The Citizen Experience: Recent Episodes
Description:
In this thought-provoking episode, Michael Butcher joins us to explore the growing influence of artificial intelligence in our daily lives—from the workplace to the therapist’s office. We unpack the ethical challenges, societal fears, and the responsibility we all share in shaping AI's future. Whether you're a tech optimist or a cautious observer, this episode will challenge your perspective and equip you with the insights needed to navigate the AI age responsibly.
What You’ll Learn:* The difference between healthy fear and productive action in the AI era * Why “AI is coming for your job” is both true and misleading * The implications of using AI in therapy and mental health * Michael Butcher’s take on ethical frameworks for AI development * Actionable steps to stay informed and proactive
Guest Bio:
Michael Butcher is a technologist, strategist, and advocate for responsible innovation. With years of experience at the intersection of technology and human behavior, he offers a grounded perspective on the promises and perils of AI.
Listen now and join the conversation about the future of AI.
Guest: Donta' Bell, CEO and Co-Founder of VReel
Host: Keith Scott, CEO of KLSA
Episode Overview:
In this enlightening episode of the Citizen Experience Podcast, host Keith Scott engages with Donta' Bell to delve into the transformative power of visual storytelling in community development. They discuss the inception of VReel, its mission to build generational wealth, and the launch of the innovative CityReel platform aimed at revitalizing local economies.
Key Topics Covered:
- The inspiration and journey behind founding VReel
- The role of visual storytelling in economic empowerment
- How data analytics can drive city growth and revenue
- An introduction to CityReel and its impact on community engagement
- Strategies for cities to leverage technology for economic revival
Resources & Links
VReel Official Website:
https://www.vreel.page/
CityReel Platform:
https://cityreel.market/
Connect with Donta' Bell on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/donta-bell
Citizen Experience Podcast Episodes:
https://linktr.ee/cxpodcast?utm_source=linktree_admin_share
👥 Guest:
Krystal Robinson – Manager at KLSA, Health and Human Services
🎧 Episode Overview:
In this episode of The Citizen Experience, host Keith Scott sits down with Krystal Robinson to dive into one of the most overlooked challenges impacting workforce participation: access to childcare.
As employers continue to report staffing shortages, Krystal sheds light on the critical role childcare plays in both economic mobility and job readiness. Together, they explore how outdated systems, unaffordable care, and lack of availability are pushing potential workers — especially women and single parents — out of the labor market.
This conversation highlights why new voices are entering the room, demanding long-overdue policy changes and community-centered solutions. If you're a business leader, policymaker, or simply someone passionate about workforce equity, this episode is for you.
🧭 What You’ll Learn:* The direct link between childcare access and workforce participation * Why traditional workforce solutions often overlook family realities * How employers and communities can become part of the solution * Policy ideas and grassroots actions making a difference
🔗 Resources & Mentions: KLSA – Analytics | Analysis | Advice (Podcast Sponsor)* * Krystal Robinson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krystalmrobinson/
📲 Connect With Us:
Follow KLSA on LinkedIn and Instagram for weekly episodes and thought leadership conversations that drive change.
In this episode, we sit down with Adrian Atkinson to dive into the inspiring story behind KLSA—how it all started, the lessons learned along the way, and his role as the firm’s “People Leader.” We discuss the importance of establishing an empathetic culture, fostering strong leadership, and creating an environment where people truly thrive.
But that’s not all—Adrian also shares how KLSA Gives is making an impact in the community and why initiatives like Men Wear Pink are so close to his heart. From business leadership to giving back, this conversation is packed with insights and inspiration.
Join the conversation! What does empathetic leadership mean to you?
Follow to hear future episodes!
In this episode, we’re joined by Cornell P. Wright, a leading voice in health equity and community engagement. With a wealth of experience as a consultant, advisor, and presenter, Cornell has dedicated his career to addressing health disparities and promoting justice, diversity, and inclusion, particularly for historically marginalized populations.
