A year after George Floyd's murder, companies across America are still struggling with their place in the country's racial reckoning. Many quickly released statements on diversity, equity, and inclusion – but they need to back up their words with actions. They need to go beyond the performative.

In the first of two episodes, Authority Figures host Aaron Schoenherr and Tanarra Schneider, Managing Director of Leadership & Culture at Accenture, discuss how organizations can – and should – go beyond the performative from an internal and external standpoint. Effective communication on these issues is about embracing vulnerability – and elevating diverse voices within organizations.

Episode Highlights:

1:48 – Tanarra discusses her background and advocating for her new role as Managing Director of Leadership & Culture at Accenture

4:53 – Tanarra explains how she keeps fear at bay and embraces discomfort

7:57 - Aaron and Tanarra discuss vulnerability in leadership

10:32 - Tanarra shares the common struggles among leaders who don't know how to get vulnerable

14:10 - Aaron and Tanarra discuss going beyond the performative as companies look to communicate effectively as a result of the racial reckoning

20:00 - Tanarra shares her experience working within organizations as a female leader of color and encouraging them to go beyond the performative

22:20 – Tanarra makes the case for why organizations need to put people in leadership who fundamentally understand the needs of the different groups they represent