Impostrix Podcast

Send us a Text Message.Trigger Warning:This episode discusses mental health and mental illness, including thoughts of suicide. This episode also contains mentions of and refers to sexual assault. Please take care of yourself and opt out of listening to this episode or fast forward through parts where needed.============================== MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES:Crisis Hotline: 1-800-273-8255, or you can call or text 988, or 741741. Online Resources: Mentalhealthishealth.usSuicide and Crisis Lifeline - 988lifeline.org===============================Welcome back to Impostrix podcast! It is May, Mental Health Awareness Month, and we are going to talk about it! This episode comes from the vault! We recorded in 2023 and it's just as ripe today as it was back then. In this episode, host Whitney Lee is joined by entrepreneur, CEO, author and motivational speaker, Difernt, for a deep dive into her personal experiences and mental health journey. Difernt shares her inspiring story of overcoming homelessness, living in foster care, and being faced with adversity to achieve success and make a positive impact in the world.They discuss Difernt's mission, which is driven by her past experiences and the desire to bring social awareness through her work. The conversation turns to the importance of mental health, the power of therapy, and the need for self-care. Difernt also talks about her book, "What If? A Controversial Paradigm Shift," which challenges readers to think critically about systemic racism and injustice in America.Listen in on a conversation centering mental health, resilience, and the impact of sharing our stories. Don't miss out on this empowering episode filled with valuable insights and resources for anyone navigating their mental health journey.For more information and to get a copy of Difernt's book, visit her website at diferntsworld.net. Remember, it's okay to not be okay, but taking steps to prioritize your mental health is crucial. Let's start the conversation and make a positive change in our lives and communities.Stay tuned for more inspiring episodes and don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more empowering content! Catch Difernt on IG @th3rdeye_entertainment_llc and watch her vlogs on Youtube.Find Whitney at ImpostrixPodcast.com, on Youtube, and IG.Interested in a free discovery call to see how W. Knox Lee Consulting & Mediation could help you achieve your goals? Email the team at info@wknoxlee.com.Support the Show. SUBSCRIBE to the Validating Voice NewsletterSUPPORT Impostrix Podcast

Send us a Text Message. This episode is a shared journey through the complexities of who we are and who we aspire to be. Whitney sits down with Kendra, the creator of Crushgasm Podcast, and together they peel back the layers of imposter syndrome where it entwines with race and their personal passions.  Kendra shares about her experiences with emo and pop-punk scenes as a person of color, we tackle the pressures that come with standing out in professional spaces and the courage required to forge your own narrative against the grain of societal norms.Our conversation meanders through the landscape of freelance writing and education, highlighting the pigeonholing that comes with racial expectations and the hunger for diverse representation. Whitney shares tales of feeling "too white" in Black spaces and the impact that has had on her career trajectory, while Kendra opens up about her role as a mixed race woman working in schools as an instructional aide, emphasizing the power of relatable figures for children. Whitney and Kendra stitch together a story of pursuing a career that reflects who they truly are, despite the external narratives and preconceived ideas that often come our way.Wrapping up with some levity, Kendra reflects on her journey and aspirations, from her love of pop culture, her podcast, and her forever dream of writing  for 'Saturday Night Live.' This conversation is sprinkled with laughter, affirmations, and the mantras we lean on while navigating career and identity.Listen to Crushgasm podcast to hear fun stories about crushes! From first crushes (like Whitney's story) to celeb crushes and cartoon crushes, it's all there. And connect with Kendra on IG @crushgasmpodcast.Find Whitney on IG @impostrixpodcast, and learn more about the show at impostrixpodcast.com. Thank you DigitalREM for editing this episode!Interested in a free discovery call to see how W. Knox Lee Consulting & Mediation could help you achieve your goals? Email the team at info@wknoxlee.com.Support the Show. SUBSCRIBE to the Validating Voice NewsletterSUPPORT Impostrix Podcast

Send us a Text Message.In this episode Whitney is joined by her good friend Tanya to discuss women's health. Tanya is a doula, a non-profit founder, and a public health professional currently pursuing her graduate degree. You may recognize Tanya from a between-season crossover event where Whitney released an episode from the Tea with Tanya podcast for our listeners! This time Tanya joins us in the "flesh"!Tanya shares her journey and insights into tackling women's health issues, advocating for menstrual health awareness, and breaking stigmas surrounding reproductive health, especially within the context of being a Black, Caribbean immigrant woman in the United States. The dialogue covers Tanya's personal experiences with health challenges, her proactive approach to wellness, and her efforts to educate and empower through her platform, Tea with Tanya, and her nonprofit organization, Scrub Life Cares.Key topics include the importance of advocacy in healthcare, navigating professional life as a woman with health challenges, and the significance of mental health days. Tanya emphasizes the value of effective communication and support systems in advocating for health needs. The conversation also touches on broader issues like the lack of comprehensive health education and the need for greater empathy and understanding within the healthcare system towards women, especially those of color. Tanya's personal mantra, "nothing happens before its time," encapsulates her philosophy of perseverance and timing in life's journey.This episode is a deep dive into women's health from the perspective of empowerment, advocacy, and resilience, highlighting the need for open conversations, education, and supportive communities to navigate health challenges and advocate for better healthcare experiences.Learn more about Tanya through her podcast, the TEA with Tanya Podcast, and the non-profit she founded, Scrub Life Cares. In this episode, Tanya talks about the non-profit and the work they do to educate women and girls on women's health and specifically menstrual health. Learn how to get involved at her website! And, join Whitney over on IG @impostrixpodcast and @willsforthepeople. Thank you Chris at DigitalREM for editing this episode. Interested in a free discovery call to see how W. Knox Lee Consulting & Mediation could help you achieve your goals? Email the team at info@wknoxlee.com.Support the Show. SUBSCRIBE to the Validating Voice NewsletterSUPPORT Impostrix Podcast

