Coach Genena Woodson Armstrong PCC, SPHR, SHRM-SCP

Ensuring your organization has a strong pipeline of talent tomorrow means you need to invest in people today. This CUSTOM CREATED experience is one-of-a-kind. It layers 1:1 executive coaching, group coaching and interactive group learning sessions. This approach ensures that insights are not only gained, but incorporated into real-life practices and habits. Please listen to this quick interview to understand more about this very unique opportunity that is kicking off soon!

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Team Exhale surveyed 1005 Black Women nationwide and 36% of them say they have left a job due to feeling unsafe. These unsafe workplace cultures are harming Black Women everyday! We hope Exhale can be a supportive resource for you in your mental and emotional wellbeing journey. Download today to join the largest movement to prioritize Black Women’s wellbeing.✨ link in bio #blackwomen #workculture #workplace #culture #wellbeing #workplaceculture

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About 80% of Black leaders who seek out my coaching services and aspire to become more effective and impactful leaders lack employer support. Often, they are even fearful of asking their employer for this investment. Instead, they fund it out of their own pockets. ❗Keep in mind, Black women earn 58.5% less than White men (Catalyst, 2022 via Canadian Women’s Foundation), making it challenging to invest in themselves. From my experience, these are the three common scenarios Black women face regarding coaching: 1. Unaware of Available Coaching Opportunities: Many Black employees do not know if coaching is part of their organization's talent management strategy. If they are unaware, it effectively means it isn’t accessible to them. 2. Denied Requests for Development: When Black employees ask for development opportunities, the answer is often no, or the process for approval requires a business case rationalizing the request. Excuses range from budget constraints to doubts about their potential or impact. This reflects outdated and biased talent review practices. 3. Hesitation to Advocate for Themselves: Many Black employees, even those in senior roles, feel hesitant to ask for investment in their development. This hesitation stems from a lack of normalized support and the internalized belief, based on lived experience, that they are not worthy of such investment. Although I’ve developed a self-advocacy guide to help them request these investments, it shouldn't be necessary. I’ve yet to encounter this issue with non-Black employees whose organizations contract my services. Employers, sponsors, and allies need to recognize that investing in Black women’s development through coaching is crucial. This investment should place them in environments where they feel safe, understood, and are given the space to thrive. Are you willing to break the barriers and invest in the growth and development of your Black employees? #LeadershipDevelopment #EquityInclusion #BlackWomenLead #BrilliantColours #blackexcellence #womenofcolor #allyship

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Have you ever watched a leader who just seems to command the room? Their secret? Intentionality. Explore how masterful leaders operate with a clear sense of purpose in every interaction. They tailor their approach, from their tone of voice to their choice of words, to fit their goals and the needs of their audience. It's not just about what leaders want to achieve, but how they plan to get there that sets them apart. Interested in knowing how you can apply these principles to enhance your leadership skills? Check out the article below to learn how to cultivate the art of intentional leadership. https://zurl.co/6Dc3

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Sound advice on elevating your voice.

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🌟 Embracing Inclusive Leadership 🌟 "Inclusive leadership requires district and school leaders to be intentional, hypervigilant, and to contextualize their work. These actions must be ongoing. They are not accomplishments, rather they must be a way of leading and seeing the world. (Berry, Cowart Moss & Gore, 2018; Mette, 2019) I'm incredibly proud to co-edit this book and chose this quote because it highlights the profound responsibility of leading inclusively. Implementing these principles can be challenging but is essential for creating healthier, more productive schools and organizations. In today’s educational landscape, as we see educators and students leaving public education behind, we appreciate the need to center the well-being of educators, students, and families. Inclusive leaders don’t just talk about it; they embody this belief in mindset and in their actions. 🔍 What Does Inclusive Leadership Look Like? * Facilitates Dialogue and Actively Listens: Creates opportunities for stakeholders to ask questions and have honest discussions. * Values Diverse Perspectives: Actively seeks out and considers alternative viewpoints. * Ensures Representation: Continuously asks, "Who else needs to be at the table?" * Cultural Competence: Understands and respects different cultural contexts and practices. * Continuous Learning and Development: Commits to their own growth and the development of their team members. * Adaptability and Flexibility: Willingness to change their approach based on the needs and feedback of their team. Feeling the strain of managing conflicts or navigating complex cultural dynamics? Ready to transform your organization into a more inclusive and intentional space? Let’s connect! 📞 Set up a free, 30-minute discovery call and discover how Justice Consulting Group (JCG) can support you. 👉 Book your call now 📚 Purchase book here #InclusiveLeadership #EducationalLeadership #organizationalhealth #SchoolLeaders #LeadershipDevelopment #JusticeConsulting

