How They See Us

In Part 2 of this special two-part episode of Herd Strategies’ podcast How They See Us with Denise Herd, Denise continues the conversation with Deana Potterf, CEO of Girl Scouts of Central Indiana, and returning guest Tamara Winfrey-Harris, President of the Women’s Fund of Central Indiana. This episode turns toward policy, civic engagement, and the bigger systems shaping the lives of women and girls across our community. Together, they discuss what meaningful change really requires, why representation and participation matter, and how women can stay informed, involved, and empowered in moments that directly impact their futures. It is a thoughtful conversation about responsibility, action, and what it looks like to move beyond awareness and into lasting change.

In Part 1 of this special two-part episode of Herd Strategies’ podcast How They See Us with Denise Herd, Denise is joined by Deana Potterf, CEO of Girl Scouts of Central Indiana, and returning guest Tamara Winfrey-Harris, President of the Women’s Fund of Central Indiana, for an honest conversation about the realities impacting women and girls across our community. Together, they dig into what’s showing up in girls’ day-to-day lives, where women are feeling the most pressure, and why “support” has to be more than a statement. From confidence and leadership development to safety, stability, and access to opportunity, this episode focuses on what women and girls need right now and what it takes to meet them with real, practical support. Part 2 continues the conversation with a focus on policy, civic engagement, and how we can show up in ways that create long-term change.

In this episode of How They See Us, Denise Herd sits down with Nichelle M. Hayes, Executive Director of the Hurston/Wright Foundation and longtime advocate for literacy and access, to unpack how restrictions on books connect to broader efforts to limit Black creativity, speech, and historical truth. This conversation goes beyond the headlines. Together, they explore why Black stories are often at the center of censorship debates, how book restrictions impact students and communities, and what it means when history is treated as optional rather than essential.  

In this episode of How They See Us, host Denise Herd sits down with two respected journalists, Ebony Chappel and Steve “Scoop” Jefferson, for an honest conversation about the complicated, deeply connected relationship between media and public relations. Together, they unpack how news shapes public opinion, what it takes to tell stories beyond headlines, and how coverage decisions are made in today’s media climate. They also dig into what “gatekeeping” looks like, what makes a pitch stand out (or immediately fall flat), and how journalists and PR professionals can work together to open more doors for underrepresented voices.

In this episode of How They See Us, host Denise Herd is joined by Kim Raby, Sales and Planning Manager at the Madam Walker Legacy Center, and Kevin Enders from the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Indiana Chapter, for a heartfelt conversation in honor of National Family Caregivers Month. Kim shares her personal journey of caring for her mother during an eight-year battle with Alzheimer’s while working full-time, shedding light on the emotional, physical, and financial toll caregiving takes—especially in communities of color. The conversation also highlights the Alzheimer’s Association’s Know Where Alzheimer’s Hides campaign, aimed at increasing awareness and support in underrepresented communities across Indiana.

In our first solo episode this year, Denise Herd unpacks the realities of cancel culture in today’s digital world. She utilizes examples from H&M, American Eagle and Ralph Lauren to explore what it means for brands, why accountability matters, and how intentional communication can protect reputations and build trust.

In this powerful Pride Month episode of How They See Us, host Denise Herd is joined by the ever-fabulous Patrick Bouquett and Jason Grisell, President & CEO of The Health Foundation of Greater Indianapolis. Together, they unpack the rising wave of anti-DEI sentiment, harmful legislation targeting LGBTQ+ communities, and the weaponization of the word “woke.” Through sharp insight and personal truth, this conversation cuts through the noise to explore what it really means to be visible, vocal, and unafraid in 2025. 

In Part II, Eunice Trotter dives into the rich but often overlooked history of Black Hoosiers and the fight for historic preservation in Indiana. She and Denise discuss why remembering Black history at the local level is critical, and how preservation is not just about buildings—it’s about honoring lives, legacies, and the stories that shaped our communities.

What does Juneteenth really commemorate, and why has it taken so long for the full weight of that history to be recognized? In Part I, Denise is joined by Eunice Trotter, Director of Indiana Landmarks’ Black Heritage Preservation Program, who joins us to explore the national significance of Juneteenth, its roots in delayed freedom, and how the legacy of emancipation continues to shape American identity.

Denise is back at Studio G Fitness for the second half of our powerful How They See Us conversation on stress, strength, and mental health. In this episode, Denise Herd continues the conversation with Gena Brown and Pat Trowers-Johnson, diving into the beauty standards that hold women back from the gym, how Black women navigate fitness and hair care, and why what we put into our bodies matters just as much as what we do with them.

In honor of #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth, our host, Denise Herd, sits down with Studio G Fitness owner Gena Brown and group trainer Pat Trowers-Johnson to discuss stress, strength, self-care, and what it means to prioritize your health in every way. From gym anxiety and beauty standards to nutrition and mental clarity, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

In this episode, Denise deep-dives into topics impacting women daily: physical health, mental health and bodily autonomy. 

Badassery Life host Kelly Young invited our very own Denise Herd and Angie Carr Klitzsch of Women4Change Indiana to discuss How They See Us as white women, black women, women in the LGBTQ+ Community, and Immigrant Women - and what it means to move forward together following the election results. It was a raw, honest and unfiltered conversation you won't want to miss. Tune in now!

Join host Denise Herd as she dives deep into the complex world of code-switching, uncovering why so many of us adapt our language, behavior, and even appearance to navigate different spaces. This episode examines the personal and cultural impacts of code-switching, revealing what it says about societal norms and expectations. From exploring shifts in self-expression to discussing the significance of legislation like the CROWN Act, Denise unpacks the forces that shape how we present ourselves.

August is National Black Business Month, and supporting Black-owned businesses is more important than ever. Did you know that Black business ownership is up by almost 30% on pre-pandemic levels, with Black women starting businesses at a higher rate than any other group?  In this month’s episode of How They See Us we spend time talking with Chesia Torrence, owner of The Silver Center, Indianapolis’ premier event space. We discuss the highs and lows of business ownership, obstacles Black business owner face and the importance of having a transition plan.

This month we are highlighting our LGBTQIA+ friends on our social media platforms, and for our HTSU conversation, we would like to talk about then and now through the eyes of older and younger members of our LGBTQIA+ communities. What has changed? What's the same? What is the quality of now versus back in the day? How has legislation hurt or helped?  

Join us for another episode of How They See Us where we talk about how people are seen within the community. This episode features a conversation with Alice Watson, President of Indiana Black Expo.  

Black Philanthropy is an act of love and a great way to give back to our community. Join us this month as philanthropy, diversity, equity and inclusion subject matter expert and Managing Principal of InExcelsis, Dr. Michael Twyman talks with Denise Herd about Black philanthropy, what it is and the importance of giving back to your community.  

According to an article by the Human Resource Director, 90% of female employees suffer from Imposter Syndrome. On this month's episode of How They See Us, we unpack what Imposter Syndrome is and discuss how and why self-doubt permeates women's personal and professional lives.  

We are so much more than our trauma- and we’re tired of talking about it. Join Herd Strategies President Denise Herd, MBA in a candid conversation with Charlene J. Fletcher, Ph.D., and LaMar H. as they discuss Black History, what it is, and more importantly, what it is not. Learn about how researching and celebrating the past can help you play a part in reshaping the future Black narrative.  

Denise is joined by lactation counselor Lisa Diamond to discuss the challenges, benefits and health disparities in breastfeeding.

Tune in to Episode 14 of How They See Us as our host, Denise Herd, is joined by Mackenzie Pickerrell, Executive Director of the Girl Coalition of Indiana, and Tamara Winfrey-Harris, President of the Women’s Fund of Central Indiana, for an in-depth discussion on the current state of Indiana girls and women. Together, they delve into the 2024 Indiana Girl Report findings and preview the upcoming Women’s Report, highlighting critical issues such as mental health, sexual violence, and systemic barriers to well-being.

In this episode, of How They See Us, host Denise Herd, president of Herd Strategies, discusses how education influences our career paths and future success. Whether aiming for higher education or entering the workforce, she emphasizes the critical role schooling plays in helping us achieve our goals.

Herd Strategies President Denise Herd sits down with Carolyn Mosby, the Interim President of the North Central Minority Supplier Development Council. Together, they dive deep into the state of Black businesses in 2024, exploring historical roots, current challenges and future opportunities. Tune in to this conversation as they share insights on what it will take for Black entrepreneurs to thrive, offering practical advice and a hopeful outlook.

In this special anniversary episode of How They See Us, we celebrate 13 years of Herd Strategies’ impactful journey in public relations. Join our President, Denise Herd, as she reflects on the firm’s growth, the challenges overcome, and the milestones achieved over the past decade. Moderated by Kierra Santillan, Herd Strategies' Account Executive, this episode delves into what drives the team, the lessons learned, and the vision for the future. Denise also shares insightful tips for fellow entrepreneurs, especially Black business owners, on navigating the evolving landscape of PR and maintaining resilience in the face of adversity.

Join Denise Herd, President of Herd Strategies, as she hosts a timely discussion on the importance of rejecting violence and fostering harmonious discourse. Tune in as Denise explores how to maintain harmony and respect despite differing views in our country, and provides strategies for fostering constructive dialogue and empathy in political conversations.

Join Denise as she engages in heartfelt conversations with courageous fathers Willard Gupton, the dean of students at the Global Preparatory Academy, and returning guest Christopher Johnson about their powerful experiences in fatherhood. Expect inspiring stories, honest reflections and valuable insights on balancing life, shattering stereotypes and preserving cultural traditions. Whether you're a parent, aspiring parent or simply looking for a dose of inspiration, this episode offers a deep dive into the joys and challenges of fatherhood. Don't miss out on these candid and moving discussions that highlight the strength and resilience of these remarkable dads.

We're switching things up a bit in this episode! In honor of May being Mental Health Awareness Month, the Herd team decided it would be best for Denise to speak directly to our listeners about her challenges with prioritizing her mental health in a leadership role and giving her employees the grace to do the same. Moderated by Account Executive Kierra Santillan, this vulnerable dialogue is sure to serve as an excellent reminder that you cannot take care of others until you first take care of yourself.

There's nothing more empowering than giving back to the community—it's a sentiment that ignites change and fosters hope. In this episode, host Denise is joined by activist and philanthropist, Amp Harris to discuss the pivotal role of volunteering in uplifting and empowering underrepresented communities.

Nothing is stronger than the bond of sisterhood, and today's guests are here to prove it! In this episode, Denise is joined by her lifelong friends, Denise Wade-Jackson, Natalie Chavis, Kimberly Bacon and Lisa Chavis, to discuss the significant role of girl groups in our lives.

Denise's partner, Christopher Johnson, shares how he supports Denise as an entrepreneur.

Eunice Trotter and Mark Dollase of Indiana Landmarks join Denise to discuss Black history in Indiana and the importance of preserving it.

Today, Denise is joined by expert historians Dr. Charlene Fletcher and Dr. Dawn Herd-Clark to share some historical knowledge on African American history that you don't find in your average textbook. 

Account Executive Kierra Santillan and intern Malik Harris join Denise in this week's episode to discuss the passion behind the podcast and the reason for its inception. 

DEI specialists Deondra Wardelle and Intend Indiana President Stephanie Quick join this episode to talk about the evolution of DEI, where we are today and where we hope to be.