Embracing Authenticity: Nikki Innocent on Leadership and Overcoming 'Otherness

In this insightful episode of Teens to Titans, Lorraine Connell sits down with Nikki Innocent, a 2-time TEDx speaker, podcast host, and certified career coach focused on women's leadership and DEI strategy. Nikki shares her journey from feeling like an outsider in Corporate America to becoming a powerful advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Introduction: Lorraine introduces Nikki, highlighting her impressive background in leadership and DEI. Nikki's unique perspective as a biracial Black woman, a child of immigrants, and a non-traditional businessperson sets the stage for a compelling discussion.

Nikki's Work Strategy and Leadership Experience: Nikki discusses her career in Corporate America and how her experience of feeling "other" fueled her passion for DEI. She shares practical strategies for maintaining focus and productivity, emphasizing the importance of creating inclusive work environments.

Podcasting Experiences and Leadership Discussion: Lorraine and Nikki exchange stories about their podcasting journeys. They delve into the technical challenges and the importance of having backup plans for recording. Nikki also discusses her podcast, Checkbox Other, which highlights stories of feeling "other" and the power of empathy and shared humanity.

Reflecting on Teenage Years and Leadership: Nikki reflects on her teenage years and how those formative experiences shaped her leadership journey. She emphasizes the importance of creating space for play and creativity for young people and shares her early interest in understanding human impact.

Nikki's Leadership Journey and Perspectives: Nikki shares her insights on leadership, representation, and the importance of curiosity. She discusses the challenges she faced growing up in a predominantly white town and the influence of her feminist upbringing and therapy on her perspectives.

Understanding and Addressing Microaggressions: Lorraine and Nikki tackle the topic of microaggressions, emphasizing the need to address underlying issues of oppression, white supremacy, and patriarchy. They discuss the impact of these subtle interactions and the importance of creating inclusive environments.

Nikki's Empowerment, and Education Experiences: Nikki shares the impact of being perceived as different. She discusses the importance of critical thought and the need to challenge traditional education systems that suppress authentic inquiry.

Self-Criticism, Past Experiences, and Growth: The conversation turns to self-criticism and the influence of past experiences. Nikki emphasizes the importance of understanding one's influences and giving oneself permission to learn and grow.

Embracing Self-Acceptance and Personal Growth: Nikki encourages listeners to embrace self-acceptance and focus on personal development. She advises Lorraine to encourage high school students to explore multiple paths to success and find their own definitions of success.

Discussing DEI Challenges and Solutions: Lorraine and Nikki discuss the challenges of teaching about DEI and the importance of understanding biases. They explore the psychological effects of operating in patriarchal systems and the need for creating predictable rituals in education.

Conclusion: Nikki shares her enthusiasm for connecting and amplifying underrepresented perspectives. Lorraine and Nikki reflect on the importance of authenticity and the power of embracing one's unique identity.

Call to Action: Don't miss this empowering conversation filled with insights on leadership, authenticity, and overcoming "otherness." Tune in now to hear Nikki's inspiring journey and practical advice on creating inclusive environments.

Resources:

• Nikki Innocent's TEDx Talks
• Checkbox Other Podcast