“That’s because they can’t defend what they did,” Alicia replied. “So they’re trying to change the conversation.”
She stood, walking to a small table that held a chess set. Moving a piece thoughtfully, she continued.
“But they’ve made a crucial mistake.”
“What’s that?”
“They think this is about me, about my feelings, my reaction.”
She moved another piece.
“They don’t understand that I’m just the catalyst. This is about exposing a system that’s been hurting people for generations.”
Sasha watched her mentor, understanding dawning.
“You’re going to use their attacks to highlight the bigger problem.”
“Exactly.”
Alicia’s smile was subtle but determined.
“Every time they call me difficult, we show similar language used against other minority executives. When they question my stability, we reveal patterns of character assassination against women in power.”
Marcus knocked on the doorframe.
“Sarah Chen’s confirmed for two. She wants to focus on systemic discrimination in luxury industries using yesterday as a case study.”
“Perfect,” Alicia said, returning to her desk. “Set up a prep session at one.”
“And make sure we have all the documentation ready. Contract clauses, witness statements, everything.”
As Marcus left, Sasha organized the afternoon schedule.
“The shareholder call is at four. Then Diana Washington’s producer wants to discuss timing for later this week.”
Alicia nodded, already reviewing Sarah Chen’s previous articles.
“One step at a time. First, we show them what real leadership looks like.”
“Then we change the game entirely.”
At precisely two, Alicia sat across from Sarah Chen in a sleek podcast studio. The intimate setting made their conversation feel personal, authentic.
Sarah adjusted her microphone while her producer counted down.
“Welcome back to Breaking Barriers. I’m Sarah Chen, and today we’re joined by Alicia Rhodes, CEO of Rhodes Aviation.”
“Alicia, thank you for being here.”
“Thank you for having me, Sarah.”
Alicia’s voice carried its usual quiet authority.
“Let’s start with yesterday. You were at Hampton Executive Airfield to finalize a major deal with Elite Jets Consortium.”
“What happened?”
Alicia took a measured breath.
“I arrived with my assistant for what should have been a standard closing meeting. We’d spent months negotiating a $770 million joint venture.”
“All the paperwork was ready.”
“But something went wrong?”