On a recent episode of the "Intentional Conversations" Vodcast, hosted by the NWC Team, we had the pleasure of speaking with Zachary Nunn , a dynamic entrepreneur and thought leader. Zachary, a former Big Four consultant, is the founder and CEO of Living Corporate, an experience management company focused on driving healthy and fair experiences for employees and customers. His journey to founding Living Corporate was deeply personal, born from a desire to create a space where marginalized voices were heard and celebrated. From Personal Experience to Impactful Solutions: Zachary shared his own experiences navigating the corporate world as a Black man, highlighting the lack of representation and the challenges he faced. This personal experience fuelled his passion to create a platform that would empower others. Living Corporate began as a podcast featuring insightful conversations with executives, activists, and thought leaders across various industries. Recognizing the immense value of these conversations, Zachary developed an AI-powered platform that transforms the podcast library into a valuable learning resource for organizations. A Focus on Respect and Transparency: When asked about his strategies for fostering inclusive environments, Zachary emphasized the importance of respect and transparency. He believes that these fundamental principles should guide all interactions, both within his own company and in his work with clients. "We want to lead with respect and transparency in all things," Zachary explained. "Whether it's a project plan, a roadmap, or simply asking for clarity on an assignment, these are all part of building a respectful and inclusive work environment." Moving Beyond DEI: Zachary made an important distinction, stating that Living Corporate doesn't consider itself a "DEI company." Instead, they focus on driving healthy and fair experiences for all employees and customers. This broader perspective emphasizes the importance of creating a positive and equitable environment for everyone, regardless of their background. Key Takeaways: Personal experience can be a powerful catalyst for change. Zachary's personal journey inspired him to create a platform that empowers others. Respect and transparency are foundational to inclusive environments. Building strong relationships requires open communication and a genuine commitment to understanding and valuing diverse perspectives. Focus on creating positive and equitable experiences for all. Moving beyond traditional DEI frameworks allows for a more holistic approach to creating a truly inclusive and welcoming environment. Intentional Conversations is a weekly podcast by Nika White Consulting that intersects diversity, equity, and inclusion dialogue with leadership and business. Click here to register to attend the live sessions each Friday from 11 a.m. to 12 noon EST. You may also search archives to view replays of past episodes, or you can listen to the Intentional Conversations Podcast on your favorite platform.

The Intentional Conversations Vodcast recently hosted Jelisa Dallas , a distinguished speaker, author, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) expert. The conversation delved into the crucial aspects of courageous leadership, fostering resilience, and cultivating an inclusive environment. Here are some key takeaways through a DEI lens: 1. Courageous Leadership Beyond Confidence: Dallas emphasizes that courageous leadership goes beyond mere confidence. It encompasses: Soul Work: Understanding one's values, biases, and how they impact interactions with others. Emotional Intelligence: Developing empathy, self-awareness, and navigating complex interpersonal dynamics. Readiness for Change: Embracing vulnerability, adapting to new situations, and aligning beliefs with actions. This framework highlights the importance of self-reflection and continuous growth, which are essential for leaders navigating diverse and often challenging environments. 2. The Power of Values Alignment: Dallas underscored the significance of aligning personal values with organizational values. When values are misaligned, individuals may experience frustration, burnout, and difficulty authentically leading. DEI Lens: This emphasizes the need for organizations to prioritize DEI values and create an environment where individuals can authentically bring their whole selves to work, regardless of their background or identity. 3. Navigating Dissonance Between Personal Values and Societal Realities: The conversation addressed the challenges of navigating a world where personal values may not always align with societal or political realities. Dallas suggests: Distinguishing between "truth" and "fact": Acknowledging the reality of the situation while focusing on personal truths and how to navigate within those constraints authentically. Prioritizing self-care: Engaging in practices that promote emotional well-being and resilience, such as mindfulness, rest, and connecting with supportive communities. This is particularly relevant in a DEI context, where individuals from marginalized groups may experience systemic barriers and discrimination. 4. The "Go Brave" Framework: Dallas introduced her "Go Brave" framework, which emphasizes: Growth: Continuous learning and personal development. Optimism: Maintaining a hopeful outlook despite challenges. Boldness: Taking risks and stepping outside of comfort zones. Resilience: Developing the capacity to bounce back from setbacks. Authenticity: Leading with integrity and embracing one's true self. Victory & Virtue: Striving for excellence while upholding ethical principles. This framework provides a practical roadmap for individuals and organizations seeking to cultivate a culture of courage, inclusivity, and positive change. 