Overview:
In this Season 2 finale, Janet and Khalil explore what it takes to build lasting change when the ground keeps shifting. They connect the dots from eleven episodes, examining how organizations can move from reaction to redesign, from symbolism to systems. Through frameworks on clarity, strategic elimination, and collective action, they offer a roadmap for resilient leadership. The conversation celebrates the diverse voices that shaped this season and poses three essential questions every leader must answer.
Key Takeaways:
Season 2 was a celebration of teamwork and collaboration.
Diversity and inclusion were central to the success of the team.
AI should enhance humanity, not replace it.
Reframing DEI as a business performance issue is crucial.
Shifting from symbolism to systems is necessary for real change.
Building trust requires authentic leadership and data-driven decisions.
Clarity is essential for strategic action.
Strategic elimination can simplify processes and enhance impact.
Collective action is vital for resilience in challenging times.
The insights gained this season will inform future discussions.
Overview:
The conversation explores the evolving landscape of data collection in organizations, emphasizing the shift towards self-identification and the importance of anonymity in employee surveys. It highlights the need for real-time data collection methods that foster trust and engagement among employees. The discussion also delves into the erosion of trust in organizations, the significance of authentic leadership, and the challenges of navigating authenticity in the context of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) work. The role of artificial intelligence in bias detection and the necessity of identifying barriers to growth within organizations are also examined. Finally, the conversation addresses the global perspectives on diversity and inclusion and offers insights on individual actions that can support a more inclusive environment.
Key Takeaways:
Self-identification in data collection is becoming more prevalent.
Anonymity in surveys increases employee honesty.
Real-time data collection enhances engagement and insights.
Trust is crucial for productivity and engagement.
Authentic leadership fosters a positive workplace culture.
Navigating authenticity can be challenging in DEI work.
AI has the potential to disrupt biases in organizations.
Identifying barriers to growth is essential for organizational success.
Global perspectives on diversity and inclusion vary significantly.
Individuals can support inclusion by allowing authenticity and grace.
About Our Guest:
Pam Jeffords is a transformational leader and global thought leader on inclusive workplace cultures. As Managing Partner of BE Labs, she advises organizations on aligning people and culture strategies with business outcomes. With over three decades of experience, she challenges organizations to rethink traditional approaches. Previously, Jeffords led Mercer’s global DEIB consulting practice and was a Partner at PwC in the Workforce of the Future team. Her work has been featured in Fortune Magazine and The Economist.
Overview:
In this insightful episode, LaQuenta Jacobs, a workplace culture and inclusion strategist, delves into the critical gap between what companies claim about inclusion and their actual practices. She emphasizes the importance of embedding inclusion into core organizational systems rather than treating it as a separate program. Jacobs highlights the consequences of cultural misalignment, such as market disconnection and loss of competitive edge, urging organizations to align their internal culture with their external brand to thrive in today's market.
Takeaways:
Cultural Alignment is Key: Organizations must align their written commitments with their cultural practices to avoid erosion and disconnection.
Inclusion by Design: Embedding inclusion into core systems like performance reviews and team structures is essential for sustainable change.
Internal Drives External: Companies with authentic internal inclusion can effectively market externally, maintaining market connection and competitive advantage.
Beyond Psychological Safety: Real inclusion involves transparency, accountability, and sustainable change, not just psychological safety.
Market Impact: Misaligned cultures lead to loss of market connection and competitive edge, as seen in companies like Target and American Eagle.
Leadership Evolution: Leaders must evolve with societal changes to embrace diverse cultures and flexible work arrangements.
Speak Up Culture: Organizations should foster environments where transparency is rewarded, and groupthink is challenged.
Strategic DEI Integration: Diversity, equity, and inclusion should be integrated into all organizational functions, not treated as standalone initiatives.
Consumer Connection: Companies must have diverse teams to authentically connect with varied consumer bases.
