E9: Your Passion Builds Your Planner with Ralph Smithers, Jr.

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.