Why I Refuse to Shrink: Lessons on Race, Mental Health & Authentic Leadership

Episode Title: Episode Audio Link: https://podcast.ablackexec.com/episode/why-i-refuse-to-shrink-lessons-on-race-mental-health-authentic-leadership Episode Video Link: In this compelling episode of A Black Executive Perspective, host Tony Tidbit sits down with Samada Tobar—a transformational HR leader, executive minister, and mother navigating life with ADHD. Samada discusses her journey through racial identity struggles, mental health challenges, and the pressure to conform in corporate America.From childhood experiences of racial teasing and cultural confusion to confronting ADHD, anxiety, and depression as an adult, Samada’s story is one of resilience, faith, and self-discovery. She reveals what it means to be an intergenerational redeemer, the hidden costs of code-switching, and why authenticity is the most radical form of leadership.This conversation is a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t about perfection—it’s about refusing to shrink, embracing your full identity, and creating space for others to do the same.▶︎ In This Episode 00:00: Childhood Struggles with Identity01:04: Introduction to the Podcast01:48: Guest Introduction: Samada Tobar03:42: Samada's Family and Background04:28: The Importance of Discussing Stigmatized Topics05:33: Navigating Mixed Heritage and Identity18:53: Impact of Upbringing on Leadership22:59: Breaking Generational Cycles26:01: The Role of Therapy and Self-Awareness35:33: Challenges of Code Switching in Corporate America37:27: Breaking Down Corporate Hierarchies38:38: Advice for Young Professionals of Color40:40: The Importance of Authenticity43:20: Living with ADHD48:16: Dealing with Depression and Anxiety01:04:21: Blended Families and Parenting01:08:36: Final Thoughts and Reflections🔗 Resources Links and resources mentioned in this episode:🔔 Listen and Subscribe Listen to this episode and subscribe for future updates subscribe to A Black Executive Perspective podcast onYouTube PodcastsApple PodcastsSpotify PodcastsAmazon MusicOther platforms or by searching "TonyTidbit" if you like what we're doing and would like to support us, here's some ways you can help us continue the uncomfortable conversations that drive changesubscribe to our newslettergive us up to a 5 star review on Apple Podcastsshare an episode with a friend, family member or colleague🗣️ Follow @ablackexecfollow us across social media @aBlackExecLinkedInInstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterTikTokWhatsApp ⭐️ Follow @TonyTidbitfollow Tony across social media @TonyTidbitTwitterLinkedInFacebook This episode was produced by TonyTidbit ™ . Copyright © 2024 A BLACK EXECUTIVE PERSPECTIVE LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this podcast may be reproduced without prior written permission. For permissions, email [email protected] .