DEI After 5

As we start to close out the year, I'm thrilled to announce the latest episode of DEI After 5, where I had the pleasure of speaking with Nancy Lyons, the CEO and co-founder of Clockwork. In a time filled with uncertainty and unrest, we dove deep into how leaders can create inclusive environments that foster belonging, regardless of external circumstances. Here are three key takeaways from our enlightening conversation: The Importance of "Psychological First Aid": Nancy introduced the concept of "psychological first aid," which extends beyond the idea of psychological safety. It emphasizes the need for leaders and team members to be aware of the emotional states of their colleagues and to provide support when needed. This means being available to listen and offer understanding, especially during challenging times. As leaders, we must recognize that everyone is navigating their own set of issues, and our role is to create a space where they feel safe to express their feelings. Everyone is a Leader: We discussed the notion that leadership is not confined to those in formal positions of power. Each of us has the ability to lead from our respective roles, and it’s crucial to take responsibility for the culture we create within our teams. Nancy emphasized that true leadership involves acknowledging the diverse experiences of our colleagues and being proactive in fostering an inclusive environment. It’s about recognizing that our actions impact those around us and that we all play a part in shaping our workplace culture. Diversity is More Than a Number: Nancy challenged the common perception that diversity is merely a quota to be filled. Instead, she urged us to view diversity as a rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives that enhance our organizations. By understanding and embracing the complexities of our workforce, we can create products and services that resonate with a broader audience. This approach not only benefits our teams but also drives innovation and success in our businesses. I invite you to listen to this episode and reflect on how you can apply these insights in your own work and community. Together, we can create environments where everyone feels valued and included, regardless of the challenges we face. Be sure to tune in tomorrow at 5:15p ET on your favorite podcast platform or YouTube and let’s continue the conversation on how we can lead with intention and empathy!

Let's talk about Gen Z: the generation striving for authenticity and connection! In a world full of filters, Gen Z craves the real deal. They are champions of the genuine, urging everyone to bring their true selves to the table. Here's what stands out for this week's guest Michelle Quist Ryder: - **Care and connection**: They are passionate about taking care of each other and the world. - **Intragenerational diversity**: They show diverse perspectives within their own age group. - **Individual focus**: They value individuality over broad stereotypes. - **Authenticity**: They embrace people for who they truly are, opposed to the crafted personas often seen online. This desire for authenticity lays a solid foundation for community and well-being. It's refreshing and inspiring! 🙌 How do you witness Gen Z's push for authenticity in your work environment? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below! 

As we begin wrapping up DEI After 5, I thought it would be interesting to dive into a topic that challenges many of my clients and others across corporate America - Generation Z. In this episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of Generation Z and their unique impact on the workplace. This week, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Michelle Quist Ryder, a social psychologist and expert on Gen Z. Together, we explored the traits, challenges, and incredible potential of this generation. Here are three key takeaways from our enlightening conversation: The Power of Access and Equity: Generation Z is the first generation to grow up with social media from birth. This constant access has shaped their worldview, leading to strong values around equity and inclusion. They believe in the importance of diverse voices at the table and are committed to creating a more accepting society. As leaders, we must recognize and harness this passion for equity to foster a more inclusive workplace. Navigating Anxiety and Resilience: It’s no secret that Gen Z faces significant stressors, from political tensions to the impact of the pandemic. However, this generation has also developed remarkable resilience. They are adept at pivoting and problem-solving in the face of challenges. As organizations, we need to invest in their development, understanding that their skill deficits are not a reflection of their potential but rather a result of the unique circumstances they’ve faced. Embracing Creativity and Genuine Connections: Gen Z brings a wealth of creativity and a desire for authenticity to the workplace. They thrive on genuine interactions and are eager to contribute innovative ideas. By creating an environment that values their input and encourages collaboration, we can unlock their full potential and drive our organizations forward. I encourage you to listen to this episode and gain insights into how we can better support and engage with Generation Z in our workplaces. They are not just the future; they are the present, and their contributions are invaluable. Tune in tomorrow at 5:15p ET to hear more about how we can embrace this generation and the positive changes they bring!

As we navigate the complexities of human interaction, one of the best skills to master is the art of giving grace and space. It's about balancing understanding and action, and knowing when education and self-reflection are key. Let’s break down my conversation with Yvonne Alston: - Standing in the gap is not for everyone, and that’s okay. - Change demands sacrifice, but also comes with exhaustion. - Self-awareness is crucial: knowing when you're not ready to engage is just as important as knowing when you are. - Recklessness stems from forcing engagement when we're not prepared – let's avoid doing harm. It's about knowing your capacity and acting within it without judgment. Are you actively choosing when and where to stand up, and understanding your limits? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below!

I am thrilled to announce the release of our latest DEI After 5 episode featuring the incredible Yvonne Alston, CEO of Indelible Impressions Consulting, LLC! In this episode, we dive deep into the importance of giving ourselves and others grace and space (you know that is one of my favorite topics!) in our daily interactions, especially in the context of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Here are three key takeaways that I believe will resonate with you: The Power of Humanity: Yvonne emphasizes that we often forget how to see each other as human beings. In a world filled with division and cancel culture, it's crucial to remember that we are all intersectional beings shaped by our unique experiences. By engaging with one another through empathy and compassion, we can bridge the gaps that separate us and foster a more inclusive community. Creating Connections: One of the most profound insights from our conversation is the idea of finding common ground. Yvonne shared her approach to connecting with others, even those who may seem vastly different from us. By focusing on shared experiences and values, we can build meaningful relationships that transcend superficial differences. This is a reminder that we should challenge ourselves to look beyond the obvious and seek out the hidden connections that can enrich our lives. Self-Care and Capacity: As we navigate the complexities of our roles in DEI work, it's essential to prioritize our own well-being. Yvonne discusses her practice of "Titleless time," where she steps away from her various roles to reconnect with herself. This self-care is vital for maintaining the capacity to engage with others effectively. Remember, we can only give from our overflow, so taking time to recharge is not just beneficial—it's necessary. I invite you to listen to this enlightening conversation and reflect on how you can incorporate these takeaways into your own life. Let's strive to create a culture of grace and space, both for ourselves and for those around us. 🎧Tune in tomorrow at 5:15p on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your podcasts!

In this week's episode of DEI After 5, we dive deep into the transformative power of introspective work and community building with the incredible Coach Fred Foreman Sr., CEO of One Blood Movement of Unity. In our conversation, we explored several profound insights that I believe are crucial for anyone committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion. Here are my top three takeaways: The Power of the Mirror: Coach Fred emphasizes the importance of self-reflection through the "mirror effect." He encourages individuals to look deeply into both their physical and metaphorical mirrors to understand who they truly are. This introspective work is essential for personal growth and for fostering genuine connections with others. As we navigate our own biases and beliefs, we can better understand and empathize with those around us. Community Over Individualism: In a world that often promotes a "me, me, me" mentality, Coach Fred reminds us of the significance of community. He highlights the need to teach teamwork and collaboration, especially to our youth. By instilling values of companionship and support, we can create a culture where everyone feels responsible for one another. This shift from individualism to community-oriented thinking is vital for eradicating the "isms" that divide us. Understanding the 'Why': One of the most powerful aspects of Coach Fred's approach is his focus on the "why" behind our actions. Whether it's making your bed or helping others, understanding the purpose behind our actions helps solidify our values and commitments. This principle not only applies to youth but to adults as well. When we grasp the significance of our contributions, we are more likely to engage meaningfully and consistently. I encourage you to listen to this enlightening episode and reflect on how you can incorporate these insights into your own life and work. Together, we can create a more inclusive and understanding world. Tune in every Tuesday at 5:15 PM Eastern on YouTube or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe!

This is another timely episode of DEI After 5. This week, I dive deep into the critical topic of psychological safety in the workplace with the incredible Alida Miranda-Wolff, CEO of Ethos Talent. As someone who has dedicated over a decade to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB), Alida brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the conversation. Here are three key takeaways from our enlightening discussion that I believe every leader and employee should consider: Empowerment Starts with Your Circle of Authority: Alida emphasizes the importance of starting with your immediate team when advocating for DEIB initiatives. By creating structures that amplify diverse voices—like implementing meeting agreements—you can foster an inclusive environment. This approach not only benefits underrepresented groups but also enhances the overall team culture. Remember, every new hire can be a cultural co-founder, and how you show up can significantly impact your organization. Accountability and Empathy Can Coexist: One of the most powerful insights from our conversation is that accountability does not have to come at the expense of empathy. Leaders can set high expectations while providing the necessary support for their team members to succeed. This dual approach creates a culture where employees feel valued and understood, ultimately leading to better performance and job satisfaction. As Alida puts it, it’s about holding ourselves and others accountable in a way that respects individual needs. The Importance of Community and Self-Care: In a world where the demands on our time and energy are ever-increasing, Alida reminds us of the significance of community and self-care. She encourages us to ask ourselves, "What do I need right now to love myself?" This self-inquiry is crucial for maintaining our well-being, especially in high-stress environments. By recognizing our own needs, we can better support our colleagues and foster a more compassionate workplace. I invite you to listen to this episode and reflect on how you can implement these takeaways in your work environment. Together, we can create spaces where everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered to thrive. Are you struggling in an environment that isn't psychologically safe for you? The Resilience Pathway is here to provide support. DM to learn more.

To our valued DEI After 5 community: After nearly three incredible years of insightful conversations and shared journeys, we’ve made the difficult decision to pause production of the podcast, with our last episode airing on December 31st. Thank you to each of you who has tuned in, shared your thoughts, and supported us along the way. Your engagement has been the heart of this podcast, and it’s been an honor to bring these conversations to life. This isn’t goodbye—it’s simply a pause as we explore sustainable ways to continue this work in the future. We hope the stories and discussions shared have inspired you as much as they have us. Stay connected, and please join us for these final episodes as we close out the year together. Thank you for being a part of the DEI After 5 community. 💙

I’m excited to share this week's episode featuring the insightful Patrice Lumumba Jones, co-founder and chief creative officer at Enlightened Media. In this episode, we dive deep into the current landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and the historical context that has shaped our present challenges. Here are three key takeaways that I believe are crucial for anyone invested in this work: Understanding the Historical Context is Essential: Patrice emphasizes that many DEI trainings begin without providing the necessary historical context. To truly understand where we are today, we must look back to pivotal moments in history, such as Bacon's Rebellion in 1676, which laid the groundwork for systemic racism. By recognizing how these historical events have shaped our current societal structures, we can better navigate the complexities of DEI work today. Racism is Systemic and Institutional: One of the most powerful points made in our conversation is that racism is not just an individual issue but a systemic one. The economic interests that have historically benefited from racial inequities continue to influence our society. As DEI practitioners, we must acknowledge that real change requires a collective effort across all institutions. It’s not enough to simply advocate for diversity; we must also address the underlying systems that perpetuate inequality. The Fight for Equity is Ongoing: As we discussed, the fight for equity is not a one-time task but an ongoing struggle. The Civil Rights Act was passed in 1965, but the timeline of systemic racism stretches back to 1619. We must remain vigilant and proactive in our efforts to maintain justice and equity. This means holding organizations accountable for their commitments and ensuring that DEI initiatives are not just performative but lead to meaningful change. I encourage you to listen to this episode and reflect on these takeaways. The work of DEI is critical, and understanding our history is the first step toward creating a more equitable future. Tune in tomorrow at 5:15p ET on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform, and let’s continue this important conversation! #DEI #Diversity #Equity #Inclusion #Podcast #SocialJustice #History #Accountability

Happy Monday all!! I’m thrilled to announce the latest episode of DEI After 5 drops TOMORROW!! This week, I had the pleasure of speaking with Kristin Bell, PRC, CDR, CDP, SPHR, co-founder and COO of ReviewTailor, about the often-overlooked aspects of performance reviews and how they can impact employees, especially those from historically excluded backgrounds. Here are three key takeaways from our enlightening conversation: The Importance of Managing Up: One of the most empowering strategies we discussed is the concept of "managing up." Employees should take the initiative to have proactive conversations with their managers about expectations and goals. Don’t wait for your manager to schedule a one-on-one; instead, take charge of your career by asking about organizational priorities and how you can align your contributions to those goals. This not only clarifies your path but also positions you as a strategic partner in your organization. Document Everything: Documentation is your best friend! Whether it’s keeping track of your accomplishments, feedback from colleagues, or even challenging interactions, having a written record can be invaluable. Kristen emphasized that this documentation serves as supporting evidence during performance reviews and can protect you in cases of retaliation or discrimination. Remember, it’s not just about the good; document the challenges too. This comprehensive narrative will empower you to advocate for yourself effectively. Understanding the Review Process: The performance review process is often fraught with biases and misunderstandings. Kristen shared insights on how performance is only a small part of the success equation. Factors like image and exposure play a significant role in how you are perceived in the workplace. It’s crucial to understand how these elements interact and to actively manage your performance narrative. By doing so, you can better navigate the complexities of workplace dynamics and ensure that your contributions are recognized. I hope you find these insights as valuable as I did! Tune in to the full episode to explore these topics further and equip yourself with the tools to advocate for your success in the workplace. As always, I encourage you to like, share, and subscribe to DEI After 5 so we can continue to spread awareness and foster inclusive environments together. Catch you in the next episode! #DEI #Diversity #Equity #Inclusion #PerformanceReviews #CareerDevelopment #Podcast #Leadership #Advocacy