Game of Her Own

Update - May 2024

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210. Discovering Your Unique Journey with CROING Creative Agency’s Founder and CEO, Alejandra Salazar

In this empowering episode, I have an inspiring conversation with Alejandra Salazar, the trailblazing Founder and CEO of CROING. Defying the odds, Alejandra stands out as part of the rare 0.1% of creative agencies worldwide that are founded by women. Her remarkable journey from Venezuela to becoming a global entrepreneur, having lived in seven countries including Germany, Argentina, Mexico, Chile, Spain, and the US, provides her with a unique perspective on the cultural nuances of social media and innovation adoption across different regions. In this episode, Alejandra talks about: * Rejecting Conventional Wisdom: Hear how Alejandra chose to reject the advice of her teachers who suggested she should gain experience working for someone else before venturing out on her own. This segment dives into the importance of listening to one’s instincts and the courage to defy the status quo. * Collaboration Over Competition: Alejandra shares her steadfast belief in 'Collaboration over competition,' providing insights into how fostering partnerships and collaborative efforts have propelled her agency to new heights. * Mastering Nerves: Discover why Alejandra doesn’t get nervous before big meetings or pitches, and learn the strategies and preparations she employs to stay focused and confident. * The Leap into Entrepreneurship: At just 22, Alejandra took the bold step of starting her own business. She recounts the motivations behind such an early venture into entrepreneurship and the challenges she faced along the way. * Navigating Advice: Alejandra discusses the critical skill of discerning which advice to take and which to pass on. She emphasizes the significance of understanding that not all guidance received aligns with one's personal vision and goals. Throughout the episode, Alejandra's story unfolds as a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of believing in one’s convictions. Her experiences across multiple cultures have not only shaped her business acumen but also her approach to leadership and collaboration. You will come away with actionable insights on how to prepare for success, the importance of collaboration, and the courage it takes to follow one's entrepreneurial dreams, even in the face of skepticism or contrary advice. Don't miss this inspiring episode of "A Game of Her Own" podcast, filled with powerful lessons on leadership, entrepreneurship, and the art of navigating advice in the pursuit of building a successful career and business on one's own terms.   Free Resource | Empower Your Career: Mastering the Art of Advocacy for Promotions and Raises: https://rb.gy/3qpump [https://rb.gy/3qpump]   Connect with Jahaan:  Learn more about working with Jahaan and see if it’s the right fit for you: https://JahaanBlakeAppointmentScheduling.as.me/LetsTalk [https://jahaanblakeappointmentscheduling.as.me/LetsTalk] Join Jahaan's VIP Email List: https://bit.ly/3yccwAP [https://bit.ly/3yccwAP]  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jahaanblake/ [https://www.instagram.com/jahaanblake/] Email: jblake@jahaanblake.com Website: https://jahaanblake.com/ [https://jahaanblake.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jahaanblake/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jahaanblake/]   Connect with Alejandra: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleanaissalazar/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleanaissalazar/]    Alejandra is the Founder and CEO of CROING, part of the 0.1% of creative agencies founded by a woman. She is also the founder of CROINGERS, a creative holding company. Alejandra focuses her work on people and how to bring brands closer to them. Originally from Venezuela, she has lived in 7 countries, including Germany, Argentina, Mexico, Chile, Spain, and the US, which gave her a deep understanding of local nuances and how people adopt social media and innovation. She speaks about Social Media, Innovation applied to creativity and marketing, US Hispanic/Latino marketing, and Female Leadership. Alejandra serves as Women.NYC advisor, mentor at The New School - Parsons, and has been invited as keynote speaker by Adweek, Inter Miami, City of Miami, National Gallery of Art, EY, Women.NYC, Latinas in Tech, Black Man Talk Tech, Art Center College of Design, and  The New School - Parsons, among others.   Music By: Quanzaa

209. Defining Success for Yourself with National Women's Soccer League’s Legal Counsel, Lacey Mencl

Ever found yourself tangled in someone else's definition of success? You're not alone, and this conversation is for you. I had the opportunity to sit down with Lacey Mencl, the powerhouse Legal Counsel for the National Women's Soccer League. Lacey's journey is a testament to the power of defining success on your own terms. In this episode you will learn: * Her unique perspective on defining success and how it has shaped her career trajectory. * The challenges and excitement she faced when leaving home for the first time to move to Chicago for a job with the National Women's Soccer League. * How she boldly chose a job that she was overqualified for, proving that it's okay to bet on yourself. * The impactful ways her manager instilled confidence in her and how you can seek similar support in your workspace. * The delicate balance between seeking feedback and validation, a crucial lesson for all of us.  * Her proactive approach in advocating for herself, resulting in two well-deserved promotions. * How Lacey combats self-doubt and imposter syndrome, offering practical tools that you can implement in your own career journey. Get ready for an empowering conversation packed with actionable advice, personal experiences, and lessons learned from a woman who's carving her own path in the sports industry.    Free Resource | Empower Your Career: Mastering the Art of Advocacy for Promotions and Raises: https://rb.gy/3qpump [https://rb.gy/3qpump]   Connect with Jahaan:  Learn more about working with Jahaan and see if it’s the right fit for you: https://JahaanBlakeAppointmentScheduling.as.me/LetsTalk [https://jahaanblakeappointmentscheduling.as.me/LetsTalk] Join Jahaan's VIP Email List: https://bit.ly/3yccwAP [https://bit.ly/3yccwAP]  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jahaanblake/ [https://www.instagram.com/jahaanblake/] Email: jblake@jahaanblake.com Website: https://jahaanblake.com/ [https://jahaanblake.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jahaanblake/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jahaanblake/]   Links: Game of Her Own Ep. 40 | Jessica Berman: https://rb.gy/q02jt1 [https://rb.gy/q02jt1]    Connect with Lacey: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laceymencl/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/laceymencl/]  Lacey Mencl joined the National Women’s Soccer League in May of 2021 where she currently serves as Legal Counsel. In her role, Mencl oversees a variety of the league’s legal functions, ranging from labor and competition matters to league governance affairs. A Kent State University Sports Administration graduate with a Juris Doctor from Cleveland State University College of Law, Mencl's career includes work with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Mid-American Conference, and Division I college athletics programs. Beyond her work at the NWSL, Mencl serves on the board of the Chicago chapter of Women in Sports and Events (WISE) and holds positions on both the Sports Lawyers Association Soccer Content Committee and the Sports Division of the American Bar Association.   Music By: Quanzaa

