In our latest episode, we welcome Karen Catlin, author and advocate for inclusive workspaces, back to the pod for the first time since 2020. Our discussion covers celebrating ten years of learning through Better Allies, shifts in DEI dynamics post-2020, and the increased backlash against DEI initiatives in current times. We discuss the continued importance and evolution of allyship, with practical strategies for individual and organizational support. Karen also shares personal anecdotes, mistakes, and lessons learned in her journey, while providing resources for those looking to delve deeper into allyship. Please note that we’re taking a hiatus, but please subscribe to our feed so you can be the first to know when we’re back. We’ve got some fun stuff in the works!Links:BetterAllies.comThe Savvy Ally by Jeannie GainsburgThe Anti Ableist Manifesto by Tiffany YuGood Guys by David Smith and Brad Johnson The Wake Up, Michelle MiJung KimChapters:00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement00:50 Reflecting on the Election and Its Impact02:35 Evolution of DEI Work03:55 Challenges and Shifts in Workplace Inclusion07:18 The Importance of Allyship11:21 Connecting Through Shared Stories14:19 Welcoming Karen Catlin15:41 Karen's Journey and Insights on Allyship29:42 Newsletter Insights and Language Awareness30:32 Best Practices for Scheduling Events32:03 Challenges with Event Scheduling36:11 DEI Backlash and Media Misrepresentation41:18 The Future of Allyship47:46 Recommended Resources for Allyship52:33 Looking Forward: AI and Personal Growth55:15 Final Thoughts and TakeawaysWant more like this? Here are a few episodes we think you'll love!Being a Better Ally with Karen CatlinBeing an HR Unicorn with Christofer PetersonDigital Accessibility with Perkins AccessDiversity, Equity, and Inclusion with Chris HaighFull Interview with Amaia Arruabarrena, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at ezCaterFull Interview with Dr. Erika Powell, DEI Certified Professional Diversity CoachFuture of Work Insights from Revelio Chief Economist Lisa SimonGeeking Out about DEI Strategy with Allyson Livingstone from athenahealthManaging Teams Empathetically with Dexter ArverReimagining Inclusion with Mita Mallick Visit us at InclusionGeeks.com to stay up to date on all the ways you can make the workplace work for everyone! Check out Inclusion Geeks Academy and InclusionGeeks.com/podcast for the code to get a free mini course.