What happens when you're the only one in the room — the only woman, the only Latina, the youngest voice at the table? In this episode, I sit down with Maria Brewer, former U.S. Ambassador and longtime State Department leader, for a deeply human conversation about what it means to navigate spaces where you don't always see yourself reflected. We talk about the power of naming the uncomfortable, how to reality-check your experiences when things feel unclear or isolating, and the importance of bringing what's subconscious into awareness so you can coach yourself through challenging moments instead of getting stuck in them. Maria shares candid reflections from her diplomatic career — the courage it took to stay grounded in her values, to lead with integrity, and to find belonging even when she was breaking new ground. If you've ever found yourself in spaces where you felt like the "only," or if you're learning to move through discomfort with self-awareness and strength, this conversation is a masterclass in resilience, authenticity, and emotional intelligence. MORE ABOUT MARIA: Accomplished global leader and twice-confirmed U.S. Ambassador with 29 years of distinguished Foreign Service experience. Now leveraging expertise in leadership and executive coaching to help individuals "Bloom Where Planted" by navigating challenges, seizing opportunities, and achieving lasting impact. LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ maria-brewer-b100m Website: https://paperbell.me/ maria-brewer YouTube: https://www.youtube. com/@BrewerCoachingServices MORE ABOUT ME: I'm a mental health therapist, speaker, author and educator who helps organizations bridge the gap between knowing and doing the things that foster well-being, resilience and success. With expertise in school counseling, trauma-informed practices, and social-emotional intelligence (SEI), I help teams address the root causes of issues such as burnout, communication breakdowns, and resistance to change—rather than just treating surface-level symptoms. My engaging, evidence-based approach equips audiences with the skills to navigate discomfort, build trust and create healthier, more adaptive workplaces. I'm also a "Resolutionist" with Empowered Workplace Dispute Resolution , where I leverage my trauma-informed expertise to guide difficult conversations with compassion and clarity. I create safe spaces for resolving conflicts, turning challenges into growth opportunities. Whether working with frontline workers, organizational teams or educational leaders, I help people feel seen, heard and valued—transforming disputes into deeper understanding. MORE WAYS TO CONNECT WITH ME: * Subscribe to my newsletter for exclusive content, the latest news and more! I post a few times a month so I won't be inundating your inbox * Book me for a workshop or speaking event! Email me at
[email protected] * Read or listen to my book Could It Be Better? An unorthodox approach to experiencing more joy and connection in relationships * Find me @cheranderton on Instagram and TikTok Disclaimer: My podcast and other work on social platforms are for educational purposes only and are not meant to be a replacement for professional mental health services. We are not creating a client/therapist relationship through social media, including comments and direct messages. This platform is not monitored 24/7 so if you feel unsafe or need immediate help in any way, please call an emergency number that can meet your needs.
