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.
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54:06
What it Means to Be Black In Tech in the Age of AI ft. C.J. Farley [WASHDAY WOOSAH]
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.
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53:01
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53:01
One Couple's $13,000 Debt Dilemma, plus Are HSAs Worth It? [BA QA]
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.
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25:40
How to Boycott Big Business This Holiday Season
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.
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46:51
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46:51
How To Thrive More and Suffer Less In a Leadership Role ft. C-Suite Coach Muriel Wilkins [WASHDAY WOOSAH]
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.
The Brown Ambition Podcast helps you unapologetically build wealth by saving, investing and making smart career choices — on your own d@mn terms! New episodes Wednesdays and Fridays.
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