Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox

In this episode of Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox, Jackie Ferguson talks with Debra Boggs—career strategist, Forbes honoree, and founder of D&S Executive Career Management.Debra shares how she went from working in higher ed to leading a fast-growing company that helps C-suite leaders land their next big role. She opens up about mindset shifts, personal branding, and why networking isn’t optional—especially for underrepresented professionals.In this episode, you’ll learn:Common mistakes executives make when job huntingSmart strategies for salary negotiationWhy your LinkedIn profile might be working against youYou’ll also hear how Debra used coaching, self-awareness, and a little discomfort to grow from solopreneur to CEO of a 15-person team.Resources & Links:🎯 Job Search Diagnostic Tool📺 Debra on YouTube💼 Connect on LinkedIn🌐 Dwell Boggs WebsiteConnect with us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diversity_beyondthecheckbox/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/diversity-beyond-the-checkbox-podcast/Website: https://beyondthecheckbox.com/Hosted by Jackie Ferguson, award-winning business leader, best-selling author, and co-founder of The Diversity Movement.

Each June, during Pride Month, we take extra time to uplift and celebrate the voices of LGBTQ+ leaders—and this week, we’re doing just that with a special highlight episode.Over the years, I’ve had the honor of speaking with some truly incredible LGBTQ+ changemakers—people who are breaking barriers, driving inclusion, and shaping workplaces where everyone can thrive. From tech to education, coaching to advocacy, these leaders bring powerful stories and actionable wisdom to the table.Now, let’s revisit some of the most memorable moments and insights from the brilliant LGBTQ+ leaders who have joined me on the show.Happy Pride—and here’s to building a world where everyone feels seen, safe, and celebrated.LGBTQ+ leaders featured in this episode, in order:Ally Up: Di Ciruolo's Guide to Building More Inclusive, Innovative, and Productive TeamsThe evidence-based approach to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging, with Change Coach LaTonya WilkinsForging a path for women and minorities in tech, with Elaine MontillaHow to be a better leader in a diverse workplace, with Dr Steve Yacovelli, "The Gay Leadership Dude" How Hip Hop Producer Lisa Cunningham Remixed her Career to Human Rights InfluencerBeing an LGBTQ+ Ally, with Bernadette SmithHow to create a Transgender and Non-Binary inclusive culture, with Jake RostovskyTransgender Activist Precious Brady-Davis: "I Have Always Been Me"If Diversity is our Strength, Inclusion is our Superpower, with Michael BachDiversity: Beyond the Checkbox is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Jackie Ferguson. For more information including the latest webinars and other DEI content, head over to TheDiversityMovement.com. Podcast production by Walk West.

Join us for a riveting episode as Jackie engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Anselm Beach, a distinguished leader with a captivating life journey from a Caribbean island to the United States Army and a White House fellowship. Anselm unveils his unconventional career path, influenced by his upbringing, and shares the invaluable experiences that shaped his pursuit of leadership excellence. Anselm's narrative touches on his trials and triumphs in various roles, offering insights into his pivotal work advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the Army and at Raytheon Technologies. Explore the groundbreaking Values Principles Model, co-authored by Anselm, which underscores the significance of moving beyond mere representation to active participation within organizations. This episode is your window into 21st-century leadership, showcasing how embracing diversity and inclusion can catalyze an organization's success. Anselm Beach, a true advocate for change, inspires us to embark on a journey toward inclusive leadership and a legacy that makes a difference."Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc. 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson. Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!This show is proud to be a part of the Living Corporate network and to be produced by Walk West. (00:00) - beach download (01:05) - episode (40:01) - ad

In this episode of Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox, Greg Morley, global HR and inclusion leader and author of Bond: Belonging and the Keys to Inclusion and Connection, shares how belonging isn’t just a feel-good concept—it’s a leadership imperative. Greg’s career journey from warehouse worker to executive at companies like Disney and LVMH has given him a rare, grounded perspective on what it truly takes to create workplaces where people feel seen, valued, and empowered.Through personal stories and hard-earned lessons—from cross-cultural leadership in Hong Kong to building trust one conversation at a time—Greg reveals why emotional intelligence, vulnerability, and standing in others’ shoes are at the heart of effective DEI work. He also challenges leaders to move beyond fear, foster inclusive environments, and recognize that belonging is the ultimate competitive advantage.Learn More About Greg Morley:Author: Bond: Belonging and the Keys to Inclusion and ConnectionWebsite: gregmorley.comConnect: Follow Greg on LinkedIn Greg’s work focuses on building inclusive, high-performing teams through emotional intelligence, vulnerability, and leadership that puts people first.Connect with us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diversity_beyondthecheckbox/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/diversity-beyond-the-checkbox-podcast/Website: https://beyondthecheckbox.com/Hosted by Jackie Ferguson, award-winning business leader, best-selling author, and co-founder of The Diversity Movement.

