Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV Oscar Holmes IV

Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV Season 5, Episode 2 Episode Title: Effective Allyship Guest: Julie Kratz   Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV is a podcast that explores all things diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) related. In each episode, Oscar and his guests have lively discussions around DEI topics, explore the latest research on the topic, and discuss the implications so that listeners will be more knowledgeable about the topics and be able to apply the insights to their lives.   Show Summary:  “True allyship stems from genuine, sustained efforts to support marginalized groups, amplify their voices, and remove obstacles without seeking personal credit or fame. It requires intentional, consistent actions in both personal and professional spheres.”  — Julie Kratz   In the ongoing pursuit of a more equitable and inclusive world, the concept of allyship has emerged as a powerful force for change.    But what does it truly mean to be an ally? And how can we move beyond performative gestures to create lasting, meaningful impact? This episode dives deep into these questions with our guest Julie Kratz. Julie has dedicated her career to empowering people to become better allies. After her own experiences in corporate America, she founded her own speaking business to help organizations foster inclusive environments. Julie is an accomplished Forbes contributor, podcast co-host, TEDx speaker, and author of six books, one of which we will go in-depth today: Allyship in Action. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion with Julie Kratz. Through honest conversations and practical examples, she challenges us to confront our own biases and explore actionable strategies for building genuine allyship. 3 Exceptional Highlights:   One of the biggest challenges with DEI work is that many people don't fully understand what it means, and there are false narratives and misconceptions around terms like "diversity hire" circulating. Subconscious biases can perpetuate inequities within existing systems. We must evaluate all individuals based on demonstrable performance rather than perceived potential. Sustainable change in DEI requires a series of smaller, consistent actions rather than overwhelming initiatives, which proves more effective in fostering long-term shifts.   Show Highlights:    Was there a specific event or experience that spurred you to write Allyship in Action?   06:45 Julie Kratz   The book was inspired by my own journey. But seeing my daughter experience microaggressions and witnessing them herself truly drove the point home. We need more tools to be better allies.   Your book references the concept of "white guilt." Can you elaborate on this idea?   10:32 Julie Kratz   It refers to the discomfort and guilt white people feel when having to confront or think about their whiteness and privilege in a white supremacist culture. White privilege enables the ability to move freely and avoid repercussions for certain behaviors that would not be acceptable for people of color. Moving from apathy/denial to awareness about white privilege is a crucial step, but education is still needed to help more people reach that awareness.   Moving beyond awareness to action is a significant hurdle. What strategies can bridge this gap and dismantle systems of advantage?   14:51 Julie Kratz   The systems were designed by and for certain groups to succeed, making systemic change challenging but necessary work. Corporations need to examine processes like hiring, job descriptions, and promotion criteria to remove biases perpetuating homogeneity.   The surge of allyship witnessed in 2020 seems to be tapering off. What are your insights on this current trend?   18:47 Julie Kratz   The biggest gap hampering DEI progress is the lack of lived experiences with microaggressions, harassment, and belittling that underrepresented groups face, which is hard for others to grasp fully. Engaging pe

Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV Season 5, Episode 1 Episode Title: TransLivesMatter N.O.W. Guest: Angelica Ross   Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV is a podcast that explores all things diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) related. In each episode, Oscar and his guests have lively discussions around DEI topics, explore the latest research on the topic, and discuss the implications so that listeners will be more knowledgeable about the topics and be able to apply the insights to their lives.   Show Summary:  "Society's messaging devaluing LGBTQ+ lives, especially Black trans people, perpetuates tragic cycles of oppression and suicide. We must dismantle these systems alongside the community, fostering spaces to heal so all humans can be truly valued."  — Angelica Ross   The fight for diversity, equality, and inclusion has raged across streets, schools, and workplaces.   However, Angelica Ross, an Emmy-nominated actress and activist, took that fight further by bringing authentic transgender characters to life on groundbreaking shows like Pose and American Horror Story. Yet her multi-talented impact extends beyond Hollywood. Through her TransTech incubator and podcast N.O.W. (No Opportunity Wasted), Ross empowers marginalized LGBTQIA+ voices. In this episode, Ross opens up about her iconic "Candy" role, her reasons behind leaving Hollywood, and how Buddhism provided clarity amid turbulence - inspiring her advocacy work. She also shares her vision for political office and the transformative policies she aims to enact to help transgender people of color not just survive but thrive.   Join us for this powerful yet refreshingly candid conversation with Angelica Ross, celebrating authenticity, resilience, and effecting change.   3 Exceptional Highlights:   Pose showcased the unwavering courage of trans people who fight for authenticity, even when it means facing violence, discrimination, and rejection. Black trans women, despite their immense contributions to art, fashion, and social Despite the enormous contributions Black trans women make to art, fashion, and activism, they continue to face marginalization and exploitation. One should look inward for a deep sense of self-worth and choose moment-by-moment to overcome darker impulses and live authentically.   Show Highlights:    01:44 - Angelica Ross discusses her role in "Pose" and its cultural significance for transgender women of color   04:04 - Her experience as an undervalued, marginalized Black transgender woman in Hollywood   10:24 - Behind-the-scenes look at Angelica's iconic "Candy" lipsync performance.   11:31 - How Angelica healed her relationship with her mother despite a rocky period   18:23 - Why Buddhism resonated strongly with Ross and why she wants to introduce it to others   27:28 - The vision of the No Opportunity Wasted Podcast as a larger cultural movement   31:39 - Decriminalizing sex work, addressing oppression, fighting for transgender rights   37:05 - Unique challenges faced by Black transgender women in tech industry   42:57 - What to expect from Angelica Ross's political run and campaign platform   47:43 - Overview of Angelica's upcoming exciting new projects and initiatives   Important Links: - -   Episode Sponsor Links:    Producer Links:   Host Social Media Links:   Subscribe to Diversity Matters  Apple | Google | Spotify | Stitcher   

Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV Season 4 Episode 6 Episode Title: Social Class Mobility Guest: Dr. Sean Martin   Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV is a podcast that explores all things diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) related. In each episode, Oscar and his guests have lively discussions around DEI topics, explore the latest research on the topic, and discuss the implications so that listeners will be more knowledgeable about the topics and be able to apply the insights to their lives.   Show Summary:  “Society often overlooks people who have been upwardly mobile despite having valuable qualities like persistence, grit, and initiative. To truly create a diversity of experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives, it is crucial to recognize and value those from less privileged backgrounds.” – Dr. Sean Martin   Social mobility is a cornerstone of the American Dream, a beacon of hope that promises anyone can rise above their starting point and achieve success through hard work and determination. Yet, the reality is far more complicated, and social class can have a profound impact on a person's life trajectory.   To shed light on this topic, we have the privilege of welcoming Dr. Sean Martin as the guest chair. With his award-winning research on leadership, organizational culture, and societal contexts' effect on leaders and followers, Dr. Martin is a leading authority on the topic.   In this episode, we'll explore the concept of social class and mobility, the challenges faced by people in different social strata, and the implications for diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.   Join us on this journey as we delve into the fascinating world of social class and its influence on our society.   3 Exceptional Highlights:   Social class is a position of advantage or disadvantage you have compared to others based on factors like income, education, and occupation, which determine your access to valued resources in society and your ability to succeed. Coming from a less privileged background requires building strong community relationships, which are valuable forms of currency for social support. This mindset can lead to good leadership and teamwork skills in the workplace. Despite society's positive bias towards individuals who have achieved upward mobility, there still seems to be a hesitancy to hire them.   Show Highlights:    02:51 - What is social class and how Dr. Martin found interest in this research area   07:56 - Understanding the importance of social class and mobility from a DEI perspective   14:43 - The cultural contradiction of valuing upward mobility and the American Dream while stigmatizing those who achieve it   22:28 - Dr. Martin’s views on the Varsity Blues scandal and how those with privilege can use it to game the system   23:55 - Various ways in which different systems allow individuals to circumvent rules and regulations, including those that are formalized and encouraged   25:53 - Why labeling the United States as a classless society is a fallacy   27:20 - Is it possible for prestigious institutions or elite organizations to co-exist in a fair and equitable world?   31:17 - Strategies for countervailing the data that suggests growing up in privileged environments leads to a more independent mindset   35:22 - Challenges faced by those in the upper class and their impact on shaping society   39:23 - Further social class research Dr. Martin hopes to investigate   —--   Important Links: - https://www.darden.virginia.edu/faculty-research/directory/sean-martin Episode Sponsor Links:    Producer Links:   Host Social Media Links:   Subscribe to Diversity Matters  Apple | Google | Spotify | Stitcher 

Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV Season 4 Episode 4 Episode Title: Advancing DEI: The Necessary Journey Guest: Dr. Ella F. Washington   Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV is a podcast that explores all things diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) related. In each episode, Oscar and his guests have lively discussions around DEI topics, explore the latest research on the topic, and discuss the implications so that listeners will be more knowledgeable about the topics and be able to apply the insights to their lives.   Show Summary:  “Passion does not create more hours in the day. It's unfair to expect those most impacted by the lack of diversity, equity, and inclusion to fix the problem without compensation. Organizations with limited budgets should find creative solutions.” – Dr. Ella Washington.   Many organizations today recognize the importance of workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion. However, many struggle to implement effective strategies that promote diverse perspectives, create equitable opportunities, and foster an inclusive workplace culture.   As a result of this struggle, organizations may experience a lack of innovation, reduced employee engagement, and exclusion of underrepresented groups, negatively impacting both their employees and the entire organization. Thus, there is a need to explore practical solutions and insights to help these companies reach meaningful and sustainable outcomes and achieve their DEI goals.    In this episode, we have a fantastic scholar and consultant, Dr. Ella Washington, who shares her insights and expertise on the topic of DEI, which is also the subject of her new book, The Necessary Journey. Dr. Washington has extensive experience in the human capital space, impacting clients across various industries, including finance, entertainment, and higher education. She is a professor of practice at Georgetown University's McDonough School of Business and the Founder and CEO of Ellavate Solutions.   Whether you're a leader, employee, or academic, Dr. Washington's unique perspective will inspire you to think outside the box and build a truly diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace.   3 Exceptional Highlights:   The journey toward diversity, equity, and inclusion is a gradual process that requires sustained effort and time to achieve structural and systemic change. Diversity of thought should not replace demographic diversity, which should remain a foundational goal until representation goals are achieved at every level. A workplace utopia is a space where bias and exclusion are dismantled, and individuals are valued for their strengths, allowing everyone to thrive.   Show Highlights:    03:18 - What inspired Dr. Ella Washington to write The Necessary Journey?   09:29 - Discover the five stages of the DEI Maturity Model   13:54 - Hesitations most companies face when being classified in early stages, such as Awareness or Compliance   15:38 - How to foster diversity of thought and allow for constructive discourse to achieve optimal business outcomes   18:53 - The most common pitfalls organizations encounter on their DEI journey   23:14 - The impact of inadequate DEI support and lack of real commitment from organizations   24:54 - The emotional and visceral toll employees face when DEI initiatives are not supported in the workplace   27:18 - Senior leadership can improve their understanding of DEI through cost-effective strategies   29:19 - When to hire a Chief Diversity Officer and how to prepare for the hiring process   33:38 - Foster innovation to build a truly diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace   35:23 - How can organizations ensure that their employee resource groups (ERGs) are not used to exploit the labor of their members?   —--   Important Links: - - - Episode Sponsor Links:  Producer Links:   Host Social Media Links:   Subscribe to Diversity Matters  Apple | Google | Spotify | Stitcher 

Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV Season 4 Episode 3 Episode Title: Corporate DEI Initiatives   Guest: Dr. Anthony C. Hood   Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV is a podcast that explores all things diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) related. In each episode, Oscar and his guests have lively discussions around DEI topics, explore the latest research on the topic, and discuss the implications so that listeners will be more knowledgeable about the topics and be able to apply the insights to their lives.   Show Summary:  “If you're looking for somebody to do diversity recruiting or put on panel discussions, Women's History Month, Black History Month, go find somebody else. But if you want to impact and drive workplace change, I'm interested - Dr. Anthony C. Hood”   In today's rapidly changing world, diversity, equity, and inclusion have become essential elements for organizations looking to succeed and stay competitive.   More and more organizations in corporate America recognize the value of creating a diverse workforce. However, achieving true diversity, equity, and inclusion goes beyond addressing race. It commits to building an environment where everyone is treated equitably and given equal opportunities, regardless of background, ethnicity, or other personal characteristics.   My guest today is Dr. Anthony Hood, an exceptional academic and corporate executive who is deeply involved and entrenched in diversity, equity, and inclusion activity within Alabama and beyond. In this episode, we talk about his experiences as a Chief DEI officer in corporate America and how he leads with evidence-based data when presenting strategies for progress and measuring success through KPIs, metrics, goals, and visions.   Join us as we delve into the challenges and opportunities of promoting real, meaningful change that goes beyond mere performance.   3 Exceptional Highlights:   The holy grail in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) work is when it ties up with all areas of the organization, impacting compensation and performance evaluation. Anti-black racism still exists in corporate America, and most companies are not ready to  discuss it. It's essential to approach diversity research and literature nuanced and complexly to grasp its full implications for organizations.   Show Highlights:    03:09 - Why Dr. Anthony Hood made the bold decision to leave academia and return to corporate America   05:36 - Is the Chief DEI Officer role more performative than effective following the tragic death of George Floyd?   11:25 - How to collaborate with respected colleagues without giving off perceptions of superiority or stepping on their expertise   13:15 - Why Dr. Hood wants to create a safe environment as a Chief DEI officer where people feel psychologically safe with him   15:02 - Lessons learned from some of the most challenging initiatives in the workplace encountered by Dr. Hood   17:27 - The importance of speaking corporate slang to gain traction in DEI initiatives   19:25 - Why are DEI metrics so crucial, and which ones should companies focus on?   28:45 - If it's not equitable for one, it's not equitable for everyone   30:32 - Leaders often hoard talent to the point of sabotaging their mobility   34:31 - Several community DEI initiatives Dr. Anthony Hood is most involved in Important Links:     Episode Sponsor Links:    Producer Links:   Host Social Media Links:   Subscribe to Diversity Matters  Apple | Google | Spotify | Stitcher