Best Equity At Work Expert Insights On Dei Strategies Podcasts (2025)

1
Worker Protection: The Fine Line Between Banter & Harassment | with Tina Chander 1:00:29

Play Pause

13d ago1:00:29

1:00:29

In this episode of the You Must Be Woking podcast, Dawn Hurst, Craig Richards and law expert Tina Chander, delve into the Worker Protection Act 2023. They break down the core provisions of the Act, explaining how it introduces new duties for employers to actively prevent harassment and discrimination in the workplace. The three discuss the broader …

1
Compliance and Innovation: Six Ways to Advance Diversity Recruiting in Challenging Times 11:18

13d ago11:18

11:18

In this episode, Jamey tackles the confusion and challenges surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts—particularly in the context of recent executive orders and shifting federal climates. Jamey discusses the impact of these orders on federal agencies and government contractors, noting the chilling effect they've had on DEI programs…

1
Navigating Executive Orders and ERG Compliance: Key Steps for Sustaining DEI at Work 13:31

28d ago13:31

13:31

In this episode of the DEI Minute, Jamey addresses the impact of recent executive orders from the Trump administration on employee resource groups (ERGs) in the workplace. The discussion opens with an important legal update—a federal judge's preliminary injunction that temporarily blocks certain aspects of these orders, particularly as they pertain…

1
Workplace Disability Inclusion: From Compliance to Empowerment | In The Spotlight with Kate Nash OBE 54:59

1M ago54:59

54:59

In this episode of "You Must be Woking", hosts Dawn Hurst and Craig Richards sit down with renowned disability inclusion advocate Kate Nash OBE. The conversation opens by examining the multifaceted nature of disability inclusion — highlighting the need for accessible environments and, importantly, organisational cultures that foster belonging and r…

1
Proactive Inclusion: Building Accessible Workplaces Beyond Compliance 10:37

2M ago10:37

10:37

In this episode, Michelle discusses what it means to create an inclusive and accessible workplace for everyone—particularly focusing on supporting employees with disabilities. Michelle highlights how organizations often approach disability accommodation from a compliance standpoint, waiting for requests rather than proactively designing accessible …

1
11. Inclusive innovation: co-creating spaces and equity with Bongani Mapumulo 47:26

2M ago47:26

47:26

"In order to help people, we need to understand them." Learn how Bongani Mapumulo is transforming accessibility and innovation for students living with disabilities in low-income communities in the Global South on this podcast conversation featuring disability rights, inclusive innovation, and assistive technology trends. 🎙️ About This Episode In t…

1
Woke News 3 1:09:57

2M ago1:09:57

1:09:57

In this episode of 'You Must Be Woking', hosts Craig Richards and Dawn Hurst delve into pressing issues surrounding diversity and inclusion. They discuss the recent Supreme Court ruling on biological women, the Louise Casey report on grooming gangs, and the implications of cyberbullying through platforms like Tattle. The conversation also touches o…

1
Where DEI Should Live Within Your Organization for Maximum Impact 11:50

2M ago11:50

11:50

In this episode, Jamey tackles the crucial question of where Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) should sit within an organization’s structure. Drawing on common pitfalls and practical recommendations, Jamey explains why embedding DEI as a secondary or split responsibility—often within HR—is a mistake that can undermine the initiative’s effectiv…

1
How to Drive Sustainable DEI Change in Your Organization 9:11

2M ago9:11

9:11

In this episode, Michelle covers some of the top ways to drive lasting DEI change in your organization, providing actionable insights for leaders at every stage of their diversity, equity, and inclusion journey. Drawing from extensive experience, Michelle outlines broad, mindset-shaping principles essential to making DEI efforts effective and susta…

