Rooted2Thrive:Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity

Rochelle Peterson-Ansari-Perceptions Unlimited LLC
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Society & Culture
  • Updated Weekly

Interested in expanding your ability to reach, teach and lead those you’re entrusted serve? Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity brings you powerful conversations with experts who are committed to maintaining human dignity in our personal lives, our work and in learning environments. We speak to hearts and minds of leaders and educators with practical insights to counter the programming that makes us, often unconsciously, devalue other humans who we perceive as different from ourselves. CHANGED MINDS will CHANGE DIRECTION!

  1. Leading Without Losing Yourself: Developing Culturally Competent, Anti-Oppressive Leadership - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 66

    6d ago

    Leading Without Losing Yourself: Developing Culturally Competent, Anti-Oppressive Leadership - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 66

    Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity Episode Title: Leading Without Losing Yourself: Developing Culturally Competent, Anti-Oppressive Leadership Season 7, Episode 66 Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari Overview: In this episode, host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari sits down with James Wilson Jr. to explore how courageous leadership must begin from within. James vulnerably shares his personal story of experiencing a life-altering panic attack on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, a moment that forced him to realize he was losing himself in the demands of leadership. Together, they unpack James's "Four Rooms of Leadership" framework—Breathing, Building, Becoming, and Belonging—to help individuals transition from comfort-based to courage-based leadership. The conversation highlights that true cultural competence and impactful leadership require deep self-awareness, paying attention to internal tension, and the willingness to heal within a supportive community. Topics discussed: The Foundation of Leadership: Effective and courageous leadership requires deep self-awareness to prevent underdeveloped leaders from causing unintentional destruction. Navigating Internal Anchors: Leaders must continuously ask themselves questions surrounding identity, belonging, and purpose to avoid improperly tying their self-worth to their job titles. Listening to Your Body: It is crucial for leaders to recognize internal and physical signs of misalignment, such as anxiety or burnout, rather than ignoring the tension. The Four Rooms Framework: Transitioning to courage-based leadership involves moving through spaces of breathing for clarity, building essential skills, becoming refined, and finding a true place of belonging. The Power of Community Support: True healing and growth require spaces where leaders feel seen, loved, and supported by a team that looks beyond their professional titles or past mistakes. Guest:  James Wilson Jr. Motivational Speaker, Leadership Coach, Consultant, and Founder of Second Wind Leadership Facebook/Instagram/Youtube: jwiljr Website: jameswilsonjr.com Check out more content and ways to connect with us: ➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/ ➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited ➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/ ➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com  ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.com Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below! Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!

    57 min
  2. Leadership and Dignity Under Pressure - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 65

    May 20

    Leadership and Dignity Under Pressure - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 65

    Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity Episode Title: Leadership and Dignity Under Pressure Season 7, Episode 65  Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari Overview: In this episode, host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari speaks with Leslie Marant Esq., founder and principal strategist of the ESP Effect. Leslie shares her unique career journey from serving as an attorney and personal trainer to becoming a chief DEI officer. Together, they unpack the critical need for systemic analysis in leadership, noting that organizational outcomes are driven by structures rather than just individual effort. Leslie challenges leaders to move beyond survival mode to actively shape their cultures by modeling accountability, practicing vulnerability, and consistently choosing integrity and respect under pressure. Topics discussed: Defining Dignity in Leadership: Dignity is fundamentally about treating people with respect and ensuring that respect serves as the baseline for all interactions. The Power of Systems Over Individuals: Leslie explains how outcomes—whether in health, finances, or business—are far more determined by established systems and structures than by individual bootstrapping. Shaping Organizational Culture: The culture of any organization is ultimately set and defined by the worst behavior that its leadership allows and tolerates. The Crisis of Leadership Development: Organizations frequently promote subject matter experts without investing the necessary time and resources into teaching them how to effectively and humanely lead people. Courage Through Small Practices: Making significant, courageous decisions requires a foundation of making small, daily choices that are rooted in integrity, honesty, and transparency. Guest: Leslie Marant Esq. Founder and principal strategist of the ESP Effect, former chief DEI officer, and attorney LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-marant/Website: https://www.espeffect.com/  Check out more content and ways to connect with us: ➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/ ➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited ➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/ ➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com  ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.com Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below! Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!

