In the Middle

In Part 2 of this series, Vykky shifts the conversation from navigating corporate America to designing a life that actually aligns with who you are.After unpacking the realities of visibility, leadership, and strategy in Part 1, this episode focuses on what comes next: how to make intentional decisions about your career without losing yourself in the process.From redefining ambition to understanding seasons of life, Vykky challenges the pressure to constantly chase more—and instead encourages women to get clear on what they actually want.Because not every woman wants to be a CEO.And not every woman should feel like she has to.This episode is a reminder that success is not one-size-fits-all—and the most powerful thing you can do is define it for yourself.In this episode:• Why you can’t optimize for everything at the same time• The truth about ambition and societal pressure• How to align your career with your actual life goals• Why you need a life strategy before a career strategy• Building success without losing yourselfIf you’ve ever felt torn between ambition and alignment, this episode is for you.Watch on YouTube and listen everywhere podcasts are streamed.Follow In The Middle on Instagram and TikTok. Follow Vykky on Instagram and TikTok.

In this episode of In the Middle, Vykky dives into one of the most honest conversations women—especially Black women—need to have about success in corporate America.Inspired by the recent conversations around Emma Grede, remote work, hustle culture, motherhood, and ambition, this episode goes beyond the headlines to unpack a bigger truth: corporate America does not feel the same for all of us.Vykky shares her perspective as a Black woman, wife, mother, and corporate leader who has spent her career navigating executive spaces where representation, visibility, leadership, and strategy matter deeply. From why visibility still impacts opportunity, to how leadership can shape your entire career trajectory, to the importance of choosing strategy over blind hustle—this episode is about clarity, not fear.If you’ve ever wondered how to grow your career without losing yourself, how to navigate systems that weren’t built equally, or how to balance ambition with alignment, this conversation is for you.This is Part One of a two-part series on women, work, and corporate America.Because hard work matters—but strategy matters too.Follow Vykky on Instagram and TikTokFollow the podcast on Instagam, TikTok, and YouTube

A relaxing vacation in Hawaii takes a scary turn when Vykky experiences sudden eye pain, blurred vision, and an emergency room visit that leaves her questioning her eyesight. In this episode of In the Middle, she shares the full story of what happened, from a hot tub incident to hours of uncertainty, and how the experience forced her to reflect on how quickly life can change.Beyond the moment itself, this episode unpacks what happens mentally in crisis and how clarity often comes when everything feels uncertain.Three truths from this experience:Life can change faster than you thinkYour mind will try to protect you in crisisMoments like this clarify what actually mattersIf you need a reminder to slow down, reset your priorities, and focus on what truly matters—this episode is for you.Follow Vykky on Instagram and TikTokFollow the podcast on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok

If you’ve been feeling stuck, questioning your next move, or trying to figure out what God is doing in this season… this episode is for you.In this listener-submitted Questions That Need Answers episode, Vykky is answering some of the real, unfiltered questions that have been coming up in conversations, DMs, and honestly… her own life too. From knowing when it’s time to pivot versus stay consistent, to unpacking why rest can feel so uncomfortable, this episode is a grounded and honest look at what it means to navigate growth in real time.You’ll hear reflections on trusting God when life doesn’t look the way you expected, why so many people feel like they’re in a transition season right now, and what it actually means to pursue alignment—not just success.This isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about asking better questions… and having the courage to sit with them.Follow in the middle on Instagram and TikTok InThe_MiddlePodFollow Vykky on all platforms: VykkyHoward

We all say we want to be consistent… but actually becoming consistent? That’s where most people fall off.In this episode of In the Middle, Vykky breaks down what it really takes to build consistency in your everyday life—and why it’s one of the most underrated ways to start winning.This isn’t about motivation or doing things perfectly. It’s about creating habits, systems, and mindsets that help you show up again and again… even when you don’t feel like it.If you’ve ever started something and struggled to stick with it, this episode is for you.Vykky shares 5 practical, real-life ways to build consistency that actually fit into your life—whether you’re navigating your career, your goals, or just trying to keep promises to yourself.Because the truth is: consistency builds trust, momentum, and results. And when you learn how to master it, you stop starting over.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why consistency—not intensity—is what actually changes your lifeThe mindset shift you need to stop relying on motivation5 simple, practical ways to become more consistent starting todayHow consistency helps you win in your career, relationships, and personal goalsIf you’re ready to stop starting and start sustaining… press play.

