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Michele Sullivan is a renowned speaker, author, and advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Born with a rare form of dwarfism, Michele has overcome numerous challenges throughout her life and has become a strong advocate for equal opportunities for all. She had a successful career at Caterpillar, where she served as the Director of the Caterpillar Foundation, leading global philanthropic efforts. After retiring, Michele continued her work in the nonprofit sector and became involved with organizations such as the One Campaign, focusing on social impact and poverty alleviation. She is also the author of the book "Looking Up," where she shares her inspiring journey and encourages others to embrace their differences and make a positive impact in the world.

Episode Summary:

In this episode, host Nick Ford and co-host Joy discuss the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEI&B) with guest Michele Sullivan. Michele shares her personal journey as a little person and how she found support and inspiration through organizations like Little People of America. She also talks about her career at Caterpillar and her role as the Director of the Caterpillar Foundation, where she focused on social impact and philanthropy. Michele emphasizes the need for collaboration and understanding in today's polarized world and encourages listeners to embrace their differences and work together to create positive change.

Key Takeaways:

• Embrace Differences: Michele highlights the importance of embracing differences and recognizing the value that each individual brings to the table. She encourages listeners to focus on collaboration and understanding rather than division.
• Three-Legged Stool: Michele introduces the concept of the three-legged stool, which represents the collaboration between the private sector, the nonprofit sector, and the public sector. She emphasizes the need for these sectors to work together to create exponential change and address societal challenges.
• Grassroots and Grass Tops: Michele discusses the importance of grassroots efforts and community involvement in creating change. She also highlights the significance of grass tops advocacy, which involves working with government and policy-making entities to drive systemic change.

Resources:

• Little People of America - Website
• Caterpillar Foundation - Website
• The One Campaign - Website

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Kameron Middlebrooks is a highly driven individual dedicated to advocating for civil rights and social change. His career began when he served as a youth representative on the NAACP board of directors before transitioning to a leading role within the organization. Kameron has a rich history of organizing and mobilizing communities, including registering over 15,000 voters during his tenure. He has previously worked for Barack Obama's Campaign. Currently, he serves as the Field Director for the Reform Alliance in Iowa, where he is focused on transforming the supervision system within the American justice system and has played a pivotal role in passing transformative legislation.

Episode Summary:

In this enlightening episode, hosts Anthony Arrington and Joy Briscoe engage in an insightful discussion with Kameron Middlebrooks about his work with the Reform Alliance, the importance of community safety, and the path to changing the criminal justice system. Kam shares his journey from early days with the NAACP to his current role, highlighting the significance of building coalitions and engaging in deliberate conversations to address public safety and reform in the justice system.

The discussion navigates through the political landscape of Iowa, emphasizing the necessity of bipartisan support to implement meaningful change. Kam outlines the innovative approach employed by the Reform Alliance to incentivize positive behavior and reduce recidivism among those on probation, detailing a bill with the potential to drastically impact the lives of thousands of Iowans positively.

Key Takeaways:

• The Reform Alliance focuses on transforming the supervision system in America and aims to pass legislation to aid in effective criminal justice reform.
• No permanent friends, no permanent enemies, only permanent issues: Staying mission-focused helps in bridging ideological divides in policy work.
• Coalition building and engaging both sides of the political aisle are crucial strategies for driving legislative change, especially in states like Iowa.
• Education and workforce development are often used as alternative angles to discuss criminal justice reform, highlighting common goals across different political spectrums.
• Meek Mill's case was a catalyst for the formation of Reform Alliance, emphasizing the disparity within the justice system, even for the affluent and influential.

Resources:

• Kam Middlebrooks's email: Kameron@reformalliance.com
• Reform Alliance Website: reformalliance.com

Iowans United for Opportunity coalition website:iowansunited.com

Dana James is a prominent figure in the journalism industry, particularly championing the voice of the Black community in Iowa. She stands as the publisher and founder of Black Iowa News, which is currently the only Black-owned newspaper in Iowa. With her background as a former reporter for the Des Moines Register, Dana brings her extensive experience to the forefront in her current pursuits. Beyond her editorial capacities, she's the treasurer of the Iowa Association of Black Journalists and has vast involvement within the realm of written media, including a column titled "New Black Iowa." Dana is also a member of the Iowa Writers Collaborative and co-hosts the "Being Heard" podcast alongside Lya Williams. Her diligent work showcases her unwavering commitment to amplifying Black perspectives, showcasing the Black community, and advocating for others.

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Dana James speaks up about the challenges and triumphs of running Black Iowa News, which illuminates the Black Iowan perspective on current issues. This conversation delves deep into the importance of representation in media, the handling of Black stories by news outlets, and the role of journalism in addressing community-specific needs concerns.

Dana reveals how the events of the pandemic and the murder of George Floyd catalyzed her return to journalism, with Black Iowa News coming into being as a necessity to sound the alarm for her community when others wouldn’t. Offering her insights via a digital platform, Dana emphasizes the mission to facilitate interconnection within the dispersed Black communities across Iowa state. This episode, thriving on transparency and empowerment, underscores Dana's commitment to amplifying Black voices in a state that often overlooks its Black population's issues and triumphs.

Key Takeaways:

• Dana James challenges mainstream media's representation of Black communities, emphasizing the need to surface personalized Black narratives.
• Her paper, Black Iowa News, aims to bridge gaps across Black communities in various Iowa locals, striving for statewide collaboration and support.
• Despite the obstacles facing the newspaper industry, Dana persistently drives her business forward, acknowledging the multi-fold support she receives from the community and beyond.
• The discussion reveals a critical view of the "Iowa nice" mentality, scrutinizing its potential to silence oppression rather than fostering true community support.
• Dana emphasizes the significance of using one's voice and platform to tirelessly combat systemic issues and foster generational progress within the Black community in Iowa.

Resources:

• Black Iowa News Website: blackiowanews.com
• Facebook Page: Black Iowa News
• Social Media: Black Iowa News on LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter

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• Dr. Ladrina Wilson: CEO of the Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce, with a background in higher education administration and a passion for community service.
• Nicole Sallis: Director of Communications for Grow Cedar Valley, with experience in fashion, entertainment, branding, and marketing.

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Dr. LaDrina Wilson and Nicole Sallis discuss their experiences as black women in leadership roles in economic development and chamber organizations in Iowa. They highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion in these roles, as well as the challenges they face. They also emphasize the need for diverse voices at the table to attract businesses, address workforce gaps, and create a more inclusive community.

Key Takeaways:

• Economic development and community development are closely intertwined, and it is important to have diverse voices at the table to address social issues, workforce gaps, and attract businesses.
• Black women in leadership roles face unique challenges, including biases and stereotypes, but they bring valuable perspectives and insights to the table.
• It is important to be authentic and true to oneself while navigating a career as a black woman, and to find a balance between calling out and calling in others to promote diversity and inclusion.
• Transparency is often overused, and it is important for individuals to do the personal work of identifying what authenticity means to them as they progress in their careers.
• Allyship is crucial in creating a more inclusive community, and it is important to bring diverse voices into the room and support each other's efforts.

Resources:

• Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce: Website
• Grow Cedar Valley: Website

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Jasmine Briscoe is a young, driven professional making her mark from Iowa all the way to New York City. She graduated with an IB diploma from the first International Baccalaureate program in Waterloo, Iowa, and moved on to attend NYU as an MLK scholar, majoring in psychology and sociocultural analysis with a concentration in intersectionality. She now works in public health research, focusing on vaccine hesitancy in historically underserved groups and advocating for equitable healthcare, especially for the black and queer communities.

Episode Summary:

In this candid conversation, "Breaking Barriers" welcomes the remarkable Jasmine Briscoe, for a discussion on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. The episode delves deep into Jasmine's experiences as a young, black, queer individual navigating challenges and achieving milestones both academically and professionally.

Jasmine opens up about her journey of self-discovery during her educational pursuits at NYU, acknowledging the influence of black queer feminist writers on her identity development. Moving from Iowa to the throes of New York, she has transitioned into a career focused on public health — a cause close to her heart. She discusses her commitment to advancing mental health access for marginalized groups, especially within the black LGBTQ community. The episode also highlights the systemic roadblocks faced by queer individuals and the importance of inclusive policy-making, drawing attention to the intersectionality of diverse liberation struggles.

Key Takeaways:

• The fusion of personal identity and professional purpose in Jasmine's journey from a student in Iowa to a public health researcher in New York.
• The significance of representation in literature and education for the self-affirmation of black, queer individuals.
• The impact of systemic discrimination against transgender and queer people, especially concerning anti-trans legislation.
• The necessity of queer liberation being acknowledged as intertwined with broader social justice movements.
• The role of generational advocacy and education in dismantling homophobic and transphobic ideologies.

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Jeff Disterhoft is the former CEO of GreenState Credit Union, where he led the organization's growth and commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. He has a background in finance and has been nationally recognized for his leadership in the industry.

Summary:

Jeff Disterhoft discusses the importance of diversity in homeownership and the impact it can have on future generations. He shares his personal journey of walking in the path of faith, family, friends (in that order), self-reflection and learning about racial disparities, which led him to prioritize diversity and inclusion in his organization. Jeff emphasizes the need for leaders to educate themselves, surround themselves with talented individuals, and be proactive in creating a culture of belonging. He also addresses the challenges of navigating diversity initiatives in a polarized society and offers insights on how to handle resistance and negativity.

