Episode Summary

In this episode of The Two Piers Podcast, host Erica D’Eramo sits down with Celeste Warren, a diversity and inclusion consultant with nearly 40 years of experience and former Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer at Merck. Together, they unpack one of the most misunderstood concepts in the modern workplace — equity.

Celeste explains why equity isn’t about preferential treatment but about removing systemic barriers that prevent fair access to opportunity. Through powerful stories and practical examples, she and Erica explore how equity strengthens leadership, improves business outcomes, and helps organizations reach their full potential.

🔍 Topics Covered

• The real difference between equality and equity — and why it matters
• Common myths and misconceptions about fairness and meritocracy
• How systemic barriers like racism and sexism undermine team performance
• What skills-based hiring looks like in practice
• The role of shame, defensiveness, and dialogue in advancing inclusion
• How effective leaders create equitable, high-performing teams
• Why SHRM’s recent decision to de-emphasize equity is a step backward
• The business and human case for embracing equity as a leadership imperative

🧭 Key Takeaways

• Equity is not a dirty word — it’s the foundation of good leadership and sound business strategy.
• Leaders must understand that identical treatment isn’t fairness; equitable systems recognize and address different starting points.
• Conversations about equity work best when they’re grounded in data, empathy, and curiosity, not shame or fear.
• Organizations that commit to equity see stronger engagement, innovation, and performance.

👤 About Celeste Warren

Celeste Warren is a globally recognized diversity and inclusion strategist and the former Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer at Merck. With a career spanning nearly four decades, she has been a leading voice in transforming organizational culture through equity, empathy, and leadership accountability. Celeste is also the author of How to Be a Diversity and Inclusion Ambassador and a sought-after speaker and consultant.

To learn more about Celeste Warren’s work, visit her website, follow her on LinkedIn, or check out her book, “The Truth About Equity.”