DEI After 5

In this week's episode of DEI After 5, I had the pleasure of chatting with Karishma Patel Buford, the Chief People Officer at Spring Health. We delved into some incredible insights on embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion into organizations. Here are three key takeaways from our conversation: 1. Embedding DEI as a Core Part of the Organization Karishma emphasized the importance of not treating DEI as a separate entity but integrating it into every aspect of the employee life cycle. By making DEI an integral part of the organization's culture, it becomes more than just a checkbox activity but a fundamental way of doing business. 2. The Power of Mentorship and Allyship We discussed the impactful mentorship program called "Sprout with Spring" in partnership with 10,000 Coffees. This program matches talent at Spring Health with senior leaders, providing invaluable guidance and support. Karishma highlighted the importance of mentorship in career development and how it can be truly life-changing. 3. Prioritizing Mental Health and Wellness Karishma shared personal insights on balancing work and family life, emphasizing the significance of being present with loved ones. She highlighted the importance of creating moments of presence and connection, especially in today's fast-paced world. If you're interested in learning more about how Spring Health is revolutionizing mental health benefits and fostering a culture of thriving, make sure to listen to the full episode TOMORROW at 5:15p ET. You can connect with Karishma on LinkedIn or reach out via email at Karishma@springhealth.com for further insights and partnerships. Don't miss out on this insightful episode! Tune in tomorrow and let's continue the conversation on embedding DEI in our organizations. Remember to like, share, and subscribe to DEI After 5 for more thought-provoking discussions.

Hey everyone! I am thrilled to announce that the latest episode of DEI After 5 comes out tomorrow! In this week's episode, we had the pleasure of diving deep into the world of conscious leadership with the incredible Marika Messager. Here are three key takeaways from our enlightening conversation: Conscious Organizations: Marika introduced us to the concept of conscious organizations, which prioritize profit, people, and the planet equally. This approach ensures that every decision, governance process, and practice within the organization benefits all three pillars. It's a holistic way of operating that fosters a positive impact on employees, the environment, and the community. Systemic Change: Marika highlighted the importance of assessing an organization's human-centricity to identify areas of unhealthiness. By pinpointing clusters of dysfunction, organizations can start the process of systemic change. This involves creating a culture of care, addressing burnout, and building ecosystems that support well-being and productivity. Personal Alignment: Marika emphasized the significance of personal alignment and conscious response over unconscious reaction. By practicing self-awareness, intentionality, and emotional intelligence, individuals can navigate difficult conversations, set boundaries, and show up authentically in all aspects of life. This level of consciousness extends beyond the workplace and into everyday interactions. If you're interested in learning more about conscious leadership and how it can transform organizations and individuals, I highly recommend listening to the full episode. You can find it on DEI After Five on YouTube or where you listen to podcasts. Thank you, Marika Messager, for sharing your wisdom and insights on conscious leadership. Your perspective has truly inspired us to embody these principles in our daily lives. Stay tuned for more thought-provoking discussions on diversity, equity, and inclusion every Tuesday at 5.15 p.m. Eastern. Like, share, and subscribe to stay updated on all our latest episodes.

It's that time already!! A new episode of DEI After 5 comes out TOMORROW!!! I am thrilled to announce the release of the latest episode featuring the incredible Nadia Nagamootoo (she/her). In this episode, we delved deep into the topic of discomfort in diversity, equity, and inclusion work. Here are three key takeaways from our enlightening conversation: *Acknowledging Privilege and Unearned Advantage: Nadia highlighted the fear many leaders face when acknowledging their privilege and how it may have contributed to their success. It's crucial for individuals to confront this discomfort and recognize the impact of bias and inequity in the system. *Fear of Change and Complexity: We discussed the fear of change and complexity in DEI work, especially when it comes to adapting organizational structures to be more inclusive. Leaders must embrace agility and flexibility to navigate the complexities of creating equitable workplaces. *Empathy and Purpose: Nadia emphasized the importance of empathy in supporting leaders through discomfort. By approaching DEI work with care and consideration, we can create a world where everyone feels valued and included. Purpose is the driving force behind this work, filling us with fulfillment and motivation. If you're interested in learning more about navigating discomfort in DEI work and creating inclusive environments, I highly recommend listening to the full episode tomorrow. You can find it on DEI After Five on YouTube or where you listen to your podcasts. Let's continue the conversation and work towards a more equitable future together! Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to DEI After Five for more insightful discussions every Tuesday at 5.15 p.m. Eastern. Stay tuned for more thought-provoking content!

We've all been there. Life's constant stream of responsibilities can sometimes make finding joy a daunting task. But here's a refreshing perspective from this week's DEI After 5 episode: ✅ Connect with your joy list. Discover what genuinely makes you happy. ✅ Celebrate the joys found in everyday life. ✅ Do regular self-check-ins. Make it a habit. Every Sunday, our guest La'Vista Jones spends a quiet moment with a journal and asks: - How are you, really? Are you tired, anxious, or unsettled? Allow yourself to answer honestly. - What or who do you need to feel better? Taking time for self-reflection can set a positive tone for the week ahead. 🗓️ So, how do you connect with your joy? Share your methods in the comments!

I am thrilled to announce the latest episode of DEI After 5, where I had an insightful conversation with La'Vista Jones, a consultant specializing in self-care and well-being. In this episode, we delved deep into the importance of prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, and reconnecting with joy in the midst of uncertainty. Here are three key takeaways from our conversation: Acknowledge Your Intrinsic Value: La'Vista emphasized the importance of recognizing our inherent value separate from our accomplishments or roles. We are valuable simply because of who we are, not just what we do. Taking time to celebrate ourselves and find joy in the ordinary aspects of life can help us maintain a healthy sense of self-worth. Regular Self-Checks and Me-Time: La'Vista shared her practice of weekly self-checks, where she sets aside time to reflect on how she's feeling and what she needs. This intentional self-care routine allows her to address any stress or anxiety proactively. Additionally, scheduling dedicated "me-time" blocks on her calendar ensures she prioritizes activities that bring her joy and relaxation, like her luxurious bath time ritual. Modeling Self-Leadership: By treating ourselves with the same care and respect we would offer to our loved ones, we practice self-leadership. La'Vista highlighted the importance of setting high standards for self-care and making it a non-negotiable aspect of our routines. Just as we advocate for others, we must advocate for ourselves and prioritize our well-being. I invite you to listen to the full episode today at 5:15p ET on DEI After 5 to gain more insights and practical tips on self-care and maintaining balance in challenging times. Let's throw off those capes, indulge in some well-deserved baths, and prioritize our own well-being. Remember, self-care isn't selfish—it's essential for our overall health and success. Tune in to the episode on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcastsRememberet to share, like, and subscribe for more valuable discussions on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Let's make self-care a priority together!

Hey LinkedIn fam! I am thrilled to announce the release of the latest episode of DEI After 5, where we delved into the world of learning and development with the incredible Mariana Ortega, MA, CPDC. In this episode, we explored the intersection of diversity, equity, and inclusion with learning and development, uncovering some eye-opening insights. Here are three key takeaways from our conversation with Mariana: Prestige Bias in Learning and Development: Mariana shed light on the concept of prestige bias, emphasizing the importance of lived experiences alongside academic qualifications. It's crucial to recognize the value of diverse perspectives and backgrounds in shaping effective learning and development strategies. Barriers for Underrepresented Talent: We discussed the phenomenon of underrepresented talent in learning and development roles facing barriers as they progress to senior positions. Mariana shared her personal journey and highlighted the need for organizations to address structural barriers and create pathways for diverse talent to thrive. Human-Centered Leadership: Mariana's passion for human-centered leadership resonated throughout our conversation. She emphasized the significance of prioritizing human skills in leadership development, such as having difficult conversations and creating psychological safety. This approach fosters inclusive and supportive work environments. If you're interested in learning more about these crucial topics and gaining valuable insights from Mariana, make sure to listen to the full episode on DEI After 5 TODAY!! Connect with Mariana Ortega on her website, Cultural Compass Coaching, for more valuable content on navigating complex career environments and human-centered leadership. Tune in every Tuesday at 5.15 p.m. for more thought-provoking discussions on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. Let's continue to drive positive change together!

