#OpenUpTheWorkforce
In these short audio-only episodes, we talk with the top about what it takes to develop and implement inclusive processes. Listen in to interviews with executives advancing inclusion, diversity, and equity for the future of work. Are you increasing access to jobs and wealth creation? We'd love to hear how you are expanding talent development opportunities and career pipelines for all.
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Claudio Vespucci, Vice President of Human Resources at Rockwell Automation
04/18/2024
Claudio Vespucci, Vice President of Human Resources at Rockwell Automation
In this episode of Open Up The Workforce, we're joined by , Vice President of Human Resources at . Claudio is a seasoned HR leader with an impressive track record. Having navigated the complexities of human capital management at industry leaders like HP, SAP, and Samsung, Claudio brings a deep well of knowledge and a sharp eye for the ever-changing needs of the workforce. Throughout his career, Claudio has consistently championed excellence and innovation in HR. Now, we have the chance to unlock his insights – the strategies and philosophies that have shaped his approach to building inclusive workplaces that drive organizational success. The manufacturing industry is undergoing a vital transformation towards Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). This is exemplified by the National Association of Manufacturers' , targeting 300,000 new opportunities for underrepresented communities by 2030. This shift sets the perfect backdrop for our discussion on exciting initiatives within manufacturing and how DEI can act as a powerful growth engine. During our discussion, Claudio, offers a unique perspective, particularly regarding DEI. He shares invaluable insights into its importance and its role in opening up the workforce to greater diversity. He delves into why fostering inclusivity isn't just a moral imperative but a strategic advantage for businesses, driving innovation and enhancing organizational performance. Join us as we delve deeper with Claudio in the podcast where he'll provide a fresh perspective on elevating the employee experience and transforming HR into a catalyst for organizational success.
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37: Interview With Dave Kim, Chief Diversity Officer at NetApp
04/04/2024
37: Interview With Dave Kim, Chief Diversity Officer at NetApp
Presented by Symba, interviews feature executives advancing inclusion, diversity, and equity for the future of work. In these short audio-only episodes, Ahva Sadeghi, Co-founder & Host, speaks with top leaders about what it takes to create accessibility to jobs and wealth creation for future generations. In this episode of , join us as we dive into a captivating conversation with Dave Kim, Chief Diversity Officer at NetApp! For over 20 years, Dave has been a champion for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Join us as he shares his remarkable journey, from navigating the early complexities of corporate culture to building inclusive workplaces today. Dave's insights will empower you to build a more diverse and equitable workforce. Get ready for an inspiring discussion on leadership, resilience, and the power of inclusion!
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36: #OpenUpTheWorkforce With Celeste Warren, Vice President of Global Diversity and Inclusion at Merck
03/28/2024
36: #OpenUpTheWorkforce With Celeste Warren, Vice President of Global Diversity and Inclusion at Merck
Presented by Symba, interviews feature executives advancing inclusion, diversity, and equity for the future of work. In these short audio-only episodes, Ahva Sadeghi, Co-founder & Host, speaks with top leaders about what it takes to create accessibility to jobs and wealth creation for future generations. In this episode of , join us as we sit down with Celeste Warren, Vice President of Global Diversity and Inclusion at Merck! Celeste takes us on a journey through her illustrious 25-year career at Merck, sharing invaluable insights on fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. From her humble beginnings as an HR business partner to her current role shaping the future of talent acquisition, Celeste's story is one of resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to creating a more inclusive workforce.
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35: Open Up The Workforce With Michelle Sims, Chief Executive Officer at YUPRO Placement
03/25/2024
35: Open Up The Workforce With Michelle Sims, Chief Executive Officer at YUPRO Placement
Presented by Symba, interviews feature executives advancing inclusion, diversity, and equity for the future of work. In these short audio-only episodes, Ahva Sadeghi, Co-founder & Host, speaks with top leaders about what it takes to create accessibility to jobs and wealth creation for future generations. In this episode of , get ready to be inspired as we sit down with Michelle Sims, the Chief Executive Officer of YUPRO Placement, a champion for skills-based hiring. Michelle's dedication to fostering equity in the workforce began long before her current role, starting with her experience as a babysitter and YMCA counselor. Leading through a pandemic wasn't easy, but Michelle took the helm of YUPRO Placement just days before it hit. Her unwavering commitment to empowering individuals has never faltered. A recognized leader in diversity and inclusion, Michelle is a three-time honoree on the SIA Global Power Women 150 List. Join us as she dismantles traditional hiring practices and shares invaluable strategies to reshape your talent acquisition for a more inclusive future.
