Black Belts and Boardrooms

Most of us think of midlife as a crisis, but what if it's really an awakening? In this episode of Blackbelts and Boardrooms, Renard Henry and Amir Khawaja challenge that familiar narrative, revealing how reevaluating life's pivots can unlock surprising growth at any age—yes, even midlife. They explore how major career shifts, such as transitioning from corporate roles to entrepreneurship o...

In this episode, Jawed Khan, Senior Vice President of US Operations at Regal Cinemas shares his journey from assistant manager to SVP in the movie theater industry, emphasizing the importance of service, resilience, and evolving with technology. Discover how a focus on people and experience drives success in a competitive entertainment landscape.

In this episode, Vic Peram shares insights from leading Veritis Group for over two decades, emphasizing honesty, trust, and continuous learning as keys to long-term success. Discover how culture, bold pivots in technology, and values-driven leadership can sustain growth and foster loyalty. Resources & Links:Veritas GroupEmpire of the Sun: Walking on a DreamTech Allies OrganizationCharles Haley...

Unlock the truth about AI safety, misinformation, and the future of transformative technology—directly from leading researchers shaping the digital landscape. If you're a leader, innovator, or curious mind, this episode reveals why understanding AI’s risks and potentials isn’t just technical; it's strategic, ethical, and essential to navigate the coming decades. Imagine mastering AI securi...

Most professionals overlook the true power of diversification—until they realize it’s the key to more freedom, family, and impact. Divya Smith, a seasoned tech exec turned real estate investor and leadership coach, reveals how her journey from corporate America to entrepreneurship unlocked a new level of influence and purpose. With over 22 years in corporate leadership—including roles at Target an...

In this engaging conversation, Renard Henry and Amir Khawaja interview Ryan Roberts, a former fighter pilot turned entrepreneur. They explore Ryan's journey from the military to running his own defense contracting company, his experiences living on a sailboat, and the lessons learned about risk analysis and systems thinking. The discussion delves into the impact of AI on business and leadershi...

In this engaging episode of Black Belts and Boardrooms, hosts Renard Henry and Amir Khawaja welcome Fern Johnson, a seasoned leader in technology and operations. Fern shares her inspiring journey from her early exposure to technology in her father's basement to her extensive career at PepsiCo. The conversation delves into the evolution of IT and operational technology, the importance of mentorship...

In this episode, Tiffany Whitener shares her journey from journalism to user experience and now into the realm of AI. She discusses the importance of transformation as a mindset, the evolution of user experience, and how generative AI can be a collaborative tool rather than a job replacement. Tiffany emphasizes the need for continuous learning and adaptation in the face of technological advancemen...

In this episode of Black Belts and Boardrooms, Tyler White shares his journey from sports to leadership, emphasizing the importance of connection, authenticity, and serving others. He discusses the current job market, the impact of AI, and the significance of personal relationships in professional settings. Tyler also reflects on his podcasting experience and the community-building efforts at CISO...

In this episode of "Black Belts and Boardrooms," hosts Renard Henry and Amir Khawaja engage in a compelling conversation with Nikki Barua, a visionary leader in digital transformation and AI. Nikki shares her inspiring journey from India to the United States, emphasizing her relentless pursuit of reinvention and the importance of adaptability in today's fast-paced world. She discusses the evolving...

In this episode, Bruce Elliott, Co-founder and CEO of Memory Lane Games, shares his journey of creating an innovative app that uses AI to enhance socialization for individuals with dementia. The conversation explores the intersection of technology and healthcare, emphasizing the importance of AI for good, the challenges of scaling globally, and the future of marketing in the age of AI. Bruce also...

In this engaging conversation, Samuel Davis shares his journey as a first-generation college graduate and servant leader. He discusses the importance of balancing work with community engagement, prioritizing family, and the impact of mentorship on his career. Samuel emphasizes the significance of kindness in leadership, the role of faith in his life, and the necessity of self-care. He also provide...

