Winning Season

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Jun 2026

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Winning Season is the go-to podcast for mid-career professionals who want strategy, not just motivation. Host Jacqueline V. Twillie delivers actionable tools, negotiation frameworks, and candid conversations to help you lead with clarity, advocate for yourself, and find the win in every season. From navigating career transitions to thriving in challenging work environments, each episode is packed with insights you can use today. Powered by ZeroGap.co’s Resilient Leaders Program.

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June 15, 2026Episode 1152 min

Embracing Service, Leadership, and Ubuntu: An Inspirational Journey with Hermence Matsotsa

Hermence Matsotsa, a global leadership expert, author, and advocate for community-centered health and transformation joins Jacqueline Twillie in Conversation. In this episode, Hermence shares her multicultural background, her journey through global health, and the profound lessons she's learned about service, vulnerability, and interconnectedness. This conversation reveals how embracing humility and community can shape the next era of global health and leadership.Main Topics:Hermence's multicultural upbringing and love story of her parents from Gabon and OregonHer early career in global health and service through Peace Corps in West AfricaThe transformative lessons learned from living in Ecuador, embracing vulnerability and cultural humilityFoundations of trust in global communities and the importance of seeing shared humanityThe philosophy of Ubuntu and its influence on Hermence's leadership and business, Mbutu SpeaksHow her company offers transformational leadership, cultural competence, and positive intelligence coachingThe power of storytelling and capturing community histories through her workThe significance of living intentionally, self-love, and continuous growth, as outlined in her book "Better Than Yesterday"Perspectives on the future of global health: community-led programs, cultural understanding, and capacity buildingThe story behind her artwork featuring Ubuntu and its significanceChapters:00:00 - Introduction to Hermence Matsotsa and her multifaceted expertise02:15 - Hermence's cultural background and love story of her parents04:17 - Early career and calling into service through Peace Corps05:44 - The impact of living in Ecuador and learning vulnerability10:55 - Understanding and tapping into personal power13:32 - Making a difference through community storytelling15:30 - Global health work in Togo and community empowerment17:36 - How Hermence transitioned into CDC and her approach to trust-building20:13 - Key principles of establishing trust in diverse communities22:21 - The meaning behind "Mbutu" and the philosophy of Ubuntu24:41 - Overview of Hermence's company services and leadership philosophy27:26 - The importance of authentic leadership and psychological safety30:48 - Recognizing and evolving personal saboteurs and inner critics34:12 - The role of positive intelligence in leadership wellness37:07 - Hermence’s book "Better Than Yesterday" and personal transformation41:42 - Soleil's influence and her daughter’s role as a young author43:50 - The impact of sharing personal stories and community growth44:22 - Future visions for global health: community-driven, sustainable, and culturally sensitive49:44 - The significance of her artwork inspired by Ubuntu and cultural connection51:23 - How to connect with Hermence and access her bookResources & Links:Email Address/ Phone Number hermence@ubuntuworkforce.com / 1-202-421-9184 uBuntuSpeaks (uBuntu) website https//www.ubuntuworkforce.com LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/hermencematsotsa-transformationalleadershipstrategist/Books Better Than Yesterday: How to Take Intentional Steps to Self You EnvisionBuy on AmazonPluto, Special Just the Same Dwarf Planet by Soleil Cross (my daughter)Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ubuntuspeaks_hermence/TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@sageelevation

June 5, 2026Episode 940 min

This Is How You Love Her: A Radical Journey to Self-Love with Traci Saulsberry

Join us as we dive into Traci Saulsberry's inspiring journey of self-discovery, leadership, and radical self-love. Traci shares powerful insights from her debut book, revealing how vulnerability, curiosity, and authenticity can transform our lives and careers.In this episode:Traci's experience breaking barriers as one of the youngest Black executives at NBC and leading at PeacockThe meaning behind her book's title and its importance for self-loveHow writing the book rewrote her, revealing unexpected truths and healingThe importance of honoring your body and mental health in high-pressure environmentsPractical questions and journaling practices to foster self-awarenessThe power of surrendering to life's unfolding rather than forcing solutionsHow to navigate the "unnamed seasons" of transformation without rushing the processThe role of worthiness and storytelling in advocating for yourselfBook recommendations and how to pre-order This Is How You Love HerTimestamps:(00:00) - Welcome and introducing Traci Saulsberry, author of This Is How You Love Her(02:06) - Traci describes herself as a "light, quiet storm, and builder"(04:24) - Love languages and how Traci freely gives love(08:55) - The cost of maintaining "okayness" at work and in life(11:29) - How writing the book transformed Traci(15:00) - Staying anchored amidst diverse roles and identities(16:47) - Recognizing the gap between external achievements and inner authenticity(22:07) - Navigating grief while building anew(25:43) - The unfolding journey: embracing serendipity and surrender(36:26) - The significance of anchors like childhood and relationships in understanding yourself(40:01) - What self-love really means beyond spa days(41:41) - Lessons learned the hard way, including imperfection and agency(42:48) - How to support Traci's book and pre-order informationResources & Links:This Is How You Love Her — Pre-order Traci Saulsberry's debut bookCalm App — Meditation and sleep appJunot Diaz - The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao — Book that inspired TraciNBC — Traci's leadership originAbrams Books — Purchase links for Traci's bookConnect with Traci Saulsberry:LinkedInInstagramWebsiteSpecial note: This episode is a treasure trove of practical wisdom for anyone on a journey to self-love, leadership, and authentic living. Be sure to grab your copy of This Is How You Love Her and reflect on the meaningful questions Traci shares.

May 27, 2026Episode 847 min

Unlocking Leadership and Community Impact with Alison Anthony

SummaryIn this inspiring interview, Alison Anthony shares her journey from corporate leadership to nonprofit impact, emphasizing the power of preparation, authentic communication, and strategic use of AI in advancing community goals. Discover how to leverage your strengths, build trust, and make impactful asks to create lasting change.Key TopicsPreparation and strategic planning in negotiationThe role of AI in nonprofit workBuilding trust and authentic communicationTransitioning from corporate to nonprofit leadershipLegacy giving and community impactTakeawaysPreparation is key to successful negotiation and relationship building.AI can be a powerful tool if used responsibly and ethically.Authentic communication and vulnerability strengthen leadership.Leverage community and corporate partnerships for greater impact.Focus on human connection and trust over technology alone.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Alison Anthony02:42 The Evolution of Preparation in Negotiation05:46 Corporate vs. Nonprofit Negotiation Strategies08:32 Mindset Shifts for Women in Negotiation11:30 The Importance of Clarity and Conciseness14:28 Fundraising Trends and Community Impact17:29 Engaging Volunteers in Fundraising Efforts23:53 Embedding Mission in Fundraising26:46 Celebrating Legacy and Endowment Growth30:42 The Role of AI in Nonprofit Work38:51 Radical Honesty and Personal GrowthConnect with Alison on LinkedInFollow the work of the Tulsa Area United Way

April 20, 2026Episode 439 min

Why Standing in Your Power Is Not One-Size-Fits-All And How to Find Yours

Standing in Your Power: A Conversation with Denise Foss on Self-Leadership and TransformationDiscover how Denise’s journey from dance to leadership led her to create a powerful deck focused on helping individuals reclaim their strength and authenticity. In this episode, we explore the nuances of standing in your power, navigating unexpected challenges, and cultivating resilience within yourself and teams.In this episode:Denise shares her story of transition from a dance career to leadership roles and why she created her "Stand in Your Power" deck.The importance of presence, awareness, and intuition in professional and personal settings.How to recognize and navigate moments where you lose connection to your power.The five ways to utilize the deck for individual growth and team development.The insight, inspiration, and integration framework—three key steps to embodying new perspectives.Practical ideas for group or team activities using the deck, including retreats, meetings, and social gatherings.Denise’s holistic coaching approach that integrates life design, movement, and leadership development.Her philosophy of “and”—embracing dualities and holding space for contradictions.The ongoing journey of self-evolution and the importance of self-compassion and patience.Create Loudly WebsiteCreate Loudly InstagramDenise’s LinkedInStand in Your Power DeckInstagram – Create Loudly CoLinkedIn – DeniseEmail – info@createloudly.comChapters:00:00 - Introduction to Denise and the theme of standing in your power02:50 - How Denise’s background shaped her approach to leadership and self-awareness06:00 - The pivotal moment that inspired her deck creation09:15 - Understanding what it truly means to stand in your power12:45 - Tools Denise used to reconnect during a challenging leadership moment14:58 - Exploring Layla Delia’s quote and its relationship to power16:15 - The "and" philosophy: holding multiple truths simultaneously19:40 - How the deck works: insight, inspiration, and integration21:30 - Five creative ways to use the deck for personal and group growth26:30 - The importance of mindful reflection and active embodiment29:00 - Denise's coaching practice and holistic approach to living a fulfilled life33:15 - Embracing multi-passionate identities in coaching and life design37:10 - What Denise hopes listeners will take away: becoming and transformation39:50 - Special offer: a free shipping code for the deck and how to connect with Denise41:10 - Final words: celebrating personal power and ongoing growthResources & Links:Connect with Denise:Special Offer:Use code POWER26 at checkout for free shipping on the deck. This promo is valid until May 31, 2026, and is available only in the US.Note: This episode was released on April 26, 2026. Stay inspired and continue to step confidently into your power!

March 3, 2026Episode 242 min

The Real You vs. Work You: Why 61% of Us Are Hiding at Work

Discover how authentic leadership, community, and self-awareness can transform your career and life. Suezette shares practical insights, personal stories, and strategies to help you lead fearlessly beyond titles.In this episode:Suezette’s journey from education reform to tech leadershipThe true meaning of authenticity in leadershipHow to uncover and eliminate self-imposed dissonanceThe impact of authentic leadership on organizational performance (147% stronger)The power of community and mutual support in growthPractical tools: reflective questions at each chapter to overcome fearHow to align your career with your purpose and valuesThe significance of self-assessment, discernment, and strategic alignmentIntroducing Suezette’s authentic leadership framework and upcoming trainingsWhy professional development is a vital investment, not selfishnessCharacteristics of inspiring leaders: curiosity, directness, and mentorshipThe “no titles” chapter: embracing your full potential beyond labelsHow to create environments that support authentic self-expressionPractical steps for leaders to foster empathy, vulnerability, and inclusionThe importance of living fully at 80 and beyondConnecting with Suezette: website, social media, and community programsBonus: Recommendations for supportive organizations and actionable tipsSuezette Yasmin Robotham’s WebsiteSuezette’s Book: Beyond TitlesLinkedIn - Suezette Yasmin RobothamSuezette’s TED TalkOfficial Training & CoursesWebsiteInstagramTwitterCommunity & Mentoring ProgramsTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction & Suezette’s powerful journey to authentic leadership 02:48 - The secret sauce of attracting mutually beneficial relationships 04:24 - Misconceptions about authenticity and true leadership 07:57 - The reflective questions that heal & how to process fear 10:14 - Real stories of understanding real self versus work self 13:12 - Transition from education reform to tech industry—lessons learned 16:27 - The importance of alignment & trusting when things flow naturally 18:32 - Challenging hustle mentality & embracing ease through discernment 20:37 - Suezette’s mentorship program & how to unlock your full potential 24:17 - Characteristics of admired leaders and cultivating curiosity 27:07 - Upcoming curriculum on authentic leadership & organizational impact 30:50 - Advice for newcomers into tech & managing perceptions 34:28 - Strategies for identifying where environments align with your values 35:18 - The significance of “no titles” for self-awareness & growth 37:01 - How self-assessment leads to greater impact & fuller life 40:50 - Recognizing dissonance and releasing what no longer serves 42:34 - Final thoughts — living as your best self & embracing full capacity 43:16 - Connecting with Suezette: resources, social media & community call-to-actionResources & Links:Connect with Suezette:Embrace your authentic self — lead fearlessly and live fully!Suezette Yasmin Robotham’s WebsiteSuezette’s Book: Beyond TitlesLinkedIn - Suezette Yasmin RobothamSuezette’s TED TalkOfficial Training & CoursesWebsiteInstagramTwitterCommunity & Mentoring Programs

