In this episode of FARSIGHT Chats, host Farah Bala engages with Lily Zheng, a diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategist. They discuss addressing fatigue and achieving meaningful change on the road to equity, diversity, inclusion, and anti-oppression. Lily shares their background, emphasizing the importance of leadership consulting and DEI survey assessments to ground DEI work in real data. They explain the motivations behind their work, rooted in personal experiences and the desire to create effective, inclusive workplaces. The conversation tackles issues like performative DEI, ineffective initiatives causing burnout, and the importance of grounding work in actionable data. They critique ineffective DEI efforts, such as unfulfilled promises and exploitative volunteerism within ERGs, and advocate for systemic solutions and communal approaches to healing from burnout. Lily argues that DEI work must be strategically aligned with genuine problem-solving and emphasize inclusive, long-term solutions. This episode highlights the importance of impactful, data-backed initiatives and collaboration within organizations to avoid superficial efforts and truly advance equity.

| KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED |

UNDERSTANDING THE DEI WORK

• DEI = Problem Solving: DEI isn’t just events or training—it’s systemic problem-solving aimed at measurable outcomes in diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Efficacy over Optics: DEI efforts must be tied to real, data-driven impact—not feel-good interventions or buzzwords.

FATIGUE & BURNOUT

• Root Cause of Fatigue: Fatigue stems from a lack of impact—not just workload. When DEI efforts don’t lead to change, burnout increases.
• Action Fatigue > Survey Fatigue: People aren’t tired of giving feedback—they’re tired of seeing no action taken afterward.

PERFORMATIVE DEI & STRUCTURAL HARM

• Performative DEI = Ineffective DEI: Any initiative that doesn’t drive outcomes is, by definition, performative—regardless of intent.
• Setting Up DEI for Failure: Hiring DEI heads without power, budget, or support ensures burnout and erodes trust in the work.

ERGs & VOLUNTEERISM

• Unpaid Labor = Exploitation: Expecting ERGs or marginalized employees to solve systemic issues without resources leads to harm and burnout.
• Purpose Clarity is Key: ERGs must have defined goals (e.g., community vs. change-making) to avoid scope creep and exhaustion.

ALLYSHIP & ADVOCACY FATIGUE

• Micro-actions Aren’t Enough: Allyship isn’t about isolated gestures—it requires sustained, systemic collaboration for change.
• Diverse Forms of Advocacy: Everyone can contribute differently. There's no one “right” way to show up.

HARM, REPAIR & HEALING

• Repair Requires Systems Change: Individual self-care can’t fix systemic burnout. Collective and organizational repair is essential.
• Restorative & Transformative Justice: Healing must address interpersonal harm and the structural root causes that enable it.

ORGANIZATIONAL ACCOUNTABILITY

• No Such Thing as ‘Water Under the Bridge’: Organizations must own past harm and prioritize ongoing repair.
• Outcomes Over Org Charts: Whether DEI reports to HR or not matters less than whether the work is effective.

| SHOW NOTES |

00:00 Welcome to FARSIGHT Chats

00:29 Introducing Today's Topic and Guest

03:25 Lily Zheng's Background and Approach

06:28 The Challenges of DEI Work

09:59 The Importance of Effective DEI Interventions

20:05 The Impact of Performative DEI

24:57 Diversity Fatigue and Its Consequences

30:03 The Role of ERGs and Volunteer...

In this episode of FARSIGHT Chats, host Farah Bala engages with leaders Renee Mahaffey Harris, Jay Requiro, and Felicia Williams to discuss the future of women in leadership. The conversation addresses key topics such as the challenges women face in leadership roles, the importance of mentorship and sponsorship, women's unique 'superpowers,' and the impact of recent societal changes on women's careers. The guests share personal experiences, highlight the necessity of understanding local policies, and discuss organizational strategies for fostering more inclusive workplaces. Additionally, the dialogue covers overcoming imposter syndrome, the importance of empathy from leaders, and the need for allies to actively support women in achieving higher positions. The episode also explores the impact of recent social and policy changes on women's leadership opportunities, and offers practical advice for both women and their allies on fostering inclusive workplace cultures. Additionally, it encourages collective advocacy and continuous efforts towards creating a culture that supports equity, diversity, and inclusion.

| KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED |

WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP TODAY

• Women bring unique superpowers to leadership: adaptability, resilience, collaboration, empathy, and lived experience.
• Despite progress, systemic barriers remain, including microaggressions, pay inequity, limited childcare support, and workplace policies that assume traditional gender roles.

