Podcast: Monique Manso — Why Human Connection Comes First

We’re joined by Monique Manso, Chief Revenue Officer of Essence Ventures. Monique shares her journey through corporate media, her return to Essence, and how purpose and performance drive her leadership today. She explains how hiring for care, not just capability, shapes her team, and why transparency and human connection are at the heart of every role she fills. We also dive into how brands must act with intention to authentically serve today’s multicultural audiences, and why Monique believes this isn’t a DEI issue — it’s a business one.