Flip the Tables: The Everyday Disruptor’s Guide to Finding Courage and Making Change

by Alencia Johnson

From sought-after cultural critic and activist Alencia Johnson comes Flip the Tables, a guide for everyday disruptors who dream of creating a more caring, just, and better world, right where they are. 

Activism is life-changing. But it starts with identifying our unique gifts, talents, and perspectives--before engaging with the world. By disrupting ourselves first, we gain insights into what blocks us from opportunities to create change, from opening doors and breaking down walls. Once we're living ON purpose, we're ready to see our communities as they are and can become the powerful activists we need to be, bringing light to the darkest areas of our world. 

Flip the Tables is a guide for those who want to be disruptors. For people who have been told that they cannot and will not change the world, even though they have something burning in their heart that tells them otherwise. This is a manifesto for people who want to learn how to disrupt the status quo, right where they are, whether it’s at their job, in their church, in their community, or anyplace that needs a bit of provoking.

With self-assessments at the ends of chapters and specific ideas for activism, Flip the Tables shows readers how to make change by starting with their own dreams. Being a changemaker may sound like a lofty goal only attainable by championship athletes or people like Oprah, but the truth is that every single one of us has greatness within us to make the world a better place. Alencia Johnson shares her personal stories of activism--from presidential campaigns to Planned Parenthood events to those people and businesses she serves on a daily basis, she takes readers behind-the-scenes to learn the ins-and-outs of activism.
 
You can create change right where you are. Flip the Tables will show you how.
 

Genres: Nonfiction, Book Club

256 pages, Hardcover

Published March 11, 2025

About the author

Alencia Johnson is an award-winning cultural commentator, author, political advisor, and leader at the intersection of social impact and culture change, uniquely experienced at marrying cultural cornerstones -- advocacy, politics, corporate and entertainment -- together for good. She is the Founder of 1063 West Broad — a social impact consultancy and media company connecting brands, organizations and people to purpose driven solutions. Her debut book, “Flip The Tables: The Everyday Disruptor’s Guide to Finding Courage and Making Change” will be published in March 2025.

She has worked for the presidential campaigns of President Barack Obama, Sen. Elizabeth Warren and was a senior advisor to President Biden and Vice President Harris’s 2020 campaign. Alencia also held national roles at Planned Parenthood and GEICO -- leading efforts in each organization to address systemic issues facing marginalized communities through brand, engagement and narrative strategies. During her six years at Planned Parenthood, she was one of the architects behind the “Stand With Black Women” branding and framework as well as led the organization’s election media strategies with Secretary Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign.

Alencia has been recognized by Harvard University with a "Woman of the Year" award, EBONY Magazine’s “Power 100” list of influential African Americans, PRWeek’s “40 Under 40” list and more. Her board service includes the Warner Music Group/Blavatnik Family Foundation’s Social Justice Fund as well as Human Rights First and she was appointed to the Virginia Council on Women by Governor Ralph Northam. She is currently a Georgetown University Institute of Politics Fellow.

Alencia is a sought-after thought leader and cultural critic regularly featured on MSNBC, CNN, ABC, BET, NPR, Washington Post, ESSENCE, Glamour and more.

Reviews

[Corinne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rounding up from 4.5 stars - partly because if I was looking for a Christian book, this would have been five stars for me.

Luvvie Ajayi mentioned this book online and I didn't really do any vetting other than that before requesting an ARC. I didn't notice the "Christian" tag in NetGalley until I started reading and then I was a bit wary. Then I read a bit more about the author's background (worked on Democratic presidential campaigns) and realized this might be a more liberal/respectability-politics type book than I was in the right place for (I was totally wrong for the record). But that's all on me and I jumped in anyway.

I'm so glad I read this book! It is very readable. I'm usually pretty slow reading non-fiction with my eyes and I flew this relatively quickly. This book really does serve as a guide to people who want to work toward more personal growth and social justice and it is anchored by the author's personal narrative, making it relatable and well-timed for my current moment in life. I've been ruminating a lot lately about worth as an antidote to shame and fear in the world right now and it feels like this book is essentially powered on the idea of importance of self worth.

I must admit, the frequent God and Jesus mentions and bible quotes had me bristling, but again - that's on me for not reading the tin and mostly I was fine to just sort of read around that. And I may have even highlighted one or two bible quotes. I do also appreciate that the author calls out how the Bible has been weaponized by the far right to oppress people, suppress reproductive rights etc. and how she learned about the problematicness of mission trips.

Not unlike other books of this type, at times it can feel a little bit listy/platitude-y but I found it was usually soon balanced by the author's personal stories and examples that brought things more to life. And
I like that each chapter had some very practical exercises and reflections.

This was an easy read that felt motivational and inspirational with a solid grounding in real (relatively radical) social justice theory and history.

I received a digital Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley and Worthy Publishing in exchange for an honest review.

[kiriahsbookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Worthy Publishing for an early copy of this book.

This book has really changed me. It has changed the trajectory on how I view things in life. The author takes the readers on a journey on how to redirect things, and shift your perspective! She uses biblical practices, and real life facts to back up her reasoning and I love that as a Christian myself.

I really enjoyed the book and look forward from more from the author!

[K. ♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

A huge thank you to Worthy Publishing for an advanced copy of this book!

This was a powerful and inspiring read that masterfully blended personal storytelling with actionable insights on how to challenge systems of inequality. Alencia’s experiences navigating politics, advocacy, and corporate spaces provide a compelling guide for those seeking to create meaningful change — whether in their careers, communities, or personal lives.

I appreciated how Alencia shared her journey with honesty and vulnerability, highlighting both her wins and challenges. Her emphasis on authenticity, faith, and using influence to uplift marginalized voices really resonated with me. The practical advice she offers makes this book not only motivational but also a valuable resource for anyone looking to lead with purpose.

While I deeply valued Alencia’s insights and authenticity, I was a bit surprised by the occasional cursing, especially given her strong emphasis on faith and Christian values. Though it felt a little out of place at times, it didn’t diminish the overall impact of her message. Her passion for creating positive change still shined through, and her honesty ultimately reinforced her message about showing up as your whole, authentic self.

[Shelton Kiana · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a Black woman, therapist, and Christian, Flip the Table deeply resonated with me. It challenges the passive faith often taught in churches and reclaims Jesus’ righteous anger as a model for confronting injustice.

Spiritually, it affirms that faith should be active, not complacent. As a therapist, I appreciated its validation of anger as a tool for change. As a Black woman, it spoke to the tension of resisting systems that silence us.

This book empowers believers to disrupt oppression rather than conform. It’s a must-read for those seeking a faith that comforts and challenges. Thought-provoking and timely, Flip the Table calls us to embody justice with boldness and conviction.

Lastly I would like to thank Taylor P and NetGalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Stephanie R Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Flip the Tables" is an excellent blueprint for those of us who are created to initiate change in our communities and ultimately the world. I say initiated because Alencia frequently mentions that it doesn't take a large platform to get started. We can begin right where we are, with what we have. One man plants, another waters, but God gets rhe increase.

I appreciate her honesty and guidance. She not only shares some of the most painful experiences in her life, but she also gives practical exercises to help others start on their "Flip the Tables" journey.

Writing about my values and beliefs, as opposed to what I do for a living, really helps me get a clearer picture of who I desire to be in this world. Making note of my five core values helps me to tackle my mission of being a disruptor with a tunnel vision approach.

Taking inventory of personal and professional commitments for the next month and rememebering the dreams I had for life as a child, are two exercises that I found to be most helpful in reminding me to relax, take time for myself, and reconnect with the vision that started it all.

A reminder of where it all began is often needed because their are many experiences since childhood that have stolen the purity and innocence a twelve year old's dreams.

I recommend this book to anyone who has the slightest feeling that they were created to do more. Not more as big in the eyes of the world. But more as in connecting with those in their communities. Supporting and speaking up for the locals who continue to be overlooked and underserved locally and nationally.

For those who dare to explore and learn the truth about people from other cultures, backgrounds, and lifestyles. Those who are courageous enough to move beyond stereotypical tropes and media propaganda.

Contrary to popular opinions, humanity has more similarities than differences.

[Jade · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is exactly what I needed! It came at a time where I truly needed “relational reassurance” (I think I made that phrase up). An EVERYDAY GUIDE to disrupting self, vision, and the community — to find courage and make change. Disruption makes us pay attention; they are necessary- planned or not, Alencia shares. This book focuses on encouraging yourself to understand and embrace your fears — indicators that something is greater on the other side, leading us closer to our purpose and to not let fear stagnate you. Yet, as disruptors we are to courageously run towards what scares us, instead of away. Reimagine the world around us and find courage and vision to make meaningful impact. Asking ourselves who we are and always being self aware of our needs, capabilities, and purpose! Personally, perfection is a trigger for me and learning to release the pressures of it, as Alencia says, it takes getting to the root and knowing how it shows up personally and professionally. The book guides you on how to disrupt the things that hinder you from being your best self; self-reflection. Alencia’s transparency and authenticity in sharing her life experiences and her writing style allows for the reader to truly relate to her. This guide is necessary to tap into your greatness and steps to doing so. While doing so, remember to give yourself grace and to be patient. Your presence holds people accountable when you show up as your authentic self, she shares. Worthy Publishing, thank you so much for the opportunity to read Flip the Tables! A Must Read & Must Have!

[Kaara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would recommend this book to anyone looking for change in their life - whether it's personal or professional. There's nothing you haven't heard before, but it's delivered in a kind but firm manner that you'd expect from a friend. The author's personal experiences and faith shine through to keep the pace and reinforce the concepts.

[Ardria Weston · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book! It is worth the read. Especially, if you are seeking to do some inner work, reflection, and take action in your life and in your community.

At some level, there are those who want to disrupt the places, people and things that have become stagnant and complacent. The author gives the reader exercises and encouragement to do just that. To be a disrupter is not a bad thing but it takes work to change the world around us.

We are living in a world that decisions are being made without our consent or voices. In FTT, the author gives a different perspective and gives solid examples from scripture to support her views. Whether you are a believer or not, the book provides a compelling viewpoint that we all have to take a seat at the table.

Finally, if you are seeking to disrupt self, your surroundings, and/or your community then this is the read for you. It will take work but it will be worth it.

[Isabel H · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nice quick and easy read. What I took away:
- There is a reason why we want to tap into the inner child as an adult
- I don’t need to be great at everything, good enough is good enough
- Recognize ur privilege to help others
- Challenge ur biases

[Danielle Robay · Rating 5 out of 5]

highly reccomend! Alencia Johnson doesn’t just talk about change—she hands you the playbook to actually make it happen.Flip the Tables is all about owning your power, breaking barriers, and shaking up the status quo—right where you are. It’s like having a hype woman meets career coach in your corner, pushing you to stop waiting for permission and start making moves.

If you’re tired of business as usual and ready to do something about it, this book is for you.

[Murlonda Janelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alencia Johnson takes the reader on a journey of self discovery in the most delicate and insightful way. As a disruptor who always placed the blame on others, Johnson applies facts and biblical principles that taught me the importance of doing the internal work while also improving the community around you. How I deliver information to others and how I speak to myself will be forever positively changed because of this book. Alencia, thank you for the words you have shared and for the insight!

[Beth · Rating 1 out of 5]

“How To” books and “Self-Help” books are emphatically not the same. I had hoped for the former from a book subtitled “The Everyday Disrupter’s Guide to Finding Courage and Making Change.” Unfortunately, Flip the Tables is the latter. I really wasn’t looking for that kind of “help.”

The book is full of supposedly inspirational statements like “When we are our authentic, bold selves, we bring out the best in those around us. It’s only when we’re standing in our confidence that we can create something better for the communities we live in.” Seriously? What does that claptrap even mean, really? Donald Trump is confident. He’s nothing if not authentic, which is exactly what MAGA admires. But does he really “bring out the best in those around him"? Does he "create something better for the communities [he lives] in"? No doubt there are those who think so, but spare me the bland, mushy generalizations that are so broad that they can apply to anything—or nothing. The book is full of them.

It’s also full of (spare me!) the kind of dictionary definitions I attempted to beat out of freshman comp. students. Do we need to read quotes from Merriam Webster of all things? Granted, this is not a core issue of the book, and I would have forgiven it had the book impressed me otherwise.

There is also entirely too much Jesus in the book. I do not, I should insist, reject all things Christian. I have never grown tired of Paradise Lost, and the ultra-religious Gilead series is among my favorites in contemporary literature. One need not be a Milton or a Robinson to explore Christianity with insight and subtlety. However, for a discussion of “flipping the tables” (a pretty solid Biblical reference, I concede), this book relies on the most ordinary applications of scripture.

I admit that I did NOT read every word of the book, though I did skim through to the very end and did read vast tracts in their entirety. I marked exactly two statements I rather liked: “What if instead of worrying about fitting in, we get comfortable with standing out?” I consider that excellent advice for a high school student, and I could have used it 55 years ago. But it’s followed almost immediately by this brilliant observation: “The opposite of failure is success.” Huh. Never would have guessed. I also liked a quote from Mona Humphries Bailey: “If not us, who? And if not now, when?” Also not earth-shatteringly insightful, but kind of useful, which is why I’m recording it here.

No doubt there are readers (probably considerably younger than I) who would find the book genuinely inspirational, and that’s fine—for them. The section that explains the four forms that racism takes might be informative to readers who have not read several full-length books about anti-racism; for me, the brief chapter didn’t add anything new.

In other words, I’m probably not the ideal audience for this book. What I really fault it for is not teaching me anything I can use to actually, as it promises, “make change” or “disrupt” anything. Here’s a woman who has had high-powered, apparently influential jobs. What did she DO to make change? She went to therapy and did yoga and traveled to Mexico City? Not the advice I am looking for.

[Jeanette Hawkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alencia Johnson’s Flip the Tables is more than just a book—it’s a wake-up call, a guide, and a personal challenge wrapped into one. From the first page, Johnson pushes readers to look inward, asking the tough but necessary questions: Am I doing enough? Am I using my voice in the right ways? If you’ve ever felt the tension between wanting to create change and feeling overwhelmed by where to start, this book offers the clarity and encouragement you need.

Johnson’s approach is both practical and deeply personal. She breaks down ways to get involved in activism and advocacy without falling into burnout or self-doubt. What makes Flip the Tables so compelling is how she seamlessly weaves personal anecdotes, historical context, and actionable advice, making it feel like a conversation with a trusted mentor.

I found myself constantly quoting passages to my husband—so much so that he’s now reading the book himself! That’s the power of Johnson’s words: they don’t just inspire you; they ripple outward, sparking deeper conversations and, ultimately, action.

If you’re looking for a book that challenges, encourages, and equips you to step into your power, Flip the Tables is a must-read.

[Ell, Ess Jaeva · Rating 1 out of 5]

dnf 20%--author touts being raised within culture of community, religious and familial dogmas. ie, subject to abuse from an intimate relation, but because they're close and can empathize with their issues of systematic racism, must give em a pass vs "flipping the tables"... also mentions living a healthy lifestyle, not just for the aesthetics, but nan this within their social media presence...

this book does not seem about flipping "tables"... it seems about flipping the "others's" tables... not disrupting "negatives" within ones own community, but standing in the muck of community support to "bravely" hit outside the community.... maybe it takes a turn later, but already, unapologetically, too many bible verses quoted for my tastes [which given the on the nose title, i kinda expected]...

[Apreill · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Flip the Tables" is a deeply insightful book. It has taken me much longer to reach a place of such profound introspection, and I’m a bit older than the author. I’m grateful that Ms. Johnson preserved her experiences from childhood and built upon them with subsequent experiences. Witnessing growth and maturity through the lens of another high-functioning individual was powerful; it provided hope and encouragement to ignite change and embrace our own creativity and self-expression. I learned how important it is to be a disruptor in my own environment. I don’t need to seek out a community to disrupt—I am already part of one that could benefit from some positive disruption.

[Marta · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF I listened to this on audio and made it about halfway through. This is one book that I think would have benefited from not being read by the author.
Johnson has achieved an incredible amount by her early thirties,and unfortunately she reminds the reader of this repeatedly. Halfway through I was too turned off to want to keep going.
Even though I didn't finish, I'm keeping it on my shelves. The book did start off quute strongly with the intriguing question: what does it mean to be a table flipper? I also respect that she is a woman who claims her strong faith and liberal values, something many people aren't comfortable doing.

[A.Sharie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is both timely and necessary. Alencia does an incredible job blending personal stories with real-world insight. It’s part memoir, part manifesto, and allll heart. I would recommend this one for anyone trying to navigate purpose, impact, and leadership with intention.

I really enjoyed and appreciated how honest and grounded her voice is. Her vulnerability is inspiring and she challenges you to think about your own purpose, power, and place in the world. I walked away feeling empowered and reminded that flipping the table isn’t just about resistance—it’s about building something better.

Proud of you sister-friend 💛

[Gladys Hamilton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have followed Alencia and her career for quite some time, and this book spoke directly to me. I need to disrupt MYSELF!!! I tend not to move forward on so much in my life because I underestimate my skills and abilities. Even in my 50s! I stop before I even start. I need to disrupt my thinking about things I KNOW I can do and feeling confident in myself. Thank you so much for this book, Soror Alencia! It has definitely prompted me to step out on faith and do some disruption of myself, and speak out more on the injustices surrounding me. No more being silent. God bless you always!

[Tonya G · Rating 4 out of 5]

Are you a disruptor or do you just go with the status quo? Do you create positive change or do you accept things the way they are?

In Flip the Tables, Alencia Johnson, provides information via personal stories and examples that will makes the reader want to walk in purpose and be a disruptor. I enjoyed learning about the author's experiences, biblical reference and the exercises at the end of each chapter.

I'm ready to walk in POWER!

Thank you Worthy Publishing!

[Kay · Rating 1 out of 5]

I wish the description had mentioned that this was a Christian book. Very uncomfortable to read about how much she loves the religion that has done so much irreparable harm in the world. Not useful for anyone who doesn't buy in to religion and to her very individual "solutions" to the problems it creates.

[Olivia Phillips · Rating 4 out of 5]

Raw. Gritty. Personal.

This book is an invitation to social justice for believers and non-believers alike. It is filled with personal stories and seasoned with Scripture.

Some references to astrology, and trigger warnings are given before sensitive content.

[Jess Matthews · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent guide for up-and-coming activists, advocates and folks with something to say! I love how Alencia integrated scripture, history and personal experiences to bring this to life. Grateful to have worked with her and to be in her general orbit.

[Ayesha Hawkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating 4.25

This is a good book for those who looking for a way to disrupt their lives for the greater good. There is some Christian thoughts and scripture throughout the book but I wouldn't classify it as a Christian book.

[Monica B · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Balm I Needed

These are the author's own words, but they accurately describe what I experienced. Our lives can really seem hopeless, but this book helped motivate me to not give up on change.

[Aida Sall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read! It’s an account of relentless perseverance and purpose — remarkably important traits, specially for young women of color. As a 20 year-old young woman who sees a lot of myself in the stories/anecdotes shared, I appreciate the candid nature of this book - would highly recommend!!

[Amanda Spence · Rating 5 out of 5]

Relatable read

[Jessica Chadwick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Purchased the audio book and the hardcover book. Great read for young adults professionals.

[Jenna · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5.

[OAZ · Rating 3 out of 5]

I agree and share the main topics but this really could have been an assay. It felt too long but overall she is courageous to write this revealing her own experiences and acknowledge her own journey.