Plot Twist with Tiana

Sometimes the biggest plot twists in life aren’t about what changed—they’re about what we finally start to see.In this deeply personal episode, Tiana Reeves shares the powerful story behind her children’s book “Shhh… My Mommy is a Superhero”—and the unexpected realization that inspired it. What started as a publishing opportunity turned into something much bigger: a moment of clarity shaped by her children’s perspective.As a working mom navigating career demands, identity shifts after divorce, and the pressure to “do it all,” Tiana opens up about the disconnect many women feel between how they see themselves and how their children see them. This episode explores:The hidden gap between self-perception and how your kids actually see youThe emotional journey of rebuilding identity after divorce —and choosing to love againWhy moms struggle to recognize their own impact and influenceHow a simple conversation with your child can shift everythingThe deeper meaning behind “Shhh… My Mommy is a Superhero” and its interactive experienceTiana also shares a heartfelt story about writing letters to her own mother—an experience that brought reflection, healing, and a renewed appreciation for generational impact.This isn’t just a conversation about motherhood. It’s about identity, self-worth, and learning to see yourself clearly—especially in seasons where life feels uncertain.💡 Key Takeaway:You don’t have to become the superhero your kids need. You already are.Chapters00:00 The Journey of Self-Discovery Through Motherhood03:50 The Power of Perspective: Kids as Mirrors07:15 Reflections on Maternal Bonds and LegacyA Book That Is a Mirror: Tiana designed Shhh! My Mommy is a Superhero to be more than a bedtime story; it’s a conversation starter. With blank pages at the end for your children to document your "superpowers," this book is a tool to help moms finally give themselves credit for the impact and influence they have every day.Connect with Tiana:Order the Book: https://amzn.to/3QrQton (Order by May 1st for Mother's Day delivery!)Follow on Social Media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiana-reeves-pmp-pmi-acp-cssbb-2080427/?skipRedirect=trueInstagram IG: https://www.instagram.com/acorporate_mom/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@corporate_momSponsor: Today’s episode is brought to you by Sagga Publishing House, dedicated to stories that celebrate the truth of our journeys.Subscribe & Review: If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe and leave a review. motherhood, working mom, self worth, identity after divorce, children’s book author, Black authors, parenting perspective, corporate mom, parenting perspective, moms and careers, children’s book inspiration, personal growth, parenting conversations, mom life balance, motherhood podcast, Mother's Day gift ideas, meaningful gifts for mom

What happens after the dream you built your identity around comes to an end?In this episode of Plot Twist, Tiana Reeves sits down with former NFL athlete turned CEO Rick Elmore to unpack the reality of life after sports—and what it truly takes to reinvent yourself. From the highs of playing in the NFL to the challenges of building a business from the ground up, Rick shares how he navigated the identity shift that many high performers face when one chapter closes.This conversation dives deep into the transferable skills from sports to business, the role of discipline and mindset in entrepreneurship, and why passion and purpose are critical for long-term success. Rick also opens up about leadership, empathy, and what it means to build something meaningful beyond titles and accolades.Whether you're an athlete transitioning careers, a professional facing a major life pivot, or someone searching for deeper purpose, this episode will challenge you to rethink identity, success, and what comes next.✨ In this episode, you’ll learn:How to transition from the NFL to entrepreneurshipThe mindset shifts required to reinvent your identityTransferable skills from sports to business and leadershipWhy passion and deep expertise matter in building successHow empathy shapes strong leadership🎧 Tune in for an inspiring conversation on reinvention, identity, and building a life beyond the game.Connect with Rick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-elmore/Or at Simplynoted.comChapters00:00 From Athlete to Entrepreneur: A Journey of Reinvention05:10 The Transition: Navigating Life After Sports09:45 Building a Business: Lessons from the NFL14:52 Finding Passion: The Path to Simply Noted19:42 The Plot Twist: Embracing Change and Growth

