207. Shifting the Narrative on Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion with Amber Cabral

In this episode, we are joined by Amber Cabral, renowned DEI expert, author, entrepreneur, and founder of Cabral Co., as she brings us into the intricate world of diversity, equity, and inclusion, offering invaluable insights on creating genuinely inclusive spaces within organizations.

Drawing from her rich career budding from her impactful work at Walmart, Amber emphasizes the transformative power of intentional actions, feedback loops, and storytelling in fostering workplace environments that prioritize true belonging and equity. 

Throughout this conversation, you will discover the tools she employs for navigating challenging conversations with grace, gain a glimpse into her book writing process, and understand the profound influence of storytelling in reshaping narratives around diversity, equity, and inclusion. Amber also reveals her roadmap for individuals and organizations to shift from a deficit-framed to an asset-framed perspective, laying the foundation for meaningful progress in the realm of DEI. 

Tune in as Amber shares her authentic and passionate approach to equity work, envisioning a world where everyone feels empowered to engage in crucial conversations centered around DEI. 

KEY POINTS 

[1:32] - Amber Cabral's diversity career & founder journey

[3:10] - Bridging diversity gaps and redefining DEI in Walmart

[5:35] - How to navigate heavy situations and tough conversations in DEI

[9:39] - What are corporations doing wrong and right in DEI?

[12:01] - Can diverse startups get diversity wrong too?  

[14:50] - How to give and receive feedback effectively in DEI work 

[18:45] - Amber’s writing process for Allies and Advocates and Say More About That

[23:26] - The importance of storytelling in equity work 

[25:25] - How to move DEI from deficit-framed to asset-framed stories 

[28:39] - Who is Amber Cabral uninterrupted? 

QUOTABLES 

“Starting a tough conversation very often is made easier by asking a question.” - Amber Cabral 

“People assume that apologizing does not have anything to do with equity, but we've all seen organizations apologize really badly.” - Amber Cabral

GUEST RESOURCES

Amber Cabral 

IG | @bamcabral

LinkedIn | @ambercabral

X | @BamCabral 

Tune in to the Guilty Privilege Podcast! 

Grab a copy of Amber’s books at Amazon! 

Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture

Say More About That: ...And Other Ways to Speak Up, Push Back, and Advocate for Yourself and Others - 

RESOURCES

[APPLICATIONS OPEN!] | Are you building a high growth business in tech healthcare, AI, media entertainment, or consumer goods and services? If so, we'd like to help you scale. Don't miss your chance to win $1 million, capital coaching, and access to an amazing community of diverse innovators! Apply for the 2024 Black Ambition Prize competition now 

Felecia Hatcher

IG | @feleciahatcher

Black Ambition

IG | @blackambitionprize

So Ambitious is produced by EPYC Media