BECUZOFU

Beyond the Badge: Leadership that Transformed Culture

In this inspiring episode, host Cheri talks with Dr. Rhonda Reese and Cassandra “Cassi” Chandler — two trailblazing FBI leaders — about breaking barriers, leading with love, and finding strength through sisterhood. They open up about their journeys as Black women in law enforcement, the value of mentorship, and the servant leadership philosophy that shaped their careers. A powerful conversation on authenticity, resilience, and purpose — reminding us that true leadership starts with heart.

Episode 6: Grateful, Qualified, and More than Enough

In this powerful episode of BeCozOfU, the host welcomes trailblazing corporate and nonprofit executive Joyce Roche. The conversation begins with a deep dive into the meaning of gratitude and how it has shaped Joyce's life and career. She discusses her extraordinary accomplishments, noting that she not only shattered the glass ceiling but "broke that damn thing down," paving the way for black women in leadership. Joyce shares personal stories of gratitude, from her mother's sister and uncle, who opened their home to help her family, to teachers who countered the message that she was "less" and instilled the belief that she could achieve anything. She is also immensely grateful for the opportunities brought by the civil rights movement, which her older siblings did not have, and for her husband and supportive friends.

Episode 5: Sister's and Suddenlies

In this heartfelt episode, host Cheri Freeman-Watkins sits down with Michelle Taylor, President and CEO of BETAH Associates, and her sister Kyra Taylor, Executive Director of Erie’s Black Wall Street, for a powerful conversation about leadership, love, and life’s “suddenlies.” Michelle shares how she was suddenly thrust into leadership after the passing of her mother, the founder of BETAH Associates, and how vulnerability, faith, and gratitude shaped her journey as a CEO. She opens up about fear, growth, and the people—her “gladiators”—who gave her grace to lead with authenticity.  Later in the episode, Michelle is joined by her sister Kyra, who reflects on their unexpected bond and how gratitude guides her own leadership in community work. Together, the sisters explore the meaning of connection, the power of servant leadership, and how love can carry us through life’s most unexpected turns. This conversation will make you reflect, smile, and maybe shed a tear. It’s a moving reminder that gratitude isn’t just something we give, it’s something that keeps us grounded through every “suddenlies”.

Episode 4: Leave the Agenda, Keep the Gratitude

Leaders Angela L. Rakis and Mara Fleishman join Cheri Freeman Watkins to explore how gratitude transforms leadership and teamwork. From their time at Whole Foods to leading their own organizations, they share stories on authentic appreciation, presence, and empowering others. A heartfelt conversation on how gratitude builds stronger teams, deeper connections, and lasting impact.

Episode 3: When Gratitude Found Me, Friendship Led the Way

In this heartwarming episode of Because of You, host Cheri Freeman-Watkins sits down with the radiant Angelique Francis, CEO of Beloved Entertainment and host of Living in the Sweet Spot on KBLA Los Angeles. Together, they explore how gratitude can become a guiding force through life’s challenges, and how unexpected friendships can lead us toward healing and purpose. The episode also features a heartfelt appearance from Areva Martin, Angelique’s dear friend and source of encouragement, as they share the story of how their friendship began and the joy of supporting each other through life’s transitions. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on resilience, leadership, and the transformative power of saying “thank you.”