Intersectional Innovations
Top 20 Restorative
People Leaders to Watch
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Why Did We Start This Watchlist?
Why do we feel these leaders are a good addition to our watchlist?
We feel you represent not just a great People Leader but a Restorative People Leader.
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Restorative leaders are proactive, not reactive.
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Restorative leaders are curious and seek to understand “why.”
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Restorative leaders are gardeners in their workplaces, not landscapers.
What is this watchlist celebrating?
"Restorative Leader" can be compared to a well-seasoned and maintained garden tool, like a pruning shear. Just as a pruning shear must be kept sharp, clean, and in good working condition to effectively shape and nurture the growth of the garden, a Restored Leader must be mindful of their own wellness and mental state to effectively lead and develop others.
A Restorative Leader, much like the shear that is regularly sharpened and oiled, takes accountability for their personal well-being and mental clarity. This self-maintenance ensures they can make precise cuts – or decisions – that are beneficial for the growth of their team and organization, rather than harmful or counterproductive.
Being proactive and solution-oriented, a Restorative Leader, like a well-cared-for garden tool, is always ready for action, able to address challenges efficiently and creatively. Their focus on development, both personal and for others, parallels the tool's role in not just maintaining but enhancing the health and beauty of the garden.
Working with others, a Restorative Leader values trust, influence, buy-in, transparency, and clarity – key elements for effective collaboration and growth. This is akin to the way a good gardening tool works in harmony with the gardener's hands, complementing their skills and enhancing their ability to care for the garden.
In essence, a Restorative Leader, much like a well-maintained garden tool, is essential for cultivating a healthy, thriving, and productive environment where both the leader and their team can grow and flourish together.
Our goal with this list is to celebrate and inspire future leaders to be restorative!
Welcome to our 2nd edition!
We hand-selected 20 People Leaders and asked them these 5 questions. This watchlist was released on July 9th, 2024 by Intersectional Innovations.
Question One
Collective Trust
Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
Question Two
Restorative Mindset
What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
Question Three
Thoughts on DEI
I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
Question Four
Leadership Superpowers
If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community?
Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration.
Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view.
Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Question Five
Budget Priorities
If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
Welcome to our 2nd edition!
We hand-selected 20 People Leaders and asked them these 5 questions. This watchlist was released on July 9th, 2024 by Intersectional Innovations.
Question One
Collective Trust
Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
Question Two
Restorative Mindset
What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
Question Three
Thoughts on DEI
I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
Question Four
Leadership Superpowers
If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community?
Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration.
Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view.
Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Question Five
Budget Priorities
If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
Welcome to our 2nd edition!
We hand-selected 20 People Leaders and asked them these 5 questions. This watchlist was released on July 9th, 2024 by Intersectional Innovations.
Question One
Collective Trust
Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
Question Two
Restorative Mindset
What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
Question Three
Thoughts on DEI
I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
Question Four
Leadership Superpowers
If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community?
Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration.
Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view.
Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Question Five
Budget Priorities
If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
2nd Edition - Top 20 Restorative People Leader Watchlist
Welcome to our 2nd edition!
We hand-selected 20 People Leaders and asked them these 5 questions. This watchlist was released on July 9th, 2024 by Intersectional Innovations.
Question One
Collective Trust
Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
Question Two
Restorative Mindset
What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
Question Three
Thoughts on DEI
I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
Question Four
Leadership Superpowers
If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community?
Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration.
Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view.
Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Question Five
Budget Priorities
If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
Meet Nate Shalev
Spotlight Video Interview - 2nd Edition
Nate's journey into restorative leadership began on their 16th birthday at the Nuyorican Poetry Slam, where they first recognized the transformative power of storytelling. This profound realization led them to earn degrees from Barnard College of Columbia University and New York University, shaping their commitment to creating inclusive spaces. Through their consultancy, Revel Impact, Nate excels at fostering environments where individuals and teams gain deep insights into themselves and each other, driving organizational success. Their dedication to making change in both ordinary and extraordinary moments is why they were selected as our spotlight interview for the 2nd edition of our Top 20 Restorative People Leader Watchlist.
Meet Nate Shalev
Spotlight Video Interview - 2nd Edition
Nate's journey into restorative leadership began on their 16th birthday at the Nuyorican Poetry Slam, where they first recognized the transformative power of storytelling. This profound realization led them to earn degrees from Barnard College of Columbia University and New York University, shaping their commitment to creating inclusive spaces. Through their consultancy, Revel Impact, Nate excels at fostering environments where individuals and teams gain deep insights into themselves and each other, driving organizational success. Their dedication to making change in both ordinary and extraordinary moments is why they were selected as our spotlight interview for the 2nd edition of our Top 20 Restorative People Leader Watchlist.
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
When we grant trust to everyone from the beginning, we create a container where people feel trusted and considered. This can lease to increased motivation, team integration and a collaborative work culture. Through continued collaboration, the space for trust is fortified and when we are given the freedom show up authentically, trust is strengthened.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
In cultivating a growth mindset, I engage in regularly sharing educational resources, reflective prompts, and stories that inspire continual learning and self-examination through curiosity and wonder. Additionally, I host and share interactive workshops that promote restorative justice principles. My mission is to continue equipping our community with proactive conflict resolution skills, fostering an environment of empathy, understanding, and collective growth. Throughout my different social media initiatives, I work on fostering the importance of “Right Relationship” between ourselves, those around us, and our community(ies) at large.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
I believe DEI In corporate America has been experiencing several shifts over the last few years. The uproar and mobilizing that corporations and nonprofits used to engage in during the high of community and global protests/pandemic has dulled to a murmur. The current awareness of its need and importance is tied to our current social realities where we are feeling individual and collective burnout, need for community, and need for healing and restoration. There is a growing consensus throughout this evolution and that we must do more than just engage in the rhetoric of DEI but in its embodiment and praxis. My hope is that as corporations continue to do their liberatory and anti-racist work, they can become more aligned (and more invested) in current DEIB work that is sustainable and transformative.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. I believe that compassion is a core element in developing empathy and a deeper understanding of ourselves and others. In our work, we must constantly lead with compassion, using our own experiences and traumas to understand other. This can be thought of as being a “Wounded Healer”, In my spaces I bring forward the notion of Diligent Empathy: Conscientiously working towards understanding others and their experiences/needs. As a leader, we must have the literacy in how to hold space for others and ourselves if we are to move closer towards equity and belonging.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
1-Creation of Heart & Healing centered "Belonging/Thriving" spaces/hubs both virtual and in-person throughout the world. These would allow anyone to experience healing centered practices and tools that they can apply in their personal lives and communities. Accessible regardless of income.
2- Creation of sustainable eco-park where implementation of resources, tools, and practices can take place.
3- Amplify work of movements, people, and communities engaging in equity aligned work, removing barriers from said parties in their ability to critically connect with the people they are trying to serve.
4- Continue to Design/Implement culturally responsive spaces of transformation, belonging, and thriving while collaborating with others who are aligned to increase cultural presence of Healing centered practices. As we increase the global capacity , accessibility, and presence of these spaces people can continue to take a greater part in it, this is a cultural movement.
5- Rest.
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
I believe trust forms over time through deep listening, conversation and being vulnerable. There must be an exchange of ideas, feelings, and shared experiences that form connection and understanding. We all need to be seen and heard for who we are and what we are about, and yet we all come to work with some form of armor. Breaking that down requires a sense of care, safety and curiosity. So two ways I achieve that with my team is to A) taking the time to fully tune in and connect with each other at the start of a meeting or gathering (ie. a prompt and round robin discussion or somatic breathing / stretching exercise) and B) using both formal and informal ways to infuse creativity and play into the work. Once a group has shared a range of experiences together, they form a ‘hive mind’ and are bound and buoyed by those stories when things feel hard. And as we all know, for as much time and intention it takes to form trust, it only takes a single moment to break or damage it. So the more layered and resilient our relationships are, the better we are able to navigate and work through those fissures if/when they occur.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
We are all motivated internally, hardwired to grow and evolve. I appreciate adult learning theory which says that every adult group - regardless of nature/context - must become a “laboratory of democracy where people can live and learn cooperatively.” That implies an environment where team members are self-guided, encouraged to learn and test independently, as well as have the ability to apply what they are learning as part of the growth process and in collaboration with others. So to cultivate this type of environment, I believe in co-creating guiding principles for how the group wants to engage and advance its purpose while living out its values. We lean on these when conflict arises and we expect and encourage healthy conflict in service to deeper understanding. Establishing a growth mindset and continual learning comes from recognizing and honoring our ‘human-ness’ — our strengths, flaws, inconsistencies, fears, curiosities… and then designing new ways of working that include adequate time for reflection both independently and collectively, sense making our way through celebrating progress and prioritizing problems to solve, and subsequently, things to learn / unlearn / relearn.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
For leaders who want to be inclusive, respected, and have meaningful, positive impact in their work and with their teams— DEI is table stakes. Unfortunately, that’s not a widely shared concept in corporate America. DEI is often misconstrued as secondary or an afterthought to core business activities, rather than treated as essential, foundational work that enables a team to become the best possible version of itself, and therefore produce its greatest possible impact. Sometimes I think we get caught up in the semantics of it, losing clarity on what it’s really about. If it wasn’t hard, and it didn’t make us uncomfortable or cause us to question every aspect of how we show up and advance our businesses, then it would not be worth it. Part of what makes it so hard is knowing deeply that the work may lead to radical change. And that change is what we seek, in order to evolve and adapt to our richly diverse and complex world.
Blatant examples of harm in the form of racism, misogyny, ableism, bias, perfectionism, and other inequities persist in patriarchal workplaces that resist DEI work and the unwavering social justice movements, DEI pioneers and practitioners who have been steadfast in their advocacy. They may justify their short term gains and dominance of power as proof of concept that “DEI is dead'', but it is all fleeting; our world is evolving. The notion that DEI work is not optional is only growing. These players will ultimately embark on a DEI journey of some kind and embrace change to thrive, or lose talented, good people and suffer. On the contrary, there are a plentitude of beautiful examples of DEI in practice: un/relearning programs, healing practices, and restoration projects; of leaders and organizations taking bold leaps to do business differently, paving new paths, listening to and centering their people, creating new tables, etc. And there are also performative players in between, who want DEI to feel easy and fit in a box. And while that type of DEI can backfire and also perpetuate harm, it represents a developmental step towards a more authentic version of DEI that corporate America is struggling (and also steadfast) to define. DEI in all its messy, critical versions is absolutely hard at work and happening if you look for it! We have to acknowledge and make space for all of these truths, and harness collective resilience to continue this work, both inside and outside of the workplace.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Oh, the conflict diffusion wave fo sho! I feel like I already carry an abundance of empathy in my pockets, and promotions while exciting, so often end up being not what people really want. But the idea of the skill to emit a calming aura to diffuse tension and allow connection and constructive dialogue to flourish in the face of conflict– now that sounds like a game changer to me! That could save the world!
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
1. Generous paid family leave - for all the common and not-so-common reasons
2. Customized, guided + paid learning journeys for my team Seasonal, paid time off for the whole team
3. Annual “joy + togetherness” experiences for the team and individual stipends too
4. Customized, company-financed financial support offerings (ie. 401K, debt/loan mgmt, educational reimbursement, etc.)
5. A lavish annual dinner for the team because breaking bread together almost always catalyzes more breakthroughs!
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
Teams absolutely perform better and thrive when trust is a foundation and given as a matter of respect to all. High-performing Teams require environments of trust and a high level of Emotional Intelligence and Psychological Safety- not just as Buzz Words that sound nice, but in actual practice. Trust is a foundation for any team and as teams, we have to be able to share what's good, what's challenging, celebrate together, and learn and grow together.
2. Restorative Mindset What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
Community is important to me, and in fact, is a CEPHR Value. That means that I view my Community and those who engage with my posts not as simply "followers" but humans who take the time to pour into me and I do the same for them. In sharing the content I do, it's important to me to highlight how we can grow and be better together, even through the tough stuff. Even when my content showcases hard reality and truths that may be difficult for some to hear or face, I will always share it with compassion because the goal is growth, not harm. We have to be able to be aware of the realities so that we can appropriately and timely navigate them in a healthy way.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
This one is sticky and tricky for sure, but I'll give it a go: In my perspective, there’s been an evolution, yes, but there is also a lot more evolving that needs to happen! Until we recognize that organizations are systems of power (and often oppression), we will not overcome all the Undoing that needs to be undone. I will say that I see so many organizations putting in great effort and in non-performative ways as to how they’re diversifying their Suppliers and Vendors, teams, and adopting new Mindsets and learning (even when uncomfortable) around DEIB. A couple small things I noticed that would really help most organizations get on track and ready for the future of DEIB: 1.) Having the right tools, Policies, systems, and Programs in place and 2.) Having the real, honest, and tough conversations. We have to start somewhere and starting with Humanity first is a good way to do so.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
I'd have to go "Compassion Enhancement" all day! I believe that is a lot of what is missing today. Empathy will propel us forward and a lack of it has drifted us further apart as Humans, Society, and work teams. To take that a step further and have actual Compassion for one another, would send us so much further along on the DEIB Journey and toward the world that most of us want and all of us deserve.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
1.) Hiring more amazing team members to help us amplify our work
2.) Donate to our clients' meaningful Community work to amplify their work, voices, and impact, and to other Community Organizations (more than we do now Philanthropically)
3.) Upskilling and Reskilling current and future Team Members
4.) Supporting Sustainability and Green Efforts
5.) Having access and opportunity to the best and most effective, efficient tools for our team, services, and to impact our Mission, Vision, and Values as best as possible. SMBs have it HARD in this space. I'd love to see a world where automation and piecing things together without feeling that they're pieced together or that we have to cobble so much together just to gain access to information and opportunity of our larger peers in-industry is normalized for our SMB Enterprises.
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
“How you start is how you finish.” The psychologically safe culture that you create at the outset will sustain the high-performing and inclusive culture you entrust later to fulfill your organizational mission.
2. Restorative Mindset What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
You have to embody in yourself what you hope to cultivate with others. I always try to lead with curiosity, empathy, and the understanding that everyone's life experience has informed their perspective.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
I was hopeful that DEIB (adding the "belonging" part) would start to mature after the murder of George Floyd by focusing on systemic change. Unfortunately, those aspirations were often met with platitudes and non-actionable items that didn't address equity within organizations. My hope is that DEIB will continue to focus on tangible ways in which leaders can support meaningful change in organizations and the communities they serve.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
I would focus on compassion enhancement. "Right action" cannot occur without a change in consciousness, and consciousness cannot change if people don't become more connected with the heart. When we choose to empathize with others, we expand our ability to connect with ourselves and the world around us.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
1) Learning and Innovation
2) Cultural Intelligence
3) Emotional Intelligence
4) Leadership storytelling
5) Wellness and Holistic Health
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
I believe in a balanced approach. From my experience, giving new hires a baseline level of trust is crucial for fostering a positive and supportive environment. It helps create a safe space and encourages collaboration right from the start. However, I also think that sustained trust needs to be earned through consistent performance and integrity in their work and actions. This combination of initial trust and earned trust is what really helps teams perform at their best.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
Although I don't use social media to its fullest extent, I focus on fostering a growth mindset by attending various community events and meet-ups. The most growth has occurred when I have engaged in conversations with individuals I don't know but just run into briefly during a walk or a local business owner when I enter their shop. It is these interactions that offer fresh perspectives and opportunities for continual learning. Valuing the power of storytelling creates deeper connections and understanding among people, allowing others to share experiences, insights, and perspectives in a way that is engaging and relatable.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
The evolution of DEI is promising with many organizations making strides towards more inclusive and equitable workplaces. However, true progress requires continuous effort and accountability, not just policy changes or surface-level commitments. To promote more lasting change, companies must actively address systemic biases, and foster an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and integrated into decision-making processes.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the community members? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
If I were to grant one superpower to others as a restorative leader, I would choose compassion enhancement without hesitation. This ability to deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members is transformative. It fosters empathy, strengthens bonds, and promotes allyship. The importance of connection and ability to understand complex human dynamics empowers leaders to lead with empathy, to bridge divides, and foster a culture of kindness and mutual respect. By recognizing the importance of connection and empathy in navigating diverse perspectives, leaders can build teams that thrive on collaboration and understanding.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
Within an unlimited budget, my top five budget items would be:
(1) Research and Development: Investing in R&D to drive innovation, collaborate with leading experts, and fund groundbreaking research projects;
(2) Talent Development and Training: Allocating resources towards training programs to nurture the skills and capabilities of team members, including leadership development;
(3) Employee Well-being and Mental Health Support: Offering robust mental health support programs, wellness initiatives, and resources to help employees thrive both personally and professionally;
(4) Social Impact Initiatives: Dedicate funds toward projects that align with our organization's values and contribute to positive change in the communities we serve, including supporting social justice causes that make a meaningful difference in the world;
(5) Organizational Infrastructure and Sustainability: Investing in the development of resilient organizational infrastructure that supports long-term growth and sustainability, including ensuring all have paid paternal leaves, vacation policy to promotes flexibility, and health insurance for employees and their families to opt in.
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
Both can be true at the same time. Every individual is different, and what matters to them is different. Our core values and morals will always dictate what and how we navigate life and the workplace. In general, I think it's important to have the goal of earning their trust and also granting trust to every hire. I do believe that safe spaces enable better teams, so "Yes."
2. Restorative Mindset What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
Yeah, I think this is extremely important to my work to start so it is something that I seek out in my social media network, finding individuals who teach, believe and drive this notion. I also find myself looking for multiple perspectives often, I think that a growth mindset requires challenges, and only visiting or entertaining spaces that share the same voice lessen the learning journey and experience. I tell those I mentor and teach that continuous learning is a game changer. The idea of proactive approaches to conflict resolution I think is easier spoken than facilitated and it's not a gene that everyone has but with practice we learn to listen better, support more and ask the right questions which aids conflict resolution.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
This is tough one for me to answer. I love the work I do and I think that it's special and necessary in the workplace. It breaks my heart to see what is happening within this space. So, you really have two classes of corporate those that were authentic in their actions and are truly committed to their goals and aspirations. The other class .. well they were motivated by the circumstances of the past few years, but were not authentic in their long-term commitment or goals. It's unfortunate but I think it's a reality these next few years will be extremely important in the evolution of this work.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Compassion Enhancement
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
Early Career Support
Employee Benefits (Education, Wellness, Compensation...)
Philanthropy
ESG
Transformation (Tech, Research...)
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
As a leader, DEI is a lifestyle for me, so to answer this question, I would do so from that lens. Granting trust to everyone upon hire fosters an inclusive environment, enhancing psychological safety and encouraging open communication. This approach aligns with equitable practices, giving all team members an equal starting point and signaling belief in their capabilities. It promotes engagement, motivation, and productivity, creating a sense of belonging crucial for team performance. Additionally, it enhances cultural competency by demonstrating a commitment to diversity and inclusion, allowing diverse talents to thrive and contribute effectively.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
Again, from my DEI lens, to cultivate a growth mindset within my social media network, I have implemented several measures emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution: 1. Educational Content: I share diverse articles, videos, and resources to promote lifelong learning and stay informed on current trends. 2. Inclusive Discussions: By encouraging open dialogue on DEI, innovation, and leadership, I create a culture of shared learning and mutual respect. 3. Showcasing Diverse Voices: Amplifying voices from various backgrounds exposes my network to different viewpoints, promoting empathy and understanding. 4. Conflict Resolution Resources: I share strategies for effective conflict resolution, emphasizing proactive and respectful communication. 5. Highlighting Success Stories: Featuring stories of individuals and organizations with a growth mindset inspires and provides practical examples. 6. Interactive Webinars and Workshops: Organizing sessions on skill development, leadership, and DEI topics fosters collaborative learning. 7. Feedback and Reflection: Encouraging feedback and reflection helps identify improvement areas and reinforces continuous development. These measures create a social media network that values growth, inclusivity, and proactive conflict resolution, fostering a supportive and dynamic community.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
From the perspective of a Black woman in leadership, the evolution of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in corporate America over the past few years has been marked by notable strides and significant hurdles.Increased Awareness and Public Commitments: Following high-profile incidents of racial injustice and the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement, there has been a heightened awareness of DEI's importance. Companies are making public commitments to DEI, driven by the realization that diverse and inclusive workforces can enhance innovation and business performance.Strategic DEI Initiatives: Many organizations are now implementing structured DEI programs. The appointment of Chief Diversity Officers (CDOs) and setting measurable goals reflect a more serious commitment. Investment in DEI training, inclusive hiring practices, and equitable policies has become more common. For Black women in leadership, these changes offer new opportunities and a platform to influence corporate culture positively.Resistance and Challenges: Despite these advancements, Black women in leadership often encounter resistance to DEI initiatives. Some view these efforts as superficial or mere "window dressing" rather than genuine change. Additionally, there's backlash from those who misunderstand DEI as preferential treatment. This underscores the need for continued education and genuine commitment from all levels of leadership.Impact of Social Movements: Social movements have significantly impacted DEI efforts. The murder of George Floyd and the subsequent protests in 2020 prompted many companies to reassess their practices and publicly commit to addressing systemic racism. For Black women in leadership, these movements have provided a critical impetus to push for more meaningful and sustained DEI efforts within their organizations.Economic and Business Imperatives: The growing body of research showing that diverse teams drive better business outcomes has shifted DEI from a moral or social issue to a strategic business priority. This recognition helps Black women leaders advocate for DEI as essential to their company’s success, rather than an optional add-on.Focus on Equity and Inclusion: The conversation has evolved from merely increasing diversity to ensuring equity and inclusion. For Black women in leadership, this means advocating for environments where all employees feel valued and can thrive, and addressing systemic barriers that disproportionately affect marginalized groups. This shift is critical in creating workplaces that support Black women's professional growth and leadership opportunities.Intersectionality: Understanding intersectionality has become more central to DEI efforts. Recognizing that employees have multiple, overlapping identities (race, gender, sexuality, disability, etc.) has led to more comprehensive and effective DEI strategies. For Black women, this holistic approach acknowledges their unique challenges and experiences, fostering a more inclusive environment.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
As a Black woman in leadership, the superpower I would choose to grant the members of my community is Compassion Enhancement.Compassion Enhancement—the ability to deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members—holds transformative potential. This superpower fosters empathy and allyship, creating a foundation for more effective collaboration and inclusive decision-making.Why Compassion Enhancement?Building Authentic Connections: In leadership, authentic connections are crucial. Understanding the diverse experiences and challenges faced by team members, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds, helps create a supportive environment. Compassionate leaders can better address the unique needs of their teams, leading to higher morale and productivity.Fostering Inclusivity: For Black women in leadership, promoting inclusivity is vital. Compassion allows leaders to recognize and address systemic barriers and biases that affect their team members. By enhancing compassion, leaders can create policies and practices that support equity and inclusion, ensuring everyone has a fair opportunity to succeed.Empowering Allyship: Compassionate understanding cultivates allyship. Team members who deeply resonate with each other’s emotions and motivations are more likely to support and advocate for one another. This solidarity is essential in addressing racial and gender disparities in the workplace.Enhancing Collaboration: Effective collaboration hinges on mutual respect and understanding. Compassion helps break down silos and fosters a culture of open communication and trust. When team members feel understood and valued, they are more willing to share ideas and work collaboratively towards common goals.Promoting Psychological Safety: Compassionate environments promote psychological safety, where team members feel safe to express their ideas, concerns, and mistakes without fear of judgment. This is particularly important for marginalized groups, including Black women, who may otherwise hesitate to voice their perspectives.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
As a Black woman in leadership with an unlimited company budget, my top five budget items would focus on fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and professional development. These investments aim to create a supportive and empowering environment for all employees, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds.Comprehensive DEI Programs:Training and Development: Implement ongoing, mandatory DEI training for all employees, focusing on anti-racism, unconscious bias, and cultural competency. This includes workshops, seminars, and e-learning modules designed and facilitated by experts in the field.Resource Groups and Networks: Fund and support Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and networks for Black employees and other underrepresented groups, providing them with the resources to organize events, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities.Equitable Hiring and Promotion Practices:Inclusive Recruitment: Invest in recruiting diverse talent through partnerships with HBCUs, minority-serving institutions, and professional organizations focused on underrepresented groups. Enhance outreach efforts and create internships and fellowships specifically aimed at increasing diversity.Bias-Free Evaluation: Implement technologies and processes to eliminate biases in hiring and promotion decisions. This includes anonymized resume reviews, structured interviews, and clear, equitable criteria for performance evaluations and promotions.Leadership Development Programs:Mentorship and Sponsorship: Establish robust mentorship and sponsorship programs to support the career advancement of Black employees and other underrepresented groups. Pair emerging leaders with senior executives who can provide guidance, advocacy, and career opportunities.Leadership Training: Provide targeted leadership training programs designed to prepare Black women and other underrepresented employees for executive roles. This includes workshops, coaching, and access to leadership development resources.Wellness and Support Services:Mental Health and Wellbeing: Offer comprehensive mental health services, including access to therapists and counselors who specialize in racial trauma and stress. Provide wellness programs that address the specific needs of Black employees, such as stress management, financial planning, and work-life balance.Family and Community Support: Invest in programs that support employees' families and communities, such as childcare services, scholarships for employees' children, and community outreach initiatives.Cultural Celebration and Education:Cultural Events and Initiatives: Allocate funds for celebrating cultural heritage through events, speaker series, and cultural appreciation days. These events should highlight the contributions and histories of Black people and other marginalized groups.Educational Resources: Create a library of resources, including books, documentaries, and online courses, that educate employees about Black history, culture, and the ongoing struggle for racial equality. Encourage continuous learning and understanding through company-wide reading programs and discussion groups.These investments are designed to create a more equitable, inclusive, and supportive workplace where all employees, particularly Black women and other underrepresented groups, can thrive.
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
Granted upon hire.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
Actively following and learning from and reposting other DEI content, posting content that directly addresses issues faced by WoC who are already wearing an extra layer of armor as they face conflict resolution.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
D&I or DEIB is strugging to evolve. There has been a systemic movement by lawmakers and corporate leaders who promote initiatives as unfair or racist. Witness the demise of affirmative action by the Supreme Court last year and the recent passing of draconian anti-DEI laws in Texas with the University of Texas laying off almost 60 D&I-related jobs with the closure of the Campus and Community Engagement Division. With the upcoming election, the polarity around D&I is worsening and should the Republicans win the election and the House, D&I can expect to see many more organizations drop D&I programs. So? D&I needs to pivot. I strongly feel that one way to change is from the ground up, empowering PoC to learn self-advocacy and find advocates in upper management who will advocate for them.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Can I add one? Unlimited budget! All of these are powerful, but I believe that the Diffusion Wave would be a bit like the compassionate version of Thor's hammer.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
Salaries/wages; fixed expenses; marketing strategy consultant; big D&I budget; savings
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
I trust people to human and create space for mistakes. Teams perform better when we experience emotional safety.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
We endeavor to own responsibility for our part in communication and expectation.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
DEI has turned out to be challenging to institute on boards and in budgeting. I think failures are part of the process in systems change at this level.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Compassion Enhancement
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
1. Living Wage
2. Affordable Health Care
3. Comprehensive Programming
4. BIPOC Teacher Development
5. Black Joy
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
Trust means weaving and strengthening the social fabric within a team. It takes intention, attention, and care. Trust takes time to build but can be dissolved almost instantaneously. In my circles, I focus on building rituals and rhythms that create the conditions for building trust over time. Transformative ways of working are my focus as a leader. While I have the privilege to extend someone the “benefit of the doubt more easily,” I believe trust building is a bi-directional process and is earned over time.
2. Restorative Mindset What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
As someone who hasn’t participated in social media (though currently working to invest more time in relationship building on LinkedIn, in particular), I can answer this question more generally to represent how I show up offline and within teams. Focusing on continual learning means welcoming what’s most present and alive in myself and others to come through, which may or may not appear directly related to my/their role and title. For example, I often look to the natural world to deepen my understanding of ways of working. I will often ask myself and others: "How can I better understand my interests, motivations, and desires and find a way to integrate learnings from those contexts into my daily life?” I give myself and others grace and permission to expand what continual learning means outside of a more narrow definition. Concerning proactively approaching conflict resolution, it’s like building a muscle. If we can integrate approaches to difference and conflict in the ways that we work and are together daily when conflict arises we won’t feel so jarred by the experience and revert back to our conditioning to avoid, suppress or speak/behave violently. When we build our conflict transformation muscles, we can more easily regulate our own nervous system, embody conflict in a way that ialignswith our intentions and values and honor those we are in conflict with. When we avoid conflict, our muscles atrophy and we are more likely to perpetuate harm.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
The lens with which we view corporate DEI and thus, our expectations of it, will vary person to person based on our own values and experiences. I view corporate DEI through the lens of coalition building, relational/equitable design and cultivating liberatory spaces. That, fundamentally, is not in alignment with the origins of corporate DEI which were reactionary to new legal and compliance measures and later, making the business case for “diversity”. If we continue to make decisions, create policies and implement programs from a reactionary place and over-index on protecting the entity at the expense of its own people, it’s difficult for the people most proximate to the racism, sexism, xenophobia, homophobia, etc., to believe that corporate DEI can healthfully function and create meaningful change. The perpetual mismatch between outcomes and expectations is deeply harmful not only to those most affected by inequities but also the DEI professionals serving as a conduit for the change to take place. For traditional for-profit corporations that aren’t willing to re-evaluate their core organizational design, their role within society and ecologies and transition to participate in a living economy versus an extractive one, corporate DEI agendas will continue to fall short. For corporations that are willing to embrace complexity, shift their relationship with power, and transform themselves, I have hope for the future of DEI in corporate America.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Compassion Enhancement
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
HR Training and development Polka parties just kidding... then within an HR department budget, I would also like to see handbooks done yearling and reviewed by legal counsel.
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
Trust is earned. As long as you understand that everyone brings something different to the table your team shouldn't have conflict. When people don't truly respect a coworker's differences, conflict arises.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
I feel like there is nothing we can't do together. With the right people, anything can change. Always think that anything can happen. Think outside the box. Nothing can stop us but ourselves.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
Everyone is looking to belong. There is a big enough space for all of us. We all have to leave this place one day. Let's share our spaces better.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Compassion Enhancement. In life, we are all going to go through something. If we deeply understood this we could make the world a better place.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
1. Healthcare
2. Training
3. Self-care
4. Childcare
5. Team Building
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
Trust should be given to all whether they are new or not. With no trust, nothing can be accomplished.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
I am continually learning and teaching and suggest that others do the same. Many of my books are accompanied by workbooks so that discussions can be tailored to accommodate team needs. Teaching should be fun. When I hear someone laughing in my webinars, which is one of my goals, it puts a smile on my face, too.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
The language of DEI has changed many times over the years. When I first started DEI was called multiculturalism, then Diversity, then Diversity & Inclusion, then DEI then DEIB. There is a reason. It never quite worked. I have chosen not to continue to change the language. If we continue to be as angry and divisive as we are now, nothing will get solved. We must take a step back breathe and show compassion.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
How do I choose? This is why I created the matrix model management system to help us measure emotions in the room. I call this emotion metrics. We have lost a lot of our personal skills during the pandemic.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
1. Investing in technology and learning gen AI.
2. Marketing
3. Book Editor
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
For a very long time, we have tried to be trust-earned people and that just doesn't work. Trust should be granted to all just like your value in the world then lost. We have to assume ability. So if someone doesn't grant trust to a new hire what they are really saying is that they do not trust their ability. That's the way we should do it.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
This is a really hard one. I try to be someone who is not reactive. If you need to step away instead of reply in the moment do that. When it comes to social media emotions can run high and ultimately people don't learn in those environments. Stay aligned with your bigger purpose and remember that most of the time it is not personal.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
There are so many things I could say about this. DEI is not going anywhere. Most likely we will change the name again. We have mainstreamed DEI and now it is time to level up again. The work won't change even if the name does.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
This one was easy. Conflict diffusion. Powerful people use conflict to distract us. We could make so much change if we could just learn to listen more.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
This was the hard one.
1. Payroll
2. Employee Wellness
3. Up to date tech
4. Marketing
5. Professional Development
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
I feel that teams perform better when trust is earned. While initial trust can foster a positive environment, earned trust builds stronger, more sustainable relationships over time.
2. Restorative Mindset What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
To cultivate a growth mindset within my social media network, I highlight my ongoing learning journey and share insightful resources to engage others in meaningful discussions.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
While strides have been made in raising awareness and starting conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion, there's still much work to do in implementing lasting change. It's crucial that these initiatives translate into tangible outcomes for underrepresented groups. My hope is that our efforts today will pave the way for a more inclusive future for everyone.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
I'd have to go with Compassion Enhancement because it helps to foster understanding, empathy, and effective collaboration, all of which are essential for building a supportive and inclusive team environment.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
1) Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives
2) Community and Social Impact
3) Technology and Innovation
4) Environmental Sustainability
5) Employee Wellness Programs
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
I believe that teams perform better when we grant trust upon hire. This establishes a positive and inclusive foundation for collaboration, empowering individuals to contribute effectively. Sustained performance results when team members continue to earn and reinforce trust through consistent, reliable actions. Striking a balance between initial and ongoing trust-building fosters a dynamic and high-performing team environment.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
To cultivate a growth mindset within my social media network, I focus on continuous learning by curating and disseminating content that equips leaders with the tools to excel in today’s workplace. I spotlight the hurdles leaders face alongside actionable strategies for overcoming them. Furthermore, I highlight cultural events, holidays, and traditions to bolster cultural intelligence and sensitivity, recognizing the increasing diversity of our nation and world. I nurture a culture of curiosity and receptivity by initiating interactive posts and dialogues. I share innovative problem-solving resources for conflict resolution that foster a constructive, supportive, and inclusive work environment.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
Corporate America has made significant commitments to advance DEI in recent years, with many organizations embedding these principles into their core values and strategies. There has been a notable shift towards more transparent reporting on workforce diversity and the progress made on diversity goals. Also, there is a concerted effort to create inclusive work environments that embrace diverse perspectives and allow individuals to be their authentic selves in the workplace. Equity has become a focal point, with companies examining and addressing systemic barriers to ensure fair treatment, opportunities, and advancement for all employees. The evolution of DEI is ongoing. It is imperative that organizations continually assess and enhance their DEI strategies to foster a work culture where everyone feels valued, seen, heard, and respected.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
As a restorative leader, I would grant the superpower of “Compassion Enhancement” to members of my community to promote a culture of empathy and mutual understanding. This superpower would enable individuals to connect on a deeper emotional level, paving the way for actions that support one another’s well-being. It would also enhance collaboration. Team members who understand each other’s motivations can work together more effectively, leading to a stronger, more unified team and positive workplace.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
If I had an unlimited company budget, my top five budget items would include:
1. Research and Development (R&D): to foster innovation and create cutting-edge products and services.
2. Ongoing Employee Training and Development: in a variety of areas to ensure a highly skilled and well-equipped workforce.
3. Sustainability Initiatives: to minimize our environmental impact and protect our planet and people.
4. Customer Experience Enhancement: to provide exceptional customer service and support.
5. Community Engagement and Philanthropy: to give back to society and build a positive brand image.
These five budget items aim to drive long-term growth, employee and customer satisfaction, and social responsibility.
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
We have over 600 attorneys. So how I connect with someone who might need some kind of mentorship is through vulnerability. What I try to do is humanize my leadership to build trust. I will often talk about an area I am personally struggling with and my solution. This opens the door for them to think about areas they may want to improve upon as well.
In addition, when I am proposing new ideas to our tribe I try not to walk into the space and begin talking. I first listen and show positive intent before I attempt to propose a solution. Trust is a learning process.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
My current manager during a recent call where I introduced him to a new client really reminded me the importance of active listening. It's one thing to hear someone and another to repeat back what they said and verbally confirm a common goal. This is how a growth mindset evolves over time the higher up you go on the corporate ladder. After that call I followed up with my manager and told him I how I need to incorporate what he did on the call in my personal and professional life.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
DEI is necessary in everything we do. Oppression is everywhere. I also think we need to be careful. For example, gender neutral bathrooms are awesome. However, don't get mad at me if I accidentally misgender you. The balance is important.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Promotion wand. Every decision has to be approved by 10 people. Speeding the promotion process up would be a big win. In the long run when we feel like we are being recognized we have a better life.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
This was the hardest one for me.
1. Retreats
2. Support staff raises
3. Client Relations
4. Law School Pipeline Programs
5. Mentorship Programs as billable hours
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
For me, the most important thing is honesty and being authentic. It's really about the leader to set the tone. What I like to tell people is that everybody is a leader. Trust, truth, and authenticity are key.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
The workplace is dynamic. Change is inevitable. The way we work has changed drastically after the pandemic. Communication is generational. Some people prefer text messages, some people prefer in-person. As leaders we need to consider everyone's communication styles to ensure we succeed as a team.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
I think the people who do not support DEI are operating from a place of fear. The truth is the native American population went through genocide in the United States. As indigenous women, we have barely started our healing. We need to heal everyone and that includes Native Americans. A lot of these conversations are not linear they are layered.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Compassion Enhancement is important. That goes hand in hand with conflict resolution.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
1. Professional development
2. Project Resources
3. Customer service
4. Benefits
5. DEI Programs
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
I believe that teams perform better when trust is granted to everyone upon hire. We often have a narrow perception of who can participate in conversations and decision-making at corporate levels. This unspoken hierarchy of who has the right to be “trusted” often does not have any foundation in fact. The traditional perception that someone must “earn trust” or “their place at the table” in order to have a voice has too many pitfalls for me to embrace as a leader. By granting trust at hire, you start with a level playing field and acknowledge their potential contributions from the outset. For me, it’s also about trusting the hiring process. I trust that the person I am working with, the person I hired for the job, has the necessary skills and is qualified. I want to promote a sense of belonging and psychological safety and allow diverse perspectives to thrive on my teams. I want to hear from voices that may not have been heard from.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
In our efforts to have a growth mindset within our social media network, we have tried a few things. On the Conscious By Us, business pages we share knowledge, strategy, or recognition-themed daily posts, Monday to Friday. These posts cover a wide range of topics related to personal growth, health equity, and DEI, while offering valuable insights and actionable tips to our audience. I am dedicated to being a lifelong learner, especially when it comes to communication and conflict resolution. I often examine how I communicate and constantly seek out resources and articles on improving my skills. For me, this is an actionable way to bring cultural humility into my daily business practice. I also think if you want to foster a growth mindset, you highlight success stories and professional breakthroughs. Some of these stories inspired our podcast episodes, where we aim to motivate and inspire our network and the general public. Additionally, we volunteer in the community and sponsor community events, as a means of engaging with our audience and sharing knowledge. These platforms serve as opportunities for community interaction and provide a space for individuals to actively engage with us. Overall, our approach to cultivating a growth mindset within our social media network revolves around consistent educational content, proactive engagement, and creating a supportive community. By emphasizing continual learning and proactive conflict resolution, we strive to empower our audience to adopt a growth mindset and actively pursue their personal and professional growth journeys.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), for a brief period, felt like it was having a surge in DEI initiatives, growth and uptake. It seemed like every company was talking DEI. However, around mid-2022/2023, there was a shift. Companies started to reduce their emphasis on DEI, focusing more on shielding themselves from legislative and social media backlash related to the anti-woke movement. To me, this ties back to a crucial piece; acknowledging that businesses tend to support initiatives that promise financial gain. It’s logical. The challenge with DEI has often been demonstrating a clear return on investment (ROI) with initiatives and that it also involves behaviors and emotions. Talking about how you feel about the workplace? That is still a challenge for many, especially those who function under the “just do your job” perspective. This type of change has come with discomfort, a natural part of growth. Now I see DEI evolving towards a focus on comprehensive support systems that help organizations achieve genuine change. Interweaving topics like employee engagement, building trust, ensuring psychological safety, promoting mental health, and overall employee wellness—all areas significantly impacted by DEI initiatives. I see these as steps in the right direction.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
As an intersectional business owner, I hold the belief that the greatest superpower I could offer as a restorative leader would be the enhancement of compassion. I think that many misunderstandings within teams or even in personal lives arise from a lack of comprehension regarding others' motivations. We often try to decipher what people are feeling or why they acted a certain way by applying our own perspectives and experiences. The ability to immediately and profoundly grasp the motivations and emotions of every team member would revolutionize our interactions. Although it might seem appealing to possess the ability to foresee the future, this power wouldn't necessarily help in understanding someone’s emotional state or motivations. As a result, conflicts could still occur, leading to reduced collaboration. Additionally, I believe that instead of "fixing" conflicts by projecting a calming presence, it is more beneficial for a team to internally cultivate their own compassion and emotional awareness. Sometimes individuals need to experience their emotions fully without feeling pressured to maintain calmness. My goal is not to alter how people feel but to help them recognize that all emotions are significant, even the disruptive ones. It is through this understanding that true progress and collaboration happens.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
Wow, if I had an unlimited budget. What a great question because I can't even think of five items. I would probably lean into incorporating AI more fully into my organizational work. I do feel like technology that reflects the diversity of the world around us is key. I would probably focus on how we can train our technology. To not have neutrality, but recognize when we don't and flag it, perhaps offering suggestions. I have a product idea that scurries about in my head around this but I don’t want to say too much. I would probably do more marketing. This is such a hard one for me because I don’t like talking about what I do or can do. Finally, with an unlimited budget, I would probably build a mini a/v recording studio at my house so that I could get that professional studio sound in my PJs.
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
Granted upon hire.
In addition, when I am proposing new ideas to our tribe I try not to walk into the space and begin talking. I first listen and show positive intent before I attempt to propose a solution. Trust is a learning process.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
Acknowledging differences as a strength, identifying systems as problematic vs people operating within the systems
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
The country as a whole has awakened to a lack of DEI in the past few years. That awareness has led to some significant improvements in inclusivity in many spaces where it either didn't exist at all, or it needed improvement. Unfortunately, corporate America has not kept up with the changes that have already happened in our country. The investments that were made several years ago have dwindled dramatically and because it is difficult to track revenue back to DEI initiatives, it is deprioritized. We are undoing 200+ years of problematic systems. It will take longer than a few years to reverse them or fix them. Corporate America is shortsighted.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Compassion Enhancement
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
1) Fair wages for every person: meeting or exceeding the market
2) 100% medical, dental, vision, and mental healthcare coverage for employees + dependents
3) 5% match on 401k
4) innovation lab
5) investment in the top-performing products and services
Welcome to our 2nd edition!
We hand-selected 20 People Leaders and asked them these 5 questions. This watchlist was released on July 9th, 2024 by Intersectional Innovations.
Question One
Collective Trust
Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
Question Two
Restorative Mindset
What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
Question Three
Thoughts on DEI
I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
Question Four
Leadership Superpowers
If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community?
Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration.
Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view.
Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Question Five
Budget Priorities
If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
Why Did We Start This Watchlist?
Why do we feel these leaders are a good addition to our watchlist?
We feel you represent not just a great People Leader but a Restorative People Leader.
Restorative leaders are proactive, not reactive.
Restorative leaders are curious and seek to understand “why.”
Restorative leaders are gardeners in their workplaces, not landscapers.
What is this watchlist celebrating?
"Restorative Leader" can be compared to a well-seasoned and maintained garden tool, like a pruning shear. Just as a pruning shear must be kept sharp, clean, and in good working condition to effectively shape and nurture the growth of the garden, a Restored Leader must be mindful of their own wellness and mental state to effectively lead and develop others.
A Restorative Leader, much like the shear that is regularly sharpened and oiled, takes accountability for their personal well-being and mental clarity. This self-maintenance ensures they can make precise cuts – or decisions – that are beneficial for the growth of their team and organization, rather than harmful or counterproductive.
Being proactive and solution-oriented, a Restorative Leader, like a well-cared-for garden tool, is always ready for action, able to address challenges efficiently and creatively. Their focus on development, both personal and for others, parallels the tool's role in not just maintaining but enhancing the health and beauty of the garden.
Working with others, a Restorative Leader values trust, influence, buy-in, transparency, and clarity – key elements for effective collaboration and growth. This is akin to the way a good gardening tool works in harmony with the gardener's hands, complementing their skills and enhancing their ability to care for the garden.
In essence, a Restorative Leader, much like a well-maintained garden tool, is essential for cultivating a healthy, thriving, and productive environment where both the leader and their team can grow and flourish together.
Our goal with this list is to celebrate and inspire future leaders to be restorative!
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
When we grant trust to everyone from the beginning, we create a container where people feel trusted and considered. This can lease to increased motivation, team integration and a collaborative work culture. Through continued collaboration, the space for trust is fortified and when we are given the freedom show up authentically, trust is strengthened.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
In cultivating a growth mindset, I engage in regularly sharing educational resources, reflective prompts, and stories that inspire continual learning and self-examination through curiosity and wonder. Additionally, I host and share interactive workshops that promote restorative justice principles. My mission is to continue equipping our community with proactive conflict resolution skills, fostering an environment of empathy, understanding, and collective growth. Throughout my different social media initiatives, I work on fostering the importance of “Right Relationship” between ourselves, those around us, and our community(ies) at large.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
I believe DEI In corporate America has been experiencing several shifts over the last few years. The uproar and mobilizing that corporations and nonprofits used to engage in during the high of community and global protests/pandemic has dulled to a murmur. The current awareness of its need and importance is tied to our current social realities where we are feeling individual and collective burnout, need for community, and need for healing and restoration. There is a growing consensus throughout this evolution and that we must do more than just engage in the rhetoric of DEI but in its embodiment and praxis. My hope is that as corporations continue to do their liberatory and anti-racist work, they can become more aligned (and more invested) in current DEIB work that is sustainable and transformative.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. I believe that compassion is a core element in developing empathy and a deeper understanding of ourselves and others. In our work, we must constantly lead with compassion, using our own experiences and traumas to understand other. This can be thought of as being a “Wounded Healer”, In my spaces I bring forward the notion of Diligent Empathy: Conscientiously working towards understanding others and their experiences/needs. As a leader, we must have the literacy in how to hold space for others and ourselves if we are to move closer towards equity and belonging.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
1-Creation of Heart & Healing centered "Belonging/Thriving" spaces/hubs both virtual and in-person throughout the world. These would allow anyone to experience healing centered practices and tools that they can apply in their personal lives and communities. Accessible regardless of income.
2- Creation of sustainable eco-park where implementation of resources, tools, and practices can take place.
3- Amplify work of movements, people, and communities engaging in equity aligned work, removing barriers from said parties in their ability to critically connect with the people they are trying to serve.
4- Continue to Design/Implement culturally responsive spaces of transformation, belonging, and thriving while collaborating with others who are aligned to increase cultural presence of Healing centered practices. As we increase the global capacity , accessibility, and presence of these spaces people can continue to take a greater part in it, this is a cultural movement.
5- Rest.
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
For me, the most important thing is honesty and being authentic. It's really about the leader to set the tone. What I like to tell people is that everybody is a leader. Trust, truth, and authenticity are key.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
The workplace is dynamic. Change is inevitable. The way we work has changed drastically after the pandemic. Communication is generational. Some people prefer text messages, some people prefer in-person. As leaders we need to consider everyone's communication styles to ensure we succeed as a team.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
I think the people who do not support DEI are operating from a place of fear. The truth is the native American population went through genocide in the United States. As indigenous women, we have barely started our healing. We need to heal everyone and that includes Native Americans. A lot of these conversations are not linear they are layered.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Compassion Enhancement is important. That goes hand in hand with conflict resolution.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
1. Professional development
2. Project Resources
3. Customer service
4. Benefits
5. DEI Programs
We hand-selected 20 People Leaders and asked them these 5 questions. This watchlist was released on July 9th, 2024 by Intersectional Innovations.
Welcome to our 2nd edition!
Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
Question One
Collective Trust
What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
Question Two
Restorative Mindset
I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
Question Three
Thoughts on DEI
If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community?
Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration.
Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view.
Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Question Four
Leadership Superpowers
If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
Question Five
Budget Priorities
As the President of the Center for Partnership Systems Riane is one of the world's most influential pioneering Social Scientists. Riane pioneered inclusion of women and children in human rights theory and action and is editor-in-chief of the Interdisciplinary Journal of Partnership Studies, an online peer-reviewed journal housed at the University of Minnesota inspired by Eisler’s work.
Dr. Eisler keynotes national and international conferences and lectures at universities, corporations, religious institutions, and governmental and nongovernmental agencies such as the U.S. Department of State, Congressional briefings, the United Nations General Assembly.
We sat down exclusively for a 30-minute video interview with Riane for this edition of the Restorative People Leader watch list.
Spotlight Video Interview - 1st Edition
Meet Riane Eisler
We hand-selected a few of our winners to here what they had to say on video. Read below for a summary of all award winner's responses to our 5 questions.
Spotlight Video Interview - 1st Edition
Meet Our Watchlist Winners
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
“How you start is how you finish.” The psychologically safe culture that you create at the outset will sustain the high-performing and inclusive culture you entrust later to fulfill your organizational mission.
2. Restorative Mindset What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
You have to embody in yourself what you hope to cultivate with others. I always try to lead with curiosity, empathy, and the understanding that everyone's life experience has informed their perspective.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
I was hopeful that DEIB (adding the "belonging" part) would start to mature after the murder of George Floyd by focusing on systemic change. Unfortunately, those aspirations were often met with platitudes and non-actionable items that didn't address equity within organizations. My hope is that DEIB will continue to focus on tangible ways in which leaders can support meaningful change in organizations and the communities they serve.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
I would focus on compassion enhancement. "Right action" cannot occur without a change in consciousness, and consciousness cannot change if people don't become more connected with the heart. When we choose to empathize with others, we expand our ability to connect with ourselves and the world around us.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
1) Learning and Innovation
2) Cultural Intelligence
3) Emotional Intelligence
4) Leadership storytelling
5) Wellness and Holistic Health
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
I believe in a balanced approach. From my experience, giving new hires a baseline level of trust is crucial for fostering a positive and supportive environment. It helps create a safe space and encourages collaboration right from the start. However, I also think that sustained trust needs to be earned through consistent performance and integrity in their work and actions. This combination of initial trust and earned trust is what really helps teams perform at their best.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
Although I don't use social media to its fullest extent, I focus on fostering a growth mindset by attending various community events and meet-ups. The most growth has occurred when I have engaged in conversations with individuals I don't know but just run into briefly during a walk or a local business owner when I enter their shop. It is these interactions that offer fresh perspectives and opportunities for continual learning. Valuing the power of storytelling creates deeper connections and understanding among people, allowing others to share experiences, insights, and perspectives in a way that is engaging and relatable.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
The evolution of DEI is promising with many organizations making strides towards more inclusive and equitable workplaces. However, true progress requires continuous effort and accountability, not just policy changes or surface-level commitments. To promote more lasting change, companies must actively address systemic biases, and foster an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and integrated into decision-making processes.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the community members? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
If I were to grant one superpower to others as a restorative leader, I would choose compassion enhancement without hesitation. This ability to deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members is transformative. It fosters empathy, strengthens bonds, and promotes allyship. The importance of connection and ability to understand complex human dynamics empowers leaders to lead with empathy, to bridge divides, and foster a culture of kindness and mutual respect. By recognizing the importance of connection and empathy in navigating diverse perspectives, leaders can build teams that thrive on collaboration and understanding.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
Within an unlimited budget, my top five budget items would be:
(1) Research and Development: Investing in R&D to drive innovation, collaborate with leading experts, and fund groundbreaking research projects;
(2) Talent Development and Training: Allocating resources towards training programs to nurture the skills and capabilities of team members, including leadership development;
(3) Employee Well-being and Mental Health Support: Offering robust mental health support programs, wellness initiatives, and resources to help employees thrive both personally and professionally;
(4) Social Impact Initiatives: Dedicate funds toward projects that align with our organization's values and contribute to positive change in the communities we serve, including supporting social justice causes that make a meaningful difference in the world;
(5) Organizational Infrastructure and Sustainability: Investing in the development of resilient organizational infrastructure that supports long-term growth and sustainability, including ensuring all have paid paternal leaves, vacation policy to promotes flexibility, and health insurance for employees and their families to opt in.
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
Both can be true at the same time. Every individual is different, and what matters to them is different. Our core values and morals will always dictate what and how we navigate life and the workplace. In general, I think it's important to have the goal of earning their trust and also granting trust to every hire. I do believe that safe spaces enable better teams, so "Yes."
2. Restorative Mindset What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
Yeah, I think this is extremely important to my work to start so it is something that I seek out in my social media network, finding individuals who teach, believe and drive this notion. I also find myself looking for multiple perspectives often, I think that a growth mindset requires challenges, and only visiting or entertaining spaces that share the same voice lessen the learning journey and experience. I tell those I mentor and teach that continuous learning is a game changer. The idea of proactive approaches to conflict resolution I think is easier spoken than facilitated and it's not a gene that everyone has but with practice we learn to listen better, support more and ask the right questions which aids conflict resolution.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
This is tough one for me to answer. I love the work I do and I think that it's special and necessary in the workplace. It breaks my heart to see what is happening within this space. So, you really have two classes of corporate those that were authentic in their actions and are truly committed to their goals and aspirations. The other class .. well they were motivated by the circumstances of the past few years, but were not authentic in their long-term commitment or goals. It's unfortunate but I think it's a reality. These next few years will be extremely important in the evolution of this work.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Compassion Enhancement
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
Early Career Support
Employee Benefits
Philanthropy
ESG
Transformation (Tech, Research ...)
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
As a leader, DEI is a lifestyle for me, so to answer this question, I would do so from that lens. Granting trust to everyone upon hire fosters an inclusive environment, enhancing psychological safety and encouraging open communication. This approach aligns with equitable practices, giving all team members an equal starting point and signaling belief in their capabilities. It promotes engagement, motivation, and productivity, creating a sense of belonging crucial for team performance. Additionally, it enhances cultural competency by demonstrating a commitment to diversity and inclusion, allowing diverse talents to thrive and contribute effectively.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
Again, from my DEI lens, to cultivate a growth mindset within my social media network, I have implemented several measures emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution: 1. Educational Content: I share diverse articles, videos, and resources to promote lifelong learning and stay informed on current trends. 2. Inclusive Discussions: By encouraging open dialogue on DEI, innovation, and leadership, I create a culture of shared learning and mutual respect. 3. Showcasing Diverse Voices: Amplifying voices from various backgrounds exposes my network to different viewpoints, promoting empathy and understanding. 4. Conflict Resolution Resources: I share strategies for effective conflict resolution, emphasizing proactive and respectful communication. 5. Highlighting Success Stories: Featuring stories of individuals and organizations with a growth mindset inspires and provides practical examples. 6. Interactive Webinars and Workshops: Organizing sessions on skill development, leadership, and DEI topics fosters collaborative learning. 7. Feedback and Reflection: Encouraging feedback and reflection helps identify improvement areas and reinforces continuous development. These measures create a social media network that values growth, inclusivity, and proactive conflict resolution, fostering a supportive and dynamic community.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
From the perspective of a Black woman in leadership, the evolution of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in corporate America over the past few years has been marked by notable strides and significant hurdles.Increased Awareness and Public Commitments: Following high-profile incidents of racial injustice and the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement, there has been a heightened awareness of DEI's importance. Companies are making public commitments to DEI, driven by the realization that diverse and inclusive workforces can enhance innovation and business performance.Strategic DEI Initiatives: Many organizations are now implementing structured DEI programs. The appointment of Chief Diversity Officers (CDOs) and setting measurable goals reflect a more serious commitment. Investment in DEI training, inclusive hiring practices, and equitable policies has become more common. For Black women in leadership, these changes offer new opportunities and a platform to influence corporate culture positively.Resistance and Challenges: Despite these advancements, Black women in leadership often encounter resistance to DEI initiatives. Some view these efforts as superficial or mere "window dressing" rather than genuine change. Additionally, there's backlash from those who misunderstand DEI as preferential treatment. This underscores the need for continued education and genuine commitment from all levels of leadership.Impact of Social Movements: Social movements have significantly impacted DEI efforts. The murder of George Floyd and the subsequent protests in 2020 prompted many companies to reassess their practices and publicly commit to addressing systemic racism. For Black women in leadership, these movements have provided a critical impetus to push for more meaningful and sustained DEI efforts within their organizations.Economic and Business Imperatives: The growing body of research showing that diverse teams drive better business outcomes has shifted DEI from a moral or social issue to a strategic business priority. This recognition helps Black women leaders advocate for DEI as essential to their company’s success, rather than an optional add-on.Focus on Equity and Inclusion: The conversation has evolved from merely increasing diversity to ensuring equity and inclusion. For Black women in leadership, this means advocating for environments where all employees feel valued and can thrive, and addressing systemic barriers that disproportionately affect marginalized groups. This shift is critical in creating workplaces that support Black women's professional growth and leadership opportunities.Intersectionality: Understanding intersectionality has become more central to DEI efforts. Recognizing that employees have multiple, overlapping identities (race, gender, sexuality, disability, etc.) has led to more comprehensive and effective DEI strategies. For Black women, this holistic approach acknowledges their unique challenges and experiences, fostering a more inclusive environment.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
As a Black woman in leadership, the superpower I would choose to grant the members of my community is Compassion Enhancement.Compassion Enhancement—the ability to deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members—holds transformative potential. This superpower fosters empathy and allyship, creating a foundation for more effective collaboration and inclusive decision-making.Why Compassion Enhancement?Building Authentic Connections: In leadership, authentic connections are crucial. Understanding the diverse experiences and challenges faced by team members, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds, helps create a supportive environment. Compassionate leaders can better address the unique needs of their teams, leading to higher morale and productivity.Fostering Inclusivity: For Black women in leadership, promoting inclusivity is vital. Compassion allows leaders to recognize and address systemic barriers and biases that affect their team members. By enhancing compassion, leaders can create policies and practices that support equity and inclusion, ensuring everyone has a fair opportunity to succeed.Empowering Allyship: Compassionate understanding cultivates allyship. Team members who deeply resonate with each other’s emotions and motivations are more likely to support and advocate for one another. This solidarity is essential in addressing racial and gender disparities in the workplace.Enhancing Collaboration: Effective collaboration hinges on mutual respect and understanding. Compassion helps break down silos and fosters a culture of open communication and trust. When team members feel understood and valued, they are more willing to share ideas and work collaboratively towards common goals.Promoting Psychological Safety: Compassionate environments promote psychological safety, where team members feel safe to express their ideas, concerns, and mistakes without fear of judgment. This is particularly important for marginalized groups, including Black women, who may otherwise hesitate to voice their perspectives.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
As a Black woman in leadership with an unlimited company budget, my top five budget items would focus on fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and professional development. These investments aim to create a supportive and empowering environment for all employees, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds.Comprehensive DEI Programs:Training and Development: Implement ongoing, mandatory DEI training for all employees, focusing on anti-racism, unconscious bias, and cultural competency. This includes workshops, seminars, and e-learning modules designed and facilitated by experts in the field.Resource Groups and Networks: Fund and support Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and networks for Black employees and other underrepresented groups, providing them with the resources to organize events, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities.Equitable Hiring and Promotion Practices:Inclusive Recruitment: Invest in recruiting diverse talent through partnerships with HBCUs, minority-serving institutions, and professional organizations focused on underrepresented groups. Enhance outreach efforts and create internships and fellowships specifically aimed at increasing diversity.Bias-Free Evaluation: Implement technologies and processes to eliminate biases in hiring and promotion decisions. This includes anonymized resume reviews, structured interviews, and clear, equitable criteria for performance evaluations and promotions.Leadership Development Programs:Mentorship and Sponsorship: Establish robust mentorship and sponsorship programs to support the career advancement of Black employees and other underrepresented groups. Pair emerging leaders with senior executives who can provide guidance, advocacy, and career opportunities.Leadership Training: Provide targeted leadership training programs designed to prepare Black women and other underrepresented employees for executive roles. This includes workshops, coaching, and access to leadership development resources.Wellness and Support Services:Mental Health and Wellbeing: Offer comprehensive mental health services, including access to therapists and counselors who specialize in racial trauma and stress. Provide wellness programs that address the specific needs of Black employees, such as stress management, financial planning, and work-life balance.Family and Community Support: Invest in programs that support employees' families and communities, such as childcare services, scholarships for employees' children, and community outreach initiatives.Cultural Celebration and Education:Cultural Events and Initiatives: Allocate funds for celebrating cultural heritage through events, speaker series, and cultural appreciation days. These events should highlight the contributions and histories of Black people and other marginalized groups.Educational Resources: Create a library of resources, including books, documentaries, and online courses, that educate employees about Black history, culture, and the ongoing struggle for racial equality. Encourage continuous learning and understanding through company-wide reading programs and discussion groups.These investments are designed to create a more equitable, inclusive, and supportive workplace where all employees, particularly Black women and other underrepresented groups, can thrive.
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
Granted upon hire.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
Actively following and learning from and reposting other DEI content, posting content that directly addresses issues faced by WoC who are already wearing an extra layer of armor as they face conflict resolution.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
D&I or DEIB is strugging to evolve. There has been a systemic movement by lawmakers and corporate leaders who promote initiatives as unfair or racist. Witness the demise of affirmative action by the Supreme Court last year and the recent passing of draconian anti-DEI laws in Texas with the University of Texas laying off almost 60 D&I-related jobs with the closure of the Campus and Community Engagement Division. With the upcoming election, the polarity around D&I is worsening and should the Republicans win the election and the House, D&I can expect to see many more organizations drop D&I programs. So? D&I needs to pivot. I strongly feel that one way to change is from the ground up, empowering PoC to learn self-advocacy and find advocates in upper management who will advocate for them.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Can I add one? Unlimited budget! All of these are powerful, but I believe that the Diffusion Wave would be a bit like the compassionate version of Thor's hammer.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
Salaries/wages; fixed expenses; marketing strategy consultant; big D&I budget; savings
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
I trust people to human and create space for mistakes. Teams perform better when we experience emotional safety.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
We endeavor to own responsibility for our part in communication and expectation.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
DEI has turned out to be challenging to institute on boards and in budgeting. I think failures are part of the process in systems change at this level.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Compassion Enhancement
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
1. Living Wage
2. Affordable Health Care
3. Comprehensive Programming
4. BIPOC Teacher Development
5. Black Joy
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
Trust means weaving and strengthening the social fabric within a team. It takes intention, attention, and care. Trust takes time to build but can be dissolved almost instantaneously. In my circles, I focus on building rituals and rhythms that create the conditions for building trust over time. Transformative ways of working are my focus as a leader. While I have the privilege to extend someone the “benefit of the doubt more easily,” I believe trust building is a bi-directional process and is earned over time.
2. Restorative Mindset What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
As someone who hasn’t participated in social media (though currently working to invest more time in relationship building on LinkedIn, in particular), I can answer this question more generally to represent how I show up offline and within teams. Focusing on continual learning means welcoming what’s most present and alive in myself and others to come through, which may or may not appear directly related to my/their role and title. For example, I often look to the natural world to deepen my understanding of ways of working. I will often ask myself and others: "How can I better understand my interests, motivations, and desires and find a way to integrate learnings from those contexts into my daily life?” I give myself and others grace and permission to expand what continual learning means outside of a more narrow definition. Concerning proactively approaching conflict resolution, it’s like building a muscle. If we can integrate approaches to difference and conflict in the ways that we work and are together daily when conflict arises we won’t feel so jarred by the experience and revert back to our conditioning to avoid, suppress or speak/behave violently. When we build our conflict transformation muscles, we can more easily regulate our own nervous system, embody conflict in a way that ialignswith our intentions and values and honor those we are in conflict with. When we avoid conflict, our muscles atrophy and we are more likely to perpetuate harm.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
The lens with which we view corporate DEI and thus, our expectations of it, will vary person to person based on our own values and experiences. I view corporate DEI through the lens of coalition building, relational/equitable design and cultivating liberatory spaces. That, fundamentally, is not in alignment with the origins of corporate DEI which were reactionary to new legal and compliance measures and later, making the business case for “diversity”. If we continue to make decisions, create policies and implement programs from a reactionary place and over-index on protecting the entity at the expense of its own people, it’s difficult for the people most proximate to the racism, sexism, xenophobia, homophobia, etc., to believe that corporate DEI can healthfully function and create meaningful change. The perpetual mismatch between outcomes and expectations is deeply harmful not only to those most affected by inequities but also the DEI professionals serving as a conduit for the change to take place. For traditional for-profit corporations that aren’t willing to re-evaluate their core organizational design, their role within society and ecologies and transition to participate in a living economy versus an extractive one, corporate DEI agendas will continue to fall short. For corporations that are willing to embrace complexity, shift their relationship with power, and transform themselves, I have hope for the future of DEI in corporate America.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Compassion Enhancement
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
HR Training and development Polka parties just kidding... then within an HR department budget, I would also like to see handbooks done yearling and reviewed by legal counsel.
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
Trust is earned. As long as you understand that everyone brings something different to the table your team shouldn't have conflict. When people don't truly respect a coworker's differences, conflict arises.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
I feel like there is nothing we can't do together. With the right people, anything can change. Always think that anything can happen. Think outside the box. Nothing can stop us but ourselves.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
Everyone is looking to belong. There is a big enough space for all of us. We all have to leave this place one day. Let's share our spaces better.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Compassion Enhancement. In life, we are all going to go through something. If we deeply understood this we could make the world a better place.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
1. Healthcare
2. Training
3. Self-care
4. Childcare
5. Team Building
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
Trust should be given to all whether they are new or not. With no trust, nothing can be accomplished.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
I am continually learning and teaching and suggest that others do the same. Many of my books are accompanied by workbooks so that discussions can be tailored to accommodate team needs. Teaching should be fun. When I hear someone laughing in my webinars, which is one of my goals, it puts a smile on my face, too.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
The language of DEI has changed many times over the years. When I first started DEI was called multiculturalism, then Diversity, then Diversity & Inclusion, then DEI then DEIB. There is a reason. It never quite worked. I have chosen not to continue to change the language. If we continue to be as angry and divisive as we are now, nothing will get solved. We must take a step back breathe and show compassion.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
How do I choose? This is why I created the matrix model management system to help us measure emotions in the room. I call this emotion metrics. We have lost a lot of our personal skills during the pandemic.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
1. Investing in technology and learning gen AI.
2. Marketing
3. Book Editor
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
For a very long time, we have tried to be trust-earned people and that just doesn't work. Trust should be granted to all just like your value in the world then lost. We have to assume ability. So if someone doesn't grant trust to a new hire what they are really saying is that they do not trust their ability. That's the way we should do it.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
This is a really hard one. I try to be someone who is not reactive. If you need to step away instead of reply in the moment do that. When it comes to social media emotions can run high and ultimately people don't learn in those environments. Stay aligned with your bigger purpose and remember that most of the time it is not personal.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
There are so many things I could say about this. DEI is not going anywhere. Most likely we will change the name again. We have mainstreamed DEI and now it is time to level up again. The work won't change even if the name does.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
This one was easy. Conflict diffusion. Powerful people use conflict to distract us. We could make so much change if we could just learn to listen more.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
This was the hard one.
1. Payroll
2. Employee Wellness
3. Up to date tech
4. Marketing
5. Professional Development
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
For a very long time, we have tried to be trust-earned people and that just doesn't work. Trust should be granted to all just like your value in the world then lost. We have to assume ability. So if someone doesn't grant trust to a new hire what they are really saying is that they do not trust their ability. That's the way we should do it.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
This is a really hard one. I try to be someone who is not reactive. If you need to step away instead of reply in the moment do that. When it comes to social media emotions can run high and ultimately people don't learn in those environments. Stay aligned with your bigger purpose and remember that most of the time it is not personal.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
There are so many things I could say about this. DEI is not going anywhere. Most likely we will change the name again. We have mainstreamed DEI and now it is time to level up again. The work won't change even if the name does.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
This one was easy. Conflict diffusion. Powerful people use conflict to distract us. We could make so much change if we could just learn to listen more.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
This was the hard one.
1. Payroll
2. Employee Wellness
3. Up to date tech
4. Marketing
5. Professional Development
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
I feel that teams perform better when trust is earned. While initial trust can foster a positive environment, earned trust builds stronger, more sustainable relationships over time.
2. Restorative Mindset What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
To cultivate a growth mindset within my social media network, I highlight my ongoing learning journey and share insightful resources to engage others in meaningful discussions.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
While strides have been made in raising awareness and starting conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion, there's still much work to do in implementing lasting change. It's crucial that these initiatives translate into tangible outcomes for underrepresented groups. My hope is that our efforts today will pave the way for a more inclusive future for everyone.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
I'd have to go with Compassion Enhancement because it helps to foster understanding, empathy, and effective collaboration, all of which are essential for building a supportive and inclusive team environment.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
1) Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives
2) Community and Social Impact
3) Technology and Innovation
4) Environmental Sustainability
5) Employee Wellness Programs
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
I believe that teams perform better when we grant trust upon hire. This establishes a positive and inclusive foundation for collaboration, empowering individuals to contribute effectively. Sustained performance results when team members continue to earn and reinforce trust through consistent, reliable actions. Striking a balance between initial and ongoing trust-building fosters a dynamic and high-performing team environment.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
To cultivate a growth mindset within my social media network, I focus on continuous learning by curating and disseminating content that equips leaders with the tools to excel in today’s workplace. I spotlight the hurdles leaders face alongside actionable strategies for overcoming them. Furthermore, I highlight cultural events, holidays, and traditions to bolster cultural intelligence and sensitivity, recognizing the increasing diversity of our nation and world. I nurture a culture of curiosity and receptivity by initiating interactive posts and dialogues. I share innovative problem-solving resources for conflict resolution that foster a constructive, supportive, and inclusive work environment.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
Corporate America has made significant commitments to advance DEI in recent years, with many organizations embedding these principles into their core values and strategies. There has been a notable shift towards more transparent reporting on workforce diversity and the progress made on diversity goals. Also, there is a concerted effort to create inclusive work environments that embrace diverse perspectives and allow individuals to be their authentic selves in the workplace. Equity has become a focal point, with companies examining and addressing systemic barriers to ensure fair treatment, opportunities, and advancement for all employees. The evolution of DEI is ongoing. It is imperative that organizations continually assess and enhance their DEI strategies to foster a work culture where everyone feels valued, seen, heard, and respected.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
As a restorative leader, I would grant the superpower of “Compassion Enhancement” to members of my community to promote a culture of empathy and mutual understanding. This superpower would enable individuals to connect on a deeper emotional level, paving the way for actions that support one another’s well-being. It would also enhance collaboration. Team members who understand each other’s motivations can work together more effectively, leading to a stronger, more unified team and positive workplace.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
If I had an unlimited company budget, my top five budget items would include:
1. Research and Development (R&D): to foster innovation and create cutting-edge products and services.
2. Ongoing Employee Training and Development: in a variety of areas to ensure a highly skilled and well-equipped workforce.
3. Sustainability Initiatives: to minimize our environmental impact and protect our planet and people.
4. Customer Experience Enhancement: to provide exceptional customer service and support.
5. Community Engagement and Philanthropy: to give back to society and build a positive brand image.
These five budget items aim to drive long-term growth, employee and customer satisfaction, and social responsibility.
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
We have over 600 attorneys. So how I connect with someone who might need some kind of mentorship is through vulnerability. What I try to do is humanize my leadership to build trust. I will often talk about an area I am personally struggling with and my solution. This opens the door for them to think about areas they may want to improve upon as well.
In addition, when I am proposing new ideas to our tribe I try not to walk into the space and begin talking. I first listen and show positive intent before I attempt to propose a solution. Trust is a learning process.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
My current manager during a recent call where I introduced him to a new client really reminded me the importance of active listening. It's one thing to hear someone and another to repeat back what they said and verbally confirm a common goal. This is how a growth mindset evolves over time the higher up you go on the corporate ladder. After that call I followed up with my manager and told him I how I need to incorporate what he did on the call in my personal and professional life.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
DEI is necessary in everything we do. Oppression is everywhere. I also think we need to be careful. For example, gender neutral bathrooms are awesome. However, don't get mad at me if I accidentally misgender you. The balance is important.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Promotion wand. Every decision has to be approved by 10 people. Speeding the promotion process up would be a big win. In the long run when we feel like we are being recognized we have a better life.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
This was the hardest one for me.
1. Retreats
2. Support staff raises
3. Client Relations
4. Law School Pipeline Programs
5. Mentorship Programs as billable hours
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
For me, the most important thing is honesty and being authentic. It's really about the leader to set the tone. What I like to tell people is that everybody is a leader. Trust, truth, and authenticity are key.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
The workplace is dynamic. Change is inevitable. The way we work has changed drastically after the pandemic. Communication is generational. Some people prefer text messages, some people prefer in-person. As leaders we need to consider everyone's communication styles to ensure we succeed as a team.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
I think the people who do not support DEI are operating from a place of fear. The truth is the native American population went through genocide in the United States. As indigenous women, we have barely started our healing. We need to heal everyone and that includes Native Americans. A lot of these conversations are not linear they are layered.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Compassion Enhancement is important. That goes hand in hand with conflict resolution.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
1. Professional development
2. Project Resources
3. Customer service
4. Benefits
5. DEI Programs
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
I believe that teams perform better when trust is granted to everyone upon hire. We often have a narrow perception of who can participate in conversations and decision-making at corporate levels. This unspoken hierarchy of who has the right to be “trusted” often does not have any foundation in fact. The traditional perception that someone must “earn trust” or “their place at the table” in order to have a voice has too many pitfalls for me to embrace as a leader. By granting trust at hire, you start with a level playing field and acknowledge their potential contributions from the outset. For me, it’s also about trusting the hiring process. I trust that the person I am working with, the person I hired for the job, has the necessary skills and is qualified. I want to promote a sense of belonging and psychological safety and allow diverse perspectives to thrive on my teams. I want to hear from voices that may not have been heard from.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
In our efforts to have a growth mindset within our social media network, we have tried a few things. On the Conscious By Us, business pages we share knowledge, strategy, or recognition-themed daily posts, Monday to Friday. These posts cover a wide range of topics related to personal growth, health equity, and DEI, while offering valuable insights and actionable tips to our audience. I am dedicated to being a lifelong learner, especially when it comes to communication and conflict resolution. I often examine how I communicate and constantly seek out resources and articles on improving my skills. For me, this is an actionable way to bring cultural humility into my daily business practice. I also think if you want to foster a growth mindset, you highlight success stories and professional breakthroughs. Some of these stories inspired our podcast episodes, where we aim to motivate and inspire our network and the general public. Additionally, we volunteer in the community and sponsor community events, as a means of engaging with our audience and sharing knowledge. These platforms serve as opportunities for community interaction and provide a space for individuals to actively engage with us. Overall, our approach to cultivating a growth mindset within our social media network revolves around consistent educational content, proactive engagement, and creating a supportive community. By emphasizing continual learning and proactive conflict resolution, we strive to empower our audience to adopt a growth mindset and actively pursue their personal and professional growth journeys.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), for a brief period, felt like it was having a surge in DEI initiatives, growth and uptake. It seemed like every company was talking DEI. However, around mid-2022/2023, there was a shift. Companies started to reduce their emphasis on DEI, focusing more on shielding themselves from legislative and social media backlash related to the anti-woke movement. To me, this ties back to a crucial piece; acknowledging that businesses tend to support initiatives that promise financial gain. It’s logical. The challenge with DEI has often been demonstrating a clear return on investment (ROI) with initiatives and that it also involves behaviors and emotions. Talking about how you feel about the workplace? That is still a challenge for many, especially those who function under the “just do your job” perspective. This type of change has come with discomfort, a natural part of growth. Now I see DEI evolving towards a focus on comprehensive support systems that help organizations achieve genuine change. Interweaving topics like employee engagement, building trust, ensuring psychological safety, promoting mental health, and overall employee wellness—all areas significantly impacted by DEI initiatives. I see these as steps in the right direction.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
As an intersectional business owner, I hold the belief that the greatest superpower I could offer as a restorative leader would be the enhancement of compassion. I think that many misunderstandings within teams or even in personal lives arise from a lack of comprehension regarding others' motivations. We often try to decipher what people are feeling or why they acted a certain way by applying our own perspectives and experiences. The ability to immediately and profoundly grasp the motivations and emotions of every team member would revolutionize our interactions. Although it might seem appealing to possess the ability to foresee the future, this power wouldn't necessarily help in understanding someone’s emotional state or motivations. As a result, conflicts could still occur, leading to reduced collaboration. Additionally, I believe that instead of "fixing" conflicts by projecting a calming presence, it is more beneficial for a team to internally cultivate their own compassion and emotional awareness. Sometimes individuals need to experience their emotions fully without feeling pressured to maintain calmness. My goal is not to alter how people feel but to help them recognize that all emotions are significant, even the disruptive ones. It is through this understanding that true progress and collaboration happens.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
Wow, if I had an unlimited budget. What a great question because I can't even think of five items. I would probably lean into incorporating AI more fully into my organizational work. I do feel like technology that reflects the diversity of the world around us is key. I would probably focus on how we can train our technology. To not have neutrality, but recognize when we don't and flag it, perhaps offering suggestions. I have a product idea that scurries about in my head around this but I don’t want to say too much. I would probably do more marketing. This is such a hard one for me because I don’t like talking about what I do or can do. Finally, with an unlimited budget, I would probably build a mini a/v recording studio at my house so that I could get that professional studio sound in my PJs.
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
Granted upon hire.
In addition, when I am proposing new ideas to our tribe I try not to walk into the space and begin talking. I first listen and show positive intent before I attempt to propose a solution. Trust is a learning process.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
Acknowledging differences as a strength, identifying systems as problematic vs people operating within the systems
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
The country as a whole has awakened to a lack of DEI in the past few years. That awareness has led to some significant improvements in inclusivity in many spaces where it either didn't exist at all, or it needed improvement. Unfortunately, corporate America has not kept up with the changes that have already happened in our country. The investments that were made several years ago have dwindled dramatically and because it is difficult to track revenue back to DEI initiatives, it is deprioritized. We are undoing 200+ years of problematic systems. It will take longer than a few years to reverse them or fix them. Corporate America is shortsighted.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Compassion Enhancement
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
1) Fair wages for every person: meeting or exceeding the market
2) 100% medical, dental, vision, and mental healthcare coverage for employees + dependents
3) 5% match on 401k
4) innovation lab
5) investment in the top-performing products and services
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
I feel that teams perform better when trust is earned. While initial trust can foster a positive environment, earned trust builds stronger, more sustainable relationships over time.
