In this episode, Dr. Laura Sicola interviews Ngozi Okeh, the global head of DEI at NextRoll, a marketing tech company. They delve into the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace and how it can significantly impact business success.

In this episode you will learn:
The practical application of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) as a daily practice shaping workplace dynamics and opportunities.
Strategies for effectively engaging executive leaders in DEI by aligning initiatives with organizational goals and priorities.
Overcoming common misconceptions about DEI and fostering a culture of inclusivity and belonging.
How vulnerability in leadership can lead to more meaningful contributions and collaboration among team members.
Practical tips for managing nervousness in speaking engagements and enhancing communication effectiveness.
The pitfalls of relying on the 'It Factor' in hiring decisions and the importance of grounding assessments in objective standards.
Recognizing the influence of bias in decision-making and strategies for avoiding subjective biases.
The value of seeking external perspectives and diverse viewpoints to challenge biases and make informed decisions.

About Ngozi:

Ngozi Okeh is an accomplished DEI leader with a proven track record of driving initiatives to integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion into strategic business processes. She specializes in conceptualizing, defining, and operationalizing DEI principles to align with organizational goals, developing and overseeing policies and programs aimed at fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace culture.

Holding a Master's degree in HR Management from Georgetown University, she brings extensive experience across multiple industries, including mortgage banking, government, and the tech sector. In her role as Global Head of DEI, Ngozi has led teams, collaborates with company executives, and provides strategic guidance to drive organizational change. Beyond her professional endeavors, she is actively involved in community service as a board member for Hunger Free America, demonstrating her commitment to creating a positive social impact.



You can connect with Ngozi in the following ways:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ngoziokeh/



You can connect with Dr. Laura Sicola in the following ways:


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlaurasicola
LinkedIn Business Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/laurasicola-inc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VocalImpactProductions
Facebook: Dr. Laura Sicola
Twitter: @LauraSicola
Instagram: @drlaurasicola
Website: https://laurasicola.com
Laura’s Online Course: virtualinfluence.today

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Dr. Laura Sicola interviews Ngozi Okeh, the global head of DEI at NextRoll, a marketing tech company. They delve into the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace and how it can significantly impact business success.
In this episode you will learn:
<ul>
<li>The practical application of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) as a daily practice shaping workplace dynamics and opportunities.</li>
<li>Strategies for effectively engaging executive leaders in DEI by aligning initiatives with organizational goals and priorities.</li>
<li>Overcoming common misconceptions about DEI and fostering a culture of inclusivity and belonging.</li>
<li>How vulnerability in leadership can lead to more meaningful contributions and collaboration among team members.</li>
<li>Practical tips for managing nervousness in speaking engagements and enhancing communication effectiveness.</li>
<li>The pitfalls of relying on the 'It Factor' in hiring decisions and the importance of grounding assessments in objective standards.</li>
<li>Recognizing the influence of bias in decision-making and strategies for avoiding subjective biases.</li>
<li>The value of seeking external perspectives and diverse viewpoints to challenge biases and make informed decisions.</li>
</ul>
 About Ngozi:
Ngozi Okeh is an accomplished DEI leader with a proven track record of driving initiatives to integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion into strategic business processes. She specializes in conceptualizing, defining, and operationalizing DEI principles to align with organizational goals, developing and overseeing policies and programs aimed at fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace culture.
Holding a Master's degree in HR Management from Georgetown University, she brings extensive experience across multiple industries, including mortgage banking, government, and the tech sector. In her role as Global Head of DEI, Ngozi has led teams, collaborates with company executives, and provides strategic guidance to drive organizational change. Beyond her professional endeavors, she is actively involved in community service as a board member for Hunger Free America, demonstrating her commitment to creating a positive social impact.
 
You can connect with Ngozi in the following ways:
<ul>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ngoziokeh/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/ngoziokeh/</a></li>
</ul>
 
You can connect with Dr. Laura Sicola in the following ways:
 
<ul>
<li>LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlaurasicola</li>
<li>LinkedIn Business Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/laurasicola-inc</li>
<li>YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VocalImpactProductions</li>
<li>Facebook: Dr. Laura Sicola</li>
<li>Twitter: @LauraSicola</li>
<li>Instagram: @drlaurasicola</li>
<li>Website: https://laurasicola.com</li>
<li>Laura’s Online Course: virtualinfluence.today</li>
</ul>
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you speak, do you want to inspire others and be recognized as a true leader? Do you want to feel more confident, have greater influence, and get bigger results? This is the show for executives, business owners and leaders who need to command the room, connect with their audience and close the deal.