Key Takeaways:

Increasing diversity in homeownership can have a significant impact on future generations.

Leaders should prioritize education and self-reflection to better understand racial disparities and biases.

Surrounding oneself with talented individuals and giving them resources can lead to positive change.

It is important to prioritize faith, family, and friends in retirement and be open to new opportunities.

Learning and growth require an open mind and a willingness to step out of one's comfort zone.

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Summary: Melanie Ryan discusses her decision to leave her corporate job and dedicate her career to diversity, equity, and inclusion work. She emphasizes the importance of change management and guiding people through the process of change. Melanie shares personal experiences that shaped her commitment to social justice, including witnessing racism in Mississippi and advocating for her biracial and LGBTQ+ children. She highlights the need for systemic change and the challenges of navigating resistance and fear. Melanie also emphasizes the importance of self-care and setting boundaries in this work.

Key Takeaways:

• Fear of change is a universal human trait, and it can be a barrier to diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.
• It is important to be clear and set expectations when working with clients, and sometimes it is necessary to say no or end a project if the client is not ready for the work.
• Individual impact and creating safe spaces for marginalized communities can be a rewarding aspect of this work.
• Systemic change is the ultimate goal, but it requires a fundamental shift in the way we currently operate.
• Belonging is a key factor in increasing academic scores and overall well-being, and it is important to create spaces where everyone feels seen and heard.

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Summary: Kyle Roed, Vice President of Human Resources at CPM Holdings, joins the Breaking Barriers podcast to discuss diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the manufacturing industry. He emphasizes the importance of looking beyond unemployment rates to assess workforce demographics and highlights the need for intentional strategies to address systemic barriers. Kyle shares his experience in implementing transformative changes in the workplace, such as removing a point system and creating inclusive policies. He encourages HR professionals to think outside the box, challenge the status quo, and be comfortable with discomfort in order to drive meaningful change.

Key Takeaways:

• Organizations have to address what is happening in the system to perpetuate barriers and demographics. The systems are working exactly as they are designed. So, the only way to fix this is to change the system.
• HR professionals should be honest about the lack of diversity in their organizations and develop intentional strategies to address it.
• Unemployment rates do not accurately reflect workforce demographics; labor force participation is a better indicator.
• Removing barriers, such as attendance policies, can create a more inclusive and productive work environment.
• Building coalitions and employee resource groups can help drive DEI initiatives within an organization.
• HR professionals have a responsibility to speak truth to power and create spaces where employees can truly belong.

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• Reggie Sanders: Former Major League Baseball player, played for 17 years, won the World Series with the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2001, currently works for the Kansas City Royals in their front office.
• Dmitri Young: Former Major League Baseball player, played for 13 years, won the National League Comeback Player of the Year in 2007, currently works in amateur baseball and coaching.
• Brian Jordan: Former Major League Baseball player, played for 15 years, also played in the NFL for 3 years, runs the Brian Jordan Foundation and writes children's books.
• Greg Goodwin: Grassroots organizer for amateur baseball, former high school coach and scout for the Dodgers and Marlins, founder of the M Memory Involvement Prospect organization.
• Ernest Radcliffe: Head coach at Morgan Park High School, runs the Show Baseball program, focused on helping young people achieve their dreams through sports and education.

Summary: During the show, MLB Legends discussed the lack of diversity in Major League Baseball and the challenges black players face. They discuss the need for more representation in decision-making positions and the importance of creating opportunities for young black players. The conversation reviews thes the role of education and financial literacy in creating generational wealth and the need for more support and resources for black players in the sport.

Key Takeaways:

• Lack of diversity in decision-making positions in Major League Baseball is a major issue that needs to be addressed.
• There is a need for more opportunities and resources for young black players in baseball.
• Education and financial literacy are crucial in creating generational wealth for black players.
• Grassroots programs and organizations play a vital role in developing and supporting young black players in baseball.

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• Preston Wilson: Former professional baseball player who played 10 seasons in the major leagues, won the World Series in 2006, and was an All-Star in 2003.
• Ray Burris: Former professional baseball player who played 15 years in the big leagues and is currently involved in developing young athletes.
• Michael Tucker: Former professional baseball player who played 13 years in the big leagues and is now focused on helping young kids through camps and clinics.
• Marcus Nettles: Former college baseball player and current state trooper in Illinois. He runs the Marcus Nettles Project, a foundation that helps the community, youth, and police.

