Who Does She Think She Is?

SUMMARY In this episode, Mele Miller hosts Dr. Sheila Adams, a retired military officer and founder of Kai Simone Winery. Sheila shares her inspiring journey of transforming discipline, resilience, and strategic planning from her military career into building an award-winning wine business. Discover how her vision for legacy, representation, and community impact fueled her entrepreneurial journey amid the challenges of starting a winery. If you're visiting San Antonio, be sure to experience the charm of Kai Simone Winery’s beautiful event space and see firsthand what makes it a must-visit destination. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Legacy in the Vines sponsored by Urban Connoisseurs THEODORA LEE The “Theo‑Patra” Legacy: Blending Power, Heritage, and Storytelling.   RESOURCES & LINKS: https://www.urbanconnoisseurs.com/ www.theopolisvineyards.com    WINE CLUB — TheopolisVineyards     Labor and Employment Practice - http://www.littler.com   CONNECT WITH THEODORA LEE: https://www.instagram.com/theopolisvineyards/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/theodora-lee-03570a5/ SUMMARY Uncover the fascinating journey of Theodora Lee, a trailblazing woman who defies expectations at every turn. From law firm success to pioneering a vineyard empire, her story of bold vision, resilience, and authentic leadership will inspire you to rethink what's possible. Dive into a conversation that reveals how purpose and passion can align with financial independence, community impact, and personal joy—all while breaking barriers and redefining legacy.    TIMESTAMPS: 00:42 - Introduction to Theodora Lee and her multifaceted career 01:15 - The influence of an educator household and community leadership 01:55 - How the world perceives Theodora and her impact 02:22 - The importance of making a difference through work and community 03:10 - Breaking barriers as a Black woman lawyer in major law firms 03:37 - Journey to partnership at Littler and early leadership achievements 04:04 - Building a book of business and the significance of rainmaking 04:56 - Achieving partnership in five years, challenging industry norms 05:19 - Leadership trends among women of color in corporate environments 06:10 - The power of strategic career moves and opportunism 07:16 - Redefining success beyond financial gains 07:41 - Joy in client wins, wine tasting, and personal relationships 08:55 - The importance of an integrated life and authenticity 09:49 - Investing in community, schools, and personal values 10:44 - Developing financial independence and early savings mindset 12:29 - Debunking work-life balance and embracing authentic self 13:50 - Investing in community and the power of love and positivity 14:17 - Entrepreneurial spirit from childhood to adulthood 15:58 - Overcoming barriers and emphasizing the importance of education 18:05 - Family legacy, land investments, and the importance of land ownership 21:51 - The transition from law to wine making and land cultivation 25:00 - Building and maintaining a vineyard, and cultivating the land’s potential 30:29 - Business failures, rejection, and learning resilience 35:38 - Continuing education in wine making and fostering diversity 36:34 - Long-term strategic investing and serving underserved communities 37:23 - Advice for young people on wealth-building and patience 39:23 - Planning for retirement and lifestyle beyond the traditional concept 41:08 - The value of experiences, travel, and creating joyful memories 42:21 - The big dream: traveling to every continent with wine and pleasure 43:14 - Curiosity and adventurous pursuits like skydiving 43:43 - Embracing authenticity, self-awareness, and inner identity 45:11 - Reflecting on life’s journey, legacy, and purpose 45:36 - The story behind Theopatra wine label and its cultural significance 48:16 - How to engage with Theopolis Vineyards and upcoming events 49:07 - Closing thoughts on passion, love for life, and living fully Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Legacy in the Vines sponsored by Urban Connoisseurs SHAE FRICHETTE: The Land Is the Legacy   RESOURCES & LINKS: https://www.urbanconnoisseurs.com/ https://frichettewinery.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaefrichette https://www.winemag.com/food-drink/wine-food-pairing-guide/ https://vinepair.com/articles/vineyard-investment-essentials/ CONNECT WITH SHAE FRICHETTE: https://www.instagram.com/shaefrichette https://www.facebook.com/frichettewinery SUMMARY: For generations, Black families worked land they would never own—building wealth for others while their own dreams were deferred. But today, a powerful shift is happening. Descendants of sharecroppers are reclaiming land, building assets, and rewriting the financial legacy of their families. Shae Frichette is the co-owner and winemaker at Frichette Winery, the first Black-owned winery in Washington’s Red Mountain AVA. Transitioning from corporate life to viticulture, she crafts bold, elegant wines and hosts community-focused events, blending passion, storytelling, and hospitality to create memorable wine experiences. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 - Welcome to the episode: Ownership, land, and legacy beyond wine 00:41 - Introducing Shae Frichette: Winemaker, leader, community builder 02:04 - Perception and identity: How the world sees Shae 03:09 - The power of recognition and presence in community interactions 04:38 - Shae’s journey into winemaking: From dry home upbringing to vineyard owner 05:54 - Soil and environment: Lessons from South Carolina to Eastern Washington 06:50 - Farming as a science, craft, and community ecosystem 08:00 - Involving family and community in vineyard life 09:09 - Failing forward: Learning from planting and soil challenges 10:26 - Creating a safe environment to innovate and learn 11:44 - Timeline of vineyard development and the importance of patience 12:29 - Succession planting in agriculture and its parallels in winemaking 14:20 - Opportunity costs and long-term planning in vineyard investment 15:59 - Jumping into wine business: Strategies for quick entry 17:14 - Strategic positioning: Direct-to-consumer focus and community engagement 18:24 - Overcoming underestimation and industry barriers as a Black woman 19:45 - Community support, family involvement, and sharing the craft 22:50 - Stewardship, investing in community, and the value of collective effort 26:01 - Shae’s personal style, confidence, and alignment with her purpose 28:24 - Navigating industry perceptions and self-awareness in success 33:20 - Engaging the community with Shae’s products and brand 35:40 - Rapid fire: Pairing wine with light seafood and exploring flavors 36:23 - Final reflections: Self-identity, resilience, and building legacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Note from Mele: Physical discomfort teaches us about our body. Get your health in check and save 20% on your first order at https://justthrivehealth.com/CX   Guest links Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/SweetPotatoSoul Website - https://sweetpotatosoul.com/ Jenné’s Cookbook - Sweet Potato Soul Vegan Vibes: 100 Soulful Plant-Based Recipes for Healthy Everyday Meals   Summary Join us for an inspiring conversation with Jenné Claiborne, a disruptor in the food and wellness space, as she shares her journey from childhood passions to building a purpose-driven brand. Discover how her family, culture, and bold approach to health and entrepreneurship shape her mission to transform legacy recipes and promote wellness.   Topics Jenné Claiborne, vegan soul food, health disruptor, food culture, entrepreneurship, legacy recipes, wellness, Atlanta, real estate, financial independence   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Culinary Disruption 04:26 The Journey of a Culinary Genius 07:07 Early Influences and Passion for Cooking 10:03 The Role of Family in Shaping Career 12:54 Navigating Cultural Expectations and Money 15:46 The Impact of Financial Literacy 18:39 Disrupting Traditional Food Culture 21:32 Facing Resistance in Plant-Based Cooking 24:25 Embracing Individuality and Authenticity 31:22 Navigating Criticism in Culinary Innovation 32:16 Cultural Adaptation and Food Evolution 33:43 The Legacy of Soul Food and Healthier Choices 34:46 The Impact of social media on Content Creation 38:55 Understanding Personal Impact and Community Influence 40:40 Celebrating Financial Milestones and Home Ownership 44:28 Challenging Societal Norms in Real Estate 48:42 Empowerment Through Financial Literacy 50:59 The Importance of Knowing Your Worth 53:12 Self-Identity and Spiritual Purpose Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Part 2 - Discomfort is Data: What it Taught Me About Leveling Up   Note from Mele: Get your health in check and save 20% on your first order at https://justthrivehealth.com/CX   Summary This conversation delves into the themes of insecurity, frustration, and adversity in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of communication and understanding in overcoming these challenges. The speaker shares personal insights and practical advice on navigating workplace tension and adversity, highlighting that while frustration often stems from poor communication, adversity is an external force that can impact one's career and personal growth. The discussion culminates in strategies for overcoming adversity and fostering resilience.   