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DEI After 5 with Sacha

DEI After 5 with Sacha

By Sacha Thompson

DEI After 5 with Sacha tackles honest conversations with diversity, equity, and inclusion professionals about hot topics in the DEI industry.
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Moving the DEI Needle Across the Pond - with Frank Starling

DEI After 5 with SachaSep 06, 2022

00:00
33:55
Navigating DEI Challenges: Insights from a Global DEI Director

Navigating DEI Challenges: Insights from a Global DEI Director

In this episode of DEI After 5, host Sacha Thompson delves into the importance of moving forward with diversity, equity, and inclusion work despite challenges. She welcomes guest Sabrina Townsend, Global Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging at WWT, who shares her journey into the field. Together, they discuss building community, forming partnerships, and advancing DEI within organizations. Tune in to gain valuable insights on navigating and progressing in the world of diversity and inclusion.

Mar 26, 202431:58
Building Equitable Futures with Emerging Technology

Building Equitable Futures with Emerging Technology

In this episode of DEI After 5, host Sacha Thompson discusses the intersection of technology and equity with guest Skyra Rideaux. They explore how technology can be utilized to create a more equitable world and highlight the importance of increasing representation in the tech industry. Skyra shares her non-linear career journey, including her military service and work in environmental racism and climate justice. Tune in to discover the possibilities of using emerging technology for social impact.

Mar 19, 202432:49
Empathy, Curiosity, and Inclusion: Keys to Building Safe Spaces

Empathy, Curiosity, and Inclusion: Keys to Building Safe Spaces

This episode of DEI After 5 delves into the importance of creating safe spaces and building community, especially during challenging times. Gemma Toner, CEO and founder of the Tone Networks, discusses their innovative approach to personal and professional development through a community learning platform designed to help individuals thrive in a diverse workforce. Gemma emphasizes the need for engaging and fun learning experiences that prioritize creating safe environments for growth and development.

Mar 12, 202434:45
Exploring the Intrinsic Ideals of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Exploring the Intrinsic Ideals of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

In this episode of DEI After 5, host Sacha Thompson explores the importance of moving beyond a checkbox mentality when it comes to diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in the workplace. She is joined by Dimple Shah, an enterprise agile coach and consultant, to discuss the two-way street of inclusion and what it should look like in organizations. They emphasize the mutual benefits of creating an inclusive workplace and challenge the notion that inclusion is solely the responsibility of employers. Tune in to gain insights on fostering a truly inclusive and equitable work environment.

Mar 06, 202432:26
Navigating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Higher Education

Navigating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Higher Education

In this episode of DEI After 5, Sacha discusses the recent dismantling or banning of DEI offices on college campuses. She explores the challenges faced by higher education institutions in continuing their diversity, equity, and inclusion work. Sacha is joined by Leilani Lewis, a Senior Director of Diversity and Inclusion at a public university, who shares her journey to DEI and the importance of having structures in place to ensure the work continues even without an office. They also touch on the intersection of DEI and the arts. Tune in to gain insights on being the architect of DEI work in higher education.

Feb 27, 202437:26
Beyond the 9 to 5: The Blended Nature of DEI Efforts

Beyond the 9 to 5: The Blended Nature of DEI Efforts

In this episode of DEI After 5, host Sacha Thompson invites Aisha Gori Ozaki, an in-house practitioner at a university, to discuss the challenges and importance of continuing diversity, equity, and inclusion work beyond the nine-to-five. Aisha shares her personal journey from higher education to the corporate space and how she turned her passion into her full-time job. Tune in to gain insights on the work after the work in this insightful conversation.

Feb 20, 202436:29
Unlocking the Power of Self-Advocacy: Tips and Strategies for Success

Unlocking the Power of Self-Advocacy: Tips and Strategies for Success

In this episode of DEI After 5, host Sacha Thompson discusses the importance of self-advocacy in the workplace with guest Shailvi Wakhlu, a consultant and author. Shailvi shares her experiences and insights on how to effectively advocate for oneself, emphasizing that self-advocacy is an ongoing journey rather than a one-time achievement. They explore the challenges and benefits of self-advocacy and provide practical tips for navigating professional environments. Tune in to learn how to speak up for yourself and get what you deserve at work.

Feb 13, 202430:42
Exploring the Role of Empathy in Effective Leadership

Exploring the Role of Empathy in Effective Leadership

In this episode of DEI After 5, host Sacha Thompson explores the importance of bringing empathy into leadership with guest Erin Thorpe, a consultant in the field. Sacha discusses the shift in leadership expectations post-pandemic and the need for leaders to connect with their teams on a humanistic level. Erin, an engineer with a background in construction, shares her journey of embracing empathy and feelings in her work. Tune in to learn more about the role of empathy in effective leadership.

Feb 06, 202440:05
Exploring the Impacts of AI on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Exploring the Impacts of AI on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

In this episode of DEI After 5, host Sacha Thompson discusses the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, particularly in recruiting. Sacha is joined by guest Alexandra Zellin, an expert in the field who shares her knowledge on the laws and day-to-day challenges related to AI and DEI. Alexandra's background in academia and her transition to the corporate world provide valuable insights into navigating bias and ensuring fairness in AI systems. Tune in to learn more about the intersection of AI and DEI.

Jan 30, 202431:07
Understanding the Collective Experience: Culture in DEI

Understanding the Collective Experience: Culture in DEI

In this episode of DEI After 5, the focus is on creating inclusive cultures. Sacha Thompson and guest Adriana Vaccaro discuss the importance of prioritizing culture and not just having values and mission statements on display. They emphasize that culture is not just what is written on the walls but what people experience and tolerate every day. Adriana shares her experience working with organizations to make culture a priority and offers insights on defining and creating inclusive cultures. Tune in to learn more about the significance of culture in diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.

Jan 23, 202429:01
Intersectionality and Global Perspectives: A Deep Dive into DEI Work

Intersectionality and Global Perspectives: A Deep Dive into DEI Work

In this episode of DEI After 5, host Sacha Thompson explores the topic of intersectionality and its importance in the work of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Joined by guest Jad-Évangelo Nasser, a professor and consultant, they delve into the global context of this conversation, considering the lenses of globalization, colonization, and their impacts. Together, they discuss how to approach DEI work with an intersectional perspective. Tune in to gain valuable insights and perspectives on this crucial aspect of DEI.

Jan 16, 202451:09
Navigating the Shifting Landscape of DEI in Organizations

Navigating the Shifting Landscape of DEI in Organizations

In this episode of DEI After 5, host Sacha Thompson discusses the current state of diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. With DEI becoming politicized and organizations dismantling their initiatives, the question arises: How do we continue doing the work? Joining Sacha is HR consultant Juan Tavares, who will explore the interconnectedness of DEI and share insights on navigating these challenges. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on sustaining DEI efforts amidst adversity.

Jan 09, 202430:26
The Why Behind What We Do

The Why Behind What We Do

In this short episode, I share a few thoughts on why I created DEI After 5 and what I hope will come with the new show, The Speakeasy.


Jan 02, 202407:35
New Show Announcement! DEI After 5: The Speakeasy

New Show Announcement! DEI After 5: The Speakeasy

Join us for a unique late-night rendezvous where the conversation on diversity, equity, and inclusion doesn't end when the sun goes down. In this exclusive spinoff of DEI After 5, your host [Your Name] invites you into The Speakeasy to reflect on past episodes, share fresh insights on current events, and continue conversations with past guests.

🔍 What to Expect: 🎙 Insightful Reflections: Dive deep into thought-provoking discussions from previous DEI After 5 episodes. 🌐 Current Events Exploration: Stay updated on the latest in DEI and explore how it impacts our world today. 🤝 Continued Conversations: Engage with familiar faces as we keep the dialogue alive and thriving.

🕘 Why The Speakeasy? The Speakeasy is your after-hours sanctuary for unlocking new perspectives and fostering a sense of community around crucial DEI topics. This is not just a podcast; it's an intimate space where insights flow freely, and you're invited to be part of the conversation.

🗓 Mark your calendars, subscribe, and get ready for a whole new DEI experience! 🚀

Dec 26, 202304:01
Navigating the Challenges of Being a Woman of Color in Corporate Spaces

Navigating the Challenges of Being a Woman of Color in Corporate Spaces

In this episode of DEI After Five, host Sacha Thompson welcomes guests Vanity Jenkins and Rachel Vicente, who have been dedicated to supporting women of color in the workplace. They discuss the importance of creating an inclusive environment and share insights from their work in empowering women of color. They share their journeys and the motivation behind their work, and provide valuable insights into their program. Join the conversation as they delve into the challenges and successes of their mission to ensure women of color have the support and guidance they need to thrive in the workplace.

Dec 19, 202342:44
Inclusive Marketing and the Role of DEI in Corporate Culture

Inclusive Marketing and the Role of DEI in Corporate Culture

In this episode, host Sacha Thompson chats with Sheryl Daija, who discusses the creation of Bridge, an industry trade association focused on DEI in the marketing industry. She discusses her career in marketing and her role in industry trade groups. Bridge aims to move the narrative of DEI away from philosophy and towards operationalizing inclusion as a business practice. Their mission is to promote belonging, representation, inclusion, diversity, and equity and bridge the gap in all of these areas.

Dec 18, 202336:18
The Power of Happiness: Applying the Positive Emotion in Life and Leadership

The Power of Happiness: Applying the Positive Emotion in Life and Leadership

DEI After 5 host Sacha Thompson welcomes her coach, L Michelle Smith, in this episode. They explore the significance of positive psychology and mindset shifts. L. Michelle introduces the concept of applied positive psychology as the science of happiness, driven by intrinsic motivation and aligned values. The conversation highlights the importance of personal responsibility in cultivating happiness.

Dec 05, 202338:60
Addressing Ageism: Shifting Perspectives and Challenging Assumptions

Addressing Ageism: Shifting Perspectives and Challenging Assumptions

In this episode, host Sacha Thompson discusses ageism in the workplace with guest Carrie Oswald. They explore the impact of ageism on individuals at different stages of their careers and the assumptions made about people based on their age. The conversation also includes the concept of intergenerational workforce planning and the benefits of reverse mentoring. Ageism is viewed as a complex issue that intersects with other equity-deserving groups and requires a reevaluation of biases.

Nov 28, 202337:08
Understanding the Role of Employee Resource Groups in DEI Strategies

Understanding the Role of Employee Resource Groups in DEI Strategies

In this episode of DEI After 5, host Sacha Thompson is joined by Treneice Collins. They discuss the importance of leveraging employee resource groups (ERGs) and affinity groups in organizations and the challenges and pitfalls that can arise when DEI work is placed solely on these groups. Treneice shares valuable insights on the role of leadership, the need for structure and intentionality, and the importance of upskilling and reskilling ERG members. Tune in to gain valuable advice on creating successful ERGs and fostering a supportive DEI environment.

Nov 21, 202340:40
The Shift How 2020 Redefined Work Life Balance

The Shift How 2020 Redefined Work Life Balance

In this episode of DEI After 5, host Sacha Thompson welcomes Darrell Butler, the president of Empowered Inclusion, to discuss the impact of social unrest on the workplace and how organizations can make transformative changes through diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. They explore the shift from separating personal and professional lives to the blurring of boundaries due to social and political events occuring outside of the workplace. Darrellshares his background in DEI and highlights the importance of addressing these issues in the workplace. Tune in to learn more about creating a more inclusive work environment.

Nov 14, 202331:28
Supporting Women of Color in Thriving and Flourishing in Organizations

Supporting Women of Color in Thriving and Flourishing in Organizations

In this episode of DEI After 5, host Sacha Thompson discusses the challenges women of color face in leadership development. She is joined by Dr. Carol Parker Walsh, an organizational and human development expert with 30 years of experience. Together, they explore the importance of navigating corporate spaces and provide valuable advice for women of color seeking to advance in their careers. Tune in to gain valuable insights and strategies for leadership development.

Nov 07, 202341:50
Starting the Journey: Ways to Interrogate Your Presence in DEI Spaces

Starting the Journey: Ways to Interrogate Your Presence in DEI Spaces

In this episode of DEI After Five, host Sacha Thompson explores the importance of self-reflection and self-interrogation in the field of diversity, equity, and inclusion. She welcomes Dr. Caprice Hollins, a clinical psychologist and author, to discuss her journey into this work and the need for individuals to understand their own motivations and triggers. Dr. Hollins shares insights from her book, highlighting the intersection of psychology and DEI, and the importance of ongoing self-investigation. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the internal work required to make meaningful change in the DEI space.

Oct 24, 202336:14
Exploring Inclusive Leadership in the Post-Pandemic Workplace

Exploring Inclusive Leadership in the Post-Pandemic Workplace

In this episode of DEI After 5, host Sacha Thompson dives into the topic of inclusive leadership in the post-pandemic workplace. She is joined by two experts, Diane Finn, and Dr. Alexandria White, who have written a book on this very subject. The discussion explores the importance of inclusive leadership and the challenges and opportunities it presents in today's changing work environment. Tune in to gain insights on fostering inclusivity and leading authentically in the workplace.

Oct 17, 202335:54
Exploring Health Equity: Removing Barriers and Providing Access

Exploring Health Equity: Removing Barriers and Providing Access

In this episode Sacha explores the concept of health equity in the healthcare industry. She is joined by Maria Flowers, a specialist in this area, who shares her insights and experiences. Maria discusses her background in the healthcare industry and how it led her to focus on health equity. Together, they delve into the importance of removing barriers and providing access for all individuals, and the impact it can have on patient safety and employee diversity, equity, and inclusion in healthcare organizations. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of health equity and its significance in the healthcare industry.

Oct 10, 202329:12
Exploring the Impact of Member-Based Organizations in DEI

Exploring the Impact of Member-Based Organizations in DEI

In this episode of DEI After Five, Sacha welcomes Ahmaud Thomas, CEO of the Silicon Valley Leadership Group, to discuss the impact of member-based organizations on diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. They explore the history of the association and its mission to make Silicon Valley a better place to do business. Tune in to learn more about the work being done to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the tech sector.

Oct 03, 202337:57
The Role of Justice in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The Role of Justice in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

In this episode of DEI After 5, host Sacha Thompson explores the importance of justice in the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) field. She is joined by guest Rachel Lauren, a social influencer and Chief People Officer at dream.org, a nonprofit focused on closing prison doors and opening doors of opportunity. Together, they discuss the evolving nature of DEI and how justice plays a critical role in creating a more equitable society. Tune in to learn more about the work being done to promote justice and inclusion in organizations.

Sep 26, 202327:60
Creating Inclusive Spaces for Invisible Disabilities

Creating Inclusive Spaces for Invisible Disabilities

In this episode, Sacha Thompson discusses the importance of including the disability community in conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion. She is joined by Dr. MJ McConner who shares insights on the need for organizations to prioritize disability inclusion. Dr. MJ highlights the lack of attention given to disabilities in the workplace and offers suggestions for creating a more inclusive environment. Tune in to learn more about the importance of disability inclusion in DEI efforts.

Sep 20, 202326:58
Leading Self and Courageous Conversations in Leadership

Leading Self and Courageous Conversations in Leadership

In this episode, Sacha Thompson welcomes guest Loren Rosario Maldonado, CEO and founder of Cultura Inc., to discuss the importance of people managers and leaders in creating inclusive cultures within organizations. Loren shares her expertise in leadership and how she got into this work after years of experience in global multinationals. Tune in to learn about the role of cultural intelligence in building psychologically safe workspaces and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Sep 12, 202332:34
The Importance of Inclusive Design in DEI 2.0

The Importance of Inclusive Design in DEI 2.0

In this episode Sacha discusses the importance of taking diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) to the next level, beyond just internal employee initiatives. She is joined by Jessica Bantam, a DEI and interior design consultant, who shares insights from her book "Design for Identity." They explore the significance of incorporating conversations about cultural identity into the design process, both with customers and among design teams.

Sep 05, 202327:12
Navigating Multiple Intersections: A Conversation on Identity

Navigating Multiple Intersections: A Conversation on Identity

In this episode, Sacha sits down with Chris Hooten to discuss the importance of understanding one's identities and their impact on how individuals show up in different spaces. They cover the challenges of discussing these intersections, particularly within the BIPOC community, and focuses on emphasizing the need for inclusive conversations and breaking ancestral ties to move forward.

Aug 29, 202336:10
Understanding and Managing Emotions in the Workplace

Understanding and Managing Emotions in the Workplace

In this episode of DEI After 5, host Sacha Thompson speaks with therapist and DEI practitioner, Rorri Geller-Mohamed, about navigating emotions in diversity, equity, and inclusion work. They discuss the passion that drives individuals in this field, as well as the fear, anxiety, and frustration that can slow down progress. Rory shares insights on blending clinical social work and DEI, and offers strategies for building leadership and managing emotions in this important work. Tune in to gain valuable insights and tools for overcoming obstacles in the DEI space.

Aug 22, 202327:21
How to Get Into 'Good Trouble' in DEI

How to Get Into 'Good Trouble' in DEI

In this episode of DEI After 5, host Sacha Thompson speaks with Danette Buie, founder of Thrive Limitlessly, about getting into "good trouble" in diversity, equity, and inclusion. They discuss the importance of questioning authority and pushing the envelope to effect change, whether in one's personal life or the workplace. Buie shares her experiences transitioning from education to the tech sector and advises individuals and businesses interested in investing in DEI initiatives.

Jun 13, 202333:08
Celebrating Women's Leadership Superpowers

Celebrating Women's Leadership Superpowers

In this episode of DEI After 5, host Sacha Thompson dives into the topic of women's leadership development and growth in corporate spaces. She discusses the industry's current state, the challenges women face in climbing the ranks, and the importance of sponsorship and allyship in promoting success. Joined by industry expert Angel Henry, this episode offers valuable insights and perspectives on the topic. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on the future of women in leadership roles in corporate America.

Jun 06, 202338:30
The Value of Community Cultural Wealth

The Value of Community Cultural Wealth

In this episode of DEI After 5, host Sacha Thompson talks about the importance of community and how it relates to diversity, equity, and inclusion. She is joined by Dr. Hayley Haywood, who shares her experiences and insights on the topic, including the challenges Black women face in the workforce and the power of entrepreneurship. Listeners will learn about the impact of formative experiences on career trajectories and the need for a holistic approach to creating inclusive cultures.

Tune in every Tuesday at 5.15 PM Eastern for more thought-provoking discussions on DEI. Don't forget to subscribe, like, and comment on YouTube or wherever you listen to your podcasts.

May 30, 202330:53
Leveraging Mentorship to Advance Your Inclusion Efforts

Leveraging Mentorship to Advance Your Inclusion Efforts

Expanding the conversation on mentorship, Sacha chats with Sandra Hunter about the role of the mentor in the development of early career women, how internal mentorship can support the succession planning process, and how mentorship can lead to building more inclusive cultures and work environments.

May 23, 202329:54
Are You Looking at Mental Health with a Lens of Inclusion?

Are You Looking at Mental Health with a Lens of Inclusion?

During this conversation, Sacha chats with Dr. Claire Green-Forde about the importance of mental health beyond awareness in the workplace, the impacts of toxic workplaces on racialized bodies, and the responsibilities of culturally responsive collective care.

May 16, 202337:16
Unpacking and Understanding Self-Care

Unpacking and Understanding Self-Care

In this episode, Sacha sits down with Steff Gallante to discuss what self-care is, how we can find what works for us, and the key to being consistent in our self-care practices.

May 09, 202327:41
The Future of Leadership: Becoming a Waymaker

The Future of Leadership: Becoming a Waymaker

Sacha discusses the future of leadership with guest Tara Jaye Frank. In this conversation, they unpack the skills required for 21st-century inclusive leadership, the need for capacity building, and the daily behaviors of inclusive leaders.

May 02, 202334:12
Discussing Anti-Racism: From Corporate to the Caribbean

Discussing Anti-Racism: From Corporate to the Caribbean

In this discussion, Sacha chats with Sharon Hurley Hall on creating equality in the workplace and the impact of colonialism on Caribbean culture.

Apr 25, 202332:35
The Value of Inclusive Storytelling and Content Creation

The Value of Inclusive Storytelling and Content Creation

In this conversation with Prasanna Ranganathan, Sacha and Prasanna discuss the importance of storytelling, whose stories are not being told, authentic vs. performative storytelling, and the power of intentionality in inclusive storytelling.

Apr 18, 202334:53
Moving DEI Through Middle Managers

Moving DEI Through Middle Managers

Research shows that middle management is the key to #dei success. In this episode, Sacha talks to Amy Waninger about managers roles on the front lines of #inclusion work, how they can manage across change, and how organizations can provide them with the support and tools needed for #changemanagement.

Apr 12, 202335:39
Accessibility, Intersectionality, and DEI

Accessibility, Intersectionality, and DEI

In this episode, Sacha chats with Candis Welch about the segregation of #identities in #dei efforts, how to communicate with people with #disabilities, and how they can best serve employees with intersectional identities.

Apr 04, 202329:30
Managing Racial Fueled Workplace Bullying

Managing Racial Fueled Workplace Bullying

Sacha sits down with Zenica Chatman to discuss the importance of DEI training for HR professionals particularly around race and addressing race-based microaggressions in the workplace.

Mar 28, 202334:15
Freeing Ourselves from Supremacy Culture

Freeing Ourselves from Supremacy Culture

In this discussion, Sacha chats with therapist Dr. Donna Oriowo about supremacy's impact on the global majority, ways to build a practice of freedom as it relates to power, and the importance of finding a community.

Mar 21, 202334:46
Understanding DEI in the Global Context

Understanding DEI in the Global Context

Sacha chats with Abbiola Ballah on practicing diversity, equity,and inclusion with a global lens and the importance of unpacking our biases and challenges as DEI practitioners. 

Mar 14, 202346:09
Supplier Diversity as a Part of Your DEI Strategy

Supplier Diversity as a Part of Your DEI Strategy

During this conversation, Sacha chat with Jaime Brown on the importance of #supplierdiversity , how it can impact the greater #community and ways individuals can create their own supplier diversity programs.

Mar 07, 202327:12
Bonus Episode: Dismantling DEI in Academia

Bonus Episode: Dismantling DEI in Academia

In this special edition of DEI After 5, I chat with three higher education professionals about the efforts starting in Florida to dismantle #dei, the impacts on higher education overall, and how we can prepare ourselves, our campuses, and our organizations for a future without DEI.  

Join me and my guests Gardy Guiteau, JeffriAnne Wilder, Ph.D., and Tammy L. Hodo, Ph.D.  Pronouns, She, Her, Hers , as we start to unpack the fight against  Critical Race Theory and push toward anti-Blackness in academia and what  we can do to continue pushing for diversity, equity, and inclusion for all.

 

Mar 02, 202356:21
How Can Mentorship be a Part of Your DEI Efforts?

How Can Mentorship be a Part of Your DEI Efforts?

Sacha chats with Yalonda Brown on the value and benefits of mentorship within an organization.

Feb 28, 202329:30
CSR and ESG - Where does DEI fit?

CSR and ESG - Where does DEI fit?

In this week's episode of DEI After 5, I sit down with Kim "Kimfer" Flanery-Rye, MBA, to discuss the intersection of DEI, Corporate Social Responsibility (#csr), and Environmental Societal and Governance (#esg). We also touch on the recent trend of reducing or eliminating DEI in light of the pending recession.

Feb 21, 202334:42
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Venture Capital

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Venture Capital

Sacha revisits her tech background and the importance of DEI in the venture capital area with guest Brooke Daniels.  In this episode, they discuss the challenges that Black and Brown founders face, what they can do to get their idea off the ground and ways to get access to capital and business credit.

Feb 14, 202332:25