LGBTQ+ Excellence Podcast

The Queer Consulting Network - Ahmet Fitch

Welcome to the LGBTQ+ Excellence Podcast, where we dive into the hidden tales of triumph, resilience, and leadership within the consulting world, all through the vibrant spectrum of the LGBTQ+ community. Hosted by Ahmet Aydogan Fitch, in this show, we delve beyond the conference room, uncovering the remarkable journeys and victories of LGBTQ+ professionals. From candid conversations with executive leaders to insightful discussions with industry pioneers, we explore the secrets of success and the transformative power of diversity and inclusion. Expect surprising revelations, genuine insights, and the courage born from shattering barriers. This isn't just a podcast; it's a celebration of voices that ignite change, challenge conventions, and lead with authenticity. Get ready to be inspired, empowered, and propelled forward in your consulting career. Follow the LGBTQ+ Excellence Podcast today and join us in amplifying these powerful stories of excellence. This show is by The Queer Consulting Network (https://www.queerconsulting.org/) with Podcast Production provided by Rainbow Creative (https://www.rainbowcreative.co/)

  1. JUL 25

    Leading with Identity: Adam Wolford's Journey from Big Firms to Bold Entrepreneurship

    Leading with Identity: Adam Wolford's Journey from Big Firms to Bold Entrepreneurship In this episode of the LGBTQ+ Excellent Podcast, we welcome Adam Wolford, co-founder of Plan Perfect. Adam shares his intriguing journey from consulting at global firms like Accenture and Deloitte to founding a strategic planning platform for nonprofits. He speaks about the significance of leading with identity, the challenges he faced in embracing his LGBTQ+ identity in the corporate world, and the pivotal moments that led him to entrepreneurship. Discover valuable insights on authenticity, resilience, and finding one's true purpose. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about leveraging personal identity as a superpower in professional life. 00:00 Introduction to the LGBTQ+ Excellence Podcast 00:40 Guest Introduction: Adam Wolford's Journey 02:21 Defining LGBTQ+ Excellence 03:33 Adam's Career Evolution: From Engineering to Consulting 07:01 Transitioning to Entrepreneurship 09:50 Personal Growth and Authentic Leadership 12:19 Facing Challenges and Setbacks 15:15 The Aha Moment: Taking the Leap 18:25 Advice for Aspiring LGBTQ+ Entrepreneurs 23:53 Conclusion and Key Takeaways Queer Consulting Network envisions a world where LGBTQ+ individuals are empowered to create thriving communities, build essential skills, and gain confidence through networking events and connections with relevant companies and people. We strive towards a future where everyone in our community feels safe, secure, accepted, and valued for who they are. Learn more at: https://www.queerconsulting.org/  This show is presented by The Queer Consulting Network https://www.queerconsulting.org/ and Produced by Rainbow Creative with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Nathan Wheatley as Editor

    25 min
  2. MAY 30

    Purpose-Driven Podcasts: The Vision Behind Rainbow Creative w/ Matthew ‘MoJo’ Jones

    On this episode of the LGBTQ+ Excellent Podcast, we sit down with Matthew ‘MoJo’ Jones, the visionary founder of Rainbow Creative. With over 15 years of experience leading content and strategy at powerhouse brands like Disney and WeWork, Matthew has carved a unique path as a sought-after podcast producer and a leading player in the podcast production industry. From launching deeply resonant shows like Navigating Narcissism to shaping global hits like The School of Greatness, MoJo opens up about the mission behind his work: elevating underrepresented voices through intentional storytelling. He shares how personal challenges, professional pivots, and a commitment to authenticity helped him build a thriving creative business with purpose at its core. Whether you're a storyteller, entrepreneur, or creative looking to make an impact, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the power of podcasts to drive change and connection. 00:00 Introduction to the LGBTQ+ Excellence Podcast 00:40 Meet Matthew: A Journey in Content Creation 02:08 Defining LGBTQ+ Excellence 03:01 Matthew's Career Path: From Film to Podcasting 04:42 Building Rainbow Creative 07:16 Lessons from High-Profile Projects 10:49 Overcoming Business Challenges 14:15 Developing a Mission-Driven Strategy 17:36 The Impact of Storytelling 23:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Queer Consulting Network envisions a world where LGBTQ+ individuals are empowered to create thriving communities, build essential skills, and gain confidence through networking events and connections with relevant companies and people. We strive towards a future where everyone in our community feels safe, secure, accepted, and valued for who they are. Learn more at: https://www.queerconsulting.org/  This show is presented by The Queer Consulting Network https://www.queerconsulting.org/ and Produced by Rainbow Creative with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Nathan Wheatley as Editor

    24 min
  3. APR 11

    Breaking Stigmas and Building Belonging: Mental Health Through a Queer Lens

    In this episode, we delve into mental health within the LGBTQ+ community through the Queerness Diaries with our guest, Conor Edwards. Originally from a small town near Manchester and now based in Spain, Conor is a seasoned content strategist and the creator of the Queerness Diaries Podcast and YouTube channel. In our conversation he shares his journey of living authentically, the impact of living in different cultures, and the challenges and stigmas faced by neurodivergent LGBTQ+ individuals. Conor discusses the importance of ongoing mental health conversations, inclusive work environments, and the power of personal narratives in breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of belonging. Don't miss this insightful discussion that goes beyond the boardroom to celebrate authenticity and resilience. 00:00 Introduction to the LGBTQ+ Excellence Podcast 00:42 Meet Our Guest: Conor's Background and Career 02:08 Conor's Journey to Authenticity 03:20 The Birth of Queerness Diaries 05:08 Living Abroad: Shaping Perspectives on LGBTQ+ Advocacy 09:03 Mental Health and the LGBTQ+ Community 13:44 Navigating ADHD and Anxiety in the Workplace 20:36 Creating Inclusive Work Environments 29:37 Year-Round LGBTQ+ Advocacy 32:05 Conor's Aha Moment and Final Thoughts Connect with Conor! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheQueernessDiaries LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/conoredwardsmadrid/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3VU53YGTchC1fzKg0sk85E Queer Consulting Network envisions a world where LGBTQ+ individuals are empowered to create thriving communities, build essential skills, and gain confidence through networking events and connections with relevant companies and people. We strive towards a future where everyone in our community feels safe, secure, accepted, and valued for who they are. Learn more at: https://www.queerconsulting.org/  This show is presented by The Queer Consulting Network https://www.queerconsulting.org/ and Produced by Rainbow Creative with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Nathan Wheatley as Editor

    36 min
  4. MAR 21

    Building Inclusive Excellence: A Conversation on DEI Leadership with Ömer Ongun

    In this episode, host Ahmet Aydogan dives into the world of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) with Ömer Ongun, a global leader in organizational strategy at Korn Ferry. With over 20 years of experience, Ömer discusses the essentials of building sustainable and actionable DEI initiatives. From recounting his journey from a small town in Turkey to becoming a DEI leader, to sharing practical frameworks for fostering inclusive workplaces, Ömer provides invaluable insights on creating diverse and effective teams. Discover the importance of structural and behavioral inclusion, how to navigate challenges in DEI work, and key trends shaping the future of DEI practices. Queer Consulting Network envisions a world where LGBTQ+ individuals are empowered to create thriving communities, build essential skills, and gain confidence through networking events and connections with relevant companies and people. We strive towards a future where everyone in our community feels safe, secure, accepted, and valued for who they are. Learn more at: https://www.queerconsulting.org/  This show is presented by The Queer Consulting Network https://www.queerconsulting.org/ and Produced by Rainbow Creative with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Nathan Wheatley as Editor 00:00 Introduction to the LGBTQ+ Excellence Podcast 00:43 Meet Ömer: A Leader in DEI and Organizational Strategy 01:49 Defining LGBTQ+ Excellence 02:27 Ömer's Journey to DEI Leadership 04:08 Ensuring Actionable and Sustainable DEI Initiatives 06:09 Structural vs. Behavioral Inclusion 09:05 Coaching Leaders to Build Diverse Teams 12:48 Navigating DEI Challenges 19:02 Future Trends in DEI Practices 23:20 Final Thoughts and Aha Moments

    25 min
  5. FEB 7

    From TV News to Transformative Coaching: Russ Terry's Journey of Growth

    In this episode, host Ahmet Aydogan is joined by Russ Terry, a coach, motivational speaker, and HR diversity consultant. Discover how Russ transitioned from a career in TV news to coaching over a thousand professionals from top companies like Microsoft and Google. Learn about his unique approach to executive coaching, career growth, and the power of gratitude in personal and professional success. Get insights into how diverse experiences can shape impactful leadership and consulting strategies. Don't miss this journey of excellence and transformation! Queer Consulting Network envisions a world where LGBTQ+ individuals are empowered to create thriving communities, build essential skills, and gain confidence through networking events and connections with relevant companies and people. We strive towards a future where everyone in our community feels safe, secure, accepted, and valued for who they are. Learn more at: https://www.queerconsulting.org/  This show is presented by The Queer Consulting Network https://www.queerconsulting.org/ and Produced by Rainbow Creative with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Nathan Wheatley as Editor 00:00 Introduction to the LGBTQ Plus Excellent Podcast 00:41 Meet Russ Terry: A Journey of Diverse Careers 02:01 Defining LGBTQ Plus Excellence 03:52 The Power of Listening in Coaching 05:08 Transformative Success Stories 07:22 The Importance of Networking 11:02 Gratitude in Coaching and Consulting 13:51 Challenges in Small to Medium-Sized Organizations 16:31 Russ Terry's Aha Moment 20:06 Conclusion: Go For It!

    21 min
  6. JAN 10

    Unveiling Queer Excellence in Tech Leadership: A Deep Dive with Nicholas Sharp

    In this episode, host Ahmet Aydogan is joined by Nicholas Sharp, a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Ambassador at IntelliPro. Nicholas shares his personal journey from a myriad of careers to tech leadership, emphasizing the importance of living authentically and advocating for LGBTQ+ inclusivity. Discover how Nicholas navigates challenges, promotes diversity, and envisions a future where LGBTQ+ representation thrives in tech and consulting industries. Empowerment, visibility, and resilience are key themes discussed to inspire both current and future LGBTQ+ professionals. Connect with Nicholaswww.linkedin.com/in/nicholasdiversitygrowth/ Queer Consulting Network envisions a world where LGBTQ+ individuals are empowered to create thriving communities, build essential skills, and gain confidence through networking events and connections with relevant companies and people. We strive towards a future where everyone in our community feels safe, secure, accepted, and valued for who they are. Learn more at: https://www.queerconsulting.org/  00:00 Introduction to LGBTQ+ Excellence 00:45 Meet Nicholas: DEI Ambassador at IntelliPro 01:19 Defining LGBTQ+ Excellence 02:36 Nicholas's Journey in the Tech Industry 06:42 Promoting Inclusivity in the Workplace 08:26 Challenges and Solutions for LGBTQ+ Professionals 11:25 Advice for Aspiring LGBTQ+ Mentors 17:07 Future Hopes for LGBTQ+ Representation 18:46 Final Thoughts and Empowerment This show is presented by The Queer Consulting Network https://www.queerconsulting.org/ and Produced by Rainbow Creative with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Nathan Wheatley as Editor

    20 min
  7. 12/13/2024

    Navigating Change and Coaching for Resilience with Matthew Westbrook

    In this episode, host Ahmet Aydogan  is joined by professional coach Matthew Westbrook to dive into the topics of navigating change, coaching for impact, and building resilience. Matthew shares his insights on leadership, the importance of doing what fuels your fire, and creating a culture of trust and innovation within teams. They discuss strategies for handling the Great Resignation, leveraging technology, and fostering a supportive work environment. Tune in to hear an enlightening conversation about unlocking personal and professional possibilities. Queer Consulting Network envisions a world where LGBTQ+ individuals are empowered to create thriving communities, build essential skills, and gain confidence through networking events and connections with relevant companies and people. We strive towards a future where everyone in our community feels safe, secure, accepted, and valued for who they are. Learn more at: https://www.queerconsulting.org/  00:37 Meet Our Guest: Matthew, Professional Coach 01:09 Defining LGBTQ+ Excellence 02:41 Navigating Change and Resilience 06:34 Leadership and Employee Engagement 14:23 Embracing Technology and Innovation 23:12 Personal Insights and Aha Moments 25:13 Conclusion and Key Takeaways This show is presented by The Queer Consulting Network https://www.queerconsulting.org/ and Produced by Rainbow Creative with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Nathan Wheatley as Editor

    26 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to the LGBTQ+ Excellence Podcast, where we dive into the hidden tales of triumph, resilience, and leadership within the consulting world, all through the vibrant spectrum of the LGBTQ+ community. Hosted by Ahmet Aydogan Fitch, in this show, we delve beyond the conference room, uncovering the remarkable journeys and victories of LGBTQ+ professionals. From candid conversations with executive leaders to insightful discussions with industry pioneers, we explore the secrets of success and the transformative power of diversity and inclusion. Expect surprising revelations, genuine insights, and the courage born from shattering barriers. This isn't just a podcast; it's a celebration of voices that ignite change, challenge conventions, and lead with authenticity. Get ready to be inspired, empowered, and propelled forward in your consulting career. Follow the LGBTQ+ Excellence Podcast today and join us in amplifying these powerful stories of excellence. This show is by The Queer Consulting Network (https://www.queerconsulting.org/) with Podcast Production provided by Rainbow Creative (https://www.rainbowcreative.co/)