In this episode of FARSIGHT Chats, host Farah Bala discusses the intricacies of intersectional Business Resource Groups (BRGs) and Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) with guests Stephanie Galera, Simone Harvey, Eshani Parikh, and Tammy Tran. Recorded in Spring 2021, the conversation explores the challenges and opportunities within BRGs, including how to be an effective ally and upstander, fostering inclusive leadership, and leveraging BRGs for organizational growth. The discussion also delves into the emotional toll of the pandemic, the importance of mental health, and the need for systemic change to support genuinely inclusive workplaces. Various perspectives, challenges, and strategies are shared on how to evolve these groups to be strategic partners within their organizations, reflecting on both personal experiences and professional insights.

| KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED |

Mental Health & Resilience

• Pandemic trauma impacted everyone differently.
• BRGs provided safe spaces for emotional support.
• Importance of therapy, rest, and community connection.
• True safe spaces are rare; progress often requires discomfort and risk.
• BRGs act as brave spaces for candid dialogue, healing, and systemic challenge.

Allyship & Solidarity

• True allyship includes advocating for other ERGs and showing up consistently.
• Ally fatigue is real; must overcome individualistic systems to build collective power.

Structural Barriers

• Professional growth is often hindered by lack of visibility, mentorship, or leadership pathways.
• BRG leaders highlight the need for pipeline-building and role modeling.

Leadership & Representation

• Executive sponsorship is vital—but it must include allies outside the group (e.g., a white male exec sponsoring an API group).
• Leaders must support ERG/BRG leaders professionally and structurally.

Tactical Collaboration

• ERGs can share resources, coordinate events, and amplify each other’s efforts.
• This cross-ERG support increases visibility and collective impact.

Best Practices & Takeaways

• Normalize therapy and mental health discussions at work.
• Create shared ERG resources (e.g., directories, campaigns).
• Develop ERG leaders with succession planning and mentorship.
• Frame ERGs as business-critical contributors, not extracurricular groups.
• Leadership must actively participate and listen—not just observe.

| SHOW NOTES |

00:00 Introduction to Far Sight Chats

01:53 Meet the Esteemed Guests

04:26 The Importance of Intersectional Solidarity

07:02 Personal Reflections on a Challenging Year

16:44 The Evolution of BRGs and ERGs

24:28 Challenges and Opportunities in BRG Leadership

34:18 The Importance of Allyship in Diverse Workforces

35:16 Challenges and Discomfort in Learning and Growth

35:45 Addressing Systemic Oppression and Supremacist Structures

36:39 Ally Fatigue and Grassroots Community Building

38:05 Sharing Power and Servant Leadership

38:46 Tactical Support and Collaboration

39:36 Historical Struggles and Shared Interests

42:17 Disruption and Agility in Leadership

46:04 Career Growth and Systemic Blocks

51:40 Representation and Dismantling Nepotism

53:31 Intersectionality and Broader Societal Impact

58:01 Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing

01:06:22 Concluding Thoughts and Future Conversations

Connect with our guests:

This episode of FARSIGHT Chats, hosted by Farah Bala, features a discussion with Farzana Nayani about Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and their impact on creating inclusive workplace environments. The conversation covers the foundational role ERGs play in fostering equity, diversity, inclusion, and anti-oppression within organizations. Farzana Nayani, the author of The Power of Employee Resource Groups, shares insights into the purpose, evolution, challenges, and strategic importance of ERGs. The episode also addresses contemporary issues like performative diversity measures, the role of white ally spaces, and the integration of DEI strategies with ERG initiatives. This comprehensive discussion provides insights for both new and existing ERG leaders to effectively navigate and contribute to their organization's DEI landscape. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own ERG participation and the broader implications for organizational culture.

| KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED |

Definition, Purpose & Evolution of ERGs

• ERGs = Employee Resource Groups.
• Designed to build inclusion and belonging within organizations.
• Other names: Affinity Groups, BRGs (Business Resource Groups), ENs (Employee Networks).
• Evolved from grassroots support groups to strategic organizational tools.

Support & Sponsorship

• Success depends on executive sponsorship, leadership buy-in, and internal champions.
• Sponsors can offer advocacy, visibility, and access to leadership.

Challenges & Resistance

• Fear of divisiveness or creating silos.
• Importance of intentional design and communication to avoid being seen as performative or tokenistic.

Authentic Change vs. Optics

• ERGs must be more than performative.
• Real change comes from consistent investment, engagement, and structural support.

DEI Integration

• ERGs should not replace a company’s DEI strategy.
• Need for alignment and mutual reinforcement between DEI offices, councils, and ERGs.

Call to Action

• Start with self-reflection and clear purpose.
• Use tools like ERG charters and the 5 Ps (Purpose, People, Process, Planning, Priorities).

| SHOW NOTES |

00:00 Introduction to Farsight Chats

00:44 Understanding Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)

02:55 Guest Introduction: Farzana Nayani

04:03 The Power of ERGs: Insights from Farzana's Book

05:53 Challenges and Engagement in ERGs

09:16 The Evolution and Importance of ERGs

14:24 Strategic Implementation of ERGs

22:56 Support and Sponsorship for ERGs

28:56 Addressing Resistance and Ensuring Sustainability

31:58 Current Trends in ERG Funding and Compensation

33:28 The Importance of Recognizing ERG Roles

34:53 Addressing Performative ERG Efforts

37:54 The Five P's Model for ERG Success

38:53 Investments in ERGs: Beyond the Budget

42:30 Engaging and Sustaining ERG Participation

45:02 The Role of White ERGs and Allyship

47:02 The Need for DEI Councils and Oversight

50:32 Challenges and Resistance in DEI Initiatives

51:58 Training ERG Leaders for Effective Representation

55:16 The Impact of Unfulfilled DEI Promises

59:01 Final Thoughts and Next Steps

| WORKS CITED |

The Power of Employee Resource Groups. 2022. Book.

Raising...

This episode of FARSIGHT Chats, host Farah Bala sits down with DEI, HR and legal experts, Susan Seah, Hyma Menath and MJ Jaques.

The focus of the discussion on anti-racism and belonging in the workplace was originally held in the summer of 2020 during the peak of the Black Lives Matter and anti-Asian hate movements. It explores the importance of creating inclusive workplaces, addressing systemic racism, and empowering employees as allies. It also covers the nuances of racism in legal and technological fields, the role of HR in fostering safe workplaces, and the need for consistent, structural change. The episode aims to provide actionable insights into promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion within organizations.

| KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED |

Workplace Racism

• Covert vs. Overt Racism: Often racism manifests subtly (e.g., tokenism, biased promotion practices).
• Tokenism Harms Belonging: Hiring people of color for optics without inclusion undermines true equity.

Why Organizations Should Care

• Racism = Prejudice + Power: Organizations must confront how power is distributed and maintained.
• Impact on Performance: Inclusive workplaces are more successful; exclusion affects morale, retention, and innovation.

Practical Approaches

• Normalize, Organize, Operationalize (Race Forward Model):

Normalize conversations about race.

Organize by building internal capacity for equity.

Operationalize through policies, accountability, and metrics.

• Mandatory Anti-Racism Training: Suggested as essential, like sexual harassment training.
• Racial Equity Audits & Data Tracking: Use outcomes and data to assess progress and barriers.

Global & Intersectional Lens

• White Supremacist Structures Are Global: Colonial legacies affect systems worldwide.
• Intersectionality Matters: Race intersects with gender, immigration status, class, disability, etc.

Leadership & Accountability

• Top-Down Commitment is Crucial: Leadership must model and enforce anti-racist values.
• Safe Spaces & Psychological Safety: Employees must be able to report discrimination without fear.
• Accountability Without Shame: Encouragement for growth over cancel culture.

| SHOW NOTES |

00:00 Introduction to FARSIGHT Chats

00:28 Setting the Context: Belonging in the Workplace

02:06 Meet the Guests: Susan, Hyma, and MJ

04:04 Understanding Anti-Racism in the Workplace

05:58 Challenges and Realities of Racism in Organizations

08:31 The Importance of Allyship and Structural Change

21:59 Strategies for Embedding Racial Equity

36:04 Navigating Workplace Dynamics

37:03 Intention vs. Impact in Organizational Change

37:31 Challenges in Implementing DEI Programs

39:52 The Role of Technology in Systemic Bias

42:47 Allyship and Organizational Culture

45:38 The Importance of Leadership in DEI

54:56 Intersectionality and Racial Equity

01:00:06 HR's Role in Addressing Racism

01:04:49 Consulting and DEI Integration

01:07:35 Creating Inclusive Legal Practices

01:09:46 Conclusion and Future Conversations

Connect with our guests:

• Susan Seah | Founding Partner, CounselGS LLC, Seattle. Founder & CEO, The Koa Club

In this episode of FARSIGHT Chats, host Farah Bala, founder and CEO of FARSIGHT, delves into the important relationship between HR and EDIA (Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, Anti-Oppression) within organizations. Joined by HR and EDIA experts Tanya Reu-Narvaez, Nerissa Morris, and Cheryl Kern, the conversation took place in 2023, and explores the evolving roles of HR and EDIA, the need for strategic alignment, and the importance of disrupting traditional norms to foster a healthier workplace culture.

The discussion highlights the critical elements of trust, transparency, and collaboration between HR and EDIA teams to drive organizational change. The experts emphasize the importance of integrating EDIA principles into business strategies to create an inclusive and equitable environment, and offer practical advice for young professionals and organizations looking to strengthen their HR and EDIA partnerships.

| KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED |

HR and DEIA Collaboration

• Roles and responsibilities of HR and EDIA teams.
• How HR policies can support EDIA initiatives.

Challenges in the HR-DEIA Relationship

• Misalignment of goals and priorities.
• Resistance to change within organizations.
• Limited resources and support for EDIA efforts.

Strategies for Effective Partnership

• Establishing clear communication and shared goals.
• Embedding EDIA principles into HR policies and practices.
• Leadership commitment and accountability.

Impact on Workplace Culture

• How integrating EDIA into HR improves employee experience.
• The role of HR in fostering inclusivity and belonging.
• EDIA’s influence on recruitment, retention, and promotions.
• Addressing bias in HR processes.

Case Studies or Examples

• Successful collaborations between HR and DEIA teams.
• Best practices from organizations leading in DEIA efforts.
• Lessons learned from failed or struggling partnerships.

| SHOW NOTES |

00:00 Introduction to FARSIGHT Chats

01:59 Meet the Esteemed Guests

07:10 The Evolving Role of HR and EDIA

12:26 Challenges and Opportunities in DEI

18:10 Disrupting Norms and Policies

25:22 Building Effective HR and DEI Partnerships

29:52 Setting Expectations in HR for DEI

30:53 Overcoming Impediments in DE&I Efforts

31:36 Practical Approaches to DEI

32:35 Defining Roles and Responsibilities

33:26 Resource Allocation Challenges

34:24 Maintaining Commitment and Focus

35:10 Strategic Alignment and Credibility

35:50 Reactionary Responses and Burnout

36:52 Empowerment and Influence in DEI Roles

39:37 Servant Leadership in DEI

42:16 Future of HR and DEI Integration

45:15 Disruption and Structural Shifts

49:38 Advice for Aspiring HR and DEI Professionals

52:50 The Importance of DEI Work

58:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Connect with our guests:

• Tanya Reu-Narvaez | Chief People Officer, Anywhere Real Estate Inc.
• Nerissa Morris | Senior VP & CHRO - Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center

In this episode of FARSIGHT Chats, host Farah Bala shares insights from her appearance on Jennifer Brown's podcast, The Will to Change where they discuss moral progress in business leadership and the significance of inclusive workplace cultures.

The episode prompts listeners to evaluate their company's efforts in creating equitable and supportive environments. It emphasizes probing questions around workplace policies, equity, and psychological well-being, especially during tumultuous times.

The episode culminates in exploring the importance of curiosity, growth mindset, and the continuous learning journey to combat isolation and foster a sense of community and belonging.

| KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED |

Moral Progress in Business Leadership: A visionary discussion on what inclusive workplace cultures can look like and how organizations can advance equity and inclusion.

Healthy Workplace Cultures: The importance of moving beyond performative diversity initiatives to deeply embedded systems and policies that promote equity, diversity, inclusion, and anti-oppression (EDIA).

Identity and Belonging: How identity shapes workplace experiences, the evolving understanding of identity (beyond just identity politics), and the need to create spaces where employees feel seen, heard, and valued.

Challenges in Leadership: Addressing resistance to change, fear of innovation, and the complexities of managing diverse teams in an evolving workplace environment.

Mental Health in the Workplace: The increasing recognition of mental health as a crucial aspect of diversity and inclusion, and the challenges organizations face in supporting employees’ well-being.

The Role of Organizations in Employee Well-Being: Discussing whether organizations should take on more responsibility in supporting employees beyond just professional development, including mental health, pay equity, and social justice commitments.

Polarization and the Political Climate: Examining the impact of political and cultural shifts on workplace diversity efforts and the backlash against EDIA initiatives.

Visionary Leadership and Change: The need for leaders to embrace uncertainty, engage in continuous learning, and foster inclusive environments that support diverse perspectives and innovation.

Creating a Culture of Learning and Curiosity: Encouraging employees and leaders to engage in ongoing learning, questioning assumptions, and broadening their understanding of different identities and experiences.

Building a Sustainable EDIA Strategy: The future of EDIA in organizations, how businesses can balance various stakeholder expectations, and what sustainable inclusion looks like in the long term.

| SHOW NOTES |

00:00 Introduction to Farsight Chats

01:06 Special Guest: Jennifer Brown

01:39 Reflecting on Workplace Culture

02:25 Origins of Farsight Chats

05:26 Season One: Focus on Identity

08:57 Challenges in Leadership and Culture

13:46 Navigating Change and Innovation

15:49 The Role of Mental Health in DEI

20:27 Vision Keepers and Future Leaders

34:53 Conclusion and Next Steps

| WORKS CITED |

Jennifer Brown Consulting. Company LinkedIn.

Jennifer Brown, host. The Will To Change. Podcast.

Connect with our...

In this episode of FARSIGHT Chats, hosted by Farah Bala, special guests Shanya Cordis, Taylor Dews, Tori Jackson, and Indie Johnson engage in an in-depth conversation on Anti-Blackness. The episode delves into the historical and contemporary implications of Anti-Blackness in society, particularly through the lens of microaggressions and systemic biases. Each guest shares their lived experiences and academic perspectives, addressing how Anti-Blackness intersects with race, gender, sexuality, and colorism. They highlight the need for both personal introspection and systemic change, emphasizing the importance of artistic expression and rigorous storytelling in advancing an inclusive and equitable society. The discussion also calls for more intentional efforts from non-Black and White communities to address and dismantle Anti-Blackness through critical examination, accountability, and active engagement in anti-racist work.

| KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED |

Understanding Anti-Blackness:

• The conversation defines anti-Blackness as systemic, global, and deeply ingrained, manifesting in everyday micro-aggressions and institutional inequities.

Intersectionality:

• The guests highlight how anti-Blackness interacts with other identities such as gender, sexuality, and indigeneity, affecting individuals differently based on their intersectional experiences.

Personal Experiences:

• Each guest shares personal stories to illustrate the ways anti-Blackness has shaped their lives, including experiences with colorism, trans identity, and societal expectations.

Global and Structural Perspectives:

• The discussion contextualizes anti-Blackness as a foundational aspect of social structures in the U.S. and beyond, emphasizing the need to challenge systemic inequalities.

Art and Advocacy:

• The guests explore the role of art in dismantling anti-Blackness, calling for authentic storytelling, freedom of expression, and critical examination of who funds and produces artistic works.

Call to Action:

• The episode urges individuals, especially non-Black audiences, to engage in self-reflection, education, and unlearning, emphasizing that combating anti-Blackness requires systemic change and accountability.

| SHOW NOTES |

00:00 Introduction to FARSIGHT Chats

00:45 Exploring Anti-Blackness

02:23 Meet the Guests

05:56 Personal Experiences with Anti-Blackness

19:31 Intersectionality and Anti-Blackness

24:49 Colorism and Anti-Blackness

33:50 Navigating Multiple Identities

39:22 Choices and Systemic Myths

40:18 Living in Intersections

42:25 Unlearning Anti-Blackness

44:48 The Role of Education

46:31 Individual and Structural Work

47:18 Accountability and Action

01:02:42 Artistic Spaces and Anti-Blackness

01:03:28 The Importance of Diverse Storytelling

01:13:20 Funding and Audience Dynamics

01:13:37 Final Reflections and Gratitude

| WORKS CITED |

Wayward Lives, Beautiful Experiments: Intimate Histories of Social Upheaval by Saidiya Hartman. Book.

Anti-Blackness books by Frank B Wilderson III. Books (3).

Connect with our guests:

• Shanya Cordis, Ph.D | Anthropologist & Professor, Columbia University

In this episode of FARSIGHT Chats, host Farah Bala discusses white identity and anti-racism with experts Krissy Shields, Jane Rosenzweig, and Michael Robertson – all white anti-racist practitioners, reflecting on the urgency and passion of their work following high-profile racial injustices. The guests share personal experiences, strategies, and the ongoing nature of anti-racist work, emphasizing the importance of discomfort, continuous learning, and collective effort. The episode also highlights the significance of involving others in these conversations and the responsibility of leveraging one's privilege effectively. There is a call to action for white listeners to engage more deeply, use their privilege responsibly, and foster environments of equity and inclusion.

| KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED |

The Journey of Anti-Racism:

• Anti-racism is viewed as a lifelong practice rather than a destination.
• Participants emphasized the importance of white individuals remaining uncomfortable and committed to continuous self-examination and systemic action.

Role of Conversations:

• Open dialogue among white people about racism is essential for growth and accountability.
• Participants advocated for fostering spaces where individuals can challenge internalized biases and societal norms.

Leveraging Privilege:

• The panel discussed the necessity of white individuals leveraging their privilege, even at personal risk, to support anti-racist actions and amplify marginalized voices.

Navigating Resistance and Hostility:

• Strategies for addressing resistance, including curiosity, empathy, and engaging others in dialogue without being confrontational.
• Examples included challenging problematic language or behaviors in professional and personal settings.

Avoiding Performative Allyship:

• The group reflected on distinguishing genuine advocacy from performative acts.
• They stressed the importance of self-checking intentions and ensuring actions are meaningful and impactful.

Community and Collaboration:

• The guests underscored the value of collective work in anti-racism, recommending practices such as role-playing difficult conversations and building supportive networks.

Intersectionality:

• The conversation also touched on the dynamics of multiracial spaces and the specific responsibilities white individuals have when working alongside marginalized groups.

Call to Action:

• Listeners were encouraged to examine their own biases, stay committed to action, and engage in ongoing education and dialogue to drive systemic change.

| SHOW NOTES |

00:00 Introduction to FARSIGHT Chats

00:29 Introducing Today's Topic: White Identity in 2020

02:01 Meet the Panelists

04:37 Honoring Lives Lost

07:44 Addressing Anti-Racism as a Lifelong Journey

15:05 The Evolution of Diversity and Inclusion

18:17 Ensuring Continued Commitment to Anti-Racism

26:33 Leveraging Privilege and Taking Action

37:40 Navigating Mixed Race Spaces

38:04 The Role of Organizational Development

38:58 Personal Reflections on Advocacy

41:24 Understanding White Comfort

43:01 Practical Tactics for Interrupting Bias

44:52 The Importance of Practice and Support

53:26 Addressing Performative Allyship

57:54 Responding to Hostility and Resistance

01:05:37 The Power of Solidarity

01:07:12 Conclusion and Call to Action

Connect with our guests:

In this episode of FARSIGHT Chats, host Farah Bala, founder and CEO of FARSIGHT, along with guest speakers Sadiya Abjani and Ambarien Alqadar, dive deep into the complex topics of faith, race, and gender within South Asian identity. The conversation delves into the impacts of colonialism, caste discrimination, and the role of community in shaping identity. Sharing personal anecdotes, the guests discuss the complexity of being South Asian Muslim women in America, the immigrant journey, the power of storytelling, and the need for solidarity in social justice movements. It also includes the backdrop of significant movements like Black Lives Matter and Dalit Lives Matter. The dialogue encourages listeners to reflect on their own identities and the importance of community and service.

| KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED |

Complex Intersections of Identity:

• The guests explore how being South Asian, Muslim, queer, and women creates unique challenges and opportunities for advocacy and connection. They discuss the silencing of voices in both personal and community spaces and efforts to navigate these complexities.

Cultural Narratives and Representation:

• The conversation critiques Bollywood and mainstream media for perpetuating archaic narratives and highlights alternative storytelling avenues, such as comics, animation, and independent films, as powerful tools for capturing diverse experiences.

Challenges in Building Community:

• Both guests reflect on struggles to find or create inclusive communities that honor their intersectional identities. They share stories of isolation and the importance of service and storytelling in fostering genuine connections.

Activism and Accountability:

• The episode discusses the South Asian diaspora's response to movements like Black Lives Matter and Dalit Lives Matter, pointing out the need for intersectional solidarity and self-reflection to address double standards in advocacy.

| SHOW NOTES |

00:00 Introduction to FARSIGHT Chats

00:31 Today's Topic: Faith, Race, and Gender in South Asian Identity

00:34 Meet Our Guests: Sadia Abjani and Ambarien Alqadar

00:41 Context: Black Lives Matter and Dalit Lives Matter Movements

01:05 Understanding Dalit Identity and Caste Discrimination

01:35 Exploring South Asian Identity Beyond India and Pakistan

01:54 The Immigrant Experience and Advocacy

02:21 Guest Introductions: Personal Stories and Backgrounds

04:30 Complexities of South Asian Identity in the Diaspora

04:46 Acknowledging Loss and Trans Day of Remembrance

05:38 Faith, Race, Gender: What Intrigues You?

07:49 Silence and Intersectional Identities

10:18 Creating Space for Diverse Faiths in the LGBT Community

13:00 Personal and Political: Growing Up in South Asia

21:29 Navigating Multiple Identities

24:23 Finding Community as an Immigrant

26:28 Personal Journey of Community Building

26:55 College Experiences and Feeling Unseen

28:10 Finding and Serving the LGBT Muslim Community

30:59 The Power of Storytelling and Representation

39:20 Intersectionality and Social Justice

46:55 Reflections and Takeaways

49:24 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview

| WORKS CITED |

The Ghetto Girl. 2012. Film. Ambrien Alqadar.

Connect with our guests:

• Sadia Abjani | Director of Learning & Equity, SAGE USA