Stories from the Field: Recent Episodes

Firefly Inclusion Solutions

Each day, Oana Amaria and Jason Rebello are fortunate to meet and work with individuals who are driving culture and systems change in their communities, organizations, and across the globe. From diversity, equity and inclusion experts to champions from all fields and disciplines - we’re sharing their stories of transformation to inspire and create change in people systems, culture, engagement, and performance.

Show Summary

In this episode of "Stories from the Field," we sit down with Bernard Coleman to explore the vital roles individuals and organizations play in today's polarized world. We delve into the responsibilities of each individual during election cycles, emphasizing the importance of advocacy. Bernard shares insights on cultivating a creative imagination to envision peace, especially now during times like the Palestine-Israel conflict.

We also discuss the reaction of corporations and universities to diverse opinions and the critical role of leaders in managing these challenges. Bernard sheds light on the upcoming leadership transition from Boomers to Zoomers, highlighting the urgent need for current leaders to understand and engage with the values-driven, DEI-focused younger workforce. Join us for an insightful conversation on navigating the complexities of advocacy, leadership, and inclusivity in the modern world.

Learning Highlights from this Episode:

Bernard discusses the responsibility of each individual in advocating for harmony and peaceful solutions.
Highlighted the need for responsible participation in political and social discourse.
What it means for organizational leaders in navigating these challenges and fostering inclusive environments.
Discussed the area where leaders need to upskill, including understanding DEI, fostering flexible work environments, and aligning organizational values with those of the younger workforce.

Episode website w/ resources, guest bio & full transcript: https://fireflyinclusion.com/the-long-arc-of-change-building-resilience-in-a-time-of-crisis-podcast/

Firefly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

Firefly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

In this episode of “Stories from the Field,” hosts Oana and Jason sit down with Adam Locklin, founder of Sustainable Business Solutions (SBS). Throughout the episode they discuss Locklin’s personal journey starting as a US marine and how he chose the path of entrepreneurship. They also dive into the topics under Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG), the different terms and common misconceptions that surround these terms. Locklin also imparts valuable insights on how individuals can become more effective allies to the military and veteran community, particularly in the present context.

Learning Highlights from this Episode:

Adam’s personal mission and his journey as a people first Technologist, volunteer, and US Marine Veteran.
Common misconceptions surrounding ESGs, stakeholder capitalism, and corporate social responsibility.
What veteran allyship means and looks like.

Episode website w/ resources, guest bio & full transcript: ⁠https://fireflyinclusion.com/tips-from-a-veteran-on-navigating-high-stress-uncertainty-and-trust-podcast

Firefly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

Firefly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

Show SummaryIn this episode of "Stories from the Field," we sit down with Tafarii and Erica to unravel the intricacies of the equity in design process. Throughout the episode we get to explore topics, diving into the differences of terms like inclusive, accessible, and universal design. We also discuss equity and how it's portrayed as not just a specific need but an overarching requirement for everyone. Tafarii and Erica close the episode by discussing inclusive design culture and how we as organizations can overcome the obstacles that might arise, providing listeners with strategies for overcoming these issues.

Learning Highlights from this Episode:

Understanding the differences between terms like inclusive, accessible, and universal design.
What it means to create more equitable access & solutions in the design/testing process.
Obstacles & challenges for organizations building inclusive design culture.

Episode website w/ resources, guest bio & full transcript: https://fireflyinclusion.com/equity-in-product-design-a-conversation-with-tafarii-and-erica-leaders-in-the-field-podcast/Firefly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

Firefly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

Show Summary

In this episode of "Stories from the Field," we dive deep into the realm of Artificial Intelligence, exploring perspectives not often discussed by the media. Our guest, Diya Wynn a Senior Practice Manager in Responsible AI, sheds light on the lesser-discussed aspects of AI's impact on our world. From uncovering hidden challenges in designing and using AI responsibly to examining its potential to address pressing societal issues like racism and corporate inequities, Oana, Jason & Felicia interview Diya to gain more insights on what this new world with AI looks like. Join us as we navigate through the complexities of AI with a focus on inclusivity and empowerment, and discover how individuals and industries can champion a responsible AI revolution.Learning Highlights from this Episode:

Her experience as a technologist and responsible AI with AWS.
How we as new users can champion and approach for responsible AI products.
What it looks like to empower individuals with their use of responsible and ethical AI.

Episode website w/ resources, guest bio & full transcript: https://fireflyinclusion.com/championing-a-responsible-ai-revolution-a-conversation-with-diya-wynn-podcast/

Firefly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

Firefly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

Show Summary

In this episode of Stories from the Field, we sit down with business executive, author, and seasoned advior Sola Osinoiki. Oana and Jason embrace the conversation, diving into topics around data and how we can utilize this to drive meaningful changes in the workplace, what having a seat at the table looks like, and how we as professionals can navigate the evolving landscape of business successfully. Throughout the episode we get an insight on how we can stay ahead of trends and how we can embrace others by simply letting them 'be.' Make sure you tune in to learn more!

LEARNING HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS EPISODE:

How organizations move from a place of data collection as a vanity metrics, to data collection as a lever for transformation
Advice on tools and skills needed to operate as the best in class CIO team
His insights for the future of work
His one parting request for inclusion champions and practitioners today

Episode website w/ resources, guest bio & full transcript: https://fireflyinclusion.com/beyond-the-metrics-tips-on-thriving-beyond-the-current-paradigm-with-sola-osinoiki-podcast/Firefly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

Firefly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

Show Summary

In this episode of Stories from the Field, dive into Jewish identity with Rabbi Rose and Joshuan Newman. Together they share their thoughts, debunk myths and give advice to the future generations on making an impact. We learn about what it means to be a true ally in times of uncertainty and what companies can do to foster a more inclusive work environment. Finally, they share their parting request for inclusion champions and practitioners in the world. Make sure to tune in as we dive deep into the common misconceptions and exploring the significance of allyship within the Jewish community.

LEARNING HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS EPISODE:

Debunking the common misconceptions surrounding the Jewish community.
Being a good ally, especially in times of uncertainty.
What companies can do better for their Jewish employees.
Advice for the younger generation about their impact on eachother and the world.

Episode website w/ resources, guest bio & full transcript: https://fireflyinclusion.com/exploring-jewish-identity-misconceptions-and-allyship-with-rabbi-rose-joshua-newman-podcast

Firefly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

Firefly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

Show Summary

In this episode of Stories from the Field, we welcome Manjuri Sinha, the current Global Director of Talent Acquisition for OLX. Throughout the episode, Manjuri shares her insights on the key predictions for talent strategies in 2023, drawing from her own experience and published reports. We also explore the common misconceptions in tech hiring and debunk myths surrounding tech hiring. Additionally, we discuss critical factors for success, the ideal qualities of a best-in-class team, and strategies to prepare for future talent needs. We hope you can take a listen and hear about Manjuri's own journey and advice for folks looking to break into the tech industry.

LEARNING HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS EPISODE:

Her experience as a Global Director of Talent Acquisition and what the future of talent acquisition looks like in 2023 and beyond.
The significance of skills, experiences, challenges overcome, and mentorship for achieving success.
Insights on how to prepare for future talent needs in the next 3-5 years.
Her advice and best practices for early-stage founders/leaders looking to prioritize DEI from day one

Episode website w/ resources, guest bio & full transcript: https://fireflyinclusion.com/future-proofing-talent-acquisition-with-manjuri-sinha-podcast/

Firefly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

Firefly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

Show Summary

In this episode of Stories from the Field, we welcome Beth Wiesendanger who shares her unique perspective as a first-generation individual growing up with the ADA laws in the 90s. She discussed the misconceptions around what disability looks like and how it's important to advocate for the disabled community. She also speaks on the benefits of hiring people with disabilities and how they bring a unique perspective and skillset to the workplace and ways to encourage employers to be open-minded and create a culture of inclusivity and accessibility. We hope you can tune in to learn more about Beth’s journey and advocacy for disability rights and accessibility which is grounded in her personal experiences and her belief that everyone deserves equal opportunities and access.

