Women Leveling Up

Discover how artificial intelligence is transforming the landscape for Black entrepreneurs, breaking down barriers and leveling the playing field. Inspired by Dr. Unice Harris’s research, this episode explores how AI can empower small businesses and solo founders to compete, innovate, and thrive with minimal resources. Learn practical strategies for aligning technology with your mission, building...

Explore the realities behind the rapid growth of Black women-owned businesses in America and why growth doesn’t always mean profitability. Host Mary H. Davis unpacks insights from Brenda Bell’s research, revealing the systemic barriers Black women entrepreneurs face and the urgent need to move beyond celebrating business formation to supporting sustainable, profitable enterprises. Through compelli...

In this episode, Mary H. Davis explores the realities behind the narrative of progress for Black women in America, drawing on insights from her interview with Nefretiri McGriff. Despite being the most educated demographic, Black women continue to face persistent wage gaps, underrepresentation in leadership, and systemic barriers. Yet, they are leading an entrepreneurial revolution, building busine...

Step into a powerful conversation inspired by Jessica Highsmith, exploring why your brilliance is not a liability but your true assignment. This episode challenges the pressure to shrink or assimilate, offering wisdom on embracing authenticity, building legacy through purposeful disruption, and making an impact without waiting for permission or perfection. Discover how to turn your unique perspect...

In this episode, we explore how to break free from limiting beliefs about your background and redefine your destiny. Inspired by insights from Cherlyn Phillips, discover practical strategies for challenging inherited narratives, embracing self-reflection, and building supportive communities that accelerate your growth. Learn how to transform adversity into strength, take bold action aligned with y...

In this episode, we explore how moments of loss and perceived failure can become powerful catalysts for transformation. Drawing on the wisdom of Sonja Waite, we uncover the truths behind letting go of titles, embracing authenticity, and using your story to empower others. Discover how surrendering control and sharing your journey can lead to deeper alignment, purpose, and unshakable confidence. Yo...

In this episode of Women Leveling Up, we explore how to transform fear into fuel and make the impossible inevitable. Inspired by Vanessa Collier, we discuss the power of self-love, the importance of community support, and the necessity of intentional leadership development for Black women navigating professional spaces. Discover practical strategies to reframe challenges, build authentic connectio...

Discover how embracing unity and celebrating diversity can empower the Black LGBTQ+ community. In this episode, we explore the intersections of identity, the importance of mental wellness, and the transformative impact of collective action. Hear insights on breaking down barriers, supporting each other's victories, and building a future where every voice is valued and every identity can thrive.

In this episode, we explore the urgent need for true representation in leadership, inspired by Loretta Rivers’ groundbreaking campaign in New Jersey. Discover how systemic barriers like the “county line” ballot design have historically excluded women and people of color, and how grassroots organizing dismantled these obstacles. Learn why waiting for permission isn’t enough, how authentic leadershi...

Feeling stuck in survival mode? In this episode, we explore how to break free from generational patterns of scarcity and step into a life of thriving. Inspired by Toni Moize, we discuss the importance of self-love, community support, and intentional practices for sustainable change. Discover real stories of women who moved beyond exhaustion and self-doubt to create spaces of abundance, healing, an...

In this episode, we explore how reclaiming ancestral wisdom can be a source of modern power and collective liberation. Inspired by the transformative work of MACHETE MAMA, we discuss the importance of reconnecting with lineage, integrating ritual and holistic practices into daily life, and honoring traditions as technologies of resilience and community care. Learn how ancestral healing, culturally...

In this episode, Mary H. Davis explores the revolutionary power of self-care as an act of resistance and survival for Black women. Drawing on insights from health advocate Taniesha Lyons, the conversation unpacks how prioritizing rest, mental health, and wellbeing challenges harmful stereotypes and systemic barriers. Discover how self-care is being reclaimed as a birthright and a radical tool for...

