BsquaredC Podcast: The Black Woman Corporate Career "Brownprint"

Nancy
  • 5.0 (12)
  • Careers
  • Updated Biweekly

Welcome to BsquaredC, a podcast amplifying the unique stories of Black women in the corporate world across various industries globally.The odds of thriving in the corporate world are stacked against Black women more than others. Tune into BsquaredC monthly, for authentic stories from our inspiring guests about how they are navigating their careers offering insights, strategies and invaluable career advice. Whether you’re a recent grad, seasoned professional, or simply curious about the career experiences of Black women, "BsquaredC" is the podcast for you! https://www.bsquaredc.com/

  1. A Neurodivergent’s Guide to a Thriving Career with Sadé Roachford

    1d ago

    A Neurodivergent’s Guide to a Thriving Career with Sadé Roachford

    In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Sadé Roachford, a Barbados-born professional who shares her powerful journey of self-discovery, career evolution, and navigating life as a neurodivergent Black woman.  From growing up in a high-stakes, competitive equestrian family business in Barbados to starting her career in survival mode, and eventually making a life-changing corporate move to Sweden, Sadé opens up about breaking out of authoritarian environments to find psychological safety and personal empowerment. Her story highlights the profound impact of workplace culture on mental well-being and the ultimate freedom that comes from stepping away from societal expectations to embrace your authentic, high-energy self. 🌍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How childhood experiences in a competitive family sports business can shape a unique, growth-oriented mindset focused on professional expertise and continuous learning. The distinct differences between authoritarian professional environments and psychologically safe, healthy workplace cultures allow you to recognize and address chronic anxiety. The realities of masking as a neurodivergent professional, and how discovering your neurodivergence later in life can rewrite your understanding of your career journey. 🔑 3 Key Takeaways: Shift from "Being Right" to "Being Correct": Channel competitiveness healthily by viewing others' success as inspiration to seek deeper knowledge, refine your skills, and build unshakeable competence. Recognize Survival Mode: Do not mistake chronic work anxiety or a highly restrictive environment for your normal baseline; evaluate whether your current workplace supports growth or forces you to shrink. Embrace Strategic Independence: Build high confidence in your capabilities by doing the foundational work, while remaining fiercely intentional about the environments and people you choose to invest your energy in. 👂 Tune In If You’re… A neurodivergent professional seeking inspiration on how to unmask, navigate workplace expectations, and excel as your authentic self. A  career-changer considering a major international move or pivot to unlock better opportunities and safety for your family. Feeling trapped in a toxic or authoritarian work dynamic and need an empowering reminder of what a healthy, supportive culture looks like 👉 Loved this episode? Share it with a sister-friend, mentor, or mentee. And don’t forget to subscribe to *BsquaredC* on your favourite podcast platform. Leave us a review; every word helps amplify voices like Sadé’s.  If you loved this episode, buy us coffee, wine or water with the link below! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/BsquaredC Resources & Links:📌 Follow BsquaredC on  LinkedIn and Instagram , TikTok and YouTube for more inspiring episodes To all the black women in the corporate world out there, KEEP MAKING BOLD MOVES AND KEEP TAKING UP SPACE🎙️🎊

    1h 5m
  2. Defining Your Path: Identity and Career Pivots with Gisela Wedina Maria

    May 6

    Defining Your Path: Identity and Career Pivots with Gisela Wedina Maria

    In this empowering episode, we sit down with Gisela Wedina Maria, whose journey spans from the shores of Angola, through the suburbs of Paris, to the vibrant streets of Lisbon. Gisela shares her deeply personal story of navigating life in a "third culture," evolving from a dream of being a flight attendant to finding her path in the corporate world, and how her path is evolving. This discussion is a compelling exploration of identity and the power of reclaiming your story to shape your path, all while harmonizing professional goals with creative passions.  What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The Power of Third Culture Perspective: How living across different cultures can refine your identity and broaden your professional outlook. Navigating Corporate Growth: Gisela’s "insider" advice on moving from customer care to a Business Coach role at a global giant like Uber, highlighting the critical roles of mentorship and clear communication. Holistic Self-Development: An exploration of the four essential activities needed to balance your life: spiritual, creative, financial, and physical.  3 Key Takeaways: Own Your Ambition through Communication: Don’t wait to be noticed; proactively set and communicate your career ambitions with your manager to create growth opportunities. Find Your "Chosen Family" Outside of Work: Engaging in a creative or physical outlet is vital for recharging from the emotional exhaustion of the corporate world. Your Past Informs Your Future: Reconnecting with your original culture and history is not a step backward, but a necessary foundation for building a confident, authentic professional identity. 👂 Tune In If You’re… A professional navigating a career pivot or looking to transition into the tech and product design space. An expat or "third culture kid" seeking inspiration for embracing multiple identities while staying rooted in their heritage. Someone feeling corporate burnout and looking for practical frameworks to find joy and community outside of your 9-to-5. If you loved this episode, buy us coffee, wine or water with the link below! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/BsquaredC Resources & Links:📌 Follow BsquaredC on Instagram and Linkedin for more inspiring episodes 📌 Nominate yourself or another black woman here To all the black women in the corporate world out there, KEEP MAKING BOLD MOVES AND KEEP TAKING UP SPACE🎙️🎊

    57 min
  3. Strategies to Own Your Career Growth with Chiedza Muguti

    Apr 8

    Strategies to Own Your Career Growth with Chiedza Muguti

    In this power-packed reflection episode, we are joined by digital product expert, coach, and "game changer" Chiedza Muguti to unpack the most compelling themes from recent conversations on the pod. Amongst other things, together, we dive deep into the systemic and personal barriers women face in leadership, the importance of "shooting your shot" even when you feel underqualified, and why progress in the workplace often compounds over time. Whether you're navigating the C-suite or just starting your career, this episode offers essential insights into leadership, confidence, and the power of saying "yes" to the process What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Strategies for overcoming self-doubt and "discounting yourself" during the application process.How "over-editing" your thoughts in high-stakes meetings can be misinterpreted as disengagement rather than a lack of confidence Practical ways hiring managers can use inclusive language and systemic changes to bridge the gender gap in senior roles.🔑 3 Key Takeaways: Say Yes to the Process: View interviews and high-level opportunities as valuable data points for self-learning, regardless of the final outcome.Build Your Network: Cultivate deep organizational relationships so that advocates will speak up for you in "rooms you aren't even in" when challenges arise.Recovery is Performance: Reframe professional setbacks not as failures, but as essential data points in a long-term performance and growth cycle 👂 Tune In If You’re... An aspiring leader or woman in tech looking for the "audacity" to apply for skip-level or C-suite positions. Anyone struggling with "imposter syndrome" who needs a reminder that recovery and persistence are core leadership skills. A career-focused professional seeking inspiration from diverse leaders who have successfully navigated international career paths If you loved this episode, buy us coffee, wine, or water with the link below! Check out Chiedza’s website: https://www.nezuva.com/ Follow Chiedza on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chiedzajanet/ Check the episodes we talk about: Elizabeth episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7hDfr3xyPJwX96ngd4NG57?si=7Zw9XREYSHeUExXfZsBeYA Jourdan episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6wOfvboldFmhYnpToQQVXy?si=yHKdMRdsSveAuZyiKhbvGA Kim episode:  https://open.spotify.com/episode/0Duo2YlRzqIuIr3ZHiShmm?si=C6ILfnnuRCe9TEewG6rrCw  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/BsquaredC Follow BsquaredC on our socials with the links below:   Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/b_squaredcpodcast/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bsquaredc/  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@BsquaredCPodcast/  To all the black women in the corporate world out there, KEEP MAKING BOLD MOVES AND KEEP TAKING UP SPACE🎙️🎊

    1h 10m
  4. The Career Longevity Blueprint: Kimberly Fuqua on Relationships and Authentic Leadership

