In this episode of Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox, Jackie Ferguson talks with Debra Boggs—career strategist, Forbes honoree, and founder of D&S Executive Career Management.

Debra shares how she went from working in higher ed to leading a fast-growing company that helps C-suite leaders land their next big role. She opens up about mindset shifts, personal branding, and why networking isn’t optional—especially for underrepresented professionals.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Common mistakes executives make when job hunting

• Smart strategies for salary negotiation

• Why your LinkedIn profile might be working against you

  
  

You’ll also hear how Debra used coaching, self-awareness, and a little discomfort to grow from solopreneur to CEO of a 15-person team.

Resources & Links:

🎯 Job Search Diagnostic Tool

📺 Debra on YouTube

💼 Connect on LinkedIn

🌐 Dwell Boggs Website

Connect with us on social media:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diversity_beyondthecheckbox/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/diversity-beyond-the-checkbox-podcast/

Website: https://beyondthecheckbox.com/

Hosted by Jackie Ferguson, award-winning business leader, best-selling author, and co-founder of The Diversity Movement.

Each June, during Pride Month, we take extra time to uplift and celebrate the voices of LGBTQ+ leaders—and this week, we’re doing just that with a special highlight episode.

Over the years, I’ve had the honor of speaking with some truly incredible LGBTQ+ changemakers—people who are breaking barriers, driving inclusion, and shaping workplaces where everyone can thrive. From tech to education, coaching to advocacy, these leaders bring powerful stories and actionable wisdom to the table.

Now, let’s revisit some of the most memorable moments and insights from the brilliant LGBTQ+ leaders who have joined me on the show.

Happy Pride—and here’s to building a world where everyone feels seen, safe, and celebrated.

LGBTQ+ leaders featured in this episode, in order:

• Ally Up: Di Ciruolo's Guide to Building More Inclusive, Innovative, and Productive Teams
• The evidence-based approach to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging, with Change Coach LaTonya Wilkins
• Forging a path for women and minorities in tech, with Elaine Montilla
• How to be a better leader in a diverse workplace, with Dr Steve Yacovelli, "The Gay Leadership Dude"
• How Hip Hop Producer Lisa Cunningham Remixed her Career to Human Rights Influencer
• Being an LGBTQ+ Ally, with Bernadette Smith
• How to create a Transgender and Non-Binary inclusive culture, with Jake Rostovsky
• Transgender Activist Precious Brady-Davis: "I Have Always Been Me"
• If Diversity is our Strength, Inclusion is our Superpower, with Michael Bach

Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Jackie Ferguson. For more information including the latest webinars and other DEI content, head over to TheDiversityMovement.com. Podcast production by Walk West.

Join us for a riveting episode as Jackie engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Anselm Beach, a distinguished leader with a captivating life journey from a Caribbean island to the United States Army and a White House fellowship. Anselm unveils his unconventional career path, influenced by his upbringing, and shares the invaluable experiences that shaped his pursuit of leadership excellence. Anselm's narrative touches on his trials and triumphs in various roles, offering insights into his pivotal work advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the Army and at Raytheon Technologies. Explore the groundbreaking Values Principles Model, co-authored by Anselm, which underscores the significance of moving beyond mere representation to active participation within organizations. This episode is your window into 21st-century leadership, showcasing how embracing diversity and inclusion can catalyze an organization's success. Anselm Beach, a true advocate for change, inspires us to embark on a journey toward inclusive leadership and a legacy that makes a difference.

"Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc. 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson.

Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!

This show is proud to be a part of the Living Corporate network and to be produced by Walk West.

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