This month, I am delighted to introduce Malika Begin, CEO and founder of Begin Development, a consulting firm based in Malibu, California. Malika shares her insights on the transformative power of generous leadership—an approach rooted in empathy and purpose—especially during crises like the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles.

With many people spending significant time at work, it’s no surprise that the workplace can have an effect on one’s mental health. This week, Dr. Patrice chats with Malika Begin - Founder and CEO of Begin Development - about pressures and divides at work and creating healthy team dynamics.

This year, Begin Development was featured in VoyageLA Magazine’s Community Spotlight, highlighting our origin story and mission to cultivate people-centered leadership and build thriving, resilient teams.

Begin Development has been busy leading Succession Planning Sessions across the globe this year, thanks to a client who requested a full program. As a result of this work, Forbes invited Malika to share insights on how to choose a second-in-command. Naturally, she emphasized the importance of aligning core values between leaders—crucial for building a strong, unified team that can thrive through any challenge.

Last month, I became certified in Strengths Deployment Inventory (SDI), a tool I’ve worked with for years but now use more with Begin Development clients. This deeper dive has been a great reminder of a belief I hold close: we all deserve to be on exceptional teams, and building one together is always worth the effort.

The Five Tools for Self-Awareness:

1. Future Vision: Envision where you want to go in life.

2. True Passion: Identify what excites you.

3. What Am I Known For?: Understand and shape your personal brand.

4. Who Are Your People?: Recognize your support network.

5. Reflection: Reflect regularly to integrate learning.

Learn more about Malika's business journey and her thoughts on building something significant. Discover why Begin Development holds such significance for her, fueled by a bold vision and relentless passion. It’s an inside look at her gratitude, personality, and the energy she brings to every project. 

Last month, I found myself in the heart of Encino, surrounded by 16 extraordinary C-level women, each carrying a unique story, a legacy in the making, and a deep passion for creating positive change. This wasn’t just another weekend retreat—it was the beginning of something I’ve yearned for: a space where connection and growth intertwine in the most meaningful way.

Key Takeaways:

• Invest in potential successors immediately

• Start knowledge transfer conversations now

• Reflect on the conversations you need to have with your team

In today’s rapidly evolving work environment, hybrid work has become the new norm. But with it comes a unique set of challenges. Our founder, Malika Begin, was recently featured in The Financial Brand discussing how to navigate communication overload in a hybrid workplace.

Discover your inspiration and moments of rest in these remaining summer weeks.

What a gift to have Jeremy Utley join the Begin Development team for a quarterly call that truly shook up our thinking on AI and innovation.

Join us online on Wednesday, June 26. This session is perfect for anyone who wants to ensure a seamless succession process. Whether you're a business owner, manager, or HR professional, you'll walk away with valuable insights to help future-proof your organization.

In today’s dynamic and complex professional landscape, mentorship shines as an inspiration, guiding individuals toward success and nurturing their growth. It also gives them a competitive advantage if pursued strategically. Amidst the intricacies of modern workplaces, mentorship isn’t just advantageous; it’s essential, especially for female leaders breaking barriers and challenging societal norms.

As we celebrate Women's History Month, I reflect on the incredible journey of building my business alongside talented and insightful women. My dream of a female-founded consulting firm has become a reality, driven by my motivation to unite my esteemed colleagues and harness their diverse talents to deliver unparalleled value to our clients.

2024 kicked off with a profound experience. I took a short ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. I'd never been to this gateway through which countless individuals dreamed big and forged new beginnings in the USA.

As an early holiday gift, I want to make the recordings for these events available. Never stop learning. The world needs your best leadership.

Feel free to let me know which events you found the most valuable and what topics you’d like to see us cover in 2024.

This episode of the Convey Culture Podcast discusses how your personality plays a role in the workplace, authenticity, working across generations, and how to increase emotional intelligence and motivation.

Our guest is Cecily Breeding, a leadership development consultant at Begin Development. Cecily is passionate about helping people achieve their goals and live their best lives, and she believes that everyone has the potential to be a leader.