Jenny Huang is an award-winning concert pianist, brand marketer, DEI leader, and public speaker. She has been recognized as one of the most “Inspiring Women” by Campaign US. With a trailblazing career in marketing and communications, Jenny has worked extensively with Fortune 500 clients. She currently leads brand marketing and communications at Energy BBDO while also serving as the Global Culture Lead for Omnicom’s Asian Leaders Circle. Throughout her career, Jenny has distinguished herself through her unique combination of creativity, strategic thinking, and empathy.
FWM: Share your background.
Thank you for having me! My name is Jenny Huang. For the past decade, I dedicated countless hours to mastering the piano and performing internationally as a concert pianist. Music has been and will always be my passion, teaching me discipline, creativity, and emotional connection with audiences.
However, my journey as a successful chess player in my earlier years sparked a desire for business in my heart and honed my exceptional analytical skills. In the past few years, I made the transition into the marketing world and discovered that, like music, it’s about creating meaningful connections and evoking emotions. Brand marketing became the perfect platform for me to express creativity and strategic thinking.
With a background in music and a strong desire to innovate and connect with people, I bring a unique perspective to the marketing industry. I believe that the intersection of art and marketing allows me to deliver impactful campaigns. Additionally, I feel fortunate to have found a different stage to share my stories as a public speaker, connecting with and inspiring others along the way.
FWM: What excites you the most about advertising?
The aspect of advertising that excites me the most is the combination of creativity and strategy, the opportunity to tell compelling stories and create experiences that resonate with people. Through creative campaigns, we have the ability to shape perceptions, change behaviors, and even make a positive impact on society. It’s truly amazing to see how an idea can come to life and capture the hearts and minds of consumers.
At Energy BBDO, we strive to push the boundaries of creativity and create work that stands out. Whether it’s through breakthrough cultural activations, compelling content, or immersive brand experiences, our goal is to connect with people on a deeper level, leave a lasting impression, and generate business impact for our clients.
FWM: You are one of the best brand marketers in the business. Share a few of your successful campaigns with Energy BBDO.
I’ve worked on several successful and meaningful campaigns during my time at Energy BBDO. I am always driven by making authentic connections with target consumers, and creating a positive impact on the world by leveraging my superpower: strategic thinking, creativity, and empathy. With a background in different countries and languages, I understand diverse consumer identities and craft resonating campaigns.
One campaign that stands out is our collaboration with Kerrygold Butter, addressing the desire of millennial parents to involve their children in the kitchen. We designed an immersive experience called The Magical Pantry, seamlessly integrating kid-friendly recipes into children’s stories. With unique character customization, nearly 40 specially designed recipes, and 4 original fables, the Magical Pantry brings a multitude of recipe-story combinations to life.
Another notable campaign was our work with Bayer’s Claritin, combating botanical sexism in pollen reduction through the DiversiTree Project. We launched a campaign to counter decades-old practices of planting excessive male trees, which release pollen and cause allergies. By educating people about the importance of planting female trees that absorb pollen and promoting diverse tree planting and hosting female tree-planting events, we aim to reduce pollen levels. Without female trees to absorb it, pollen spreads widely and triggers allergies.
There are many more campaigns I am proud to be part of, such as work for Extra Gum, The General Insurance, Bayer Asprin, Sodastream, and Brown-Forman. You can learn more at my website.
FWM: As the Global Culture Lead for Asian Leaders Circle ERG with the Omnicom Group, what are your goals?
As the Global Culture Lead for Omnicom’s Asian Leaders Circle, my primary goal is to foster a supportive and inclusive environment for Asian professionals within the Omnicom Group. We provide growth opportunities, mentorship, and networking to help them excel in their careers.
One of our key objectives is to promote diversity and representation within the industry. I believe that diverse perspectives lead to more innovative and impactful work. By advocating for greater inclusion of Asian talent, I hope to break down barriers and ensure that their voices are heard and valued in the workplace.
Additionally, I strive to create initiatives that celebrate Asian culture and heritage by bridging my background and expertise in art and music. By organizing cultural celebrations, art shows, music salons, workshops, panels, and educational programs, we foster a sense of pride and belonging among our Asian employees, while also raising awareness and understanding among the broader Omnicom network.
FWM: How have you broken boundaries?
I moved from China to the US at the age of 17 by myself, becoming the first person from my hometown to be admitted to top music schools in the US. After a decade as a concert pianist, I transitioned to the advertising/marketing/media industry, constantly breaking boundaries and challenging conventional thinking.
Most recently, I blend creativity and music expertise into corporate and client-centric work, championing diverse thinking and representation for a more inclusive and equitable work environment and advertising industry. As a brand marketer, I push the limits of advertising/marketing by embracing emerging technologies and cultural shifts, delivering innovative and impactful campaigns for our clients. As the Global Culture Lead for Omnicom’s Asian Leaders Circle, I have worked to break down barriers and advocate for diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for people from underrepresented communities to succeed and thrive.
FWM: You were recognized as one of the most “Inspiring Women” by Campaign US. What inspires you?
I find inspiration in many different aspects of life.
Firstly, the people around me – my team, friends, and even strangers I just met. Their uniqueness and collaboration inspire innovation and growth.
Secondly, the power of creativity and compelling storytelling. Marketing and communications offer opportunities to inspire and uplift people, spark conversations, and bring positive change.
Lastly, diversity and representation’s transformative power drive me to advocate for change and create opportunities for underrepresented voices.
Have you ever met someone that somewhat does it all? That’s Lady T’Mil Curtis for sure! She is a well-rounded expert in the areas of marketing, coaching, ministry, public speaking, event production, promotion, and the list goes on.
From the inner city of Chicago, born and raised, she is cultured and comes fashioned with impressive knowledge and education about a variety of things. She attended an Episcopalian Grammar School that started cultivating her entrepreneurial spirit at an early age. Being a fast learner and always loving a challenge, she graduated early at age 16 with a 3.5 GPA after dropping out her senior year. “School was boring, and I couldn’t express my creativity like I wanted, so I dropped out. But that was even more boring, so enrolling in an accelerated session proved to be the spark I needed to finish.”
