Episode 161 -- LaVerne Toombs -- Transforming Struggles into Advocacy: A Journey of Resilience and Reinvention

Prepare to be inspired as we share the incredible journey of LaVerne Toombs. From her humble upbringing to her tenure as a political operative, grant writer, and fundraiser, LaVerne's story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and hard work. She talks about her struggle with low self-esteem, how she transformed it into a powerful tool to advocate for women and children, and the role of her mother and mentors in shaping her resilient character.

Dive deep into LaVerne’s personal life as she discusses the challenges she faced in balancing her thriving career with her personal life. She reveals how her role as a public servant took a toll on her life, leading to two divorces, and how she learned to prioritize self-care. Her story of reinventing herself and adjusting to a slower-paced life underscores the importance of finding time for oneself and one's families, no matter the career path.

In an emotional climax, LaVerne sheds light on systemic racism and the divisive nature of politics. She stresses the importance of forgiveness and understanding our differences. Her proudest moments include meeting the first Black President of the United States. LaVerne envisions a world without color bias, sharing her inspiring trip to Montgomery, Selma, and Tennessee, and her dream to use a 24-hour superpower to create a more equitable society. This conversation will not just touch your heart but will also inspire you to think deeply about our society and the changes needed for a better tomorrow.

Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff