We were lucky to catch up with Dr. Makabi Parker recently and have shared our conversation below.

Dr. Makabi, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear about the best boss, mentor, or leader you’ve ever worked with.

One of the most impactful leaders I’ve ever worked with was someone who truly saw me before fully knowing me. In a position where he didn’t have to take a chance, he did. He believed in my capabilities, my integrity, and my leadership potential. He recognized someone who was ready for more, and he used his influence to help open a door I had worked hard to approach.

His leadership style was grounded in emotional intelligence, compassion, and transparency. He led with kindness but never compromised on excellence. He not only supported my growth, he actively encouraged it. He pushed me to level up, to refine my voice, and to lead with confidence and clarity. His belief in me was the catalyst that helped me step into the role I hold today.

He didn’t just manage people, he inspired them. That, to me, is the mark of a true leader.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m Dr. Makabi Parker, nurse executive, author, professor, and founder of Parker Global Enterprise. My journey into healthcare began over two decades ago with a passion for serving others, and over the years, that calling has expanded into a deeper mission: to lead, to inspire, and to create meaningful change in every space I enter.

As a nurse executive, I lead with strategy, compassion, and a commitment to quality care. I’m also a nursing professor, dedicated to shaping and mentoring the next generation of healthcare professionals with a focus on integrity, clinical excellence, and purpose-driven leadership.

Through my consulting work at Parker Global Enterprise, I offer leadership coaching, keynote speaking, and transformational mentorship. My focus is on helping professionals level up, not just in title, but in mindset, vision, and presence. I work with clients who are ready to take bold steps, define their own lanes, and rise beyond the limitations of their past or current environments.

What sets me apart is the combination of lived experience, academic achievement, and an unapologetically strong presence. I’ve walked the road from LVN to doctoral graduate, building a path defined by resilience, clarity, and faith. My leadership style is rooted in emotional intelligence, consistency, and a relentless belief in what’s possible.

One of my proudest accomplishments is my memoir, Struggle, Survival, and Faith, which tells my story of growth, healing, and triumph. It’s more than a book, it’s a testament to what it means to rise, to overcome, and to lead with purpose.

If you’re just getting to know me, know this: my brand is built on transformation. Whether in a classroom, a boardroom, or a coaching session, I help people unlock the highest version of themselves. I’m still rising and I’m here to help you do the same.

Any advice for managing a team?

Leadership isn’t about control, it’s about connection. If you want to manage a team well and maintain high morale, you have to start with emotional intelligence, clarity, and trust. People perform at their best when they feel seen, heard, and valued. That means listening to feedback, recognizing efforts, and making sure your team knows their work matters.

I also believe in setting clear expectations and modeling excellence. When your team sees you working with integrity, passion, and grace under pressure, it sets the tone. Morale doesn’t just come from performance, it comes from culture. Celebrate small wins. Check in often. Create space for laughter, transparency, and growth. Let your team know it’s okay to be human, and you’re there to support them, not just evaluate them.

At the end of the day, people don’t leave jobs, they leave poor leadership. If you want high morale, be the kind of leader you would want to follow.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

Absolutely. One book that deeply influenced my leadership lens is The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene. While some view it as controversial, I found it empowering. It helped me develop strategic awareness, protect my peace, and navigate power dynamics with grace and intention.

Brené Brown’s work on vulnerability and courageous leadership also challenged me in the best way. Her reminder that empathy and strength can coexist has shaped how I lead teams and connect with people from all walks of life.

But perhaps the most transformative resource for me has been writing my own book, Struggle, Survival, and Faith. In telling my story, I was able to reflect on my growth from adversity to achievement, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. That process clarified my philosophy: lead with authenticity, own your story, and never underestimate the power of resilience. Today, I share that book as both a personal testimony and a motivational tool for others stepping into their purpose.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Makabiparker.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/docteurparker?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554085113682&mibextid=wwXIfr&mibextid=wwXIfr
• Other: https://a.co/d/9Z8wKdT