1
Young Female Entrepreneurs vs. Imposter Syndrome | In The Spotlight with Zoe Trigwell 52:07

3M ago52:07

52:07

In this episode of the "In the Spotlight" series, part of the You Must Be Woking podcast, hosts Dawn Hurst and Craig Richards discuss the journey of young female entrepreneurs with their guest, Zoe Trigwell, a dynamic entrepreneur and the innovative founder of Trigwell Cosmetics. Zoe's journey is nothing short of inspiring, as she shares her experi…

1
Why One-Size-Fits-All Training Fails DEI Initiatives 12:20

3M ago12:20

12:20

In this episode, Jamey dives into the landscape of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) trainings, focusing on two common pitfalls organizations encounter when implementing DEI education. Jamey emphasizes that while education should be a foundational component of any effective DEI strategy, it is often mistakenly used as a one-size-fits-all solut…

1
Navigating the Workplace: Emotional Intelligence in Leadership and Team Dynamics 49:19

3M ago49:19

49:19

In this episode of You Must Be Woking, hosts Dawn Hurst and Craig Richards delve into the critical role that emotional intelligence (EI) plays in enhancing both company culture and overall performance. They begin by defining emotional intelligence and explaining its components, such as self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and socia…

1
Breaking Down Microaggressions: Definitions, Effects, and Solutions for Leaders 12:11

3M ago12:11

12:11

In this episode, Michelle covers microaggressions in the workplace, offering a thoughtful exploration of what the term means, how microaggressions manifest, and their profound impact on individuals and organizational culture. Michelle explains that microaggressions are verbal or nonverbal slights, snubs, or insults—whether intentional or not—that c…

1
Uncovering the Silence: Menopause & Its Hidden Impact | In The Spotlight with Victoria Hardy 1:01:27

4M ago1:01:27

1:01:27

In this episode of the "In the Spotlight" series, part of the You Must Be Woking podcast, hosts Dawn Hurst and Craig Richards delve into a candid conversation about menopause with their guest, Victoria Hardy, who is also known by her moniker, Ginge Unhinged. A powerful voice for female empowerment in the UK, Victoria speaks openly about the often-s…

1
Turning Data into Action: A Guide to DEI Analytics and Goal Setting 14:55

4M ago14:55

14:55

In this episode, Jamey covers the crucial topic of analytics and tracking DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) metrics in the workplace. He addresses common challenges organizations face when attempting to measure the effectiveness of their DEI initiatives, highlighting frequent mistakes like tracking either too many or too few data points, negle…

1
Workplace Wellbeing: Trend or Transformation? | Creating Lasting Change for Employees 42:47

4M ago42:47

42:47

In this episode of You Must Be Woking, co-hosts Dawn Hurst and Craig Richards embark on an insightful exploration of the multifaceted nature of workplace wellbeing. They begin by dissecting its definition, emphasising that workplace wellbeing extends beyond mere physical health to encompass mental, emotional, and social dimensions. The hosts highli…

1
Employee Demand for DEI Hits New Highs: What the Latest Data Tells Us 13:00

4M ago13:00

13:00

At a time when it feels like DEI is no longer a priority, does the data share a different story? In this episode, MIchelle talks about the truth in what employees are look dives into the latest research on employee and employer demand for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in the workplace. She highlights compelling data from recent…

1
Accountability on the Line: The High Cost of Leadership’s Failure 55:15

5M ago55:15

55:15

In this episode of You Must Be Woking, hosts Dawn Hurst and Craig Richards explore the role accountability plays in modern leadership. They discuss how it is becoming more vital as organisations work towards creating inclusive and diverse environments. The conversation focuses on the definition of accountability and its importance in ensuring that …

1
Recruiting Diverse Talent: Strategies That Go Beyond Quotas 8:46

5M ago8:46

8:46

In this episode, Jamey discusses the importance of knowing how to recruit diverse talent and highlights strategies that organizations typically consider, such as forming partnerships with HBCUs, HSIs, and other underrepresented groups. Jamey also talks about the critical need to understand and improve the internal environment to support diverse emp…

1
From Netflix to Newsrooms: How Media Influence and Societal Issues Shape Our Workplaces 1:07:46

5M ago1:07:46

1:07:46

In this episode of You Must Be Woking, hosts Dawn Hurst and Craig Richards delve into a variety of recent news stories, examining them through the critical lens of media influence, diversity, and inclusion. The episode kicks off with a deep dive into the controversial Netflix show "Adolescence," a series that has sparked significant debate due to i…

1
Navigating Religion in the Workplace: Challenges and Best Practices for Inclusion 9:08

5M ago9:08

9:08

In this episode, Jamey focuses on navigating religious diversity in the workplace by highlighting the integral role that religious beliefs and practices play in many people's lives and how these elements are naturally brought into work environments. The episode also discusses the challenges organizations face, from dress codes conflicting with reli…

1
Is Your Workplace Built on Silence or Speaking Up? Overcoming Challenges and Creating Change 47:46

5M ago47:46

47:46

In this episode of You Must Be Woking, hosts Dawn Hurst and Craig Richards take a deep dive into the crucial topic of speaking up in professional environments. They explore key issues such as bullying, harassment, and ethical concerns that often undermine workplace culture. What stops employees from speaking up? The discussion begins by examining t…

1
Understanding the EEOC's Updated Guidelines on Workplace Harassment 7:04

6M ago7:04

7:04

In this episode, Michelle covers the recent updates by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) concerning harassment and discrimination in the workplace. After noting an increase in allegations over the past five years, the EEOC has consolidated its guidelines to clearly define what constitutes harassment based on various facets, such as…

1
Diversity Quotas: Are We Creating More Problems Than We Solve? 49:48

6M ago49:48

49:48

In this episode of You Must Be Woking, hosts Dawn Hurst and Craig Richards explore the complexities surrounding diversity quotas, along with positive or affirmative action, and positive discrimination in the workplace. Their discussion is sparked by a recent news article about NHS hospitals in the UK implementing race quotas to achieve diversity aw…

1
DEI in Transition: Explaining the New Executive Orders 16:44

6M ago16:44

16:44

In this episode, the conversation centers around the recent executive orders under the new administration that are related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace, and their impact on organizations. Michelle provides an overview of who is affected by these orders, focusing on federal agencies, contractors, and organizations recei…

1
Netflix and… Psychological Safety 1:18:45

6M ago1:18:45

1:18:45

In this episode of You Must Be Woking, hosts Dawn Hurst and Craig Richards delve into the concept of psychological safety, a key factor in creating a thriving work environment. They discuss how psychological safety is vital for fostering collaboration, innovation, and overall employee wellbeing. Dawn underscores the importance of building trust and…

1
Navigating Gender Identity: A Guide to Workplace Inclusion 9:26

6M ago9:26

9:26

In this episode of DEI Minute, host Jamey Applegate, senior director of DEI at Equity at Work, delves into the significance of supporting transgender individuals in the workplace. The episode begins by establishing foundational definitions related to gender identity, gender expression, and the gender transition process. Applegate underscores the im…

1
Diversity is Dead! The DEI Pushback 1:10:29

7M ago1:10:29

1:10:29

In this episode of You Must Be Woking, hosts Dawn Hurst and Craig Richards delve into the question "Is DEI Dead?", examining how Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts have evolved, particularly in the aftermath of the start of Donald Trump's second presidency. They explore the landscape of DEI in a world where political and social climates have …

1
Debunking Top DEI Myths: Part 2 10:11

7M ago10:11

10:11

In this episode, Michelle continues discussing the top 15 myths about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), focusing on the last seven. Michelle begins by addressing the misconception that small companies can't implement DEI initiatives. She emphasizes that regardless of size, companies can engage in cultural observances, re-evaluate inclusive po…

1
Myths About DEI: 7 Misconceptions Discussed in Detail 10:27

7M ago10:27

10:27

In this episode, Michelle dives into some of the biggest myths and misconceptions about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the workplace. This episode kicks off a two-part series. In the first part, Michelle debunks seven common myths that organizations often encounter. These include the misconceptions that merely recruiting differently will…

1
Cultural Competency and Appreciation vs Appropriation 1:12:09

7M ago1:12:09

1:12:09

What is the difference between cultural appropriation and cultural appreciation? In this episode of You Must Be Woking, Dawn Hurst and Craig Richards explore this nuanced topic, particularly in the context of increasingly diverse workplaces. They begin by defining cultural appropriation as the act of taking or using elements from a culture, often w…

1
Creating Safe Work Environments: The Importance of Trauma-Informed Policies 9:07

8M ago9:07

9:07

In this episode, Jamey talks about creating trauma-informed workplaces. He highlights the significant shift in organizational culture over recent years, emphasizing the need for companies to allow employees to bring their whole selves to work, including any trauma they've experienced. He outlines the urgency of developing a trauma-informed workplac…

1
Sometimes A Sheep Is Just A Bloody Sheep 1:04:13

8M ago1:04:13

1:04:13

What challenges do organisations face when attempting to integrate inclusive language into their communication practices? In this episode of You Must Be Woking, hosts Dawn Hurst and Craig Richards explore these intricate dynamics, focusing on the difficulties and apprehensions organisations encounter. A key part of their discussion is the British R…

1
Navigating Social Issues: A DEI Framework for Businesses 9:47

8M ago9:47

9:47

In this episode, Michelle discusses the intricacies of how organizations can determine which social issues to weigh in on, especially given the highly charged nature of today's social environment. Michelle provides a detailed framework used to help organizations navigate this complex landscape. The framework includes key questions that companies sh…

1
Bonus Episode - Woke World News 1:19:59

8M ago1:19:59

1:19:59

What are the implications of Donald Trump's return for workplace dynamics? In this bonus episode of You Must Be Woking, hosts Dawn Hurst and Craig Richards delve into recent news stories, examining them through the lens of equity, inclusion and diversity. They focus particularly on Donald Trump's return to the political stage and discuss how this d…

1
How Dare You Call Me Biased! 1:22:48

9M ago1:22:48

1:22:48

What is the impact of unconscious bias in the workplace? In this episode of You Must Be Woking, hosts Dawn Hurst and Craig Richards delve deeply into the intricate and multifaceted issue of unconscious bias in the workplace. Over the course of the discussion, they unravel the layers of how unconscious bias subtly yet significantly influences variou…

1
DEI in Practice: Why Behaviors Matter 12:18

9M ago12:18

12:18

In this episode, Jamey discusses the distinction between focusing on beliefs and behaviors within the context of DEI initiatives in the workplace. He talks about why DEI can be a polarizing topic, with some detractors questioning its value. Instead of getting bogged down by changing beliefs, Jamey argues for a focus on observable behaviors that can…

1
They're All Just A Bunch Of Snowflakes! 42:27

9M ago42:27

42:27

In this episode of You Must Be Woking, hosts Dawn Hurst and Craig Richards take a comprehensive look at the intricate issue of workplace banter, a subject that has generated significant discussion and controversy in recent years. They start by exploring the dual nature of banter in professional environments: on the one hand, it can be a powerful to…

1
Extending DEI Principles Through Supplier Diversity 12:52

9M ago12:52

12:52

In this episode, Michelle discusses the crucial topic of supplier diversity as an effective way to extend DEI principles beyond the internal workings of an organization and into the community. Michelle outlines six key areas to consider when developing a supplier diversity program: mission and principles, KPIs and spending, sourcing and onboarding,…

1
BONUS: The season wrap up: How to Show Up, Build Trust, and Make a Difference 11:31

9M ago11:31

11:31

It's just us today and what a season this was. Also, we got listed on The Top 100 Outstanding Role Model Lists supported by INvolve and YouTube. Join us for the season wrap-up and key calls to action. 00:00 - To More Top Moments 00:30 - 2024 Top Lessons 02:28 - Showing up on people's issues 05:20 - Psychological safety and values 06:40 - BTS 07:55 …

1
Too Old For This Sh*t! 56:12

10M ago56:12

56:12

In this thought-provoking episode of the widely acclaimed podcast You Must Be Woking, hosts Dawn Hurst and Craig Richards embark on an in-depth exploration of the pressing issue of age discrimination in the workplace. This topic is becoming increasingly relevant and significant in today's diverse and ever-evolving professional environments. The hos…

1
Is It Time To Cancel ‘Cancel Culture’? 58:06

10M ago58:06

58:06

In the inaugural episode of You Must Be Woking, Dawn Hurst and Craig Richards take the opportunity to introduce themselves to their audience, providing a glimpse into their backgrounds and the experiences that have shaped their perspectives on diversity and inclusion (EDI). Dawn, with her extensive experience as an inclusion and culture professiona…

1
10. Why South Africa needs better growth than groove with Avelile Nontanda 55:32

10M ago55:32

55:32

My friend, what should be happening to resolve the problems South Africans face with spaza shops? Want to find the right niche? Today, we delve deep into the multifaceted world of entrepreneurship, exploring the challenges and opportunities that shape the landscape for modern business owners and reflecting on South Africa's potentially limiting ide…

1
Setting and Achieving Effective DEI Goals in Your Organization 14:34

10M ago14:34

14:34

In this episode, Jamey continues to talk about setting DEI goals using the SMART Plus framework. He discusses a real-world example of working with a large organization to implement unconscious bias training. By breaking down the goal into specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound components, Jamey showcases how to develop and imple…

1
DEI Goal Setting: From Framework to Implementation 10:41

10M ago10:41

10:41

In this episode, Jamey discusses the crucial topic of setting DEI goals within organizations. He first talks about the common misstep organizations make by jumping directly into DEI programs without evaluating their current standing or readiness, and without setting clear goals to track the success of these initiatives. The episode also talks about…

1
The Role of Empathy in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion 16:23

11M ago16:23

16:23

In this episode, Michelle dives into the critical role of empathy within the framework of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). She highlights the shift from traditional workplace norms that once favored emotional detachment towards a more empathetic and emotionally intelligent approach. Michelle discusses how empathy serves as a fundamental pill…

1
Building DEI Readiness: Foundational Steps for Long-Term Success 9:24

11M ago9:24

9:24

In this episode, Jamey dives into the concept of DEI readiness, discussing how organizations often rush into implementing flashy DEI initiatives without a deeper, data-driven strategy, which can lead to superficial changes that don't address underlying issues. Jamey outlines the importance of assessing an organization's current state before rolling…

1
BONUS: Beyond Milestones: Celebrating Community For a Better Future 8:40

12M ago8:40

8:40

Briefly 1 Newsletter: Beyond Milestones We are celebrating 1,000 downloads and community growth in our first audio newsletter. What is covered in this newsletter: Thank you! Beyond the first time, every time Beyond safe spaces: building competent community 'No DNA, Just RSA' Feeling left behind: "When is our turn?" Evolving allyship for a more incl…

1
Metrics and Examples for Your DEI Business Case 12:34

12M ago12:34

12:34

In our previous episode, we discussed making a business case for DEI. In this episode, we cover some metrics and examples that you can apply to your own company. Recognizing the intricacies in articulating the benefits of DEI initiatives, Michelle outlines actionable steps to illustrate the diverse and far-reaching impacts of inclusion on your orga…

1
Strategies to Build a Business Case for DEI 15:16

12M ago15:16

15:16

You know you need a solid DEI strategy within your company, but how do you justify the cost of adding or cultivating one? In this episode, Michelle discusses the crucial task of building a business case for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the workplace. Recognizing the challenges that many organizations face in justifying and proving the …