Breakthrough Conversations with Rhoda & Co
Welcome to Breakthrough Conversations with Rhoda & Co., the podcast where
real talk sparks real change.
Hosted by Rhoda Banks—HR Executive, Certified Coach, Leadership Expert, and Two- Time Author—this show dives deep into the stories of women who have shattered barriers and lifted others along the way.
From leadership lessons to candid conversations on resilience, sisterhood, and
breaking through the glass and concrete ceilings—especially for African American
women—each episode delivers insights, inspiration, and actionable strategies for rising, leading, and lifting as you climb.
Whether you're navigating the boardroom, pushing past career ceilings, or redefining success on your own terms, Breakthrough Conversations with Rhoda & Co. is your space to learn, grow, glow, and build a legacy worth remembering. Because every barrier is breakable.
Breakthrough Conversations with Rhoda & Co
Chosen, Not Chasing: Dr. Markay Winston’s Leadership Journey
Use Left/Right to seek, Home/End to jump to start or end. Hold shift to jump forward or backward.
In this deeply inspiring episode of Breakthrough Conversations with Rhoda & Co., Rhoda sits down with Dr. Markay Winston, whose rise to the superintendency is less a story of pursuit and more a story of preparation, sponsorship, self-belief, and courageous acceptance.
Dr. Winston’s journey spans more than three decades in K–12 education, from school psychologist to district leadership, shaped by equity-driven purpose, resilience, and powerful sponsors who saw her potential before she fully saw it herself.
Rather than chasing titles, Dr. Winston focused on excellence, service, and impact, trusting that the right doors would open at the right time. When they did, she had to confront her own doubts, lean into belief, and step fully into her calling.
This episode is a masterclass in:
The power of sponsorship over self-promotion
Leading with humility, authenticity, and courage
Navigating imposter syndrome and stepping into big leadership roles
Building trust through deep listening and community connection
If you’ve ever questioned your readiness, struggled with self-doubt, or waited for permission to
lead, this conversation will speak directly to your heart.
Dr. Winston’s Leadership Journey Highlights
30+ years in public education
Former School Psychologist
Chief of Diverse Learners — Chicago Public Schools
Assistant Superintendent → Deputy Superintendent → Superintendent (MCCSC)
Architect of community-centered leadership strategies
Champion for equity, access, and inclusive education
Why This Episode Matters
Dr. Winston’s story reframes leadership success. Instead of asking, "How do I get there faster?"
she teaches us to ask:
"Who am I becoming while I prepare?"
Her journey reminds us that:
Sponsorship matters
Self-belief is learned
And leadership is something we step into, not chase
This episode will resonate deeply with:
Women navigating executive leadership paths
Educators and administrators
Professionals wrestling with imposter syndrome
Anyone standing at the edge of their next breakthrough
Favorite Quote from the Episode
“I didn’t chase the role — I had to accept that I was ready for it.”
Host Message This episode is a reminder that your breakthrough doesn’t always come from pushing harder, sometimes it comes from believing deeper.
— Rhoda Banks Breakthrough Conversations with Rhoda & Co.