Takeaways Frustration is driven by poor communication and unclear expectations. Workplace tension often arises from misaligned priorities. Communication is unique to each individual, influenced by personal experiences. Understanding how others receive your message is crucial to reducing frustration. Frustration can escalate if not addressed promptly and effectively. Clarity in communication can alleviate frustration and improve teamwork. Adversity is an external challenge that can impact one's career. Experiencing adversity does not define who you are as a person. Real solutions for overcoming adversity are essential for personal growth. Adversity is a part of life and growth in our careers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Note from Mele: Physical discomfort teaches us about our body. Get your health in check and save 20% on your first order at https://justthrivehealth.com/CX Episode Summary: Angela Davis, known as the Kitchenista, shares her journey of transformation, survival, and self-discovery. She discusses her tattoos symbolizing change, her duality of surviving and thriving, and her evolution from an accountant to a culinary artist. Angela reflects on her identity, the challenges of being a Black woman in the workplace, and the importance of neurodivergence in communication. She also delves into her financial journey, the impact of money culture on her upbringing, and the lessons learned in entrepreneurship. Throughout the conversation, Angela emphasizes the significance of embracing change, celebrating personal milestones, and living authentically. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Angela Davis and Her Journey 02:23 Transformation vs. Survival: A Personal Reflection 04:52 Self-Perception and Identity 07:01 The Role of Food in Culture and Identity 07:57 Shifting Career Paths: From Content Creation to Culinary Arts 11:01 The Corporate World: Challenges and Growth 15:52 Navigating Gender Dynamics in the Workplace 20:37 Understanding Neurodivergence and Its Impact 24:00 Embracing Differences: The Power of Self-Acceptance 26:46 The Courage to Learn Publicly 30:14 The Dynamic Nature of Angela Davis: Introvert on Camera 31:34 The Pressure of Appearance 35:12 Money Culture and Its Impact 38:43 Transitioning from Employment to Entrepreneurship 42:22 Financial Education and Self-Discovery 53:32 Embracing Change and Personal Growth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Mele Miller addresses the significant job loss experienced by over 300,000 Black women, emphasizing the importance of mental health and community support during these challenging times. She shares practical do's and don'ts for navigating job loss, focusing on emotional processing, seeking support, and embracing new opportunities. The conversation highlights the need for self-care, reflection, and the potential for personal growth in the face of adversity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of 'Who Does She Think She Is?', Mele Miller engages in a profound conversation with Bridget Coulter-Cheadle, a multifaceted creative and entrepreneur. They explore Bridgid's journey from a curious creative to a successful entrepreneur, discussing the importance of community, financial literacy, and the unique challenges faced by black women in business. The conversation emphasizes the significance of support networks, the tools needed for financial success, and the personal reflections that shape one's identity and aspirations. Bridgid shares her insights on entrepreneurship, the power of storytelling, and the importance of lifting each other up in the journey of personal and professional growth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mele Miller challenges the conventional notion of work-life balance, labeling it a financial fraud for working women. We introduce the concept of life integration, emphasizing the importance of aligning personal values with professional responsibilities. Mele outlines five essential steps for achieving life integration: self-awareness, honesty, communication, organization, and integration. We argue that true fulfillment comes from blending various aspects of life rather than trying to balance them separately, ultimately linking mindfulness and personal well-being to financial success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Summary In this episode, Mele Miller discusses the importance of embracing discomfort as a catalyst for personal and professional growth. She explores various forms of discomfort, including boredom, fatigue, and loneliness, and how they can serve as indicators for self-reflection and improvement. Mellie emphasizes the need for leaders to recognize these discomforts in themselves and their teams, and to take proactive steps to address them for better engagement and productivity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Mellie Miller explores the concept of reward culture, emphasizing its importance in various aspects of life, including leadership, parenting, and community. She discusses how to assess and improve existing reward cultures by focusing on trust, emotion, urgency, and guidelines. Mellie encourages listeners to reflect on their current practices and make intentional changes to foster a more positive and effective reward culture. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Erika Conner shares her journey through the entertainment industry, discussing the challenges she faced as a black woman in Hollywood, the importance of mentorship, and the need for financial literacy. She emphasizes the significance of empowering the next generation of women, particularly women of color, and the value of authenticity in storytelling. Erika reflects on her experiences, the support she received from mentors such as Quincy Jones and John Singleton, and her desire to create space for others in the industry. The discussion highlights the importance of celebrating successes and the power of one's voice in a male-dominated field. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us for an inspiring conversation as we sit down with the culinary wizard, Executive Chef Shenarri Freeman of Ubuntu, who transforms vegan cuisine into a symphony of art, culture, and purpose. From her unexpected beginnings in a concert venue's kitchen to becoming a trailblazer in the culinary world, Chef Shenarri shares her journey of defying stereotypes and creating an inclusive dining experience that celebrates the rich flavors of the diaspora. Discover what makes her vegetable-forward dishes not just meals, but a celebration of culture and creativity. Our discussion takes a thoughtful turn as we explore the financial landscape of the culinary industry, particularly the unique challenges faced by Black women chefs. We share insights into the importance of financial literacy and community support in overcoming obstacles like pay disparities. Chef Shenarri opens up about her personal experiences managing successful restaurants post-COVID and the delicate balance between art and business, inspiring listeners to approach their careers with intentionality and purpose, and the challenges of running a bi-coastal business. Finally, we savor the flavors of multicultural dining experiences that define Chef Shenarri's culinary vision. With standout dishes like jollof arancini and daily-pressed juice cocktails, Chef Shenarri invites us into a world where global influences harmonize on the plate. Celebrity visits and dream guests like Skepta add a layer of excitement, while Chef Shenarri’s admiration for culinary icon Edna Lewis underscores her commitment to paving the way for future culinary creatives. Tune in for a conversation rich with passion, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kiaira Ladd, a remarkable actress turned manager, joins us to share her bold journey through the financial landscape of the entertainment industry. As a successful Black woman, Kiaira opens up about her evolving career, from her early dreams in broadcast journalism to her unexpected passion for tutoring student-athletes. Her story is one of resilience and adaptability, as she ultimately finds fulfillment in managing her children's blossoming careers in Hollywood. Together, we explore the unique challenges and triumphs she faces as a "momager," providing a fresh perspective on balancing family and finances in a high-stakes world. We delve into the intricacies of managing young talent in the entertainment industry, shedding light on the multifaceted role of a mother who juggles schedules, finances, and legal considerations like Coogan accounts. Kiaira shares candid reflections on the dedication required to protect and nurture her children's futures, offering a stark contrast to some of the industry's less favorable narratives. Our discussion covers the complexities of determining fair compensation in family businesses and the critical importance of financial planning for child actors. Kiaira's insights provide valuable guidance for those navigating the entertainment world, from understanding power dynamics with agencies to securing the right representation. Embracing one's unique strengths and talents is at the heart of Kiaira's journey, and we celebrate the power of self-confidence and authentic self-expression. The conversation highlights the excitement of working with iconic figures and the thrill of prestigious opportunities, as well as the importance of finding the right industry connections. Ending on a note of gratitude, we acknowledge the value of genuine insights and shared experiences, reminding listeners to own their individuality and be unapologetically bold in pursuing their dreams. Join us for an inspiring episode that champions audacious voices in the entertainment industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chanise Simms Robinson challenges the norm with her audacious rise from early academic struggles to becoming a trailblazer in diversity, equity, and inclusion at top-tier companies like Essence, Expedia, and DoorDash. Her journey as a first-generation college student and her relentless pursuit of excellence, despite setbacks, offer a masterclass in resilience and strategic career navigation. Chanise's story illuminates the importance of leveraging every experience, whether triumphant or testing, to fuel future success and serves as an inspiring