Centre for Entrepreneurship, Innovation & Social Impact | Smith School of Business’ Post

#LeadWithHer24 keynote speaker Ashleigh Shelby Rosette of Duke University - The Fuqua School of Business wrapped up the event last week by calling attendees to action. She said that the malfunctioning of an operating system mirrors the breakdown of societal systems plagued by systemic inequity. We as leaders need to reboot (press control alt delete) to create change in society. She focused on three “malfunctions” that can lead to social inequity, breakdowns in our societal operating system.   1. Bias preferences – When biases and preferences that promote exclusivity and attempt to minimize inclusivity persist, organizations can reboot by designing incentives that align with the desired outcomes. 2. Gender stereotypes – When gender stereotypes endure that undermine the effectiveness of women, organizations must reboot and be reminded that gender stereotypes can carry positive connotations, as in the case of certain types of negotiations. 3.The opposition to DEI – When opposition to DEI initiatives occur, try to get people with decision-making power to see their own disadvantages. These experiences can sometimes help them understand the disadvantages faced by marginalized communities.   By interrupting the status quo, individuals and groups can initiate a processes of reflection, reconciliation and reform which can address social inequity, she said. And this is our call to action.

Diverse boards are absolutely a necessity for doing business in the modern world. Not only for moral purposes but also for economic ones. Recent studies show how economically beneficial it is to have diverse board members, largely because diversity combats groupthink and allows for innovation. As more women have become part of boardrooms, we are seeing immense growth for all kinds of industries, and so diversity and representation should not stop there. To learn more about the value of diverse board structures, check out: https://lnkd.in/gZSgYpNf #Diversity #BoardStructure #Innovation

We are rounding out March and #womenshistorymonth by celebrating a few women who are making an exceptional impact on our San Diego community. We asked them to share insights about why they serve and to offer a few words of inspiration. Today, we’d like to spotlight Laura Hall.  Laura Hall is the Co-Chair of Conscious Capitalism San Diego and the author of ABCs of Conscious Capitalism for Kids.  Hall also serves as a strategic advisor for Cause San Diego.  What motivates you to help build a stronger San Diego region?    Laura:  I see so much potential and opportunity for the San Diego region given its location as a cross-border region and as the eighth-largest city in the USA.  We are alive at a most critical moment and we must seize the day and the chance to make a difference.  I have met so many amazing San Diegans who believe that together we can do more than any of us alone.  BUT we must get together first. What’s one of your favorite quotes about creating positive social change? Laura: "Today we have economies that need to grow, whether or not they make us thrive.  What we need are economies that make us thrive, whether or not they grow."  - Kate Raworth, author of Doughnut Economics.  Words of inspiration for women who are striving to do well and do good for a better tomorrow?  Laura: "One woman can do anything.  Women together can do everything."  #causesandiego #sandiego #sandiegoca #socialchange #socialjustice #socialgood #socialimpact #sandiegobusiness #businessforgood #consciouscapitalism

Jill Johnson is making things happen for entrepreneurs/small businesses. She's breaking down barriers by bringing together investors, allies, executives, and policy people. I'm registered. Do you want to be part of changing the system?! (PS it's virtual!) #entrepreneurship #investors #bipoc #leadership #allyship

It's time to celebrate! After months of hard work, Fuel Training Consultants is officially a Women Owned Business. 🌟 Why Being a Woman-Owned Business Matters 🌟 In today's dynamic business environment, being a woman-owned business is not just a label—it's a proud declaration of leadership, diversity, and resilience. Here are some key reasons why it matters: Driving Diversity: Woman-owned businesses exemplify the power of diversity in the business world. They challenge the status quo, offer new perspectives, and contribute to a more inclusive economy. Inspiring Change: By stepping into roles traditionally dominated by men, women leaders inspire future generations. They show young girls and fellow women that with ambition and perseverance, they too can achieve their dreams. Economic Impact: Woman-owned businesses significantly contribute to the economy. They create jobs, foster community development, and stimulate economic growth. According to recent studies, women-led companies are known for their effective management and innovative strategies, which often lead to higher returns. Building Networks: Women entrepreneurs excel at creating supportive networks, collaborating and uplifting each other. These communities are vital, providing resources, mentoring, and support that help each other navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship. Enhancing Corporate Performance: Diversity in leadership, including gender diversity, is linked to better performance. Companies with diverse management teams report higher revenues, more innovation, and increased profitability. As we continue to support and celebrate woman-owned businesses, we not only uplift women in business but also advance the progress towards a more equitable society. Let's champion the women who lead, innovate, and inspire every day. #WomenInBusiness #Leadership #DiversityInBusiness #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #Innovation