SPONSORSHIP VS. MENTORSHIP

• Sponsorship is essential for advancement—women need leaders who will advocate for them in rooms they’re not in.
• Relationships, visibility, and trust are key to getting promoted, not just doing good work.

INTERSECTIONALITY & IDENTITY

• Women of color face distinct challenges, from implicit bias to cultural assumptions. They often navigate assimilation and authenticity in predominantly white, male spaces.

IMPACT OF THE PANDEMIC & SOCIAL RECKONING

• COVID-19 and the murder of George Floyd catalyzed urgent conversations and some meaningful structural shifts—but momentum is fading.
• There is growing concern that DEI efforts are being deprioritized or becoming performative.

WORK CULTURE & FLEXIBILITY

• Remote work has provided mental health relief and reduced microaggressions, especially for Black women.
• However, remote settings can limit relationship-building and access to sponsorship, creating barriers to career advancement.

ADVOCACY & COLLECTIVE ACTION

• Women must support each other across industries through informal networks, sharing experiences, and lifting others up.
• Allies must actively listen, ask what support is needed, and avoid making assumptions.
• Organizational advocacy should be proactive: modernize definitions of success, invest in inclusive culture, and integrate DEI across all departments—not just HR.

IMPOSTER SYNDROME & SELF-ADVOCACY

• Women often feel they need to meet 100% of qualifications before applying for roles, unlike men.
• Recognizing and naming imposter syndrome, claiming confidence, and normalizing imperfection are key to personal growth.

| SHOW NOTES |

00:00 Welcome to FARSIGHT Chats

02:17 Introducing Today's Guests

05:30 Personal Journeys and Inspirations

08:58 Women’s Superpowers in Leadership

13:35 Impact of Recent Events on Leadership

19:11 Challenges and Advice for Women Leaders

27:26 Workplace Flexibility and Its Implications

29:24 Navigating Career Advancement in a Virtual Space

29:59 Supporting Working Mothers in the Workplace

31:27 Understanding...

In this episode of FARSIGHT Chats, with host Farah Bala, the discussion centers on leadership, equity, and social justice in the workplace through the perspectives of young leaders Jannie Kamara and Gentle Ramirez. The conversation explores how Gen Z challenges the status quo, values boundaries, and uses social media to drive change. Insights include the importance of transparency, self-care, and redefining work-life balance, emphasizing the next generation's commitment to creating inclusive and compassionate spaces. The episode highlights the collective power of storytelling, mutual aid, and disruptive innovation to build a more equitable world and the impact of the Black Lives Matter movement. They also discuss their personal experiences navigating leadership roles. Listeners are invited to engage with these fresh perspectives and consider how generational shifts influence workplace dynamics and societal expectations.

| KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED |

GEN Z IDENTITY & VALUES

• Gen Z is defined by challenging the status quo and setting strong personal boundaries.
• They are unapologetic about demanding equity, inclusion, and purpose in life and work.
• Purpose comes first—not something discovered later in life but something they lead with.

VISION FOR THE FUTURE

• Dream of a post-capitalist, community-driven world with collective care and less exploitative work structures (e.g., ending the 40-hour work week).
• Envision institutions that are intolerant of intolerance and actively anti-racist.
• Desire spaces that are brave, inclusive, and support marginalized voices authentically.

ACTIVISM & STRATEGY

• Engage in mutual aid, prison education programs, and grassroots organizing (e.g., Take Back the Bronx).
• Use student government and DEI advocacy to make leadership and information more accessible.
• Research historical student activism to drive present-day institutional accountability.