Summary: Former professional baseball players Preston Wilson, Ray Burris, Michael Tucker, and Marcus Nettles discuss the lack of African American representation in baseball and the challenges faced by Black players. They highlight the importance of money and resources in increasing diversity in the sport, as well as the need for more Black coaches and mentors. They were authentic about Major League Baseball’s systemic strategy of recruiting Latine players for pennies on the dollar, which has a disparate impact on American born Black players who are not seen, recruited, and drafted. The conversation also touches on the role of ownership in driving change and the need for long-term investment in Black communities. The guests emphasize the importance of building relationships and providing support to young Black athletes to help them succeed in baseball and beyond.

Key Takeaways:

• Lack of financial support and scholarships for Black baseball players has contributed to the decline in African American representation in the sport.
• The scarcity of Black coaches and mentors in baseball limits opportunities and development for Black players.
• Ownership changes and increased investment in Black communities are needed to drive diversity and inclusion in baseball.
• Building relationships and providing resources and support to young Black athletes is crucial for their success in baseball and beyond.

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Earnest “Coach E” Horton is the Founder and CEO of Black Baseball Media, a high-profile company based in Chicago that focuses on providing opportunities for minorities in the game of baseball. He is also a baseball coach and is passionate about helping young players develop their skills on and off the field.

Summary:

Coach E discusses the need to attract more minorities to the game of baseball at an earlier age. He believes that the major league level needs to make changes to the game to make it more exciting and appealing to young players. He also emphasizes the importance of visibility, marketing, and funding for black baseball programs.

Coach E was an amazing baseball player, receiving a scholarship to play at the University of Arkansas, Pine Bluff from 2005-2009. After graduating, he came home and began teaching and coaching baseball to fill a need in his community. He shares his experiences through coaching and mentoring young players and explains how his organization is working to provide resources and opportunities for minority players in the game of baseball.

Key Takeaways:

• The major league level needs to attract minorities at an earlier age by making the game more exciting and appealing.
• Visibility, marketing, and funding are crucial for black baseball programs to thrive.
• African American players need to understand the business side of baseball to succeed.
• Collaboration and allyship are essential for creating meaningful change in the game of baseball.

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Reshonda is a native of Waterloo, Iowa, and has been an active voice in advocating for pay equity, equitable healthcare, and other issues that benefit working families.

Summary:

Reshonda Young, co-founder of Bank of Jabez, joins the Breaking Barriers podcast to discuss her journey as a Black woman entrepreneur in Iowa and her mission to provide access to capital for Black business owners. She shares her experiences with discrimination in the banking industry and her fight for equitable lending practices. Reshonda also talks about the importance of diversity and inclusion in the financial sector and her plans to launch the bank in the first quarter of next year. She emphasizes the need for Black-owned businesses to have access to capital and the role of venture capital in supporting their growth. Reshonda's inspiring story and dedication to making a difference serve as a reminder to never give up on your dreams and to always strive for greatness.

Key Takeaways:

• Reshonda's four for 40 plan: four years of college for 40 years of a good job.
• Discrimination in the banking industry and the need for Black-owned banks.
• The importance of access to capital for Black business owners.
• The role of venture capital in supporting the growth of Black-owned businesses.
• The impact of Reshonda's work in advocating for equitable lending practices.

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Summary: Charity discusses the issue of book banning and censorship in libraries. She explains that book banning is a form of censorship that silences marginalized voices and restricts access to information. She highlights the importance of allowing individuals to see themselves in print materials and the value of diverse representation in libraries.

Charity also addresses the misconception that libraries allow access to explicit content on public computers and emphasizes the importance of behavior policies in maintaining a safe and inclusive environment. She shares insights on the increase in book challenges and bans and the need for proactive measures to protect libraries, publishers, authors, and librarians.

Key Takeaways:

• Book banning is a form of censorship that silences marginalized voices and restricts access to information.
• The largest percentage of banned books are about race or LGBTQ issues by Black or LGBTQ authors.
• Libraries should provide diverse representation in their collections to allow individuals to see themselves in print materials.

BANNED BOOK RESOURCES

Banned & Challenged Books Data - https://www.ala.org/advocacy/bbooks/book-ban-data

Censorship by the Numbers for 2022 data.-https://www.ala.org/advocacy/bbooks/by-the-numbers

Books Unbanned - https://www.spl.org/programs-and-services/teens/books-unbannedhttps://www.bklynlibrary.org/books-unbanned

Office of Intellectual Freedom https://www.ala.org/aboutala/offices/oif

Freedom to Read Foundation https://www.ftrf.org/

Unite Against Book Bans https://uniteagainstbookbans.org T

op 13 Challenged Books for 2022 https://www.ala.org/advocacy/bbooks/frequentlychallengedbooks/top10

United for Libraries - https://www.ala.org/united/advocacy/challenges

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• Andre Wright's journey as a designer and activist has been driven by his passion for empowering underrepresented people.
• Humanize My Hoodie is a global fashion activism movement that uses clothing to inspire, empower, and spark important conversations.
• Authenticity and staying true to oneself are crucial in the pursuit of success and making a positive impact.

