• Legacy: Racism in Medicine
    Sep 13 2024
    Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV Season 5, Episode 5 Episode Title: Legacy: Racism in Medicine Guest: Dr. Uché Blackstock Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV is a podcast that explores all things diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) related. In each episode, Oscar and his guests have lively discussions around DEI topics, explore the latest research on the topic, and discuss the implications so that listeners will be more knowledgeable about the topics and be able to apply the insights to their lives. Show Summary: "The under 6% representation of Black physicians stems from policies like the Flexner Report, which closed many HBCU medical schools, reducing Black doctors and care quality in underserved communities. We must correct these injustices by improving access to education and support in medical training." — Dr. Uché Blackstock Black physicians have shown resilience, but systemic barriers persist across generations. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Uché Blackstock, a physician, health equity advocate, and author of Legacy: A Black Physician Reckons with Racism in Medicine. She’s focused on breaking down these barriers to improve care for marginalized communities. We explore the history of Black representation in medicine, the impact of systemic racism, and urgent reforms for equitable healthcare. Dr. Blackstock offers actionable steps for change, making this a vital listen for anyone committed to health equity. 3 Exceptional Highlights: Even with Harvard degrees, Black individuals still face major health disparities due to systemic and interpersonal racism. Socioeconomic status helps, but Black families still have fewer resources than white families, limiting access to education and opportunities. AAMC data shows wealthier students perform better on the MCAT and are more represented in medical schools due to better access to resources, not intelligence. Show Highlights: Can you discuss your mother’s journey as a black woman in medicine and the lessons you learned from her? 02:35 - Dr. Uché Blackstock My mother overcame tough challenges growing up. As the first in her family to attend college, she went on to Harvard Medical School. Her journey taught me the value of returning to serve your community, no matter your education. What are some urgent reforms needed in our healthcare system to address disparities? 13:07 - Dr. Uché Blackstock Opening new medical schools is a step in the right direction, but we need federally and privately funded pipeline programs from early education and more equitable learning environments. How does the wealth gap contribute to the opportunity gap in education, particularly in medical school? 14:51 - Dr. Oscar Holmes IV Unlike fully funded PhD programs, law and medical schools require a full-time commitment and significant financial resources, disadvantaging those without support. What advice would you give to patients who feel they are not receiving the best health care, and how can they advocate for themselves? 24:47 - Dr. Uché Blackstock Prepare questions, bring support, ask about your diagnosis and treatment, and don't hesitate to get second opinions if unsure about your care. Can you share some insights about your mentors and any critical advice that helped you through tough times? 29:15 - Dr. Uché Blackstock Cross-racial mentoring is essential. Seek out mentors, and offer mentorship when you can. Important Links: Dr. Uchè Blackstock Advancing Health Equity Legacy: A Black Physician Reckons with Racism in Medicine Episode Sponsor Links: www.whconsultingfirm.com Producer Links: WH Consulting Firm Diversity Matters Podcast Section Pod Kai Media Host Social Media Links: Twitter LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Subscribe to Diversity Matters Apple | Google | Spotify | Stitcher
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    31 mins
  • Raising Native American Voices
    Jun 22 2024
    Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV Season 5, Episode 4 Episode Title: Raising Native American Voices Guest: Dr. Joe Gladstone Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV is a podcast that explores all things diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) related. In each episode, Oscar and his guests have lively discussions around DEI topics, explore the latest research on the topic, and discuss the implications so that listeners will be more knowledgeable about the topics and be able to apply the insights to their lives. Show Summary: "For any Native American advocate, be who you are, find what you’re passionate about, and do your best not to let people talk you out of it. Things won't change instantly, but in the grand scheme of things, good work done diligently will ultimately prevail.” — Dr. Joe Gladstone Too often, the vibrant tapestry of Native American cultures gets flattened into a single, oversimplified narrative. But their powerful voices demand to be heard in all their diversity. In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Joe Gladstone, whose roots span the Blackfeet Tribe of Montana and Nez Perce. As an esteemed educator, he's on a mission to bridge the worlds of modern management principles and the rich wisdom of Native and Indigenous cultures. Currently, he is an Associate Professor of Management at Washington State University’s Carson College of Business. From exploring the deep symbolism of land acknowledgment ceremonies to preserving Indigenous languages, his insights will challenge you to reflect on the profound respect owed to Native communities. We also touch upon transplanar wisdom, a foundational Native American and Indigenous philosophy, and its influences on organization management and business ethics. 3 Exceptional Highlights: Over 500 federally recognized Native American tribes in the U.S. retain sovereignty, as enshrined in the Constitution defining them as sovereign nations alongside foreign states. Land acknowledgments should be accompanied by tangible efforts to recognize, honor, and give back to the Native communities that have historically been connected to that land. Rather than deeming any Native tradition or culture obsolete, we must examine which ones are genuinely authentic to pre-reservation times and which are more recent adaptations. Show Highlights: Can you share how your cultural heritage has influenced your personal and professional journey? 02:31 - Dr. Joe Gladstone Working with tribes has given me a deep understanding of how different cultures perceive and navigate the world. This understanding has influenced my focus as an educator on respecting and helping others draw from their own experiences. What does it mean to be enrolled into a particular tribe, and what does life look like for people on reservations? 08:39 - Dr. Joe Gladstone Each tribe has its own rules around enrollment, which is essentially citizenship. For many tribes like the Blackfeet, you need a certain 'blood quantum' or degree of ancestry to enroll. Your enrollment is usually decided by your parents when you're young based on the tribe's rules. Reservation life ranges from isolated rural communities to urban existences, depending on the tribe's geography and enterprises. What does The PhD Project mean to you? 14:37 - Dr. Joe Gladstone I’m grateful to the PhD Project for connecting me to schools like New Mexico State that were interested in my background with American Indian communities. For minorities to build strong economies, we need business skills around making, managing, and accounting for money. Having professors who look like the students and can make business real for them keeps them engaged to graduate. One of the things that I often get asked is about the practice of Land Acknowledgments and whether or not people should do them. What is your take on it? 21:46 - Dr. Joe Gladstone Land acknowledgments have a deep spiritual tradition among Native peoples. When entering someone else's land, we acknowledge that we are guests, honor past inhabitants, respect the current stewards and their rules, and commit to protecting the land for future generations. How can organizations show authentic respect alongside land acknowledgment ceremonies? 25:15 - Dr. Joe Gladstone Simply saying the words of a land acknowledgment is not enough. Organizations should pair the acknowledgment with concrete actions to give back to the tribal communities whose land they occupy, like building a park, rehabilitating land, holding an annual ceremony/event, etc. Another way would be to educate themselves about the specific Indigenous people who originally lived on and knew that land intimately. We know there are difficulties in preserving Native American culture and art plays an important role in doing that. One of my favorite The Moth episodes is a story that Manuelito Wheeler shared wherein he spearheaded ...
