In Part One of this episode of “The Voice of Leadership,” Dr. Karen Wilson-Starks talks about the women who influenced her formative years. Her list includes her mother, grandmothers, great-aunt, godmother, an English teacher, and more.

For her professional years she names luminaries such as Juana Bordas, Frances Hesselbein, and consulting psychologist peers. She further explores how we can prepare and develop the next generation of women leaders.

In Part Two Dr. Karen interviews Army Captain Deshauna Barber, the first soldier crowned Miss USA. CPT Barber talks about how she uses her platforms to make a difference in PTSD and other topics of importance for soldiers on the battlefield or returning from deployment. Also hear how CPT Barber balanced the busy roles of both Army Commander and Beauty Queen.

This show examines resilience, service, executive presence, and the responsibility of leadership at the highest levels. Designed for business executives, emerging leaders, and organizational decision-makers who seek insight into building legacy, breaking barriers, and leading with purpose. Contact Dr. Karen at Dr.Karen@transleadership.com; www.transleadership.com

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In honor of International Women’s Day, this week’s episode of “The Voice of Leadership” revisits two compelling topics — “Strategies to Prepare Women for Executive Leadership” and “What Does It Take for Women to Land the CEO Role?”

Dr. Karen draws on more than three decades of executive consulting experience to offer incisive, high-impact guidance for women striving to advance into executive leadership. Her insights illuminate the strategic capabilities, organizational acumen, and personal resilience required to lead at the highest levels. She specifically highlights the importance of navigating corporate politics and building internal and external support systems.

She also shares leadership insights from global leaders such as Dame Inga Beale of Lloyd’s of London and Julia Gillard, former Prime Minister of Australia.

These episodes offer a strategic blueprint for women seeking greater leadership impact and for organizations committed to inclusive executive pipelines.

Contact Dr. Karen at Dr.Karen@transleadership.com; www.transleadership.com

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In this episode of “The Voice of Leadership,” Dr. Karen Wilson-Starks brings together three interconnected leadership conversations: “With Liberty and Justice for All” (Part 2) featuring Dr. Marvin A. McMickle and Parts 2 and 3 of the MLK Series:  “Recognizing and Accepting the Call to Leadership” and “Pursuing Broad Learning.”

Drawing from the lived experiences of Dr. Marvin A. McMickle and the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., this combined show explores what executive leadership requires in times of social tension, economic pressure, and organizational polarization.

From corporate responsibility and inclusive workplace culture to answering the  call to leadership and cultivating intellectual breadth, this episode challenges CEOs and senior leaders to move beyond profit-only thinking toward principled, purpose-led influence.

Here is a strategic blueprint for executive leaders who are committed to building resilient and aligned organizations that produce long-term enterprise value.

Contact Dr. Karen at Dr.Karen@transleadership.com; www.transleadership.com

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In this week’s Part One episode of “The Voice of Leadership,” guest Dr. Marvin A. McMickle who has served in many significant and influential roles to include senior pastor to several churches, college president, faculty member, and  President of both the Cleveland NAACP and the Urban League, shares insights with Dr. Karen Wilson-Starks from decades of pastoral leadership, civil rights engagement, and academic service.

Together, they examine what “liberty and justice for all” means in today’s workplace and how organizations can move from statements about diversity to meaningful action through inclusive leadership, corporate citizenship, and community partnership.

In Part Two, Dr. Karen reflects on the Kellogg Foundation’s National Day of Racial Healing, to explore how truth-telling, dialogue, and community collaboration can transform systems and create opportunity for future generations. She connects racial inclusion, leadership responsibility, and workforce sustainability to the long-term success of organizations and society.

These conversations challenge executive leaders to think beyond traditional performance metrics to also consider how racial healing, ethical leadership, and inclusion shape the future of business, leadership, and community impact. Contact Dr. Karen at Dr.Karen@transleadership.com; www.transleadership.com

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In this powerful three part series of “The Voice of Leadership,” Dr. Karen Wilson-Starks examines the rise and destruction of Black Wall Street in Tulsa, Oklahoma, alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s landmark sermon, “The Death of Evil Upon the Seashore.” Together, these events illuminate enduring truths about economic justice, systemic oppression, moral leadership, and God’s ultimate triumph over evil.

Through historical analysis, Biblical reflection, and leadership insight, Dr. Karen explores how the Greenwood District flourished through collaboration, entrepreneurship, and shared values—only to be violently destroyed through racial hatred, political corruption, and the suppression of truth. She then connects these historical events to Dr. King’s prophetic message, reminding listeners that evil may appear powerful, though it never prevails in the end.

This series challenges leaders, organizations, and communities to confront uncomfortable truths, examine systemic practices, and choose life, justice, and love in the face of adversity.

Contact Dr. Karen at Dr.Karen@transleadership.com; www.transleadership.com

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Resource Renewal Series

In this special Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration series, Dr. Karen Wilson-Starks revisits and unpacks Dr. King’s timeless leadership philosophy through a modern lens.

Drawing from Dr. King’s teachings on nonviolent social change, love and power, economic justice, and unity in diversity, these episodes explore how principled leadership can drive transformation in society, organizations, and the workplace.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of Dr. King’s four strategies for nonviolent social change, the disciplined preparation required for effective action, and the essential balance between love and power in creating lasting justice.

Dr. Karen also challenges today’s corporate and community leaders with practical questions and insights for advancing equity, strengthening diverse coalitions, and building cultures where everyone can thrive.

This series offers enduring wisdom for leaders who seek meaningful change grounded in moral clarity, strategic action, and shared humanity. Contact Dr. Karen at Dr.Karen@transleadership.com; www.transleadership.com

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