In this episode of The Pink Tax Podcast, we speak with Sarah Kaplan, a leading expert in gender and the economy. We discuss the persistent issues of gender inequality, the challenges of proving the business case for diversity, and the backlash against DEI initiatives. We need more innovative solutions to promote gender equality, and we must recognize caregiving roles in leadership. We also dove deep into what meritocracy is, whether or not we actually live in one and the limitations of meritocracy.

Key Takeaways:

• The business case for diversity can create unfair standards.
• Legal and social justice cases motivate change more than business cases.
• The backlash against DEI initiatives is significant and concerning.
• Organizations that embed diversity will thrive in the long run.
• Meritocracy is a myth that perpetuates inequality.
• Innovative approaches are needed to promote gender equality.
• Disclosure of pay gaps must be treated as an opportunity for learning.

Sarah Kaplan is Professor Emerita and Founding Director of the Institute for Gender and the Economy at the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management. She regularly advises corporations, governments and agencies on policies related to environmental, social and governance issues such as board diversity, board governance, care work, employment, pay equity, and inclusive innovation. In recognition of her contributions, she was named one of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Pink Tax Podcast

00:13 Meet Sarah Kaplan: A Leader in Gender and Economy

01:31 The Journey to Gender and Economy Advocacy

03:49 Myth Busting: Gender Stereotypes in the Workplace

05:15 The Business Case for Gender Diversity

12:52 The Backlash Against DEI Initiatives

20:52 Challenging the Notion of Meritocracy

27:19 Innovating Gender Equality

33:43 The Role of Men and Masculinity

38:28 Workplace Inclusivity and Caregiving

44:30 The Impact of Disclosure on Gender Pay Gap

50:37 Research Interventions for Gender Equality

Resources:

The Meritocracy Paradox: https://www.amazon.ca/Meritocracy-Paradox-Talent-Management-Strategies/dp/0231208421#averageCustomerReviewsAnchor

Pink Tax Resources:

- The Wealthy(HER) Conference: https://www.thatswealthbuilding.com/her

- Financial Fitness Checklist: https://www.thatswealthbuilding.com/checklist

- Financial Feminism IQ Test: https://janinerogan.outgrow.us/janinerogan-5

- The Pink Tax Book: https://www.thatswealthbuilding.com/book

- Template Vault: https://www.thatswealthbuilding.com/product-page/the-template-vault

Connect with Sarah:

Website: https://sarahkaplan.info/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahlkaplan/

Connect with The Pink Tax Podcast

IG: https://www.instagram.com/pinktaxshow