R.O.G. Return on Generosity

213. What Small Shifts Will You Make in 2025? | Generous Leadership Coaching Tip

“...And the reason for five degrees is that 5 % of our behavior is self-regulated willpower, which means 95 % is habit. The only way that we can create lasting change is through incremental steps.”
 
Episode summary |
In this final episode of 2024, Shannon Cassidy introduces the Five Degree Principle, a framework designed to facilitate meaningful change through small, incremental steps. She discusses the importance of sustainable change in leadership and announces the launch of her new online course, 'The Power of Five Degree Change,' which aims to provide actionable lessons for personal and professional transformation.
 
R.O.G. Takeaway Tips |
The Five Degree Principle helps leaders create meaningful change.
95% of our behavior is driven by habit, not willpower.
Small intentional adjustments can lead to significant results.
The new online course offers a comprehensive learning experience.
Sustainable change is achievable through incremental steps.
Celebrating small changes can lead to a more impactful leadership journey.
Host Bio |
Shannon Cassidy is Founder and CEO of Bridge Between, Inc. a boutique leadership development firm specializing in generous leadership, behavioral change, executive presence, effective  communication, collaborative teamwork, and conflict resolution. She provides Executive Coaching, Facilitation (team sessions, mentoring programs, leadership retreats, executive workshops, mediation services) and Keynote Speaking (conferences, annual events, ceremonies) all custom designed. This is her podcast, R.O.G. Return on Generosity focusing on how to be a corporate generous leader by sharing time, talent and gratitude. 
Shannon combines her keen ability to get to the heart of every matter with a proven track record as a corporate leader. Before founding Bridge Between, Inc. she spent years building profitable businesses and driving innovation and leadership initiatives. This real-world experience formed the bedrock of her success. She equips her clients with the strategies, tools, and inspiration to thrive during organizational change and to lead with vision, purpose, and generosity. 
Shannon has authored several articles and books including Discover Your Inner Strength (2009), The Five Degree Principle: How Small Changes Lead to Big Results (2013), V.I.B.E. A Self-Discovery Journey to Authentic Leadership (2014) and Grounded in Gratitude a one-line-a –day, five-year gratitude journal (2015-2023). Her current efforts focus on the benefits of Generosity at Work.
 
Resources:
Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index 
Free Generosity Quiz 
YouTube 
Bridge Between, Inc. 
The Five Degree Principle by Shannon Cassidy
V.I.B.E. by Shannon Cassidy 
R.O.G. on Apple Podcasts 
R.O.G. on Spotify 
Credits: Sheep Jam Productions, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.
Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 214, Special Guests, Jeff Benton and Brett Weinroth.

212. Brian Formato - Find Your Groove

"...if we could put people in the water and teach them to surf, we'd actually have to force them to suck at something again...In business, you don't teach people to fail because failure is not an option. But our best learnings come from failure..."
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Brian Formato and Groove Management
06:31 Innovative Learning Approaches in Leadership Development
15:01 Feedback and Impact of Leader Surf Program
20:54 Patience and Intensity in Leadership
27:04 Finding Your Groove
35:27 Rapid Fire Insights
Episode Summary:
In this conversation, Shannon Cassidy interviews Brian Formato, founder of Groove Management and creator of Leader Surf. Brian shares his journey from a challenging corporate career to establishing a unique leadership development program that combines surfing with personal growth. He emphasizes the importance of selfless leadership, the need for innovative learning approaches, and the impact of generosity in creating a ripple effect in leadership. The discussion also explores the parallels between surfing and leadership, highlighting the significance of patience, intensity, and celebrating success. In this conversation, Brian Formato discusses the significance of creating a culture of generosity within leadership and organizations. He emphasizes the importance of feedback, self-awareness, and the impact of small gestures in leadership. The discussion also touches on the value of time as a resource and how it can be used to foster relationships and personal growth. Brian shares personal anecdotes and insights on thriving in both personal and professional life, culminating in a rapid-fire segment that reveals his thoughts on various topics.
R.O.G. Takeaway Tips:
Groove Management focuses on what's right rather than what's wrong.
Generosity in leadership creates a ripple effect that benefits others.
Patience and intensity are crucial traits for effective leaders.
Celebrating successes is vital for team morale and motivation.
Learning to fail gracefully is an important part of growth.
Finding one's groove is a personal and professional journey.  
Creating a culture of generosity starts with intentionality.
Time is a valuable resource that should be invested in others.
Vulnerability in leadership is a strength, not a weakness.
Investing in relationships is key to living a fulfilling life.
Guest Bio:
Brian Formato is the founder of Groove Management, an executive coaching, strategic planning and human capital consulting firm, and the creator of LeaderSurf, an adventurous development program for business leaders of all backgrounds, industries and corners of the world who want to break old habits and create lasting change.
Brian has 25+ years of experience developing leaders and organizational capabilities inside of companies in a variety of industries including financial services, software, digital marketing, telecommunications, industrials, construction equipment and publishing as well as non-profit organizations. He has served in diverse roles including HR management, leadership and organizational development, corporate communications, and digital marketing.
He launched Groove Management in 2014 to help first time CEOs step into new and uncharted waters inherent with their unique roles. He is known for his work with executive teams, taking them outside of their four walls to address tough business challenges, and create new experiences that build trust and prompt change. His practice offers executive coaching, leadership effectiveness and development, organizational development, behavior-based leader branding, and alignment during change (early change company growth, post-merger integration and venture capital) services.
Brian pairs appreciative inquiry with a balanced leadership approach rooted in science, service and self to help leaders find their groove, learn to fail in order to succeed and adopt leadership practices centered on service to others and oneself. He often “sees the simple” that we can’t see when we are too close, and turns the simple into actionable insights with questions like “Would I thrive working for me?”
Brian coaches senior leaders and CEOs in a wide range of companies and industries. Coaching client organizations include Starbucks, Workday, Circle K, Electrolux, Propel, Toast, VisLink, Reltio, Databricks and several others.
Brian earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Eckerd College and a master’s in organization development from American University. He is certified in REACH Quotient, Myers Briggs, Birkmann, TKI, Conflict Dynamics Profile, and Brand You.
Resources:
GrooveManagement.com
www.leadersurf.com
Where to find R.O.G. Podcast:
R.O.G on YouTube
R.O.G on Apple Podcasts
R.O.G on Spotify
How diverse is your network? N.D.I. Network Diversity Index
What is your Generosity Style?  Generosity Quiz
Credits:
Brian Formato, Sheep Jam Productions, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.
Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 213, Host, Shannon Cassidy.

