Podcast

Fostering dynamic conversations around the intersection of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Leadership.

Directing our conversations are Uplifting Impact’s Chief Change Agent, Deanna Singh, and Chief Information Officer, Justin Ponder. Our hosts are highly respected thought leaders, educators, and consultants specializing in DEI and are known for their ability to teach difficult lessons with tact and kindness that inspire change and innovation within organizations.

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Deanna Singh

Deanna Singh is a business consultant, speaker, and podcaster who is internationally recognized for her work in leadership, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Deanna helps her clients create more equitable and inclusive work environments and engage more authentically within their internal and external communities. A gifted communicator, she is a champion for marginalized communities through her work. Her podcast, Uplifting Impact with a focus on looking at the intersection of Leadership and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, focuses on solutions and is directed at people who want to break the status quo. Singh earned her Bachelor of Arts in Urban Studies from Fordham University, a Juris Doctorate from Georgetown University, a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, and certification in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from Cornell University.

DEI Work: Not a One-Size-Fits-All Solution

Are you tired of hearing the same old DEI strategies that don't seem to work for your organization? Then tune in to this episode of the podcast, "DEI Work: Not a One-Size-Fits-All Solution," with guest Amy Hanneman.

Amy shares her personal journey towards diversity, equity, and inclusion work and emphasizes the importance of human connection in leadership development. From a working-class background, she highlights the gaps in workplace systems and the need for long-term commitments from organizations to implement successful DEI initiatives.

But Amy's approach to DEI work is unique. She stresses the importance of building one-on-one relationships with people from different backgrounds to promote inclusivity in the workplace. This episode will challenge your preconceived notions about DEI work and inspire you to take a more personal approach to promoting inclusivity in your workplace.

So, if you're ready to hear from a DEI expert who understands that there is no one-size-fits-all solution, tune in to this episode! You won't want to miss Amy's refreshing and effective approach to DEI work.

Leadership Lessons from the 2008 Financial Crisis

In this episode of the Uplifting Impact Podcast, we dive into the importance of leadership in the success of an organization with guest Melissa Phillippi. Melissa emphasizes that anyone, regardless of their position, can affect change within a company. She draws from her experience during the 2008 financial crisis.

The episode highlights the crucial role of individual contributors advocating for themselves and the significance of clear communication, purposeful preparation, and coaching conversations. Melissa also warns against the dangers of a toxic culture of winning at all costs and creating incentive plans based solely on performance rather than values.

Furthermore, we explore the impact of cancel culture and the consumer mindset it creates for employees. Melissa provides insights on how to navigate these challenges and foster a positive, growth-oriented culture within an organization.

So, if you're interested in learning more about the crucial role of leadership in organizational success and how you can make a difference in your workplace, tune in to this episode!

Building Bridges and Elevating Perspectives in DEI Work

In the latest episode of Uplifting Impact, hosts Justin, Deanna, and Tamyra tackle the difficult topic of listening to perspectives that go against inclusion efforts. Through their discussion, they explore the concept of micro-inclusions and how they can be used to promote equity and inclusion in everyday life. The hosts share insights into their process of building ideas together and emphasize the value of including different voices. They also discuss the recent shift towards emphasizing individuals and their unique approaches to DEI work, with a focus on creating safe spaces for marginalized communities. 

This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the process of creating diverse and inclusive work environments and provides practical tips for implementing micro-inclusions in your own life. 

Tune in to learn more about how to handle perspectives that derail inclusion efforts and promote a more inclusive society through creativity and intentionality.

Use Your Privilege to Uplift Others w/ Sheilina Henry

Sheilina Henry is the Senior Vice President of Diversity Equity and Inclusion at Bloomin’ Brands, Inc. She's responsible for cultivating an environment that celebrates diverse backgrounds while providing equitable access to opportunity. Sheilina has had a variety of roles within the company, but is now leading their diversity, equity and inclusion work. She is working to help make sure that everybody, whether you're coming into the dining space or whether you're on the team, is having a wonderful and inclusive experience.

The restaurant industry is no stranger to diversity. However, Sheilina shares that the past 18-months have revealed diversity gaps within the industry, disparities, and lack of resources. She also details some of her personal experiences that have shaped the way she approaches both DEI work and work that she does within the food industry, and how important it is to share these experiences to build trust and safe spaces with others. To connect with Sheilina, you can find her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheilina-henry-07036617

Innovation through Inclusion: Trends in DEI with Justin Ponder

Welcome to season 2 of our Uplifting Impact! We have some exciting changes heading your way this season, and one of those is that we have added Justin Ponder as our co-host. Justin is the Chief Information Officer of Uplifting Impact, as well as an educator in the area of ethnic studies. In this episode, we talk about some of the updates and changes we’re making to the podcast, we introduce Justin and the work he has done, and he talks about some of the trends he is seeing in the diversity, equity, and inclusion space.

Jun
06
2023

Are you tired of hearing the same old DEI strategies that don't seem to work for your organization? Then tune in to this episode of the podcast, "DEI Work: Not a One-Size-Fits-All Solution," with guest Amy Hanneman.

Amy shares her personal journey...

  • Jun
    06
    2023

    Are you tired of hearing the same old DEI strategies that don't seem to work for your organization? Then tune in to this episode of the podcast, "DEI Work: Not a One-Size-Fits-All Solution," with guest Amy Hanneman.

    Amy shares her personal journey...

  • May
    24
    2023

    In this episode of the Uplifting Impact Podcast, we dive into the importance of leadership in the success of an organization with guest Melissa Phillippi. Melissa emphasizes that anyone, regardless of their position, can affect change within a company....

  • May
    10
    2023

    In the latest episode of Uplifting Impact, hosts Justin, Deanna, and Tamyra tackle the difficult topic of listening to perspectives that go against inclusion efforts. Through their discussion, they explore the concept of micro-inclusions and how they can...

  • Nov
    11
    2021

    Sheilina Henry is the Senior Vice President of Diversity Equity and Inclusion at Bloomin’ Brands, Inc. She's responsible for cultivating an environment that celebrates diverse backgrounds while providing equitable access to opportunity. Sheilina has had...

  • Jul
    22
    2021

    Welcome to season 2 of our Uplifting Impact! We have some exciting changes heading your way this season, and one of those is that we have added Justin Ponder as our co-host. Justin is the Chief Information Officer of Uplifting Impact, as well as an...

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Our purpose is to provide actionalable insights and wisdom from a diverse group of leaders, executives, consultants, entrepreneurs, and DEI change-makers in the workplace. We’ve been fortunate to host industry luminaries from organizations like Hewlett Packard (HP), Ford, Kohl’s, and many others who have generously shared their expertise on DEI topics.

Our ultimate achievement is when our listeners feel inspired and empowered with ideas to enhance their DEI leadership and life skills. We believe that even if we can move one person to advocate for DEI in their surroundings , it’s a triumph for the cause.