Feb 11 2025 49 mins
In this episode, Chrysta Wilson, founder of Wilson and Associates Coaching & Consulting, shares her insights into the challenges DEI efforts face today. We begin with an overview of how DEI has become a political battleground, examining how corporate and governmental entities are rolling back initiatives and what that means for marginalized communities.
We talk about the misconceptions surrounding DEI, how it’s often weaponized, and why systemic changes are essential beyond surface-level diversity hiring. She also breaks down the impact of recent policy changes and how they shape workplace culture, leadership decisions, and opportunities for historically underrepresented groups.
Key Takeaways:
- The current state of DEI and its politicization.
- How DEI efforts have been weaponized and misunderstood.
- The systemic roots of inequality beyond just hiring practices.
- The impact of policy changes on workplace culture and leadership.
- Strategies for moving forward and keeping DEI efforts effective.
Timestamps:
00:00 Welcome Back and Introduction to Chrysta Wilson
01:52 Chrysta Wilson's Background and Expertise
03:17 Current Events and Community Impact
06:13 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Under Attack
09:35 Systemic Issues and Personal Experiences
23:51 The Importance of DEI and Meritocracy
27:31 Impact on Black-Owned Businesses
27:53 Corporate DEI Commitments
28:37 Ben & Jerry's and Corporate Values
30:10 Costco's DEI Stance
31:18 Future of DEI in Companies
32:57 Navigating DEI Challenges
34:22 Cultural Competency in the Workplace
37:51 Adapting DEI Strategies
41:29 Emotional Impact on Marginalized Communities
47:47 Closing Thoughts and Resources
"True DEI work isn’t just about hiring—it’s about dismantling the systems that created inequality in the first place."
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Chrysta Wilson Chrysta Wilson, MPA, PCC, is a DEI expert and organizational culture change consultant who is committed to empowering leaders to create equitable and inclusive workplaces. She is the founder of Wilson and Associates Coaching and Consulting, LLC, a 16-year-old consulting firm, host of the Recipe for Transformation Podcast, and creator of The School For Transformation which houses e-learning programs such as Disrupt Your DEI and DEI Dinner Party.
Wilson and Associates: https://www.wilson-and-associates.com/
Receipe for Transformation Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-recipe-for-transformation/id1645889391
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