5 Things / Fast Car
I’m the type of person who cries at the National Anthem and, apparently, when Tracy Chapman and Luke Combs performed “Fast Car” at the Grammy Awards.
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I’m the type of person who cries at the National Anthem and, apparently, when Tracy Chapman and Luke Combs performed “Fast Car” at the Grammy Awards.
I’ve been fascinated by the commentary around and reception to the performance. Two people, who on paper, seem wildly different: a Black lesbian from San Francisco and a straight white dude from North Carolina. Luke’s cover is a beautiful tribute, and in his words and actions, he continually praises, respects, and amplifies Tracy. That was very evident on stage.
We’re more alike than we are different, and whether or not we want to admit it, we’re wired to crave connection. The story in the song, originally written by Tracy in the late 80s, is timeless. Who doesn’t want this feeling (yes, even at work)? “I had a feeling that I belonged. I had a feeling I could be someone.”
49ers launch Black Excellence Collection
The San Francisco 49ers, one of the teams in tomorrow’s Super Bowl, launched a Black Excellence Collection of merchandise, conceived by three Black employees. The collection celebrates Black excellence and amplifies Black voices and artistry, past and present. B.U.I.L.D., the 49ers Black ERG, was behind this initiative, which acknowledges: At times, this [Black] style has been appropriated, which in turn, silences Black voices. This collection is in direct opposition to that.
Poker Power for Women+
Kellogg School of Management is teaching Poker Power for female leaders in partnership with founder Jenny Just. With a mission to teach one million women+ poker, she's not just dealing cards; she's dealing empowerment, proving that the skills honed at the poker table are the same ones needed for success in the business world. Poker helps build strategy, cool composure, and resilience, skills that can accelerate a leader’s trajectory. Non-Kellogg students can learn along with the Poker Power app (no money or gambling required). I already started playing! I love this story because of the subversive approach to leadership development.
Lyft takes care of its drivers
Lyft introduced a groundbreaking minimum pay standard for drivers, ensuring they earn 70% of rider payments weekly, a move towards equity in the gig economy. Data reveals that 15% of drivers earned less than 70% in 2023. There’s also a level of transparency with a new app feature that details fare breakdown. This matters because median U.S. driver earnings, after expenses, averaged $23.46 per engaged hour in the second half of 2023, a tough wage to live on in many parts of the country.
M.M.LaFleur dresses women candidates
M.M.LaFleur's "Ready to Run" initiative is loaning or gifting outfits for female political candidates, addressing the wardrobe challenges that often hinder women in politics. With women holding just 31% of statewide elective offices in the U.S., M.M.LaFleur's program aims to bridge the gender gap in politics. By offering tailored outfits and styling advice, they empower candidates to focus on their campaigns rather than outfit concerns. I love this story: in the past, the program dressed over 275 politicians, making it financially easier for women to enter politics.
Apple to achieve gender balance on its Board
In its next Board meeting, Apple expects to achieve equal representation of men and women directors, standing out among all major tech companies. Until now, there were twice as many men as women on the board of directors. This sets a major precedent that I expect we’ll see other companies follow, and it matters for so many reasons. But for Apple, it probably comes down to competition: diversity gives an increased ability to adapt to evolving market dynamics.
This Week’s Call to Action
It’s Black History Month! Support small businesses with this list of 21 Businesses Owned by Black Women and Non-Binary Folx.
5 Things / Flow State
This week I watched a family member be fully in their element at work. It was a treat to witness them in their flow state managing their team. They have a gift for making others feel seen. I couldn’t stop smiling. They made it look easy and even seemed to be having fun.
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This week I watched a family member be fully in their element at work. It was a treat to witness them in their flow state managing their team. They have a gift for making others feel seen. I couldn’t stop smiling. They made it look easy and even seemed to be having fun.
Do you know what your flow state is at work? Everyone has one, and it’s a beautiful thing to behold. It can be buried, though. Sometimes we have the right people but they’re in the wrong role. That’s one of the reasons it’s critical to stay curious with the people on your team. When someone is underperforming, yet they share the organization’s values, perhaps they’re in the wrong role. We miss out on seeing them in flow, on their potential.
Help them help you. Here are a few questions to ask the people on your team periodically: What would make your job more satisfying? What’s most energizing about this job for you? Do you have the opportunity to do what you do best every day?
My flow state is giving keynotes…it’s my passion to speak about everyone’s role in creating a more engaged and inclusive culture…
Here Are This Week's Good Vibes:
Hitachi adds DEI metrics to performance reviews
Beginning in 2025, Hitachi is taking a proactive approach by adding DEI metrics into employee performance reviews, impacting 40% of its Japan-based workforce. This initiative aims to enhance retention and mitigate cultural misunderstandings in a predominantly non-Japanese workforce. Japan faces unique DE&I challenges, including a significant gender gap and an aging population. In contrast to some opposition in the US, Hitachi's move aligns with the preferences of 97% of Gen Z workers in Japan, emphasizing the growing importance of DE&I in attracting talent.
JFK and other airports become more autism-friendly
On LinkedIn, Nate Shalev, who’s autistic, wrote about how their experience at JFK airport was dramatically improved due to the Sunflower Initiative, a symbol for hidden disabilities. For an autistic person, navigating the airport's sensory chaos can be overwhelming. Nate was wearing the Sunflower lanyard, which signifies a need for support and grants access to a separate security lane without explanations. Many other airports are doing the same. This proactive approach reduces stigma and empowers the increasing number of individuals with hidden disabilities.
Massachusetts moves to skills-based hiring
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey signed an executive order eliminating minimum education requirements for state agency hires, emphasizing a shift to a skills-based economy. This shift towards "skills-based hiring" is very much welcome because folks from traditionally marginalized backgrounds are less likely to have degrees, yet can bring an incredible amount of value to the workforce. This is an easy way to diversify talent pipelines by prioritizing skills over traditional credentials like degrees. My hope is that this encourages businesses to adopt similar practices.
Walmart invests in its managers, again
Walmart is back in 5 Things again this week, this time for giving its store managers up to $20k annually in stock grants, effectively making them owners in the company. Now with an increase in base salary, an improved bonus structure, plus the stock grants, store managers can earn up to $404,000 annually. Remember, ~75% of store management began as hourly employees, with a disproportionate number of those BIPOC. This matters to those families.
Mark Cuban doubles down on support for DEI
Following the story about Jamie Dimon from JPMorgan last week, Mark Cuban’s another powerful straight white guy speaking out for DEI, saying on X: “If you find the companies who think diversity is a negative, let me know. I want to short them or compete against them.” DEI is as relevant as ever…stay the course!
This Week’s Call to Action:
It’s Black History Month! In the spirit of intersectionality, here’s a list of 12 Black queer books and 21 films to check out.
5 Things / Accountability
This week on 5 Things in 15 Minutes, I’ll be joined by Rubén Alejandro Ramírez who leads Global DEI at the Syngenta Group, one of our clients. We’re going to talk about accountability, which is the “A” in my PSA formula for meaningful DEI success.
Listen to this episode:
This week on 5 Things in 15 Minutes, I’ll be joined by Rubén Alejandro Ramírez who leads Global DEI at the Syngenta Group, one of our clients. We’re going to talk about accountability, which is the “A” in my PSA formula for meaningful DEI success.
Ruben has been building out a leader accountability framework model that is segmented by region and has a point-based ranking. The framework will look at employee engagement survey results, pay gaps, the number of leaders trained, participation in webinars, and more.
I realize that for some of you, this is very aspirational. Still, leaders should be held accountable for DEI goals, which, by the way, are not going away (even if they are being rebranded…) Without accountability, it’s impossible to effectively scale your DEI strategies, and if you’re not scaling them, then you’re spinning your wheels.
I hope you’ll check out my conversation with Rubén on LinkedIn Live, YouTube or your favorite podcast platform.
Here Are This Week's Good Vibes:
JPMorgan fully committed to DEI
JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon, despite declaring himself unwoke, affirmed the bank's commitment to DEI. The bank’s strategy is heavily data-driven, focusing on specific metrics such as promotions by position and retention rates for underrepresented groups. This matters because JPM remains focused on addressing disparities among different demographics, especially emphasizing the importance of a "platform" for career advancement.
Billionaire couple gifts $100 million to Spelman College
In a historic move, billionaire couple Ronda Stryker and William Johnston are donating $100 million to Atlanta's Spelman College, marking the largest-ever single donation to a historically Black college or university. Spelman will use $75 million for scholarships and allocate the rest for academic initiatives and student housing improvements. The transformative gift underscores the importance of investing in HBCUs, addressing historical underinvestment, amplifying their financial stability and ultimately changing lives.
