The Uncompromise Podcast: Transformative Leadership Advice From Change Agents

How One Architect Is Using Inclusive Design And Architectural Advocacy to Help Reshape Dallas (and COMMUNITES ACROSS THE NATION) | feat. Dar

Lisa Gardner is joined by Darren L. James, President and Equity Partner at KAI Enterprises, to delve into his visionary approach to community development through inclusive design in architecture. From his strategic vision for KAI Enterprises' national growth to his pivotal role in transforming spaces like Fair Park in Dallas, Darren shares candid insights into overcoming challenges and building trust within under-invested communities. Together, Lisa And Darren explore the intersection of leadership, service, and community empowerment. Through initiatives like internship programs and community engagement efforts, Darren's holistic approach emphasizes not only architectural excellence but also social impact and inclusivity.  As such, Darren's unwavering dedication to authenticity, integrity, and service is reshaping the architectural landscape and fostering positive change in communities across the nation.  Also in this episode:   Passion for Community Transformation: The importance of projects that catalyze cultural and social transformation, such as South Oak Cliff High School and the Rebi Carey Youth Library.  Recognition and Leadership: Darren's elevation to the American Institute of Architects College of Fellows and his recent appointment as chairman of the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners. Influence of Upbringing: Darren's upbringing, shaped by the values instilled by his parents and grandparents, has influenced his dedication to giving back to the community and striving for excellence in his profession. Challenges in Equitable Practice: Building trust with residents and stakeholders in underinvested communities and ensuring authentic engagement to address their needs. Strategic Vision for KAI Enterprises: KAI Enterprises aims to transform communities through integrated design and construction excellence. With a focus on strategic growth and serving clients authentically, the firm aims to make a positive impact on the lives of residents in the areas they serve.  Community Engagement at Fair Park: Through initiatives like internships for local students and collaboration with stakeholders, Fair Park aims to not only revitalize the area but also empower and uplift the surrounding community.   Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Darren L. James LinkedIn  About Darren L. James Darren L. James is President of KAI Enterprises, overseeing marketing and sales strategies for its four companies. As the inaugural President of Fair Park First, he developed a 20-year Master Plan and led a capital campaign. Darren chairs the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce, assisting over 200 Black businesses in securing $5M in PPP funds during the COVID pandemic. He serves on numerous boards, including the Dallas Citizens Council and Real Estate Council, and was appointed to the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners. A celebrated architect and leader, Darren was elevated to the American Institute of Architects College of Fellows in 2019.   About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

“Have Strong Opinions Loosely Held”: Diversity Can Drive Your Success | feat. Brooke Armstrong

Lisa Gardner is joined by Brooke Armstrong, President of Advisory Services for Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas at CBRE to discuss her creative strategies for expanding market share, fostering diverse thought leadership, and empowering her team to innovate and collaborate with a phrase she’s taken on: “Have Strong Opinions Loosely Held”. Reflecting on her upbringing in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Brooke credits her parents, particularly her father's leadership in banking, for instilling high standards and a strong work ethic in her. She emphasizes the importance of being authentic and values-driven in leadership, drawing inspiration from leaders like Roger Staubach. She also shares valuable lessons on resilience, embracing change, and the significance of inclusivity in driving business success. She highlights the importance of setting clear goals and prioritizing time effectively, especially in balancing professional and family life.  Also in this episode:  Commit to your values and integrity, they are the foundation of your success. Embrace diversity of thought and culture; it's not just good for business, it's essential. Prioritize your time wisely, aligning it with your personal and professional goals. Don't be afraid to ask for help or admit when you don't know something. Lead authentically and loudly, setting an example for others to follow. Adversity builds resilience; it's not about avoiding challenges but overcoming them and learning from them.  Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Brooke Armstrong LinkedIn  About Brooke Armstrong Brooke Armstrong is the President of Advisory Services for the Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas region at CBRE. She leads the strategic direction and performance of leasing, sales, property management, and valuations, overseeing a team that provides solutions for local, national, and global real estate needs. Recognized as a premier expert in the Dallas office market, Brooke is respected in DFW’s commercial real estate and business communities. Before joining CBRE in 2021, she was a Managing Director at JLL in Dallas, leading the Office Tenant Rep practice. Brooke began her career in 2004 at The Staubach Company.    About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

Creating A Win-Win For All -- Even When You Think Your Voice Isn’t Welcome In A Boardroom Meeting | feat. Kimberly & Ansley Carlisle