What happens when life forces a plot twist you never saw coming?In this powerful episode of Plot Twist, Tiana Reeves sits down with Patti Bevilacqua to talk about the reality of living with multiple sclerosis (MS) and how chronic illness can reshape identity, mindset, and purpose. Patti opens up about her journey navigating MS, the emotional and physical challenges of an “invisible illness,” and the resilience it takes to rebuild your life in the face of uncertainty.Together, they explore the concept of the “invisible bricks” we all carry—those unseen struggles that shape how we show up in the world. This conversation dives into redefining strength, embracing vulnerability, and learning how to ask for help without shame.If you’re navigating a life transition, chronic illness, personal setback, or identity shift, this episode will remind you that transformation is still possible—even in the hardest seasons.✨ In this episode, you’ll learn:How to cope with multiple sclerosis (MS) and chronic illness challengesThe power of mindset shifts during life-altering momentsWhy vulnerability is a strength, not a weaknessHow community support can change your healing journeyWhat it means to redefine identity after adversity🎧 Tune in for an honest, inspiring conversation about resilience, healing, and rewriting your story.Connect with Patti at https://patti-bevilacqua.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/patti-bevilacqua/https://pattibevilacqua.substack.com/Chapters00:00 Life-Changing Plot Twists01:46 Invisible Bricks and Personal Struggles03:36 Identity Shift and Overcoming Challenges04:35 Mindset Shift: Redefining Strength06:24 Creating Hope and Community08:13 Lessons from Living with MS10:30 Empowerment Through Vulnerability12:06 Finding Purpose in Adversity14:01 Connecting and Sharing Stories

What happens when you spend decades building a life that looks successful… but doesn’t feel like you?In this episode of Plot Twist, Tiana Reeves sits down with Dina Escobedo, who spent 22 years working in corporate America before finally choosing to pursue the dream she had buried since high school: becoming a professional dancer.After a guidance counselor dismissed her dream, Dina followed the “safe” path—earning a degree, building a career, and working as an executive assistant to high-profile CEOs. But the passion for dance never left her. One pivotal moment forced her to confront a difficult truth: she was helping everyone else succeed while ignoring her own calling.Dina shares how she walked away from the corporate world, rebuilt her life around dance, and found the courage to live authentically.This conversation explores:• The impact of authority figures on our dreams• Why so many people stay in careers that don’t fulfill them• How to overcome fear and start over later in life• What it means to truly live as your authentic selfIf you've ever felt stuck in a job that doesn't align with your passion, this episode is a reminder that it’s never too late to rewrite your story.Follow Dina:Instagram: @SalsaWithDinaResourcesSagga House Publishing - https://saggahousepublishing.comDina Escobedo Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/salsawithdina/Dina Escobedo Gmail - mailto:[email protected]:00 The Impact of Doubt12:00 Reclaiming Passion and Purpose17:03 Breaking Free from Corporate Constraints21:32 Living Authentically and Inspiring OthersKeywordspersonal development, career change, dance, authenticity, courage, inspiration, life transformationLearn more about the show: www.getinnov8it.com/plot-twist

How do you walk away from an identity you spent decades building?In this episode of Plot Twist, host Tiana sits down with Mary Romasanta, a former tech executive who spent 20 years climbing the corporate ladder before making the bold decision to bet on herself. Today, Mary is an author and the founder of Sagga Publishing House, but the journey from "Tech Professional" to "Publisher" was anything but a straight line.We dive deep into the "DABDA" grieving process of leaving a career, the reality of financial planning for a pivot, and why the most successful reinventions often happen after 40. Whether you are feeling stuck in your current role or dreaming of your own "Plot Twist," this conversation is a masterclass in reclaiming your time and finding your peace.In this episode, we discuss:The psychological cost of leaving a high-level corporate identity.How to build a "pivot" support system (and why you need "cheerleaders").The reality of mid-career reinvention: Why 40 is the perfect age to start.Mary’s journey into supernatural fiction and the founding of Sagga Publishing.A "Behind the Scenes" look at Mary’s haunted childhood home that inspired her book, Infestation.📚 Featured Books & ResourcesSagga Publishing House: www.saggapublishing.comContact Mary Romasanta: www.maryromasanta.com Shhh, My Mom is a Superhero by Tiana Reeves: https://shorturl.at/IjSn6La Llorona: The Awakening by Mary Romasanta: https://shorturl.at/2sVNe✨ Connect with UsFollow the Podcast: Hit the follow and Subscribe button to get notified of every new Plot Twist!Instagram: @acorporate_momYouTube: Drop a comment and tell us: What is the "Plot Twist" title of your current life chapter?#Podcast #Reinvention #CareerPivot #SaggaPublishing #PlotTwist #WomenInBusiness #AuthorLife #MidLifeCrave #CorporateExit

What if the goal of parenting isn’t raising good kids… but raising capable adults?In this episode of Plot Twist, Tiana Reeves dives into one of the most uncomfortable — and necessary — conversations in modern parenting: accountability.Somewhere between protecting our children and preparing them, we blurred the lines. We negotiate. We rescue. We soften consequences. But what happens when “helping” starts delaying adulthood?This episode explores:The difference between control and coachingWhy accountability is the greatest gift we can give our kidsHow raising independent young adults starts with uncomfortable boundariesThe leadership parallels between parenting and professional growthWhether you’re parenting teens, guiding young adults, or navigating your own season of “adulting,” this conversation will challenge you to rethink responsibility — at home and in the workplace.Because the real plot twist?Freedom without accountability isn’t empowerment. It’s delay.🎧 Listen now and join the conversation.Learn more about Tiana's initiatives at getinnov8it.com—This episode is brought to you by Sagga House Publishing, home to literary works ranging from psychological thrillers to inspiring children’s books. Explore upcoming titles including Shh, My Mom is a Superhero and Tiana Reeves’ forthcoming memoir, Living in the Black.Visit www.saggapublishing.com to discover your next transformative read.