211. Susan McPherson - The Lost Art of Connecting

“...if you listen carefully when people tell you these things, which is so hard because we have so many distractions, but if you listen carefully, you can find ways to be helpful, to be responsible, to be reliable, to be trustworthy, all the things that make us fully functioning and valuable humans.”
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Susan McPherson
05:43 The Lost Art of Connecting
12:25 The Importance of Quality Questions
21:29 Pros and Cons of Social Media
30:08 Rapid Fire Questions and Reflections
Episode Summary:
In this conversation, Shannon Cassidy interviews Susan McPherson, a social impact expert and author of 'The Lost Art of Connecting.' They discuss Susan's journey, the importance of meaningful connections, and her methodology for building relationships. Susan emphasizes the need for quality questions, active listening, and the role of social media in fostering connections. The conversation also touches on the significance of generosity in business and leadership, as well as practical tips for making impactful connections.
R.O.G. Takeaway Tips:
Susan McPherson emphasizes the importance of human connections in a digital world.
The Gather, Ask, Do methodology flips traditional networking on its head.
Quality questions lead to deeper understanding and connections.
Listening is a crucial skill that requires practice and intention.
Generosity in business can lead to greater success and fulfillment.
Social media can be a powerful tool for showcasing others and building connections.
Intentionality in networking can create meaningful relationships.
Self-reflection helps identify personal superpowers for better connections.
Building diverse networks enriches personal and professional growth.
Don't give up; persistence is key to success.
Guest Bio:
Susan McPherson is a serial connector, angel investor, and social impact expert. She is the founder and CEO of McPherson Strategies, a communications consultancy focused on the intersection of brands and social impact. She is the author of The Lost Art of Connecting (McGraw-Hill). Susan has 30+ years of experience in marketing, public relations, and sustainability communications, speaking regularly at industry events including Massachusetts Conference for Women, DLD, Worth Women and Techonomy, and contributing to the Harvard Business Review, Fast Company, and Forbes. She has appeared on NPR, CNN, USA Today, The New Yorker, New York Magazine and the Los Angeles Times.
Susan is the recipient of Forbes magazine’s 50 over 50—Impact 2021 award and Worth Media’s Worthy100 award. She has also won numerous accolades for her voice on social media platforms from Fortune Magazine, Fast Company and Elle Magazine. Currently, Susan invests in and advises women-led start-ups, including: iFundWomen,Inc., The Meteor, Our Place, Spicewell, The June Group, Hint Water, The Helm, Apolitical, The Muse and has recently begun investing in women-led Broadway productions including Water for Elephants and SUFFS. She previously served on the boards of USA for UNHCR, Bpeace, The Lower Eastside Girls Club and presently serves on the 19th News board. She is on the advisory boards of the Apolitical Foundation, Lebec Consulting and Just Capital. Additionally, she is a member of the MIT Solve Women and Technology Leadership Group and serves as an adviser to several nonprofits including She’s The First and The OpEd Project. Susan is a Vital Voices global corporate ambassador and a member of the New York Women’s Forum and Extraordinary Women on Boards. She resides in Brooklyn.
Resources:
McPStrategies.com
SusanMcP.com
Susan McPherson on LinkedIn (in/susanmcpherson)
Susan McPherson on Twitter/X (@susanmcp1)
Susan McPherson on Instagram (@susanmcp1)
Susan McPherson on Threads (@susanmcp1)
Where to find R.O.G. Podcast:
R.O.G on YouTube
R.O.G on Apple Podcasts
R.O.G on Spotify
How diverse is your network? N.D.I. Network Diversity Index
What is your Generosity Style?  Generosity Quiz
Credits:
Susan McPherson, Sheep Jam Productions, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.
Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 212, Special Guest, Brian Formato.

189. Dr. Tonya Cornelius - Embracing Awe and Wonder for More Joy and Fulfillment

Dr. Tonya Cornelius, Senior Vice President, Human Resources, The Walt Disney Company where she serves as an integral member of the enterprise Human Resources senior leadership team. Dr. Cornileus is responsible for learning and leadership development, talent and succession management, performance management, and career development. Dr. Cornileus joined The Walt Disney Company in 2009, serving for nearly 13 years at ESPN prior to moving into her current role. At ESPN, she led learning, talent management, organization development, diversity, equity and inclusion, and wellness. 
Prior to joining The Walt Disney Company, Dr. Cornileus served as director, executive development & organizational effectiveness for Turner Broadcasting System, Inc. from 2004 to 2009 and vice president, training & organizational development for Aegis Communications Group, Inc. from 1998 to 2004. She began her career as an educator. 
Dr. Cornileus is involved with several professional and civic organizations. She serves on the Advisory Board for Advanced Leadership Laboratory, Women in Sports and Events (WISE) National Board of Directors, the boards for the University of Florida Foundation and Empower Her Network. Dr. Cornileus is a past board member and officer for the University of Georgia College of Education Board of Visitors, for the Urban League of Greater Hartford, and the T. Howard Foundation. 
Dr. Cornileus has been recognized by various industry and professional organizations, including being selected to the distinguished list of Wonder Women by Multichannel News, CableFax’s Most Powerful Women Mentor of the Year and Most Influential Minorities in Cable, and Diversity Journal’s Women Worth Watching. She has also been profiled in the Chief Talent Development Officer Magazine, Savoy Magazine’s list of Most Influential Women in Corporate America, and Pivot Magazine’s Pivotal Women. Dr. Cornileus was honored with a Career Achievement Award by the New England Chapter of Women in Cable and Telecommunications and inducted into the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications Hall of Fame. 
Dr. Cornileus’ philanthropic endeavors focus primarily on promoting access to education. In 2022, she established the Harris Family Opportunity Scholarship at the University of Georgia and in 2019, she established the Tonya Harris Cornileus CJC Diversity in Communications Endowed Scholarship Fund at the University of Florida. She is a major donor to the Criterion’s Club Gwendolyn Pinkney Harris Scholarship in honor of her deceased mother. Dr. Cornileus mentors college students through the University of Georgia’s alumni mentor program and young professionals across various companies and industries. She has mentored high school students through the Hartford Consortium for Higher Education’s New Beginnings program, and actively supports several other community service organizations. 
Dr. Cornileus is a lifelong learner. She earned her Ph.D. and M.Ed. in Human Resources and Organizational Development from the University of Georgia and her bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism from the University of Florida. Dr. Cornileus received the Senior Certified Professional designation by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM-SCP) and the Professional Coaching certification by the Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching (iPEC CPC). She is passionate about helping individuals and teams realize their full potential and regularly spends her time keynote speaking, writing, and reading on topics of personal and professional development.
Quotes:
“Avoid regret. Regret is perhaps one of the worst things you could do to avoid getting near the end or at any point of your life and living such a regretful experience is to go ahead and believe in yourself.”
“I knew that I wanted to be a part of helping people realize their goals and dreams and believe in themselves.”
“Believing in yourself and just taking one step forward toward it. And I believe the way starts to open up for us.”
“Do it scared. Don't let fear be the reason you don't do something. Just do it scared.”
Chapters:
00:00  Introduction to Dr. Tonya Cornelius
01:57  Tonya's Background and Passion for Helping Others
10:15  The Importance of Belief in Oneself and Taking Leaps of Faith
23:50  Finding Focus and Inspiration with a Word of the Year
30:37  Embracing Awe and Wonder for More Joy and Fulfillment
40:59  Takeaway Tips and Closing Remarks
R.O.G. Takeaway Tips:
Self-reflection and answering perennial questions about identity, values, and contribution are essential for personal growth.
Who am I really? 
What do I value? 
What gifts and talents do I have? 
How do I want to contribute? 
Belief in oneself and taking leaps of faith are crucial for realizing one's full potential.
Generosity and mentorship play a significant role in helping others reach their goals and dreams.
Having a word of the year can provide focus and inspiration for personal development.
Focusing on awe and wonder in everyday experiences can bring more joy, purpose, and fulfillment.
Resources:
Your Aha Life 
Tonya on YouTube
Where to find R.O.G. Podcast:
R.O.G on YouTube
R.O.G on Apple Podcasts
R.O.G on Spotify
How diverse is your network? Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index
What is your Generosity Style?  Free Generosity Quiz
Credits:
Dr. Tonya Cornelius, Sheep Jam Productions, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.
Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 190, with Shannon Cassidy for a Generous Leadership Coaching Tip.

210. Watch Your Language | Generous Leadership Coaching Tip

"While letting out a curse or cuss word might feel harmless in the moment, it can leave unintended impressions and even disrupt the professional culture we work so hard to build. I am guilty and need this lesson more than anyone."
Host Bio:
Shannon Cassidy is Founder and CEO of Bridge Between, Inc. a boutique leadership development firm specializing in generous leadership, behavioral change, executive presence, effective communication, collaborative teamwork, and conflict resolution. She provides Executive Coaching, Facilitation (team sessions, mentoring programs, leadership retreats, executive workshops, mediation services) and Keynote Speaking (conferences, annual events, ceremonies) all custom designed. This is her podcast, R.O.G. Return on Generosity focusing on how to be a corporate generous leader by sharing time, talent and gratitude. 
Shannon combines her keen ability to get to the heart of every matter with a proven track record as a corporate leader. Before founding Bridge Between, Inc. she spent years building profitable businesses and driving innovation and leadership initiatives. This real-world experience formed the bedrock of her success. She equips her clients with the strategies, tools, and inspiration to thrive during organizational change and to lead with vision, purpose, and generosity. 
Shannon has authored several articles and books including Discover Your Inner Strength (2009), The Five Degree Principle: How Small Changes Lead to Big Results (2013), V.I.B.E. A Self-Discovery Journey to Authentic Leadership (2014) and Grounded in Gratitude a one-line-a –day, five-year gratitude journal (2015-2023). Her current efforts focus on the benefits of Generosity at Work.
R.O.G. Takeaway Tips:
Before swearing, 
Acknowledge your reaction and identify the emotion behind it.  
Get creative with substitute words.  
Use empowering phrases like, ‘Alright, let’s figure this out.’  
Pause before you react.
Resources:
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ShannonCassidybb 
Bridge Between, Inc. https://bridgebetween.com
The Five Degree Principle by Shannon Cassidy
V.I.B.E. by Shannon Cassidy 
R.O.G. on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/r-o-g-return-on-generosity/id1508207492 
R.O.G. on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1L9UnWdoiAX8MtRKXjdPY3 
Video of this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/PNfiBD-2PLI 
Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index https://bridgebetween.com/network-diversity-index/ 
Free Generosity Quiz https://bridgebetween.com/generosity-quiz/ 
Credits: Sheep Jam Productions, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.
Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 211, Special Guest, Susan McPherson.

209. Van Lai-DuMone - What If? The Power of Curiosity and Play

“Pause and pay attention. When you hear that whisper or feel that tap on your shoulder of curiosity, it's an idea waiting for you to bring it to life. So pause and pay attention. We live in this world where we're always busy. We're so busy and we often are not pausing and paying attention to those curiosities.”
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Van Lai-DuMone and Her Work
01:10 Van's Journey: From Refugee to Entrepreneur
04:52 The Power of Creativity in the Workplace
08:58 LEGO Serious Play: A Hands-On Approach
12:22 Generosity in Creative Workshops
14:35 The Importance of Small Steps
17:15 Experiencing Generosity: A Personal Story
21:44 The Ripple Effect of Generosity
24:47 The Impact of Tippie and Humanitarian Efforts
26:09 Transitioning Veterans: The Honor Foundation
30:00 Creative Problem Solving in Veteran Transition
33:56 Curiosity and Personal Growth
38:50 Understanding the Immigrant Experience
42:50 Encouragement to Embrace Curiosity
Episode Summary:
In this engaging conversation, Shannon Cassidy interviews Van Lai-DuMone, founder and CEO of WorkSmart Advantage. Van shares her inspiring journey from being a Vietnamese refugee to becoming a successful entrepreneur focused on creativity and leadership development in the workplace. She emphasizes the importance of curiosity, small steps, and the power of generosity in fostering a positive company culture. The discussion also delves into the innovative LEGO Serious Play methodology, which encourages collaboration and creativity among teams. Van's personal stories highlight the impact of generosity in her life and the ripple effect it has created in her community. In this conversation, Shannon Cassidy and Van Lai-DuMone explore the profound impact of humanitarian efforts, particularly through the Honor Foundation, which aids veterans in their transition to civilian life. They discuss the importance of creative problem-solving and the role of curiosity in personal growth. Van shares insights on the immigrant experience, emphasizing the need for patience and generosity. The conversation concludes with practical advice on embracing curiosity and recognizing the potential of ideas waiting to be realized.
R.O.G. Takeaway Tips:
Creativity is innate in everyone and can be harnessed in the workplace.
Generosity plays a crucial role in personal and professional growth.
Taking small steps can help bypass the brain's fear response.
LEGO Serious Play is an effective tool for team collaboration.
Curiosity drives innovation and problem-solving.
Workshops can create environments where everyone feels safe to share ideas.
The journey of entrepreneurship often begins with personal experiences.
Generosity can lead to significant community impact.
The power of asking 'What if?' can lead to transformative possibilities. 
Curiosity is essential for personal growth and exploration.
Journaling can be a simple yet effective way to capture ideas.
All ideas matter; there is no wrong idea in creative thinking.
Ideas are living entities that need a human partner to manifest.
Taking time to pause and pay attention to curiosities can lead to meaningful outcomes.
Guest Bio:
Van Lai-DuMone is the founder of worksmart Advantage, a progressive team and leadership development consultancy that utilizes creativity, play, and curiosity to evolve mindset, skill sets, and behaviors in the workplace. Her work is built on the foundation that we are all creative, good ideas can come from any level of an organization, and by cultivating idea sharing in the workplace, everyone has a chance to have their ideas heard. And when that happens - company culture, performance, and innovation can skyrocket! She shares her work in a TEDx Talk titled, ‘What if? The Life Changing Power of Curiosity’ and her book ‘What if Pigs Can Fly? A Practical Guide to Follow Your Curiosities to Achieve Impractical Possibilities’. 
Van studied Psychology at the University of California, Santa Barbara and earned her MBA from Pepperdine University. With over 20 years of corporate and start-up experience, Van actively works to rewrite the way we apply creativity in the workplace, inviting clients to think with their hands and use creative tools like LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY to disrupt traditional training methods. Her clients include gamechangers such as Google, LinkedIn, and Pandora.
Resources:
Van's Free 3-Day Curiosity Journaling Challenge
Van's Book/Shop Link
WorkSmartAdvantage.com
WhatIfPigsCanFly.com
The Honor Foundation
Van Lai-DuMone on LinkedIn (in/vanlaidumone)
Van Lai-DuMone on Instagram (@worksmartadvantage)
Van Lai-DuMone on YouTube (@worksmartAdvantage)
Where to find R.O.G. Podcast:
R.O.G on YouTube
R.O.G on Apple Podcasts
R.O.G on Spotify
How diverse is your network? N.D.I. Network Diversity Index
What is your Generosity Style?  Generosity Quiz
Credits:
Van Lai-DuMone, Sheep Jam Productions, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.
Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 210, Host, Shannon Cassidy.

208. Birds Returning to the Nest | Generous Leadership Coaching Tip

"...you can increase the potential of having a visit that respects everyone’s needs and isn’t a letdown."
Host Bio:
Shannon Cassidy is Founder and CEO of Bridge Between, Inc. a boutique leadership development firm specializing in generous leadership, behavioral change, executive presence, effective communication, collaborative teamwork, and conflict resolution. She provides Executive Coaching, Facilitation (team sessions, mentoring programs, leadership retreats, executive workshops, mediation services) and Keynote Speaking (conferences, annual events, ceremonies) all custom designed. This is her podcast, R.O.G. Return on Generosity focusing on how to be a corporate generous leader by sharing time, talent and gratitude. 
Shannon combines her keen ability to get to the heart of every matter with a proven track record as a corporate leader. Before founding Bridge Between, Inc. she spent years building profitable businesses and driving innovation and leadership initiatives. This real-world experience formed the bedrock of her success. She equips her clients with the strategies, tools, and inspiration to thrive during organizational change and to lead with vision, purpose, and generosity. 
Shannon has authored several articles and books including Discover Your Inner Strength (2009), The Five Degree Principle: How Small Changes Lead to Big Results (2013), V.I.B.E. A Self-Discovery Journey to Authentic Leadership (2014) and Grounded in Gratitude a one-line-a –day, five-year gratitude journal (2015-2023). Her current efforts focus on the benefits of Generosity at Work.
R.O.G. Takeaway Tips:
Birds returning to the nest? Have visitors this holiday? Here are some tips: 
Set Clear Expectations Together
Respect Their Newfound Independence
Create Moments for Connection Without Pressure
Resources:
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ShannonCassidybb 
Bridge Between, Inc. https://bridgebetween.com
The Five Degree Principle by Shannon Cassidy
V.I.B.E. by Shannon Cassidy 
R.O.G. on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/r-o-g-return-on-generosity/id1508207492 
R.O.G. on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1L9UnWdoiAX8MtRKXjdPY3 
Video of this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/PNfiBD-2PLI 
Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index https://bridgebetween.com/network-diversity-index/ 
Free Generosity Quiz https://bridgebetween.com/generosity-quiz/ 
Credits: Sheep Jam Productions, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.
Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 209, Special Guest, Van Lai-DuMone.