Resilience and Adaptability: Change champions need resilience and adaptability to align personal and business objectives for effective transformation.
Meet Our Guest:
LaQuenta Jacobs is the former Global Vice President of Inclusion, Equity and Diversity at Kimberly-Clark. A progressive human resources executive with over 23 years of experience, she is a certified Executive Leadership Coach and cultural diversity assessment expert. Jacobs is a recognized leader in organizational development and a champion for creating inclusive work environments
Overview:In this conversation, Andrés Tapia discusses the evolving landscape of diversity and inclusion (D&I) within organizations, emphasizing the shift from a social justice framework to a business imperative. He highlights the challenges and opportunities that arise from current crises, urging leaders and individuals to adapt and find new ways to engage with D&I efforts. Tapia stresses the importance of sustainability in D&I practices, the need for organizations to recognize the value of diverse talent, and the role individuals can play in fostering an inclusive environment. Ultimately, he encourages a proactive approach to navigating the complexities of the corporate world while maintaining a commitment to social justice principles.Takeaways:We're definitely in a crisis that will intensify.D&I efforts have been criminalized, creating real threats.Social justice is not the currency of for-profit organizations.D&I should not be based on trends; it needs to be sustainable.Diversity is destiny; organizations must embrace it.Individuals must take control of their own developmental paths.Mentorship is crucial; individuals should seek it out proactively.Organizations need to recognize the value of diverse talent for business success.The current crisis presents an opportunity for reflection and growth.We must reinvent D&I strategies to be more effective and inclusive.About Our Guest: Andrés Tapia is a globally recognized strategist on leadership, culture, and organizational transformation. As Founder and President of Andrés Tapia Strategy Group, he helps senior leaders navigate disruption through character-centered leadership and inclusive, human-centric strategies. A pioneer in leadership and team development, Tapia has designed and launched breakthrough frameworks used by thousands of executives worldwide. His current work, including the CharacterGPS™ leadership framework, equips organizations to turn disruption into innovation and build cultures of resilience, trust, and high performance.
Overview:In this conversation, Zach Nunn discusses the implications of AI on the future of work, emphasizing the unsustainable nature of replacing human jobs with technology. He highlights the fear surrounding job loss due to AI, the reality of AI implementation failures, and the importance of change management in organizations. The discussion also touches on the need for diversity in tech, the ethical considerations of AI, and the evolving corporate landscape. Nunn encourages individuals to prepare for the future by staying informed and adaptable in a rapidly changing job market.Key Takeaways:- Organizations are increasingly choosing AI solutions over long-term people investment.- The reality of AI implementation shows a high failure rate in organizations.- AI is not a replacement for human intelligence but a tool to assist.- Diversity in tech is crucial for innovation and ethical considerations.- Change management is essential for organizations to adapt to new technologies.- Individuals should prepare for the future by keeping their skills updated.- The corporate landscape is shifting towards a more transactional relationship with employees.- Ethical implications of AI must be considered in corporate strategies.- The hype surrounding AI often overshadows its actual capabilities.- The future of work will require a balance between technology and human roles.About Our Guest:Zachary Nunn, PHR, is the founder and CEO of Living Corporate, a media and consulting firm focused on centering and amplifying Black and Brown voices in the workplace. A seasoned HR professional with a background in talent acquisition and organizational growth, Nunn has transformed his podcast into a six-figure consulting firm. He is a prominent voice in the DEI space, offering insights on corporate culture and workplace equity through his platform and various speaking engagements.
Overview
In this episode, Janet and Khalil reflect on the first half of their season, discussing insights from various guests about workplace dynamics, the importance of seeing reality as it is, and the need for collaboration over capitulation. They emphasize the significance of understanding power dynamics within organizations and the necessity of building robust systems that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by women in the workforce and the importance of allyship in creating inclusive environments.Key Takeaways
This conversation explores the challenges and opportunities for women in technology, particularly in the context of AI and workforce dynamics. It discusses the alarming rates at which women are leaving the workforce, the implications of generational shifts, and the importance of diversity in tech. The speakers emphasize the need for self-awareness, building networks, and recognizing glass cliff opportunities to navigate corporate culture effectively. They also highlight the significance of creating positive work environments and the role of healed women in supporting others on their professional journeys.