Send us a Text Message.Embarking on the profound intersection of mental health and societal barriers,  Whitney is joined by life coach and co-host of the Pandora's Awareness Podcast, Asher Wright to interview Marlon Bacote.Together, we peel back the layers of cultural stigmas that shroud the struggles of Black men seeking vulnerability in a world where it's often seen as weakness. Highlighting the celebration of Second Chances Month this April, our conversation takes a deep look into the resilience required to navigate life post-incarceration, and the dire need for a shift in systemic structures that currently hinder this journey.Our discourse moves from the personal to the systemic, sharing stories like mine, from battling addiction to becoming a licensed mental health professional, and Marlon's relentless pursuit to utilize his certifications despite the roadblocks of 'barrier crimes.' The episode traverses through the complexities of re-establishing one's identity after significant life transitions, such as leaving the military or rejoining society post-prison. It's a narrative that intertwines the transformational power of education with the nuanced struggles of reintegration—where support systems play a pivotal role, and the echoes of past environments shape our paths forward.As we wrap up, the conversation turns towards a journey of healing and self-care, emphasizing their importance against the backdrop of societal pressures and shame. I share my own introspections on mental health management and the steps taken towards somatic meditation, while Marlon reflects on his transformative realization that catalyzed his recovery from addiction. This episode isn't just a talk; it's a testament to the undying spirit of hope and the affirmation that our past does not dictate our future. Join us in a heartfelt affirmation that every step towards mental health is a stride toward triumph.Get in touch with Asher at LifeChangingWisdom.com, and listen to Pandora's Awareness Podcast.Catch up with Marlon on IG @bacotemarlon.This episode was edited by Chris at DigitalREM. Thank you!Interested in a free discovery call to see how W. Knox Lee Consulting & Mediation could help you achieve your goals? Email the team at info@wknoxlee.com.Support the Show. SUBSCRIBE to the Validating Voice NewsletterSUPPORT Impostrix Podcast

Send us a Text Message.Feeling like an imposter and having self-doubt are common experiences, even for individuals who have achieved significant success. In this episode, Martin Lockett, who in just a couple years transitioned from being incarcerated to earning a director role in a nonprofit organization, candidly shared his personal struggles with imposter syndrome in his career. But first, Martin shared his journey of radical acceptance, reflecting on his past experiences of incarceration and the impact it had on his self-perception. He highlighted the importance of accepting the things we cannot change and focusing on how we respond to challenging circumstances. This message resonates with the concept of radical acceptance in overcoming adversity.Martin's experience of reintegrating into the workforce after 17 and a half years of incarceration shed light on the challenges individuals face when reentering society. The societal stigma and biases associated with having a criminal history or being incarcerated can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and imposter syndrome. Martin's reflections on being the only Black individual in senior management meetings also underscored the added pressure and social responsibility that individuals from marginalized backgrounds may feel in professional settings.Through Martin's story, we are reminded of the importance of normalizing conversations around vulnerability and self-reflection in the workplace. By sharing his internal dialogue and struggles, Martin encourages us to acknowledge and address our own insecurities, fostering a culture of authenticity and support in professional environments.Martin Lockett is a writer and speaker whose words have impacted thousands of people, even before leaving prison. While incarcerated, Martin dedicated his life to making amends for crimes he committed resulting in the loss of life of two people. He did this by throwing himself into reflection, education, and physical and emotional sobriety. Martin has earned his MS in Psychology and his certification as a substance abuse counselor. As a writer, Martin has used his time behind bars to write in various forms, all with the intention of helping others with his story and life experiences. Martin has published two books, his memoir, Prison to Purpose Pipeline, and My Prison Life, a collection of essays. Now released, Lockett continues his mission and message by helping those in need of counseling for mental health and substance use disorders and sharing his powerful story at DUI victim impact panels, high schools, conferences, and highway safety classes across the country.Get in touch with Martin at martinlockett.com and on IG @MartinLLockett.Learn more about Whitney, Impostrix Podcast, and our upcoming events at ImpostrixPodcast.com. Edited by DigitalREM. Thank you!Interested in a free discovery call to see how W. Knox Lee Consulting & Mediation could help you achieve your goals? Email the team at info@wknoxlee.com.Support the Show. SUBSCRIBE to the Validating Voice NewsletterSUPPORT Impostrix Podcast

Send us a Text Message.Whitney is joined by Waleisah Wilson, a friend and colleague, in this really real episode on what it is like navigating life and career after incarceration. Waleisah Wilson is a dedicated criminal justice reform activist and organizer. She staunchly supports efforts that address disability justice, ending solitary confinement and mass incarceration, voter disenfranchisement, ending the stigmas associated with having a criminal record and eliminating the unjust barriers to reentry. Her passion stems from her personal struggles with reentry and is the reason why she founded NewLife Second Chance Outreach, Inc., a nonprofit organization that addresses the lack of direct employment services for those with criminal convictions.In this candid conversation, Whitney and Waleisah discuss the systemic issues surrounding mass incarceration, the importance of language in humanizing individuals with criminal records, and the need for grace, forgiveness, and compassion in our communities. They highlight the impact of racial capitalism on employment opportunities for people of color and the barriers faced by those with criminal records.Through personal anecdotes, Waleisah sheds light on the need for change in how we view and support individuals reentering society. This episode challenges listeners to rethink their perceptions and consider actionable steps to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all members of our community.Waleisah holds two Master’s degrees, one in Human Services and one in NonprofitManagement, and a Graduate Certificate in Criminal Justice. She is the owner of two small businesses, Phoenix Recruiting & Employment Services, LLC., where she provides recruiting services to employers, training and business consulting services to those seeking to start their own small business or nonprofit organization, and Beautiful Pride, an ecommerce apparel store that allows its customers to support grassroots social and criminal justice organizations through its collection purchases.Tune in to this thought-provoking episode of the Impostrix podcast to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by formerly incarcerated individuals and the importance of providing opportunities for successful reentry and employment.This episode was recorded LIVE on Instagram on April 8, 2024. Follow Impostrix Podcast on Instagram @ImpostrixPodcast to stay up to date on future live podcast recordings and other events. Thanks, Chris at DigitalREM for the wonderful job you did editing and with such a tight turnaround!Want to connect? Join us on Facebook! Or, join our monthly brown bag discussions to talk about the topic of the month. This month, we are talking about second chances, racial capitaliInterested in a free discovery call to see how W. Knox Lee Consulting & Mediation could help you achieve your goals? Email the team at info@wknoxlee.com.Support the Show. SUBSCRIBE to the Validating Voice NewsletterSUPPORT Impostrix Podcast

Send us a Text Message.The Second Chances Mini-Series spotlights four people who are finding their way after incarceration and who have been able to build a career doing what they love. This mini-series are their stories. Up first is Gabrielle Perry, MPH. Thank you, Gabrielle, for sharing your very personal story with us.  In this powerful podcast episode, host Whitney Lee engages in a candid conversation with Gabrielle Perry, founder of the Thurman Perry Foundation. They discuss the challenges faced by women impacted by incarceration, discussing reentry into society, the impact of incarceration on individuals and communities, and the importance of dignity and empathy in the criminal legal system. Gabrielle shares her personal journey of resilience having faced being a caregiver at a young age, incarceration, and homelessness, and having succeeded in becoming an epidemiologist. Her life story sheds light on the systemic barriers faced by formerly incarcerated individuals. Even one day in jail uproots an entire life and the community that that life touches. Gabrielle shares too about survivors guilt after beating the odds, and recalls the moment she had to decide whether she would be upfront about her history to future employers and educators.Through their discussion, they challenge societal perceptions and biases towards those with criminal legal involvement or criminal convictions, emphasizing the need for compassion and support in the reentry process. April is Second Chance Month in the United States. During Second Chance month, we bring awareness to the journey of formerly incarcerated people returning to society. Communities throughout the United States are in dire need of a stronger reentry ecosystem for those returning from incarceration and institutionalization. Formerly incarcerated people and people with arrest records, truancy records, or other involvement with the criminal legal system face a stigma that is life long and impacts the ability to someone to secure safe and affordable housing, and to secure gainful employment or access to certain careers, among other things. Resources Mentioned:Thurman Perry Foundation: https://thurmanperryfoundation.org/The Thurman Perry Foundation is a Louisiana-based non-profit dedicated to improving the lives of women and girls impacted by incarceration. They have several signature programs including the Perry Second Chance Scholarship to fund higher education for women and girls impacted by incarceration (accepting applications through April 2024!) Girl Code - a program to end period poverty in prison, and the Mothers Day 365 housing relief fund.  Donations to the Thurman Perry Foundation are tax deductible and always welcome!To learn more and see data about the impact that the carceral system has in the United States, visit the Prison Policy Initiative at https://www.prisonpolicy.org or the Vera Institute of Justice at https://www.vera.orgConnect with Gabrielle on Twitter/X Interested in a free discovery call to see how W. Knox Lee Consulting & Mediation could help you achieve your goals? Email the team at info@wknoxlee.com.Support the Show. SUBSCRIBE to the Validating Voice NewsletterSUPPORT Impostrix Podcast

