In this episode, Michelle shares practical insights on how organizations can broaden the impact of their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) principles beyond internal practices and into their community outreach efforts. Michelle explains that while most DEI initiatives focus on improving retention, recruitment, and eliminating bias within company operations, it’s equally important to engage with external opportunities—such as partnerships, supplier diversity, and community involvement—to drive lasting change.

The episode introduces a three-circle framework for embedding DEI: starting with employee lifecycle processes, moving outward to organizational alignment, and finally reaching external efforts. The discussion highlights actionable approaches, including partnerships with academic institutions, involvement on boards, industry collaborations, intentional supplier spending, and public communications. Whether for small organizations with little staff turnover or larger companies, the episode serves up creative and accessible strategies to integrate DEI principles across a broader ecosystem.

To learn more and connect, visit: www.Equity-At-Work.com

To grab Michelle's new book, visit: Do DEI Right

Key Topics Discussed:

• Common internal DEI focus areas (recruiting, retention, reducing bias)
• The three-circle framework for embedding DEI
• Ways to extend DEI principles into community partnerships
• Specific examples: academic outreach, board participation, industry collaboration, philanthropy
• Best practices for supplier diversity and external communications
• Tips for small organizations or those with limited employee churn
• Additional resources available through the podcast’s website and blog