In this enlightening episode, Elena speaks with Andrea Horton-Mericli, a dedicated diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) consultant. They delve into the critical importance of creating inclusive environments, the complexities of navigating biracial identities, and the transformative power of storytelling.

Check out Elena’s website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you.

Andrea shares her personal journey as a biracial woman, the daughter of a Latina mother from Veracruz and a white Anglo father, and how her upbringing in diverse environments shaped her passion for DEI work. Both Andrea and Elena recount their experiences growing up in border towns, grappling with their identities while finding their place in a world that often requires strict categorization. They discuss how these biracial identities can serve as a superpower in bridging gaps between cultures and perspectives, highlighting the need for more spaces that celebrate this multifaceted heritage.

The conversation also touches on Andrea's initiative, the "Diversifuse" podcast, which aims to amplify the voices of marginalized communities and advocate for resources to support them. As Andrea highlights contemporary issues such as neurodiversity, mental health, and the emotional needs of individuals in the current political climate, she emphasizes the significance of relatability and storytelling in fostering understanding. The episode culminates with a powerful vision for the future, as both hosts encourage listeners to consider the impact of their actions on future generations and the importance of role modeling behavior that promotes kindness, empathy, and inclusivity.

This episode offers an inspiring exploration of identity, leadership, and the profound potential of storytelling to effect change. Whether you're a leader seeking to enhance your inclusive practices or an individual navigating your own experiences of belonging, this conversation promises to resonate and encourage reflection on the ways we all contribute to a more equitable world.

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Andrea Horton-Mericli:

Instragram | LinkedIn | Facebook | Website | Podcast | YouTube | X

This podcast was produced by the following amazing team:

Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer

Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron’s music via Instagram)

Jo van Eeden, Project Manager

In this thought-provoking episode, Elena speaks with Antoni Mendezona and Max Potter, the co-founders of Digitelle, a digital marketing company for independent creatives and nonprofits in the performing arts. They delve into the importance of authenticity in business and highlight the numerous benefits of authenticity in business, such as building trust, fostering creativity, and enhancing customer loyalty.

Check out Elena’s website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you.

Antoni and Max share their inspiring journey to co-founding Digitelle, merging their passion for music and marketing. Their shared vision for the company revolves around establishing a strong ethical framework, prioritizing flexibility, and advocating for empowerment within the performing arts industry.

Valuable advice is shared on adopting a mission-driven approach, serving customers first, and investing in authentic communication strategies. They emphasize the importance of focusing on serving your audience or customers better, not just yourself, and ensuring your marketing strategy aligns with your values and vision.

The episode serves as a blueprint for leaders and entrepreneurs seeking to create purpose-driven organizations that prioritize innovation, connection, and sustainable growth. Antoni and Max also stress the importance of not cutting your marketing budget, especially in challenging times, and the need to be flexible, empathetic, and surround yourself with the right team.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, a business leader, or simply someone looking to find your own authentic voice, this episode will inspire and motivate you to embrace your true self and create the change you wish to see in the world.

Tune in to discover the transformative power of authenticity and advocacy in business.

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Digitelle (Antoni Mendezona & Max Potter):

Instragram | LinkedIn | Facebook | Website | TikTok

This podcast was produced by the following amazing team:

Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer

Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron’s music via Instagram)

Jo van Eeden, Project Manager

In this podcast episode, Elena Armijo speaks with Carolyn Swora, a leadership consultant, team coach, and author, about her journey into coaching and her focus on social justice and trauma-informed leadership. Carolyn shares her passion for working with leaders and organizations committed to social justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion, highlighting the importance of connecting with the body and nervous system as a leader.

Check out Elena’s website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you.

Carolyn emphasizes the somatic aspects of leadership and transformation, discussing how the body stores emotional wounds and trauma that can impact cognitive and physical performance. She encourages leaders to listen to and partner with their nervous systems in order to regulate their states and show up more fully. Carolyn provides practical suggestions for individuals to explore somatic practices, such as community connection and grounding exercises.

Ultimately, Carolyn's vision is for more people to understand the power of the nervous system and somatic wisdom, in order to address systemic challenges and create positive change in the world. She believes that by disseminating this knowledge widely, especially to the next generation, we can build the internal resources and collective capacity needed to make a difference. This podcast episode offers valuable insights and practical tips for leaders looking to incorporate somatic practices into their work.

Let’s Get Social!

Want to hear more from Elena? Click here!

Learn more about The C-Suite Collective

Follow The C-Suite Collective on Instagram

Connect with Elena on LinkedIn

Carolyn Swora:

Instragram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Website | Podcast | Amazon

This podcast was produced by the following amazing team:

Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer

Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron’s music via Instagram)

Jo van Eeden, Project Manager