Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox

This week, we’re joined by Lisa Cordileone and Shaan Dasani, the visionary executive producers behind Crazy as a Loon, a film inspired by a dark and often-overlooked chapter of American history: The Lavender Scare. In 1953, during this unsettling period, LGBTQ+ government employees were targeted and persecuted, deemed security risks to the country due to the belief that their identities made them morally weak and vulnerable to blackmail.

Lisa and Shaan bring their personal perspectives to this powerful story that transcends history, addressing universal themes of resilience, family, and the pursuit of peace.

Lisa’s background as an actor and producer fuels her passion for amplifying LGBTQ+ voices, celebrating underrepresented historical figures, and mentoring new talent in filmmaking. Shaan, an actor and filmmaker, contributes a deeply human lens to storytelling, emphasizing shared experiences that foster empathy and understanding.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The inspiration behind the short film and how it sheds light on The Lavender Scare while exploring timeless human struggles.
• How Lisa and Shaan’s lived experiences as LGBTQ+ creatives shape their storytelling.
• The challenges and rewards of using film to bridge societal divides and promote empathy.
• Tips for creating narratives that prioritize authenticity and inclusivity.

Through their filmmaking, Lisa and Shaan remind us of the enduring power of storytelling to illuminate history, celebrate diversity, and inspire change.

Links:

• Crazy as a Loon Updates: https://www.instagram.com/crazyasaloon.shortfilm/
• Lisa Cordileone: https://www.instagram.com/lisa.cordileone/
• Shaan Dasani: https://www.instagram.com/shaandasani/

Become a part of our community on:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diversity_beyondthecheckbox/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/diversity-beyond-the-checkbox-podcast/
• Our Website: https://beyondthecheckbox.com/

Hosted by award-winning business leader, best-selling author, investor and co-founder of The Diversity Movement, Jackie Ferguson.

Production by Earfluence.

As we approach the launch of Season 11, we're taking a moment to reflect on the incredible guests from Season 10. We are proud of the conversations we’ve shared, the insights we’ve gained, and the diverse voices we’ve elevated. Season 10 has been a testament to the transformative power of dialogue, personal empowerment, and connectedness. 

Today you'll hear from:

1. Tony Martignetti, MBA, PCC - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/66c201bb3719eea4b8d3350194fdc565
2. Alison Taylor - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/7400e1797850f0577291708fc1abd74e
3. Jamie Love - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/c4a7bd452e48fd35073788b6dae220e7
4. Trier Bryant - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/aac51dcc6faec19be97c203915393815
5. Fiona Lloyd - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/6e40ceba46952dc446346a9fb30d2918
6. Elaine Lin Hering - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/018f4e85cca168ade8be811454e7cfdb
7. Sunaina Sinha Haldea - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/8b147fcb7702a6190d9e559d4be62d70
8. Valera Wilson - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/27d63583c2f3baf54b62139baf59a745
9. Amber Cabral - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/67ea8ccec9ab7b296741fc1fb2d4c368
10. Arjun Sharda - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/a5889a87166c42c02cbc17d052d2558d
11. Coco Brown - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/636e5188f94a3d6423fc2dba24fe0f1d
12. Raquel Willis - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/918398b08a54de3d6bcffbe686ce4fd4
13. Dr. Charlotte Owens, MD, FACOG - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/c870af4a31659c80da668cbd82ac5aa9
14. Karen R. Baker, MTA, MA - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/a19bc872a3809fcef142f7db8c0e3455
15. Kellie Walenciak - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/5edc1f6045b1670cac160e7119d35268
16. Dr. Doris Bullock - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/4902a8b4f90a4b3fd0087b48219943bc
17. Joe Davis - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/b65418984fa76f1a2d2b672956cc6cd9
18. Lindsay LaBennett - https://pod.link/1496992226/episode/8411fbbb9d346b2204e3d25bfe1ec1e0

Become a part of our community on:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diversity_beyondthecheckbox/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/diversity-beyond-the-checkbox-podcast/
• Our Website: https://beyondthecheckbox.com/

Hosted by award-winning business leader, best-selling author, investor and co-founder of The Diversity Movement, Jackie Ferguson.

Production by Earfluence.

Jackie Ferguson, Inc. Female Founders 200 award winner, and host of the globally acclaimed podcast, Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox is joined by Joe Davis, Managing Director and Senior Partner of Boston Consulting Group and Sunaina Sinha Haldea, Global Head of Private Capital Advisory at Raymond James.

Named in the Top 100 Management Podcasts in the world, this special episode will be livestreamed as part of Workplace Options’ Summit delving into the critical role of employee engagement in driving organizational success and the pivotal strategies that leaders and governance structures can employ to foster a highly motivated and committed workforce.

To watch the video of this session and access other sessions, visit:
https://www.workplaceoptions.com/info/leading-with-purpose-employee-engagement-strategies-to-inspire-and-win/

Follow Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox on LinkedIn, Instagram, X and YouTube.

Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com.

Amber Cabral is an entrepreneur, podcaster, TEDx speaker and a best-selling author. In this episode, Amber discusses her decision to step out into entrepreneurship after six years at Walmart, her inspiration for creating her podcast, "Guilty Privilege," and her motivation to write the conversation-sparking book, "Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture." She shares the secret to maintaining momentum in the DEI space, tips on pursuing professional happiness and so much more.

"Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson. 

Follow Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox on LinkedIn, Instagram, X and YouTube.

Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!

This show is proud to be a part of The Living Corporate Network and to be produced by Earfluence.

Coco Brown is a four-time founder, board member and authority on modern leadership. As founder and CEO of Athena Alliance, Coco seeks to empower women professionals with the tools, strategies and network to grow, thrive and lead. She shares her perspective on technology roadmap, fundraising, sponsorship and embracing the gifts that come with age and experience. 

"Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson. 

Follow Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox on LinkedIn, Instagram, X and YouTube.

Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!

This show is proud to be a part of The Living Corporate Network and to be produced by Earfluence.

Alison Taylor, a clinical associate professor at NYU Stern School of Business, Executive Director of Ethical Systems and author, shares her insights on the evolving role of ethics and integrity in the corporate world. Alison's background in corporate investigations, leadership, and sustainability provides a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing businesses today. This episode will shed light on how those entering the workforce look to combine their personal beliefs with company culture and why corporate leaders need to pay attention. 

"Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson. 

Follow Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox on LinkedIn, Instagram, X and YouTube.

Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!

This show is proud to be a part of The Living Corporate Network and to be produced by Earfluence.

In this episode, Jamie Love, CEO of Monumental, shares his extraordinary journey from growing up in the Middle East to becoming an LGBTQ+ activist and entrepreneur. At just 21, Jamie founded Monumental, a diversity marketing agency committed to helping organizations find their authentic voice with an evolving consumer base. He discusses the agency's incredible growth trajectory, partnering with major brands and donating significant resources to crucial causes. Jamie elaborates on the strategies behind the astonishing 2,500% growth in attendance at Pride Edinburgh and shares how every organization can expand their reach through marketing messaging. Jamie also shares his vision for the future of inclusive marketing and provides inspiring guidance for young activists and entrepreneurs committed to improving their communities and creating more equitable environments.

"Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson. 

Follow Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox on LinkedIn, Instagram, X and YouTube.

Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!

This show is proud to be a part of The Living Corporate Network and to be produced by Earfluence.

In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Dr. Doris Bullock, Interim Chief Program Officer of Arise Collective. Dr. Bullock shares her personal experience of incarceration and the profound inequities she observed and experienced within the justice system. After serving ten and a half years of a life sentence (with the possiblilty of parole in 20 years) for a crime she did not commit, she earned a doctorate degree, dedicating herself to giving back to those transitioning from incarceration. Dr. Bullock passionately discusses how the organization's work inspires her, particularly in reducing recidivism rates, which benefits both families and our communities. She also addresses the harmful biases and stigma faced by justice-involved individuals, emphasizing how these perceptions hinder their chances for a fresh start and the importance of supporting second chances for a stronger, more inclusive society.

"Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson. 

Follow Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox on LinkedIn, Instagram, X and YouTube.

Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!

This show is proud to be a part of The Living Corporate Network and to be produced by Earfluence.

Lindsay LaBennett's career journey is a reflection of her strong family influences and unwavering dedication to hard work and respect. Inspired by her mother's engineering background and her grandmother's farm upbringing, Lindsay developed a robust work ethic and a deep understanding of herself. Lindsay's interest in sports and entertainment grew through internships and her time as an Account Executive in Diversity Affairs at NASCAR, where she was the liaison between NASCAR and the NAACP, National Urban League, Council de La Raza and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. With a 14-year tenure at Wasserman, she's now the Vice President of Inclusion and Impact, channeling her experiences and values into creating a more inclusive environment, with a focus on diversity, equity, and social change in sports.

"Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson. 

Follow Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox on LinkedIn, Instagram, X and YouTube.

Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!

This show is proud to be a part of The Living Corporate Network and to be produced by Earfluence.

Joe Davis, a senior partner at Boston Consulting Group, specializes in guiding employees and organizations through turbulent times. His approach, known as 'Generous Leadership,’ emphasizes the power of giving and empowerment to raise morale and generate results. With over 40 years of experience and a global platform that includes his book, ‘The Generous Leader,’ as well as a TEDx talk, Joe's strategies will encourage you to think differently.

"Diversity Beyond the Checkbox" is presented by The Diversity Movement and hosted by Inc 200 Female Founders award winner, Jackie Ferguson. 

Check out exclusive bonus content on BeyondtheCheckbox.com!

Follow Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox on LinkedIn, Instagram, X and YouTube.

This show is proud to be a part of The Living Corporate Network and to be produced by Earfluence.