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As Diverse As Two Peas In A Pod

As Diverse As Two Peas In A Pod

By As Diverse As Two Peas In A Pod

“We are all born free and equal.” (United Nations Declaration of Human Rights, Article 1) … like two peas in a pod.
The reality is often different – not only because each of us brings our individuality to the pod we live in, but also because of the reality of the system by which too many people are affected.
As Diverse As Two Peas In A PodCast is a platform to explore those differences, and how DEI affects each and everyone of us.
Each episode tackles the challenges and struggles of being true to ourself, and aims at designing actions to become more equitable and inclusive in everything we do.
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Currently playing episode

Episode 19 - Fostering Kindness For A More Resilient And Inclusive World - with Dr. Ferial Pearson

As Diverse As Two Peas In A PodDec 22, 2021

00:00
51:29
Episode 31 - Supporting Leaders To Create A Culture Of Belonging - with Jason Butler
Aug 03, 202246:05
Episode 30 - About art, finding your something, and creating a more inclusive world for all - with Katherine Klimitas

Episode 30 - About art, finding your something, and creating a more inclusive world for all - with Katherine Klimitas

Katherine Klimitas is a New Orleans-based artist and designer who sold her first watercolor at age 10.

As the daughter of veterinarians, Katherine expresses her family’s life-long love of animals through her meticulous life-like paintings. She earned a B.A. from Loyola University in 2011, and today at age 33, runs her multifaceted business KAK ART & Designs (https://kakartnola.com) from home.

When clients learn that Katherine has Osteogenesis Imperfecta, also known as brittle bone disease, they are captivated by her unique perspective. She and her parents stopped counting her broken bones at 500 at age 10.

She’s 2 feet 7 inches tall, gets around in an electric wheelchair, and creates all of her art, jewelry and commercial graphic design while lying on her side.


If you want to learn more about or reach out to Katherine, you can do so directly through her website or on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/kakartnola) and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/kakartnola).

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For all the latest about the podcast, follow us on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/as-diverse-as-two-peas-in-a-podcast), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/asdiverseastwopeasinapod), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AsDiverseAsTwoPeasInAPod) or Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UyuMYX-QAvJKztBTm94NQ)

To reach out to Julien Lefort, you can contact him on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/julienl) or directly through his website (https://www.wearefutureminds.com)

Jul 06, 202249:11
Episode 29 - Spreading Happiness one pair of socks at a time! - with John and Mark X. Cronin

Episode 29 - Spreading Happiness one pair of socks at a time! - with John and Mark X. Cronin

John and Mark X. Cronin are the father-son team that created Johns Crazy Socks (https://johnscrazysocks.com), a social enterprise with a mission to spread happiness.

They bootstrapped their business into the worlds largest sock store. John is not only a business owner, but he has Down syndrome.

Every day, John and Mark show what people with differing abilities can do more than half their colleagues have a differing ability. And they show their gratitude through their Giving Back program that has raised nearly $500,000 for their charity partners.

Most of all, they are spreading happiness one pair of socks at a time.

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For all the latest about the podcast, follow us on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/as-diverse-as-two-peas-in-a-podcast), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/asdiverseastwopeasinapod), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AsDiverseAsTwoPeasInAPod) or Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UyuMYX-QAvJKztBTm94NQ)

To reach out to Julien Lefort, you can contact him on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/julienl) or directly through his website (https://www.wearefutureminds.com)

Jun 22, 202245:01
Episode 28 - Powering Up Your DEI And ERG Efforts In An Ever-Changing World - with Joe Santana

Episode 28 - Powering Up Your DEI And ERG Efforts In An Ever-Changing World - with Joe Santana

Joe Santana is Chairman of the CDO PowerCircle (https://cdopowercircle.com), host of the ERG PowerTalk podcast (https://ergpowertalk.com), and the author of The New DEI and ERG Frontier (https://www.amazon.com/New-DEI-ERG-Frontier-Disruption-ebook/dp/B09WZ8YQKN).

He is the Futurist, Executive Coach, and Mentor for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion leaders. His mission, his why, is to help these hero-leaders change the world by making the way they are developed at all levels and in all parts of the organization easy, accessible, and affordable.
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For all the latest about the podcast, follow us on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/as-diverse-as-two-peas-in-a-podcast), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/asdiverseastwopeasinapod), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AsDiverseAsTwoPeasInAPod) or Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UyuMYX-QAvJKztBTm94NQ)

To reach out to Julien Lefort, you can contact him on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/julienl) or directly through his website (https://www.wearefutureminds.com)

May 04, 202254:23
Episode 27 - How to build more inclusive growth and development: Lessons learned from living and studying the autism spectrum - with Jacki Edry

Episode 27 - How to build more inclusive growth and development: Lessons learned from living and studying the autism spectrum - with Jacki Edry

Jacki Edry recently published her first book "Moving Forward: Reflections on Autism, Neurodiversity, Brain Surgery and Faith" and launched a blog on her website (www.jackisbooks.com), which focuses on education, inclusion, neurodiversity, and more.

Jacki is a graduate of Hampshire College with an extensive background in education, writing, and marketing. She has been exploring the world of autism and neurodiversity for over thirty-five years, as a professional, parent of neurodivergent children, and firsthand as a survivor of complex brain surgery that affected my neurological and perceptual abilities.

She has spent many years advocating for inclusion programs in the educational system, providing support for families of children with disabilities, and advocating for the inclusion of people with disabilities in society.
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For all the latest about the podcast, follow us on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/as-diverse-as-two-peas-in-a-podcast), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/asdiverseastwopeasinapod), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AsDiverseAsTwoPeasInAPod) or Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UyuMYX-QAvJKztBTm94NQ)

To reach out to Julien Lefort, you can contact him on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/julienl) or directly through his website (https://www.wearefutureminds.com)

Mar 16, 202247:29
Episode 26 - Supporting Individuals To Feel Included And To Belong In The Workplace - with Chou Hallegra

Episode 26 - Supporting Individuals To Feel Included And To Belong In The Workplace - with Chou Hallegra

Chou Hallegra, the founder and CEO of Grace & Hope Consulting, LLC, is a licensed Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion trainer with a decade of experience in the DEI field. She uses her expertise as a mental health and disability consultant to help organizations become more efficient and profitable as they implement effective strategies to ensure wellbeing and belonging for all.


She completed a masters degree in Human Services with specialization in executive leadership at Liberty University, as well as a post-graduate program in rehabilitation counseling at Utah State University. Chou is a John Maxwell certified leadership speaker, trainer, and coach with additional certifications in mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and employee performance, just to name a few.


Additionally, she is a bestselling author and a workplace wellbeing coach committed to helping busy professionals reduce stress, be more productive, and find balance and purpose in life.

Chou is originally from Brazzaville, Congo and currently resides in Pennsylvania, USA, but calls herself a global citizen. With a lot of lived experiences that make her relatable, Chou connects to the heart and impacts transformational change for individuals, organizations, and communities.

If you want to learn more about or reach out to Chou, you can do so directly through her website (www.graceandhopeconsulting.com).

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For all the latest about the podcast, follow us on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/as-diverse-as-two-peas-in-a-podcast), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/asdiverseastwopeasinapod), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AsDiverseAsTwoPeasInAPod) or Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UyuMYX-QAvJKztBTm94NQ)

To reach out to Julien Lefort, you can contact him on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/julienl) or directly through his website (https://www.wearefutureminds.com)

Mar 09, 202240:56
Episode 25 - Advocating A Can-Do Attitude For Disability, From Limitations To Opportunities - with Tracee Garner
Mar 02, 202245:44
Episode 24 - Harnessing A Multicultural and Interfaith Background to Transform Communities - with Sandhya Jha
Feb 23, 202251:54
Episode 23 - Rising Through Challenges, A True Story of Inclusivity All Around - with Jaimie Sherling
Feb 16, 202239:44
Episode 22 - From Mental Illness to Building a Resilient Self - with Mercedes Killeen
Feb 09, 202235:43
Episode 21 - Leading Transformation In Every Aspect Of Your Life - with Maxine L. Johnson

Episode 21 - Leading Transformation In Every Aspect Of Your Life - with Maxine L. Johnson

Maxine L. Johnson has a long history of leadership roles, both professionally and as an experienced pastor. She’s also a wife and mother, and like many other women, she’s spent a lot of time trying to find the balance between these different parts of her life.

