Success isn’t a solo journey—it’s built through relationships, opportunities, and the courage to show up for others. In this episode, Corinne Milien, Founder & CEO of WRK, shares how she built a career rooted in impact, connection, and leadership.
A first-generation American, military veteran, and four-time founder, Corinne’s journey has taken her from the Air Force to working with legendary coach Pat Summitt, from managing high-profile events at ESPN to launching businesses that elevate people. Whether she’s advocating for diversity in sports, creating mentorship pipelines, or building an inclusive golf community, she’s proving that the right connections can change everything.
Tune in to learn how to harness the power of relationships, why community is the ultimate leadership advantage, and how to step into your own influence—no matter where you are in your career.
Key Takeaways:
- The People Plug Mindset – How building authentic relationships opens doors and fuels success.
- Leading Through Service – Lessons from the military and sports on trust, teamwork, and resilience.
- Owning Your Leadership Story – Why embracing your journey—failures and all—creates real impact.
- The Power of Representation – How breaking barriers in business and sports creates lasting change.
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Highlights
The key moments in this episode are:
[00:00] Introduction to Beyond Barriers Podcast
[00:27] The Power of Community
[01:27] Meet Corinne Millen: A Journey of Determination
[06:08] Leadership Lessons from Pat Summit
[07:52] Military Service and Leadership
[09:57] Navigating Corporate and Military Cultures
[15:57] The People Plug: Building Connections
[18:48] Golf and Networking: Breaking Traditions
[23:11] Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
[28:22] The Importance of In-Person Connections
[29:40] Daily Rituals and Habits
[35:36] Setting and Achieving Goals
[42:33] Building and Relying on Community
[45:56] Lightning Round and Final Thoughts -
Lightning Round
Q: What book has greatly influenced you?
A: The Art of Storytelling by John WalshQ: What is your favorite inspiring quote or saying?
A: Service to others is a rent. You pay for your time on earth - Muhammad AliQ: What is one word or moniker you would use to describe yourself?
A: Closed mouths. Don't get fedQ: What is one change you've implemented that made your life better?
A: Moving to downtown Decatur, Georgia.Q: What power song would you want playing as you walk out onto a stage?
A: Any Cardi B. song -
Quotes
At the end of the day, leadership comes down to trust. Do people believe you have their best interests in mind with what you're asking them to do and where you're leading them? It’s not about being the most skilled, the tallest, or the most athletic. I’m pretty smart, but I’m not always the smartest, but I freaking care. And I can get people to a yes when they want to say no. And to me, that is a leader, right?
Corinne Milien
When I hear people struggling with networking or getting where they want to be, I ask: Are you telling people what you want? Are you putting yourself in the right rooms? You have to speak up, show up, and connect with the people who can help you get there.
Corinne Milien
I'm intentional about reaching out to somebody and saying this is an idea. I'm not afraid, I actually want them to tell me I'm crazy. So then I'm either like taking a step back and be like, you know what? That is crazy. Or I'm like, I'm gonna show you. Yeah, but that's what they're there for.
Corinne Milien
People accept the challenges I put in front of them because they know I’m right there with them. I’m not saying, ‘Go do that and let me know how it goes.’ I’m saying, ‘Go do that, I’ll be right there with you.’
Corinne Milien
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About
Corinne Milien is an influential talent development professional with a passion for equity. She is the founder of WRK, a firm dedicated to helping organizations across various industries maximize their performance and streamline their business operations. Corinne is also the owner of Green Office, a community golf studio that combines her passion for innovation, wellness, and community engagement. Green Office provides an inclusive space where individuals can enjoy golf while fostering a sense of connection and well-being. A daughter of Haitian immigrants, Corinne's relentless work ethic and dedication to "doing good" are the hallmarks of her career. She co-founded and served as Executive Director of The Winning Edge Leadership Academy, a nonprofit that empowered minority student-athletes and young professionals to become the next generation of leaders in sports, media, and entertainment. Corinne also serves as a facilitator for RISE, an organization dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion through sport.
After serving in the U.S. Air Force, she began her professional journey at Bemidji State University’s athletic department, followed by a role as a Graduate Assistant for the legendary Coach Pat Summit at the University of Tennessee. She later excelled as an Events Supervisor at ESPN, managing high-profile athletic events and showcasing her ability to lead in dynamic environments. Corinne's leadership journey also includes her pivotal role as Managing Director of Pro Sports Assembly, where she led critical initiatives in membership, partnership, and programming, demonstrating her strategic vision and commitment to diversity. Throughout her career, Corinne has collaborated with a diverse range of visionaries and outliers including Eastside Golf, Meta, Creative Artists Agency, adidas, ESPN, Moolah Kicks, PGA of America, Wilson, Octagon, and R&CPMK, providing them with innovative solutions to unlock their workforce potential.
Founder and CEO
WRK
Recognized by the National Sports Forum and the NYU School of Professional Studies for her contributions to the industry, Corinne is also a facilitator with RISE, promoting diversity and inclusion through sport. In 2022, adidas, Impact Hub, and Blavity.org honored her as one of eight social entrepreneurs of color, acknowledging her impactful initiatives at the intersection of sport, equity, and creativity. Corinne holds a B.A. from Bemidji State University and an M.A. in Sports Management from the University of Tennessee. She recently obtained her Level 1 Leadership & Performance Coaching certificate from Brown University, further enhancing her leadership capabilities. She also hosts the WRK & Win podcast, where she interviews top founders, entrepreneurs, and people leaders who share their inspiring stories of success. Her experience also spans coaching basketball, softball, and volunteering with First Tee of Metro Atlanta, reflecting her dedication to youth development and community engagement.