In this episode of Just Between Us Girls, we’re joined by 1st Assistant Chief LaShonna Potts of the Columbus Police Department for a powerful conversation about identity, self-expression, and the often invisible expectations placed on women—especially in uniform.

LaShonna opens up about the journey that led her into law enforcement, and what it’s meant to carve out space in a profession that asks for conformity before authenticity. From balancing authority with empathy, to pushing for progress in spaces that value order over change, she brings both candor and clarity to the challenges of showing up fully when the role demands you wear more than just a badge.

Together, we unpack the tension between professionalism and personal expression, and how style, voice, and femininity can exist right alongside strength and structure. This episode is for anyone who's ever been asked to tone it down, fit in, or check pieces of themselves at the door in the name of “respectability.”

LaShonna reminds us that being “built for the work” doesn’t mean abandoning who you are—it means knowing that your presence as you are is part of the power you bring.

Topics Covered:

Navigating leadership in roles rooted in structure and uniformity

Identity, expression, and the silent codes of “professionalism”

Holding space for authenticity in male-dominated fields

The emotional labor of challenging norms

Leading with humanity, softness, and unapologetic strength

In Season 1, Episode 10 of Just Between Us Girls, host Arianny Damian welcomes Jeff Seaton, Vice President of Property and Casualty at Leavitt Group Midwest, to discuss leadership, accountability, and building a culture that rewards and empowers employees.

Jeff emphasizes that true leadership means recognizing and valuing employees consistently, not just at performance reviews. He challenges micromanagement, advocating for trust, transparency, and giving employees a voice in decision-making. With a focus on accountability, he stresses that leaders must hold themselves to even higher standards, ensuring that feedback is ongoing and that success is fairly rewarded.

He also explores the balance between fairness and individual needs, explaining that treating people equitably doesn’t always mean treating them the same. By shifting from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mentality, leaders can create opportunities rather than competition, fostering growth for both individuals and organizations.

Jeff highlights that rewarding employees isn’t just about recognition—it’s about providing clear expectations, support, and pathways for advancement. He urges leaders to set the tone for accountability, ensuring employees understand their impact and are motivated to contribute meaningfully.

This episode offers essential insights for leaders looking to build high-performing teams through fairness, transparency, and a culture where hard work is acknowledged and rewarded.

In Season 1, Episode 9 of Just Between Us Girls, host Arianny Damian welcomes Ralph Smithers, AVP of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Community Relations at Encova. Ralph shares his journey from an underwriter to a leadership role in DEI, discussing how his passion and alignment with core values shaped his path. Listeners gain insight into Ralph’s approach to balancing career, service, and personal fulfillment. Ralph offers practical tips on creating room for service in daily life, underscoring the role that joy and hobbies play in fostering a well-rounded, purpose-driven life. His advice includes adding wonder into everyday experiences and embracing community engagement as a vital part of personal growth. He highlights the influence of friends and community, sharing reflections on the impact they have on one’s future and sense of fulfillment.

This episode encourages listeners to align their work with their values and take an active role in advocating for positive change within their communities. Ralph’s advice on finding purpose, joy, and the power of community is a compelling reminder of how passion can build a fulfilling life both personally and professionally.