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34: Nichole Barnes Marshall, Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at Pinterest & Dr. Rachel-Yvonne Talton, CEO at Synergy International
03/04/2024
34: Nichole Barnes Marshall, Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at Pinterest & Dr. Rachel-Yvonne Talton, CEO at Synergy International
Join Ahva Sadeghi, Co-founder & Host, as she sits down with Nichole Barnes Marshall, Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at Pinterest, celebrated for her 23 years of trailblazing work across diverse industries, and Ahva Sadeghi, Limited, Inc., a beacon of transformative leadership and empowerment. Together, they share invaluable insights into their remarkable journeys and discuss strategies for fostering inclusivity in the workforce. Tune in and be inspired by their wisdom and vision!
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33: Heather Laychak, VP & Chief People Officer at Aerospace
02/20/2024
33: Heather Laychak, VP & Chief People Officer at Aerospace
In this episode, Ahva interviews Rachael Gibson, Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at Crowe. Rachael gives a sneak peek of her career journey, from a management consultancy role to leading DEI efforts at Crowe. She discusses why self-reporting can enhance accountability toward DEI commitments, and shares best practices for empowering women in the workplace. Rachael also talks about how Crowe leverages employee resource groups in policy making, how DEI leaders can pitch the business case for continued investment, and more.
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32: Rachael Gibson, Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at Crowe
01/29/2024
32: Rachael Gibson, Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at Crowe
In this episode of , Ahva interviews Rachael Gibson, Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at Crowe. Rachael gives a sneak peek of her career journey, from a management consultancy role to leading DEI efforts at Crowe. She discusses why self-reporting can enhance accountability toward DEI commitments, and shares best practices for empowering women in the workplace. Rachael also talks about how Crowe leverages employee resource groups in policy making, how DEI leaders can pitch the business case for continued investment, and more.
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31: Payal Sahni, Chief People Experience Officer and EVP at Pfizer
01/15/2024
31: Payal Sahni, Chief People Experience Officer and EVP at Pfizer
In this episode of , Ahva speaks with Payal Sahni, Chief People Experience Officer and Executive Vice President at Pfizer. Payal lays out why companies need to invest in early careers, sharing how she started out as an intern at Pfizer and zig-zagged her way up to her current executive role. She highlights the groundbreaking Pfizer Refugee Leadership Initiative and the importance of opening doors for talent from all walks of life. Payal also speaks to why she thinks a return to the office is now overdue, and more.
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30: Robert Matthews, Vice President and Chief DEI Officer at Exelon
01/01/2024
30: Robert Matthews, Vice President and Chief DEI Officer at Exelon
In this episode of #OpenUpTheWorkforce, Ahva speaks to , VP and Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at . Robert opens up about his career journey, from interning at BLACK+DECKER and CareFirst to eventually joining Baltimore Gas and Electric, which was then acquired by Exelon. Robert speaks with nostalgia about the impact the program had on his career, and shares handy tips for setting up early career programs for success, including companies need to track. Also, find out what Exelon is doing to promote STEM careers and what leaders need to do to truly open up the workforce.
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29: With Caroline Casey, Founder of The Valuable 500
12/04/2023
29: With Caroline Casey, Founder of The Valuable 500
Presented by Symba, #OpenUpTheWorkforce interviews feature executives advancing inclusion, diversity, and equity for the future of work. In these short audio-only episodes, host Ahva Sadeghi speaks with top leaders about what it takes to develop and implement inclusive processes. In this episode of #OpenUpTheWorkforce, Ahva speaks to , founder of The Valuable 500, the world’s largest CEO collective and business movement for disability inclusion. Caroline shares her reasons for launching the company and how she has signed up 500 companies on her quest to give people living with disabilities a seat at the table. Find out how partner companies intend to achieve through synchronized global action.
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28: Mason Williams, Global Head of DEI at Mattel, Inc.
11/27/2023
28: Mason Williams, Global Head of DEI at Mattel, Inc.
In this episode of #OpenUpTheWorkforce, Ahva speaks to , the Global Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at . Mason started his Mattel career as an online game designer, later transitioning to the connected play division from 2011 to 2021. Afterward, he made a significant career shift into DEI, which he sees as the next phase of his creative output. Get the inside scoop on the making of the , read how Mattel leverages employee resource groups in their toy design processes, and find out what Mason thinks about how to truly open up the workforce.
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27: Florencia Stanfield, Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer for Vitesco Technologies
11/20/2023
27: Florencia Stanfield, Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer for Vitesco Technologies
In this episode of #OpenUpTheWorkforce, Ahva speaks to , Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer at . Florencia’s passion for inclusion in the HR space began with the start of her career, working in HR and DEI stints at companies in Uruguay, Argentina, and other countries across Latin America. She shares best practices for DEI that are both inclusive and can function on a global scale.
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26: Dr. Johné Battle, SVP and Chief Diversity Officer at Dollar General
11/13/2023
26: Dr. Johné Battle, SVP and Chief Diversity Officer at Dollar General
In this episode of #OpenUpTheWorkforce, Ahva speaks to , Senior Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer at . Dr. Battle shares how some of his early educational challenges and subsequent achievements shaped his philosophy on grit and growth mindset. He also talks about the DEI initiatives he is spearheading at Dollar General, and how we should be looking at DEI from a social mobility lens.
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25: Donnebra McClendon, Global Head of Diversity Equity and Inclusion for Ceridian
11/06/2023
25: Donnebra McClendon, Global Head of Diversity Equity and Inclusion for Ceridian
In this episode of #OpenUpTheWorkforce, , the Global Head of Diversity Equity and Inclusion at Ceridian, shares her career journey and how Ceridian is investing in employee development and increasing diverse representation within its workforce. Donnebra sums up DEI efforts with one word–intention. Company and talent leaders need to be proactive about creating inclusive environments for people to feel they belong.
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24: Troy McIntosh, Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer & VP for IDEX Corporation
10/30/2023
24: Troy McIntosh, Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer & VP for IDEX Corporation
In this episode of #OpenUpTheWorkforce, Ahva speaks to Troy McIntosh, the vice president and chief diversity equity and inclusion officer at IDEX Corporation. As a member of the Executive Leadership Council, Troy is also a trailblazer in promoting social equity, diversity and inclusion. Troy shares his career journey, including how he got into diversity spaces and how he is promoting it at IDEX. As a DEI thought leader, he shares a trove of insights and strategies for building diverse and inclusive workplaces. He also has a word of advice for young professionals looking to get their foot in the door.
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23: Rachel Winoski, Chief Human Resources Officer for AXA XL
10/23/2023
23: Rachel Winoski, Chief Human Resources Officer for AXA XL
In this episode of #OpenUpTheWorkforce, , Chief Human Resource Officer for , shares her inspiring journey within the company. With over 12 years of experience at AXA XL, Rachel's story serves as a true success story of progressing from an intern to the C-suite. In this interview, Rachel offers invaluable insights on career growth, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and the innovative approaches AXA XL is taking to create a thriving workplace.