This #InternationalWomensDay, I want to start a conversation about how we can improve female representation in the #LifeSciences industry. As the piece below explains, closing the #GenderGap is about more than just numbers-- it's about creating an environment where everyone can thrive. When the culture changes, everything else will follow. #WomenInLeadership #DEI

Empowering Women in Business: Building Trust and Creating Opportunities Ladies, it's time to rise! For too long, women have been handed the shitty end of the stick. My mission is to empower women, but I've encountered a barrier when reaching out. It’s a trust issue, I’m sure of it. I believe women are often hesitant to trust men quickly, even here on LinkedIn. In contrast, men seem to trust others—both men and women—almost immediately, sometimes even blindly, until proven otherwise. Every day, I'm having conversations about our business opportunities that can change lives in a profound way. I’ve established a new organization that offers something valuable for anyone in business or those starting a business. Yet, I'm disappointed by my inability to connect quickly with women, even though the opportunities are equally available to all. Ladies, give us a chance! You're in safe hands. We need your brilliance, your creativity, and your unique perspective. I recently read The Power of Clarity by Ann Latham, and it’s a brilliant book. The lessons are profound, and we should all embrace them. Clarity is one of our core principles, alongside Process, Tools, and People. Investing in these principles is how we’re transforming the business world forever. At The Process Guru, we're here to nurture, educate, motivate, and share knowledge with SMBs and SMEs worldwide. We believe that improving businesses will raise GDP and help governments pay public service workers what they deserve, allowing them to live, not just survive. Together, we can change the world. Let’s empower one another!

Wrong. When the world tells you that you're not enough - it's wrong. The question of why successful women continue to struggle with feelings of inadequacy is complex and deeply rooted. It's often a result of years of subtle (and at times blatant) messages that, despite our achievements, we're still falling short. Consider the story of a workshop attendee: * She's the youngest SVP in her company  * She's a mother of three  * She owns her home  * She's blessed with a supportive spouse. Despite these successes, she still carries a heavy burden — a feeling of never being enough. This is not just her story. It's the story of countless women. Here's the truth I want to convey today: 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐞𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡. Your worth isn't tied to your achievements, your appearance, or your accolades.  Your value is inherent, unshakeable, and immeasurable. Our focus needs to move from seeking external validation to recognising our intrinsic worth.  Let's work towards creating a community where women uplift each other. We should see each other's strengths and achievements not as competition but as collective success. This is a call to action: * Believe in your enough-ness  * Support your sisters on their journey of self-acceptance  * Challenge societal norms that try to dim our shine. I'm keen to know how you affirm your worth and help other women break free from this cycle of never feeling 'enough'. We’re addressing key areas to shape sustainable and equitable workplaces. Learn how ELEVATE The Business is doing this at: https://lnkd.in/gJWbii2y 

The 'lean in' advice is a lie. Sheryl Sandberg told us to "lean in," but quite frankly, I just want to bloody stand up! For too long, the narrative around women in business has been centred on individual empowerment. Work harder, be more assertive, negotiate better - as if the only thing holding us back is ourselves. But here's the uncomfortable truth: No amount of leaning in can overcome systemic bias and structural inequalities. As long as the old boys' club is still calling the shots, women and marginalised founders will always be playing catch-up. That's why we need to amplify each other's voices and create change at every level - from the boardroom to the voting stations. Instead of leaning in, let's push back. Instead of asking for a seat at the table, we've got to build our own. Want to be around people that encourage you to think and act bigger (not smaller), comment 'AMBITION' below: I may have something for you.

New article (finally) published! Ben Wilkie and I discuss the intersectional life histories for members of the corporate elite across the twentieth and early twenty-first centuries, including their gender, race, age, education, place of birth, social activities and so on. We analyse the way that Australian managerial capitalism, while ostensibly a merit-based process, has had intersectional consequences for the elite through a narrowing of acceptable life histories. At the same time, dedicated efforts towards improving the place of women - at least, women who conform with the acceptable life histories, above - in corporate leadership have been successful over the past four decades. Blog: https://lnkd.in/gAQkDW4e Article (open access): https://lnkd.in/gTtaeGy4