All Segments
Porter Braswell — Building the Future of Leadership | Episode 216
53 segments available
Porter Braswell is the Founder and CEO of 2045 Studio, an exclusive network for accomplished professionals of color. Porter is also the Co-founder and Executive Chairman of the career advancement platform Jopwell, the host of the Harvard Business Review podcast Race at Work, and the author of two books, including 2019’s Let Them See You. Porter joins the show to discuss how 2045 Studio is harnessing community to empower professionals of color to succeed, how to establish trust within a community, what he learned from Magic Johnson’s mentorship, and MUCH more! Important Links: - 2045 Studio - https://2045studio.com - Porter’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/porter-braswell-7a097560/ - Porter’s Twitter - https://twitter.com/Porter_Braswell - Porter’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/porterbraswell/?hl=en - Race at Work podcast - https://hbr.org/2020/11/podcast-race-at-work - O'Shaughnessy Ventures Invests in 2045 Studio - https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/oshaughnessy-ventures-invests-in-2045-studio-302063752.html Show Notes: 0:00:00 Intro 0:00:50 Main podcast 0:02:08 The Significance of 2045 0:03:10 Bridging the Inclusion Gap 0:06:47 Networks, Community & the Clubhouse 0:16:15 The Opportunity To Be in the Majority 0:18:47 Building the Right Kind of Partnerships 0:21:18 The Importance of Human Capital 0:24:42 Socratic Problem-Solving 0:30:59 How to Establish Trust Within a Community 0:34:13 Councils & Relationship-Building 0:38:22 Surprising Lessons From Foundership 0:43:09 Leveraging the Community 0:46:24 Magic Johnson’s Mentorship & the Advantages of the Athletic Mentality 0:55:34 Why Porter Writes 1:00:39 “Wouldn't it be so cool if I could always feel like I belong?” 1:05:52 2045’s Long-Term Vision 1:09:45 Porter as Emperor of the World Books Mentioned: - Let Them See You: The Guide for Leveraging Your Diversity at Work - https://www.amazon.com/Let-Them-See-You-Leveraging/dp/0399581405; by Porter Braswell - Yes, You Can: The Secrets Revealed for How to Get into and Succeed at America's Top Universities and Colleges - https://www.amazon.com/Yes-You-Can-Revealed-Universities/dp/1502893533?ref_=ast_author_dp; by Porter Braswell - The Intelligent Investor; by Benjamin Graham
Segments Timeline
The Vision for 2045
Porter Braswell introduces the concept of 2045 as the year America will become a majority racially diverse country. He emphasizes the importance for companies to reflect these changing demographics in their workforce to remain relevant, moving beyond quotas to genuinely retain the best talent.
"by the year 2045 America is going to be a majority racially diverse country and we believe that in order for companies and Brands to remain relevant they have to have a Workforce that's reflective of ..."
Meet Porter Braswell
In this segment, Jim Oasy introduces Porter Braswell, highlighting his impressive background as the founder of 2045 Studio and co-founder of Jopwell. Porter shares his excitement about being part of the Infinite Loops portfolio and sets the stage for discussing the mission of 2045 Studio.
"solution well hello everyone it's Jim oasy with yet another infinite Loops today's guest I have a special interest in let's get that out of the way up front because we're full disclosure people here a..."
The Meaning Behind 2045 Studio
Porter explains the significance of the name '2045 Studio,' which symbolizes the year when the U.S. will be a majority racially diverse nation. He discusses the necessity for companies to adapt their leadership to reflect these demographics to stay relevant in the future.
"to have had a chance to have you know gotten some know you now and it's been it's been awesome um it's been awesome being a part of the network let's start with the name 2045 studio um I think it's ve..."
Addressing the Inclusion Gap
Porter discusses the current challenges in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, highlighting the 'inclusion gap.' He advocates for inclusive leadership at all levels to ensure that employees feel valued and heard, which leads to better retention and promotion rates.
"the way you go about it too because my next question is is around how you're going to execute against this mission that that honestly is what got me so excited and to make the investment in the compan..."
