In this inspiring episode of Words of Wisdom from Kick-Ass Women, Liz Brohan and Mary Olivier sit down with author and leadership strategist Shanita Baraka Akintonde. A professor at Columbia College Chicago and Harvard executive leadership alum, Shanita shares lessons from her book, The Front Porch Leader. Drawing on wisdom from her great-grandmother, she explores how effective leadership begins with listening, patience, and presence. Through memorable Southern metaphors, she reframes leadership as both strategic and soulful. From mentorship to stepping back so others can shine, Shanita reminds us that true leadership is about serving first and preparing the next generation to rise.
In this flavorful and fiercely inspiring episode of Words of Wisdom from Kick-Ass Women, Liz Brohan and Mary Olivier welcome author, professor, and leadership strategist Shanita Baraka Ante to the couch. A longtime professor at Columbia College Chicago and executive leadership alum of Harvard University, Shanita blends boardroom strategy with Southern storytelling from her book, The Front Porch Leader: Great Grand’s Recipe for Success.
Drawing on lessons from her great-grandmother in Brinkley, Arkansas, Shanita shares how “front porch leadership” starts with listening, knowing your audience, and resisting the pressure of immediacy. Through rich metaphors—sweet potato pie problems that need time to bake and collard green challenges that require rinsing, repeating, simmering, and stirring—she reframes leadership as both strategic and soulful.
The conversation explores mentorship, reverse mentorship, collaboration, and the power of quiet presence. Shanita reflects on early classroom missteps and how stepping back allowed others to shine—ultimately strengthening her own leadership impact.
Her message is clear: leadership isn’t about dominating the stage. It’s about serving first, stirring thoughtfully, and preparing the next generation to lead. Pull up a rocking chair—this episode delivers wisdom with warmth, humor, and heart.
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