In this episode of The Circle of Hope, I’m joined by Dr. Carla Pulliam for an open-hearted, insightful exploration of what it really takes to bring diversity, connection, and intentionality into our circles of influence. We reminisce about our first meeting—volunteering for a college readiness mentoring program where a simple conversation soon spiraled into deep dives on topics like critical race theory, menopause, and the power of authentic curiosity. Carla shares her perspective on connecting with new people and creating space for different voices, while we both reflect on what draws us to expand our circles in both personal and professional settings.

Together, we dig into some of the real, sometimes awkward, challenges that arise when we strive for true inclusion—like how it feels to be intentionally invited into spaces because of your identity, why explicit intent matters, and why taking (and making) space is crucial for connection. We also discuss the pressures and self-awareness around DEI in today’s world, how to deal with uncomfortable feelings like imposter syndrome, and how our upbringings shape who we include in our lives. Leave this episode with new language, practical mindsets, and a sense of joy about what happens when we lead with curiosity, clarity, and care in curating our circle.

Watch This If:

• You want to foster genuine inclusion and diversity within your professional or personal network.
• You’ve ever wondered how (or if) to bring up real conversations about identity, race, or difference without it feeling awkward.
• You’re looking for inspiration on curating a circle that helps everyone grow and thrive.
• You’re curious about how to balance taking space with making space for others.
• You want practical examples of turning uncomfortable moments into bigger opportunities for connection.

Quotes to Remember:

• “If I can help you find your lane, you can help me find my lane, we’re going to create something much bigger together.” – Carla Pulliam
• “Taking space and making space…when we honor and see, OK, this person possesses this interest or has a passion for this, or this is a strength that’s showing up—that’s for the good of the group.” – Valerie Hope
• “I just want to check-in to see if my buddy at work is doing okay...Whether or not they’re able to fulfill the job and perform because they feel heard, and they feel like they belong—those things seem to have gone out the window once that label was slapped on it.” – Valerie Hope
• “Can I lead with where my mind is? Because for what you know about yourself, can you just be out there with what you’re seeking or what you want, and then you know where to meet me?” – Carla Pulliam

What You’ll Learn:

• The difference between just “looking” inclusive and actually building authentic, diverse relationships
• Why transparency and clarity of intent are powerful tools for connection
• How to recognize and work through imposter syndrome and anxiety when curating your inner circle

Contact Information:

Guest: Dr. Carla Pulliam

• Website: https://www.thechrysaliscenter.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrysalis.center/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlapulliamphd/?msgControlName=view_message_button&msgConversationId=2-MGM5OTY4OWUtMTdhOS00M2JlLTk1ODMtMDg3NzdhZTY3NmE0XzAxMA%3D%3D&msgOverlay=true
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheChrysalisCenter

Host: Valerie Hope

• Website: https://www.valeriehope.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valeriehope/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriehope/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ValerieVHope
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ConnecttoJoy

Production Support: Lucy Hope - Podcast Editing, Copy, and Publishing.

#DiversityAndInclusion #CurateYourCircle #AuthenticConnection #CircleOfHope #ConnectToJoy