L. Michelle Smith argues that in today’s high-pressure professional environment, the ability to lead effectively often hinges on an unexpected factor: happiness. Far from being a superficial concept, happiness—grounded in the science of positive psychology—is a deliberate practice that can transform leadership and drive organizational success. For women leaders, particularly women of color navigating systemic challenges, embracing happiness as a tool for empowerment and resilience has never been more…
The nation had the chance to meet Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff at the DNC last night, and it was great to learn more about him. But high-performing women leaders absolutely recognize a Doug Emhoff when we see one. He is indeed a unicorn, one that has the courage to love and support a high achieving woman leader despite the unique demands. Not everyone is cut out for…
“This workplace likability is all about transparency, the willingness to admit when you’re wrong, a commitment to excellence, authenticity and transformational leadership. This modern take on likability allows Black women like Seales to achieve professional success without compromising their identity — and I think we would all benefit from adopting this more enlightened approach. Because, like Seales, some of us are not your friends; we are women…
News Release HARPERONE GROUP COLLABORATES WITH VIOLA DAVIS, JULIUS TENNON, AND LAVAILLE LAVETTE’S JVL MEDIA ON NEW PROJECT New York, NY (June 5, 2024) — HarperOne Group announced it will join forces with JVL Media, a company founded by the critically acclaimed couple Viola Davis and Julius Tennon—producers of film, television, and theater—and visionary author and publisher Lavaille Lavette. The first titles acquired, with anticipated 2025 publication dates…
Amistad Inks Partnership with Viola Davis’s JVL Media By Sophia Stewart | Jun 05, 2024 HarperOne Group has inked a partnership with JVL Media, a new publisher and packager launched earlier this year by EGOT-winning actress Viola Davis, her husband and producing partner Julius Tennon, and Houston-based publisher Lavaille Lavette. HarperOne’s Amistad imprint will serve as a publishing partner for three of JVL Media’s inaugural titles, which are…
Despite news of massive layoffs at Big Tech firms like Google, Cisco, Amazon, and others, there remains an IT staff shortage at many companies, especially in smaller and mid-sized organizations. I spoke with The Channel Company’s MES Computing and provided strategic tips on recruiting and retaining IT talent. I also weighed in on fostering a corporate culture that is welcoming to Gen Zers who are entering or about…
There’s research across the board that says your employees have to feel engaged. Now, what does that look like? We’re living in an age where people can see past the beer cart, and the Wine Down Wednesday, and the free meal, and the so called unlimited PTO we see. The jig is up.”- L. Michelle Smith, Certified Executive & Personal Coach https://www.mescomputing.com/news/4195339/executive-career-coach-heres-recruit-retain-talent
Any time is always a great time to read a book by a Black woman! Because of that, we’ve curated a selection of essential reads crafted by Black women authors, spanning a range of genres and themes. Through their compelling narratives, these authors delve into universal truths, cultural nuances, and experiences often overlooked Since the new reading program kicked off during Women’s History Month, here are 15 books written…
“Those sponsors are the ones that beat their fists on the table for you and put their skin in the game to make things happen for you,” Smith said. “The villain in the book is isolation. If you are operating alone, chances are that you will limit your leadership aspirations.” I had the pleasure of discussing strategies for women leaders who want to avoid being overlooked for raises…
“Yes Please! is a resource that not only shares collective concerns but also shares solutions that will support your goals to ascend to executive leadership.” Influence DiCOTA Magazine. Thank you for the extremely positive book review! Read the entire article here.