford.
A world traveler, patent-holder, speaker, and innovator, Dr. Hendricks is most proud of her work in the community where she supports charities focused on ensuring basic human needs. Dr. Dixon's life mission is "to be a b

As a former Division 1 basketball captain, Jennifer learned leadership and resilience, skills she took with her as she pursued her law degree and eventually, her career in financial planning. Starting out as an advisor to others, Jen eventually formed, ran and sold her very successful practice. She is now the Chief Experience Officer and Partner at WestPoint Financial group, one of the largest advisory firms in the midwest.
Jennifer loves to solve problems and she loves getting to know the people she works with, mostly so that she can help them succeed. In this podcast, Jennifer emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence and managing your emotions at work. She talks about how vital patience and resilience are to being a good employee.
But Jennifer’s ultimate superpower? Her competitive nature. She says her athletic background has helped her deal with the complexity of her career.
On a personal note, Jennifer has had challenges with her health that led her to making self-care a priority. She balances pushing herself and meeting her goals with getting plenty of sleep and exercise. She doesn’t really believe in work/life balance but rather finding a perfect imbalance. This podcast is a wealth of insight and inspiration we’ve just touched on here, so join us as Jennifer shares her wisdom with us in this podcast.
Highlights:
[03:35] Jennifer’s professional timeline
[07:28] What she’s learned at work to be a better mom
[08:24] Lessons learned
[11:51] What to do when you get knocked down
[13:27] Her super power: competitiveness
[15:19] Division 1 background in basketball
[18:18] Great advice about being an introvert
[19:50] Importance of community
[22:31] The key to gaining clarity about career
[24:23] Being goal oriented
[26:15] What she wants her kids to know
[28:53] Jennifer’s daily habits
[30:11] Taking risks
[31:37] Forming a personal cabinet
[33:46] Modern communication and relationships
[35:50] Overcoming fears and limiting beliefs
[38:42] A typical day in Jennifer’s life
[41:51] Finding mentors and sponsors
[45:24] Looking back and moving forward
[48:04] Lightning Round Questions
Quotes:
“I always think, what else can we do better?” – Jennifer des Groseilliers
“Community develops over time because you have common interests and common activities you want to do together.” – Jennifer des Groseilliers
“I have discovered for myself there is no work-life balance. There’s just perfect imbalance at any given time.” – Jennifer des Groseilliers
Lightning Round Questions:

What book has greatly influenced you?
- “Fast. Feast. Repeat.” by Gin Stephens
What is your favorite inspiring quote or saying?
- "Left foot, right foot, breathe, repeat." Pat Summitt
What is one word or moniker you would use to describe yourself?
- Competitive
What is one change you've implemented that made your life better?
- Intermittent fasting.
What power song would you want playing as you walk out onto a stage?
- "No Roots" by Alice Merton
About Jennifer des Groseilliers:
Jennifer des Groseilliers has achieved many of her life goals, yet she has found her greatest success in helping others. A lawyer, award-winning financial service provider, wife, mother of three, and former Division 1 basketball captain, Jen is most proud of knowing that she has motivated and inspired others to succeed.
After practicing law for three years, Jen was drawn to financial planning as a way to make a positive impact on people’s lives. In 2001, she joined Ameriprise and discovered that her legal training provided her with keen insights into financial markets, tax ramifications of financial decisions, and financial planning strategies.
She quickly distinguished herself as a top financial advisor. The coaching and motivational skills she discovered as an athlete translated to business, and soon she was helping other advisors achieve similar success.
Fast-forward to today, Jennifer

Jen Coffey is a risk taker. Getting her start in event planning, she worked her way into leading training and eventually developing training for Accenture. She is a Co-Head of Immersive Learning, a group which helps Accenture’s clients think about how they use technology to dimensionalize and deepen customer and employee learning experiences.

Like most of us, Jen has encountered imposter syndrome. In those moments, she found strength and fortitude from her network and personal board of directors who have been positive forces in her life. Jen believes it’s important to have people in your life that push you to be better.
Jen works hard to create an impact by showing others the value she sees in them. 
She thinks we all need to speak up and voice our ideas rather than sit back and not make any waves.
Jen’s favorite quote is, ‘Bravery over perfection’. Jen herself makes brave decisions regardless of what people say. If you’re feeling a little timid and don’t know what your next step should be, this podcast with Jen Coffey is for you.
Visit gobeyondbarriers.com where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with Jen.
Highlights:
[01:56] Jen Coffey’s background
[05:28] What Jen’s learned so far
[07:52] How she has pushed through limiting beliefs
[11:58] How she formed her personal board of directors
[15:58] Jen’s journey to leadership
[19:37] Setting and achieving goals
[23:23] The importance of confidence
[26:06] How Jen stays grounded
[29:22] Taking risks
[33:25] Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and the Metaverse
[39:40] What Jen wants her kids to know
[42:39] Lightning round questions
Quotes:
“It takes a village to make things happen, and the only way to have that village is if you really foster those networks and connections that you have.” – Jen Coffey
“It’s important to remember that your board of directors is super diverse.” – Jen Coffey
“To me, journaling is the best way to get things out in a really eloquent way.” – Jen Coffey
“It’s all about being brave and not being perfect.” – Jen Coffey
Lightning Round Questions:
What book has greatly influenced you?
- “The Five Love Languages” by Gary Chapman
What is your favorite inspiring quote or saying?
- I am the pilot of my own airplane, I do not work in baggage claim. (Not
taking on other’s emotions.)
What is one word or moniker you would use to describe yourself?
- Passionate
What is one change you've implemented that made your life better?
- Significantly cutting out sugar.
What power song would you want playing as you walk out onto a stage?
- "Girl on Fire” by Alicia Keys
About Jen Coffey:
Jen Coffey Co-Leads Accenture’s Global Immersive Learning practice, helping
shape how clients leverage the latest technologies to create immersive,
memorable and more durable learning experiences - for their people and their
customers. She is also a Career Coach, Voiceover Artist, EQ Coach/Facilitator,
Certified Scrum Master and Agile Coach. With over a decade at Accenture, Jen has
deep experience in learning, developing people and teams and is passionate
about leadership development, psychology, theatre, music and writing. She lives
outside of Chicago with her partner, two kids and two dogs.
Links:
LinkedIn URL: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-coffey-97a4a5a0/

Discover the power of optimism, perseverance, and relentless determination in this inspiring conversation with Mou Dasgupta. As the Founder and CEO of Brook37 The Atelier (uh·teh·lee·ay), an innovative American tea brand, Mou has overcome numerous obstacles on her journey to success. Born in India, she didn't learn English until she was 18 years old, yet went on to study physics and computer science before landing in the finance industry.
Facing the challenges of being a single mom with a demanding career, Mou courageously attempted to leave her job at JP Morgan three times before finally succeeding in pursuing her passion for tea production.
Mou's corporate background has been invaluable in navigating the challenges of starting a business. Throughout her entrepreneurial journey, she has been unafraid to seek help and share her story, leading to an incredible response from others and even attracting collaborators.
As a self-described trendsetter, she has infused her unique vision into every aspect of her brand, from the packaging and aroma to the sensory experience of her tea. Her authentic and transparent approach has attracted a talented team of female managers who share her commitment to producing exceptional tea while upholding their environmental and social values.
Whether you're an entrepreneur seeking inspiration or simply searching for motivation to keep pushing forward in your own ventures, this podcast is a must-listen.
Visit gobeyondbarriers.com where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with Mou.
Highlights:
[02:49] Mou’s journey from India
[08:01] Why it took three attempts to leave her job in the financial industry
[09:53] Overcoming challenges and limiting beliefs to leave her job
[13:33] How Mou started her tea business
[17:11] What was important to her tea brand
[22:25] Leveraging important relationships
[24:30] The great response Mou received about her brand, Brook37
[26:47] Telling the story of her small tea company
[29:16] Finding mentors and sponsors
[31:29] What to unlearn from corporate life
[34:14] Practicing self care
[36:01] Lightning round questions
Quotes:
“My brand is a reflection of me.” – Mou Dasgupta
“From every conversation I have, I learn something.” – Mou Dasgupta
“I think my corporate career got me ready to prepare myself before a meeting.” – Mou Dasgupta
Lightning Round Questions:
What book has greatly influenced you?
- “Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead” by Nell Scovell and Sheryl
Sandberg
What is your favorite inspiring quote or saying?
- It’s not done until it’s done.
What is one word or moniker you would use to describe yourself?
- Trendsetter
What is one change you've implemented that made your life better?
- Self care, working out, eating healthy.
What power song would you want playing as you walk out onto a stage?
- "Girl on Fire” by Alicia Keys
About Mou Dasgupta:
Mou Dasgupta is a Trendsetting Disrupter on a mission to bring luxury tea to discerning American households and make their moments of connections more memorable, in a socially and environmentally conscious way.
Mou is an entrepreneur, a philanthropist, an equality advocate, and a leader in building high performing teams.
Mou is the Founder and CEO of Brook37 The Atelier, an American tea brand, that has the goal to disrupt the dusty tea industry by introducing the rarest and the most exquisite teas to American consumers. She believes that a premium tea is the non-alcoholic sibling of premium wine and it needs to be reimagined.
Mou comes with 25 years of experience in the financial services industry. She held key leadership positions at Capital Group, Morgan Stanley, and J P Morgan Chase, prior to her departure from the corporate career. She is known to be a champion for diversity and equality. She established Lean in Circles and spearheaded multiple corporate

