In this insightful episode of Best Friends at Work, hosts Lorin Mask, Mel Boyd-Brown, and Naomi Lippin welcome speaker, author, and humorist Karith Foster for a candid conversation about connection, self-awareness, and the evolving landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Karith shares the origins of her signature concept, "Inversity," which reframes traditional diversity work by focusing on what unites us, rather than what divides us. Drawing from her experience as a comedian and DEI facilitator, Karith explains how "Inversity" encourages introspection and authentic connection—urging individuals to understand their own value so they can recognize it in others. She discusses her journey from college programming to corporate workshops, and how her approach has shifted from "diversity without division" to "excellence through connection". The conversation explores: • The limitations of conventional DEI, including its tendency to foster division if not approached thoughtfully. • Karith’s analogy of DEI as a six-lane highway, emphasizing the complexity and nuance of human experience and the need for multiple entry points into the conversation. • The importance of self-reflection and self-knowledge as prerequisites for genuine inclusion and leadership. • How humor and vulnerability can open up difficult conversations, making space for transformative dialogue and mutual understanding. • The role of conscious empathy, active listening, and environmental awareness in building inclusive teams and workplaces. • The challenges and risks of being authentic in a world that often rewards conformity, and actionable steps for listeners to take small, courageous steps toward self-trust and connection. Listeners will hear practical tools and memorable stories, including Karith’s CARE model (Conscious empathy, Active listening, Responsible reactions, Environmental awareness) and her advice to “trust your gut” as a daily practice. The episode also touches on the broader societal forces shaping DEI, the power of critical thinking, and the need to move beyond fear toward a mindset of abundance and shared humanity. Whether you’re a leader, team member, or simply curious about building better relationships at work, this episode offers inspiration, actionable insights, and a refreshing perspective on how we can all show up more fully for ourselves and each other. Karith’s Links • Karith Foster | LinkedIn • TEDx Talk: Karith’s TedX Talk • Sizzle Reel: Karith Foster Sizzle Reel • "About Inversity": https://inversitysolutions.com/about • Book: “You Can Be Perfect or You Can Be Happy” – available on Amazon You Can Be Perfect or You Can Be Happy: Foster, Karith: 9798648016576: Amazon.com: Books #DEI #Inclusion #Diversity #Equity #DiversityAndInclusion #InclusionMatters #DiversityMatters #WorkplaceInclusion #Empowerment #UnityInDiversity #InclusiveLeadership #Podcast #NewPodcast #BestFriendsAtWork #Inversity #HumanConnection #Authenticity #Leader #ExectiveCoaching #Teamwork #Teambuilding #WorkplaceCulture #Work