Maxine is an author, co-author, certified life coach and a transformation specialist for women who are ready to take their lives to the next level.

She is the CEO and Founder of WIFE Boss Academy, where she helps women who are in a position of power obtain clarity, confidence and influence in both areas.

She is passionate about encouraging and inspiring women to be their best selves. Over the years, she has worked with women globally, helping them find positive change. This approach, when implemented by individuals, leads to a transformation in every aspect of their lives.

She understands that the road to living a fulfilled life entails the right amount of motivation and commitment by her audience. She has shared her message to thousands of women worldwide and has enlightened women, helping them realize that they can achieve anything!!

Maxine loves to share her personal life experiences in the form of heart-warming stories. Maxine has over 19 years experience as a Human Resources Professional and 12 years of faith based service. She is the author of a life-changing guide titled, “Helping A Sister. The 5 Critical Components for Creating Global Communities of Change.


If you want to learn more about Maxine, you can reach out to her directly through her website (https://maxineljohnson.com)

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For all the latest about the podcast, follow us on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/as-diverse-as-two-peas-in-a-podcast), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/asdiverseastwopeasinapod), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AsDiverseAsTwoPeasInAPod) or Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UyuMYX-QAvJKztBTm94NQ)

To reach out to Julien Lefort, you can contact him on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/julienl) or directly through his website (https://www.wearefutureminds.com)

Jan 19, 202245:52
Episode 20 - Integrating A Culturally Sensitive Approach To Your Life - with Camilla A. Montoya

Episode 20 - Integrating A Culturally Sensitive Approach To Your Life - with Camilla A. Montoya

Camilla A. Montoya was born and raised in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and moved to the United States to attend college. Upon completing her degree, she taught English, French, Spanish and Portuguese at a language school in Brazil, after which she returned to the U.S. and started her career in higher education marketing.

Following these experiences, and after having completed a masters degree in Organizational Leadership, she transitioned to a faculty position, teaching courses such as Industrial/Organizational Psychology, Cross-cultural Psychology, Research Methods, and Gender Studies.

She currently teaches a First-Year seminar at Texas A&M San Antonio.

Camilla is editor and co-author for an edited volume book on the topic of leadership biases, Silencing Gender, Age, Ethnicity and Cultural Biases in Leadership, which The Chronicle of Higher Education highlighted under "Selected New Books on Higher Education" in 2019.

Camilla is very dedicated to her family, and is an avid traveler. She loves experiences new cultures and sharing those adventures with her husband and two boys.


If you want to learn more about Camilla, you can reach out to her directly on social media (https://www.linkedin.com/in/camillamontoya)

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For all the latest about the podcast, follow us on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/as-diverse-as-two-peas-in-a-podcast), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/asdiverseastwopeasinapod), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AsDiverseAsTwoPeasInAPod) or Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UyuMYX-QAvJKztBTm94NQ)

To reach out to Julien Lefort, you can contact him on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/julienl) or directly through his website (https://www.wearefutureminds.com)

Jan 12, 202249:26
Episode 19 - Fostering Kindness For A More Resilient And Inclusive World - with Dr. Ferial Pearson

Episode 19 - Fostering Kindness For A More Resilient And Inclusive World - with Dr. Ferial Pearson

Dr. Pearson - aka Mama Beast - is a mother, activist, author, educator, speaker, poet, comedienne, cook, sourdough artist, and citizen of the world. She founded the Secret Kindness Agents Project and is an Assistant Professor of Teacher Education at the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

She has been teaching humans of all ages for 20 years in the Omaha area.

As a Kenyan Indian Muslim immigrant queer disabled woman of color, she is passionate about working towards Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Kindness.

She has received national and local awards for her work in education and social justice, has authored two books, and has been featured as a speaker on the TEDx Omaha stage. Her Secret Kindness Agents Project has been featured at Lady Gaga's Born This Way Foundation, Hallmark, Parents Magazine, Learning for Justice website and magazine, Midwest Living Magazine, and more.

Her goal is to make sure you know that you are loved and that you are enough just the way you are. She lives in Omaha with her spouse, two teenagers, and two guinea pigs.