LEARNING HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS EPISODE:

Growing up in the 90s and what that looked like for someone with a disability.
How disability looks like from a physical, technological, and societal perspective.
What it means to be an ally to the disabled community.

Episode website w/ resources, guest bio & full transcript: https://www.fireflyinclusion.com/news-notes/2021/debunking-the-myth-of-the-vital-few

Firefly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

Firefly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

Show Summary

In this episode of Stories from the Field, we sit down with Isaiah Deporto-Plick, a seasoned angel investor and entrepreneur who shares his insights on investment capital, funding for underrepresented groups in tech, and his experience as a co-founder for Fuerza Ventures. We also hear his breakdown of the recent SVB failure and the implications it has for the startup ecosystem. Throughout the episode he dives into the importance of providing funding opportunities for people of color and other marginalized communities in the tech industry and highlights some of the challenges they face in securing funding. Isahiah also shares his own journey as an angel investor and provides advice for founders looking to learn and grow in this industry.

Learning Highlights from this Episode:

His breakdown on SVB and what it means for the future
Advice for leaders looking to get funding for their businesses
Different ways to navigate the investment space for BIPOC, women, and LGTBQ+ founders

Episode website w/ resources, guest bio & full transcript: https://www.fireflyinclusion.com/news-notes/2021/svb-and-the-impact-of-future-vc-funding-for-women-people-of-color-and-lgbtq-founders

Firefly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

Firefly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

Show Summary

In this episode of Stories from the Field, Oana Amaria and Jason Rebello sit down with Coach Gessie Thompson, a Nutritionist who founded her own wellness company called The Detox Now. Throughout the episode they discuss self-care, the trauma of racism, and ways to heal and loving yourself. Thompson shares her story about her own 15-year journey with fibroids and struggles with infertility, that eventually led her to finding healing, creating TheDetoxNow.com, and becoming a mother to Nia.

Learning Highlights from this Episode:

Her journey with fibroids and infertility
Living a life free of toxic thoughts, people, habits and foods
Learning how to choose yourself and recognizing your self-worth
Ways to advocate for ourselves both in the medical space and the world

Episode website w/ resources, guest bio & full transcript: https://www.fireflyinclusion.com/news-notes/2021/learning-to-be-radical-about-self-care-with-coach-gessie-thompson

Firefly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

Firefly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

In this episode of Stories from the Field, Felicia Scott and Oana Amaria chat with Elizabeth (Lisa) Liang, an actor, writer, storyteller, and global citizen of Chinese-Spanish-Irish-French-German-English descent. As a budding actor in Hollywood, she noticed stories like hers weren’t being told on stage or in film. In this episode we chat about what it’s like to help immigrants, multiracial people, third culture kids, and women of color break this cycle both in Hollywood and in their own lives.

LEARNING HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS EPISODE:

The journey from essayist to filmmaker
The importance of creating a safe space for sharing, listening, and feedback
Finding your own stories of bravery and failure to become an ally

EPISODE WEBSITE W/ RESOURCES, GUEST BIO & FULL TRANSCRIPT: https://www.fireflyinclusion.com/news-notes/2021/your-story-matters-a-conversation-with-elizabeth-liang-podcast

FIREFLY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

FIREFLY LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

Reflecting upon his multifaceted career journey from the IL Governor’s Office to the LGBT Chamber of Commerce of Illinois (LGBTCC) where he currently serves as director, Jerome’ Holston has significant experience engaging and elevating LGBTQIA communities. In this wide-ranging conversation covering the Pandemic to “The Great Resignation”, we discuss how leaders can elevate and create safety for LGBTQ+ communities at both a local and global level.