Hello and welcome to the Beyond Barriers podcast! I am Nikki Barua - your host for this episode. Our guest today is Naz Vahid - Head of Citi Global Wealth at Work.
Naz Vahid leads her life with gratitude. She escaped Iran as a young girl and it shaped who she became. She adapted to her new life in America by putting effort into everything and never taking anything for granted. Taking on responsibilities at an early age taught her important life skills –all of which has served her professionally.
Throughout her career, Naz has taken on a variety of roles and increasingly bigger responsibilities by always learning and growing. Naz shares how listening to feedback, avoiding complacency, and building great relationships helped her achieve her ambitions. She believes we elevate others by elevating ourselves.
When it comes to social issues in the workplace, Naz thinks it’s important that we get uncomfortable and show our authenticity. She recognizes it is harder for women and minorities to navigate their careers and is determined to make it easier for the younger generations.
Visit gobeyondbarriers.com where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with Naz.
Highlights:
[02:36] One thing Naz’s journey has taught her
[04:09] Her immigrant journey
[07:42] Being an outsider and forming her own identity
[09:54] How Naz got into her industry
[14:05] What Naz would tell her younger self about banking
[16:53] Life in Iran today
[19:43] Protecting women’s rights
[21:44] Taking a stand on social issues
[24:01] Diversity, equity, and inclusion
[27:26] How Naz authentically stood out
[33:42] Overcoming self doubt
[39:41] Coping with setbacks
[43:46] The key to building powerful and lasting relationships
[49:54] Lightning round questions
Quotes:
“I have learned you can't take comfort or what you have for granted.” – Mehrnaz
(Naz) Vahid
“You just have to make the voice in your head that says, "I'm good enough,"
louder.” – Mehrnaz (Naz) Vahid
“Every time you elevate yourself, you elevate someone behind you as well.” –
Mehrnaz (Naz) Vahid
Lightning Round Questions:

What book has greatly influenced you?
- “Kite Runner” by Khaled Hosseini
What is your favorite inspiring quote or saying?
- "People forget what you said. People forget what you did. People will never
forget how you made them feel." Maya Angelou
What is one word or moniker you would use to describe yourself?
- Resilient
What is one change you've implanted that made your life better?
- Sit on the email overnight when you are angry.
What power song would you want playing as you walk out onto a stage?
"Fight Song" by Rachel Platten   About Mehrnaz (Naz) Vahid:

Naz Vahid is a Managing Director and Head of Citi Global Wealth at Work. In this
role, Naz and her team provide tailored financial solutions to working professionals within the legal, asset management and professional services industries.
Prior to this, Naz served as the Head of the Law Firm Group for Citi Private Bank. In this role she was responsible for the 14 offices in the United States and UK that serve Law Firms, their Partners and Associates. The group has around 200 professionals that provide a range of financial services to more than 40,000 attorneys across approximately 650 law firms. Naz also served as the Head of the Citi Private Bank Diversity Program, working with the committee and ICG Diversity to increase awareness across many areas and was responsible for setting up Citi
Private Bank’s Mentorship Program. Prior to leading the Law Firm Group, she was the Global Market Manager for the East Coast and London responsible for six Law Firm Group offices.
Before this, she was a Senior Private Banker for more than 15 years, handling some of the largest client relationships in the Private Bank. Naz is formally credit trained, and prior to her role as a Private Banker,

Today, we're thrilled to have Peggy Klaus, President & Founder of Klaus & Associates, as our special guest. From Hollywood beginnings to championing women in leadership, Peggy's inspiring journey led her to author two game-changing books, "The Hard Truth About Soft Skills" and "Brag! The Art of Tooting Your Own Horn Without Blowing It." These books have become invaluable resources for those seeking to improve their soft skills and self-promotion techniques.
Peggy has also developed an empowering program called "Unstoppable," which addresses key issues critical for women’s success, including confidence,fearlessness, and purpose.
Today, Peggy shares with us priceless tips for self-promotion, including tackling the issue of avoiding the "bitch" label in the workplace. Peggy reminds us of the importance of taking risks, embracing failure, and ultimately being proud of ourselves. For Peggy, self-promotion and "bragging" are about finding the sweet spot between humble and obnoxious and celebrating our accomplishments with confidence.
Join us for this engaging and inspiring conversation with Peggy Klaus, and discover how to master the art of self-promotion and be proud of your achievements!
Visit https://www.gobeyondbarriers.com where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with Peggy.
Highlights:
[01:11] How Peggy got to where she is professionally
[05:00] Soft skills that are difficult to women
[10:05] Strategies for making risks
[14:08] How to self-promote
[20:09] Overcoming feelings of humility
[22:59] The soft skill you should work on
[25:47] Taking inventory of your strengths and weaknesses
[27:22] Lightning round questions
Quotes:

“The hardest skills are the soft skills.” – Peggy Klaus

“You’ve got to fail to succeed.” – Peggy Klaus

“Humility is lovely but not when it makes one ineffectually humble.” – Peggy Klaus
Lightning Round Questions:
What book has greatly influenced you?
- “The 1619 Project” by Nikole Hannah-Jones
What is your favorite inspiring quote or saying?
- I don’t know what someone else’s journey is.
What is one word or moniker you would use to describe yourself?
- Energizer bunny
What is one change you've implanted that made your life better?
- I changed my marital status and moved to Santa Fe
What power song would you want playing as you walk out onto a stage?
- “Here Comes the Sun” by Richie Havens or The Beatles
About  Peggy Klaus:

You may have seen Peggy Klaus on Nightline, 20/20, and The Today Show, or have read her advice in the New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Fortune Magazine, Harvard Business Review, and O Magazine. She is the author of two best-selling books, BRAG! The Art of Tooting Your Own Horn Without Blowing It and The Hard Truth About Soft Skills: Workplace Lessons Smart People Wish They’d Learned Sooner.
As a communication and leadership expert, Peggy has spent more than two decades helping thousands of professionals from Fortune 500’s, mid-size companies, and start-ups succeed in their jobs. She has also dedicated much of her career to empowering women of all ages. And, once again, Peggy brings this work into the spotlight with the launch of “Unstoppable!” — her new, cutting-edge program designed to address the key issues critical for women’s success:
confidence, fearlessness, and purpose, among others.
Taking her message from the boardroom to the classroom, she has lectured to both students and faculty at universities across the country including Harvard University’s School of Public Health, Wharton’s Executive MBA Program, U.C.
Berkeley’s Haas School of Business, Boalt School of Law, and the School of Public Health & Sciences, the University of Virginia, Pepperdine University School of Law, and the Public Policy Institute at Georgetown University.
Peggy began her career as an actor and classical singer, earning a