What does it take to create a workplace that truly works for everyone? Global talent advisor Stacey Gordon has dedicated her career to answering this question through her company, Rework Work.

In this candid conversation with hosts Justin Reiner and Dr. Britt Andreatta, Stacey reveals her fascinating journey from law school dropout to DEI champion. She shares how leaving a prestigious but personally unfulfilling legal career led her to discover her true calling in making workplaces more equitable. This pivotal career transition taught her valuable lessons about finding meaningful work at the intersection of passion, skill, and avoiding what drains your energy.

Stacey introduces her powerful "Four A's" framework—Awareness, Alignment, Action, and Advocacy—explaining why most organizations fail when they rush past crucial alignment conversations straight to performative actions. She invites listeners into what she calls "the messy middle"—that uncomfortable but necessary space where real organizational change happens through honest conversations about accountability, ownership, and business impact.

The discussion delves into the neuroscience of inclusion, exploring how we can rewire our brains from automatic exclusion to unconscious inclusion through deliberate practice. Stacey challenges listeners to embrace the discomfort that comes with examining biases, just as we willingly accept discomfort when learning new technologies or fitness routines.

Despite the changing political landscape surrounding DEI work, Stacey remains optimistic about creating meaningful change. Her perspective reframes diversity, equity, and inclusion not as separate initiatives but as integrated elements of effective leadership and talent strategy—simply good business practices that ensure opportunities for all.

Connect with Stacey Gordon at reworkwork.substack.com, reworkwork.com, or on LinkedIn to continue the conversation about making your workplace work for everyone.

What happens in our brains when organizations announce major changes? Why do some people embrace change while others resist fiercely? And most importantly, how can leaders create more successful transformation experiences?

Anthony Onesto, Chief People Officer at Suzy, takes us on a fascinating journey through his career—from failed accountant to strategic HR leader—while sharing hard-won wisdom about navigating organizational transformation. Drawing from his experience merging five distinct company cultures and implementing multiple change initiatives, Anthony reveals practical strategies that acknowledge the biological reality of how humans process change.

The conversation explores what Anthony calls the "M&M Method"—a transparent approach to addressing concerns upfront—inspired by Eminem's strategy in rap battles. This approach recognizes that fear is a natural biological response to change rather than an indicator of an employee's performance or commitment. As Anthony explains, "An individual's reaction to change is not indicative of their performance level."

We dive into the four brain structures activated during change (the amygdala, basal ganglia, entorhinal cortex, and habenula) and how understanding these neurological responses can transform resistance into acceptance. The discussion also covers Suzy's implementation of the ChangeQuest model and how simple frameworks help leaders navigate complex transformations more effectively.

Looking toward the future, Anthony shares his perspective on AI's potential impact on HR—both the exciting possibilities for enhancement and legitimate concerns about displacement. His balanced view offers valuable insight for anyone navigating today's rapidly evolving workplace. Whether you're leading change or experiencing it, this episode provides practical wisdom for making transformation more successful and humane.

Find Anthony on these channels:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyonesto/

Website - https://www.anthonyonesto.com/

Newsletter - https://www.flexos.work/ai-in-hr-today

Jennifer Brown's powerful journey from operatic singer to DEI trailblazer reveals the transformative potential of finding purpose after unexpected loss. After losing her singing voice, Jennifer discovered organizational development and diversity work, launching a 25-year career that would position her as one of the most influential voices in inclusive leadership.

In this reflective conversation, Jennifer unpacks the complex dynamics following 2020's racial reckoning—a moment that brought unprecedented attention to DEI work while simultaneously sowing seeds for today's backlash. She offers nuanced insights into navigating this pendulum swing, suggesting that perhaps the intensity of that awakening created challenges for sustainable learning and growth.

Jennifer shares wisdom on facilitating change when emotions run high, explaining why focusing on behaviors rather than beliefs creates more lasting transformation. "When you give people simple, actionable behaviors to practice, the beliefs eventually follow," she notes, echoing neuroscience findings on habit formation. This practical approach provides leaders with tangible steps toward inclusive leadership even when the broader landscape feels threatening.

The discussion explores how younger generations are reshaping workplace expectations around belonging and authenticity. Jennifer explains that while current political winds may be silencing some DEI conversations, the demographic shifts in our workforce and consumer base ensure these issues won't disappear. Companies that fail to create inclusive cultures risk losing both talent and customers who increasingly vote with their feet and dollars.

Despite acknowledging the current "trough" in DEI work, Jennifer remains fundamentally hopeful. "There are more people than ever trying to bend that arc of the moral universe," she reflects. Her forward-looking perspective includes new writing projects and her commitment to elevating diverse thought leaders who will shape tomorrow's conversation about belonging.

Ready to navigate today's complex DEI landscape with compassion and strategic insight? Listen now and discover practical approaches for fostering inclusion in challenging times.