The Will to Change: Where Leadership Meets the Courage to Evolve

This episode features a conversation with inclusive language expert Jen O'Ryan on the nuances of language and word choice for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Jen reveals how we can expand our linguistic awareness to lead with more humility and precision and provides concrete examples for humanizing workspaces by removing ableist language and replacing problematic words with more inclusive alternatives. Learn practical tips for giving graceful feedback when problematic language is used, while still aligning as fellow learners. Discover how language can be a powerful tool for creating more belonging if we continually educate ourselves on the impacts of our word choices.

This episode features a conversation with co-authors Christopher McCormick and Aman Gohal about using the stages of adult development as a framework for expanding DEI conversations. They discuss the action logics model which describes mindsets and behaviors at different maturity levels and reveal how leaders can apply this model to develop a greater understanding of colleagues. Discover the importance of moving from achievement to exploring potential and how these perspectives can lead to new breakthroughs.

This episode features a conversation with economist Jeff Korzenik as he explores the overlooked talent pool of people who have interacted with the justice system. Discover the enormous scale of this community, with over 70 million Americans having some involvement with the legal system, and the compelling business case for hiring this untapped talent in light of today's tight labor market and aging workforce. Jeff also reveals how companies have successfully hired those given a second chance by overcoming assumptions and biases through thoughtful processes.

This episode was originally recorded as a DEI Community Call and features a conversation with Carin Taylor, Chief Diversity Officer at Workday, about the transformative power of witnessing others' stories for advancing DEI efforts. Drawing from her extensive professional experience and personal journey, Carin shares insights on how the simple yet courageous act of storytelling can profoundly impact workplace cultures when those stories are held with compassion. Discover how we can lift all voices through storytelling and discuss why this matters now more than ever in these challenging times.

This episode was originally recorded for the BE the CHANGE podcast and features a conversation between Jennifer and host Stephanie Howlett as they discuss the importance of allyship. Jennifer shares tips for navigating the journey of allyship and the importance of using our privilege on behalf of others. Discover why and how leaders need to evolve from outdated mindsets focusing on protecting resources and how to enable humanity in our organizations. You'll also hear about how to rethink affinity groups to focus on shared identities rather than traditional, siloed groups.

This episode features a conversation with Erik Day, Senior Vice President of Global Small Business at Dell Technologies. Erik discusses his journey of helping start Dell's first LGBTQ employee resource group in the early 2000s and reflects on what it takes to drive systemic change. He stresses the importance of intersectionality, using privilege and influence for good, and enacting inclusive policies that support employees' identities. Discover how senior leaders can leverage their roles to advance equality across organizations and industries.

This episode was originally recorded on the Courage Counts Program and features a conversation between Jennifer Brown and Chuck Shelton as they discuss how to scale inclusive leadership when DEI is being doubted and even weaponized. Jennifer reveals how to assertively drive DEI as a business growth strategy and how to create psychological safety for resistant leaders. Discover the importance of practicing situational allyship and how to let DEI success happen through vertical leadership in organizations.

This episode was originally recorded for the Workforce Central podcast and features a conversation between Jennifer and host Ron Painter. Jennifer reveals how leaders can foster a sense of belonging among employees, especially in a hybrid work environment. She also shares strategies for understanding and supporting a multi-generational, neurodiverse workforce. Discover how leaders can help create an atmosphere of psychological safety and respond quickly to issues in order to retain talent.

This episode features a conversation with Michelle Phillips, Principal at the White Plains, NY, office of Jackson Lewis P.C., as Michelle discusses major legal developments that impact DEI efforts in the workplace. Discover how the Supreme Court's recent ruling limiting affirmative action in college admissions is also causing companies to pull back on their DEI programs. Michelle provides insight into how employers can navigate this complex legal landscape while expanding diversity pipelines and addressing unconscious bias.

This episode was originally recorded as a DEI Community call, and features a conversation between Jennifer, Shalynne Jackson, Chief Inclusion and Diversity Officer at The City of Oklahoma City, and Jim Massey, Chief Sustainability Officer at Zai Lab, as they discuss the power of vulnerable and authentic storytelling. Tune in as Jennifer, Shalynne, and Jim share stories and insights and reveal how our unique identities and personal experiences can serve as the foundation for trust, empathy, and a true sense of belonging. Discover how struggles and disabilities can provide unexpected gifts.