Summary: Robert L. Smith shares his journey as a black athlete and his experiences advocating for equity in sports and education. He emphasizes the importance of staying focused and engaged in the fight for equality, even in the face of legislation and policies that seek to restrict diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. He highlights the impact of influential figures like Hayden Fry and Brooke Fulbright in shaping his perspective and the need for representation and economic empowerment in the black community. Smith also discusses the challenges of navigating conversations about race and the importance of building relationships and understanding different perspectives.

Key Takeaways:

• Keep your eyes on the prize and stay focused on the fight for equality.

• Representation and economic empowerment are crucial for the Black community.

• Black people need white allies to work together and create change.

• It is important to have open and honest conversations about race and challenge negative stereotypes.

• Building relationships and understanding different perspectives is essential for progress.

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Vince and Chris are experts in the field of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. They have a unique and authentic approach to addressing culture issues within organizations. They challenge traditional methods and focus on understanding the root causes of diversity and belonging challenges.

Summary:

Vince and Chris discuss their authentic approach to addressing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging within organizations. They explain that traditional methods, such as surveys, have not been effective in creating meaningful change. Their approach involves engaging and interacting with people within the organization to understand the culture at its core. This can be uncomfortable for some, as there are no canned questions or predetermined solutions. They emphasize the importance of building trust with leaders and creating a brave space for open and honest conversations.

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He has held various positions in the public and private sectors, including serving as President Clinton's White House Associate Director of Presidential Personnel and the Executive Director of the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics.

During the show we discussed the evolution of the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) field and the impact of the George Floyd surge on the approach to DEI work. The conversation emphasizes the importance of expanding our hearts with empathy and compassion and highlights the need for self-care and mindfulness in the DEI space. Alfred also shares his personal experiences of facing racism and discrimination and offers advice on how to equip children to respond to these challenges.

Key Takeaways:

• The DEI field has evolved from compliance and affirmative action to a focus on hiring and training, and now includes concepts like belonging and accessibility.
• The George Floyd surge has allowed for more open conversations about racism and white privilege, but there is pushback and attempts to silence these discussions.
• It is important to prioritize self-care and wellness in the DEI space to avoid burnout and continue the work.
• Children should be taught how to respond to racism and discrimination in a respectful and assertive manner, rather than meeting aggression with aggression.
• It is crucial to recognize the impact of trauma on individuals and communities of color and to provide support and resources for mental health.

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Jazz Hampton, Andre Creighton, and Michael are three Black men who decided to use their skills and backgrounds in law, finance, and technology to create a platform that could truly impact and change the institution of fair and transparent policing.

TurnSignl is a Minnesota-based tech company that provides real-time legal guidance from an attorney to drivers during traffic stops, all while their camera records the interaction. This brilliant idea was born out of the tragic loss of Philando Castile–who the founders knew personally—and the global outcry following the death of George Floyd. The founders saw a need for a tangible solution to make interactions with law enforcement safer and less stressful for everyone involved. The use of technology resources to overcome the hurdles in the criminal justice system is a niche field called justice technology (aka, “justice tech”), and TurnSignl is on the cutting edge of these efforts.We delved into the challenges they faced in bringing this innovative solution to life, from gaining buy-in from law enforcement to navigating the slow-to-innovate legal profession.

Despite these hurdles, they've managed to create a tool that not only serves as an accountability measure during traffic stops but also provides guidance during other stressful situations like car accidents.We also discussed the importance of keeping the momentum of the social justice movement going, even as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion budgets are being slashed in many organizations.

The founders of TurnSignl believe that their platform is more than just a DEI benefit; it’s a tool for health and wellness, helping to reduce the stress, fear, and anxiety that can come from interactions with law enforcement. As three Black men who have all experienced these interactions and feelings firsthand, this is a transformative social mission.This episode is a testament to the power of innovation, determination, and the belief that we can all be a part of the change we want to see in the world. So, whether you're an entrepreneur, an activist, or just someone who cares about social justice, this episode is sure to inspire and motivate you.Remember, our diversity, our differences, when joined together by a common set of ideals, make us stronger than ever.

So, let's keep breaking barriers and making changes. Until next time, stay bold, stay energized, and keep striving for a more inclusive and equitable world.

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Why are we in so much turmoil in America and globally?

Are we being honest about what we see?

Are we seeking to understand the truth?

Are we willing to talk about it? So many questions, so many answers needed. However, we believe one thing is for certain: that real talk about diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging is at the root of every answer. So in true Top RANK fashion, we go there.

In this episode:We delve into the challenges of discussing politics and social issues, acknowledging the generational divide and defensive mentalities that hinder productive conversations.

