The Power of Persistence

In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood is joined by Sheena Yap Chan to explore "The Power of Persistence." The conversation delves deep into the essence of persistence, debunking the myth of overnight success and illuminating the relentless effort required to achieve one's goals. Joanne and Sheena share personal anecdotes, discuss societal dynamics, and highlight the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in today's fast-paced world. Sheena Yap Chan is a keynote speaker and author, known for her work on leadership and confidence. She draws from her rich heritage and personal journey, including the influence of her great grandfather, to emphasise the value of persistence. Growing up in Toronto in the 1990s with little media representation of her Asian culture, Sheena faced identity challenges which she later turned into strengths. In 2015, she founded "The Tao of Self Confidence" podcast, primarily featuring Asian women, and has since interviewed over 800 women. Her mission is to combat negative stereotypes and bolster the confidence of underrepresented groups through storytelling and community building. In this thought-provoking conversation, Sheena discusses the impact of social media on self-perception and the importance of authenticity. Joanne and Sheena also address the gender confidence gap, the role of men as allies, and the persistent double standards that women face in professional settings. They stress the necessity of mindset shifts, highlighting the transition from scarcity to abundance as pivotal for societal change. The discussion touches on the global timelines for gender parity and the specific challenges women face when re-entering the workforce after career breaks. The episode concludes with a resonant call to action for continuous self-improvement, community support, and unyielding persistence. Joanne invites listeners to engage with the Inclusion Bites community and promises more inspirational stories in upcoming episodes. A key takeaway from this episode is the emphasis on embracing persistence, authenticity, and the importance of dismantling superficial comparisons. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their personal journeys, leverage support networks, and remain steadfast in their pursuit of success despite societal pressures. Whether you're navigating complex professional terrains or personal growth, this episode offers invaluable insights into achieving genuine and lasting success.