I made a huge mistake. That statement is not that uncommon for me to say. Mistakes happen with some frequency despite my best efforts. If to err is human, I’m definitely very human.

There is an interview that was done back when Adam was still involved that I just came across and realized was never released. And of course that shames me because, despite the delays that might invariably occur with producing this things, I always try to do right by the guests.

And it turns out that the topic of this conversation couldn’t be more timely. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion has been at the top of the headlines. Executive Orders, Lawsuits brought by states, companies either reducing or eliminating their DEI-related programs, with others reaffirming their commitment. For those of us interested or involved in DEI, there is a lot to keep track of.

So it is fortuitous that I bring out our conversation with Teja Arboleda right now. Even though we are not talking about the current state of DEI, we are talking about the prelude to this moment.

Teja is a producer, director, and actor, using his talents to weave together stories that touch on traditional themes and emergent ones as well. He also has lived across national cultures, growing up in Japan but in an American family. He worked at WGBH, the Boston public television station, where he worked on documentaries related to the Gulf War and the series Frontline.

He brings that attention and skillset to the work that he has done in the corporate environment, bringing impactful trainings that are imbued with humor, storytelling, and connecting audiences with the universal experiences behind DEI.

And I should also mention he has a degree in sociology as well!

Teja Arboleda - https://tejaarboleda.com

Teja Arboleda LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tejaarboleda/

Ibis Consulting Group - https://www.ibisconsultinggroup.com/

Melanie Masarin: Founder and CEO of Ghia