5. Courageous Giving: Dallas emphasizes the importance of "giving courageously" – giving from a place of overflow rather than depletion. Giving courageously highlights the need for leaders to prioritize self-care and replenishment to ensure they can support others effectively. DEI Lens: This concept is particularly relevant in DEI work, which can be emotionally demanding. Leaders must prioritize their well-being to avoid burnout and maintain the energy and compassion necessary to advocate for equity and inclusion. 6. Soul Work as a Foundation for Courageous Leadership: Dallas's book, "Soul Work," explores the importance of self-reflection, self-awareness, and addressing internal barriers to personal and professional growth. Individuals can cultivate self-confidence and authentically lead by understanding and addressing internal obstacles such as self-sabotage. Final Remarks: The conversation with Jelisa Dallas provided valuable insights into the multifaceted nature of courageous leadership. Individuals and organizations can create a more inclusive and equitable world by incorporating these principles – self-awareness, emotional intelligence, values alignment, and a commitment to personal and professional growth. Intentional Conversations is a weekly podcast by Nika White Consulting that intersects diversity, equity, and inclusion dialogue with leadership and business. Click here to register to attend the live sessions each Friday from 11 a.m. to 12 noon EST. You may also search archives to view replays of past episodes, or you can listen to the Intentional Conversations Podcast on your favorite platform.

The recent devastating wildfires in Los Angeles serve as a powerful reminder of our world's interconnectedness and the urgent need for collective action. This tragedy unfolded against a backdrop of climate change, highlighting the critical importance of sustainable practices and environmental responsibility. The story of the LA fires is a multifaceted narrative. It's a tale of immense destruction, with thousands of homes lost and lives tragically impacted. It's a story of resilience, with communities coming together to support those in need. But it's also a story that raises important ethical questions. One such question revolves around the deployment of incarcerated firefighters. While their labor provided valuable assistance in battling the flames, the ethical implications of utilizing prison labor deserve serious consideration. This situation underscores the need for a just and equitable criminal justice system that prioritizes rehabilitation and avoids exploiting individuals for profit. Beyond the complexities of the criminal justice system, the LA fires also showcased the power of international cooperation. Firefighters from Mexico bravely crossed borders to lend a helping hand, demonstrating the importance of global solidarity in times of crisis. This act of international assistance is a powerful reminder that we are all interconnected and that collective action is crucial in addressing global challenges. This tragedy also serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address climate change. The increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires are a direct consequence of rising temperatures and changing weather patterns. Moving forward, it is imperative that we prioritize sustainable practices, invest in renewable energy sources, and work towards a more environmentally conscious future. How Storytelling Can Impact Corporate Culture With all its complexities, the LA fires offer a powerful example of how storytelling can impact corporate culture. By sharing these narratives, we can: Foster Empathy and Understanding: Stories can help employees connect with the human impact of global events, fostering empathy and a deeper understanding of the challenges facing our world. Drive Action and Change: The story of the LA fires can inspire employees to act on climate change, whether through supporting environmental initiatives, advocating for sustainable practices, or engaging in community service. Promote Diversity and Inclusion: Sharing stories of international cooperation and community resilience can highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion in addressing global challenges. Fostering a Storytelling Culture Nika White Consulting offers a comprehensive framework for embedding a storytelling culture within organizations. By leveraging the power of narratives, organizations can: Enhance Employee Engagement: Create a stronger sense of community and shared purpose. Strengthen Organizational Identity: Align employee narratives with the organization's mission and values. Foster Leadership and Collaboration: Equip leaders with the storytelling skills to inspire and motivate their teams. Drive Inclusion and Representation: Provide a platform for diverse voices to be heard and valued. By implementing a storytelling culture, organizations can harness the power of narratives to create a more human-centered, empathetic, and impactful workplace. Connect with Nika White Consulting Want to learn more about how Nika White Consulting can help your organization embed a storytelling culture and achieve its goals? Visit our website at https://www.nikawhite.com/storytelling to explore our offerings and contact our team.

On a recent Intentional Conversations Vodcast, we spoke with Kellina Powell , a deaf coach and advocate, podcast speaker, bestselling author, and passionate entrepreneur. Kellina's inspiring journey, marked by resilience and a commitment to empowering others, offers valuable insights into the importance of inclusion and breaking down barriers for the deaf community. Navigating the Hearing World: Challenges and Triumphs Kellina candidly shared her experiences growing up deaf, navigating both the deaf and hearing worlds, and the unique challenges she faced as a Black woman with a disability. From facing discrimination in education and the workplace to overcoming self-doubt, Kellina's story is a testament to her strength and determination. Key Takeaways from Kellina's Journey: The Power of Representation: Kellina emphasized the crucial role of representation and role models in the lives of young people with disabilities. Her encounter with a deaf professor profoundly impacted her, inspiring her to become a leader and advocate for the deaf community. Breaking Down Communication Barriers: Kellina highlighted the importance of effective communication, emphasizing the need for clear and concise language, avoiding jargon, and ensuring accessibility for people with hearing impairments. Simple gestures like facing the speaker and using clear masks can significantly improve communication. Building Inclusive Workplaces: Kellina stressed the importance of creating inclusive workplaces that value diversity and accommodate the needs of employees with disabilities. This includes regular training on disability awareness, creating accessible work environments, and fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity. The Importance of Mental Health: Kellina emphasized the mental health challenges faced by many individuals with disabilities and the importance of seeking support and guidance. She encouraged others to prioritize their mental well-being and seek professional help. Kellina's Advice for Allies: Learn and Educate Yourself: Stay informed about disability issues and seek resources and training opportunities. Challenge Assumptions: Be mindful of your language and avoid making assumptions about people with disabilities. Create Inclusive Spaces: Actively work to create inclusive environments in your workplace, community, and personal life. Kellina's message is clear: everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and valued. We can create a more equitable and just society for all by embracing inclusivity and breaking down barriers. To learn more about Kellina Powell and her work, read her book: " Every Day I Am Just Deaf. " Intentional Conversations is a weekly podcast by Nika White Consulting that intersects diversity, equity, and inclusion dialogue with leadership and business. Click here to register to attend the live sessions each Friday from 11 a.m. to 12 noon EST. You may also search archives to view replays of past episodes, or you can listen to the Intentional Conversations Podcast on your favorite platform.

This blog post is inspired by a conversation between Dr. Nika White and Valda Valbrun on the Intentional Conversations Vodcast, focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the education system. Valda, a seasoned educator, and DEI practitioner, shared powerful insights into the challenges students of color face and offered practical strategies for creating more inclusive and supportive learning environments. Key Takeaways from the Conversation: The Importance of Authenticity and Representation: Valda emphasized the significance of acknowledging and valuing the diverse lived experiences of students, including their cultural backgrounds and identities. She shared her personal experience as a Haitian American woman and the importance of shaping positive narratives around people of color. Addressing Systemic Challenges: The conversation highlighted systemic issues such as the disproportionate representation of students of color in special education and disciplinary actions, as well as opportunity gaps and inequitable access to resources. Creating Cultures of Belonging: Valda stressed the need to move beyond simply admitting students of color into schools and actively work towards creating environments where they feel a sense of belonging. This involves acknowledging their unique identities, incorporating their experiences into the curriculum, and fostering meaningful relationships with educators. Navigating Microaggressions and Bias: The discussion addressed the prevalence of microaggressions in schools and the importance of equipping students with the tools and language to address them effectively. Valda emphasized the need for trusted adults and reporting mechanisms to support students experiencing these situations. The Role of Educators: Valda highlighted the crucial role of educators in creating inclusive classrooms. She encouraged teachers to embrace students' diverse backgrounds, incorporate their experiences into instruction, and foster critical thinking skills. She also advocated for providing educators with professional development and support to become culturally competent. Pre-emptive Strategies and Reframing DEI Work: Valda discussed the importance of proactive measures to protect DEI efforts in the face of pushback and attempts to limit access to inclusive education. She suggested reframing DEI work as creating "cultures of belonging" where everyone feels valued and supported. Concrete Examples and Statistics: While the conversation didn't explicitly cite specific statistics, Valda mentioned the concerning statistic that students of color may experience up to 90 microaggressions per week in school. This data point highlights the urgent need to address this issue and create more inclusive environments. To further illustrate the challenges discussed, here are some relevant statistics from reputable sources: Discipline Disparities: According to the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights Data Collection, Black students are disproportionately suspended and expelled compared to their white peers. For example, during the 2017-18 school year, Black students represented 15% of all students but accounted for 38% of out-of-school suspensions. Achievement Gaps: Data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) consistently shows achievement gaps between white students and students of color in various subjects. These gaps are often attributed to systemic inequities in access to resources and opportunities. Special Education Disproportionality: The U.S. Department of Education also reports disproportionality in special education, with Black students being more likely to be identified as having intellectual disabilities or emotional disturbances. Moving Forward: The conversation between Dr. White and Valda provides valuable insights and practical strategies for advancing DEI in education. By acknowledging systemic challenges, creating cultures of belonging, and empowering students and educators, we can work towards a more equitable and inclusive education system for all. Call to Action: Educators: Reflect on your own practices and identify ways to create more inclusive classrooms. Seek professional development opportunities to enhance your cultural competency. Administrators: Implement policies and practices that promote equity and address systemic disparities. Provide resources and support for educators to create inclusive learning environments. Parents and Community Members: Advocate for equitable education policies and support initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion in schools. Students: Speak up against microaggressions and bias. Seek support from trusted adults and utilize available reporting mechanisms. By working together, we can create a more just and equitable education system where all students have the opportunity to thrive. Intentional Conversations is a weekly podcast by Nika White Consulting that intersects diversity, equity, and inclusion dialogue with leadership and business. Click here to register to attend the live sessions each Friday from 11 a.m. to 12 noon EST. You may also search archives to view replays of past episodes, or you can listen to the Intentional Conversations Podcast on your favorite platform.

In a recent Intentional Conversation Vodcast, we had the privilege of hosting Yolanda Webb , a renowned philanthropist, public policy expert, and advocate for equity and inclusion. Yolanda's insightful perspectives on human behavior, social impact, and community engagement provide valuable lessons for leaders seeking to create more diverse, equitable, and inclusive environments. Key Takeaways from the Conversation The Power of Attention Bias: Yolanda emphasized the importance of being mindful of our attention and focusing on what truly matters. By consciously directing our attention towards positive outcomes and meaningful actions, we can overcome distractions and achieve our goals. The Work is the Work: Despite the evolving terminology and shifting political landscapes, the fundamental work of creating equitable and inclusive societies remains constant. Leaders must stay focused on the core principles of fairness, justice, and human dignity. The Importance of Self-Awareness and Vulnerability: True leadership requires self-awareness and the courage to embrace vulnerability. By acknowledging our limitations and seeking growth, we can become more effective leaders and inspire others. Cultivating Purpose-Driven Cultures: Creating a purpose-driven culture involves prioritizing employees' well-being, valuing their contributions, and fostering a sense of belonging. By empowering individuals and fostering open communication, leaders can build strong and resilient teams. Practical Tips for Intentional Leadership Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness practices like meditation or journaling to cultivate present-moment awareness. Embrace Vulnerability: Be open to feedback, acknowledge mistakes, and seek continuous improvement. Foster a Culture of Inclusion: Create safe spaces for open dialogue, celebrate diversity, and empower marginalized voices. Lead by Example: Model the behaviors and attitudes you want to see in others. Prioritize Relationships: Build strong relationships with your team members, stakeholders, and community members. Final Thoughts Yolanda Webb's insights offer a powerful framework for leaders seeking to make a positive impact. By focusing on intentionality, self-awareness, and human connection, we can create a more just and equitable future. Intentional Conversations is a weekly podcast by Nika White Consulting that intersects diversity, equity, and inclusion dialogue with leadership and business. Click here to register to attend the live sessions each Friday from 11 a.m. to 12 noon EST. You may also search archives to view replays of past episodes, or you can listen to the Intentional Conversations Podcast on your favorite platform.