We discuss the power of millennials and Gen Z in shaping the political and social landscape of the future, highlighting the resilience and leadership potential of youth throughout history, and the need to support and amplify their voices.

We spoke truth to power with facts about false narratives that stir up racial divide (can you say “CRT”?)Why has there been an avalanche of laws and policies passed in America to blatantly block the ability of educators to tell the truth about U.S. history?

Why are the politicians who resist these laws not responding in stronger fashion?

We emphasize the importance of engaging with politicians who align with our values and concerns, including environmental issues like climate change. Additionally, we explore the recent firings of media personalities Tucker Carlson and Don Lemon, questioning whether they were a result of the media going too far or a form of damage control. Our episode concludes with a call to shift the focus from individual figures to our collective responsibility as viewers and society.

A jam packed episode that you don’t want to miss!

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During the conversation, they discuss the importance of considering intent versus impact in marketing to diverse populations and avoiding tokenism. Heather, a self-described LGBTQ human, is riveting as she talks about her lived experience. A proud mother of two, she opens up about one of her main whys for the diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging work —her adopted children and the custody battles she had all the way up to the Iowa Supreme Court.

Heather provides valuable insight into today’s global debate on transgender humans in sports and whether they should only be able to participate in organized sports with the group defined by their assigned sex at birth. They emphasize that the voice of many can influence change. While underserved populations have differences, they are all fighting the same battle for equality and have a powerful impact when working together. Heather gives the example of how Black transgender humans have been at the forefront of transgender activism in America.

In educating listeners on the value of proximity and getting to know people before judging them, Heather tells the story of her 80-year-old neighbor who had initial trepidation when first learning about Heather’s family structure. However, after getting to know Heather and having some of the best conversations with each other, her neighbor learned that “LGBTQ people like power tools too”—and they have a great friendship.

The speakers emphasize the importance of identifying the root causes of issues through the voice of the people and then driving development that all employees can utilize to foster the right culture and inclusion. When she started at Krause, Heather informed her leadership team that this work was not a solo effort and that participation as a team was crucial for sustainability. She aimed to disrupt conventional thinking, challenge the status quo, and ensure the work was sustainable, with the team propelling it, not just her.

The speakers then discussed how organizations could best integrate DEI&B into their culture and training programs. They suggested that the first step is to establish a strong partnership with the talent development team and observe how DEI&B is embedded in the culture on a daily basis. They cautioned against attempting to resolve problems through training, surveys, and other initiatives without first identifying the root causes of the issues.

To do this, organizations must examine underlying issues, such as power dynamics, biases, and disparities in resource access. By comprehending these root causes, organizations can devise more effective and lasting solutions. Want to connect: Send your DEI&B questions to info@toprankculture.com,

To learn more about Top RANK, please visit toprankculture.com or follow us on

social media.

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Joy passionately urges listeners to stay vigilant and be attuned to the subtle behaviors that could indicate discriminatory treatment. She empowers her audience to take action and be the catalyst for change.

Two distinguished Navy veterans, John Cordle and Keith Green, come forward to share their personal experiences of discrimination in the military. Cordle, a retired captain and a proud recipient of the US Navy League's Captain John Paul Jones Award for inspirational leadership, along with Green, the author of the acclaimed book "Black Officer White Navy," reveal the various challenges they encountered and their unwavering determination to succeed despite all odds. Through their remarkable stories, Cordle and Green offer invaluable insights and inspiring examples of courage and perseverance in the face of adversity.

In this episode, Keith shares his personal experience of being racially targeted as a leader in the US Navy. Despite facing discrimination, he refused to give up and ultimately found the strength to overcome the struggle.

He recounts his fight against discriminatory treatment by creating a powerful spreadsheet that showcased the negative impact on both the mission and national security.

Whether you're facing discrimination in your workplace or simply want to learn more about creating a more inclusive environment, this episode is a must-listen.

Want to connect:

Keith’s Linkedin- https://www.linkedin.com/in/reuben-green-6aa9037b

Jon’s Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cordlejp/

Send your DEI&B questions to:

info@topranktalentsolutions.com, To learn more about Top RANK please visit topranktalentsolutions.com or follow us on social media.

Linkedin bit.ly/TR_linkedin

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During our conversation, Desiree shared her inspiring journey as a working mom and how she manages to juggle all of her roles and responsibilities. She discussed her advocacy for workplace equity and how she helps mothers live abundantly, love their babies, and level up in their career.

We also delved into the concept of the concrete ceiling, which is a term used to describe the additional barriers that women of color face in the workplace. Desiree shared her thoughts on the importance of recognizing this barrier and gave credit to the author of the article in the Sanford Social Innovation Review that introduced the concept. She also referenced the term "Me Search" and how it made her feel seen.

We highlighted the punishment gap and how people of color and other marginalized identities are punished more harshly for making the same mistakes. It was noted that while progress has been made in terms of gender and racial equality, there is still a long way to go. We discussed the need to normalize looking into the environments that create the feelings of not belonging and to stop telling women they have imposter syndrome.

For more episodes like this, tune in to Top RANK’s Breaking Barriers, where we explore the challenges and opportunities of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.

Want to connect with Desiree Coleman-Fry

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/desireescoleman/

Website - https://desireescoleman.com/

Send your DEI&B questions to info@topranktalentsolutions.com,

To learn more about Top RANK please visit topranktalentsolutions.com or follow us on social media.

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Mayor Hart is a well-known figure in Iowa and has made significant contributions to the Cedar Valley community over his career. In the conversation, he discusses how people want someone they can identify with, someone from their own community. He explains that the people are looking for economic justice, good neighborhoods, and economic development.

Mayor Hart shares how working with his team has been the key to rebuilding the community. The work being done in Waterloo, IA is outstanding. So much so that he was told by their Honeywell partner as part of the Smart City initiative that Waterloo is “punching above its weight”.

As a Black man, Mayor Hart has had to deal with a lot of pressure from the community, especially with the criminal justice system. He explains how he has grown and matured over time, and now focuses on being his best self and doing the best he can to benefit the community. He approaches the office with respect and love, and feels as if it is his purpose to serve in this capacity. He acknowledges the challenges and disappointments that come with the role, but remains determined to roll his sleeves up and continue to focus on what matters most.

Join us for the next episode of the Breaking Barriers DEI&B Podcast. Don't forget to share with your friends and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Thank you for listening!

Want to connect with Major Hart

Facebook - https://bit.ly/BB_Hart

City of Waterloo - https://bit.ly/3YY4k4A

Send your DEI&B questions to info@topranktalentsolutions.com,

To learn more about Top RANK please visit topranktalentsolutions.com or follow us on social media.

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"I'm sick of racism, and when I read other people's experiences, I simply become enraged."

Why is it that people are now able to see why there is so much anger?

We bring to you the story of Sharon Hurley-Hall, who has been writing about racism for years, but it was the George Floyd incident that brought all of her life's experiences into sharp focus. Sharon shares with us her journey and the anger she feels towards the systemic racism that exists in our world.

Join us as we delve into the importance of rethinking what it means to have an equal workplace and how critical it is to re-evaluate our biases and assumptions. We explore the idea of a company without C-suite titles, a single pay scale, and a reparations pay scale. Don't miss this insightful conversation on Breaking Barriers.

“ We have no C-suite titles, a single pay scale, and a reparations pay scale”.

Sharon’s company is redefining what it means to create an environment of equity in the workplace. She shares with us how they are creating a more fair, transparent and equitable workplace.

Sharon gives real direction on how you can move beyond the lip services of DEI&B to do the real work.

Want to connect with Sharon Hurley-Hall

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharonhh/

Website - https://sharonhh.com/

Send your DEI&B questions to info@topranktalentsolutions.com,

To learn more about Top RANK please visit topranktalentsolutions.com or follow us on social media.

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When we are able to truly listen and hear others, without judgment, we create a space that is safe and welcoming for everyone to express themselves. This allows for a diversity of ideas and perspectives to be shared, leading to a more comprehensive understanding of the world around us. By valuing and loving the unique perspectives of others, we foster a sense of community and belonging.

Future Cain is an expert in leadership, education, wellness, social emotional intelligence, and equity with over 20 years of experience. she believes in the importance of self-awareness, authenticity and the wellness of all. She offers to strategize and collaborate with organizations to promote social emotional leadership, innovation, and equity. Future’s mission is to ensure all people are living and leading well.

Want to connect with Future Cain

Linkedin - bit.ly/Futurecain

Website - bit.ly/3Hh28zt

Send your DEI&B questions to info@topranktalentsolutions.com,

To learn more about Top RANK please visit topranktalentsolutions.com or follow us on social media.

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We invite Fields Jackson, an expert DEI&B in the corporate world to chop it up about this topic and much more.

Fields Jackson has worked with countless organizations on diversity and inclusion initiatives, and has insight on diversity trends of many corporations. During this episode, Fields talks about the value HBCUs can bring to businesses committed to DEI&B, and shares how many corporations lack the competency to access them effectively.

Fields offers a unique way to talk about diversity even with the most extreme thinkers. He gives a “stepping on your neck” example of a conversion he was part of about George Floyd.

If you want hear some real talk about what is important when it comes to an organization’s DEI&B journey and how to build relationships with DEI&B consultants, then you will want to dig into this amazing episode.

Want to connect with Fields Jackson

Linkedin - bit.ly/FieldsTR

Website - bit.ly/Diversitymag

Send your DEI&B questions to info@topranktalentsolutions.com,

To learn more about Top RANK please visit topranktalentsolutions.com or follow us on social media.

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Dr.Nika White

Dr. Nika White is a national authority and fearless advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion. As an award-winning management and leadership consultant, keynote speaker, published author, and executive practitioner for DEI efforts across business, government, non-profit, and education, Dr. White helps organizations break barriers and integrate diversity into their business frameworks. Her work has led to her designation by Forbes as a Top10 D&I Trailblazer and a Forbes Books Author.

The heart of Dr. White’s work addresses the ability to create transformative environments with intentionality around inclusion. She helps create professional spaces where people can collaborate through a lens of compassion, empathy, and understanding. Dr. White is the author of two books: “The Intentional Inclusionist®” and “Next Level Inclusionist: Transforming Your Work and Yourself for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Success" with a third book published by Forbes Books scheduled to release in September of 2022, entitled, Inclusion Uncomplicated: A Transformative Guide to Simplify DEI.

Dr. Whites Books:

Inclusion Uncomplicated: A Transformative Guide To Simplify DEI

https://amzn.to/3VYhxJD

Next Level Inclusionist: Transform Your Work and Yourself for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Success

https://amzn.to/3FrSZ4V

The Intentional Inclustionist

https://amzn.to/3ht4scl

You have never implemented DEI&B initiatives into your work culture and do not know where to start? The truth is, it's ok if you don't have everything together. DEI&B requires focus and effort just like any other area of your business.

You don't want to be like all those Box Warriors, right? Where there is a ton of effort and momentum in the beginning of your DEI&B journey, but once the “training” and “continuing education” boxes are checked, things slow down and everyone goes back to business as usual. This is one of the biggest mistakes that organizations make–thinking that a DEI&B change is about training and workshops.

No training program and no workshop is going to have a lasting impact on DEI&B in your organization until those who make up your culture begin to look inside themselves and begin to change their mindsets.

Send your DEI&B questions to info@topranktalentsolutions.com,

If you would like to learn more about Dr.White and Nika White Consulting visit www.nikawhite.com

To learn more about Top RANK please visit topranktalentsolutions.com or follow us on social media.

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As leaders, we need to be mindful of how people enter into our organizations. In the world of social media, using diversity as a mask for your real problems will only help you as a leader or organization feel better but your current people will still leave because they don't feel like they belong. The transparency is inevitable, so do you want it to be with your team or on Glassdoor?

During this episode, we explore these conversions and more to help you navigate the challenges.

Chris Armstrong is a Certified Diversity Executive, Certified Master Facilitator, and ICF Certified Coach who specializes in culture change, equity, belonging advocacy and transformation.

He is highly sought after for his unique facilitation skills and his ability to influence root change. He has facilitated more than 5,000 off site, culture sessions, and emotional intelligence sessions over the past decade. Including Charlottesville Race Riots and George Floyd killing in Minneapolis.

bit.ly/Chris_Armstrong

Vince Brantley was the culture executive of the Defense Intelligence Agency. Vince was responsible for developing, implementing strategies focused on resolving root challenges of the organizational culture. Over his 28 year career in the United States Army events attained the rank of Sergeant Major. He's a Trained Master Facilitator and Trained Diversity Executive.

bit.ly/Vince_Brantley

Both Chris Armstrong and Vince Brantley are co-authors of:

“Everything I Need to Unlearn, I Learned in Kindergarten (and Other Places Along the Way)”

amzn.to/3Gz4rxL

“Unmasking the Culture Culprit: Getting to the Root of What Ails Us”

amzn.to/3OuP8b9

To learn more about Veritas Culture, visit veritasculture.com or follow them on social media.

LinkedIn https://bit.ly/3EohFL2

Facebook https://bit.ly/3gnHl2A

Nick Ford is a Manager Partner at Top RANK. He is a Certified Diversity Executive, Certified Culture Facilitator, and Certified Culture Assessor.

Anthony Arrington is a Manager Partner at Top RANK. He is a Certified Diversity Executive, Certified Diversity to Belonging Facilitator, and Certified Culture Assessor.

To learn more about Top RANK, visit topranktalentsolutions.com or follow us on social media.

Linkedin bit.ly/TR_linkedin

Facebook bit.ly/TR_face_book

Instagram bit.ly/TRC_Instagram

Send your DEI&B questions to info@topranktalentsolutions.com

"We acknowledge it's difficult to measure but what's hard to ignore is what we call collective and representative regard." -Chris Armstrong

This podcast is Presented by Kirkwood Community College and Hosted by Top RANK Talent Solutions.

if you would like to have your question featured on the Breaking Barriers Podcast send an email to Info@topranktalentsolutions.com

https://topranktalentsolutions.com/