Embracing Your Voice

• The Backlash Against DEI: A Conversation with Chrysta Wilson

  In this episode, Chrysta Wilson, founder of Wilson and Associates Coaching & Consulting, shares her insights into the challenges DEI efforts face today. We begin with an overview of how DEI has become a political battleground, examining how corporate and governmental entities are rolling back initiatives and what that means for marginalized communities.We talk about the misconceptions surrounding DEI, how it’s often weaponized, and why systemic changes are essential beyond surface-level diversity hiring. She also breaks down the impact of recent policy changes and how they shape workplace culture, leadership decisions, and opportunities for historically underrepresented groups.Key Takeaways:The current state of DEI and its politicization.How DEI efforts have been weaponized and misunderstood.The systemic roots of inequality beyond just hiring practices.The impact of policy changes on workplace culture and leadership.Strategies for moving forward and keeping DEI efforts effective.Timestamps:00:00 Welcome Back and Introduction to Chrysta Wilson01:52 Chrysta Wilson's Background and Expertise03:17 Current Events and Community Impact06:13 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Under Attack09:35 Systemic Issues and Personal Experiences23:51 The Importance of DEI and Meritocracy27:31 Impact on Black-Owned Businesses27:53 Corporate DEI Commitments28:37 Ben & Jerry's and Corporate Values30:10 Costco's DEI Stance31:18 Future of DEI in Companies32:57 Navigating DEI Challenges34:22 Cultural Competency in the Workplace37:51 Adapting DEI Strategies41:29 Emotional Impact on Marginalized Communities47:47 Closing Thoughts and Resources"True DEI work isn’t just about hiring—it’s about dismantling the systems that created inequality in the first place."If you enjoyed the show and you want to join our community of other women of color who are embracing their voice head over to https://embracingyourvoicepod.com/Connect with Atima on:InstagramLinkedinChrysta Wilson Chrysta Wilson, MPA, PCC, is a DEI expert and organizational culture change consultant who is committed to empowering leaders to create equitable and inclusive workplaces. She is the founder of Wilson and Associates Coaching and Consulting, LLC, a 16-year-old consulting firm, host of the Recipe for Transformation Podcast, and creator of The School For Transformation which houses e-learning programs such as Disrupt Your DEI and DEI Dinner Party.Wilson and Associates: https://www.wilson-and-associates.com/Receipe for Transformation Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-recipe-for-transformation/id1645889391Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Embracing Your Voice on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Google Podcasts. Leave a review to help us reach more listeners!#DEI backlash, #diversityandinclusion, #workplaceequity, #corporateDEIpolicies, #systemicinequality, #DEI strategy, #leadershipandinclusion

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• Advocating for What We Deserve: Building Power for Asian Americans w/ Linh Nguyen (Exec VP of AAPI Victory Fund)

  Growing up in Canada, Linh Nguyen never thought she'd be on the road fighting for the representation and visibility of in American politics. But like most women, she wanted something done, so she did it herself. Rising through the ranks of Democratic politics and movement work, she eventually landed as Executive Vice President and COO of AAPI Victory Fund which focuses on empowering 24 million strong Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders to realize their power. We talked a lot about what she learned and experienced along the way on her professional and personal journey, such as the importance of working with other women of color, being a strong advocate for your community's needs and what happened with the AAPI Vote in the 2024 election.https://www.aapivictoryfund.com/If you enjoyed the show and you want to join our community of other women of color who are embracing their voice head over to https://embracingyourvoicepod.com/Connect with Atima on:InstagramLinkedin

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• 5 Tips From Advocates & Activists on Getting Through The Times Ahead

  Hey, EYV fam!In this episode, we dive deep into preparing for the challenges ahead as we navigate the transitions in government and the potential impact on our communities. Drawing from my experience as a Black woman in advocacy, lessons from other women of color, and historical insights, I’m sharing actionable ways to stay grounded, connected, and effective. Let’s get into it:1. Build Your SquadThe concept of community is more than a buzzword—it’s a lifeline. Whether it’s close friends, family, or chosen family, having people you can lean on is critical. Historically marginalized groups have always relied on this “village mentality” to thrive. Find your people and strengthen those bonds—you’ll need them.2. Support Mutual Aid EffortsAs federal support shrinks, mutual aid becomes essential. Donate, volunteer, and contribute to local shelters, food banks, or schools in need. Think of it as investing in the resilience of your community.3. Back Nonprofit MediaTrustworthy journalism is under threat, making independent outlets more critical than ever. Seek out local and national nonprofit media and support them financially if you can. They’re vital for staying informed in an era of disinformation.4. Fight for DemocracyDespite setbacks, there’s still work to be done at the state and local levels. Support grassroots organizations and candidates who align with your vision. Progress is incremental, but every effort matters.5. Prioritize Rest and JoyBurnout is real, and it’s important to care for yourself while caring for others. Dr. Sondra Dalton-Smith’s concept of the seven types of rest—physical, mental, sensory, creative, emotional, social, and spiritual—reminds us that rest isn’t one-size-fits-all. Find what restores you and make it a priority.Final ThoughtsThe road ahead may be tough, but by leaning into community, supporting local efforts, and prioritizing well-being, we can navigate it together. Remember, this is a marathon, not a sprint.Take a moment for yourself today, and let’s continue this work stronger than ever.Until next time, EYV fam.If you enjoyed the show and you want to join our community of other women of color who are embracing their voice head over to https://embracingyourvoicepod.com/Connect with Atima on:InstagramLinkedin

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• On Advocacy & Elections and Building Power for the Latino Community w/Sindy Benavides (President of Latino Victory Fund)

  Ever been that only Black or Latino or Asian person in the room? And you had to advocate for your community's interests too? This is something Sindy Benavides faced a lot throughout her career that led her to work for civil rights organizations working on behalf of the larger Latino community. As President of the Latino Victory Fund (LVF), Sindy's day to day is focused on building political power for Latinos at the local, state and federal level and advocating for issues important to this constituency as well. As a long time colleague and friend in the work, we talk about everything including: her and life and career and why she thought it important to go to an HBCU for college (and how that informs her work today), how she got her start in politics, the importance of trusting your gut and speaking your truth (even if does make you anxious as hell), we also get to what happened with the Latino Vote in the 2024 election and what she and LVF are planning for the road ahead.If you enjoyed the show and you want to join our community of other women of color who are embracing their voice head over to https://embracingyourvoicepod.com/Connect with Atima on:InstagramLinkedin

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• Special Episode: WTF Happened in the 2024 Election and What's Next

  Hey EYV fam, this wasn’t the conversation I hoped we’d be having after the 2024 election. Instead of looking ahead to progressive change, we’re unpacking what went wrong—and where we found moments of hope. Despite the results of the presidential election, there were historic wins for women of color, progressive ballot measures, and a brighter path in certain states. But we can’t ignore the challenges ahead, especially for marginalized communities. In this episode, I reflect on: - Historic Wins: The first two Black women elected to the U.S. Senate, pro-choice Democratic victories, and groundbreaking firsts like Sarah McBride, the first openly trans member of Congress. - Ballot Measures: From protecting abortion rights to climate policies, there were wins that matter deeply. - The Big Picture: Why Vice President Harris’ loss was driven by factors like misogynoir, misinformation, and economic dissatisfaction—and how they reflect larger systemic issues. - What’s Next:How communities of color, women, and allies can come together to survive and advocate in the face of upcoming challenges. This episode isn’t just about the election—it’s about survival, community, and figuring out where we go from here. I’m asking YOU, my listeners, to share your thoughts: - What resources or topics can I cover to help you navigate these times? - Who do you want to hear from on the show? Email me your thoughts at [email protected] Subscribe to the listserv at EmbracingYourVoicePod.com to get updates and resources.Take care of yourselves. Rest, reflect, and connect with your community. We’re not just rebuilding democracy—we’re ensuring our collective survival. Let’s find ways to support and sustain each other. Mentioned in This Episode: - Season 2, Episode 9: Why Kamala Harris Could and Should Be President - Articles I’ve written on misogynoir and Harris’ treatment as Vice President (links in the show notes) Until next time, EYV fam. ❤️ Here are articles I've written on research on how women of color are treated as candidates and/or elected officials:Navigating Double Standards for Women of Color Candidateshttps://www.genderontheballot.org/navigating-double-standards-for-women-of-color-candidates/Double Standards, Vice Presidency, and Kamala Harrishttps://www.genderontheballot.org/double-standards-the-vice-presidency-kamala-harris/Black Women's Political Leadership: The Barriershttps://www.genderontheballot.org/black-womens-political-leadership-part-2/When The Run: The Challenges Women of Color Face in Politischttps://www.genderontheballot.org/when-they-run-the-challenges-facing-women-of-color-in-politics/

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