RAA Talks

Curvy Confident: Reclaiming Your Body and Power in a World of Unrealistic Standards

Are you a woman navigating the complexities of modern leadership, striving for self-acceptance, or confronting societal expectations in your professional and personal life? Then this episode of the RAA Talks podcast is for you!
 
Join host Raihana as she engages in a powerful and candid conversation with Maddie Gardner, a young hotel, food, and beverage manager. Maddie shares her unique journey in the hospitality industry, offering deep insights into leadership, resilience, and personal growth.
 
What can you expect from this episode?
Discover Maddie Gardner's rapid ascent in hotel food and beverage management at the Regency in Seattle, starting as a barista at 19 and quickly becoming a supervisor and manager.
Learn about her unique experiences working night shifts and how she cultivated a sense of safety and community among her team and regular guests.
Gain an understanding of the challenges Maddie faces as a young leader, including overcoming assumptions based on her age and earning respect from older colleagues.
Hear about her encounters with sexism in the workplace and her proactive approach to handling difficult situations with grace and assertiveness.
Listen to Maddie's incredibly personal story of navigating body image struggles, eating disorders, and how she found self-acceptance and confidence.
What can you gain from the episode?
Practical strategies for creating a safe and equitable environment for your team, including direct communication and prioritizing safety measures.
Insights into leading with a "servant heart," prioritizing your team's needs, and building trust by actively listening and addressing concerns.
Inspiration on how to maintain composure and confidence when facing aggression or discrimination, embodying the "put your own mask on first" mentality.
A deeper understanding of "pretty privilege" and its impact, along with Maddie's perspective on valuing inner qualities over external appearance.
Encouragement to find your "curvy confident" self and to become the mentor you needed, sharing your wisdom and experiences to make a difference for others.
This episode of RAA Talks offers a raw, honest, and empowering conversation that resonates with the complexities of professional and personal development.
Tune in to hear Maddie Gardner's inspiring journey of leadership, resilience, and self-discovery, and leave feeling empowered to embrace your own strength and purpose.
Follow host, Raihana on:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rfaggarwal 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rfaggarwal 
Instagram: https://instagram.com/raacoaching
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@raacoaching  
Visit me at: https://www.raacoaching.com/raihana
#RAATalks #ProfessionalGrowth #PodcastEpisode #WomenInLeadership #SelfAcceptance #BodyImageJourney #MentalHealthMatters #CareerDevelopment #Empowerment #Resilience #WorkplaceSexism #ConfidenceBuilding #Mentorship #GenZLeaders #ServantLeadership #Inspiration #PersonalDevelopment #WorkLifeBalance #HospitalityIndustry #FemaleLeadership #OvercomingChallenges #LifeLessons #AuthenticSelf #ListenNow #NewEpisode
 
About  Maddie Gardner : I’m Maddie Gardner, a Hotel Food and Beverage Manager with a focus on creating welcoming, comfortable experiences for both guests and my team. While I’m younger than most in my position, I’m passionate about taking on new challenges and going above and beyond to support those around me. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my sister and friends, taking long drives, and discovering new coffee spots.
 
Please reach Maddie at
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madisongracegardner
Tiktok: @maddie.gg123

The Power of Introspection: How One Working Mother Found Her Path

Join host Raihana as she engages in a raw and insightful conversation with Preethi Krishnamurthy, a Senior Technical Product Manager at Amazon, who shares her diverse journey spanning software engineering, adult learning, and product management, and the challenges and triumphs of building a life across two cultures.
 
Together, they explore themes of personal growth, the challenges of immigration, the importance of diverse experiences, and the impact of gender bias in the workplace. Preethi shares her journey from India to the US, her introspective moments, and the significance of building alliances and finding mentors.
 