What does it really take to lead people well who don’t look like you, think like you, or come from your background?In this powerful episode of Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox, Jackie Ferguson sits down with Stephanie Chung—a bold, barrier-breaking executive who rose from baggage handler to become the first African American president of a private aviation company. Her story isn’t just inspiring—it’s a leadership masterclass grounded in grit, vision, and real-world results.Drawing from her book, Ally Leadership: How to Lead People Who Are Not Like You, Stephanie breaks down what it takes to lead across lines of difference—race, gender, generation, neurodiversity, and beyond. She introduces the “ALLY” framework—Ask, Listen, Learn, Take Action—and explains how true leadership begins with vulnerability, curiosity, and trust.You’ll learn how to command respect in rooms where you're underestimated, how to build trust that accelerates performance, and how to lead with emotional intelligence without compromising authority. Whether you’re looking to grow your influence, elevate your personal brand, or position yourself for the next big opportunity, this episode delivers the mindset and strategy to get there.Learn More About Stephanie Chung:TikTok: @thestephaniechungInstagram: @thestephaniechungLinkedin: thestephaniechungYouTube: @CoachstephaniechungFacebook: TheStephanieChungwww.stephaniechung.comConnect with us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diversity_beyondthecheckbox/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/diversity-beyond-the-checkbox-podcast/Website: https://beyondthecheckbox.com/Hosted by Jackie Ferguson, award-winning business leader, best-selling author, and co-founder of The Diversity Movement.

" We hide and we think it's keeping us safe, but it's actually keeping us small. It's keeping us hidden in the shadows" -Ruth RathblottWhat are you hiding? And how is it holding you back?Ruth Rathblott returns to Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox to explore the concept of unhiding—the act of shedding the fears and societal pressures that make us conceal aspects of ourselves. Ruth shares her journey of embracing her own identity as a person with a limb difference, revealing how years of hiding held her back from true connection and fulfillment. Through her latest book, Unhide and Seek, and her thought-provoking Time Magazine op-ed, she continues to challenge organizations and individuals to rethink the way we approach inclusion and belonging.Learn More About Ruth RathblottOfficial Website: https://www.ruthrathblott.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthrathblott/TEDx Talk – "Unhiding: The New Inclusion": https://www.ted.com/talks/ruth_rathblott_unhiding_the_new_inclusionBooks by Ruth RathblottSingle-Handedly: Learning to Unhide and Embrace Connection: https://www.ruthrathblott.com/singlehandedly-bookUnhide and Seek: Live Your Best Life, Do Your Best Work: https://www.ruthrathblott.com/unhide-and-seekInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/diversity_beyondthecheckbox/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/diversity-beyond-the-checkbox-podcast/Website: https://beyondthecheckbox.com/Hosted by Jackie Ferguson, award-winning business leader, best-selling author, and co-founder of The Diversity Movement.

Marketing isn’t just about selling—it shapes what we see, how we think, and the choices we make. From the products on store shelves to the ads that fill our feeds, businesses play a major role in influencing our decisions. But are they really getting it right?Dr. Sonya Grier, a marketing expert and professor at American University’s Kogod School of Business, has spent over 30 years studying the connection between marketing, business strategy, and consumer behavior. In this episode, she breaks down:How marketing impacts what’s available to different communities—and why it mattersThe biggest mistakes companies make when trying to reach diverse audiencesThe role of AI in shaping advertising and the risks that come with itWhy some corporate DEI efforts fall short and what actually drives real changeWhether you're in marketing, business, or just curious about how companies shape the world around us, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on the power of marketing—and why getting it right is more important than ever.Links:Learn more about Dr. Sonya Grier: https://www.american.edu/kogod/faculty/griers.cfmCheck out the Race in the Marketplace Research Network: https://rimnetwork.netRead Dr. Grier’s article on faculty diversity struggles: https://theconversation.com/usFollow Dr. Grier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonya-a-grier-57a108/Become a part of our community:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diversity_beyondthecheckbox/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/diversity-beyond-the-checkbox-podcast/Website: https://beyondthecheckbox.com/Hosted by Jackie Ferguson, award-winning business leader, best-selling author, and co-founder of The Diversity Movement.Production by Walk West - https://www.walkwest.com

