Sister Table Talk Blog

Society has long conditioned women to subtly and overtly regard daily survival as sufficient. Many women live minimally and celebrate getting through the day rather than striving for personal growth and achievement. This mindset often leads to feelings of guilt when desiring more from life. However, operating in survival mode is not a natural state; it restricts our true potential and possibilities for a fulfilling life. Embracing the idea of thriving can unlock opportunities for spiritual, emotional, and financial growth and fulfillment as a daily practice, not as a once-a-year vacation. The Survival Trap Many women who feel like they are simply existing often prioritize the needs of others above their own. They may experience guilt when taking time to rest or believe that struggling is a virtue. Survival mode can deceive them with messages like, "You should be grateful for what you have" when they dare to dream, or "That's selfish" when they try to prior...

An analysis of recent policy changes and their implications for economic equity, healthcare access, and opportunity Since returning to office in January 2025, the Trump administration has implemented several significant policy changes that directly impact women of color across multiple dimensions of economic and social life. This analysis examines these policies through the lens of pay equity, career advancement, childcare access, healthcare, and affordable housing. Pay Equity and Career Advancement The administration's approach to workplace regulations has raised concerns among equity advocates. In March 2025, the Labor Department suspended the implementation of pay data collection requirements intended to identify wage disparities based on gender and race. This rollback of transparency measures could make it more challenging to identify and address systemic pay gaps that disproportionately affect women of color, who continue to experience the widest wage disparities in the Am...

I’ve been thinking about Marian Wright Edelman’s reminder that “you can’t be what you can’t see.” Those seven words sit at the heart of our C1B1 Summit, and if I’m honest, they sit at the heart of my story, too. A Moment of Recognition When I was a young girl thumbing through social-studies textbooks, powerful Black women were footnotes at best; however, I felt an unmistakable tug inside: One day, I’ll help women like me step onto bigger stages. Fast forward to today, that tug has a name inspired by Marian Wright Edelman: The C1B1 Summit. From Conference Ballroom to Congressional Floor At each summit, we spotlight women who have overcome barriers in tech, finance, health, and public service. However, in the current political climate, I find myself drawn to one arena in particular: Congress. Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm - was not supposed to win in 1968, yet she became the first Black woman in the House. Representative Ayanna Pressley - said she ran “not to make history but to...

The unique ache that comes from knowing your calling and feeling like you can't afford to answer it is a raw, painful space between knowing what you're meant to do and having the resources to embrace it. This is where many brilliant women find themselves today, and where I found myself just this week. The Confession No One Expects from a Leader I woke up feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and unsure about my next career move because I know my purpose and love what I do through my nonprofit, The SOFEI Group. Bills, burnout, and lack of support felt heavier than my vision, and the thought that "my time on this earth is running out, and I still haven't made it", crept in before I could stop it. This harsh thought motivated me to share this blog post with you today. If you feel like you're racing the clock while running on empty, this message is especially for you because the world needs your purpose-driven work, even though you need a sustainable path to deliver...

In many faith practices, "submission" holds deep spiritual significance. It can represent humility before the divine, mutual respect between partners, and the voluntary yielding of one's will as an act of devotion. However, this beautiful spiritual principle becomes contorted into something unrecognizable, a tool of control, limitation, and inequality. The Distortion of a Sacred Concept When examining religious texts across traditions, submission is not considered a gendered subjugation. Instead, it is a mutual spiritual practice, a reciprocal dance of respect and consideration. In Christian contexts, for example, while Ephesians 5:22 instructs wives to submit to their husbands, the preceding verse (oftentimes overlooked) calls for mutual submission: Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ . The distortion occurs when submission becomes one-directional, demanded from women while exempting men from the same standard. This selective application transforms a s...

Every dream delayed, goal abandoned, or vision buried often traces back to a quiet but powerful source: self-limiting beliefs . These are not merely passing doubts but deeply rooted thought patterns that persistently whisper: "I am not smart enough." "I missed my moment." "People like me don't get ahead." "I'm too old to start now." "My past disqualifies my future." The Divine Call to Freedom God did not create us to live small, silenced, or stuck, but for renewal, empowerment, and freedom. John 10:10 reminds us, The thief cometh not, but to steal, kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life and more abundantly. The beautiful truth is this: God's Word equips us with everything we need to challenge the thoughts that try to keep us bound and embrace breakthrough thinking instead. Four Divine Tools for Transforming Your Mindset Let's explore how four powerful verses can help us overcome self-li...

Confidence is influenced not solely by skill, knowledge, or talent; it stems from external messages individuals receive about their existence in diverse spaces (e.g., years of being told, subtly or overtly, that we do not belong). For Black women, this challenge is particularly pronounced and emotionally taxing. Beyond the Gender Gap: The Intersectional Reality The much-discussed "confidence gap" extends far beyond gender alone. For Black women, confidence navigates the complex intersection of gender, race, and cultural expectations—creating unique barriers in professional and personal environments. Research from McKinsey's Women in the Workplace study found that Black women are more likely to have their judgment questioned in their area of expertise and are less likely to receive support from managers than their counterparts. These realities affect career trajectories and fundamentally impact how Black women perceive their capabilities and worth. The Daily Battle ...

