237: How to Lead People Who Don’t Think or Look Like You w/ Stephanie Chung

Diverse teams are powerful, but they don’t run on autopilot. As a Black entrepreneur, you’re building something bigger than yourself, whether it’s a small business, a growing startup, or an industry-disrupting venture. But success isn’t just about numbers; it’s about people. And in today’s business world, knowing how to lead people who don’t think or look like you isn’t optional. It’s essential.

We understand that leadership can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re managing a team with different backgrounds, communication styles, and experiences. Many resources focus on how others should lead us, but what about our journey as Black entrepreneurs leading people from all walks of life? That’s why this conversation with Stephanie Chung is so important.

Stephanie isn’t just a powerhouse executive. She’s a history-making leader who has mastered the art of Ally Leadership. From starting in aviation as a baggage handler to becoming the first Black woman to lead a private aviation company, her journey is proof that leadership isn’t about fitting in. It’s about standing up and standing out. In this episode, she breaks down what it really takes to lead successfully in today’s ever-evolving business landscape.

If you’ve ever felt unsure about how to navigate different perspectives on your team, or if you’re looking for practical ways to become a stronger, more confident leader, this episode is for you.

DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:

• What Ally Leadership really means and how it applies to your business
• Why leadership isn’t about knowing it all, but learning from those around you
• How to recognize and address hidden biases that may impact your leadership
• Steps to create an environment where all team members feel valued and heard
• Why performative allyship isn’t enough and how to practice authentic leadership
• The key skills every entrepreneur needs to manage diverse teams effectively
• How to assess your leadership and make intentional improvements

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

• [BOOK] Ally Leadership: How to Lead People Who Are Not Like You
• [SUBSTACK] Your Ally in Leadership
• Day to Grow Conference  – March 19, 2025 (Orlando, FL)
• The Global Leadership Summit 2025 – August 7-8, 2025

ABOUT STEPHANIE CHUNG:

Stephanie Chung is a trailblazing executive, leadership strategist, and keynote speaker with over 30 years of experience in business growth, sales, and human capital management. She is widely recognized for her expertise in Ally Leadership, helping leaders successfully navigate the complexities of leading diverse teams with confidence and authenticity.

Stephanie made history as the first Black woman to lead a private aviation company as President of JetSuite, where she transformed the brand, grew revenue, and led a team that consistently exceeded billion-dollar sales quotas. She later served as Chief Growth Officer for Wheels Up, one of the largest private aviation companies in the world, spearheading strategies that expanded membership, increased market share, and strengthened brand positioning.

Her leadership expertise extends beyond aviation. Stephanie has worked with some of the world’s top organizations, guiding Fortune 100 and Fortune 500 companies in leadership development, sales performance, and executive coaching. She is a highly sought-after speaker and consultant, known for blending neuroscience, business strategy, and real-world experience to create transformative leadership solutions.

Her insights have been featured in Forbes, Black Enterprise, CNBC, Inc., Essence, and Adweek, and she has been recognized as one of America’s Most Influential Black Executives by Savoy Magazine and a trailblazer in luxury and business by Robb Report.

Stephanie is also the #1 international bestselling author of Ally Leadership: How to Lead People Who Are Not Like You, a guide for modern leaders who want to build inclusive, high-performing teams. Through her work, she continues to empower entrepreneurs and executives to lead with impact, influence, and integrity.

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OTHER PLACES TO LISTEN: Apple | Spotify

STAY CONNECTED: 

Stephanie Chung:  Website | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | LinkedIn

Black to Business:  Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn

🙏🏿 Support:

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