Aug 14, 2019
Welcome to She Leads Podcast Season 4, Episode 16! This episode of She Leads Podcast features Veronica Blakely founder of V’s Voice Enterprises, Inc. Veronica Blakely an Author, Educator, and Professional Speaker who leads her life like the Boss she is. To hear Veronica Blakely’s take on leadership, listen to her interview as she discusses leading with integrity, the importance of action, and the necessity of a routine.
Veronica Blakely‘s Bio
Veronica Blakely is a native of Tampa, Florida where she has worked as an educator in public schools and community colleges. She is also a former corporate manager, but education is her passion which she uses in her business as CEO of V’s Voice Enterprises, Inc., a Communication, Academic, and Coaching company.
Veronica is the published author of six books focusing on: Communication, Education, Depression, and Relationships in the African American community. She is a former local President and Area Governor of Toast Masters International where she managed six Public Speaking clubs. Veronica has been a Co-Host with local TV News Anchors for several community events. She was also the Host/Emcee for The Soledad O’Brien Starfish Foundation PowHERful Summit in Tampa, FL.
In addition to Veronica’s many talents, she was a movie extra in Ocean’s Eleven which was filmed in St. Petersburg, FL. She is also a former NFL cheerleader for the Tampa Bay Bucs and for the WFL (World Football League) Tampa Bay Bandits. Veronica performed in two Super Bowl Half-time Shows in Tampa for Disney and Bruce Springsteen. She has performed in several local plays and she has produced and directed numerous Gospel Productions in
Tampa. Veronica is a dedicated community volunteer, and she is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Veronica has a Bachelors Degree in Speech Communication, a Masters Degree in Management, and an Education Specialist Degree in Education Leadership. She is also a Host/Emcee, Voice Over Talent, and she facilitates workshops as a consultant on: Public Speaking, Career Development, Urban Communication, Entrepreneurship, and Basic Education skills. To book Veronica for your next workshop, conference, or meeting, contact her at: www.VBlakely.com.
Nicole Walker’s Interview Commentary
I really enjoyed this interview with Veronica and I hope you did as well.
I agree with Veronica’s advice to give ourselves credit for the work we put in, especially when we do not reach the goals we desire. The end result should not minimize the effort put forth. The journey is just as important as the destination, and can teach us many lessons if we take the time to process things accordingly. Leaders do not know everything, and we will not always hit the mark we set out to hit; however, we do deserve credit for our strides. A quote by Anne Sullivan reads, “Keep on beginning and failing. Each time you fail, start all over again, and you will grow stronger until you have accomplished a purpose – not the one you began with, perhaps, but one you’ll be glad to remember.”
I admire Veronica’s transparency in admitting a previous flaw in her decision making as a leader. Making one sided decisions can be damaging and should be avoided at all costs. To make informed decisions and act justly, it is essential to get all the data before taking action. As Veronica suggested, we must collect and consider all the facts and avoid making hasty decisions, to be a successful leader. Veronica has shown that leaders admit when they are wrong and figure out a solution to not repeat the same mistakes. A quote by Amine Ayad reads, “Be humble to see your mistakes, courageous to admit them, and wise enough to correct them”.
I can relate to Veronica’s background in education as I have the same. Educators play an immensely important role in this would, as our service helps to change lives. In addition to providing education, educators also provide guidance and inspiration which are needed and essential for continued growth. Being an educator has been one of the most selfless things I have done, and the reward has been so gratifying. A quote by Jeannette Walls reads, “Teaching is a calling too. And I’ve always thought that teachers in their own was are holy – angels leading their flocks out of darkness”.
Nicole Walker’s Takeaway of the Week
Veronica mentioned the importance of having a routine to increase our focus. Routines allow us to manage our time more efficiently and create balance in our lives. Routines also help us avoid being stressed, anxious, and overwhelmed if we create our plan and stick to the script. Veronica shared her morning routine with us, which consisted of prayer, meditation, exercise, and eating. This is a great and productive way to start our day. I will make it my business to create and stick to a routine, especially first thing in the morning. I aim to have a great day every day, and know that a routine will help me reach this goal.
A quote by Tim Ferris reads, “If you win the morning, you win the day”.
Nicole Walker’s Leadership Challenge
My leadership challenge for you would be to think about the one thing you can take away from this episode and adopt into your life. I know it’s hard to absorb too much information at one time and it’s even harder to try and implement too many changes at once. When I attend a training or listen to podcasts I aim to walk away with a least one thing that stuck out to me and one way that I can change as a result. I challenge you to do the same! If you decide to take me up on my challenge I would love to know about your key take way. If you care to share please go to the She Leads Podcast Discussion Group on Facebook and leave your comment under the Takeaway Thursday post for Season 4 Episode 16.
Don’t forget to subscribe to She Leads Podcast for First access to future episodes. And, like and share this episode of She Leads Podcast entitled “Leaders Do Not Know Everything with Veronica Blakely”.
Thanks and until next time “Be Empowered and Empower On”!