207. Rashida Ricketts - Graves to Gardens

“What does it look like to approach harm in a way that is transformative . . .  how do we heal collectively and holistically . . . there are really unique and beautiful ways of doing that doesn't look like mass incarceration.”
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Rashida Ricketts and Her Work
07:54 Rashida's Journey into Service and Education
16:56 The Intersection of Fashion and Social Justice
27:52 Understanding the Graves to Gardens Concept
38:58 Misconceptions About Incarcerated Individuals
48:10 Call to Action and Final Thoughts
Episode Summary:
In this conversation, Shannon Cassidy speaks with Rashida Ricketts, founder of Graves to Gardens, about her journey from education to social justice through fashion. Rashida shares her experiences working with incarcerated individuals and how her background in communications and service shaped her understanding of the intersection between fashion and social justice. The discussion delves into misconceptions about incarcerated individuals, the importance of community and healing, and the transformative power of art. Rashida emphasizes the need for compassion and understanding in addressing systemic issues and encourages listeners to find ways to contribute positively to their communities.
R.O.G. Takeaway Tips:
Rashida's journey began with a commitment to service and education.
Fashion can be a powerful tool for social change.
Misconceptions about incarcerated individuals often overlook their humanity.
Community support is crucial for those impacted by incarceration.
Art and creativity can facilitate healing and self-discovery.
The Graves to Gardens concept symbolizes transformation and hope.
Everyone can find a way to contribute to social justice efforts.
Understanding the trauma associated with poverty is essential.
Compassion and forgiveness are key to healing.
Small gestures can lead to significant positive change.
Guest Bio:
Rashida Ricketts is the Founder and Creative Director of Graves to Gardens, a podcast that bridges fashion and social justice. She has created pathways to elevate unheard stories and educate her listeners through fashion discourse.
Graves to Gardens has featured prominent fashion leaders such as CFDA member Victor Glemaud, Olivier Rousteing of Balmain, Chrissy Rutherford, formerly of Harper’s Bazaar, and Harlem Fashion Row’s Brandice Daniel. Each leader shared Ricketts’ drive to advocate for social issues, especially women’s incarceration.
Ricketts started Graves to Gardens during the height of racial unrest in the U.S. in 2020. “There were social issues that weren’t sitting right with me. I started talking about issues that actually mattered, God gave me a vision to fulfill.” Ricketts stated.
The genesis of Ricketts’ impactful work in reflection of society started in high school. “In 2020, I came across this old notebook of an idea I brainstormed for a fundraiser event that involved fashion, music, and dance. Finding that notebook made me realize that fashion and social justice has always been within me,” she said.
Ricketts studied Communications at The College of New Jersey, specializing in Radio, Television, and Film in addition to majoring in Journalism.
Resources:
Graves to Gardens Podcast 
Fashion Brands: 
Grant Boulevard
Brother Vellies
Reformation
Books Through Bars 
Letters for Liberation  
Nat King Cole & His Trio - 'Tis Autumn 
Maverick City Music - Prepare The Way
Words with (Fashion) Friends: Scholar Rashida Ricketts
Where to find R.O.G. Podcast:
R.O.G on YouTube
R.O.G on Apple Podcasts
R.O.G on Spotify
How diverse is your network? N.D.I. Network Diversity Index
What is your Generosity Style?  Generosity Quiz
Credits:
Rashida Ricketts, Sheep Jam Productions, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.
Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 208, Host, Shannon Cassidy.