February 10, 2026Episode 143 min

Call and Response: Leadership Lessons w L. Michelle Smith

Unlock the powerful leadership principles grounded in Black church traditions and culture. In this episode, L.Michelle Smith shares her insights on how call and response, faith, community, and resilience can transform your leadership approach and drive authentic connections.L.Michelle's inspiration behind writing Call and Response and how her church experiences shape her leadership philosophyThe leadership lessons derived from Black church traditions, especially faith, purpose, and communityThe science behind attunement, oxytocin, and brain science that support community-building and resilienceThe historical roots of call and response from Africa to the Black church and their relevance to modern leadershipPractical strategies for applying these principles in corporate and community settingsHow to develop heart-centered, courageous, and emotionally intelligent leaders across industriesThe importance of integrity, accountability, and cultural competency in today's leadership landscapeResources: pre-order discounts, workshops, curriculum, and recommended readingCall and Response by L. Michelle SmithBook preorder & leadership toolkitL. Michelle Smith - WebsiteBlack Church Study - The Black Church: This Is Our Story, This Is Our Song by Dr. Henry Louis Gates Jr.Follow L.Michelle Smith on LinkedInFollow L.Michelle Smith on TwitterWebsiteRequest Speaking EngagementsPre-order the book and access curriculumLeverage the principles of call and response in team meetings and organizational cultureIncorporate storytelling, attunement, and community-building techniques into your leadership stylePractice integrity and accountability daily to build trust and resilience in your teamsUse the provided leadership questions and curriculum to foster critical thinking and strategic growthJoin the movement to develop more heart-centered, courageous leaders across industriesEmbrace these culturally rooted, science-backed strategies to lead with authenticity, influence, and purpose.—Thank you for listening! Don't forget to share your copies of the book and tag L.Michelle Smith on social media with your leadership insights.In this episode:Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Michelle Smith and her leadership journey02:00 - The story behind Call and Response and cultural influences04:50 - Black church leadership lessons: faith and purpose08:30 - The science of community: oxytocin and brain synchronization12:00 - Roots of call and response: from Africa to modern music and culture16:20 - The role of resilience: lessons from grandmothers and gospel hymns20:56 - Building integrity and accountability in leadership24:05 - Practical tips for applying call and response strategies in organizations27:40 - Addressing generational shifts and the importance of social-emotional skills31:15 - The significance of community as a covenant and collective success35:30 - Cultivating influential, heart-centered leaders: Carla Harris, Sint Marshall, and others40:10 - How to get the book, resources for leaders, and call to action43:05 - Final thoughts: leading with authenticity and cultural intelligenceResources & Links:Connect with Elle Michelle Smith:To Enhance Your Leadership:

October 13, 202529 min

Pinpoint What Decision-Makers Actually Value

This episode of Winning Season features a real lesson from Jacqueline V. Twillie, originally delivered live to a group of mid-career professionals. In it, Jacqueline unpacks the moment she cracked a high-stakes global project stalemate by identifying the single metric and timeline that mattered most to a senior leader.She walks listeners through her signature L.A.T.T.E. Framework—Look, Anticipate, Think, Talk, Evaluate—and shows how to use it to translate your solution into the language of decision makers. You’ll learn how to pinpoint priorities, anticipate objections, and present your ideas in a way that earns approvals faster.Whether you're preparing for a big pitch or navigating shifting priorities, this lesson gives you a repeatable playbook to get a clear yes.This podcast episode is an actual lesson taught by Jacqueline V. Twillie, founder of ZeroGap and creator of the L.A.T.T.E. Framework. You’ll hear her teaching in real time, not a scripted studio segment, so grab a notebook and get ready to apply these strategies immediately.📌 Note