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    49 mins
  • DEI Backlash
    Jun 1 2024
    Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV Season 5, Episode 3 Episode Title: DEI Backlash Guest: Dr. Enobong “Anna” Branch Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV is a podcast that explores all things diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) related. In each episode, Oscar and his guests have lively discussions around DEI topics, explore the latest research on the topic, and discuss the implications so that listeners will be more knowledgeable about the topics and be able to apply the insights to their lives. Show Summary: “Despite efforts to dismantle DEI, our inherent differences remain. These differences will continue to shape our neighborhoods, school systems, and nation. Will we accept inequity and division or invest in an inclusive future for all?” — Anna Branch America's strength lies in its diversity. But as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts face scrutiny, how can we ensure the American Dream remains achievable for everyone? In this episode, we're privileged to have Dr. Enobong "Anna" Branch join us for an insightful discussion around this timely topic. Dr. Branch is the esteemed Senior Vice President for Equity at Rutgers University, where she provides strategic leadership to ensure equity is embedded across research, education, and public engagement for faculty, staff, and students. Drawing from her extensive expertise in confronting DEI challenges, Dr. Branch offers invaluable perspectives on navigating the evolving DEI landscape. Her insights illuminate pathways to overcome systemic barriers and build a more equitable future where opportunity knows no boundaries. 3 Exceptional Highlights: True progress in diversity and inclusion requires not only representation but also actively addressing the unique challenges faced by underrepresented groups in leadership roles. Schools must champion equity, not just equality. This means dismantling racial bias and fostering a truly inclusive environment for all students. The promise and myth of the "American Dream" being achievable through hard work resonates across racial/ethnic groups. However, this myth overlooks broader systemic factors, which can lead other minority groups to question why Black Americans haven't succeeded. Show Highlights: What lessons have you learned as a leader for equity at this moment? 08:15 - Anna Branch Embracing directionality and progress, even during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic, is crucial for effective leadership. If we aren't intentional about creating environments that allow people of diverse backgrounds to thrive in higher education, we will be in trouble. What inspired you to write the book "Work in Black and White," and what should readers gain from it? 15:34 - Anna Branch The book aims to explore how workers themselves understand and experience labor market inequality, moving beyond trends and data. Changing labor dynamics challenged the job stability and American Dream notion of hard work alone leading to success, prompting the re-examining of these concepts through racial experiences. How can we address racial inequalities without conflating first-generation status? 19:41 - Anna Branch Being a first-generation student means navigating unspoken academic rules and norms that can pose challenges if not properly supported. Assumptions, stereotypes, and lack of representation can undermine the sense of belonging for students of color, regardless of their generational status. Is education alone enough to achieve the American Dream? 27:32 - Anna Branch Distressingly, Black women with terminal degrees can earn similar incomes as white men with only some college education, highlighting educational attainment not translating to equal economic opportunities across races. How can we approach the current level of backlash against DEI efforts today? 38:24 - Anna Branch Early DEI efforts (post-2020) prioritized hiring over tackling systemic issues within institutions. The real work is dismantling these ingrained patterns of inequity. What is your advice for finding joy? 53:11 - Anna Branch Black joy is a powerful act of resistance. It defies the narrative of suffering and celebrates the beauty of simply existing. We are human beings, not just human doings. Taking time to simply "be" can bring peace in a chaotic world. Important Links: Anna Branch - Senior VP for Equity at Rutgers Division of Diversity, Inclusion and Community Engagement Anna Branch on LinkedIn Get the book Work in Black and White by Enobong Hannah Branch (Author), Caroline Hanley Episode Sponsor Links: www.whconsultingfirm.com Producer Links: WH Consulting Firm Diversity Matters Podcast Section Pod Kai Media Host Social Media Links: Twitter LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Subscribe to Diversity Matters Apple | Google | Spotify | Stitcher
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    54 mins
  • Effective Allyship
    May 11 2024
    Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV Season 5, Episode 2 Episode Title: Effective Allyship Guest: Julie Kratz Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV is a podcast that explores all things diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) related. In each episode, Oscar and his guests have lively discussions around DEI topics, explore the latest research on the topic, and discuss the implications so that listeners will be more knowledgeable about the topics and be able to apply the insights to their lives. Show Summary: “True allyship stems from genuine, sustained efforts to support marginalized groups, amplify their voices, and remove obstacles without seeking personal credit or fame. It requires intentional, consistent actions in both personal and professional spheres.” — Julie Kratz In the ongoing pursuit of a more equitable and inclusive world, the concept of allyship has emerged as a powerful force for change. But what does it truly mean to be an ally? And how can we move beyond performative gestures to create lasting, meaningful impact? This episode dives deep into these questions with our guest Julie Kratz. Julie has dedicated her career to empowering people to become better allies. After her own experiences in corporate America, she founded her own speaking business to help organizations foster inclusive environments. Julie is an accomplished Forbes contributor, podcast co-host, TEDx speaker, and author of six books, one of which we will go in-depth today: Allyship in Action. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion with Julie Kratz. Through honest conversations and practical examples, she challenges us to confront our own biases and explore actionable strategies for building genuine allyship. 3 Exceptional Highlights: One of the biggest challenges with DEI work is that many people don't fully understand what it means, and there are false narratives and misconceptions around terms like "diversity hire" circulating. Subconscious biases can perpetuate inequities within existing systems. We must evaluate all individuals based on demonstrable performance rather than perceived potential. Sustainable change in DEI requires a series of smaller, consistent actions rather than overwhelming initiatives, which proves more effective in fostering long-term shifts. Show Highlights: Was there a specific event or experience that spurred you to write Allyship in Action? 06:45 Julie Kratz The book was inspired by my own journey. But seeing my daughter experience microaggressions and witnessing them herself truly drove the point home. We need more tools to be better allies. Your book references the concept of "white guilt." Can you elaborate on this idea? 10:32 Julie Kratz It refers to the discomfort and guilt white people feel when having to confront or think about their whiteness and privilege in a white supremacist culture. White privilege enables the ability to move freely and avoid repercussions for certain behaviors that would not be acceptable for people of color. Moving from apathy/denial to awareness about white privilege is a crucial step, but education is still needed to help more people reach that awareness. Moving beyond awareness to action is a significant hurdle. What strategies can bridge this gap and dismantle systems of advantage? 14:51 Julie Kratz The systems were designed by and for certain groups to succeed, making systemic change challenging but necessary work. Corporations need to examine processes like hiring, job descriptions, and promotion criteria to remove biases perpetuating homogeneity. The surge of allyship witnessed in 2020 seems to be tapering off. What are your insights on this current trend? 18:47 Julie Kratz The biggest gap hampering DEI progress is the lack of lived experiences with microaggressions, harassment, and belittling that underrepresented groups face, which is hard for others to grasp fully. Engaging people with curiosity and prompting them to explain their understanding can often lead them to realize their stance is flawed. Your book mentions the myth of meritocracy alongside the challenge of limited lived experiences. Can you elaborate on how these ideas intertwine to hinder progress? 26:11 Julie Kratz The myth of meritocracy is the belief that success is solely based on hard work and individual merit, disregarding systemic barriers faced by marginalized groups. We need to reframe the idea of "privilege" as an opportunity to be an ally and leverage one's advantages to support others rather than view it negatively. A prevailing notion suggests that DEI is a zero-sum game. Can you share your thoughts on this perspective? 30:58 Julie Kratz The zero-sum game is such a harmful mentality. It isn't an ”I lose, you win.” When we share resources, we all benefit. Having diverse teams and inclusive environments expands opportunities and benefits for everyone rather than ...
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    45 mins
  • TransLivesMatterN.O.W.
    Apr 26 2024
    Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV Season 5, Episode 1 Episode Title: TransLivesMatter N.O.W. Guest: Angelica Ross Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV is a podcast that explores all things diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) related. In each episode, Oscar and his guests have lively discussions around DEI topics, explore the latest research on the topic, and discuss the implications so that listeners will be more knowledgeable about the topics and be able to apply the insights to their lives. Show Summary: "Society's messaging devaluing LGBTQ+ lives, especially Black trans people, perpetuates tragic cycles of oppression and suicide. We must dismantle these systems alongside the community, fostering spaces to heal so all humans can be truly valued." — Angelica Ross The fight for diversity, equality, and inclusion has raged across streets, schools, and workplaces. However, Angelica Ross, an Emmy-nominated actress and activist, took that fight further by bringing authentic transgender characters to life on groundbreaking shows like Pose and American Horror Story. Yet her multi-talented impact extends beyond Hollywood. Through her TransTech incubator and podcast N.O.W. (No Opportunity Wasted), Ross empowers marginalized LGBTQIA+ voices. In this episode, Ross opens up about her iconic "Candy" role, her reasons behind leaving Hollywood, and how Buddhism provided clarity amid turbulence - inspiring her advocacy work. She also shares her vision for political office and the transformative policies she aims to enact to help transgender people of color not just survive but thrive. Join us for this powerful yet refreshingly candid conversation with Angelica Ross, celebrating authenticity, resilience, and effecting change. 3 Exceptional Highlights: Pose showcased the unwavering courage of trans people who fight for authenticity, even when it means facing violence, discrimination, and rejection. Black trans women, despite their immense contributions to art, fashion, and social Despite the enormous contributions Black trans women make to art, fashion, and activism, they continue to face marginalization and exploitation. One should look inward for a deep sense of self-worth and choose moment-by-moment to overcome darker impulses and live authentically. Show Highlights: 01:44 - Angelica Ross discusses her role in "Pose" and its cultural significance for transgender women of color 04:04 - Her experience as an undervalued, marginalized Black transgender woman in Hollywood 10:24 - Behind-the-scenes look at Angelica's iconic "Candy" lipsync performance. 11:31 - How Angelica healed her relationship with her mother despite a rocky period 18:23 - Why Buddhism resonated strongly with Ross and why she wants to introduce it to others 27:28 - The vision of the No Opportunity Wasted Podcast as a larger cultural movement 31:39 - Decriminalizing sex work, addressing oppression, fighting for transgender rights 37:05 - Unique challenges faced by Black transgender women in tech industry 42:57 - What to expect from Angelica Ross's political run and campaign platform 47:43 - Overview of Angelica's upcoming exciting new projects and initiatives Important Links: Angelica Ross - https://missross.com/ N.O.W. No Opportunity Wasted Podcast - https://art19.com/shows/no-opportunity-wasted Episode Sponsor Links: www.whconsultingfirm.com Producer Links: WH Consulting Firm Diversity Matters Podcast Section Pod Kai Media Host Social Media Links: Twitter LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Subscribe to Diversity Matters Apple | Google | Spotify | Stitcher
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    45 mins
  • Social Class Mobility
    May 2 2023
    Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV Season 4 Episode 6 Episode Title: Social Class Mobility Guest: Dr. Sean Martin   Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV is a podcast that explores all things diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) related. In each episode, Oscar and his guests have lively discussions around DEI topics, explore the latest research on the topic, and discuss the implications so that listeners will be more knowledgeable about the topics and be able to apply the insights to their lives.   Show Summary:  “Society often overlooks people who have been upwardly mobile despite having valuable qualities like persistence, grit, and initiative. To truly create a diversity of experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives, it is crucial to recognize and value those from less privileged backgrounds.” – Dr. Sean Martin   Social mobility is a cornerstone of the American Dream, a beacon of hope that promises anyone can rise above their starting point and achieve success through hard work and determination. Yet, the reality is far more complicated, and social class can have a profound impact on a person's life trajectory.   To shed light on this topic, we have the privilege of welcoming Dr. Sean Martin as the guest chair. With his award-winning research on leadership, organizational culture, and societal contexts' effect on leaders and followers, Dr. Martin is a leading authority on the topic.   In this episode, we'll explore the concept of social class and mobility, the challenges faced by people in different social strata, and the implications for diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.   Join us on this journey as we delve into the fascinating world of social class and its influence on our society.   3 Exceptional Highlights:   Social class is a position of advantage or disadvantage you have compared to others based on factors like income, education, and occupation, which determine your access to valued resources in society and your ability to succeed. Coming from a less privileged background requires building strong community relationships, which are valuable forms of currency for social support. This mindset can lead to good leadership and teamwork skills in the workplace. Despite society's positive bias towards individuals who have achieved upward mobility, there still seems to be a hesitancy to hire them.   Show Highlights:    02:51 - What is social class and how Dr. Martin found interest in this research area   07:56 - Understanding the importance of social class and mobility from a DEI perspective   14:43 - The cultural contradiction of valuing upward mobility and the American Dream while stigmatizing those who achieve it   22:28 - Dr. Martin’s views on the Varsity Blues scandal and how those with privilege can use it to game the system   23:55 - Various ways in which different systems allow individuals to circumvent rules and regulations, including those that are formalized and encouraged   25:53 - Why labeling the United States as a classless society is a fallacy   27:20 - Is it possible for prestigious institutions or elite organizations to co-exist in a fair and equitable world?   31:17 - Strategies for countervailing the data that suggests growing up in privileged environments leads to a more independent mindset   35:22 - Challenges faced by those in the upper class and their impact on shaping society   39:23 - Further social class research Dr. Martin hopes to investigate   —--   Important Links: Dr. Sean Martin - https://www.darden.virginia.edu/faculty-research/directory/sean-martin Episode Sponsor Links:  www.whconsultingfirm.com   Producer Links: WH Consulting Firm Diversity Matters Podcast Section Pod Kai Media   Host Social Media Links: Twitter LinkedIn Facebook Instagram   Subscribe to Diversity Matters  Apple | Google | Spotify | Stitcher 
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    46 mins
  • Disability & Accessibility Awareness
    38 mins
  • Advancing DEI: The Necessary Journey
    Apr 3 2023
    Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV Season 4 Episode 4 Episode Title: Advancing DEI: The Necessary Journey Guest: Dr. Ella F. Washington   Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV is a podcast that explores all things diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) related. In each episode, Oscar and his guests have lively discussions around DEI topics, explore the latest research on the topic, and discuss the implications so that listeners will be more knowledgeable about the topics and be able to apply the insights to their lives.   Show Summary:  “Passion does not create more hours in the day. It's unfair to expect those most impacted by the lack of diversity, equity, and inclusion to fix the problem without compensation. Organizations with limited budgets should find creative solutions.” – Dr. Ella Washington.   Many organizations today recognize the importance of workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion. However, many struggle to implement effective strategies that promote diverse perspectives, create equitable opportunities, and foster an inclusive workplace culture.   As a result of this struggle, organizations may experience a lack of innovation, reduced employee engagement, and exclusion of underrepresented groups, negatively impacting both their employees and the entire organization. Thus, there is a need to explore practical solutions and insights to help these companies reach meaningful and sustainable outcomes and achieve their DEI goals.    In this episode, we have a fantastic scholar and consultant, Dr. Ella Washington, who shares her insights and expertise on the topic of DEI, which is also the subject of her new book, The Necessary Journey. Dr. Washington has extensive experience in the human capital space, impacting clients across various industries, including finance, entertainment, and higher education. She is a professor of practice at Georgetown University's McDonough School of Business and the Founder and CEO of Ellavate Solutions.   Whether you're a leader, employee, or academic, Dr. Washington's unique perspective will inspire you to think outside the box and build a truly diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace.   3 Exceptional Highlights:   The journey toward diversity, equity, and inclusion is a gradual process that requires sustained effort and time to achieve structural and systemic change. Diversity of thought should not replace demographic diversity, which should remain a foundational goal until representation goals are achieved at every level. A workplace utopia is a space where bias and exclusion are dismantled, and individuals are valued for their strengths, allowing everyone to thrive.   Show Highlights:    03:18 - What inspired Dr. Ella Washington to write The Necessary Journey?   09:29 - Discover the five stages of the DEI Maturity Model   13:54 - Hesitations most companies face when being classified in early stages, such as Awareness or Compliance   15:38 - How to foster diversity of thought and allow for constructive discourse to achieve optimal business outcomes   18:53 - The most common pitfalls organizations encounter on their DEI journey   23:14 - The impact of inadequate DEI support and lack of real commitment from organizations   24:54 - The emotional and visceral toll employees face when DEI initiatives are not supported in the workplace   27:18 - Senior leadership can improve their understanding of DEI through cost-effective strategies   29:19 - When to hire a Chief Diversity Officer and how to prepare for the hiring process   33:38 - Foster innovation to build a truly diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace   35:23 - How can organizations ensure that their employee resource groups (ERGs) are not used to exploit the labor of their members?   —--   Important Links: Dr. Ella Washington - https://www.ellavatesolutions.com/ The Necessary Journey - https://amzn.to/3lYI9O2 Dr. Ella Washington with Gallup on The Cultural Competence - https://apple.co/3K0vEtp Episode Sponsor Links:  www.phdproject.org Producer Links: WH Consulting Firm Diversity Matters Podcast Section Pod Kai Media   Host Social Media Links: Twitter LinkedIn Facebook Instagram   Subscribe to Diversity Matters  Apple | Google | Spotify | Stitcher 
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    40 mins