The Journey from Bookstore Visits to Career Coaching with Ronnie Dickerson Stewart
In this episode of our podcast “I Wish I Knew That Earlier,” I sit down with the inspiring Ronnie Dickerson Stewart. Ronnie, an award-winning talent inclusion and executive leadership consultant, founder of Ohhey Coach, and host of “The Career Clinic Show,” shares her experiences and insightful perspectives on navigating career challenges and overcoming imposter syndrome.
Discovering Self-Development and Growth in Bookstores
Ronnie’s journey into the realm of self-development began in the most unassuming of places: the self-help section of a bookstore. Grappling with work-related situations and an overwhelming feeling of imposter syndrome, she turned to books to seek guidance and reassurance. These visits became crucial in helping her navigate the professional challenges she faced.
Overcoming Racial and Professional Challenges
Ronnie’s career has been marked by unique challenges, particularly those stemming from racial and professional differences. She openly discusses the difficulties she encountered in feeling out of place at work. Her appearance often set her apart from her colleagues, which contributed to her sense of alienation and imposter syndrome. Ronnie used these experiences as learning opportunities, ultimately channeling them into a source of strength and wisdom.
Birth of a Passion: Career Coaching
Inspired by her observations of others facing friction points in their careers, Ronnie found a calling in helping people design their careers. She noticed common issues such as identity shifts, burnout, and the struggle to have a congruent relationship with work. It was these insights that led her to embrace career coaching. Ronnie transitioned from advertising to diversity, equity, and inclusion work before fully dedicating herself to coaching. Her journey is a testament to following one’s passion and finding fulfillment in supporting others.
Launching “The Career Clinic Show”
One of Ronnie’s significant contributions to the world of career development is her podcast, “The Career Clinic Show.” This platform serves as a resource for individuals seeking career guidance and personal growth advice. In the show, Ronnie addresses various work-related topics, providing listeners with valuable insights and practical tips. Priya highly recommends this podcast to anyone looking to navigate their career challenges.
The Importance of Intentional Time Management
Ronnie’s approach to time management is both strategic and reflective. She shares how her life was once messy and unorganized, pushing her to seek personal transformation. Ronnie emphasizes the importance of discipline and using tools to support self-discipline. She mentions creating a family hub for calendars and chores as a way to manage her responsibilities effectively. This intentionality has not only helped her become a more effective leader but also allowed her to maintain a balanced life.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Career Navigation
The pandemic has significantly impacted career landscapes. Ronnie discusses how COVID-19 has added complexity to career navigation, with many individuals still trying to determine their next steps. The disruption caused by the pandemic has forced people to reassess their default settings and mental health, making awareness a critical component in career development. Ronnie and Priya emphasize the need for a reflective approach to career planning in light of these changes.
Supporting a Balanced Life with Non-Traditional Team Members
As Ronnie’s role became more strategic and nuanced, she faced the challenge of managing and delegating to a wider team. She highlights the importance of incorporating non-traditional team members into this dynamic. Instacart, live-in childcare, and friends can play integral roles in maintaining a balanced and productive life. Effective communication and broader team thinking are essential in navigating these transitions.
The Human Side of Senior Leadership
A particularly profound takeaway from Ronnie’s discussion is her realization that senior and executive levels are just as human as anyone else. This awareness opened up endless possibilities for her career, emphasizing that perception often shapes our professional experiences. Recognizing the humanity in leadership roles can inspire confidence and ambition in one’s career journey.
Connect with Ronnie Dickerson Stewart
Ronnie’s wealth of experience and insights make her a valuable resource for anyone looking to navigate their career challenges. She can be reached through her company, Ohhey Coach, via their website, Instagram, or LinkedIn. Ronnie’s willingness to assist others and her practical advice make her an invaluable guide in the journey of career development.
Conclusion: Embracing the Journey
Ronnie Dickerson Stewart’s story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and relentless pursuit of passion. Her experiences in overcoming imposter syndrome, managing professional and personal challenges, and supporting others in their career journeys offer invaluable lessons. As we wrapped up the segment, Priya and Ronnie exchanged heartfelt gratitude, with a promise of future collaborations to support listeners in their career aspirations. Ronnie’s journey reminds us all that, with the right mindset and tools, we can navigate any career challenge that comes our way.
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