    Mar 4

    The Career Longevity Blueprint: Kimberly Fuqua on Relationships and Authentic Leadership

    Happy Women’s History month BsquaredC fam! This month we bring you the infinite wisdom of theimmeasurable Kimberly Fuqua, a Director at Microsoft with nearly 30 years of experience and the founder of Luminous Leaders. Known by some as the "Olivia Pope of Microsoft" for her expertise in managing systemic crises, Kim shares herremarkable journey from the South Side of Chicago to becoming a global tech leader and entrepreneur in the Netherlands. Amongst other things, she offers a refreshing perspective on the power of "kindness over niceness," the necessity of bringing "difference" into tech, and why every professional should learn to love the process of growth. This conversation is a masterclass in career longevity and leadership with authenticity and integrity. 🌍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ●The Secret to Career Longevity- How to successfully navigate a 30-year tenure at a tech giant like Microsoft bytreating one company as a series of diverse adventures and multiple careers. ● Redefining Leadership and Kindness- The critical distinction between being "nice" and being "kind," and how showing up as your real, authentic self allows you to hold yourself and others accountable while leadingwith luminosity. ● Demystifying the Tech Industry- Why anyone with a willingness to learn, take initiative, and move fast belongs in technology, regardless of whether they have a traditional"technical" background. 🔑 3 Key Takeaways: Prioritize Systems Over Goals- Inspired by the concept that you don't rise to the level of your goals but fall to the level of your systems, focus on building daily, consistent habits that support your long-term passionsEmbrace "Difference" for Innovation: True organizational growth and innovation come from hiring for "difference" diverse perspectives that disrupt linear thinking and help teams see around corners.Love the Process, Not Just the Destination- Since there will always be a next goal, the real growth and learning happen during the journey; managing and enjoying the process is the key to a sustainable and less stressful career.👂 Tune In If You’re… A professional seeking career longevity who wants to learn how to stay curious, energetic, and relevant within a single organization over several decades.An aspiring leader or manager looking for actionable advice on how to build diverse, high-performing teams by valuing disruption and non-linear thinking.A college student or career changer who feels intimidated by the tech space and needs the encouragement that a willingness to learn is the most important prerequisite for successCheck out Kim’s company on here: https://kimberlyfuqua.com/luminous-leaders/ 👉 Loved this episode? Share it with a sister-friend, mentor, or mentee. And don’t forget to subscribe to *BsquaredC* on your favourite podcast platform. Leave us a review, every word helps amplify voices like Kim’s. You can also buy us coffee, wine or water with the link below! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/BsquaredC Resources & Links:📌 Follow BsquaredC on  LinkedIn and Instagram , TikTokand YouTube for more inspiring episodes To all the black women in the corporate worldout there, KEEP MAKING BOLD MOVES AND KEEP TAKING UP SPACE🎙️🎊

    1h 16m
  5. Becoming the Blueprint: Jourdan Clark on Vision and Resilience as a First-Gen Black American

    Feb 4

    Becoming the Blueprint: Jourdan Clark on Vision and Resilience as a First-Gen Black American