Basically, you bring me what you’ve created, and I help navigate how that creation goes from concept to launch.
Be it in ministry or the mainstream marketplace, Lady T’Mil uses her dominant spiritual gifts of administration and teaching to propel individuals to higher levels in their respective arenas. On top of all the hands-on work that she does in these arenas, she’s also a marketing strategist, author, content creator, digital distribution specialist, public speaker, blogger, and a virtual operations trainer. Her writings provoke people to not only think, but to think at a higher level and from a fresher perspective, while her intellect ignites conversations that are significant and memorable.
She just launched her latest venture, The Ministry GPS, created to help churches, leaders and non-profits better navigate the virtual space. With so many areas and fields of interest under her belt, she enjoys coaching off the radar. Her ability to counsel and encourage clients is uncanny because she does it without you knowing what she’s doing. And she’s a unique coach because she’s able to combine her expertise along with her experience that helps Entrepreneurs, ARTrepreneurs and creatives reach their goals.
FWM: You are known as a well-rounded expert in marketing, coaching, ministry, and public speaking. Share your background.
There are so many facets to me, and it comes from my mom actually. She encouraged me to not just be good at one thing but to be good at being T’Mil. This means every gift that I’ve been blessed with is valuable. Every talent and skill I have is worth using. I’m a church baby, if you will, so, ministry is my foundation and I’m grateful I’ve learned how to marry it with the secular side of who I am.
FWM: Tell us about The Itsladytmil Agency and how you are helping entrepreneurs, ARTrepreneurs and Creatives.
The Itsladytmil Agency started as an answer. So many are gifted and talented but lack administration and/or accountability. I help to bring strategy to life in a comprehensive way that doesn’t make people feel like their creativity is being hindered when handling the business side of things. Basically, you bring me what you’ve created, and I help navigate how that creation goes from concept to launch.
FWM: How have you utilized your spiritual gifts of administration and teaching to propel individuals to higher levels?
I’m a bottom-line kind of person so I always want to know what your end goal and or purpose is. I then help organize and create strategies that someone can follow to achieve said goals. When it comes to teaching, that’s my first love. I enjoy expanding and edifying minds to see beyond what’s in front of them. I’m of the mind that when people leave my presence, they should be impacted for the better.
FWM: What has God taught you?
One thing I needed to understand was that as we try to find God, He is actively looking to find us. If you can’t find God, start to worship and He will find you. Hebrews 11:6 says it is impossible to please God without faith; we must believe that He exists and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.” Another key thing God taught me was every blessing and His favor is attached to who He created me to be. Being my authentic self; even when I’m unsure yet I trust Him, can and has opened so many doors for me. Lastly, I will highlight He has taught me the importance of community. He never created us to be an island of one so finding your tribe if you will and being intentionally about building relationships is success to me.
FWM: At the heart of every endeavor is your desire to serve and see people win! Explain.
I believe in servanthood. I think that’s one of the greatest ways we can show God in the earth. Using my gifts and callings to serve others is what yields success in my eys. So, it’s not about the “thank you” even though that’s good lol it’s more so sowing good seeds through my actions that keeps me going.
Rave Reviews from clients:
Lady T’Mil Curtis is a serial, gifted, and accomplished entrepreneur. A mentor to creatives, she is passionate about galvanizing others to operate at their highest level. She possesses an uncanny wealth of knowledge, providing you with advice and counsel that produces tangible results. Lady T’Mil has motivated me to keep moving forward even when the odds seem stacked against you. I highly recommend her services. If you are looking to take your business, ministry, brand, or creative endeavor to the next level, Lady T’Mil is the one for you.
Tia W. Cooke Cooke Consulting & Creations Brand Strategist
Lady T’Mil is an EXCEPTIONAL woman who is very knowledgeable of the ins and outs of her industry, and is a PIT BULL who continually breaks down barriers and barricades! Watching her continually shows me that if you do your part, God will take care of the rest! I remember when I was at one of the lowest points in my life, T’Mil gathered all of her friends to send videos to me which created an all out FB concert and I WILL NEVER FORGET THAT! Knowing that she bounced back from sickness and is now thriving let’s me know that my time isn’t complete and that I’m just at the beginning. I love T’Mil and I count it an honor to know such a woman.
Fulks Worship Leader/Indie Artist
FWM: Tell us about your latest venture, The Ministry GPS and how you are changing the world.
The Ministry GPS was birthed at the beginning of the pandemic. I’ve been doing virtual/digital operations since 2015 so, the pivot for me was easy. I took that knowledge along with my years in ministry and started helping pastors, churches and person ministries leverage or create their digital presence. I’ve always said the virtual space wasn’t going anywhere and now more than ever, it’s necessary.
FWM: Please share your upcoming projects.
The biggest is accepting the position of General Manager with VGNBae Music Group out of Houston, Texas. One of my goals is expanding the label and studio into television and film projects. Also looking into new collaborations that will cross various genres of music. I’m also getting back into management but with a more focused clientele than before. I have a heart for musicians and producers so working with them to help ensure their business acumen and administration is top tier like their creativity.
Photo Credit: Joshua Simmons
T’Mil and Vgnbae co-founders Dominique Side and Anthony Hall.
What will people notice when working with you?
I’m real. I don’t work with anyone or on any project I don’t believe in. So, you get 100% of T’Mil. I’m a provoker; I’m going to push you outside of your comfort zone into greater. I’m an encourager; I will motivate you until times get better. And I am the solution; If you work with me on any level, you’ll have the tools needed to navigate you towards the success your life/business/ministry deserves.
For more information or to contact Lady T’Mil, please visit www.itsladytmil.agency Social Media – Facebook: T’Mil Curtis, IG, Twitter, LinkedIn, Clubhouse & Wisdom: @itsladytmil
About VGNBae Music Group
VGNBae Music Group is a multi-genre label and the brainchild of two multi-talented creatives, Anthony Hall, and Dominique Side. With artists in gospel, pop, Latin and jazz who have seen billboard and radio success, their projects have industry appeal and has placed them on some of the hottest digital platform playlists like New Gospel Friday on Spotify, Hot Latin Tracks on Pandora, and major holiday playlists with the second release from The Collective; A VGNBAE Christmas.
