The Climb

Felicia Smith
  • 5.0 (19)
  • CAREERS
  • WEEKLY SERIES

At The Climb Podcast, our mission is clear: to empower women of color in their pursuit of leadership roles within the private and public sectors. We understand that the workplace can present distinctive challenges for women of color, and our podcast is your dedicated guide to navigating this terrain. With each episode, we delve into the strategies, stories, and experiences that can propel you forward on your professional journey. Join us as we spotlight the extraordinary achievements of women of color and equip you with the knowledge and inspiration to not only survive but thrive in today’s workplaces. Your success is our focus, and together, we’ll forge a path to leadership that is as unique and unstoppable as you are.

See All
  1. No Blueprint, Just Grit: The Story Behind The Climb and The Founder

    EPISODE 1

    No Blueprint, Just Grit: The Story Behind The Climb and The Founder

    Our host, Felicia Smith, shares her personal journey, illustrating how her formative experiences shaped her leadership style and her commitment to empowering others. Additionally, we explore the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in leadership, emphasizing that such traits can cultivate a more inclusive workplace environment. Join us as we unpack these vital themes and celebrate the remarkable achievements of women of color in leadership roles. Takeaways: This podcast episode emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive community for women of color leaders, enabling them to thrive professionally and personally. Listeners are encouraged to recognize and embrace their unique journeys, understanding that their experiences can empower others in similar situations. The discussion highlights the significance of mentorship and relationships in career advancement, particularly for women of color in leadership roles. A central theme is the necessity of self-reflection and continuous growth, which includes being open to feedback and trusting others with one's vision. The hosts stress the importance of empathy in leadership, urging executives to remember their journeys and treat others with compassion. Finally, the episode advocates for taking actionable steps towards building one's career while also fostering an environment that supports the growth of others.

    54 min
  2. Leveraging Linkedin and Social Media for Career Growth

    EPISODE 2

    Leveraging Linkedin and Social Media for Career Growth

    LinkedIn isn’t just for when you’re job hunting—it’s your career story in real time. In this episode, we sit down with Alexandria Sauls, Senior Program Manager at Google, to uncover how women of color can harness LinkedIn and social media to step into leadership with confidence. Too often, LinkedIn gets overlooked until a crisis forces us back to the platform. But Alexandria shares why showing up consistently, refining your profile, and engaging with your network can open doors long before you’re in need. From crafting a headline that commands attention to treating your profile like a living résumé, she offers practical tips that can make your presence impossible to ignore. This conversation is about more than algorithms or job searches—it’s about claiming your space, amplifying your voice, and building the kind of visibility that fuels long-term career growth.

    32 min
  3. Defining Success on Your Own Terms with Dr. Taharee Jackson

    EPISODE 3

    Defining Success on Your Own Terms with Dr. Taharee Jackson

    In this powerful episode, Dr. Jackson challenges the narrow idea of success as titles, accolades, or financial gain. Instead, she paints success as something far more personal—rooted in happiness, well-being, passion, and impact. Her story, from aspiring pediatric neurosurgeon to becoming a leader in education and diversity, reveals the twists and turns that shape our journeys. Alongside Felicia, Dr. Jackson explores the pressures women—especially women of color—face when stepping into leadership, and she offers candid reflections on resilience, adaptability, and the courage to define success on your own terms. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Jackson highlights pivotal moments that reshaped her perspective, from academia to government leadership, and underscores the power of empathy and supportive networks in creating growth and opportunity. Listeners will walk away inspired to rethink their own definitions of success, recognize their inherent worth, and pursue leadership that aligns with their authentic selves—ultimately building more inclusive and equitable spaces for all

    37 min
  4. Her Climb with Sheryl Raphael Whitaker

    EPISODE 4

    Her Climb with Sheryl Raphael Whitaker

    In this episode of The Climb Podcast, Felicia sits down with Sheryl Whitaker—executive coach, leadership strategist, and author—to explore the realities of being a woman of color in leadership. With over 35 years of experience in insurance and financial services, Sheryl shares her journey from claims adjuster at State Farm to executive leader and now coach, offering hard-won lessons on resilience, intentionality, and joy. 💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The systemic barriers women of color often face in leadership roles—and strategies to overcome themWhy imposter syndrome is so prevalent, and how to navigate it with confidenceSheryl’s philosophy of heart-centered leadership and why leading with empathy and authenticity creates lasting impactThe role of mentorship, self-trust, and joy in sustaining your leadership journeyHow to redefine success beyond titles and accolades, centering fulfillment and connection instead Sheryl’s candid reflections will inspire you to see leadership differently: not as a destination defined by others, but as a personal journey rooted in authenticity, courage, and joy.

    46 min

  5. EPISODE 5

    Standing on Her Shoulders Leadership Development Program – Redefining Leadership for Women of Color

    What does it take to rise as a leader when the ladder wasn’t built for you? In this powerful episode of The Climb Podcast, we shine a spotlight on the Standing on Her Shoulders Leadership Development Program—a groundbreaking initiative designed to equip women of color with the tools, mentorship, and confidence to thrive as leaders. Our guests, Jasmine Luke and Kimiko Purvis, both members of the inaugural cohort, open up about their personal journeys through the program. They share how mentorship, coaching, and dynamic peer discussions helped them: ✨ Confront and overcome the unique challenges women of color face in professional spaces ✨ Build clarity, confidence, and community in their leadership journey ✨ Develop essential skills that go beyond conventional leadership training ✨ Find empowerment by standing on the shoulders of those who came before them This isn’t just a leadership program—it’s a movement to mend the broken rung and create pathways for the next generation of women of color leaders. 🎧 Tune in to hear how Jasmine and Kimiko transformed their careers and why investing in leadership development can change the trajectory of your climb.

    20 min
  6. Rooted Journeys: Black Women Reconnecting, Exploring, and Thriving in Africa

    EPISODE 6

    Rooted Journeys: Black Women Reconnecting, Exploring, and Thriving in Africa

    What happens when a return to your roots becomes a pathway to healing and purpose? In this deeply moving episode of The Climb Podcast, host Felicia Smith sits down with Amma Asamoah—an architect, sustainable design visionary, and founder of The Legacy Project—to explore the power of reconnecting with heritage and thriving on the African continent. Amma shares her transformative journey to Ghana, where inheriting family land became more than a personal milestone—it became a calling. Through stories of community engagement, cultural exchange, and navigating the realities of development projects, she reveals what it truly means to build legacy, both literally and figuratively. Together, Felicia and Amma unpack: The emotional and spiritual impact of returning to ancestral lands How architecture and sustainability can honor heritage while shaping the future Lessons in cultural sensitivity, community partnership, and authentic engagement The healing power of travel, connection, and purpose-driven work Rooted Journeys isn’t just about geography—it’s about identity, belonging, and the courage to reclaim your story. Tune in as we explore what it means to return home—not just to a place, but to yourself.

    35 min

  7. EPISODE 7

    Energy Ain’t Free: Protecting Your Power and Peace During Tough Seasons

    In this solo episode of The Climb Podcast, host Felicia Smith takes a powerful pause to talk about something every woman needs to hear: protecting your energy. Drawing from personal reflection and experience, Felicia unpacks what it means to preserve your peace, especially when life—and people—demand more than you have to give. Grounded in the law of conservation of energy, she reminds listeners that energy can’t be created or destroyed—it can only be transferred. The key is learning how to manage where yours goes, who gets it, and how you recharge it. Felicia shares: 💜 A personal story about choosing peace over confrontation at work 💜 Why every fight isn’t worth your energy (and how to know the difference) 💜 The hidden emotional cost of doom-scrolling and negative input 💜 How to set boundaries—both with others and yourself 💜 Practical ways to replenish your energy through joy, rest, and mindful activity This episode is a reminder that not everything deserves your reaction—and that self-preservation is not selfish, it’s sacred. Plus: Felicia celebrates a major milestone—The Climb community has officially surpassed 100 members! 🎉 She also gives listeners a sneak peek into The Climb Reset Series, featuring high-impact, action-focused sessions like the LinkedIn Glow-Up and Resume Refresh Clinic. If you’re feeling drained or disconnected, this episode will help you realign, recharge, and rise stronger.