In this engaging conversation, Joi Chevalier shares her journey from a corporate career to becoming a leader in the food and health sector with the Cook's Nook. She discusses her background, the importance of cyber sociology in technology, and the ethical considerations surrounding AI. Joy also offers valuable advice for those looking to transition from corporate roles to entrepreneurship and...

In this episode of Black Belts and Boardrooms, Kader Sakkaria shares his inspiring journey from failing eighth grade to becoming a successful leader in the tech industry. He emphasizes the importance of family support, the role of mentorship, and the value of understanding both technology and business. Kader discusses his experiences as Chief of Staff and the significance of building a strong orga...

In this engaging conversation, Amir Khawaja and Renard Henry speak with Tiffany Whetstone, the Major Gifts Director at Make-A-Wish of North Texas. Tiffany shares her journey into philanthropy, the challenges faced in fundraising, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the importance of building relationships in the nonprofit sector. She discusses the various types of wishes granted to childr...

In this final episode of season one, hosts Amir Khawaja and Renard Henry welcome Tom Cox, an executive coach and founder of Vertical Motion. Tom shares his inspiring journey from a military background to overcoming leukemia and finding his passion in coaching. The conversation delves into the importance of personal branding, the role of introverts in leadership, and the significance of intrinsic v...

In this conversation, Jim Rose, VP of Operations for Pilot Company’s Field Division, breaks down the real difference between influencing people and forcing them into action. Jim highlights why leaders must understand team dynamics, individual motivation, and the power of clear communication if they want their teams to thrive. He makes a compelling case that leadership is not about control. It is a...

In this conversation, Mike Maldonado, Owner & Instructor of Maldonado ATA Martial Arts, discusses the importance of embracing failure as a crucial part of the learning process. He emphasizes that failing is not only acceptable but encouraged, as it leads to valuable lessons that can prevent future mistakes. Through the metaphor of sparring, he illustrates how physical experiences can teach us...

In this episode, Renard Henry and Amir Khawaja reflect on the powerful journeys of three exceptional women, Pamela Dukes, Nia Abdullah, and Dr. Shehla Sheikh. They explore the resilience each demonstrated while navigating demanding careers, the focus required to stay committed to long-term goals, and the mental health challenges that often go unseen. The conversation underscores the value of stron...

In this episode, John Doonan, President of the International Motor Sports Association, sits down to share his journey from a childhood love of racing to leading IMSA on the global stage. He discusses how motorsports has evolved into an international success story, drawing more fans every day through innovation and passion for the sport. The conversation also explores the future of sustainable raci...

In this episode, Renard Henry and Amir Khawaja engage with Earl Rich, a fashion consultant, who shares insights on the intersection of fashion and personal branding. Earl discusses his journey into the fashion industry, the importance of understanding individual style, and the process of personal styling. He emphasizes the significance of tailoring, color psychology, and the impact of clothing on...

In this episode, William Washington III, Global CFO for Baker McKenzie, shares his inspiring journey from humble beginnings to a successful career in finance. He discusses the importance of resilience, professional appearance, and continuous learning. William emphasizes the need for strong relationships and the transition from management to leadership, highlighting the significance of serving othe...

In this conversation, Amir Khawaja and Renard Henry explore the growing trend of fractional executives, particularly in startups and mid-sized companies. They discuss the definition of fractional executives, the benefits they bring to businesses, the importance of cultural fit, and how remote work has influenced this trend. The conversation also touches on the gig economy, opportunities for growth...

In this episode, Renard Henry and Amir Khawaja celebrate Renard's recent marriage and welcome guest Scott Russo, who shares his life-altering experience of confronting an intruder in his home. This incident sparked a profound transformation in Scott's life, leading him to rediscover martial arts as a means of finding purpose and inner peace. The conversation explores the intersection of martial ar...

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Dan Kaufmann shares his extensive experience in the sports entertainment industry, discussing the importance of emotional connections with fans, the business mindset required for successful deals, and the critical role of data analysis in understanding consumer behavior. He emphasizes the significance of building authentic relationships and trust in business, the...