03: Performative or Transformative? How to Tell the Difference
Release Date: 09/11/2025
03: Performative or Transformative? How to Tell the Difference
DEI Will Not Die
In this episode of DEI Will Not Die, Dr Bree Gorman sits down with DEI leader Teresa Lombardo to unpack the difference between performative and transformative DEI. From rainbow lanyards to LinkedIn posts on days of significance, Bree and Teresa get real about why signs and symbols matter—but only when backed by action. They discuss what true system-level change requires, why leadership accountability is critical, and how to tell if your organisation’s DEI efforts are performative gestures or transformative commitments. Listen to this episode so you don't fall into the trap of doing...
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02: The DEI Plan That Actually Gets Done
DEI Will Not Die
In this episode of DEI Will Not Die, Dr Bree Gorman gets candid about why so many DEI strategies fail, and how to create one that actually sparks change. From shifting the focus from “fixing people” to fixing systems, to avoiding the trap of vague metrics and tokenistic actions, Bree shares practical insights to make your plan both realistic and impactful. They discuss why too many actions can backfire, the importance of organisation-wide ownership, and how good governance keeps a plan alive. Whether you’re building a DEI plan from scratch or refreshing an existing one, this episode...
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01: Is DEI Dead? Why the Work Matters Now More Than Ever
DEI Will Not Die
In this debut episode of DEI Will Not Die, Dr Bree Gorman lays the foundation for the podcast with a clear message: while the language and tactics of DEI may change, the need for inclusive, equitable workplaces never goes away. Bree shares the personal and professional journey that led them into diversity, equity and inclusion work—covering everything from higher education to consultancy, ADHD and gender identity. They also reflect on the backlash DEI is facing globally, and why now is the time to double down on real, impactful change. Whether you’re leading DEI strategy, part of an...
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Welcome to DEI Will Not Die
DEI Will Not Die
https://www.breegorman.com/podcast/Is DEI dead? Not even close. DEI Will Not DIE cuts through the noise with sharp, practical insights for DEI practitioners, people leaders and changemakers. Hosted by Bree Gorman, coach, consultant and trusted voice in DEI strategy and inclusive leadership. This podcast dives into the real work behind impactful equity and inclusion. From building DEI plans that don’t gather dust to leading with authenticity, this is your space to reflect, learn and lead with purpose. Show notes and resources: Want to learn more from Bree? Follow me...
info_outlineIn this episode of DEI Will Not Die, Dr Bree Gorman sits down with DEI leader Teresa Lombardo to unpack the difference between performative and transformative DEI.
From rainbow lanyards to LinkedIn posts on days of significance, Bree and Teresa get real about why signs and symbols matter—but only when backed by action. They discuss what true system-level change requires, why leadership accountability is critical, and how to tell if your organisation’s DEI efforts are performative gestures or transformative commitments.
Listen to this episode so you don't fall into the trap of doing performative DEI rather than transformative, sustainable change making.
For tools, coaching, and support: breegorman.com.
Show notes and resources: breegorman.com/podcast
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