LEARNING HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS EPISODE:

How employers can build greater trust during “The Great Resignation”
How LGBTQ businesses have weathered COVID, and what they need to succeed moving forward
What needs to happen at the state, local, and company levels to promote and protect LGBTQ communities

EPISODE WEBSITE W/ RESOURCES, GUEST BIO & FULL TRANSCRIPT: https://www.fireflyinclusion.com/news-notes/2021/recognizing-and-building-partnerships-with-lgbtq-community

FIREFLY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

FIREFLY LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

What is code-switching, and what are its pros and cons? On this episode of Stories from the Field, author, podcaster, facilitator, polymath, and third culture kid Tayo Rockson shares how code-switching showed up in his own life as the son of a diplomat, and how he learned to achieve a balance between acclimation and authenticity. We also discuss how leaders can help those outside the dominant culture feel seen and heard, and why it’s time for all of us to get comfortable with being vulnerable.

LEARNING HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS EPISODE:

· How code-switching both benefits and hurts outsiders

· Why perfectionism is hurting leaders and how to model vulnerability

· How DEI practitioners can stay focused on their purpose

EPISODE WEBSITE W/ RESOURCES, GUEST BIO & FULL TRANSCRIPT: https://www.fireflyinclusion.com/news-notes/2021/breaking-down-code-switching-embracing-your-authentic-vulnerable-self-with-tayo-rockson

FIREFLY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

FIREFLY LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

In this episode, Jason Rebello and guest host Felicia Scott talk to documentary filmmaker, writer, educator, and community organizer Jeanette Lam of Youth FX. Jeanette shares how she found her voice in film as an Asian American queer woman, and how she’s helping others do the same through her work with BIPOC filmmakers and her riveting work in the documentary short, A Flower in a Dark Place.

LEARNING HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS EPISODE:

How Jeanette’s film “A Flower in a Dark Place” amplified the voice of incarcerated youth
What makes filmmaking either a harmful or healing process
How Jeanette has learned how to “take up space” as an Asian American queer woman
Ways we can end anti-Blackness in solidarity together

EPISODE WEBSITE W/ RESOURCES, GUEST BIO & FULL TRANSCRIPT:

https://www.fireflyinclusion.com/news-notes/2021/empowering-the-next-generation-of-bipoc-filmmakers-with-jeanette-lam-of-youth-fx-

FIREFLY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

FIREFLY LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

As a young college student, Dr. Marketus Presswood’s first trip to China proved to be more than just another study abroad experience. It was the beginning of a life-long journey through Afro-Asian history, with a little entrepreneurship and self-discovery along the way. In this episode of Stories from the Field, hear how Dr. Presswood’s experience as a Black man in China has impacted his research and work as a filmmaker, and also his insights on two cultures still grappling with the conversation of race.

LEARNING HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS EPISODE:

How Dr. Presswood found himself in China
This long history of Black people in China
The similarities and differences between racialized discourse in China and the US
Why continuing conversations about race instead of covering them up is the only constructive path forward

EPISODE WEBSITE W/ RESOURCES, GUEST BIO & FULL TRANSCRIPT:

https://www.fireflyinclusion.com/news-notes/2021/being-black-in-china-the-us-with-dr-marketus-presswood

FIREFLY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

FIREFLY LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

Somewhere between becoming a mil spouse and an unpleasant conflict in a Lowe’s parking lot, Katy Doggett began to avoid sharing her experience as an Air Force Veteran - thanks to the doubters and push-back she often received. But since sharing her story with LadyVet she’s now the one pushing back - so that other female veterans don’t face the same biases and misconceptions. In this episode of Stories from the Field, hear more about Katy’s journey from “invisible veteran” to an empowered leader who's now creating a new chapter of her life in Germany.

LEARNING HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS EPISODE:

Katy’s experience growing up as a biracial kid in Wisconsin
What compelled her to finally share her personal story of being an “invisible vet”
What it’s like to fly in a jet – and what it can teach us about appreciating another person’s reality
Life as a US government employee, Mom, and world explorer in Germany

EPISODE WEBSITE W/ RESOURCES, GUEST BIO & FULL TRANSCRIPT:

https://www.fireflyinclusion.com/news-notes/2021/a-female-veterans-fight-to-become-visible-with-katy-doggett

FIREFLY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

FIREFLY LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

Inclusive marketing champion and Adweek Executive Mentee Argelia Martinez joins us to dig deep into some of the statistics, challenges, and opportunities for emerging BIPOC leaders. Argelia shares her own stories as a Latina leader and advice for other emerging leaders, their organizations, and DEI champions who truly want to engage this critical talent pool on their own terms.

