The Becoming Table Talk

Episode 13-If You’re a Leader Who Struggles to Say No, This Episode Is For You

In this episode of Becoming Table Talk, Dr. Laryssa Creswell, Shawn, and Crystal talk about one of the most difficult skills for many leaders setting boundaries. For many women in leadership, the pressure to always show up, help others, and keep things running smoothly can make it difficult to say no. Over time, that constant giving can lead to burnout, resentment, and emotional exhaustion. They discuss the guilt and fear that often appear when women begin to prioritize their own needs, as well as the reactions leaders may encounter when they start communicating boundaries more clearly. Dr. Creswell, Shawn, and Crystal also share practical strategies and simple phrases that help leaders communicate boundaries with confidence and clarity. This episode is a reminder that boundaries are not rejection—they provide direction. If you’ve ever struggled to say no, protect your time, or advocate for your needs as a leader, this conversation is for you. #WomenInLeadership #LeadershipBoundaries #SelfAdvocacy #AuthenticLeadership #EmotionalIntelligence #LeadershipDevelopment #PersonalGrowth #MentalHealthMatters #WomenEmpowerment #BecomingTableTalk

Ep 12 Why Leadership Feels So Lonely for BIPOC Women-You’re Not Supposed to Lead Alone

In this episode of Becoming Table Talk, Dr. Laryssa Creswell, Shawn, and Crystal explore the critical role of community in leadership, especially for BIPOC women navigating spaces that can often feel isolating. Together, they talk about the emotional weight of leadership, the pressure of being the one others rely on, and how isolation can quietly lead to burnout, exhaustion, and disconnection. This conversation highlights why leadership is not meant to be carried alone and why community is essential for clarity, support, and sustainability. The episode also unpacks the difference between networking and true community. While networking often focuses on access and opportunity, community offers something deeper: safety, reciprocity, honesty, and genuine connection. Dr. Creswell, Shawn, and Crystal discuss the importance of building intentional spaces where leaders can be supported, seen, and strengthened. This episode is a reminder that real leadership is rooted in connection, care, and community. TAKEAWAYS * Many BIPOC women feel isolated in leadership roles. * Isolation can contribute to burnout and emotional exhaustion. * Community creates safety, clarity, and support. * Networking is not the same as genuine community. * Intentional spaces matter for authentic leadership connection. * Support can come through peers, mentors, and sponsors. * Sometimes leaders must create the spaces they need. * Leadership is not meant to be lonely. #WomenInLeadership #BIPOCLeadership #BlackWomenLead #LeadershipMatters #AuthenticLeadership #LeadershipCommunity #WomenSupportingWomen #StrongerTogether #LeadershipPodcast #BecomingTableTalk

Ep 11 Know Your Worth: Market Value & Negotiation Strategies for BIPOC Women

BIPOC women are often underpaid and promoted more slowly while carrying high-impact work. In this episode, we break down how to identify your true market value, prepare for negotiation conversations, and manage the emotional weight that can show up when you advocate for yourself. We also cover how to negotiate beyond base salary, title, scope, flexibility, bonuses, professional development, and clear growth pathways, so you leave with more than a number. Chapters: 00:00 Understanding Your Market Value & Negotiation Preparation 08:14 Compensation Beyond Salary & Positioning 13:17 The Nature of Negotiation, Rejection, and Resilience Keywords / Tags: market value, salary negotiation, total compensation, promotion strategy, underpayment, BIPOC women, women of color leadership, career advancement, workplace equity, negotiation preparation, leadership development, pay raise, compensation package, professional growth

Ep 10 Invisible Work -Visible Leadership

In this episode of Becoming Table Talk, we dive into the often-unspoken challenges faced by BIPOC women in the helping professions and especially the reality of being overlooked, undervalued, and expected to over-function without recognition. We explore how to make invisible work visible, build strategic relationships for advancement, clarify and strengthen your leadership brand, and advocate for yourself with confidence. The conversation also names the emotional weight that comes with asking for more—and offers grounded, practical strategies to move through it. This episode is a call to action for women who are ready to stop waiting to be seen and start showing up as unmistakable leaders. Key Takeaways: * Visibility requires intentional and strategic effort * Self-advocacy is a leadership skill—not a flaw * Advancement often begins with clarity, not permission

Ep 9 Why You Feel Unheard — What’s Really Getting in the Way

In this episode of Becoming Table Talk, the hosts discuss the challenges BIPOC women face in leadership roles, particularly around being heard and recognized. They explore the importance of speaking with authority, reclaiming one's voice, and navigating tone policing and double standards in communication. The conversation emphasizes the need for structure in professional settings to ensure that all voices are heard and valued, and encourages women to embrace their confidence without feeling the need to apologize for their contributions. Takeaways * BIPOC women often feel unheard in professional settings. * Speaking with authority requires confidence and clarity. * Reclaiming your voice is essential in leadership. * Tone policing affects how women's voices are perceived. * Creating structure in meetings can help amplify voices. * Your voice is part of your professional brand. * Confidence is different from arrogance; both are necessary. * Documenting contributions helps in reclaiming ownership. * Your nervous system reacts to speaking up; be gentle with it. * Small shifts in language can lead to significant changes in perception.