August 5, 2025Episode 2521 min

Marketing and Money Rules for Change Makers w/ Alair Castro

SummaryIn this episode of the Winning Season podcast, host Jacqueline Twillie interviews Alair Castro, a Director of Diversity and Inclusion Strategy and Marketing at Northwestern Mutual and founder of the AC Consultancy. Alair shares her journey and passion for addressing the racial wealth gap, advocating for Black women, and creating inclusive marketing strategies. The conversation explores the importance of building trust within communities, measuring success beyond traditional metrics, and the significance of maintaining authenticity in consultancy work. Alair emphasizes the need for multiple streams of income and the value of unplugged family time for personal and professional growth.TakeawaysAlair Castro is a Director of Diversity and Inclusion Strategy and Marketing.Her career is dedicated to advocating for Black women.The racial wealth gap is a significant issue affecting the Black community.Building trust within the Black community is crucial for financial services.Inclusive marketing can drive business goals and community impact.Success indicators should go beyond clicks and impressions.Maintaining authenticity is key in consultancy work.Monetizing your skills can create additional income streams.Unplugged family time is essential for mental well-being.Effective communication of boundaries is vital in leadership.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Alair Castro01:40 Passion for Racial Wealth Gap03:48 Understanding the Racial Wealth Gap05:14 Building Buy-In for Inclusion06:44 The Business Case for Inclusive Marketing07:42 Cultural Insights in Marketing09:23 Measuring Success Beyond Clicks10:40 Overcoming Analysis Paralysis12:15 Monetizing Your Genius14:05 The Importance of Unplugged Time16:00 Turning Conflict into Collaboration17:56 Marketing and Money Rules for Change Makers18:24 Fun and Personal Insights with Alair CastroConnect with Alair LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/alaircastro/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/acoutoftheoffice/Online https://www.theacconsultancy.com/

August 1, 20251 min

Mini Episode - Career and Negotiation with Jacqueline Twillie - Resilient Leaders

Winning Season Podcast - Mini Episode Show NotesHost: Jacqueline TwillieEpisode Type: Mini Episode - Career and Negotiation InspirationDuration: ~3 minutesEpisode Overview A quick-hit episode sharing actionable career and negotiation tips from two of Jacqueline's current projects, designed to give listeners a boost in their professional journey.Main Tip: Highlight Your Unique ValueIdentify what makes you stand out from other candidatesLead confidently with your unique strengths in your job searchImplementation strategies:When: August 21stWhere: Maven.comCost: FreeCore Concept: Going from "Almost" to "Absolutely"A 5-step method for building a negotiation strategy:L - LookA - AnticipateT - ThinkT - TalkE - EvaluateFramework Benefits:Preparation for challenges and questions from the other partyAddresses potential objections that typically arise early in negotiationsBuilds confidence and prevents being thrown off your gameLeads to faster, mutually beneficial agreementsSmall tweaks can create significant impact in career developmentPreparation is crucial for successful negotiationsConfidence comes from being ready to address challengesThe power to shape your career is in your handsThe Table: 30-day pop-up career strategy groupInstant Negotiation Strategy Class: Free class on Maven.com (August 21st)"The power to shape your career and own your negotiation - it only takes a few tweaks."Keep winning!Chapters 00:00 - 00:15 - Welcome & IntroductionHost introduction and episode overview00:15 - 01:30 - The Table: Career Strategy for Black Women30-day pop-up group supporting those impacted by 2025 job market01:30 - 02:45 - The LATTE Framework for Negotiation5-step method from the Instant Negotiation Strategy class02:45 - 03:00 - Wrap-up & Closing Thoughts

July 21, 202527 min

Building Bridges: Lexie Mendelson's Partnership Strategies

SummaryIn this episode of the Winning Season podcast, Lexie Mendelson shares her extensive experience in building partnerships and launching innovative products like Google Pay. She emphasizes the importance of values such as truth and loyalty in partnerships, the need for adaptability in international rollouts, and the significance of aligning diverse stakeholders. Lexie also discusses the challenges of navigating regulatory environments, the importance of modeling realistic workloads, and the value of genuine relationships in professional networks. She offers valuable advice for emerging leaders on building authentic connections and understanding the needs of others.TakeawaysLexie's journey spans art history to tech and finance.Building infrastructure for new market categories is key.Truth and loyalty are essential in partnerships.Understanding success for all parties is crucial.Adapt products for different markets to succeed.Meetings enhance communication and stakeholder alignment.Leaders should model realistic workloads for teams.Genuine care for colleagues fosters strong relationships.Empathy is vital in professional conversations.Emerging leaders should focus on authentic connections.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Lexi's Journey02:16 Connecting Career Chapters04:27 Values-Driven Leadership07:45 Launching Google Pay Internationally09:58 Aligning Stakeholders for Success12:50 Navigating Regulations in Banking15:10 Normalizing Workloads for Team Performance19:54 Building Authentic Relationships22:13 Foundational Skills for Emerging Leaders24:03 Rapid Fire Fun Questions