What can you expect from this episode?
Hear about Preethi's diverse educational background, including degrees in computer science engineering, an MBA, and a master's in human resource development, and how she combines technical expertise with a passion for people and development.
Learn about Preethi's journey from India to the US, including her brief time in New York and her seven years in Houston, where she attended the University of Houston and started her US career.
Listen to her candid account of the H4 visa experience, which she describes as feeling like a "furniture visa", and the impact it had on her initial job search and sense of fulfillment.
Discover how she deliberately switched from the tech industry early in her career and later returned, discussing the limited exposure that influenced these moves.
Gain insights into the cultural nuances and personal challenges she faces as a woman of color navigating the workplace, including dealing with biases and the balance between humility and showcasing talents.
What can you gain from the episode?
Find motivation to overcome your own struggles by hearing Preethi's story of restarting her career at 28 as an intern and moving up in traditional industries like the drilling division at Halliburton.
Understand the importance of introspection and slowing down in a busy life, and how personal reflection can help navigate challenging decisions.
Explore the benefits of gaining a breadth of experience across different fields and industries, and how this diverse background can enrich your perspective and contribute to career growth.
Receive practical advice on building a support system of allies and mentors to help you navigate workplace challenges, including dealing with discrimination or speaking up in unsupportive cultures.
Hear a refreshing perspective on being an only child and raising one, challenging common stereotypes and emphasizing the role of upbringing and environment.
This episode of RAA Talks offers a powerful story of resilience, professional evolution, and cultural navigation.
Tune in to hear how Preethi finds joy in nature, working out, cooking, and spending time with her family, and her philosophy on experiencing, rather than just chasing, happiness.
 
Follow host, Raihana on:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rfaggarwal 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rfaggarwal 
Instagram: https://instagram.com/raacoaching
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@raacoaching  
Visit me at: https://www.raacoaching.com/raihana
#RAATalks #ProfessionalGrowth #PodcastEpisode #WomenInTech #CareerJourney #ImmigrantExperience #H4Visa #TechIndustry #WorkplaceCulture #DiversityAndInclusion #PersonalDevelopment #Mentorship #Allies #CulturalIdentity #Resilience #Introspection #Happiness #AuthenticSelf #BreakingStereotypes #WomenInBusiness #Empowerment #Inspiration #StruggleAndTriumph #TabooTopics
 
About Preethi:
Preethi is a Senior Technical Product Manager at Amazon, with a diverse background spanning software engineering, adult learning, and product management. She holds a degree in Computer Science Engineering, an MBA, and a Master’s in Human Resource Development, combining her technical expertise with a passion for people and development. Originally from India, she’s called the U.S. home for the past 12 years and now lives in Redmond, Washington, with her husband and seven-year-old son.
Preethi’s career journey is marked by leading large, global teams and driving impactful projects, but in her current role, she’s taken a step back from management to deepen her product skills as an individual contributor to focus on honing her product skill. As an only child, she’s embraced the joy and challenge of creating her own family and building a life across two cultures, finding strength and purpose along the way.
 
Please reach Preethi at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/preethikrishnamurthy/

Working Smarter: Adaptability, Work-Life Balance, and Impact as a Tech Mom

Are you a woman navigating career transitions, challenges, and seeking professional growth? Then this episode of the RAA Talks podcast is for you!
Join host Raihana as she engages in a compelling conversation with Esmeralda Flores, a bilingual product operations and engineering manager who shares her inspiring journey and valuable insights.
What can you expect from this episode?
An exploration of how communication skills honed in non-tech fields can be powerful assets in the technology space.
A candid discussion on facing and overcoming imposter syndrome and internal self-doubt when entering new professional territory.
Insights into the vital role of networking, finding allies, and building a supportive community, especially for women in male-dominated industries.
Relatable experiences and strategies for balancing career ambitions with personal life and family commitments, particularly as a working mom.
Practical tips for fostering an inclusive culture within teams and leveraging personal identity, such as being bilingual, as a strength.
What can you gain from the episode?
Inspiration to embrace change, take calculated risks, and pursue career paths that align with your interests, even if they seem outside your initial expertise.
Actionable advice on how to continuously learn, grow, and position yourself as an expert in your chosen field.
A refreshed perspective on navigating challenges, viewing them as fuel for growth rather than roadblocks.
Techniques for working smarter, prioritizing effectively, and achieving impact in your role while maintaining work-life balance.
Encouragement to define your own identity and value, independent of external labels or expectations.
This episode of RAA Talks offers a powerful blend of personal journey, practical advice, and inspiring insights for professional women looking to thrive and grow in their careers and lives.
Tune in to hear Esmeralda's remarkable journey, her strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome, navigating work-life balance as a working mom, fostering inclusivity, and how being bilingual has been a significant asset in her career.
 