Send us a Text Message.Whitney is joined by fellow podcaster Shou Alexandre to have a winding conversation covering Shou’s body building journey, being a “good employee,” describing workplace dynamics known to some as the “Black tax,” and generational differences that exist in the modern workplace.  The conversation explores the impact of race and gender on how questioning authority is perceived, generational differences in the workplace, and the expectations placed on people of color regarding appearance and behavior.Shou is the host of Shou Talks podcast, a show where Shou interviews people of different backgrounds who share on their experiences navigating life. In her words, these stories offer raw honesty, edgy humor, authenticity, and insight. Shou is an amateur bodybuilder in her first year of intensive training. She shares why she decided to document this journey and emphasizes the importance of representation in the sport. Then Whitney and Shou push back on the workplace norm of simply following directions without questioning or understanding the “why”. They discuss experiences in Shou’s life where she has worked harder and longer, taken on additional tasks, just to be valued as much as her white colleagues. This “Black tax” is not unique to Shou but is an experience unique to people of color navigating the workplace. Whitney reflects on her tendency to always ask questions and seek reasons behind processes, even if it means being labeled a "bad (or difficult) employee."The conversation touches on generational differences, with younger generations like Gen Z being more willing to advocate for their worth at work compared to previous generations taught to just follow instructions to earn an income. Shou acknowledges Gen Z has opened doors for pushing back on unfair treatment, despite her initial skepticism.The overarching themes in this conversation explore unlearning cultural conditioning to better navigate workplace dynamics as women of color professionals.Listen to Shou Talks Podcast on audio podcast players, and follow Shou @i_am_shouxperience. Follow Whitney @impostrixpodcast and learn about upcoming events and other opportunities to engage at https://www.impostrixpodcast.com.  Thank you Digital REM for editing this episode! Support the Show. SUBSCRIBE to the Validating Voice NewsletterSUPPORT Impostrix Podcast

Send us a Text Message. Whitney Knox Lee and guest Julia Washington continue their conversation unpacking common narratives about Black women. This time using scenes from the Amazon Prime original show "Harlem" to discuss the "angry Black woman" stereotype and the balancing act Black women face as they try not to overshoot their mark on being strong. (Fans of Angie, this one is for you!)Julia Washington is a biracial (Black and Italian) solo mom, artist, writer, and the host of Pop Culture Makes Me Jealous and the Jelly Pops Book Club podcasts. In this conversation, Julia and Whitney relate over scenes from "Harlem," share personal experiences, affirming mantras, and self-care practices to combat harmful narratives and protect their peace.Here are three key self-preservation takeaways from this conversation:Create Safe and Nurturing Spaces: It can be so significant and meaningful to surround ourselves with environments that nurture our well-being and provide a sense of belonging.Normalize Naming Emotions: By openly expressing our emotions, we can better understand and address our needs, fostering emotional well-being and healthier relationships. Do this. Make it normal in your life.Do Things That Fill Your Cup:  Prioritize actual self-care, find joy in simple pleasures, and fill our cups to maintain balance and inner peace.Connect with Julia Washington on Instagram @TheJuliaWashington and check out her work @JuliaWashingtonProductions. Do you love Julia's vibe and heart pop culture? Learn more about her podcasts at PopCultureMakesMeJealous.com. Follow Impostrix Podcast on Instagram @ImpostrixPodcast and join the conversation on Facebook at the Impostrix Podcast Validating Space. Visit www.impostrixpodcast.com for more information.This episode is available on YOUTUBE! Stay tuned for more empowering discussions on navigating imposter syndrome and racial toxicity in the workplace. Be sure to like, share, and subscribe for more validating content. Thank you for listening!Shout out to Chris @DigitalREM for editing this episode!Interested in a free discovery call to see how W. Knox Lee Consulting & Mediation could help you achieve your goals? Email the team at info@wknoxlee.com.Support the Show. SUBSCRIBE to the Validating Voice NewsletterSUPPORT Impostrix Podcast