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22: Monique Lanaux, General Vice President and Chief Talent & Diversity Officer for Albertsons Companies Inc
10/16/2023
22: Monique Lanaux, General Vice President and Chief Talent & Diversity Officer for Albertsons Companies Inc
In this episode of #OpenUpTheWorkforce, , General Vice President and Chief Talent & Diversity Officer for , shares her background and journey that led her to her current role and discusses the innovative initiatives Albertsons has implemented to foster an inclusive work environment
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21: Insights from National Intern Day
10/09/2023
21: Insights from National Intern Day
In this episode of #OpenUpTheWorkforce, Ahva has flipped the script for National Intern Day and speaks with three interns at the (CBCF). Kennedy, Amiya, and Olimpia share their internship experiences, the qualities Gen Z brings to the workforce, what they believe are the necessary steps to increasing access to jobs and wealth creation, and more.
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20: #OpenUpTheWorkforce with Inclusion, Diversity and Equity Leaders at Oyster
10/02/2023
20: #OpenUpTheWorkforce with Inclusion, Diversity and Equity Leaders at Oyster
Presented by Symba, #OpenUpTheWorkforce interviews feature executives advancing inclusion, diversity, and equity for the future of work. In these short audio-only episodes, we talk with top leaders about what it takes to develop and implement inclusive processes. In this episode of #OpenUpTheWorkforce, Ahva speaks with the trio behind inclusion, diversity, and equity efforts which includes Kim Rohrer, Principal People Partner, Matt McFarlane, Senior Director of People Experience, and Eryn Marshall, Senior Director of Global Recruiting. The three shed light on Oyster's approach to DEI and its impact in a global, remote work environment.
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19: Nhlamu Dlomu, Global Head of People at KPMG International
09/18/2023
19: Nhlamu Dlomu, Global Head of People at KPMG International
In this episode of #OpenUpTheWorkforce, Ahva speaks with , Global Head of People at . Nhlamu’s background spans clinical psychology, consulting, and HR executive roles. Her experience with change management and focus on inclusion, diversity, and equity has been instrumental in shaping KPMG's people commitments and driving meaningful change within the organization
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18: Louis Stewart, Head of Strategic Initiatives at NVIDIA
09/11/2023
18: Louis Stewart, Head of Strategic Initiatives at NVIDIA
In this episode of #OpenUpTheWorkforce, Ahva speaks with , Head of Strategic Initiatives for . Mr. Stewart, with his extensive background in the public and private sectors, shares the challenges faced by underrepresented groups and the initiatives implemented by NVIDIA to support these communities. Mr. Stewart and Ahva explore the significance of trust-building, collaboration with universities, strategic programs, and measuring impact in fostering a more inclusive tech industry.
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17: Jeff Schmitz, Chief People Officer at Zebra Technologies
09/04/2023
17: Jeff Schmitz, Chief People Officer at Zebra Technologies
In this episode of #OpenUpTheWorkforce, Ahva speaks with , the Chief People Officer (CPO) at . Jeff shares valuable insights on his career journey and the key strategies for fostering inclusion, diversity, and equity in the workplace. With his extensive background in engineering, product management, marketing, and sales, Schmitz brings a unique perspective to his role as a CPO.
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16: Maria Flynn, President & CEO at JFF
08/28/2023
16: Maria Flynn, President & CEO at JFF
Presented by Symba, #OpenUpTheWorkforce interviews feature executives advancing inclusion, diversity, and equity for the future of work. In these short audio-only episodes, we talk with the top about what it takes to develop and implement inclusive processes. In this episode of #OpenUpTheWorkforce, Ahva had the privilege of interviewing , the President & CEO at . With a career dedicated to empowering workers and learners, Maria has spearheaded innovative initiatives that bridge traditional systems with disruptive solutions to make it easier for workers and learners to balance their lives, learning, and earnings. In this interview, Maria shares her journey, highlights the importance of partnerships and apprenticeships, and discusses JFF's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
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15: Lindsey Lang, Vice President People at Southwest Airlines
08/21/2023
15: Lindsey Lang, Vice President People at Southwest Airlines
In this episode of #OpenUpTheWorkforce, Ahva speaks with , Vice President People at . Lindsey shares, “I like to say I grew up in the people department and it's just been an incredible ride.” Lindsey started her career at Southwest in talent acquisition and recruiting, then moved over to the HR Business Partner team, and now she leads the people department. The company has nearly tripled in size since she joined. With an impressive career spanning over two decades at Southwest, Lindsey shares her insights into the airline's approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Southwest Airlines is renowned for its unique culture, and Lindsey sheds light on how the company prioritizes its people and fosters an inclusive environment. From mentorship programs to reaching down into communities, Southwest Airlines demonstrates its commitment to creating opportunities for all. Throughout the interview, Lindsey's passion for her work shines through, showcasing the power of Southwest's people-first approach.