Follow host, Raihana on:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rfaggarwal 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rfaggarwal 
Instagram: https://instagram.com/raacoaching
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@raacoaching  
Visit me at: https://www.raacoaching.com/raihana
About Esmeralda:
Bilingual Product, Operations, and Engineering Manager, fueled by coffee and an unwavering commitment to help others. Experienced in creating an inclusive culture, empowering teams, and supporting dreams within the technology space.
Connect with Esmeralda: http://linkedin.com/in/esmeraldaalmanzaflores
#RAATalks #ProfessionalGrowth #PodcastEpisode #CareerTransition #WomenInTech #WorkingMom #WorkLifeBalance #ImposterSyndrome #SelfDoubt #Networking #CareerAllies #Inclusivity #DiversityInTech #Bilingual #LatinaInTech #Leadership #ProductManagement #Adaptability #PersonalBranding #FindingHappiness #Mentorship #GrowthMindset #CareerDevelopment

Beyond Perfection: Navigating Motherhood, Miscarriage and Healing from Within

Join host Raihana as she engages in a raw conversation with Holly Bantique, a wife, mom, corporate leader turned founder, and recovering perfectionist. 
Together, they dive into the journey of motherhood, entrepreneurship, and finding fulfillment while striving to do it all. Holly shares her insights on balancing business and family, navigating mom guilt, and managing energy with her unique "100% cup" analogy. 
She also opens up about her deeply personal and challenging experience with miscarriage, highlighting the importance of breaking the silence on this often-unspoken struggle.
What can you expect from this episode?
Holly's perspective on parenthood as modeling behavior for her son and embracing him as a "little human".
Discussion on managing energy and multiple responsibilities using the 100% cup concept, acknowledging that percentages shift daily.
Insights into overcoming perfectionism, embracing the non-linear journey of life and healing, and doing your best each day, even when "best" looks different.
A raw and honest account of Holly's miscarriage experience, its physical and emotional toll, and the importance of talking about it and feeling supported.
What can you gain from the episode?
Strategies for balancing motherhood and business by structuring your day and prioritizing values.
Tips on managing mom guilt and overcoming the inner critic by reframing thoughts and talking back to negative self-talk.
A new perspective on reframing challenges, giving yourself grace, and understanding that kids are adaptable learners.
Understanding of the non-linear nature of personal growth, parenting, and healing, accepting that progress isn't always upward.
Support and a sense of not being alone, especially regarding silent struggles like miscarriage, and encouragement to share your own story or seek help.
This episode of RAA Talks offers a candid and supportive look at the complexities of modern motherhood, entrepreneurial life, and navigating significant personal challenges.
Tune in to hear how one woman is redefining balance, prioritizing her values, and finding strength in sharing her authentic journey.
 
Follow host, Raihana on:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rfaggarwal 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rfaggarwal 
Instagram: https://instagram.com/raacoaching
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@raacoaching  
Visit me at: https://www.raacoaching.com/raihana
About Holly:
Holly Bantique is a wife, mom, corporate leader turned founder, lover of yoga and quality family time, and striving for a life full of fulfillment and happiness. As a recovering perfectionist and over thinker, she tries to enjoy life while figuring out parenting and running her new business.
Connect with Holly: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-bantique
#RAATalks #PodcastEpisode #Motherhood #Entrepreneurship #WomenInBusiness #MomLife #WorkingMom #Perfectionism #SelfCare #MentalWellness #HealingJourney #MiscarriageAwareness #GriefSupport #ParentingTips #FamilyLife #PersonalDevelopment #LifeBalance #MomGuilt #SilentStruggle #WomensHealth #AuthenticLiving #RawConversations #SupportForMoms #FemaleFounder #NavigatingLife #EmpoweredWomen #ParentingJourney #BeyondPerfection

Failure Fuels You Forward: Turning Setbacks into Stepping Stones

Are you a woman navigating career changes, facing self-doubt, or searching for deeper purpose? Then this episode of the RAA Talks podcast is for you!
Join host Raihana as she engages in an insightful and heartfelt conversation with Myla Razel Sarmiento, a successful attorney who shares her inspiring journey from hospitality to law.
What can you expect from this episode?
Hear Myla's candid story about the intimidation she felt early in her career aspirations and how she overcame those feelings.
Discover the pivotal moment that led Myla to shift from a prospering career in hotel sales to pursuing her dream of becoming a lawyer.
Understand how past experiences, including moments of perceived failure, can actually fuel future success and build character.
Learn about Myla's practical steps in testing the waters of the legal field through paralegal school before committing to law school.
Gain insights into the importance of self-belief and how Myla's perspective shifted when she finally pursued her legal ambitions.
What can you gain from the episode?
Find inspiration and encouragement to pursue your own dreams, regardless of current circumstances or past doubts.
Learn valuable lessons about overcoming fear and self-imposed limitations in your career and personal life.
Gain a fresh perspective on the role of failure as a catalyst for growth and a motivator for future endeavors.
Understand the significance of listening to your intuition and aligning your career with your passions and values.
Be reminded of the importance of mentorship and giving back to the community, as highlighted by Myla's involvement with alumni associations and her passion for service.
This episode of RAA Talks offers a deeply personal and relatable narrative of a woman who dared to change course and pursue her true calling.
Tune in to hear Myla's inspiring story and discover how you too can trust yourself and create a fulfilling life.
 
Follow host, Raihana on:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rfaggarwal 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rfaggarwal 
Instagram: https://instagram.com/raacoaching
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@raacoaching  
Visit me at: https://www.raacoaching.com/raihana
About Myla:
Myla Razel P. Sarmiento is currently the Co-Founder and First President of the University of La Verne’s College of Law and Public Service Alumni Advisory Board (“CLPS AAB”) and CLPS Alumni Association (“CLPSAA”), an affinity entity within ULV’s Alumni Association. Myla currently serves as an attorney at Tyler Law LLP and specializes in business litigation, employment litigation, real estate litigation, and general civil litigation. She also has experience in various transactional areas of law, including but not limited to: trademark applications with the USPTO, and drafting, and negotiating, contracts.
Myla earned a Juris Doctorate and Master of Business Administration from ULV’s College of Law and Business and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of California, Irvine.
Prior to becoming an attorney, Myla has worked in the hospitality industry for over ten years working in various leadership roles for international brands, such as Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Inc., and Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Inc. Since her youth, Myla has also served in a variety of non-profit organizations, which have supported the elderly, child welfare, unsheltered, and marginalized communities.
Myla is a native of Southern California and has a passion for joy and compassion for people. In her spare time, Myla enjoys agriculture, especially single-origin coffee, the seven classical forms of art, theoretical physics, Formula E Racing, and spending time with her friends and family.
 
Connect with Myla:www.linkedin.com/in/mylarazelpsarmiento
 
#RAATalks #ProfessionalGrowth #PodcastEpisode #WomenInLaw #CareerChange #SelfBelief #OvercomingChallenges #FindingYourPurpose #Inspiration #Motivation #PersonalGrowth #believeinyourdreams #selfdoubt #selfdiscovery #passionunleashed #doers #DreamChasers #Resilience #Empowerment #Womensupportingwomen #Confidence #ListenToYourIntuition #FollowYourDreams #MakingADifference #CommunityInvolvement #MentorshipMatters

No Limits: A Woman's Journey in Leadership, Sports, and Self-Discovery

Are you a woman navigating the complexities of career and life, seeking empowerment and practical strategies for growth, or aiming to excel in leadership? Then this episode of the RAA Talks podcast is for you!
Join host Raihana as she engages in an inspiring and insightful conversation with Derika Legg, a seasoned people leader with over 20 years of experience in business and as an athletic rugby coach, exploring her journey of building high-performance teams, navigating change, and fostering personal development.
What can you expect from this episode?
Discover how Derika's early experiences instilled a lifelong curiosity and comfort with the unknown, shaping her approach to leadership and new challenges.
Gain valuable insights into recognizing and navigating imposter syndrome at various career stages, learning from Derika's personal experiences in corporate roles.
Understand the concept of work-life integration, inspired by Indra Nooyi, and learn how to thoughtfully manage the give and take between your professional and personal life.
Explore key factors in building and sustaining high-performance teams, emphasizing the importance of individual well-being, trust, and recognizing each member's unique contributions.
Hear Derika's candid reflections on the challenges she faced as a woman of color in male-dominated industries and her strategies for ensuring her voice was heard.
What can you gain from the episode?
Find motivation to embrace new opportunities and step outside your comfort zone by adopting a mindset of curiosity and continuous learning.
Develop practical strategies for building confidence and resilience when facing feelings of self-doubt in your professional journey.
Learn effective approaches to fostering a positive and productive team environment by prioritizing the needs and well-being of your team members.
Gain a fresh perspective on integrating your work and personal life in a way that supports your overall well-being and allows you to show up as your best self.
Feel empowered by Derika's experiences and insights on navigating potential biases in the workplace and learn the importance of making your voice heard constructively.
This episode of RAA Talks offers a powerful and authentic exploration of leadership, personal growth, and navigating professional challenges, providing you with actionable takeaways and relatable experiences from a dynamic female leader.
Tune in to hear Derika Legg's inspiring story and her wisdom on turning unfamiliar situations into profound learning experiences and the power of self-awareness in achieving contentment.
Follow host, Raihana on:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rfaggarwal 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rfaggarwal 
Instagram: https://instagram.com/raacoaching
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@raacoaching  
Visit me at: https://www.raacoaching.com/raihana
About Derika Legg:
Derika spent over 20 years building and developing high performance teams as a people leader in business and as an athletic coach in rugby.  She’s taken this along with many hours of training as a certified coach to help teams and individuals navigate change.  She works with Coaches, Athletes and Business Professionals to focus on personal development to maximize potential.
Please reach Derika at:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-next-playbook
https://www.instagram.com/thenextplaybook/
https://www.facebook.com/thenextplaybook/
 
#RAATalks #ProfessionalGrowth #PodcastEpisode #WomenInLeadership #CareerDevelopment #ImposterSyndrome #WorkLifeIntegration #HighPerformanceTeams #DiversityAndInclusion #FemaleLeaders #PersonalDevelopment #Resilience #LeadershipDevelopment #Coaching #Motivation #Inspiration #SuccessMindset #GrowthMindset #Empowerment #SelfDiscovery #ChangeManagement #BusinessPodcast #LeadershipCoaching #WomenSupportingWomen

