S9 Ep 8

In this episode of The Trill MBA Show, Felicia is joined by marketing executive and leadership strategist Breana Jones to break down one of the most misunderstood concepts in the workplace: power.

Let’s be honest—corporate America wasn’t designed with Black women in mind. So how do we navigate it, win in it, and still protect our peace? It starts with understanding that power isn’t evil—it’s a tool. And knowing how to use it without burning out or getting fired? That’s the real flex.

Breana and Felicia get into what it means to break the rules strategically, how to stop performing for a system that doesn’t reward merit, and why playing nice isn’t the move if you want visibility, influence, and long-term security. They talk personal branding (not cosplay), networking with intention, and creating a power plan tailored to your strengths, your values, and your real-life constraints.

This episode is equal parts strategy session and soul check, with Breana dropping gems on how to lead with purpose, protect your peace, and still get your coin.

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

Power Is a Tool, Not a Personality – Stop equating power with ego or evil. Use it as a strategic asset to create security, freedom, and options in your career.

Do Less, Win More – Working harder isn’t the answer. Visibility, alignment, and relationships matter more than overdelivering behind the scenes.

Personal Brand ≠ Corporate Cosplay – Building your “brand” isn’t about changing your wardrobe or mimicking the execs. It’s about owning your story and controlling your narrative.

Break the Rules… Strategically – You can’t play this game like everyone else. Figure out how to bend the rules in a way that works for you—as a Black woman, as a leader, as a whole human.

No Power = No Stability – You can be the most competent employee in the room and still get laid off. This episode will help you flip the script.

Guest Spotlight: Breana Jones

Breana Jones is a seasoned marketing executive and leadership strategist with 20+ years of experience bridging brand and performance across Fortune 500s, start-ups, and mission-driven organizations. Known for her clarity, candor, and commitment to building high-performing teams, Breana helps leaders turn insight into impact.
Connect with her on LinkedIn: Breana Jones

Mentioned in This Episode:

Books: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please support the show by using the links below.

• Power: Why Some People Have It and Others Don’t by Dr. Jeffrey Pfeffer
• Seven Rules of Power by Dr. Jeffrey Pfeffer
• The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene
• The Art of War by Sun Tzu
• The Velvet Rope Economy by Nelson D. Schwartz

Access the Seven Rules of Power Free Worksheets
Career Fast-Track System – Felicia’s training session to help you create your promotion plan using the P.I.E. model
The Underachieving Overachiever – Breana’s upcoming book project and newsletter (coming soon)

Seven Rules of Power Book by Dr. Jeffrey Pfeffer – If you want to buy this book you can get it here. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)

Access Free Resources – Get the worksheets and guides based on episodes of the show to help you create your strategic career plan. Click here.

Career Consulting with Felicia – Facing challenges at work? Book a career strategy session to get personalized strategies for navigating your career.

Listener Letters – Send your questions to ask@trillmba.com.

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Until next time, keep it trill!