Meet Dr. Shaq Anthony | Keynote Speaker & Culture & Leadership Strategist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dr. Shaq Anthony and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dr. Shaq, what is the most important factor behind your success?
I would say the most important factor behind my success is the combination of faith, authenticity, and paying it forward. I know for a fact without faith, I would’ve probably given up a long time ago. My faith played a role in me being rooted in my identity and purpose. It’s hard to obtain or aspire to anything if you don’t have a clear understanding of your purpose and identity, Purpose and identity serve as a compass even when things seem vague. Going back to purpose and identity ensures you don’t forget the why behind what you do. Authenticity is the ability to be yourself in any place or space. I’ve learned early on that people want what’s authentic and it is authenticity that is the wave of the future. The need for genuine connection is at an all-time high and my ability to remain myself has played a major role in my success. I enjoy authentically connecting with, understanding, and helping people succeed. It is part of my DNA. I have no desire for credit or anything of that nature. This is in direct connection to paying it forward. My success is not success without opening up doors and creating pathways for others. I understand that success is not just about a single person. If there are not others who benefit or reap from your success, there may be a need for reassessment of the meaning of success. The combination of these three principles has changed my life for the better forever.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

What’s interesting about my journey is that every position I have held in my professional career has had a focus or some emphasis on culture. I got my start in a nonprofit as a career development specialist helping youth prepare for careers after finishing the program. In this role, I was charged with curating a culture of learning and development for the organization and preparing youth for success. I then transitioned to another nonprofit as a workforce development specialist focusing on training, developing, and creating equitable access to employment for residents. This role was all about cultivating a culture of equity, advocacy, and inclusion. Then I transitioned to legacy Spectrum Health as a talent program specialist where I focused on diversifying and strengthening our talent pipelines. I focused on curating a culture of diversity, inclusion, and access regarding employment. After this, I went to an organization as lead talent engagement to help lift their DEI efforts and create a people-first culture, focusing on the well-being of associates. Next up, I went into higher education as a director of strategic partnerships focusing on cultivating a culture of collaboration and breaking down silos for greater impact. All of this experience was preparation for where I am now. Culture has been part of my career the entire time. I am so passionate about culture because it is the very essence of an organization. It is the womb by which any strategy, change, or vision is birthed. To be able to help curate and sustain a culture that honors everyone and allows all people to thrive is a direct reflection of my own personal mission and vision.

What sets me apart from others is my perspective on the work and industry I am in. I see culture as a continuum and I understand that regardless of strategy, vision, mission, or values, if your culture is not healthy enough to support any of those, they mean nothing. It was not easy at all but it was all worth it. I learned several lessons along the way. Some of the most important were: not being afraid to bet on yourself, remaining a learner, being humble yet confident and courageous, embracing change, inviting accountability into your life, surrounding yourself with the right people, and building meaningful relationships and connections.

When people look at my brand and story, I want them to know that it is all about empowering people to make the best decisions for their lives and inspiring people to go beyond the limitations they’ve placed on themselves. The only difference between me and the next person is that I decided to live in purpose on purpose and embrace the journey of change and evolution.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?

So Grand Rapids is full of hidden gems. There are some notable and reputable restaurants and bars around town but for me, I like the unknown treasures. As for eating and drinking, I would recommend (no specific order): The Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck, Margaux, 40 Acres, Bowdie’s, Hancock, The Winchester, Stellas, and One Twenty Three. As for hanging out, I would recommend: Billy’s, The Intersection, Wax Poetic Candle Bar, Knoop, The Bob, and the Listening Room.

These are some of my favorite spots in Grand Rapids and I think others would enjoy them too.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

When it comes to my success, I of course have to start with my family. I have to thank my mother who sacrificed and made things happen so that I could have what I needed to be successful. Without her, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I want to also shout out my soon-to-be wife Kaylyn and my daughter, Sevaya for being such a great support system. They are the reasons I go so hard. I also have to shout out my baby sister, Jamilah who has taken everything she’s seen me do and amplified it by 100. I have to thank my mentor and father, Jermone Glenn for the many invaluable and impactful lessons. When it comes to friends and mentors, these are the individuals who hold me accountable and ensure I don’t settle for mediocrity.

Instagram: iamdrshaqanthony

Linkedin: Shaq Anthony, EdD

Facebook: Shaq Anthony