Board of Directors Hat with Tamala Lewis

What does it take to earn a seat at the table and make your voice count once you are there? In this episode of The Hats Podcast, Melissa Dumaz and Kerri Harper-Howie welcome Tamala Lewis, Senior Director of Community Affairs for AEG’s Dignity Health Sports Park, for an insightful conversation about serving on a board of directors. Drawing from her experience serving on community and philanthropic boards, Tamela explains what board service truly involves, from attending meetings and supporting events to fundraising and fulfilling fiduciary responsibilities. She also shares why it is important to choose organizations that align with your values, interests, and passions. Tamala opens up about entering rooms where women, particularly women of color, have historically been underrepresented. Guided by the belief that she belongs in every room she enters, she follows what she calls the “Four Ups”: stand up, speak up, show up, and pull someone up behind you. Together, Melissa, Kerri, and Tamala discuss how to prepare for board service, find the right opportunities, understand the expectations, and confidently contribute your experience once you have a seat at the table. In this episode, you’ll learn: -What serving on a board of directors truly requires -Why passion and research should guide the boards you choose -How to contribute confidently, even when you do not initially feel ready -Why representation and bringing the community to the table matter -How Tamela’s “Four Ups” can guide your leadership Connect with The Hats Podcast Send an email: thehatspodcast@gmail.com Facebook:   / thehatspodcast   Instagram:   / thehatspodcast   Connect with Kerri Harper-Howie Instagram:   / kerriharperhowie   Check out Kerri's book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0D9TY... Connect with Melissa Dumaz Instagram:   / melissadumaz   Website: https://www.melissadumaz.com/