Finding Calm in the Change: Self-Care & Systemic Impact on the Inclusive AF Podcast

Hello Inclusive AF Fam,

We’re back with another episode (from the vault -- yes, it never got posted. Until now!!) packed with insight, vulnerability, and a bit of laughter to warm up these unexpectedly chilly Arizona and Texas days! In case you missed it, our latest episode features the amazing Dr. Rebecca Eldredge, licensed psychologist, organizational consultant, and longtime change-maker dedicated to integrating well-being into diversity and equity work.

Here’s what we explored together:

How Calm Isn’t Always Comfortable Dr. Eldredge dove into why “finding your calm” can actually feel pretty scary—especially for those of us who’ve had to stay on high alert to survive and advocate for change. She shared how generations of trauma can make it tough to relax, and why so many of us feel like panic is the glue holding us together.

The Burnout Epidemic Among Change-Makers Burnout. Compassion fatigue. Feeling like you have to shrink to fit into boxes or overperform to meet expectations—sound familiar? Dr. Eldredge highlighted how those doing the most to fix broken systems are often the same ones carrying the biggest burdens. Organizations need to do more than talk the talk; real change takes sustained, systemic investment in their people and their well-being.

Speaking Up When It’s Hard We tackled the reality of “messing up”—whether it’s getting paralyzed by fear of saying the wrong thing, or watching organizations make lofty statements without the follow-through. Both can cause harm, and Dr. Eldredge had some great advice:

• Practice having tough, curious conversations in safer moments so you’re ready when the stakes are higher.

• Let yourself—and others—admit, “I don’t know.”

• Leaders: Model vulnerability and curiosity, and remember, silence can hurt more than honest imperfection.

Carrying the “DEI Load” — Especially for Women of Color Our conversation zeroed in on how women—particularly Black and Brown women—often bear the brunt of DEI work at great personal cost. Dr. Eldredge shared sobering stats (a 35% increase in major health risks for those experiencing injustice at work) and the vital need for safe spaces, peer support, and self-care.

Hope on the Horizon Despite all the challenges, Dr. Eldredge remains inspired by the brilliant, committed advocates she supports—people in education, HR, politics, and beyond. She’s seeing a new generation that insists things must be different, and more organizations realizing they can’t afford toxic cultures anymore. Even small changes matter!

Takeaways We Want You to Remember

• Your well-being isn’t optional—it’s essential to the work of real change.

• Leaders: If you want to keep your talented, passionate people, invest in structures and resources that support both their selves and your shared mission.

• The work is hard, but there’s hope—and community—along the way.

Looking for Support? Whether you’re leading DEI initiatives or feeling the weight of being the “only one” in the room, Dr. Eldredge’s resources (and this episode!) are for YOU. Check out her website for more on building resilience and finding your calm amid the chaos.

Listen to the full episode if you haven’t yet, then let us know: Where are you finding hope? What practices help you recharge? Hit reply—we’d love to feature your stories in a future newsletter.

Stay inclusive (and warm!), Katee & Jackye

P.S. Don’t forget—2025 is the year of saying NO (for the third year in a row)! Set those boundaries, y’all.