S2E5: Building a World of Inclusion: The NGLCC and the Power of Belonging

03/20/24 • 32 min

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When I stepped into the vibrant world of an NGLCC conference, I didn't just find opportunities—I discovered a family. This episode brings you the voice of Justin Nelson, co-founder and president of the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce. We journey through the organization's history, its transformative rebranding, and the ways it propels the economic presence of LGBTQ-owned businesses. You'll hear how a powerful sense of belonging and an ethos of mutual success are at the core of every NGLCC initiative, from affiliate chambers to global expansion and certification programs.
Remember the days when disco balls ruled the night? We do too—and we bring that same energy to a discussion about the importance of participation and presence. Feel the pulse of a community coming together, dressed in their '80s best, at a themed disco party that's more than just a good time—it's an embrace of diversity and inclusion within the LGBTQ+ community. Justin and I dig into the strides taken to support transgender, gender expansive individuals, and communities of color, acknowledging the personal experiences that fuel these efforts and the drive to create spaces where everyone feels valued.
Closing the episode, Justin reflects on the indelible mark of his past in Casper, Wyoming, and the solidarity he found in a group of friends who understood the journey of identity and belonging. Justin graciously shares how you can engage with the NGLCC, whether through their affiliate programs, getting certified, or attending an upcoming conference. If you're looking to connect, find a touchstone in the NGLCC, or simply want to learn more, our conversation is an open invitation to a world where inclusivity isn't just a buzzword—it's a way of life. Join us for a heartfelt exploration of what it means to belong, in business and beyond.

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Music:
Wave by Helkimer | https://soundcloud.com/helkimer
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Previous Episode

S2E4 Inclusive Leadership: Faith, Empathy, and the Quest for Belonging

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As we grapple with the intricacies of forging genuinely inclusive spaces, Nancy Lyons, a tech innovator and staunch advocate for workplace diversity, lends her voice to our latest conversation. With Nancy at the helm of Clockwork and Tempo, her journey as a queer woman carving out a progressive company culture is both inspiring and instructive. Her stories, rich with the trials and triumphs of embedding inclusion into the DNA of a business, remind us that the pursuit of a welcoming environment is an ongoing, deliberate process. Nancy's recount of a colleague's struggle to reconcile his faith with a modern workplace ethos sheds light on how even the best-intentioned inclusivity initiatives can inadvertently marginalize, urging us to listen, learn, and adapt.
The dialogue turns deeply personal as Nancy reflects on a transformative exchange with a junior employee, probing the intersection of faith and leadership. It's a testament to the power of empathy in leadership, illustrating that understanding and mentorship can coexist with a multitude of beliefs. By embracing the complexities that each individual brings to the table, Nancy's leadership narrative challenges us to consider love and compassion as the cornerstones of not just personal faith, but of corporate culture. Join us for this thought-provoking episode where we confront the realities of fostering true belonging, navigating differences with grace, and the continuous evolution required to lead with inclusivity at the forefront.

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S2E6: The Interplay of Personal Identity and Workplace Dynamics

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Have you ever found yourself trying to fit a square peg into a round hole, particularly in the workplace? Tami Chapek, an executive leadership coach and the founder of We Inspire We, joins me to unravel the complexities of staying true to oneself amid the pressures of conformity, especially as a woman in the cutthroat marketing and advertising industry. As we navigate the tricky terrain of blending personal identity with professional demands, Tami's revelations highlight the transformative power of authenticity, and how it fosters stronger connections within diverse teams.
Ever wondered about the social repercussions of defying traditional life milestones? Our heartfelt conversation shifts to the deeply personal, as Tami opens up about her experiences as a 45-year-old single woman without children. She sheds light on the societal expectations, implicit judgments, and the nuanced sense of belonging that come with singlehood and childlessness. Through her candid storytelling, listeners who share these experiences will find comfort and solidarity, and perhaps a new lens through which to view their own journeys.
Bringing our chat to a close, we emphasize the ever-growing importance of digital networking as Tami extends an invitation to continue this dialogue through social media platforms, solidifying her commitment to community building and professional camaraderie. It's more than just a discussion; it's an open door to a tribe where every listener can find support, inspiration, and perhaps their own voice in the chorus of leadership and self-discovery. Join us, as we share, learn, and grow together.

The Creating Belonging Podcast - S2E5: Building a World of Inclusion: The NGLCC and the Power of Belonging

Transcript

Justin Reinert00:00:10.032

Hello and welcome to another episode of the Creating the Lunging podcast . Today I have with me Justin Nelson . He is one of the founders of the NGLCC , but I'll let Justin describe that and talk about himself a little bit , if you wouldn't mind giving us an intro .

Justin Nelson00:00:28.442

Well . Thanks , justin as well . It's always nice to be with