Cover Girl Lisa Edelstein is an American actress and playwright. Edelstein is known for playing Dr. Lisa Cuddy on the Fox medical drama series House. Between 2014 and 2018, she starred as Abby McCarthy in the Bravo series Girlfriends’ Guide to Divorce.
BEHIND THE WOMAN
FWM: You are known all over the world. People often confuse what we do with who we are. What is it that really makes you a formidable woman?
LE: I don’t think there is a woman in my business that hasn’t had to overcome an enormous amount of rejection and pressure and dismissive or abusive treatment. That includes me. And that, alone, makes one formidable. No matter what business a person is in, following one’s dreams is terrifying to most. Knowing what you want and going for it despite a million things that could or should work against you, that makes a woman formidable and I am that woman, too, to be sure. I am not, however, the ex-head of Princeton Plainsboro Hospital, nor am I a divorcee who writes inspirational books. I’m not an ex-hooker, I’m not a trans-woman, and I’m not the drug-addled daughter of a powerful agent, but I tend to get credit for all these things when I’m out and about, which is pretty hilarious. And maybe that makes me formidable as well.
My mind is always wanting to tell stories, even when I’m not working, and it doesn’t take a day off.
Formidable Woman Cover Girl Lisa Edelstein
FWM: People tend to see the glory but rarely know the story. Tell us about some of your pains and challenges along the way to landing your toughest roles.
LE: Any of the roles you have seen me play I landed after not getting roles that meant the world to me. It’s between the jobs that people don’t realize are the most difficult and challenging times in any creative artist’s life. For every role, there were five that didn’t happen. So the question is the wrong one, landing jobs is the victory lap. Waiting for those jobs, believing in yourself in the downtimes, insisting on having a place in this world – that is where the real glory lies.
FWM: In your industry, what do you feel has been the hardest hurdle to jump? How has it shaped you, if at all?
LE: Learning to be patient, to wait for the right job, to believe in yourself enough that it’s worth waiting for – those are some serious life skills one needs to develop. My mind is always wanting to tell stories, even when I’m not working, and it doesn’t take a day off. I’ve found that it’s deeply important to stay creative – whether it’s acting, writing, directing or even drawing, so that my brain doesn’t, metaphorically speaking, eat itself.
Knowing what you want and going for it despite a million things that could or should work against you, that makes a woman formidable and I am that woman, too, to be sure.
Photo credit: FOX
FWM: You are successful and wear many hats. What is your advice on balancing personal life and Hollywood?
LE: “Hollywood” is just an idea. This is my job, which I love enormously and am so grateful for. This is my family, who I also love and am grateful for. These are my friends, people I work with, or my husband works with, or that we met out in the world and enjoy. There is no separation between personal life and “Hollywood.”
FWM: What can women looking to enter your field work on now to prepare for the landscape?
LE: People should just work on themselves, on finding their own voice. This business relishes unique voices and ideas. In fact, that’s all one really has to offer, beyond an excellent work ethic, and it’s incredibly valuable. There is no one else like you, no one can bring what you bring, no one else has your brain. Learning to honor your own imagination is the best ticket you have into the world of entertainment.
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – NOVEMBER 10: Lisa Edelstein and Michael Douglas attend the Los Angeles Premiere of ‘The Kominsky Method ‘ at AFI Fest at The Roosevelt Hotel on November 10, 2018 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Rachel Murray/Getty Images for Netflix)
FWM: If you could travel anywhere in the world where would you go and why?
LE: I miss traveling so much! I want to go back to Japan, we promised our youngest who had a zoom bar-mitzvah during Covid, that in exchange for all that work we’d take him back there. He’s been obsessed with Japanese culture since we took him when he was 9. And my dad, who will be 85 this summer, would like to go back, too. He was stationed there in the early 60’s, my brother was born there on the base. So, it would be wonderful to take my parents along, too. And I want to go back to Thailand with my husband. I went alone the first time, and want to share it with him. I want to see New Zealand and Australia, Eastern Europe, Brazil, Chile, England, Scotland, Ireland, Amsterdam, Norway….I have such wonderful memories in BC, I want to be in those beautiful forests again. There are seriously very few places I don’t want to go, so the list will get too long for this article. If I haven’t mentioned a place already, just assume I want to go there, too.
Learning to honor your own imagination is the best ticket you have into the world of entertainment.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 08: Alan Arkin and Lisa Edelstein speak onstage at the Netflix “The Kominsky Method” FYSEE Event at Raleigh Studios on June 08, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for Netflix)
FWM: What has been your favorite role and why?
LE: I’ve had a lot of favorite roles. It was my favorite role to be on Seinfeld, it jump-started me in the business in LA and was particularly exciting to be on. It was my favorite role to be on Relativity, telling a meaningful story about an LGBTQ+ woman and getting to break barriers with the first ever lesbian make-out scene permitted on network TV. It was my favorite job to be on the West Wing, working with such talent both on and off the screen. And then House, of course, a life-changing experience to be on a show that was such a massive success and so smartly written. And to play my beloved Abby McCarthy on Girlfriends’ Guide to Divorce – that was a dream come true. To be the lead of a well written dramady, to get to act my face off and wear such gorgeous clothes, to work a solid 14-hours a day for five seasons. I was in absolute heaven. And since then, working with Alan Arkin and Michael Douglas – that’s just an arm pincher (meaning I have to pinch my arm to remind myself it’s true.)
FWM’s Queen of Real Estate Issue (May/June print) Real Estate mogul and Covergirl Egypt Sherrod who is making serious boss moves in the real estate arena, an industry traditionally dominated by men.
Photo Credit: Mike Eaton
The name Egypt Sherrod speaks volumes. Speaker, author, radio personality, television host, philanthropist, wife, mother and Real Estate mogul. She is truly a Renaissance Woman. Known as the host of HGTV’s Property Virgins and Flipping Virgins, Egypt has come into our homes with her vibrant personality. It is her goal to inspire women and influence them to create the life they love. Egypt has shown us that our lives are only limited by our imaginations.
FWM: Egypt, I am so excited about this interview. Introduce yourself and your business?
ES: I am Egypt Sherrod, Mother, Wife, Real Estate Broker, Business Owner, TV & Radio Personality, Author and Speaker.
FWM: What first drew your interest to the real estate industry?
ES: I grew up with uncles who were in the real estate business, brokers, agents, investors. So it has been embedded in me from an early age that real estate was the foundation of wealth. My goal was never to work in real estate though. As a matter of fact, when I graduated from college, I majored in communications. That led me to a career in radio for almost two decades. But at some point, in my twenties a light bulb went off.
Once I started earning money from my radio career, I knew I had to invest it somewhere smart. Again, real estate was embedded in my brain. So, I started my real estate career as an investor, which eventually led me to becoming a licensed agent. Ultimately, I got bit by the real estate bug and became a broker, making real estate my full-time career.
FWM: As a woman in real estate, what do you feel has been the hardest obstacle to overcome?
ES: At this point in my career the main hurdle is balancing and juggling clients. I always want my clients to have an incredible personalized service experience, so I put alot of pressure on myself. Early in my career, the hurdle was just about digesting all the information, laws, rules, contracts etc. But once you have that under your belt, the hurdles become more about daily management of your business.
FWM: As a real estate mogul, author, television personality, wife and mother you wear many hats. What is your advice on balancing family and business?
ES: To be truthful, I am still figuring it out myself. LOLOL…. I have a new baby, Harper Skye, who is 3 months old. So, this will be a new lesson in balancing for me. Having a great support system, requiring my partner to be accountable as well, asking for help, and taking mental health breaks when needed, are all a part of successfully balancing my life.
Photo Credit: Mike Eaton
FWM: Please tell us about the Egypt Cares Family Foundation.
ES: It is a non-profit I founded 9 years ago to help bridge socio economical gaps in the community I serve. So, we provide free financial bootcamps, educating families on wealth building and management, credit restoration, and home ownership. We also provide fun programs for the kids. I love it!
It has been embedded in me from an early age that real estate was the foundation of wealth
FWM: What tools and/or strategic partnerships have you put in place to help women? And the community?
ES: This ties back to my non-profit. The reason I founded the organization is because I wanted to have an organization that directly addressed the needs of women and men in our community on a grassroots level. So many times we donate our money or our time to organizations, but we don’t know for sure if those funds ever trickle down to the people we intend to help. This was my way of ensuring I was making a profound difference and would leave a legacy.
FWM: What is next in the life of Egypt Sherrod?
ES: Well right now I am taking time to enjoy my new baby. I think it’s important to stop and smell the roses, and take inventory of how far we’ve come. So that is what I am doing at the moment, just taking time to refresh and renew. I do expect to have my 2nd book out at after first quarter of 2020 though, and I am traveling often and headlining at wealth and women’s empowerment conferences nationally. So, I will be coming to a city near you soon.
FWM: How can people connect to you outside of this interview?
ES: You can find me on Instagram and Facebook @EgyptSherrod
Cover Photo Credit: Mike Eaton Print Available for order on June 30
Niya Brown Matthews is a force to be reckoned with. She is a certified life coach, author, motivational speaker and so much more. It is her purpose in life to empower women through transparency and authenticity. Her “Soul Food Sessions with Niya” allow women to reconnect mind, body and soul. Let’s meet Niya.
FW: Good Morning Niya. I am so excited about this interview! Introduce yourself and your business?
NBM: I am a certified life coach, author, motivational speaker, mother, wife, two-time breast cancer survivor, Ambassador for Ford’s Warriors in Pink and have retired from 20 years in real estate to begin Chapter 2 of my life which is Women’s Empowerment.
FW: Tell me about Soul Food Sessions with Niya.
NBM: Soul Food Sessions with Niya is a women’s empowerment organization that’s geared around motivating and inspiring them to become better versions of themselves-mind, body and soul. Most of the time, we as women, career women, mothers and corporate executives are always on the go doing everything for everybody. I am concerned about our centering part, which is neglected. I wanted to design a platform to pour back into the women who are everything to everybody. Women’s empowerment is the core of who I am. I wanted to create something that was God led. God is my foundation.
FW: How do you handle stress in your business?
NBM: I am a praying woman and I do know the order of my household: God, family and then success. My prayer life is on 10. I learned to shut out all the ways of the world. I listen to inspirational music. I shut down for an hour every morning: prayer, music, worship mode and I read the Word.
Read more of this dynamic interview with Niya in our March print issue!
Making Boss Moves
A GREAT DAY IN HOLLYWOOD
As the interview ensued for this 3.5 octave, soprano, alto AND tenor vocalist, actor and activist, Antonique Smith was in her home state of East Orange, New Jersey preparing to speak and sing at The Confluence Gala, where corporate leaders who are in the 1% of the wealthy, gathered to hear about climate change; environmental justice, clean energy alternatives and health solutions for residents impacted by high rates of heart disease, asthma and cancer caused by neighborhood oil-drilling, corporate dumping and power plant emissions.
Smith is not some wild-child, tree-hugger in the pejorative sense. Known as the impassioned voice of the climate change movement, this Grammy-nominated vocal powerhouse is using her talents to speak for the voiceless and to chart her own path to success in film and TV, and the only way she knows how to execute it is to keep the process and delivery 100% R E A L.
SHE’S THE ONE
Most famous for her role in the 2009 hip/hop and R&B love story, Notorious, as the beloved lead female role of Faith Evans, Smith nabbed that role with a deep knowing that it was hers to begin with and a fighting determination to prove to the director and producer that she was thee perfect talent to portray Evans with grit, and sex appeal and to deliver a believable performance, where loyal fans and viewers who were holding a microscopic lense to her performance would embrace and herald her work with rave reviews.
RENAISSANCE WOMAN
Before crowdfunding became wildly popular, in 2012 Antonique became the first African-American soloist to raise $50K, in 30 days, using Kickstarter to finance her EP project, Love is Everything. As if raising this type of capital in such a short amount of time wasn’t enough of a boss move, her single, Hold Up Wait a Minute (Woo-Woo), went on to receive a Grammy nom.