Lisa Gardner is joined by Kimberly and Ansley Carlisle, a mother-daughter duo, to discuss law, venture capital, leadership, faith and how to work around intimidation when you don’t think your voice is welcome in a boardroom meeting. From Kimberly's distinguished career as Chief Legal Officer for major international airports to Ansley's dynamic role in venture capital at Mark Cuban Companies, the duo brings a wealth of wisdom and expertise to the table. They explore the challenges and triumphs of navigating rooms that may not reflect their identities, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, active listening, and leading by example.  They also talk about how Kimberly and Ansley have emerged as leaders in their respective fields, overcoming obstacles and championing diversity every step of the way.   Also in this episode:  Maintain self-awareness and confidence in your expertise and unique perspective. Practice active listening and empathy to understand others' viewpoints and foster constructive dialogue. Be adaptable and open-minded, valuing diverse perspectives for better outcomes. Showcase authenticity by staying true to your values and principles. Demonstrate leadership through actions such as taking initiative, advocating for inclusivity, and empowering others. Exemplify integrity, competence, and empathy to inspire confidence and earn respect in diverse environments.   Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Kimberly Carlisle LinkedIn Connect With Ansley Carlisle LinkedIn  About Kimberly Carlisle Business-smart attorney with experience as in-house legal counsel and member of executive team. Demonstrated leader with public and private sector expertise in employment law, procurement, and real estate law. Strategist successful at creating and implementing plans that achieve progress toward long-term goals. Skilled negotiator with focus on integrity and clarity leading to win-win outcomes. Strong attention to detail, engaging communication skills, and dynamic personal presence.  About Ansley Carlisle Ansley Carlisle continues the legacy as an investor at Mark Cuban Companies, bringing a fresh perspective to venture capital. Her transition from environmental engineering to empowering new businesses signifies a pivotal shift in embracing her entrepreneurial spirit amidst global change.    About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

What Is The Cost Of Our Integrity?: Putting The Journalism Code Of Ethics Ahead Of Sensationalism | feat. Christine Perez

Lisa Garnder is joined by Christine Perez, the award-winning editor of DCEO magazine to discuss her journey through the evolving landscape of business journalism, her unwavering commitment to excellence, the inspirational stories that have shaped her career, and balancing the journalism code of ethics with personal gain or sensationalism. Together, they chat business journalism, exploring the significance of confidence and passion in achieving success. Christine discusses the challenges and rewards of leading in an industry transformed by technology and her strategies for driving change. She highlights the power of authenticity and collaboration in leadership and emphasizes the importance of overcoming fear to realize one’s full potential. Christine also shares inspiring stories of resilience and determination, from North Texas entrepreneurs to immigrants overcoming incredible odds. She reflects on the invaluable lessons learned from her mother’s life and legacy and offers insights into maintaining hope and faith in the face of adversity.  Also in this episode:   Christine believes that confidence and passion are crucial traits for success, as fear often limits potential. She highlights the inspiring stories of immigrants and entrepreneurs who overcome significant adversities to achieve their dreams. Christine values authenticity and collaborative leadership, emphasizing the importance of trust and integrity in journalism. She has learned the importance of focusing on meaningful experiences and overcoming fears to live a fulfilling life.  Her main motivation in leadership has shifted from competitive success to telling impactful stories and providing valuable insights.  Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Christine Perez LinkedIn  About Christine Perez Christine is the editor of D CEO magazine and its online platforms. She’s a national award-winning business journalist who has covered the DFW region since 2000. She grew up in northern Michigan, has an identical twin sister, and two sons. Now a downtown Dallas denizen, she went car-free in 2018.  About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

Being The First In, The Last Out, And Always Willing To Explain: Transformative Leadership Insights From The Legal Field | feat. Vicki Blant

Lisa Gardner is joined by Vicki Blanton, Assistant Vice President and Senior Legal Counsel for AT&T to discuss transformative leadership through mentorship, availability, and empathy.  Vicki shares her journey, from founding the Village Giving Circle at the Texas Women's Foundation to serving on the SMU Dedman School of Law executive board. Celebrated for her community and justice work, Vicki stresses her dedication to diversity, equity, and closing the gender wage gap. They explore qualities of effective leaders and the unique challenges women face in leadership roles. Vicki offers advice on asserting presence and making significant contributions, even as the only woman or person of color. They address diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), dispelling myths and highlighting DEI's benefits.   Also in this episode: The importance of servant leadership and being available to your team. How women can effectively lead and make their voices heard in male-dominated spaces. The value of diversity, equity, and inclusion in fostering innovation and achieving the best results. Insights into the roles of mentors and sponsors in shaping successful careers. Strategies for navigating and excelling in environments where you might be the only diverse voice.  Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Vicki Blanton LinkedIn  About Vicki Blanton A seasoned attorney with 30 years of experience, I specialize in transaction and litigation legal matters, with over 25 years advising Fortune 500 companies on employee benefits and executive compensation. I manage large-scale defined benefit and contribution plans, union and non-union retirement plans, health and welfare plans, international benefits, and executive compensation plans, impacting over $200 billion in assets and 6 million participants. I lead interdisciplinary teams, advise fiduciaries, and ensure compliance with ERISA and IRC regulations. Additionally, I serve as an experienced board chair and director for various nonprofit and civic organizations, committees, and commissions. About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

From NFL Player to Boardroom Titan: Lessons in Transformative Leadership and Taking Risks Early | feat. Ronald C. Parker

Lisa Gardner is joined by Ronald C. Parker, a former NFL player and current trailblazer in securities, transformative leadership, and diversity advocacy. As former president and CEO of The National Association of Securities Professionals and The Executive Leadership Council, Ron shares his remarkable journey from the NFL, to the corporate world, and then to nonprofit leadership. Their conversation delves into the critical intersection of diversity, equity, and inclusion in business and beyond. Ron reflects on the importance of mentorship, highlighting pivotal moments in his career where he took risks, embraced vulnerability, and empowered others. From negotiating multimillion-dollar labor agreements at PepsiCo to spearheading strategic initiatives at organizations like NASDAQ and Texas Christian University, Ron's insights offer a roadmap for aspiring leaders. He emphasizes the power of authenticity, integrity, and purpose-driven leadership in driving meaningful change and fostering inclusive environments. Ron inspires listeners to challenge conventional norms, embrace diversity, and harness the transformative power of mentorship.  Also in this episode:  Commitment to Values: embrace the unwavering commitment to values, beliefs, authenticity, integrity, and character in business and leadership. Impact of Diversity: the importance of diversity in leadership and its positive impact on innovation, excitement, and financial success across industries like sports and entertainment. Embrace Failure as Learning: view failures as opportunities for learning and growth, while emphasizing resilience and adaptability in facing challenges. Take Risks and Embrace Flexibility: take career risks and embrace flexibility, and step out of comfort zones and seize opportunities, even without having all the qualifications. Power and Empowerment: empower others, sharing power, and fostering leadership development for future generations.  Vulnerability in Leadership: the power of vulnerability, authenticity, and genuine connection in leadership and business interactions, which facilitates meaningful engagement and collaboration.  Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Ronald C. Parker LinkedIn  About Ronald C. Parker Ronald C. Parker is the former President and CEO of The National Association of Securities Professionals (NASP) and The Executive Leadership Council (ELC). At ELC, he significantly grew membership, corporate partnerships, and programs, notably creating the NextGen CEO Academy and C-Suite Academy. Parker's leadership increased the presence of Black executives on Fortune 1000 boards. He spent nearly 30 years at PepsiCo, retiring as Senior VP of Human Resources. Currently, he serves on multiple boards, including Baylor Scott & White Hospital and Procter & Gamble’s Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Board. Parker holds a B.A. in Political Science from Texas Christian University.  About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

A Real Change Agent Is Patient: A Guide To Perseverance And Sticking It Out Against All Odds | feat. Tim & Terrence Maiden