Why Consistency Matters (Part 1) explores why consistency isn’t just about discipline; it’s something our brains, our lives, and our faith are wired to crave.In this episode, Vykky breaks down the deeper truth behind consistency and why it builds trust—first with yourself, and then with others. She unpacks how showing up repeatedly shapes your identity, strengthens your confidence, and creates stability in a world that often feels unpredictable.From the science behind why consistency feels safe to the real-life impact it has on your relationships, your goals, and your growth, this episode will challenge you to rethink what it really means to “stay consistent.”If you’ve ever struggled to follow through, questioned your discipline, or felt stuck in cycles of starting and stopping, this conversation will meet you right where you are—and remind you that consistency isn’t about perfection, it's about not giving up on yourself.

What does it really look like to grow through life while you’re in the middle of it?In this special 20th episode of In the Middle, Vykky takes a moment to reflect on the journey so far and shares 20 powerful lessons she’s learned as a woman navigating life, faith, relationships, and purpose. From ambition and comparison to boundaries, discipline, and rest, this episode is filled with honest, rapid-fire truths meant to challenge, encourage, and ground you.Whether you need clarity, confirmation, or a mindset shift, there’s something here for you. These are the kinds of reminders that meet you right where you are, and gently push you forward.If you’ve been feeling stretched, in-between, or unsure of your next step… this one’s for you!

Sometimes the most frustrating changes to our plans end up being the exact thing we need.In this episode of In the Middle, Vykky shares a real-time reflection after an unexpected travel delay forced her to slow down, stay longer in Napa, and confront something she didn’t realize about herself, how tightly she holds onto control. What started as a disrupted plan quickly became an opportunity to rest, reset, and see God’s hand in the unexpected.Vykky unpacks three powerful truths about surrender, perspective, and emotional maturity, and how learning to loosen our grip on the plan can open the door for deeper trust in God and the people around us.If you’ve ever struggled when things don’t go the way you planned, this episode will remind you that delays aren’t always setbacks, sometimes they’re exactly the perspective shift we need.

In the final installment of the Hidden by God series, we explore the third truth of a hidden season: preparation.When you’re hidden, it can feel slow, thankless, and even confusing. But what if this season isn’t punishment or delay, what if it’s training?In this episode, Vykky reflects on how God uses hidden seasons to prepare your whole person: mind, body, spirit, and character. Drawing from personal stories, lessons from sports training, and powerful examples from Scripture, she reminds us that what feels unseen right now may actually be shaping the strength needed for what’s coming next.Hidden seasons are not wasted seasons. If you’ve been feeling overlooked, behind, or unsure about your current season, this episode is a reminder:protection, provision, and preparation are all part of the process.

What if the season that feels quiet… overlooked… or even frustrating… isn’t rejection — but reinforcement?In Part 2 of Hidden by God, Vykky unpacks the deeper truth behind hidden seasons. This isn’t about being sidelined. It’s about being safeguarded. Strengthened. Supplied.If you’ve been wondering why doors feel slow, visibility feels delayed, or recognition feels absent — this episode reframes the narrative.Because hidden doesn’t mean forgotten.It might mean protected.It might mean provided for.It might mean prepared.Follow the podcast on https://www.youtube.com/redirect?even... & https://www.youtube.com/redirect?even...Follow Vykky on https://www.youtube.com/redirect?even... & https://www.youtube.com/redirect?even...

Feel like you’re being overlooked? Delayed? Tucked away while everyone else is being seen?In Part 1 of this 3-part series, Vykky shares the three truths about hidden seasons: when God has you hidden, it’s protection, provision, and preparation.This week, we’re unpacking truth #1: it’s protection.Hidden seasons shield you from premature exposure. They protect your development. They refine your discernment. They keep you from stepping into something you’re not ready to sustain.Hidden doesn’t mean forgotten.It means covered.If you’re in a season that feels quiet, slow, or unseen,this episode will help you reframe it with faith and confidence.Stay tuned for Part 2 next week!