If you want to learn more about Dr. Pearson, you can reach out to her directly on her Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/secretkindnessagents), via email (https://www.unomaha.edu/college-of-education-health-and-human-sciences/teacher-education/about-us/directory/ferial-pearson.php) or through the Secret Kindness Agents Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/SecretKindnessAgents)

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For all the latest about the podcast, follow us on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/as-diverse-as-two-peas-in-a-podcast), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/asdiverseastwopeasinapod), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AsDiverseAsTwoPeasInAPod) or Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UyuMYX-QAvJKztBTm94NQ)

To reach out to Julien Lefort, you can contact him on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/julienl) or directly through his website (https://www.wearefutureminds.com)

Dec 22, 202151:29
Episode 18 - Tackling DEI By Going Beyond Ideas & Making Changes At Every Level - with Dr. Kimya Nuru Dennis
Dec 15, 202157:28
Episode 17 - 140 Miles Of Life, A Remarkable Journey to Self-Acceptance & Love - with Veronica Carrera

Episode 17 - 140 Miles Of Life, A Remarkable Journey to Self-Acceptance & Love - with Veronica Carrera

PUSHING THE LIMIT - Veronica Carrera’s story of triumphing over adversity, not only offers hope and inspiration for readers to discover true inner wisdom and acceptance but may save lives!

Hers is a story of love, loss, courage and healing.

Today, she is an avid triathlete and passionate advocate for human rights, a highly sought-after speaker and a successful sales leader at one of the top tech companies in the world. She is also the creator/producer of the LinkedIn Live show 30 Minutes of Wisdom-Rising in Consciousness & Mindfulness.

Veronica holds a B.A. in French from Brigham Young University and an M.B.A. from Cornell’s Johnson Graduate School of Management, where she was honored as “The 2015 Best Executive EMBA.” She recently completed the Inner M.B.A. (conscious leadership program) at New York University and is currently pursuing a Life Coaching certification.

If you want to learn more about Veronica, you can reach out to her directly on social media (https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-carrera) or through her website: https://veronicacarrera.com


If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, or needs help finding support and resources, please visit Find A Helpline for local support.

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For all the latest about the podcast, follow us on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/as-diverse-as-two-peas-in-a-podcast), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/asdiverseastwopeasinapod), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AsDiverseAsTwoPeasInAPod) or Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UyuMYX-QAvJKztBTm94NQ)

To reach out to Julien Lefort, you can contact him on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/julienl) or directly through his website (https://www.wearefutureminds.com)

Dec 08, 202154:05
Episode 16 - Being An Activist In A World Where You Are Groomed To Fit In - with Zaheera Soomar

Episode 16 - Being An Activist In A World Where You Are Groomed To Fit In - with Zaheera Soomar

Dec 01, 202154:26
Episode 15 - What makes us "human"? - with Carmel Irandoust

Episode 15 - What makes us "human"? - with Carmel Irandoust

Carmel Irandoust was Deputy Secretary-General of the Baháí International Community in the Holy Land until recently. She was appointed in July 2018. The Deputy Secretary-General supports the Office of the Secretary-General acting on behalf of the Universal House of Justice, the international governing council of the Baháí Community, in the conduct of its external affairs.

Before assuming this position, Carmel worked for World Vision in Dublin, Ireland in the field of advocacy and policy, promoting and defending the rights of children and young people to be active global citizens in building sustainable and peaceful societies (2015-2018). She also worked at the United Nations Headquarters in New York in the Department of Public Information as well as in the Protocol and Liaison Service with the Office of the Secretary-General (2009-2013).

She is the founder of NETLOVE, a consultancy agency promoting the values of Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, Justice, and Peace by creating meaningful and thought-provoking spaces for schools, universities, and businesses.

Carmel holds a Bachelors degree in Public and Political Communications from Paris XII University (2004) and a Master of Philosophy in International Peace Studies from Trinity College Dublin (2014).

A citizen of France, Carmel has lived and worked in Europe, North Africa, North America, Latin America and the Middle East. She has been a member of various Baháí communities where she served on different local and regional Bahá'í institutions.

She speaks fluent French, English, Spanish and Farsi.