DEI jobs alive and well
Despite a decline in chief diversity officers during tech layoffs in early 2023, LinkedIn's data reveals that DEI roles remain among the fastest growing in the US. The report places "VP of diversity and inclusion" at #7 in the list of fastest growing jobs. The evolving nature of the work should be noted, with a shift towards qualifications of strategic planning expertise, legal and compliance knowledge, and accountability in navigating current and future challenges. Keep the faith, and keep learning!
More employers offering psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy
A growing number of U.S. employers are incorporating psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy into their health benefits to mental health challenges, especially treatment-resistant conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Traditional treatments may not work for everyone, making alternatives like psychedelic therapy valuable to enhance employee well-being, improve decision-making, and contribute to a healthier workforce. The CDC estimates that depression costs employers $17 to $44 billion annually in lost workdays.
More accessible Apple podcasts
Apple is enhancing podcast accessibility by introducing transcripts on Apple Podcasts. They will be automatically generated, allowing users to read the full text, search for specific content, and tap to play from a chosen point. These transcripts aims to make podcasts more inclusive, providing a valuable resource for audiences with varying needs. Available in English, French, German, and Spanish, this update reinforces Apple's commitment to universal design. Podcast creators can also customize transcript settings for episodes, offering flexibility in delivering accessible content to a global audience.
This Week’s Call to Action:
Ready to do the work? Check out the book Reconstructing DEI: A Practitioner's Workbook by Lily Zheng to get yourself into action!
5 Things / Compañeros
There are a lot of Venezuelan migrants where I live.
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There are many Venezuelan migrants where I live, most bussed up from Texas. A grassroots group of neighbors has organized a resettlement community hub, with a website connecting to volunteer opportunities and donation needs. They’ve set up a “compañeros” program where folks can “adopt” an individual or family and help them schedule appointments, find housing, and otherwise find their way in this strange, cold, new world right outside of Chicago.
I’ve done nothing except donate money and clothes. One excuse is that my Spanish is weak and I’ve convinced myself that I wouldn’t be much help. Then I feel guilty because my parents were also not born here, having come from Ireland for the American dream. Getting involved with the migrant resettlement would be a nice way to pay it forward…yet I’ve done almost nothing.
That’s the story in my head. Can you relate to the tension of wanting to do more in theory, yet inventing excuses not to take the first step?
I signed up to volunteer for a shift this afternoon. I decided to just start. I suspect that I’ll be reminded of how, when I give, I receive.
Here Are This Week's Good Vibes:
Walmart to increase pay for store managers
Walmart’s new annual base wage ranges from $90,000 to $170,000, offering more upward mobility for hourly workers. ~75% of store management began as hourly employees. The redesigned bonus program prioritizes profits over sales, potentially doubling a manager's bonus if targets are met. Walmart’s done a really nice job of taking care of its retail employees. I’ve been a long time fan of their free college tuition program.
Philadelphia becomes first sensory-inclusive city in the U.S.
Philadelphia received the Sensory Inclusive Certification from KultureCity. With almost 17% of the population facing disabilities, including sensory-based, the city made a commitment to do better. 70% of the 16,000 city workers took sensory inclusivity training. Resources like mobile stations with sensory tools and sensory bags are available at events for those with sensory disabilities. Philadelphia's professional sports teams are also certified as sensory-inclusive. I love this!
Jerod Mayo hired as New England Patriots coach
The New England Patriots make history with Jerod Mayo becoming their first Black head coach. Mayo is the NFL's youngest head coach and the fourth Black coach in the league. Patriots owner Robert Kraft emphasized merit, but Mayo brought up race, stating, "I do see color, because I believe if you don't see color you can't see racism." In a league where 60% of players are Black but the percentages of coaches are far less, the NFL has diversity challenges. Mayo's willingness to confront the issue draws praise, highlighting the importance of addressing racial disparities in coaching hires in the sports industry.
BIPOC folks win big at Emmys
The 2024 Emmys marked a historic moment with a record-breaking number of people of color winning major awards across all categories. This inclusive shift reflects a departure from the #EmmysSoWhite trend of two years ago. Noteworthy achievements include Quinta Brunson becoming the second Black woman to win for best comedy actress; Ayo Edebiri's win as the third Black woman for supporting comedy actress; and Lee Sung Jin's hat trick, being the first Asian to win outstanding limited series, directing, and writing in the same year. These milestones signify a positive step towards diversity and representation in the entertainment industry.