Beyond Bounce Back: Motherhood, Identity, and the Realities of Postpartum

Are you a woman navigating the complexities of motherhood and considering a return to your professional life? Or perhaps you're seeking inspiration from someone who has embraced both family and career with resilience? Then this episode of the RAA Talks podcast is for you!
Join host Raihana as she engages in a deeply personal and insightful conversation with Anna Turnbull, an experienced professional eager to re-enter the workforce after a four-year caregiving sabbatical. Discover her unique perspective on motherhood, career transitions, and personal growth.
What can you expect from this episode?
Career break for caregiving and her aspirations for returning to the nonprofit sector.
Experiences in early motherhood, including her son's health scares and her postpartum anxiety.
Embrace of a rural, outdoor lifestyle in central New York with her family.
Discussion about the significance of knowing where your food comes from.
Address the challenges Anna is encountering while trying to re-enter the workforce after her caregiving sabbatical, including facing bias.
What can you gain from the episode?
Gain inspiration and validation if you are a parent considering a return to the workforce after a caregiving sabbatical, realizing you are not alone in the challenges and biases you might face.
Understand the importance of trusting your instincts, particularly as a parent navigating your child's health, and feel empowered to advocate for your and your family's needs, even when facing dismissal from professionals.
Challenge the toxic "bounce back" culture after significant life changes like motherhood and recognize the value of personal transformation and growth over trying to revert to a previous version of yourself.
Discover the untapped value of skills gained through motherhood, such as cooperation, collaboration, empathy, and resilience, and learn how these can be powerful assets when re-entering or navigating the professional world.
Be encouraged by Anna's journey of self-discovery and rediscovering personal passions after focusing on early motherhood, offering insights into how to reintegrate hobbies and interests into a fulfilling life as your children grow.
This episode of RAA Talks offers a candid and empowering look into the life of a mother navigating different phases of life with strength and self-awareness. 
Tune in to hear Anna's inspiring story and gain valuable perspectives on motherhood, career, and the importance of trusting your own journey.
🚨 Are you a mom looking to bounce back on your own terms? Join me in my "Bounce Back" course, where will dive into how to care for yourself, while caring for baby, GUILT-FREE 😊 👉🏽 Sign up here: http://services.raacoaching.com/birth
Follow host, Raihana on:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rfaggarwal 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rfaggarwal 
Instagram: https://instagram.com/raacoaching
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@raacoaching  
Visit me at: https://www.raacoaching.com/raihana
About Anna Turnbull:
Anna Turnbull is an experienced professional driven by her passion for community engagement and project management. Her professional journey reflects her leadership in program development, education, and customer support, demonstrating her ability to inspire others. Anna has successfully developed and expanded volunteer programs, enhanced community outreach, and implemented inclusive, technology-driven curricula that nurture academic and personal growth. Her skill in managing multiple responsibilities with precision and empathy has flourished during her caregiving experience.
Based in Central New York, Anna finds joy and balance in the outdoors. She thrives in nature with her husband, two children, and their beloved dog, embracing the adventure of remote camping, hiking, snowshoeing, and boating. Her dedication to fostering connections, curiosity, and inclusivity extends beyond her professional life, making her a true community builder and an inspiring mother.
Dedicating the last four years to a caregiving sabbatical, Anna is ready to reenter the workforce. She is eager to find roles in project management or executive assistance, particularly in the nonprofit sector, where her commitment to meaningful work can create a lasting impact.
Connect with Anna: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annaturnbull15/

From Social Work to Cyber Security: A Woman of Color's Journey

Are you a woman of color from a non-traditional background looking to break into the field of cybersecurity? This episode of RAA Talks podcast is a must-listen for you.
Join host Raihana (pronounced: rye-hannah) as she speaks with Elizabeth Johnson, a cybersecurity professional with a background in social work, who shares her unique journey and how she leverages her understanding of human behavior to strengthen security practices.
Elizabeth provides invaluable insights into career transitions, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the importance of mentorship and representation in the tech world.
What can you expect from this episode?
Strategies for dealing with the terror and fear of the unknown when making a significant career change.
Guidance on how to navigate feelings of imposter syndrome when entering the tech world from a non-traditional background.
The importance of leaning on your network and seeking mentorship, particularly from women of color in tech, to find support and guidance.
How to embrace continuous learning and maintain confidence in your abilities in the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity.
Understanding the significance of representation and creating spaces where individuals from non-traditional backgrounds can thrive.
Guidance on trusting yourself in the face of conflicting advice.
How to rely on life experience to guide career decisions.
What can you gain from this episode?
Inspiration to pursue a career in cybersecurity, regardless of your background or previous experience.
A shift in mindset towards embracing challenges and viewing failures as learning opportunities.
Practical tips for overcoming self-doubt and building confidence in your abilities.
A new perspective on the value of mentorship and the importance of paying it forward by supporting the next generation of professionals.
Insights into how to navigate the unique challenges faced by women of color in the tech industry.
You can also gain insight into how Elizabeth transformed her initial fears and feelings of inadequacy into a powerful sense of confidence and a passion for helping others succeed in the field of cybersecurity.
 
Follow host, Raihana on:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rfaggarwal 
Instagram: https://instagram.com/raacoaching
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@raacoaching  
Visit at: www.raacoaching.com 
 
Featured Guest:  Elizabeth Johnson
Elizabeth Johnson is a cybersecurity professional with a background in social work, bringing a unique perspective to the tech world. After transitioning from social work to IT, she found her passion in cybersecurity, where she combines her understanding of human behavior with technical expertise to strengthen security practices. As a woman of color in tech, Elizabeth is passionate about mentorship, representation, and creating spaces where others from nontraditional backgrounds can thrive.
 