Currently, Cornell serves as the Health Equity Advisor for General Dynamics Information Technology’s Federal Health Sector, where he leverages his expertise to drive impactful change. Most notably, he was the first Chief Health Equity Officer for the Alliance for a Healthier Generation, a nonprofit established by The Clinton Foundation and the American Heart Association. In this role, he championed Whole Child Health Equity, collaborating with schools and community partners nationwide.
Prior to his work with the Alliance, Cornell was the Executive Director of the North Carolina Department of Health & Human Services Office of Minority Health and Health Disparities, where he focused on reducing health inequities across the state.
Join us as Cornell shares his insights on advancing health equity, the importance of community engagement, and the ongoing challenges in addressing health disparities. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a true expert in the field!
Dr. Marlene Orozco is a Senior Associate with KLSA. Dr. Orozco is an experienced social science practitioner with over eight years of professional experience. She is primarily focusing on research, data collection and analysis, and data visualization in support of government policy insights and outcomes. With extensive experience in conducting applied research focused on barrier and trend survey design and analysis, Dr. Orozco has honed a deep understanding of the systemic challenges and opportunities faced by many communities in the United States.
As a mixed methods researcher by training, Dr. Orozco has qualitative, in-depth research experience and expertise in big data, multivariate analysis, and large-scale survey design. Additionally, she has extensive experience using data to determine and design focus group sessions that yield valuable insights into stakeholders’ perceptions on any given topic. Dr. Orozco has co-authored an academic volume, Advancing U.S. Latino Entrepreneurship (Purdue University Press, 2020), written academic publications in peer-reviewed journals like Small Business Economics, Social Science Quarterly, and Qualitative Sociology, and authored several industry reports and research briefs. A well-recognized scholar, Dr. Orozco’s research has been featured in over 100 media outlets (Bloomberg, Forbes, MarketWatch, etc.), and she has been named Silicon Valley Business Journal’s “40 Under 40: Top Young Professionals.” Dr. Orozco brings a thoughtful and collaborative approach to strategic planning, drawing upon a wealth of experience in research and policy development.
Her work, particularly with KLSA, reflects a deep commitment to understanding and addressing the needs of diverse communities. This experience, enriched by her contributions to global policy research at Meta, has equipped her with a nuanced perspective on engaging with stakeholders and translating complex findings into meaningful strategies.
Reach Dr. Marlene Orozco:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/marlene-orozco/
The Historically Underutilized Business Zones (HUBZone) program in the United States is designed to provide economic benefits to both disadvantaged communities and small businesses. While the primary goal of the program is to promote job creation and economic development in historically neglected or underutilized areas, we discuss several economic benefits to social equity that the HUBZone program provides with Michelle Hunter, Executive Director of the HUBZone Contractors National Council, such as:
Job Creation: One of the primary economic benefits of the HUBZone program is job creation in economically distressed communities. By incentivizing small businesses to locate and hire employees from HUBZone areas, the program helps reduce unemployment and poverty rates, contributing to a more equitable distribution of economic opportunities.
Business Growth: Small businesses that qualify for the HUBZone program receive preferential access to federal contracts, which can lead to significant business growth and revenue generation. This, in turn, allows these businesses to invest in their local communities, hire more employees, and contribute to the economic development of HUBZone areas.
Infrastructure Development: As HUBZone businesses grow and thrive, they often invest in infrastructure development and improvements in their local communities. This can include building new facilities, upgrading existing ones, and investing in technology and equipment, all of which contribute to the economic vitality of the area.
Supplier Diversity: The HUBZone program encourages federal agencies and prime contractors to diversify their supplier base by seeking out HUBZone-certified businesses. This diversity not only promotes social equity but also fosters competition and innovation in the marketplace, potentially leading to cost savings and improved quality in goods and services.
Wealth Redistribution: By fostering economic growth in historically disadvantaged areas, the HUBZone program contributes to wealth redistribution, helping to narrow the wealth and income gaps between different regions and communities. This can lead to greater social equity and improved overall economic stability.
Community Revitalization: The presence of successful HUBZone businesses can act as a catalyst for community revitalization. These businesses often engage in community development projects, support local schools and nonprofits, and help improve the overall quality of life in HUBZone areas.