    1 hr
  3. Self-Awareness and Curiosity as Foundations for Better Leadership - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 64

    May 13

    Self-Awareness and Curiosity as Foundations for Better Leadership - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 64

    Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity Episode Title: Self-Awareness and Curiosity as Foundations for Better Leadership Season 7, Episode 64 Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari Overview: In this insightful episode of the Rooted2Thrive Podcast, host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari welcomes Jess Goldey, a dynamic mindset coach, former educator, and musician. Jess opens up about their later-in-life understanding of their ADHD and the profound impact neurodivergence has had on their journey from a stifling corporate environment to empowering others. Together, they explore how asking genuine questions, challenging personal blind spots, and ditching performative masking can transform not only our personal lives but our effectiveness as leaders. This conversation is a powerful reminder that vulnerable, curious leadership creates spaces where everyone can truly thrive. Topics discussed: The Power of Unlearning and Trusting Yourself: Jess discusses their transition from a toxic corporate job to entrepreneurship, highlighting the daily practice of unlearning self-doubt and building trust in their own capabilities. Navigating Neurodivergence in the Workplace: Reflecting on late-diagnosed ADHD, Jess shares how masking and conforming to neurotypical expectations led to burnout and the importance of asking for necessary accommodations. Curiosity Over Assumptions: The hosts examine how leaders often misinterpret behaviors—such as playfulness or monotone expressions—as a lack of work ethic, stressing the need to understand employees from their own perspectives instead of making snap judgments. Asking Powerful Questions: Jess emphasizes the importance of asking questions from a place of genuine, childlike curiosity rather than from a performative, "know-it-all" stance to foster authentic connection. Vulnerability in Leadership: By sharing their own struggles with overwhelm and creating collaborative environments, leaders can model humanness, which ultimately drives stronger team support and connection. Guest: Jess GoldeyMindset coach, musician, and host of the Underwire podcast Instagram: TheUnderwireOfficialLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicagoldey/  Website: https://linktr.ee/TheUnderwirePod  Check out more content and ways to connect with us: ➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/ ➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited ➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/ ➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com  ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.com Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below! Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!

    48 min
  4. Sexuality in Relationships - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 63

    May 6

    Sexuality in Relationships - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 63

    Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity Episode Title: Sexuality in Relationships Season 7, Episode 63 Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari Overview: In this powerful episode, host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari sits down with Dr. Lexx Brown-James to discuss the profound ways our sexuality is intertwined with our overall humanity and relationship health. Moving far beyond physical intimacy, Dr. Lexx explains how unlearning cultural and religious shame can help individuals reclaim pleasure as their fundamental birthright. The conversation tackles the importance of breaking transgenerational trauma, maintaining individual identity within a partnership, and navigating conflict without resorting to destructive communication styles. Ultimately, this masterclass reminds us that it is never too late to heal, reconnect, and establish relationships grounded in authenticity, vulnerability, and joy. Topics discussed: Pleasure as a Birthright: Dr. Lexx explains that pleasure extends beyond physical intimacy, encompassing everyday joys like enjoying a good meal or laughing without fear of ridicule. Unlearning Shame: The conversation explores how childhood trauma and societal conditioning weaponize shame, emphasizing the importance of adopting a shame-free approach to our bodies and desires. Navigating Relationship Conflict: Dr. Lexx breaks down the four horsemen of relationship failure—criticism, defensiveness, contempt, and stonewalling—and offers tools to pause and communicate effectively without attacking. Maintaining Individuality: The episode highlights the danger of losing oneself in a partnership and stresses that sustaining an individual identity is crucial for long-term relational sustainability. Three Daily Practices: Listeners are encouraged to sustain their joy by intentionally finding humor every day, connecting with community, and nourishing their own internal needs. Guest: Dr. Lexx Brown-James CEO of the Institute for Sexuality and Intimacy, PhD-level sexologist, and marriage and family therapist dedicated to shame-free sex education Get FREE RESOURCES mentioned in this episode from Dr. Lexx at https://lexxsexdoc.com/shop  Check out more content and ways to connect with us: ➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/ ➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited ➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/ ➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com  ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.com Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below! Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!