The Power of Inclusive Executive Coaching
In this segment, Porter emphasizes the importance of inclusive executive coaching for leaders of all backgrounds. He explains how this framework helps individuals become better leaders and supports professionals of color in navigating their careers effectively.
"regardless of one's racial Identity or background everybody can benefit from our framework of inclusive Executive coaching uh it allows individuals to show up as good leaders um those individuals that..."
Building a Supportive Community
Porter highlights the value of community among members of 2045 Studio, where individuals can connect with others facing similar challenges. He discusses the commitment to retention and promotion within this network, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose.
"together within companies those that don't identify being of color so typically allies we have an ally Network for them to talk about their experience and their vulnerabilities and what they're insecu..."
Creating Inclusive Cultures
Porter shares insights on how to create inclusive cultures within organizations. He discusses the importance of breaking bread and fostering empathy among colleagues, which can lead to a more cohesive and supportive work environment.
"like I love the organic nature of it I love the network joining nature of it because the as you and I discussed before we invested this sort of siloed approach uh to Dei kind of invited kind of the ba..."
The Role of Physical Spaces
In this segment, Porter discusses the significance of having dedicated physical spaces, like the 2045 Clubhouse, for members to gather. He emphasizes the organic nature of building relationships and how informal interactions can lead to stronger connections.
"you have a lot of the similar elements to what you're doing there talk a bit about that and you it's basically I love the fact that you also are having real spaces right so you've got a great space in..."
Lessons from Davos
Porter reflects on his experience attending the Davos conference, noting the importance of established networks among attendees. He shares how this experience highlighted the lack of representation for young professionals of color in such influential spaces.
"and when they show up at a gathering like Davos there are such good feelings and sentiments and business is getting done and I yet consistently I like most times I found myself being the only I was on..."
Building a Network for Professionals of Color
Porter discusses the need for a community specifically designed for influential professionals of color. He contrasts existing networks with the vision for 2045 Studio, aiming to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for diverse leaders.
"that have been around forever and it was shocking to me that there wasn't a community that was intentionally built for influential Professionals of color now there have been small nonprofits that do f..."
The 2045 Clubhouse Experience
Porter elaborates on the concept of the 2045 Clubhouse, a dedicated space for members to meet, collaborate, and build relationships. He emphasizes the importance of this physical space in fostering a sense of community and belonging among professionals of color.
"Cornerstone of what they do is is a forum it brings together groups of 6 to 12 individuals they meet regularly there's very it's very strict on in how they show up and how they are expected to engage ..."
Common Concerns Among Professionals of Color
Porter shares insights into the common challenges faced by professionals of color in the workplace. He highlights the unique experiences of being in the minority and the importance of having a supportive community where individuals can be their authentic selves.
"councils if you're not in New York you can do it virtually so we took those elements um we also recognize that you know one of the powerful things about like a YPO is that it's it's so senior in natur..."
Creating Authentic Connections
In this segment, Porter discusses the value of building authentic relationships in professional settings. He contrasts formal networking events with the informal connections that can be made in spaces like the 2045 Clubhouse, emphasizing the importance of genuine interactions.
"and lessons and ultimately my vision is to have many of us attend DBL but have our own version of of Davos one day where we bring together the world's leading Professionals of color we set the agenda ..."
The Power of Being in the Majority
Porter Braswell discusses the unique experience of being in the majority within the 2045 Studio community. He highlights how this rare opportunity allows members to escape the pressures of being a minority in their daily lives, fostering a sense of safety and authenticity. This segment emphasizes the importance of creating spaces where professionals of color can truly be themselves without the constraints of societal expectations.
"conferences conferences now there's been some notable changes recently in conferences trying to kind of reinvent them but people people tend to be much more formal and this is all people I thought rig..."
Building Trust with Corporations
In this segment, Porter explains how his previous experience with Jopwell has helped him establish trust with large corporations. He shares insights on the importance of long-term commitments and deeper relationships over transactional interactions. Porter emphasizes that retaining diverse talent is not just a moral obligation but a strategic business decision that benefits companies in the long run.