Entrepreneurship and Skills Development: The program encourages entrepreneurship and skills development in HUBZone communities by providing opportunities for residents to start and operate their own businesses. This can lead to long-term economic self-sufficiency and empowerment for individuals in these areas.
Get in touch with Michelle Burnett at:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-burnett-21737771/
Website: www.hubzonecouncil.org
Email: michelle.burnett@hubzonecouncil.org
Phone: +1 (240)-442-1787
Interested in joining the conversation? Contact us for more info:
Keith Scott - keith.scott@klscottassociates.com
Phone - +1 (404)-692-5552
Email- Cx@klscottassociates.com
LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/company/klsa...
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/klscottassoc...
Twitter- https://twitter.com/klsassociates?s=09
Today’s guest is Dr.Lugo Santiago- a multi-talented individual: CEO of Lugo Santiago enterprises, Co-founder & Chief Futurist for the Institute of Leadership and Strategic Foresight, Veteran & Author shares his lessons learned in scaling organizations futures while applying his incredible life lessons along the way.
Get in touch with Dr. Lugo Santiago at:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joselugosantiago/
Email: dr.lugo@leadershipandforsight.org
Leaders and Futures Podcast: https://www.leadersandfutures.com/
Interested in joining the conversation? Contact us for more info:
Keith Scott - keith.scott@klscottassociates.com
Phone #- (404)-692-5552
Email- Cx@klscottassociates.com
LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/company/klsa...
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/klscottassoc...
Twitter- https://twitter.com/klsassociates?s=09
Economic equity extends beyond demographics, it is also by zip code. Today’s guest is Deb Page, President of The Institute of Performance Improvement, LLC and Willing Learner, Inc. In this episode, we discuss education equity in rural communities.
Get in touch with Deb at:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deb-page-cpt-cpif-a5403737/
The Institute of Performance Improvement, LLC: http://www.tifpiedu.org/
Twitter: @debpagewli
Willing Learner, Inc.: http://www.willinglearner.org/home.html
Interested in joining the conversation? Contact us for more info:
Keith Scott - keith.scott@klscottassociates.com
Phone #- (404)-692-5552
Email- Cx@klscottassociates.com
LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/company/klsa...
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/klscottassoc...
Twitter- https://twitter.com/klsassociates?s=09
Dr. Danika Tynes is a Social Impact Entrepreneur and Founder of the Sustainable Access Foundation, which is a non-profit organization that provides funding and scaling strategies to communities in developing countries. The mission of the Sustainable Access Foundation (SAF) is to support global community development efforts to increase equity in health and well-being by providing not just the resources, but the sustainable planning support, tools, and monitoring to create lasting change.
Get In Touch With Danika at:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danikatynes/
Web: https://www.sustainableaccessfoundation.org/
Email: community@sustainableaccessfoundation.org
Interested in joining the conversation? Contact us for more info:
Keith Scott - keith.scott@klscottassociates.com
Phone #- (404)-692-5552
Email- Cx@klscottassociates.com
LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/company/klsa...
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/klscottassoc...
Twitter- https://twitter.com/klsassociates?s=09
Today I talk with, Chris Steadley, Principal of Steadley Advisory LLC, who is a strategic advisor and thought leader with a proven record of leveraging DEI, culture and engagement, customer experience, innovation, and organizational transformation expertise to drive growth for industry leaders (Gartner, PwC, Deloitte, Oracle, and Ingersoll-Rand). He is also a global and collaborative leader known for inspiring culture change and improving performance with Fortune 500 companies through leveraging data, cultivating enduring, trusted relationships and building engaged, diverse top performing teams and partnerships.
Get in Touch With Chris at:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissteadley/
YouTube Channel: “Win with Inclusion” https://www.youtube.com/@winwithinclusion
Web: https://chrissteadley.com/
Email: Chris@ChrisSteadley.com
Interested in joining the conversation? Contact us for more info:
Keith Scott - keith.scott@klscottassociates.com
Phone #- (404)-692-5552
Email- Cx@klscottassociates.com
LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/company/klsa...
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/klscottassoc...
