Here are some reflections and key takeaways from a recent webinar I co-hosted with my brilliant colleague and friend, Minette Norman. It was called “What’s Next: “What’s Next: The Future of Empathy and Inclusion in the Workplace.”

MInette is the co-author of The Psychological Safety Handbook and author of The Boldly Inclusive Leader. And together, we had things to say!

The goal of the session was simple but powerful: to create community during tough times and talk honestly about where we’re at, what’s challenging us, and where we go from here when it comes to empathy and inclusion at work.

Let me tell you—the conversation was real, and it was energizing!

To access the episode transcript, please search for the episode title at www.TheEmpathyEdge.com

Key Takeaways:

• Even with the current resistance to DEI, there is still a strong business case for it. DEI initiatives are proven to drive innovation, performance, and revenue.
• Sometimes, rebranding DEI work as “belonging” or “inclusion” can help get buy-in.
• Asking “What are we missing?” can unlock better outcomes, reduce risk, and help teams innovate.

"In these tough times, community matters. Empathy and inclusion are not trends—they’re leadership imperatives." — Maria Ross

Episode References:

• Share your opinion! Please fill out the short survey here at https://bit.ly/edge-feedback
• Minette Norman: https://www.minettenorman.com
• The Psychological Safety Handbook: https://thepsychologicalsafetyplaybook.com/
• The Boldly Inclusive Leader: https://www.minettenorman.com/boldlyinclusiveleader
• Medium: The Great DEI Hustle: White Americans Are the Real DEI Hires by Dr. Lauren Tucker

From Our Partner:

SparkEffect partners with organizations to unlock the full potential of their greatest asset: their people. Through their tailored assessments and expert coaching at every level, SparkEffect helps organizations manage change, sustain growth, and chart a path to a brighter future.

Go to sparkeffect.com/edge now and download your complimentary Professional and Organizational Alignment Review today.

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