Proofing Stage
Proofing Stage examines the origins, progress, struggles, and setbacks of entrepreneurs through the lens of its founders, who, among other things, have run a bagel business for the past 8 years.
This podcast is about our experiences and the nitty gritty of being an underrepresented small business owner.
Just like we've worked to fill the gap in quality bagels, lox, and schmear, these conversations fill the gap of knowledge, mentorship, and straight talk that are missing from other business pods and success stories.
Join us, as we share wins and cautionary tales from that space between “atta girl” and “I told you so!” Hosted by Joan Kanner and Michelle Bond, with Season 1 contributions from Amanda Schwarz.
Proofing Stage
REPRISE! Don't Say "DEI," Just Make it Mean Something
When times are shit and you need a pep talk... and strategies... and allies...
It's time to return to our Season 2 Episode with:
Erin Stampp, she/her, MPP - Director, Professional Development
Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis
In this episode of Proofing Stage, hosts Michelle Bond and Joan Kanner are joined by DEI practitioner Erin Stampp. Together, they unpack the challenges and necessities of implementing effective DEI strategies, even for minority business owners.
Erin emphasizes that true diversity goes beyond visibility; focusing on fostering an inclusive culture where diverse identities are seen and valued. The conversation also covers practical aspects like dietary restrictions in food businesses and universal design. Michelle and Joan share their experiences with integrating these practices into Bottoms Up Bagels, including staff reticence and industry norms.
Erin highlights the importance of relational, equity-centered leadership, which involves creating a supportive environment through active listening and engagement. She addresses retention challenges and the truly counter-cultural work of inclusion and systemic change.
Join us for a very open conversation about our blind spots, power-sharing in leadership, and the self-compassion required to make it stick. Like:
- Asking for, listening to and implementing input is where it’s at
- How we can turn our exclamation points into question marks
- Where the anti-racism, anti-sexism fairy dust resides
- The trappings of cancel culture
- Taking a sec to acknowledge what’s working and build on it
- Big, sexy (self-) compliments go a long way
Links
Check out one of Erin’s current projects, a Desegregation History Timeline (education aid to advance culture change)
Connect with Erin Stampp
LinkedIn
Instagram
Faux Sponsor, "Cartoon Mallet"
- written and performed by Joan Kanner
Theme music by Thorn Haze
Additional music:
Combat Morning by Den Writeman (via Pixabay)
Music for Puzzle Game by Ivantraveso (via Pixabay)
Executive Producers, Joan Kanner and Michelle Bond
Podcast cover art by Lisa Orye
Find more at proofingstage.com
Follow us on Instagram and Threads @proofingstage
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