"start with the what what are you as you're sitting in these conversations is there something that emerges just kind of as like a common theme or are you like wow I never I never knew people were think..."
Equity vs. Equality in the Workplace
Porter Braswell addresses the critical distinction between equity and equality in workplace diversity initiatives. He argues that organizations must recognize and support individuals who are disproportionately impacted to retain top talent. This segment underscores the necessity of implementing equitable solutions that cater to the unique needs of diverse employees, ultimately enhancing company performance and shareholder value.
"and so all of that is on the to b side on the B to C side if you're an individual and you're not from a large company you're an entrepreneur you're a professional athlete you're in you're you're an ac..."
The Socratic Method for Understanding
Porter shares his approach to fostering understanding and trust through the Socratic method. He illustrates how asking questions can help uncover different perspectives and facilitate meaningful conversations. This segment highlights the importance of finding common ground in discussions about diversity and inclusion, encouraging open dialogue that transcends labels and promotes collaboration.
"particularly good at using like when a political aspect comes up which which I really dislike honestly because what it's like we we've been overp politicizing everything in my opinion and you're parti..."
Setting Expectations in the 2045 Network
In this segment, Porter discusses the importance of setting clear expectations for members of the 2045 Network. He emphasizes that active engagement is crucial for maintaining membership and fostering a supportive community. This approach not only strengthens relationships among members but also enhances the overall effectiveness of the network in promoting professional growth and collaboration.
"there so it's it's um it's I don't know a lot of it feels like common sense to me I I think I might have even said that to you uh when we decided to invest in you it it really does seem like common se..."
Creating a Culture of Connection
Porter reflects on his experience at a country club and how it shaped his vision for the 2045 Network. He expresses the desire to eliminate feelings of awkwardness among members and to create an environment where introductions and connections are the norm. This segment highlights the significance of fostering a culture where members feel comfortable engaging with one another.
"around what that means so if you're in the clubhouse and you see another member our expectation is that you go up and you introduce yourself and we try to normalize that so if we don't see it organica..."
Programming That Fosters Relationships
Porter discusses the various programming elements of the 2045 Network, including executive coaching, councils, and fireside chats. He explains how these initiatives enhance member relationships and trust, allowing for deeper connections and collaboration. This segment emphasizes the importance of structured programming in facilitating meaningful interactions among members.
"a member if you've been there for a while you go up and you introduce yourself and the reason for that is because I you know I belong to um I belong to a country club and I wish that had happened to m..."
Mentorship and Coaching in the Network
In this segment, Porter outlines the mentorship and coaching opportunities available within the 2045 Network. He describes the structured approach to executive coaching and the councils that provide members with valuable insights and support. This discussion highlights the role of mentorship in fostering professional growth and community engagement.
"between our members how do you approach the mentoring and the coaching segment do you have a uh is there a formalized uh course that you ask mentors to go through walk me through that yeah so um so th..."
Leveraging Community for Growth
Porter shares how the 2045 Network leverages its community to drive programming and engagement. He emphasizes the importance of community ownership in creating a vibrant network where members actively participate in events and initiatives. This segment illustrates the symbiotic relationship between the network and its members, leading to collective success.
"other month and so that's on your calendar it gets added so you know when it's coming up you can see the people that are in your Council and and you can engage with them before or after um uh but agai..."
Diverse Industries and Community Dynamics
Porter discusses the differences between chapters in various cities, such as New York and Los Angeles, highlighting the unique industries represented in each location. He reflects on the importance of bringing together diverse groups and the value of shared experiences among members. This segment underscores the richness of community dynamics within the 2045 Network.
"incredible um uh event that I love showing up to and so it's like a camp I mean you you get out what you put in and you meet people and you build relationships and um our vision is that wouldn't it be..."
Challenges of Managing Multiple Ventures
Porter candidly shares the challenges of managing multiple business ventures within the 2045 Network. He discusses the complexities of balancing different business models and the importance of community engagement in driving success. This segment provides insights into the entrepreneurial journey and the lessons learned from navigating diverse business landscapes.
