Lisa Z. Fain is the CEO of the Center for Mentoring Excellence™, a global speaker, and an expert in the intersection of cultural competency and mentoring. Her passion for diversity and inclusion work fuels her strong conviction that leveraging differences creates a better workplace and drives better business results. Lisa is a certified mediator, graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Social Policy from Northwestern University, and holds a J.D. from Northwestern University School of Law. Lisa lives in Seattle, where she loves to hike and explore the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two daughters. Lisa is the co-author of Bridging Difference for Better Mentoring, and the 2022 revision (3rd Edition) of The Mentor’s Guide. Both are co-authored with Center for Mentoring Excellence's founder, Dr. Lois J. Zachary.

Learn more at https://www.centerformentoring.com/

Episode Overview:

This discussion focuses on peer mentoring and building a strong mentoring culture. The conversation explores the evolving landscape of diversity and inclusion, shifting towards equitable outcomes, and how peer mentoring offers a collaborative approach to professional development.

Key Discussion Points:

• Introduction and Guest Background: Introduction to Lisa Fain, CEO of the Center for Mentoring Excellence. Lisa's expertise in cultural competency and mentoring is highlighted, along with her passion for diversity and inclusion.
• Evolving Diversity and Inclusion Practices: Discussion on the changing landscape of D&I in organizations. Lisa notes the continued desire for equitable outcomes and the importance of inclusive leadership within mentoring programs. The impact of policy changes and funding challenges on D&I efforts is also discussed.
• Peer Mentoring: Exploration of peer mentoring as a non-hierarchical model for growth. Lisa outlines the benefits, including increased engagement, retention, and mutual skill-building. The importance of setting clear learning goals and thoughtful peer matching is emphasized.
• Defining Objectives and Ownership: Focus on the foundational aspects of building effective mentoring programs. Lisa stresses the need to define desired outcomes before designing the program structure and discusses where ownership of mentoring programs typically lies within an organization.
• Peer vs. Hierarchical Mentoring: Comparison of mentoring models. Lisa cautions against the “pair and pray” approach and emphasizes the need for structured support and progress tracking.
• Accountability in Peer Mentoring Groups: The importance of accountability within peer mentoring cohorts is discussed. Clear rules, shared expectations, and topical focus are highlighted as crucial elements.
• Fostering a Learning Culture: Lisa highlights the role of cultivating a learning culture where continuous development and peer support are integrated into organizational success.
• Collaborating on Mentoring Innovation: Discussion about deepening the understanding of peer mentoring and enhancing mentoring products, specifically Mentoring Complete. Future collaboration opportunities and product improvements to align with market needs are explored.