27. Redefining Black Excellence
Hey there Risers & Thrivers!
In this episode, Janine welcomes three remarkable women—Shani St. Louis (Mental Health Specialist, Founder of MindHyrst), Adeola Ogunwale (Senior Manager, Amazon), and Sally Osei (Social Media Marketing Manager, AiDiA Pitch)—to discuss the concept of Black Excellence.
The conversation delves into:
The pressures and mental toll of striving for excellence
Its roots in systemic challenges & the community's internal expectations
Whether the term should be retired, redefined, or celebrated as it is
They share personal anecdotes about navigating corporate spaces, media representation, and higher education. Additionally, they provide practical mental health tips and emphasize the importance of community support, celebrating diverse paths within Blackness, and fostering authentic self-expression. The discussion rounds out with a focus on healing generational trauma and the need for redefining success on one's own terms.
Regardless of your race, heritage, or background, this conversation is relevant for anyone who is striving for success! Happy Listening!
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Acknowledgments
This episode was a collaboration with Creative Jam Sessions and The Social Hub Berlin.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction and Defining Black Excellence
01:33 Introducing the Panelists
04:37 Debating the Term 'Black Excellence': Retire it, Redefine it, or Leave it?
09:03 Personal Stories of Pressure and Representation
14:28 Mental Health and Coping Strategies
30:12 Creating Our Own Spaces
34:20 Supporting Black Entrepreneurship
37:55 Role Models and Personal Growth
46:45 Final Thoughts and Audience Q&A
