Overcoming Language Barriers While Relocating to New Countries, Cultural Challenges as a Woman of Color, and Navigating Career Crossroads as a Working Mom with Tolu Martin

In this episode, Lola speaks with Tolu Martin, who has 18 years of leadership experience in roles spanning operational, technical, business development, and commercial areas across various downstream businesses globally. She currently leads Shell Lubricants Operations in Germany, the UK, and Poland, and also heads Grasbrook Lubricants Center, Shell’s largest lubricants manufacturing asset in EMEA.  In this episode, we discuss: Attending University in Russia without speaking the language and how this learning opportunity shaped Tolu’s career path The pivotal moment of choosing a career in corporate or academia and what unfolded by listening to her gut instinct Moving to Germany, learning the language while on the job, and borrowing confidence from those around you to succeed How taking on roles that feel like a big leap can be the best way to build your self-confidence The challenge of being a woman of color in Germany and how it impacts your leadership style  Using your background to draw motivation to move forward with your career Finding balance as a working mom and how to prioritize things you care about Connect with Tolu:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tolu-martin/  Connect with Lola: Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/428192995622965  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lolaaadeyemopm/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/immigrantsincorporate/  Apply to be on the podcast: shorturl.at/dnyEO      More about Thriving in Intersectionality Podcast:   Welcome to the “Thriving in Intersectionality” podcast. A podcast created to help you learn from professionals in the workplace who have multiple intersectional identities; from ethnic minorities, veterans transitioning into the workforce, individuals with disabilities, parents, and so many more.    Hosted by Lola Adeyemo, who is the CEO of EQI Mindset and the founder of the nonprofit Immigrants in Corporate Inc, her mission is to work with organizations to build more inclusive workplaces.   This podcast was built to amplify the voices of leaders and immigrants in the corporate workplace and to give insights and guidance so people can move past their “barriers” and advance in their professional careers.   Through interviews and solo episodes, Lola will examine this global world of work. We hope that you can learn a thing or two from our guests, who have a range of experiences and stories to share. Join Lola as we meet new people who are successfully navigating the corporate space.   For more information and additional resources, please visit www.immigrantsincorporate.org and www.eqimindset.com Send us Fan MailSupport the showThank you for listening to Thriving in Intersectionality with Dr. Lola Adeyemo.This podcast explores how identity, lived experience, and leadership intersect in today's workplace and beyond. Through conversations with leaders, founders, educators, entrepreneurs, and changemakers, we uncover stories and insights that help people thrive across the many intersections of their lives.💬 Have a thought about this episode? Send a Fan Mail message directly through Buzzsprout. I'd love to hear what resonated with you.❤️ If you find value in these conversations, consider becoming a supporter of the show. Your support helps us continue amplifying diverse voices, meaningful stories, and leadership insights from across industries and experiences.⭐ Follow, share, rate, and review the podcast to help others discover these conversations.📬 Continue the conversation - read the companion reflections on Substack🌍 Immigrants and first-generation professionals can join our free community at:www.immigrantsincorporate.orgConnect with Host Dr. Lola Adeyemo on LinkedIn.Keep thriving in your intersections. Your story matters.