The Will to Change: Lessons from the Frontlines of Inclusion

Brain Aware Podcast

Jennifer Brown's powerful journey from operatic singer to DEI trailblazer reveals the transformative potential of finding purpose after unexpected loss. After losing her singing voice, Jennifer discovered organizational development and diversity work, launching a 25-year career that would position her as one of the most influential voices in inclusive leadership.
In this reflective conversation, Jennifer unpacks the complex dynamics following 2020's racial reckoning—a moment that brought unprecedented attention to DEI work while simultaneously sowing seeds for today's backlash. She offers nuanced insights into navigating this pendulum swing, suggesting that perhaps the intensity of that awakening created challenges for sustainable learning and growth.
Jennifer shares wisdom on facilitating change when emotions run high, explaining why focusing on behaviors rather than beliefs creates more lasting transformation. "When you give people simple, actionable behaviors to practice, the beliefs eventually follow," she notes, echoing neuroscience findings on habit formation. This practical approach provides leaders with tangible steps toward inclusive leadership even when the broader landscape feels threatening.
The discussion explores how younger generations are reshaping workplace expectations around belonging and authenticity. Jennifer explains that while current political winds may be silencing some DEI conversations, the demographic shifts in our workforce and consumer base ensure these issues won't disappear. Companies that fail to create inclusive cultures risk losing both talent and customers who increasingly vote with their feet and dollars.
Despite acknowledging the current "trough" in DEI work, Jennifer remains fundamentally hopeful. "There are more people than ever trying to bend that arc of the moral universe," she reflects. Her forward-looking perspective includes new writing projects and her commitment to elevating diverse thought leaders who will shape tomorrow's conversation about belonging.
Ready to navigate today's complex DEI landscape with compassion and strategic insight? Listen now and discover practical approaches for fostering inclusion in challenging times.

Chapters

1. Introduction to Jennifer Brown (00:00:00)

2. Jennifer's Career Evolution in DEI (00:03:24)

3. The 2020 Awakening and Backlash (00:09:31)

4. Fear, Failure, and Resistance to Change (00:16:17)

5. Navigating Current DEI Challenges (00:28:11)

6. Future Directions and Hope (00:33:30)