Black History Month began as a recognition of survival, contribution, and resilience. But 100 years later, the conversation has shifted.In this episode of Plot Twist, Tiana reflects on the evolution of Black leadership — from navigating systems that were never built for us to actively designing and reshaping them. What does it mean to move from surviving corporate structures to owning influence within them? And how do community, coalition-building, and cultural innovation play a role in that shift?This is not just a conversation about history. It’s a challenge to rethink how we lead today.If you’ve ever felt like you were “the only one in the room,” this episode invites you to consider a new narrative: What if you’re not just there to adapt — but to architect?Topics covered:The centennial evolution of Black History MonthCorporate leadership and representationCommunity as a catalyst for systemic changeRedefining resilience in modern workplacesDesigning legacy instead of enduring limitationContinue the Conversation at www.getinnov8it.com/plot-twist🔔 Subscribe for conversations on leadership, identity, reinvention, and influence without authority.#BlackHistoryMonth #BlackLeadership #CorporateLeadership #Influence #PlotTwistPodcast #WomenInLeadership #careergrowth Chapters00:00 The Evolution of Black Leadership02:24 From Surviving to Thriving: A New Mindset04:41 Redefining Leadership in 2026

Tattoo stigma is still alive — but medical tattooing is helping women heal after breast reconstruction and trauma. In this episode of Plot Twist, we explore how ink becomes restoration. When you hear the word tattoo, what comes to mind?For many, tattoos are still associated with rebellion, unprofessionalism, or self-expression on the fringe of society. But what if that narrative is incomplete?In this episode of Plot Twist, we challenge the stigma surrounding tattoo culture and explore the transformative side of ink — restoration.I’m joined by Michele Toon, licensed nurse, permanent makeup artist, piercer, and owner of Avanti Tattoo. Michele specializes in paramedical tattooing, including areola and nipple tattooing for women after breast reconstruction surgery, as well as scar camouflage for survivors of trauma.This conversation explores:Why tattooing is still viewed as “rebellious” or unprofessionalThe emotional and psychological impact of medical tattoo restoration. How art can help reclaim identity after surgery or trauma. The invisible emotional labor required in trauma-informed workWhy society struggles to legitimize healing when it doesn’t look traditionalIf you’ve ever questioned whether tattoos belong in professional spaces — or wondered how body art can become a form of empowerment — this episode will challenge what you think you know.Because sometimes the real plot twist isn’t rebellion…It’s restoration.🎧 Listen now and join the conversation.If there’s one plot twist you hope this episode creates for someone else, share it in the comments.Connect with Michele & Avanti Tattoo on their website at ⁠www.AvantiTattoo.com⁠ OR on Instagram at ⁠https://www.instagram.com/avantitattoo_vail/ ⁠Chapters00:00 The Perception of Tattoos02:17 Healing Through Art04:17 Restoration and Emotional Healing06:39 Balancing Emotions in Healing08:57 From Nursing to Tattooing10:25 Societal Views on Tattooing11:58 Tattooing as a Form of Recovery14:04 Connecting with Michele ToonWant to connect with Tiana? Visit my website: ⁠getinnov8it.com/plot-twist⁠

Episode 10 — Season One ReflectionThis episode was the hardest one to record.Not because I didn’t know what to say—but because this moment asked me to slow down, reflect, and release the expectations I’d placed on myself.In this Season One reflection, I’m closing out the first chapter of Plot Twist by sharing what I didn’t expect when I started this podcast: the pressure I internalized, the ways my audience surprised me, and how conversations I thought were “niche” ended up resonating deeply with people I never anticipated reaching.I talk about why Plot Twist was created, what I learned about listening instead of performing, and how pausing—rather than filling silence—changed the way I communicate both on and off the mic. Most importantly, I share how this season reshaped my perspective on storytelling, trust, and impact.Season One was about recognizing the twists and turns life brings.Season Two is about understanding the cost, the impact, and the moments that quietly change everything.Thank you for being part of this first season.And if Plot Twist has meant something to you, I’d love to hear about it.If you want to be a guest on the show contact me.