    51 min
  5. Gathering Myself: The Journey from Developmental Trauma to Wholeness - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 62

    May 4

    Gathering Myself: The Journey from Developmental Trauma to Wholeness - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 62

    Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity Episode Title: Gathering Myself: The Journey from Developmental Trauma to Wholeness Season 7, Episode 62 Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari Overview: In this deeply moving episode of the Rooted2Thrive Podcast, host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari reunites with her long-time friend and sorority sister, Carolyn Harrison, to explore the profound impact of developmental trauma and the journey toward healing. Carolyn, founder of Good Light Productions, shares her personal story of carrying inherited mother wounds and early childhood displacement, revealing how she learned to reframe her narrative and reclaim her inherent worth. Through discussions on the power of storytelling, recognizing physiological nudges, and breathwork, Carolyn offers listeners actionable and gentle first steps to gather their fractured pieces back into wholeness. Topics discussed: Defining Developmental Trauma: Carolyn explains developmental trauma as interruptions in safety and connection that can begin in utero and deeply impact our nervous systems before we even take our first breath. Direct Trauma vs. Benign Neglect: The conversation distinguishes between direct abuse and benign neglect—such as a caregiver ignoring a child's attempts to connect—highlighting how both can leave lasting emotional scars. The Power of Storytelling: By sharing personal narratives and interrogating old memories through tools like childhood photographs, individuals can rewrite stories of unworthiness into testimonies of being seen and celebrated. Recognizing the Body's Nudges: Carolyn encourages listeners to pay attention to emotional and physiological "nudges" without judgment, using practices like journaling, walking in nature, or belly breathing to gently begin the healing process. The Role of a Supportive Chorus: Healing is fostered by building a safe, non-judgmental "chorus of support," which may include a spiritual director or a trusted friend who simply listens and companions you through your trauma. Guest: Carolyn Harrison Founder and executive producer of Good Light Productions, LLC, 30-year theater arts professional, vocational minister, and spiritual director Instagram: goodlightproductionsLinkedIn: Carolyn HarrisonWebsite: www.goodlightproductions.com Check out more content and ways to connect with us: ➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/ ➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited ➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/ ➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com  ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.com Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below! Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!

    50 min
  6. Being Aligned with Your True Self - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 61

    May 4

    Being Aligned with Your True Self - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 61

    Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity Episode Title: Being Aligned with Your True Self Season 7, Episode 61 Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari Overview: In this episode, host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari sits down with Chaniera Stewart to explore what it means to step beyond societal expectations and into who you really are. Chaniera shares her powerful journey of overcoming childhood colorism, moving past the exhaustion of people-pleasing, and transitioning from a corporate employee to a thriving serial entrepreneur. By embracing healing, obedience, and faith, Chaniera reveals how our deepest pains can transform into our greatest purpose, offering listeners an inspiring roadmap to self-love and authentic alignment. Topics discussed: Finding Identity Beyond Labels: Chaniera shares how losing her corporate job pushed her to discover her true passions and build multiple businesses, including a travel agency. Overcoming Colorism and People-Pleasing: Chaniera opens up about the impact of childhood colorism on her self-esteem and how healing her identity in God helped her stop trying to fit in and seek validation from others. Healing and Intentional Parenting: By turning to gentle parenting for her son, Chaniera was forced to confront her own childhood trauma, which ultimately inspired her award-winning book, Sink or Swim. The Power of Obedience and Faith: Initially reluctant to start a podcast or write multiple books, Chaniera discusses how yielding to God's timing aligned her with her calling. Maintaining Alignment and Grace: Emphasizing that staying aligned is an ongoing daily practice, Chaniera highlights the importance of recognizing negative patterns and giving yourself grace when you make mistakes. Guest: Chaniera Stewart Host of the Uncommon Women podcast, four-time author, travel agent, and community event planner Facebook & Instagram: Uncommon Women PodcastYouTube: Uncommon Women PodcastWebsites: Uncommonwomen.net queenchaniera.com  Check out more content and ways to connect with us: ➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/ ➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited ➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/ ➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com  ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.com Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below! Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!

