LINK Changemaker Series

The Power of Convening with a Global Lens

In this episode of 'Changemakers,' we explore the transformative potential of global gatherings. Join our guests, Nigel Murphy, Josh Lasky, Sbusisiwe Myeni, and Jamal Holtz, as they share their experiences and insights into bringing people together for positive change. Nigel delves into using global networks for local benefit, Josh offers advice on community engagement and composting initiatives, Sbusisiwe shares her journey in providing educational opportunities to vulnerable children, and Jamal emphasizes the significance of storytelling and embracing diverse perspectives. Quotes "They all have personal stories and unique perspectives, but the key word here is authenticity."- Jamal Holtz "It's all about research, not just taking anything from the program but selecting what's truly relevant to my community."- Sbusisiwe Myeni "Bringing people together isn't about celebrating a single shared objective. It's about celebrating a diversity of perspectives."- Josh Lasky "The key to change is bringing communities along. Elected politicians understand that without community support, their tenure is short-lived." - Nigel Murphy Featured Guest Jamal Holtz Special Assistant to the President Equity, Belonging,& Public Affairs at LINK Strategic Partners https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamalholtz/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamalholtz/] Sbusisiwe Myeni Co-Founder & CEO of Imbeleko Foundation https://www.linkedin.com/in/sbusisiwe-myeni-64a5b828/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sbusisiwe-myeni-64a5b828/] Josh Lasky Director of the Office of Sustainability GWU https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshlasky/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshlasky/] Nigel Murphy Former Deputy Leader Manchester City https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigel-murphy-b040a946/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigel-murphy-b040a946/] Chapters 00:00 - Introduction 04:52 - Empowering Children Through Education 09:38 - Collaborative Problem-Solving 13:02 - Leading Sustainability Initiatives 17:18 - Harnessing Conflict for Outcomes 24:39 - Empowering Underserved Youth 29:21 - Building Relationships and Experiences 35:20 - Nigel's Community Leadership 39:29 - University's Defined Role 45:11 - Creating a Circular Campus Economy 52:54 - Storytelling for Understanding and Progress 57:57 - Effective Convening: Key Questions 01:00:00 - Outro Produced by Heartcast Media http://www.heartcastmedia.com [http://www.heartcastmedia.com]

The Importance of Multi Generational Workplaces

In this episode of Changemakers, host Michael Aiken and Zamiya Sabour delve into the importance of a multigenerational workforce. They highlight a company's inclusive intern program and share inspiring stories of employees who progressed to higher positions. Guests include accomplished announcer Charlie and industry veteran Carole. The episode emphasizes effective communication, continuous learning, and the value of senior staff members' knowledge. The importance of a diverse workforce and ongoing investment in its growth is also discussed. Tune in for invaluable insights on harnessing the strength of different generations in the workplace. Quotes "Constantly engage in reading, exploring diverse perspectives, and actively listening to your environment. This lifelong pursuit will provide you with a significant advantage across various fields." - Carole Lambert “Observe your impact. You hold the reins, guiding and advising renowned individuals. You command authority, offering directives and discernment." - Charlie Brotman "Your potential knows no bounds. With determination and focus, you can become anything you set your mind to. Never underestimate your ability to achieve greatness." - Virginia Ali Embrace lifelong learning and remain open to acquiring new knowledge and skills. Be adaptable and receptive to new approaches."" - Nizam Ali Our Guests and Host Michael Akin President, LINK Strategic Partners https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-akin-link/ Zamiya Sabour Associate https://www.linkedin.com/in/zamiya-sabour-1100a518a/ Charlie Brotman Senior Advisor https://www.linksp.com/charliebrotman Carole Lambert Operations https://www.linksp.com/carolelambert Virginia Ali & Nizam Ali Ben’s Chili Bowl https://benschilibowl.com/ Chapters 00:06 Introduction 01:03 The Strength of Multi-Age Workplaces: A Boost for Businesses 03:23 Sharing Wisdom: Senior Advisor Empowers the Younger Generation 08:47 The Power of Storytelling: Illuminating Professional Journeys 10:56 Unexpected Thrills: Cherishing Presidential Introductions 13:59 From Restaurant to Community Hub: A Couple's Inspiring Journey 19:28 Carol's Journey and the Multigenerational Workforce Recap 21:05 Passion and Purpose: Finding Fulfillment in Work and Beyond 23:46 Family Values: Love, Service, and Work Ethic 25:29 Embracing Intergenerational Diversity: Enriching Workforce Culture 31:25 Leading by Example: Retreats as Catalysts for Continuous Learning 34:28 Flexibility Fuels Success: The Impact of an Adaptive Hiring Process 38:06 From Doubt to Success: A Job Seeker's Journey in PR 40:25 Fred Sternberg: Transitioning to PR and Thriving 44:21 A Conversation That Changed Everything: Meeting President Obama 48:29 Conclusion Produced by Heartcast Media http://www.heartcastmedia.com

