In This Moment - A New Perspective on DEI

In This Moment - The Podcast
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Nov 18, 2025 • 45min

Proving human value: Data strategies for the AI economy

Overview:In this conversation, Zach Nunn discusses the implications of AI on the future of work, emphasizing the unsustainable nature of replacing human jobs with technology. He highlights the fear surrounding job loss due to AI, the reality of AI implementation failures, and the importance of change management in organizations. The discussion also touches on the need for diversity in tech, the ethical considerations of AI, and the evolving corporate landscape. Nunn encourages individuals to prepare for the future by staying informed and adaptable in a rapidly changing job market.Key Takeaways:- Organizations are increasingly choosing AI solutions over long-term people investment.- The reality of AI implementation shows a high failure rate in organizations.- AI is not a replacement for human intelligence but a tool to assist.- Diversity in tech is crucial for innovation and ethical considerations.- Change management is essential for organizations to adapt to new technologies.- Individuals should prepare for the future by keeping their skills updated.- The corporate landscape is shifting towards a more transactional relationship with employees.- Ethical implications of AI must be considered in corporate strategies.- The hype surrounding AI often overshadows its actual capabilities.- The future of work will require a balance between technology and human roles.About Our Guest:Zachary Nunn, PHR, is the founder and CEO of Living Corporate, a media and consulting firm focused on centering and amplifying Black and Brown voices in the workplace. A seasoned HR professional with a background in talent acquisition and organizational growth, Nunn has transformed his podcast into a six-figure consulting firm. He is a prominent voice in the DEI space, offering insights on corporate culture and workplace equity through his platform and various speaking engagements.
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Nov 11, 2025 • 44min

Mid-Season Check-In: From Reaction to Redesign

OverviewIn this episode, Janet and Khalil reflect on the first half of their season, discussing insights from various guests about workplace dynamics, the importance of seeing reality as it is, and the need for collaboration over capitulation. They emphasize the significance of understanding power dynamics within organizations and the necessity of building robust systems that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by women in the workforce and the importance of allyship in creating inclusive environments.Key TakeawaysOrganizations need to see things as they are, not as they wish them to be.Understanding where the power lies is crucial for effective change.Performative actions in diversity and inclusion can lead to backlash.The concept of a controlled burn can help eliminate ineffective practices.Capitulation to external pressures can reveal an organization's true values.Collaboration among organizations can strengthen collective action.Inclusion must be intentional and not an afterthought.Women are often pushed out of the workforce rather than choosing to leave.Building systems that can't be rolled back is essential for progress.Diversity should foster open dialogue and differing perspectives.
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Nov 4, 2025 • 59min

S2 E6: Every company is a tech company now. Where are the women?

This conversation explores the challenges and opportunities for women in technology, particularly in the context of AI and workforce dynamics. It discusses the alarming rates at which women are leaving the workforce, the implications of generational shifts, and the importance of diversity in tech. The speakers emphasize the need for self-awareness, building networks, and recognizing glass cliff opportunities to navigate corporate culture effectively. They also highlight the significance of creating positive work environments and the role of healed women in supporting others on their professional journeys.Key TakeawaysUnderstanding your motivations is crucial for career success.AI is reshaping the workforce and requires new skills.Women are underrepresented in AI and tech roles.Generational shifts are impacting workforce dynamics.The glass ceiling and glass cliff present unique challenges for women.Diversity in tech is essential for innovation and success.Building a strong network is vital for career advancement.Creating a positive work culture attracts and retains talent.Self-awareness can lead to better career decisions.Finding support from healed women can empower personal growth.
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Oct 28, 2025 • 26min

Public Policy & Workplace Excellence: Preparing for Government Pressures

Tom Moore, a senior fellow at the Center for American Progress and former chief of staff to Federal Election Commissioner Ellen L. Weintraub, dives into the looming federal pressure tactics organizations may face in the next two years. He discusses the vulnerabilities of industries like law firms and universities and warns against the dangers of capitulation. Highlighting the power of collective action, Moore emphasizes how individual mobilization can challenge authoritarianism, urging proactive organization for a resilient democracy.
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Oct 21, 2025 • 59min

Courageous Conversations: Navigating Workplace Communication in Polarized Times

Dr. Allison Schlobohm, a clinical associate professor at UNC Kenan-Flagler, shares her expertise on navigating difficult conversations in polarized workplaces. She highlights the importance of courageous communication and critiques superficial organizational approaches to belonging. Discussing incivility and microaggressions, Allison explains how trust is eroded in turbulent times. She offers a structured model for courageous conversations and emphasizes the need for leaders to cultivate understanding and embrace generational shifts in workplace dynamics.
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Oct 14, 2025 • 45min

S2 E3: We Want You - Turning Powerful People Into Powerful Allies

Join Julie Kratz, an inclusive leadership trainer and TEDx speaker, as she shares her insights on transforming powerful individuals into allies for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). She discusses the fears that hinder engagement in DEI efforts and emphasizes the importance of inviting rather than excluding those in power. Julie highlights the benefits of storytelling in fostering allyship and encourages leaders to embrace vulnerability. Her focus on finding personal motivation for DEI engagement offers a refreshing perspective on making impactful change in workplace cultures.
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Oct 7, 2025 • 58min

S2E2: Strategic Foresight - Planning for Workplace Excellence's Next 24 Months with Valeria Lassiter

OverviewIn this episode, Khalil and Janet engage with leadership expert Valeria Lasseter to explore the evolving challenges leaders face in uncertain times. They discuss the importance of adaptive capacity, the power framework, and the necessity of perspective taking in leadership. Valeria emphasizes the need for leaders to own their development, revisit organizational values, and create conditions for meaningful relationships. The conversation also touches on the significance of strategic action over reactive responses and the importance of understanding when to transition in one's career.Key PointsLeaders must navigate uncertainty by building adaptive capacity.The power framework consists of five key elements essential for effective leadership.Perspective taking is crucial for understanding behavior and making informed decisions.Leaders often undervalue the importance of slowing down to reflect and take perspective.Organizational values should be revisited regularly to ensure alignment with current realities.Effective leadership requires creating conditions for others to thrive and make choices.Resistance should be embraced as valuable data for growth and understanding.Journaling can be a powerful tool for leaders to reflect and gain perspective.Leaders must differentiate between approval and true buy-in from their teams.Career transitions can be made without drama, focusing on personal growth and development.
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Sep 30, 2025 • 25min

S2 E1: What's Next? What's Now? Mapping the Future of Workplace Excellence

Join hosts Khalil and Janet as they dive into the future of workplace excellence. They discuss the shift from reactive to proactive strategies in DEI, emphasizing the importance of harnessing human potential. The core belief is that people are an organization's greatest asset. Expect engaging insights from visionary leaders and a focus on strategic foresight. The hosts outline their new approach and expanded team, aiming to create a thriving community around these critical topics.
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Mar 5, 2025 • 38min

Episode Six: Diversity is Destiny

In this lively discussion, two experts delve into the complexities of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. They explore the emotional toll of this important work and the delicate balance of personal well-being. A fascinating argument emerges about how businesses can drive substantial social change. The hosts emphasize the need for clear definitions of DEI and its alignment with organizational goals. They candidly share signs of burnout and when it's time to move on, all while encouraging listeners to pursue meaningful impact with purpose.
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Feb 18, 2025 • 41min

Episode Five: Speaking the Unspoken with Dr. Ella Washington

In this episode of 'In This Moment', Janet Stovall speaks with Dr. Ella Washington, an organizational psychologist and author, about the complexities of inclusion in the workplace. They discuss the unspoken rules that often govern corporate culture, the dual nature of inclusion as both an action and a feeling, and the importance of authenticity in navigating less inclusive environments. Dr. Washington emphasizes the need for individuals and organizations to actively engage in creating inclusive cultures, especially in the current climate where diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts are under scrutiny. The conversation highlights practical strategies for fostering belonging and understanding the hidden dynamics that can hinder progress in workplace inclusion.

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