Key Takeaways
Overview
In this conversation, Tom Moore discusses the anticipated pressure tactics organizations may face from the federal government over the next 24 months. He highlights the dynamics between federal and state responses, the vulnerability of various industries, and the importance of collective resistance against capitulation. The discussion also touches on the legal challenges organizations may encounter, the need for proactive strategies, and the historical context of compliance and resistance. Ultimately, the conversation emphasizes the power of collective action and the potential for individuals to mobilize change in challenging times.
About Our Guest
Tom Moore is a senior fellow at the Center for American Progress, focusing on democracy and government reform. From 2015 to 2023, he served as counsel and chief of staff to Federal Election Commissioner Ellen L. Weintraub, where he co-devised a legal strategy that broke a decade-long FEC enforcement deadlock. Moore has a diverse background, having worked as a political reporter for CNN, a litigator for Latham & Watkins, and a two-term Rockville City Council member. He is a graduate of Davidson College and Georgetown Law.
Overview
This conversation explores the challenges and strategies for having difficult conversations in politically polarized workplaces. The speakers discuss the importance of courageous communication, understanding incivility and microaggressions, and the role of belonging in organizations. They emphasize the need for frameworks to facilitate courageous conversations and the impact of generational shifts on workplace expectations. The discussion also highlights the significance of finding one's voice and agency, the power of collaboration, and the role of hope and love in driving change.
About Our Guest
Dr. Allison Schlobohm is a clinical associate professor of management and corporate communication at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Kenan-Flagler Business School. She equips leaders with the skills to lead diverse, inclusive organizations and build strong professional relationships. Dr. Schlobohm is also an independent consultant, providing communication coaching and facilitating workshops. Her research and teaching focus on leadership, power, and privilege in corporate environments.
Overview
This conversation delves into the complexities of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts in the workplace, highlighting the backlash faced by those in power and the importance of engaging them in the conversation. The speakers discuss the fear surrounding DEI initiatives, the necessity of inclusion for business success, and the role of allies in fostering a supportive environment. They emphasize the need for leaders to prepare for a diverse workforce, the significance of storytelling in DEI, and the dynamics of power in allyship. Ultimately, the discussion calls for a personal commitment to allyship and the importance of understanding one's own motivations for engaging in this work.
Takeaways
About Our Guest, Julie Kratz
Julie Kratz is a highly acclaimed inclusive leadership trainer, TEDx speaker, and author of seven books. As the founder of Next Pivot Point, she helps organizations develop more inclusive workplace cultures. With an MBA and certifications as a Master Coach and in unconscious bias and psychological safety, Kratz is a sought-after consultant and speaker on allyship and inclusion. Her work is dedicated to fostering diversity and equity in the workplace through practical and impactful strategies.
Overview
In this episode, Khalil and Janet engage with leadership expert Valeria Lasseter to explore the evolving challenges leaders face in uncertain times. They discuss the importance of adaptive capacity, the power framework, and the necessity of perspective taking in leadership. Valeria emphasizes the need for leaders to own their development, revisit organizational values, and create conditions for meaningful relationships. The conversation also touches on the significance of strategic action over reactive responses and the importance of understanding when to transition in one's career.
Key Points
Overview
Join hosts Khalil and Janet for the season two premiere of 'In This Moment.' In this episode, they unveil the new season's theme: What's next? What's now?, focusing on proactive and strategic thinking for the future of work. Get ready for a season of insightful conversations with visionary leaders and change agents, all centered on the core belief that an organization's greatest asset is its people.
