100. Moving Forward Together

What Rules!?: A career podcast for women of color

It's our 100th episode! Since launching in 2020, we've been amplifying the voices of multicultural women in leadership—because our power, our stories, and our impact matter more than ever.

Today, we celebrate the strength found in moving forward together, this year’s theme for Women’s History Month.

Our conversation explores how multicultural women can turn challenges into assets, support each other through community, and redefine leadership on their own terms.

We discuss the idea that failure isn’t a roadblock—it’s a stepping stone. "You have to fail to get to the next level," says co-host Alisa Manjarrez, emphasizing that every setback brings growth and resilience.

This episode is a powerful reminder that we must break the rules that limit us and bring others along with us. We challenge you to take action—whether it’s mentoring, sponsoring, advocating for inclusivity, or simply choosing joy in daily life.

Episode Highlights:

• Celebrating our 100th episode!

• Why leading with purpose starts with knowing your worth

• How to embrace diversity and turn it into a leadership advantage

• Failing to get to the next level

• Why resilience and intentionality are key

• Building a strong support system and community

• Owning your power through breathwork and mindfulness

• Flexing your style vs compromising your values

• Setting boundaries to maintain authenticity

Mentioned in this Episode:

Open - a studio and app for breathwork

Alisa’s Bio:

Alisa Manjarrez is a storyteller, marketer and executive coach. She is the Managing Director of a B2B creative agency, co-host of the What Rules!? podcast, and has her Master's in Organizational Management & Leadership. Alisa is Mexican American and is passionate about advancing women of color in corporate America as co-CEO of Zera Consulting.

Merary’s Bio:

Dr. Merary Simeon, a seasoned Human Resources executive, brings 25 years of experience as a trusted advisor to C-suite executives in Fortune 50 corporations. Dr. Merary has a doctorate in Strategic Leadership. She is a best-selling author and co-host of the What Rules!? podcast. As co-CEO of Zera Consulting, she passionately advocates for the advancement of multicultural women in the workplace. Dr. Merary is from Puerto Rico and is fluent in Spanish.

Courtney’s Bio:

As an Accountability and Mindset Coach, Courtney is committed to helping her clients achieve their career goals to gain clarity, confidence, and alignment in their job search. With a passion for coaching and a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed in today's competitive job market, Courtney works closely with clients to provide guidance, support, and actionable strategies that drive results to level up their career.

Connect with us on our social media: Instagram and LinkedIn

More from Alisa Manjarrez: Instagram and LinkedIn

More from Courtney Copelin: Instagram and LinkedIn

More from Dr. Merary Simeon: Instagram and LinkedIn

Learn more at www.whatrulespodcast.com.