This Week on Inclusive AF: Navigating Morale, Ethics & Allyship in Tough Times

Hey Inclusive AF Family,

We’re back this week with a new episode recorded on a Sunday (yes, we even ditched our rest day for you!)—and if you thought things in the DEI and workplace world had calmed down for the summer, think again. Grab your coffee, water, or comfort beverage of choice, and let’s dive into what Jackye and Katee unpacked in this thought-provoking episode.

The Water Cooler Talk No One Wanted:
Jackye and Katee kick things off by processing the HR scandal making headlines—when a workplace affair goes very, very public. The discussion moves beyond the juicy details (we’ve had enough memes and hot takes) and instead looks at the ethical implications for company leadership, the toll on workplace morale, and how quickly scandals like this can erode trust. The big question: If you can’t trust your leadership behind closed doors, can you trust them with your job security?

Business, Ethics, and That ENPS Nosedive:
Have you noticed employee happiness sliding lately? You’re not alone. Katee highlights the dramatic 50% drop in Dell’s ENPS (employee net promoter score) over just two years—the kind of drop that makes leaders everywhere break into a cold sweat. They explore just how much layoffs, forced returns to office, the precarious role of AI, and corporate disregard for DEIB (diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging) contribute to burnout and disengagement.

AI: Tool or Threat?
AI isn’t going anywhere, but how do we empower every employee—not just the tech-savvy or already-successful—to learn and leverage these tools? Jackye and Katee stress the importance of upskilling, transparency, and real support, because buzzwords and fear-mongering aren’t going to future-proof our workplaces.

Politics, Law, and the Erosion of Progress:
The hosts don’t shy away from connecting policy to HR reality. From changes at the VA that threaten LGBTQ+ protections to anxiety over the rising cost of healthcare and the stripping away of anti-discrimination language, they highlight how everyday choices made in Washington ripple into our workplaces, our communities, and our sense of safety. The message is clear: we’re in an environment where the erosion of rights and protections isn’t just political—it’s personal.

Rally, Don’t Retreat:
In a heavy landscape, self-care matters. Jackye and Katee encourage listeners to find solace, speak up, support those impacted, and keep fighting the good fight—even (especially!) when burnout feels close to home. The episode closes with a reminder: be mindful of news blind spots, seek multiple perspectives, and support those around you however you can.

Don’t Miss:
Jackye recommends digging into previous episodes, especially the heartfelt conversation with Lindiwe on self-preservation and resilience. It’s a reminder that looking after ourselves is a crucial act of resistance.

Until Next Time…

We hope this episode gives you a little comfort, some perspective, and a reminder that solidarity is powerful—especially in these challenging times. Got thoughts, reflections, or ideas on how you’re staying engaged and hopeful? Hit reply, we love hearing from the community.

Stay Inclusive (and hydrated!), The Inclusive AF Team

📚 P.S. Want unbiased news? Jackye suggests checking out Ground News—an app that helps you identify blind spots in your own news consumption. Give it a try!