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Black men, our influence is powerful, extending beyond borders and communities. When we become intentional in our actions, we create ripples that reach far beyond our immediate circles. By confidently embracing our roles, our direct impact is felt by those we connect with, while the indirect influence inspires countless others who may never meet us personally. The strength of our convictions and actions speaks volumes, offering a blueprint of resilience, innovation, and progress for others to follow. By the way, our journeys are unique, and each step we take has the potential to light a path for someone else. Imagine the power of showing up every day, knowing that our contributions are not just about individual success but about creating opportunities and possibilities for others. The stories we tell, the achievements we celebrate, and the obstacles we overcome set examples that encourage others to push past their own boundaries. By being intentional about our impact, we’re not only shaping our lives but also uplifting entire communities, one person at a time. Let’s be confident in our abilities and continue to make positive waves that echo across generations. ______________ Visit my website: https://richardacross.com Check out my books and journals + more! ______________ POSITIVELY SHAPING THE FUTURE™ #1millionblackmalestudents #LifePurpose #mentoring #HBCUsMatter #LeadingWithIntegrity #TheBlackMaleImpact #Blackexcellence #ChallengeCharacterAssasination #BlackMenCollaboration #BlackMen #Impact #leadingchange #CulturalTransformation #HigherEducation #MillionaireMindset #BlackBoys #changethenarrative #EmotionalIntelligence #PositiveImpact #Book2024 #DrRichardACross #PositiveInfluence #OwnYourGreatness #InnerStrength #TrustBuilding #ChallengeTheNarrative #UniteForChange #DismantlingStereotypes

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Black men, we are at a pivotal moment in history where the need for exceptional leadership has never been more urgent. Leading ourselves well—through discipline, purpose, and accountability—is the foundation for overcoming systemic challenges and reshaping the narrative surrounding us as Black men. This type of leadership isn’t about titles or public recognition; it’s about the daily decisions we make to elevate ourselves and our communities. When we lead with integrity and vision, we demonstrate that we are capable of breaking barriers and setting a standard of excellence that defies stereotypes. Besides, the impact of this leadership extends far beyond ourselves. By leading exceptionally, we inspire current and future generations to do the same. Young Black men need to see examples of strength, resilience, and success that reflect their potential. When we prioritize self-leadership, we create a ripple effect that transforms families, communities, and society at large. The benefits are generational—empowered leadership today plants seeds of opportunity, unity, and progress for tomorrow. This is our moment to lead boldly and leave a legacy of excellence. #BlackLeadership #InspireChange #GenerationalImpact ______________ Visit my website: https://richardacross.com Check out my books and journals + more! ______________ POSITIVELY SHAPING THE FUTURE™ #1millionblackmalestudents #LifePurpose #PositiveInfluence #HBCUsMatter #LeadingWithIntegrity #TheBlackMaleImpact #Blackexcellence #ChallengeCharacterAssasination #BlackMenCollaboration #BlackMen #Impact #leadingchange #CulturalTransformation #HigherEducation #MillionaireMindset #BlackBoys #changethenarrative #EmotionalIntelligence #PositiveImpact #Book2024 #DrRichardACross #PositiveInfluence #OwnYourGreatness #InnerStrength #TrustBuilding #ChallengeTheNarrative #GrowthMindset #dismantlingstereotypes

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Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Texas were finally informed of their freedom, over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. This day serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring struggle for freedom and equality in our nation. As we commemorate Juneteenth, we reflect on the importance of freedom, #equality, and the continuous journey toward a more inclusive society. Juneteenth is not just a historical milestone but a call to action—a reminder of the work that remains in building a world where every individual, regardless of their background or race, can engage, inspire, and thrive. Our #students are at the heart of our #mission. Every child deserves to have coaches, mentors, and trusted adults who reflect the #diversity of our team at Elevo Learning, the communities we serve, and our core values. Representation matters! When students see themselves reflected in the adults they interact with, they’re more likely to feel understood, supported, and inspired to achieve their full potential. On this Juneteenth, and always, we remain committed to diversity, #equity, and #inclusion. We celebrate the diverse voices that make up our team and the positive impact they have on the lives of our students. And through embracing our differences and fostering a culture of respect and understanding, we are helping to pave the way for a brighter future for all. #juneteenth #diversityequityandinclusion #celebratefreedom

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Inclusivity Unleashed: Game-Changing Wisdom from Bold DEI Leaders 🔥 The "What’s Inclusivity Aptitude? Exploring Inclusion Through the Talent Management Lifecycle" panel was nothing short of a masterclass in bold, brilliant, and badass leadership. 🔥 I had the honor of moderating this powerhouse session as part of Transform’s Spotlight Series, where we dove into the realities of building an inclusive culture across the entire talent management lifecycle. The insights shared by Khalil Smith, Amira K.S. Barger, MBA,CVA,CFRE Parker, and Rebecca Samarasinghe Perrault were nothing short of transformative (pun intended). We discussed everything from the power of values-based framing to the need for treating inclusivity like a muscle we must constantly work on. 💡 Want the key takeaways? Check out the infographic below to see the wisdom these leaders dropped, and head to Diversiology’s recap article for the full breakdown. (Link in comments)👇🏾 Special thanks to Jennifer Cooper, Debra Wade Carney, and Samara Jaffe of the Transform team for bringing this powerful conversation to life! #DEI #InclusiveCulture #BoldLeadership #TransformSpotlight #GrownWomanFounder #TalentManagement #LeadershipMatters

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Black men, some view us as powerful leaders and influencers who make significant contributions across various fields, while others may still cling to outdated stereotypes and misconceptions. Our collective impact and steadfast commitment will help to amplify our influence and contribution as we press forward. By the way, our presence in various fields—whether in academia, business, arts, sports, or activism—demonstrates our versatility and resilience. By consistently excelling and breaking barriers, we challenge and reshape the narrative surrounding Black men. When we support each other and celebrate our successes, we create a powerful network that reinforces our strengths and highlights our achievements. This unity and mutual respect not only empower us but also inspire younger generations to aim higher and believe in their potential. Furthermore, our commitment to personal growth and community development sets a positive example for others to follow. By mentoring, educating, and uplifting those around us, we contribute to a culture of excellence and progress. Our collective efforts in advocating for social justice, equality, and economic empowerment are essential in dismantling stereotypes and fostering a more inclusive society. Through our dedication and perseverance, we can shift the consensus, ensuring that the world recognizes and respects the true essence and contributions of Black men. ______________ Visit my website: https://richardacross.com Check out my books and journals + more! ______________ POSITIVELY SHAPING THE FUTURE™ #1millionblackmalestudents #motivation #inspiration #education #mentoring #HBCUsMatter #LeadingWithIntegrity #TheBlackMaleImpact #Blackexcellence #ChallengeCharacterAssasination #PersonalDevelopment #Mindset #Psychology #leadingchange #CulturalTransformation #Knowledge #MillionaireMindset #BlackBoys #changethenarrative #EmotionalIntelligence #PositiveImpact #Book2024 #DrRichardACross #PositiveInfluence #BestVersionOfYourself

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🌟🎙️ I had the immense honor of being a special guest on the UFSC 50th Anniversary podcast, and what an exhilarating experience it was! 🚀 As I reflected on how far minority professionals have come over the past half-century, I couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement for the future that lies ahead. https://lnkd.in/e9cbk-_7 During our conversation, I delved into the critical theme of interdependence—how we thrive when we support one another, especially within our communities. In the ever-evolving landscape of financial services and entrepreneurship, it’s vital that we lift each other up and champion the progress of small businesses. 🏢✨ https://lnkd.in/e9cbk-_7 I shared my insights on how advancing financial literacy for moderate to affluent income earners can be a game-changer. It’s not just about numbers; it’s about empowerment! Equipping individuals with the knowledge they need to make informed financial decisions is a cornerstone for building successful enterprises and thriving communities. https://lnkd.in/e9cbk-_7 Moreover, I offered some key advice for small business owners to avoid the "leadership trap." It’s all too easy to get caught up in the day-to-day grind and lose sight of the bigger picture. By fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous learning, business leaders can navigate challenges and seize opportunities like never before. As we celebrate 50 remarkable years, I am filled with hope and excitement for the next chapter. Let’s continue to break barriers, uplift one another, and create a future where minority professionals are not just participants but leaders in every realm of business and entrepreneurship. Together, we can make a difference! 🌍💪 https://lnkd.in/e9cbk-_7 #UFSC50 #Leadership #MinorityProfessionals #FinancialLiteracy #Entrepreneurship #Empowerment #CommunitySupport #LeadershipDevelopment

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🌐 Today, I am honored to co-host the “Navigating the Post-Election Landscape” Roundtable beside Anthony P. Howard, with a special focus on Black HR Professionals. In this session, we are addressing the unique challenges that Black HR leaders face as they navigate the next normal in our workplaces and communities. With so much change and opportunity on the horizon, it is essential to explore how we can best support each other and advance strategies that foster inclusive, resilient environments. Our goal is to equip each participant with insights and tools to lead effectively through these transitions. Looking forward to sharing key takeaways from this impactful dialogue. #BlackHRLeaders #PostElection #Roundtable #Diversity #FutureOfWork

