487. Level the Playing Field by Breaking Bias and Fostering Inclusion - Dena Williams
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Overview
Meet Dena. She’s a staunch advocate for more diversity, equity and inclusion in all aspects of our lives. Her advocacy work began at just 16 years old when she was a volunteer for a Black and Brown LGBTQ youth HIV outreach program in the inner cities of Connecticut. From leading employee resource groups in both corporate and nonprofit settings to making history as the first Black CEO and board chair of the Trans Chorus of Los Angeles, she has consistently broken barriers. Today, Dena continues to shape the DEIA landscape through her impactful consultancy work. Tune in to hear her incredible story and stay to uncover ways to create inclusive communities where everyone can express their truth.
💡 Learn
How to build cultures of belonging
Tips for counteracting unconscious bias
Cornerstones of workplace engagement that create vibrant workplaces
Today’s Guest
Dena Williams, Founder, Dena Williams Consulting
“What can we do to level the playing field?”
Episode Transcript
Download Full Episode Transcript Here
Episode Highlights
Dena’s story and journey to where she is today (3:30)
Creating communities of belonging (8:20)
The difference between equity and equality (15:00)
Unconscious bias (19:00)
3 Drivers of Employee Engagement (24:00)
Psychological Safety
Psychological Availability
Psychological Meaningfulness
A powerful story of philanthropy in Dena’s life (28:00)
Dena’s One Good Thing: Self-care. Do it. (32:00)
Impactful Quotes
“Being the first, we were able to have a lot of firsts in the organization.” -Dena
“Embrace the voice that you have.” -Dena
“It’s about creating a psychologically safe space for everyone.” -Becky
“What can we do to level that playing field?” -Dena
“You have to get comfortable with being uncomfortable.” -Dena
“It’s important to understand that we all have some level of unconscious bias.” -Dena
“How do you acknowledge that this is how your brain is reacting to certain situations?” -Dena
“Businesses need to create processes on top of processes.” -Dena
“People can be bias disruptors. Employ those in your organizations.” -Dena
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Connect with Jon
Connect with Becky
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