This episode of DEI After 5 features Yarek Kumechko, an advocate in the LBGTQ+ community, sharing his unique story and insights on allyship and creating inclusive environments. Host Sacha Thompson explores what it means to be an ally and accomplice in diversity, equity, and inclusion work. Yarek, originally from Ukraine and now living in Switzerland with his husband and son, reflects on his experiences in both hostile and thriving environments as a gay man and father. Tune in for a deep dive into personal narratives and the importance of creating equity and inclusion for all.

This episode of DEI After 5 features guest Byron Slosar, CEO and founder of HelloHive, discussing the importance of using technology to connect with underrepresented talent and humanize the recruitment process. Byron shares insights on his background and mission to make student experiences more meaningful. Tune in for valuable perspectives on finding talent in unconventional spaces and fostering inclusive workplaces.

[00:03:37] Empowering Diversity Through Technology.

[00:07:29] First-generation college students.

[00:09:46] First-generation college experience.

[00:13:47] The power of resumes.

[00:20:26] Entry-Level Talent in Startups.

[00:23:35] Talent retention in organizations.

[00:29:16] College students changing majors.

[00:30:33] Balancing work and family.

In this episode of DEI After 5, Sacha discusses the current anti-DEI movement and the lack of effective responses in the conversations surrounding it. The guest, Shirley Knowles, a communication specialist in the DEI space, joins to unpack what is happening, what needs to happen, and what actions individuals can take. Shirley shares her background in equity, inclusion, and diversity work, emphasizing the importance of understanding different perspectives to improve communication and foster meaningful connections.

In this episode of DEI After 5, host Sacha Thompson delves into the challenges faced by diversity, equity, and inclusion practitioners amidst social unrest and attacks on DEI initiatives. She invites Dr. Rebecca Eldredge, a psychotherapist specializing in compassion and self-compassion, to discuss coping strategies for managing compassion fatigue and burnout in the face of social and racial injustice. Dr. Eldredge shares her insights on supporting the well-being of those dedicated to creating positive change in society.

In this episode of DEI After 5, Sacha discusses the current state of the diversity, equity, and inclusion industry and its impact on the LGBTQ+ community. The guest, Ben Green, a transgender supporter and consultant, shares his personal journey and the challenges he faced growing up in a small town. He highlights the importance of building support systems and discusses his role in helping organizations create inclusive environments. Tune in to learn more about the impacts and actions that can be taken to support the LGBTQ+ community.

In this episode of DEI After 5, host Sacha Thompson delves into the importance of moving forward with diversity, equity, and inclusion work despite challenges. She welcomes guest Sabrina Townsend, Global Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging at WWT, who shares her journey into the field. Together, they discuss building community, forming partnerships, and advancing DEI within organizations. Tune in to gain valuable insights on navigating and progressing in the world of diversity and inclusion.

In this episode of DEI After 5, host Sacha Thompson discusses the intersection of technology and equity with guest Skyra Rideaux. They explore how technology can be utilized to create a more equitable world and highlight the importance of increasing representation in the tech industry. Skyra shares her non-linear career journey, including her military service and work in environmental racism and climate justice. Tune in to discover the possibilities of using emerging technology for social impact.

This episode of DEI After 5 delves into the importance of creating safe spaces and building community, especially during challenging times. Gemma Toner, CEO and founder of the Tone Networks, discusses their innovative approach to personal and professional development through a community learning platform designed to help individuals thrive in a diverse workforce. Gemma emphasizes the need for engaging and fun learning experiences that prioritize creating safe environments for growth and development.

In this episode of DEI After 5, host Sacha Thompson explores the importance of moving beyond a checkbox mentality when it comes to diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in the workplace. She is joined by Dimple Shah, an enterprise agile coach and consultant, to discuss the two-way street of inclusion and what it should look like in organizations. They emphasize the mutual benefits of creating an inclusive workplace and challenge the notion that inclusion is solely the responsibility of employers. Tune in to gain insights on fostering a truly inclusive and equitable work environment.

In this episode of DEI After 5, Sacha discusses the recent dismantling or banning of DEI offices on college campuses. She explores the challenges faced by higher education institutions in continuing their diversity, equity, and inclusion work. Sacha is joined by Leilani Lewis, a Senior Director of Diversity and Inclusion at a public university, who shares her journey to DEI and the importance of having structures in place to ensure the work continues even without an office. They also touch on the intersection of DEI and the arts. Tune in to gain insights on being the architect of DEI work in higher education.