From girlhood to womanhood, expectations quietly shape who women become—often without being named.In this solo episode of Plot Twist, Tiana explores how unspoken expectations influence women’s identity, career paths, motherhood, and relationships. Through a reflective, leadership-centered lens, she examines how women are taught to look a certain way, succeed without disruption, juggle ambition and caregiving, and merge identities without being asked what should be preserved.This conversation unpacks the emotional and financial weight women often carry, the societal narratives that reward silence and resilience, and the cost of absorbing expectations that were never explicitly defined. Rather than assigning blame, this episode focuses on awareness—because clarity is often the first step toward reclaiming agency.If you’ve ever felt pressure to do it all, hold everything together, or lose pieces of yourself along the way, this episode offers space to reflect and redefine success on your own terms.✨ This episode is Part 2 of the Expectations series. If you haven’t listened to Part 1—Expectations: The Cost of What Goes Unspoken—you can find it linked below.https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-6-expectations-the-cost-of-what-goes-unspoken/id1858378437?i=1000744710920

In this episode of Plot Twist, Tiana Reeves sits down with Olufemi (O.L.U.) Adeyemo to explore how technology can be a powerful force for accountability, equity, and social transformation across Africa.Olu shares his unconventional journey from accounting into technology and public-sector innovation, offering candid insights into leadership, integrity, and the systemic challenges facing governance and social programs. Together, they unpack the realities of public service, infrastructure development, and food insecurity—examining why many government initiatives fail to reach the people they were designed to help.The conversation highlights the urgent need for data-driven solutions to improve transparency, strengthen economic stability, and ensure that social programs deliver measurable impact. Through real-world examples, Tiana and Olu discuss how technology can close gaps in accountability, empower communities, and restore trust in systems meant to serve the public good.This episode challenges listeners to rethink leadership, embrace proactive governance, and recognize how helping even one individual can create a ripple effect of sustainable change.🎙️ Plot Twist is where leadership, technology, and real-world impact intersect—revealing the moments that redefine how we think about progress.👇🏾 Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, growth, and modern work.Follow Olufemi (O.L.U.) Adeyemo onLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/olu2024/Follow Tiana on: LinkedIn- ⁠www.linkedin.com/in/tiana-reeves-pmp-pmi-acp-cssbb-2080427⁠Instagram - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/acorporate_mom/Keywords: Africa technologysocial impact innovationgovernance and accountabilityfood insecurity solutionsdata-driven social programspublic sector technologyethical leadershipeconomic stability in Africacommunity empowermenttechnology for goodChapters00:00 Purpose-Driven Technology for Social Change05:43 Leadership and Integrity Gaps in Africa12:41 Food Insecurity and Government Responsibility20:23 Leveraging Data for Social Benefits24:48 Transforming Economic Stability through Technology

In this episode of Plot Twist, host Tiana Reeves sits down with Elizabeth Taylor—also known as the Corporate Bestie—for a candid conversation about the real work of sales enablement in today’s workplace. Together, they explore how sales enablement has evolved from tools and tactics into a people-centered discipline rooted in communication, trust, and influence.Elizabeth shares her journey from corporate roles to entrepreneurship, offering insight into how professionals can build credibility, navigate change, and lead without relying on authority alone. The conversation challenges common misconceptions around sales enablement and reframes it as a strategic function focused on problem-solving, value creation, and long-term relationships.This episode is a must-listen for leaders, sales professionals, and career-driven individuals looking to understand why influence, not volume or velocity, is the true driver of sustainable success.Follow Elizabeth Taylor onLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thecorporatebestie/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lizthecorporatebestieFollow Tiana on: LinkedIn- ⁠www.linkedin.com/in/tiana-reeves-pmp-pmi-acp-cssbb-2080427⁠TikTok- ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@corporate_mom⁠Keywords: sales enablement, leadership, influence, communication, career growth, professional development

We’re taught how to set goals—but rarely taught how to define the expectations behind them.In this solo episode of Plot Twist, Tiana explores why disappointment so often shows up at the start of a new year and during performance review season—not because people failed, but because expectations were never clearly named. Through a candid leadership reflection, she unpacks how unspoken expectations quietly turn into frustration, resentment, and self-doubt—especially for high performers.Drawing from her own career experience, Tiana shares a pivotal lesson about missed promotions, the cost of assuming effort equals recognition, and how clarity—not hustle—changed the trajectory of her growth. This conversation reframes disappointment as data, offers reflective questions to revisit goals with intention, and challenges listeners to replace silent assumptions with explicit alignment.If you’ve ever worked hard and still felt overlooked… If a goal didn’t land the way you expected… Or if you’re carrying quiet frustration you can’t quite name—This episode offers clarity, permission, and a powerful reset.Follow Tiana on: LinkedIn- ⁠www.linkedin.com/in/tiana-reeves-pmp-pmi-acp-cssbb-2080427⁠TikTok- ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@corporate_mom⁠Instagram- ⁠https://www.instagram.com/acorporate_mom/⁠Keywords: Expectations, Goals, Clarity, Disappointment, Performance Review, High Performers, Corporate Mom, Innov8IT, Plot Twist, Tiana Reeves, Unspoken Expectations, Self-Doubt, Burnout, Promotion, Identity, Personal Growth