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Therapy & Coaching -- Defined & Combined A sixty second explanation of the differences and how they can: 1. work together; 2. benefit each other, and; 3. bring about exponential success 📰 HR Colleagues & Followers, I will be at the national SHRM Conference next week and the Texas Society of Human Resource Management (Texas SHRM) networking happy hour on Monday. Track me down. I would enjoy catching up or meeting you for the first time. #executivecoaching #lifecoaching #jobsearchcoaching #jobseeker #hrci #gphr #shrm #texasshrm

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As a Black female CEO, managing mental well-being is not just a personal priority—it's a crucial aspect of effective leadership. Navigating the intersectional challenges we face in leading organizations requires a nuanced understanding of both our own needs and those of our teams. The unique pressures of being a Black woman in leadership often mean confronting stereotypes, combating systemic biases, and balancing multiple roles. These challenges can significantly impact our mental health, making it essential to prioritize self-care and mental well-being. For me, this means setting boundaries, seeking support, and cultivating spaces where open conversations about mental health are encouraged. It's about fostering an environment where every team member feels valued, heard, and supported. We must advocate for ourselves and our well-being, recognizing that our mental health directly influences our ability to lead effectively. This advocacy extends beyond personal care to institutional change, ensuring that our organizations implement equitable practices that support the mental health of all employees, especially those from marginalized backgrounds. Leading with a focus on mental well-being is not only beneficial for individual health but also strengthens our organizations. It promotes resilience, fosters innovation, and builds a culture of compassion and inclusivity. As leaders, we must ask ourselves: 🟣 How are we creating spaces that prioritize mental well-being in our workplaces? 🟣 What steps are we taking to ensure open and supportive conversations about mental health? 🟣 How can we better advocate for the mental health needs of marginalized employees? 🟣 What institutional changes can we implement to support the mental well-being of our teams? MA Consultancy Ltd has partnered with the groundbreaking Happiworkers to help organisations ask these very questions. Let's reflect on these questions and take actionable steps to support mental well-being, break barriers, and create equitable and thriving workplaces.

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Before my vacation, I enjoyed sitting with Dr. Asia Lyons for her incredible podcast The Exit Interview: A Podcast for Black Educators. Make sure you catch the episode. We chat about my journey from a sports management major to education, my experiences teaching in the Mississippi Delta, Black educators' challenges, and the importance of historical context and systemic educational changes. I share insights into improving teacher retention, the impact of integration policies, and the critical role of parent and student voices in schools. Let me know what you think! https://lnkd.in/g_awhmVi

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Black men, it’s essential that we aim higher than merely securing a single seat at the table. Representation is crucial, but true progress means seeing multiple voices of our community in these spaces, sharing diverse perspectives, and collectively impacting decisions. When only one of us is present, the full spectrum of our stories, talents, and insights is often lost. That’s why we can’t let “just one” be enough. Our goal should be creating environments where the presence of Black men is natural, frequent, and valued for the richness it brings. This requires us to see beyond individual success and to set a standard that invites others into spaces where historically we have been underrepresented. Besides, achieving this means we must be ready to challenge the status quo in meaningful ways. It means standing firm on values like integrity, respect, and unity, even when it feels uncomfortable or when it could risk our own position. We lead by example not only by excelling but by making it easier for others to enter these spaces, too. By fostering collaboration over competition, showing courage over conformity, we signal to the next generation that they, too, belong in the room—not as a token, but as changemakers. The more we uphold these values and bring others along, the closer we get to breaking down barriers and transforming spaces into true reflections of the communities they serve. Let us aim to inspire others by our actions, creating a legacy of inclusivity, strength, and true representation. ______________ Visit my website: https://richardacross.com Check out my books and journals + more! ______________ POSITIVELY SHAPING THE FUTURE™ #1millionblackmalestudents #LifePurpose #mentoring #HBCUsMatter #LeadingWithIntegrity #TheBlackMaleImpact #Blackexcellence #ChallengeCharacterAssasination #BlackMenCollaboration #BlackMen #Impact #leadingchange #CulturalTransformation #HigherEducation #MillionaireMindset #BlackBoys #changethenarrative #EmotionalIntelligence #PositiveImpact #Book2024 #DrRichardACross #PositiveInfluence #OwnYourGreatness #InnerStrength #TrustBuilding #ChallengeTheNarrative #UniteForChange #dismantlingstereotypes

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Really interesting choice by SHRM to decide to rebrand (and perhaps water down) DEI instead of pushing back against the politization and stigma of supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion. I am all for finding ways to call folks in to conversations instead of a 'call out' but I am disappointed that an organization with this much power and influence in the HR and Employment space would make this choice to invest in a rebrand to appease a few versus making real change and supporting its members. #dei #inclusion #traumainformed #traumainformedworkplaces

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