Discover how reframing your menstrual cycle can unlock new levels of professional power and personal well-being. Inspired by RaShaunda Lugrand’s transformative approach, this episode explores how understanding and leveraging your cycle’s natural rhythms can boost creativity, leadership, and confidence at work. Learn practical strategies for syncing your projects with your energy, advocating for we...

In this episode, we explore the transformative power of sisterhood and shared healing with insights inspired by Lela Watson and the "I Am My Sister" movement. Discover how vulnerability, community, and authentic connection can break the cycle of isolation and empower women—especially Black women—to rise together. Learn how sharing our stories and supporting one another not only fosters personal he...

In this episode, we explore the transformative power of rewriting your personal and professional narrative. Inspired by Sharmaine Smith, we discuss how authenticity, embracing your unique journey, and shifting from conformity to collaboration can redefine success. Discover why age is just a perspective, how true influence is measured by impact, and how you can break free from limiting stories to d...

Explore how Black women are transforming systemic barriers into opportunities for change. Inspired by Amber Dorsey’s research, this episode unpacks the realities behind the rapid rise of Black women entrepreneurs, the persistent gap between education and opportunity, and the resilience driving community impact. Discover why entrepreneurship is often a response to exclusion, and how building new pa...

Explore how reconnecting with cultural roots can transform healing in Black communities. Inspired by Michelle Reese’s groundbreaking work, this episode dives into holistic approaches that honor ancestral wisdom, integrate mind, body, and spirit, and break generational cycles of trauma. Through powerful case studies—Sawubona Healing Circles, mutual aid networks blending creative arts and Eastern me...

Discover how prioritizing family connections can transform not just individual lives, but entire communities. Inspired by Carol Johnson’s research on family resilience in Black communities, this episode explores the power of collective support in overcoming challenges like unemployment, maternal health disparities, and mental health concerns. Learn practical ways to strengthen your family circle,...

In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Shaquilla Williams, who built a thriving luxury event design business from the ground up by starting with what she had and focusing on community impact. Discover how Shaquilla turned local challenges into opportunities, launched Polk County’s premier bridal magazine, and created mentorship programs that empower entrepreneurs worldwide. Learn p...

In this episode, we dive into the transformative journey of Junnecia "Jai" Williams Spates, exploring how she turned her deepest wounds into powerful tools for change. Discover the revolutionary principles of radical honesty, intentional integration, and community-centered healing that Jai used to reclaim her story and empower others. Learn how embracing vulnerability and integrating all parts of...

Explore how Black women are transforming systemic barriers into opportunities by building their own businesses and communities. This episode delves into the rise of Black women entrepreneurs, the power of innovation born from necessity, and the impact of creating new systems when existing ones fall short. Discover how entrepreneurship becomes a form of resistance, legacy-building, and community em...

In this episode, we explore the radical idea that confidence isn't something to be earned—it's something to be remembered and reclaimed. Inspired by Deondriea Cantrice, we challenge the "Good Girl Lie" and discuss how unlearning silence is more powerful than performing strength, especially for Black women navigating professional spaces. Discover how granting yourself permission from within can tra...

In this episode, we explore how imposed limitations—whether external or internalized—shape our lives and identities. Inspired by insights from Tanaya Francois, we discuss the transformative power of self-definition, the importance of challenging stigmas, and the necessity of building communities that support authentic growth. Discover practical steps to break free from cycles of limitation and rec...

Explore how true economic empowerment for Black women entrepreneurs goes beyond starting a business. This episode uncovers the systemic barriers to scaling and sustaining ventures, from funding gaps to time poverty, and highlights the powerful multiplier effect when Black women succeed. Through inspiring case studies and research-backed insights, discover why structural change—not just encourageme...

In this episode, we explore how embracing your full history can unlock your future. Inspired by insights from Ané Watts, we discuss the power of transforming pain into wisdom, integrating difficult experiences, and honoring the diversity of our stories. Discover how reflecting on your past with compassion can become the foundation for authentic growth, deeper connections, and empowered action. You...