
On this episode of Observeday, we’re diving into Global Diversity Awareness Month with community engagement consultant Matthias Lemos Castillo. If you’re looking to understand how real inclusivity goes far beyond just ticking boxes, this conversation will spark ideas for your own team, podcast, or creative projects. You’ll hear why celebrating what makes us different AND what makes us similar matters, and how cultures can be bridges instead of barriers.
Two key takeaways for creators and podcasters: First, Matthias unpacks the practical ways you can build true cultural competence without waiting for a workshop — think cookbooks and community meetups instead of slideshows. Second, you’ll learn how to use trusted messengers to reach beyond your own networks authentically and why collaboration is often more effective than trying to do it all yourself.
Plus, you’ll get some quick tips on engaging new communities and hear a lightning round of Matthias’s go-to ways to break the ice across cultures. If you want to take diversity beyond lip service and make it a true daily habit, this episode is for you!
Connect with Mathias Lemos Castillo
Website:https://consultantmlc.com/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlemoscastillo/
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Chapters
00:00 What is Global Diversity Awareness Month?
00:23 Meet Matthias Lemos Castillo
01:19 Global Diversity: What It Means
02:24 From Uruguay to the US
03:34 Finding Belonging Amid Culture Shock
05:20 Common Mistakes Leaders Make
06:14 Differences and Similarities
08:53 Cultural Competency Explained
09:40 Building Cultural Competence Daily
10:55 Libraries, Social Media, and Local Exploration
13:14 Lessons from Leading Diverse Teams
16:04 Bridging Cultural Gaps: Stories from the Field
20:19 The Next Decade: Moving to True Belonging
21:21 Lightning Round: Inclusion Rapid Fire
23:15 Where to Find Matthias Online
23:44 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts