Episodes

  • This week, we’re joined by Lisa Cordileone and Shaan Dasani, the visionary executive producers behind Crazy as a Loon, a film inspired by a dark and often-overlooked chapter of American history: The Lavender Scare. In 1953, during this unsettling period, LGBTQ+ government employees were targeted and persecuted, deemed security risks to the country due to the belief that their identities made them morally weak and vulnerable to blackmail.

    Lisa and Shaan bring their personal perspectives to this powerful story that transcends history, addressing universal themes of resilience, family, and the pursuit of peace.

    Lisa’s background as an actor and producer fuels her passion for amplifying LGBTQ+ voices, celebrating underrepresented historical figures, and mentoring new talent in filmmaking. Shaan, an actor and filmmaker, contributes a deeply human lens to storytelling, emphasizing shared experiences that foster empathy and understanding.

    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    The inspiration behind the short film and how it sheds light on The Lavender Scare while exploring timeless human struggles.How Lisa and Shaan’s lived experiences as LGBTQ+ creatives shape their storytelling.The challenges and rewards of using film to bridge societal divides and promote empathy.Tips for creating narratives that prioritize authenticity and inclusivity.

    Through their filmmaking, Lisa and Shaan remind us of the enduring power of storytelling to illuminate history, celebrate diversity, and inspire change.

    Links:

    Crazy as a Loon Updates: https://www.instagram.com/crazyasaloon.shortfilm/Lisa Cordileone: https://www.instagram.com/lisa.cordileone/Shaan Dasani: https://www.instagram.com/shaandasani/


    Become a part of our community on:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diversity_beyondthecheckbox/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/diversity-beyond-the-checkbox-podcast/Our Website: https://beyondthecheckbox.com/

    Hosted by award-winning business leader, best-selling author, investor and co-founder of The Diversity Movement, Jackie Ferguson.

    Production by Earfluence.

  • As we approach the launch of Season 11, we're taking a moment to reflect on the incredible guests from Season 10. We are proud of the conversations we’ve shared, the insights we’ve gained, and the diverse voices we’ve elevated. Season 10 has been a testament to the transformative power of dialogue, personal empowerment, and connectedness.

    Today you'll hear from:

    Tony Martignetti, MBA, PCC - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/66c201bb3719eea4b8d3350194fdc565Alison Taylor - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/7400e1797850f0577291708fc1abd74eJamie Love - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/c4a7bd452e48fd35073788b6dae220e7Trier Bryant - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/aac51dcc6faec19be97c203915393815Fiona Lloyd - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/6e40ceba46952dc446346a9fb30d2918Elaine Lin Hering - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/018f4e85cca168ade8be811454e7cfdbSunaina Sinha Haldea - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/8b147fcb7702a6190d9e559d4be62d70Valera Wilson - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/27d63583c2f3baf54b62139baf59a745Amber Cabral - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/67ea8ccec9ab7b296741fc1fb2d4c368Arjun Sharda - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/a5889a87166c42c02cbc17d052d2558dCoco Brown - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/636e5188f94a3d6423fc2dba24fe0f1dRaquel Willis - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/918398b08a54de3d6bcffbe686ce4fd4Dr. Charlotte Owens, MD, FACOG - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/c870af4a31659c80da668cbd82ac5aa9Karen R. Baker, MTA, MA - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/a19bc872a3809fcef142f7db8c0e3455Kellie Walenciak - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/5edc1f6045b1670cac160e7119d35268Dr. Doris Bullock - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/4902a8b4f90a4b3fd0087b48219943bcJoe Davis - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/b65418984fa76f1a2d2b672956cc6cd9Lindsay LaBennett - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/8411fbbb9d346b2204e3d25bfe1ec1e0


    Become a part of our community on:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diversity_beyondthecheckbox/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/diversity-beyond-the-checkbox-podcast/Our Website: https://beyondthecheckbox.com/

    Hosted by award-winning business leader, best-selling author, investor and co-founder of The Diversity Movement, Jackie Ferguson.

    Production by Earfluence.

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  • Jackie Ferguson, Inc. Female Founders 200 award winner, and host of the globally acclaimed podcast, Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox is joined by Joe Davis, Managing Director and Senior Partner of Boston Consulting Group and Sunaina Sinha Haldea, Global Head of Private Capital Advisory at Raymond James.

    Named in the Top 100 Management Podcasts in the world, this special episode will be livestreamed as part of Workplace Options’ Summit delving into the critical role of employee engagement in driving organizational success and the pivotal strategies that leaders and governance structures can employ to foster a highly motivated and committed workforce.

    To watch the video of this session and access other sessions, visit:
    https://www.workplaceoptions.com/info/leading-with-purpose-employee-engagement-strategies-to-inspire-and-win/

    Follow Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox on LinkedIn, Instagram, X and YouTube.

    Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com.

  • Amber Cabral is an entrepreneur, podcaster, TEDx speaker and a best-selling author. In this episode, Amber discusses her decision to step out into entrepreneurship after six years at Walmart, her inspiration for creating her podcast, "Guilty Privilege," and her motivation to write the conversation-sparking book, "Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture." She shares the secret to maintaining momentum in the DEI space, tips on pursuing professional happiness and so much more.

    "Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson.

    Follow Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox on LinkedIn, Instagram, X and YouTube.

    Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!

    This show is proud to be a part of The Living Corporate Network and to be produced by Earfluence.

  • Coco Brown is a four-time founder, board member and authority on modern leadership. As founder and CEO of Athena Alliance, Coco seeks to empower women professionals with the tools, strategies and network to grow, thrive and lead. She shares her perspective on technology roadmap, fundraising, sponsorship and embracing the gifts that come with age and experience.

    "Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson.

    Follow Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox on LinkedIn, Instagram, X and YouTube.

    Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!

    This show is proud to be a part of The Living Corporate Network and to be produced by Earfluence.

  • Alison Taylor, a clinical associate professor at NYU Stern School of Business, Executive Director of Ethical Systems and author, shares her insights on the evolving role of ethics and integrity in the corporate world. Alison's background in corporate investigations, leadership, and sustainability provides a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing businesses today. This episode will shed light on how those entering the workforce look to combine their personal beliefs with company culture and why corporate leaders need to pay attention.

    "Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson.

    Follow Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox on LinkedIn, Instagram, X and YouTube.

    Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!

    This show is proud to be a part of The Living Corporate Network and to be produced by Earfluence.

  • In this episode, Jamie Love, CEO of Monumental, shares his extraordinary journey from growing up in the Middle East to becoming an LGBTQ+ activist and entrepreneur. At just 21, Jamie founded Monumental, a diversity marketing agency committed to helping organizations find their authentic voice with an evolving consumer base. He discusses the agency's incredible growth trajectory, partnering with major brands and donating significant resources to crucial causes. Jamie elaborates on the strategies behind the astonishing 2,500% growth in attendance at Pride Edinburgh and shares how every organization can expand their reach through marketing messaging. Jamie also shares his vision for the future of inclusive marketing and provides inspiring guidance for young activists and entrepreneurs committed to improving their communities and creating more equitable environments.

    "Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson.

    Follow Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox on LinkedIn, Instagram, X and YouTube.

    Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!

    This show is proud to be a part of The Living Corporate Network and to be produced by Earfluence.

  • In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Dr. Doris Bullock, Interim Chief Program Officer of Arise Collective. Dr. Bullock shares her personal experience of incarceration and the profound inequities she observed and experienced within the justice system. After serving ten and a half years of a life sentence (with the possiblilty of parole in 20 years) for a crime she did not commit, she earned a doctorate degree, dedicating herself to giving back to those transitioning from incarceration. Dr. Bullock passionately discusses how the organization's work inspires her, particularly in reducing recidivism rates, which benefits both families and our communities. She also addresses the harmful biases and stigma faced by justice-involved individuals, emphasizing how these perceptions hinder their chances for a fresh start and the importance of supporting second chances for a stronger, more inclusive society.

    "Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson.

    Follow Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox on LinkedIn, Instagram, X and YouTube.

    Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!

    This show is proud to be a part of The Living Corporate Network and to be produced by Earfluence.

  • Lindsay LaBennett's career journey is a reflection of her strong family influences and unwavering dedication to hard work and respect. Inspired by her mother's engineering background and her grandmother's farm upbringing, Lindsay developed a robust work ethic and a deep understanding of herself. Lindsay's interest in sports and entertainment grew through internships and her time as an Account Executive in Diversity Affairs at NASCAR, where she was the liaison between NASCAR and the NAACP, National Urban League, Council de La Raza and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. With a 14-year tenure at Wasserman, she's now the Vice President of Inclusion and Impact, channeling her experiences and values into creating a more inclusive environment, with a focus on diversity, equity, and social change in sports.

    "Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson.

    Follow Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox on LinkedIn, Instagram, X and YouTube.

    Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!

    This show is proud to be a part of The Living Corporate Network and to be produced by Earfluence.

  • Joe Davis, a senior partner at Boston Consulting Group, specializes in guiding employees and organizations through turbulent times. His approach, known as 'Generous Leadership,’ emphasizes the power of giving and empowerment to raise morale and generate results. With over 40 years of experience and a global platform that includes his book, ‘The Generous Leader,’ as well as a TEDx talk, Joe's strategies will encourage you to think differently.

    "Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson.

    Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!

    Follow Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox on LinkedIn, Instagram, X and YouTube.

    This show is proud to be a part of The Living Corporate Network and to be produced by Earfluence.

  • Raquel Willis, an award-winning author, activist, and media strategist, shares her journey from growing up in a traditional Southern family to becoming a leading voice in the gender liberation movement. Willis candidly discusses her personal experiences with coming out, losing her father, and finding her authentic self, which led her to a career in journalism and activism. She emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive workplaces that support employees, especially those with diverse identities, and the need for organizations to go beyond superficial diversity efforts. She continues to share her powerful message of self-determination and collective liberation in her memoir, "The Risk It Takes to Bloom," and her podcast "Afterlives" on the iHeart Media Outspoken Network.

    "Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson.

    Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!

    This show is proud to be a part of The Living Corporate Network and to be produced by Earfluence.

  • “You are Absolutely Worth It.” This isn’t just the title of guest Velera Wilson’s book; it is what she firmly believes. An award winning, Industry-Recognized expert, Global Speaker, Author, and Consultant, Velera combines proven and tested business methods with a heavy focus on how to remove self-doubt and replace it with self-confidence. In this episode, Velera reminds us that we are enough and have the ability to thrive as leaders.

    "Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson.

    Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!

    This show is proud to be a part of The Living Corporate Network and to be produced by Earfluence.

  • Elaine Lin Hering helps leaders create environments that support rather than silence people. As a globally recognized expert in communication, collaboration, and conflict management and best-selling author, Elaine shares how she overcame a family dynamic that did not promote open discussion and learned to navigate difficult conversations. This episode is sure to inspire you while giving you the tools to discover and unleash your voice.

    "Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson.

    Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!

    This show is proud to be a part of The Living Corporate Network and to be produced by Earfluence.

  • Tony Martignetti was sitting in the boardroom when he realized he just couldn't do it anymore. After over 30 years in the corporate world, he stood up and announced his resignation right there, and he hasn't looked back.

    Today, Tony's a leadership advisor, best-selling author, podcast host and speaker, and he's answering his calling to change how leaders show up and connect with others. Tune in to learn about his keys to connection, including storytelling, emotional courage, and self-awareness, and hear how knowing ourselves can help us have a more meaningful impact on others.

    "Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson.

    Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!

    This show is proud to be a part of The Living Corporate Network and to be produced by Earfluence.

  • Fiona Lloyd, the global brand president of Carat and Executive Sponsor of Social Impact at Dentsu Media, shares her multifaceted roles and the importance of mental health and wellness in the workplace. Lloyd emphasizes the significance of authenticity, sharing that living as your authentic self, being true to your values, and operating and interacting with people in a way that is true to the core of who you are, then you're naturally going be happy in your work. She also discusses the challenges of managing burnout and the steps organizations can take to support their employees' well-being, including creating a safe space for open conversations and addressing issues such as menopause in the workplace.

    "Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson.

    Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!

    This show is proud to be a part of The Living Corporate Network and to be produced by Earfluence.

  • Marketing professional Karen Baker shares her story of starting her own company at just 24 years old to leading the social impact practice at Boathouse Group and how family legacy of civil rights activism has deeply influenced her approach to business, underscoring the need for inclusive representation in the industry. With her wealth of experience working with renowned brands like BET and Puma, Baker offers invaluable advice for young marketing professionals, urging them to network, gain practical experience, and embrace the lessons learned from potential failures.

    "Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson.

    Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!

    This show is proud to be a part of The Living Corporate Network and to be produced by Earfluence.

  • Kellie Walenciak, the Global Head of Marketing and Communications for Televerde, is sharing the story of how the company was founded in an Arizona women's prison to provide job training and employment opportunities for incarcerated individuals. Televerde's unique approach has resulted in a remarkable 5.4% recidivism rate, far below the national average, and has helped countless women and their families break the cycle of incarceration. In this episode, learn about Televerde's commitment to second chances and how they empower those who have faced adversity.

    "Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson.

    Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!

    This show is proud to be a part of The Living Corporate Network and to be produced by Earfluence.

  • Dr. Charlotte Owens is sharing with Jackie the societal inequities she witnessed firsthand and how they have shaped her commitment to making a difference. From understanding real-life factors that impact health to the disparities in maternal health outcomes, the Senior Vice President and Head of Global Medical Affairs and Outcomes Research at Organon emphasizes the need for a more inclusive healthcare system that empowers women to advocate for their well-being. Tune in to hear what Dr. Owens and Organon are doing to address systemic biases in healthcare, learn actionable steps for advocating for your health, and understand the importance of speaking up, asking questions, and seeking support.

    "Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson.

    Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!

    This show is proud to be a part of The Living Corporate Network and to be produced by Earfluence.

  • Step into the world of Arjun Sharda, the 12-year-old entrepreneur shaking up the tech scene! Join Jackie as she delves into his story from coding at 7 to founding his own non-profit at 10. With a passion for technology, leadership, entrepreneurship, engineering and mathematics (TLEEM), learn how his curiosity and drive have propelled him to becoming an author, trailblazer and the youngest-ever speaker at Developer Week in San Francisco—all while balancing being a kid, too.

    "Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson.

    Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!

    This show is proud to be a part of The Living Corporate Network and to be produced by Earfluence.

  • Whether serving in the Air Force Academy or excelling in top corporate roles, Trier Bryant is a dynamic leader in people-first leadership and inclusion. In this episode, she shares strategies for embracing risk, overcoming challenges, and advocating for diversity and inclusion in unique spaces. Learn the difference between coaching, mentorship and sponsorship, and how each can propel your career forward as you pursue your aspirations with courage and authenticity.

    "Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson.

    Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!

    This show is proud to be a part of The Living Corporate Network and to be produced by Earfluence.