LEARNING HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS EPISODE:

How Argelia’s experience as an Adweek Executive Mentee supported her and other underrepresented marketers during a time of chaos.
The pressures many women – and especially Latinas – face when choosing between work and family
Why marketing and advertising agencies need to re-think their metrics
What organizations can do to ensure that women can stay in the workfroce

EPISODE WEBSITE W/ RESOURCES, GUEST BIO & FULL TRANSCRIPT:

https://www.fireflyinclusion.com/news-notes/2021/elevating-bipoc-leadership-values-at-work-with-argelia-martinez-of-hauswirthco

FIREFLY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

FIREFLY LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

Since the onset of the pandemic, the interest in mental health and self-care have both increased exponentially. Along with this, a gradual shift toward applying a more intersectional lens to these practices has emerged, especially after the concerns of BIPOC have long been left out of these spaces.

That’s why we’re thrilled to sit down with licensed psychologist Dr. Han Ren – one of the field’s leading experts in anti-oppressive and liberation psychological practices. In this conversation, we discuss a whole range of topics, from her perspective on accepted norms in Western psychology to the very important reasons why she joined TikTok!

LEARNING HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS EPISODE:

Why we need to re-evaluate Western psychology to serve the needs of BIPOC individuals.
The differences between equality, equity, and liberation.
How DEI practitioners can preserve and protect their energy for this work.
Why it's necessary for white people to lead other white people in this work.

EPISODE WEBSITE W/ RESOURCES, GUEST BIO & FULL TRANSCRIPT:

https://www.fireflyinclusion.com/news-notes/2021/creating-anti-oppressive-liberated-psychology-practices-dr-han-ren

FIREFLY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

FIREFLY LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

Colorism tends to be a loaded topic - poorly understood and not always well-received in communities of color and beyond. So how can we as DEI practitioners and champions give it the attention it needs and deserves? Dr. Sarah Webb, founder of Colorism Healing, joins us to answer this question and explain how colorism impacts cultures across the globe and what we can do to break the cycle. Tune in to learn about the incredible project Sarah is developing to elevate awareness of and healing from the pain of colorism.

LEARNING HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS EPISODE:

The difference between “color” and “race.”
Why Dr. Sarah Webb doesn’t have “the luxury to prioritize racism.”
Examples of colorism across the globe.
How we can start the conversation about colorism at work.

EPISODE WEBSITE W/ RESOURCES, GUEST BIO & FULL TRANSCRIPT:

www.fireflyinclusion.com/news-notes/2021/where-colorism-fits-into-dei-with-dr-sarah-webb

FIREFLY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

FIREFLY LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

How does a sports broadcaster turned award-winning filmmaker become the go-to DEI leader for emerging tech companies?The Inclusion Company co-founderBusi Sizani joins us from Amsterdam to share how her journey from post-Apartheid South Africa to award-winning filmmaker shaped her unique path into DEI. Always the storyteller and visionary, Busi shares what the next generation of DEI leadership needs in order to make true progress toward equity and inclusion while elevating their organizations to new heights in the process.