Join host Dr. Laura Sicola, communication and influence expert, as she interviews world-class business and industry leaders, who reveal the importance of strong communication skills in their success and the (sometimes hard) lessons they learned along the way. You’ll gain insights into confident public speaking, conflict management, executive presence, and more!

For more information, visit https://www.speakingtoinfluence.com 

To book Laura as a guest or speaker email info@vocalimpactproductions.com

Speaking to Influence

When you speak, do you want to inspire others and be recognized as a true leader? Do you want to feel more confident, have greater influence, and get bigger results? This is the show for executives, business owners and leaders who need to command the room, connect with their audience and close the deal. Join host Dr. Laura Sicola, communication and influence expert, as she interviews world-class business and industry leaders, who reveal the importance of strong communication skills in their success and the (sometimes hard) lessons they learned along the way. You’ll gain insights into confident public speaking, conflict management, executive presence, and more! For more information, visit https://www.speakingtoinfluence.com  To book Laura as a guest or speaker email info@laurasicola.com

When you speak, do you want to inspire others and be recognized as a true leader? Do you want to feel more confident, have greater influence, and get bigger results? This is the show for executives, business owners and leaders who need to command the room, connect with their audience and close the deal. Join host Dr. Laura Sicola, communication and influence expert, as she interviews world-class business and industry leaders, who reveal the importance of strong communication skills in their success and the (sometimes hard) lessons they learned along the way. You’ll gain insights into confident public speaking, conflict management, executive presence, and more! For more information, visit https://www.speakingtoinfluence.com  To book Laura as a guest or speaker email info@laurasicola.com

Ngozi Okeh - Driving Business Success through Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

In this compelling episode, Amy Bernstein, esteemed editor at Harvard Business Review, delves into the nuances of leadership communication and the transformative power of relinquishing control. Drawing from her wealth of experience, Amy underscores the importance of motivating over micromanaging, advocating for a leadership style that empowers others and fosters trust in their capabilities.

Through candid reflections, Amy navigates the challenges of self-doubt and missed opportunities, urging listeners to embrace risk-taking and cultivate unwavering self-belief. She shares a poignant personal anecdote of confronting workplace bullying, emphasizing the indispensable role of integrity in leadership.

As the episode unfolds, Amy issues a powerful call to action, challenging leaders to reevaluate their approach by stepping back from micromanagement and embracing a culture of empowerment. Listeners are bound to glean invaluable insights into fostering effective leadership communication, navigating adversity with resilience, and championing integrity in the workplace.

Join us for a transformative journey as we explore the keys to empowering leadership and communicating with enduring impact.

In this episode you will learn:
Leadership communication involves motivating rather than micromanaging
Empowering others and trusting their abilities is essential for effective leadership
Self-doubt can hinder personal and professional growth, but taking risks and believing in oneself is crucial
Standing up against workplace bullying demonstrates integrity and sets a positive example
Stepping back from micromanaging and empowering teams can lead to better outcomes

About Amy:

Amy Bernstein is the Editor of Harvard Business Review, where she oversees the magazine and its team of editors. She’s also the Vice President and Executive Editorial Director for Harvard Business Publishing, responsible for the editorial strategy and content development of the learning and educator assets for HBP’s Corporate Learning and Higher Education businesses.

You can connect with Amy Bernstein in the following ways:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/amybernstein
Twitter: https://twitter.com/asbernstein2185



You can connect with Dr. Laura Sicola in the following ways:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlaurasicola
LinkedIn Business Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/laurasicola-inc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VocalImpactProductions
Facebook: Dr. Laura Sicola
Twitter: @LauraSicola
Instagram: @drlaurasicola
Website: https://laurasicola.com
Laura’s Online Course: virtualinfluence.today

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this compelling episode, Amy Bernstein, esteemed editor at Harvard Business Review, delves into the nuances of leadership communication and the transformative power of relinquishing control. Drawing from her wealth of experience, Amy underscores the importance of motivating over micromanaging, advocating for a leadership style that empowers others and fosters trust in their capabilities.
Through candid reflections, Amy navigates the challenges of self-doubt and missed opportunities, urging listeners to embrace risk-taking and cultivate unwavering self-belief. She shares a poignant personal anecdote of confronting workplace bullying, emphasizing the indispensable role of integrity in leadership.
As the episode unfolds, Amy issues a powerful call to action, challenging leaders to reevaluate their approach by stepping back from micromanagement and embracing a culture of empowerment. Listeners are bound to glean invaluable insights into fostering effective leadership communication, navigating adversity with resilience, and championing integrity in the workplace.
Join us for a transformative journey as we explore the keys to empowering leadership and communicating with enduring impact.
In this episode you will learn:
<ul>
<li>Leadership communication involves motivating rather than micromanaging</li>
<li>Empowering others and trusting their abilities is essential for effective leadership</li>
<li>Self-doubt can hinder personal and professional growth, but taking risks and believing in oneself is crucial</li>
<li>Standing up against workplace bullying demonstrates integrity and sets a positive example</li>
<li>Stepping back from micromanaging and empowering teams can lead to better outcomes</li>
</ul>
About Amy:
Amy Bernstein is the Editor of Harvard Business Review, where she oversees the magazine and its team of editors. She’s also the Vice President and Executive Editorial Director for Harvard Business Publishing, responsible for the editorial strategy and content development of the learning and educator assets for HBP’s Corporate Learning and Higher Education businesses.
You can connect with Amy Bernstein in the following ways:
<ul>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/amybernstein">linkedin.com/in/amybernstein</a></li>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/asbernstein2185">https://twitter.com/asbernstein2185</a></li>
</ul>
 
You can connect with Dr. Laura Sicola in the following ways:
<ul>
<li>LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlaurasicola</li>
<li>LinkedIn Business Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/laurasicola-inc</li>
<li>YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VocalImpactProductions</li>
<li>Facebook: Dr. Laura Sicola</li>
<li>Twitter: @LauraSicola</li>
<li>Instagram: @drlaurasicola</li>
<li>Website: https://laurasicola.com</li>
<li>Laura’s Online Course: virtualinfluence.today</li>
</ul>
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amy Bernstein, Harvard Business Review: Motivate, Don't Micromanage

In this episode, Dr. Robert Cavagnol, President of St. Luke's Clinic, shares insights on communication and leadership. He emphasizes the importance of listening and empathetic listening as key communication skills.

Dr. Cavagnol also discusses the use of the DISC profile for understanding communication styles and adapting to different individuals. He shares personal experiences of taking risks, making mistakes, and learning from them.

Additionally, he highlights the importance of advocating for others, especially in challenging situations.

Overall, Dr. Cavagnol's insights provide valuable lessons for effective communication and leadership.

In this episode you will learn:
Listening is a crucial communication skill, and empathetic listening is particularly important for leaders.
The DISC profile can help understand communication styles and adapt to different individuals.
Taking risks and making mistakes are part of leadership, and it's important to learn from them.
Advocating for others, especially in challenging situations, is an essential aspect of leadership.

About Rob:

Dr. Robert Cavagnol, MD, MHA, FACS, currently serves as the president of St. Luke’s Clinic, based in Boise, Idaho. Rob joined St. Luke’s in 2020, just as the COVID pandemic took off. He continues to practice clinically, participating in acute care surgery shifts in the Treasure Valley. He leads a clinic of 1600 providers as the accountable executive for the physician enterprise at St. Luke's, which is the largest health system and largest private employer in the state of Idaho.

Dr. Cavagnol received his bachelor’s degree in health sciences from Kalamazoo College and his medical degree from Wayne State University, School of Medicine. He completed his surgical training at the University of Cincinnati. Following his general surgery residency, Dr. Cavagnol spent three years on active duty with the U.S. Navy, stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. During his naval career, Dr. Cavagnol deployed twice, first on the hospital ship USNS Comfort in support of humanitarian relief after hurricane Katrina, and then as a trauma surgeon to Fallujah, Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

After completing his commitment to our country, Dr. Cavagnol joined Mercy Health System in Springfield, Missouri, as a practicing general surgeon. He attended Missouri State University during his time with Mercy and earned a master’s in healthcare administration. While at Mercy, Rob was recognized with the Young Physician of the Year award in his third year with the health system. He also held numerous leadership positions with Mercy, including medical director of patient safety and quality, section chair for general surgery, vice-president of surgery, chief physician officer, and president of the Mercy Springfield clinic.

