Pathways to Empowerment: Michele Heyward's Quest for Racial and Financial Equality in STEM

Money & Racism

In this insightful episode of "Money & Racism," host Dr. Joe Burns and this week's guest, Michele Heyward delve into the intersections of financial inequity and racial discrimination. Michele begins by recounting her formative years, where a love for science and math collided with the realities of growing up in rural South Carolina. She reveals her generational ties to construction and land ownership, highlighting the significance of these assets within Black communities and their impact on familial and economic stability.

The conversation further unpacks the advantages and complexities of land ownership concerning opportunities and historical context. Michele and Joe examine how access to resources and support systems shape educational and professional prospects, particularly within STEM fields.

Shifting the focus to the modern workforce, Joe and Michele tackle the enduring racial inequalities in hiring and compensation. They discuss the systemic challenges Black women face in the job market, including disparities in pay and the heightened difficulties in negotiation and career advancement.

Michele shares her journey from Clemson University to the electrical business unit of a tech firm and the construction industry, emphasizing the critical need for marginalized individuals to claim their value and push beyond societal limitations.

The episode rounds off with a call to action, encouraging listeners to engage in the conversation and recognize the deep-seated issues of racism that permeate aspects of daily life, from finance to personal development.

You can find Michele Here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelecheyward/