Best Jonathan Puddle Podcasts (2025)

1
Reconstructing Inclusion S2E9: 'Three Steps Forward, Two Steps Back': Howard Ross on DEI's Historical Resilience 47:37

21d ago47:37

47:37

In this episode, Howard Ross draws on four decades of DEI experience to offer wisdom in today's polarized climate. Howard, who brought me into the DEI field years ago, discusses how today's backlash fits into historical patterns and provides strategic guidance for practitioners navigating political headwinds. Key Discussion Points: - The shift from…

1
#140: Re-Parenting through Hope & Belonging (with Mariko Clark & Rachel Eleanor) 1:11:42

1M ago1:11:42

1:11:42

In episode 140 of The Puddcast, we discuss spiritual and emotional growth with Mariko Clark and Rachel Eleanor, authors of The Book of Belonging. We explore the journey of creating a Story Bible that emphasizes representation, inclusion, and gentle parenting practices. Mariko and Rachel reflect on the personal and communal impact of trust, intuitio…

1
Reconstructing Inclusion S2E8: Escape the Box: The Uncomfortable Truth About Today's DEI Discourse 20:27

2M ago20:27

20:27

In this episode, host Amri Johnson challenges us to examine how we put ourselves and others into boxes—especially in the context of identity and inclusion within DEI work. Amri explores the shortcomings of both extreme pro-DEI and anti-DEI positions, revealing how both ends of the spectrum ultimately restrict true inclusion. Key Discussion Points: …

1
Reconstructing Inclusion S2E7: Drawing Lines, Creating Distance: Fred Falker on What's Really Dividing Us 57:40

3M ago57:40

57:40

In this episode, Fred Falker challenges everything we think we know about DEI. Using the famous nine-dot puzzle as a metaphor, Fred explains why our current approach to inclusion might be holding us back – and offers a revolutionary new way forward. Key Discussion Points: - The nine-dot puzzle and invisible limitations - Difference vs. Distance par…

1
Reconstructing Inclusion S2E6: Moving Beyond the DEI (and Anti-DEI) Bandwagon in 2025 15:17

4M ago15:17

15:17

Reconstructing Inclusion with Amri B. Johnson Season 2, Episode 6: Moving Beyond the DEI (and Anti-DEI) Bandwagon in 2025 📝 Episode Description: In this episode, Amri explores why traditional DEI approaches are failing organizations and introduces the Emergent Inclusion Framework - a new paradigm for creating sustainable, inclusive cultures. Learn …

1
Reconstructing Inclusion S2E5: Beyond Lived Experience: The Case for DEI Competency Standards 43:05

5M ago43:05

43:05

In this explosive episode, former legal compliance expert turned DEI strategist Ashanti Bentil-Dhue drops truth bombs about the uncomfortable reality of DEI practice. She reveals why lived experience isn't enough, challenges the notion of "social justice in the workplace," and explains why the $30 billion DEI industry needs serious reform. Key Disc…

1
Reconstructing Inclusion S2E4: Drawing Larger Circles: DEI Beyond Political Division 22:29

6M ago22:29

22:29

Welcome to the Reconstructing Inclusion Podcast! Today, I’m excited to dive into a timely and challenging topic: navigating the winds of political change while maintaining our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). As we explore this theme, I’ll share insights on how we can view perceived setbacks as setups for meaningful comebacks. …

1
#139: Sabbatical Reflections | "Love is Working" 59:33

6M ago59:33

59:33

After a year-long hiatus, The Puddcast is back with episode 139! Tryphena and I share some heartfelt reflections on my family’s six-month sabbatical to New Zealand, England, Greece, and Finland. I unpack some unexpected discoveries I made about identity, intuition, and the importance of family and cultural roots. We reflect on the diversity of glob…

1
Reconstructing Inclusion S2E3: Trust as a Skill: Dr. Darryl Stickel on Vulnerability, Leadership, Uncertainty, and Inclusion 37:17

7M ago37:17

37:17

In this episode of the Reconstructing Inclusion Podcast, host Amri Johnson interviews Dr. Darryl Stickel, a leading expert on trust. Dr. Stickel discusses how modern relationships have become shallow due to social media, emphasizing the importance of building deeper connections. He explores trust in organizational contexts, highlighting the role of…

1
Rivers not puddles 5:59

8M ago5:59

5:59

Imagine a workplace where every employee, regardless of their differences, is set up to thrive. A place where managers are charged not just with hitting targets, but with creating an environment where even those they clash with can excel. Sound like a fantasy? It's not. This is the reality of what I call an "inclusion system," and it's the key to t…

1
Reconstructing Inclusion S2E2: Shifting DEI Perspectives: Ten Recurring Themes Across Podcasts 34:41

8M ago34:41

34:41

In this episode, Amri B. Johnson, host of the Reconstructing Inclusion Podcast, revisits ten insightful questions from his past podcast appearances, offering a comprehensive look at his approach to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Timestamps 01:55 Amri's background and journey into DEI work 07:00 Relationship between DEI and anti-racism 10:0…

1
Reconstructing Inclusion S2E1: Evidence-Based Inclusion: Elevating DEI with Dr. Jonathan Ashong-Lamptey 48:25

10M ago48:25

48:25

In this episode, host Amri Johnson welcomes Dr. Jonathan Ashong-Lamptey, founder of The Element of Inclusion, to discuss evidence-based inclusion and its importance in creating more effective diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategies. Timestamps 06:46 Influences and Inspirations: Personal and Professional 16:12 The Importance of Evidence-Ba…

1
Reconstructing Inclusion: Season Two Begins 20:17

11M ago20:17

20:17

Amri B. Johnson acknowledges the growing criticism of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, but argues that DEI remains crucial for organizational success in creating truly inclusive cultures. He believes many current strategies treat inclusion as an add-on rather than fundamentally rethinking systems and cultures, often failing to drive …

1
Reconstructing Inclusion S1E15: Listening Alchemy: Lessons on Presence, Context, and Connection with Raquel Ark 49:11

1y ago49:11

49:11

In this episode of the Reconstructing Inclusion Podcast, host Amri Johnson interviews Raquel Ark, an expert on the art and science of listening. They discuss the importance of listening for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and how it can be practiced and improved upon both personally and professionally. Raquel shares insights into her backgr…

1
Navigating Difficult Conversations: Deciphering Intent and Impact 1:13

1y ago1:13

1:13

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit reconstructinginclusion.substack.com In this video, I reflect on the importance of receiving meaningful feedback and its impact on personal growth and professional development. Drawing inspiration from a recent encounter with a client, I discuss the importance of acknowledging praise to …

1
Reconstructing Inclusion S1E14: Iatrogenesis & Agency: How can DEI practitioners/supporters discern and evolve the current state of practice? 41:36

1y ago41:36

41:36

In this episode of the ‘Reconstructing Inclusion’ podcast, Amri expresses concerns over the perceived threats to DEI, outlining that the resistance stems from a misunderstanding of what DEI truly signifies, beyond just representation and affirmative action. He explores the concept of 'Iatrogenic effects'—a medical term, indicating a treatment that …

1
Reconstructing Inclusion S1E13: The Role of DEI in Startups and Scaling Enterprises: Insights from Laura Smith 46:16

1y ago46:16

46:16

In this episode of the ‘Reconstructing Inclusion’ podcast, Amri interviews Laura Smith, a celebrated organizational researcher and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) strategist. Laura shares her journey from Detroit to Europe, her encounters with distinct cultures, and the notion of work in different countries. She highlights the significance o…

1
Preventing “Affinity Sclerosis” 10:55

1y ago10:55

10:55

In celebration of Black History Month, I urge all of us to integrate Black History teachings into our daily lives. To learn about Black, African, and African-American history, not only during this month, but throughout the year. I recently came across a post responding to criticisms that DEI initiatives lower standards. In my opinion, this notion i…

1
The Beloved Community 8:19

1+ y ago8:19

8:19

In this video, I share key insights from a recent keynote I did about “The Beloved Community”, echoing Dr. Cornel West's belief that love should involve an unwavering dedication to the well-being of the so-called “other”. The idea of “otherness”, and the notion of “us and them” contradicts true belonging. I urge us to resist the temptation to prior…

1
DEI Conversations Beyond Echo Chambers 18:11

1+ y ago18:11

18:11

In this video, I share my thoughts on how often DEI is criticized without further understanding what it encompasses. There is a lack of robust discussion on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), with people often overreacting in DEI conversations. I had a recent dialogue with a colleague about an article on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and what cou…

1
The Attack on DEI: Reactions to Ideological Misconceptions 11:10

1+ y ago11:10

11:10

In this video, I share my perspective on the current state of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in light of recent controversies, particularly focusing on the scenario surrounding Harvard’s former president. Is DEI under attack? Let’s talk about the implications of positioning a single individual or personality as the face of DEI, and how this…

1
Reconstructing Inclusion S1E12: Creating the Conditions to Follow Your Heart with Dr. Harriett D. Johnson 44:45

1+ y ago44:45

44:45

In this episode of the 'Reconstructing Inclusion' podcast, host, Amri B. Johnson, engages in an enlightening conversation with his mother, Dr. Harriett D. Johnson, bringing out profound narratives about her life, family history, experiences, and take on DEI, and professional journey as an educator. They touched on the impact of history on current d…

1
Reconstructing Inclusion S1E11: Exploring Organizational Network Analysis Around the World with Dr. Starling David Hunter III 54:42

1+ y ago54:42

54:42

In this episode of the ‘Reconstructing Inclusion’ podcast, Amri chats with Dr. Starling David Hunter III, who, having lived outside the U.S. for 18 years, recognizes the importance of cultural nuances in shaping organizational behavior theories. He shared valuable insights into his journey from engineering to organizational behavior, emphasizing th…

1
Reconstructing Inclusion S1E10: DEI Work Means Skin in the Game (Otherwise, It’s Just Posturing) 16:28

1+ y ago16:28

16:28

In this episode of the ‘Reconstructing Inclusion’ podcast, Amri provides a deep dive into the complexities of DEI outcomes and calls for a broader, more inclusive approach that engages all individuals in fostering change. He encourages everyone to contemplate how to make DEI accessible, actionable, and sustainable for everyone, irrespective of thei…

1
Reconstructing Inclusion S1E9: Digital, Diverse & Divided: Exploring Cultural Intelligence with David Livermore 35:06

1+ y ago35:06

35:06

In this episode of the ‘Reconstructing Inclusion’ podcast, Amri chats with Dr. David Livermore, founder of the Cultural Intelligence Center, and author of the book, Digital, Diverse & Divided: How to Talk to Racists, Compete With Robots, and Overcome Polarization. He shared insights into the profound importance of cultural intelligence (CQ) in our …

1
Reconstructing Inclusion S1E8: Is DEI Under Fire?: Ask Chicken Little (but he won’t respond) 30:40

1+ y ago30:40

30:40

In this episode of the ‘Reconstructing Inclusion’ podcast, Amri discusses recent developments in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) primarily focused on the U.S. context but with global relevance. He emphasizes the importance of clear communication regarding DEI's impact and significance and to avoid becoming overly reactive to political statem…

1
Reconstructing Inclusion S1E7: Quantifying Intersectional Identity: The Value of Inclusive Data 44:45

1+ y ago44:45

44:45

In this episode of the ‘Reconstructing Inclusion’ podcast, Amri is joined by 3 key members of the Diversity Atlas team: Peter Mousaferiadis, Rezza Moieni, and Michael Walmsley. The discussion delves deeper into the concept of intersectionality and its role in shaping diverse identities. Learn how Diversity Atlas takes a multifactorial approach, all…

1
Reconstructing Inclusion S1E6: What is Race Abolition?: Illuminating Racialization’s Complexity 1:04:32

2y ago1:04:32

1:04:32

In this episode of the ‘Reconstructing Inclusion’ podcast, Amri along with esteemed Philosophers, Dr. Subrena Smith and Dr. David Livingstone Smith offer profound insights into the complex dynamics of race and its impact on society. They argued that race is not simply about skin color but encompasses metaphysical views, evolutionary history, and so…

1
#138: Relational Resilience for the Exhausted (with Heather Thompson Day) 58:00

2y ago58:00

58:00

Professor, author, speaker and all-around delightful person Heather Thompson Day is our guest on The Puddcast—something I’ve been hoping to make happen for 3 years. Dr. Heather is Associate Professor of Communication at Andrews University, and the author of 8 books; including her latest, I'll See You Tomorrow: Building Relational Resilience When Yo…

1
Reconstructing Inclusion S1E5: Social Media Storms’ Strategic Ignorance 31:03

2y ago31:03

31:03

In this episode, Amri unpacks the social media backlash and the polarized opinions surrounding “Don’t Call Me Karen,” a series of dialogues facilitated by Uber’s Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer, Bo Young Lee. Amri encourages listeners to consider Lee’s profound message and the need to challenge our own strategic ignorance in order to foster s…

