Tune in to this week’s episode as host Brooke Skinner Ricketts sits down with her friend and colleague, Marita Hudson Thomas, Chief Communications Officer at Cars Commerce. Marita is responsible for the internal and external communications strategy and events across Cars Commerce. Since her promotion, she has transformed their communications practices by delivering meaningful campaigns, press initiatives, and events that drive measurable results and business impact.
Marita dives deep into her path to leadership, emphasizing the importance of purpose-driven work and the value of patience in professional growth.
You’ll be inspired by Marita’s dedication to community involvement and mentoring, and how these commitments have been pivotal in her career. Learn from Marita’s experiences on maintaining confidence, navigating through challenges, giving oneself grace, and the power of preparation.
This episode is packed with valuable lessons for anyone aspiring to lead with integrity and impact.
In this episode, you will learn:
- Mastering the art of building strong mentor relationships can supercharge your professional growth and unlock new opportunities.
- Crafting a compelling personal brand can be the key to unlocking your career potential and standing out in a crowded job market.
- Overcoming fears and imposter syndrome can liberate you to pursue your ambitions with confidence and authenticity.
- Adopting daily habits for professional success can transform your productivity and propel you towards your career goals.
- Engaging with your community can enrich your personal development and expand your network of impactful professional relationships.
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Highlights
The key moments in this episode are:
[00:00] Introduction to Beyond Barriers
[00:31] Empowering Leadership and Personal Branding
[01:32] Meet Marita Hudson Thomas
[02:58] Marita's Journey and Lessons Learned
[05:45] Navigating Challenges and Building Confidence
[19:21] The Importance of Community Engagement
[21:01] Corporate Social Responsibility Initiatives
[22:29] The Importance of Community Engagement
[22:55] Generational Shifts in Workplace Expectations
[23:21] The Role of Authenticity in Corporate Culture
[24:49] Daily Habits for Success
[25:45] The Value of Preparation
[30:06] Maintaining Strategic Relationships
[35:15] Why Cars Commerce is Home
[37:40] Lightning Round: Personal Insights -
Lightning Round Questions
Q: What book has greatly influenced you?
A: I am obsessed with the Harlem Renaissance period and poetry. My mother bought me my first Langston Hughes poetry book when I was seven. I, Too is my favorite poem.Q: What is your favorite inspiring quote or saying?
A: Plan Purposefully, Prepare Prayerfully, Proceed Positively, and Pursue Persistently - William WardQ: What is one word or moniker you would use to describe yourself?
A: The LobbyistQ: What is one change you've implemented that made your life better?
A: Giving myself graceQ: What power song would you want playing as you walk out onto a stage?
A: Juicy by The Notorious B.I.G -
Quotes
Over-prepare, then let it roll.
Marita Hudson Thomas
There's nobody like you. Don't be intimidated by the other people in the room. They are who they are, and you are who you are. There's no one else who can bring your perspective.
Marita Hudson Thomas
You are uniquely you. You bring a unique perspective to every room and space that you occupy.
Marita Hudson Thomas
Only I can limit myself.
Marita Hudson Thomas
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About
Marita was promoted to Chief Communications Officer in June 2020 and is responsible for internal and external communications strategy and events across Cars Commerce. Since joining the company in October 2017, Marita has transformed Cars Commerce communications practices by delivering meaningful campaigns, press and events that drive measurable results and business impact.
Marita has spent more than 20 years in communications, public relations and reputation management across industries including travel, media and education. She began her career at top PR agencies focusing on clients whose businesses were at the intersection of technology and retail. Prior to joining Cars Commerce, she led communications for digital marketplaces Orbitz and Vivid Seats.
Marita is a staunch supporter of mentoring programs in underserved communities and serves as a consultant for Polished Pebbles, a nonprofit girls mentoring organization. She holds a master’s degree in human services administration from Spertus College and a bachelor’s degree in public relations and English writing from Illinois State University.