If you want to learn more about Carmel, you can reach out to her directly on social media (https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmel-irandoust-a13a45100) or through her organization: http://netlove.org (Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Netlove22, Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/netlove16, Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/netlove_original)

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For all the latest about the podcast, follow us on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/as-diverse-as-two-peas-in-a-podcast), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/asdiverseastwopeasinapod), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AsDiverseAsTwoPeasInAPod) or Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UyuMYX-QAvJKztBTm94NQ)

To reach out to Julien Lefort, you can contact him on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/julienl) or directly through his website (https://www.wearefutureminds.com)

Nov 24, 202145:58
Episode 14 - Designing spaces that foster Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging - with Marius Marza
Nov 17, 202145:31
Episode 13 - When Identities Clash... Finding Your Place In A Multicultural Environment - with Lorraine Windsor
Nov 10, 202132:21
Episode 12 - Increasing Bias Awareness to Foster Belonging - with Matthew J. Cahill

Episode 12 - Increasing Bias Awareness to Foster Belonging - with Matthew J. Cahill

Nov 03, 202141:30
Episode 11 - Solving Youth Unemployment and Boosting Equity, Diversity & Inclusion at scale - with Esther O'Callaghan

Episode 11 - Solving Youth Unemployment and Boosting Equity, Diversity & Inclusion at scale - with Esther O'Callaghan

Oct 20, 202143:31
Episode 10 - Working With Integrity - with Luke Murfitt

Episode 10 - Working With Integrity - with Luke Murfitt

Award winning Entrepreneur Luke Murfitt is the CEO of Integrity Cleaning - a company which specialises in new build construction cleaning.


In January 2018, Luke Murfitt had no job, no prospects and no profile. Despite Parkinson’s disease – he won the - UK Entrepreneur of the Year - at the ‘UK Business Awards’ , is the Global Ambassador for Awards International and has become a sought after Keynote speaker - once heard never forgotten.


Luke Murfitt:

• Launched a company that boasts clients such as the The Shard, Amazon, Galliard Homes and multiple leading Construction companies.

• Saved money by paying his workers more.

• Helped over 140+ Mothers back into work (and 30+ Fathers)

• Grew his business by 650% in 2019 , doubled it during lockdown and is set to more than double it again!


Through his inspirational journey, Luke talks business, his story and the realisation that changed his life.


You can reach out to Luke directly through his profile (linkedin.com/in/lukemurfitt)

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For all the latest about the podcast, follow us on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/as-diverse-as-two-peas-in-a-podcast), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/asdiverseastwopeasinapod), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AsDiverseAsTwoPeasInAPod) or Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UyuMYX-QAvJKztBTm94NQ)

To reach out to Julien Lefort, you can contact him on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/julienl) or directly through his website (https://www.wearefutureminds.com)

Oct 13, 202130:53
Episode 9 - Empowering Women in Leadership - With Shweta Mogha
Oct 06, 202140:42
Episode 8 - Strengthening Cross-generational Communication For A More Inclusive World - With Shee Shee Van Inwegen

Episode 8 - Strengthening Cross-generational Communication For A More Inclusive World - With Shee Shee Van Inwegen

With over four decades leveraging communication expertise to enhance relationships, I guide leaders in building inclusive connection across generations, bridging knowledge transfer and cross-mentoring for greater organizational results.

As a generational relationship strategist and coach adept at empowering leaders of all ages and life stages, my passion for helping people create authentic relationships comes from my story: born into a 5-generation family, as the youngest of 8 children I quickly learned to navigate generational differences at home.

My professional history, too, is all about relationship: creating, building, maintaining, enhancing, repairing (and if appropriate, ending) them with employees, managers, teams, clients, customers, kids, and colleagues. From delivering c-suite leadership development and training, to liaising with government agencies, to managing corporate comms, I’ve mentored and coached company presidents, new hires, elders, managers, shipyard workers, students, and tech wizards, who in their most important roles were also parents, partners, and adult children.

Experienced in cultivating diverse global relationships and guiding leaders in building bridges of

relational equity, I support you in confidently leveraging your relationships to create true, real, communication and connection, for inclusion, respect, and regard in your Life/Work.

Big changes are my life’s business! Dog-lover, wife, and mom, I have a faith that grounds me. I am boldly transparent, fun-loving, fierce, & I lead with love. Change, well, between living in 4 countries (if you count Texas, which we do), launching my come-back career mid-life after a status-quo-busting health wake-up call, and navigating life stages, I’m all about being ready for anything.

You can reach out to Shee Shee directly on social media (https://www.linkedin.com/in/shee-shee-van-inwegen-life-stage-strategies/).

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For all the latest about the podcast, follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/asdiverseastwopeasinapod), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AsDiverseAsTwoPeasInAPod) or Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UyuMYX-QAvJKztBTm94NQ)

To reach out to Julien Lefort, you can contact him on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/julienl) or directly through his website (https://www.wearefutureminds.com)

Sep 29, 202150:11
Episode 7 - Navigating The World Of Garment Manufacturing As A Woman Entrepreneur - With Diana Kakkar

Episode 7 - Navigating The World Of Garment Manufacturing As A Woman Entrepreneur - With Diana Kakkar

Diana is the founder and chief executive of MAES London, a luxury garment manufacturing studio that specialises in designer womenswear. She launched MAES London in 2018 to make premium manufacturing more accessible to fashion designers. MAES stands for “SEAM” spelled backwards.

Born and educated at a top university in India, she moved to London because she believes it is the most exciting city in the world for fashion. As a fashion designer herself with more than a decade’s experience in the industry, she hopes her experience in and passion for garment construction will provide support to many of the world’s top fashion designers and emerging talent.

At the heart of MAES London is the delivery of a good product. Diana understands the quality and attention to detail required by luxury womenswear designers. Whether it’s sampling, development, small production or consultancy, she guarantees a premium service that respects the designer’s ambition and helps them to realise their vision.

Before setting up MAES London, she had run the atelier for a luxury London Fashion Week designer which caters to members of the Royal family including the Duchess of Cambridge and the Duchess of Sussex, as well as Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon and many other A-list celebrities around the world.

You can reach out to Diana directly on social media (https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianakakkar - https://www.instagram.com/dianakakkar) or through her company - MAES London (https://www.maeslondon.com - https://www.instagram.com/maeslondon/)

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For all the latest about the podcast, follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/asdiverseastwopeasinapod), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AsDiverseAsTwoPeasInAPod) or Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UyuMYX-QAvJKztBTm94NQ)

To reach out to Julien Lefort, you can contact him on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/julienl) or directly through his website (https://www.wearefutureminds.com)

Sep 22, 202140:47
Episode 6 - Supporting Deaf Awareness One Million People At A Time - With Simon Houghton

Episode 6 - Supporting Deaf Awareness One Million People At A Time - With Simon Houghton

Simon was born prematurely and as a result, has a severe hearing loss.

During the pandemic, he struggled because of his need to lipread when communicating with others, and the masks presented a significant barrier in this regard. Having had several negative experiences (Doctor Surgeries, Supermarkets, Opticians, Pharmacies etc.) he wrote a post about the experience and this was viewed over 110,000 times on LinkedIn.

If you are interested in the post, you can view it here: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/gsimonhoughton_im-so-sick-of-having-to-apologise-for-being-activity-6765630683810418689-3qBT 

From this, he started the national campaign #WeSupportDeafAwareness which aims to help organisations and their staff better communicate with the deaf and hard of hearing. Since 12th April, over 24,000 UK employees have now been given access to his training, and a range of organisations from FTSE100, NHS, Charities, Trade Unions and small companies have joined the campaign.

If you are interested in learning more about Simon’s campaign, you can visit www.WeSupportDeafAwareness.org

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For all the latest about the podcast, follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/asdiverseastwopeasinapod), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AsDiverseAsTwoPeasInAPod) or Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UyuMYX-QAvJKztBTm94NQ)

To reach out to Julien Lefort, you can contact him on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/julienl) or directly through his website (https://www.wearefutureminds.com)

Sep 15, 202143:44
Episode 5 - Igniting Critical Consciousness And Radical Change - With Régine Romain

Episode 5 - Igniting Critical Consciousness And Radical Change - With Régine Romain

Régine Romain is a Haitian-American artist, educator, visual anthropologist, and equity coach living in Brooklyn, NY.  With 20+ years of  teaching, training, and supporting diverse communities, she uses photographs/film/performance as mixed-media educational tools to promote love, understanding and respect in addressing issues of race, representation and justice through participatory and reflective learning practices. Through an extensive global network, she produces culturally transformative curricula, workshops, salons, performances, forums, exhibits/festivals, and tours.

