Lisa Gardner is joined by Ronald C. Parker, a former NFL player and current trailblazer in securities, transformative leadership, and diversity advocacy. As former president and CEO of The National Association of Securities Professionals and The Executive Leadership Council, Ron shares his remarkable journey from the NFL, to the corporate world, and then to nonprofit leadership. 

Their conversation delves into the critical intersection of diversity, equity, and inclusion in business and beyond. Ron reflects on the importance of mentorship, highlighting pivotal moments in his career where he took risks, embraced vulnerability, and empowered others. From negotiating multimillion-dollar labor agreements at PepsiCo to spearheading strategic initiatives at organizations like NASDAQ and Texas Christian University, Ron's insights offer a roadmap for aspiring leaders. He emphasizes the power of authenticity, integrity, and purpose-driven leadership in driving meaningful change and fostering inclusive environments. Ron inspires listeners to challenge conventional norms, embrace diversity, and harness the transformative power of mentorship.  

Also in this episode:  

• Commitment to Values: embrace the unwavering commitment to values, beliefs, authenticity, integrity, and character in business and leadership. 
• Impact of Diversity: the importance of diversity in leadership and its positive impact on innovation, excitement, and financial success across industries like sports and entertainment. 
• Embrace Failure as Learning: view failures as opportunities for learning and growth, while emphasizing resilience and adaptability in facing challenges. 
• Take Risks and Embrace Flexibility: take career risks and embrace flexibility, and step out of comfort zones and seize opportunities, even without having all the qualifications. 
• Power and Empowerment: empower others, sharing power, and fostering leadership development for future generations. 
•  Vulnerability in Leadership: the power of vulnerability, authenticity, and genuine connection in leadership and business interactions, which facilitates meaningful engagement and collaboration. 

 
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About Ronald C. Parker 
Ronald C. Parker is the former President and CEO of The National Association of Securities Professionals (NASP) and The Executive Leadership Council (ELC). At ELC, he significantly grew membership, corporate partnerships, and programs, notably creating the NextGen CEO Academy and C-Suite Academy. Parker's leadership increased the presence of Black executives on Fortune 1000 boards. He spent nearly 30 years at PepsiCo, retiring as Senior VP of Human Resources. Currently, he serves on multiple boards, including Baylor Scott & White Hospital and Procter & Gamble’s Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Board. Parker holds a B.A. in Political Science from Texas Christian University. 
 
About Lisa Gardner 
Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children.