We talk about red flags all the time… but what about the green ones?In this episode, Vykky shifts the focus to the green flags she’s no longer ignoring - in friendships, the workplace, romantic relationships, and most importantly, within herself.From friends who celebrate you out loud and leaders who explain the “why,” to emotional security in marriage and learning to celebrate progress over perfection, this conversation is a reminder that healthy dynamics aren’t boring… they’re intentional.If you’ve been spotting red flags lately, this episode will help you recognize, appreciate, and cultivate the green ones.

After the Shift, part 2, following When the Ground Starts to Shift, continues the conversation on navigating layoffs, uncertainty, and unexpected transitions with honesty, faith, and wisdom.In this episode, Vykky shares her personal layoff story unfolding in the middle of physical injury, and walks through what it looks like to stay prepared, proactive, and spiritually grounded when things fall apart all at once. From battling imposter syndrome to navigating the emotional weight of leadership, survivor’s guilt, and unanswered questions, this episode offers both practical guidance and deep encouragement.You’ll hear why preparation isn’t pessimism, how to hold your work with open hands, and how God’s faithfulness often becomes clearest in hindsight. If you’re facing job uncertainty, recovering from loss, or trying to discern what’s next, this episode is a reminder that being ready creates space for peace, even before the breakthrough arrives.Follow the podcast on   / inthe_middlepod   &   / inthe_middlepod  Follow Vykky on   / vykkyhoward   &   / vykkyhoward  

In the first of a two part episode of 'In the Middle', Vykky discusses the emotional and practical aspects of navigating layoffs. She shares her personal experiences, insights on recognizing early signs of layoffs, and the importance of preparation and emotional resilience. Vykky emphasizes that being proactive and aware can empower individuals to handle potential job loss more effectively, and she encourages listeners to maintain their self-worth beyond their careers.Follow the podcast on   / inthe_middlepod   &   / inthe_middlepod  Follow Vykky on   / vykkyhoward   &   / vykkyhoward  

In this episode of In the Middle, we’re talking about setting boundaries — especially if you’re a recovering people pleaser.Vykky shares how reaching a breaking point of feeling misunderstood and quietly disappointed led her to realize that boundaries weren’t something she could keep avoiding.Through personal stories and practical examples, Vykky explores how resentment is often a delayed response to a boundary we never set, and how honoring your limits doesn’t change who you are, it changes who has access to you.If you’re ready to stop over-giving, choose rest without guilt, and begin protecting your time, energy, and peace, this conversation is for you.Follow the podcast on https://www.instagram.com/inthe_middlepod/ & https://www.tiktok.com/@inthe_middlepodFollow Vykky on https://www.instagram.com/vykkyhoward/ & https://www.tiktok.com/@vykkyhoward

In this episode, Vykky launches a new series titled "Questions That Need Answers," where she addresses listener inquiries and shares her thoughts on various topics. From Druski to reinvention, Vykky hits on a variety of relevant topics! Follow the podcast on   / inthe_middlepod   &   / inthe_middlepod  Follow Vykky on   / vykkyhoward   &   / vykkyhoward  

We’re a few weeks into January—so let’s check in. How are you really doing?If you’ve been feeling behind, unmotivated, or unsure how to take the next step, this episode is for you. Today’s conversation is about obedience, responsibility, and what it means to stop playing small when God has already entrusted you with the vision.In this episode Vykky discusses the tension between waiting and moving, confidence and responsibility, and the unseen impact of choosing obedience anyway.This isn’t about being seen—it’s about being faithful. If God gave you the vision, your role is execution.You already have everything you need!Follow the podcast on Instagram & TikTok.Follow Vykky on Instagram & TikTok.Get your daily affirmations.

In this episode, Vykky discusses the complexities of New Year's resolutions, emphasizing the importance of mindset, the company we keep, and the way we speak to ourselves. She encourages listeners to set goals at any time of the year and to focus on personal growth through positive self-talk and surrounding themselves with supportive individuals. Practical strategies for effective goal setting and maintaining a positive mindset are also shared, making this a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to improve their life and achieve their goals.Follow the podcast on Instagram & TikTok.Follow Vykky on Instagram & TikTok.Get your daily affirmations.If this episode helped you to think about resolutions differently consider sharing it with a friend.

Burnout isn’t a personal failure, it’s a systems issue.In this episode, Vykky unpacks the truth about burnout, why it disproportionately impacts women, and how naming it can be the first step toward healing. Drawing on research, lived experience, and faith-forward perspective, she reframes burnout as something to be understood, not internalized.If you’ve been feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or stuck in survival mode, this conversation will remind you that you’re not alone — and that prevention, restoration, and sustainable rhythms are possible.Tune in to learn:Why burnout is real (and not “just stress”)How it uniquely affects womenWhat awareness unlocks in the healing processHow to begin moving forward, even when you’re in the thick of itIf this episode resonates, share it with a friend who needs permission to rest and reset.

Adult friendships require more intention, honesty, and discernment than most of us were ever taught.In this episode of In the Middle, Vykky explores how to navigate adult friendships, from making new connections, to maintaining healthy, reciprocal relationships, to recognizing when a friendship has run its course. Inspired by a recent milestone birthday, this conversation addresses loneliness, community, and the real work it takes to build meaningful friendships in adulthood.Vykky shares practical insight and three guiding truths about adult friendship, offering clarity, encouragement, and wisdom for anyone craving deeper connection. If you’re navigating changing friendships, longing for community, or wondering if friendship is supposed to feel this hard, this episode is for you!

In Part 2 of Becoming a Wife, Vykky goes deeper into the practical, spiritual, and emotional work that shapes you long before marriage ever arrives. From seeking out Titus II women and learning from healthy wives up close, to doing the internal “pre-work” of healing, therapy, and prayer, this episode unpacks what it really looks like to prepare for the life you’re praying for.For every woman in a season of preparation or waiting, this conversation gives language, wisdom, and perspective for the journey.

In this heartfelt episode, Vykky opens up about her journey toward becoming a wife—spiritually, emotionally, and practically. She shares the intentional decisions that shaped her, the healing required after heartbreak, and the mindset shifts that helped her prepare for a marriage rooted in faith and partnership.She also reflects on how her desire for marriage evolved, what upbringing taught her about commitment, and the inner work required to become the kind of woman ready for a God-centered relationship. Whether marriage feels far off or right around the corner, this episode offers grounded wisdom for your own preparation.Part 2 continues the conversation—don’t miss it.

In this episode of In the Middle, Vykky opens up about what it really means to wait well—without losing hope or yourself in the process. Through honest reflection and personal stories, she shares how gratitude grounds us, action aligns us, and openness frees us. Whether you’re waiting on a new job, healing, or a prayer to be answered, this episode will remind you that waiting isn’t punishment—it’s preparation.

In Part 2 of Owning Your Career, Vykky takes us from theory to practice, breaking down how to build a career with purpose, curiosity, and intention. From becoming a “forever student” to learning across, above, and below your role, she shares actionable ways to grow, earn trust, and stay in the driver’s seat of your professional journey. You’ll hear honest insights about mentorship, feedback, leadership, reputation, and how small, intentional habits separate good employees from great ones. This episode is a masterclass in doing the work, staying teachable, and leading yourself well, no matter what stage of your career you’re in.

In this episode of In the Middle, Vykky digs into what it really means to own your career and not just go to work. From being intentional about each move to choosing environments that match your values, she breaks down how to stay in the driver’s seat of your professional journey. You’ll hear honest truths about job-hopping with purpose, building a reputation that speaks for itself, navigating unhealthy workplaces, and recognizing that money alone can’t measure fulfillment. Whether you’re just starting out, considering a pivot, or redefining success, this conversation will remind you that no one’s coming to save you—but you’ve got everything you need to build a career that’s yours.

Before In the Middle came the journey that built it. This is my origin story, where faith, grit, and a little chaos converge with purpose.