Diverse & Inclusive Leaders

WARNING: There is some strong language in this podcast.Desiree Barnes: Founder and Managing Partner at BRKDN Strategies LLC Leila is joined by Desiree Barnes, Founder and Managing Partner at BRKDN Strategies LLC, as well as ex-Communications and Public Engagement Specialist for Barack and Michelle Obama. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN ABOUT· Desiree’s recent/current projects in communications and public engagement, from taking the dangerous step of founding her own consultancy BRKDWN Strategies LLC to working on various projects for the Obamas, both in and out of office at the White House· Her passion for art, which has come from her love of graffiti and hip-hop music after growing up in New York· Her achievement of going to college/university a year early despite a difficult upbringing by a single parent as an only child and dealing with various challenging circumstances e.g. addiction· How she owed her success with the Obamas to her outstanding work ethic· The story of Desiree’s battles with anxiety and dep