Régine is the author of "Nou Pap Bliye: A Haitian Coloring Book" (2020) and the editor of "Diaspora Diaries: An Educators Guide to MoCADA Artists" (2009). Her photo essay on Haiti, including photos from her exhibition “Portraits for Self-Determining Haiti,” is featured in Meridians, Vol 11, No. 1 (2011), a journal published by Indiana University Press. Her photographic work on Vodou appears in MFON: Women Photographers of the African Diaspora (2017).She is a co-author and featured artist in Ritual as Remembrance, a Photoville lesson plan for 5th- 12 graders based on the MFON project “Altar: Prayer, Ritual, Offerings” exhibited at Photoville from September 13-23, 2018 in Brooklyn Bridge Park

While living in Benin, West Africa (2016-2018), Régine created the WaWaWa Diaspora Centre - to actively heal historic wounds and trauma related to the TransAtlantic Slave Trade through inter-generational arts, education, and exchange programs. In addition, she is the director/producer of the award winning short film and podcast Brooklyn to Benin: A Vodou Pilgrimage” and Vodou Roots: A Love Story Musical.” Régine received her BS in International Studies from Bowie State University (HBCU) and MA  in Photography and Urban Culture from Goldsmiths, University of London.

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For all the latest about the podcast, follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/asdiverseastwopeasinapod), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AsDiverseAsTwoPeasInAPod) or Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UyuMYX-QAvJKztBTm94NQ)

To reach out to Julien Lefort, you can contact him on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/julienl) or directly through his website (https://www.wearefutureminds.com)

Sep 08, 202151:17
Episode 4 - Is your procurement truly inclusive? - With Felipe Cardenas

Episode 4 - Is your procurement truly inclusive? - With Felipe Cardenas

In today’s episode, I have the great pleasure to discuss with Felipe Cardenas!

Felipe is a Business Executive with 15+ years experience leading high performance teams in Europe and LatinAmerica.

He is an advisor to different Boards and Senior Leadership about Diversity, Equality & Inclusion and has strong experience in drafting and implementing Business Development Models, in Strategic Planning and in Scaling Performance sustainably for SMEs in the Americas.

He is currently the CEO and President of the Colombian LGBT Chamber of Commerce - a non-for-profit organization that promotes Economic Empowerment in Colombia for Sexually Diverse individuals through Entrepreneurship support, Employment opportunities in safe working environments and Supplier Diversity connections.

Felipe and I explore together the benefits and advantages of Inclusive Procurement - or how organizations can make the most out of utilising diverse suppliers for their business.

If you'd like to reach out to Felipe, you can find him on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/felipecardenasgonzalez), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/pipecardenasg), Twitter (https://twitter.com/pipecardenasg) or Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/felipecardenasgonzalez).

For the Colombian LGBT Chamber of Commerce, head here - https://cclgbt.co (LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cclgbtco; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cclgbtco; Twitter: https://twitter.com/cclgbtco; Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCLGBTCO)

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For all the latest about the podcast, follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/asdiverseastwopeasinapod), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AsDiverseAsTwoPeasInAPod) or Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UyuMYX-QAvJKztBTm94NQ)

To reach out to Julien Lefort, you can contact him on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/julienl) or directly through his website (https://www.wearefutureminds.com)

Sep 01, 202143:08
Episode 3 - Building Acceptance of Autism & Helping Organizations Be More Inclusive - With Ritu Kiran-Jackson

Episode 3 - Building Acceptance of Autism & Helping Organizations Be More Inclusive - With Ritu Kiran-Jackson

In this episode of As Diverse As Two Peas In a Pod, I have the immense pleasure to welcome Ritu Kiran Jackson.

Ritu is the Founder and CEO of Aubilities - an organization that aims to raise awareness of autism and how to support the neurodiverse within organisations.

She is an HR and Neurodiversity Consultant, a Trainer, a Writer, and a Keynote Speaker - sharing insights, raising awareness and building acceptance of the neurodiverse, with a specialism in Autism.

