Open to Work: Beyond the Label

Closing the Chapter: The Final Episode of Open to Work

One year ago, I took a chance. I started a podcast called Open to Work because I saw something that didn’t feel right in the professional world. Talented people were struggling to be seen. Hiring systems felt broken. And incredible professionals were getting overlooked. So I created a platform where people could share their stories, their struggles, and their resilience. What I didn’t expect… was how much this journey would change me. Through these conversations, I gained perspective. I gained confidence. And most importantly, I learned the power of being seen and owning your voice. This episode marks the final chapter of the Open to Work podcast. But it’s not the end. It’s the beginning of something new. I'm excited to introduce the next chapter: Inspired Authority A podcast focused on identity, leadership, faith, and the courage to step into the influence you were meant to have. Thank you to everyone who shared their stories and supported this mission. Stay tuned because the next chapter is just beginning. Follow the journey: LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralynncolon/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralynncolon/] Instagram @LauraLynnColon

Leading Through Fun, Chaos & Team Support with Erin McKone

In this episode, Erin McKone breaks down what real leadership looks like when everything is changing at once. From high-pressure situations to team-wide chaos, Erin shows how fun, personality, and presence can completely shift team dynamics. We talk about leadership, team dynamics, fun at work, high-pressure situations, team support, micromanagement, effective leadership, and workplace culture. Erin shares how she kept her team grounded through major transitions: playing music, staying lighthearted, leading by example, and showing up not as a micromanager… but as the extra set of hands her team needed. If you’re a leader navigating change this conversation will give you real, practical insight into building a healthy, supportive workplace. #leadership #workplaceculture #teamdynamics #effectiveleadership #micromanagement #funatwork #teamwork #careerconversations #womeninleadership #highpressuresituations #workplacewellbeing #teamperformance #leadershipdevelopment #leadershipskills #open2work #beyondthelabel

Unapologetic Disruption in the Workplace with Dr. V Boykin

In this powerful episode of Open to Work: Beyond the Label, host Laura Colón sits down with Dr. V Boykin, author of "Unapologetically Disruptive: Hard Lessons, Simple Truths" for a raw conversation about what it really means to be authentic, bold, and unapologetic in corporate spaces. Dr. V opens up about being let go during one of the most vulnerable times in her life and how she turned that setback into her comeback. From rebuilding her career to reclaiming her voice, she shares hard-earned lessons on authenticity, social capital, privilege, and how to challenge the systems that silence marginalized voices. If you’ve ever felt unseen, unheard, or underestimated at work - this conversation will remind you that your story matters and your voice has power. 📘 Order Dr. V’s book: Unapologetically Disruptive: Hard Lessons, Simple Truths 👉 Subscribe for more stories that inspire bold leadership, real talk, and growth beyond the label. #Authenticity #Leadership #CorporateCulture #Unapologetic #Disruption #Resilience

Building Connection Through Community with Erica Finley

In this episode, host Laura Colón sits down with Erica Finley, a professional storyteller and community builder in the tech industry, to explore how authenticity, storytelling, and connection shape meaningful careers. From her journey moving from the Midwest to New York City, to building thriving communities within tech, Erica shares how being a “professional fangirl” led her to a career fueled by curiosity, creativity, and human connection. If you’re passionate about career growth, community building, authenticity, or carving your own path in the tech industry, this episode will inspire you to connect, reflect, and grow. 👇 Subscribe for more conversations that go beyond the label. #WomenInLeadership #CommunityBuilding #Storytelling #CareerGrowth #TechIndustry #PersonalGrowth #Authenticity #Networking

Nice Doesn’t Cut It: Why Assertiveness Wins in the Workplace - Featuring Ivna Curi

Are you avoiding tough conversations? Is fear of speaking up holding you or your team back? In this episode, Laura Colon sits down with communication expert Ivna Curi to explore the power of bold, assertive communication and how it can transform careers, teams, and organizational culture. Ivna shares her personal journey from being a quiet, people-pleasing professional to a global voice advocating for assertiveness, leadership, and speaking up. Together, we dive into: 🔹 Why silence can destroy trust and lead to burnout 🔹 How saying no with confidence earns respect 🔹 The link between communication and innovation 🔹 Why being "nice" doesn't get you a seat at the table 🔹 How leaders can model and encourage bold communication 🔹 Tools to overcome fear and navigate feedback Ivna is helping organizations around the world address their communication challenges and build cultures where people feel safe, respected, and empowered. 🎧 Listen in and start investing in your personal growth today. ✨ Take Ivna’s 10-Day Challenge to learn how to be both likable and assertive - https://assertiveway.aweb.page/beassertiveandliked [https://assertiveway.aweb.page/beassertiveandliked] 🎙️ Subscribe to her podcast: Speak Your Mind Unapologetically - https://assertiveway.com/podcast-speak-your-mind-unapologetically/ [https://assertiveway.com/podcast-speak-your-mind-unapologetically/] Email: ivna@assertivewayinstitute.com