Valuable 500’s Post

In my latest for Forbes, I share my thoughts on why so many business leaders hesitate when it comes to disability inclusion – fear of "getting it wrong." But what if that fear is holding us back from transformative change?  From rollercoaster rides to boardroom decisions, I explore how confronting our anxieties can lead to real progress in creating inclusive workplaces. https://lnkd.in/e9bPxCQW #DisabilityInclusion #Leadership 

Thank you, Caroline Casey, for this very insightful article. It truly resonates with how we encourage companies and organizations to begin or take further steps in addressing universal design and disability inclusion. It highlights the importance of not overthinking but taking action—right now—and stresses the value of involving people with lived experience in the process. Every step, no matter how small, contributes to meaningful change. As Caroline Casey puts it, “The best advice for businesses starting on this journey is simple: just start – get on with it.” #disabilityinclusion #DEI #universaldesign #inclusivedesign

Agreeing with everyone is not a hallmark of inclusion, but one of group-think and lack of courage, perhaps. Being overly polite and people pleasing is also not the intention of an inclusive approach. In fact, healthy teams have disagreements and some conflict. When you get closer to inclusion, your leadership is seen as respectful, fair and approachable, and not necessarily agreeable or pleasing. #InclusiveLeadership #Inclusion #Leadership

As we observe Disability Awareness Month, I'm reflecting on my journey to inclusive leadership, inspired by my late brother Lovell. Growing up, I witnessed the challenges Lovell faced due to his disability. While I attended a regular school, he was sent to a "school for the handicapped" despite his capabilities. This early exposure to exclusion ignited my passion for creating truly inclusive environments. Today, as a leadership coach, I carry Lovell's legacy with me. His story, and countless others like his, remind us that inclusive leadership isn't just a nice-to-have – it's a necessity. Key takeaways for inclusive leaders: 1. Use person-first language 2. Challenge ableism actively 3. Provide necessary accommodations 4. Foster open dialogue 5. Lead by example Remember, creating inclusive spaces benefits everyone. Diverse teams are more innovative, collaborative, and resilient. This month, I challenge fellow leaders: Are we truly creating environments where everyone can thrive? Let's commit to leadership that doesn't just talk about inclusion but actively works to make it a reality. Read my full blog post to learn more about my journey and practical steps for inclusive leadership. >>> https://lnkd.in/eitD-Nyv #InclusiveLeadership #DisabilityAwareness #Diversity #InclusiveWorkplace #Leadership

Great leaders don’t just inspire—they listen, empower, and create space for everyone to thrive. At The Inclusion Firm, we believe true growth happens when every voice is heard. 💬 What’s one quality you think every inclusive leader should have? Share with us below! 👇 #LeadershipForAll #InclusionMatters #TheInclusionFirm #DiversityInLeadership

Sitting around pointing fingers and waiting for change to appear on the horizon—has it ever worked for you? Do you feel imbalance between who you are and who you think you should be? Do you see fulfillment, better relationships, and stronger teamwork as something to work for, but not possible now? The truth is that all of these are available to us in this present moment, right where we are. #goodenoughnow #diversity #inclusion #diversityspeaker #consulting #leadership #toughconveresations #KeynoteSpeaker #MotivationalSpeaker

“Diversity is a fact, but inclusion is a choice we make every day. As leaders, we have to put out the message that we embrace and not just tolerate diversity.”~ Nellie Borrero Nellie Borrero’s words remind us that as leaders, it’s not enough to acknowledge diversity—we must actively create environments where everyone feels valued and empowered. Inclusion is a daily commitment to breaking barriers, fostering collaboration, and amplifying voices that often go unheard. Let’s move beyond tolerance and embrace the transformative power of true inclusion. How do you ensure inclusion is part of your leadership DNA? #MergePlusQuote #Diversity #Equity #Inclusion #DEI #MergePlusInc #BusinessSuccess #Innovation #Sustainability

The mindset of ‘kindness’ being a weakness when it comes to leadership is well and truly on its way out the door (thank goodness!) 👞 But is everyone on the same page? 🤔 Swipe to hear from #WORK180EndorsedEmployer leaders on what they had to say in response to this question. What do you think? Does kindness have a place in power, and who is getting it right? #WORK180 #GenderEquity #GenderEquality #Inclusion #Leadership #KindnessatWork #WorkplaceCulture #KindLeadership #WorkplaceCulture #LeadershipLegacy

Once we have a better understanding of who and how we are in the world, we can determine which patterns we value in ourselves and keep them! Other patterns will seem incongruent with our core values or preferences. Studying our patterns is an excellent way to develop self-awareness. . . #goodenoughnow #diversity #inclusion #diversityspeaker #consulting #leadership #toughconveresations #KeynoteSpeaker #MotivationalSpeaker

We track sales and revenue closely. What if we did the same for inclusion at work? We focus on what truly matters by measuring how inclusive our actions are. Employees who receive feedback on their inclusiveness know exactly how they contribute. It is like having a playbook for building a better team. Track inclusion like we track success. Learn more about inclusion with IMS. https://lnkd.in/gHB3xVUv #Inclusion #WorkplaceCulture #Leadership #Accountability