"and I we've done things in Canada uh in Montreal we had a little Meetup and what's amazing in the consistency is just breaking bread with impressive people who look like you and you're like I've never..."
The Role of Space in Community Building
In this segment, Porter reflects on the significance of physical space in fostering community connections. He discusses the potential for leveraging existing spaces to create dedicated environments for members to gather. This insight highlights the importance of thoughtful space management in enhancing community engagement and collaboration.
"manage a physical space manage a b Toc business and manage a B2B business those are three different businesses um and it's doable but it is it is hard and so our learning and lesson and the most shock..."
Strategic Partnerships for Growth
Porter shares how strategic partnerships, particularly with Tishman Speyer, enhance the 2045 Network's ability to scale globally. He emphasizes the benefits of collaborating with organizations that provide physical spaces and resources, allowing for greater community activation. This segment illustrates the power of partnerships in expanding the network's reach and impact.
"and so I in California we're about to Launch lach um our second location and we're doing it at a existing Club where we're getting our own dedicated space within that club and our members will have ac..."
Community-Driven Programming
Porter discusses the community-driven approach to programming within the 2045 Network. He explains how members take ownership of events and initiatives, contributing to a vibrant and engaged community. This segment highlights the importance of community involvement in shaping the network's offerings and ensuring relevance to its members.
"relatively well so that's just been from a you know from a entrepreneur perspective that's been a really interesting thing because it's my first time entering into this type of space where it's beyond..."
Empowering Community Ownership
Porter Braswell discusses the strategic approach of 2045 Studio in leveraging community involvement to minimize operational costs. He emphasizes the importance of community members taking ownership of events and initiatives, which fosters a sense of belonging and reduces the need for a large internal team. This segment highlights the innovative model of community-driven engagement in professional networks.
"everybody um so from a internal building perspective we don't have to hire fulltime employees to do a lot of the things that you may you may not realize because uh the community is willing to do it th..."
The Importance of Quick Feedback
In this segment, Porter reflects on the necessity for early-stage entrepreneurs to quickly assess the viability of their business models. He stresses the importance of understanding what works and doubling down on successful strategies, which is crucial for growth and sustainability in a competitive landscape.
"where we invest in headcount it's on sales um it's on um you know operations um uh some marketing technology but we we're we're not investing in um things that a healthy Community should want to take ..."
Magic Johnson: More Than an Investor
Porter shares a personal story about his first meeting with Magic Johnson, highlighting the profound impact Johnson had as a mentor and advisor. He recounts how Johnson's insightful questions about his transition from athlete to entrepreneur made him feel understood and supported, establishing a strong mentor-mentee relationship.
"you can you can uncover it you can uncover it a lot a lot quicker I think in this type of uh framework let's shift gears for a minute because I recall you telling me a story uh about you the fir you m..."
Navigating the Transition from Athlete to Professional
In this segment, Porter opens up about the emotional challenges faced when transitioning from being a college athlete to starting a career in finance. He discusses the identity shift and the recognition he received from Magic Johnson, which validated his experiences and struggles during this pivotal change.
"feel if it became he's like an advisor Mentor friend it it trans it it it went beyond an investor and how that played out was the first time I met him uh we get a phone call that said Mr Johnson's in ..."
The Value of Athletic Mentality in Business
Porter emphasizes the unique skills that former athletes bring to the workplace, such as teamwork, communication, and resilience. He reflects on how these traits make athletes ideal candidates for various roles, reinforcing the idea that athletic experience can translate into professional success.
"words um and he quickly recognized that because I'm sure I'm not the that happens a hundred times a day to him and he daps us up and welcomes us inside and we sit down and and um I think the most impr..."
Building Relationships with Mentors
Porter discusses the importance of mentorship and how his relationship with Magic Johnson has influenced his career. He shares anecdotes about personal interactions that deepened their connection, illustrating how mentorship can extend beyond professional advice to personal support.
