As corporations are increasingly turning away from Diversity, Equity and Inclusion where do we go from here? Michael Leach, the former and first-ever Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer for the White House and author of Faith Over Fear, joins us to talk to bestselling author of Fixing Fairness Lily Zheng about the future of DEI.
Anthony Fauci, M.D, describes Michael Leach’s Faith Over Fear as “a compelling story of one man’s commitment to the principles of diversity and inclusion from his experience in the National Football League (NFL) to his role in the Biden White House as the first ever White House Chief Diversity and inclusion officer. A powerful story of faith, perseverance, and resilience.”
In their new book Fixing Fairness Lily Zheng discusses how to shape a workplace that puts everyone ahead through the groundbreaking FAIR framework.
Over 80 percent of Americans agree that the goals of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are important in workplaces and society. Yet, research shows that a mere 20 percent feel they’ve directly benefited from workplace DEI programs. As traditional DEI efforts in the workplace face disengagement, backlash, and stagnation, it’s time to reimagine this work. Drawing on historical case studies, deep research, and a decade of the author’s consulting experience with organizations of all sizes, this book reveals the four tenets that will shape the next evolution of workplace DEI.
About the Speakers
Michael Leach is a distinguished leader whose career spans the NFL, national politics, and the White House. Born on the South Side of Chicago, his journey has shaped him into one of today’s most trusted and relatable voices on faith, leadership, and resilience. He began his career with the Chicago Bears, advanced to NFL Headquarters managing labor relations, helped lead and build the most diverse presidential campaign team in U.S. history as Chief People Officer—culminating in a historic victory—and later served as the first-ever Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer for the White House. Now Founder and CEO of BridgeTrust Partners, Leach helps leaders and organizations strengthen trust, purpose, and impact across industries.
Lily Zheng is a no-nonsense strategist, consultant, and author who helps leaders and practitioners build workplaces that work for everyone. They are the creator of the FAIR Framework, an evidence-based approach giving guidance to those driving the next evolution of workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion. Lily’s work has been featured in the Harvard Business Review, New York Times, and NPR, and their bestselling books, DEI Deconstructed, Reconstructing DEI, and Fixing Fairness, lay out the practical skills and knowledge anyone can use to create the healthy workplaces we all deserve. They live with their wife in the San Francisco Bay Area and can frequently be found indoor rock climbing and putting together yet another all-black outfit.
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