1
#137: Creating suicide-safe churches (Steve Austin tribute) 57:48

2y ago57:48

57:48

Two years ago, my friend Steve Austin, an author, mental health advocate and former pastor, died by suicide. Ever since then, I’ve intended to dedicate an episode to his memory and his work, and this is that episode. Including a powerful interview with Lindsey Austin, Steve’s wife, along with a selection of readings from Steve’s book, Hiding In The…

1
Reconstructing Inclusion S1E4: Beyond Race and Gender 55:32

2y ago55:32

55:32

In this episode of the ‘Reconstructing Inclusion’ podcast, Amri chats with April Thomas, Chief Solutions Officer of SDMS 360. She shares her story of how she came to be involved in diversity management work after her father, Dr. Roosevelt Thomas Jr.'s passing. April reflects on his approach to diversity, and discovered his work was based on princip…

1
#136-B: Reflecting on Aundi Kolber and self-compassionate survival 51:43

2y ago51:43

51:43

Tryphena and I kept the mics rolling right after our interview with Aundi Kolber, and let me tell you… it’s a wild ride! We discussed the provocativeness of wholeness, including a physics lesson and a reflection on quantum physics… Why? Because presence is a powerful resource, and I have some theories about it. We talked about anger and injustice, …

1
Reconstructing Inclusion S1E3: Wokeness, Cancel Culture, and DEI 41:19

2y ago41:19

41:19

In this episode of the ‘Reconstructing Inclusion’ podcast, Amri argues that while some individuals are engaging in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and anti-racism work with a generative spirit that deconstructs and reconstructs, many others are becoming entrenched and egoistic, resulting in a breakdown in relatedness. Key highlights The DEI …

1
#136: Flexible strength—compassionate survival (with Aundi Kolber) 1:01:32

2y ago1:01:32

1:01:32

My good friend Aundi Kolber returns to the show to discuss her brand new book, Strong Like Water: Finding the Freedom, Safety, and Compassion to Move through Hard Things—and Experience True Flourishing. Our conversation revolves around reframing many things we’ve seen as weaknesses, even sins, as forms of strength that enabled us to survive hard th…

1
#135-B: Unpacking Brad Jersak and the idol smashing of deconstruction 1:02:49

2y ago1:02:49

1:02:49

Here’s a new Puddcast B-Side, unpacking idol smashing and how to create a welcoming, forgiving space as we deconstruct from toxic theology. My pastor, Amy Ryan, joined Tryphena and I to discuss our takeaways from Brad Jersak’s thoughts on the necessity, perils and possibilities of deconstruction, including how painful and confusing it can be for us…

1
Reconstructing Inclusion S1E2: Love and Power in DEI 47:37

2y ago47:37

47:37

In this episode of Reconstructing Inclusion, Amri chats with Doug Harris, CEO of The Kaleidoscope Group with over three decades worth of experience in diversity, equity & inclusion consulting. During this inspiring conversation, they discuss how DEI work is about making people better than when you found them - doing it all with love! Discover how p…

1
#135: The necessity, perils and possibilities of deconstruction (with Brad Jersak) 1:26:07

2y ago1:26:07

1:26:07

The wonderfully wise and gentle Brad Jersak returns to the show, with a guest co-host! This special episode was recorded live when I was visiting Jonathan Martin recently, and we co-interviewed Brad about his latest book, Out of the Embers: Faith After the Great Deconstruction. We reflected on the historical precedence of faith deconstruction, obse…

1
#134-B: Exploring Dave Connis on laughter, silliness and work 52:55

2y ago52:55

52:55

Here’s the latest Puddcast B-Side, exploring themes of laughter and silliness and the value of everything, from our interview with Dave Connis. When Dave said, “Everything counts” something inside me exploded, or clarified, or whatever… it’s been big for me. Tryphena and I discuss finding joy in all things, redefining joy as a valuable part of seri…

1
Reconstructing Inclusion: The Inaugural Episode 8:00

2+ y ago8:00

8:00

In this first episode of the Reconstructing Inclusion Podcast, hosted by Amri B. Johnson, a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion strategist and author of Reconstructing Inclusion: Making DEI Accessible, Actionable, and Sustainable, he shares at a high level what this podcast is all about. About the Host As CEO/Founder of Inclusion Wins, Amri and a virtu…