ROLE OF SOCIAL MEDIA

• Social media is a double-edged sword: a tool for mutual aid, storytelling, and rapid mobilization, but also a space for false narratives and validation traps.
• Effective when used with intentionality, credible sourcing, and emotional boundaries.

COMMUNICATION & MENTAL HEALTH

• COVID-19 has reshaped communication and deepened mental health challenges.
• Self-awareness, empathy, affirmations, and community check-ins are crucial.
• Compassion starts with self-care—put on your “oxygen mask” first.

WORKPLACE EXPECTATIONS

• Reject toxic hustle culture; Gen Z doesn’t “dream of labor.”
• Want workspaces that:

1. Respect boundaries (clear stop times, mental health awareness).
2. Value equity (pay transparency, anti-racist commitments).
3. Are hybrid/flexible.
4. Provide growth aligned with purpose, not just productivity.

• Gen Z is willing to walk away from inauthentic or extractive environments.

FINAL TAKEAWAY

• “You are not just going to get a skillset—you’re getting visionaries.”
• Companies must prepare for a generation that brings disruption, purpose, and a bold redefinition of leadership.

| WORKS CITED |

The Will To Change. Jennifer Brown. Podcast.

NYU Prison Education Program

Take Back The...

Originally released on Tim Cynova’s podcast, Work Shouldn’t Suck, this episode of FARSIGHT Chats, delves into the significance of coaching in fostering leadership skills, particularly through the lens of equity, diversity, inclusion, and anti-oppression (EDIA). Host of FARSIGHT Chats, Farah Bala, shares her personal and professional journey, emphasizing the importance of values-based coaching. The conversation includes insights on the distinctions between coaching, mentoring, and therapy, as well as the role of identity in coaching relationships. Farah discusses the necessity of continuous self-care for coaches and the impact of a diverse perspective in coaching. She also provides guidance on selecting and interviewing potential coaches and highlights the value of coaching skills for leaders. Resources and certification programs are recommended for those interested in developing coaching skills. This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for anyone seeking to understand, engage in, or grow through coaching as a powerful tool for inclusive and conscious leadership

| KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED |

COACHING PHILOSOPHY & PRACTICE

• Definition: Coaching is present- and future-focused, helping clients reach their goals through thought partnership and self-discovery.
• Distinction:

1. Therapy: Past-focused, aims to heal.
2. Mentorship: Mentor shares experiences; coach centers on the client.
3. Management: Often task- and agenda-driven; coaching is person- and growth-driven.

• Who It’s For: Not limited to executives. Anyone seeking personal or professional development can benefit.

VALUES-BASED & INCLUSIVE COACHING

• Core Lens: Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Anti-Oppression (EDIA) are not add-ons—they are integral to leadership and coaching.
• Personal Perspective: Farah draws on lived experience as a Persian-Indian American woman to inform her equity lens.
• Cultural Competency: Coaches with diverse identities or experiences can bring vital nuance, but shared identity isn’t always required—it depends on client needs and goals.

CHOOSING A COACH

• Interview multiple coaches to assess alignment.
• Ask about background, approach, certifications (preferably ICF-accredited), and relevant experience.
• Consider identity, but prioritize connection, trust, and expertise.

TEAM & ORGANIZATIONAL COACHING

• Coaching supports trust-building, conflict resolution, strategic alignment, and inclusive leadership development.
• A coach can help cultivate “healthy conflict” and provide objective, outside perspectives to improve team dynamics.

COACHING SKILLS FOR LEADERS

• Leaders can adopt coaching practices without certification:

1. Listen deeply
2. Ask open-ended questions
3. Reflect back
4. Resist problem-solving too quickly

• Core skills foster psychological safety and team empowerment.

TRAINING & RESOURCES

• Recommended coach training programs: iPEC, Co-Active (CTI), Columbia University, all ICF-affiliated.
• Suggested activities: Take improv or storytelling classes to build presence, empathy, and communication.
• Explore Coaching for Everyone, a nonprofit offering subsidized coaching and training for BIPOC individuals.

SELF-CARE & ETHICS

• Coaches must maintain boundaries and care practices to stay effective and avoid harm.
• Every coach should have a coach and engage in continual reflection and learning.

| SHOW NOTES |

00:00 Intro to FARSIGHT Chats

02:00 Introducing Farah’s Background

04:00 What is

In this episode of FARSIGHT Chats, host Farah Bala, founder and CEO of FARSIGHT, discusses the critical aspects of inclusive coaching with three expert leadership coaches: Dr. Towanna Burrous, Carolyn Chan, and Dr. Victor McGuire. They explore foundational principles of leadership, the significance of executive coaching for inclusion, and the importance of proper coaching certifications. The conversation delves into the necessity of diverse representation in coaching, methodologies, and the coach approach versus mentoring. They also discuss the impact of cultural, behavioral, and personality assessments and the importance of adapting these tools for more diverse contexts. The conversation emphasizes the nuanced differences between coaching and other advisory roles, the importance of rigorous coaching training, the challenges and opportunities in integrating AI into coaching, and the critical role of inclusion in fostering innovative and effective leadership. This episode is thoroughly packed with insights for aspiring and practicing coaches, as well as those looking to leverage coaching for personal and professional growth.

| KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED |

Coaching Essentials

• Coaching is transformational, forward-looking, and different from mentoring or therapy.
• Certification builds credibility, skill, and trust.
• Leaders benefit from using a coach-like approach to foster accountability and growth.

Coaching for Inclusion

• Inclusion coaching supports diversity, innovation, engagement, and better decision-making.
• Focus on both visible and invisible diversity (e.g., culture, values, thinking styles).
• Leaders often include selectively; inclusion must become consistent and intentional.

Organizational Impact

• Inclusive coaching boosts retention, performance, and leadership pipelines.
• Lack of inclusive leadership leads to lost talent and organizational stagnation.

Assessments in Coaching

• Assessments are useful starting points, not definitive.
• Coaches must interpret through a DEI lens and focus on behavioral tools over personality-based ones.

Coaching Industry Challenges

• The field is still predominantly white and male.
• Programs like Coach Diversity Institute and Coaching for Everyone aim to diversify coaching and increase access.

Certification Tips

Choose programs based on:

• Rigor
• Alignment with DEI goals
• Real-world coaching practice

AI & Coaching

• AI is a tool, not a replacement.
• Use AI for pre/post coaching support while staying mindful of bias and representation.

| SHOW NOTES |

00:00 Introduction to FARSIGHT Chats

02:51 Meet the Expert Coaches

04:20 Understanding the Coach Approach

06:31 The Importance of Certification

11:40 Coaching for Inclusion

27:28 The Role of Assessments in Coaching

33:42 The Role of Authenticity in Coaching

35:54 Challenges in the Coaching Industry

36:54 Addressing Diversity Gaps in Coaching

43:18 Global Perspectives on Coaching

46:49 Choosing the Right Coaching Certification

53:20 The Impact of AI on Coaching

01:01:54 Concluding Thoughts and Future Directions

| WORKS CITED |

Assessments (Behavioral & Personality)

• MBTI
• StandOut Assessment

In this episode of FARSIGHT Chats, host Farah Bala is joined by Jennifer Brown, a thought leader in diversity, equity, and inclusion. The discussion is centered around the urgency of inclusive leadership in today's climate while exploring Jennifer's book, How To Be An Inclusive Leader. They explore topics such as the inclusive leadership continuum, the impact of imposter syndrome on leadership resilience, and the need for integrating equity, diversity, inclusion, and anti-oppression (EDIA) as core leadership competencies. Jennifer shares her journey in the DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) space, the relevance of updating her book, and her views on allyship, advocacy, and creating sustainable change within organizations. She shares insights on how individuals at all levels can contribute to positive, lasting change. The conversation delves into the complexities of marginalized identities, allyship, and the necessity of strategic, collective action.

| KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED |

Inclusive Leadership Defined

• Leadership rooted in equity, diversity, inclusion, and anti-oppression (EDIA)
• Embedding EDIA as a core leadership competency for healthy workplace culture

The Inclusive Leadership Continuum

• Four stages: Unaware → Aware → Active → Advocate
• A personal and non-linear journey that all leaders move through

Urgency of Inclusive Leadership

• The need for leaders to go beyond performative actions
• Inclusive leadership tied to business outcomes like retention, innovation, and revenue

Imposter Syndrome & Personal Barriers

• Internalized scarcity and shame hinder inclusive leadership
• Everyone has a story worth sharing that can drive inclusion

From Fear to Courage

• Transitioning from ego and fear to vulnerability, authenticity, and humility
• Leadership as a journey of unlearning and relearning

Allyship and Advocacy

• Allyship is earned, not claimed; must be practiced continuously
• Advocates should use their privilege strategically and humbly, avoiding saviorism

Using Privilege for Change

• Recognizing and leveraging one’s privileges (e.g., race, education, gender alignment) to open doors for others
• Everyone, regardless of position or seniority, has a role to play

Collective Change-Making

• Change is more effective when done in coalitions
• Building internal networks and identifying power dynamics is crucial for sustained DEI efforts

The Risk of Status Quo

• Leaders who ignore inclusive practices risk obsolescence
• Stagnant DEI efforts can harm both people and business

Sustainable DEI Strategy

• Importance of long-term, strategic planning over short-term visibility
• DEI must be integrated into core business functions and not left to marginalized groups

| SHOW NOTES |

00:00 Welcome to Farsight Chats

00:30 Introduction to Inclusive Leadership

02:34 Jennifer Brown's Journey in DEI

04:02 The Urgency of Inclusive Leadership

10:19 Navigating Challenges in DEI Work

11:58 Understanding the Inclusive Leadership Continuum

20:30 The Role of Privilege in Advocacy

26:12 Understanding the Weight of Worthiness

26:43 The Unique Power of Individual Voices

28:08 Advocacy and Humility

28:44 Balancing Ego and Advocacy

32:38 The Role of Allies and Advocates

37:41 The Complexity of Corporate DEI

40:03 Building Effective Coalitions for Change

46:50 Sustaining Long-Term Change

48:38 Conclusion and Future

In this episode of FARSIGHT Chats, host Farah Bala discusses the intricacies of intersectional Business Resource Groups (BRGs) and Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) with guests Stephanie Galera, Simone Harvey, Eshani Parikh, and Tammy Tran. Recorded in Spring 2021, the conversation explores the challenges and opportunities within BRGs, including how to be an effective ally and upstander, fostering inclusive leadership, and leveraging BRGs for organizational growth. The discussion also delves into the emotional toll of the pandemic, the importance of mental health, and the need for systemic change to support genuinely inclusive workplaces. Various perspectives, challenges, and strategies are shared on how to evolve these groups to be strategic partners within their organizations, reflecting on both personal experiences and professional insights.

| KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED |

Mental Health & Resilience

• Pandemic trauma impacted everyone differently.
• BRGs provided safe spaces for emotional support.
• Importance of therapy, rest, and community connection.
• True safe spaces are rare; progress often requires discomfort and risk.
• BRGs act as brave spaces for candid dialogue, healing, and systemic challenge.

Allyship & Solidarity

• True allyship includes advocating for other ERGs and showing up consistently.
• Ally fatigue is real; must overcome individualistic systems to build collective power.

Structural Barriers

• Professional growth is often hindered by lack of visibility, mentorship, or leadership pathways.
• BRG leaders highlight the need for pipeline-building and role modeling.

Leadership & Representation

• Executive sponsorship is vital—but it must include allies outside the group (e.g., a white male exec sponsoring an API group).
• Leaders must support ERG/BRG leaders professionally and structurally.

Tactical Collaboration

• ERGs can share resources, coordinate events, and amplify each other’s efforts.
• This cross-ERG support increases visibility and collective impact.

Best Practices & Takeaways

• Normalize therapy and mental health discussions at work.
• Create shared ERG resources (e.g., directories, campaigns).
• Develop ERG leaders with succession planning and mentorship.
• Frame ERGs as business-critical contributors, not extracurricular groups.
• Leadership must actively participate and listen—not just observe.

| SHOW NOTES |

00:00 Introduction to Far Sight Chats

01:53 Meet the Esteemed Guests

04:26 The Importance of Intersectional Solidarity

07:02 Personal Reflections on a Challenging Year

16:44 The Evolution of BRGs and ERGs

24:28 Challenges and Opportunities in BRG Leadership

34:18 The Importance of Allyship in Diverse Workforces

35:16 Challenges and Discomfort in Learning and Growth

35:45 Addressing Systemic Oppression and Supremacist Structures

36:39 Ally Fatigue and Grassroots Community Building

38:05 Sharing Power and Servant Leadership

38:46 Tactical Support and Collaboration

39:36 Historical Struggles and Shared Interests

42:17 Disruption and Agility in Leadership

46:04 Career Growth and Systemic Blocks

51:40 Representation and Dismantling Nepotism

53:31 Intersectionality and Broader Societal Impact

58:01 Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing

01:06:22 Concluding Thoughts and Future Conversations

Connect with our guests:

This episode of FARSIGHT Chats, hosted by Farah Bala, features a discussion with Farzana Nayani about Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and their impact on creating inclusive workplace environments. The conversation covers the foundational role ERGs play in fostering equity, diversity, inclusion, and anti-oppression within organizations. Farzana Nayani, the author of The Power of Employee Resource Groups, shares insights into the purpose, evolution, challenges, and strategic importance of ERGs. The episode also addresses contemporary issues like performative diversity measures, the role of white ally spaces, and the integration of DEI strategies with ERG initiatives. This comprehensive discussion provides insights for both new and existing ERG leaders to effectively navigate and contribute to their organization's DEI landscape. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own ERG participation and the broader implications for organizational culture.

| KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED |

Definition, Purpose & Evolution of ERGs

• ERGs = Employee Resource Groups.
• Designed to build inclusion and belonging within organizations.
• Other names: Affinity Groups, BRGs (Business Resource Groups), ENs (Employee Networks).
• Evolved from grassroots support groups to strategic organizational tools.

Support & Sponsorship

• Success depends on executive sponsorship, leadership buy-in, and internal champions.
• Sponsors can offer advocacy, visibility, and access to leadership.

Challenges & Resistance

• Fear of divisiveness or creating silos.
• Importance of intentional design and communication to avoid being seen as performative or tokenistic.

Authentic Change vs. Optics

• ERGs must be more than performative.
• Real change comes from consistent investment, engagement, and structural support.

DEI Integration

• ERGs should not replace a company’s DEI strategy.
• Need for alignment and mutual reinforcement between DEI offices, councils, and ERGs.

Call to Action

• Start with self-reflection and clear purpose.
• Use tools like ERG charters and the 5 Ps (Purpose, People, Process, Planning, Priorities).

| SHOW NOTES |

00:00 Introduction to Farsight Chats

00:44 Understanding Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)

02:55 Guest Introduction: Farzana Nayani

04:03 The Power of ERGs: Insights from Farzana's Book

05:53 Challenges and Engagement in ERGs

09:16 The Evolution and Importance of ERGs

14:24 Strategic Implementation of ERGs

22:56 Support and Sponsorship for ERGs

28:56 Addressing Resistance and Ensuring Sustainability

31:58 Current Trends in ERG Funding and Compensation

33:28 The Importance of Recognizing ERG Roles

34:53 Addressing Performative ERG Efforts

37:54 The Five P's Model for ERG Success

38:53 Investments in ERGs: Beyond the Budget

42:30 Engaging and Sustaining ERG Participation

45:02 The Role of White ERGs and Allyship

47:02 The Need for DEI Councils and Oversight

50:32 Challenges and Resistance in DEI Initiatives

51:58 Training ERG Leaders for Effective Representation

55:16 The Impact of Unfulfilled DEI Promises

59:01 Final Thoughts and Next Steps

| WORKS CITED |

The Power of Employee Resource Groups. 2022. Book.

Raising...