321 Coffee shows a successful inclusive retail business model
321 Coffee in the Raleigh area employs 60 adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), with hundreds more on their wait list for jobs. The company has multiple cafes, a roastery, and a wholesale business, with these folks working all roles. 321 symbolizes Down’s Syndrome, which occurs when an individual has 3 copies of the 21st chromosome. When 80% of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are unemployed, the success of the 321 Coffee model exemplifies the win-win created with inclusion.
This Week’s Call to Action:
Do you crave Girl Scout cookies but struggle to find them for sale where you live? No worries! Check out this list of scouts who happen to be trans girls and will ship cookies wherever you are! The list was curated by Erin Reed.
5 Things / Walk this Way
Lately, I’ve been talking to leaders and DEI committee members who want to know how to talk about DEI in this current landscape. They just don’t have the language to comfortably talk about DEI, either internally or externally. Fortunately, we have a workshop for that…it’s called Walk this Way: Your DEI FAQ.
Lately, I’ve been talking to leaders and DEI committee members who want to know how to talk about DEI in this current landscape. They just don’t have the language to comfortably talk about DEI, either internally or externally. Fortunately, we have a workshop for that…it’s called Walk this Way: Your DEI FAQ.
By the end of this workshop, each leader will have their own curated set of DEI talking points that resonate with them that they can remember and easily reference…Leader A’s list will be different from Leader B’s. They’ll have a firm grasp on key terms and know how to swiftly disarm anti-diversity resisters. They’ll feel empowered, not overwhelmed.
People in power with good intentions need to have the tools to cut through the bull and become legit change-makers. Despite any headlines to the contrary, this work is only going to grow and expand. The changing demographics require it. My team and I are ready to show you how to Walk this Way. Are you ready for it?
Here Are This Week's Good Vibes:
Bank of America raises minimum wage to lead industry
Bank of America prioritizes its workers with an increase to minimum wage. Bank of America raised its minimum wage to $25/hr by 2025, a move that leads the industry. The federal minimum wage is a tragic $7.25 per hour. Many front-line bank employees are women and BIPOC and this increase directly impacts them, bit by bit chipping away at the gender and race wealth gaps.
St. Paul, Minnesota elects all women to City Council
St. Paul, Minnesota achieved a historic milestone by electing an all-female city council, the first in a major U.S. city. Six of the seven members are women of color and all are under the age of 40 – and they all earned the public’s trust. Nelsie Yang is the first Hmong-American council member. Nearly 70% of municipal offices in the U.S. are held by men, so this milestone is a big deal for representation and possibility models.
Same-sex couples marry in Estonia
Estonia marks a historic moment as it becomes the first former Soviet-ruled country to legalize same-sex marriage. It's country #35 to offer marriage equality (of 195). The law came into effect on New Year's Day allowing same-sex couples to register their marriage applications online. This shows the power of being out and how the visibility shifts perceptions: a recent poll showed 53% of Estonians supporting same-sex marriage compared to 34% a decade ago.
Indigenous woman Lily Gladstone wins Golden Globe award
Lily Gladstone makes history as the first Indigenous winner of the Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Drama. Gladstone's role in "Killers of the Flower Moon" tells the story of the Osage Reign of Terror where 20+ members of the Osage nation were murdered in the 1920s. Accepting her award in the Blackfeet language, she dedicated it to every Indigenous child with a dream. The win is a huge moment for Indigenous representation, emphasizing the importance of telling those stories (albeit not in their own words).
Apple suppliers commit to clean energy
Apple has powered its own facilities with clean energy for five years, and is now focusing on helping suppliers transition. I don’t often write about environmental issues, but I love this story because Apple has leveraged their buying power to convince 300+ suppliers to commit to renewable energy. Apple is setting these suppliers up for success: they’ve outlined clear expectations, are educating on clean energy procurement, and collaborating with partners like Nike and the Clean Energy Buyers Institute for broader industry impact. Regular audits and independent verification ensure progress tracking, aligning with Apple's goal to cut emissions 75% by 2030 and 90% by 2050. The world needs its biggest companies to follow suit.
This Week’s Call to Action:
There will be no 5 Things in 15 Minutes this week on account of MLK Day. One thing I plan to do on Monday is finally watch the Netflix biopic “Rustin” about Bayard Rustin, one of Dr. King’s trusted advisors and the architect of the March on Washington. Rustin was also openly gay.