Dr. Richard A. Cross’ Post

I’ve been a fan of Jennifer Brown and her work for a few years. From attending her virtual events to diving into the launch of "How To Be An Inclusive Leader" book (complete with an assessment!), her presence, vision, and voice on allyship deeply resonated with me. Her insights felt like a reflection of my own experiences—especially the search for belonging and connection. For years, I sought leaders who would truly "see" me and share the joy of leadership that comes from uniting people and business. As Jen so aptly puts it, I was searching for "my people." That journey of belonging ultimately led me to the voluntary role as Vice Chair of DEI at Aptive Environmental, where I’ve found purpose in advocating for fully equitable experiences, amplifying voices that often go unheard, and using my privilege and experience to foster meaningful change. The work of allyship is ongoing, intentional, and sometimes uncomfortable, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Leaders like Jennifer remind us of the power of creating spaces where everyone feels seen, valued, and included. If you haven’t explored her work yet, I highly recommend it—it’s worth every moment. My favorite quote from this podcast episode: "Leaders, we have to be very proactive in this hybrid world to somehow build enough trust with somebody that they will say, “I’ve been meaning to talk to you. I’m noticing this. I’m feeling this,” and then as a leader or even a colleague to say, “We can do something about that. Let’s take that on. Let’s address it.” It’s a real challenge. This is our new world and I like it because it’s kicking us in the butt to be more intentional and more overt. That’s always been needed in this world. To shift systems, they’re not going to shift through good intentions. They’re going to shift through the right actions at scale. That’s what’s going to change the workplace for the better." Again: "they’re not going to shift through good intentions. They’re going to shift through the right actions at scale." 🎤 An idea, on its own, is just a thought. But when an idea is put into action, it creates ripples that have the potential to grow into a transformative wave. #Leadership #DEI #Allyship #InclusiveLeadership #Advocacy #Belonging

This client decided that moving towards hope was one of her non-negotiables. No matter what was on the table being offered, she decided she had to feel that she was moving forward, in a positive direction, with hope. It became a bright-line indicator that would flag to her when things were going off track. When surrounded by those moving farther away from hope, she decided to buck the trend and not fall in line. This recommitment to her core value put her at ease. She knew when to say no, when to stand up to behaviors she disagreed with, and when to make a change as a result. We may initially think of our non-negotiables as restrictions or limiting factors on our career. In practice, it's much the opposite. These preset guardrails make us comfortable enough to aim higher, knowing that we won't compromise what is most important no matter what. I celebrate this client doing the work to identify what was making her uncomfortable and pinpointing the internal conflict. Once she firmly decided what she would tolerate and what she would not tolerate, this became a clear standard for her. It upleveled her satisfaction, and also her performance as she was more clear and confident to lead. This week, I walk you through the common areas of non-negotiables and how to clarify them for yourself in my podcast. Check it out here https://lnkd.in/eFTryzgX Read on for more client wins of real people like you and me to see what is possible and decide which wins you will claim for yourself https://lnkd.in/eEdSfRbH #clientwin #nonnegotiable #hope #moveforward #growth #leadership #clarity #confidence #negotiate #terms #onyourownterms #career #business #success #peakperformance #peaksatisfaction #coaching #executivecoaching

I wanted to share an inspiring interview hosted by my dear friend and colleague, Terry Sidford, ACC that we published back on May 15, 2023. In this interview I share some courageous moves that I've done in my life that will hopefully inspire you to take some leaps of faith as well! ***** What does it take to lead with courage and stand out in your field? For Karie Millspaugh, the founder of Publicity Creations by Design, it all starts with being seen. In a captivating interview hosted by the talented Terry Sidford, Karie shares her journey of bold moves and courageous decisions that have propelled her forward in life and business. Back on May 15, 2023, we had the privilege of publishing this inspiring conversation, and now we're thrilled to bring it back into the spotlight. In this interview, Karie opens up about the pivotal moments in her life that demanded courage, and how those experiences have shaped her approach to leadership and personal branding. Intrigued? Here's a sneak peek of what to expect: * Discover the power of self-confidence and its role in building a successful personal brand. * Gain insights into effective leadership strategies that can transform your business. * Be inspired to take bold leaps of faith and embrace new opportunities in your own journey. Karie's passion for empowering others is palpable, and her wisdom is sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned professional, her story will resonate deeply and ignite a fire within you. So, if you're ready to elevate your talent or business to new heights, don't miss out on this enriching conversation. Tune in to our podcast today and let Karie's words of wisdom guide you on your path to success. Listen here to the entire episode: https://lnkd.in/emkaht4e #courage #podcast #inspiration

🚀 Calling all first-generation corporate professionals! 🚀 Are you the first in your family to navigate the corporate chessboard? ♟️ Are you the child of educators, blue-collar workers, entrepreneurs, or immigrants? If so, this message is for YOU. I'm here to share the hard-won lessons, unfiltered truths, and decoded language that won't be found in any leadership course or career development podcast. 🗣️ Rising Leader Talks podcast is specifically designed to empower first-generation corporate professionals who don't have the inherited knowledge or network to play the corporate game. It's about gaining a competitive advantage, playing on your own terms, and making strategic chess moves that catapult your career in the direction YOU desire. 🏆 You deserve to win big, without compromising your values. It's chess, not checkers! Are you a pawn or a player? 🤔 To kick things off, I'm thrilled to share our inaugural episode featuring the incredible Tiffany Francis, Executive Vice President and Chief Talent Officer at Publicis Groupe (PMX). 🔥 Tiffany is a visionary leader with 20+ years of experience, including a decade in the C-suite. She's an award-winning powerhouse, featured in AdAge and named one of the Top 25 Women Chief Talent Officers of 2024. 👑 Get ready to hear her unfiltered insights, strategic advice, and inspiring story. Tune in to Episode 1 of Rising Leader Talks tomorrow, July 2nd, at 7:30 am EST! 🎧 #RisingLeaderTalks #FirstGen #CareerAdvice #Leadership #Podcast #ChessNotCheckers P.S. Share this with any first-gen corporate professionals in your network who are ready to level up their careers! 🙌

🎙️ Silencing Your Inner Critic: From Self-Criticism to Self-Celebration 🔥 Do you find your inner critic holding you back? 🧐 Are you ready to transform that critical inner voice into a powerful ally? In this episode of the "Quietly Confident Introvert" podcast, we explore effective strategies to silence your inner critic and start celebrating your true self. Join me, Patience Ogunbona as I delve into the dynamics of the inner critic and its impact on introverted women in business and leadership. We'll uncover how to turn life's challenges into opportunities for growth and self-affirmation. 🚀 Discover: What the inner critic is and how it can sabotage your confidence. 💡 Explore: The concept of the 'inner sage' and how to harness it for personal empowerment. 🔍 Uncover: Practical steps to transform self-criticism into self-celebration. 🌐 Learn How: To engage with and transform your inner critic through mindful practices and self-reflection. 🔗 Join the "Courageous Leadership Conversations" on July 25th at 07:00 PM UK time for a deeper dive and coaching exercises aimed at silencing the inner critic. [Session Link] 📚 Win your day tool: https://lnkd.in/eYWsagxQ 🎧 Listen to the podcast here: https://lnkd.in/eETuf9cg 💡 Discover your score on how well you deal with overwhelm that comes with running a business as an introvert and get the tools needed to thrive. https://lnkd.in/esz_3vWA Contact Information: 📬 Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram using @TheVisionaryIntrovertedWoman and @ATICoaching1 🌐 Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/eWfM5Dch Empower yourself by tuning into this transformative discussion—press play now! 🎧✨

Would you like to know how to effortlessly establish genuine rapport with the most successful and accomplished people you meet? In this episode of Speak Up, we reveal a foolproof compliment that builds instant rapport with high achievers. Among your titanium-plated takeaways you’ll learn: 🎯 The specific compliment that resonates deeply with highly accomplished individuals, making them feel genuinely understood and appreciated. 🔥Gain a powerful tool to boost your confidence and elevate how others perceive you in professional settings. 🚀Understand why recognizing the challenges faced by successful people sets you apart and creates lasting, respectful connections. Click now to listen!

🚀 In today's fast-paced world, the ability to clearly articulate our needs and desires is more critical than ever. 💬 Whether in negotiations, team collaborations, or everyday conversations, asking for what we want can lead to remarkable outcomes. Many of us shy away from expressing our needs due to fear of rejection or judgment. However, recent insights show that when we confidently voice our requests, we often receive positive responses! 🌟 In a society that values open communication and transparency, let's embrace the power of asking. It not only fosters better relationships but also paves the way for personal and professional growth. 💡 Ready to transform your approach? Discover strategies on how to effectively ask for what you want in life and work by tuning into this enlightening podcast episode: https://lnkd.in/gKDaqv7n #Communication #Leadership #PersonalGrowth #HBR

Inspirational Tuesday 💥 Hey, my LinkedIn friends and family, HAPPY NEW MONTH to you all. Recently, I tuned into an incredible podcast by Oprah Winfrey, and it was mind-blowing how that session on motivational minds perfectly aligned with my core beliefs and values. I have shared similar messages as well on LinkedIn in the past. These motivational quotes i share aren’t just words—they are forged from the crucible of my daily experiences. They are the raw, unfiltered truths that continue to shape my existence as a leader and an individual. Oprah, unveiled six powerful rules to transform your life forever. I'm eager to share a few of these profound insights that struck a chord with me. I hope they resonate with you as you navigate the complexities of your personal life, career, and leadership journey, making your endeavors profoundly more meaningful. Here are 3 profound ones that resonated deeply with me. 1️⃣ Own your story and your narrative. No matter how ugly or beautiful it is. What matters is owning that truth of who you are, understanding that you are the author of your life story, and you have the power to write the next chapters. Your circumstances should not limit you. When you take full responsibility for your life, you gain the power to transform it! 2️⃣ Set intentions not just goals. Goals are important but intentions are powerful. When you set intentions and live by them you automatically achieve your goals as a natural byproduct” When you set intentions you are choosing how you want to live in this moment and now! 3️⃣ Embrace the power of your voice! Not only the words you speak out loud but the inner voice, thoughts, beliefs, and the words you say to yourself and those you chose to put out in the world!!! Your voice is the most powerful tool you have; it shapes your reality in ways you might not even realize. I'm a fierce advocate for owning your narrative and unleashing your inner leader with an unequaled intensity. My burning passion is to be a formidable business leader, empowering others through relentless sharing of knowledge and transformative inspiration. So, I urge you to choose your words with precision, set your intentions with unwavering determination, and experience the magic of living your goals. Have a blessed week and the rest of the Month!! #LeadingWithWini, #InspirationalTuesdays, #MotivationalMind, #Kindness, #TrustGod, #Gratitude, #MakeItCount #OwnYourStory

Ok let's be honest. The word 'fearless' and 'authentic' in one sentence scares me. For years, authenticity is something I don't understand. What do you mean by being yourself? (And what do you mean that I have a voice?) I've grown up in a space where authenticity is a foreign word and sometimes is a taboo. Then being fearless about it makes no complete sense to me. In 2019, I received a scholarship to attend a 9 months Women & Leadership course and I was knee deep in a muddy, sticky puddles of discomfort, fear and vulnerability. I've learnt that I have a unique style of leadership, my voice matters and more importantly, understanding my authentic self is the foundation of understanding who I am as a living being, allowing me to create meaningful relationships with myself and others. Somedays I still question myself, who am I? and What matters to me? This podcast is my authentic self of the things that I love most: learning and hearing from people and the early years sector. But it is far from being fearless. It is full of fear and vulnerability and I think we need to embrace it. (I imagine here hugging a thorny cactus 🌵) So when I look at this quote, personally, being authentic is filled with fear and far from being brave. But it gives me passion and persistence in building my voice louder and stronger to things that matter most to me and it takes practice. And sometimes (most of the time) I fumble and smack my face in the sticky gooey mud. But I get back up again and remind myself of who I am and what matters to me. What does this quote mean to you? And what does your journey of being authentic look like for you? #teachingjourneypodcast #authenticself #authenticselfjourney #leadership #vulnerability #selfreflection #selfidentity

"What do you do?" Seems like such a simple question... The truth is, it took me years to answer it properly, and I'm not alone in struggling with the question. These days if you asked me what I do I might start by telling you that sometimes I'm a mentor, sometimes I'm an advisor, and sometimes I operate very much like an athletic coach. I'd talk to you about the type of leaders I love to work with, and why the work we do matters. [Check out this clip from my interview with Megan Smyth on the Blaze, then listen to the whole episode podcast to hear more]. My point is this... Think back to when you first became a leader. Back then you probably knew exactly what you brought to the table. Your edge was clear, your purpose sharp, your vision (hopefully) compelling. Then success happened. Each promotion, each expansion of responsibility, each new challenge conquered. You executed. You delivered. You transformed. But somewhere along the way, something shifted. Now, when asked what you do, or what impact you make, you pause. The words don't come easily. Maybe it's because you haven't stopped long enough to answer the question properly in years. Maybe -- and I'm seeing this more and more with the executive women I work with -- it's because you're at an inflection point in your career and it's just more complicated to explain what you do or the impact you want to make with those skills. Either way, it's time to get clear. Not just for your next introduction or your LinkedIn profile, but for yourself. Because how you articulate your value shapes everything - from the opportunities you attract to the impact you create to the legacy you build. 🎧 Listen to my full conversation with Megan Smyth on The Blaze: https://lnkd.in/ee5CmPH6 📅 Ready to get clarity on your next chapter? Let's talk: https://lnkd.in/eAXDApNm #ExecutiveLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment #WomenInBusiness