"training every single day for hours of your entire life for that D1 opportunity the day you graduate it's like cold turkey and when you transition into the workplace it's a it's I can't I can't put it..."
Hiring Former Athletes: A Competitive Edge
In this segment, Porter talks about the advantages of hiring individuals with a background in competitive sports. He cites studies that show how former athletes possess unique qualities that enhance their performance in the workplace, making them valuable assets to any team.
"photos with them and I was in Chicago one time he happened to be there and I was with one of my employees and he was like come out to dinner so my employees got a chance to engage with him and I got i..."
Challenging Stereotypes in Academia
Porter reflects on the stereotypes he faced as a Black student at Yale and how he navigated assumptions about his identity. He shares his experiences of being questioned about his athletic background, emphasizing the need to challenge and educate others about the diverse capabilities of individuals from underrepresented backgrounds.
"having come up that way are are you finding the same in your own hiring uh 100% And and going back to the story with him I think one of the reasons why I was so emotional when I was answering that que..."
The Power of Athletic Identity
In this segment, Porter discusses the significance of embracing one's identity as an athlete and the skills that come with it. He shares advice from Magic Johnson on valuing the attributes gained through sports, reinforcing the idea that athletic experiences can empower individuals in their professional journeys.
"when they said well what sport do you play I would say I don't play a sport and I would just see how they would react so part of the conversation with him was and this gets back to your your your curr..."
Overcoming Assumptions in Professional Spaces
Porter addresses the assumptions made about individuals based on their backgrounds and how these can be limiting. He shares strategies for confronting these biases and the importance of creating spaces where diverse experiences are acknowledged and valued.
"only that because he can leverage books and um so I look for that I look for athletic mentalities I look for people who have all the traits of athletes whether they played sports or not I look for tha..."
Creating Dialogue Around Diversity
In this segment, Porter emphasizes the need for open conversations about diversity and inclusion in professional settings. He discusses how 2045 Studio serves as a platform for these discussions, allowing individuals to share their experiences and learn from one another.
"around uh and what were some of the responses when you were like yeah I I I don't I don't play any sport was just like awkwardness very awkward just love that yeah it's um it's one of those things aga..."
The Therapeutic Nature of Writing
Porter shares his passion for writing and how it serves as a therapeutic outlet for him. He discusses the parallels between writing and golf, highlighting how both activities allow him to disconnect from distractions and engage deeply with his thoughts.
"that there's a polite way to teach that Lesson by just being like I don't play a sport I it's also really funny because that giv you the it gives it gives you the opportunity to just watch them try to..."
Giving Back Through Writing
In this segment, Porter explains his motivation for writing his book 'Let Them See You.' He discusses the importance of providing guidance for professionals of color navigating corporate environments and how his experiences shaped the content of the book.
"writing is a similar experience for me so those are the two worlds that I can escape um and I chose to write a book for the same reason why I do a I do a podcast called race at work I which I did it w..."
The Impact of Mentorship on Career Trajectory
Porter reflects on the pivotal role mentorship played in his career, particularly the influence of Michael Cyel. He shares how one meeting changed his trajectory and emphasizes the importance of being available to help others in similar positions.
"people and he was the only one that said yes so I remember thinking to myself if I'm ever in a position where people reached out to me I would take the phone call so for the last decade I block my Fri..."
Leveraging Social Media for Community Engagement
Porter discusses how he uses LinkedIn as a platform to connect with his audience and share thought leadership. He highlights the importance of choosing the right social media channels to effectively reach and engage with the community.
"the the my most recent book was called let them see you and I did that with pingman random house is that the questions I was answering were all similar and it was basically how how do we as Profession..."
Encouraging Participation in 2045 Studio
In this segment, Porter addresses potential members of 2045 Studio who may feel hesitant to join. He shares insights on the value of community and the opportunities available, encouraging individuals to embrace the benefits of being part of a supportive network.
"brand for you where you have the best reach is something that's worthy of of of an investment in and so I I I it spend most of my social media time on LinkedIn why do you think uh that people who shou..."