Twitter- https://twitter.com/klsassociates?s=09
Amanda partners with Government Leaders to help them track and execute across strategic & operational plans. Many Government agencies are tracking several plans throughout the organization in manual tools such as Excel, SharePoint, and Microsoft Word. The use of these tools can lead to low visibility of performance, reduced accountability, and lengthy reporting times.
Today we learn more on how Amanda & AchieveIt can assist in evaluating your plans and show you how to improve performance, break down silos, and work cross-functionally across teams and plans; also helping to display publicly facing dashboards for a more transparent government.
Interested in learning more? Reach out for a demo today!
Web: https://www.achieveit.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cyramanda/
Today we speak with Jeryl Williams, CEO of Honnete, LLC. We discuss the impact of attending and graduating from an HBCU and how it influenced establishing his own business.
Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Youtube!
Link to Listen: https://linktr.ee/CxPodcast
Liked what you heard or have a question you want answered?
Message us on https://www.linkedin.com/company/klsassociates/
Email: jeryl@honnete.us
Web: www.honnete.us
Twitter: @Honneteatl
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/honnetellc/
Listen to the Citizen Experience, where we discuss topics such as Social Equity, Government Transformation, Technology, and Business!
In this episode of the Citizen Experience Podcast, we interview Brentley Wright. Brentley is a certified Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion business practitioner working to achieve workplace excellence in multicultural business arenas with The Diversity Movement (TDM). At TDM, he is responsible for leading DEI Navigator, a monthly membership service designed exclusively for small- to medium-sized businesses committed to DEI action and results. As members' main point of contact, Brentley provides real-time advice and is the conduit for members to connect with TDM’s certified experts and trusted content.
Join the Conversation!
Contact Us Here:
Keith Scott - keith.scott@klscottassociates.com
Phone #- (404)-692-5552
Email- Cx@klscottassociates.com
LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/company/klsa...
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/klscottassoc...
Twitter- https://twitter.com/klsassociates?s=09
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In this episode of the Citizen Experience Podcast, we interview the Grammy Nominated Musical Artist - Eric Roberson. We discuss how Eric has maintained a successful career as an African-American independent artist and what it means to be FREE. Join the Conversation! Contact Our Guest(s) Here: Web: www.EricRobersonMusic.com/ Web: www.JoinTheProcess.com Twitter: @IAmEricRoberson Instagram: @erro44 Facebook: www.facebook.com/BlueErroSoul YouTube: www.youtube.com/BlueErroSoul Email: press@ericrobersonmusic.com Contact Us Here: Jon Reid - jon.reid@klscottassociates.com Keith Scott - keith.scott@klscottassociates.com Phone #- (404)-692-5552 Email- Cx@klscottassociates.com Linkedin- https://www.linkedin.com/company/klsa... Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/klscottassoc... Twitter- https://twitter.com/klsassociates?s=09
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In this episode of the Citizen Experience Podcast, we interview guest Jessica Bantom, who is a DEIB Practitioner and Interior Designer. We discuss minority representation in the field of Interior Design and how to participate in a $14.7 billion dollar industry. Join the Conversation!
