Episode 3

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Published on:

4th Dec 2025

The Badge That Sparked Belonging: A Journey of Worthiness, Humility, and Impact with Dr. Aliaa Remtilla

Dr. Aliaa Remtilla, a Harvard-trained anthropologist, executive coach, and startup founder, joins Civically Grown to share her leadership journey. The conversation explores how belonging, vulnerability, and humility shape the leaders we become.

From an awkward childhood moment wearing a volunteer badge, to navigating male-dominated professional environments, to redefining self-worth and leadership identity, Dr. Remtilla invites listeners into the honest and transformative moments that rooted her leadership journey.

Together, we explore how youth experiences, cultural identity, and intentional self-reflection contribute to a model of leadership grounded not in ego—but in impact, connection, and authentic presence.

Insights:

- How a simple volunteer badge created her first sense of belonging and shaped her confidence as a young leader

- Why awkwardness and vulnerability can be powerful entry points into leadership

- The shift from needing a title to recognizing innate worthiness

- How humility and human connection anchor her leadership style today

- The challenges of leading as a woman in male-dominated spaces—and how focusing on impact changes everything

- Why she calls herself an “impact leader"

- How mentors, role models, and networks open doors we didn’t know existed

Host: Dr. Shaniece Criss

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About the Podcast

Civically Grown
Where changemakers share the roots of their leadership and the impact they’re cultivating today.

Civically Grown shares the stories of leaders whose early steps in civic engagement began in youth leadership and have grown into legacies of lasting community impact. Dr. Shaniece Criss, a former youth governor turned health scholar and public servant, hosts this podcast. It is your source for inspiration, insight, and actionable strategies that fuel your momentum and amplify your influence.

Each episode blends uplifting conversations with tools to help you overcome obstacles, strengthen your leadership, and spark meaningful change. Whether you’re looking to deepen your impact or build a lasting legacy, Civically Grown equips you to grow as a leader and empower the next generation. Join a community of passionate changemakers committed to making a difference that endures.

About your host

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Dr. Shaniece Criss

Dr. Shaniece Criss is a civic leader and podcast host who believes in the power of community to drive meaningful change. At Furman University, she serves as Associate Professor of Health Sciences and Director of the Advocacy and Social Policy master's program. Her career spans local and global impact, from producing a national health television program in Guyana during her Peace Corps service to roles at the CDC, ICF International, and CNN. She earned degrees from Harvard University (ScD, MPA), Emory University (MPH), and Oglethorpe University (BA). Dr. Criss brings experience, optimism, and authenticity to every conversation.