A passing comment from the high school French Teacher allowed Shonda Pettiford to leave Florida for Massachusetts to experience the Smith College summer biology program, which changed her life. There she discovered she didn’t love journalism like she thought she would, that she really wanted to make a difference in the lives of young people in the community (particularly in sports and athletics) and that she has a special talent for taking on roles no one has ever held before. Listen to understand the range of experiences Shonda took on to cultivate that superpower. This interview was conducted by Humera Fasihuddin standing in for Tara Rahmani.
Life's Not Linear with Gregory Wilson
Originally from Detroit, then Atlanta, Greg took his love of computer engineering to computer science, then education ultimately earning his Ph.D. and changing the way K12 students are exposed to innovation and making. Along the way, he had many roadblocks preventing him from an academic teaching career in higher ed., but ultimately walked away from Georgia Tech, Virginia Tech, and University of Georgia with skillsets and mindsets that have led to a very prosperous career. This interview was conducted by Humera Fasihuddin on behalf of Tara Rahmani.
Life's Not Linear with Dr. Leah Newman
Originally from the south side of Chicago, Dr. Leah Newman tells her story of going from an all-black K-12 system to the very large and mostly-white University of Milwaulkee, Madison for her Bachelors, Masters, and Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering. Having worked in industry and academia, Dr. Newman finds the most joy in teaching ... and generally being there for her students as she described the people who were there for her. If you're a student who is worried they won't cut it because of test scores and the messages we get from others saying you're not good enough, you've got to watch this video. This interview was conducted by Humera Fasihuddin, standing in for Tara Rahmani.
Life's Not Linear with Priyanka Lalwani
It took 35 years for Priyanka Lalwani (@priyankalalwanimusic) to find success in her music career and the story she tells is one of overcoming self-doubt. Now, she manages a successful business that is only expanding during this pandemic. The secret to her grit and determination? Give it a listen. This interview was conducted by Humera Fasihuddin, standing in for Tara Rahmani.
Life's Not Linear with Jackie Siler-Dearring
So many wise words from Jackie Siler-Dearring (@_beautyandbrainss)as she navigates a move to the mid-west, enters the medical device manufacturing field and most recently moves to California to spearhead the creation of new products for Stryker. It seems like things go pretty much according to plan, but then she reveals the curveballs life threw at her in her early years. It’s a must-watch. This interview was conducted by Humera Fasihuddin, standing in for Tara Rahmani.
Life's Not Linear with Tim Salau
A great way to kick off this week is with @timsalau, Mr. Future of Work! We chatted today about company culture and leadership, team dynamics and development, the grit and hustle of entrepreneurship, and much more. Watch the full interview for all the lovely wisdom & stay tuned for the launch of Guide next week!
Life's Not Linear with Cori Miller
Cori shares with us her many struggles that she’s overcome with not just showing up, but working hard, staying positive, and being her truest self. A young, single mom that kicks ass at life. Through battling depression, drugs, foreclosures, and everything else life has thrown at her - she is always the best version of herself. The perfect example of tough love.
Life's Not Linear with Dylan Ali
Today, I got to chat with the wonderful, Dylan Ali. On top of learning a bit about his journey, we talked about the role that fear plays in our lives and the decisions we make. We talked about healing, and leading with love. The importance of breath and how just 60 seconds of breath work can shift the state you’re in. Dylan shares his journey from “dumb jock” to rockstar dad and entrepreneur, helping others on their path to self-love and having fun.
Life's Not Linear with Adam Gabornitz
Talk about energy! We kicked off this Wednesday by interviewing the epic, Adam - The People’s Champ.✊🏽His story is full of great wisdom - from learning discipline in order to do the things you need to do, to do the things you want to do. Trying new things and saying yes more than no. And (figuratively) jumping without a parachute and seeing where you land. He says, if you feel that bit of fear, that dropping feeling in your stomach, success, and change is right on the other side of that - keep going.
Life's Not Linear with Meghana Surampudi
Meghana shares with us her journey of graduating with a technical degree, having no support in job hunting, landing a job 6 months after graduation, and why it was so important for her to keep going. She’s breaking stereotypes and inspiring others. Her advice: accept everything life gives you, positive or negative - keep an open mind. 🧠