Read the rest of the interview in our print issue here.
March, designated as National Women’s History Month since 1987, invites us to celebrate the incredible achievements of women worldwide. In the spirit of recognizing remarkable women, we delve into the inspiring story of Keisha Saunders-Waldron, a highly accomplished Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, mental health advocate, and founder of Confidential Confessions Counseling Services. Featured on renowned platforms such as Forbes, Business Insider, and Essence’s Girls United, Keisha’s expertise in counseling and holistic approaches has left an indelible mark on the mental health landscape. As a licensed professional counselor supervisor, she empowers individuals and families to enhance their quality of life. Keisha’s academic journey is marked by a Master’s degree in Science and Service Agency Counseling from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke and a Bachelor’s degree in Arts and Science in Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.
A Conversation with Keisha: Nurturing Passions, Advocating for Mental Health
Can you tell us about your journey and what inspired you to become a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor?
Keisha: Believe it or not, my journey began in my early years, with the animated shenanigans of Bugs Bunny and Elmer Fudd. There was this one comical episode where Bugs played the therapist and oddly enough, that hilarious episode stuck with me, becoming one of my earliest memories that sparked a tiny flame of intrigue. As I marched through the halls of academia, soaking up knowledge like a sponge, I stumbled upon an extraordinary psychology teacher. I found myself captivated, eventually deciding to pursue a degree in psychology. Little did I know, this choice would set the stage for an incredible journey. The mental health field welcomed me with open arms, from the beginning. It was a fascinating and eye-opening experience, delving into the intricacies and sometimes labyrinthine politics of this realm.
One thing became crystal clear during this time, the services and support available were not always easily understood, especially in marginalized communities. This realization fueled a fire within me. It lit up my path, urging me to delve deeper into education, to become a voice for those whose voices often went unheard. And here I am today, wearing the badge of a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor with pride. Now, my mission has expanded — I’m helping mold the next generation of counselors. I guide and mentor graduate students, honing their skills and nurturing their passion.
Together, we’re working to fill the voids within our field, ensuring that more compassionate, skilled counselors emerge to serve and uplift our communities. Every day is a chance to inspire, learn, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of countless individuals.
You’ve worked with a diverse range of clients, including R&B artists, NFL players, and corporate executives. What unique challenges do high-profile clients often face when seeking counseling, and how do you address them
Keisha: One of the foremost concerns high-profile clients bring to counseling is the need for absolute confidentiality. They rightfully worry about breaches of their privacy, which can have significant repercussions for their careers and personal lives. Maintaining confidentiality and trust is paramount. Additionally, managing their public image, balancing work-life demands, and coping with high levels of stress are common issues. To address these challenges, I prioritize confidentiality, offering secure and discreet counseling environments, and tailor my approach to their specific needs, recognizing the unique pressures they face.
Techniques such as stress management, time management, and communication skills are often incorporated to help them navigate their unique circumstances effectively. In these moments, we are helping them recognize these stressors and validate their humanness while cultivating a safe space for them to just “be”.
When it comes to romantic relationships, feeling safe and secure is paramount for women. Safety plays a crucial role in establishing trust, emotional well-being, and overall satisfaction within a relationship. While each individual’s definition of safety may vary, certain universal factors contribute to creating a secure space with male partners. Understanding these safety measures can empower women to navigate their relationships with confidence and clarity.
Require Communication Open and honest communication serves as the cornerstone of a healthy relationship. Feeling safe with a partner often begins with the ability to express thoughts, feelings, and concerns without the fear of judgment or reprisal. Men who actively listen, validate emotions, and engage in constructive dialogue foster an environment where women feel heard and understood. Effective communication promotes transparency, builds trust, and helps partners navigate challenges collaboratively. Not having this safety to communicate is a red flag.
Look for Respect Mutual respect is another non-negotiable. Having this mutual respect for each other forms the foundation of any successful relationship. Women feel safe in the presence of men who demonstrate respect for their boundaries, opinions, and autonomy. Respectful behavior includes honoring personal space, acknowledging individual differences, and valuing each other’s perspectives. When women feel respected by their partners, they are more likely to feel secure, valued, and appreciated in the relationship.
Expect Consistency Another safety factor is consistency. Consistency in both words and actions is essential for cultivating a sense of safety in a relationship. Women are more likely to feel secure with men who demonstrate reliability, honesty, and follow-through in their commitments. Predictable behavior and a stable emotional environment contribute to a sense of security and trust. Inconsistent or erratic behavior can trigger feelings of uncertainty and anxiety, undermining a woman’s sense of safety within the relationship.
Watch for Empathy and Emotional Support Empathy plays a vital role in creating emotional intimacy and connection between partners. Men who demonstrate empathy by understanding and validating their partner’s emotions contribute to a safe and supportive relationship environment. This may look like providing emotional support during times of distress, offering reassurance, or showing compassion. All of these foster a sense of security and closeness. Women tend to feel safe with men who offer a listening ear, show empathy, and provide comfort in moments of vulnerability.
Monitor Boundaries and Consent Not enough can be said for boundaries. Respecting boundaries and honoring consent are essential aspects of safety in any relationship. Women feel safe with men who prioritize their physical and emotional boundaries, seek consent in all interactions, and prioritize mutual respect in intimate situations. Clear communication about personal boundaries, consent, and mutual agreement on relationship dynamics contribute to a sense of safety, trust, and respect between partners.
In a nutshell, a sense of safety in relationships with men is multifaceted and encompasses various aspects of communication, respect, consistency, empathy, and boundaries. By understanding these safety triggers and advocating for their presence in their relationships, women can cultivate a sense of safety, security, and well-being with their male partners. Building a foundation of trust, respect, and emotional connection greatly enhances the quality of relationships and fosters a nurturing environment where both partners can thrive.
