In this powerful episode of Envision, Accelerate, Excel, host Karen Stanley sits down with Attorney Rhonda Briggins, President of D4 Women in Action, a national organization advancing civic engagement, voter empowerment, and political leadership. Rhonda shares her remarkable journey from growing up in Birmingham, Alabama, surrounded by civil rights history, to working alongside some of the most influential leaders in social justice. Inspired by mentors like Coretta Scott King, John Lewis, Jesse Jackson, and Alexis Herman, she developed a lifelong commitment to policy, political strategy, and empowering communities to use their voices at the ballot box. Listeners will discover how organizations navigate nonprofit structures like 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(7) to create meaningful impact in advocacy, education, and political mobilization. Rhonda also breaks down why policy is the new civil rights battlefield, why voting remains the most powerful tool for change, and how individuals can take action in their own communities. If you care about leadership, social justice, civic engagement, and shaping the future of democracy, this conversation will inspire you to lock in, tap in, and take action. Topics Covered in This Episode 0:59 — Rhonda Briggins’ Leadership Background in Government AffairsOverview of Rhonda’s 20+ years in governmental affairs, corporate leadership, and her work with MARTA and Jacobs Engineering. 6:05 — The 21st Century Youth Leadership Movement & Civil Rights MentorsExposure to influential leaders like John Lewis, Coretta Scott King, Jesse Jackson, and Sonia Sanchez helped shape her leadership philosophy. 7:36 — Balancing Corporate Success with Community ActivismRhonda explains her concept of a lifelong “free job” — advocating for justice while working in corporate America. 10:12 — Mentorship from Former U.S. Secretary of Labor Alexis HermanRhonda shares powerful mentorship experiences and leadership lessons from civil rights icon Alexis Herman. 15:30 — The Power of Mentorship, Networks, and Leadership DevelopmentDiscussion about how mentors and professional networks help develop future leaders and expand opportunities. 19:16 — Understanding Nonprofit Structures (501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), 501(c)(7))Rhonda explains how advocacy organizations operate legally and why different nonprofit structures are necessary. 21:29 — The Creation of D4 Women in ActionWhy the organization launched during COVID and the national protests following the deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Sandra Bland. 23:40 — Political Advocacy: Supporting Candidates & Voter EngagementHow organizations mobilize voters, raise campaign funds, and educate communities about civic participation. 25:25 — Training the Next Generation of Political LeadersD4 Women in Action’s programs that train candidates, support student leadership, and prepare individuals for political campaigns. 27:00 — The Role of the Judicial Branch in DemocracyWhy judicial elections and courts are critical in protecting voting rights and democratic institutions. 32:13 — Why Public Policy Is the New Civil Rights BattlefieldRhonda explains why policy and legislation have become central to modern civil rights progress. 34:05 — Voting Rights Lawsuits and Legal AdvocacyDiscussion of major voting rights litigation in states like Georgia, Texas, and Mississippi. 35:43 — Why Voting Is the Most Powerful Tool for ChangeRhonda emphasizes how voting determines leadership, policy direction, and community outcomes. 38:16 — “Lock In and Tap In” Civic Engagement StrategyPractical steps individuals can take to stay informed, support candidates, and mobilize voters. 40:34 — Leadership Behind D4 Women in ActionRhonda highlights the organization’s national leadership team and influential board members. 42:18 — How to Get Involved with D4 Women in ActionWhere listeners can learn more, connect online, and access training opportunities.