Connect with Elizabeth: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth--johnson/

Introvert Advantage: How to Communicate Your Value and Attract Growth Opportunities

Are you an introvert who has a hard time showcasing your value and developing your brand? This episode of RAA Talks podcast is a must-listen for you. 
Join host Raihana (pronounced: rye-hannah) as she speaks with Alejandro Sanoja, founder of Latinpresarios, a personal branding firm, who shares how to leverage your unique strengths and communicate your value to attract the right opportunities.
 
Alejandro provides invaluable insights into personal branding, entrepreneurship, and the immigrant experience in the U.S.
 
What can you expect from this episode?
Strategies for introverts to leverage their strengths in thinking, organizing, and writing to create content that attracts growth opportunities.
The importance of building "extrovert muscles" through activities like Toastmasters and improv comedy to overcome cultural barriers.
How immigrants can change their mindset to understand and play by the rules of the game in the U.S.
Dispelling myths around personal branding and understanding that it's about being memorable and leaving a strong impression.
What can you gain from this episode?
Insights from Alejandro’s experience that you can apply to your own lives:
Inspiration to pursue entrepreneurship and build your own assets, regardless of your background or initial circumstances.
A shift in mindset towards understanding the rules of the game in the U.S. and how to succeed as an immigrant professional.
Practical tips for overcoming the feast and famine cycle in business by creating valuable content that works for you 24/7.
A new perspective on personal branding as a tool for being memorable and attracting the right opportunities.
You can also gain insight into how Alejandro transformed his introversion into a superpower by focusing on his strengths in thinking, organizing, and writing
 
Alejandro's journey is an inspiration for anyone feeling undervalued or overlooked. His story demonstrates the power of personal branding in creating opportunities and building a successful career, especially for introverts and immigrants
 
Follow host, Raihana on:
 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rfaggarwal 
Instagram: https://instagram.com/raacoaching
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@raacoaching  
Visit me at: www.raacoaching.com 
 
Featured Guest:  Alejandro Sanoja
 
About Alejandro: Alejandro Sanoja helps accomplished professionals communicate their value and expertise with confidence to elevate their professional profile and attract growth opportunities. 
He’s an award-winning MBA, has been named 1 of the 6 personal branding experts to follow, and is a guest lecturer at the Cougar Investment Fund, where he coaches stock analysts and portfolio managers on their presentation skills.
 
Connect with Alejandro: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alejandrosanoja/
Get personal branding statement here: https://latinpresarios.com/personal-branding-statement-examples/

Overcoming Mom Guilt: A Path to Career and Family Fulfillment

Are you a woman navigating the challenges of motherhood and career? Then this episode of RAA Talks podcast is a must-listen for you as Raihana talks to Brianna Deboever.
Brianna provides invaluable insights and practical advice on how to navigate the complexities of being a working mom, emphasizing that you don't have to settle for "fine" and that you should push for what you truly want and need.
 
What can you expect from this episode?
The importance of giving yourself grace and allowing yourself to feel all emotions.
The power of asking for what you need, whether it's flexibility at work or support from your loved ones.
How to prioritize your values, especially when making choices about career and family.
The importance of community support and building relationships, especially as a new parent.
How to be proactive in choosing happiness
 
What can you gain from this episode?
Insights from Brianna's experience that you can apply to your own lives:
How motherhood is a transformative experience that significantly shifts priorities and perspectives
How returning to work after maternity leave can be an emotionally challenging experience, requiring self-advocacy and community support.
How prioritizing personal values and making choices that align with them is essential for happiness.
Insight into building strong relationships with colleagues and supervisors that can lead to a more supportive work environment.
 
You can also gain insight into how Brianna navigated a leadership transition with a close friend while they were both new mothers, emphasizing the importance of shared values and strong character.
 
Follow host, Raihana on:
 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rfaggarwal/ 
Instagram: https://instagram.com/raacoaching
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@raacoaching  
Visit me at: www.raacoaching.com 
 
Featured Guest:  Brianna Deboever 
 
About Brianna: Brianna Deboever combines analytical precision with creative strategy to drive impactful results for her clients at Optidge.  She is passionate about helping businesses grow through data-driven digital strategies and is known for her commitment to delivering measurable results in paid search campaigns.. She is also a mother and an advocate for women who are balancing motherhood and their careers.
 
Connect with Brianna: brianna@optidge.com