LEARNING HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS EPISODE:

What DEI 2.0 looks like and what leaders must do to get there
What DEI champions must o to “keep the bar super, super high”
How the Inclusion Readiness Index is setting start-ups up for success early on
How to practice radical self-acceptance and self-compassion

EPISODE WEBSITE W/ RESOURCES, GUEST BIO & FULL TRANSCRIPT: https://www.fireflyinclusion.com/news-notes/putting-us-back-in-business-busi-sizani-of-inclusion-compa

FIREFLY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

FIREFLY LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

We keep using this word “transformation” and you’re probably wondering, what does that really mean in the context of anti-racism and DEI? Well, we’re incredibly fortunate to have Firefly collaborator Dr. Nandi Shareef on the show to break it down for us. In this episode, Nandi sheds light on the transformation process she helps leaders navigate through at organizations that have made the commitment to anti-racism and DEI. A journey that requires confronting our own limiting beliefs and behaviors is never easy, but in this conversation, Nandi shares why it’s required to keep up with the accelerated rate of change we’re all experiencing, along with a few incremental success stories.

LEARNING HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS EPISODE:

Why true transformation in DEI requires pointing the finger inward vs. outward
What to do when the CEO Bubble bursts
A BIG limiting belief about equity & performance, debunked!
Why DEI Practitioners need to be selfish to be selfless.

EPISODE WEBSITE W/ RESOURCES, GUEST BIO & FULL TRANSCRIPT:

https://www.fireflyinclusion.com/news-notes/inclusion-begins-by-transforming-limiting-beliefs-dr-nandi-shareef

FIREFLY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

FIREFLY LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

Named “World-Class Peacekeeper” and “Everyday Hero” by the Star Tribune, Hanadi Chehabeddine joins us on “Stories from the Field” for a powerful conversation about finding and owning belonging as a Muslim immigrant in the US. We first delve into the topic from her own perspective, and then expand to consider the perspectives of other communities of color with advice for companies that are ready to own belonging themselves as a competitive lever.

LEARNING HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS EPISODE:

The story behind Hanadi’s TedX Talk
True belonging: How do you survive in a place that wasn't built for you?
“Companies need to start aligning their policies to their values.”
Hanadi’s two big asks for DEI practitioners.
"These conversations need to happen with our kids."

EPISODE WEBSITE W/ RESOURCES, GUEST BIO & FULL TRANSCRIPT:

www.fireflyinclusion.com/news-notes/2021/stories-from-the-field-what-does-it-mean-to-belong-henadi-chehabeddine

FIREFLY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

FIREFLY LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

Long before he became a volleyball pro in 2002, Ryan Jay Owens defied definition. From his current home in Split, Croatia, Ryan shares his wisdom on playing the long game in culture transformation through the eyes of BIPOC athletes in Europe.

LEARNING HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS EPISODE:

Playing thebusiness of volleyball as an outsider.
Starting a different type of agency that educates & empowers young pro athletes.
The experience of BIPOC athletes outside of the US, and how they parallel the experience of BIPOC team members in organizations.
Leaning into what’s hardest: The Point of Choice.
Staying uncomfortable to stay in the long game.

EPISODE WEBSITE W/ RESOURCES, GUEST BIO & FULL TRANSCRIPT:

http://www.fireflyinclusion.com/news-notes/2021/stories-from-the-field-embracing-the-beautiful-struggle-in-sports-amp-business-ryan-jay-owens

FIREFLY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

FIREFLY LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

AI and Machine learning continue to receive tons of interest and scrutiny, especially in the DEI and talent management fields. That’s why we were thrilled to meet data science expert Paul van der Boor during a recent Firefly leadership training session at Prosus Group in Amsterdam, NE. As a senior data science director there as well as a co-founder and board member of the Data Science for Social Good Foundation, in this episode Paul helps us shed light on the AI and machine learning field to encourage more understanding for those of us pursuing fairness and equitable treatment across all decision processes.

LEARNING HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS EPISODE:

How AI is currently used in talent systems - and its limitations
Putting checks and balances into the system - how do we define "fairness"?
Understanding data as a representation of people
The importance of transparency - knowing where & why AI is being implemented in systems
A call to action for the DEI community
A call to action for the AI/Data Science/Machine Learning community

EPISODE WEBSITE W/ RESOURCES, GUEST BIO & FULL TRANSCRIPT:

http://www.fireflyinclusion.com/news-notes/2020/stories-from-the-field-ai-people-paul-van-der-boor

FIREFLY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

FIREFLY LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/