S2E11: Cultivating Inclusive Workplaces for Thriving Teams
Let us know what you think of this podcast!Ever wondered why some teams flourish under certain bosses while others flounder? Corporate relationship expert Tony Chatman joins us to peel back the layers on how value and respect are cornerstones in creating that coveted sense of belonging within teams. Tony shares his invaluable insights on relationship-based leadership, emphasizing its impact in the workplace and how it's not just about hitting diversity quotas. It’s about building genuine connections that go beyond the surface level. Prepare to be enlightened on the nuances of empathy and unconscious bias, and how these elements, when addressed with care and understanding, can either spell success or doom for a company's culture.As we navigate the complexities of diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI), and belonging in the corporate world, Tony and I swap stories that underline the triumphs and trials of carving out a space in the DEI arena. We dive into the concept that true belonging isn't a box-ticking exercise, but the organic result of an inclusive environment where everyone has room to thrive. From personal anecdotes of culture shocks to the challenges of being a minority in a professional realm, this episode isn't just about highlighting the 'leaks' in organizational culture—it's a clarion call for leaders and companies to patch these gaps and create a thriving, diverse workforce that stands the test of time. Join us for a candid, transformative conversation that might just change the way you view your workplace.You can find Tony on tonychatman.com, or on LinkedIn & Instagram.You can order your copy of Creating Belonging on Amazon.Music:Wave by Helkimer | https://soundcloud.com/helkimerMusic promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.comCreative Commons / Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0)https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US
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35:39
S2E10: Embracing the Full Spectrum of Individuality in Professional Realms
Let us know what you think of this podcast!The vibrant streets of Chicago have sculpted a unique narrative for Jim Conti, Talent Partner at Hyde Park Venture Partners, who joins us to weave a tale of personal growth and professional reinvention. From the comfort of familiar neighborhoods to the strategic boardrooms of venture capital, Jim unpacks how his cherished roles as a community advocate, plant and dog parent, shape his worldview. Follow along as we trace Jim's journey, examining the profound impact of our origins on the perspectives we carry forward, and how identities—be they geographical, familial, or based in advocacy—craft the lens through which we see the world.Ever found yourself recalibrating your social energy to resonate with a friend's vibe? Our latest conversation delves into the delicate dance of friendship dynamics where empathy and respect are the lead performers. A candid anecdote reveals my own evolution in understanding a friend’s need for privacy, casting a light on the art of compromise and the value of deep connections. We navigate the intricacies of extroversion meeting introversion, discovering the harmonious middle ground that fortifies bonds and honors individuality.In the final act of our discussion, we turn the spotlight on the workplace, a stage where identities converge and the quest for authenticity is a performance unto itself. We share experiences from LGBTQ perspectives, celebrating the strides toward visibility and inclusion, yet acknowledging the complexities that linger. From the courage of revealing one's true self in professional settings to the broader implications of representation and safety in self-expression, we honor the journey toward workplaces that not only accommodate but embrace the full spectrum of individual diversity. Join us on this insightful voyage as we embrace the ebb and flow of personal and professional identities with Jim Conti.Find Jim on LinkedIn or Hyde Park Ventures.You can order your copy of Creating Belonging on Amazon.Music:Wave by Helkimer | https://soundcloud.com/helkimerMusic promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.comCreative Commons / Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0)https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US
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37:04
S2E9: Harnessing Wit and Determination to Overcome Life's Hurdles
Let us know what you think of this podcast!Ever felt like the odds were stacked against you? Michael Stein's incredible journey from underdog to entrepreneur extraordinaire will convince you that anything is possible with resilience and humor. In our latest episode, Michael pulls back the curtain on his life, revealing a story that begins with his family's fight against adversity and stretches through his own personal battles with health and learning disabilities. He shares how the movie 'Rocky' served as a catalyst for his transformation, leading him to a path filled with fitness milestones and entrepreneurial ventures. Highlighting the peaks and valleys of his career, including a memorable stint in 'Boogie Nights' and the daring move to finance his own feature film, Michael's narrative is a powerful testament to the strength of self-belief and the significance of finding and capitalizing on niche markets.Michael doesn't just stop at recounting his victories; he dives into the entrepreneurial spirit inherited from his family, and how it molded his business acumen, contrasting with the uncertainties of pursuing an acting career. He also addresses the role of comedy in his life as a bridge towards social acceptance and a way to confront the growing sensitivities around antisemitism with wit and grace. Furthermore, Michael discusses the importance of embracing neurodiversity in the workplace and how his journey has deepened his empathy and leadership skills. Join us as we explore these rich narratives, and be sure to check out Michael's podcasts and his innovative Bola pack product line, where his creativity continues to shine.You can find Michael on LinkedIn and his website, michaelsteinmedia.com.You can order your copy of Creating Belonging on Amazon.Music:Wave by Helkimer | https://soundcloud.com/helkimerMusic promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.comCreative Commons / Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0)https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US
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24:53
S2E8: Building Bridges Through Understanding Diverse Perspectives
Let us know what you think of this podcast!Discover the art of genuine communication and the essence of belonging with Kim Clark, a communication strategist and author who navigates the complex interplay of identity with a deft touch. As a white, cisgender woman with Native American roots, a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, and a mother to children with disabilities, Kim challenges us to confront our privileges and channel them for the upliftment of others. By sharing her personal journey and professional insights, she urges us to examine the threads of self-awareness that bind us together, even within the rich tapestry of our diverse society.The workplace is not only a bastion of productivity but a microcosm of society, where representation and inclusivity are paramount. Kim Clark and I dissect the imperative need for diversity and the pitfalls of tokenism, emphasizing how embracing our multifaceted identities enriches business and community alike. As we navigate a world where policies often cast shadows on personal lives, Kim underscores the privilege of neutrality and implores us to engage in the necessary, though sometimes uncomfortable, discourse that shapes our collective reality.Wrapping up our enlightening discussion, we traverse the poignant realities of finding one's place within conflicting identities, such as the reconciliation of faith with sexual orientation, and the societal landscapes navigated by transgender and gender non-conforming individuals. Kim's narrative is a testament to the transformative power of self-acceptance and the essential collaborative effort to foster inclusive spaces. This episode is an invitation to reflect, learn, and embrace the full spectrum of who we are, both individually and together.Find Kim:Conscious CommunicatorDocumentary: God & GaysKim Clark Communications WebsiteLinkedInYou can order your copy of Creating Belonging on Amazon.Music:Wave by Helkimer | https://soundcloud.com/helkimerMusic promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.comCreative Commons / Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0)https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US
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48:40
S2E7: Leadership and Allyship: Cultivating a Workplace Where Everyone Belongs
Let us know what you think of this podcast!Have you ever walked into a room and felt like you didn't quite fit in? Imagine that sensation lingering, day in and day out, in your workplace. Geoffrey Roche from Siemens Healthineers joins us to unearth the complex layers of leadership and its profound effect on nurturing a sense of belonging at work. We traverse the landscape of workforce development with Geoffrey, whose first-generation American roots offer a rich viewpoint on creating inclusive environments. Our candid discussion reveals how traditional command-and-control leadership styles fall short, and why embracing a community-focused approach can lead to a more vibrant, cohesive team. Geoffrey shares compelling personal stories, shedding light on how the absence of belonging can ripple through an organization's culture.As we further our exploration, the notions of allyship and inclusion come to the forefront—as does the responsibility that accompanies the title of 'ally.' Moving beyond lip service, we focus on actionable steps and the use of privilege to enact real change within our spheres of influence. We also unpack the journey of advocacy, including the missteps and the learning curves that are part and parcel of the process. From Pink's bold act of literary resistance to the challenges of overcoming embedded biases, this episode is a masterclass in fostering an environment where everyone's voice holds weight and every team member can flourish. Join us as we navigate the transformative power of leadership, allyship, and the relentless pursuit of a workplace where everyone truly belongs.You can find Geoffrey on LinkedIn.You can order your copy of Creating Belonging on Amazon.Music:Wave by Helkimer | https://soundcloud.com/helkimerMusic promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.comCreative Commons / Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0)https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US
In the book, Creating Belonging: A Practical Guide to Accelerate Belonging in Organizations and Communities, Justin Reinert describes a model where belonging sits at the intersection of authenticity and acceptance. In The Creating Belonging Podcast, host Justin Reinert will continue the conversation of creating belonging by discussing others' experiences when they've been at various levels of authenticity and acceptance in their communities. Our goal with this podcast will be to help others find new paths to belonging in their communities.
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