This episode was originally recorded for the NSLS Motivation Monday's podcast and features a conversation between Jennifer, host Cory Andrew Powell, and Giselle Phelps, Founder and CEO of Grand Rising Talent. The conversation was originally recorded during Pride month and focuses on leadership and representation in the LGBTQ+ community. Discover the importance of normalizing LGBTQ+ interactions in communities and the importance of strategic efforts to promote understanding and counteract negativity. Jennifer also reveals the importance for organizations to align with evolving demographics.

This episode features a conversation with Ray Arata, Founder and CEO of the Better Man Movement, and Joe Rafter, Vice President at Capgemini about masculinity, partnership, and institutional transformation. Discover the pivotal role of support and accountability in the journal of allyship. Jennifer, Ray, and Joe also discuss the complexities of privilege, the power of vulnerability, and the potential for growth through discomfort. You'll also hear details about the upcoming Better Together conference, which is presented in partnership with Jennifer Brown Consulting.

This episode features a conversation with author Charlie Gilkey, as he discusses his new book Team Habits: How Small Actions Lead to Extraordinary Results. Charlie discusses the need to redefine the way we view teams, leadership, and inclusion in the wake of the pandemic and unprecedented challenges. He also shares insights about how remote collaboration, shifting paradigms of belonging, and innovative approaches to inclusion have reshaped the team dynamics landscape.

In this episode, Jennifer discusses the milestone of selling 75,000 copies of her book How to Be an Inclusive Leader and outlines a strategic approach for bringing everyone along the journey of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Jennifer highlights the importance of engaging all people in an organization, including the "learners, leaders, and laggards" and why a training approach may not work for everyone. Discover how a coaching-based approach to inclusion can create a more empathic, adaptive, and effective pathway to sustainable change.

Ray Arata, Founder and CEO of the Better Man Movement, joins the program to introduce and discuss the first-ever Better Together Conference. The conference will be a series of conversations aimed at fostering learning, connection, trust, and empathy that include both male leaders and other champions, with the intent of articulating a vision for true partnership that includes and enlists all of us. Discover the new mission, agenda, what to expect, and who should attend. To register for the event, visit: https://tinyurl.com/y5c6yryv

This episode features a conversation with Tony DeGruy, Leader of Service Delivery Management at Cisco, and Gena Pirtle, Global Head of Cisco's Inclusive Community Experience. Tony discusses his journey of becoming the co-lead for Cisco's Men for Inclusion Network, which strives to accelerate, activate and develop male leaders and influencers to use their power and influence to shape a culture of equity, belonging and allyship for all. Gena discusses what inclusive leadership looks like across all levels of an organization and how to enable inclusive leadership. Discover how creating a culture of psychological safety can enable people to explore all of their diversity dimensions.

This episode was originally recorded for the Forged in Fire Podcast and features a conversation between Jennifer and hosts Dr. Liz Cavallaro and Lt Col Bree Fram. Jennifer discusses the benefits of having to forge your own path and the need to have challenging conversations. Discover some of the positive aspects of adversity and the importance of role models. Jennifer also provides a call to action for anyone looking to looking to be a cutting-edge leader.

This episode was originally recorded on the All Inclusive Podcast, and features a conversation between Jennifer and host Natasha Rainey. Jennifer reveals the importance of having a learner's mindset as a leader and the difference between empathy and compassion. She also discusses how leaders can cultivate inclusivity in their teams and organizations and provides actionable advice on how to be an inclusive leader in today's rapidly changing world.

Last week, Elon Musk tweeted that the words 'cis' or 'cisgender' are now considered slurs on Twitter. Please join Jennifer Brown in conversation with award-winning transgender advocate Dr. Elijah Nicholas, DBA, as they discuss what this means for the transgender community, the importance of understanding and using gender inclusive language, and why LGBTQ+ allies are needed now more than ever.

This episode features a conversation with human rights and corporate social responsibility expert Fabrice Houdart, as he shares his diversity story and discusses how companies can successfully navigate the DEI and social responsibility landscape. Discover the importance of professionalism in corporate advocacy and what organizations can do to support LGBTQ+ inclusion in the wake of the "anti-woke" backlash. Fabrice also discusses what Gen Z expects from corporate brands and the impact of those expectations on corporate DEI efforts. To subscribe to Fabrice's newsletter, visit: http://fabricehoudart.substack.com

This episode was originally recorded as a Community Call, and features a conversation with Berkshire Hathaway Energy CDO Darla Zink, as she outlines her journey to the CDO role, and her personal change philosophy when it comes to building inclusive organizations. Discover creative ways to gain alignment on DEI commitments with leaders and how to balance the perception that resourcing under-represented populations can be interpreted as excluding others. Darla also discusses her organization's Pride and Juneteenth initiatives in the Portland area.

Martinus Evans joins the program to discuss his new book, Slow AF Run Club: The Ultimate Guide for Anyone Who Wants to Run, and to share his journey, which includes completing 8 marathons and creating the Slow AF Run Club, which encourages runners and walkers of all ages and experience levels. Martinus reveals what to do when facing self-doubt and some of the biases in the design of racing. Discover how to make fitness more inclusive and the importance of mindset when it comes to exercise.

Lenna Turner, Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging at Salary.com, joins the program to discuss compensation inequity, and how it has impacted her personally and professionally. Lenna reveals the impact of salary ban laws and how the war for talent is connected to transparency, pay equity and creating an inclusive culture. Discover the mindset and mental game needed to prepare for a job interview, and the issues that need to be addressed in order to have a healthy conversation about pay equity. To schedule a free compensation consultation, visit https://www.salary.com/business/services/consulting

Author Simran Jeet Singh joins the program to discuss his new book The Light We Give: How Sikh Wisdom Can Transform Your LIfe. Simran shares his diversity story and the formative experiences that have shaped who is today. He also reveals how to tailor storytelling to connect with various audiences. Discover how Sikh wisdom can help inform an approach to DEI that is grounded in a spirit of love and service.

Employment attorney Michelle Phillips returns to the program to discuss the current DEI landscape and the importance of focusing on training and prevention. Michelle reveals some of the pushback that has occurred when it comes to DEI efforts and the legal issues that companies need to consider. Discover the importance of psychological safety in the workplace and the DEI implications of workers returning to the office post-COVID.

In this minisode, Jennifer discusses the Iceberg Model and how it can be used to drive more honest conversations and bring hidden identities to the surface. Jennifer reveals how she developed the Iceberg Model and why being able to see under the waterline is crucial for getting organizational buy-in from employees. Discover the connection between the Iceberg Model and the Inclusive Leader Continuum and Jennifer's vision for how the Iceberg Model can be used to create cultures of safety and belonging.

This episode was originally recorded as a Community Call and features a conversation between JBC's Vice President Adrienne Lawrence, and Julissa Garcia, a clinical psychologist, as they discuss Autism Acceptance Month, and the importance of listening to autistic voices in order to gain a better understanding about their experiences in the workplace. Discover how to establish inclusive environments that accommodate and celebrate neurodivergent individuals, regardless of their specific diagnosis or condition. You'll also hear about how to recognize and value the unique talents and achievements of autistic individuals.

Dede Orraca-Cecil, Egon Zehnder's US Head of DEI, joins the program to discuss her career journey and the formative experiences that led her to become an advocate for more equitable systems. Dede shares how leaders can act as bridges for their communities and organizations and create spaces for others to make contributions. Discover the importance of being aware of rapidly changing dynamics and how to infuse the values of diversity, equity and inclusion into the culture of an organization.

This episode was originally recorded on International Women's Day and features a conversation between Jennifer and Lorraine Orr, Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer for Boys and Girls Clubs of America. Jennifer defines inclusive leadership and discusses how a leader's behavior impacts others in an organization. She also reveals the need for leaders to center and decenter themselves, and how leaders can use storytelling to model vulnerability and authenticity. Discover why impact often doesn't match intent when it comes to DEI and the need to identify inclusive behaviors.

Jim Massey, author and Chief Sustainability Officer for Zai Lab, joins the program to reveal the experiences that shaped who he is today and the impetus behind writing his new book Trust in Action: A Leader's Guide to Act. Right. Now. Jim discusses how leaders can build trust within an organization and the pitfalls of taking action without building trust. Discover the importance of examining systems and why repairing trust in systems is often a prerequisite to nurturing trust in self and others.

Jessica Bantom, author, DEI practitioner, and interior design expert, joins the program to discuss her new book Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World. Jessica reveals what it means to design for identity, why it's important, and what it means to work at the intersection of DEI and the design process. Discover how to move from performative inclusive design to impactful and truly inclusive design and outcomes. For more information about Jessica and her book, visit https://www.jessicabantom.com/designforidentity

This episode features a conversation between JBC's Elfi Martinez and Yasmine Osborne, Director of Diversity and Inclusion at Hearst Television, Inc., as they discuss the origins of ERGs at Hearst Television. Discover the difference between an affinity group and an ERG and some of the guardrails that can be put in place to keep ERGs organized and productive. Yasmine also shares her thoughts about the need to clearly define the purpose of ERGs and how to attract executive sponsors.

This episode was originally recorded as a DEI Community Call and features a conversation between Jennifer and JBC Vice-President Elfi Martinez as they discuss the most challenging issues facing DEI practitioners today and the challenges that can be expected over the next few months. Jennifer and Elfi reveal how to keep pushing for real change and how senior leaders can create a work environment that fosters trust and psychological safety. Discover the inherent urgency of DEI work and the impact that the shifting demographics of the labor market will have on diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.

This special takeover episode of the Will to Change features a conversation with Nadia Nagamootoo, Founder and CEO of Avenir, a diversity, equity, and inclusion consultancy, Dr. Pippa Grange, a highly sought-after sports psychologist and culture coach. and Errol Amerasekera, Director of Bluestone Edge, an organization providing consultancy in culture, ethics, performance psychology, and leadership. You'll hear about the idea of winning shallow vs. winning deep and why checking the box when it comes to DEI doesn't lead to transformational change. Discover some of the biggest struggles that leaders face when measuring progress around diversity, equity, and inclusion and why DEI work needs to be relational. Nadia, Dr. Grange, and Errol also discuss what it looks like for inclusive leaders to focus on winning deep and how to practice skills that move us beyond productivity and mechanization to a more whole psychological state.

This episode features a conversation between Jennifer, Shalynne Jackson, City of Oklahoma City's Chief Inclusion and Diversity Officer, and Jim Massey, author and Chief Sustainability Officer for Zai Lab, as they discuss the current state of allyship and what allyship should look like in 2023. Discover the importance of strategic allyship and the need to move from empathy into action. Shalynne and Jim also reveal the role that their faith plays in their DEI journey and how love can help us bring humanity back to work.

This episode was originally recorded as a DEI Community Call and features a conversation between JBC's Adrienne Lawrence and Ola Ojewumi, Founder of Project ASCEND. Adrienne and Ola discuss workplace discrimination and how race and disability intersect. Discover why ableism often goes unnoticed and some of the reasons behind the high unemployment and underemployment rate among persons with disabilities. Ola also shares why she founded Project ASCEND and the work that her organization does to provide higher education opportunities for marginalized and disadvantaged young people across the globe.

This episode was originally recorded on the Getting to Work podcast, hosted by John Spencer. Jennifer reveals why leaders need to think differently about how they lead at work and the challenges of leading a multigenerational workforce. She also discusses the various microaggressions that employees from marginalized communities often face at work and how to create a workplace culture where everyone feels valued and included. Discover why leaders need to lean into vulnerability and embrace imperfection.

This episode was originally recorded as a panel with members of the L'Oreal USA Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Advisory Board. Joining the panel were Jennifer, Ivy Fairchild, Consultant, Hispanic Federation. Dr. Crystal Lee, CEO & Founder, United Natives, Anna Mok, Co-Founder & President, Ascend Leadership, Scott Richman, Regional Director, Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and Jamal Watkins, Senior Vice President, Strategy and Advancement, NAACP. The intersectional panel featured a discussion on civil rights, including a reflection on progress, and gaps still needing to be filled. Discover the role of the individual in civic engagement and activism, the need for equitable capitalism and corporate action, and the importance of allyship.

Kenji Yoshino, author and Chief Justice Earl Warren Professor of Constitutional Law at NYU School of Law, returns to the program to discuss his new book Say the Right Thing: How to Talk About Identity, Diversity, and Justice, which he co-authored along with David Glasgow. Kenji reveals the impetus behind writing the book and shares tips about how to navigate difficult DEI conversations. He also discusses some of the limitations of cancel culture and how to move from a cancel culture to a coaching culture. Discover a mature model of vulnerability that allows you to be fully authentic and the power of cultivating curiosity.

This episode features an interview with author and GORGEous agency founder Kara Richardson Whitely. Kara discusses the importance of body inclusivity in business and the work that her agency does to help brands attain growth and profitability in the plus-size market. She also discusses details about her memoir Gorge: My Journey Up Kilimanjaro at 300 Pounds, which will soon be a motion picture. She also shares examples of what allyship looks like when it comes to body inclusivity.

In this episode, originally recorded for the Beyond Barriers Podcast, Jennifer discusses her own career journey and how to motivate yourself and others. Discover how to create a community of inclusion and the importance of making sure that all voices are heard. Jennifer also shares tips about developing your own personal brand and standing up in your power.

Author and entrepreneur Aaron Hurst returns to the program to discuss the importance of developing a purpose mindset and reveals the formative experiences that shaped his work. Discover the difference between a purpose mindset and a transactional mindset, and how to cultivate a mindset that leads to greater fulfillment. Aaron also discusses how speaking differently to young people about learning and work can create a positive paradigm shift.

In this episode, Jennifer discusses the importance of supporting coaches, and other supporters of inclusive leaders. She shares her thoughts about some of the considerations that go into supporting coaches versus supporting leaders and why coaches don't have to be DEI experts in order to have an impact. Discover how coaches can both support and challenge leaders on their inclusive leadership journey.

This episode was originally recorded for the Productive Flourishing Podcast, and features a conversation between Jennifer and Productive Flourishing host Charlie Gilkey. Jennifer shares her thoughts about the journey of inclusive leadership, including the need for insiders to push other insiders to lead differently. Discover why leaders need to be patient, humble and transparent about their experiences.

This episode was originally recorded as a webinar and features a conversation between Jennifer and Dr. Pamela Larde from The Institute of Coaching. Jennifer discusses the evolution of the attributes needed for effective leadership and what coaches should know about the evolving inclusive leader journey. Discover how coaches can help influence, impact, and support the leaders they coach in building the new and evolving competencies that they will need to lead effectively.

This episode was originally recorded as a DEI Community Call and features a conversation between Jennifer and JBC Vice Presidents Elfi Martinez and Adrienne Lawrence as they take a look at top trends, themes and conversations that surfaced in 2022, and what we can expect in 2023. Discover what effective allyship will look like in 2023 and how to convert meaningful intentions into actions that drive change. Tune in as Jennifer, Elfi and Adrienne discuss what action towards equity looks like in 2023 and reflect on how far we've come in 2022!

Entrepreneur, coach, and author Kay Allison joins the program to discuss her new book Juicy AF (Alcohol-Free): Stop The Drinking Spiral, Create Your Future. Kay shares her thoughts about why the alcohol-free population should be part of diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts and the work-related situations that can be tough for alcohol-free employees to navigate. She also shares her own journey of becoming alcohol-free and practical ways that employers can make work-related events more inclusive of alcohol-free employees.

This episode features a conversation with Chris Altizer and Gloria Johnson-Cusack, authors of the book Growing the Elephant – Increasing Earned Advantage for All. Chris and Gloria reveal the impetus behind writing their book and the distinction between earned and unearned advantages. They also discuss the importance for leaders of being humble and how to have courageous and productive conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion. Discover why talking about advantage can be more helpful than talking about privilege.

This takeover episode of The Will to Change features a conversation with Kenji Yoshino, Chief Justice Earl Warren Professor of Constitutional Law and Director of the Meltzer Center for Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging at NYU School of Law. Kenji interviews Jennifer about the 2nd edition of her best-selling book How to be an Inclusive Leader. Kenji and Jennifer cover a variety of topics, including the generational shift that's underway, gender identity as a continuum, and the need to hold space for each other on our learning journeys.

Note: This episode was previously recorded and is being released in recognition of the holiday season! In this minisode, Jennifer shares her thoughts on several pertinent (and previously released) episodes from The Will To Change on the topics of compassion fatigue and self-care. You'll discover the importance of thinking about your thinking, the potential pitfalls of sharing our story in unhealthy ways, and the healing power of community.