The Will To Change: Uncovering True Stories of Diversity & Inclusion Jennifer Brown

This "Best of The Will to Change" episode, features an interview with Joze Piranian, Global TEDx Speaker and a lifelong stutterer turned transformational speaker on inclusion and resilience. Joze also shared information about stuttering, and revealed what he has learned from his own journey. 

In this episode, we talk with Yemi Akisanya, VP of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Axon, a technology company serving law enforcement and public safety. Yemi discusses his journey from finance to DEI leadership and his innovative approach to implementing DEI strategies in a complex industry. He also explains how he aligns DEI initiatives with Axon's mission to protect life, accelerate justice, and capture truth. Yemi shares insights on his data-driven methods, moving beyond traditional DEI programs, and embedding inclusive leadership throughout the organization. Discover the challenges and opportunities of DEI in law enforcement technology, including product development informed by DEI principles and community feedback.

This episode features an interview with AJ Hikes, Deputy Executive Director for Strategy & Culture at the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).
This discussion covers everything from healing the harm caused by racist bias within organizations, to integrating justice into diversity, equity & inclusion work, to the exclusionary nature of our modern legal system.

In this episode, Jennifer speaks with Maureen O'Neill. SVP and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer at Consilio, about her journey from litigation to leading DEI efforts in a rapidly growing global professional services company. Maureen shares insights on creating and scaling DEI initiatives, including employee resource groups and advisory boards, while navigating industry-specific challenges in the legal tech world. She discusses the importance of balancing quantitative metrics with qualitative aspects of inclusion, the critical skills needed for DEI leadership, and the long-term impact of fostering a culture of belonging. Join us for a candid conversation about the art and science of corporate DEI, and the continuous evolution required to make meaningful progress in this vital field.

In this episode of The Will to Change, Jennifer sits down with Sterling Cruz-Herr, a trans elder, educator, and activist. They discuss Sterling's journey of self-discovery, the importance of intergenerational learning within the LGBTQ+ community, and the challenges faced by marginalized groups in today's society. Sterling also shares their experiences teaching "Trans 101" to older generations, highlighting the hunger for knowledge and the desire to remain relevant among elders. The conversation also touches on the exclusion faced by trans individuals within the lesbian community and the need for greater inclusivity and understanding. Discover the power of empathy, the importance of allyship, and the transformative potential of embracing a "they" mindset – one that celebrates diversity, kindness, and unconditional love.
 

In this special Pride Month roll-up episode of The Will to Change, Jennifer and Doug revisit powerful conversations with past guests who share insights on navigating DEI work in today's challenging climate. They discuss highlights from episodes featuring Lily on making DEI work "boring" to reach more people; Dr. Elijah on the importance of naming identities and allyship; Rhodes on knowing your audience when communicating about DEI; and Erik, Senior Vice President of Global Small Business at Dell Technologies, on how belonging at work can be life-changing for LGBTQ+ employees. Throughout the episode, Jennifer reflects on key lessons and offers advice for DEI practitioners and leaders committed to advancing inclusion in complex times.