2. Restorative Mindset What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
To cultivate a growth mindset within my social media network, I highlight my ongoing learning journey and share insightful resources to engage others in meaningful discussions.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
While strides have been made in raising awareness and starting conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion, there's still much work to do in implementing lasting change. It's crucial that these initiatives translate into tangible outcomes for underrepresented groups. My hope is that our efforts today will pave the way for a more inclusive future for everyone.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
I'd have to go with Compassion Enhancement because it helps to foster understanding, empathy, and effective collaboration, all of which are essential for building a supportive and inclusive team environment.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
1) Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives
2) Community and Social Impact
3) Technology and Innovation
4) Environmental Sustainability
5) Employee Wellness Programs
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
I believe that teams perform better when we grant trust upon hire. This establishes a positive and inclusive foundation for collaboration, empowering individuals to contribute effectively. Sustained performance results when team members continue to earn and reinforce trust through consistent, reliable actions. Striking a balance between initial and ongoing trust-building fosters a dynamic and high-performing team environment.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
To cultivate a growth mindset within my social media network, I focus on continuous learning by curating and disseminating content that equips leaders with the tools to excel in today’s workplace. I spotlight the hurdles leaders face alongside actionable strategies for overcoming them. Furthermore, I highlight cultural events, holidays, and traditions to bolster cultural intelligence and sensitivity, recognizing the increasing diversity of our nation and world. I nurture a culture of curiosity and receptivity by initiating interactive posts and dialogues. I share innovative problem-solving resources for conflict resolution that foster a constructive, supportive, and inclusive work environment.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
Corporate America has made significant commitments to advance DEI in recent years, with many organizations embedding these principles into their core values and strategies. There has been a notable shift towards more transparent reporting on workforce diversity and the progress made on diversity goals. Also, there is a concerted effort to create inclusive work environments that embrace diverse perspectives and allow individuals to be their authentic selves in the workplace. Equity has become a focal point, with companies examining and addressing systemic barriers to ensure fair treatment, opportunities, and advancement for all employees. The evolution of DEI is ongoing. It is imperative that organizations continually assess and enhance their DEI strategies to foster a work culture where everyone feels valued, seen, heard, and respected.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
As a restorative leader, I would grant the superpower of “Compassion Enhancement” to members of my community to promote a culture of empathy and mutual understanding. This superpower would enable individuals to connect on a deeper emotional level, paving the way for actions that support one another’s well-being. It would also enhance collaboration. Team members who understand each other’s motivations can work together more effectively, leading to a stronger, more unified team and positive workplace.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
If I had an unlimited company budget, my top five budget items would include:
1. Research and Development (R&D): to foster innovation and create cutting-edge products and services.
2. Ongoing Employee Training and Development: in a variety of areas to ensure a highly skilled and well-equipped workforce.
3. Sustainability Initiatives: to minimize our environmental impact and protect our planet and people.
4. Customer Experience Enhancement: to provide exceptional customer service and support.
5. Community Engagement and Philanthropy: to give back to society and build a positive brand image.
These five budget items aim to drive long-term growth, employee and customer satisfaction, and social responsibility.
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
I believe trust forms over time through deep listening, conversation and being vulnerable. There must be an exchange of ideas, feelings, and shared experiences that form connection and understanding. We all need to be seen and heard for who we are and what we are about, and yet we all come to work with some form of armor. Breaking that down requires a sense of care, safety and curiosity. So two ways I achieve that with my team is to A) taking the time to fully tune in and connect with each other at the start of a meeting or gathering (ie. a prompt and round robin discussion or somatic breathing / stretching exercise) and B) using both formal and informal ways to infuse creativity and play into the work. Once a group has shared a range of experiences together, they form a ‘hive mind’ and are bound and buoyed by those stories when things feel hard. And as we all know, for as much time and intention it takes to form trust, it only takes a single moment to break or damage it. So the more layered and resilient our relationships are, the better we are able to navigate and work through those fissures if/when they occur.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
We are all motivated internally, hardwired to grow and evolve. I appreciate adult learning theory which says that every adult group - regardless of nature/context - must become a “laboratory of democracy where people can live and learn cooperatively.” That implies an environment where team members are self-guided, encouraged to learn and test independently, as well as have the ability to apply what they are learning as part of the growth process and in collaboration with others. So to cultivate this type of environment, I believe in co-creating guiding principles for how the group wants to engage and advance its purpose while living out its values. We lean on these when conflict arises and we expect and encourage healthy conflict in service to deeper understanding. Establishing a growth mindset and continual learning comes from recognizing and honoring our ‘human-ness’ — our strengths, flaws, inconsistencies, fears, curiosities… and then designing new ways of working that include adequate time for reflection both independently and collectively, sense making our way through celebrating progress and prioritizing problems to solve, and subsequently, things to learn / unlearn / relearn.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
For leaders who want to be inclusive, respected, and have meaningful, positive impact in their work and with their teams— DEI is table stakes. Unfortunately, that’s not a widely shared concept in corporate America. DEI is often misconstrued as secondary or an afterthought to core business activities, rather than treated as essential, foundational work that enables a team to become the best possible version of itself, and therefore produce its greatest possible impact. Sometimes I think we get caught up in the semantics of it, losing clarity on what it’s really about. If it wasn’t hard, and it didn’t make us uncomfortable or cause us to question every aspect of how we show up and advance our businesses, then it would not be worth it. Part of what makes it so hard is knowing deeply that the work may lead to radical change. And that change is what we seek, in order to evolve and adapt to our richly diverse and complex world.
Blatant examples of harm in the form of racism, misogyny, ableism, bias, perfectionism, and other inequities persist in patriarchal workplaces that resist DEI work and the unwavering social justice movements, DEI pioneers and practitioners who have been steadfast in their advocacy. They may justify their short term gains and dominance of power as proof of concept that “DEI is dead'', but it is all fleeting; our world is evolving. The notion that DEI work is not optional is only growing. These players will ultimately embark on a DEI journey of some kind and embrace change to thrive, or lose talented, good people and suffer. On the contrary, there are a plentitude of beautiful examples of DEI in practice: un/relearning programs, healing practices, and restoration projects; of leaders and organizations taking bold leaps to do business differently, paving new paths, listening to and centering their people, creating new tables, etc. And there are also performative players in between, who want DEI to feel easy and fit in a box. And while that type of DEI can backfire and also perpetuate harm, it represents a developmental step towards a more authentic version of DEI that corporate America is struggling (and also steadfast) to define. DEI in all its messy, critical versions is absolutely hard at work and happening if you look for it! We have to acknowledge and make space for all of these truths, and harness collective resilience to continue this work, both inside and outside of the workplace.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Oh, the conflict diffusion wave fo sho! I feel like I already carry an abundance of empathy in my pockets, and promotions while exciting, so often end up being not what people really want. But the idea of the skill to emit a calming aura to diffuse tension and allow connection and constructive dialogue to flourish in the face of conflict– now that sounds like a game changer to me! That could save the world!
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
1. Generous paid family leave - for all the common and not-so-common reasons
2. Customized, guided + paid learning journeys for my team Seasonal, paid time off for the whole team
3. Annual “joy + togetherness” experiences for the team and individual stipends too
4. Customized, company-financed financial support offerings (ie. 401K, debt/loan mgmt, educational reimbursement, etc.)
5. A lavish annual dinner for the team because breaking bread together almost always catalyzes more breakthroughs!
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
For me, the most important thing is honesty and being authentic. It's really about the leader to set the tone. What I like to tell people is that everybody is a leader. Trust, truth, and authenticity are key.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
The workplace is dynamic. Change is inevitable. The way we work has changed drastically after the pandemic. Communication is generational. Some people prefer text messages, some people prefer in-person. As leaders we need to consider everyone's communication styles to ensure we succeed as a team.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
I think the people who do not support DEI are operating from a place of fear. The truth is the native American population went through genocide in the United States. As indigenous women, we have barely started our healing. We need to heal everyone and that includes Native Americans. A lot of these conversations are not linear they are layered.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Compassion Enhancement is important. That goes hand in hand with conflict resolution.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
1. Professional development
2. Project Resources
3. Customer service
4. Benefits
5. DEI Programs
Meet Nate Shalev
Spotlight Video Interview - 2nd Edition
Nate's journey into restorative leadership began on their 16th birthday at the Nuyorican Poetry Slam, where they first recognized the transformative power of storytelling. This profound realization led them to earn degrees from Barnard College of Columbia University and New York University, shaping their commitment to creating inclusive spaces. Through their consultancy, Revel Impact, Nate excels at fostering environments where individuals and teams gain deep insights into themselves and each other, driving organizational success. Their dedication to making change in both ordinary and extraordinary moments is why they were selected as our spotlight interview for the 2nd edition of our Top 20 Restorative People Leader Watchlist.
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
Teams absolutely perform better and thrive when trust is a foundation and given as a matter of respect to all. High-performing Teams require environments of trust and a high level of Emotional Intelligence and Psychological Safety- not just as Buzz Words that sound nice, but in actual practice. Trust is a foundation for any team and as teams, we have to be able to share what's good, what's challenging, celebrate together, and learn and grow together.
2. Restorative Mindset What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
Community is important to me, and in fact, is a CEPHR Value. That means that I view my Community and those who engage with my posts not as simply "followers" but humans who take the time to pour into me and I do the same for them. In sharing the content I do, it's important to me to highlight how we can grow and be better together, even through the tough stuff. Even when my content showcases hard reality and truths that may be difficult for some to hear or face, I will always share it with compassion because the goal is growth, not harm. We have to be able to be aware of the realities so that we can appropriately and timely navigate them in a healthy way.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
This one is sticky and tricky for sure, but I'll give it a go: In my perspective, there’s been an evolution, yes, but there is also a lot more evolving that needs to happen! Until we recognize that organizations are systems of power (and often oppression), we will not overcome all the Undoing that needs to be undone. I will say that I see so many organizations putting in great effort and in non-performative ways as to how they’re diversifying their Suppliers and Vendors, teams, and adopting new Mindsets and learning (even when uncomfortable) around DEIB. A couple small things I noticed that would really help most organizations get on track and ready for the future of DEIB: 1.) Having the right tools, Policies, systems, and Programs in place and 2.) Having the real, honest, and tough conversations. We have to start somewhere and starting with Humanity first is a good way to do so.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
I'd have to go "Compassion Enhancement" all day! I believe that is a lot of what is missing today. Empathy will propel us forward and a lack of it has drifted us further apart as Humans, Society, and work teams. To take that a step further and have actual Compassion for one another, would send us so much further along on the DEIB Journey and toward the world that most of us want and all of us deserve.
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
1.) Hiring more amazing team members to help us amplify our work
2.) Donate to our clients' meaningful Community work to amplify their work, voices, and impact, and to other Community Organizations (more than we do now Philanthropically)
3.) Upskilling and Reskilling current and future Team Members
4.) Supporting Sustainability and Green Efforts
5.) Having access and opportunity to the best and most effective, efficient tools for our team, services, and to impact our Mission, Vision, and Values as best as possible. SMBs have it HARD in this space. I'd love to see a world where automation and piecing things together without feeling that they're pieced together or that we have to cobble so much together just to gain access to information and opportunity of our larger peers in-industry is normalized for our SMB Enterprises.
1. Collective Trust: Do teams perform better when trust is earned or granted to everyone upon hire?
I trust people to human and create space for mistakes. Teams perform better when we experience emotional safety.
2. Restorative Mindset: What measures have you taken to cultivate a growth mindset within your social media network, emphasizing continual learning and proactive approaches to conflict resolution?
We endeavor to own responsibility for our part in communication and expectation.
3. Thoughts on DEI: I would love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of DEI in corporate America in the past few years.
DEI has turned out to be challenging to institute on boards and in budgeting. I think failures are part of the process in systems change at this level.
4. Leadership Superpowers: If you could grant 1 superpower to others as a restorative leader, which of the 3 superpowers would you give the members of your community? Compassion Enhancement: The ability to instantly deeply understand and resonate with the emotions and motivations of all team members, leading to ally actions and more effective collaboration. Teleportation Wand: A superpower that allows one to see the future for a few seconds to see things from other's points of view. Conflict Diffusion Wave: The capability to emit a calming aura that instantly diffuses tensions and resolves conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive team environment.
Compassion Enhancement
5. Budget Priorities: If you had an unlimited company budget what are the top 5 budget items on your list?
1. Living Wage
2. Affordable Health Care
3. Comprehensive Programming
4. BIPOC Teacher Development
5. Black Joy