    In this episode, we sit down with  Jourdan Clark, a first-generation black American whose journey is a masterclass in resilience and vision.  From overcoming post-grad depression and anxiety to embracing her identity as a storyteller and "humble servant," Jourdan offers an empowering look at what it means to lead with faith and resilience. Her story is a testament to the idea that career paths are rarely linear and that finding peace in the "gray areas" is a vital part of professional and personal growth 🌍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How to navigate the "gray areas" of career transitions and overcome the pressure of post-grad depression and anxiety. The importance of a "Word of the Year" to anchor your personal and professional growth. How to leverage the discipline and patience learned from personal passions like Southern cooking into leadership and professional excellence. 🔑 3 Key Takeaways: Don't Let Your Dreams Die in a Box: Take actionable steps to pivot when things don't go as planned; your worth is not defined by a job offer or a linear path. Great Things Take Time: Embrace the "baking principle" in your career, you cannot rush perfection and must learn to flow with life’s ebbs and flows. Leading with Peace: Intentionality in your mental space allows you to remain grounded and effective, regardless of external workplace or family pressure 👂 Tune In If You’re… A first-generation college student or graduate looking for inspiration on how to build your own "blueprint" for success. A career-driven professional struggling with the weight of expectation and seeking ways to prioritize mental peace and resilience. An aspiring leader interested in how storytelling and authenticity can shape a powerful employer brand and professional identity. 👉 Loved this episode? Share it with a sister-friend, mentor, or mentee. And don’t forget to subscribe to *BsquaredC* on your favourite podcast platform. Leave us a review, every word helps amplify voices like Jourdan  If you loved this episode, buy us coffee, wine or water with the link below! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/BsquaredC Resources & Links:📌 Follow BsquaredC on Instagram and Linkedin for more inspiring episodes To all the black women in the corporate world out there, KEEP MAKING BOLD MOVES AND KEEP TAKING UP SPACE🎙️🎊

    59 min
  6. Kenya to Germany: How Elizabeth Manifested Her Dream Global Tech Career with Family

    Jan 7

    Kenya to Germany: How Elizabeth Manifested Her Dream Global Tech Career with Family

    In this empowering conversation, I sit with Elizabeth Orayo Osumba, a visionary Product Designer who navigated her career from Kenya to the thriving tech landscape of Germany.    Elizabeth candidly shares her journey of overcoming childhood challenges to find her true calling in the world of design and technology. From leveraging LinkedIn to unlock global opportunities to championing the importance of female representation in leadership, her story is a masterclass in resilience and intentionality. And she did all of this with her husband and 2 children in tow! 🌍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How to effectively use the "Red Car Theory" and gratitude journaling to identify and seize professional opportunities. Strategies for navigating corporate environments as a minority, including the vital role of building supportive peer communities The critical importance of optimizing your digital presence on LinkedIn to access global career markets and diverse roles 🔑 3 Key Takeaways: Don't Eliminate Yourself: Women often downplay their skills; you should apply for roles even if you don't meet 100% of the qualifications Own Your Space: Authenticity is your greatest asset—by owning your unique skills and identity, you pave the way for future generations Manifest Through Action: Define your goals with specificity, such as Elizabeth’s goal to become a Director of Design, and stay focused on that vision  Elizabeth’s infectious energy and deep-seated belief in "manifesting" one's destiny provide a “brownprint” for anyone looking to own their space and redefine what is possible in their career 👂 Tune In If You’re… An immigrant professional looking for the courage to manifest a bigger life abroad  An international professional navigating the challenges and triumphs of relocating for a career in a new country A woman in tech seeking inspiration on balancing professional ambition with family life and personal growth If you loved this episode, buy me a coffee, wine or water with the link below! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/BsquaredC Resources & Links:📌 Follow BsquaredC on Instagram, Linkedin , YouTube and TikTok for more inspiring episodes.  Elizabeth’s youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@therajoreclan2284⁠ Elizabeth’s LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-orayo-osumba-a1a6869b⁠  To all the black women in the corporate world out there, KEEP MAKING BOLD MOVES AND KEEP TAKING UP SPACE🎙️🎊

    1h 35m
  7. End of 2025 Reflection: 10K Downloads, Community, and Lessons Learned with Nancy and Akosua

    12/03/2025

    End of 2025 Reflection: 10K Downloads, Community, and Lessons Learned with Nancy and Akosua

    In this episode, hosts Akosua and Nancy wrap up an incredible year of the BsquaredC Podcast, looking back on their favorite episodes, gems and their personal growth from the year.     They celebrate reaching over 10,000 downloads, share impressions from the Black Girls Tech Summit, and revisit the most impactful conversation from the podcast this year, from the power of personal branding and redefining impact in the diaspora to navigating career pivots as a mother and embracing neurodivergence as a superpower, this episode is packed with inspiration to give you a flavor of BTS of the BsquaredC podcast.   🌍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The pivotal lessons on career, leadership, and personal growth from the BsquaredC guests this year How to reposition yourself and successfully pivot careers while managing other life responsibilities The essential shift in perspective on office politics, leveraging your innate strengths, and the power of a non-linear career path driven by curiosity 🔑 3 Key Takeaways: Experience is the best teacher: Actively seek out opportunities like "gigs" or temporary roles to truly test your interest in a new career path before fully committing Leverage your strengths: Focus on building and expressing your value through what comes naturally to you, rather than trying to perfect areas of weakness Go beyond the website for DEI: When job searching, audit a company's reality by checking LinkedIn for employee demographics and asking bold, direct questions during the interview process 👂 Tune In If You’re… Seeking inspiration on how to consistently grow a meaningful venture over several years Looking for an honest, no-sugarcoating approach to professional development, especially regarding career pivots and workplace navigation Ready to redefine your sense of personal and professional impact. As mentioned in the episode: Visit Girls talk page: https://www.girlstalklondon.com/about-us/ If you loved this episode, buy us coffee, wine or water with the link below! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/BsquaredC Nominate yourself or another BOLD black woman you know for a chance to be featured on the podcast: https://bit.ly/Boldnominations. Follow BsquaredC on our socials with the links below:   Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/b_squaredcpodcast/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bsquaredc/  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@BsquaredCPodcast/  To all the black women in the corporate world out there, KEEP MAKING BOLD MOVES AND KEEP TAKING UP SPACE🎙️🎊

    48 min
  8. Elevate Your Job Search: Keki Mwaba on Self-Knowledge, Inclusion & Asking Hard Questions

    11/05/2025

    Elevate Your Job Search: Keki Mwaba on Self-Knowledge, Inclusion & Asking Hard Questions

    This month we welcome Keki Mwaba, a highly respected career coach and former tech recruiter from companies like Uber and Disney, for a special reflection episode on navigating career pivots and finding community abroad. This powerful conversation dives into key lessons from past guest interviews, providing expert advice on how to intentionally audit your life, choose a workplace committed to true diversity, and approach the job hunt with confidence and self-knowledge . 🌍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Keki Mwaba's career path: from studying work and organizational psychology to becoming a tech recruiter at major companies and finally pivoting to full-time career coaching Expert strategies for job seekers to genuinely assess a company's commitment to Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) beyond its website Actionable tips for career pivoting, including how to leverage transferable skills   🔑 3 Key Takeaways: Audit for Real Inclusion: Beyond the company website,  request follow-up conversations with team members during the interview process to gauge true company culture. Know Your "Why" to Drive Your Career: Career progression should be tied to self-knowledge to help you uncover your core motivations, values, and desired work environment. Harness Your Wins: Regularly track a "win sheet" of all your professional achievements, no matter how small  to build confidence, provide a strong foundation for performance reviews, and combat self-doubt on hard days . 👂 Tune In If You’re… An international professional looking for advice on finding a community, navigating work in Europe . Thinking about a career pivot and need practical advice on identifying transferable skills  Seeking insights on how to approach the interview process with confidence, including advice on disclosing neurodivergence and asking for interview adjustments If you loved this episode, buy us coffee, wine or water with the link below! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/BsquaredC Follow BsquaredC on our socials with the links below:   Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/b_squaredcpodcast/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bsquaredc/  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@BsquaredCPodcast/  To all the black women in the corporate world out there, KEEP MAKING BOLD MOVES AND KEEP TAKING UP SPACE🎙️🎊

    1h 2m
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About

Welcome to BsquaredC, a podcast amplifying the unique stories of Black women in the corporate world across various industries globally.The odds of thriving in the corporate world are stacked against Black women more than others. Tune into BsquaredC monthly, for authentic stories from our inspiring guests about how they are navigating their careers offering insights, strategies and invaluable career advice. Whether you’re a recent grad, seasoned professional, or simply curious about the career experiences of Black women, "BsquaredC" is the podcast for you! https://www.bsquaredc.com/

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