Podcasts about inclusionist

In this episode of Everyday Conversations on Race, Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist, is joined by two incredible global Diversity, Equity and Inclusion experts: Michaël Stuber, the European DEI Engineer, and Nene Molefi, founder of Mandate Molefi HR Consultants in South Africa. While the focus of this episode is on the global Diversity, Equity and Inclusion landscape, it's also a deeply personal conversation about their journeys, the challenges they've faced, and how their backgrounds have shaped their approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion. As we explore how Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives differ across countries, Michaël and Nene share their unique personal experiences—from Michaël's upbringing in a family where cultural diversity was the norm, to Nene's harrowing memories of growing up in the midst of apartheid in South Africa. These personal stories are woven into the conversation, bringing a human element to the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion discussion that goes beyond theories and strategies. Detailed Time Stamps: [00:00] Introduction to Simma and the guests [04:30] Michael Stuber shares how his diverse upbringing shaped his perspective on DEI [07:00] Nene talks about growing up during apartheid in South Africa and the 1976 uprisings [12:00] The impact of apartheid on Nene's personal and professional journey [16:00] Michaël's early experiences with Diversity, Equity and Inclusion work and the importance of a European context [21:45] The role of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in shaping Michaël's understanding of DEI [26:30] Nene discusses her experience in developing South Africa's Employment Equity Act and its legacy [32:15] Challenges and growth in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion work across South Africa and Europe [37:00] Michaël reflects on the global DEI landscape and adapting U.S.-based DEI concepts for Europe [42:00] The importance of systemic change in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: addressing structures, not just attitudes [47:15] Current challenges in DEI: nationalistic movements and the regression of progress [52:30] The personal impact of the global political climate on DEI work [57:00] Nene and Michaël discuss the shifting attitudes towards Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and the need for integrity and truth-telling [01:02:30] Closing remarks: The importance of global perspectives in DEI and continuing the conversation This isn't just about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; it's about understanding the deep-rooted histories that influence how we work, relate, and view one another today. Michaël and Nene's personal stories and shared wisdom will help you see Diversity, Equity and Inclusion not just as a corporate or political issue, but a human one. Key Takeaways: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is about more than just policies—it's about understanding personal and cultural histories that shape our worldviews. Real change in DEI requires confronting deep-rooted systems of oppression, as demonstrated by Nene's experience in apartheid and Michaël's work in Europe. Effective DEI strategies must be rooted in listening, respect, and understanding of the complex histories that shape people's lives. Guest Information: Michaël Stuber – Described as “Germany's diversity pioneer” (ManagerMagazin), Michael Stuber is known for his evidence-based, internationally experienced and critically reflective D&I approaches—beyond mainstream ‘good' practice. Combining deep expertise with systemic thinking, he designs diversity strategies that are differentiated, holistic and therefore effective. Nene Molefi is a globally recognized consultant, keynote speaker, coach and author with over 25 years of experience shaping leadership, organizational transformation, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across industries. Born and raised in Soweto, Johannesburg, she has built an esteemed career advocating for values-driven leadership, high-performing teams, and systemic change in organizations worldwide. As the Founder and CEO of Mandate Molefi HR Consultants, Nene has advised multinational corporations, governments, and nonprofit organizations. Her expertise spans Whole System Culture Change, Executive Leadership Development, DEI Strategy and High-Stakes Facilitation—guiding courageous, results-driven conversations that tackle complex organizational and societal challenges. She has led and steered intricate, long-term cultural transformation and leadership initiatives, working with multi-disciplinary and specialist teams.      Click here to DONATE and support our podcast All donations are tax deductible through Fractured Atlas. Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist, helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker, and facilitator. Simma is the creator and host of the podcast, Everyday Conversations on Race. Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com to get more information, book her as a speaker for your next event, help you become a more inclusive leader, or facilitate dialogues across differences. Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website    Previous Episodes Navigating Race, Mental Health and Well-being in Corporate America How Racist Competency Checks Prevent Merit-Based Hiring Can Descendants of the Enslaved Reconcile with the Enslavers?   Loved this episode?  Leave us a review and rating

How can Black professionals address the mental, physical and emotional toll of success in corporate America? Join Simma Lieberman, the Inclusionist, in this insightful episode of Everyday Conversations on Race with guests Shaniqua McClendon and Justin Grant. Shaniqua, VP of Politics at Crooked Media, and Justin, an executive at JP Morgan Chase, share their personal stories and experiences about the significance of discussing race in society and corporate environments. They also delve into the intricacies of mental, physical and emotional health, especially for Black individuals in corporate America. Listen in to hear their personal stories and how they had to learn and practice self-care strategies for their mental, physical and emotional health.   How can developing and being part of a supportive community help maintain healthy blood pressure, prevent heart attacks and build a strong immune system?   How does meditation, deep breathing, walking and other exercise reduce stress, and anxiety and support success?   Discover practical advice, inspirational stories, and engaging discussions that highlight the importance of community, self-care, and systemic change.   The techniques, practices and actions they share as Black people in corporate America should be used by anyone who cares about their own mental, physical and emotional well-being in our society today.    Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation and learn how to navigate these critical issues effectively.    Get 45% off the Magic Mind bundle or 20% off a one-time purchase with Simma's exclusive link: magicmind.com/SimmaL20  (Support mental health services for the homeless and low-income communities.)    00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 00:41 Meet the Guests: Shaniqua McClendon and Justin Grant 02:15 The Importance of Discussing Race 02:33 Historical Context and Systemic Issues 07:36 Personal Stories: Shaniqua McClendon 11:45 Personal Stories: Justin Grant 15:48 Mental Health and Corporate America 29:15 The Importance of Mental Health Support 30:55 Stigma Around Therapy in the Black Community 32:43 Ethno Therapy and Cultural Considerations 35:15 Navigating Corporate America as a Black Professional 41:42 Strategies for Self-Care and Community Building 52:22 Final Thoughts and Parting Advice   Guests Bio: Justin Grant is an accomplished writer, marketer, community development and corporate communications leader with more than a decade of experience leading high-profile campaigns in the asset management and financial services industries. He serves as a mentor to numerous students and young professionals of varying backgrounds, both in the United States and Brazil, and sits on the Board of Trustees at Long Island University, where he has taught journalism. Grant is the author of the new book, “Company Men: A Wellness Guide for Black Men in Corporate America” (Wordeee, Feb. 12, 2025). Links for Justin -- Website  LinkedIn  Goodreads  Amazon  Bookshop  Shaniqua McClendon is the Vice President of Politics for Crooked Media (home to the popular podcast, Pod Save America), a political strategist and sought-after speaker and commentator on media, politics, voting, and race. At Crooked Media, she leads their political strategy and civic engagement program (Vote Save America), and also created their successful 2020 volunteer engagement and fundraising program   Links for Shaniqua -- Website  Twitter  Instagram  LinkedIn     Click here to DONATE and support our podcast All donations are tax deductible through Fractured Atlas. Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist, helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker, and facilitator. Simma is the creator and host of the podcast, Everyday Conversations on Race. Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com to get more information, book her as a speaker for your next event, help you become a more inclusive leader, or facilitate dialogues across differences. Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website    Previous Episodes How Racist Competency Checks Prevent Merit-Based Hiring Can Descendants of the Enslaved Reconcile with the Enslavers? Can Individuals Really End Racism? Loved this episode?  Leave us a review and rating

Have you ever felt challenged or questioned because of your race? In this episode of Everyday Conversations on Race, Simma Lieberman welcomes Shari Dunn, author of Qualified: How Competency Checking and Race Collide at Work.    Explore how race affects perceptions of competence and the real-world impacts of systemic racism in the workplace. You'll understand how racist competency checks can impede merit-based hiring. With personal anecdotes and historical insights, Shari Dunn sheds light on how people of color, especially Black women, face unfair scrutiny and bias in their professional lives. Discover why it's crucial to talk about race, debunk myths of a colorblind society, and take actionable steps toward creating inclusive work cultures. Tune in for a heartfelt and informative cross-race discussion and hear what we can do to unite and bring people together across differences.  Learn more about this important topic and share this episode to help grow the conversation.   00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:53 Meet Shari Dunn: Author of 'Qualified' 02:05 Shari Dunn's Varied Career Background 03:19 The Concept of Competency Checking 03:58 The Importance of Discussing Race 04:26 Historical Context and Colorblindness 06:51 Merit-Based Society: Fact or Fiction? 08:39 Personal Experiences and Systemic Barriers 19:40 The Toll of Racism on Health 22:20 Examples of Competency Checking 29:03 The Cost of White Supremacy 30:29 The Exercise: Labels and Leadership 32:13 The Great Man Theory of Leadership 33:56 Imposter Syndrome and Workplace Dynamics 35:13 The Danger of Misplaced Leadership 38:13 White Supremacy's Impact on White People 39:52 Stories of Competency Checking 47:31 The Concept of Whiteness and Blackness 50:51 Actions to Combat Competency Checking 54:14 Conclusion and Contact Information   Get 45% off the Magic Mind bundle or 20% off a one-time purchase with Simma's exclusive link: magicmind.com/SimmaL20  (Support mental health services for the homeless and low-income communities.)    Guests Bio: Shari Dunn is a polymath, an accomplished journalist, and a former attorney, news anchor, CEO, and university professor.  She is an American Leadership Forum Fellow and has been awarded the prestigious Executive of the Year Award in 2018, the 2019 Women of Influence Award (Portland Business Journal), the Associated Press Award for Best Spot News, and the Wisconsin Broadcasting Association Award for Best Morning News Show. Her work has been cited in the Wall Street Journal and quoted in TIME and Fast Company among others. Shari is also a sought-after speaker. She holds a BA in philosophy from Marquette University and a JD from Northwestern Pritzker School of Law.    Click here to DONATE and support our podcast All donations are tax deductible through Fractured Atlas. Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist, helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker, and facilitator. Simma is the creator and host of the podcast, Everyday Conversations on Race. Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com to get more information, book her as a speaker for your next event, help you become a more inclusive leader, or facilitate dialogues across differences. Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website    Previous Episodes Can Descendants of the Enslaved Reconcile with the Enslavers? Can Individuals Really End Racism? How Can Art Eliminate Racism? Loved this episode?  Leave us a review and rating

Magic Mind Bundle: Get 45% off the Magic Mind bundle with Simma's exclusive link: https://magicmind.com/SimmaLJAN (Support mental health services for the homeless and low-income communities)   Are you ready to explore the challenging topics of race and reconciliation? In this episode of 'Everyday Conversations on Race,' hosted by Simma Lieberman, we dive deep into the initiatives of the Descendants Truth and Reconciliation Foundation. Guests Monique Trusclair Maddox and Fr. Tim Kesicki, SJ, share their compelling stories and the foundation's mission to address the historical injustices of Jesuit-owned enslavement at Georgetown University. Discover how the foundation's work—ranging from educational scholarships to elder care and racial healing programs—aims to reduce racial tensions and promote a more just and equitable future. Tune in for an enlightening conversation on historical accountability and the ongoing journey towards racial equity.   01:00 Introducing Today's Guests 03:13 Monique's Story: Discovering Her Ancestry 07:04 Father Tim's Perspective and Historical Context 18:11 Addressing Racial Tensions and Self-Care 20:36 The Work of the Descendants Truth and Reconciliation Foundation 28:43 The Importance of Truth and Reconciliation 29:01 Building Relationships and Generational Knowledge 29:29 The Foundation's Pillars and Initiatives 31:31 Historical Context of the 1838 Sale 33:42 Addressing Specific Needs and Equity 35:26 Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation 38:14 Personal Reflections and Proximity 45:18 The Role of the Church in Addressing Racism 46:44 Formation of the Descendants Association 52:15 Conclusion and Further Resources Guests Bio: Father Timothy P. Kesicki, S.J., is the President of the Jesuit Conference of Canada and the United States. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the Jesuit Conference promotes common goals and oversees international projects for the Society of Jesus. As Conference President, Fr. Kesicki works with the Jesuit Provincials of the United States and Canada in implementing programs, represents the Conference internationally and serves as the religious superior of the Boston College School of Theology and Ministry and the Jesuit School of Theology of Santa Clara University in Berkeley, California. He serves on the boards of Jesuit Refugee Service/USA and America Magazine.   Monique Trusclair Maddox is the CEO of the Descendants Truth & Reconciliation Foundation as well as chair of the board of directors. She is a fifth- and sixth-generation granddaughter of Isaac Hawkins and a fourth-generation granddaughter of Nace Butler, two of the 272 men, women, and children who were enslaved by the Maryland Jesuits and eventually sold in 1838 in an effort to save Georgetown University from financial ruin.   Click here to DONATE and support our podcast All donations are tax deductible through Fractured Atlas. Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker, and facilitator. Simma is the creator and host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com to get more information, book her as a speaker for your next event, help you become a more inclusive leader, or facilitate dialogues across differences. Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website    Previous Episodes Can Individuals Really End Racism? How Can Art Eliminate Racism? Growing Up Biracial in a White World: Desiree Chang's Journey of Identity and Race Loved this episode?  Leave us a review and rating

Summary: In this episode of Everyday Conversations on Race, Simma Lieberman is joined by Dr. Joe-Joe McManus and Juan Lopez, two individuals who share their experiences and insights into anti-racism and building true, meaningful interracial relationships. The conversation focuses on the importance of talking about race, the difference between being "non-racist" and "anti-racist," and how everyone can take small actions to fight racism. The episode highlights the need for intentional relationships across cultures and races, the significance of sharing personal stories, and the long-term process of working together to advance freedom and dismantle racism. What can you do today to actively challenge racism in your own life? Keep listening to discover how small, intentional actions can make a difference. Show Notes: [00:00] Introduction Simma introduces her guests, Dr. Jojo McManus, an anti-racist educator and diversity and inclusion practitioner, and Juan Lopez, a consultant focused on leadership, organizational development, and DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion). The trio shares their personal connections and the powerful community they're part of, which focuses on building interracial, multicultural, and interfaith communities. [04:30] Why It's Important to Talk About Race Simma asks Jojo and Juan if it's still important to talk about race in a world that sometimes claims we are "post-racial." Jojo and Juan explain how racism is alive and resurging and why ongoing conversations about race and racism are crucial. [08:15] The Founding of Diversity 2000 (D2K) Juan shares how he co-founded the Diversity 2000 (D2K) community in 1993, a group designed to bring diversity professionals together to collaborate rather than compete. This community has grown into a 32-year-long initiative supporting DEI professionals globally. [14:00] The Importance of Real Interactions The discussion turns to the value of truly interacting with people who are different from us, not just having "diverse friends." Jojo and Simma emphasize that building anti-racist habits involves more than just proximity—it requires intentional relationships and actions. [20:30] Jojo's Book: A Brother's Insight Jojo discusses his book, A Brother's Insight: Guidance on Defeating Racism and Advancing Freedom. He shares how the book was inspired by the death of his brother and the powerful lessons he's learned about racism, systemic oppression, and the importance of being actively anti-racist. [26:00] Small Actions Against Racism Jojo and Juan discuss small, intentional actions that can make a difference in fighting racism—like inviting someone different to join your group or calling out racism when you see it. Simma highlights how these actions can become part of your daily life when anti-racism is treated as a core value. [31:00] The Complexity of Racism and Mental Health The conversation touches on how racism impacts mental health, including how internalized racism can affect communities. Jojo talks about how his brother's death, which was influenced by racism, deeply shaped his work in anti-racism. [36:00] The Importance of Self-Care in the Fight Against Racism Simma and her guests discuss the importance of self-care to prevent burnout, especially when doing the long, hard work of anti-racism. Simma shares how she uses Magic Mind, an elixir designed to reduce stress, improve cognition, and support mental health. [39:00] Taking Action and Creating Change Jojo emphasizes that everyone's voice has the power to make a difference in the fight against racism. Whether it's through lending your talent or raising your voice, each person can contribute to making the world more just. [42:30] Closing Remarks and Call to Action The episode wraps up with Simma encouraging listeners to continue the conversation and engage in meaningful action against racism. She reminds everyone of the importance of real relationships and community in this ongoing journey. Resources: ●    Magic Mind Bundle: Get 45% off the Magic Mind bundle with Simma's exclusive link: magicmind.com/SimmaLJAN (Support mental health services for the homeless and low-income communities). ●    Book: A Brother's Insight: Guidance on Defeating Racism and Advancing Freedom by Dr. Jojo McManus is available online and in local bookstores. ________________________________________ The episode provides actionable ways to learn from, interact with, and support people from different races, ethnicities, and cultures. Listeners are encouraged to move beyond passive support and take small, meaningful steps to stand against racism in their everyday lives.   Guests Bio: Dr. Joe-Joe McManus serves as an Executive Advisor on antiracism and inclusive excellence. He consults, writes, and speaks widely on topics at the intersections of antiracism, diversity and inclusion, and leadership development. His new book, A Brother's Insight, offers guidance on living an impactful antiracist life. Over the past three decades, Dr. Joe-Joe's work has been largely behind the scenes, focused on developing programs and policy, and advising leaders on promoting systemic change toward inclusive excellence. McManus has held faculty, staff, and executive roles in higher education, including Chief Diversity Officer. He has served at an HBCU, an international university, an Ivy League institution, and at the university system level. He has also lectured, served on panels, presented, and consulted across the U.S. and internationally for more than three decades.   Mr. Juan Lopez co-founded Amistad Associates in 1982 in Oakland, California, with Ms. Giselle Sanchez and a small group of human resource professionals who were working with non-profits, educational institutions and government.  In 1987, Mr. Lopez became the CEO of Amistad Associates.  In 1988, Amistad Associates relocated to Sebastopol, California.   Juan was the primary consultant for Johnson and Johnson's Global Multicultural Leadership Program for eight years.  In this role he was responsible for designing organizational leadership competencies, using 360's for professional development, mentoring and developing career strategies for fast track advancement.  He worked closely with executive management to evaluate and track progress.  His program was recognized nationally and was benchmarked as a best in the field model. Mr. Lopez was a member of the Global Diversity and Inclusion Governance Council with PepsiCo for 5 years and his role was to focus on strategic insight on diversity management, organizational change, leadership development and innovation.    Click here to DONATE and support our podcast All donations are tax deductible through Fractured Atlas. Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker, and facilitator. Simma is the creator and host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com to get more information, book her as a speaker for your next event, help you become a more inclusive leader, or facilitate dialogues across differences. Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website    Previous Episodes How Can Art Eliminate Racism? Growing Up Biracial in a White World: Desiree Chang's Journey of Identity and Race Will Music Transcend Racial Divides? Loved this episode?  Leave us a review and rating

  In this exciting episode of Everyday Conversations on Race, host Simma Lieberman brings together Karen Waukazoo, a Rosebud Sioux tribe member and advocate for American Indians, and Jennifer Ngure, a Kenyan-born wellness coach, to discuss the profound ways culture connects and heals communities. Karen and Jennifer share their personal journeys of overcoming addiction, mental health challenges, and cultural shocks. They reveal surprising commonalities between Native American and Kenyan cultures, emphasizing the importance of community, traditional healing practices, and the role of cultural festivals. Tune in to learn how these two diverse backgrounds converge in their mission to foster resilience and well-being.   00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions 01:37 Karen Waukazu's Journey and Cultural Advocacy 08:05 Jennifer Ngure's  Story and Wellness Advocacy 15:00 Cultural Healing and Community Importance 18:48 Challenges and Similarities in Cultural Practices 26:33 Youth Leadership and Cultural Revival 28:40 Connecting Cultures and Shared Experiences 31:02 Understanding the Mission District 32:12 Exploring Carnival and Its Origins 33:38 The Importance of Cultural Awareness 34:50 Personal Experiences with Cultural Differences 40:54 Challenges and Support in Immigrant Communities 44:46 Addressing Mental Health and Substance Abuse 47:42 The Issue of Missing Persons 51:54 Final Thoughts and Recommendations   Guests Bio: Karen Waukazoo (Lakota) is the Interim Project Director of the CRDP Project at Friendship House. Influenced by her parents' dedication to the Native American Health Center and the Friendship House Association of American Indians programs and the local community, she chose to follow in their footsteps by serving the Bay Area's American Indian population in her own way. Knowledgeable of both sides of treatment and recovery, Karen has worked in many capacities at the Friendship House program – from a youth volunteer, to the Director of the Oakland Lodge Program, Intake Coordinator to her current position.  In her over 15 years of service, she has made it her goal to advocate for quality treatment services for American Indian men, women and children affected by substance abuse and alcoholism. Respect and compassion, as well as knowledge all remaining at the forefront.    Jennifer is a seasoned wellness coach, registered nurse, and advocate for culturally informed self-care, with over 18 years of experience in the healthcare field. As the founder of Nimo Wellness LLC based in Boston, she dedicates her work to empowering middle-aged women in the African diaspora as they navigate pivotal life transitions. Born and raised in Kenya, Jennifer brings a unique blend of medical expertise and cultural heritage to her practice, helping women manage stress, build resilience, and reconnect with their true selves. Her signature programs, including the RenewHER Essence Wellness Retreat, dynamic workshops, and the forthcoming Mid-Life Transitions Coaching Program, are designed to create inclusive, nurturing spaces where women feel seen, heard, and supported. Jennifer's holistic, evidence-based approach celebrates the richness of cultural identity and community, promoting emotional, mental, and social well-being.      Click here to DONATE and support our podcast All donations are tax deductible through Fractured Atlas. Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker, and facilitator. Simma is the creator and host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com to get more information, book her as a speaker for your next event, help you become a more inclusive leader, or facilitate dialogues across differences. Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website    Previous Episodes Breaking Bias with Anu Gupta How Can Art Eliminate Racism? Growing Up Biracial in a White World: Desiree Chang's Journey of Identity and Race Loved this episode?  Leave us a review and rating

In this conversation on race, Anu Gupta talks about race, bias, and solutions. Anu Gupta thinks we are all biased, and that we all need to be "Breaking Bias," every day. In this episode, he shares his story of how other people's bias almost caused him to take his life.  Anu Gupta is a renowned meditation teacher, human rights lawyer, scientist, and author of the book  "Breaking Bias.'" The discussion centers around the profound impact of biases, including Anu's personal experiences with racial 'othering' and post-9/11 Islamophobia, which led to his severe mental health struggles. He introduces the PRISM framework (Perspective-taking, Prosocial behavior, Individuation, Stereotype replacement, and Mindfulness) as a set of tools for fostering systemic change and understanding. Anu's initiative, Be More With Anu, and his call to action for greater awareness and inclusive practices highlight the steps people can take to break through their biases. Our society is experiencing a mental health crisis where too many people are "othered" because of skin color, and other differences and feel like they don't belong. By "Breaking Bias," we can increase empathy, connection, and reduce fear of differences. Listen to this episode or watch it on YouTube, but don't miss this conversation on race. 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 01:06 Guest Introduction: Anu Gupta 02:18 The Importance of Discussing Race 04:39 Anu Gupta's Personal Journey 10:57 Understanding Bias and Its Impact 27:35 The Prism Toolkit for Reducing Bias 33:49 Understanding Systemic Racial Issues in Policing 34:58 The Historical Roots of Racial Bias 36:53 Kamala Harris and the Intersection of Bias 40:39 Introducing PRISM: A Toolkit for Bias Reduction 43:57 Personal Stories of Overcoming Bias 46:37 Engaging in Conversations About Bias 54:47 Final Thoughts and Resources   Guests Bio: Anu Gupta is an educator, lawyer, scientist, and the founder and CEO of BE MORE with Anu, an education technology benefit corporation that trains professionals across corporate, nonprofit, and government sectors to advance DEIB and wellness by breaking bias. His work has reached 300+ organizations training more than 80,000 professionals impacting over 30 million lives. As a gay immigrant of color, he came to the work of breaking bias after almost ending his life due to lifelong experiences with racism, homophobia, and Islamophobia. The realization that bias can be unlearned helped lead him out of that dark point and inspired a lifelong mission to build a global movement for social healing based on principles of mindfulness and compassion. A peer-reviewed author, he has written and spoken extensively, including on the TED stage, the Oprah Conversation, Fast Company, Newsweek, and Vogue Business.    Click here to DONATE and support our podcast All donations are tax deductible through Fractured Atlas. Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker, and facilitator. Simma is the creator and host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com to get more information, book her as a speaker for your next event, help you become a more inclusive leader, or facilitate dialogues across differences. Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website    Previous Episodes How Can Art Eliminate Racism? Growing Up Biracial in a White World: Desiree Chang's Journey of Identity and Race Will Music Transcend Racial Divides? Loved this episode?  Leave us a review and rating

How can art bring people together in a world divided by race and culture? In this episode of "Everyday Conversations on Race," we explore how creativity can break down walls and build genuine relationships across cultures. Meet two artists who use their craft to challenge boundaries and connect communities. Carlos “Kookie” Gonzalez, a Chicano artist and former gang member, shares his journey from the streets of San Francisco to becoming a renowned muralist. Carlos reveals how he turned his life around through art and now brings people together through community murals that tell the stories of struggle, pride, and resilience. Discover how he engages young people to see art as a path to a better future, rather than a life on the streets. Click here to DONATE and support our podcast Laurie Marshall, an artist and educator, joins Carlos to discuss her "Singing Tree" project, which has united over 24,000 people from 52 countries in creating murals that envision a world of peace and understanding. Laurie describes how this collaborative process invites people to create something bigger than themselves and reimagine what's possible when diverse voices come together. Together, Carlos and Laurie explain how art can do more than just decorate walls—it can change minds, shift perspectives, and unite people who might never have met otherwise. They share actionable ideas on how anyone, regardless of background or skill level, can use art to spark conversations, dismantle stereotypes, and create new stories that connect us all. Tune in to hear powerful stories of transformation and learn how you can use art to bridge divides and build a more connected world.   Guests Bio: Laurie Marshall For 3Laurie Marshall,5 years, Author, Innovator and Artist Laurie Marshall has empowered youth and adults through creative collaboration. She practices Peace Building through Art, inspired by Nature. A visionary educator, she has served mostly low-income children, families and their schools as an Arts Integration and Project Based Learning specialist. Her mission is to nurture creativity, a love of learning, and a collaborative spirit.  She is the founder of Unity Through Creativity Foundation  and the Singing Tree Project. Carlos “Kookie” Gonzalez was born in the San Francisco Mission District in 1959. He has been drawing and painting since childhood, and is a muralist, activist, visual artist, retired probation officer, and musician. As a young man, he was required to perform community service that involved working with muralists, and he quickly fell in love with the craft. Gonzalez attended San Francisco State University (SFSU) from 1983 to 1991, where he was a member of La Raza Student Organization. With La Raza, Gonzalez protested for multiple causes including solidarity in El Salvador and fighting for migrant farmworkers. He continues to work on private commissions and a mural project for affordable housing in the Mission District. Gonzalez's work reflects the street life, activism, music, and struggles of life as a Chicano/Latino in the Mission District.    Click here to DONATE and support our podcast Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker, and facilitator. Simma is the creator and host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com to get more information, book her as a speaker for your next event, help you become a more inclusive leader, or facilitate dialogues across differences. Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website    Previous Episodes Growing Up Biracial in a White World: Desiree Chang's Journey of Identity and Race Will Music Transcend Racial Divides? Racial Disparities in Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis and Death Loved this episode?  Leave us a review and rating  

Join Simma the Inclusionist in this episode of "Everyday Conversations on Race" as she discusses how culture connects us. The episode features special guests Kaati Gaffney and Ashel Seasunz Eldridge, who have extensive musical backgrounds. Discover how music shapes their perspectives on race and inclusion. Tune in for insightful conversations and engaging discussions on the power of culture to bring people together.  Click here to DONATE and support our podcast Key Moments: [00:00:47] Music as a Cultural Connector. [00:05:01] Cultural unity and division. [00:09:13] Growing up in diverse communities. [00:17:01] Why talk about race? [00:21:13] The power of music. [00:25:00] Cultural Appropriation vs. Homage. [00:29:20] Race and blood connections. [00:34:08] Cultures Clashing. [00:38:47] Cultural Identity and Heritage. [00:41:39] Using culture for peace. [00:46:41] Culture and birthing connection. [00:49:56] Love overcoming fear. [00:54:12] Breaking barriers through music. [00:56:46] Authentic music preferences. Culture can be a powerful tool for connecting people across different backgrounds and fostering understanding and empathy. In the podcast episode, Simma, Kaati, and Ashel provide examples of how sharing cultures can significantly role bring people together. Kaati shared her experiences in the music industry, promoting reggae and blues music across the world. Music festivals serve as diverse communities where people from various backgrounds come together to enjoy music.  Both guests share personal examples of how music can be a universal language that can transcend race, and connect individuals on a deeper level. They both say that music, as a cultural expression, can bridge gaps and create shared experiences among people from different cultural backgrounds.  Ashel told us a compelling story about using culture to connect and address conflicts. He described a musical event organized by a Jewish friend pre-October 7, to be held post-October 7, which was to include Hebrew songs. “My friend expressed anger and frustration about the situation in Israel and Palestine. Instead of dismissing his feelings, our community created a safe space for open dialogue and understanding. By incorporating Hebrew songs alongside Palestinian prayers at an event, we demonstrated how cultural elements can be used to facilitate conversations, build bridges, and promote reconciliation.”  Kaati mentioned her involvement in the birthing community, with different cultural practices and beliefs. “The birthing process serves as a space where cultural traditions and values are honored, showcasing how cultural diversity can be celebrated and respected in various aspects of life.” This episode of “Everyday Conversations on Race,” highlights how culture serves as a common ground for people to connect, share experiences, and foster empathy and understanding. By embracing cultural differences and engaging in meaningful conversations, individuals can use culture as a powerful tool to bridge divides and promote unity among diverse communities. Guests Bio: Ashel Seasunz Eldridge, Chicago born, living in Oakland by way of NY.  He has  West African/Blackfoot ancestry. Ashel has been working internationally with various shamanic practices since 2005.  His ceremonial leadership includes Dagara divinitory and ancestral healing, Japanese spiritual purification, and Galactic Language Activation/Soul Cleansing via Tian Gong.  He is Co-founder/Co-Director of Esphera, (umbrella for Essential Food and Medicine (EFAM), Solestial Church, and Earth Amplified, creating liberation through restoring ecosystems, regenerating communities, re-telling our stories, and remembering our divinity. The work spans from recovery support from addiction with the Oakland unhoused to indigenous international hip-hop to Elemental Activism: Rites of Repair (Tantra, Transformative Justice, Quantum Physics, and Divination) Kaati Gaffney Music Marketer since 1994 specializing in Blues and Reggae genresWe offer content on several platforms for fans— but also help festival promoters, bands and musicians reach those fans but also others in the industry. Each Thursday, we also publish the e-publications jam-packed with latest CD and single releases, featured videos, industry news, contests, Roots Radio Airplay Charts, tour dates, and upcoming festivals! Over the years, our company has morphed into a full-service, marketing and publicity company and we boast the largest reggae and blues databases in the world and several media platforms including a top-ranking website and social media pages with a half a million fans.    Click here to DONATE and support our podcast Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker, and facilitator. Simma is the creator and host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com to get more information, book her as a speaker for your next event, help you become a more inclusive leader, or facilitate dialogues across differences. Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website    Previous Episodes Racial Disparities in Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis and Death Navigating the End of Racial Disparities in Healthcare Culture Connects Us Loved this episode?  Leave us a review and rating

Why is there an increase in young people dying from Colorectal Cancer? Why are young people dying at a greater rate than anyone else? Are people under 50 too young to get colorectal cancer? In this episode of "Everyday Conversations on Race," Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist, is joined by Lisa Hall, Senior Director of Prevention and Screening at the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, and Michael Sapienza, CEO of the Colorectal Cancer Alliance. They tell us why so many people are being diagnosed too late, and why more non-white people are dying compared to white people. Michael shares his personal story of his mother's death and the impact it had on him when he was young.   Lisa talks about health disparities and how important her work with the Colorectal Cancer Alliance is to her as a Black woman. Listen to learn more about this critical health disparity affecting people of color and. the racial disparities in screening, diagnosis and deaths from colorectal cancer. At the end of this episode you'll know what you can do for yourself, how you can help your community and how you can support your friends who may be at risk, no matter who they are.   Click here to DONATE and support our podcast   Key Moments: [00:01:08] Racial disparity in colorectal cancer. [00:06:43] Early detection in minority populations. [00:10:37] Expanding colorectal cancer screening age. [00:15:19] Understanding average risk for screenings. [00:18:35] Screening disparities and awareness. [00:21:19] Advocating for your health. [00:27:13] Importance of early screening. [00:29:52] Resources for colorectal cancer.   Guests Bio Michael Sapienza, Chief Executive Officer of the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, lost his mother to the disease in May 2009. He turned his profound grief into action, inspiring and challenging the colorectal cancer community, family, friends, and professional associates to follow his lead and dedicate themselves to ending colorectal cancer within our lifetime—now the mission of the Colorectal Cancer Alliance. Michael served as President and Founder of The Chris4Life Colon Cancer Foundation from 2010-2015. He was an integral member of the team that led the effort to merge the Chris4Life Colon Cancer Foundation and the Colon Cancer Alliance, creating the nation's largest colon cancer specific nonprofit. In 2017, the Colon Cancer Alliance changed its name to Colorectal Cancer Alliance, embracing the entire colorectal cancer community. Lisa Hall is a healthcare leader with extensive, proven expertise in strategic client management and development. During her career, she has applied her proven experience in cultivating and managing successful, complex relationships to drive forward both the client and organizations business agendas; She has done so while demonstrating results for influencing business outcomes achieving solid, consistent, market share and profit gains. Lisa's business approach exemplifies her skills in consultative selling and building relationships with clients and prospects that ensures long-term, client solutions and business growth.   Click here to DONATE and support our podcast   Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker, and facilitator. Simma is the creator and host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com to get more information, book her for your next DEIB  event, help you become a more inclusive leader, or facilitate dialogues across differences. Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website    Previous Episodes Navigating the End of Racial Disparities in Healthcare Culture Connects Us Black Modern Elder Academy: Creating a Space for Authenticity and Diverse Experiences Loved this episode?  Leave us a review and rating

  African-American Women are twice as likely as the national average to have Alzheimer's disease! Why?? Find out on "Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People, with my guest Asoniti Foster founder of Puzzled 2020, a company focused on mental wellness and Alzheimer's awareness. Asoniti discusses the urgency of addressing Alzheimer's in the Black community, highlighting the alarming statistic that African-American women are twice as likely to have Alzheimer's than the national average. We go deep into the intersection of race and Alzheimer's, to create awareness and the proactive measures that can be taken within marginalized communities.   Click here to DONATE and support our podcast   Key Moments: [00:03:51] Mental health in Black community. [00:07:07] Alzheimer's risk factors and the problem of awareness. [00:08:10] Alzheimer's disease and the lack of awareness in general and specifically in the African-American community. [00:13:51] Alzheimer's in the Black community and racial disparities in treatment and diagnosis [00:18:18] Exercise benefits for brain health and why it's so important for Black women. [00:22:38] Gratitude as a brain exercise. [00:25:59] Scrolling addiction and relationship to Alzheimer's [00:29:17] Alzheimer's epidemic and Black women. [00:34:33] Alzheimer's unexpected behaviors that most people don't know [00:36:41] Puzzled documentary on Alzheimer's. [00:41:07] Be your own advocate, and bring someone with you [00:46:51] Emotional Intelligence, books, and brain cells [00:48:02] Living longer in Blue Zones, and what we all can do to keep our brains and bodies healthier.   Click here to DONATE and support our podcast   About Asoniti Foster website: www.puzzled2020.com email: info@puzzled2020.com Facebook: @puzzled2020 Instagram: @puzzled2020 Born and raised in the city by the Bay, San Francisco, ASONITI FOSTER is a content creator /writer/producer and licensed caregiver. After graduating from San Francisco State University, majoring in Mass Communications with an emphasis in broadcast media and writing for television, Asoniti relocated to Los Angeles and held several positions in the entertainment industry. Success was indeed the reward, as she quickly moved up the ladder to eventually write a couple of episodes on Will and Jada Pinkett Smiths' hit sitcom, “All of Us”. She also worked on a number of other sitcoms, including, One on One”, starring Flex Alexander and Kyla Pratt, “Second Time Around” starring Nicole Ari Parker and Boris Kojo, and “Just Jordan” a Nickelodeon show. After the writer's strike, Asoniti began independently developing and filming various projects. While honing her skills in creating, developing, and producing, a new passion blossomed in her life, care for Alzheimer's patients. When both her grandmothers passed from the condition, she educated herself about it and planned to be proactive to an ignored class of patients. What she discovered was surprising and saw an opportunity to share her found information. With very little, to no material about why African American women are twice as likely to have the disease she knew it would be fitting to develop a documentary about it. So, she did, and it is titled, “Puzzled”. PUZZLED is an Alzheimer's awareness documentary that will focus on why women are more like to have AD and why African American women are twice as likely to have it than the national average. And this would only be accomplished working alongside her daughter. As a producer on the documentary, SONI FOSTER-JACKSON is a pre-teen, sassy, smart, socializer, currently enjoying school and extracurricular activities: art, skateboarding, dance, and music – playing the French horn. Although her career goal is to become a veterinarian, she is multi-talented in production and post-production with an eye for creative edits and attractive content. Her voice plays a vital role in the project providing Alzheimer's awareness from a youthful point of view.   Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker, and facilitator. Simma is the creator and host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com to get more information, book her for your next DEIB  event, help you become a more inclusive leader, or facilitate dialogues across differences. Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website    Previous Episodes Culture Connects Us Black Modern Elder Academy: Creating a Space for Authenticity and Diverse Experiences Unpacking Identity, Race, and Representation in Crime Fiction Loved this episode?  Leave us a review and rating

Title: Culture Connects Us: Identity and Transformation Do our cultures connect us or drive us apart? Why are our cultures even important? Join Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist,  in this episode  of Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People, to hear how culture can connect us, with guests Jalila Bell, Kwame Gaylon Logan, and Kayla Marin. They explore the importance of using culture to bring people together and share personal experiences. Galen, the founder of Village Connect, shares insights as a father and grandfather of 10. Tune in for an engaging conversation on race, culture, and building inclusive communities.   Shownotes: Have you ever wondered how culture can either unite us or divide us? The creators of the film “Culture Connects Us”, believe that knowing and sharing our cultures can bring us together.  If you think you know what culture is, you need to check out this episode of Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People, and listen to these stories.  These three filmmakers of “Culture Connects Us.”.explore the film "Culture Connects Us" and share their personal journeys and the profound impact of cultural identities. Listen to Kwame Gaylon Logan, Jalila Bell and Kayla Marin talk about how our names hold deep significance and often shape our sense of self. Galen's experience in Ghana for a naming ceremony transformed his understanding of his cultural roots, while Jalila's Palestinian name reflects beauty and illumination. Kayla's attachment to her last name, Marin, highlights the importance of family history and identity. Culture goes beyond mere traditions; it embodies the essence of who we are. Understanding and embracing our cultural backgrounds can lead to greater self-awareness and connection with others. As Galen mentioned, love serves as a unifying force that transcends cultural differences. By celebrating our diverse cultures and sharing our stories, we can break down barriers and foster empathy and unity in society. Join us as we delve into the world of culture beyond what is visible, beyond what is assumed and how culture can be used to divide or connect us all.   In this engaging podcast episode, Simma Lieberman, the inclusionist, hosts a conversation with guests Jalila Bell, Kwame Gaylon Logan, Jr., and Kaylah Marin. The discussion revolves around the theme of culture connecting us, exploring the significance of cultural identity and the power of storytelling in bridging differences. The guests share personal stories about their names and cultural backgrounds, highlighting the importance of embracing one's heritage and identity. From naming ceremonies in Ghana to the complexities of cultural integration in America, each guest brings a unique perspective to the conversation. Discover how names hold deep significance and reflect individual journeys towards self-discovery and acceptance. Join the conversation on race, culture, and the transformative power of storytelling in this thought-provoking episode. Don't miss out on the insightful reflections and inspiring narratives shared by the guests as they delve into the essence of culture and connection. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the diverse experiences that shape our identities and relationships.   Click here to DONATE and support our podcast   Guests Bio Jalila Bell is a dynamic multi-hyphenate whose talents span a diverse array of disciplines. From her accomplished career in law to her passions for dance, production, film, choreography, visual arts, and yoga, Jalila embodies the spirit of relentless exploration and creative expression. Honing her skills at institutions like the San Francisco's Ruth Asawa School of the Arts and the prestigious American Dance Festival, Jalila has cultivated a rich tapestry of experiences. She holds dual degrees from Mills College and a J.D. from Golden Gate University Law School, reflecting her commitment to both artistic and academic pursuits. As a dancer, Jalila has graced renowned stages with Nyane Khosi Dance NYC, Delucia Benson Dance, and the Vissi Dance Theater, among others. Driven by her passion and fueled by resilience, Jalila infuses every endeavor with creativity and dedication. Through her artistry and expertise, she seeks to ignite curiosity and inspire others to explore the boundless possibilities of self-expression.   A native of San Francisco deeply engaged in social activism, Kaylah has dedicated her career to serving various causes through her work with notable organizations such as the Dolores Huerta Foundation, Base Building For Power, Village Connect, Artist for Literacy, Women of Color Resource Center, Black College Expo, Furthermore, her musical contributions to Ron Dellum's Memorial highlight her ongoing commitment to social justice and activism. In an effort to spotlight Indigenous cultures and land rights, Kaylah collaborated with the Garifuna International Indigenous Film Festival, an endeavor that earned her the title of Ambassador of Music in both 2017 and 2018.   Kwame Osagyefo (Gaylon Logan, Jr.) Kwame is a thought leader, founder and CEO of Village-Connect Inc., an award-winning San Francisco Bay Area community-based organization. A comprehensive integrated system of care that employs transformative coaching as a core approach which paves the way for individuals, families, and communities to heal, grow and achieve social, economic, emotional, and political sustainability. For more than 25 years Kwame served the community as an organizational development consultant, workshop and seminar facilitator, Master CBTC coach, and local/national/international motivational speaker delivering profound perspectives on fatherhood, motivating youth and families towards success.   Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker, and facilitator. Simma is the creator and host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com to get more information, book her for your next DEIB  event, help you become a more inclusive leader, or facilitate dialogues across differences. Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website    Previous Episodes Black Modern Elder Academy: Creating a Space for Authenticity and Diverse Experiences Unpacking Identity, Race, and Representation in Crime Fiction A Black Executive Perspective on Race in Corporate America Loved this episode?  Leave us a review and rating  

The Modern Elder Academy, is a space for healing, self-reflection, and personal transformation for the “Modern Elder.” It helps people redefine what it means to be a modern elder and make choices about the next phase of their lives. So, if this need is true for everyone, why is there a need for a week just for Black people? In this conversation on race, my guests and the founder, Chip Conley answer this question. My guests are Wanda Whitaker, Dr. Diane Johnson and Cassius Johnson. Hear about the significance of listening to intuition and paying attention to physical sensations in personal growth and decision-making. Wanda, Diane and Cassius talk about  the wisdom found in the head, heart, and body, beyond mere intellect, and share experiences where following intuition led to profound transformations.  Click here to DONATE and support these conversations on race. Dr. Diane Johnson stresses the importance of recognizing intuitive wisdom manifested through physical sensations, guiding individuals through significant moments and decisions. Personal stories shared by guests underscore the transformative power of listening to intuition and physical cues, leading to healing, self-discovery, and profound insights. Wanda Whitaker emphasizes the healing potential of spaces like the Modern Elder Academy, where individuals can share stories, engage in rituals, and connect deeply with others. The episode underscores the value of honoring intuition and physical sensations as guides for personal growth and decision-making, leading to transformative experiences and insights. Cassius Johnson shares his personal experiences, what brought him to the Modern Elder Academy and why he wants more Black people to attend the Black Modern Elder Academy Week. Time Stamps [00:01:16] The Modern Elder Academy- a new way to be an elder [00:06:29] The need for a Black Modern Elder Academy. [00:14:07] Modern Elder Academy for Black Folks. [00:20:29] Black Martin Elder Week Origins. [00:26:41] Diversity and scholarship impact. [00:29:00] Ancestral connection through transformational experiences. [00:32:46] Creating Courageous Spaces. [00:37:13] Feeling safe in Black spaces. [00:44:13] Re-commitment to purpose. [00:47:09] Healing and transformation. [00:52:41] Celebrating identity and diversity. [00:54:23] Trusting intuition for safety.  Click here to DONATE and support our podcast   Dr. Diane J. Johnson has almost 30 years experience in the business, public and social sectors in a multitude of roles. They include change management consultant, trainer and executive coach, program director, evaluator and researcher, fundraiser, communications/pr lead, and organizational culture specialist. Extraordinarily skilled, purpose-driven, highly intuitive and analytical, Dr. Johnson, Ph.D. is CEO and Founder of Mmapeu Organizational Consulting. Mmapeu is a South African name that means “woman who carries ideas.” Mmapeu Organizational Consulting, a national consulting firm has trained, consulted and worked with more than 12,500 mission-driven individuals, businesses and organizations. Wanda is CEO of Anchored In Spirit, a California based business, helping individuals and groups to transform, transcend and transmute through the arts and sciences. As an author, certified hypnotherapist, visionary artist and Spiritual teacher, educating and advocating for the betterment of society. Cassius Johnson is co-founder of Perceptist, a social impact consulting firm that supports non- and for-profit social impact leaders on strategy, innovative operational systems, and change management.  Cassius is a purpose-driven strategic leader who finds great joy and meaning in developing strategies that advance solutions that improve life outcomes for the most vulnerable people and communities in our society. He has developed his diverse skills through a career that includes leadership roles in government, philanthropy, and nonprofit and for-profit national organizations focused on increasing impact in education and transition to the workforce.   Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker, and facilitator. Simma is the creator and host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com to get more information, book her for your next DEIB  event, help you become a more inclusive leader, or facilitate dialogues across differences. Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website    Previous Episodes Unpacking Identity, Race, and Representation in Crime Fiction A Black Executive Perspective on Race in Corporate America Cancel Culture Unmasking the Dangers of Instant Judgment and Outrage Loved this episode?  Leave us a review and rating

  Are you ready for a conversation on race, power, and Harvard in this Conversation on Race. Why are Black women leaders at Harvard and other institutions being targeted? Simma The Inclusionist, and Deborah Ashton dive deep into the controversial world of diversity, equity, and inclusion at Harvard, shedding light on the power struggles and systemic racism that still plague our society. Find out what is real, and what is witch-hunting in this scandalous attack on Black female leaders. Discover the shocking truth behind the attacks on DEI initiatives at Harvard, orchestrated by fear-driven individuals like Christopher Rufo. Uncover the hidden agendas and deliberate efforts to dismantle progress in racial equality, as revealed by Deborah Ashton, co-chair of the DEI committee of Harvard Black Alumni. Hear Deborah Ashton's story of living in the projects of Chicago, while attending Harvard, and being told to prove she belonged at academic events. Explore the dark underbelly of systemic racism, where power and privilege dictate who belongs and who doesn't. From the struggles of Black women at Harvard to the global impact of racial stereotypes, this episode will challenge your perceptions and ignite a fire for change. Join the conversation as Simma and Deborah unravel the complexities of race, power, and fear at one of the world's most prestigious institutions. Tune in now to Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People, for an electrifying discussion that will challenge your beliefs and inspire you to take action. Let's break down barriers, shatter stereotypes, and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future. Listen now and be part of the change!   Time Stamps: [00:03:22] The importance of discussing race. [00:06:43] Overcoming adversity and education. [00:09:03] Understanding poverty in the US. [00:14:48] Assumptions based on appearance. [00:19:21] Perpetuation of welfare stereotypes. [00:23:55] Harvard and racism at play. [00:27:24] DEI and hiring practices. [00:32:02] Systemic racism against Chinese people. [00:36:05] White entitlement in education. [00:41:40] The power of propaganda. [00:44:21] Diversity and inclusion impact on sales. [00:47:48] White power movement for change. [00:53:27] Race conversation advice. [00:59:02] Impactful theater experiences. [01:03:41] Personal experiences on race.   Dr. Deborah Ashton is a licensed psychologist, has 30+ years of cross-industry experience. Dr. Ashton is a diversity, equity and inclusion strategist. She received her doctorate from Harvard University and studied with Dr. Chester ‘Chet' Pierce, who coined the term “microaggression”. She headed diversity and inclusion for Medtronic, Darden Restaurants, Harley-Davidson, Novant Health and Argonne National Laboratory. She is the former Chief of Test Development and Validation for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Dr. Ashton specializes in organizational psychology and developing an inclusive workplace. She provides guidance and coaching on how to mitigate unconscious bias in the workplace and in talent management. She has published in the Harvard Business Review, Diversity MBA, Diversity Executive, etc. Her Harvard Business Review articles are Does Race or Gender Matter More to Your Paycheck? and What HR Can Do to Fix the Gender Pay Gap. She chaired the peer review board for the Diversity Business Review, a diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) journal written by DEI practitioners for DEI practitioners, Human Resources and line management. In addition, Dr. Ashton serves as the Chief Psychologist & Learning Officer for Diversity Learning Solutions, part of A P & L Group Brand, along with Diversity MBA. Email: drdashton@planetperspective.com LinkedIn   Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker, and facilitator. Simma is the creator and host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com to get more information, book her for your next DEIB  event, help you become a more inclusive leader, or facilitate dialogues across differences. Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website    Previous Episodes Unpacking Identity, Race, and Representation in Crime Fiction A Black Executive Perspective on Race in Corporate America Cancel Culture Unmasking the Dangers of Instant Judgment and Outrage Loved this episode?  Leave us a review and rating

In this episode, Simma Lieberman The Inclusionist, interviews Ed Aymar, an award-winning author known for his multicultural crime thrillers. Ed, originally from Panama, shares insights into his background, military upbringing, and how he got into writing. The conversation explores the intersection of race, culture, and storytelling in the context of crime fiction. They discuss Ed Aymar's acclaimed works, such as No Home for Killers and When She Left," highlighting his unique perspective as a multicultural crime thriller writer. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on inclusivity and diverse perspectives in literature. The increase in multicultural crime thrillers from authors outside the US and also Black, Latino, Asian and Native American in the US continue to make the genre more diverse and exciting. Join Simma Lieberman and author Ed Aymar, a Panamanian author of crime thrillers in a captivating conversation about multicultural crime thrillers and the importance of diversity in literature. Key Points: • Ed Aymar, an award-winning author of crime thrillers, shares insights into his writing journey and the impact of multiculturalism in crime thrillers. Ed's most recent book, “When She Left,” is a must-read for any lover of crime fiction, and especially if you love learning about different cultures. •The discussion in this between Ed Aymar and Simma Lieberman The Inclusionist delves into the representation of diverse characters in literature and the evolving landscape of publishing. • Explore the significance of identity, allyship, and speaking up in today's society through the lens of literature and storytelling. Questions to Consider: • How does literature, play a role in shaping our understanding of diversity and culture? • What impact do diverse characters in books have on readers' perspectives and empathy? • How can we support and amplify voices from underrepresented communities in the literary world? Takeaways: • Discover the power of multicultural crime thrillers in fostering inclusivity and representation. • Gain insights into the challenges and triumphs of writers of color in the publishing industry. • Explore the evolving dynamics of identity, allyship, and advocacy in literature and beyond. Action steps to take in the conversation on race: • Listen to the episode to delve deeper into the conversation on multicultural crime thrillers and diversity in literature. •Share the podcast with friends and family to spark meaningful discussions on race, identity, and representation. • Consider supporting diverse authors and amplifying marginalized voices in the literary world. Don't  miss out on this engaging episode that sheds light on the importance of multicultural storytelling and the impact of diverse voices in literature. Tune in to gain valuable insights and perspectives on race, identity, and allyship in the world of crime thrillers. Key Moments  00:02:05 - Ed Aymar's Background and Writing Journey 00:03:02 - Multiculturalism in Crime Thrillers 00:04:27 - Accountability in Cultural Representation 00:05:47 - Misidentification and Sensitivity Reading 00:06:10 - The Importance of Belonging and Support Groups 00:07:43 - The Impact of Stereotypes and Publishing Challenges 00:10:27 - Diversity Panels at Writing Conferences and Tokenizing 00:11:09 - Historical Context of Multicultural Crime Writing 00:17:09 - The Debate on Updating Older Books with Racist Content 00:20:27 - The Current State of Diversity and Identity in Literature 00:21:03 - The Controversy Over White Authors Writing Diverse Characters 00:30:05 - The Shift in Publishing Towards Diverse Voices 00:31:10 - The Importance of Diversity in Storytelling 00:36:06 - The Authenticity of Cultural Representation in Fiction 00:37:38 - The Responsibility of Allies in Promoting Diversity 00:38:07 - Closing Remarks and Call to Action Guest bio:  Multiple Anthony Award–nominated E.A. AYMAR'S thriller No Home for Killers was published to praise from the New York Times, Kirkus Reviews, and South Florida Sun Sentinel and was an instant bestseller. His thriller They're Gone received rave reviews in Publishers Weekly and Kirkus (starred) and was named one of the Best Books Of 2020 by the South Florida Sun Sentinel. He is a former member of the national board of International Thriller Writers and is an active member of Crime Writers of Color and Sisters in Crime. He runs the DC Noir at the Bar series, was born in Panama, and now lives and writes in―and generally about―the DC/MD/VA triangle. Aymar also runs a popular and well-regarded newsletter called Crime Fiction Works featuring upcoming top crime fiction novels, interviews, and monthly prizes for subscribers. For more information: https://eaymar.substack.com/ https://www.instagram.com/eaaymar/ https://www.facebook.com/EAymarWriter   Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker, and facilitator. Simma is the creator and host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com to get more information, book her for your next DEIB  event, help you become a more inclusive leader, or facilitate dialogues across differences. Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website    Previous Episodes A Black Executive Perspective on Race in Corporate America Cancel Culture Unmasking the Dangers of Instant Judgment and Outrage From Conflict to Compassion: Jewish, Muslim, and Christian Leaders Share Their Perspectives on the Israel-Gaza Crisis Loved this episode?  Leave us a review and rating

In this episode of "Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People," Simma sits down with Tony Franklin, also known as Tony Tidbit, the Vice President of Advertising, Sales, and Client Partnerships at DirecTV. Tony shares his personal experiences as a Black executive in corporate America and discusses the importance of open and honest conversations about race. Simma and Tony discuss the challenges faced by people of color in corporate America, including the pressure to assimilate and the fear of being labeled as "too aggressive." Tony shares a personal story about trying to fit in by dressing and speaking like his white colleagues, only to realize that being himself was the key to his success. They also delve into the issues surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace. Tony highlights the resistance some organizations have towards implementing DEI initiatives, often due to unfounded fears of losing something. He emphasizes the need for companies to diversify their ranks and create a safe environment for all employees to thrive.  Click here to DONATE and support our podcast The conversation touches on the importance of building emotional connections and breaking down barriers between people of different races. Tony shares his own experience of starting an open conversation on race at work, where employees could share their perspectives and learn from one another. He emphasizes the power of active listening and creating a safe space for dialogue. Throughout the episode, Tony and Simma stress the need for individuals to take action and speak up about racial issues. They encourage listeners to step out of their comfort zones, engage in conversations about race, and challenge their own unconscious biases. By doing so, they believe that real change can happen in both corporate America and society as a whole. Check out another great podcast on race hosted by my friend and colleague “Tony Franklin aka Tony Tidbit,” A Black Executive Perspective To listen to more episodes of "Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People," visit www.raceconvo.com. And don't forget to share the show with others who are interested in having open and honest conversations about race.   Takeaways from this episode: ·         Be yourself and embrace your unique talents and personality in the workplace. ·         Managers play a crucial role in creating an inclusive environment and empowering their employees. ·         Diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives are essential for the success of organizations. ·         Building emotional connections and engaging in open conversations about race can break down barriers and foster understanding. ·         Individuals should take action by speaking up, challenging unconscious biases, and actively listening to others.    Click here to DONATE and support our podcast   Tony Franklin (Tony Tidbit) Bio Tony currently serves as Vice President of Advertising Sales and Client Partnerships at DIRECTV, where he brings a wealth of experience to the role, boasting over 27 years in the media industry. Motivated by the events surrounding George Floyd, Tony initiated a workplace series titled "An Open Conversation on Race" This initiative provides a safe environment for open and honest discussions, aiming to raise awareness and educate individuals on various aspects of race, particularly within the context of Corporate America. Tony is the founder and host (Tony Tidbit) of “A Black Executive Perspective Podcast.” A podcast that sheds light on intersectionality, systemic racism, and other challenging issues shrouding the experiences of Black professionals in America's corporate environment. Beyond his professional endeavors, Tony channels his passion for motivation into Tony's Tidbits, a daily inspirational email reaching thousands of recipients nationwide. Outside of work, Tony prioritizes quality time with his family. He is happily married to his wife Gayle and is the proud father of three beautiful daughters: Samada, Mikaela, and Madison. Host Bio Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator. Simma is the creator and host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com to get more information, book her for your next DEIB  event, help you become a more inclusive leader, or facilitate dialogues across differences. Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website    Previous Episodes Cancel Culture Unmasking the Dangers of Instant Judgment and Outrage From Conflict to Compassion: Jewish, Muslim, and Christian Leaders Share Their Perspectives on the Israel-Gaza Crisis Unmasking the Toxicity of Racism: A Raw Conversation with The Contraband Wagon Loved this episode?  Leave us a review and rating

In this episode, Grace Mosuro is joined by Lucy Auchincloss, Partnerships Director at Lifetime Training. Lucy shares her story and the journey of becoming Lucy. Lucy was born male in former Rhodesia, now Zimbabwe. Growing up, while she enjoyed "male" activities such as rugby, playing with toy guns etc, she always knew that she should have been a girl, often wishing witches would take her away to cast a spell to make her a girl and make everyone forget she'd ever been a boy. Puberty exacerbated this and she headed off to London where she partied hard to blank out the pain (and because it was fun); concurrently leading a successful career in financial services and, later, motor racing. Lucy moved - still as a man - to Australia in 2008 where the 3rd person she met was her now wife of 13 years, Suzie. While in Australia, Lucy was able to transition to her true self, having gender realignment surgery on her 35th birthday with the unwavering support of her wife, family and friends. She moved back to the UK 9 years ago, shortly after the birth of her son (conceived with her wife's eggs but also her own frozen sperm!). She now works in the apprenticeship space leading teams who deliver life-changing vocational training. #transgender #equalitydiversityandinclusion #inclusion #diversity #equality #theorganisationalinclusionist #real life stories

 In this thought-provoking podcast episode, Simma, the Inclusionist, engages in a candid conversation with Patricia Mushim Ikeda, a Japanese-American Buddhist and mindfulness teacher, and Joel Davis Brown, an African-American man who is an author, an organizational development consultant and spoken word artist. Together, they delve into the controversial topic of cancel culture, exploring its impact on society and the importance of fostering dialogue across racial and ideological divides.  The episode begins by addressing the viral nature of outrage and disgust on social media, which fuels cancel culture. The guests emphasize the need for critical thinking skills and the ability to engage in respectful discourse, rather than resorting to attacking and silencing others. They highlight the importance of recognizing nuance, understanding power dynamics, and promoting empathy in conversations about race and other sensitive topics.  Click here to DONATE and support our podcast The conversation also touches on the complexities of cancel culture, including the challenges of determining what is offensive and who gets to decide. The Joel and Mushim share personal anecdotes and examples, highlighting the potential for growth and change when people are open to dialogue and willing to learn from one another. They emphasize the value of embracing diversity, practicing grace, and creating spaces for genuine connection. Overall, this episode encourages listeners to challenge the polarizing nature of cancel culture and instead foster a conversational culture that promotes understanding, empathy, and personal growth. It serves as a reminder that by engaging in meaningful dialogue, we can break down barriers, challenge assumptions, and build bridges across differences.   Key Points: ●        What is cancel culture? Cancel culture is the act of attacking and ostracizing individuals for their beliefs, actions, or statements, often on social media platforms. ●        It is characterized by a lack of dialogue, understanding, and empathy, as people quickly dismiss and "cancel" others without giving them a chance to learn, grow, or change. ●        Cancel culture relies on outrage and disgust, hijacking our brain chemistry and preventing critical thinking and open-mindedness. ●        Joel Davis Brown and Mushim Ikeda emphasize the need for critical thinking skills, empathy, and open dialogue to combat cancel culture and promote inclusivity. ●        There is a difference between unintentional errors, mistakes and lack of knowledge, and people who consciously espouse hate in their language, actions, and writing. ●        Mushim, Joel, and Simma see and have experienced the potential for growth and change in individuals. ●        Cancel culture can hinder progress toward a more inclusive society by shutting down conversations and alienating individuals who may have the potential to become allies or advocates. ●        There needs to be allowance for grace, resilience, and empowerment in navigating difficult conversations and promoting understanding across different perspectives. ●        Simma Lieberman, Joel Davis Brown, and Mushim Ikeda share their own personal stories of saying the "wrong thing," because they didn't have the right information. ●        They caution against the dangers of focusing on mistakes in specific terminology, instead of addressing the broader issues of systemic inequality and discrimination. ●        Canceling someone who has made an unintentional error, rather than engaging with that person, asking what they meant, and sharing the impact is lazy. It's an indication of a certain kind of privilege. ●        Cancel culture can hinder the development of genuine connections and hinder the opportunity for personal growth and learning. ●        Ultimately we want people to embrace inclusion, compassion, and empathy. That can't happen in an atmosphere of fear, scorn, and "lifelong punishment." Takeaway: Cancel culture poses a threat to inclusive conversations and understanding. Instead of immediately dismissing and canceling individuals, it is crucial to facilitate open dialogue, empathy, and critical thinking.  Episode Resources: ●       WWW.RaceConvo.com - Website to download more episodes of Everyday Conversations on Race and support the show. ●       The Souls of Queer Folk - Book by Joel Davis Brown. ●       Adrienne Marie Brown - Author and thought leader on social justice issues. ●       Chimananda Ngozi Adichie - Nigerian author known for her work on identity and culture. ●       Disability Pride Movement - Movement promoting pride and acceptance for individuals with disabilities. Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode and want to support the show, visit www.RaceConvo.com to make a tax-deductible donation. Your support will help continue the important conversations on race and inclusion. Click here to DONATE and support our podcast Connect with the Guests: ●      Patricia Mushim Ikeda - Third-generation Japanese-American Buddhist and mindfulness teacher. Connect with her on LinkedIn. ●     Joel Davis Brown - African-American born and raised in the mid-west of the USA. Organizational development consultant and awareness agent. Connect with him on LinkedIn. Host Bio Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator. Simma is the creator and host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com to get more information, book her for your next DEIB  event, help you become a more inclusive leader, or facilitate dialogues across differences. Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)      Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website    Previous Episodes Unmasking the Toxicity of Racism: A Raw Conversation with The Contraband Wagon Confronting the Lack of Diversity in Nonprofit Leadership "From Apartheid to Forgiveness" a Conversation on Race Race, Sentencing, and the Criminal Justice System: A Shocking Inside Perspective A Conversation on Race with  Loved this episode?  Leave us a review and rating

In this powerful podcast episode, Simma Lieberman interviews three faith leaders from the Faith Trio - Pastor Ben Daniel, Ali Sheikhaslani, and Rabbi David Cooper. Each of these leaders brings a unique perspective and experience to the conversation, making it even more impactful. The Faith Trio is a group that aims to foster understanding and empathy among different faith communities. They recognize the increase in Islamophobia and antisemitism in today's world and believe that now, more than ever, it is crucial to come together and combat these prejudices. Throughout the episode, the faith leaders share their personal experiences and perspectives on the Israel-Gaza war and other conflicts. They emphasize the importance of compassion and empathy during these challenging times. Rabbi David Cooper highlights the need to know each other on a personal level, stating, "When you know the other, all of a sudden, you're not dealing with some abstract collectivity, you're actually dealing with real human beings." Rabbi David talks about his Palestinian and Israeli friends that he has had for years and is concerned for their safety. Ali Sheikhaslani discusses the dehumanization that occurs during conflicts and the impact it has on both sides. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing the humanity of all individuals involved and treating them with dignity and respect. Ali also mentions the need for equal rights and understanding, stating, "Unless dignity is given to Palestinians... any foreign solution... will not bring peace." Seeing so many Jewish people speak out in support of a ceasefire is inspiring to Ali and others. Pastor Ben Daniel shares his experiences with right-wing Christians who believe in supporting Israel no matter what. He acknowledges the dangers of Christian Zionism and the underlying anti-Semitism that can be present in this ideology. He emphasizes the importance of making peace and letting go of revenge, stating, "You can't fight your way to peace. You have to make peace." The speakers also discuss the need for individuals to genuinely feel and understand the pain of both sides involved in a conflict. They argue that it is not enough to simply pay lip service to the suffering of one side. Instead, individuals must truly feel and comprehend the pain to strategically act in a way that supports both sides. This understanding is seen as crucial in bridging the gap of identity and working towards a more inclusive society. The faith leaders also provide solutions and action steps for listeners to promote empathy and understanding. They encourage education about different faiths and cultures, engaging in meaningful conversations with people from different backgrounds, and actively challenging stereotypes and prejudices. Overall, this episode highlights the importance of compassion and empathy during times of conflict. It sheds light on the experiences and perspectives of these faith leaders and their commitment to promoting understanding and peace. It serves as a reminder that by knowing and empathizing with one another, we can work towards a more inclusive and compassionate world. If you want to see a peaceful, lasting solution it's essential to understand the pain of both Israelis and Palestinians.   Guests Bio Ben Daniel has served as pastor and head of staff at Montclair Presbyterian Church since March of 2014. Born in Palo Alto and raised in Mendocino, Ben earned his Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Religious Studies at Westmont College with an emphasis in urban ministry.  He received his Master of Divinity degree from Princeton Theological Seminary and was ordained in 1993.  Before moving to Oakland, he he served as Pastor/Head of Staff at Foothill Presbyterian Church in San Jose for sixteen years.  Prior to that, he spent four years as Pastor of the  Community Presbyterian Church in Gonzales, CA. David J. Cooper is a co-founder of Kehilla Community Synagogue and is rabbi emeritus there. He is a long-time progressive activist and community organizer. He has studied and taught on many aspects of Judaism and is also a liturgist.   Ali Sheikholeslami is one of the founders of the Islamic Cultural Center of Northern California (ICCNC), Oakland, CA, and he is currently a member of its Board of Directors. He has been active in the Oakland Faith Trio for many years. Host Bio Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator. Simma is the creator and host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com to get more information, book her for your next DEIB  event, help you become a more inclusive leader, or facilitate dialogues across differences. Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)      Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website    Previous Episodes Unmasking the Toxicity of Racism: A Raw Conversation with The Contraband Wagon Confronting the Lack of Diversity in Nonprofit Leadership "From Apartheid to Forgiveness" a Conversation on Race Race, Sentencing, and the Criminal Justice System: A Shocking Inside Perspective A Conversation on Race with  Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating

This episode is a little bit different to what you're used to. In this episode of the Organisational Inclusionist, I provide the origin story for the podcast and Aquaintz Consulting, sharing my story and what inspired me to become "The Organisational Inclusionist". If you've got 10 minutes spare, please do have a listen

In this episode of "Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People," Simma Lieberman welcomes her guest Will Upland (also known as Contraband). He is the creator of the show on Twitch, The Contraband Wagon. Listen to this enlightening, personal and often humorous discussion of race, racism and disruptive conversations. Will (aka Contraband) recounts times in his young life when he encountered people who tried to discourage his success, and were angry that he, the only young Black man in his class stood above everyone else for his talents and brilliance. After feeling frustrated with the discussions on race in mainstream media Will decided to start his own show. Simma and  Will (aka Contraband) discuss their shared mission of disrupting the way people talk about race and how to bring people together across racial lines. Will shares a powerful story from his childhood that made him conscious of stereotypes and internalized racism.  At the age of six, he had a conversation with another Black boy who believed that acting "Black" meant being disrespectful, getting bad grades, and being part of a gang. This experience opened his eyes to the impact of racial stereotypes and the struggles that come with them. Listen to this episode to find out what happened when he ran into that same "kid" 25 years later. Both Simma and Will emphasize the importance of self-esteem and a strong sense of identity in navigating experiences of racism. You'll hear examples from "The Contraband Wagon," about other Black people with different perspectives on race. You'll also hear stories of how several white people  became conscious of race and racism after being in denial. Throughout the episode, Simma and Will highlight the need for open and honest conversations about race. They discuss the role of education and awareness in reducing the toxicity of our racial environment. They also emphasize the importance of empathy and understanding, using examples from their personal lives that encourage listeners to approach conversations about race with an open heart and an open mind. To take action and engage in conversations about race, Simma The Inclusionist and  Contraband suggest the following: Educate yourself: Take the time to learn about the history of racism, systemic oppression, and the experiences of marginalized communities. Read books, listen to podcasts, and engage with diverse perspectives. Engage in dialogue: Seek out opportunities to have conversations about race with people from different backgrounds. Listen actively, ask questions, and be open to learning from others' experiences. Challenge your own biases: Reflect on your own beliefs and biases. Be willing to confront and unlearn any prejudices you may hold. Engage in self-reflection and actively work towards being anti-racist. Join Simma The Inclusionist and Will Upland  ( aka Contraband) on their mission to change the conversation on race and create a more inclusive and understanding society. Tune in to The Contraband Wagon on Twitch and engage in their monthly private racism discussion group and book club. Remember, every conversation counts in the fight against racism.   Guest Bio Will Upland, also known as Contraband, is a community college professor and the creator of The Contraband Wagon, where he is changing the conversation on race. After years of frustration watching the conversations on race in media without seeing the kind of dialogue he finds valuable, Contraband decided to create his own platform. He has had over 100 live 2-hour conversations on race and continues to have them regularly on his Twitch channel. He also hosts a monthly private racism discussion group, a book club, and live events that inspire discussion on the subject of race. Contraband hopes to increase knowledge on and awareness of race to reduce the toxicity of our racial environment Contact Info: Twitch YouTube MeetUp Twitter Instagram   Host Bio Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator. Simma is the creator and host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com to get more information, book her for your next DEIB  event, help you become a more inclusive leader, or facilitate dialogues across differences. Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website    Previous Episodes Confronting the Lack of Diversity in Nonprofit Leadership "From Apartheid to Forgiveness" a Conversation on Race Race, Sentencing, and the Criminal Justice System: A Shocking Inside Perspective A Conversation on Race with Sean Wilson, Organizing Director of Dream.Org Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating

  In this conversation on race, Simma The Inclusionist talks with Kristen Sharpe, CEO of Non-profit Makeover, and Deedee De La Cruz, Director of Demand Generation for GiveSmart. Why is there a lack of diversity in leadership roles within nonprofit organizations? Our two guests shed light on the reason that less than 20% of executive positions are held by people of color nonprofits. Kristen Sharpe and Deedee De La Cruz, acknowledge the historical overrepresentation of white individuals in nonprofit leadership positions. There is an urgent need for greater diversity in these roles, particularly considering that many nonprofits serve people of color and low-income communities. The lack of diversity in leadership can lead to a lack of representation, support, and mentorship for CEOs of color. The episode raises the question of how nonprofits can prioritize diversity within leadership roles and suggests that providing people of color with a seat at the table, opportunities to serve, and a platform for their voices and ideas can help address this issue. Both Kristen and Deedee share their personal journeys as women of color and how they achieved their high level of success in the non-profit world when neither of them came from business backgrounds. They also share how race and their economic backgrounds influenced the decisions they made to reach their goals. Both women tell stories of how they dealt with "Imposter Syndrome," and offer solutions for other women, specifically women of color who may be experiencing the same. They emphasize the importance of adopting a mindset that recognizes an abundance of wealth and opportunity. Kristen Sharpe challenges the prevailing belief in the nonprofit world that resources are scarce and insufficient to support multiple causes and organizations. Using the analogy of restaurants, she highlights the existence of numerous different establishments in every community, catering to different interests and preferences. Similarly, she argues that individuals can support multiple causes and organizations, just as they can donate to both the St. Jude's Foundation and organizations that support children in foster care. Kristen and Deedee both aim to empower nonprofit leaders of color to raise money on autopilot using technology and social media. By sharing opportunities and fostering conversations within the community, they both believe that everyone can contribute to philanthropic efforts and collectively make a difference. She challenges the notion that access to resources and opportunities is limited, emphasizing that there is ample room for collaboration and support across various causes and organizations. Deedee and Kristen both discuss the importance of leveraging technology, specifically GiveSmart, to bridge the gap and revolutionize nonprofit operations. She emphasizes that nonprofits unfamiliar with technology may be missing out on valuable opportunities. By partnering with GiveSmart, nonprofits can learn how to effectively utilize technology and maximize its potential. Kristen utilized technology, including GiveSmart, to raise over a quarter million dollars during the pandemic. She emphasizes that this achievement was accomplished without traditional methods such as ads, events, mailers, or galas. This success demonstrates the power of technology in enabling nonprofits to raise funds on autopilot.   Time Stamps [00:02:27] Why talking about race is important. [00:04:24] Nonprofit leadership diversity. [00:09:32] Lack of diversity in nonprofits. [00:13:29] Generational self-confidence. [00:16:34] Community building and peer-to-peer fundraising. [00:21:30] Personal background and scholarship impact. [00:24:48] Community Brands and GiveSmart. [00:30:13] Nonprofit and technology partnership. [00:32:39] Bridging the gap in philanthropy. [00:36:19] Nonprofit diversity in leadership. [00:40:01] Lack of diversity in philanthropy. [00:44:11] Education as a privilege. [00:49:32] Non-traditional routes to success. [00:54:46] What's on your playlist? [00:57:54] Overcoming imposter syndrome. [01:00:20] Donate button and tax deductible donation.   Guest Bio Kristen Faith Sharpe is a powerhouse entrepreneur, an American Red Cross humanitarian Award Winner, philanthropist, and renowned domestic violence expert. For more than a decade, millions have been inspired by her strength, resilience, and groundbreaking initiatives to create social change online.  This California native is the founder and visionary of multiple reputable brands and nonprofits that include Break the Silence Against Domestic Violence, The Nonprofit Makeover, and Boss Babe Networking. Deedee De La Cruz is the Senior Manager of Demand Generation at GiveSmart, the leading provider of cloud-based software to donor-driven organizations like nonprofits, charities, schools and foundations. Instagram: @givesmart_us  Host Bio Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.”  Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website   Previous Episodes "From Apartheid to Forgiveness" a Conversation on Race Race, Sentencing, and the Criminal Justice System: A Shocking Inside Perspective A Conversation on Race with Sean Wilson, Organizing Director of Dream.Org Everyday Conversation on Race with Rosalyn Taylor O'Neale (DEI OG for 47 years) Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating

If you were a Black man imprisoned and tortured for fighting against the brutality of apartheid in South Africa, could you forgive your oppressors? Siya Twani did just that. This is a don't miss episode. We all need to hear his story. It is especially relevant today with the slaughter of over 1,000 Israelis and the continued bombing and killing of over 1,000 Palestinians in Gaza.  In this episode, Simma, the Inclusionist, welcomes guest Siya Twani, who grew up under South African apartheid and became a freedom fighter with Nelson Mandela. Siya shares his experiences of imprisonment and torture, which ultimately led him to speak on reconciliation, forgiveness, and mental toughness. The conversation explores the importance of discussing race within the context of apartheid and the impact of racial trauma on Black children. Tune in to gain insights from Siya's powerful story and his perspective on race.  Siya's story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of forgiveness. He emphasizes the importance of addressing racial trauma and healing the wounds caused by racism. Siya challenges the notion that talking about race is unnecessary, reminding us that those who experience racism daily are tired of living with it. The conversation delves into the history of apartheid in South Africa, shedding light on the extreme racial discrimination and inhumane treatment endured by black, Asian, and colored people. Siya highlights the stark contrast between the privileged lives of white South Africans and the poverty and oppression faced by the majority. Siya's involvement in the liberation movement and his time in prison shaped his mission to promote reconciliation and empower others to move from victimhood to empowerment. He shares his personal process of forgiveness, acknowledging that it was not easy but necessary for his own healing and liberation. Siya believes that forgiveness is a powerful tool for personal growth and transformation. The episode also explores the concept of reconciliation and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in South Africa. Siya acknowledges that while it was a step towards healing, it did not fully address the systemic injustices and inequalities that persist in the country. Siya's work as an international speaker focuses on promoting justice, equality, and difficult conversations. He encourages education, engagement, and building healthy human connections across racial and cultural lines. Siya's message is one of hope and the belief that change is possible when we confront our biases, challenge the status quo, and work towards a more inclusive and equitable world. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode with Siya Twani, a true freedom fighter and advocate for reconciliation. His story will inspire and challenge you to examine your own beliefs and take action towards a more just and inclusive society. This episode should make us stop and ask ourselves, “what kind of world do we want to live in?”  Are we willing to act from love, and kindness or do we want to live in hate, revenge, `and continuous death? Visit www.siyatwani.com to learn more about Siya and his work.             Guest Bio Siya Twani is a South African Global Citizen with a passion to add value to people. A Passionate Educator, Mr Motivator and Inspirational Speaker. Siya Twani grew up in Cape Town in the 60s and 70s and experienced first-hand the pain of racism and discrimination. He was committed to the struggle and spent time in prison aged 17 for this commitment. He now lives in England and visits schools/ colleges/Universities and companies as a Motivational and Inspirational speaker to talk about his own experiences and lead workshops on a variety of themes “Siya, You are truly a wonderful person who inspired us all and brought us all closer to a better understanding of humanity. You have such a remarkable and powerful story to share with the world which is not one of anger nor bitterness but one of love and a desire to bring people together… you have touched all of our lives.” Teacher (Tendring Primary)   Host Bio Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website   Previous Episodes Race, Sentencing, and the Criminal Justice System: A Shocking Inside Perspective A Conversation on Race with Sean Wilson, Organizing Director of Dream.Org Everyday Conversation on Race with Rosalyn Taylor O'Neale (DEI OG for 47 years) Breaking the Chains: Fighting Caste Oppression with Thenmozhi Soundararajan   Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating

In this episode, Simma The Inclusionist, is joined by Sean Wilson, the organizing director of Dream.org's Justice Team. With 17 years of lived experience and direct involvement with the criminal legal system, Sean brings insight into a system that he believes is broken and in need of reform. They discuss the importance of talking about race, especially in a society where some are trying to criminalize almost everything. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the role of race in America's history.   Time Stamps [00:02:13] Sweeping race conversations under the rug [00:06:03] Internal transformation in prison [00:09:22] Racial disparities in sentencing [00:14:17] Disparities in drug sentencing [00:19:22] Sentencing and racial identity [00:27:35] Systemic racism and incarceration [00:29:14] Challenging the criminal legal system [00:35:27] Systemic racism in criminal justice [00:43:12] Black codes in the criminal legal system [00:45:10] Racism in the criminal justice system [00:49:00] Country music and rap fusion [00:53:42] Show notes available for download   Simma interviews Sean Wilson, the organizing director of Dream.org's Justice Team, who shares his deeply personal experience with the criminal justice system and the impact of systemic racism. Sean, who was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, opens up about his troubled youth, including getting involved in criminal activities such as selling drugs and committing armed robbery. At the age of 17, Sean was arrested and sentenced to 50 years in prison for his crimes. He reflects on the harshness of his sentence, questioning how a judge could sentence a young boy to the same amount of time he had lived on this earth. Sean highlights the racial disparities within the criminal justice system, emphasizing that Black and Brown individuals are often given much harsher sentences compared to their white counterparts for similar offenses. He discusses the historical roots of systemic racism in the criminal justice system, tracing  back to the 13th Amendment and the implementation of Black codes, which restricted the freedom of African Americans and perpetuated a form of slavery through convict leasing. Sean emphasizes that these discriminatory practices continue to target Black and Brown people, leading to disproportionate rates of incarceration. Sean also addresses the issue of racial bias in sentencing, where black individuals are more likely to receive longer sentences compared to white individuals for the same offenses. He highlights the need for judges and prosecutors to view individuals before them as human beings deserving of grace, understanding, and the opportunity for redemption. As the organizing director of Dream.org's Justice Team, Sean is dedicated to closing prison doors and opening doors of opportunity. The organization works in three issue areas: climate justice, tech equity for Black and Brown people, and criminal justice reform. Sean's role involves training and building up leaders to advocate for transformational legislation that will reduce mass incarceration. In terms of recommended resources, Sean suggests reading "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander, which provides a comprehensive analysis of the racial disparities within the criminal justice system. He also recommends "Better Not Bitter" by Yusuf Salaam, one of the Central Park Five, who shares his personal journey of transformation and resilience after being wrongfully convicted. For those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the criminal justice system, Sean suggests watching the HBO documentary "Growing Up Milwaukee," which follows the lives of young individuals assigned mentors, including Sean, who share their stories to deter them from a life of crime. He also recommends the documentary "13th," which explores the history and impact of mass incarceration in America. To connect with Sean and learn more about Dream.org's work, you can reach out to him via email at seanwilson@dream.org or follow him on social media platforms such as LinkedIn (Sean Wilson) and Facebook. You can also visit the Dream.org website and follow the organization on Instagram and Facebook for updates and information on their initiatives. This episode sheds light on Sean Wilson's personal experience with race and the criminal justice system and highlights the urgent need for systemic change to address racial disparities and promote justice and equality for all.   Key Takeaways: Systemic racism is deeply rooted in the criminal justice system, leading to racial disparities in sentencing and treatment. Black individuals are often subjected to harsher sentences and less leniency compared to their white counterparts for similar offenses. The criminal justice system perpetuates harm and fails to provide opportunities for redemption and rehabilitation. Advocacy and reform efforts are crucial to address the systemic racism within the criminal justice system. Open and honest conversations about race are necessary to bring about meaningful change and find common ground for solutions. To learn more about Sean Wilson and his work, visit the Dream.org website and follow him on social media platforms such as LinkedIn and Facebook. Additional resources mentioned include the book "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander and the documentaries "Growing Up Milwaukee" and "13th."   Guest Bio Sean is the Organizing Director at Dream Corps. As someone with 17 years of lived experience and direct involvement with the criminal legal system, Sean brings an advantage and insight into a system he believes to be broken and in need of reform. Before joining the Dream Corps JUSTICE team, Sean was the ACLU of Wisconsin's Smart Justice Campaign Manager, where he managed the campaign to reform probation and parole. In addition, he also serves as a commissioner on the Governor's Juvenile Justice Commission (GJJC), a State Advisory Group (SAG) that advises the DOJ on its juvenile justice programs and funding decisions and serves as an independent forum to discuss juvenile justice policy issues.   Host Bio Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website   Previous Episodes Everyday Conversation on Race with Rosalyn Taylor O'Neale (DEI OG for 47 years) Breaking the Chains: Fighting Caste Oppression with Thenmozhi Soundararajan Breaking Barriers: John Blake on Racial Reconciliation   Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating

In this episode of Everyday Conversations on Race, I interview Roslyn Taylor O'Neill, a highly regarded diversity and inclusion thought leader. Roslyn shares her experiences as the former Chief Diversity Officer at Campbell's Soup Company and Executive VP of Diversity Initiatives for MTV Network. She has received numerous accolades and awards for her work, including being named one of the top 100 most influential Blacks in corporate America and one of the top executives in diversity, and one of most influential LGBTQ people that year. With 47 years of experience, and never backing down, no matter who challenged her, Rosalyn has a lot to say and share. You want to hear this conversation on race. In this episode of Everyday Conversations on Race, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion pioneer Rosalyn Taylor O'Neale emphasizes the importance of learning how to discuss race and navigate through discomfort in order to address racial disparities in every area.   Rosalyn acknowledges that talking about race can be uncomfortable and may cause anxiety, as people may fear making mistakes or offending others, but they are necessary in order to learn and grow. One example is the significance of discussing race with healthcare professionals. Rosalyn explains that if a doctor is not comfortable talking about race, it can create issues for patients, particularly those from racial minority groups. She mentions that rashes may appear differently on the skin of different races. Therefore, it is crucial for doctors to be aware of these differences and for patients to be able to communicate their specific needs and concerns related to race.   Rosalyn highlights the importance of discussing race in society as a whole if we want to survive. She says that in her town, seeing a Black person is still a rarity, indicating the lack of racial diversity. This lack of exposure and understanding can perpetuate stereotypes and biases. By engaging in conversations about race, individuals can challenge these stereotypes and learn from one another's experiences.   She emphasizes that it is not enough to simply listen and sympathize with someone's experiences. You must take action and support them in practical ways if you are anti-racist. Merely expressing sympathy or feeling bad for someone does not bring about any real change or alleviate their situation.   Rosalyn shares personal examples. She often felt left out in her mostly all white school, and when she was having a hard time solving a problem, no one would offer to help. However, they always helped each other and acted like they didn't see her.   If you want to be an ally in action and not just words, then ask someone  directly what they need and take steps to fulfill those needs.   Simma, mentioned a friend who noticed an older Asian woman in their building who rarely went out due to fear of attacks during the pandemic. Instead of just expressing concern, the friend offered to accompany her to the grocery store, providing practical support and reassurance.   There is power in collective action. Walking together with someone can make them feel safer and more empowered. By offering to accompany someone who feels unsafe, we can show solidarity and create a stronger sense of support. It is not enough to simply acknowledge someone's experiences; we must actively work to mitigate the situation and make them feel supported.     Time stamps: [00:02:41] Fearlessness and Belonging. [00:04:25] Diversity in organizations. [00:10:52] Learning about different cultures. [00:15:08] Learning through discomfort. [00:16:31] Loudness and race awareness. [00:22:18] Overcoming stereotypes and assumptions. [00:25:06] Being black in America. [00:29:58] Asian hate and race discussion. [00:34:07] Blacks and Jews misunderstanding. [00:37:32] Asking questions and seeking understanding. [00:41:25] Slavery and acquired skills. [00:46:23] Living in a diverse world. [00:49:08] Empathy and creating understanding. [00:54:46] Empathy and taking action. [00:57:55] What are you listening to these days? [01:02:22] TV shows and cultural diversity. [01:04:36] Ways to relax and distress.   Guest Bio Rosalyn Taylor O'Neale is a highly regarded diversity and inclusion thought leader, celebrated for her transformative impact on organizations worldwide. With extensive experience, including her roles as Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer at Campbell Soup Company, and Executive Vice President of Diversity Initiatives for MTV Network, Rosalyn has facilitated courageous conversations on biases, race, culture, gender, sexual orientation, privilege, and gender identity. Her work has earned her numerous accolades, such as being named one of the Top 100 Most Influential Blacks in Corporate America, Top Executives in Diversity, 100 Top Executives in America, and 100 Most Influential LGBT People of the Year.   Host Bio Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website   Previous Episodes Breaking the Chains: Fighting Caste Oppression with Thenmozhi Soundararajan Breaking Barriers: John Blake on Racial Reconciliation Why We Must Bridge Divides: A Conversation on Inclusive Leadership with Sally Helgesen & Mercedes Martin Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating

In this conversation on Race, Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist, and Chad Lassiter, the executive director of the Pennsylvania Human Relations Council, engage in a deep personal conversation about self-reflection and awareness of privileges, stereotypes, and behaviors. Chad shares his own daily process to engage in self-reflection on race, and his role in bringing people to the common table to challenge stereotypes that perpetuate inequality and discrimination.   With school boards and politicians, not only eliminating African-American history and any discussion of racial discrimination under the guise of making white children feel uncomfortable, we need to find ways to flip the script and empower all children, including white children, to be agents of change. While acknowledging concerns about discomfort, Chad Lassiter says that we can help children see that they have the power to contribute to a more just and equal society. By engaging in these conversations, children can recognize each other's humanity and understand their role in promoting peace and justice.    The key moments in this episode are: [02:26] Conversations around racism and division. [06:37] First experience with racism. [09:12] Police brutality and activism. [12:06] Generational trauma and racial identity. [17:04] Dismantling systemic and structural racism. [21:11] Building solidarity through activism. [26:49] Wealth and taking care of the poor. [28:00] Employment discrimination based on appearance. [33:19] The importance of conversation. [36:13] The trigger for white rage. [40:03] Talking about race in schools. [45:55] The Woman King and toxic masculinity. [48:37] Social change agents and justice warriors.   Chad references the work of Paul Kivel, who emphasizes the necessity of difficult conversations about racism to uproot it.  This episode of Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People needs to be heard by anyone who wants to empower people of all ages to eliminate racism and other forms of inequality. With so much foolishness about not even mentioning cultural/racial differences and pretending everyone is the same while erasing non-white people, it's essential that we share and talk about our identities, and culture. This is how we can find common ground and learn and grow together. Chad says these conversations will help us all find a balance between preserving individuality and being open to connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. No one is just one identity, and it would be very boring to pretend otherwise. We talk about Chad's experience of growing up in an all-black community and how his perspective initially remained narrow due to his limited exposure. However, from interacting with individuals from different cultures and backgrounds, his viewpoint expanded, and he discovered shared experiences. This highlights the idea that engaging with diverse perspectives broadens understanding and fosters connections. Simma and Chad talk about the concept of cultural pride reinforcement, particularly within the context of the Black Lives Matter movement. Cultural pride does not entail valuing one culture over another but rather celebrating and affirming the importance of one's own culture while also respecting and acknowledging the significance of other cultures. This supports the notion that maintaining one's identity and culture does not necessitate rejecting or disregarding others. Listen in as we touch on the significance of having conversations about race, racism, and other issues that some may see as divisive.  While recognizing the importance of addressing these topics, we also need to incorporate discussions around peace, justice, truth, love, and kindness. That's how a more inclusive and compassionate society can be created. Without that, we'll be even more divided racially and in every other way Overall, the episode underscores the importance of maintaining one's identity and culture while also seeking common ground with others. It highlights the value of expanding perspectives, celebrating cultural pride, and engaging in conversations that foster understanding, peace, and justice.   Guest Bio Chad Dion Lassiter is a national expert in the field of American Race Relations. Mr. Lassiter has worked on race, peace, and poverty-related issues in the United States of America, Africa, Canada, Haiti, Israel, and Norway, and is called upon frequently by media outlets to provide commentary on race relations and potential solutions. He is the current executive director of the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission, where he has legislatively delegated authority to investigate complaints filed alleging unlawful discrimination in the areas of employment, housing and commercial property, education and/or  public accommodations. During his capacity in this position, he has developed and launched a ‘No Hate in Our State Townhall' to address the surge of White nationalism in Pennsylvania, a ‘Social Justice Lecture Series' providing an outlet for the communities in the state to discuss imperative issues and serves as a Racial Reduction Response team for those communities impacted by hatred. He oversees a staff of 84 with three regional offices that comprise the 67 counties in Pennsylvania and manages an annual budget of $12 million. He has also developed programs under his appointment, such as a ‘Global Social Justice Initiative', ‘Black and Jewish Beloved Community Dialogue', and the ‘College Race Dialogue Initiative.'   Host Bio Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website   Previous Episodes Breaking the Chains: Fighting Caste Oppression with Thenmozhi Soundararajan Breaking Barriers: John Blake on Racial Reconciliation Why We Must Bridge Divides: A Conversation on Inclusive Leadership with Sally Helgesen & Mercedes Martin Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating

In this episode of Everyday Conversations on Race, host Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist, invites Dr. Lonny Avi Brooks, a professor of communication and Afrofuturism, to discuss his unique background as a Jewish, Black, and Native American individual. Avi and Simma explore the intersectionality of race and religion considering recent conversations on anti-Semitism and racism. The conversation also delves into the concept of Afrofuturism and its significance. Tune in to gain insights and engage in an Everyday Conversation on Race.   Dr. Lonny Avi Brooks emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and respecting the rich cultures and dignities of others for personal growth and self-understanding. When you disregard or suppress someone else's culture, you limit your own potential for a fulfilling life. He shares what it means to him to be Black, Jewish, and Native American in his everyday life and the impact it has had on his relationships, and the actions he has taken to eliminate racism, antisemitism, and all forms of hate. He recounts his earliest memories of going to synagogue with his brother and how he integrates and loves who he is today. Lonny Avi Brooks is busy traveling and speaking on Afrofuturism, is active in synagogue and Jewish life, as well as involved in Native American communities.   Key Points in this episode: • Recognizing and appreciating diverse cultures, allows individuals to gain a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. • How systemic oppression, crime, and homelessness are all results of a lack of understanding and respect for differences and denial of opportunities and inequality. By disrespecting and trivializing other cultures, people who subscribe covertly or overtly to white supremacist culture not only harm others but also hinder their own growth and understanding of the world. • Experience of being Black and Jewish in a mostly white Jewish synagogue • Dismantling the myth that all Jewish people are white and looking at the depth,  complexities, and similarities amongst Jewish people across the world.  • How Afrofuturism serves to preserve and expand Black culture. Guerrilla tactics are used to showcase the existence, power, and potential of Black people. By appreciating and valuing the culture and history of others, individuals, both Black and non-Black, can contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society.  • Why acknowledging and respecting the rich cultures and dignities of others is not only essential for personal growth and self-understanding but also for creating a more just and harmonious society. • The way that Afrofuturism and other futurisms empower individuals and communities by fostering self-esteem, creativity, and innovation.  • Why it's essential that all individuals know their own history and cultural background to have a sense of identity and motivation that will guide their success. Afrofuturism, along with Indigenous Futurism, queer futurism, Jewish Futurism, and Arab Futurism, provides diverse visions of the future that inspire and empower young people.  • When people know where they come from. their history and the contributions of "their peoples," it encourages them to be more self-confident and creative.  • Why Afrofuturism plays an important role in reclaiming lost cultural heritage erased by colonialism. By leveraging the past and projecting it into the future, Afrofuturism allows individuals and communities to preserve their cultural heritage while envisioning new possibilities. This process is particularly important in the face of attempts to erase the history of Black people.  • The crisis in the US with some state governments and school boards, eliminating African American history from their curriculum. They are "rewriting American history," even claiming that there was "personal benefit from slavery for enslaved people."  • Futurism movements offer diverse visions of the future that represent marginalized communities and encourage individuals to make a difference for themselves and their own groups.  • Why it is essential that people engage in conversations about race and antisemitism, and other "isms" to break down barriers and promote understanding between people of different racial backgrounds.  • Why Octavia Butler, Afrofuturism, Black Panthers. Greenwood, Tulsa, “The Watchman” are all important. • Simma Lieberman acknowledges that many individuals may feel hesitant or afraid to have these conversations due to the fear of saying the wrong thing, feeling attacked, or being ignored or trivialized. However, this podcast, Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People, aims to create a safe space for these conversations, encouraging listeners to overcome their fears and engage in dialogue.   To learn more: • Attend conferences and events that focus on race, such as Afrofuturism or Afrocomiccon. By participating in these gatherings, individuals can engage in conversations about race, learn from experts in the field, and broaden their understanding of different racial experiences. • Read histories of African Americans, Africa, Judaism, racism, antisemitism, and indigenous history. • Learn about intersectionality across race, culture, and other differences.   Timestamps [00:01:05] Afrofuturism and identity/ Jewish, Black, and Native American [00:04:55] Multicultural identity and cultural questioning.  [00:09:38] Mishap at the synagogue with Avi Brooks and his brother [00:15:06] Hebrew school and re-envisioning inclusivity. [00:19:16] Systemic white supremacy and culture. [00:24:33] Ethnic inner-ethnic war/the realities of antisemitism and racism [00:27:10] Cultural Vibranium and Afrofuturism. [00:32:06] The Black Speculative Arts Movement. [00:38:41] Afrofuturism and new creativity. [00:41:02] African music and artists. [00:46:31] Attending Afrofuturism and Comic Cons. [00:49:24] Inclusion in conversation with Dr. Lonnie Avi Brooks.   Guest Bio Dr. Lonny Avi Brooks is Professor in Communication, Cal State University, East Bay. Co-executive producer, The Afrofuturist Podcast; co-organizer, Black Speculative Arts Movement; co-founder with Ahmed Best of the AfroRithm Futures Group; co-designer of the game Afro-Rithms From The Future. Co-founder, the Community Futures School, Museum of Children's Arts (MOCHA). Research Affiliate@Institute For The Future & Long Now Foundation Fellow and visiting professor@ the Stanford d.school. Author, “From Algorithms to AfroRithms in Afrofuturism” in Black Experience in Design: Identity, Expression & Reflection.   Host Bio Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Simma is the creator of the program, "Inclusive Leadership from the Inside Out." Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)  Connect with Simma: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website   Previous Episodes Breaking the Chains: Fighting Caste Oppression with Thenmozhi Soundararajan Breaking Barriers: John Blake on Racial Reconciliation Why We Must Bridge Divides: A Conversation on Inclusive Leadership with Sally Helgesen & Mercedes Martin Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating

From grassroots movements to political advocacy, explore the powerful journey of Dalit activists working towards dismantling caste oppression. In this episode, you will be able to: ●     Shatter the silence surrounding caste discrimination in US-based South Asian communities. ●     Delve into the world of Dalit rights activism to understand the struggle against centuries-old caste subjugation. ●     Grasp why legislation against caste discrimination in California could be a game changer. ●     Realize the paramount importance of caste equity competency in breaking down workplace barriers. ●     Get attuned to how somatics can mend the psychological wounds inflicted by caste discrimination over generations. My special guest is Thenmozhi Soundararajan Joining the conversation is Thenmozhi Soundararajan, a Dalit rights activist born in the heart of East Los Angeles, bringing a fresh perspective to igniting change for Indian Americans and marginalized communities. Raised in the harsh reality of structural casteism, she uses her lived experiences as the foundation of her fight against this persistent issue. Additionally, she is admired for her talents as a transmedia storyteller, songwriter, writer, hip-hop musician, technologist, and author of The Trauma of Caste: A Dalit Feminist Meditation on Survivorship, Healing, and Abolition. Her story and experiences form an intricate tapestry of struggle, resilience, and commitment, making her an invaluable guest on the topic of Dalit rights and caste discrimination. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction 00:01:19 - Guest Introduction 00:03:40 - What is Caste? 00:07:19 - Caste Discrimination in the US00:09:19 - Personal Experience and Hiding Identity 00:16:46 - Addressing Misconceptions about Trafficking 00:17:20 - Structural Caste and Sexual Exploitation 00:18:19 - The Need for Civil Rights Organizations 00:19:35 - Discrimination and the Fight for Caste Equity 00:24:35 - Caste as a Protected Category 00:32:28 - The Impact of Caste Oppression 00:34:09 - Changing Hearts and Minds 00:35:11 - Discrimination within South Asian Communities 00:37:54 - Groundbreaking Conversations and Unity 00:39:10 - Responding to Denial of Caste The resources mentioned in this episode are: ●     Go to the website www.RaceConvo.com to listen to more episodes of the show and engage in conversations about race. ●     Please share the show with at least one or two other people who may be interested in having conversations about race. ●     If you enjoy the show, please leave a review to help support it. Don't forget to give it five stars if you think it's a five-star show. ●     If you'd like to help support the show, you can make a tax-deductible donation by clicking on the donate button on the website. ●     To understand more about caste and Dalit rights, visit Equality Labs, an organization fighting for caste equity and civil rights. Learn about their work and support their cause. ●     Support the coalition led by Equality Labs and Senator Ayesha Wahab to make California the first state to ban caste discrimination. Stay updated on their progress and join their efforts.   Guest Bio Thenmozhi Soundararajan is a Dalit rights activist based in the United States. She is a transmedia storyteller, songwriter, hip-hop musician and technologist. She founded Equality Labs, which “is an Ambedkarite South Asian power-building organization that uses community research, political base-building, culture-shifting art, and digital security to end the oppression of caste apartheid, Islamophobia, white supremacy, and religious intolerance.” Her work and writings against caste oppression in the United States have been featured in The New York Times and The Washington Post.   Host Bio Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website   Previous Episodes Breaking Barriers: John Blake on Racial Reconciliation Why We Must Bridge Divides: A Conversation on Inclusive Leadership with Sally Helgesen & Mercedes Martin Rising Above Racism: Dr. Randal Pinkett's Journey to DEI Expertise Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating  

In this conversation on race, Simma talks with John Blake, a well-known author, and journalist with CNN. He reports on race, religion, and politics. His most recent book is, More Than I Imagined: What a Black Man Discovered About the White Mother He Never Knew John Blake's story begins with a familiar narrative of a biracial child struggling to find their place in a racially divided America. But just when you think you know where the story is headed, a surprising twist throws everything into question. What happens when John meets his estranged white family members as an adult? Will he reject them as he did with his white heritage? Or will he embrace them, leading to a transformative journey of empathy and forgiveness? Join us as we explore John's journey of racial reconciliation and the power of relationships in bridging seemingly impossible divides.   Why Race Is Important Race is a central theme not only in the personal lives of many individuals but also in the larger context of American society. Understanding the importance of race requires recognizing that it shapes people's experiences, opportunities, and challenges in significant ways. By talking about race and valuing the various perspectives and experiences that come from different racial backgrounds, people can grow in empathy, cultivate meaningful relationships, and foster a more equitable and just society. In the conversation between Simma Lieberman and John Blake, John shares that his own experiences growing up as a biracial child with a white mother and black father has had a profound impact on his life, shaping both his personal struggles and his professional pursuits as a journalist reporting on race relations in America. He emphasizes that race is a key element in understanding and addressing social issues and that acknowledging and embracing diversity can ultimately bring people together and create a better society. In this episode, you will be able to: Realize the potential of building bridges across racial divides for a more inclusive society. Grasp the impact of compassion and pardoning in breaking the shackles of prejudiced thinking. Appreciate how knowledge can be a catalyst for change in combating racism. Understand the intricacies of racial outlooks and the space for growth and transformation. Appreciate the value of purposeful diversity and interaction in minimizing bias.   The resources and solutions mentioned in this episode are: Purchase John Blake's book More Than I Imagined: What a Black Man Discovered About the White Mother He Never Knew Read John Blake's articles on CNN about race, religion, and politics Participate in Simma Lieberman's facilitated dialogues to bring people together across race Practice empathy and forgiveness towards individuals who may hold racist attitudes or beliefs Read books by authors like Ibram X. Kendi and Jon Blake to educate yourself on race and racism Take action towards creating a successful multiracial, multireligious democracy by working towards racial justice and equality in your community.   The key moments in this episode are 00:00:02 - Introduction 00:01:53 - Why Race Is Important 00:03:54 - Discovering His Mother's Race 00:05:49 - Meeting His Mentally Ill Mother 00:11:02 - Lessons About Empathy and Forgiveness 00:15:52 - The Importance of Relationships in Combating Racism 00:17:47 - The Need for Intentional Diversity 00:19:19 - Telling Optimistic Stories 00:21:57 - The Continual Conversion Process 00:26:45 - Creating Opportunities for Meaningful Contact 00:30:28 - Importance of Diversity in Communities 00:34:52 - The Capacity for Change in Racism 00:37:57 - Cancel Culture and the Importance of Listening 00:41:01 - Personal Music and Book Recommendations 00:42:08 - Recommended Readings and Eric Liu's Work   Guest Bio John Blake is an award-winning journalist at CNN.com, the online site for CNN and an author. He has been honored by the Associated Press, the Society of Professional Journalists, the American Academy of Religion, the National Association of Black Journalists, the Religion Communicators Council and with the GLAAD Media Award. He was most recently the winner of the 2019 Sigma Delta Chi awards for Excellence in Journalism for his online columns on race and politics. His 2020 essay, “There's One Epidemic We May Never Find a Cure For: Fear of Black Men in Public Spaces,” was recently selected by Bustle Digital Group as one of the 11 best essays on racism and police violence. The other authors on that list included Ta-Nehisi Coates, Ibram X. Kendi, and Roxane Gay. Blake's book, “Children of the Movement,” was a finalist for the 2005 NAACP Image Awards in the Outstanding Literary Work Non-Fiction category and a finalist for the Gustavus Myers Outstanding Book Awards. He has spoken at high schools, colleges, symposiums, and in documentaries about topics such as race, religion, and politics. Blake is a native of Baltimore, Maryland, and a graduate of Howard University.   Host Bio Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website   Previous Episodes Why We Must Bridge Divides: A Conversation on Inclusive Leadership with Sally Helgesen & Mercedes Martin Rising Above Racism: Dr. Randal Pinkett's Journey to DEI Expertise Cops Against Systemic Racism: Ed Cronin & Mike Alexander's Journey [Part 2] Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating

Join Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People, the podcast that brings real talk and real change to the forefront. In a society where race, culture, and identity are often sources of division, bridging the conversation on race and equity is imperative. By fostering open and honest dialogues, organizations can create safe spaces for employees to share their experiences and perspectives, ultimately leading to a more inclusive and equitable workplace. Simma Lieberman, Sally Helgesen, and Mercedes Martin explored the importance of bridging the conversation on race and equity during their discussion. They acknowledged the challenges of fostering these dialogues and shared their experiences in navigating the complexities of identity, race, and belonging. Sally reflected on her close relationships with African Americans throughout her life and the impact of their struggles on shaping her understanding of race and equity. Mercedes, an Afro-Latina woman from Cuba, spoke about her purpose in helping organizations tackle diversity and inclusion by shifting mindsets and embracing collaboration.   In this episode, you will be able to: ● Discover the significance of uniting as a team to create an all-embracing workplace environment. •Embrace the benefits of acknowledging various personal histories and experiences. • Acquire tools for seeking common ground and defusing challenging situations to resolve conflicts and misunderstandings ● Explore the expansion of diversity beyond gender, focusing on race and values. ● Recognize the importance of appreciating different backgrounds and experiences. ● Understand the role of individual change in sustaining diversity and inclusion among leaders. ● Learn how to identify commonalities and navigate through difficult situations to overcome division and polarization. During the episode, Sally Helgesen and Mercedes Martin shared their personal experiences and emphasized the importance of fostering a sense of belonging within the workplace. They discussed the power of embracing people's diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives in order to build stronger connections and more effective workforces. Simma Lieberman highlighted the need to support one another and rise together in the pursuit of inclusion and equity, sharing insights from both Sally's and Mercedes's experiences in the field. Sally, Mercedes and Simma discuss the urgency of sustainable change and emphasize that in order to sustain change, it is necessary to start from within. They talk about the importance of transforming oneself along with the organization and how change management needs to involve everyone in the organization. They also talk about the fear of leadership in addressing diversity and inclusion, especially pertaining to race, and how it needs to start with a clear why and work with the leadership in understanding the need for change. The key moments in this episode are: 00:01:13 - Introduction of Sally Helgesen    00:02:26 - Introduction of Mercedes Martin   00:06:49 - Sally Helgesen's motivation for writing "Rising Together" 00:09:53 - Introduction of Mercedes Martin's background and cultural identity 00:19:07 - Creating a Culture of Inclusion 00:22:23 - The Importance of Inclusive Leadership     00:24:10 - Bridging the Conversation on Race and Equity 00:27:20 - Multiple Identities and Belonging    00:35:33 - The Importance of Self-reflection 00:37:24 - Importance of Authentic Leadership for Inclusion 00:39:05 - Characteristics of Inclusive Leadership   00:42:43 - Sustainable Change: Individual and Systemic Change 00:48:00 - Inhabiting the Middle Amidst Polarization           Guest Bio Sally Helgesen is a renowned expert on women's leadership and an internationally bestselling author, speaker, and leadership coach. Honored in Forbes as the world's premier expert on women's leadership, she has been inducted into the Thinkers 50 Hall of Fame, which recognizes influential leaders in the field of leadership worldwide. Ranked number three among the world's thought leaders by Global Gurus, Sally has recently released her book, Rising Together, which offers practical ways to build more inclusive relationships, teams, and workplaces.   Mercedes Martin is a native Spanish-speaking international executive coach and consultant from Cuba with a wealth of experience in global leadership, diversity, and sustainability development. Working with Fortune 50 companies such as PepsiCo, Proctor and Gamble, Shell Oil, and Kellogg's, Mercedes has helped senior leaders, women, and people of color rise in their careers. As the founder of Mercedes Martin and Company, she continues to focus on supporting leadership in rewiring their mindset and embracing conversations on diversity, equity, and belonging.   Host Bio Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition) Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn TiktokWebsite   Previous Episodes Rising Above Racism: Dr. Randal Pinkett's Journey to DEI Expertise Cops Against Systemic Racism: Ed Cronin & Mike Alexander's Journey [Part 2] Cops Against Systemic Racism: Ed Cronin & Mike Alexander's Journey [Part 1] Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating

From being called the N-word as a child to becoming a successful entrepreneur and leader in the pursuit of racial equality and justice, Randal Pinkett's very personal story is a testament to courage and resilience. Yet, despite his success, Randal still faces an unexpected challenge: convincing organizations to embrace the power of race to drive meaningful change. After 30 years in business, Randal Pinkett, a trained computer scientist and DEI expert, faced an ironic twist of fate when an acquisitions editor at his publisher challenges him to confront his own deeply held beliefs and write a book on Data Driven DEI, forcing him to embark on a journey to change the people, and ultimately the organizations, around him. Are you frustrated with trying to improve DEI in your organization, only to be met with stagnant results? Discover how to break through the status quo by leveraging data-driven solutions, targeted universalism strategies, meaningful conversations about race, and effective leadership to cultivate real change.   Key Takeaways: Dr. Randal Pinkett's personal journey as a young Black man impacted by racism that led him to become a leader in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Harness data-driven tools to effectively measure diversity, equity, and inclusion. What it means to apply targeted universalism strategies to fight systemic racism and promote equality. Navigate challenging racial conversations for constructive and positive outcomes. Comprehend the critical role of leadership in cultivating inclusive work environments. Investigate the effects of social media echo chambers on society and individuals.   00:02 - Introduction, Simma Lieberman introduces the podcast and the guest, Dr. Randall Pinkett, who is an entrepreneur, innovator, and DEI expert. She also talks about the purpose of the podcast, which is to have comfortable conversations about race between people of different races. 02:47 - About Randall Pinkett and Data Driven DEI,  Randall Pinkett talks about his background, growing up as a Black person in a predominantly White neighborhood, and his experience of racism at a young age. He also discusses his book, Data Driven DEI which focuses on personal and organizational assessments to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. 08:10 - People Change, Randall Pinkett emphasizes that organizations don't change, people do. He explains that for any organization to transform, individuals must undertake a personal journey of self-reflection and growth. He also talks about the importance of targeting his book towards everyday people, who want to foster more diverse relationships and inclusive behaviors. 09:10 - Randall Pinkett's Entrepreneurial Journey, How his entrepreneurial journey,  began at the age of 21 when he started a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion training company with three other Black men. He talks about his desire to make a difference in the world and how he centered his company on addressing societal issues as an outgrowth of his lived experiences. 14:30 - Making a Difference in the World, College years in the 1990s, a time when hip hop was coming of age, and there were growing conversations around black consciousness and black economic empowerment. He and his business partners wanted to make a difference in the world and  they used their entrepreneurial spirit to address societal issues. 16:26 - The Importance of Giving Back, How growing up in a religious household and being a man of faith has taught him to use his talents and gifts to benefit others. Randal Pinkett believes that success is what you do for yourself, while greatness is what you do for others. 18:20 - The Importance of Addressing Racism in DEI, Pinkett highlights that race is a key identifier when looking at differences in how people experience the world. He stresses the need to assess ourselves for racial biases and preferences and to address them head-on, as they are often the most challenging and polarizing factors in DEI conversations. 24:39 - Taking a Nuanced Approach to Inclusion, Pinkett discusses the importance of breaking down data by different demographic identifiers when assessing inclusion in organizations. He stresses that averages can obscure the experiences of subgroups and that it's critical to identify and address the needs of those who are not being included. 29:36 - The Importance of Seeking Diverse Perspectives, seeking out diverse perspectives when working on DEI initiatives. Being a narrow expert in one dimension can create blind spots and prevent the development of effective solutions. To achieve true diversity, equity, and inclusion, we must be willing to step out of our comfort zones and seek growth through diverse perspectives. 31:13 - Overcoming Divisiveness in DEI, Pinkett acknowledges that the current political climate has seen an unfortunate mischaracterization of DEI as a divisive movement. He stresses that DEI is actually a countercultural movement that seeks to promote equity and inclusion for all, and that we must work to overcome divisive rhetoric and bridge divides in order to achieve progress. 31:53 - The Importance of Speaking Up, Randal Pinkett emphasizes that it is important to speak up when someone says something wrong or offensive. He believes that people have a responsibility to help others see their mistakes and learn from them. He also discusses the idea of targeted universalism and how it can help achieve diversity, equity, and inclusion goals. 36:11 - Overcoming Personal Biases, Randal Pinkett talks about his greatest challenge in the DEI space, which was being an American from the Northeast. He shares how studying at Oxford and being exposed to different cultures helped him overcome his biases and gain a fuller appreciation for diversity. 39:12 - Dispelling Myths about Racial Equality, Randal Pinkett discusses the myth that remaining silent is better than speaking out about issues of race and racism. He also talks about the myth that individuals are the problem when it comes to racism, rather than the systems and institutions that allow racism to persist. 43:26 - The Four Dimensions of Racism, Randal Pinkett explains the four dimensions of racism: personal, interpersonal, institutional, and systemic. He emphasizes the importance of addressing institutional and systemic racism in addition to personal and interpersonal racism to develop comprehensive solutions. 45:57 - The Myth of Colorblindness, Randal Pinkett challenges the myth that being colorblind is the gold standard for seeing other people. He explains that denying someone's race, gender, or disability status can lead to treating them unfairly and that individuation, seeing people as individuals, is a better approach. 47:41 - Music Playlist, 49:28 - Relevant Films and Documentaries, 51:48 - Randall Pinkett's Books, 54:08 - Building Bridges, Pinkett urges people to get out of their communities of the like-minded and build bridges to connect with people of different backgrounds and ideologies to save democracy. He emphasizes that bridge-building is crucial for connecting neighborhoods, communities, and people who would otherwise be disconnected.   Guests Bio  Dr. Randal Pinkett has established himself as an entrepreneur, speaker, author and scholar, and as a leading voice for his generation in business and technology. He is the founder, chairman, and CEO of his fifth venture, BCT Partners, a multimillion-dollar research, consulting, training, technology, and analytics firm headquartered in Newark, New Jersey. He is also the first Black person to win "The Apprentice" in 2005. In addition, he has appeared numerous times on networks such as MSNBC, CNN, and Fox Business News as an expert on topics ranging from business and politics to diversity and inclusion to technology and innovation.    Host Bio Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition) Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Website   Previous Episodes Cops Against Systemic Racism: Ed Cronin & Mike Alexander's Journey [Part 2] Cops Against Systemic Racism: Ed Cronin & Mike Alexander's Journey [Part 1] Dr. Joel A Davis Brown: Challenging Norms & Exploring Queer Leadership in an Unpredictable World Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating

In part 2 of this conversation on race, former police chiefs Ed Cronin and Mike Alexander, continue to address the problem of systemic racism in law enforcement, how it has impacted them personally and offer solutions. This is a deeply honest and open conversation on race, racism and the criminal justice system from two former senior police officers. Systemic Racism in Law Enforcement and How to End It  As a Black police officer in Texas, Mike Alexander faced not only bias, prejudice and racism from his White peers but also from some of the communities he served.  Ed Cronin shares what it was like for him as a white police officer when he became aware of the systemic racism in the department and its impact on the communities he served. Hear his story of how he developed empathy and connection. By carrying out open and honest conversations about race and racism, it's possible to find approaches that can contribute to a more just and understanding future. In the episode, Ed Cronin discusses his initial assumptions that police officers would be compassionate and empathetic, only to learn about the corruption present in the force. He believes that his own experiences of trauma and violence resonate with the Black community's experience. Across the world, systemic racism exists in law enforcement and impacts the fair application of law and order. It's essential to recognize and address this persistent problem to create an equitable environment for people of all races and backgrounds. Acknowledging and being aware of systemic racism helps individuals understand and empathize with the experiences of those disproportionately affected by this phenomenon. In Part 2, of Cops Against Systemic Racism, Mike and Ed envision the changes that are possible in the police department to dismantle systemic racism and make a difference in low-income and non-white communities.   After listening to this episode, you will be able to: · Understand the impact of systemic racism on law enforcement practices. · Discover the pivotal role of community-focused policing in building trust. · Learn the importance of empathy, de-escalation, and bias training in police work. · See the benefits of embracing diversity and inclusivity in police departments. · Explore how technology can advance transparency and work toward positive reform. • Gain new insights and envision how a police force can serve communities and dismantle systemic racism   The key moments in this episode are: 04:48 - The Police are Doing What  Some of the Public Wants Them to Do, While Other Members of the Public are Harassed and Mistreated, 08:19 - The Problem with Bias in Law Enforcement,  16:30 - Solutions to Address Systemic Racism in Law Enforcement,  19:30 - The Role of Psychological Safety,  43:00 - Showing Empathy and Lack of Empathy.  Lessons in Power, Police and Community 46:28 - Neighborhood Architecture and Systemic Racism,  48:05 - Building Relationships Between Law Enforcement and Community    Guests Bio Ed Cronin has worked in the law enforcement field for over 35 years. His career includes experience as a Police Chief in two cities in Massachusetts. He holds a graduate degree in Criminal Justice Management along with an advanced graduate degree in Organizational Development and Systems Thinking from Suffolk University. He is also a certified executive coach. (Institute of Professional Excellence in Coaching)   Mike Alexander is a nationally recognized expert in training and leadership coaching, a specialty that began and flourished during his 38-year career in law enforcement and has defined the years following his retirement from service. Through the U.S. Department of Justice Community Policing Divisions, the thirty-six (36) Regional Community Policing Institute, the Multi-jurisdictional Counterdrug Task Force Training Center, the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, the Texas Municipal League, the International Law Enforcement Administration, and the Texas Police Chiefs Association, he has traveled the nation training officers and community members on ethics and integrity.    Host Bio Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)   Previous Episodes Cops Against Systemic Racism: Ed Cronin & Mike Alexander's Journey [Part 1] Dr. Joel A Davis Brown: Challenging Norms & Exploring Queer Leadership in an Unpredictable World From Harlem to Harvard: How Dorien Nuñez Tackled the Racial Wealth Disparity

  You want to listen to this conversation on race with former police chiefs, Ed Cronin and Mike Alexander about the problem and of systemic racism in law enforcement and the solutions to end it. In this two part podcast episode, Ed Cronin and Mike Alexander, two police officers with vastly different backgrounds, strive to bridge the immense divide between the awareness of systemic racism in law enforcement, and the reality of it through honest conversations and courageous leadership. Systemic Racism in Law Enforcement and How to End It Mike Alexander shares his story of being a Black police officer and the struggles he faced with biases and prejudices from his White peers. Both guests agree about the presence of systemic racism within law enforcement, with Mike recognizing the operating system perpetuating this in the force. By carrying out open and honest conversations about race and racism, it's possible to find approaches that can contribute to a more just and understanding future. In the episode, Ed Cronin discusses his initial assumptions that police officers would be compassionate and empathetic, only to learn about the corruption present in the force. He believes that his own experiences of trauma and violence resonate with the Black community's experience. Across the world, systemic racism exists in law enforcement and impacts the fair application of law and order. It's essential to recognize and address this persistent problem to create an equitable environment for people of all races and backgrounds. Acknowledging and being aware of systemic racism helps individuals understand and empathize with the experiences of those disproportionately affected by this phenomenon.   After listening to this episode, you will be able to: · Understand the impact of systemic racism on law enforcement practices. · Discover the pivotal role of community-focused policing in building trust. · Learn the importance of empathy, de-escalation, and bias training in police work. · See the benefits of embracing diversity and inclusivity in police departments. · Explore how technology can advance transparency and work toward positive reform.   The key moments in this episode are: 00:01:31 - Mike Alexander's background and experience as a Black police officer and then a police-chief in Texas 00:08:01 - Ed Cronin's background and experience as a White police officer and police-chief in Massachusetts and how he developed an awareness of racism in the police-department 00:11:44 - Different Forms of Leadership 00:17:22 - Finding Empowerment and Overcoming Experiences 00:18:03 - Becoming a Police Officer 00:24:31 - Dealing with Racism as a Black Police Officer 00:27:57 - Addressing Micro Issues to Mitigate Macro Issues 00:30:41 - The Potential and Struggle of Law Enforcement 00:34:54 - Overcoming Addiction and Learning About the Problem 00:37:19 - Racism is Real and Needs to Be Addressed 00:40:16 - One Hand Tied Behind the Back When Addressing Injustice, Racism and Bias in the Police Department 00:43:31 - The System of  Systemic Racism in Law Enforcement     Guest Bio Ed Cronin has worked in the law enforcement field for over 35 years. His career includes experience as a Police Chief in two cities in Massachusetts. He holds a graduate degree in Criminal Justice Management along with an advanced graduate degree in Organizational Development and Systems Thinking from Suffolk University. He is also a certified executive coach. (Institute of Professional Excellence in Coaching)   Mike Alexander is a nationally recognized expert in training and leadership coaching, a specialty that began and flourished during his 38-year career in law enforcement and has defined the years following his retirement from service. Through the U.S. Department of Justice Community Policing Divisions, the thirty-six (36) Regional Community Policing Institute, the Multi-jurisdictional Counterdrug Task Force Training Center, the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, the Texas Municipal League, the International Law Enforcement Administration, and the Texas Police Chiefs Association, he has traveled the nation training officers and community members on ethics and integrity.    Host Bio Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)   Previous Episodes   Joel A Davis Brown: Challenging Norms & Exploring Queer Leadership in an Unpredictable World From Harlem to Harvard: How Dorien Nunez Tackled the Racial Wealth Disparity Unraveling Racial History: Benjamin Jealous's Quest for Freedom

Join Jim Morris, a Senior Strategist, and Inclusionist, on his journey of discovering his social identity as a cis-hetero White man and how it informs his work in inclusion. Jim discusses transformative moments in his life, including a conversation with Bernice Johnson Reagon, a founder of the women's singing group "Sweet Honey in the Rock," and an early childhood experience of witnessing a cross burning on his grandfather's property.This episode sheds light on the essential role of empathy and action in achieving a world that works for everyone through exploring the power of inclusion and recognizing our social identities. Jim, a leading expert in the field, shares insights on DEI work and the essential qualities of grace and patience required to succeed.Whether you are an educator, parent, corporate leader, or DEI professional, tune in for practical guidance on approaching and advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion. This episode offers valuable tips on making diversity and inclusion stick in your organizations and communities.Diversity Beyond the Checkbox is brought to you by The Diversity Movement, hosted by Head of Content Jackie Ferguson and is a production of Earfluence.

Join Jim Morris, a Senior Strategist, and Inclusionist, on his journey of discovering his social identity as a cis-hetero White man and how it informs his work in inclusion. Jim discusses transformative moments in his life, including a conversation with Bernice Johnson Reagon, a founder of the women's singing group "Sweet Honey in the Rock," and an early childhood experience of witnessing a cross burning on his grandfather's property.This episode sheds light on the essential role of empathy and action in achieving a world that works for everyone through exploring the power of inclusion and recognizing our social identities. Jim, a leading expert in the field, shares insights on DEI work and the essential qualities of grace and patience required to succeed.Whether you are an educator, parent, corporate leader, or DEI professional, tune in for practical guidance on approaching and advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion. This episode offers valuable tips on making diversity and inclusion stick in your organizations and communities.Diversity Beyond the Checkbox is brought to you by The Diversity Movement, hosted by Head of Content Jackie Ferguson and is a production of Earfluence. Like this show? Leave us a rating and review!

  Dorien Nuñez is a New York City native, amateur astronomer, and former professional Sax player. He has celebrated 50 years on Wall Street, is a first generation college grad from Harvard, and is a proud alum of the New York City public school system. He is a co-founder of a group of Harvard Black and Latinx alumni serving on corporate boards, and is a Senior Fellow at Intentional Endowments Network.   Dorien Nuñez's journey to understanding the racial wealth disparity began in his childhood, growing up in Brooklyn but attending an elite mostly White high school in the suburbs. He was inspired by the achievements of people like Benjamin Banneker, and had mentors like his schoolteachers, who helped him develop his talents. At a young age, he began to understand the importance of money and developed entrepreneurial skills. With the help of his mentors, he was accepted to prestigious boarding schools and eventually Harvard Business School. His experiences gave him the insight to understand the systemic issues in capitalism and banking, leading him to dedicate his career to helping others to invest and create wealth. With his commitment to mentorship, Dorien Nuñez is helping to close the racial wealth gap and empower people to create and achieve unlimited success. 1. Exploring the economic disparities between white and black people in the US. 2. Investigating the role of mentors and how they help individuals succeed. 3. Decoding the secrets to becoming a millionaire by investing wisely.     Chapter Summaries:   [00:03:21] The wealth disparity between black and white people. What does it mean when we talk about generational wealth?   [00:08:47] Dorien was born in Harlem and then moved to Brooklyn. Got a scholarship to go to an elite white boarding school, St. Paul's School in Concord, New Hampshire. His first mentors were his school teachers. Ended up going to Harvard Business School.   [00:14:55] When he was nine years old, he saw an article about the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. His mentors saw something in him and nurtured it. This leads him to try to find and mentor high school students and college students.   [00:17:32] As a child, he was entrepreneurial. "The hardest job to get on Wall Street is your first job." His advice to anybody out there is to learn about money. You can't get rich if you don't know about money.   [00:23:53] Credit scores are important and people can raise their credit scores. All kinds of free services will help you repair your credit. More and more entities are providing capital to people with lower credit scores. Things are getting easier and better, but you still have to take responsibility and get your budget in order.   [00:31:10] "Well, when I went away to boarding school, it was practically all mostly white boarding school. I was there to get a good education, to learn what I could, and to take it back home. That was my mission. At age 14, I knew what I was going to do."   [00:31:40] "The House of Representatives kept Adam Clayton Powell from taking his seat. So if they wanted to, they could keep George Santos in his seat. And in California, they recalled Governor Davis." "We'll send any listeners to this show, who calls in or sends Simma an email a free report on "Ten Things You Could Do To Save Money and Invest and Three Things You Can Teach Your Children."   [00:34:11] The term Redlining comes from when the banks or insurance company would draw a red line around the neighborhood. They would not loan money to people in Black neighborhoods or sell houses to Black people to move into white neighborhoods. Redlining is not as obvious as it has been in the past, but it still exists and it's an impediment. The only solution is to sue them when this happens. You got to make them pay economically.   [00:36:40] Dorien's experience with race and racism. How they were treated differently and that being black is not that easy.   [00:44:00] There are a lot of Black networks that people need to know about and be part of. If you're not part of those natural networks, then you have to find your own and build your own. That's part of wealth building   [00:49:30] What is in Dorien Nuñez's favorite playlist, films, movies, shows, and books?   Guest Bio Dorien Nuñez, Co-Founder and Director of Research, OMNIResearch Group. He is also the Co-founder of OMNI Wall St Advantage. Created the OMNI "WOKE" Investment Research based on his decades of expertise in ESG issues and emerging manager/minority business development programs. Has helped launch venture capital funds and loan programs for woman-owned and minority-owned businesses, raised funds for the Emerging Manager Trust which became FIS (now EXPONA), and continues to consult for new and emerging funds.   Host Bio Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)   Previous Episodes Unraveling Racial History: Benjamin Jealous's Quest for Freedom Navigating Racism and Inclusion with Greg Jenkins, Nirupa Netram, and Elinor Stutz Black Fatigue with Mary Frances Winters   Related Episodes Does Culture Fit Hiring Promote Racism? Race, Reconciliation, and Transformation Changing American Companies from the Top Down

After a DNA test reveals he is a descendant of both Robert E. Lee and a former slave, Benjamin Jealous embarks on a Wild Ride to uncover the truth about the oldest open wound in America and the possibility of bridging the divide between black and white Benjamin Jealous is ouir guest on this episode of Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People. He is a former president of the NAACP, a civil rights activist, and an author. He is the author of the book, "Never Forget: Our People Were Always Free," which explores racism, the history of the United States, and the power of storytelling.   In this episode, you will learn the following:   1. How is racism still affecting our country today? 2. What can we do to bridge the divide between different groups of people? 3. How did the concept of race originate and how has it been used to divide us?   Chapter Summaries: [00:25]  The book is about the oldest open wound in this country, the wound of racism. Author wrote it as a series of speeches, or monologues to his computer. The book is a very conversational book, a book a lot of people find surprisingly funny.   [09:38]  Richard Yates Bland was the last white Bland to own my family. Robert Lee was the leader of the black Republicans in Virginia. What gives a slave man hubris to lead entire political parties?   [18:23]  The title comes from something that we believe was first said by our female Kunta Kente of our family if you will. Never forget, our people were always free. That's what all the women in Atlanta I've ever known of were rebellious. And that's what put the steel in their spine.   [28:17]  Dr. King was trying to bring poor white folks and poor black folks together to build a better America. The ultimate purpose of racism is to divide these two groups so they can't assert their right to get out of poverty. The media should show the real face of poverty, which is black and white and brown and Asian.   Guest Bio Ben Jealous, is the youngest-ever person to have been elected as the national NAACP President; was just named the Sierra Club's Executive Director (the first person of color selected for the post), and is also a University of Pennsylvania, Professor of Practice. Timed for Black History Month, his new book just hit #1 in the African-American biographies category on Amazon. While researching the book, Jealous learned he is a cousin to slave owner Thomas Jefferson, confederate Robert E. Lee; AND a distant cousin of Dick Cheney! The book is dedicated to his grandmother who taught him to 'never forget our people were always free,' which he considers his personal mantra of inspiration—hoping that we all: White/Black, Democrat/Republican—can finally join together to snuff out race; which Jealous says was not what our country was built on in the first place.   Host Bio Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)

When Greg Jenkins, Nirupa Netram, and Elinor Stutz, three colleagues and members of the Inclusion Allies Coalition, come together to discuss the importance of talking about race, they are confronted with their own diverse backgrounds, a goal to support those impacted by racism, and a central conflict between silence and open dialogue.   "It is important for us to understand that race is a very Western idea, but in the context of those parts of the world where race is an understood terminology to understand the effects of race and racism is important for us to, in the case of the IAC, help us understand people that are suffering because of the negative impacts of racism." - Greg Jenkins Greg Jenkins is an older, white, straight male of Catholic upbringing who spent 28 years in the US Army and has been a diversity, equity, and inclusion consultant for the last 17 years. Nirupa Netram is an attorney and consultant of Indian descent and Hindu faith. Elinor Stutz is a Jewish woman, a best selling author, and the founder of Smooth Sale, Greg, Nirupa, and Elinor, along with Simma, are colleagues and members of the Inclusion Allies Coalition. Each of them has a different cultural background and provides their own perspective on the importance of talking about race and the value of the Inclusion Allies Coalition. Elinor shares the story of her family's experience and her own experience in corporate. They explain why it is important to have conversations about race, speak out against racism and stand together with people who are different. The Inclusion Allies Coalition provides a safe space for entry into conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion, and a way to connect with people from all around the world.   The Inclusion Allies Coalition brought together three colleagues and friends with a variety of cultural backgrounds. They discussed the importance of having conversations about race and the value of those conversations. In this episode, you will learn the answers to the following: How does being a member of the Inclusion Allies Coalition promote diversity, equity, and inclusion? What challenges have been experienced by those who have been negatively impacted by racism? How can people become more open to learning from those who are different?   Key Topics: [00:45] Three members of the Inclusion Allies Coalition appear on this week's podcast. Each person will give you two minutes, two sentences about themselves. They will give their name, their cultural background. [03:09] “Why do you think it's important to talk about race today?”  We can't have silence now because you're going to call on us. Why is it an important conversation? Well, these are discussions that are happening globally in response to so many issues.   [04:48] Elinor Stutz was raised not to talk about being Jewish because her family were holocaust surivors. She says antisemitism is on the rise and so is racism. It's important for groups to stand together and to really speak out together.   [09:02] The Inclusion Allies Coalition brings together people from all over the world. They are  advocates for people that may be suffering, or negatively impacted by the topics that we're referring to here. Greg finds value in networking with other colleagues that are trying to do good things in their world. [11:09] Being an IAC member allows you to gain access to global practitioners who support and take action to build inclusion. Elinor shares what it means to her to meet so many people who diverse in so many ways. [19:24] When Elinor was growing up, her grammar was half English and half Yiddish. She felt weird all the time. People always told her she was weird. [22:23] Nirupa: “I was very lucky growing up. It wasn't until I moved to the US that I began to experience the negative aspects of race and racism.” She says she would walk into stores and be ignored or looked at a certain way. Nirupa believes people are fundamentally good and capable of change. [27:07] Simma ask Nirupa, “Do you think younger generations are more accepting of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, or it's still the same?” Nirupa “I would like to see the future in upcoming generations, that they are more inclusive. I again believe people are well intended and capable of change.” [31:13] Nirupa: “Inclusion Allies Coalition is an important place in that we can have conversations that we don't have normally. For some folks, like maybe the ones that you're referring to in Charlottesville, that frightens them. We have to create spaces to have the conversations.” [33:35] Simma: What would you like your friends to do to show support for you? Nirupa: I think just maybe us openly talking about it, and sharing ways that they can be an ally to me. I find talking through scenarios that negatively impact us really help. [36:41] Gregory: “We need to acknowledge what has happened so that it's not glossed over". Elinor: I hope that we will become more united and this crime wave based on race and antisemitism as well as toward other groups will end. [42:17] Greg: “For your listeners there's the 4D Tool. The four DS are delay, distract, delegate and direct. Research showed that oftentimes when people see something happening, they don't know what to do. We do have to stand up, which is why we have inclusion allies.” [45:39] Simma: “Share either a movie. film or TV show, or a song that reflects what's going on today around race and differences or allyship. For each of you, I want to know, do you have any?   Guests Bio   Greg Jenkins is a dedicated and passionate leader, facilitator, coach, and mentor dedicated to helping people and teams achieve higher levels of performance.  Greg completed a successful 28+ year US Army career that ranged from overseas duties in Germany, South Korea, and combat duty in Iraq to include several stateside assignments culminating in Washington D.C.  While serving at the Pentagon, Greg teamed up with the Army's Diversity Task Force, and worked directly with the Secretary of the Army and Army Chief of Staff to help establish the Army's Diversity program, policies, and marketing.    Now spanning over three decades from military service to professional corporate consulting, Greg has trained, facilitated, mentored, and coached countless military service members, corporate employees and executive leaders of various industries including the Federal Government, US military, finance, insurance, communications, logistics and retail services.  Greg is a passionate veteran volunteer who enjoys actively mentoring and coaching business professionals, US military service members, veterans.   Social Media Links LinkedIn Twitter   Nirupa Netram is an Indian female immigrant attorney and certified diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace professional with more than two decades of experience in multiple sectors, including the corporate, nonprofit, government, and legal sectors, in the areas of DEI, human resources, program management, strategic planning, operations, compliance, and more. Nirupa earned her bachelor's degree in business administration from Stetson University and her juris doctorate from Stetson University College of Law. She is the founder of Lotus Solutions LLC, a Florida-certified woman and minority-owned enterprise that helps local, national, and international organizations build and sustain DEI to ensure a fair and just workplace.   Elinor Stutz, CEO of Smooth Sale, delivers inspirational keynotes at conferences and authored three books: The International Best-Selling book, “Nice Girls DO Get the Sale: Relationship Building That Gets Results”, and her second best-selling book is “HIRED!” The third book, The Wish: A 360 Business Development Process to Fuel Sales provides a comprehensive plan for building a global audience. Kred ranks Stutz as a Top 1% influencer; CEO World Magazine named Stutz as one of “The brightest sales minds to follow on Twitter” and she was featured on the cover of the March 2015 Sales and Service Excellence e-Magazine. Stutz' blog is distributed among corporations and entrepreneurs alike. Both Bizhumm and NowISeeIt named the Smooth Sale Blog as one of the “Top 100 Most Innovative Sales Bloggers.” Her sales seminar was filmed for Eduson.TV. Stutz consults and speaks worldwide.   Host Bio Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)   Resources: IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)   Other episodes you'll enjoy: Black Fatigue with Mary Frances Winters Kamau Bell and Kate Schatz; Do the Anti-Racist Work How to End Racial Bias in Media with Karen Hunter and Daniel Stedman   Connect with SIMMA: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Website Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating   

Mary Frances Winters, one of the original thought leaders in the diversity field and cross-race conversations, joins me in this conversation on race.   We talk about: How the histories of Black and other people of color are being replaced in the USA How we need to look at race and racism from a systemic point of view and not just look at individual actions The state of the diversity conversation at work   Key topics: [2:06] Why it's important to talk about race, and why people are reluctant to talk about it   [4:54] Her new book, “Racial Justice at Work”   [8:25] How we all swim in the water of white supremacy   [10:25] The way history of people from non-dominant groups is being wiped out Example: Florida banning diversity training, and Don't say gay bills [14:53] When will teaching history of slavery be forbidden in public schools [16:51] The fear that this country is becoming too Black or Brown and will have too much political clout that drives white supremacy [21:15] The difficulty of discussing the topic of race at work [23:47] Self-loathing and internalized oppression [25:16] When Mary Frances was called the N-word at the age of five and the reaction from her parents [29:02] The real history and current state of diversity, (equity and inclusion) today [32:02] Why Mary Frances is not a fan of adding more letters to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion [34:17] How some people who are not qualified are being asked to be diversity leaders just because they belong to a dimension of diversity Why do some people take on the role without the requisite expertise? [40:35] What is generational wealth? What is informational wealth? [46:42] The biggest challenge Mary Frances has seen from white women   Guest Bio Mary Frances Winters is President and CEO of The Winters Group, Inc., a 38-year-old diversity and inclusion consulting firm, and the author of six books, including her best seller, We Can't Talk about That at Work!: How to Talk about Race, Religion, Politics, and Other Polarizing Topics; and her two latest books, Inclusive Conversations: Fostering Equity, Empathy, and Belonging Across Differences and Black Fatigue: How Racism Erodes the Mind, Body, and Spirit. Learn More About The Winters Group on their website, here. Follow Mary-Frances on LinkedIn. Follow The Winters Group on Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook. Host Bio Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)

In this Conversation on Race, Kamau Bell and Kate Schatz join me to talk about race, racism, and their new book they co-authored, “Do The Work, An Anti-Racist Workbook. Kate Schatz, author, activist, and public speaker.    Kamau Bell is a well-known author, comedian, and political commentator on CNN. Kate Schatz, is a feminist author, activist, and public speaker.  (Because of their schedules, I had to interview each one separately)   Key topics with Kamau Bell What made Kamau Bell and Kate Schatz write “Do The Work, An Anti-Racist Workbook,” together. What happens after people buy anti-racism books, they often do nothing. How white racists went after the success of Black people after slavery and tried to destroy them. Why Black people are justified in being afraid of being stopped by police at a traffic stop. Why when people say they don't have a racist bone, it means they are racist. A big list of small actions you can take.  How you can help create a non-racist society. Educate kids to prepare for the world. Why you should buy “Do The Work, An Anti-Racist workbook.   Key topics with Kate Schatz  Her first experience with race, and speaking up against racism to a group of white parents at a high school meeting.  How her friends supported her anti-racism.  how she keeps talking about white supremacy when she is told to stop. Explaining white supremacy so other white people can understand it. Ways in which the USA was founded on white supremacist beliefs. What people can do to eliminate white supremacist beliefs? Anti-racist actions everyone can take.   Guests Bio   W. Kamau Bell is a stand-up comedian and the director and executive producer of the four-part Showtime documentary, We Need To Talk About Cosby, which premiered at Sundance. He also hosts and executive-produces the Emmy Award winning CNN docu-series United Shades of America with W. Kamau Bell. His new book, Do The Work: An Antiracist Activity Book, co-written with Kate Schatz, is forthcoming from Workman in July.  http://www.wkamaubell.com/about   Link to book https://www.workman.com/products/do-the-work/paperback https://www.amazon.com/Do-Work-Antiracist-Activity-Book/dp/1523514280   KATE SCHATZ is an author, activist, public speaker, educator, consultant, and queer feminist mama who's been talking, writing, and teaching about race, gender, social justice, and equity for many years. She's the New York Times bestselling author of the "Rad Women" book series (including Rad American Women A-Z, Rad Women Worldwide, and Rad American History A-Z), which have sold over 300,000 copies and been translated into four languages. Her book of fiction, Rid of Me: A Story, was published in 2007 as part of the cult-favorite 33 ⅓ series. She is the co-author of Do the Work: An Anti-Racist Activity Book, with W. Kamau Bell, the comedian and Emmy-winning host of CNN's United Shades of America. www.KateSchatz.com   Host Bio Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)

Marcus Sawyerr, CEO of EQ Community joins me in this conversation on race. We talk about how he and EQ Community help Black and other People of Color who have been historically excluded from professional opportunities. He shares his experience as a Black man in the UK, and  how he came to the US and founded EQ Community.   Key Topics include:   [4:16] Why it's important for Black people to have access to business opportunities, and ways to get those opportunities. [5:14] Why access to information is crucial, and how lack of access has resulted in exclusion for Black and other people of color. [12:07]- Why and how he founded EQ Community. How Marcus Sawyerr and EQ Community help People of Color get access to top jobs and opportunities instead of languishing in search firms [14:00] How people in EQ Community get and give support to each other to excel [15:39] Why and how Black and Brown people are underutilized even after they get hired [16:38] Is exclusion a Black and White thing, is it an organizational DNA thing? A race thing? [23:10] How Diversity and Inclusion is a superpower [27:01] The difference between being a black man in the UK vs being a Black man in the US. [30:22] How the system in the US is set up for People of Color not to win and how to change that.   Guest Bio British-born CEO Marcus Sawyerr is founder of EQ Community, was an executive board member to Microsoft, former Head of Global Partnerships at The Adecco Group in Switzerland, and Senior Director at CareerBuilder.  His latest tech platform is a unique online community that's cultivating and connecting multicultural professionals interested in tech— accelerating diverse and inclusive executive recruitment, globally. He can speak to timely topics, as: -Hiring Trends across Tech in DE&I Metaverse  -How Web3 and decentralization will impact future of work -DEI program best practices for a winning team - Myth-busting the big lie about “lowering the bar“ to attain inclusive hiring and diverse workforce - The power and impact of inclusion and equitable recruiting - The importance of developing nuanced and strategic approach to implementing diverse hiring panels - And how to structure, implement, measure, and sustain equitable and inclusive attraction and selection practices Lastly, Marcus is featured in publications: Insight, The EQ Report, American Express, Recruiter.com, LinkedIn, and Inside Big Data. Host Bio: Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition) 

In this episode, Sacha and Dr. Nika discuss what it means to be an intentional inclusionist, how current systems can impede the process, and how to reshift the narrative to meet company-wide #DEI goals. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/deiafter5/support

Suhag Shukla joins me in this conversation on race to answer the question, “Is it racist to talk about race?” Suhag is the executive director of the Hindu American Foundation. She's also on the Homeland Security, faith-based security and communications Foundation. And she's a leading voice for civil and human rights and religious freedom.   Key topics:   [1.45] How she grew up straddling both a Hindu identity and an American identity and realizing that the core teachings of Hinduism and being an American fit together.   [5:11] The so-called “founding fathers” who didn't consider Black and Native American people full human beings.     [5:46] First experience with racism during the oil crisis in the 1970s and being "othered."   [7:51] Is caste and/or asking about caste racist? The history of caste and Indian society as well as the British and Portuguese in India.   [10:51] Social Identities, castes, and religious traditions   [12:11] Commonalities in communities and castes in India How people in India identify today beyond caste, who has social capital based on class   [15:11] Myths of caste and the fluidity of castes and engagement across different group   The complexity of Indian society, and the assumptions that people outside of India make about people in India   American society tries to simplify economic and social societies in India without any real understanding   [25.48]  US school textbooks teach about other cultures and countries like they are stuck in time, and not what's happening now   People in the US don't understand Indian culture today and even asked Suhag if she has electricity in India if her parents arranged her marriage while she was in elementary school   Being assigned a caste by a reporter in a recent interview based on her last name and how she confronted the reporter   Preconceived notions about her. because of her Indian heritage and culture and asking racist questions   [33:13]  The recent survey by the Carnegie Endowment for peace, conducted one of the first-ever comprehensive surveys done of Indian Americans and Indian American attitudes shows that with each subsequent generation, there's less and less affinity towards identifying by caste. And  when it comes to discrimination, close to 50% of the people responding out of 1000 people in the survey reported having faced discrimination in the year previously   [39:55] Institutionalizing of caste at Brandeis, Harvard, CSU and other universities. Suhag's view of why it is racist to ask about caste and include it in a protected category- that it has never been an issue in education   Guest Bio Suhag Shukla, Esq., Executive Director, is a co-founder of HAF. She holds a BA in Religion and JD from the University of Florida. Ms. Shukla has helped steer the Foundation to being recognized as a leading voice for civil rights, human rights, and religious freedom. She's been instrumental in the development of a broad range of educational materials and position papers and blogs for a variety of platforms. Ms. Shukla has served on the Boards of the Nirvana Center, Main Line Indian Association, and YWCA of Minneapolis. She was also a member of the Department of Homeland Security Faith-Based Security and Communications Subcommittee. Ms. Shukla is actively involved with Chinmaya Mission, serves on the board of the Bhutanese American Organization of Philadelphia, and is a thought partner for the Interfaith Center of Greater Philadelphia's Paths to Understanding Public Art Initiative. Shukla is a member of the board for the National Museum of American Religion and serves on religious advisory committees for the Council on Foreign Relations, the Humane Society of the United States, and the Department of Homeland Security's Subcommittee for the Prevention of Targeted Violence Against Faith-Based Communities and is a member of the First Amendment Center's Committee on Religious Liberty and the United Nations Women's Gender Equality and Religion platform. Shukla was named one of twelve “faith leaders to watch in 2017” by the Center for American Progress.   Email: Info@HinduAmerican.org   Host Bio Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition) 

Michael Motta, is a former executive in the record business. He was instrumental in breaking open the careers of musicians like Snoop Dogg, Beastie Boys, Megadeath and Bonnie Raitt. After years in the business, he realized it was treacherous to his health and left after achieving major success. He also saw the systemic racism and inequality of music airtime, radio station resources. Listen to his story in this conversation on race. Today he is the regional manager of Mayweather Boxing and Fitness in Los Angeles, CA, USA. Michael considers himself a “a man for all nations.” He is African, Sicilian, Cuban, and Jewish. Raised in the Bronx by four strong Black women, he  learned to be a strong Black man. Key topics: [5:00] How he was bullied by different groups because of his skin color, not being white enough for the white kids and not dark enough for the Black kids. [7:12] Incredibly, Michael just two years ago that he is fifty-one percent Jewish. Hear how he found his Jewish father and a sister he didn't know he had. However before finding that out, he always had connections to Jewish people, and his son's mother is Jewish. [16:12] What made him finally decide to leave the music industry- Motta breaks down the systemic racism of the music industry and the segregation of the radio stations. [20:53] We talk some of our favorite genres of music along with artists we love [29:06] • White kids who listen to hip-hop but don't care about the politics, and still act racist towards people of color.They spend money on the music but don't understand history or the message. • Where to find conscious rap and hip-hop since it's not played on commercial radio or given airplay [34:50] • His experience in college at a mostly Jewish school [38:55] • What it's like being Black with light skin. How he wasn't accepted in different places and what he did to survive. [40:44] Race and racism and how it's about fear [41:37] Why he's bothered by gentrification and it's impact on non-white communities. [45:35] Solutions and suggestions to end racism and actions we can all take Guest BioA 20-year industry veteran, Michael hails from the Bronx and is of Black, Hispanic and Caucasian heritage.  He earned a scholarship to Brandeis where he played varsity basketball and then went on to earn an MBA at Boston College.  Mike is an accomplished martial artist, boxer and strength and conditioning coach – as well as an expert on nutrition counseling and healthy living -- all skills he attributes to his ability to combat stage four prostate cancer.  Prior to his fitness career Mike was an accomplished record industry executive and was head of promotion and marketing for four record labels, executive vice president for several film companies and is an accomplished screen writer.  He's the proud father of one son, Nick. Host Bio Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition) 

Michael Dismuke and Lorenzo Jones from Eden Housing, join me in this conversation on race. Listen in for practical advice, and best practices for engaging in successful cross-race conversations as they share their experiences. Eden Housing is an organization that develops, manages, and maintains affordable housing throughout California.   With a multi-racial and multi-cultural employee base, they have been able to ensure that their multi-racial, and multi-cultural residents feel included, respected and heard. When you have people living or working together from diverse backgrounds, unless people are able to interact with each other in meaningful ways, there can be tensions, bias and silos. Hear how Eden Housing is able to bring people together across race to thrive together. Discover why meaningful interactions, and sharing personal stories can stop racial and other kinds of bias. Learn why leaders need to start with themselves in the conversation about race, by reflecting on their own experiences, their own bias, and why they think and act the way they do. They need to live their values if they say they value diversity and racial equity. Racial equity doesn't happen by itself. It takes the whole organization to work together.  In this conversation on race, Michael Dismuke and Lorenzo Jones offer concrete suggestions and solutions to talk about race, and how to live diversity, equity and inclusion. Key topics: [2:53] How Michael Dismuke and Lorenzo Jones credit their own interracial, multicultural backgrounds as contributors to their success as leaders at Eden Housing. [4:52] Creating comfortable environments to talk about race and have “curious conversations”. [9:29] Having conversations across race and finding connections. [14:30] The importance of going beyond racial optics in organization. You have to live inclusion and diversity to be successful. [16:00] Creating a diversity council that is diverse. [20:33] Best practices for inclusion during holiday seasons. [26:33] How to make people from diverse religious faiths and observances feel included, while not favoring any one group. [31:49] Gamifying cross-race conversations, and sharing stories across race and culture. [39.31] Recognition, and showing respect for indigenous people and their history on the land. [45:28] The problem of mixing religion, politics and organizational policies. Guests Bio: LORENZO JONES SENIOR DIRECTOR OF DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION As Senior Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Lorenzo is responsible for crafting a comprehensive DEI strategy for the organization, defining goals, and providing a roadmap to ensure that Eden Housing embeds a commitment to racial, social, and economic justice in all its work. He facilitates and creates linkages among Eden's DEI Council, working groups and committees, and evaluates Eden's internal processes and practices with an equity lens.   MICHAEL DISMUKE VICE PRESIDENT OF ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND INTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS As Vice President of Organizational Development and Internal Communications, Michael is a key member of the Human Resources and Extended Leadership Teams (ELT) at Eden Housing. He is the communications advisor to the company's executive team and senior leaders across the company. He creates and executes strategies to ensure the company's human capital has the training and resources they need to support the growth of the organization. Host Bio Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition) 

In this conversation on race, I'm joined by Michael Fosberg. Michael is a writer, actor and activist on issues of race. He is also a Black man who didn't know he was Black until he was in his mid-thirties when his Armenian mother and white Swedish step-father got divorced. That's when he went on his journey to find his biological father. Until then, Michael thought he was white. Listen to this fascinating conversation and hear the story of Michael Fosberg. Key topics: [6:27] How he found his father and then found out his biological father was Black. [15:31] Growing up in a diverse area and thinking he was one of two white people on the basketball team. [17:13] Why Michael's mother didn't tell him he was Black. [20:27] His lifelong connection to Black people and African-American culture and sudden understanding of why he had that connection. [31:21] What it's like for him, knowing he is Black but growing up with white privilege and how his skin color still gives him that privilege. [41:35] Responding to people who say they are colorblind. [46:28] Michael Fosberg answers the question of what to do about racism. Guest Bio Chicago native Michael Fosberg has been working to create a national dialogue on race and identity since 2001 when he launched his one-man autobiographical play Incognito. The author-activist has used the unique presentation, along with engaging interactive training sessions and speeches, to embrace diversity in an effort to change corporate and organization cultures. He has been a frequent guest in the national media speaking as an expert on race and identity issues. His travels have taken him across the country facilitating meaningful conversations at educational institutions, corporations, government agencies and military bases. His highly praised memoir; Incognito: An American Odyssey of Race and Self Discovery was published in 2011 and his newest book, Nobody Wants to Talk About It: Race, Identity, and the Difficulty in Forging Meaningful Conversations addresses his efforts to provoke conversations about race over the past fifteen years. Contact info: info@incognitotheplay.com   Host Bio Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition) 

Deepa Purushothaman joins me in this conversation on race to talk about the racism, isolation, and trauma many women of color experience in corporate America. What is it like for a woman of color to get promoted up to the executive suite and still have to deal with microaggressions, blatant racism, and trivialization? What is it like to be the only person of color in your school and to hear people say how much they hate you? What is it like as a woman of color to constantly have to prove your accomplishments while white people are never questioned? Hear the answers to these questions in this episode with Deepa Purushotaman as she shares her experiences and those of other women of color in the workforce. Key Topics: [2:30] Growing up as the only Indian-American in her school in an almost all-white town. [4:35] First experience with racism and speaking out at the age of eight [7:30] The trauma of racism and its effect on physical and mental health. [10:29] The importance of women of color getting together, sharing their experiences, and helping to heal each other. [13:14] Letting go of feeling responsible for your “whole group” or race. [16:22] Coming to terms with burnout from microaggressions, trying to fit in, and feeling alone. How Deepa began organizing dinners with other senior women of color across the country to heal together. [31:00] How to practice scenarios as an ally, and speak up as a woman of color. Know what to say and take care of yourself and be able to express pain. How not to feel responsible for other people's reactions. [41:27] Address systems and structures that have never included women of color. [44:51] How losing everything and having to go on public assistance was a turning point for Deepa Purushothaman and intensified her consciousness and empathy. [48:08] Issues of colorism and why some Asian women are uncomfortable talking to Black women about race. [51:52] While there are differences amongst women of color, there are also similarities that need to be addressed together.    Deepa Purushothaman Bio Many women of color have scars from climbing the corporate ladder. Sixty percent of WOC feel their companies are not properly prepared to handle racist incidents in the workplace – it's time to eliminate those incidents by creating unbiased and accountable corporate cultures. As the first Indian woman to become a partner at Deloitte, Deepa Purushothaman experienced isolation and burnout firsthand. And then came the overt workplace harassment. Her new book, THE FIRST, THE FEW, THE ONLY: How Women of Color Can Redefine Power in Corporate America (March 1, 2022, Harper Business), lays the groundwork for how other women of color can redefine success on their own terms. It's the book she says she needed when launching her own career. Contact Info:https://www.deepapuru.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/deepapuru   Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition) https://inclusioncoalition.info

Karen Hunter, journalist and host of the Karen Hunter Show on Sirius XM and Daniel Stedman, founder of the New Ed-Tech platform Pressto, join me in this conversation on race. They share how Black students in the US and the African diaspora, and other low income and young people of color are using Pressto to create their own newspapers and zines. This is one solution for young people to express their views and share real experiences with race, culture and diversity instead of consuming false information from biased media.   You'll hear how Karen had to confront her white editor at the Daily News about racial bias in their coverage of police shootings and how she convinced him to change his perspective.   Key topics:  • Real news gathering has been replaced by algorithms and public opinion presented as fake facts. That includes how gaslighting, misinformation, and disinformation take the place of actual fact gathering, particularly in issues around race and racism. • How Pressto gives young people hope and inspiration to be seen and heard, like how Daniela Fraser took out her phone and documented the murder of George Floyd. • What does it mean to be white? Karen Hunter asks why people identify as white and foster the system of white supremacy. She talks about race as a social construct, and why she wants to dismantle the construct of race. • Hunter's experience as a Black journalist with the Daily News when Amadou Diallo was murdered by police in his vestibule and how her editor wanted to glorify the police without knowing what happened. After she  asked her editor if that could happen in a rich white neighborhood, he allowed her to address the issues of racism. She talks about the murder of Eleanor Bumpurs, Sean Bell and others who were killed by police because they were Black • Why Pressto can help young people of color and other kids be future journalists who get the truth out and share their stories. • How Daniel Stedman created the EdTech software Pressto, because he was inspired to make learning fun for kids and spark them to be journalists of the future. • The importance of diversity of ideas and bringing Pressto to the African Diaspora including Jamaica and Canada. • Karen asks Daniel Stedman about what it means to be white, if he sees himself as white. Daniel talks about his strong identification about his Jewish culture and what it means to be white. • The fact that the Nazi Nuremberg laws crafted their strategy from the Jim Crow laws in the US. Listen to the episode with Karen Hunter and Daniel Stedman to hear about the future of journalism, dismantling systemic racism and other bias in the media and how white people can use and share the privilege they have to take actions against racism.  Guest Bios Daniel Stedman is the CEO & Founder of Pressto, a tool that makes learning to write fun for kids and easy for teachers. Previously, Daniel was the Founder of Northside Media (acquired), the parent company to Northside Festival, Taste Talks, SummerScreen and Brooklyn Magazine. He has spoken at CES, Orange Institute and SXSW and has been featured in the NY Times, New York Magazine, New York Observer, Huffington Post, and more. Daniel is a published children's book author and award-winning film director. Karen Hunter is a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, professor, publisher and “change agent,” according to Essence magazine, which named her one of the “Woke100” of 2018. She was also selected to the 2020 Ebony magazine's Power 100 List. As a writer, Karen has coauthored eight New York Times bestsellers. As CEO of Karen Hunter Publishing, an imprint of Simon & Schuster, she published more than 35 books, including No. 1 NYT bestseller True You by pop icon Janet Jackson, as well as bestsellers with Kris Jenner and E. Lynn Harris. Karen has been named one of the 100 Most Important Radio Talk Show Hosts in America by industry bible Talkers Magazine every year since 2015. A New Jersey native, a Drew University graduate, Karen has been a full-time professor and Distinguished Lecturer in the Film & Media Department at Hunter College in New York City since 2004. In 2020, during the pandemic, Karen launched Knarrative, which is home to the largest Africana Studies classroom in the world.   Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition) 

Karen Hunter, journalist and host of the Karen Hunter Show on Sirius XM and Dan Stedman, founder of the New Ed-Tech platform Pressto, join me in this conversation on race. They share how Black students in the US and the African diaspora, and other low income and young people of color are using Pressto to create their own newspapers and zines. This is one solution for young people to express their views and share real experiences with race, culture and diversity instead of consuming false information from biased media.   You'll hear how Karen had to confront her white editor at the Daily News about racial bias in their coverage of police shootings and how she convinced him to change his perspective.   Key topics:  • Real news gathering has been replaced by algorithms and public opinion presented as fake facts. That includes how gaslighting, misinformation, and disinformation take the place of actual fact gathering, particularly in issues around race and racism. • How Pressto gives young people hope and inspiration to be seen and heard, like how Daniela Fraser took out her phone and documented the murder of George Floyd. • What does it mean to be white? Karen Hunter asks why people identify as white and foster the system of white supremacy. She talks about race as a social construct, and why she wants to dismantle the construct of race. • Hunter's experience as a Black journalist with the Daily News when Amadou Diallo was murdered by police in his vestibule and how her editor wanted to glorify the police without knowing what happened. After she  asked her editor if that could happen in a rich white neighborhood, he allowed her to address the issues of racism. She talks about the murder of Eleanor Bumpurs, Sean Bell and others who were killed by police because they were Black • Why Pressto can help young people of color and other kids be future journalists who get the truth out and share their stories. • How Daniel Stedman created the EdTech software Pressto, because he was inspired to make learning fun for kids and spark them to be journalists of the future. • The importance of diversity of ideas and bringing Pressto to the African Diaspora including Jamaica and Canada. • Karen asks Daniel Stedman about what it means to be white, if he sees himself as white. Daniel talks about his strong identification about his Jewish culture and what it means to be white. • The fact that the Nazi Nuremberg laws crafted their strategy from the Jim Crow laws in the US. Listen to the episode with Karen Hunter and Daniel Stedman to hear about the future of journalism, dismantling systemic racism and other bias in the media and how white people can use and share the privilege they have to take actions against racism.  Guest Bios Daniel Stedman is the CEO & Founder of Pressto, a tool that makes learning to write fun for kids and easy for teachers. Previously, Daniel was the Founder of Northside Media (acquired), the parent company to Northside Festival, Taste Talks, SummerScreen and Brooklyn Magazine. He has spoken at CES, Orange Institute and SXSW and has been featured in the NY Times, New York Magazine, New York Observer, Huffington Post, and more. Daniel is a published children's book author and award-winning film director. Karen Hunter is a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, professor, publisher and “change agent,” according to Essence magazine, which named her one of the “Woke100” of 2018. She was also selected to the 2020 Ebony magazine's Power 100 List. As a writer, Karen has coauthored eight New York Times bestsellers. As CEO of Karen Hunter Publishing, an imprint of Simon & Schuster, she published more than 35 books, including No. 1 NYT bestseller True You by pop icon Janet Jackson, as well as bestsellers with Kris Jenner and E. Lynn Harris. Karen has been named one of the 100 Most Important Radio Talk Show Hosts in America by industry bible Talkers Magazine every year since 2015. A New Jersey native, a Drew University graduate, Karen has been a full-time professor and Distinguished Lecturer in the Film & Media Department at Hunter College in New York City since 2004. In 2020, during the pandemic, Karen launched Knarrative, which is home to the largest Africana Studies classroom in the world.   Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition) 

In this Conversation on Race, John Blake, senior writer, and producer at CNN talks about anti-racist white men who grew up in racist families. They were surrounded by racism in their environment and grew up in red states, yet they chose a different path. Listen in to hear some of the stories and find out the factors that influenced their thinking and actions. We also talk about the epidemic and potential cures for the fear that many white people have about Black men in public spaces. Key topics: [5:11] How Matt Hawn, a white teacher in Tennessee became an anti-racist and then was fired for talking about racism to his students. Why white Pastor Gibson “Nibs” Stroupe from Arkansas founded a multi-cultural church in Decatur, Georgia, where he was an outspoken anti-racist. [9:54] The gradual change from racist beliefs to anti-racism. How do some people get trapped by their own identity? [11:21] White people need other white people who are anti-racist and have made a difference [13:07] The transformational power of meeting people from a different race and building relationships [16:35] The power of ordinary people to create change [17:26] Why change often comes from pressure at the bottom [18:33] The Epidemic of white fear of Black people in public spaces [39:33] Internalizing stereotypes and internalized racism [40:58] How John Blake let go of hostility towards white people after meeting his white mother. [45:15] Creating spaces for people of different races and cultures to interact and change. Guest Bio John Blake is an award-winning journalist at CNN.com, the online site for CNN and an author. He has been honored by the Associated Press, the Society of Professional Journalists, the American Academy of Religion, the National Association of Black Journalists, the Religion Communicators Council and with the GLAAD Media Award. He was most recently the winner of the 2019 Sigma Delta Chi awards for Excellence in Journalism for his online columns on race and politics. His 2020 essay, “There's One Epidemic We May Never Find a Cure For: Fear of Black Men in Public Spaces,” was recently selected by Bustle Digital Group as one of the 11 best essays on racism and police violence. The other authors on that list included Ta-Nehisi Coates, Ibram X. Kendi, and Roxane Gay. Blake's book, “Children of the Movement,” was a finalist for the 2005 NAACP Image Awards in the Outstanding Literary Work Non-Fiction category and a finalist for the Gustavus Myers Outstanding Book Awards. He has spoken at high schools, colleges, symposiums and in documentaries about topics such as race, religion and politics. Blake is a native of Baltimore, Maryland, and a graduate of Howard University. Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition) https://inclusioncoalition.info

In this conversation on race, I'm joined by my colleagues from the Brain Trust of the Shift Net work R.A.C.E Project. Rev. Doctor Aliah Majon, the Chief Inclusion Officer of the Shift Network enlisted Mike Alexander and me join her in the R.A.C.E Project. Aliah shares her experience as a Black woman who grew up in Detroit, how race and racism impacted her growing up, how she dropped out of high school, and then went on to get a double Ph.D. Mike Alexander talks about his experience as a Black police officer who went on to become a police chief and shares stories of how he dealt with the racism he encountered. Kapiolani Laronal shares her experience as an indigenous woman from Hawaii and the racism she has encountered in predominantly white schools. Key topics: [7:12] The R.A.C.E project and our role in making the world a better place. Our focus is on what we can do to dismantle racism, and the role that mind, body, spirit plays in individual change. [11:08] Mike Alexander, former Police Chief and now acting Police Chief in Texas talks about the importance of creating psychological safety when talking about race and racism with people. [23:23] How Mike has learned to self-regulate when he is confronted by racism and specific issues in the police department. Racism on the part of police officers, and the impact it had on him. [38:07] The importance of working with young people to dismantle the systemic racism embedded in the US throughout history  [48:31] The work that Aliah has done with police departments around diversity, inclusion, equity, and race. The importance of being curious and willing to learn and change. Guests Bio Rev. Dr. Aliah (she/her) is an evolutionary and racial healing champion who believes that we are meant to be engines of evolution. Her methodologies are informed by firsthand experience growing up in the inner city of Detroit and losing her only child to suicide, as well as three decades serving as a corporate trainer, facilitator, and educational consultant. Mike Alexander earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from St. Edwards University in Austin, Texas. He earned a master's degree in Organizational Leadership from Southwestern Assemblies of God University in Waxahachie, Texas. Mike has over 40 years in law enforcement which began as a Correctional Officer and Deputy Sheriff at the Travis County Sheriff's Office. Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist help leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker and facilitator and the host of the podcast, "Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People."  Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com  Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition) https://inclusioncoalition.info   

Tim Villegas, B.A.Director of Communications at Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education (MCIE) Tim Villegas joined MCIE's communications team in 2020, implementing MCIE's communications and marketing plan, and leading MCIE communications through blogs, podcasts, social media, webinars, and product development. Throughout his prior sixteen-year career as a special education teacher, Tim advocated for the inclusion of learners with significant disabilities in general education classrooms and systems change in schools and districts; and spent three years as a district-level program specialist supporting learners with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), emotional and behavioral needs, and intellectual disabilities. He founded Think Inclusive, now MCIE's official blog. In this episode of Beyond Awareness: Disability Awareness That Matters, Tim Villegas discusses his transformation from a staunch self-contained, special education classroom teacher to an "inclusionist." He provides some recommendations for teacher support, and the value of spreading our stories of inclusion. Links Mentioned in Show Email Tim: tvillegas@mcie.org Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education (MCIE) Think Inclusive Blog & Podcast Julie Causton - The Inclusion Podcast Shelley Moore Video Jenna Rufo & Julie Causton - Reimagining Special Education Jennifer Kurth & Megan Gross- The Inclusion Toolbox Emily Ladau - Demystifying Disability: What to Know, What to Say, and How to Be an Ally Stay Connected with Diana Diana's Website Free Resource - 5 Keys to Going Beyond Awareness Beyond Awareness: Bringing Disability into Diversity in K-12 Schools & Communities - Diana's Book Ed Roberts: Champion of Disability Rights - Diana's Children's Book "Beyond Awareness" Digital Course Diana's TEDx Talk Beyond Awareness Facebook Page Diana on Instagram Credits and Image Description Intro and outro music courtesy of Emmanuel Castro. Podcast cover photo by Rachel Schlesinger Photography. Podcast cover image description: Black and white photograph of Diana, a Spanish-American woman with long, wavy, brown hair. She is wearing a flowy, white blouse and smiles at camera as she leans against wooden building. Photo is colorfully framed with gold and orange rays of seeming sunshine on top half, and with solid sage green color on bottom half. Text reads "Beyond Awareness: Disability Awareness That Matters, Diana Pastora Carson, M.Ed."

Wade Davis is a writer, public speaker, and thought leader on gender, race, and sexual orientation equality. He is also the Vice President of Inclusion Strategy for Product at Netflix, a former NFL player, and my big brother in my head. In this episode, we have a fantastic conversation about defining success and excellence, learning to love through feminist thought, and the importance of celebrating the accomplishments of Black and Brown people, especially within the LGBTQIA+ community. In addition, Wade shares that he is a Black man on a journey back to himself! He is in transition, still learning love and acceptance, and his path forward includes more silence, stillness, and introspection. Learn more about Wade Davis on his website, http://wadeadavis.com/. Guest Bio: Former NFL Player Wade Davis is an educator and advisor on gender, race, and orientation equality, and is currently the VP of Inclusion for Product at Netflix. Wade was the NFL's first LGBT inclusion consultant, where he worked at the intersection of sexism, racism, and homophobia to build inclusive leadership strategies and engagement initiatives. Prior to joining Netflix, Wade consulted for Google, P&G, Viacom, and Bacardi, and others. Wade is a board member of the Ms. Foundation for Women, as well as a United Nations Women Global Impact Champion, and a founding member of VICE's Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Board with Gloria Steinem and others. Wade is also on the boards of Me Too International, the MAD Foundation, Promundo, the Peace Studio, and Sparks + Honey, and a Global Champion for Girl Up, a program of the United Nations Foundation. Understanding the importance of engaging men around gender equity and equality, Wade built a ‘Men's Gender Equality Development' leadership program that launched with the United Nations 2018. A former national surrogate for President Obama, Wade has been an Adjunct Professor at both NYU and Rutgers. Wade gave his first TEDx Talk at the University of Florida entitled: The Mask of Masculinity and works to engage men through a variety of vehicles to become more self-reflective and divest in patriarchal practices. He continues to lecture on the intersections of race, sexuality, gender, and sports at universities nationally and internationally. Wade Davis graduated from Weber State University and also received an honorary Doctor of Public Service degree from Northeastern University for his leadership and ongoing efforts to eradicate homophobia and sexism in athletics. Submit your questions for #AskMark here! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

In the past year, many educators have been facing a tough time. Issues that have traditionally been left out of conversations continue to be an elephant in almost every educator's room. I am talking about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) among students as well as teachers on all levels; an issue often exacerbated by external pressures from parents and experts! Many believe the pressures of COVID-19 to be over but educators are feeling the different results on a daily basis.Fortunately, I have a friend who introduced me to someone who has worked tirelessly for DEI her whole life: Simma Lieberman. Simma is internationally known as "The Inclusionist," because she creates inclusive workplaces where employees love doing their best work and promoting equity among organizations.She is a DEI educator and author who has been working in the field for over 30 years. Her work has focused on promoting DEI in Fortune 500 companies, including Applied Materials, Intel, Diageo, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, and Boeing. An expert in reducing racial tension in organizations and communities, Simma founded her own consulting firm that works with organizations on racial equity initiatives.She is a member of the editorial board for two diversity think tanks and the former chairperson and co-founder of San Francisco's regional chapter of Out & Equal as well as being inducted into their hall of fame. Simma's articles have appeared in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and Fast Company.In this episode of the Flipboard EDU Podcast, we speak to Simma about how her work is going after the George Floyd murder and how diversity can affect classroom dynamics. We discuss why it's important for educators to be aware of their own biases; what strategies educators can use to help students understand other cultures better; and how to foster understanding between different groups at schools such as LGBTQ+ students or other marginalized groups.Podcast Planner for Students and Teachers Flipboard EDU Magazine Flipboard Educators Blog Flipboard EDU Podcast Website Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917bCopyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3https://uppbeat.io/t/sensho/double-takeLicense code: ZQLKLMU6EZ4EZUVMhttps://uppbeat.io/t/ra/take-actionLicense code: 9OMFXRUMARMT10IPMusic from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/pryces/music-isLicense code: WO9N7QDIM5PFELOFSupport the show (https://www.patreon.com/FlipEDU?fan_landing=true)

Bring Someone Along Episode 5 "We can navigate incredible global challenges.  We don't have to do it alone.  And the joy that you will receive by reaching your hand out to uplift someone else you will get back a thousandfold."— Kristen Lamoreaux In this episode, Holly & Kristin talk with Kristen Lamoreaux about: The early childhood experiences that shaped Kristen's "can do" attitude. The curiosity and strong work ethic that opened the doors to amazing opportunities. How Kristen handled the leaps of faith needed to excel. The value of building and maintaining relationships; it's not what you know, it's who you know. "Begin as you mean to go on." Asking yourself what you can do really well and then working the heck out of it.  Key Takeaways Relationship, relationship, relationship – it's all about relationships Know your core values and remain true to them Pay it forward Kristen Lamoreaux, President & CEO of Lamoreaux Search, LLC, is a cultivator of talent that derives joy from helping others achieve their potential. Her integrity, candor, and focus on moving things forward ensure you will always get the hard truth from her mentoring heart. A woman of energy and action, Kristen is a self-proclaimed "Inclusionist" who dedicates her efforts, both personally and professionally, toward helping people and organizations reap the benefits from a diverse leadership team. Her recently launched podcast, "Diverse Tech Leaders," showcases personal narratives as well as tips and tricks on augmenting diversity for teams and organizations.  Kristen has garnered industry recognition from her visibility as a contributor for CIO magazine and her frequent appearances as a keynote speaker at national industry conferences. Her thought leadership includes women's leadership and diversity, technology talent, STEM Outreach, and networking through philanthropy. Kristen is also the founder of SIM (Society for Information Management) Women - a North American networking organization for over 1500 female CIOs and their direct reports. She conducts monthly webinars, regional meetings, and emcees a national conference annually where she hosts tech non-profits focused on diversity and inclusion. Connect with Kristen: Email:              kristen@lamoreauxsearch.com LinkedIn:          https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenlamoreaux/ Instagram:       https://instagram.com/lamoreauxsearch Website:          www.lamoreauxsearch.com               Guest Resource Links: SIM Women https://simwomen.simnet.org   Podcast: Diverse Tech Leaders https://www.lamoreauxsearch.com/podcast UPLIFTING WOMEN HOSTS Kristin Strunk and Holly Teska   Your co-hosts of the UPLIFTING WOMEN PODCAST, Holly Teska & Kristin Strunk, are women who UPLIFT other women at work and in the world.  Every other week they bring uplifting women guests to share their personal stories of challenge and triumph to inform and inspire their listeners.  The podcast also features guests who have played a significant role in honoring women and their place in the world by serving as promoters, sponsors, and coaches to the many women in their personal and professional lives. Join Holly and Kristin as they hear how their guests navigate the world of career aspirations, life, love, and family. Get advice from successful women who have figured out their own version of "secret sauce" to create the life they love. Holly believes the world needs the best leaders it can build; those who demonstrate integrity, empathy, humility, vision, positivity, and confidence. This type of leader brings out the best in others and delivers outstanding results. Holly feels we need everyone to perform at 100% to making our world a better place. Holly's experience in leadership, executive coaching, and talent development is the foundation of her career.  She has helped bright and motivated leaders become the very best versions of themselves. Through direct feedback, reflection, experimentation, and honest conversation, she will push you to excel at what you were called to do. Holly is especially committed to helping women navigate the choppy waters of today's fast-paced workplace and evolving world conditions but works with many different individuals and situations.  She welcomes inquiries for leadership and executive coaching and speaking engagements.   Kristin's experiences have led her to the simple conclusion that leadership is simple - maybe not always easy, but simple.  Her work supporting leaders in finding their voices inspired her to find her own voice in the space of employee experience and leadership development.  She often hears the question that isn't being asked and is skilled at facilitating conversations and building relationships.  She has helped executives lead organizational transformations involving employee engagement, technology, and the new "Future of Work."  Follow her hashtag #responsibleleadership on social media to learn more about simple things leaders can do to build relationships and have a lasting positive impact. Website:         www.upliftingwomen.net   Connect with Holly: LinkedIn:         https://www.linkedin.com/in/hollyteska Twitter:           https://twitter.com/HollyTeska Facebook:       https://www.facebook.com/holly.teska Instagram:      https://instagram.com/HollyTeska Personal Website:         www.hollyteska.com Email:              holly@upliftingwomen.net   Connect with Kristin: LinkedIn:         https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-strunk Twitter:           https://twitter.com/leadadvisor Facebook:       https://www.facebook.com/kristin.t.strunk Instagram:      https://instagram.com/ktuttlestrunk Personal Website:         https://regentleadershipgroup.com/ Email:              kristin@upliftingwomen.net  

Episode 27 - The Tequila Hombre - with expert Mark Cherney is live!It’s a new episode of Two Idiots and an Expert! Kops and Lee kick this one off with some scheduling info and editing details about Episode 26, The Inclusionist, with Simma Lieberman. And then talk about...- Guru Zush let Lee know the Sperminator was in the news (01:25); at Zush’s encouragement Lee tried to ride that wave on Facebook and Twitter, driving people to listen to his episode.- There are some new guests coming up (03:00) and people are listening. Feedback on the The Inclusionist episode has been positive, the subject matter is very complicated. Corey thinks Lee is too agreeable with the guest. - Lee wants Kops to watch Christpoher Nolan’s movie Tenet (07:36), Lee watched it already but there is a lot there to talk about. Lee heard someone talk about the movie on a podcast, it's very complicated. This week’s guest is Tequila expert Mark Cherney (thanks Joel for the recommendation!). Kops and Lee talk (10:11) a bit about their history with Tequila - bad experiences early in life with bad Tequila and what they know about good vs bad Tequila. The tequilas they are tasting are Arete Blanco ($22), Cascahuin Reposado ($54), and an Espanita Añejo ($33), along with a Mezcal, La Luna Cupreata ($38). Expert Mark Cherney (Youtube channel) joins the boys to blow their minds with his Tequila knowledge (21:36). He breaks down the difference between a blanco, reposado and anejo Tequila, the organization monitoring the Tequila and the Blue Weber Agave plant. Kops and Lee taste the Tequilas as Mark talks about all things Tequila and Mezcal, his history and the projects he is working on. Mark curates the spirits on the website https://fermentandstill.com/ and sells bottles from special barrels at https://tequilabarrelcollective.com/. The boys come back (01:32:10) and are nice and toasty from the amazing Tequila. Kops is zooted and learned a ton. Your Idiots had a ton of fun talking to Mark!Make sure to check out Mark on his Youtube channel and his websites, Tequila Barrel Collective and Ferment and Still. Thank you very much Mark for coming on the podcast! Contact Zush Photography for all of your bar/bat mitzvah, wedding and event photography needs (973-314-1527 or email info@zushphotography.com). Mentions the Idiots sent you!Follow Two Idiots and an Expert on… Facebook / Instagram / Twitter#tequilas #tequila #mezcales #tequilatime #tequilalover #tequilashots #tequilatequila #tequilashot #tequilanight #tequilacocktails #tequilabar #margaritas #paloma #tequilasunrise #tequilatasting #tequilalovers #tequilajalisco #ApplePodcast #SpotifyPodcast #TwoIdiotsandanexpert #2IdiotsandanExpert

Episode 26 - The Inclusionist - with expert Simma Lieberman is live! This week’s episode starts with Kops giving Lee positive vibes, reinforcement and overall appreciation, going over *again* Lee’s guitar play, skiing and tennis game. Some Dr. Nicole LePera texts come up, Kops doesn’t understand what they mean. Then Kops and Lee briefly talk about the loss of a friend and being appreciative for this space and everything they have. Moving on...- This week’s expert is Diversity Consultant Simma Lieberman, Lee wants to make sure Kops asks Simma targeted questions and doesn't get heated (07:17). - Your Idiots do some documentary review of WeWork: Or the Making and Breaking of a $47 Billion Unicorn (Hulu) and Billie Eilish: The World's a Little Blurry (Apple TV) (08:17).The boys breakdown their thoughts on bias, diversity and all that come along with these subjects (30:52). Expert Simma Lieberman (https://simmalieberman.com/, https://raceconvo.com/) (39:00) joins Kops and Lee to talk about all things diversity, race, privilege and bias. The boys come right back (01:40:28) to discuss their conversation with Simma and their key takeaways.Thank you very much Simma for coming on the podcast! Connect with Simma at her website and check out her podcast today. Contact Zush Photography for all of your bar/bat mitzvah, wedding and event photography needs (973-314-1527 or email info@zushphotography.com). Mentions the Idiots sent you!Follow Two Idiots and an Expert on… Facebook / Instagram / Twitter#theinclusionist #raceconvo #conversationsonrace #culturalintelligence #diversityandinclusionconsultant #speaker #facilitator #inclusiveleadership #ApplePodcast #SpotifyPodcast #TwoIdiotsandanexpert #2IdiotsandanExpert

Diversity and Inclusion What do they mean? How are they related? What is the goal? What are the benefits? What are challenges? How can you help create a more diverse, inclusive and productive culture within your organization?  Simma Lieberman boldly points out that she is white, female, Jewish, a Baby Boomer, lesbian and from the Bronx. If you see her as one of those labels, then you've relegated her to the group we call - those people. Do you say, "Hello" to people who don't look like you? Diversity is the collective mixture characterized by differences, similarities and related tensions and complexities. Diversity is important, yet it's inclusion that is the critical step in making people feel safe, welcome, understood and productive. Simma Liberman helps leaders create inclusive workplaces and communities. For more information you can visit her website https://simmalieberman.com/ ------ Your Intended Message is the podcast about how you can boost your career and business success by honing your communication skills. We'll examine the aspects of how we communicate one-to-one, one to few and one to many – plus that important conversation, one to self. In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.   Your host is George Torok George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He's fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviours. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.   Facts about George Torok He hosted the radio show, Business in Motion for 19 years, interviewing over 500 guests.   Connect with George www.torok.com www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com www.SuperiorPresentations.net https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/ https://www.instagram.com/georgetorok/ https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills1  

On Wednesday episodes, I share leadership beliefs and unlabel terminology. I invite guests to share their expertise about small or big acts of leadership. In Episode 23, Simma Lieberman, my expert on DE&I, helps me decipher Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. 00:00 Prologue: Discovered through Social Media I discovered Simma through her blogs on Multibriefs, which lead me to her podcast about diversity. Simma, a.k.a. The Inclusionist, is an award-winning professional who consults, coaches, and offers powerful keynotes. If you plan to meet 50 people this year, ensure that Simma is one of them. 01:28 Part 1: Debunking the Need for Similar People What makes diversity in organizations diverse? Simma answers this question. 07:24 Part 2: You Need More than Equal Access Equality doesn't mean that there is equity. Both terms are worth unlabeling, and Simma does just that! 13:44 Part 3: Accessing Their Brilliance If you have diversity, do you have inclusion? What does it mean to have an inclusive culture and organization? Simma helps me demystify inclusion by answering these questions. 21:50 Part 4: Take Diversity to Lunch Whether a manager or a team member, Simma offers practical ways for us to enable teams and organizations to diversify and become more inclusive. _________________________________ How You Can Support the Show Unlabeled Leadership is a free service for people to learn about leadership. If you want to support the show, you can make a $0.99 donation. Your support reduces production expenses. https://anchor.fm/unlabeled-leadership/support Episode links Simma's LinkedIn Profile Simma's Bio The Inclusionist (website) Simma's Twitter Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People (podcast) Example blogs by Simma How story-sharing creates connections and empathy in organizations Unconscious bias gone wrong About Roosevelt Thomas, Jr. in Diversity Officer Magazine Examples of Diversity Definitions PDF (includes Thomas' definition) The Story of the Elephant and the Giraffe (a blog about Roosevelt Thomas' fable) Background Music You can find all the musical tracks at Envato Elements. 00:00 Theme music: Inspiring Uplifting Corporate by mixer_drummer 01:11 Marching Band Fun by pinkzebra 07:05 Happy swing by Praded 13:26 Inspiring Emotional Cinematic Piano and Strings by pinkzebra 21:33 A New Door Opens by pinkzebra 24:29 Fun and Flirty by BrownHouseMedia Lead on! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unlabeled-leadership/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/unlabeled-leadership/support

Today on the podcast, a rare solo episode about why I call myself an inclusionist. For some, the word "inclusionist" has a negative association. I make the case that there is more to the word than just believing that we should get rid of special education or that inclusion only counts if it is "100%." I tell the story of my inclusion journey and how it led me to what I am doing now, advocating for the full and authentic inclusion for students with disabilities. Thanks for your time and attention! TV Visit Think Inclusive for more information about inclusive education. Have questions or comments? Reach us at podcast@thinkinclusive.us Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Resources Why Would a Special Education Teacher Advocate for Inclusive Education? (Noodle) Fully Included: Damian (Think Inclusive) Special education teacher explains why she wants to be called 'accessibility specialist' (GMA) Credits This podcast is a production of MCIE. Become a patron of the Think Inclusive Podcast!

Ceah Justice is a DEI champion committed to challenging, changing, and shaping the mindset of others to create a culture of intentional Inclusionist. An authentic people leader who thrives in new, challenging, fast-paced environments full of opportunities to sway large numbers of people. An inspirational leader with a natural talent for Motivating and Stimulating teams to “raise the bar” in order to exceed company initiatives. A Strategic executive leader who drives business to the next level by creating Self-Sufficient People-Centric cultures built around Empowerment, Development, and Accountability to Influence change. Challenging others to tap into their truest potential is her Superpower! Inspiring change is her passion! Curiosity and a thirst for learning is her fuel. Fighting for equity and equality is in her DNA! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/freeman-means-business/support