In celebration of Black History Month, we shine a spotlight on the remarkable contributions of Dr. Peggy Roberts, a trailblazing African American doctor who is transforming women’s healthcare in the New York tri-state area. With a profound commitment to addressing the unique needs of women, Dr. Roberts stands as a beacon of hope, empowering countless women whose voices have been overlooked for far too long. Dr. Roberts, a board-certified Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, has dedicated over a decade to providing comprehensive care for women of all ages.
As the Founder and Operator of Trust Women’s Healthcare in the heart of Brooklyn’s Bedford Stuyvesant, she has made it her life’s mission to bridge healthcare gaps and provide the highest level of medical care to her patients. Armed with a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science degree from SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, School of Public Health, Dr. Roberts is a pioneer in her field. Her expertise spans preventive medicine, high-risk pregnancies, and various gynecological conditions, making her a trusted figure in women’s health. Beyond her clinical practice, Dr. Roberts has collaborated with Kingsborough Community College to develop a Maternal Health Certificate curriculum, aimed at enhancing maternal healthcare for new mothers.
As an Assistant Clinical Professor at Hofstra University and a proud member of the Board of LIFT-NY, she continues to inspire change and advocate for women’s health on multiple fronts. Join us in honoring Dr. Peggy Roberts during this Black History Month, recognizing her outstanding contributions to healthcare, her dedication to bridging gaps, and her commitment to empowering women across the community.
One of the Most Influential Women in the World, Larisa B. Miller, CEO of Phoenix Global, LLC
FWM: You are empowering women globally. How is your company, Phoenix Global LLC., setting the stage for diversity, unity and gender balance?
I have been fortunate to have lived in both Europe and the Middle East, exposed to many different countries, ethnicities, cultures and business ethos’. As a businesswoman, I’ve been shaped by each of these experiences, drawing on the work ethic and business traditions in each of these cultures. I’ve learned that absolutely no business strategy is universal, and those who fall into the cattle chute of doing “business as it’s always been done”, are truly the ones missing valuable opportunities as a result of this short-sighted strategy. Businesses tend to set their expectations for profitability and efficiency by comparing themselves against other businesses within their familiar and ‘known’ eco-system. But when we step back, allow ourselves as business leaders to be open to a more global perspective – learning about, respecting and embracing business strategies implemented by other cultures and locales, we can customize our own individual cocktail of success, not being limited by that “business as it has always been done” strategy.
I often find that women are the ones most open to considering alternative points-of-view and embracing unconventional strategies. While I realize that this statement is somewhat of a generalization and doesn’t always apply universally, men tend to be more linear when it comes to business structure and operations, following a more prescribed plan – enhancing and innovating, but doing so based on the order of our standard business practices. Women, on the other hand, tend to be more open to new concepts, approaching business in often unconventional ways. The end goal is generally the same – profitability, growth and sustainability, but the pathway to this end is often very different. For many years – decades really, as women, we attempted to carve a niche for ourselves on the climb up the corporate ladder by ‘doing it the way men did it’. We wore black or grey suits, we were tough, hid emotion, and emulated our male counterparts. But now, in this Century of Women, we are embracing our differences, recognizing that men and women fundamentally think differently. We approach problems and formulate solutions differently. We are proud that we are softer, more empathetic and emotional, as that allows us to inject new perspectives and thought processes into corporate problem-solving. And women are more open to considering new approaches, integrating diversity, innovative concepts, and disruptive thought processes.
Each woman has her own unique qualities based on her talents, interests, and education, so there is not a specific recipe that will empower all women. What inspires and drives me, will not be the same catalysts which will inspire you. By respecting one another, honoring our diverse perspectives, and embracing and supporting one another, we will create global empowerment of ALL women.
A woman should never be ashamed to be “a girl”. Being feminine does not make a woman less strong or influential. Just because a woman is feminine, wearing high-heels and lipstick, does not mean that she is not equipped to be a strong leader, innovator or respected contributor. We are emotional, we are nurturing, we are soft and compassionate at times, but make no mistake, we can be equally fierce and tough when needed. Many of the greatest female leaders in the world through history have been authoritative, dynamic and forceful while remaining ladylike. As women, it’s okay to have a bad day. It’s okay to be emotional at times. Cry it out, put your lipstick back on, and try again.
It is not about competition between men and women, rather, I simply hope to spotlight the unique qualities of women, encouraging them to embrace these attributes and be proud of our feminine attributes. When men and women learn to understand and appreciate the value that we each contribute to a well-rounded business mission, we will be able to set aside the concepts of gender equality and glass ceilings.
“Women possess strength, tenacity, courage, and leadership. We are shameless multi-taskers, juggling professional responsibilities with family. At times, women are fierce and fearless, and other times they can be compassionate nurturers. Because we always feel the need to “prove” ourselves professionally, sometimes women have a tendency to sabotage one another rather than support one another, so it is important that we join together, encourage unity of women, building cross-sector support networks, mentoring one another, supporting one another, forming life-long friendships which will allow us to continue to grow as business leaders and individuals.”- Larisa B. Miller
FWM: You have been recognized by several magazines and organizations as one of the most influential women in the world for business, your impact on Africa, and women’s empowerment, receiving significant appointments, honors, and awards. Tell us your “backstory.”
I grew up in beautiful Central Pennsylvania in the heart of Amish country but had an insatiable curiosity to see the world from the time I was young. I was an avid reader as a child, discovering people, places, culture and history on the pages of books or in National Geographic, and as an adult, I endeavor to see as much of the off-the-beaten-path destinations in the world as I can.
I started my career in the early 1990s with the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture as the assistant to the executive director of the Animal Health and Diagnostic Commission, and later as the assistant to the Deputy Secretary and Secretary of Agriculture. Growing up on a farm, the daughter of an influential agricultural lobbyist, agriculture has always been an important part of my life, and to this day, agriculture remains a key interest and focus for investments that Phoenix Global facilitates globally.
Following my time at the Department of Agriculture, I went on to work for Pennsylvania Governor Tom Ridge, in his office of public policy. It was in this position that I learned how the many sectors of business intertwine to ensure the smooth operation of a complex society. Each cog – even from unrelated sectors – merges, enabling all wheels to be in sync operating in cohesive and orderly functionality, providing unity between the public and private sectors. It was during my time with the Ridge administration that I truly became interested in ‘the businesses of societal operations’ – finding ways to match meaningful investment projects with strategic investors, creating value for the investors and sector which they impact.