    54 min
  7. Centering Lived Experience in Leadership and Care: Beyond Diversity to Systems of Accountability - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 60

    Mar 25

    Centering Lived Experience in Leadership and Care: Beyond Diversity to Systems of Accountability - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 60

    Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity Centering Lived Experience in Leadership and Care: Beyond Diversity to Systems of Accountability Season 6, Episode 60 Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari Overview: In this powerful season finale, Rochelle Peterson-Ansari sits down with Deja Alvarez, Deputy Director of TPAC/WHCI, to explore the transformative power of centering lived experience in leadership and social care. As the first transgender woman to run for office in Pennsylvania, Alvarez shares her journey from survival sex work and systemic abuse to leading a multi-million dollar nonprofit. The conversation challenges the traditional "missionary model" of support, advocating instead for a shift where individuals closest to the problems are recognized as the primary experts holding the most powerful solutions. Together, they discuss the necessity of breaking out of "survival mode," the importance of organizational collective care, and how true leadership requires not just opening doors, but keeping them open for the entire community. Topics discussed: Lived Experience as Expertise: Challenging the assumption that only academic degrees qualify a person for leadership, and emphasizing that those who have navigated marginalized systems possess unique, vital expertise. Moving Beyond Tokenism: How leaders with marginalized identities can enter traditional spaces with their own agendas to redistribute power rather than just acting as representatives. The Trap of "Survival Mode": Recognizing survival mode as a systemic design intended to keep marginalized communities from innovating or challenging power structures. Collective Care in Organizations: Implementing policies that prioritize the mental and physical health of staff—such as expanded vacation and personal days—as a foundation for effectively caring for clients. Structural and Policy Shifts: The importance of codifying progress through inclusive legislation and directives to ensure that gains in representation are not lost with changes in administration. Combating the Scarcity Mindset: Addressing the "crabs in a barrel" mentality by encouraging successful community members to bring others with them and rejecting the belief that resources for one marginalized group are "taken" from another. Guest: Deja Alvarez Deputy Director of TPAC/WHCI, community leader, and the first trans woman to run for public office in Pennsylvania Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Miss.Deja1/  Check out more content and ways to connect with us: ➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/ ➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited ➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/ ➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com  ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.com Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below! Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!

    48 min
  8. Centering Black Nonprofit Leaders: Building Capacity Through Community - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 59

    Mar 18

    Centering Black Nonprofit Leaders: Building Capacity Through Community - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 59

    Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity Centering Black Nonprofit Leaders: Building Capacity Through Community Season 6, Episode 59 Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari Overview: In this episode, Rochelle Peterson-Ansari engages in a profound dialogue with Kelly Woodland, Executive Director of the Center for Leadership Equity, about the unique challenges and immense social capital of Black nonprofit executives. Woodland shares how the Black Nonprofit Chief Executives of Philadelphia (BNCEP) evolved from a virtual network during the 2020 racial reckoning into a thriving community of over 300 leaders dedicated to reimagining leadership through a lens of equity and asset-based sustainability. The conversation shifts the paradigm from transactional professional development to a model centered on trust and lived experience, emphasizing that when Black leaders are properly resourced and supported, they transition from mere resourcefulness to true innovation. Topics discussed: The Evolution of BNCEP: How the group formed in June 2020 to help Black leaders unpack personal and professional trauma while navigating their dual roles as executives and community members. Targeted Universalism: Focusing on the specific needs of historically negatively impacted groups to create customized supports that eventually benefit the entire sector. Lived Experience as a PhD: Recognizing the acute "on-the-ground" expertise of leaders who often come to the work through personal experiences with systemic gaps. Asset-Based Leadership: Moving beyond viewing vulnerable communities through a deficit lens to acknowledging Black leaders as the primary drivers of innovative social solutions. "Thermostat" Leadership: The concept that leaders set the "temperature" or culture of the room, requiring spaces where they can be vulnerable about what they don't know without fear of judgment. The Power of Proximity: Why policy is most effective when crafted by individuals who have been the "end users" of the resources being distributed. Guest: Kelly Woodland Executive Director, Center for Leadership Equity at the United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey. With nearly 40 years of experience, he is a co-founder of BNCEP and a leading advocate for racial equity and nonprofit capacity building. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-s-woodland-0195a17/Websites: https://bncep.org/     https://unitedforimpact.org/our-focus/capacity-building/center-for-leadership-equity/  Check out more content and ways to connect with us: ➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/ ➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited ➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/ ➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com  ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.com Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below! Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!

    37 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Interested in expanding your ability to reach, teach and lead those you’re entrusted serve? Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity brings you powerful conversations with experts who are committed to maintaining human dignity in our personal lives, our work and in learning environments. We speak to hearts and minds of leaders and educators with practical insights to counter the programming that makes us, often unconsciously, devalue other humans who we perceive as different from ourselves. CHANGED MINDS will CHANGE DIRECTION!

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