Meet Dr. Rita Renee’

We recently connected with Dr. Rita Renee’ and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Dr. Rita, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?

Title: Thriving in Uncharted Territories: A Black Professional Woman’s Perspective
As a black professional woman navigating various professional landscapes, I have often found myself as the only one in the room who looks like me. While diversity and inclusion are meaningful conversations, focusing on character and skills has been pivotal in my journey to success.
In these situations, I’ve learned to embrace my unique perspective and leverage it as a strength rather than a limitation. My character is crucial in building connections and fostering a positive work environment. Being approachable, open-minded, and adaptable has allowed me to eradicate barriers and bridge gaps, fostering collaboration among diverse teams.
Skill development has been another critical aspect of my journey. I continuously hone my skills, stay updated on industry trends, and acquire new knowledge. Competence speaks volumes, and being proficient in my field has earned me respect and opened doors for meaningful contributions to projects and initiatives.
Success in these scenarios requires a proactive mindset. I’ve made it a point to seek mentors and allies who appreciate my skills and character rather than focus on diversity checkboxes. Establishing professional solid relationships has been instrumental in navigating challenging situations and finding support when needed.
Moreover, I’ve learned the art of self-advocacy. Effectively communicating my achievements, contributions, and aspirations has been crucial in ensuring that my voice is heard and my capabilities are recognized. This proactive approach has contributed to my visibility within the organization and led to growth and advancement opportunities.
In conclusion, being the only one in the room has taught me valuable lessons about the power of character, the importance of skill development, and the art of self-advocacy. By focusing on these aspects, I have overcome challenges and thrived in uncharted territories, proving that excellence knows no boundaries.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Meet Dr. Rita Renee, “Your Ultimate PowerHouse Coach” – a wife of a 21 1/2-year retired veteran’s spouse, mother, and nurse of over 30 years. Dr. Renee is also the proud owner of Gibson and Gibson Licensed Financial Professionals, LLC, a financial firm dedicated to providing financial literacy and assisting families/small businesses with life insurance and tax services.

What makes Dr. Rita Renee’s journey truly exciting is her multi-faceted expertise. As an accomplished author with multiple books under her belt, she has a remarkable achievement to share in 2024 – assisting her 14-year-old son, who has autism, in writing his first book, set to be available in March.

In her role as “Your Ultimate PowerHouse Coach,” Dr. Rita Renee’s mission for 2024 is compelling. She aims to empower and support women who have experienced trauma to reclaim their voices, stepping into the spotlight with authenticity and authority. Her coaching services go beyond words; they guide individuals in transforming their stories from pen to paper to press and platforms. The goal? To facilitate healing and enable women to inspire and uplift others through their journeys.

Adding to her impactful work, Dr. Rita Renee makes monthly appearances on CBS17 MyCarolina, sharing her insights on financial literacy and life transformational wisdom. This commitment to educating and empowering extends her influence beyond coaching sessions, making a tangible difference in the lives of those who tune in.

As we look ahead, Dr. Rita Renee is set to publish four books this year, each covering various topics. Her dedication to storytelling, whether through her own words or by helping others share their narratives, underscores the transformative power of communication.

In summary, Dr. Rita Renee is not just a coach; she’s a catalyst for change, a guide for those seeking their voice, and a beacon of inspiration for women ready to step into their power. With a rich tapestry of experience and a commitment to uplifting others, she stands as a testament to the truth of the impact one individual can make in the lives of many.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge stand out as particularly impactful: Resilience: Bouncing back from setbacks and challenges has been crucial. Life is filled with ups and downs, and resilience allows you to navigate through difficulties without losing sight of your goals. To develop resilience, embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. Cultivate a positive mindset, focus on solutions, and surround yourself with a supportive, authentic network that encourages perseverance and tells you the truth even if it hurts.
Continuous Learning: The world is dynamic, and staying relevant requires constant learning. Whether acquiring new skills, staying informed about industry trends, or seeking diverse perspectives, a hunger for knowledge is a powerful asset. Develop a habit of curiosity, explore new subjects, and be open to learning from experiences and feedback. This proactive approach ensures that you adapt and thrive in evolving environments.
Effective Communication: Clear and effective communication of ideas and thoughts is the foundation of success. Whether interacting with colleagues, clients, or collaborators, the ability to express ideas coherently and listen actively is essential. Hone your communication skills by practicing clarity, adapting your style to different audiences, and seeking feedback. Mastering the art of communication not only fosters stronger relationships but also enhances your impact in various professional and personal contexts.
For those early in their journey, here’s some advice on developing or improving these qualities:
Embrace Challenges: Instead of escaping from challenges, embrace them and view them as opportunities to learn and grow. Each obstacle is a chance to develop resilience and refine your problem-solving skills.
Cultivate a Learning Mindset: Actively seek opportunities to expand your knowledge. Whether through formal education, online courses, or hands-on experiences, approach every situation with a continuous learning mindset.
Practice Effective Communication: Communication is a skill that can be honed over time. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, actively listen to others, and seek constructive feedback. Joining clubs, groups, or forums where communication is key can provide valuable practice.
Build a Supportive Network: Surround yourself with people who inspire and support you. A strong network can offer guidance, mentorship, and different perspectives. Engage with individuals who share your interests but also those who bring diverse viewpoints to broaden your horizons.
Set Goals and Milestones: Clearly define your goals and break them into achievable milestones. This provides a roadmap for your journey and allows you to celebrate successes, reinforcing your resilience and commitment.
Remember, every step in your journey is an opportunity for growth. Embrace the process, stay curious, and cultivate a mindset that welcomes challenges as stepping stones toward success.

How can folks who want to work with you connect?

As someone with a rich nursing, finance, and coaching background, I am actively seeking collaborative opportunities with individuals and organizations who share a passion for positively impacting others’ lives. Here’s a glimpse into the types of collaborations I am open to:
Financial and Life Coaches: I am interested in partnering with fellow financial and life coaches dedicated to empowering individuals and families in financial literacy, life transformation, and overall well-being. Collaborations could involve joint workshops, webinars, or co-authored content to provide a holistic approach to personal development.
Authors and Storytellers: Given my commitment to helping individuals share their authentic stories, I am keen to collaborate with authors, storytellers, and content creators. Together, we can amplify the power of storytelling to inspire and uplift others. Whether through co-writing projects, storytelling events, or joint publications, I believe in the transformative potential of shared narratives.
Advocates for Autism Awareness: Having worked closely with my son, who has autism, I am eager to collaborate with advocates and organizations focused on autism awareness and support. Joint initiatives could include awareness campaigns, educational events, or projects that create an inclusive and understanding environment for individuals with autism.
If you resonate with any of these areas and are committed to positive change, I invite you to connect with me. You can reach out through my website or social media platforms. Let’s explore how our combined efforts can create a meaningful and lasting impact. Collaboration is not just about achieving shared goals; it’s about fostering a community of support and inspiration.
I look forward to connecting with like-minded professional businesswomen passionate about making a difference in the lives of others. We can create a cohesive synergy that transcends individual efforts locally and globally.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Wanda Clayton: Timeless Photography, NC Wendy Solomon: Wendy Solomon Photography

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