Join us on this episode of The Jali Podcast as we delve into the transformative world of smart cities and digital integration with Lawrence Eta, a global expert in digital transformation and former Chief Technology Officer of Toronto. With over two decades of experience, Lawrence has been pivotal in advancing technological infrastructures to foster…

In this episode of The Jali Podcast, host Melyssa Barrett sits down with Michael Paciello, a pioneer in digital accessibility and the Chief Accessibility Officer at AudioEye, Inc. With over four decades of experience, Mike has played a transformative role in making the digital world more inclusive. From receiving recognition by President Bill Clint…

Joel Quintela, CEO of Quintela Group, a minority-owned business that's transforming the HR tech world. He has a Ph.D. in Business Psychology and a background in computer systems engineering. Joel is not your typical HR guru - he's the tech genius streamlining HR processes for Fortune 500 companies and tech giants. For more than 25 years, Joel's bee…

Join us on this exciting journey in the latest episode of The Jali Podcast where we sit down with Nic Raboy, an influential technologist and community builder in Tracy, California. Discover Nic's compelling story from a computer science graduate struggling to find local work, to a leader fostering a vibrant tech community outside the traditional hu…

As a seasoned technologist, Vincent Broyles brings a wealth of experience in shaping strategic and technical direction across a wide range of industries. With a background in Industrial IoT, energy conservation, and sustainability, Vincent has spent his career developing and monetizing innovative technologies that drive both business and environmen…

Born and raised in North Carolina during the Jim Crow era, Lester Patrick takes us through America’s history of segregation and restrictions imposed by the government for Black Americans. Mr. Patrick is a retired federal employee with a combination of over 40 years of experience as a Senior Telecommunications Specialist, Information Technology Mana…

In this episode, we’re joined by Nadeja Steager, a dedicated leader in healthcare advocacy and equity for underserved communities in California’s Central Valley. As Executive Director of the Community Health Leadership Council San Joaquin and former Director of the San Joaquin Pathways Community HUB, Nadeja has spearheaded initiatives to improve Bl…

We’re excited to bring you part two of our powerful discussion from the Securing Our Future: Pathways to Affordable Housing and Stability webinar. In part one, we heard from experts Lester Patrick, Rhodesia Ransom, and Kimberly Nash, who explored housing policy, resources, and economic stability. With Deidre Davey—California Hawaii NAACP Housing Co…

This week I want to share Part 1 of an insightful webinar hosted by the Tracy Area Alumnae Chapter (TAAC) of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated and the NAACP Stockton Branch. The webinar entitled Securing Our Future - Pathways to Affordable Housing and Stability. The webinar kicks off with brief greetings from TAAC President Liz Baker and NAAC…

In this episode, I explore the benefits of integrating digital technologies with DEI practices and how this can help reshape workforce operations.Melyssa Barrett

In this episode, we explore Dipti's incredible journey—from her early years growing up in Kenya and Nigeria to her impactful career in technology and financial services. She shares how a significant life event catalyzed her transition from corporate leadership to the coaching industry, where she now guides women to step into their power and achieve…

In this episode, we explore how artificial intelligence is transforming Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in organizations. Join us as we discuss the ways AI can enhance recruitment processes, eliminate biases in hiring, promote equitable opportunities for underrepresented groups and share success stories from companies leveraging …

In this episode, Melyssa dives into the importance of the upcoming election and why every vote counts. More than just a presidential race, this election shapes our communities, schools, courts, and environment. Melyssa highlights the historical struggles for voting rights, the ongoing challenges, and why voting locally is critical. From checking yo…

On today’s podcast, I am joined by Jennifer Schmitz, CEO of Lattice Industries Inc., as we dive into her role in transforming digital infrastructure with a focus on enhancing financial organizations globally. We discuss her mission in pioneering reshaping financial technology that builds smarter digital infrastructure to strengthen communities. Jen…

Join me as I chat with Christian Chukwuma, an independent Financial Planner and Accredited Investment Fiduciary® with Osaic Wealth as we navigate financial strategies that align with your vision for the future and build your wealth to achieve personal financial security goals. Christian is more than just an independent Financial Planner and Accredi…

This week I am joined by success coach, speaker and career marketer Stephanie Vedder as she shares key factors to achieve your career goals, offers her advice and best practices to build confidence to pivot careers and overcome barriers that prevent women from reaching their career potential. As a results-oriented marketing professional, Stephanie …

Join me as members of the Black Employee Collective, Yolanda Barial Knight, Yulie Padmore and Sabrina Pinell, delve into the impactful advocacy efforts within the East Bay Regional Park District in California shedding light on the profound legacy of the Port Chicago 50, highlighting the intersection of history, social justice, and community empower…

