Anti-Wokeness & DEI Fatigue: Here We Go Again. Insights from Michelle Grocholosky

Growth Mixtape Podcast with Bob Mathers

Today I talk to Michelle Grocholosky, a CEO and speaker who works with leaders to build more diverse and inclusive companies. She’s one of Canada’s top 40 under 40 and has been recognized as one of the top 100 most powerful women in the country. She’s kind of a big deal.
I recently told a friend of mine that I was doing an episode on diversity and inclusion, and she said, “yeah that’s of no interest to me at all.” I appreciate her honesty, and it reflects how a lot of people are feeling about this topic. There is a lot of fatigue out there.
Maybe that’s why I loved this conversation so much - Michelle is so different than any other leader I’ve heard on this topic. She shares personal stories of how growing up in an intolerant household and working in a psychiatric hospital led her to her passion for this work. But even as an expert in the field, she’s honest about having to combat her deeply rooted biases and stereotypes on a daily basis.
You can’t control your first thought, but you can control your second. I take a lot of comfort in that, because I have made a lot of questionable decisions and told a lot of bad jokes. These conversations are never easy, which is kind of the point.

Please enjoy, Michelle Grocholsky.
Key Takeaways

• The DEI Dinner Analogy: Diversity is being invited, inclusion is feeling welcome, and equity is having access to enjoy the meal—each pillar is essential.
• Why Equity Lags Behind: Equity is often misunderstood as quotas when it’s really about fairness, removing barriers, and creating access for everyone.
• Overcoming Bias: You can’t control your first thought, but you can control your second. Curiosity and humility are powerful tools for growth.
• Unlearning and Relearning: Biases are often learned early, but through exposure and introspection, we can unlearn and build more inclusive perspectives.
• Navigating Discomfort: It’s okay to make mistakes as long as you’re willing to learn and adapt. Humility and compassion can create space for authentic dialogue.
• Shifting the Corporate Lens: When companies listen and act on feedback, they can create lasting, meaningful change for their employees and their bottom line.

Resources

• TED Talk: Michelle recently delivered a TED Talk at the University of Waterloo, highlighting stereotypes and strengths in the workplace.
• The Person You Mean to Be by Dolly Chugh.
• How to Be an Inclusive Leader by Jennifer Brown.

Connect with Michelle:
LinkedIn
Instagram

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Connect with Bob Mathers
Website
LinkedIn