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14: Harsha Jalihal, Chief People Officer at MongoDB
08/14/2023
14: Harsha Jalihal, Chief People Officer at MongoDB
Presented by Symba, #OpenUpTheWorkforce interviews feature executives advancing inclusion, diversity, and equity for the future of work. In these short audio-only episodes, we talk with the top about what it takes to develop and implement inclusive processes. In this episode of #OpenUpTheWorkforce, , Chief People Officer at shares her insights and experiences on developing and implementing inclusive processes within organizations. Her journey, from selling software to HR, and her belief in the power of diverse experiences, have shaped her approach to fostering a culture of inclusivity.
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13: Clarice Colòn - Whole Foods
08/07/2023
13: Clarice Colòn - Whole Foods
Presented by Symba, #OpenUpTheWorkforce interviews feature executives advancing inclusion, diversity, and equity for the future of work. In these short audio-only episodes, we talk with the top about what it takes to develop and implement inclusive processes. This episode of #OpenUpTheWorkforce features , Vice President of Integrated Talent Management and Global HR, Organizational Development, and Organizational Effectiveness at . Shaped by an unconventional career path and passion for people and leadership, Clarice shares valuable insights into Whole Foods' commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and how they integrate it into every aspect of the employee experience.
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12: Nina Fleming, Vice President of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Sovos
07/31/2023
12: Nina Fleming, Vice President of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Sovos
Presented by Symba, #OpenUpTheWorkforce interviews feature executives advancing inclusion, diversity, and equity for the future of work. In these short audio-only episodes, we talk with the top about what it takes to develop and implement inclusive processes. In this episode of #OpenUpTheWorkforce, Nina Fleming, Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at speaks about evaluating biases, building cultural awareness, and investing in talent development and continuous learning opportunities.
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11: Bridget Hurd, Vice President of Inclusion & Diversity and Chief Diversity Officer at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
07/24/2023
11: Bridget Hurd, Vice President of Inclusion & Diversity and Chief Diversity Officer at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
In this episode of #OpenUpTheWorkforce, Bridget Hurd, Vice President of Inclusion & Diversity and Chief Diversity Officer at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, emphasizes how communication is key in inclusion and diversity work, and shares how BCBS of Michigan embeds cultural competency in their efforts to mitigate bias and address disparities.
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10: Tina Mylon, Chief Talent & Diversity Officer at Schneider Electric
07/17/2023
10: Tina Mylon, Chief Talent & Diversity Officer at Schneider Electric
Presented by Symba, #OpenUpTheWorkforce interviews feature executives advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion for the future of work. In these short audio-only episodes, we talk with the top about what it takes to develop and implement inclusive processes. In this episode of #OpenUpTheWorkforce, , Chief Talent & Diversity Officer at , shares how well-being is woven into their diversity, equity, and inclusion strategy and pragmatic examples of how these priorities intersect at Schneider Electric.
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9: Richard Cho, Advisor and Former Chief Recruiting Officer at Gem
07/10/2023
9: Richard Cho, Advisor and Former Chief Recruiting Officer at Gem
In this episode of #OpenUpTheWorkforce, Richard Cho, Advisor and former Chief Recruiting Officer at Gem, discusses how it's important to leverage data to understand any biases that may exist in your organization's processes, and more. Cho has been in the recruitment space for the better part of 25 years, starting off on the agency side and then shifting in-house after about 7 years to help build organizations. Over the last 15 years, he’s been at hyper-growth companies like Meta, Dropbox, Robinhood, and most recently Gem.
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