Lisa Gardner is joined by Terrence and Tim Maiden. Terrence, chairman of the Maiden Foundation, and Tim, a titan in banking and education sectors, discuss their vision for ebing change agents, creating lasting change in underserved communities, addressing systemic inequities, and fostering inclusivity.  Terrence and Tim delve into their shared history, from collegiate football triumphs to individual accolades and collective impact. They reflect on the core values that drive change agents, discussing the importance of courage, conviction, and thinking outside the box. With their insightful perspectives, they explore the strategies they've employed to drive change management initiatives and why these approaches have been effective. The Maiden brothers discuss the role of faith in their leadership journey and the impact of their nonprofit endeavors. They shed light on the transformative work of the Maiden Foundation, particularly the Elevate Male Leadership Academy, a program aimed at empowering young men of color through mentorship and skill-building.  Also in this episode: Terrence Maiden, chairman of the Maiden Foundation, is a visionary leader in real estate development, transforming communities like the Red Bird Mall area in Dallas. Tim Maiden, a leader in banking and education, contributes to community transformation through innovative academic programs and board leadership roles. Conviction and courage are essential for driving change, alongside a deep-seated purpose and intentionality. Strategic planning involves assessing resources, strengths, and weaknesses to determine a clear direction for achieving goals. Building authentic relationships, discipline, and resilience are key lessons learned from sports that translate into successful business leadership. The Maiden Foundation's Elevate program aims to empower young men of color through mentorship, skills development, and exposure to new opportunities. Faith plays a foundational role for both Terrence and Tim Maiden in guiding their business decisions, philanthropic efforts, and commitment to serving marginalized communities with grace and compassion.  Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Terrence Maiden  LinkedIn Connect With Tim Maiden LinkedIn  About Terrence Maiden Terrence Maiden is the CEO of Russell Glen, a real estate development and investment company in Dallas, Texas. With over 20 years of experience, he is known for leading transformational real estate projects, including the award-winning Shops at RedBird. Previously, he was Executive Vice President at Corinth Properties, overseeing projects like Glen Oaks Crossings and Alexan West Dallas. He began his career at The Woodmont Company and led expansion strategies for Panda Express and Panera. A Texas Christian University graduate and Hall of Fame inductee, Terrence chairs the Maiden Foundation and serves on various charitable and civic boards, including UT Southwestern Medical and the Dallas Arboretum.  About Tim Maiden As Senior Vice President and Group Manager at Comerica Bank, I lead a team providing tailored solutions to middle-market and business banking clients. With over 20 years of banking experience, I excel in sales, credit analysis, business banking, commercial real estate, and nonprofit lending. I'm also an adjunct professor at UNT Dallas, teaching credit analysis and business ethics since 2019. Passionate about education and community development, I serve as a board member and mentor for nonprofits supporting youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and social services, aiming to nurture future leaders, business bankers, and entrepreneurs.  About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

Food Insecurity, Urban Agriculture & How To Empower Community Led Solutions | feat. Whitney Strauss

Lisa Gardner, is joined by Whitney Strauss, the Executive Director of AdvoCare Foundation and Senior Counsel at Sunwest Communications. Whitney discusses the evolution of diversity and inclusion, as well as the benefits of urban agriculture.  Whitney also highlights her doctoral research on the impact of urban farms in addressing food insecurity across the United States. She shares stories of transformative community projects in Detroit, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia, where local leaders have created resilient food systems and fostered community collaboration. Whitney also chats about the challenges and successes of these initiatives, emphasizing the importance of local solutions and the need for accessible funding in the philanthropic sector. Also in this episode: Whitney's career highlights include transformative roles at March of Dimes and Lockheed Martin, and she currently serves on the boards of the Dallas Holocaust Museum and Human Rights Museum. True inclusivity means all voices are heard and solutions are multidisciplinary. The argument against the notion of reverse racism, advocating for diversity and inclusion as beneficial for everyone. The impact of urban agriculture, including successful community-led initiatives in cities like Detroit, LA, and Philadelphia. The importance of local solutions and community control in addressing food access and other social issues. Reduce barriers to accessing capital and support grassroots organizations for lasting change.  Instilling values like curiosity, empathy, and integrity in the next generation to foster a life of uncompromised commitment to social impact.   Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok   About Whitney Strauss Whiteny is the Executive Director of the AdvoCare Foundation, a $5M private foundation focused on ending childhood obesity and promoting healthy lifestyles through nutrition education, healthy food access, and physical education across 10 states. Since 2017, she’s led the foundation's vision, mission, operations, grantmaking, fundraising, partnerships, and advocacy. Additionally, Whitney is a Senior Counsel at Sunwest Communications, specializing in civic projects, corporate social responsibility, and nonprofit organizations. As an International Sustainable Business Advisor, she aligns clients' practices with ESG standards. She is also pursuing a Doctorate at SMU, studying urban farms' impact, and authored the award-winning "My Sweet Child" children's book series.  Connect With Whitney Strauss LinkedIn  About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

“Lifting as We Climb”: How To Build Careers, Communities, and Representation in Real Estate | feat. Kimberly Brown

Lisa Gardner is joined by Kimberly Brown, the president of the African American Real Estate Professionals (AAREP) in Los Angeles, to discuss authentic representation, diversity across the industry and the idea of “lifting as we climb”. Highlighting the influx of young talent dedicated to community development, Kimberly believes in the transformative potential of organizations like AAREP in nurturing talent and embedding equity in real estate projects. Through personal reflections and professional advice, Brown's narrative inspires listeners to embrace meaningful careers grounded in integrity and purpose, signaling a future of inclusive and impactful urban development.   Also in this episode:  A significant increase in young black talent passionate about community development roles over corporate positions. Organizations like AAREP are crucial in fostering black talent and ensuring accessible opportunities in real estate development. Proactive steps, including networking and alliances, are taken to prepare and include black professionals in the industry. Why young professionals should accept offers from large firms for training and learn financial modeling. Patience, understanding organizational dynamics, and gaining work experience are essential for career growth. Kim’s personal challenges, the importance of sponsors, and trends of black women seeking impactful roles.  Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Kimberly Brown LinkedIn  About Kimberly Brown Kimberly Brown is the Managing Principal of IMPACT Realty Advisors and a founding partner of Housing Impact Partners, focusing on affordable and workforce housing to create generational wealth. With over 30 years of experience, she manages investor relationships and sources opportunities for various investors. She also has 20 years of experience in Supplier Diversity, emphasizing inclusive sourcing and access to MBEs and BIPOC developers. Her work is driven by ESG initiatives, impacting historically overlooked communities. Named “2022 Commercial Real Estate Woman of the Year” and a “2023 Leader of Influence,” she also leads the African American Real Estate Professionals LA Chapter.  About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

The “Pet To Threat” Phenomenon & The Difference Between Having A Mentor vs. Sponsor | feat. Herman Bulls

Lisa Gardner is joined by Herman Bulls, Vice Chairman at JLL. To discuss insights on overcoming challenges like discrimination and unconscious bias, the “pet to threat” phenomenon, having a mentor vs. Sponsor, and the importance of mentorship.   With 33 years in real estate, Bulls discusses founding the African American Real Estate Professionals (AAREP) and the impact of diversity in corporate America. Bulls recounts his entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing integrity, perseverance, and the power of setbacks. He also reflects on his late wife’s influence on their family, highlighting the role of parental behavior in children's success. Join for an inspiring discussion on leadership, resilience, and success.  Also in this episode:     Founding AAREP: Bulls is a trailblazer who founded the African American Real Estate Professionals (AAREP) group in Washington, DC, to support African American professionals in real estate. Diversity and Inclusion:  particularly following events like George Floyd's death, emphasizing the need for corporations to mirror the marketplace's demographic shifts. Challenges for Minorities: He highlights challenges such as outright discrimination, unconscious bias, and the "pet to threat" phenomenon, advising minorities on navigating these dynamics. Leadership and Success: the qualities needed for success, such as emotional intelligence, authenticity, preparedness, and balancing confidence with humility. They also discuss the importance of celebrating others' successes and fostering an inclusive environment. Mentorship vs. Sponsorship: while mentorship can be sought, sponsorship must be earned through performance and reputation. Entrepreneurial Lessons: He shares a personal anecdote about a failed real estate investment, which taught him the importance of integrity and perseverance. Despite the failure, Bulls and his partners maintained their commitment to their investors.  Family Influence: The conversation concludes with a reflection on family, particularly the influence of his late wife, Iris, on their sons. Bulls emphasizes the significance of parental behavior in shaping children's futures and advocates for empathy, emotional connections, and tough love in parenting.   Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Herman Bulls LinkedIn  About Herman Bulls Herman is the International Director and Vice Chairman at JLL, a global financial and professional services firm specializing in real estate operations and investment management. With over 34 years of experience, he helps senior executives solve complex real estate challenges and achieve their strategic goals.  Herman also serves as a Member of the Defense Policy Board at the US Department of Defense, providing advice and opinions on matters of defense policy. Additionally, he is the Vice Chairman of the Board at USAA, a Fortune 100 diversified financial services firm serving the needs of military members and their families. Herman is a NACD Fellow and have been recognized as one of the most influential individuals in corporate America and one of the top 100 corporate governance professionals in the nation. His specialties include real estate, finance, strategy, leadership, governance, and communication. Herman is passionate about delivering value, creating impact, and building trust.  About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children.