testament to overcoming barriers with boldness and vision. We boldly tackle the intricacies of salary negotiations and career decisions, diving into the critical balance of self-worth and strategic thinking. Through personal anecdotes, we dissect the complexities of corporate environments and the often surprising realities they hold, like unexpected raises that fall short of expectations. Our candid discussion reveals the necessity of considering total compensation and the courage required to forge professional growth paths that align with personal values and long-term goals, even when faced with financial temptations. Discover the power of community-centered initiatives as we explore the creation of Out of Office, a vibrant platform bridging the gap between culture and corporations. This conversation shines a light on the motivations and challenges of fostering authentic collaborations while navigating brand authenticity amidst systemic obstacles. We touch on personal finance strategies, dream collaborations with cultural icons like Issa Rae and Oprah, and the overarching theme of staying true to one's identity and purpose. This episode is a celebration of ambition, resilience, and the audacious pursuit of goals that break barriers and build meaningful connections. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Who Does She Think She Is?, Mele Miller sits down with Maya French, an innovative entrepreneur who has navigated the ups and downs of launching multiple successful businesses. From creating a juice company at 23 to pivoting into protein drinks with Koia, Maya has disrupted the beverage industry with her intentional approach to product development and sustainability. She shares her journey from humble beginnings to Forbes 30 Under 30, the lessons learned from financial setbacks, and the power of focusing on both taste and value in her products. Join us for a candid conversation on overcoming obstacles, building brands with heart, and staying true to purpose in business. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Who Does She Think She Is?, host Mele Miller, a 30-year banking executive and financial expert, sits down with Adrienne Markham, the Partnership Marketing Manager for the Las Vegas Aces and a passionate drag racer. Adrienne shares her inspiring journey of breaking barriers as a Black woman in motorsports and professional sports marketing, navigating both the high-speed world of drag racing and the championship-winning culture of the Las Vegas Aces, back-to-back WNBA champions. Adrienne dives into what it takes to build and maintain high-value partnerships in the WNBA, the challenges of sponsorship marketing, and how she balances her dual careers. She also opens up about the financial realities of professional drag racing, her strategies for financial success, and the importance of being unapologetically yourself in male-dominated industries. This episode is packed with career insights, empowerment, and financial wisdom from two powerhouse women in sports and business. Whether you’re a fan of WNBA marketing, women’s sports sponsorships, financial literacy, or motorsports, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nai Howard, a visionary artist and former Air Force service member, joins us to share her audacious leap from military life to a flourishing creative career. Known for her emotionally rich photography and authentic storytelling, Nai opens up about the journey that led her to becoming a sought-after visual artist—one who sees beauty in the everyday and power in unpolished truth. From humble beginnings to viral recognition, her story is a testament to what happens when you bet on yourself and your gift. Together, we explore the challenges of being a Black woman navigating the creative and freelance industries—from being underestimated in male-dominated spaces to the real cost of building a business rooted in integrity and vision. Nai reveals the financial framework she uses to protect her art, including 50% upfront deposits, non-negotiable studio expenses, and her approach to budgeting in feast-or-famine seasons. She breaks down the importance of boundaries, the power of saying no, and the value of community when building a sustainable brand. Our conversation dives deep into the emotional and strategic realities of being both the talent and the business. Nai shares lessons from missed payments, navigating net-30 red flags, and setting up systems that protect your peace and your profit. We celebrate her commitment to paving the way for others by mentoring assistants, uplifting fellow creatives, and modeling what it means to honor your worth unapologetically. This episode is a masterclass in authenticity, self-advocacy, and creative entrepreneurship. Join us as we highlight Nai’s artistry, resilience, and the power of knowing exactly who you are—whether the world is ready for you or not. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices