---
title: The Power of Diversity and Listening in an Inclusive Workspace
description: Explore the power of diversity and listening in creating an inclusive workspace. Learn how Ford Motor Company's Chief Diversity Officer, Lori Costew, implements strategies for leadership and communication to foster belonging and drive innovation. Discover the importance of employee engagement and psychological safety in creating positive change. Join the conversation on LinkedIn with Lori Costew.
image: https://www.upliftingimpact.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/Lori%20Costew-%20Website.png
---

![](https://www.upliftingimpact.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/Lori%20Costew-%20Website.png)

Lori Costew is the Chief Diversity Officer and Director of People Strategy at Ford Motor Company. In her role, she oversees corporate diversity, equity, and inclusion and all of the efforts within the company to cultivate a sense of belonging and to advance the company’s mission and business objectives, and ensures that Ford strategy supports all of the corporate goals and the transformation efforts within the organization. In our conversation, we talk about the importance of DEI for such a large enterprise and some of the strategies Lori has used, particularly in the area of leadership and listening. To connect with Lori and learn more, you can find her on LinkedIn.

## Topics In This Episode

- The relationship between diversity and innovation
- Communication strategies within the Ford organization
- Different styles of listening sessions
- Changes made based on employee engagement surveys and polling
- A strategy for creating empathy among leadership
- The motivation for change
- Creating psychological safe places for employees
- How to continue the work, outside of the listening sessions

## Connect

LinkedIn: [Lori Costew](https://www.linkedin.com/in/lori-costew-37a3168/)

 

Recent Conversations We’ve Enjoyed

- [Workplace Mental Health: How To Support Every Group](https://www.upliftingimpact.com/uplifting_impact/workplace-mental-health-how-to-support-every-group)
- [Evolve or Regress: A Mindset Shift](https://www.deannasingh.com/uplifting_impact/evolve-or-regress-a-mindset-shift)

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