Brown Ambition

Hey, hey BA fam! This week we're revisiting two intense listener questions:  Financial Infidelity: When Your Partner Invests Behind Your Back Listener Robin's husband made an over $50,000 investment on credit cards without telling her—and lost it all. Mandi breaks down how to protect yourself: separate your finances, secure bank accounts with strong authentication, and get a family law attorney involved ASAP to understand spousal debt laws. Workplace Sexual Harassment: When Do You Speak Up? Our second listener is dealing with sexual harassment, an HR department that dropped the ball, and a toxic team at her financial services firm. She's ready to leave but wondering: should she put her grievances in her resignation letter? Mandi gets into documenting everything with dates and evidence, weighing career risks, and deciding if speaking up can create change for others. Have a question you'd like me to answer on an upcoming episode? Email me at [email protected] or DM me on IG at @brownambitionpodcast. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Mandi Money  brings the BAFAM a special “Best Of” mash-up episode featuring two powerhouse women who’ve carved out space in the C-suite and beyond. From boldly leaving corporate America to building whole new tables (not just getting a seat at one), these conversations are all about self-belief, wealth-building, and trusting your gut—even when everyone else thinks you’re wild for betting on yourself. This ep revisits conversations with: ✨ Christina Mancini, CEO of Black Girls Code [link to full EP]✨ Gabrielle Gambrell, media executive at Hachette Book Group [link to full ep] Both women share the real talk behind their boldest career pivots, what it takes to thrive in rare professional spaces, and why betting on yourself is the ultimate flex.   Quick reminder: if you want YOUR question featured on the show, head to brownambitionpodcast.com and submit it through our website, or slide into our DMs on Instagram at @BrownAmbitionPodcast. And while you’re there, leave us a five-star review on Apple Podcasts—it seriously helps other people find the show and helps us climb back into that top ten for business podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week’s episode of Brown Ambition, Mandi Money sits down with author C.J. Farley to unpack his new book Who Knows You by Heart  a story that hits right at the intersection of ambition, identity, and the harsh realities of working in big tech. Farley takes us behind the curtain of corporate life through the journey of Octavia, a young Black woman navigating discrimination, mounting debt, and the emotional toll of trying to thrive in an industry where representation is still painfully lacking. From microaggressions (and yes, “technoaggressions”) to the weaponization of PIPs, this conversation gets real about what it actually means to succeed while marginalized. Mandi and Farley also dig into the importance of mentorship, building community, and how responsible AI is reshaping creativity and career paths. And—because we’re all doing our best to stay sane while securing the bag—the episode highlights why self-care isn’t optional… it’s survival. Whether you’re scaling the corporate ladder, considering a pivot, or searching for a network that gets it, this episode offers both heart and hard-earned wisdom.   Key Takeaways Financial & career empowerment remain at the core of Brown Ambition’s mission—this episode brings both. Octavia’s story exposes the realities of big tech, from discrimination to navigating massive student debt. Black talent is still underrepresented across the tech pipeline, highlighting systemic barriers. Mentorship is vital, especially for women of color facing uphill battles at work.  Microaggressions and “technoaggressions” continue to shape the everyday experience of marginalized employees. Go pickup a copy of the book today ---> https://www.amazon.com/Who-Knows-You-Heart-Novel/dp/0063418630?ref_=ast_author_dp  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's BA QA, where I take your questions about life, money, career and everything in between (!), we're revisiting past questions on managing debt as a couple, navigating military benefits during a cross-country move, and figuring out whether high-deductible health plans are actually worth it . Quick reminder: if you want YOUR question featured on the show, head to brownambitionpodcast.com and submit it through our website, or slide into our DMs on Instagram at @BrownAmbitionPodcast. And while you’re there, leave us a five-star review on Apple Podcasts—it seriously helps other people find the show and helps us climb back into that top ten for business podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hey BA Fam! As the temperatures drop and the days get shorter, Mandi Money is keeping it real about what this season can bring emotionally, financially, and politically. In this episode, she dives into how seasonal changes can impact our moods and motivation, why planning ahead for the holidays can save both your sanity and your wallet, and how collective action like economic boycotts can actually shift power back into our communities. Mandi also weighs in on the latest job market trends, from tech layoffs to nonprofit funding challenges, and reminds us that art and community engagement aren’t just “nice to have” they’re essential for keeping our spirits up during tough times. This episode blends real talk about finances with a call to reconnect with yourself, your family, and your neighborhood.   Key Takeaways: Seasonal changes can seriously impact mood and productivity, make space for rest and light. Create a cozy winter vibe to help ease the seasonal blues. Planning ahead for the holidays can prevent stress and financial strain. Boycotting major corporations can be a powerful act of community empowerment. Honest conversations about money can strengthen family bonds. Political and economic policies have real effects on our day-to-day lives. Support local artists and small businesses they keep culture alive. Job cuts are rising, especially in tech and nonprofit sectors stay informed and proactive. Join the conversation:We’d love to hear how you’re embracing your calling! Drop us a note or tag us on social using #BrownAmbitionPodcastand let us know your biggest takeaway.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week’s Washday Woosah episode, Mandi Money sits down with executive coach and author Muriel Wilkins for a powerful conversation about leadership, self-efficacy, and the internal work required to truly step into your power. Muriel host of Harvard Business Review’s Coaching Real Leaders podcast and author of Leadership Unblocked, pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to grow as a leader. Together, she and Mandi unpack the parallels between leadership and parenting, the challenges high achievers face when they transition into leadership roles, and why a true sense of belonging starts from within. This conversation isn’t about titles or promotions. It’s about doing the inner work to unlock your confidence, confront your limiting beliefs, and embrace the magic that’s already in you.   💡 What You’ll Hear In This Episode: Why leadership starts with self-awareness and internal work How high achievers often struggle when they move into leadership roles The power of self-efficacy and how it builds confidence Why creating a sense of belonging begins with you How to handle feedback without losing confidence The importance of self-compassion through challenges and setbacks What great coaches and mentors really do (hint: it’s not giving all the answers) Why recognizing your own “magic” is key to personal empowerment   🎧 Tune in to hear Muriel’s refreshing take on leadership, belonging, and how to move through self-doubt with grace and don’t forget to grab her new book, Leadership Unblocked, for even more wisdom on stepping into your purpose with confidence.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hey BA Fam! this week Mandi Money is flying solo with a heart-to-heart about what it really looks like to find peace in uncertain times. Between election night energy, economic anxiety, and personal challenges with depression and anxiety, I’ve been reminded how important it is to slow down, show yourself compassion, and stay connected to your people.I’m breaking down how I’m coping—from journaling and rest to making more mindful financial decisions as we head into the holidays. Plus, we’re celebrating some incredible election wins (shoutout to Zoran Mamdani in NYC and Mary Sheffield, Detroit’s first Black woman mayor!) and the release of our Brown Ambition Book Club pick, Uncompete by Ruchika Tulshyan. And this week’s Brown Boost where I highlight Kim Lewis, founder of Curlmix, and how we can rally around her as she fights to keep her Black woman–owned business alive.   💬 Episode Gems “Uncertainty is a muscle—you can strengthen it with practice.” “You are worthy of community and love, exactly as you are.” “Be intentional with your dollars—spend in alignment with your values.”   📚 Resources Mentioned Book of the Month: Uncompete: Rejecting Competition to Unlock Success by Ruchika Tulshyan Support Curlmix: curlmix.com Join the Brown Ambition Patreon: patreon.com/BrownAmbition See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this powerful conversation, Mandi Woodruff-Santos sits down with writer and speaker Jodi-Ann Burey to unpack what it truly means to be authentic in the workplace—especially for women of color. Together, they explore how authenticity evolves over time and the ways mental health, disability, and capitalism intersect to shape our professional and personal identities. Jodi-Ann opens up about her experiences with depression and chronic pain, shedding light on the importance of self-reflection, storytelling, and community in the journey toward healing and resilience. This episode reminds listeners that authenticity isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence, purpose, and connection. You’ll Learn: Why authenticity is fluid and constantly evolving How mental health and disability influence professional identity The role of community and connection in resilience The impact of capitalism on authenticity and well-being How storytelling can foster understanding and belonging Ways to create safe spaces for authenticity at work Why prioritizing your health and joy over job security matters Key Quote: “Authenticity isn’t static—it’s something we keep rediscovering as we heal, grow, and connect with others.” — Jodi-Ann BureySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Mandi opens up about her healing journey—sharing how slowing down, softening up, and getting real rest have transformed her mental health and daily rhythm. From battling depression and anxiety to finally finding peace through sleep, nourishment, and support. Plus, she gives updates on the Brown Ambition book (you can help pick the cover!), her new free mini course, and what’s next for the Mandi Moneymakers Community. Then Mandi dives into headlinesfrom SNAP benefits and Trump’s $300M ballroom to Target layoffs and AI at work.   🧠 You’ll Learn: How Mandi’s healing journey is transforming her mindset Why slowing down can make you more productive How to join the Mandi Moneymakers Community Where to grab the free Nail Your Negotiation mini course Mandi’s take on SNAP cuts, corporate greed, and AI in the workplace   🔗 Resources Nail Your Negotiation (Free Mini Course): nailyournegotiation.com Join the Mandi Moneymakers Community: mandymoney.com/community Vote on the Book Cover: patreon.com/brownambition Find Local Food Banks: feedingamerica.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Mandi sits down with leadership and inclusion strategist Ruchika T. Malhotra — author of Uncompete: Rejecting Competition to Unlock Radical Success. In a world obsessed with winning, Ruchika’s message is a breath of fresh air: true success comes from rest, collaboration, and community not from constant competition. Together, they unpack what it means to unlearn scarcity, how to resist burnout, and why rest is a radical act of self-preservation for women of color. Ruchika opens up about her own experiences balancing authorship, motherhood, and identity while challenging capitalism’s grip on our worth. It’s an honest, hopeful, and much-needed reminder that we don’t have to play by the old rules to create abundance.   📘 About the Guest Ruchika T. Malhotra (she/her) is a globally recognized inclusion strategist, speaker, and founder of CANDOR, a consulting practice helping organizations build equitable and inclusive workplaces. Her latest book, Uncompete, challenges the myth that success must come from rivalry and invites us to build from a place of joy, rest, and abundance. Follow Ruchika: Instagram: @rtulshyan Website: ruchikatulshyan.com 📚 Resources Mentioned Uncompete: Rejecting Competition to Unlock Radical Success — available November 4 Rest is Resistance by Tricia Hersey “Spoon Theory” — by Christine Miserandino See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.