Equity: (Must Be) More Than a Buzzword

In this podcast, Michael Akin, President of LINK Partners, talks with Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette, Cordell Carter, and Sekou Kaalund about how to apply an "equity lens" in real-life situations. These experts will discuss ways to change systems so that everyone, regardless of their background, has an equal chance to succeed. They'll also talk about how communities and organizations can move from just promoting diversity and inclusion to actively working for fairness and justice. The podcast will explore practical steps beyond just talk, such as identifying investments and changes that will make a real difference in people's lives. Quotes "When you take a leadership position and leverage your assets, your resources, you can get people to come along the journey to make a difference." - Sekou The biggest funders in the social sector can tell their grantees to focus on equity. Some of them are currently re-evaluating their own practices and realizing they might be part of the problem. - Cordell Stay committed and determined by following your own values and keep working hard with courage, even when you feel tired. - Dr. Colette Our Guests and Host Michael Akin President, LINK Partners https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-akin-link/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-akin-link/] Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette President, Huston-Tillotson University https://www.linkedin.com/in/colettepb/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/colettepb/] Cordell Carter Executive Director, Socrates Program, Aspen Institute https://www.linkedin.com/in/cordellcarterii/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/cordellcarterii/] Sekou Kaalund Managing Director and Head of Advancing Pathways, JP Morgan Chase https://www.linkedin.com/in/sekou-kaalund-b345651/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sekou-kaalund-b345651/] Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:33 What is equity? 05:34 About Huston-Tillotson University 09:30 Balancing Students well-being challenging times 12:04 About Aspen Institute and the Socrates Program 17:01 Helping black students and business during the pandemic 21:07 Advancing Black pathways to close the racial wealth gap 23:31 Corporate responsibilities in closing the wealth gap 27:52 Some equity solutions 32:46 The tension in the non-profit sector, its funding and collaboration with other sectors 34:29 Challenges and opportunities on funding the HBCU Education 46:04 The Importance of Dialog in Building Pathways for Improvement and Understanding. 50:03 Youth’s importance in social justice movement 53:04 Significance of Proximity in Tackling Equity Matters. 58:48 A call to action from our guests Produced by Heartcast Media www.heartcastmedia.com [http://www.heartcastmedia.com] http://www.heartcastmedia.com

Women in Leadership

Zamiya leads an insightful podcast featuring Teniqua Broughton, Hon. Kate Stewart, and Cherylyn LeBon to discuss equity in leadership. The guests explore the challenges faced by women in leadership roles and provide practical solutions to create a more equitable path forward in society, workplaces, and communities. Through their professional reflections and lessons from their experiences, it aims to develop actionable solutions. It acknowledges the pressing need for improvement in social equity and advocates for flexibility, recognizing change as a constant, and embracing open and courageous discussions that address inequity. Quotes Be kind, be bold, and resist. - Hon. Kate Be accountable, authentic, patient, and a lifelong learner. Avoid carrying a spirit of offense and participating in petty behavior - Teniqua Self-awareness is a beautiful thing. Don't take yourself too seriously, commit to lifelong learning, don't be afraid to ask for help, and develop the skill of being a good listener. - Cherylyn Take each experience an opportunity as something to learn and a way to grow. I think that everything that we go through, whether it's good, bad or indifferent, is supposed to teach us something about our passions and our paths in life. -Zamiya Our Guests and Host Zamiya Sabour Associate, LINK Strategies Partners https://www.linkedin.com/in/zamiya-sabour-1100a518a [https://www.linkedin.com/in/zamiya-sabour-1100a518a] Teniqua Broughton Executive Director, State of Black Arizona https://www.linkedin.com/in/teniqua-broughton-8b29417/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/teniqua-broughton-8b29417/] Hon. Kate Stewart County Councilmember,Montgomery County, MD, Former Mayor, Takoma Park https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/Stewart/about.html [https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/Stewart/about.html] https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-stewart-0884a35/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-stewart-0884a35/] Cherylyn LeBon Partner, Dunlap, Bennett & Ludwig, Former Appointee, Small Business Administration https://twitter.com/harleylebon [https://twitter.com/harleylebon] https://www.instagram.com/harleylebon/ [https://www.instagram.com/harleylebon/] Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction 00:04:09 Defining leadership and its role 00:13:51 Navigating careers with intention to achieve results 00:23:11 Empowering women and working collectively 00:41:36 Importance of flexible leadership to achieve desired goals 00:51:06 Encouraging women and youth to feel empowered and supported in their work. 01:01:22 Conclusion Produced by Heartcast Media www.heartcastmedia.com [http://www.heartcastmedia.com]

Beyond Recovery: Cross-sector Approaches for Economic Renewal

In this podcast, we have Hon. Corey Woods, Kyle Rhan, John Drew, and Cherylyn LeBon as panelists. The discussion centers around economic renewal, not just recovery, after the pandemic. The goal is to create a new normal that is more equitable and just for everyone. This will require cross-sector solutions since we are all interconnected as people and economies. The panelists will explore how to achieve this goal and make the most out of the opportunities that come with this challenge. Quotes We have a lot of very dedicated nonprofits in this community who've been doing great work not for years, but frankly, for decades. And we have to partner with them because there's a ton of need out there. - Hon. Corey Let's appreciate the geographic differences that we have in our country and adjust our priorities accordingly. - Cherylyn Partnerships should be maintained, and the community should recognize the significant contributions of nonprofits. Instead of duplicating their efforts, we should support them. - Kyle Increased dialogue is necessary, involving individuals from diverse backgrounds and industries in these discussions is crucial. This pandemic presents a chance for the nation to emerge stronger and tackle pressing national concerns. - John Our Guests and Host Michael Akin President, LINK Partners https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-akin-link/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-akin-link/] Hon. Corey Woods Mayor, City of Tempe, Arizona https://www.linkedin.com/in/corey-woods-29817169/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/corey-woods-29817169/] Kyle Rhan President & CEO, United Way of Southern Nevada https://twitter.com/kyle_rahn [https://twitter.com/kyle_rahn] https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-b-rahn-81710416/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-b-rahn-81710416/] John Drew President & CEO, Trade Center Management Associates,President, The Drew Company https://drewcompany.com/ [https://drewcompany.com/] https://twitter.com/ceojohnpdrew [https://twitter.com/ceojohnpdrew] Cherylyn LeBon Partner, Dunlap, Bennett & Ludwig,Former Appointee, Small Business Administration https://twitter.com/harleylebon [https://twitter.com/harleylebon] https://www.instagram.com/harleylebon/ [https://www.instagram.com/harleylebon/] Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:11 Defining Economic Renewal 17:44 Challenges and Opportunities in Current Pandemic-Stricken Economy 32:16 Ways to restore trust and work together across different sectors during COVID-19. 49:53 The connectivity and opportunities for local and global sectors 01:04:15 The things we need from the different sectors from local, federal and global. 01:08:41 A call to action from the guests Produced by Heartcast Media http://www.heartcastmedia.com [http://www.heartcastmedia.com]