In the beautifully diverse tapestry of our modern world, cultivating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive (DEI) workspace isn't just an option—it's a vital necessity.
Embracing this diversity isn't about ticking boxes or meeting quotas; it's about recognizing and valuing the unique perspectives, experiences, and contributions that every individual brings to the table. It not only strengthens an organization's cultural fabric but also significantly improves employee retention. In this enriching episode, host Denise Cooper interviews the illustrious Geronda Wollack-Spiller, a DEI expert known for helping leaders build self-awareness and create psychologically safe spaces for historically marginalized employees.
Geronda brings to the table her wealth of experiences, both personal and professional, as a queer black woman who has surmounted myriad obstacles to find joy, connection, and success. She discusses the importance of authentic expression, community, reflection, and finding spaces that align with your values. Her stories are not only enlightening but also inspiring, reflecting her journey of standing in her power and embracing her authentic self.
As we navigate this conversation, we'll explore questions that challenge existing norms and offer new perspectives. From discussing common mistakes businesses make in their quest for psychological safety, to Geronda's unique life lessons, to her inspiring contribution to the book “Her Badass Story,” and her vision of success, each segment of this episode promises to be a revelation.
THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW
- What is a life lesson that resonates with you? [04:00]
- What do you to keep yourself feeling renewed and clear? [05:29]
- Can you speak to your journey with recovering from people-pleasing, particularly in the office? [09:56]
- Tell us about your journey with cultivating psychological safety. [17:52]
- Tell us about your own knee-jerk "no" and "yes" responses. How can a person begin to assess their own levels of comfort in the workplace? [33:40]
KEEP UP WITH GERONDA WOLLACK-SPILLER
Book: Her Badass Story.
Website: www.gerondaws.com
LinkedIn Live Series: Leading in the Moment with Geronda, every other Wednesday at 12pm PST
EPISODE RESOURCES
GERONDA WOLLACK-SPILLER'S BIO
My name is Geronda Wollack-Spiller. I help leaders build awareness so that they can foster psychologically safe spaces to retain historically marginalized employees. I support my clients with reflecting and bringing awareness to their leadership style and how it influences and impacts their teams and larger groups. Being a queer black woman, I have experienced and traveled the lonely road of shame, fear, rejection, doubt, and frustration first-hand under poor leadership. I know what it means to lead with empathy, compassion and passion for growth and belonging, along with the impacts that come with feeling misunderstood and isolated.
I was two days old when my parents adopted me. A black baby girl, born in Harlem, NYC, and grew up in Long Island, NY. My father, a retired NYC firefighter of 33 years, has been a huge influence on who I am today. He exposed me to the real world and many of life’s challenges. He also taught me satisfaction and the power of helping others.
I am a black lesbian who came out to my family when I was 25-years old. You could say that I've been the only black person on a team, been belittled for not being "professional" enough, or even teased for my socioeconomic status. to name a few. I also know what it feels like to have leadership that really cares, makes me and others feel welcome, reflects regularly on their bias and even ensures employees experiences are first.
My childhood and workplace trauma in ways has gave me a gift. It was understanding the importance of authentic expression, community, reflection and finding spaces that align with your values. It was also exploring what it means to be a leader in various contexts while providing me with a great sense of humor. I have learned how to stand in my power which allows me to be my authentic self 100% of the time. Hell YEAH! I want to provide that power and freedom for others because we all can be effective leaders while being your true self and it's nothing to be ashamed about!
