Reconstructing Inclusion Podcast

Imagine a workplace where every employee, regardless of their differences, is set up to thrive. A place where managers are charged not just with hitting targets, but with creating an environment where even those they clash with can excel. Sound like a fantasy? It's not. This is the reality of what I call an "inclusion system," and it's the key to transforming your organization from a fragile puddl...

In this episode, Amri B. Johnson, host of the Reconstructing Inclusion Podcast, revisits ten insightful questions from his past podcast appearances, offering a comprehensive look at his approach to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).   Timestamps 01:55 Amri's background and journey into DEI work 07:00 Relationship between DEI and anti-racism  10:00 Approach to deconstructing and reconstructing...

In this episode, host Amri Johnson welcomes Dr. Jonathan Ashong-Lamptey, founder of The Element of Inclusion, to discuss evidence-based inclusion and its importance in creating more effective diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategies. Timestamps 06:46 Influences and Inspirations: Personal and Professional 16:12 The Importance of Evidence-Based Decision Making 19:33 The Rhetorical Problem i...

Amri B. Johnson acknowledges the growing criticism of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, but argues that DEI remains crucial for organizational success in creating truly inclusive cultures. He believes many current strategies treat inclusion as an add-on rather than fundamentally rethinking systems and cultures, often failing to drive deep systemic change. Season two of the Reconstruc...

In this episode of the Reconstructing Inclusion Podcast, host Amri Johnson interviews Raquel Ark, an expert on the art and science of listening. They discuss the importance of listening for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and how it can be practiced and improved upon both personally and professionally. Raquel shares insights into her background, growing up between cultures, and how it shap...

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit reconstructinginclusion.substack.com In this video, I reflect on the importance of receiving meaningful feedback and its impact on personal growth and professional development. Drawing inspiration from a recent encounter with a client, I discuss the importance of acknowledging praise to foster a positive environment that encourages grow...

In this episode of the ‘Reconstructing Inclusion’ podcast, Amri expresses concerns over the perceived threats to DEI, outlining that the resistance stems from a misunderstanding of what DEI truly signifies, beyond just representation and affirmative action. He explores the concept of 'Iatrogenic effects'—a medical term, indicating a treatment that causes more harm than good. Amri draws parallels b...

In this episode of the ‘Reconstructing Inclusion’ podcast, Amri interviews Laura Smith, a celebrated organizational researcher and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) strategist. Laura shares her journey from Detroit to Europe, her encounters with distinct cultures, and the notion of work in different countries. She highlights the significance of DEI in startup and scale-up companies, discussin...

In celebration of Black History Month, I urge all of us to integrate Black History teachings into our daily lives. To learn about Black, African, and African-American history, not only during this month, but throughout the year. I recently came across a post responding to criticisms that DEI initiatives lower standards. In my opinion, this notion is misguided and indicative of a form of “Affinity...

In this video, I share key insights from a recent keynote I did about “The Beloved Community”, echoing Dr. Cornel West's belief that love should involve an unwavering dedication to the well-being of the so-called “other”. The idea of “otherness”, and the notion of “us and them” contradicts true belonging. I urge us to resist the temptation to prioritize our own comfort and ego, which I see as a fo...

In this video, I share my thoughts on how often DEI is criticized without further understanding what it encompasses. There is a lack of robust discussion on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), with people often overreacting in DEI conversations. I had a recent dialogue with a colleague about an article on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and what could have been his thoughts on DEI. It was a great o...

In this video, I share my perspective on the current state of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in light of recent controversies, particularly focusing on the scenario surrounding Harvard’s former president. Is DEI under attack? Let’s talk about the implications of positioning a single individual or personality as the face of DEI, and how this oversimplification could undermine the ideals it...

In this episode of the 'Reconstructing Inclusion' podcast, host, Amri B. Johnson , engages in an enlightening conversation with his mother, Dr. Harriett D. Johnson, bringing out profound narratives about her life, family history, experiences, and take on DEI, and professional journey as an educator. They touched on the impact of history on current diversity and inclusion practices, based on Dr. Jo...

In this episode of the ‘Reconstructing Inclusion’ podcast, Amri chats with Dr. Starling David Hunter III, who, having lived outside the U.S. for 18 years, recognizes the importance of cultural nuances in shaping organizational behavior theories. He shared valuable insights into his journey from engineering to organizational behavior, emphasizing the importance of bridging theory and practice. The...

In this episode of the ‘Reconstructing Inclusion’ podcast, Amri provides a deep dive into the complexities of DEI outcomes and calls for a broader, more inclusive approach that engages all individuals in fostering change. He encourages everyone to contemplate how to make DEI accessible, actionable, and sustainable for everyone, irrespective of their role or expertise. Amri also talks about Inclusi...

In this episode of the ‘Reconstructing Inclusion’ podcast, Amri chats with Dr. David Livermore , founder of the Cultural Intelligence Center, and author of the book, Digital, Diverse & Divided: How to Talk to Racists, Compete With Robots, and Overcome Polarization . He shared insights into the profound importance of cultural intelligence (CQ) in our increasingly diverse and digitized world. Wi...

In this episode of the ‘Reconstructing Inclusion’ podcast, Amri discusses recent developments in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) primarily focused on the U.S. context but with global relevance. He emphasizes the importance of clear communication regarding DEI's impact and significance and to avoid becoming overly reactive to political statements, as this can inadvertently amplify their impa...

In this episode of the ‘Reconstructing Inclusion’ podcast, Amri is joined by 3 key members of the Diversity Atlas team: Peter Mousaferiadis, Rezza Moieni, and Michael Walmsley. The discussion delves deeper into the concept of intersectionality and its role in shaping diverse identities. Learn how Diversity Atlas takes a multifactorial approach, allowing individuals to define their identities acros...

In this episode of the ‘Reconstructing Inclusion’ podcast, Amri along with esteemed Philosophers, Dr. Subrena Smith and Dr. David Livingstone Smith offer profound insights into the complex dynamics of race and its impact on society.  They argued that race is not simply about skin color but encompasses metaphysical views, evolutionary history, and social hierarchies. By ascribing certain traits and...

In this episode, Amri unpacks the social media backlash and the polarized opinions surrounding “Don’t Call Me Karen,” a series of dialogues facilitated by Uber’s Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer, Bo Young Lee. Amri encourages listeners to consider Lee’s profound message and the need to challenge our own strategic ignorance in order to foster systemic change. Key highlights The comparison betw...

In this episode of the ‘Reconstructing Inclusion’ podcast, Amri chats with April Thomas, Chief Solutions Officer of SDMS 360. She shares her story of how she came to be involved in diversity management work after her father, Dr. Roosevelt Thomas Jr.'s passing. April reflects on his approach to diversity, and discovered his work was based on principles and that this resonated with her. Don't miss o...

In this episode of the ‘Reconstructing Inclusion’ podcast, Amri argues that while some individuals are engaging in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and anti-racism work with a generative spirit that deconstructs and reconstructs, many others are becoming entrenched and egoistic, resulting in a breakdown in relatedness.  Key highlights The DEI space is becoming brittle and entrenched rather t...

In this episode of Reconstructing Inclusion, Amri chats with Doug Harris, CEO of The Kaleidoscope Group with over three decades worth of experience in diversity, equity & inclusion consulting. During this inspiring conversation, they discuss how DEI work is about making people better than when you found them - doing it all with love! Discover how powerful individuals can create meaningful chan...

In this first episode of the Reconstructing Inclusion Podcast, hosted by Amri B. Johnson , a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion strategist and author of Reconstructing Inclusion: Making DEI Accessible, Actionable, and Sustainable , he shares at a high level what this podcast is all about.  About the Host As CEO/Founder of Inclusion Wins , Amri and a virtual collective of partners converge organizatio...