Episode 100 with Dr. Lola Adeyemo: Reflecting on A Journey of Stories, Growth, and Belonging
A milestone celebration and heartfelt reflection on 100 episodes of authentic storytelling
Episode Overview
What started as a simple mission to capture immigrant workplace and career stories in August 2022 has blossomed into something far more profound. Join Dr. Lola Adeyemo as she reflects on the incredible journey from "Immigrants in Corporate" to "Thriving in Intersectionality" – a transformation that mirrors the deeper truth she discovered: our careers and sense of belonging are shaped by the beautiful complexity of our intersecting identities.
This milestone episode is a love letter to every guest who trusted their story, every listener who found connection, and the transformative power of authentic storytelling in professional spaces.
Key Moments & Reflections
The Evolution: From Simple Stories to Deep Purpose
- August 2022: First podcast episode recorded, originally focused on the immigrant professional's workplace experiences and a follow-up to Dr. Lola's Book research conversations.
- September 2022: Dr. Lola's TEDx talk "Belonging is Not About Fitting In" shaped the podcast's direction
- January 2024: Rebranded to "Thriving in Intersectionality" to reflect the broader truth emerging from conversations and named after Dr. Lola's book Thriving in Intersectionality
- The realization: It's not just about immigrants – it's about the power of intersectional identities in professional growth
Personal Lessons: Discovering the Storyteller Within
Owning the Role of Storyteller: Dr. Lola shares how this podcast journey helped her embrace storytelling as her core identity – not just recording conversations, but crafting narratives that bridge gaps, clarify concepts, and bring people along for the journey.
Sharpening Advocacy Skills: Every published episode became an act of advocacy, amplifying voices that deserve boardroom representation but don't always get it. This wasn't just content creation – it was purposeful amplification of underrepresented perspectives.
Mastering the Craft: From outsourcing everything to loving the technical details – listening deeply, drawing out themes, crafting titles that capture the essence of each guest's wisdom.
Community Lessons: The Wisdom in Our Intersections
Identity as Bridge, Not Just Barrier: The most powerful revelation – our layered identities bring perspective, resilience, and creativity. They're not obstacles to overcome but tools for thriving.
Community Accelerates Careers: A common thread among guests – breakthrough moments happen when we stop walking alone and find our people, our advocates, our spaces of belonging.
Leadership Grows Everywhere: From C-suite executives to early-career ERG leaders, the spectrum of guests revealed that leadership isn't about titles – it's about stepping up with courage and creating belonging for others.
Standout Insights
"Stories don't just shape the listener. They shape the storyteller too."
"Leadership grows in unexpected places... without a title, with a title, in different spaces, you can play different roles."
"Identity could also be a bridge, a really important, much needed bridge when it comes to growing and advancing in the workplace."
Looking Ahead: The Next 100 Episodes
Dr. Lola's vision continues to expand – more diverse voices, deeper career lessons, and ongoing proof that belonging isn't about fitting in, it's about showing up fully as yourself and finding community in that authenticity.
Your Voice Matters #ThrivinginIntersectionality
Question for Reflection: What's the most important career lesson your layered identity has taught you? Dr. Lola wants to hear from you – your story could inspire someone who shares your intersection.
Connect & Continue the Conversation
- HR & DEI Leaders: Connect on LinkedIn for employee resource group and inclusive culture resources
- Immigrants & First-Gen Professionals: Join the free community at immigrantsincorporate.org
- Everyone: Tag the podcast on LinkedIn or connect directly to keep the conversation going. Use the hashtag #ThrivinginIntersectionality
Podcast Stats
- Milestone: 100 episodes strong
- Format: Solo episodes, guest conversations, dual guest discussions
- Scope: Guests across multiple sectors and intersections
- Mission: Amplifying unheard, underrepresented voices in corporate spaces
"Keep thriving in your intersections. Your story matters." - Dr. Lola Adeyemo
Rate & Review to help others discover these vital conversations about belonging, identity, and professional growth.
Host: Dr. Lola Adeyemo, CEO of EQI Mindset, Founder of Immigrants in Corporate Inc., Author, Speaker, and Workplace Inclusion Strategist