In the current political climate, characterized by policies and executive orders linked to Donald Trump that threaten the rights of women and marginalized communities, many individuals may experience feelings of being overwhelmed, lost, or frustrated. However, it is imperative to recognize that within each person lies a significant capacity: the ability to overcome challenges, resist injustices, and convert adversity into opportunities for personal and collective growth. Our struggles are not just political; they cut to the core of our personal lives and sense of worth. But history has shown us that when women come together, united by resilience and purpose, we can create change that transcends any policy or executive order. Our strength lies in our ability to support one another, share our stories, and stand firm in our commitment to equality, justice, and human dignity. Now is the time to reclaim our narrative. Each of us has a voice that matters - a voice that can challenge inju...

Under the guise of efficiency, sweeping federal cuts are reshaping the economy, not for the public good, but for private profit. While proponents argue these initiatives are cost-saving, the reality is that they are disrupting essential public services, strengthening corporate interests, and contributing to growing economic inequality. The Hidden Impact: Disruption That Hurts Communities These cuts do not merely reduce budgets; they undermine essential services like education, workforce development, and healthcare. When these programs struggle, it is everyday people, particularly low-income families, who suffer the most. This chaos isn’t accidental - it’s strategic. By dismantling these public services, policymakers create a vacuum that private corporations eagerly fill, turning once-accessible resources into profit-driven enterprises. The Power Shift: Privatization at a Price As federal services vanish, profit-driven companies are gaining control. Education, job training, and ev...

Shattering the Glass Ceiling: Carmen's Triumph Carmen checked her email with a familiar sinking feeling - another promotion announcement that her name wasn't on. After eight years of dedicated service at her engineering firm, she has watched countless male colleagues with similar or lesser qualifications ascend the ranks while her career remained stagnant despite invariably positive performance reviews. The pattern was undeniable, and instead of accepting this reality, Carmen took charge of her story by investing evenings and weekends pursuing specialized certifications to highlight her technical expertise, strategically expanded her professional network beyond her immediate team, and started connecting with decision-makers across the organization. Lastly, she confidently positions herself in leadership conversations, offering solutions rather than identifying problems. Carmen's calculated boldness paid off when appointed as the first Latina vice president in her ...

Rising Beyond Bias: Michelle's Story Michelle had spent years excelling in her IT role, yet promotions always seemed to bypass her. Feedback often included vague remarks like "not quite ready" or "lacking leadership presence." Frustrated but determined, Michelle sought mentorship, enrolled in a leadership development course, and began volunteering to lead cross-functional projects. When another opportunity arose, Michelle confidently presented her achievements, proving her readiness. Today, she's a senior IT director and actively mentors other women to claim their rightful space in leadership. Key Takeaway: Bias thrives in ambiguity. Document your achievements, seek mentorship, and create your leadership opportunities. Overcoming Discrimination: Aisha's Journey Aisha's journey as a Black woman in finance came with challenges. She often found herself excluded from key conversations and networking opportunities. Rather than accept invisibility...

Belief holds significant power in our lives. It can manifest as a source of hope or a motivating force that compels individuals to take action. This belief encourages people to rise above challenges and obstacles, even when facing adversity. Belief also plays a crucial role in fostering resilience and determination, allowing individuals to pursue their goals. In John 5:8, Jesus told the man waiting by the pool for 38 years, Get up, pick up your mat, and walk! The man’s healing didn’t come from sitting by the water. It came from believing he could rise by acting on that belief. Sisters, how often do we find ourselves stuck waiting for the right time, resources, or opportunity? We tell ourselves we will start the business when we save more money, return to school once the kids are older, or apply for that promotion when we feel more confident. But what if our breakthrough isn’t about waiting but about moving? Here’s the truth: your belief becomes powerful when you pair it with...

For years, the American public has believed that billionaires are self-made visionaries, disrupting industries and driving economic progress. When we look closer, the reality tells a different story - one of the government handouts for the ultra-wealthy. In contrast, everyday workers, particularly government employees, are left out in the cold. Elon Musk, a prime example of this contradiction, has built an empire with the help of government contracts, tax incentives, and subsidies, all while advocating for slashing the very public sector jobs that sustain millions of families. The Government-Funded Rise of a Billionaire SpaceX: Over $10 billion in NASA and Department of Defense contracts. Tesla: Nearly $1.3 billion in federal and state subsidies for factories and electric vehicle production. SolarCity (now part of Tesla): Benefitted from government solar incentives and tax breaks. Government support played a critical role in Musk’s financial success. Despite this, he has r...

There are grave concerns about the gradual erosion of American democracy from undermining checks and balances to increasing political polarization and executive overreach. The same institutions that form the backbone of our democratic society appear under unprecedented strain, and some critics argue that if these trends continue unchecked, we risk witnessing the eradication of the democratic principles upon which our nation was built. A thriving democracy relies on active engagement and informed participation of its citizens who hold their leaders accountable, insist on transparency in governance, and tirelessly advocate to preserve our rights and freedoms. To dispute these trends that threaten democratic principles, it is essential to foster vigorous civic dialogue encouraging diverse perspectives, participate in the electoral process, and stand firmly for the rule of law to ensure justice prevails. Let us unite to restore and safeguard the democratic ideals and values that mak...

Policies and executive orders associated with Donald Trump have raised concerns regarding the rights of women and marginalized communities. Many individuals may feel overwhelmed, uncertain, or frustrated in response to these developments. However, we must recognize our power to confront challenges and turn adversity into opportunities for growth. These struggles extend beyond political realms; they significantly impact personal lives and self-worth. Historical evidence suggests that when people unite in resilience and purpose, they can effect meaningful change that surpasses any restrictive policy or directive. Our collective strength lies in mutual support, sharing personal experiences, and a steadfast commitment to equality, justice, and human dignity. Now is an opportune moment to reclaim the narrative surrounding these issues. Every woman has a voice to challenge injustice and foster hope. Engaging in activism, building supportive communities, or remaining authentic to one'...

Mastery of persuasion is a skill that can significantly enhance a career, promote collaboration, and strengthen leadership presence within the current professional environment. The Mastery of Persuasion is not manipulation; it's the establishment of trust, the effective communication of ideas, and the ability to inspire others with a compelling vision. Following are some strategies to help you facilitate influence with integrity and confidence: Understand Your Audience: Tailor your message to understand your clients or colleagues' needs, values, and motivations, and listening actively and asking insightful questions will help build rapport and create a foundation for meaningful influence. Establish Credibility: Share relevant experiences and data to demonstrate your expertise. People are more likely to trust your recommendations and insights when you combine competence with authenticity. Leverage Storytelling: Stories resonate on an emotional level and make complex id...

The SOFEI Group is thrilled to announce a new $1,000 grant opportunity through our Ambassadors for Economic Independence (AFEI) Giving Circle , designed to empower women who are rebuilding their lives and striving for economic independence. This grant aims to provide essential financial support for women embarking on a fresh start, whether by pursuing education, starting a business, or taking steps toward a brighter future. Eligibility: Open to women aged 18 and older experiencing situational poverty or significant life transitions. Applicants must outline their goals and demonstrate how the grant will support their journey to independence. How to Apply: Complete and submit a completed grant application , including a personal statement and proof of need. Pay a $25 tax-deductible registration fee to support the AFEI Giving Circle and future grant opportunities. Grant Timeline: Application Opens: Now Application Deadline: March 31 and June 30 Grant Awarded: June for March gr...

The recently issued 2025 Executive Order mandating federal employees to return to in-person work has sparked widespread discussion, particularly regarding its impact on working mothers. Over the past few years, remote work has provided a critical lifeline for countless women juggling careers and caregiving responsibilities. Many working mothers face significant challenges that could reshape their professional and personal lives with this shift back to traditional office settings. The Reality for Working Mothers Remote and hybrid work models have enabled working mothers to achieve a more manageable work-life balance. With the ability to work from home, many mothers have been able to: Be more present for their children’s education and daily routines. Reduce the stress and cost of childcare. Increase productivity without the burden of long commutes. Maintain job stability while managing household responsibilities. However, these advantages are now at risk with the mandate to return...

We all face moments when the odds stacked against us feel overwhelming. Whether it is a daunting career challenge, a personal setback, or an nexpected obstacle, these moments test our faith, perseverance, and courage. The story of David and Goliath is one of the most inspiring examples of overcoming insurmountable odds through faith and determination. It reminds us that even when we feel small or less confident, we can achieve incredible victories with the right mindset and belief. Facing the Giant David, a young shepherd, stood before Goliath, a giant warrior who had terrified an entire army. By all worldly measures, David did not stand a chance. He had no armor, military training, or weapons - just a sling, five stones, and his unwavering faith in God. Yet, it was his faith and confidence that made all the difference. David declared, “The battle is the Lord’s” (1 Samuel 17:47), and with one stone, he brought the giant to his knees. When we face our own “Goliaths,” it’s easy to fee...

In business, the adage It's not what you know; it's who you know , highlights the importance of networking and connections as key factors in achieving success. However, when leaders prioritize connections over competence (i.e., personal relationships over qualifications and merit), it can lead to poor decision-making and a decline in productivity, creating a toxic workplace culture that stifles growth, undermines team morale and ultimately threatens the success of an organization - making it crucial for leaders to strike a balance between fostering relationships and valuing professional qualifications. The Issue with Favoritism in Hiring It is not uncommon for leaders to help friends, family, or close connections by giving them opportunities within their organizations. This kind gesture often backfires when those individuals are not qualified for their hired roles, and hiring based on relationships instead of merit can lead to: Declining Employee Morale: When employees s...