A checkbox approach to inclusion creates shallow progress—and people feel it. In this episode, Sacha Thompson talks with Rolando Talbot about what it takes to build workplaces where inclusion is treated like a business function, not a side initiative.

We dig into inclusion as “business DNA,” why it matters for performance and culture, and how teams can create environments where neurodiverse employees (and everyone else) can thrive—without performative efforts that fade when things get hard.

This is Part 2 of last week’s episode: “The 7 Trust Languages: A practical way to rebuild respect, safety, and credibility.” Here, we take the framework into real life—what trust looks like when people are watching whether your actions match your values.

When organizations say “we value inclusion” but people experience something different day to day, trust breaks—fast. In this continuation episode, we unpack the gap between words and actions, why it damages credibility in workplaces and communities, and what it takes to rebuild trust through consistent behavior.

We also share a powerful moment from a community town hall: a resident naming the disconnect between a police department’s mission to “protect and serve” and the lived reality of their actions. It’s a clear example of what happens when values are stated, but not embodied—and why the loss of trust is rational.

In this episode of DEI After 5, I’m joined by Minda Harts to talk about what trust really looks like at work—and how to rebuild it when it’s been strained. We unpack her 7 Trust Languages framework and the everyday behaviors that shape credibility, psychological safety, and team culture. If you’re leading through change or trying to strengthen relationships on your team, this conversation will give you clear language and practical ways to move forward.

In this episode, we dive into the critical relationship between employee experience and customer experience within the hospitality industry and beyond. Our host, Sacha Thompson and this week's guest, Calvin Stovall discuss the importance of inclusion, emphasizing that erasure and exclusion can significantly impact both employees and customers. The conversation highlights that your employees are also your customers, and a positive employee experience is essential for delivering exceptional customer service.

Calvin shares a powerful quote: "There is no positive customer experience until you have a positive employee experience first," underscoring the need for organizations to prioritize their teams.

Tune in for valuable insights on fostering an inclusive environment that benefits everyone involved.

In this episode of DEI After Five, host Sasha welcomes Calvin Stovall, the Chief Experience Officer of Iconic Presentations, to discuss the vital role of hospitality and customer experience across various industries. Calvin shares insights into his work delivering dynamic keynote presentations focused on customer experience and leadership, emphasizing the importance of these concepts in hospitality, healthcare, and real estate. He also highlights his role in the Advanced Leadership Institute, where he is dedicated to preparing African-Americans for leadership positions. Tune in for an engaging conversation on the intersections of customer experience and diversity in leadership.

In this episode of DEI After 5, host Sacha Thompson talks to Dr. Donna Oriowo, a sex and relationship therapist and expert, about the anti-racist and anti-black sentiment that challenges the progress made in DEI circles. Dr. Donna Oriowo speaks about her work in the intersection of DEI, mental health, and sexual health, and provides insights on how we can combat these sentiments and move towards a more inclusive society.

In Part 3 and the final episode with guest Ofentse Lakwane, we explore the importance of genuine commitment from employers towards their employees, moving beyond mere lip service. We discuss how quickly employees can identify insincerity and the necessity for organizations to uphold a higher standard of care and support. They emphasize the significance of accessibility in the workplace, highlighting that everyone, at some point, may require accommodations to succeed. The conversation also touches on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has altered the way many individuals experience disabilities and necessitated a more inclusive approach in professional settings.

Tune in for insights on fostering a supportive work environment that truly values employee well-being.

In this week's episode of DEI After 5, we continue our engaging conversation with Ofense Lakwane, diving deeper into the concept of intentionality in creating inclusive workplaces. We explore the distinction between performative actions and genuine efforts, highlighting the importance of not just checking boxes, but truly understanding and addressing the needs of all individuals.

A powerful example is shared about the misuse of a wheelchair-accessible stall, illustrating how organizations sometimes fail to deliver on their commitments to accessibility. We discuss the need for organizations to celebrate their successes while also acknowledging areas for improvement, emphasizing that fostering an inclusive culture requires ongoing effort and awareness.

Join us as we reflect on what it truly means to create spaces where everyone feels valued and included.