In this episode of The Unleashed Life, I sit down with Milicent Reed, a Fortune 25 corporate leader, author, and founder of Impact Greater Good. Our conversation is a masterclass in empowerment, inclusion, and the courage to live your purpose out loud.
Milicent’s journey from corporate boardrooms to community classrooms is a reminder that impact starts with intention. Through her nonprofit work and her children’s book series, Little Millie, she’s creating spaces where representation, confidence, and healing all come together.
Empowerment Begins with Access and Representation
Milicent reminded me that empowerment is not a single act; it’s a ripple effect. When people have access to opportunities and see themselves reflected in leadership and literature, it changes how they navigate the world.
Her Little Millie series isn’t just about storytelling. It’s about seeing what’s possible. Representation permits children to believe in themselves, and belief is the foundation of confidence.
Inclusion is a Daily Practice, Not a Policy
We talked about how easy it is to make inclusion a buzzword, but far harder to make it a habit. Inclusion only matters when it is practiced daily in how we hire, lead, teach, and listen.
True inclusion asks us to notice who is missing from the table, and then do the work to bring them in. It’s not about perfection, it’s about persistence. Or, as Milicent said so beautifully, “Do good 365 days of the year.”
Healing and Self-Love Lead to Authentic Confidence
Milicent and I also explored the connection between healing and leadership. Before we can lead others with confidence, we have to love ourselves enough to confront what hurts. Healing from the past opens the door to purpose.
She reminded me that confidence is not something you are born with; it is something you build, one brave act at a time. And often, the path to confidence begins with honesty. “The test is the testimony.”
Writing as a Tool for Healing and Impact
For Milicent, writing became both therapy and transformation. Through Little Millie, she is teaching children that their stories matter and that their experiences can be powerful tools for good.
Storytelling is not just creative work. It is leadership in action. It helps us connect, heal, and create lasting change.
The Unleashed Takeaway
Empowerment is not something that is given; it is something that is practiced. Confidence is not inherited; it is chosen. Living unleashed means aligning your beliefs with your actions and doing good 365 days of the year.
Action Steps for You
Step 1: Reflect on where you can use your influence for good this week. Who can you uplift, include, or represent through your work?
Step 2: Write down one story from your own life that shaped your confidence or purpose. Consider how sharing it could empower someone else.
Step 3 (optional): Commit to one daily act of inclusion — whether it’s mentoring, amplifying another’s voice, or simply listening with empathy.
🎧 Listen: You can hear the full conversation on The Unleashed Life here: reneebaker.com/podcast.
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