Confessions of a DEI Pro

In today's Episode of ‘How to become a competent DEI practitioner’, Ashanti Bentil-Dhue and her guest Trier Bryant delve into the world of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Trier brings a wealth of experience and insights from her background in working with top organisations such as the U.S. Air Force and having a role as Chief People Officer. Today, Trier shares valuable perspectives on the importance of having a People First mindset in leadership, the nuances between DEI and the need for competency in the DEI field. Join Ashanti and Trier as they explore the challenges and opportunities in the DEI space and discuss the role of accountability and competence in driving meaningful change. Stay tuned for a thought-provoking conversation with Trier Bryant. “And so if you are a true people centric people first leader, that is the root of everything that you're doing. And so your people have identities, your people are nothing but a sum of their experiences of who they are, and their life, coming into the workplace and to ignore that would be a huge mistake. And there's implications of that. And so you can create real tangible value by having a People First mindset when it comes to leadership, understanding that diversity, equity and inclusion are absolutely a part of that and they're not synonyms.” Episode Highlights: DEI initiatives can become exclusive if not approached inclusively, which may inadvertently exclude majority groups and lead to inefficacy. Understanding the majority's experiences within an organization is crucial, as it helps identify areas for meaningful change and improvement in DEI efforts. Organizations should invest in their DEI leaders' professional development, treating it as they would for any other competency in the organization's learning and development strategy. About Trier Bryant: Trier Bryant is a people-first leadership & inclusion expert and the founder of TrierBryant.com, a consulting firm that advises organizations on strategies and tactics to improve their workplace culture. Trier is also the co-founder of Just Work, a company that provides coaching and workshops to create more collaborative and equitable work environments. Trier has an extensive track record spearheading DEI & Inclusion initiatives at top organizations including Goldman Sachs, Twitter, and the U.S. Air Force. She also serves on the Board for Athena SPACs and Campaign Zero. Trier has been featured as an influential voice on leadership and DEI by publications including USA Today, CNN and Fortune. You can follow Trier on LinkedIn and X. If you would like to apply to be a guest on the show email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to schedule a capability briefing call with our team, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to apply for DEI PRO Coaching, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com Stay Connected with Ashanti: LinkedIn: Ashanti Bentil-Dhue

In today's episode, Ashanti Bentil-Dhue has a captivating conversation with Ruth Kudzi, the CEO and founder of Optimus Cage Academy. During their interview, they will dive deep into the world of coaching and the pressing need for accreditation within the industry. Exploring the significance of accreditation, how it can elevate your coaching practice, uncovering the true essence of coaching, its empowering nature, and the long-lasting impact it can have on clients. Discover the benefits of becoming an accredited coach and how it not only enhances your credibility but also contributes to a more equitable coaching landscape. If you're curious about the future of coaching, the role of accreditation and professional growth, this episode is a must-listen. "Coaching is about unlocking what's inside of a person, making change more sustainable, not just addressing a knowledge gap. Accreditation brings credibility, ethical practice, and the ability to charge more, ultimately elevating the coaching industry's standards and impact." Episode Highlights: Why is there a need for more qualified coaches in the DEI industry? Emphasizing the importance of coaching as a non-directional, empowering, and dignifying process that unlocks answers within clients. Potential for coaching to promote equity and social mobility by reaching high-potential individuals from diverse backgrounds. About Ruth Kudzi: Ruth Kudzi is an entrepreneur and educator: She runs a training business , Optimus Coach Academy and a coaching & mentoring business. Optimus is one of the market leader training providers in the UK providing accredited coach training with 4 different bodies. Ruth is a Master Certified Coach, Psychology & Neuroscience expert with numerous qualifications in Psychology including a BA, MA and PGCERT. She is a multiple best selling author, international speaker and podcaster: her whole mission is around supporting people to feel better and build their resilience to achieve the results they want to achieve. If you would like to apply to be a guest on the show email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to schedule a capability briefing call with our team, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to apply for DEI PRO Coaching, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com Stay Connected with Ashanti: LinkedIn: Ashanti Bentil-Dhue

In today’s episode, Ashanti Bentil-Dhue welcomes listeners to a compelling episode of her podcast! Today, she is privileged to interview Kim Crowder, a leading expert in diversity, equity, and inclusion. Join them for an eye-opening conversation. In this episode, Kim delves into the complexities of workplace culture and leadership, shedding light on crucial topics such as power dynamics, privilege, and the impact of identity. Through insightful dialogue, they explore uncomfortable truths, challenge stereotypes, and emphasise the importance of genuine connections. Join them as Kim shares invaluable insights, making this episode a must-listen for anyone passionate about fostering inclusive environments. “ I would say, be really comfortable with what you don't know, become intimately acquainted with not only what you don't know, but what your skill sets are not... That makes you open to [others] being the experts around that ” Episode Highlights: Understanding Intersectionality Navigating Power and Privilege Impact of Colonialism and Cultural Influence About Kim Crowder: Kim Crowder, Founder & CEO of Kim Crowder Consulting, is one of the country’s most sought-after and transformative leadership, and communications facilitators, speakers, and advisors. Kim and her team work across industries serving global organisations with a focus on courageous, responsible and intentional leadership. From leaders and executives at Adobe to Smugmug, the American Library Association, HarperCollins Publishers, and more, Kim and her team provide executives and leaders with actionable tools to build healthy, people-centred workplaces long term, and to build deep connections with target audiences. Kim has been named by Forbes as a “Top Anti-Racism Educators Companies Need Now,” A Top 10 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Expert by All American, and Top Influential African-American Business Women To Follow by LinkedIn. She is also a member of the MIT Technology Review Global Panel, For(bes) The Culture, is on the HRD Connect Global Advisory Board, and is a LinkedIn Top Voice. She has been featured by The New York Times, Business Insider, Cheddar News, CBS, NBC, FOX, Katie Couric Media, regularly by Forbes, is a contributing writer for Society of HR Management (SHRM), and has appeared on Hubspot’s podcast, The Growth Show, Workology, and As Told By Nomads. If you would like to apply to be a guest on the show email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to schedule a capability briefing call with our team, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to apply for DEI PRO Coaching, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com Stay Connected with Ashanti: LinkedIn: Ashanti Bentil-Dhue

In today’s instalment, Ashanti Bentil-Dhue delves into the intricate and fascinating world of identity, joined by the insightful and knowledgeable guest, Lathizile Dubé, the Managing Director and Founder of The Identity Dichotomy. They explore the complexities of identity, both at an individual and leadership level, shedding light on the often-overlooked aspects of how experiences, values, and attitudes intermingle to shape our sense of self. As the discussion unfolds, you'll gain valuable insights into the profound impact of these forces in our ever-changing world, especially in the context of shifting post-COVID landscapes. Join them in this thought-provoking conversation as they uncover the profound implications of identity for individuals and leaders alike. “ We do want to do the very best that we can do for ourselves. And within that, you don't want to be in a situation where you hit burnout as a practitioner, or you hit a situation where you just get so overwhelmed with the work that you're doing. So if you don't have the pieces in place to ensure that you're properly supported within your role, it does become something that becomes a real challenge, because you don't really have that space, or that bandwidth to be able to move in with what you're saying. ” Episode Highlights: Practical Strategies for Understanding Identity Impact of COVID on Identity Leadership in a Shifting World About Lathizile Dubé: Lathizile Dubé founder of The Identity Dichotomy, a ground-breaking organisation which specialises in identity in all its forms and manifestations with particular emphasis on transition. Nothing highlights internal and external conflict like going through a transition. No business or organisation can thrive or survive without its people; know exactly who your people are and fully unlock the resources and potential that lie within everyone. The IP and methodologies used have been developed and fine-tuned over a decade and across 10,000 client hours, continuing to push the bar in human optimisation and transformational change. Lathi has the uncanny ability to break down identity in stories and metaphors that peel away at obvious layers to reveal what is beneath it all. Lathi Dubé’s ability to make various components of Identity come alive through storytelling is truly astounding, she is able to take the audience on an emotional rollercoaster and leave them empowered. The focus on identity stems from the loss of the founder’s younger brother to suicide. Only when a person has tangible awareness of what they possess that empowers themselves and the world at large can they face any adversity with the knowledge that they are enough. With determination to leave no stone unturned and no heart untouched, Lathizile Dubé is not only a transformational business coach and identity specialist but also an inspirational public speaker. If you would like to apply to be a guest on the show email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to schedule a capability briefing call with our team, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to apply for DEI PRO Coaching, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com Stay Connected with Ashanti: LinkedIn: Ashanti Bentil-Dhue

In today’s thought provoking episode, Ashanti Bentil-Dhue welcomes Michelle Gyimah, a renowned pay gaps consultant who runs a consultancy called Equality Pays. Michelle helps organisations understand and address gender and ethnicity pay gaps by creating action plans to foster equity within their workplaces. In this eye-opening discussion, Michelle clarifies what a pay gap truly is, emphasising that it goes beyond equal pay. She sheds light on the importance of data analysis and the nuances involved in closing pay gaps. Michelle also dispels common misconceptions, such as the idea that individuals can solve systemic issues by simply asking for higher pay. Throughout the episode, Michelle shares her journey into this dynamic field and offers valuable advice for aspiring pay gap specialists. “Yes, we can upskill people, and it's part of your career, and you do have to be responsible for that. You have to take responsibility for owning your career, that's fine. But that doesn't mean that the buck stops with you, and that it's your responsibility to ensure that you close the pay cut for the organisation. No, the organisation has their own work to do because they hold so much more power in that dynamic.” Episode Highlights: What does defining the pay gap really mean Why should we not rely solely on Individuals What advice can be shared with aspiring specialists About Michelle Gyimah: Michelle spent 10 years at the Equality and Human Rights Commission, supporting employers to close their pay gaps through writing guidance reports and running workshops. This was until 2014, when Michelle took voluntary redundancy whilst on maternity leave and Equality Pays was born. Michelle setup Equality Pays to provide the business coaching, strategy, support, and confidence that organisations want and need. Michelle is on a mission to educate and share what organisations should be focusing on when it comes to addressing the root causes of their pay gaps in order to create more inclusive, equitable workplaces. Michelle's role is to support organisations in identifying what changes need to be made to close both gender and ethnicity pay gaps so that people choose to work for those organisations and go on to build their careers with them. No matter their gender, ethnicity, or workplace needs. www.equalitypays.co mgyimah@equalitypays.co Podcast: Beyond the Pay Gap Figure www.linkedin.com/in/michellegyimah/ If you would like to apply to be a guest on the show email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to schedule a capability briefing call with our team, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to apply for DEI PRO Coaching, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com Stay Connected with Ashanti: LinkedIn: Ashanti Bentil-Dhue

In today’s episode, Ashanti Bentil-Dhue dives deep into the world of psychological safety in the workplace with co-founder of Noomii.com and Skillsetter.com Stephan Wiedner. He brings to the conversation a wealth of experience in coaching, training, and high-performance team development. Stephan has spent over 15 years exploring the fundamental question: Why does coaching work? Join Ashanti and Stephan as they unravel the concept of psychological safety, its relevance in today's complex and global workplaces, and how it can be a game-changer for leaders striving to enhance team performance. Stephan shares insights into the challenges leaders face in creating psychological safety and emphasizes the importance of measuring it within your team. “So what you're pointing to really is the courage that leaders require. I would also closely couple courage with vulnerability. As a leader, we need to demonstrate vulnerability, as in I don't have all the answers. I am not perfect. I'm willing and able to learn, wanting to learn, and so then we coupled that courage and that vulnerability with curiosity.” Episode Highlights: ● How can we define Psychological Safety ● What are the links between Psychological Safety and High Performance ● The need for leaders to demonstrate Courage, Vulnerability, and Curiosity About : {Stephan Wiedner} Stephan Wiedner is an entrepreneur whose mission is to abolish apathy in the workplace. He firmly believes that for great work to take place, everyone needs to have the courage to speak up and the confidence to know they’ll be heard. His passion for unleashing the collective potential of people has led him to cofound Noomii.com, the web’s largest network of independent life coaches and Skillsetter.com, a platform similar to a flight simulator for practicing interpersonal skills. Stephan has been a guest speaker for Truth, Lies, and Workplace Culture Podcast, Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast, Building Psychological Strength Podcast, and many other audiences interested in psychology, business, and technology. His writing has been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur, and other popular publications. In addition to his professional career, Stephan serves as a volunteer firefighter in his local community. Stephan is married with two children and enjoys spending quality time in the outdoors, hiking, biking, camping, and reading. If you would like to apply to be a guest on the show email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to schedule a capability briefing call with our team, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to apply for DEI PRO Coaching, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com Stay Connected with Ashanti: LinkedIn: Ashanti Bentil-Dhue

In today’s episode, Ashanti Bentil-Dhue is joined by Mike Sealy, Diversity and Inclusion Vice President at Informa Markets. Mike shares his inspiring journey transitioning into this vital role with passion and determination, discussing the complexities of D&I, emphasising the importance of active listening, understanding unique perspectives, and fostering self-awareness to drive genuine change. Whether you're considering a similar transition or are passionate about diversity and inclusion, this episode offers valuable advice and thought-provoking insights. “You can't really put a label on an issue, because it's unique to that person. It's about making sure that you understand that, there's not a one size fits all to everything, and you've got to take everything on its own individual merits.” Episode Highlights: Why you should take a proactive approach to learning Is Individuality in Diversity important? Responding to Emotional Challenges in a D&I space About Mike Sealy: Mike holds the position as Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Informa Markets, a world leading exhibition and event organiser. He leads, coordinates, and champions the Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) efforts across the business to ensure the long-term sustainability of their global D&I strategy in relation to the company’s colleagues, customers, content and communities. Through his own lived experiences, he is deeply passionate about fairness, equity, and inclusion for all. He is a dedicated coach, mentor, motivator, podcaster and regularly speaks at events, on discussion panels both to corporate colleagues and students in education. He speaks candidly on his work and social experiences to create awareness of the issues and opportunities within diversity and inclusion as well as to help build confidence, freedom, and motivation in others. Mike previously held senior leadership positions at Hewlett Packard, Microsoft and the BBC, leading and setting up businesses and organisations and winning awards for management and execution excellence in the process. If you would like to apply to be a guest on the show email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to schedule a capability briefing call with our team, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to apply for DEI PRO Coaching, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com Stay Connected with Ashanti: LinkedIn: Ashanti Bentil-Dhue

In today’s episode, Ashanti Bentil-Dhue is delighted to welcome Nadia Nagamootoo, the founder and chief executive of Avenir Consulting, joining her. Nadia is an expert in supporting organisations with their DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) strategy, fostering inclusive leadership, and creating more inclusive cultures. In this engaging discussion, they dive deep into Nadia’s upcoming book, "Beyond Discomfort: Why Inclusive Leadership is So Hard and What You Can Do About It." They explore the challenges of writing a book on this complex topic, the various mindsets leaders may have, and the importance of self-awareness in the journey towards inclusion. Join them as they unravel the layers of inclusive leadership and its emotional landscape. “It is incredibly tough to experience someone offering you a different perspective that might suggest that everything you have thought, or lived up until now has not been as inclusive as you thought it was. That's tough. You know, and that's our job as dei professionals, ultimately it is to support people through that very emotional learning path.” Episode Highlights: Exploring the Complexity of Inclusive Leadership Uncovering the hidden challenges faced by DEI professionals and leaders Beyond Discomfort: A Fresh Perspective About Nadia Nagamootoo: Nadia is the Founder and CEO of Avenir, a diversity, equity and inclusion consultancy. She is a Chartered Psychologist, MBA and accredited coach with 20 years’ experience in the field of organisational development, culture change, leadership development and talent management. Nadia has worked with global organisations to provoke powerful conversations at all levels to develop fully-informed DEI strategies and sustainable inclusive leadership practices. Nadia was awarded HR Most Influential Thinker 2023 and has been shortlisted for the Diversity Champion of the Year 2023 at the European Diversity Awards. She is a highly sought-after speaker and presenter, and has interviewed prominent DEI thought leaders on her podcast show, ‘Why Care?’. She is the author of the upcoming book, ‘Beyond Discomfort: Why Inclusive Leadership is so Hard (and what you can do about it)’. If you would like to apply to be a guest on the show email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to schedule a capability briefing call with our team, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to apply for DEI PRO Coaching, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com Stay Connected with Ashanti: LinkedIn: Ashanti Bentil-Dhue

In today’s episode, Ashanti Bentil-Dhue interviews Helen Farmer, an Inclusion and Social Impact consultant, author, speaker, and writer. Helen's diverse background and passion for creating meaningful dialogues make her a valuable resource in the realm of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and beyond. They delve into the importance of preparation and reflection when approaching sensitive conversations in the workplace. Helen shares her experiences and insights, emphasising the value of self-awareness and vulnerability. The discussion explores the significance of frank conversations and the challenges leaders face in navigating them, especially during times of crisis. Helen also offers guidance on fostering open dialogue within organisations, emphasising the need for self-awareness, peer support, and a willingness to tackle the "unsaid stuff." “I think the starting point I suggest is for people to always look at themselves. So that kind of self awareness is massive, because if you aren't on the journey, or haven't opened up, or gone on any part of that journey yourself, you're going to have less to relate to, and connect to the experiences that other people will have to go on to do that. ” Episode Highlights: The Power of Frank Conversations Overcoming Fear in Leadership The significance of encouraging self-awareness About Helen Farmer: Helen Farmer Bio 2023 Equity, Diversity and Social Inclusion Consultant/ Research Associate Helen works with people who support people from school to boardroom, especially young people and those most underserved; as well as overrepresented people, to remove barriers and provide better access, progress and support. Specialist in the research/ strategy/ set-up/ support of multi-partner programmes, often working across sectors, in overrepresented sectors, working with a wide range of clients from corporates to charities, to universities and employability programmes in sectors like Creative; Digital; Engineering; Technology; Innovation, Construction; Refugee. In 2023 her focus is on collaborations for Frank Conversations, curating and creating walks and talks for better listening, decision-making and action - thinking spaces, stories and spaces for better work and workplaces Contact: helen@voicebyvolume.com 07795621781 https://uk.linkedin.com/in/helenfarmer Key Interests? With core values of justice and belonging, Helen focuses on employability and social mobility and the S in ESG - Environmental and Social Governance. People don’t just need mentoring or programmes, they need to access jobs and pay, with equity, at all levels. A fan of creative, disruptive support, she helps people explore their unsaid and undone work, from school to boardroom. Alongside her research and consultancy she is a regular speaker; author; Associate Lecturer Bath Spa University Business School; Independent Assessor - for a UK grantmaker; and a Trustee - Creative Tuition Collective - Providing free tuition, and support to pupils (13-16 years old) from low-income backgrounds, marginalised and underrepresented communities. Speaker/ Panellist/ Podcaster: ● Top listened-to podcast of 100 Inclusive Growth Podcasts: Brave Conversations opening the door to the unsaid and undone work in Inclusion ● Bristol Mental Health Hackathon ● CEOs Session: Talent Management and Skills for a Different City – Bristol and Bath Science Park Author and Interviewer: ● Bounce Back Journey of Parenting - From Rock Bottom to Bouncing Back - Belonging in My Work for Inclusion ● Bounce Back Journey of Careers - Autism, Assumptions and Life as a Single Mum - Interview with Rebecca Scott Live Projects and Problems solved: *What is the missing talent infrastructure in Bristol? How could networking and connections be de-gatekeeped to be more accessible and useful for under-represented and under-served people in Bristol? - Live project for 2x Student Innovation Teams in University of Bristol Centre for Innovation and...

In today’s thought provoking episode, Ashanti Bentil-Dhue had the pleasure of speaking with Tammy Dowley-Blackman, CEO of the Tammy Dowley-Blackman Group LLC, encompassing three dynamic brands: TDB Group Strategic Advisory, Looking Forward Lab, and Cooper + Lowe. Tammy shared her deep insights into the evolving challenges organisations face, especially in the context of diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and belonging (DEIAB), which extend beyond race to encompass a wide range of factors. This enlightening episode provides a rich perspective on navigating the complexities of DEIAB, understanding Generation Z's unique contributions and challenges in the workplace, and the importance of lifelong learning in this ever-evolving field. “Lastly, I would say where you started, is that this work is not just about race, race is hugely important, again, particularly here in the United States, but in other countries globally. But this work is much more than race, it is gender, it is sexual orientation, it’s religion, it’s age, it's who gets health care, it's all of these things.” Episode Highlights: •What can we learn about the unique characteristics of Gen Z •What tools can be used for bridging generational gaps •Addressing pressing challenges in the workplace today About Tammy Dowley-Blackman: Tammy Dowley-Blackman collaborates across corporate, government, nonprofit, and philanthropic sectors to build a pipeline of leaders that deliver greater productivity across workplace generations. Tammy Dowley-Blackman, a graduate of Oberlin College and Harvard University is an author, entrepreneur, leadership expert, nonprofit executive, philanthropic leader, and professor. She is the CEO of Tammy Dowley-Blackman Group LLC, a certified National Supplier Development Council Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), Small Business Administration (SBA) Woman Owned Small Business (WOSB), and Women’s Business Enterprise Network Council (WBENC) woman-owned company, as well as a graduate of the C200 Champion Program and Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program. The company is comprised of a suite of brands, including TDB Group Strategic Advisory, a management consulting firm specialising in organisational and leadership development for the corporate, government, nonprofit, and philanthropic sectors; Looking Forward Lab, a media content company focused on Gen Z, which partners with corporations and higher education systems to offer a full service learning engagement model that delivers workforce development solutions; and Cooper+Lowe, a company that serves as an incubator offering full back-office management support for women interested in transitioning to entrepreneurship and thought leadership. Each of the companies has a long legacy of embedding diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and belonging (DEIAB) in its values, collaborations, and outcomes. In addition, Tammy recently completed her six-year term as the president of the TSNE Board of Directors, where she helped lead the $64 million-dollar organisation through unprecedented leadership and business model strategic alignment and planning. She also provides leadership as an Advisory Board member for the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum and was recently elected as a member of the Board of Directors of the Proteus Fund. Email: tammy@tdbgroup.com Phone: 510.435.6612 Web: tammydb.com If you would like to apply to be a guest on the show email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to schedule a capability briefing call with our team, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to apply for DEI PRO Coaching, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com Stay Connected with Ashanti: LinkedIn: Ashanti Bentil-Dhue

In today’s enlightening episode, Ashanti Bentil-Dhue welcomes Davina Majeethia, the EDI Lead at Nesta, an innovation foundation and charity, providing a captivating insight into her journey and experiences in the realm of EDI work. As a second-generation immigrant with a South Asian background and neurodiversity, Davina's personal experiences have driven her passion for this critical field. She discusses her transition from consulting to an in-house role, emphasising the importance of understanding the internal dynamics and challenges faced by organisations in implementing EDI strategies. Davina delves into the essential skills required for success in this field, highlighting prioritisation and compartmentalization. She also offers valuable advice to aspiring DEI professionals, emphasising the importance of humility and finding your genuine passion within the diverse landscape of EDI. This episode serves as a powerful resource for anyone interested in the intricate world of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. “ My understanding is that most EDI practitioners come into this because of a sense of their own lived experience. I also think for a lot of people, it's actually a way of channelling trauma in quite an effective way. So you're never going to have good deep understanding and experience, as in you're unlikely to in every single aspect of EDI. So know what you can know about, but also know what you don't know about and be humble about that.” Episode Highlights: •Transitioning from Consulting to In-House •Advice for aspiring DEI professionals •Skills needed to develop in internal role prioritisation, prioritising and compartmentalising About Davina Majeethia: Davina is the Senior Lead for Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI). She has a passion for underpinning EDI thinking with intersectionality and is keen to foster an environment of open and honest dialogue. She believes education to be the most powerful tool in moving forward the EDI agenda. Prior to Nesta, Davina worked at Accenture where she specialised in Talent & Organisation strategies. She has worked with Fortune 500 companies and NGO clients to formulate bespoke solutions to culture, talent and EDI issues. While at Nesta, Davina is focused on delivering our EDI Strategy, ensuring it is continuously evolving so it remains relevant and effective for all. If you would like to apply to be a guest on the show email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to schedule a capability briefing call with our team, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to apply for DEI PRO Coaching, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com Stay Connected with Ashanti: LinkedIn: Ashanti Bentil-Dhue

In today’s episode, Ashanti Bentil-Dhue welcomes Tina Gilbert, the Managing Director of Advisory Services at Management Leadership for Tomorrow (MLT). MLT is a distinguished organisation in the U.S. that strives to elevate African Americans, Hispanic Latinx, and Native Americans into roles that foster their growth and leadership. Tina's pivotal role is ensuring the recipient organisations have the right policies, practices, and culture in place to help these individuals thrive. In this episode, she shares valuable insights into how companies can create cultures of equity even during a recession, and the importance of strategic planning, understanding DEI practices, negotiation, communication, and influence in this process. Tune in to hear Tina discuss the importance of empathising with lived experiences and empowering others, creating a potent narrative around what makes a truly inclusive and equitable environment. “ Especially in my role as a managing director, where I have people underneath me who are spending the day with the employers working with them, it is how are you empowering those beneath you, across from you and with you. So you are not doing this alone. This can be a very lonely job, and especially in this time of economic transition, where you might be the only one who has the formal title of D&I. And so what are you doing both formally and informally, to bring others along on this journey with you. So you are not alone, I spent a lot of time talking about the level of engagement that you need to be able to bring and have with individuals, so that you are growing kind of your force, the people that are working with you, for you and beside you. And so in these times where it might get harder and harder to get the people formally on your team, what are you doing to empower those through volunteerism, through champion through sponsorships, so you're not in this alone. ” Episode Highlights: ● Dig into the lived experiences of the populations you work with ● The business case for diversity, equity and inclusion ● Developing skills and competencies in the field About Tina Gilbert: Tina Gilbert (she / her) is the Managing Director of Advisory Services responsible for delivery of client services and development of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion leading practices and insights. Tina brings 10 years of DEI Leadership (4 years global), 15 years of Strategic Consulting, and 25 years of corporate experiences across six industries to this role. Throughout her career, she has led efforts to transform organizations' operating models, business processes, and employee culture to create measurable impact. As an I&D Leader over the last ten years, she has partnered with Business and HR leaders in designing strategies and metrics that align with talent strategies and desired business outcomes. Prior to joining MLT, Tina was the Inclusion and Diversity Leader for Teva Pharmaceuticals and Accolade (Healthcare Navigation and Data). As the first I&D leader at both organizations, she guided each organizations’ evolution from diversity compliance management to recognizing its value as a business imperative. Her work at Teva was recognized in 2017 by Diversity Inc. Magazine as one of their Noteworthy Companies. More recently she was named as one of Hive Learning’s Most Influential D&I Leaders and by FindSpark as one of the 30 Must-Follow Diversity & Inclusion Thought Leaders Transforming the Workplace. Before working as a full-time Diversity Practitioner, Tina was a Partner/Managing Director with Accenture’s Strategy Practice leading large transformation projects, business strategic planning programs, and operations/organizational design. At Accenture, she sponsored a variety of DEI programming, recruiting and training initiatives. She holds a BS from Spelman College, an Industrial Engineering degree from the Georgia Institute of Technology, and an MBA from The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania. She is based out of the...

In this episode, Ashanti Bentil-Dhue delves into the intricate world of employee surveys, with a specific focus on their crucial role in fostering an inclusive work environment. Ashanti shares valuable insights from years of working with numerous organisations, shedding light on both the challenges and opportunities that come with surveys related to equity, diversity, and inclusion. Through her firsthand experiences, she explores the resistance, anxieties, and misconceptions that leaders often exhibit towards such surveys, and how to navigate these difficult waters. She also offers her perspective on the importance of data transparency post-surveys and the need for well-researched, carefully constructed survey questions. This episode provides a unique blend of practical advice and in-depth understanding for HR professionals, leaders, and anyone keen to enhance employee experience and inclusion in their organisations. Tune in to gain a better understanding of the human elements at play when executing employee surveys and how to overcome the obstacles that may arise in the process. If you would like to apply to be a guest on the show email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to schedule a capability briefing call with our team, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to apply for DEI PRO Coaching, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com Stay Connected with Ashanti: LinkedIn: Ashanti Bentil-Dhue

In today’s episode, Ashanti Bentil-Dhue interviews Tutu Popoola the lead consultant and director of Slick HR, a consultancy dedicated to building diverse teams for business success. As an industry leader, Tutu helps companies navigate through the intricacies of diversity and inclusion, acknowledging the distinct separation between DI and HR, and the need to address both in the corporate world. She sheds light on her evolution from an HR consultancy to a DEI-centric service provider, a change brought about by client needs and market trends. Tutu shares her experiences and expertise, highlighting the types of clients she works with, the challenges they face, and the progress made within industries towards inclusive workplaces and diversified leadership. “So how can I work to influence people in a certain way, and also understand that I will not necessarily own the outcome of whatever work I do with them. So I had to be okay with that. If my work involves consulting with them, pointing them in the right direction, guiding them gently, sometimes giving them a bit of a push, and saying, Oh, no, this has to definitely happen. But also understanding that it's not about me, when you're doing this work, you have to separate your personal ego from the work that you're doing. It can't be led by the ego level as well. And really listening to people in terms of what they're saying, and what they're not saying, I think is really important. And also when you listen, then you question when somebody makes a comment or a statement. And then you can say what do you mean by that? I need you to tell me what your understanding of that situation is.. ” Episode Highlights: ● Improving the talent pipeline and retention of talent ● Recruitment is a sticking point in diversity and inclusion ● How to become a Ggi practitioner About Tutu Popoola : Bio: Tutu Popoola is the Managing Director of Sleek HR, an outsourced consultancy enabling organisations to create HR & DEI solutions for business success. She recognises from her background in HR that applying employment law principles alone was not enough to create diverse, inclusive and equitable workplaces and will not bring about the advancements that forward thinking organisations are craving for. She supports organisations through DEI Audits, Data Collection & Analysis, Strategy Planning and Implementation and has partnered with clients across industries such as Public Relations and Communications, Energy, Logistics and Retail. She loves nature and the outdoors, especially in the summer months. Links: www.sleekhr.co.uk https://www.linkedin.com/in/tutu-popoola/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/sleek-hr/ If you would like to apply to be a guest on the show email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to schedule a capability briefing call with our team, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to apply for DEI PRO Coaching, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com Stay Connected with Ashanti: LinkedIn: Ashanti Bentil-Dhue

In this episode, Ashanti Bentil-Dhue delves into the traits that set successful HR directors and CEOs apart. Pulling from a trove of hands-on experience and case studies, illuminating what makes some leaders stand out in facilitating effective organisational changes. The importance of working closely with HR and other key stakeholders within the company's structure is explored, emphasising the power of unity and synergistic effort. This episode gives valuable insights into the significance of trust, respect, and shared expertise. Ashanti discusses how these elements pave the way for smooth, result-oriented interventions, even when faced with challenges and resistance within the organisation. Listen in as Ashanti highlights the necessity of fostering a mutual understanding, allowing both the external consultants and the in-house team to offer their unique perspectives and solve problems together. This episode is a goldmine for anyone seeking to enhance their skills in building rapport, navigating company dynamics, and becoming a trusted strategic advisor within an organisation. Prepare to reevaluate your approach to organisational change and DEI implementation. If you would like to apply to be a guest on the show email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to schedule a capability briefing call with our team, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to apply for DEI PRO Coaching, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com Stay Connected with Ashanti: LinkedIn: Ashanti Bentil-Dhue

In today’s episode, Ashanti Bentil-Dhue interviews Maria Morukian, an inspiring leader with nearly two decades of experience in the realm of organisational development, with a keen focus on diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI), and intercultural competence. With a relentless drive to build bridges across the landscape of our differences, Maria shares insights into the systemic challenges and barriers often obstructing the path to DEI in organisations. “But really my drive, my focus, my purpose is to build connections with individuals and groups, especially across the landscape of our differences so that we are better equipped to be able to address the systemic challenges and barriers that so often get in the way and are perpetuated when it comes to diversity, equity and inclusion.” Episode Highlights: ● The importance of diversifying influences and content ● The importance of self-work in training and talent development ● The importance of listening to multiple perspectives About Maria Morukian: Maria Morukian is a recognized organisational development practitioner specialising in training, coaching, and facilitation with a focus on diversity, equity, inclusion, and intercultural competence. Maria is the President of MSM Global Consulting, and an adjunct faculty member at American University’s School of International Service. She previously served in leadership and organisational development positions at the U.S. Office of Personnel Management’s Federal Executive Institute and the U.S. Department of State. She has also served in leadership positions at Management Concepts and the National MultiCultural Institute. Maria has trained and coached thousands of individuals around the world to build practices for better communication, foster competent and respectful workplaces, and navigate conflict for meaningful culture change. She has worked with such diverse clients as PBS Distribution, the National Park Service, National Institutes of Health, the World Bank, and the Association for Animal Welfare Advancement. Maria is a sought after speaker and has presented at numerous events, including TEDx, the Forum on Workplace Inclusion, the Association for Talent Development, Blacks in Government, and Ellevate Women’s Network. Her work has been published in Forbes, the Association for Talent Development’s Public Manager, and she is author of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion for Trainers: Fostering DEI in the Workplace (ATD, 2022). Maria is host of the podcast Culture Stew, which focuses on the multidimensionality of identity and best practices in diversity, equity, and inclusion. Maria earned a dual Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Michigan in Organisational Studies and Spanish, and a Master’s Degree from American University in International Communication. She lives in Washington, DC with her husband and two daughters. She is an avid runner, dancer, reader, traveller, and lover of theatre. Socials: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-morukian https://www.linkedin.com/company/msm-global-consulting Instagram: mariamorukian msm_global Facebook: Maria Morukian MSM Global Consulting Twitter: @MariaMorukian @GlobalMsm Podcast: Culture Stew is on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Libsyn, and Audible If you would like to apply to be a guest on the show email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to schedule a capability briefing call with our team, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to apply for DEI PRO Coaching, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com Stay Connected with Ashanti: LinkedIn: Ashanti Bentil-Dhue

In this episode, Ashanti Bentil-Dhue delves into the myriad of facets in the world of leadership, diversity, equity, and inclusion. After a brief hiatus, Ashanti returns with a candid discussion, revealing the recent whirlwind of personal and professional challenges and changes that have kept her away from the mic. This episode invites you into an intimate journey of personal growth, mindset shifts, and professional evolution that has fundamentally transformed how she shows up as a human being, a leader, and a DEI practitioner. Discover how her instinctive methods of operation as revealed by the Colby Index have influenced her evidence-based approach in the DEI sphere. Listen on to uncover the vital importance of the clarity stage, her self-created framework to foster meaningful change, and learn why she staunchly disagrees with relying solely on lived experiences to form organisational strategies. Ashanti’s refreshing honesty in sharing her experiences is a testament to her commitment to thought leadership, promising a podcast episode that is as personal as it is profound. “We need to get people to be thinking deeper than just we need to do this as an organisation, or that's what's expected of us, or that seems to be the right answer. We need to go deeper than that. So that the interventions, the supposed solutions that we are recommending are actually going to be fit for purpose, are actually going to shift culture and are actually going to create transformation in some way or another in that organisation. It's so important.” If you would like to apply to be a guest on the show email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to schedule a capability briefing call with our team, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to apply for DEI PRO Coaching, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com Stay Connected with Ashanti: LinkedIn: Ashanti Bentil-Dhue

In today’s episode, Ashanti Bentil-Dhue and Rohini Anand a strategic senior DEI advisor who holds key positions on numerous external diversity advisory boards delve into her personal journey, from her roots in Mumbai, India, to her migration to the United States, which provides a unique lens to her work in DEI. Rohini brings a wealth of global perspective to their conversation as she talks about her experiences in navigating between majority and minority spaces, and how this informs her perspective on diversity and inclusion. “Ultimately this global work is very complex, and it's very dynamic in nature. So there's no quick sort of checklist or playbook. And even best practices are really not enough. So the principles that I have, these five principles are simple, but they're very disruptive. And they don't provide sort of standards, or plug and play templates, based on what's worked in one country or one location. And I think that's been the foundational mistake in doing this work is replicating what's worked in one part of the world elsewhere, it can be sort of adapted to apply with sensitivity to any country and empowers global leaders to kind of develop their own solutions without mimicking a solution.” Episode Highlights: ● Cultivating a global mindset as chief diversity officers ● Advice for aspiring diversity and inclusion professionals ● How to keep developing and nurturing skills About Rohini Anand: DR. ROHINI ANAND, Founder and CEO, Rohini Anand LLC rohinianand1121@gmail.com Web site: https://www.rohinianand.com; LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rohinianand Dr. Rohini Anand is Founder and CEO of Rohini Anand LLC providing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) advisory services to clients in the public and private sectors. She is a strategic business leader and trusted board member who has successfully transformed cultures and built an iconic brand with an enduring reputation, resulting in accelerating new business creation. With expertise that spans executive leadership, human capital, global corporate responsibility, wellness and diversity equity and inclusion, Rohini brings a unique perspective on the critical alignment of the business culture and the triple bottom line to drive exceptional performance. Rohini is recognized as a pioneer in the DEI field and is a sought- after expert by leaders around the world. Her global experience, cultural dexterity, extensive network and ability to influence leaders result in a reputation for judgment, integrity, and accountability. Rohini Anand is a thought leader and a published author. Her book, Leading Global Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: A Guide for Systemic Change in Multinational Organizations, has been endorsed by luminaries like Indra Nooyi, former Chairman and CEO, PepsiCo, Hamdi Ulukaya, Founder and CEO Chobani and Tent, Michel Landel, Danone S.A Board member and former CEO, Sodexo, amongst others. It is available on Amazon here and Bookshop.org and on bookdepository here for international orders. Most recently Rohini was SVP Corporate Responsibility and Global Chief Diversity Officer for Sodexo. She reported to the Global CEO and was a member of Sodexo’s North America Executive Committee. Rohini successfully positioned Sodexo as a global thought leader in DEI and Corporate Responsibility. Sodexo’s remarkable global culture change, led by diversity and inclusion, is featured in a Harvard Business School case study entitled Shifting the Diversity Climate: the Sodexo Solution . Rohini has been featured in several articles in CNBC, The Boston Globe, The New York Times, and the Washington Post. Rohini has appeared on CNN, Bloomberg and CNN Money as well on National Public Radio. She is the recipient of many accolades including the Mosaic Woman Leadership Award, the Women’s Foodservice Forum Trailblazer Award, Webster University’s Women of Influence Award and the Who’s Who in Asian American Communities Award (WWAAC), amongst others. Dr. Anand...

In today’s episode, Ashanti Bentil-Dhue and guest Sarah Cordivano dives deep into the challenges and triumphs of individuals in DEI roles. Sarah shares her firsthand experiences and practical advice on succeeding in the field of DEI. From finding executive champions to embedding DEI within the fabric of an organization, they will uncover the key competencies needed to make a meaningful impact. “That creates a lot of difficult questions for myself around how do I perceive success in this role? And how do I recognise my own success? And how do I make sure I have the time to refresh and be my best self outside of work? So when I come to the job, I'm really ready to do a great job. And that's a big theme in the book actually, there's an entire chapter about it's called the job and you. It's about how do we reconcile the challenge of the work with also the passion that we have?” Episode Highlights: ● Advice on how to succeed in your role ● How to embed dei into the business ● Changes Sarah has observed in the DEI industry over the years About Sarah Cordivano: Title: Author and Speaker on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Sarah Cordivano (she/her) is an expert in the field of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, with a focus on implementing successful DEI strategies and developing initiatives to create more inclusive workplaces. She brings along expertise in data analytics in order to implement impactful, data-driven DEI work. She is also a professional speaker and writer, having recently published “DEI: How to Succeed at an Impossible Job.” Sarah is from Philadelphia originally and currently lives in Berlin. Links: Website: www.sarahcordivano.com Blog: https://medium.com/sarah-cordivano Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-cordivano/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/mapadelphia Book: https://amzn.eu/d/0MwB7KM If you would like to apply to be a guest on the show email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to schedule a capability briefing call with our team, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to apply for DEI PRO Coaching, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com Stay Connected with Ashanti: LinkedIn: Ashanti Bentil-Dhue In today’s episode, Ashanti Bentil-Dhue and guest Sarah Cordivano dives deep into the challenges and triumphs of individuals in DEI roles. Sarah shares her firsthand experiences and practical advice on succeeding in the field of DEI. From finding executive champions to embedding DEI within the fabric of an organization, they will uncover the key competencies needed to make a meaningful impact. “That creates a lot of difficult questions for myself around how do I perceive success in this role? And how do I recognise my own success? And how do I make sure I have the time to refresh and be my best self outside of work? So when I come to the job, I'm really ready to do a great job. And that's a big theme in the book actually, there's an entire chapter about it's called the job and you. It's about how do we reconcile the challenge of the work with also the passion that we have?” Episode Highlights: ● Advice on how to succeed in your role ● How to embed dei into the business ● Changes Sarah has observed in the DEI industry over the years About Sarah Cordivano: Title: Author and Speaker on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Sarah Cordivano (she/her) is an expert in the field of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, with a focus on implementing successful DEI strategies and developing initiatives to create more inclusive workplaces. She brings along expertise in data analytics in order to implement impactful, data-driven DEI work. She is also a professional speaker and writer, having recently published “DEI: How to Succeed at an Impossible Job.” Sarah is from Philadelphia originally and currently lives in Berlin. Links: Website: www.sarahcordivano.com Blog: https://medium.com/sarah-cordivano Linkedin:...

In this episode, Ashanti Bentil-Dhue interviews Christie Lindor the founder of Tessi consulting a Certified B Corp DEI strategy-centred firm focused on partnering with organisations that want to create diverse, high performing, and inclusive cultures. Together they explore the pressing issues in today's workplace culture, and dive deep into the challenges organisations face while embarking on their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) journeys. As a renowned DEI professional and professor at Bentley University, Christie provides valuable insights into the current landscape and highlights the contrasting approaches adopted by organisations in tackling workplace culture transformation. “ It's a daily process, you know, one of the things that I think people sometimes don't appreciate, as a DEI professional, is that we're constantly learning. We're not only learning about other individuals' identities, we are learning about different types of cultural differences, different aspects, but we're also having to learn ways to navigate politics.” Episode Highlights: ● The evolution of DEI initiatives in the US ● Organisations need to walk the walk and be competitive in the future ● Dealing with resistance and navigating politics About Christie Lindor : Christie Lindor is the Founder of Tessi Consulting, a Certified B Corp DEI strategy-centred firm focused on partnering with organisations that want to create diverse, high performing, and inclusive cultures. Prior to Tessi, Christie was a seasoned management consultant advising Fortune 500 clients at some of the world’s top consulting firms such as IBM, Deloitte, & EY. In the span of her 20 years in corporate consulting, Christie has partnered with 100s of organisations within 30 industries in 10 countries across 4 continents at the intersection of IT, strategy, and human capital. A TEDx speaker, college professor, and bestselling award-winning author, her work on workforce inclusion and culture has been featured in Harvard Business Review, Forbes, and Wall Street Journal. She lives in Hyde Park with her husband and two sons. Links: https://tessiconsulting.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/christielindor/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/tessiconsulting/ If you would like to apply to be a guest on the show email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to schedule a capability briefing call with our team, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com If you would like to apply for DEI PRO Coaching, email: operations@goodsoilleaders.com Stay Connected with Ashanti: LinkedIn: Ashanti Bentil-Dhue