    26 min
  8. Recharge Mode: Yoga, Sound, and Soul with Rika Holmes

    EPISODE 8

    Recharge Mode: Yoga, Sound, and Soul with Rika Holmes

    Let’s be real — life has been a lot lately. Between work, family, and everything happening in the world, it’s easy to find yourself running on empty. In this episode of The Climb Podcast, I’m joined by Rika Holmes, founder of Master of Transformation (M.O.T.) Yoga, to talk about what it truly means to recharge — not just physically, but mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Rika shares how yoga, meditation, and sound healing can help us slow down, get centered, and reconnect with our peace. We talk about the power of stillness, the beauty of being intentional with your energy, and why wellness spaces need to make room for Black women — because we belong here too. You’ll learn: How yoga helps you tune into your body and your boundariesSimple ways to start a meditation or sound healing practice — no perfection requiredHow the chakras connect to your emotions and energyWhy rest and self-awareness are forms of resistance and healing Rika even leads a short chakra visualization meditation that will leave you feeling calm, grounded, and lighter — like you finally exhaled. This episode is your gentle reminder that recharging isn’t optional — it’s essential. You deserve to pause. You deserve to breathe. You deserve to refill your soul. Connect with Rika Holmes: Find her on LinkedIn and join her Virtual Sound Bath Sessions every Thursday at 11 AM — details are on her social pages. Join The Climb Community: If you’re looking for a space that gets it — a community of women of color redefining leadership and self-care — come join The Climb. Membership is free at www.the-climb.org. Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn → @JoinTheClimb

    34 min

  9. EPISODE 9

    Beyond the Pivot: Navigating Your Next Career Move

    In this fireside chat, Felicia Smith sits down with Desiree Goldey, Madjeen Lorthe, and Eliana Cardeno to talk about navigating career pivots with courage and clarity. From layoffs to new beginnings, they explore what it means to redefine success, embrace uncertainty, and step boldly into your next chapter.

    57 min
  10. Stop Waiting for Permission: Building the Career They Won’t Hand You

    EPISODE 10

    Stop Waiting for Permission: Building the Career They Won’t Hand You

    In this unapologetic and power-packed episode of The Climb Podcast, host Felicia Smith sits down with returning guest and executive champion Dionne Baker to talk about what it really takes to build a career that no one is going to hand you. If you grew up believing that “hard work speaks for itself,” this conversation will lovingly shake that myth loose. Felicia and Dionne get honest about the unspoken rules of advancement for women of color — from breaking free of “be grateful and keep your head down” conditioning to owning your value, your voice, and your visibility. Together, they unpack: Why waiting for permission keeps you invisible — and how to shift to ownership modeThe difference between being visible and being valuedHow to advocate for yourself without apology or fearThe power of community over competition — and why we must stop gatekeepingWhy being “the only” often means transforming spaces, not just surviving them This episode is for every woman who’s tired of waiting for recognition, tired of playing small, and ready to start building the career, impact, and legacy she deserves. Episode Takeaway: Your next level isn’t given — it’s claimed. Stop waiting to be chosen. Start moving like you belong. 🎙️ Featuring: Felicia Smith, Founder of The ClimbDionne Baker, Executive Champion, Speaker & Founder of Yvette Garnett Baker Group ✨ Join The Climb Community: If you’re ready to stop waiting for permission and start walking in your purpose, join The Climb — a free community for women of color rising into leadership. 🌐 www.the-climb.org 📱 Follow us on Instagram & LinkedIn → @JoinTheClimb

    33 min
See All Season 5 (10)

Trailer

5
out of 5
19 Ratings

About

At The Climb Podcast, our mission is clear: to empower women of color in their pursuit of leadership roles within the private and public sectors. We understand that the workplace can present distinctive challenges for women of color, and our podcast is your dedicated guide to navigating this terrain. With each episode, we delve into the strategies, stories, and experiences that can propel you forward on your professional journey. Join us as we spotlight the extraordinary achievements of women of color and equip you with the knowledge and inspiration to not only survive but thrive in today’s workplaces. Your success is our focus, and together, we’ll forge a path to leadership that is as unique and unstoppable as you are.

Information

  • Creator
    Felicia Smith
  • Episodes
    49
  • Seasons
    5
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Felicia Smith
  • Show Website
    The Climb