The E Word with Karen & Brittany

Send a text BREATHER EPISODE:   Every now and then, we need to hit pause on the heavy stuff and kick back with some laughs! Because let’s be real—life can’t be all serious all the time! ---- Have you ever wondered how a reality TV franchise could mirror the complexities of American society while offering pure entertainment? Karen & Brittany unpack their favorite series, with a special shoutout...

Send a text Karen and Brittany kick off the conversation and delve into the excitement of the upcoming U.S. presidential election, focusing on Vice President Kamala Harris' run. Her candidacy is not just a political event; it's a cultural moment that resonates across communities. They share their admiration for Harris' leadership style, her knack for connecting with diverse voters t...

Send a text This episode unpacks monumental moments like Mexico's inaugural woman president and the significance of a mixed-race Black woman running for the U.S. presidency. The challenges faced by political figures like Kamala Harris are front and center, as Karen & Brittany tackle perceptions and the crucial role of shared democratic responsibilities. They discuss the complex interplay...

Send a text Ever wondered how polished delivery can overshadow policy substance? We promise you'll learn how vice-presidential debates often favor soundbites and media-savvy appearances, potentially leading to public misconceptions. Brittany and Karen discuss the nuances of political communication, highlighting the importance of critical thinking and the role social media platforms like TikTo...

Send a text Is academic freedom a shield for hate speech, or should educators be held accountable for perpetuating racism? Karen & Brittany confront the provocative actions of Professor Amy Wax at the University of Pennsylvania, whose racially insensitive remarks have sparked controversy. As we dissect her advocacy for "cultural distance nationalism" and the alarming public disclosur...

Send a text Ever wondered how Corporate America shapes its political landscape? Tune into "The E-Word" as we discuss the recent endorsement of Kamala Harris by 88 powerhouse CEOs. We'll uncover what this wave of support means for economic stability and corporate trust and why companies are now more compelled than ever to take definitive political and social stances. Our conversation...

Send a text How do fear and hope drive American politics in opposite directions? Join us as we explore this provocative question, beginning with a deep dive into the often-ignored "E" in DEI—equity. We examine the stark contrasts between the Democratic and Republican National Conventions, focusing on the cultural ramifications of VP picks JD Vance and Kamala Harris. We also discuss the p...

Send a text Is Kamala Harris' multiracial identity being used as a political weapon? Join Karen & Brittany as they confront this controversial issue head-on, sparked by provocative remarks at the recent NABJ event featuring the Republican presidential nominee. This episode delves deep into the complexities of race and identity in America, focusing on how Kamala Harris' multifaceted h...

Send a text Imagine the powerful combination of Kamala Harris' diverse heritage and her historic nomination as the presumptive Democratic nominee for president. Join our celebration of this milestone as we discuss the significance of her candidacy, representing Black, South Asian, Jamaican, and immigrant communities. Hear about the enthusiastic response from voters, especially young people, a...

Send a text Is SHRM abandoning equity? Join Brittany and Karen as they dissect SHRM's rather confusing shift from diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) to a narrower focus on inclusion and diversity (I&D). In this episode, Brittany and Karen: Dig into the implications of omitting "equity" from the equation, especially given its critical role in creating truly inclus...

Send a text Ever found yourself echoing the unheard prophecies of Cassandra, the Trojan priestess doomed to speak truths no one would believe? That's the thread Karen & Brittany tug at as they explore the labyrinth of trust and credibility, where the workplace becomes our modern-day Troy. In this episode, Karen and Brittany peel back the layers on why certain voices are bolstered and othe...

Send a text Every strand tells a story, and in our latest episode, we weave through the complex tapestry of hair's role in equity and self-expression. I open up about the personal hurdles I've faced sporting dreads and dyed hair in professional spheres, while we also unravel the historical battles for acceptance that many like Daryl George have endured. This isn't just talking about...

Send a text Karen and Brittany explore the impact of the June 2023 Affirmative Action ruling and the lawsuit against Fearless Fund , a VC firm dedicated to providing pre-seed, seed-level, and Series-A financing to women of color.  They dissect the argument of the lawsuit's leader, who believes race should not be a factor in decision-making, and highlight how this legal shift ignores systemic...

Send a text Karen & Brittany's candid conversation sheds light on the systemic obstacles Black women leaders face climbing the corporate ladder back by disturbing findings from the McKinsey and LeanIn 2022 report. Learn how Black women, ambitious and poised for executive roles, are still being underestimated and labeled, their judgment second-guessed, and resilience tested in today's...

Send a text Discover how the landscape of marketing leadership is being reshaped with a historic shift towards female empowerment, as we examine what it really means to hold power and influence in this competitive industry. Celebrations may be in order for the rise of women to 51% of Chief Marketing Officer roles, but we peel back the veneer to question the equity within this progress, particularl...

Send a text This E Word is hosted by Brittany S. Hale and Karen McFarlane. Brittany S. Hale, Founder and CEO, BND Consulting Brittany S. Hale transcends the conventional role of  Founder and CEO; she stands as a visionary, catalyst for transformative change, and beacon of inspiration for leaders across diverse industries. With a background in litigation, politics, and risk management, Brittany has...