A Daughter of An Assassin: A Conversation with Dr. Rhoda Banks

From Parking Garage Cashier to Executive Leader: Rhoda Banks’ Inspiring Career Journey

🎙️ In this episode of the Breakfast Leadership Show, host Michael D. Levitt sits down with Rhoda Banks, a powerhouse in culture and inclusion leadership. Rhoda shares her remarkable journey—from working as a cashier in a hospital parking garage to becoming a senior executive in a financial institution. She discusses the pivotal moments that shaped her career, her passion for leadership development, and how her networking skills opened doors in the HR space.

Growing Up in an Inner-City Community

Rhoda reflects on her childhood in St. Louis, Missouri, where she experienced both the resilience and hardships of inner-city life. She shares how her strong community roots shaped her understanding of connection and support, despite the trauma surrounding her environment. A recent visit to her childhood neighborhood served as a powerful reminder of how far she has come—reinforcing the importance of personal growth and forward momentum.

Overcoming Family Challenges & Personal Growth

Rhoda opens up about her family dynamics, including her father’s past as a hitman and the profound impact of her mother’s mental health struggles. She candidly discusses how these experiences shaped her resilience, influenced her parenting, and fueled her drive to succeed. Her time at a private high school became a pivotal turning point, exposing her to opportunities she had never imagined.

The Power of Mental Health & Self-Reflection

Michael and Rhoda dive into the importance of addressing mental health challenges for personal and professional growth. Michael draws parallels between Rhoda’s journey and his late mother’s, highlighting the necessity of healing past wounds. Rhoda emphasizes that success isn’t just about external achievements—it’s about doing the inner work to truly thrive.

Rhoda Banks’ Book Release – May 17th 📖

Rhoda introduces her upcoming book, inspired by the acronym DOA (Dead on Arrival)—a term she refuses to accept as her fate. In her book, she shares lessons of resilience, transformation, and the mindset shifts needed to break free from generational cycles. She also encourages listeners to connect with her on social media for updates.

Mentorship & Its Lasting Impact on Entrepreneurs

Rhoda shares a powerful story of mentorship—guiding a young woman named Carmen from an entry-level assistant role to a thriving serial entrepreneur. Her journey serves as a testament to the ripple effect of positive influence. Michael and Rhoda discuss the importance of acknowledging those who have shaped our paths and paying it forward.

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

✅ The role of resilience and adaptability in career advancement
✅ How community experiences shape personal and professional growth
✅ The impact of mentorship in transforming lives
✅ Why addressing mental health is crucial for success
✅ Rhoda’s journey to authorship and her mission to inspire others

🎧 Tune in now! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and connect with us on social media!

📢 Follow Rhoda Banks:
📌 Instagram | 📌 LinkedIn | 📌 Twitter

🚀 Join the conversation! Share your thoughts on this episode using #BreakfastLeadershipShow

Dr. Rhoda Banks brings unique leadership insights from an unlikely source - growing up as the daughter of St. Louis's most notorious assassin before becoming a corporate DEI executive.

Leadership takeaways for your audience:

1. Building trust when your background raises eyebrows
2. Leading authentically in predominantly white spaces
3. Creating inclusive cultures from ground up
4. Rising from parking attendant to executive leadership
5. Transforming adversity into business advantage

Her new memoir "Daughter of an Assassin" launches in May. She offers practical strategies for leaders navigating complex organizational challenges.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rhoda.banks/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/virtualrhodabanks/; website: vantageandvox.com