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What happens when your toxic boss shares your identity? For Amber Polk, classically trained violinist turned educational advocate, this question became painfully personal when she found herself working under a Black female supervisor who constantly criticized her personality rather than her performance.
"I'm not going to dim my light just because you're threatened," Amber declares in this powerful conversation about workplace toxicity, professional growth, and finding your authentic voice. Growing up surrounded by Black excellence and attending schools where she saw Black leadership daily, Amber developed a strong sense of identity that would later be tested in professional settings where her confidence was misinterpreted as a threat.
The discussion ventures beyond typical workplace advice, diving deep into the psychological impact of toxic leadership. Amber vulnerably shares how shame influenced her initial response: "I automatically said I was the problem and it's my fault." Through therapy and self-reflection, she learned to recognize when leadership issues stemmed from others' insecurities rather than her own shortcomings.
This episode offers particular insight for introverts navigating extrovert-centered work environments, post-pandemic graduates facing disrupted career paths, and anyone who's felt pressured to shrink themselves to make others comfortable. Amber's journey from musical prodigy to advocate illuminates how our passions can evolve in unexpected directions when we remain true to our values.
Perhaps most powerful is Amber's closing wisdom: "Toxic environments deteriorate the humanity of who we are. And if you don't have to stay, don't." Her call to honor your intuition, recognize red flags early, and trust that better opportunities await serves as a reminder that sometimes walking away isn't giving up—it's choosing yourself.

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