Turning Pain into Purpose
In this segment, Porter discusses how he transformed a painful experience of racism into a catalyst for starting 2045 Studio. He emphasizes the importance of sharing experiences to foster understanding and community, illustrating how his story resonated with many others and sparked a broader conversation about belonging and support among professionals of color.
"2019 um and Joell was a large business at that point doing very well and I was in New York City and I was going from uh Union Square which is kind of where the office was based to Upper West Side whic..."
The Importance of Belonging
Porter reflects on the feeling of belonging that emerged from his experience and how it inspired the creation of 2045 Studio. He articulates the significance of having a community that understands and supports individuals facing racial challenges, reinforcing the idea that everyone deserves to feel they belong.
"her like can I help you with something and she looked me dead in the eyes and she called me uh the nword and everybody heard it around me and it was like time stopped uh I remember people pushing me o..."
Advice for the Hesitant
Porter offers advice to those who are hesitant to join 2045 Studio, explaining that they will inevitably face challenges related to their identity. He reassures them that the community will be there to support them when they are ready to join, emphasizing the importance of solidarity among professionals of color.
"write about this because I have this large following if it's happening to me in New York City if it's happening to me and if it's happening to me in New York City it's happening to everybody and I wro..."
A Proactive Response to Racism
In this segment, Porter discusses the proactive nature of his response to racism, highlighting the importance of sharing stories to raise awareness. He emphasizes that many individuals internalize their experiences, and by speaking out, he hopes to encourage others to recognize that they are not alone in their struggles.
"support you when you're ready to join us wow you you've never that that's the first time I'm actually hearing that story so uh what like I just first off congratulations on the way you reacted congrat..."
Vision for 2045 Studio
Porter outlines his vision for 2045 Studio, discussing plans for expansion into major cities and the importance of creating a supportive network for professionals of color. He emphasizes the need for community engagement and the role of corporate leaders in championing diversity and inclusion initiatives.
"lot of ignorant people in the world and what a great what a great way to respond to that um rather I love the pro the proactive nature of that because that you know that's how you loosen I think thoug..."
The Role of CEOs in Diversity
Porter discusses the critical role that CEOs and senior executives play in fostering an inclusive workplace culture. He stresses the need for long-term commitment from leadership to ensure that diversity initiatives are not just superficial but lead to meaningful change within organizations.
"the the longer term view so where we currently are um is that we have our physical space in New York we're going to have our physical space in Los Angeles at the end of May which we're really excited ..."
Engagement and Deep Work
In this segment, Porter emphasizes the importance of engagement and deep work in achieving diversity and inclusion goals. He advocates for organizations to focus on genuine efforts rather than vanity metrics, highlighting that real progress requires commitment from both the community and corporate leaders.
"years I absolutely love the positive way that you are approaching this that's why we invest it we we just think everything about what you're doing is the right way to get to the result that everybody ..."
Empowering the Next Generation
Porter shares his excitement about the potential for 2045 Studio to empower the next generation of leaders. He envisions a future where the voices of professionals of color are amplified and respected, creating a more inclusive environment in corporate America.
"making them feel like you know this just normal now uh the way I uh the way I perceive it I think that is absolutely fantastic well we for our vision to be a reality we need CEOs of companies to Champ..."
Incepting Change in the World
Porter imagines a scenario where he has the power to influence the world with two key ideas: to be a good person and to learn from others. He believes that if everyone embraced these principles, it would lead to a vastly improved society.
"community like if this is going to work the community has to show up and engage that's on them if we're going to work in a corporate sense the CEO and the C- level leadership teams need to make this w..."
Connecting with 2045 Studio
Porter invites listeners to connect with him and learn more about 2045 Studio. He shares information about their website and social media presence, encouraging individuals and corporate partners to engage with the community and explore opportunities for collaboration.
"to think that they are their own ideas and they are going to do something very different they they're going to say to themselves you know what I'm going to actually start acting on these two ideas tod..."