1
#134: A theology of laughter and co-creation (with Dave Connis) 58:22

2+ y ago58:22

58:22

Children’s and Young Adult author Dave Connis comes to The Puddcast to teach us the importance of laughter (and more). Dave’s hilarious and meaningful storybooks, The Inventions of God (and Eva), and The Stories of God (and Kiki) both captured our affection in a big way. We reflected on being intentional about the stories we tell our children and w…

1
#133-B: Debriefing Lisa Sharon Harper on race, monarchy & forgiveness 52:54

2+ y ago52:54

52:54

Just in time for Christmas comes a wild ride of a B-Side. Looking back at our interview with Lisa Sharon Harper, Tryphena and I reflected on themes of forgiveness and reparations, the gift of tongues as Indigenous celebration, how the monarcy dehumanizes people, the emotional impact on Europeans of that dehumanization, the myth of an American Chris…

1
#133: How race broke the world (with Lisa Sharon Harper) 58:55

2+ y ago58:55

58:55

Acclaimed speaker, activist, playwright, and the author of several books, Lisa Sharon Harper is on The Puddcast! Recognized as one of the most important and powerful voices speaking to matters of justice and religion today, Lisa joined us to talk about her latest book Fortune: How Race Broke my Family and the World - and How to Repair it All. Blend…

1
#132-B: Unpacking Katie Gaddini on single women leaving the church 45:02

2+ y ago45:02

45:02

The B-Side is back! Katie Gaddini’s evocative book unveiling the factors that cause single women to feel alienated in the church triggered some THOUGHTS from both Tryphena and myself. Having both served in churches for many years, we each shared some of the ways we’ve seen “the ideal Christian woman” trope play out, why this and other things are so…

1
#132: Why single women are leaving the church (with Dr. Katie Gaddini) 54:17

2+ y ago54:17

54:17

Sociologist and author Dr. Katie Gaddini joins us to talk about the factors forcing single evangelical women out of the church. Rather than a focus on faith deconstruction, we talked about power structures and cultural norms, such as “the ideal Christian woman,” how such stereotypes develop, and how they alienate people who don’t fit them. We touch…

1
#131: Men's devotionals are terrible (but Jesus isn't) 1:11:32

2+ y ago1:11:32

1:11:32

To commemorate the launch (and the irony) of my latest book (a men’s Bible devotional), my friend Anthony McLean returns to host the show and interview me! We talked about men’s mental health, overworking ourselves, permitted male emotions, and purity culture… and then we riffed deep on original sin, brokenness and how to understand freedom and lov…

1
#130: The Soul of the Helper (with Dr. Holly Oxhandler) 51:11

2+ y ago51:11

51:11

Professor, researcher and podcaster Dr. Holly Oxhandler is my guest, talking about the supports that helpers need to keep on helping. Whether we’re talking about parents, therapists, pastors, teachers or literally anyone else who helps, Holly’s research has shown the importance of seeing the divine inside ourselves so that we can connect with the d…

1
#129-B: Debriefing Jonathan Martin on the road away from God 43:36

3y ago43:36

43:36

Time for another B-Side! Tryphena and I kept the mics rolling after we bid farewell to Jonathan Martin, and we leaned into his thoughts on God walking with us, even as we think we’re walking away. We riff on the divine power revealed in human agency, finding peace in the knowledge that God is present in everything, discerning the simple next steps …

1
#129: Finding hope on the road away from God (with Jonathan Martin) 1:01:00

3y ago1:01:00

1:01:00

Pastor, writer and social leader Jonathan Martin returns to the show to explain how the journey that we’re each on is the journey we need to be on. Using the story of the disciples leaving Jerusalem on the road to Emmaus, Jonathan explains that even when we think we’re walking away from God, love finds us on the road. Tryphena and I ask him about t…

1
#128-B: Unpacking Kevin Sweeney on mystics + mushrooms 32:58

3y ago32:58

32:58

This here’s a B-Side, folks! As Tryphena and I walked back through our interview with Kevin Sweeney about mystics, mushrooms and the power of letting go, we found ourselves camped out discussing our value and worth when we’re not productive. Tryphena asks, if a flower shines with no one to see its beauty, is it still beautiful? We shared some dark …

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