In this week’s episode, I wanted to highlight a previous episode featuring Steve Napolitan as we discuss the practice of mindset shifts and its effects on our personal growth and social consciousness. Producing award-winning content, Steven Napolitan has been recognized by national media as a pioneer in the new media market. His executive coaching …

Join me as I delve into the rich history of Juneteenth, exploring its origins from June 19, 1865, when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas to deliver the news of freedom for enslaved men and women two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued to acknowledging the tireless efforts of Opal Lee who fiercely advocated for Juneteenth to …

As Co-Owner of Team Wellness Foundation and author of Black Pages Edition II, Raynisha McDonald seeks to invoke change in the world by helping clients navigate self-help and healing and promote Black-owned businesses and communities. Raynisha McDonald grew up in Stockton and was the product of a single parent. As a small child, she experienced pove…

This week I am joined by the founder and CEO of Pro Audio Voices Inc. Becky Parker Geist as she shares how her company seeks to better communicate ideas and perspectives, overcome community barriers by amplifying voices through storytelling and offer advice for authors to enhance their audio presence effectively. Becky Parker Geist is the founder a…

This week I am joined by the founder and CEO of SEE GOOD STRATEGY GROUP Shilpa Gadhok to discuss the benefits of implementing the purpose-driven approach when developing personalized brand and leadership strategies, how creativity can be used to foster meaningful connections, and explore the healing impact that mentoring has on mental, personal and…

I want to acknowledge and amplify the diverse experiences of mothers, especially those from marginalized communities. We need equity, inclusion, and support for all mothers, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, or socioeconomic status. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

In this episode, Melyssa unpacks an essential component for DEI to flourish: Synergy. She discusses the beneficial results of breaking barriers by linking our history and empowering diverse voices to create common ground with our peers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesMelyssa Barrett

Step into the vibrant world of community-building with Bridging Communities: The Power of Arts and Entertainment. In The Jali Podcast, we uncover inspiring stories of individuals like Necola Adams, who are making a difference in their communities through creativity and collaboration. Join us as we explore how arts and entertainment events transcend…

In this episode, District Attorney of Solano County Krishna Abrams delves into the role of promoting positive change and making a difference in her community. Abrams shares the collaborative efforts to establish community trust throughout Solano county through engaging in outreach and advocating for restorative justice. Krishna Abrams has served as…

In honor of Women’s History Month, join us on this special episode of The Jali Podcast as we amplify the voices of some of the remarkable women from my “tribe” sharing their stories, wisdom and lifting women, in response to two thought-provoking questions. Even I join in! 1.Advice to our younger selves: Listen in as we reflect on our journeys and o…

This week I am joined by the founder and Director Lula Washington and the Associate Director Tamica Washington-Miller of the Lula Washington Dance Theater as they navigate through the history of dance serving as a vehicle of communication and self-expression. They explore the healing powers of expressing oneself freely through artistic movement and…

To celebrate Women’s History Month, I wanted to highlight the exceptional work of four powerfully, tenaciously brilliant women, Letitia Hanke, Jordan Gray, Tareka McClellan, and Aiko Bethea, all of whom are fierce trailblazers shaping their industry. Aiko Bethea is a leader, builder and connector who has successfully navigated leadership roles in g…

Join me as members of the Black Employee Collective, Yolanda Barial Knight, Yulie Padmore and Sabrina Pinell, delve into the impactful advocacy efforts within the East Bay Regional Park District in California shedding light on the profound legacy of the Port Chicago 50, highlighting the intersection of history, social justice, and community empower…

Giving a shoutout to Iota Phi Theta, I had the pleasure of talking to Dominic Honoré from Iota Phi Theta, who shares the rich history of the organization, his unique crossing journey and how the fraternity seeks to build Brotherhood and community impact. Dominic Honoré was born in San Jose CA but raised in Manteca CA. Both of his parents are gradua…

The brothers of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Samuel L Dacus II, Charles Lockard and Trenton Goudeaux share the organization’s commitment to service and excellence through brotherhood. Founded on January 5, 1911, at Indiana University-Bloomington, Kappa Alpha Psi Incorporated is recognized as one of the oldest intercollegiate fraternities in the…

As we continue to celebrate Valentine’s Day and Black History Month, I wanted to take the time to spread the love through the lens of Kwanzaa as we embrace meaningful connections and Pan-African culture. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesMelyssa Barrett

Best-selling author and CEO of Unity Labs Brandon Peele shares his work consulting global organizations in integrating a purpose-led leadership approach into their company culture and key steps to reactivating our purpose. Brandon Peele (he/him) is a best-selling author, the CEO of Unity Lab, and an expert in purpose, leadership, and culture change…

Founders of Divergent CRO, Abiel Obanjo and Shone Williams-Adeniyi discuss their company's commitment to providing collective ethics in clinical research, and how the organization seeks to leverage innovation by bridging the community through impact, clinical trials, connectivity, and mentorship. Abiel Obanjo is a prolific clinical research profess…

I want to amplify the voice of Dr. Janice Gassam Asare, PhD by highlighting a recent topic from her Newsletter, “The Pink Elephant,” on identifying 5 ineffective DEI practices and offering strategies to create the changes needed to eliminate structural barriers and systemic challenges. Link to the “The Pink Elephant Newsletter: 5 Ways DEI Has Been …

In this week’s episode, I wanted to share an episode from the More Business More Life Podcast highlighting key takeaways to drive your business growth. Traditional business practices often neglect love as a driving force. In this episode of More Business More Life podcast, we'll dive deep into the connection between love, authenticity, and business…

Psychotherapist and Author of The Art of Being Authentic, T. Mark Meyer discusses how to live a more purposeful life, offers tips on how to reconnect with your authentic self, and overcoming trauma through introspection. T. Mark Meyer is a psychotherapist and a consultant for the world’s largest corporations, leading workshops on conflict resolutio…

In this episode, Melyssa explains the history of the celebration of Kwanzaa, the holiday's significance of restoring African Americans to their Pan-African heritage and the tradition of building a community, as well as, highlights the sixth principle, Kuumba, the commitment to being creative. #Kwanzaaeveryday #Kwanzaa #Kuumba Learn more about your …

Chief Strategy Officer at Substantial Sheryl Cababa discusses the equitable impact of incorporating a human-centered approach to UX Product design using the system thinking approach. Sheryl Cababa is the Chief Design Officer at the Insights, Design + Development Studio, Substantial, and a multi-disciplinary design strategist with more than two deca…

CEO & Founder of Trifectiv PPS Chantelle Marvin shares how her company aids in assisting large organizations to prioritize the human side of workplace productivity by breaking inefficient practices and guiding leaders through identifying better solutions and approaches to achieve optimal results. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm…

Dr. Peter Huang discusses approaches to disrupt racism, the benefits of becoming more mindful and how this practice is key to improving decision-making skills. Https://www.peterhenryhuang.co #disruptingracism Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesMelyssa Barrett

In this episode, I explore tips for creating inclusive holiday celebration that fosters a sense of community and recognizes diversity around your dinner table. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesMelyssa Barrett

This week, I am joined by educator, keynote speaker, actress and comedian Tareka McClellan to discuss her passion for serving as a role model for youths by providing a safe space for self-expression to thrive and her journey of overcoming her fears of pursuing a career in comedy as everyone's favorite granny, auntie and momma, MeMaw Jankins. Learn …

In this episode, I am joined by author, speaker and founder of More Business More Life for a discussion on building new habits, stepping out of your comfort zone, and creating better alignment to design a successful life. #morebusinessmorelife Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

Author and powerhouse social justice advocate Kennetha Stevens shares her work within the Stockton Unified School District modifying teaching models and building better relationships between teachers and parents to effectively foster success in the education system and encourage a safe environment for children to learn and grow. Learn more about yo…

According to the American Cancer Society, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime with Black women having a 41% lower chance of survival than any other ethnic group. On this episode, I am joined by three inspirational breast cancer survivors Glynis Dove, Mateenah Floyd-Okanlawon and Marguerite Toliver who fought to overc…

Professional track and field athlete and founder of Let Women Decathlon Jordan Gray shares her journey as a trailblazer breaking American records and the determination behind petitioning for gender equality in the world’s most prestigious sporting event, the Olympics. Did you know that in the year 2023, only men can earn the title of World's Greate…

Executive vice chairman of Ascension Leadership Leland Rubin and Chuck Lockard share advice for beginning the steps towards generating legacy wealth management through workshops designed for financial literacy and achieving financial freedom. They also discuss solutions to bridge the racial wealth gap and strategies to utilize debt and build wealth…

Ron Busby, a co-founder of ByBlack, illuminates the innovative solutions crafted by Black engineers to empower the growth of Black-owned businesses. He also delves into how the organization fosters intentional purchasing by facilitating connections between consumers and minority-owned enterprises, thereby fostering nationwide opportunities for Blac…