208. The Power of a Team with Editor and Author of The Tigerbelles: Olympic Legends of Tennessee State, Aime Card

In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Aime Card, the editor and author of "The Tigerbelles: Olympic Legends from Tennessee State." Aime's work is nothing short of remarkable, as she undertakes the significant challenge of chronicling the journeys of extraordinary female athletes. These women not only excelled in their sport but also overcame obstacles and challenges along their paths. During our conversation, Aime shared a pivotal mindset shift that was instrumental in her ability to engage in self-promotion and successfully market her book. She unveils her "secret sauce" for approaching each day with confidence, shedding light on how she managed to push past limiting beliefs and not give in to intimidation. Aime also reveals an intriguing part of her journey—the initial attempt to pitch the book idea to a male colleague, hoping he would write it, and the response she received. This moment, among others, is a testament to her resilience and determination. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the power of perseverance, the art of storytelling, and the impact of championing underrepresented voices in sports history. Join us to discover the inspiring story behind The Tigerbelles: Olympic Legends from Tennessee State.   Free Resource | Empower Your Career: Mastering the Art of Advocacy for Promotions and Raises: https://rb.gy/3qpump [https://rb.gy/3qpump]   Connect with Jahaan:  Learn more about working with Jahaan and see if it’s the right fit for you: https://JahaanBlakeAppointmentScheduling.as.me/LetsTalk [https://jahaanblakeappointmentscheduling.as.me/LetsTalk] Join Jahaan's VIP Email List: https://bit.ly/3yccwAP [https://bit.ly/3yccwAP]  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jahaanblake/ [https://www.instagram.com/jahaanblake/] Email: jblake@jahaanblake.com Website: https://jahaanblake.com/ [https://jahaanblake.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jahaanblake/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jahaanblake/]   Links: Book | The Tigerbelles: Olympic Legends of Tennessee State: https://shorturl.at/owBLO [https://shorturl.at/owBLO]    Connect with Aime: Website: https://www.aimecard.com/ [https://www.aimecard.com/]  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aimecardauthor/ [https://www.instagram.com/aimecardauthor/]  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aime-card-579a1270/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/aime-card-579a1270/]  Substack: https://aimealleycard.substack.com/ [https://aimealleycard.substack.com/]  For the past several years, Aime Alley Card has been researching, interviewing, and writing about the Tennessee State Tigerbelles and those who supported them along their path. She conducted and reviewed hundreds of hours of interviews and read just as many books and articles, ranging from concurrent to retrospective. She is a nonfiction editor for Pangyrus Literary magazine and a board member for the Women’s National Book Association, Boston Chapter, and serves on her town’s cultural council supporting educational programs.   Music By: Quanzaa

207. Unapologetically Showing Up For Yourself with the Founder of Sportsimist, Saria Parker

She is the visionary force behind one of your favorite brands for women in sports. She's fearless, innovative, and making waves in the industry. She is the founder of Sportsimist—Saria Parker! In this enlightening episode, Saria opens up about her dynamic path through the world of sports and the creation of Sportsimist. Join us as she shares insights into moments of doubt, revealing why there was a time she almost walked away from Sportsimist. Discover the inspiration behind her diverse collections and learn how she celebrates her achievements. Saria also dives deep into the art of negotiation, offering valuable tips on how to approach discussions with poise and assurance. This episode is a treasure trove of motivation and wisdom, showcasing Saria's journey of perseverance, creativity, and empowerment.    Free Resource | Empower Your Career: Mastering the Art of Advocacy for Promotions and Raises: https://rb.gy/3qpump [https://rb.gy/3qpump]   Connect with Jahaan:  Learn more about working with Jahaan and see if it’s the right fit for you: https://JahaanBlakeAppointmentScheduling.as.me/LetsTalk [https://jahaanblakeappointmentscheduling.as.me/LetsTalk] Join Jahaan's VIP Email List: https://bit.ly/3yccwAP [https://bit.ly/3yccwAP]  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jahaanblake/ [https://www.instagram.com/jahaanblake/] Email: jblake@jahaanblake.com Website: https://jahaanblake.com/ [https://jahaanblake.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jahaanblake/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jahaanblake/]   Links: Sportsimist: https://sportsimist.com/ [https://sportsimist.com/]  Sportsimist Coaching Program: https://sportsimist.com/products/group-coaching-program [https://sportsimist.com/products/group-coaching-program]    Connect with Saria:  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saria-parker-mhr-366621b6/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/saria-parker-mhr-366621b6/]  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sportsimist [https://www.instagram.com/sportsimist]  Saria Parker is a woman in sports advocating for representation in all areas. She has worked at Fanatics for almost three years, and is transitioning soon to her dream role at the NBA. Saria has held positions from Human Resources, Merchandising, and now Diversity and Inclusion.  In addition to her Sports background, she owns and operates a quickly growing lifestyle brand, Sportsimist. The mission is to empower women in sports while offering trendy apparel, accessories, and home decor. Saria is passionate about inspiring the next generation to work in sports, especially women of color and showing all women that you are never alone.    Music By: Quanzaa