Contact Our Guest(s) Here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicabantom Web: http://jessicabantom.com/ Blog: http://www.jessicabantom.com/startwhereyouare Twitter: @jbantomdesigner
Contact Us Here: Jon Reid - jon.reid@klscottassociates.com Keith Scott - keith.scott@klscottassociates.com Phone #- (404)-692-5552 Email- Cx@klscottassociates.com Linkedin- https://www.linkedin.com/company/klsa... Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/klscottassoc... Twitter- https://twitter.com/klsassociates?s=09
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In this episode of the Citizen Experience Podcast, we interview guest Terry Morris, the National President of the Black Data Processing Association (BDPA). We discuss topics such as African-American representation in the field of Information Technology and Venture Capital Funding for Tech startups. Join the Conversation! Contact Our Guest(s) Here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terry-morris-a8aa146/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/national-bdpa/ LinkedIn: https://www.bdpadc.org/bdpa-president-s-message-on Web: https://bdpa.org/ Twitter: @tmorr16 Twitter: @BDPA Email: tmorr16@gmail.com Contact Us Here: Jon Reid - jon.reid@klscottassociates.com Keith Scott - keith.scott@klscottassociates.com Phone #- (404)-692-5552 Email- Cx@klscottassociates.com Linkedin- https://www.linkedin.com/company/klsa... Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/klscottassoc... Twitter- https://twitter.com/klsassociates?s=09
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In this episode, we interview Michele Reeves, Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer for Presbyterian Healthcare Services. Presbyterian Healthcare Services is a private not-for-profit integrated healthcare system in New Mexico and the state’s largest provider of healthcare. In her role, Ms. Reeves oversees an enterprise-wide inclusion and diversity strategy designed to champion initiatives and programs that cultivate an inclusive and equitable environment where everyone is valued and empowered for success. For over two decades, Ms. Reeves has served as a leader and practitioner in diversity, leadership development and executive coaching in global and national organizations. Her accomplishments have earned her several awards, including Albuquerque Business First’s 2020 Women of Influence and Black Enterprise’s 2018 “Top Diversity Executive.”
In this episode we discuss Healthcare disparities in communities of color, strategies to improve access, overcoming COVID vaccine hesitancy, and her role as Chief Diversity Officer.
In this episode of the Citizen Experience, we interview guests Michelle Ngome, Founder of Line 25 Consulting, a consulting firm that helps organizations create diversity and inclusion marketing strategies and she is the founder of the African-American Marketing Association (AAMA), creating a platform that empowers Black marketers all over the United States. Michelle is a member of Forbes The Culture, the National Black MBA Association, and the International Society of Female Professionals. She is a two-time author, podcast host of Networking With Michelle and her work has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Entrepreneur, USA Today, Inc. and a lot more. In this episode we discuss the importance of diversity in marketing and ensuring the representation is at the decision table. Contact Our Guest(s) Here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mngome/ Twitter: @MichelleNgome Line 25 Consulting: www.line25consulting.com Email: Info@line25consulting.com Phone: (713) 298 - 5851 African-American Marketing Association: https://www.aa-ma.org/ Twitter: @AamaHouston Contact Us Here: Jon Reid - jon.reid@klscottassociates.com Keith Scott - keith.scott@klscottassociates.com Phone #- (404)-692-5552 Email- Cx@klscottassociates.com Linkedin- https://www.linkedin.com/company/klsa... Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/klscottassoc... Twitter- https://twitter.com/klsassociates?s=09
Subscribe and turn on Post Notifications to stay alert when every new episode drops and more from K. L. Scott & Associates
In this episode of the Citizen Experience, we interview guest Donald Thompson. Mr. Thompson is a multifaceted executive who is the CEO of Walk West, an agency that specializes in brand experience, performance marketing, and strategic communications; CEO & Co-Founder of the Diversity Movement, a results-oriented, data-driven strategic partner for organization-wide diversity, equity, and inclusive initiatives; serves on several boards; host of the Donald Thompson Podcast; and recently named Forbes’ Next 1000 among his MANY accomplishments.
In this episode we discuss diversity in the C-suite, Mr. Thompson’s experience as a minority executive leading several organizations, the importance of mentoring, minority business access to capital through private equity and angel investment, and the roadmap to success for aspiring minority executives.
Contact Our Guest(s) Here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donaldthompsonjr/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-diversity-movement/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/walk_west/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/donaldthompson-com/about/
Web: http://www.donaldthompson.com
Web: https://thediversitymovement.com/
Web: https://walkwest.com/
Twitter: @walkwest
Twitter: @DonThompson_Jr
Twitter: @diversitymvmt
Email: dt@donaldthompson.com
To Contact Donald Thompson, reach out to his Chief of Staff, April Eldridge at april@thediversitymovement.com or 919.215.2225
Contact Us Here:
Jon Reid - jon.reid@klscottassociates.com
Keith Scott - keith.scott@klscottassociates.com
Phone #- (404)-692-5552
Email- Cx@klscottassociates.com
Linkedin- https://www.linkedin.com/company/klsa...
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/klscottassoc...
