What Does DEIB do for me?
The Untamed Mind:
A Deep Dive into DEIB and Its Challenges
In the latest episode of The Untamed Mind, host Bree Johnson sits with DEIB expert Desiree Goldey to explore the complexities of leading in today’s diverse workplaces. Together, they tackle essential topics around diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB), with an emphasis on women in leadership, the impacts of corporate socialization, and the work wounds that can hold teams back.
Exploring the Complexities of DEIB in Leadership
Goldey brings a wealth of insight on the challenges of fostering a truly inclusive environment. She notes that while DEIB initiatives are widely embraced in theory, the absence of standardized metrics in DEIB efforts often limits their effectiveness.
Despite these challenges, she emphasizes the tangible connections between inclusive environments and increased productivity and innovation. She advocates for authenticity as a core leadership strategy, suggesting that when leaders foster genuine belonging, the whole team performs better.
Rethinking the Socialization of Leadership
Corporate socialization often inhibits authenticity, especially for women leaders who feel pressured to conform to established norms. Goldey and Bree examine the impact of this conformity on personal and team dynamics.
Women, in particular, face unique challenges, navigating the tension between being authentic and meeting workplace expectations. Goldey encourages leaders to rewrite their professional narratives to better reflect their true selves, building genuine connections and encouraging a culture of belonging. By doing so, leaders can create safe spaces where every team member feels valued and can contribute their best work.
The Power of Empathy in Leadership
The conversation also delves into the importance of empathy, beginning with self-compassion. Goldey asserts that self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s foundational to sustainable leadership. For leaders facing the emotional labor of DEIB work, maintaining resilience and efficacy requires a strong foundation of self-compassion and self-care. Bree echoes this, noting that without empathy, inclusive leadership efforts can feel hollow and forced, limiting their potential to make real, lasting impacts.
Key Takeaways for Leaders
For leaders looking to create meaningful change, The Untamed Mind offers valuable insights and actionable steps:
Authenticity as a Strategy: Authentic leadership is a powerful tool for creating trust and strengthening team cohesion.
Embracing Self-Care: Leadership requires energy and resilience, and taking time for self-care isn’t optional—it's a necessity.
Creating Safe Spaces: Belonging and inclusion thrive when leaders foster environments where people feel secure to show up fully as themselves.
Tune in to The Untamed Mind to explore these topics and more. This episode provides a deep, thoughtful perspective on modern leadership, DEIB, and the importance of unschooling outdated norms to lead from a place of integrity and connection.
Ep. 58 Why Inclusive Workplaces Matter with Guest Desiree Goldey on The Untamed Mind podcast.
