Bernadette Smith (she/her) is an inclusive communication keynote speaker, founder and CEO of Equality Institute, and award-winning author of four books, including the bestseller Inclusive 360: Proven Solutions for an Equitable Organization. She created the ARC Method® (Ask, Respect, Connect), a simple tool that helps client-facing teams replace assumptions with curiosity and build trust fast.

Bernadette has presented to CEOs, associations, leadership teams, sales professionals, and HR leaders. Her keynotes are practical, funny, and cringe-free. Her expertise has been sought after by the New York Times, Forbes, the Washington Post, and Fast Company, and she has appeared on the Today Show, the BBC, NPR, and CNN. Crain’s Chicago Business named her one of Chicago’s Notable LGBTQ Executives.

She also writes the weekly 5 Things newsletter and hosts the Good Vibes Leadership podcast. When she is not on stage, you can find her on a pickleball court.

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“Bernadette was a great external speaker who intentionally connected her messages to our firm’s values and culture. Even though Bernadette was the last presenter on a long day of trainings, she kept the audience engaged and active throughout the presentation.”
— Jonathan Philipp, Grant Thornton
“I’ve never had a presentation feel like a hug before.”
— Attendee, Ferrara Candy event
“You were a ROCKSTAR ....as always but I’m extremely grateful to you for being such a consistent and impactful contributor to the ILDC.”
-Cherie Coleman, President, Illinois Diversity Council
“I am a white, cisgender, heterosexual male who wants to lift up those around me. I'm not always sure how. In 20 minutes, I got some very practical ways to start conversations and start being a better, more intentional ally. Thank you!”
— Attendee, ASAE Annual Meeting
“This was one of the best presentations I have ever seen. Bernadette is a tremendous leader and amazing speaker.”
— Michael G., Northern Trust
“Bernadette Smith is an outstanding speaker on building constructive culture. Her engaging keynote was definitely not the standard diversity and inclusivity training. She connected to our specific mission and values and was authentic, approachable, and practical.”
— Dr. Sandra Dunbar, Emory University

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“Bernadette smith is the leader tolisten to when you’re intimidated by diversity.”

-Rubén Ramírez, Head Diversity and Inclusion, Syngenta Group

Bernadette SMITH’s Press Coverage

BERNADETTE’S Podcast Appearances

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Interested in learning how Bernadette can impact your audience?

“Bernadette smith is the leader to
listen to when you’re intimidated by diversity.”