Twitter- https://twitter.com/klsassociates?s=09
Subscribe and turn on Post Notifications to stay alert when every new episode drops and more from K. L. Scott & Associates
In this episode of the Citizen Experience, we interview guests Geri Gonzalez, Regional VP of Talent and Kate Duchene, Chief Executive Officer of Resources Global Professionals. RGP is a global consulting firm that enables rapid business outcomes by bringing together the right people to create transformative change. Geri Gonzalez leads the Talent organization for the Southeast region of RGP. In this role, she is responsible for the strategy and leadership of people and initiatives to attract, hire, manage, develop and retain top talent who provide valued solutions to their clients. Working closely with RGP’s Chief People Officer, Geri also co-leads the Diversity, Equity (DE&I) and Inclusion initiative for RGP North America where she has been instrumental in implementing DE&I in a more programmatic manner for the organization. She is known for providing visionary leadership and developing high-performing teams, project and operational management, and designing talent and retention initiatives. Since joining RGP in 1999 as the Company’s first corporate counsel, Kate Duchene has operated in numerous executive roles – Legal, Corporate Secretary, Human Resources, Marketing and RGP Legal. Now, as Chief Executive Officer and President, a role she assumed in late 2016, Kate is focused on leading RGP through successful transformation to serve our clients and consultants with greater agility and improved experience. In 2017, Kate was honored by the Orange County Business Journal as an Outstanding Women in Business. In 2010, she was honored by the Orange County Business Journal as Outstanding General Counsel of a Public Company with Revenue over $200 Million. That same year, she was named to OC METRO’s “Hot 25” list of top professionals in Orange County, California. In this episode we discuss topics such as women and minorities in executive leadership, recruiting and hiring minority talent, and RGP’s Diversity Council & Ambassador Group and their mission to support an inclusive culture. Contact Our Guest(s) Here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerigonzalez/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kateduchene/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rgp/
Twitter: @RGP YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/ResourcesGlobal Contact Us Here: Jon Reid - jon.reid@klscottassociates.com Keith Scott - keith.scott@klscottassociates.com Phone #- (404)-692-5552 Email- Cx@klscottassociates.com Linkedin- https://www.linkedin.com/company/klsa... Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/klscottassoc... Twitter- https://twitter.com/klsassociates?s=09
Subscribe and turn on Post Notifications to stay alert when every new episode drops and more from K. L. Scott & Associates
In this episode of the Citizen Experience, we interview Rajneet Goomer an award-winning Director of Student Services and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) Expert in a public school district in the State of New Jersey. Rajneet’s 16-year career in education has been rooted in DE&I for students, families and staff. Rajneet is the co-chair of the District Equity Council in her current school district. She is the voice and advocate for DE&I in schools surrounding race, programmatic equity, and inclusion for all students including students with identified needs. Recently, she designed and currently facilitates a People of Color (POC) Employee Resource Group which has become an invaluable safe space for employees of color. Rajneet’s passion extends to designing and leading ongoing professional development and workshops in a variety of areas including DE&I. In 2019, Rajneet was honored with the Mimi Ballard CANDO Award from Research Institute for Learning and Development (ResearchILD) for innovative, strategic planning and implementation. In this episode we discuss topics such as inequity in public schools, the importance of mentoring and racial affinity groups, and role of empathy towards DE&I.
In this episode of the Citizen Experience, we interview Tonia Morris, CEO of Simply HR Inc. Ms. Morris is a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) Consultant, Public Speaker, and Executive Coach and Trainer. She has a long and illustrious career helping clients with workforce transformation. A 2019 Stevie Award recipient for her work in DE&I, Ms. Morris works with leaders of organizations to create a generational workforce that is inclusive, productive, and customer focused. In this episode we explore the what it means to “reimagine’ a diverse workforce culture.
Social Media Contacts:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toniamorris Web: www.simplyhrinc.com Web: www.toniamorrisspeaks.com Twitter: @toniaspeak Twitter: @fleejack Email: tonia@toniamorrisspeaks.com Tel: 404-692-5355
In this episode of the Citizen Experience, we interview Fields Jackson. Mr. Jackson is the Publisher, CEO, Chief Cheerleader & Talent Scout at Racing Toward Diversity magazine, which showcases the best diversity efforts and initiatives being made today. Mr. Jackson is an Adjunct Professor at Shaw University an HBCU in Raleigh, North Carolina and Executive Director of National HBCU Business Dean Roundtable which provides a forum for Deans of HBCU Business Schools to address opportunities and challenges associated with enhancing business programs and initiatives. In this episode, we discuss the importance of HBCUs, diversity recruiting, diversity in business and identifying when a lack of a diverse culture can save you time in the long run
In this episode of the Citizen Experience, we interview Desiree Martinez, President of Cogstone Resource Management, Inc. Ms. Martinez is an archaeologist and, in this episode, we discuss her work with the Native American Grave Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPR) and her Native American heritage through the lens of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Contact Desiree Martinez Here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tongva/
Twitter: @desireerm
Web: http://www.cogstone.com/
Email: dmartinez@cogstone.com
Tel: (714) 974-8300
In this episode of the Citizen Experience, we interview Natasha S. Hampton. Ms. Hampton is a local government leader and best selling author of the book entitled “High Heel Leadership”. In this episode we discuss the challenges that women face in leadership roles and how to overcome them, “same sex” sabotage, expanding the term “diversity” beyond race and gender but also diversity in thought, and her scholarship program “Girls in Government”.
Get your copy of “High Heel Leadership” : https://www.natashahampton.com/product-page/high-heel-leadership-the-art-of-being-a-woman-in-power-paperback
In this episode of the Citizen Experience Podcast, we interview Dr. Crystal Newby, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC). The NACAC was founded in 1937 and is an organization of nearly 14,000 professionals from around the world dedicated to serving students as they make choices about pursuing post-secondary education. Dr. Crystal Newby was recently appointed as the organization’s first director of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Dr. Newby has a Doctor of Education distinction from John Hopkins University in Entrepreneurial Leadership in Education among many of her list of credentials.
In this episode, we discuss topics such as the Antiracist Institute and Guiding the Way to Inclusion programs sponsored by the NACAC. We explore the definition of the term “diversity” and what diversity, equity, and inclusion means for communities across the country post-2020
In this episode of the Citizen Experience Podcast, we interview Clay Pearson the City Manager of Pearland, Texas. Mr. Pearson works closely with the Mayor and City Council of Pearland to deliver on its vision to a population of approximately 120,000 residents. Pearland is third largest city in the Greater Houston area and one of the fastest growing cities in the U.S. In fact, Pearland is known as “The Community of Choice in Greater Houston”. Pearland’s suburban economy is supported as residents commute to major employers such as NASA at the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center, the Texas Medical Center, the George Bush intercontinental airport, and many other companies. In this episode, we discuss economic growth and diversification; the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the local economy; and matters of diversity equity and inclusion as Pearland is also the final resting place of Georgia Floyd whose death sparked awareness and visibility into the inequities in our society.
In this episode of the Citizen Experience Podcast, we interview Matthew Thomas the Economic Development Manager of Alpharetta, Georgia. Mr. Thomas is responsible for increasing business investment, development, and redevelopment for the city. Alpharetta is branded as “the tech city of the south”. In this episode, we discuss a variety of topics such as Alpharetta’s continued growth in the COVID-19 pandemic, the challenge of attracting non-technical businesses when Alpharetta is known as a technical hub, and we outline several reasons why Alpharetta is the best place to live if you enjoy great schools, great restaurants, great parks and walking trails, and great events. In the words of Mr. Thomas, “Alpharetta always has something going on.”
In this episode of the Citizen Experience Podcast, we interview Deron King the Deputy City Manager for the City of East Point, Georgia. Deron oversees the day-to-day operations for over 35,000 residents and 600 city employees. He also served as the Project Manager for the City’s new $17 million-dollar, 32,000 square foot City Hall Facility that recently opened in May of 2019. An additional phase to this project is the renovation of the City Auditorium that was built in 1938.
If you have lived or are familiar with Atlanta, you will know that East Point is a city that is definitely on the rise with beautiful homes, amenities such as parks and recreation facilities, great restaurants and hotels. East Point is really becoming the place to be if you desire a Live-Work-Play-Shop community. And best of all, it is just minutes from Hartsfield-Jackson airport.
In the episode, we discuss the growth of East Point, the City’s approach to diversity and inclusion through its relationship with the Partnership for Southern Equity, and how the City can support remote learning through the distribution of laptops and various technology equipment to low-income families.
In this episode of the Citizen Experience Podcast, we interview Shelby Scales the Director of the North Carolina Department of Transportation Office of Civil Rights. Ms. Scales is very involved in supporting small minority and women-owned businesses, non-profit organizations, and minority representation in government and business. She is responsible for agency programs and compliance including the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Americans with Disabilities Act, Title VI, Workforce Development, On-the-Job and Minority and Woman Owned Small Business Certifications.
In the episode we discuss important topics such as the mission of the Office of Civil Rights, how the Office enforces federal and state laws and regulations to prohibit discrimination, minority business certification programs, and what programs would she implement to improve access to opportunities for the citizenry of North Carolina.
In this episode of the Citizen Experience, we interview Natalie Hall Fulton County Georgia Commissioner District 4. Fulton County Georgia has over one million citizens and is the home to some of the largest companies in the country such as Delta Airlines, the Coca-Cola Company, UPS, and InterContinental Hotels Group just to name a few. Ms. Hall’s District 4 encompasses the heart of Atlanta, downtown, Midtown, Old 4th Ward, and neighborhoods west of downtown Atlanta.
Ms. Hall has served Fulton County government for over 9 years (3 years as commissioner). Ms. Hall has also served in a variety of roles including Political and Public Sector Consultant for over 26 years. In this episode, we discuss topics such as economic growth opportunities in the age of COVID-19, Atlanta/Fulton County’s Pre-Arrest Diversion Initiative, and Economic Equity for minority communities
In this episode of the Citizen Experience, we interview Michael Taylor of Pitt County North Carolina. Mr. Taylor serves in a duel capacity as the Deputy County Manager and Chief Information Officer of the County. Pitt County is the home of 180,000 North Carolinians and East Carolina University. We discuss Pitt County’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, county management’s fiduciary responsibilities, and increasing internet access to rural communities in the age of remote work and distance learning.
Small businesses are the backbone of the U.S. economy. In fact, 65% of citizens are employed by small businesses. Gwendolyn Miles is the Small Business Specialist in support of the Center for Disease Control (CDC). In this episode of the Citizen Experience podcast, Ms. Miles provides information regarding how she advocates for small businesses in their support of the CDC. The CDC works 24/7 to protect America from health, safety and security threats, both foreign and in the U.S. The CDC fights disease and supports communities and citizens to do the same. If you are a small business and you are interested in doing business with the CDC to help their mission to protect communities and citizens, this is the podcast for you.
In this episode of the Citizen Experience, we interview Odie Donald II, the City Manager of South Fulton Georgia. Mr. Donald is the very first appointed City Manager of South Fulton and he describes it as “a Magical Place” to live. As City Manager, Mr. Donald oversees the day to day operations of Georgia’s fifth largest city with a population of more than 100,000, leading approximately 600 budgeted employees. In addition, Mr. Donald discusses how the city was formed through the citizens desire for self-government. Mr. Donald exclaims, “if your residents don’t have a say in their government, then their government doesn’t work.”
In this episode of the Citizen Experience, we interview Donna Bradbrook the Operations and Strategic Plan Manager of Alachua County Florida. Ms. Bradbrook provides insight into strategic initiatives for the County and how they monitor performance in the “new normal” of COVID-19.
In this episode of the Citizen Experience, we interview Duane Holder the Deputy County Manager of Cumberland County North Carolina. Mr. Holder explains the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic as the County governs and administers the local Public Health Department. In addition, Mr. Holder explains how the County has assisted small businesses with launching the Small Business Resiliency Grant Program to help those small businesses adversely impacted by the state’s Stay at Home and Safer at Home executive orders.