"Every day got worse… and I still made it through." This episode is a raw, real look into what it takes to survive and lead as a Black female executive at the highest levels of federal government. From being the only Black woman in an entire department to questioning whether charisma is a blessing or a curse — this is leadership truth like you’ve never heard it before. You’ll hear about: What it was like being Acting CIO at a federal agency during the hardest time of her career Crying. Drinking. Surviving. How charisma can be used to lead or mislead — and why self-awareness is non-negotiable Why “much is given, much is required” means protecting the people around you The emotional toll of leading while Black and female A touching story about asking too much from her assistant… and learning to check her own power If you're a leader, aspiring executive, or someone navigating toxic workspaces, this story is your blueprint for survival, soul, and strength. 👉 Join our free WhatsApp Growth Community for mentorship and leadership training - https://chat.whatsapp.com/BUsiR5pvJuBI8WldLwbRC3 👉 Access the 21-Day Leadership Acceleration Series and build the visibility and confidence that drive real promotion. - https://dvjkmswy.formester.com/f/dyHbzaC1H TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Surviving the toughest job of her career 00:25 - Every day got worse: emotional breakdowns 00:40 - Learning survival and resilience through pain 01:09 - The only Black woman in the entire department 01:30 - Success gets lonelier at the top 01:50 - Charisma: power or danger? 02:17 - Self-awareness: have someone who checks you 02:52 - Use your influence responsibly 03:33 - The story of her overwhelmed assistant 04:16 - Lesson: leadership means protecting others too SEO Black women in leadership, toxic federal workspaces, leadership resilience story, surviving workplace trauma, Black executive struggles, leadership at NASA, charisma leadership dangers, emotional toll leadership, leading while Black, federal agency career story, Black CIO experience, use power wisely, self-awareness in leadership, being the only Black woman, power and responsibility, emotional leadership moments, leadership with empathy, workplace burnout recovery, resilience in executive roles, women surviving federal careers, charisma as a superpower, real talk executive leadership, crying in leadership, leadership growth from pain, servant leadership mindset, protect your people as leader, tough career decisions, burnout in high roles, emotional honesty from leaders, surviving while succeeding #BlackLeadership#WomenInLeadership#LeadershipJourney#ResilientLeader#BlackExcellence#FederalCareers#ToxicWorkplace#CharismaPower