More recently, I worked for a member of the Royal Family in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, responsible for business development, as well as serving as head of their non-profit foundation, focusing on building opportunities for women and youth in refugee camps and rural areas of Africa through education and literacy. Working in the UAE for a government and a Royal Family where youth, tolerance, happiness and the importance of gender balance are prioritized, it is easy to see why the UAE – a country eight times smaller than the state of Texas, is one of the global leaders amongst nations, and I was fortunate to have had the opportunity to live and work there.
Having lived in Europe and the Middle East and working extensively in Africa, I have experienced business in many different markets. Business is business at the end of the day, but how business is executed differs based on culture, geographical local, and national priority, based on the unique production, import and export needs of these countries. Global business is infused with different priorities, methodologies, and strategies. I’ve had the opportunity to see what works – and what doesn’t work, in our global business strategies. There are things we do well here in the United States, such as how we create opportunities for entrepreneurs and small businesses, and our inclusion of women in the business roadmap which should serve as an example to other countries, but, there are strategies that other countries have as part of their business culture which could benefit us here, such as their readiness to embrace global partnership, and see opportunity in collaboration with entities outside of their borders. We, as American businesspeople, can recognize that if we are isolationist, believing that we always do things better, are stronger, or that business must be kept within our shores in order to be successful, we are limiting our potential. In this hyperconnected world, business must fundamentally change. As business leaders, we must recognize and appreciate that we have instant access to the globe. Instead of having a customer base of 328 million (the population of the USA), we have a potential customer base of billions, if we are brave enough and open enough to embrace a globally collaborative mindset.
FWM: If we want to see more women in Senior Positions, what is most needed?
Women possess strength, tenacity, courage, and leadership. We are shameless multi-taskers, juggling professional responsibilities with family. At times, women are fierce and fearless, and other times they can be compassionate nurturers. Because we always feel the need to “prove” ourselves professionally, sometimes women have a tendency to sabotage one another rather than support one another, so it is important that we join together, encourage unity of women, building cross-sector support networks, mentoring one another, supporting one another, forming life-long friendships which will allow us to continue to grow as business leaders and individuals. If we recognize the importance of our own uniqueness and originality, we will stop comparing ourselves with other women, as too often we measure our abilities and worth of the abilities and worth of others. Let’s focus on building our own talents, strengths, and perspectives. A woman who confidently respects herself embraces her own talents, cares for herself as much as she cares for others and isn’t afraid to have a different view or opinion from others – even if that view is unpopular, will be unstoppable. As for how to help women feel greater ‘self-worth’, that is an internal battle waged individually. Helping women to improve their feelings of self-worth comes from giving them confidence by making them feel valued, respected and important – both in the workplace and at home. Having groups, clubs and working environments which allow women to interact with one another in a positive and encouraging manner will go a long way toward establishing, promoting and furthering a culture of confident, empowered women.
Women have every opportunity today to reach senior positions. When we struggle to climb the ladder to the top, it’s not so much about equality and proverbial glass ceilings as much as it is about building our own confidence, not teaching our minds to be our friends, and not our worst enemies, as too often we get in our own heads and negative thoughts are like mental poison causing self-doubt, discouraging us from achieving our full potential. Coming together as global sisters to support one another, we can help each other reach senior levels of success. Sometimes we dwell too much on ‘equality’. For me, equality in the workplace means ‘equally respected’. Men and women will never be “equal”, as we are so different from one another, however, if we embrace these differences, respectfully working together, uniting our diverse perspectives and thought processes, we will effectively end the need to discuss disparities in gender and equality.
From my own experience, my advice to women aspiring to reach senior levels – whatever the term ‘senior level’ means to them specifically, is to focus on your own personal development, constantly building your knowledge-base, refining your personal traits such as patience, empathy, and perspective, and helping to encourage businesses – either as leaders or employees – to appreciate and respect that men and women can ‘work together’ rather than feeling the need to compete with one another. If we focus on creating a more cohesive society, we will realize greater business success, and finally be able to do away with the proverbial and cliched concepts of “glass ceiling” and “gender balance”.
FWM: It’s not business as usual, due to the coronavirus. What is your vision for the future?
As we enter a new world – Infrastructure 2.0 as Mark Cuban recently referred to this new global emergence, we must accept that the way we knew the world…the way we knew business, will not be the same moving forward. However, we are the authors of this next chapter, and how the story goes…how the chapter will end, is up to us. There will be those who will be so overcome with the magnitude and struggle to maintain their business during this difficult time that they will not set aside time to consider the future. There will be some who will retreat to lick their wounds during this time of global slow-down, and they will prefer to wait until the lockdown is over to concept a way-forward. But the businesses which will emerge to draft the blueprint for the future, and cut the new path that others will follow, will be those who take the time now to envisage innovative new strategies, disruptive concepts, and who recognize the current gaps in business and society. They are taking this time to regroup, re-strategize, and transform their business models to align with our new reality. As Charles Darwin said, “It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent; it is the one most adaptable to change”.
The ability to help craft this change and design the transition of business is what I enjoy most about my career as a consultant. It is strategy, vision and creativity welded together that allows us to construct – and disrupt – the future of business. But it takes courage to change a business model that has worked in the past, it takes courage to stand up to critics, stakeholders and customers who are reluctant to pivot and walk down a new path with you as a business leader, and it takes courage to accept that there will be successes, failures, hurdles to overcome and critics to silence, as you architect this new way-forward.
As a change-leader, be brave enough to adjust the pathway of your journey, be resolute and steadfast on this new course, and always seek to empower, encourage and uplift others – be it stakeholders, clients, customers, and even competitors. Unity amongst competitors does not diminish our strength, individuality or profitability, rather, it allows us to build our collective knowledge, grow our networks and customer bases, and enhances our value creation. Together, we are stronger.
FWM: Why is solidarity more important than ever?