You can connect with Rob Cavagnol in the following ways:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/robertcavagnol
Twitter: https://twitter.com/RCavagnol
Medium: https://medium.com/@drcavagnol
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robert.cavagnolmdphysician



You can connect with Dr. Laura Sicola in the following ways:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlaurasicola
LinkedIn Business Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/laurasicola-inc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VocalImpactProductions
Facebook: Dr. Laura Sicola
Twitter: @LauraSicola
Instagram: @drlaurasicola
Website: https://laurasicola.com
Laura’s Online Course: virtualinfluence.today



See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Dr. Robert Cavagnol, President of St. Luke's Clinic, shares insights on communication and leadership. He emphasizes the importance of listening and empathetic listening as key communication skills.
Dr. Cavagnol also discusses the use of the DISC profile for understanding communication styles and adapting to different individuals. He shares personal experiences of taking risks, making mistakes, and learning from them.
Additionally, he highlights the importance of advocating for others, especially in challenging situations.
Overall, Dr. Cavagnol's insights provide valuable lessons for effective communication and leadership.
In this episode you will learn:
<ul>
<li>Listening is a crucial communication skill, and empathetic listening is particularly important for leaders.</li>
<li>The DISC profile can help understand communication styles and adapt to different individuals.</li>
<li>Taking risks and making mistakes are part of leadership, and it's important to learn from them.</li>
<li>Advocating for others, especially in challenging situations, is an essential aspect of leadership.</li>
</ul>
About Rob:
Dr. Robert Cavagnol, MD, MHA, FACS, currently serves as the president of St. Luke’s Clinic, based in Boise, Idaho. Rob joined St. Luke’s in 2020, just as the COVID pandemic took off. He continues to practice clinically, participating in acute care surgery shifts in the Treasure Valley. He leads a clinic of 1600 providers as the accountable executive for the physician enterprise at St. Luke's, which is the largest health system and largest private employer in the state of Idaho.
Dr. Cavagnol received his bachelor’s degree in health sciences from Kalamazoo College and his medical degree from Wayne State University, School of Medicine. He completed his surgical training at the University of Cincinnati. Following his general surgery residency, Dr. Cavagnol spent three years on active duty with the U.S. Navy, stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. During his naval career, Dr. Cavagnol deployed twice, first on the hospital ship USNS Comfort in support of humanitarian relief after hurricane Katrina, and then as a trauma surgeon to Fallujah, Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
After completing his commitment to our country, Dr. Cavagnol joined Mercy Health System in Springfield, Missouri, as a practicing general surgeon. He attended Missouri State University during his time with Mercy and earned a master’s in healthcare administration. While at Mercy, Rob was recognized with the Young Physician of the Year award in his third year with the health system. He also held numerous leadership positions with Mercy, including medical director of patient safety and quality, section chair for general surgery, vice-president of surgery, chief physician officer, and president of the Mercy Springfield clinic.
You can connect with Rob Cavagnol in the following ways:
<ul>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/robertcavagnol">www.linkedin.com/in/robertcavagnol</a></li>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/RCavagnol">https://twitter.com/RCavagnol</a></li>
<li>Medium: <a href="https://medium.com/@drcavagnol">https://medium.com/@drcavagnol</a></li>
<li>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/robert.cavagnolmdphysician">https://www.facebook.com/robert.cavagnolmdphysician</a></li>
</ul>
 
You can connect with Dr. Laura Sicola in the following ways:
<ul>
<li>LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlaurasicola</li>
<li>LinkedIn Business Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/laurasicola-inc</li>
<li>YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VocalImpactProductions</li>
<li>Facebook: Dr. Laura Sicola</li>
<li>Twitter: @LauraSicola</li>
<li>Instagram: @drlaurasicola</li>
<li>Website: https://laurasicola.com</li>
<li>Laura’s Online Course: virtualinfluence.today</li>
</ul>
 
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Robert Cavagnol, St. Luke's Hospital: Listening, Advocating, and Admitting Mistakes

In this episode, Dr. Laura Sicola interviews Marian Baldini, the CEO and president of Kencrest, a human services and early learning provider. Marian shares her experiences and insights on leadership communication, including the importance of enrolling people to their giftedness and the power of silence in conversations. She also discusses the challenges she faced in starting a new company and the importance of speaking up as the lone voice of dissent. Overall, Marian emphasizes the need for leaders to understand and connect with their team members' strengths and interests to create a positive and productive work environment.

In this episode you will learn:
Enrolling people to their giftedness is an important aspect of leadership communication.
Overcoming the fear of public speaking can lead to personal growth and improved communication skills.
Authentic inclusion is essential in creating a supportive and inclusive environment.
Making wrong calls is a part of leadership, but it's important to learn from them and make necessary adjustments.
Taking risks can lead to innovation and growth, but effective communication is crucial in navigating the challenges..



About Marian:

Marian Baldini is the CEO and President of KenCrest, a human services and early learning provider throughout Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Delaware; that serves over 12,500 people annually. She is an unwavering advocate for the equality and inclusion of people with disabilities, as well as access to early education for all. Marian has over 40 years of leadership in executive planning, administration, academia, and operational oversight; and began her career as a Direct Support Professional in the 1970s, at the same Agency where she now serves as CEO.

She has been recognized by Philadelphia Business Journal as one the “Most Admired CEOs” (2019) in the region, as well as a “Woman of Distinction” (2015); as one of Main Line Today’s “Power Women” in 2021; as Lutheran Services of America (LSA)’s first ever Paragon Award (2022); as Drexel University College of Medicine’s first non-doctorate recipient of their Biomedical Sciences Graduate Recognition Award (2022); and most recently recognized by Metro Philadelphia as a “Power Women” on their annual Power Player list (2022).

You can connect with Marian Baldini in the following ways:
Website: http://www.kencrest.org
Marian Baldini LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marian-baldini-90745728
KenCrest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kencrestservices/



You can connect with Dr. Laura Sicola in the following ways:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlaurasicola
LinkedIn Business Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/laurasicola-inc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VocalImpactProductions
Facebook: Dr. Laura Sicola
Twitter: @LauraSicola
Instagram: @drlaurasicola
Website: https://laurasicola.com
Laura’s Online Course: virtualinfluence.today

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Dr. Laura Sicola interviews Marian Baldini, the CEO and president of Kencrest, a human services and early learning provider. Marian shares her experiences and insights on leadership communication, including the importance of enrolling people to their giftedness and the power of silence in conversations. She also discusses the challenges she faced in starting a new company and the importance of speaking up as the lone voice of dissent. Overall, Marian emphasizes the need for leaders to understand and connect with their team members' strengths and interests to create a positive and productive work environment.
In this episode you will learn:
<ul>
<li>Enrolling people to their giftedness is an important aspect of leadership communication.</li>
<li>Overcoming the fear of public speaking can lead to personal growth and improved communication skills.</li>
<li>Authentic inclusion is essential in creating a supportive and inclusive environment.</li>
<li>Making wrong calls is a part of leadership, but it's important to learn from them and make necessary adjustments.</li>
<li>Taking risks can lead to innovation and growth, but effective communication is crucial in navigating the challenges..</li>
</ul>
 
About Marian:
Marian Baldini is the CEO and President of KenCrest, a human services and early learning provider throughout Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Delaware; that serves over 12,500 people annually. She is an unwavering advocate for the equality and inclusion of people with disabilities, as well as access to early education for all. Marian has over 40 years of leadership in executive planning, administration, academia, and operational oversight; and began her career as a Direct Support Professional in the 1970s, at the same Agency where she now serves as CEO.
She has been recognized by Philadelphia Business Journal as one the “Most Admired CEOs” (2019) in the region, as well as a “Woman of Distinction” (2015); as one of Main Line Today’s “Power Women” in 2021; as Lutheran Services of America (LSA)’s first ever Paragon Award (2022); as Drexel University College of Medicine’s first non-doctorate recipient of their Biomedical Sciences Graduate Recognition Award (2022); and most recently recognized by Metro Philadelphia as a “Power Women” on their annual Power Player list (2022).
You can connect with Marian Baldini in the following ways:
<ul>
<li>Website: <a href="http://www.kencrest.org">http://www.kencrest.org</a></li>
<li>Marian Baldini LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/marian-baldini-90745728">https://www.linkedin.com/in/marian-baldini-90745728</a> </li>
<li>KenCrest LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/kencrestservices/">https://www.linkedin.com/company/kencrestservices/</a></li>
</ul>
 
You can connect with Dr. Laura Sicola in the following ways:
<ul>
<li>LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlaurasicola</li>
<li>LinkedIn Business Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/laurasicola-inc</li>
<li>YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VocalImpactProductions</li>
<li>Facebook: Dr. Laura Sicola</li>
<li>Twitter: @LauraSicola</li>
<li>Instagram: @drlaurasicola</li>
<li>Website: https://laurasicola.com</li>
<li>Laura’s Online Course: virtualinfluence.today</li>
</ul>
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ngozi Okeh - Driving Business Success through Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

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