48. From Pet to Threat: Blackness, Conflict, and Self-Preservation

Impostrix Podcast

Y'all, this episode is really special to me. My guest Joia and I have BEEN THROUGH IT and she has always been in my ear supporting my growth and development. I am so happy to introduce you to the amazing Joia Thornton. Friend, sister, daughter, auntie, advocate, actress, non-profit founder, and leader fiercely rooted in her faith. we dive deep into the complexities of navigating workplace dynamics as Black individuals, particularly focusing on the challenges we sometimes face working within communities of color. The reality that not all "skinfolk are kinfolk", am I right?!

Here are three key takeaways that I believe will resonate with many of you:

1. Self-Preservation Over Institutional Loyalty: Joia emphasizes the importance of prioritizing our own well-being over the institutions we work for. Too often, we find ourselves sacrificing our mental health and personal growth in the name of loyalty to organizations that do not have our best interests at heart. It's crucial to recognize that we are replaceable in these spaces and to focus on creating our own paths and projects that reflect our true selves.

2. The Power of Intrapreneurship: One of the most empowering concepts we discussed is intrapreneurshipthe idea of creating something meaningful within an organization that you can claim as your own. Joia encourages us to leverage our unique skills and perspectives to initiate projects that not only benefit the organization but also serve as a testament to our contributions and capabilities. This approach not only enhances our professional profiles but also fosters a sense of ownership and pride in our work.

3. Navigating Conflict with Grace: We explored the painful reality that sometimes our greatest challenges come from within our own community. Joia shared her insights on how to handle conflicts with other Black colleagues, emphasizing the need for grace and understanding. It's essential to recognize that we all come from different backgrounds and experiences, and extending compassion can lead to healing and growth for everyone involved.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the complexities of race and identity in the workplace. Join us as we unpack these themes and more, and let's continue the conversation about how we can support each other in our professional journeys.

Thank you for tuning in! Remember, the Impostrix podcast is now available on the Alive Podcast Network app, offering ad-free content from nearly 100 other black-hosted podcasts.

Connect with Joia on IG @JoiaInATL and follow her work fighting to end the death penalty @FLOCCJustice and www.floccjustice.org.

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