In this episode of "Belonging is a Verb," I got to chat with Dr. Sebrina Lindsay-Law, whose passion for learning is downright contagious. She’s all about digging deep—whether it's into textbooks or into our own reflections—to uncover the kind of knowledge that shapes us.

Our chat was sprinkled with laughter, learning, and the kind of lightbulb moments that happen when two people who love what they do get talking. Sebrina's reflections on the importance of self-awareness and feedback in leadership left me nodding in agreement. It's about knowing who you are and using that knowledge to lead and inspire.

A former social studies teacher with an infectious passion for connecting the dots of human experience, Sebrina's take on leadership and learning is as refreshing as it is thought-provoking. She's a firm believer in continuous improvement—not just for systems and processes but for ourselves, too.

What stood out to me was her emphasis on the courage it takes to ask for feedback, to reflect authentically, and to make those incremental changes that propel us forward. One thing that really struck a chord with me was how she framed inclusivity. We explored how creating spaces for inclusion isn't about making accommodations upon request, but about making everyone comfortable and welcome by design.

And her quote? "Success is a journey, not a destination." It reminded me that our experiences are not just pit stops on the road to success; they're the very essence of it.

Her closing message? The name of this podcast isn't just catchy; it's a call to action. Belonging really is a verb, and it requires us to move, to do, to be active participants in creating a world where everyone has a seat at the table.

Don’t forget to tune into 'Existence Podcast' to hear more from Sebrina, where she brings her dynamism to conversations on living, learning, and connecting.

For everyone out there who's on their own path to learning and leading, this episode is a light-hearted yet profound conversation you won't want to miss. So come along for the ride as we explore these tales of bravery, insight, and transformation—one heartwarming episode at a time.

Find Sebrina here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebrinal/

https://www.instagram.com/weareexistencepodcast?igsh=MWN1OG15cmw1YjVheA==

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Welcome
00:56 Introducing Dr. Sebrina Lindsay-Law: A Journey into EDI
01:32 The Essence of Learning and Leadership with Sebrina
02:49 Exploring the Depths of Personal and Professional Growth
05:42 The Transformative Power of Coaching and Self-Reflection
09:39 Navigating the Challenges of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
17:31 Practical Advice for Aspiring Inclusive Leaders
30:49 Connecting with Sebrina
33:01 Closing Thoughts and Future Connections

• Virginia's moment of clarity when she recognized that her environment was hindering, not helping, her growth—both personally and professionally.
• The critical juncture where she made the bold decision to leave a suffocating space and step into a role that embraced her ambitions and her true self.
• Her experiences with differing leadership styles, ranging from those that suppressed her to those that celebrated her contributions and presence.

For Connie & Sharon, thank you will never be enough

Welcome to the very first episode of “Belonging is a Verb”- a podcast where the power of inclusive leadership is uncovered, explored and celebrated. I'm so glad that you're here!

My name is Melissa Marcelissen and I'm the founder of Vision Leadership and your host. Throughout my 20 years in corporate workplaces I uncovered a true passion for leadership development. Guided by purpose, my aim is to make work a better place to be for everyone. I am looking forward to having you on this journey with me.

For 20-25 minutes every two weeks, I'll be chatting with guests who will share their leadership journeys, the impact of inclusive leadership, and how remarkable leaders have helped shaped who they are today.

In this first episode I'll talk about:

• My personal journey through my own experiences, from discovering my passion for leadership development to the pivotal moments that shaped my understanding of inclusive leadership.
• Insights into how these experiences have influenced my mission to make work a better place for all.
• The challenges, triumphs, and transformative power of inclusive leadership.
• How remarkable leaders have helped shape who I am today.

View the full episode Transcript HERE