Send us a Text Message.What is the stereotype of the “strong Black woman” and how does it show up in every day life? In this episode, Whitney is joined by fellow podcast hostess Julia Washington to discuss the portrayal of Black women in media and the tropes or stereotypical roles that Black women are assigned, the challenges this raises and the impact it can have in the life of a woman. The conversation covers scenes from the comedy drama Amazon Prime Original TV series "Harlem" that highlight the struggles faced by Black women in healthcare settings and the workplace. They also touch on data from the Georgetown Law study "Girlhood Interrupted: The Erasure of Black Girls' Childhood" discussing the adultification of Black girls and the disproportionate burden of diversity, equity, and inclusion work falling on Black women in corporate environments.Join Whitney and Julia as they explore these important topics and share their personal experiences and insights. Julia Washington is a California based, bi-racial, writer, artist, solo-mom and podcast host. She is the creator and host of Pop Culture Makes Me Jealous and Jelly Pops Book Club podcasts. Julia loves to read, watch television and moves, has a subscription to the New Yorker, and will give you unsolicited book/movie/tv recommendations. Julie also writes a monthly column in Jennifer magazine and, seriously, she knows EVERYTHING about pop culture. You can find her on Instagram or TikTok @ theJuliaWashington.For more content from Whitney, visit impostrixpodcast.com and follow her on Instagram @impostrixpodcast.Monthly Brown Bag Discussion Series REGISTER HERESources:“Harlem”, Season 1, Episode 6 “Cuffing Season,” and Episode 7 “The Strong Black Woman.” On Amazon Prime Video“Girlhood Interrupted: The Erasure of Black Girls’ Childhood”, 2017, Center on Poverty and Inequality, Georgetown Law."Women in the Workplace" Study 2023, by Lean In.Editor: Digital REM  Interested in a free discovery call to see how W. Knox Lee Consulting & Mediation could help you achieve your goals? Email the team at info@wknoxlee.com.Support the Show. SUBSCRIBE to the Validating Voice NewsletterSUPPORT Impostrix Podcast

Send us a Text Message.Black women encounter unique challenges in the workplace, particularly concerning likability and stereotypes that can significantly impact their professional experiences. In this episode, Dr. Katrina Gipson joins Whitney to explore how Black women are often forced to navigate misogynoir - hatred or prejudice against Black women - and how this shows up in the workplace.Pulling from personal experience with health care in Georgia, Whitney and Dr. Gipson start by discussing medical racism. The conversation then shifts to the subject of one of Dr. Gipson's article titled "Black women don't owe you likeability," and the pair explore how Black women are expected to be likable in the workplace. They are judged based on their friendliness, approachability, and ability to make others feel at ease.Black women face penalties for not meeting these likability criteria. Penalties that become apparent in performance reviews and promotion decisions, and are noted with coded language like "not being a team player," "needs improvement in proactivity," and "could show more enthusiasm for her job." This can create a hostile work environment where Black women feel pressured to conform to certain expectations to avoid negative outcomes.The episode underscores the importance of allyship and solidarity in addressing the challenges faced by Black women in the workplace. It is crucial for individuals, especially those in positions of power, to actively support and advocate for Black women, challenging stereotypes and biases as they arise.Dr. Gipson emphasizes the necessity of creating inclusive work environments where Black women can be themselves without fear of judgment or backlash. By prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and ensuring that all voices are valued and respected, organizations can work towards dismantling harmful stereotypes and fostering a more equitable workplace.Dr. Gipson's message to listeners: you are enough and you are worthy.Subscribe to Impostrix Podcast here or on Youtube. Katrina A. Gipson, MD, MPH is an ER Physician, an Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine at Emory University School of Medicine and Public Voices Fellow of AcademyHealth in partnership with The OpEd Project. Connect with Dr. Gipson on LinkedIn.Read articles by Dr. Gipson: "Black Women Don't Owe You Likeability" (Boston Globe)"As A Black Woman and Physician, It's Time To End Microaggressions in Medicine" (Ms. Magazine)"Imposter Syndrome, Like the “Strong Black Woman” Trope, Hurts Us" (Visible Magazine)Learn more about Impostrix Podcast at https://www.impostrixpodcast.com. Follow Whitney on IG Interested in a free discovery call to see how W. Knox Lee Consulting & Mediation could help you achieve your goals? Email the team at info@wknoxlee.com.Support the Show. SUBSCRIBE to the Validating Voice NewsletterSUPPORT Impostrix Podcast

Send us a Text Message.In this episode, Whitney is joined by Aimée-Josiane ("AJ") Powell-Ingabire (they/them), a passionate activist and organizer, to discuss their journey and insights working within and alongside labor union organizers throughout the US. Here are three key takeaways from our conversation:Courage Needed.AJ shared valuable insights into the significance of courage in the workplace, especially in the context of labor organizing. They highlighted the transformative nature of being in a union, emphasizing the collective solutions, protection, and empowerment that unions provide. AJ's perspective on unions as a means to a more equitable society resonates deeply with the need for collective action and solidarity in the workplace.Labor Unions Can Be Great, And Their History is One of ExclusionThe history of labor unions is complex and involves many things we shouldn't be proud of, including contradictions and exclusions faced by workers of color. And in fact, our learning of the labor movement is whitewashed and completely erases key events by and for Black workers, including the "Great Strike of 1861." AJ shed light on the importance of recognizing and addressing systemic barriers faced by marginalized communities, including Black, trans, disabled, and immigrant workers. We Need Labor Movements for Real, Complex, People.Labor organizing must create spaces that prioritize access, comfort, and dignity for all workers. By advocating for disability justice and amplifying the voices of marginalized individuals, AJ exemplifies the importance of centering diverse perspectives in labor movements. Their focus on creating inclusive workplaces that empower all individuals, regardless of identity, sets a powerful example for fostering diversity and equity in the labor sector.Don't miss out on this enlightening episode of Impostrix Podcast, where AJ's insights and experiences offer valuable lessons for navigating imposter syndrome and advocating for inclusivity in the workplace. Tune in to gain valuable perspectives and inspiration for your own professional journey. 🌟This episode is available on YouTube! Watch here.Catch AJ on the airwaves also by listening to their podcast, Disciples of Courage. Follow AJ on Instagram at @DisciplesofCourage Let's continue the conversation on Facebook at the "Impostrix Podcast Validating Space" community group, and on IG @ImpostrixPodcastInterested in a free discovery call to see how W. Knox Lee Consulting & Mediation could help you achieve your goals? Email the team at info@wknoxlee.com.Support the Show. SUBSCRIBE to the Validating Voice NewsletterSUPPORT Impostrix Podcast

Send us a Text Message.Let's talk history y'all, and jump into the vibrant tapestry of how Caribbean people have had a profound impact on Black culture and the civil rights movement in the United States.In this episode, we had the pleasure of conversing with the brilliant Alexandria Miller, a Jamaican American doctoral student and host of Strictly Facts Podcast, who shared her wealth of knowledge on the subject. We explored the nuances of Black identity, particularly within the context of people within the Caribbean diaspora who have shaped and enriched Black American culture.Alexandria speaks on the significant contributions of Caribbean people,  highlighting historical figures like Marcus Garvey, Shirley Chisholm, and Malcolm X, whose roots and activism have been instrumental in the fight for equality and justice. We also touched on the complexities of language,  discussing the term "patois" and its cultural significance.Our conversation was not just about the past; it was a celebration of the ongoing influence of Caribbean culture in America, from the rhythms of Afrobeats to the entrepreneurial spirit of icons like Rihanna. Alexandria's personal journey and her mantra, "one one cocoa, full basket," reminded us of the importance of perseverance and the collective effort in achieving our goals.For those looking to deepen their understanding of the role Caribbean history, Alexandria's podcast Strictly Facts, is a biweekly treasure trove of history and culture that you won't want to miss. (We love her episodes, especially a recent episode on law, race, and sovereignty in Puerto Rico).Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Impostrix Podcast. Stay to the end to hear a transparent message from Whitney about cultural competency and continued learning. Remember, our stories and histories are interconnected, and by learning from each other, we continue to build a more inclusive and empowered community. Until next time, stay validated and keep making waves!Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed the episode, and reach out to us at impostrixpodcast@gmail.com with your thoughts and feedback!Connect with Alexandria on IG @StrictlyFactsPod and on her website, StrictlyFactsPod.comDo you want to watch this episode? It's available on YouTube!Interested in a free discovery call to see how W. Knox Lee Consulting & Mediation could help you achieve your goals? Email the team at info@wknoxlee.com.Support the Show. SUBSCRIBE to the Validating Voice NewsletterSUPPORT Impostrix Podcast

Send us a Text Message.Black spaces are so important. For many people in the United States, the default space is white space. In this conversation, we discuss the importance of Black spaces and the various ways that lack of Black spaces can impact Black professionals. Our guest is Talib Jasir, founder and CEO of Afros and Audio Podcast Festival, builder and holder of Black spaces. In this episode, Talib shares his personal journey and experiences as a Black man navigating work environments, reflecting on the challenges and complexities he faced. We discuss the power of community, the impact of socialization, and the need for Black voices to be heard and valued in the podcasting industry in particular. Talib also shares insights from his work as a life coach, emphasizing the importance of dismantling limiting beliefs and embracing one's own power. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the Black experience as we discuss the intersection of race, identity, personal and professional growth and the transformative potential of community and self-empowerment.Connect with Talib Jaseer:Instagram: @TalibJasirWebsite: talibjasir.comPodcast: Afros and Audio Black History Month Interview SeriesAfros and Audio Podcast Festival: afrosandaudio.comConnect with Whitney and Impostrix Podcast:Instagram: @ImpostrixPodcastWebsite: impostrixpodcast.comJoin the conversation and gain valuable insights into the Black experience, imposter syndrome, and the power of community. Subscribe to Impostrix Podcast and never miss an episode!Interested in a free discovery call to see how W. Knox Lee Consulting & Mediation could help you achieve your goals? Email the team at info@wknoxlee.com.Support the Show. SUBSCRIBE to the Validating Voice NewsletterSUPPORT Impostrix Podcast

Send us a Text Message.Autumn Walker, a therapist specializing in helping Black women navigate imposter syndrome joins Impostrix Podcast for the Season 2 premiere.  Autumn shares her insights on the experiences of Black women with imposter syndrome and the importance of combining mental wellness and personal development to confidently pursue purpose-driven goals. Autumn emphasizes the significance of recognizing imposter syndrome as a reinforced belief system that leads to self-doubt, self-criticism, and a lower sense of self-concept. She highlights the unique challenges faced by Black women due to cultural norms, systemic oppression, and historical patterns of marginalization. The conversation centers on the tool of unlearning and replacing distorted beliefs with more flexible and authentic ones. Autumn emphasizes the importance of validation, understanding the root causes of imposter syndrome, and setting alternative rules and expectations for oneself. The episode ends with Autumn’s three suggestions for moving through imposter syndrome, tune in to learn what they are! Watch this episode on YouTube!Connect with Whitney at https://www.impostrixpodcast.com. Interested in continuing the conversation in community with other listeners? Find Whitney and the community on Facebook in the “Impostrix Podcast Validating Space” Community. It’s free to join and a great way to get support  from other like-minded folks! Get your FREE "Working Within Your Values" Toolkit, here:To connect with Autumn:Instagram and LinkedIn @AutumnCWalkerFacebook @The Soul ReasonsText SOUL to 206-647-0594 to subscribe to Autumn’s weekly therapist tips messages Also, if you are a Black woman looking for a mental health therapist, reach out to Autumn who has launched Soul 2 Soul, a therapy concierge service linking you to vetted therapists specially matched to your needs! Be Validated! Interested in a free discovery call to see how W. Knox Lee Consulting & Mediation could help you achieve your goals? Email the team at info@wknoxlee.com.Support the Show. SUBSCRIBE to the Validating Voice NewsletterSUPPORT Impostrix Podcast

Send us a Text Message.Enjoy this season 2 trailer and be on the lookout for Episode 1, coming February 7, 2024!Join host Whitney Knox Lee, an attorney, mediator, and DEI consultant, as she tackles imposter syndrome, racial toxicity, and the impact of white supremacy and racial capitalism. Through intimate conversations with guests and practical tips, we validate each other's experiences and foster diversity, equity, and inclusion. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of empowerment and change.Impostrix Podcast WebsiteJoin the Impostrix Podcast Validating Space Facebook community here!Email UsIG @ImpostrixPodcastSupport the Show. SUBSCRIBE to the Validating Voice NewsletterSUPPORT Impostrix Podcast

Send us a Text Message.We are back with another re-release, this time discussing colorism, imposter syndrome, our culture and how we show up at work, and how our culture impacts our idea of success. This isn't just a podcast episode; it's an immersive journey into self-discovery, cultural reflections, and empowering narratives. If you are an OG fan of Impostrix Podcast, you heard these conversations before in Episodes 4 and 5 of Season 1. You get both conversations in one this time around! Do you remember the first time like you felt like an imposter? In the opening segment of this conversation, Karla and Whitney spill the tea on how imposter syndrome leaves its mark on immigrants and people of color in the U.S. Karla, a bilingual and bicultural mental health therapist from Mexico, candidly shares her earliest memories feeling "imposter syndrome." Whitney jumps in, shedding light on the struggle of feeling like imposters even within her own community. It's a real talk moment.Then they talk colorism. Karla and Whitney dissect this sensitive subject, tracing its roots back to colonialism and white supremacy. They lay bare the current landscape, exploring how skin tone shapes opportunities and perceptions within families and communities. Parenting kids with varying brown skin tones? They've got you covered, navigating the complexities and responsibilities tied to combating colorism within families.And then there's racial capitalism! The hosts guide us through the challenges of building a career that is in alignment with their values, resisting the cultural norm of profiting off others' pain. Karla shares how her private practice's business model intentionally aligns with her cultural values, proving that financial success doesn't have to compromise integrity.To get in touch with Karla, visit her website, www.garciacounseling.com. You can also listen to her on the Spanish language radio show Aqui y Alla broadcasted on KDNA from Yakima, Washington.Interested in a free discovery call to see how W. Knox Lee Consulting & Mediation could help you achieve your goals? Email the team at info@wknoxlee.com.Support the Show. SUBSCRIBE to the Validating Voice NewsletterSUPPORT Impostrix Podcast

Send us a Text Message.This episode is so appropriate this month that I couldn't help but re-release it. After Dr. Claudine Gay announced her resignation as president of Harvard University, Black women around the country (myself included) are left reeling. Many of us have experienced this kind of treatment before, the peak level scrutiny and the "throw anything at the wall and see what sticks" gaslighting and manipulation. I stand proud of Dr. Gay for protecting her peace and her energy. And this is why Impostrix Podcast is so necessary.Become a monthly donor!Receive your freebie! Working Within Your Values ToolkitSUBSCRIBE to the Validating Voice NewsletterEpisode Description from Season 1, Ep. 11:What does it take for Black and Latino/a/x scholars to break through the gatekeeping in academia? In this episode, we gain a deeper understanding of the struggle women of color encounter in the pursuit of tenure and how these inequities are reshaping the landscape of higher education.  Katie Acosta Ph.D., an academic trailblazer and fellow podcaster, shares her journey as a queer-identified, Afro-Latina professor and scholar navigating the complexities of higher education. In this conversation, Dr. Acosta discusses the impact of her identity on her career and on her experience working toward tenure. She gives truly cringe-worthy anecdotes about the barriers that exist for faculty of color (Black women even more specifically) in higher education which work as intended to drive away Black faculty and uphold the values of white supremacy. This discussion emphasizes the importance of intentional corrective actions to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. Dr. Acosta shares her thoughts on what must happen to create a higher ed that is equitable and inclusive toward Black and brown women. Whitney and Dr. Acosta share plenty of laughs as they get really real to address common excuses used by institutions who fail to hire and retain people of color, that live by color-blind ideology, and bend knees to legal and structural barriers that hinder racial and cultural representation and inclusivity.Katie L. Acosta, Ph.D., is a queer, Afro-Latina mother, sociologist, scholar, professor and consultant, author, AND podcaster. Her research specializations include gender, sexuality, race/ethnicity, family, Latina/o studies and immigration.Learn more about Dr. Acosta!Check out Intersectionality in the American South Podcast! Hosted by Dr. Acosta, this show explores the experiences of BIPOC individuals in the South, shedding light on structural issues and resilience. Listen to Episode 7 to hear Whitney talk about advocating for incarcerated people in Georgia.Buy Dr. Acosta's book, Queer Stepfamilies: The Path to Social and Legal Recognition.Learn about Whitney and find ways to support the show at www.ImpostrixPodcast.comFollow Impostrix Podcast on IG Support the Show. SUBSCRIBE to the Validating Voice NewsletterSUPPORT Impostrix Podcast

Send us a Text Message.Happy New Year!There is so much opportunity in 2024 as I enter the new year in a completely different position than I anticipated. In this episode, I share with you what's going on with me, what's important (including diving in to my family history) and what my plans are to build a business. I also briefly check in on my feelings about Dr. Claudine Gay, Harvard's outgoing president.AND, let's start the new year off with a gift, shall we?To keep myself accountable to my values during this period of growth and new ventures, I created a "Working Within My Values" toolkit. It's available to you for free through the link above! The toolkit includes a BINGO card and reflection prompts! Listen to the episode to find out more, or reach out to me at impostrixpodcast@gmail.com.Also, are you interested in sponsoring an episode or mini-series for Season 2? Your gift of $100 or more pay for an editor for 1 episode and will ensure that the quality and content of Impostrix Podcast is at the highest possible level. Topics are:- Black History- Women's History- Returning to Work After Incarceration- Mental Health, Work, and RaceIf interested, please reach out to me at impostrixpodcast@gmail.com.Not ready to be a sponsor? No worries, learn about the other ways you can support the show.Support the Show. SUBSCRIBE to the Validating Voice NewsletterSUPPORT Impostrix Podcast

Send us a Text Message.Well this is exciting!This is our first crossover episode featuring the Tea with Tanya Podcast! In this episode, Whitney joins Tanya as they share dig deeper into the imposter syndrome narrative, self-doubt and self-sabotage. They both share their experiences navigating and reframing imposter syndrome and overcoming self doubt to enjoy their personal and professional lives. The conversation delves into the internal struggles individuals face, the fear of failure, and the guilt associated with success, particularly in communities of color. Tanya, opens up about her own imposter syndrome, especially as a high achiever in a graduate school setting. She discusses the challenges of being the only black person in her class, battling self-doubt, and feeling the need to downplay her achievements. Whitney and Tanya explore how imposter syndrome contributes to self-sabotage, inhibiting their ability to fully embracing opportunities and recognizing her worth.In this discussion, Whitney and Tanya highlight the importance of extending themselves grace, establishing boundaries, and acknowledging that seasons in life change. They stress the need for self-care, understanding personal limitations, and learning to navigate imposter syndrome to live authentically and with purpose. The episode provides valuable insights and relatable anecdotes for listeners grappling with imposter syndrome.More about Tea with Tanya PodcastTea With Tanya is created and hosted by Tanya Ambrose, a Maternal Health professional, Nonprofit Founder, and Grad Student spilling the tea on finding balance and promoting positive living while doing it all. Tea With Tanya is dedicated tothe modern, multifaceted woman looking to embrace her true potential and live a vibrant, fulfilling life.  Every Tuesday, join Tanya in the Tea Tasting room as she delves into the diverse aspects of womanhood, exploring topics ranging from women's health, self-development, maternal health, and the art of holistic well-being. Whether you're seeking guidance on cultivating a healthy mindset, understanding your body, or finding balance amidst the demands of motherhood and womanhood, this podcast is here to serve you! So tune in as we educate and empower you on this journey to becoming the Boss of your health and wellness.Connect with Tanya:Listen to Tea with Tanya PodcastSubscribe to the Tea Talk NewsletterFollow on IG @TeaWithTanyaPodcast Connect with Whitney on IG @ImpostrixPodcastInterested in a free discovery call to see how W. Knox Lee Consulting & Mediation could help you achieve your goals? Email the team at info@wknoxlee.com.Support the Show. SUBSCRIBE to the Validating Voice NewsletterSUPPORT Impostrix Podcast