Now, more than any other time in history, it is essential that we come together in global unity. We are fighting the COVID-19 virus, which is an invisible enemy that knows no race, ethnicity, gender, religion or socio-economic standing. The only way we can defeat this enemy and recover our global society – both economically and socially, is to work together. This virus has been a great equalizer. It has shown a spotlight on the fact that we have become a very fragmented world – an ‘us against them’ world. What we fail to realize is that, as business leaders, our long-term strategy must be built on international cooperation. Even if a business is wholly domestic, there is undoubtedly some component that depends on an overseas market or producer. If you analyze your supply chain, rarely will your full supply chain be entirely domestic. We have this wonderful gift called the Internet, allowing us to instantly connect with others anywhere in the world. Not only can we use this to accelerate our businesses and expand our markets, but we can share knowledge with one another, expose ourselves to new techniques and strategies, and build our networks, allowing us to truly become global businesses and global citizens.
FWM: What is the biggest challenge facing leaders today?
There is not one specific challenge that leaders face, rather, a leader must be adept at shifting gears, and prepared to address a myriad of challenges caused by catalysts such as supply chain disruption, economic downturns, operational interruptions, and other causes that are difficult to anticipate, such as this COVID-19 virus and subsequent shut-down. Rather than look at the challenges facing leaders, I’d prefer to look at the attributes that define an effective leader in times of adversity or difficulty. Many of these attributes coming from years of experience, others simply come from being a human being – empathy, patience, compassion. In my opinion, one of the most important qualities of a leader is the ability to make a decision. Too many people get bogged down in what I call “the conflict of response” – asking others for the opinions, waffling back and forth. Multiple opinions only tend to muddy the water of thought, so a strong leader should weigh the situation or problem alone or with one close confidant, consider options, then make – and believe in, the decision. Once you make a decision, follow it through to the end, regardless of the outcome. Sometimes the end is bitter, and sometimes sweet, but each conclusion you reach will leave you stronger than you were at inception.
As a leader, be resolute and do not quit. One of my favorite sayings is, “You haven’t come this far to only come this far”. Life is unpredictable and ever-changing. Be brave enough to change with it, and do not be afraid to embrace this change, as I mentioned earlier. Be strong in your convictions, even if those convictions are contrary to popular opinion. Do not be afraid to swim against the current. Sometimes a leader is very popular and well-liked, and sometimes they are the loneliest people – especially when you have to stand resolute behind unpopular decisions.
FWM: You have served as head of the Royal Family’s large non-profit foundation, which focused on women, youth, literacy, and education. Share your experience. Oh…I have so many stories. Spending time in refugee camps and with communities in rural Africa absolutely and fundamentally changed the way I see the world. All too often, we make gross generalizations about people based on what we see on the news or the politically-driven opinions of our leaders, but if we take the time to actually learn about other people, setting aside our biases and preconceived ideas, we can learn many valuable lessons. People are people despite race, ethnicity, gender or religion. There are good and bad people…good and bad behaviors in all nations and cultures. If we are respectful of others, open to hearing their stories, we will be more empathetic, growing as individuals, allowing us to raise and mentor the next generation to be tolerant, inclusive and open-minded.
In Iraq, I met a young girl named Nala, who lives with her family in a refugee camp near Mosul. She was so happy when I showed her a little attention, affection, and kindness, and she was pleased just to walk with me and hold my hand. It was quite cold, and she had no coat and mismatched shoes. We spent quite a bit of the day together, with sheer companionship and touch as our vehicle for communication, as we did not speak a common language. Towards the end of the day, she was asked by a friend of mine in Arabic what she wanted. She clearly has needs…she doesn’t have toys to play with, she could use shoes, correctly-size clothes, and a coat. And yet, she responded to Maktoum that she didn’t want anything, she had everything she needed. This moment with Nala humbled us both and was a significant moment in our friendship, as we were both were impacted by her words. Young Nala and her bold declaration has been one of my biggest life lessons. We have everything we need, and yet we constantly want more, more, more – often failing to appreciate what we already have. Every day, when I think of her, I am reminded to be thankful, grateful and appreciative for all that I have.
In Amman, Jordan, I visited an urban refugee centre, where two young Iraqi boys treated us to song. They had wonderful voices, and they sang their national anthem – the national anthem of Iraq, for us. They were so proud to sing, but by the end of the song, both boys were overcome with emotion and had tears rolling down their cheeks, struggling to keep singing. When we spoke afterwards, they expressed how they don’t feel as though they belong in this new country. They missed their homeland and it was their dream to someday return home to Iraq. The misconception of refugees is that they WANT to move to other countries and have no desire to return to their homeland. This is fundamentally false. The things that refugees have seen, the experiences they’ve lived through, and the atrocities they’ve endured are beyond anything that we can imagine. They are mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, teachers, artists, scientists, doctors…they are human beings, and rather than ostracize them, or treat them like blights on the world, we should be coming together to collectively find a solution.
FWM: You are a person of great influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good, what would that be?
If I could inspire a movement it would be to build a global unity of youth. The youth are the future. They will be the ones charged with healing the damage that previous generations have inflicted on this planet. One of our most important mandates moving forward is to raise our youth – the future leaders, innovators, problem solvers, and peacemakers, to be kind, tolerant, empathetic, and to respect that value and perspective that can be found in people who are different from themselves. It is only by setting aside our differences, seeing beyond our cultures and religions that we will be able to unify for a global solution. Instead of being the problem, we must come together to find the solution.
FWM: As a leader in business development, entrepreneurism, and sustainable development, what advice do you have for small businesses today?
I encourage small businesses to build a platform of sustainability right from the start. It is proven that businesses that prioritize sustainability significantly outperform competitors. Eventually, all businesses will be required to adopt strategies of sustainability, demonstrating responsibility and creating value for stakeholders and customers. If small businesses use the UN Sustainable Development Goals as the framework, choosing one or two of the goals for which they can have the most impact, they will impart a measurable contribution to the future of our planet, society, and our profitability. We are all stakeholders of this planet, and in this UN-declared Decade of Action, it is our collective responsibility to not only espouse change but to BE the changemakers.
