In this episode of Do Better Revolution, we are honored to welcome Dr. Shawna Patterson-Stephens, a Vice President of Student Affairs and a dedicated leader in higher education. Dr. Patterson-Stephens opens up about the challenges, lessons, and personal experiences that have shaped her leadership journey, particularly as a woman of color navigating predominantly white spaces. She shares wisdom on resilience, the importance of mentorship, and the emotional toll of leadership.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The role of mentorship and how Black women in leadership have poured into her success.

• The early challenges in her career, including navigating politics in higher education and understanding the importance of “playing the game.”

• How she developed her leadership style and learned to communicate with tact without losing her authentic self.

• The emotional and mental toll of navigating toxic work environments and the importance of self-care and therapy.

• How becoming a mother expedited her growth and shaped her purpose as a leader.

Key Quotes:

• "I had enough people in my life that understood I needed to hear things said in a very explicit way."

• "If I want a certain thing to happen, there should be space for people like who I naturally am to exist."

• "The moment you feel like your wellbeing is being denigrated, maybe it's time to start thinking about how to pivot."

• "Never tell yourself no. Always ask because all that’s going to happen is the worst they can say is no."

More About Dr. Shawna Patterson-Stephens

Dr. Shawna Patterson-Stephens is an experienced educator and leader in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. She has served as the Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer at Central Michigan University, where she works to foster an inclusive campus culture. With a background in higher education administration, she is committed to addressing systemic inequities and enhancing educational experiences for marginalized communities. Dr. Patterson-Stephens holds a Ph.D. in Educational Policy and Leadership and has a reputation for her strategic leadership in advancing DEI goals across academic institutions.

Stay tuned for our next episode where we'll dive deeper into the practicalities of leadership. Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast!

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My coaching books are officially open! Learn more about my Executive Coaching for Women of Color and Leadership Coaching by booking your free consultation here!

To learn more about the Do Better Revolution, visit www.do-better.net and follow us on social!

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Instagram: @dobetterwithdebra

Episode 10

In this episode, we're honored to have Dr. Regina Stanback-Stroud, an accomplished leader who has held numerous titles including Dean, Chancellor, and President, in various educational institutions. She discusses the nuances of her leadership journey, which is a combination of intentional efforts and unforeseen opportunities. Dr. Stanback-Stroud shares invaluable lessons on leadership, sacrifice, and purpose.

In this episode we discuss:

• The influence of her early community and the weight of ancestral hopes and dreams.

• The big sacrifices of her ancestors: More than money, it was about lives.

• How others recognized her potential and 'pushed her up' in her career.

• Leadership lessons from unexpected mentors.

• The transformative power of understanding your purpose.

Key Quotes

"I had to fulfill and live up to the hopes and aspirations of people that I now call my ancestors."

"If you understand your purpose and what you stand for, it is your beacon. It is your guiding framework."

More About Dr. Regina Stanback-Stroud

Dr. Regina Stanback-Stroud is the CEO of RSSC Consulting and co-founder of The Village Demands. With a career spanning over 35 years in education, Dr. Stanback-Stroud has held a range of prestigious roles, including serving as President and Chancellor at several community colleges. She's lauded for her initiatives in student equity, diversity, and community development. A transformative leader, she has spearheaded programs like the Skyline College Promise and the Equity Institute. Awarded the title of President Emerita by the San Mateo County Community College District Board of Trustees, she continues to make an impact on both regional and state educational policies

Stay tuned for our next episode where we'll dive deeper into the practicalities of leadership. Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast!

Get your Do-Better SWAG! https://do-better.store/

USE CODE: DOBETTER20 for a special gift just for our podcast listeners!

My coaching books are officially open! Learn more about my Executive Coaching for Women of Color and Leadership Coaching by booking your free consultation here!

To learn more about the Do Better Revolution, visit www.do-better.net and follow us on social!

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@dobetterrevolution

Instagram: @dobetterwithdebra

In this solo episode, I reflect on my top five lessons from 2023, a year I label as one of growth and discovery. Join me on a journey of introspection, learning, and potential transformation as I share my insights and experiences from the past year.

In this episode I share

Embracing New Beginnings: My big move to Los Angeles and transition to a new sector, emphasizing the importance of embracing change and being open to new experiences.

Navigating Relationships: I explore the dynamics of making and letting go of relationships, emphasizing the idea of 'seasons, reasons, lifetime' and the growth that comes from navigating these changes.

Speaking Your Truth: I share my journey towards finding and elevating my voice, especially in challenging workplace scenarios, and how speaking up can led to personal empowerment and self-respect.

Join me as I delve into these lessons, tying them back to the core mission of the Do Better Revolution: to continually grow, learn, and improve ourselves and our relationships.

Connect with Debra at debra@do-better.net

Get your Do-Better SWAG! https://do-better.store/

USE CODE: DOBETTER20 for a special gift just for our podcast listeners!

Step Into Your Power with Do Better Executive Coaching. I have a few slots opening in January. Specifically designed for Women of Color Executives. Don't miss this opportunity—schedule your discovery call now and let's embark on a journey of impactful and meaningful development together."

To learn more about the Do Better Revolution, visit www.do-better.net and follow us on social!

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@dobetterrevolution

Instagram: @dobetterwithdebra