She has over 12 years of experience in Consulting and HR and has published Organisation-wide articles on autism spanning 10k employees around the globe

She is a reviewer of academic papers around Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and an accessibility speaker to pupils of Special Educational Needs schools with a link to ASD or learning difficulties.

Ritu and I explore the topic of building acceptance of autism and helping organizations become more inclusive with neurodiverse talents.

If you'd like to reach out to Ritu or learn more about Aubilities, you can find her on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritu-kiran-jackson-53635b54) or visit her website https://aubilities.com (or contact her at info@aubilities.com)

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For all the latest about the podcast, follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/asdiverseastwopeasinapod), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AsDiverseAsTwoPeasInAPod) or Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UyuMYX-QAvJKztBTm94NQ)

To reach out to Julien Lefort, you can contact him on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/julienl) or directly through his website (https://www.wearefutureminds.com)

Sep 01, 202143:38
Episode 2 - Thriving In An Environment Where You Are "The Only" - With Valarie Gilbert

Episode 2 - Thriving In An Environment Where You Are "The Only" - With Valarie Gilbert

In today’s episode, I am delighted to be speaking to Valarie Gilbert!

Valarie’s goal is simple: to help women and people of color unlock their own potential as they navigate career advancement, industry trends and corporate structures.

She is uniquely positioned to aid those in technology and science having spent over 30 years in big tech and industry at Fortune 100 organizations – all while developing solid diversity recruiting programs.

She has a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from Carnegie-Mellon University and a Master’s degree in Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh.

She attended the Leadership Coaching for Organizational Performance from Rutgers University and Designing Effective Organizations through Northwestern University. She is a certified coach through the ICF.

Through her passion for servant leadership, authenticity and deliberate inclusion, she helps her clients grow and achieve sustainable outcomes in an environment of trust, confidentiality, truth and space.

In a very heartwarming episode, Valarie shares with us today her journey and her challenges of being “the only” - and how to thrive in an environment where you might be underrepresented around the table.

If you'd like to reach out to Valarie, you can find her on http://valariegilbert.com

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For all the latest about the podcast, follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/asdiverseastwopeasinapod), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AsDiverseAsTwoPeasInAPod) or Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UyuMYX-QAvJKztBTm94NQ)

To reach out to Julien Lefort, you can contact him on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/julienl) or directly through his website (https://www.wearefutureminds.com)

Sep 01, 202144:39
Episode 1 - Cultivating A Culturally Conscious Mindset At Work - With Jennifer Stanzl

Episode 1 - Cultivating A Culturally Conscious Mindset At Work - With Jennifer Stanzl

Jennifer is the Head of Talent Management & DEI at Tata Consultancy Services UK&I. She focuses on driving the talent agenda to develop leaders and create a more diverse and inclusive workplace. She works in close partnership with business leaders, diverse talent groups, clients and the community.

In her early career, Jennifer has worked in several different roles including Employee Engagement, Internal Communications and Corporate Sustainability. She has led the development of one of the executive women’s leadership programmes for TCS globally. Before joining TCS in 2008, she worked as a research assistant at the Institute of Media & Communications at the University of Augsburg in Germany.

Jennifer is from Germany and she has lived and worked across USA, Australia, India and UK. She is a qualified leadership coach from the Academy of Executive Coaching and she holds a Master’s Degree in Organisational & Social Psychology from London School of Economics as well as a Bachelor Degree in Media & Communications. She is happily married, proud mother of a young daughter and loves travelling and marathon running.

In today’s episode, Jennifer and I dive into the topic of diversity with a cultural lens and how each and everyone of us can cultivate a culturally conscious mindset in the workplace.

If you'd like to reach out to Jennifer, you can find her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-stanzl-7a25303

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For all the latest about the podcast, follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/asdiverseastwopeasinapod), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AsDiverseAsTwoPeasInAPod) or Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UyuMYX-QAvJKztBTm94NQ)

To reach out to Julien Lefort, you can contact him on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/julienl) or directly through his website (https://www.wearefutureminds.com)

Sep 01, 202136:11
Episode 0 - As Diverse As Two Peas In A PodCast Teaser
Jul 26, 202103:27