Key Takeaways
In this conversation, Khalil Smith and Janet M. Stovall reflect on their experiences and insights regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. They discuss the challenges of maintaining personal well-being while engaging in this important work, the role of businesses in driving social change, and the necessity of understanding value in the workplace. The conversation also touches on the importance of knowing when to move on from a role and the motivation behind pursuing meaningful work.
In this episode of 'In This Moment', Janet Stovall speaks with Dr. Ella Washington, an organizational psychologist and author, about the complexities of inclusion in the workplace. They discuss the unspoken rules that often govern corporate culture, the dual nature of inclusion as both an action and a feeling, and the importance of authenticity in navigating less inclusive environments.
Dr. Washington emphasizes the need for individuals and organizations to actively engage in creating inclusive cultures, especially in the current climate where diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts are under scrutiny. The conversation highlights practical strategies for fostering belonging and understanding the hidden dynamics that can hinder progress in workplace inclusion.
In this episode, Khalil and Janet discuss the significance of identity months, particularly Black History Month, and how organizations can approach these celebrations authentically and meaningfully. They introduce the concept of 'Black Hindsight Month' to emphasize the importance of connecting historical contributions to present and future actions. The conversation highlights the need for relevance in identity celebrations, the importance of the Depth Model for planning, and the necessity of making these months inclusive and impactful for all employees. The episode concludes with a call to action for organizations to engage their employees and create a lasting impact beyond just one month of recognition. Takeaways
In this episode, Khalil and Janet discuss the pressing issue of burnout in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) work, particularly in light of recent political changes affecting DEI initiatives. They explore the different groups experiencing DEI fatigue, the importance of diverse narratives, and strategies for managing burnout. The conversation emphasizes the need for a data-driven approach to DEI, shifting the narrative to highlight its business value, and integrating DEI practices into organizational frameworks. Key Takeaways
Learn more and contact the hosts at https://inthismoment.network
In this episode, Janet and Khalil explore the significance of language in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) discussions.
They critique the term 'belonging' and propose 'inclusillience' as a more actionable concept.
The conversation emphasizes the need for clear definitions and measurable actions in DEI initiatives, arguing that inclusion should be prioritized over belonging.
They also discuss the evolution of DEI terminology and the importance of aligning language with organizational values to drive meaningful change.
In this episode of the In This Moment podcast, hosts Khalil and Janet discuss the current state of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in major corporations, particularly in light of recent backtracking by companies like Meta and Amazon.
They explore the different types of companies in the DEI journey, the challenges of sustaining DEI efforts, and the importance of integrating DEI into the core business strategy. The conversation emphasizes the need for organizations to understand the impact of diversity on their bottom line and the necessity of fostering an inclusive culture to achieve meaningful change.
In this conversation, Khalil and Janet explore the critical role of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in business, emphasizing the need for a strong business case for diversity. They discuss the influence of founder-led tech companies on DEI initiatives and the significant impact of leadership on organizational culture. The conversation also addresses the challenges employees face in aligning personal values with their workplace and offers actionable steps for individuals to advocate for DEI within their organizations.
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https://www.lahsa.org/newsArticle/resources-to-support-those-during-the-la-fires
Summary
In this episode, Janet and Khalil explore the current challenges and opportunities in the DEI landscape. They discuss the prevailing mood of threat and uncertainty, the role of workplaces in fostering diversity and inclusion, and the concept of regression to the mean in the context of equity. The conversation emphasizes the need for sustainable change and the importance of reframing DEI discussions to address systemic inequities effectively.
Takeaways
DEI challenges are more pressing than ever. The current mood is characterized by a sense of threat. Workplaces are unique spaces for learning and interaction. Equity is seen as a disruption in an inequitable world. Inequity is the default state in society. Acknowledging inequity is the first step towards change. Sustainable change requires consistent effort and commitment. Reframing DEI conversations can lead to better outcomes. Humor is essential in navigating DEI discussions. This podcast aims to explore DEI in a fresh and honest way.