In a recent episode of Intentional Conversations, Dr. Nika White had the privilege of engaging with the inspiring Natasha Wade , a renowned coach dedicated to empowering Black women. Their conversation delved deep into the complexities of diversity, equity, and inclusion, particularly highlighting Black women's unique challenges and triumphs in today's society. The Power of Community and Self-Care Wade emphasized the importance of community and self-care for Black women. She shared her journey of overcoming adversity and finding her purpose. By creating a safe space for Black women to dream, build, and thrive, Wade empowers them to break free from societal expectations and embrace their true potential. Challenging the Superwoman Schema One of the key themes of the conversation was the detrimental impact of the Superwoman schema on Black women. Wade discussed how this societal pressure to be perfect, strong, and independent can lead to burnout, stress, and mental health issues. She encouraged Black women to prioritize self-care, seek support, and challenge these harmful stereotypes. Reimagining the Workplace Wade also shared her vision for a liberated workplace that prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion. She advocates for workplaces that are empathetic and supportive and recognize the unique needs of Black women. Organizations can create environments where Black women can thrive by fostering a culture of belonging and empowerment. Key Takeaways from the Conversation: The power of community: Building strong connections with other Black women can provide invaluable support and encouragement. Prioritizing self-care: Taking time for oneself is essential for mental and emotional well-being. Challenging the Superwoman schema: Embracing vulnerability and imperfection is vital to achieving balance and fulfillment. Reimagining the workplace: Creating inclusive and supportive work environments is crucial for the success of Black women.  By sharing her insights and experiences, Natasha Wade offers a powerful message of hope and empowerment for Black women. Her work is a testament to the transformative power of community, self-care, and intentional action. Intentional Conversations is a weekly podcast by Nika White Consulting that intersects diversity, equity, and inclusion dialogue with leadership and business. Click here to register to attend the live sessions each Friday from 11 a.m. to 12 noon EST. You may also search archives to view replays of past episodes, or you can listen to the Intentional Conversations Podcast on your favorite platform.

The weight of the world often seems to rest on the shoulders of Black women. We are expected to be strong, resilient, and always giving. But what about the toll this takes on our mental health and overall well-being? The Double Standard It’s a well-known adage that Black women must work twice as hard to get half as much. This systemic inequality manifests in countless ways, from workplace discrimination to healthcare disparities. The constant struggle to prove ourselves, to overcome obstacles, and to navigate a world that often undervalues us can take a significant toll. A Personal Reflection The recent election results were a stark reminder of the challenges we face. As a Black woman, waking up to those results was a gut punch. It felt like a personal affront, a validation of the systemic biases and prejudices that continue to hold us back. In the days and weeks that followed, I found myself grappling with a range of emotions: anger, frustration, sadness, and a deep sense of despair. But I also knew that I couldn’t let these feelings consume me. Finding Solace and Strength I turned to my community to cope with the weight of these experiences. Friends and I planned a much-needed getaway to Panama City Beach, Florida. The sun, the sand, and the safety of trusted company provided a much-needed respite. I also committed to prioritizing self-care by signing my daughter and me up for a Women of Color Self-Care Retreat in February of 2025 in Barbados. This retreat will offer a safe space for Black women to connect, heal, and recharge. The Importance of Community and Connection One of the most powerful tools we have is the power of community. By connecting with other Black women, we can share experiences, offer support, and build a network of allies. Here are a few ways to foster these connections: Join Women's Organizations: Organizations like the National Council of Negro Women and Black Girls Rock! Provide opportunities for networking, mentorship, and advocacy. Attend Conferences and Workshops: Events specifically designed for Black women offer a chance to learn, grow, and connect with like-minded individuals. Create Support Groups: Whether online or in-person, support groups can provide a safe space to share feelings, seek advice, and celebrate achievements. Prioritizing Self-Care Amid our busy lives, it's essential to prioritize self-care. By caring for ourselves, we are better equipped to care for others. Here are some self-care practices to consider: Mindfulness and Meditation: These practices can help reduce stress and promote mental clarity. Physical Activity: Regular exercise can improve physical and mental health. Healthy Eating: Nourishing our bodies with nutritious food can boost energy levels and well-being. Quality Sleep: Adequate sleep is crucial for optimal cognitive function and emotional regulation. Advocating for Change As Black women, we are responsible for advocating for policies and practices that promote equity and justice. Here are some ways to get involved: Vote: Our votes have the power to shape the future. Volunteer: Give back to your community by volunteering for organizations that support Black women and girls. Donate: Support organizations that are working to address systemic racism and inequality. Speak Out: Use your voice to challenge injustice and discrimination. Curated Experiences for Black Women We must create more opportunities for connection, growth, and healing to empower Black women further. These experiences should be designed to: Prioritize Safety: Ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all participants. Offer Protection: Provide resources and support to help Black women navigate challenges. Foster Community: Create opportunities for meaningful connections and shared experiences. Promote Upskilling and Professional Development: Offer workshops, training, and mentorship programs to help Black women advance their careers. A Call to Action As Black women, we must continue to support one another. We must create spaces where we can share our experiences, offer empathy, and uplift each other. We must also advocate for policies that address the unique challenges we face.  By prioritizing our mental health, seeking community support, and fighting for systemic change, we can move forward stronger than ever.

Rest, Resilience, and Reclaiming Your Rhythm In a world that often glorifies hustle culture and burnout, it's refreshing to have conversations that prioritize rest, renewal, and resilience. Our recent Intentional Conversations Vodcast featured a thought-provoking discussion with Amanda Miller Littlejohn , author of The Rest Revolution. Amanda, a renowned executive coach and leadership development expert, shared valuable insights on the importance of breaking free from the relentless cycle of overworking. She emphasized the detrimental effects of machine-like productivity, urging us to embrace our humanity and prioritize self-care. Key Takeaways from the Conversation: The Illusion of Perfection: We often strive for unattainable perfection, a standard set by a machine-centric mindset. This relentless pursuit can lead to burnout and hinder our overall well-being. The Power of Rest: Rest is not a luxury; it's a necessity. By taking time to recharge, we can enhance our creativity, productivity, and overall quality of life. The Importance of Self-Awareness: Understanding our preferences, limitations, and triggers is crucial for maintaining balance and avoiding burnout. The Impact of Systemic Issues: Societal pressures and historical trauma can contribute to burnout. Recognizing these factors can challenge them and create a more supportive environment. How to Reclaim Your Rhythm: Prioritize Self-Care: Make time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. This could include meditation, yoga, time in nature, or reading a good book. Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Learn to say no to additional commitments that may overwhelm you. Practice Mindfulness: Pay attention to your thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations. Mindfulness can help you stay present and reduce stress. Embrace Imperfection: Let go of the need to be perfect. Embrace mistakes as opportunities for growth and learning. Connect with Others: Build strong relationships with supportive people who can offer encouragement and understanding. Implementing these strategies can reclaim our rhythm, reduce stress, and live a more fulfilling life. Remember, rest is not a luxury; it's a necessity . Intentional Conversations is a weekly podcast by Nika White Consulting that intersects diversity, equity, and inclusion dialogue with leadership and business. Click here to register to attend the live sessions each Friday from 11 a.m. to 12 noon EST. You may also search archives to view replays of past episodes, or you can listen to the Intentional Conversations Podcast on your favorite platform.