Jeff Lawrence: DEI, Accessibility & Belonging: A Faith-Based Approach to Workplace Culture

Jeff Lawrence is a seasoned theologian and apologist with over 30 years of church ministry experience, having served as both a Worship Pastor and Executive Pastor. He has been part of leadership teams for national organizations and served on the board of the National Embryo Donation Center. Currently, Jeff is the Director of Spiritual Development at Foundation Academy, where he is dedicated to training and equipping the next generation to thrive in a postmodern culture. With a solid academic background, Jeff fosters new conversations in Christian schools, universities, and churches, challenging the present and paving a new pathway forward. He believes it's time to reckon with the past and gently call believers back to the foundations of their faith.

In this episode, Wendi and Jeff discuss:

• Belief vs. reality: physical and moral laws governing existence
• Leadership’s role in DEI&A and the evolution of DEI concepts
• Examining DEI theory roots, merit vs. diversity quotas, and organizational impact
• Achieving unity through a Creator-centered worldview and genuine empathy
• Cultivating authentic belonging through servant leadership and intentional care

Key Takeaways:

• Belief alone cannot alter reality; physical and moral laws shape existence beyond individual convictions, presenting a foundation for grounded decision-making.
• DEI theories grounded in Marxist principles attempt to address power disparities with representation quotas, yet they often lack consistency and realistic application across diverse settings.
• Hiring based on quotas rather than merit risks fostering resentment, diminishing talent, and harming organizational performance, underlining the need for merit-based advancement.
• True inclusion is achieved through authentic empathy and care, seeing individuals as complete human beings beyond mere professional roles, which naturally builds belonging.
• Leaders can foster a unified and compassionate culture by valuing contributions at all levels, demonstrating humility, and using resources to support meaningful, community-focused initiatives.

“The thing about truth is, it doesn't require your belief in order to be true. Truth sits by itself. You can believe whatever you want, but you will still be governed by truth. So, we will still be governed by God's laws.”  - Jeff Lawrence

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/P0a3YMx5QiY?si=wqLAIwNFMfXwb9yd

Connect with Jeff Lawrence:

Website: https://jeffglawrence.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeff.lawrence.98/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeffglawrenceposts/ 

Email: jeff@jeffglawrence.com 

Connect with Wendi Swanson:

Website: etymongroup.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/wendiswanson

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557265653368 

Email: wswanson@etymongroup.com

Show notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul Tagama

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.