Dating Apps Have Changed Everything—But Are They Really Safe? Online dating has opened up new ways to connect, but it also comes with risks—scammers, harassment, and even gender-based violence. What’s being done to make dating apps safer?Meet Kenya Fairley, Planning and Partnerships Associate Director of Trust and Safety at Bumble, who has spent more than 20 years working in survivor-centered advocacy. At Bumble, she’s helping to create a safer, more respectful online dating experience through policy, partnerships, and tech-driven innovation.In this episode, Kenya shares:The biggest risks in online dating—and how to protect yourselfHow Bumble’s safety features work and why they matterWhy personal “agency” is necessary for women in dating and beyondHow AI is shaping the future of trust and security in online spacesLessons from Kenya’s time in government and how they apply to techBumble has made women’s safety a priority from the start, and Kenya is working to ensure the platform continues to lead the way. Whether you’re actively dating or just interested in how tech companies approach safety, this conversation is one you’ll want to hear.Download the episode now and learn what’s being done to make online dating safer for everyone.Links:Learn more about Bumble’s safety initiatives: https://safety.bumble.com/Follow Kenya Fairley on LinkedIn: Kenya FairleyListen to Bumble’s podcast Give Me A Buzz: https://open.spotify.com/show/110ywFrsl2kOohhWAAZlYnRead The Bumble Buzz blog: https://bumble.com/en/the-buzzBecome a part of our community:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diversity_beyondthecheckbox/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/diversity-beyond-the-checkbox-podcast/Website: https://beyondthecheckbox.com/Hosted by Jackie Ferguson, award-winning business leader, best-selling author, and co-founder of The Diversity Movement.Production by Walk West - https://www.walkwest.com

DEI efforts are at a crossroads, and Lily Zheng is here to explain what’s broken—and more importantly, what it will take to create real, measurable change in workplaces.Lily is an unapologetically bold DEI strategist, consultant, and best-selling author whose work has been featured in Harvard Business Review, New York Times, and NPR. Their groundbreaking books—DEI Deconstructed, Reconstructing DEI, and Fixing Fairness—lay out practical, evidence-based strategies for building truly inclusive and effective organizations.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why traditional DEI efforts often fall short and how to fix them.The four pillars of Lily’s FAIR Framework: Fairness, Access, Inclusion, and Representation.How measuring impact can improve DEI efforts and keep practitioners motivated.Strategies for navigating today’s societal and political DEI challenges.Why DEI work benefits everyone—and how to communicate that win-win effectively.Through their sharp insights and candid reflections, Lily inspires us to hold the DEI industry to a higher standard while emphasizing the importance of hope, community, and systemic change.Links:Learn more about Lily Zheng: https://www.lilyzheng.co/Follow Lily on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lilyzheng308/Buy Lily’s books: DEI Deconstructed | Fixing Fairness (coming soon!)Become a part of our community:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diversity_beyondthecheckbox/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/diversity-beyond-the-checkbox-podcast/Website: https://beyondthecheckbox.com/Hosted by Jackie Ferguson, award-winning business leader, best-selling author, and co-founder of The Diversity Movement.Production by Earfluence - https://www.earfluence.com

This week, we’re joined by Lisa Cordileone and Shaan Dasani, the visionary executive producers behind Crazy as a Loon, a film inspired by a dark and often-overlooked chapter of American history: The Lavender Scare. In 1953, during this unsettling period, LGBTQ+ government employees were targeted and persecuted, deemed security risks to the country due to the belief that their identities made them morally weak and vulnerable to blackmail.Lisa and Shaan bring their personal perspectives to this powerful story that transcends history, addressing universal themes of resilience, family, and the pursuit of peace.Lisa’s background as an actor and producer fuels her passion for amplifying LGBTQ+ voices, celebrating underrepresented historical figures, and mentoring new talent in filmmaking. Shaan, an actor and filmmaker, contributes a deeply human lens to storytelling, emphasizing shared experiences that foster empathy and understanding.In this episode, you’ll learn:The inspiration behind the short film and how it sheds light on The Lavender Scare while exploring timeless human struggles.How Lisa and Shaan’s lived experiences as LGBTQ+ creatives shape their storytelling.The challenges and rewards of using film to bridge societal divides and promote empathy.Tips for creating narratives that prioritize authenticity and inclusivity.Through their filmmaking, Lisa and Shaan remind us of the enduring power of storytelling to illuminate history, celebrate diversity, and inspire change.Links:Crazy as a Loon Updates: https://www.instagram.com/crazyasaloon.shortfilm/Lisa Cordileone: https://www.instagram.com/lisa.cordileone/Shaan Dasani: https://www.instagram.com/shaandasani/Become a part of our community on:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diversity_beyondthecheckbox/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/diversity-beyond-the-checkbox-podcast/Our Website: https://beyondthecheckbox.com/Hosted by award-winning business leader, best-selling author, investor and co-founder of The Diversity Movement, Jackie Ferguson.Production by Earfluence.