Hey LinkedIn fam! I am excited to announce the latest episode of DEI After 5, where I had an insightful conversation with L. Denise Wells, M.A.Ed, a consultant in the diversity, equity, and inclusion space. We delved into the importance of equity and the implications of removing it from the DEI equation. Here are three key takeaways from our conversation: 1. Equity is Essential: Denise emphasized that equity is the hard work of creating opportunities, removing barriers, and providing support and resources where needed. It is crucial for addressing historical injustices and ensuring a fair and inclusive environment for all. 2. Creative Approaches to DEI: We discussed the need for creative strategies to embed equity into organizational systems. By dismantling traditional structures like diversity offices and strategically placing diversity, equity, and inclusion advocates across various departments, organizations can ensure a more systemic approach to equity. 3. The Future of Workforce Expectations: We highlighted the evolving expectations of the workforce, especially from younger generations like Gen Z. They prioritize organizations that align with their values, including diversity, sustainability, and social responsibility. This shift in mindset is driving companies to prioritize equity and inclusion in their operations. I encourage you to listen to the full episode tomorrow at 5:15p ET for more insights and reflections on the current state of DEI efforts. Let's continue to push the boundaries of diversity, equity, and inclusion in our workplaces and communities. You can listen to the episode on the DEI After 5 YouTube channel and follow Denise Wells on all platforms at @IamLDWells for more valuable insights. Remember, the work of DEI is not just about the letters but the outcomes we achieve. Let's keep the conversation going and strive for a more equitable and inclusive future.

Crisis Mode Alert: DEI Under Siege! In today's climate, DEI is facing unprecedented challenges. Project 2025 and numerous state legislations aim to eliminate DEI discussions. Even universities are feeling the heat. How's that for freedom of speech? This week's DEI After 5 guest, Toni Harrison gets real: - DEI involves protecting the rights of marginalized groups: Black, Latinae, disabled, veterans, LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, and more. - It's about our neighbors and friends. - Convincing skeptics is tough; igniting torchbearers is essential. - Silence is complicity. Speak up and make noise against the misconception that DEI is harmful. Who’s ready to stand up for what's right? Share your thoughts and experiences below.

New Podcast Episode Alert! I am thrilled to announce that the latest episode of DEI After 5 goes live TOMORROW, featuring an insightful conversation with Ukeme Awakessien Jeter, author and immigrant, discussing the grit and skills immigrants bring to the table. Here are three key takeaways from this enlightening episode: 1️⃣ Curious Conversations: Ukeme emphasized the importance of having curious conversations in the workplace. By asking "how" instead of "why," we can foster understanding and empathy, leading to more inclusive and open dialogue. 2️⃣ Cultural Intelligence: Cultural intelligence is the new frontier in DEI work. Understanding and valuing diverse cultural perspectives is crucial for building effective leadership pipelines and creating inclusive environments where everyone feels seen and heard. 3️⃣ Embracing Immigrant Magic: Immigrants bring unique skills and experiences to the table. It's time to move away from the mindset of assimilation and celebrate the diversity and innovation that immigrants contribute to our workplaces and communities. I invite you to listen to the full episode to explore these important topics further and gain valuable insights from Ukeme's perspective. Let's continue the conversation and work towards a more inclusive and diverse future together!

Have you ever wondered why the conversation around Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is under siege? Our latest episode of DEI After 5 delves into this pressing issue with our guest, Jermaine M. Stanley, CISA, CDPSE. Key insights include: - The evolution of DEI from critical race theory to a perceived threat. - DEI has become a euphemism for supporting blackness, overshadowing its broader impact. - Diversity is inherent in any company because we come from varied backgrounds. - Companies are now subtly embedding and integrating DEI practices into their fabric. So, where do we go from here? Let's discuss DEI's future and how we can ensure it remains a positive force in our workplaces. Share your thoughts in the comments! You can find the full episode on our YouTube channel or where you listen to podcasts! New episodes every Tuesday at 5:15p ET.