In this conversation, Victorious Ndidi Eche discusses her journey from accounting to project management and her passion for teaching project management concepts to children. She emphasizes the importance of communication, problem-solving skills, and the lifelong benefits of learning project management at an early age. Victorious shares insights on how her program engages children and prepares them for future challenges, highlighting the resilience and potential of young learners. Connect with Victorious Ndidi Eche: www.victoriouseche.com On LinkedIn @ Victorious Ndidi Eche Follow Tiana Reeves aka Corporate Mom on Tiktok @CorporateMom on Instagram @acorporate_mom and LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/tiana-reeves-pmp-pmi-acp-cssbb-2080427 Keywords: Tiana Rhymes, Tiana Reeves, Corporate Mom, Innov8IT, Plot Twist, project management, children education, communication skills, problem solving, public speaking, career development, project management for kids, Victorious Echad, teaching kids, lifelong skills

In this conversation, Tiana and Dra. Mary Margaret Carrillo discuss the empowerment of Latina women through the Latina Voices Institute. They explore the significance of the title 'Doctora' in Latina culture, the importance of storytelling, and the challenges faced by women in pursuing education and leadership roles. Dra. Carrillo shares her journey of founding the Latina Voices Institute, creating safe spaces for authentic conversations, and the role of allies in supporting this mission. The discussion highlights the need for community, the impact of education, and the long-term vision for the institute, encouraging listeners to embrace their voices and stories.Connect with Dra. Mary Margaret Carrillo and Latina Voices Institute on their website:www.latinavoicesinstitute.comOn LinkedIn @ Latina Voices InstituteOr Instagram or Tiktok @latinavoicesinstituteFollow Tiana Reeves aka Corporate Mom on Tiktok @CorporateMomon Instagram @acorporate_momand LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/tiana-reeves-pmp-pmi-acp-cssbb-2080427Keywords: Tiana Rhymes, Tiana Reeves, Corporate Mom, Innov8IT, Plot Twist, Latina Voices, empowerment, storytelling, education, community, allies, cultural identity, leadership, authenticity, women empowerment

In this episode, Tiana reflects on her personal growth over the past year, discussing the unexpected twists and turns that have shaped her journey. She emphasizes the importance of pausing for reflection, acknowledging the discomfort that often accompanies growth, and the value of intentionality in decision-making. Tiana shares her motivations for starting her podcast, highlighting the desire to explore non-linear success stories and the power of sharing experiences. As the year comes to a close, she encourages listeners to reflect on their own journeys and consider what they want to carry into the new year.

In this episode, Special Guest Victoria Victor joins in. Victoria is founder of the Victoria Empowerment Foundation, who is dedicated to transforming the future of young women across Africa through digital access, training, and economic empowerment. Victoria shares her personal journey, the mission behind her foundation, and the importance of combining empowerment, technology, and economic mobility. She discusses the challenges faced by women in accessing digital skills and the impact of her program, VEVTEC Rise, which aims to provide training and mentorship to youth and women. The conversation highlights the need for support and sponsorship to achieve these goals and the potential for significant societal change through empowerment.Follow Tiana on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/tiana-reeves-pmp-pmi-acp-cssbb-2080427Connect with the Victoria Empowerment FoundationEmail: [email protected]: https://victorianempowermentfoundation.comPhone / WhatsApp: +234 802 318 3784LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shevolution-globalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Victorian.E.foundation?rdid=ZRAq9RH6kgsjH8MN&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F1BK9dvYWBx%2FInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/vefoundation/

Special Guest Robert Liptak shares the career pivot he made from Financial Services to AI Business Consulting. The conversation explores the role of AI as a tool for empowerment in various professional roles, emphasizing the importance of learning to use technology effectively rather than fearing replacement by it. #ai , #technology, #empowerment, #adaptation, #leadership, #customerservice Follow Tiana on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/tiana-reeves-pmp-pmi-acp-cssbb-2080427 Follow Robert on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-liptak/ Email: [email protected]