Show Summary

Change is often treated as a process to manage, but what happens when we center the human experience instead? In this episode, Oana Amaria sits down with organizational development practitioners Jacqueline Rosenberg and Zhanel Ahearne to explore what it really means to navigate change inside organizations.

Together, they unpack the difference between change and transition, reframing change as something inevitable while transition is the emotional and psychological journey people experience in response to it. Through stories from their work with global organizations, the conversation explores why transformation efforts often struggle when leaders focus only on systems, timelines, and communication plans while overlooking loss, resistance, trust, and human complexity.

Join us for a thoughtful conversation on leading through uncertainty, supporting people through transition, and why sustainable transformation begins by putting humans at the center of change.

Learning Highlights From This Episode:

• Why resistance should be viewed as valuable information rather than a barrier
• How loss, identity, and uncertainty shape people’s responses to change
• Why leadership behavior matters more than communication plans or frameworks
• How transparency, listening, and empathy help leaders build trust during uncertainty

Link to website blog post, transcript & show notes: https://fireflyinclusion.com/from-contact-to-change-what-leaders-start-to-see-when-they-stay-in-the-room-podcast/

Show Summary 

In a fast-moving world, it’s easy for leaders to lose touch, with themselves and with the people around them. In this episode, Oana Amaria sits down with Nnaceesay Mercier and Tsheli Lujabe to explore the Gestalt concept of contact and what it really means to connect with authenticity in leadership and everyday life.

Making contact goes beyond communication. It’s about presence, curiosity, and the willingness to truly engage with another person’s experience. Through personal stories and reflections from their work with leaders around the world, the conversation explores how self-awareness, vulnerability, and listening can deepen relationships and open the door to real transformation.

Join us for a thoughtful conversation on what it means to be present, how authentic contact shapes stronger leadership, and why meaningful connection is more essential than ever.

Learning Highlights from the Episode

• The concept of contact in Gestalt practice and why it matters in leadership

• The role of self-awareness and presence in building authentic connections

• How vulnerability and curiosity deepen relationships

• Why meaningful contact can transform conversations, relationships, and growth

• Practical reflections on bringing more presence and connection into everyday leadership

Episode website w/ full transcript: ⁠https://fireflyinclusion.com/staying-in-the-room-what-real-contact-teaches-us-in-moments-of-uncertainty-podcast/

Firefly Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/⁠ 

Firefly LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/⁠

Firefly Substack: ⁠https://fireflyinclusion.substack.com/

Show Summary 

In this special episode of Stories From the Field, Robert Patteri, Partner/Head of Human Capital from Connex Partners, hosted a fireside chat featuring two members of Firefly’s leadership team (Oana Amaria and Jason Rebello). This session will reframe diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), moving beyond the acronym’s expectations and platitudes to overcome politicized narratives, blame-and-shame shortcomings, and cultural inertia. More specifically, it explored how belonging can be leveraged by adaptive leaders to bring about more human-centered client, community, and employee engagement strategies that maximize business performance. Listeners will come away with practical strategies for fostering and catalyzing a culture of trust by evolving their human resource policy, and investing in upskilling and leadership development programming. With adaptive leadership as a cornerstone, this episode will ultimately guide participants on how to empower their workforce, bridge divides, and maximize success in an increasingly polarized, uncertain landscape.

Learning Highlights From This Episode

• DEI needs to be embedded across the organization, following the SIMPLE framework (Shared, Integrated, Measurable, People-Centered, Leader-Driven, Equitable).
• The core pillars of adaptive leadership are what guides high-trust cultures and innovation.
• How the success metrics of DEI are key to future-proofing your business.
• The key to building a competitive edge when facing technology and AI disruptions.

Episode website w/ full transcript: https://fireflyinclusion.com/dei-in-crisis-living-our-values-when-leadership-loses-integrity-podcast/

Firefly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/ 

Firefly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

Firefly Substack: https://fireflyinclusion.substack.com/

Show Summary

In this episode of Stories From the Field, Firefly’s leadership team (Oana Amaria, Jason Rebello, and Felicia Scott) come together to process the many turbulent changes, consequences, and future impact from the current administration in 2025. They share their personal insights on topics ranging from companies abandoning their DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) initiatives, the cultural impact of Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime show, and the clear social and political divide among Americans. If crisis is a test, how do you prepare your organization to pass with integrity? And ultimately, how do we rise to the challenge of the moment with integrity and compassion? 

Join us in our ongoing dialogue on centering human dignity in values-driven leadership and daily conversations.

Learning Highlights From This Episode

• The Firefly team analyzes the cultural impact and symbolism of Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime show, especially in the current social and political climates.

• There’s a rising “crisis of integrity” in leadership where companies are revealing the true nature (performative or authentic) of their DEI initiatives. 

• Strategies for remaining compassionate despite the differences in our core beliefs.

  
  

Episode website w/ full transcript: https://fireflyinclusion.com/dei-in-crisis-living-our-values-podcast/

Firefly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/ 

Firefly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

Firefly Substack: https://fireflyinclusion.substack.com/

Show Summary

In this episode of Stories From the Field, we sit down with Bernard Coleman to explore the vital roles individuals and organizations play in today's polarized world. We delve into the responsibilities of each individual during election cycles, emphasizing the importance of advocacy. Bernard shares insights on cultivating a creative imagination to envision peace, especially now during times like the Palestine-Israel conflict.

We also discuss the reaction of corporations and universities to diverse opinions and the critical role of leaders in managing these challenges. Bernard sheds light on the upcoming leadership transition from Boomers to Zoomers, highlighting the urgent need for current leaders to understand and engage with the values-driven, DEI-focused younger workforce. Join us for an insightful conversation on navigating the complexities of advocacy, leadership, and inclusivity in the modern world.

Learning Highlights From This Episode:

• Bernard discusses the responsibility of each individual in advocating for harmony and peaceful solutions.
• Highlighted the need for responsible participation in political and social discourse.
• What it means for organizational leaders in navigating these challenges and fostering inclusive environments.
• Discussed the area where leaders need to upskill, including understanding DEI, fostering flexible work environments, and aligning organizational values with those of the younger workforce.

Episode website w/ resources, guest bio & full transcript: https://fireflyinclusion.com/the-long-arc-of-change-building-resilience-in-a-time-of-crisis-podcast/ 

Firefly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

Firefly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/
Firefly Substack: https://fireflyinclusion.substack.com/

Show Summary

In this episode of Stories From the Field, hosts Oana and Jason sit down with Adam Locklin, founder of Sustainable Business Solutions (SBS). Throughout the episode they discuss Locklin’s personal journey starting as a US marine and how he chose the path of entrepreneurship. They also dive into the topics under Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG), the different terms and common misconceptions that surround these terms. Locklin also imparts valuable insights on how individuals can become more effective allies to the military and veteran community, particularly in the present context.

Learning Highlights From This Episode:

• Adam’s personal mission and his journey as a people first Technologist, volunteer, and US Marine Veteran. 
• Common misconceptions surrounding ESGs, stakeholder capitalism, and corporate social responsibility.
• What veteran allyship means and looks like.

Episode website w/ resources, guest bio & full transcript: ⁠https://fireflyinclusion.com/tips-from-a-veteran-on-navigating-high-stress-uncertainty-and-trust-podcast

Firefly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

Firefly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

Firefly Substack: https://fireflyinclusion.substack.com/

Show Summary
In this episode of Stories From the Field, we sit down with Tafarii and Erica to unravel the intricacies of the equity in design process. Throughout the episode we get to explore topics, diving into the differences of terms like inclusive, accessible, and universal design. We also discuss equity and how it's portrayed as not just a specific need but an overarching requirement for everyone. Tafarii and Erica close the episode by discussing inclusive design culture and how we as organizations can overcome the obstacles that might arise, providing listeners with strategies for overcoming these issues.

Learning Highlights From This Episode:

• Understanding the differences between terms like inclusive, accessible, and universal design.
• What it means to create more equitable access & solutions in the design/testing process.
• Obstacles & challenges for organizations building inclusive design culture.

Episode website w/ resources, guest bio & full transcript: https://fireflyinclusion.com/equity-in-product-design-a-conversation-with-tafarii-and-erica-leaders-in-the-field-podcast/
Firefly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

Firefly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

Firefly Substack: https://fireflyinclusion.substack.com/

Show Summary
In this episode of Stories From the Field, we dive deep into the realm of Artificial Intelligence, exploring perspectives not often discussed by the media. Our guest, Diya Wynn a Senior Practice Manager in Responsible AI, sheds light on the lesser-discussed aspects of AI's impact on our world. From uncovering hidden challenges in designing and using AI responsibly to examining its potential to address pressing societal issues like racism and corporate inequities, Oana, Jason & Felicia interview Diya to gain more insights on what this new world with AI looks like. Join us as we navigate through the complexities of AI with a focus on inclusivity and empowerment, and discover how individuals and industries can champion a responsible AI revolution.

Learning Highlights From This Episode:

• Her experience as a technologist and responsible AI with AWS.
• How we as new users can champion and approach for responsible AI products.
• What it looks like to empower individuals with their use of responsible and ethical AI.

Episode website w/ resources, guest bio & full transcript: 
https://fireflyinclusion.com/championing-a-responsible-ai-revolution-a-conversation-with-diya-wynn-podcast/

Firefly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

Firefly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

Firefly Substack: https://fireflyinclusion.substack.com/

Show Summary
In this episode of Stories from the Field, we sit down with business executive, author, and seasoned advisor Sola Osinoiki. Oana and Jason embrace the conversation, diving into topics around data and how we can utilize this to drive meaningful changes in the workplace, what having a seat at the table looks like, and how we as professionals can navigate the evolving landscape of business successfully. Throughout the episode we get an insight on how we can stay ahead of trends and how we can embrace others by simply letting them 'be.' Make sure you tune in to learn more!

Learning Highlights From This Episode:

• How organizations move from a place of data collection as a vanity metrics, to data collection as a lever for transformation
• Advice on tools and skills needed to operate as the best in class CIO team
• His insights for the future of work
• His one parting request for inclusion champions and practitioners today

Episode website w/ resources, guest bio & full transcript: https://fireflyinclusion.com/beyond-the-metrics-tips-on-thriving-beyond-the-current-paradigm-with-sola-osinoiki-podcast/
Firefly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

Firefly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

Firefly Substack: https://fireflyinclusion.substack.com/

Show Summary
In this episode of Stories from the Field, dive into Jewish identity with Rabbi Rose and Joshuan Newman. Together they share their thoughts, debunk myths and give advice to the future generations on making an impact. We learn about what it means to be a true ally in times of uncertainty and what companies can do to foster a more inclusive work environment. Finally, they share their parting request for inclusion champions and practitioners in the world. Make sure to tune in as we dive deep into the common misconceptions and exploring the significance of allyship within the Jewish community.

Learning Highlights From This Episode:

• Debunking the common misconceptions surrounding the Jewish community.
• Being a good ally, especially in times of uncertainty.
• What companies can do better for their Jewish employees.
• Advice for the younger generation about their impact on eachother and the world.

Episode website w/ resources, guest bio & full transcript: https://fireflyinclusion.com/exploring-jewish-identity-misconceptions-and-allyship-with-rabbi-rose-joshua-newman-podcast

Firefly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyinclusion/

Firefly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firefly-inclusion-solutions/

Firefly Substack: https://fireflyinclusion.substack.com/