In this episode of DEI Will Not DIE, Dr. Bree Gorman is joined by Belonging and Inclusion Strategist and Founder of Belonging Co, Mantej Singh, to explore how leaders can move beyond compliance and tokenism in DEI work.

Together, they unpack seven barriers that Mantej believes stall meaningful progress, including HR-only ownership, compliance mindsets, delegation without accountability, and what role leaders should play in DEI. Mantej challenges leaders to take a proactive stance on anti-racism, build racial literacy, and embrace inclusion into core systems rather than treating it as an add-on.
This episode is a clear call for leadership accountability. Because inclusion is not measured by policies written, but by what people actually experience on the ground.

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Show notes and resources: breegorman.com/podcast

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In this episode of DEI Will Not DIE, Dr. Bree Gorman explores recruitment as a powerful, but often over-relied-on tool for building diverse, equitable and inclusive workplaces. Bree unpacks why improving hiring processes alone isn't enough, and how recruitment changes can fall flat when they're not supported by broader system change across the organisation.

Drawing on experience, Bree examines where bias and barriers show up throughout recruitment and what it takes to move from representation to real impact. This episode is a call to look beyond who gets hired and focus on the systems that determine who thrives, progresses and stays, because recruitment only works when the whole organisation is designed for equity.

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In this episode of DEI Will Not DIE, Dr Bree Gorman unpacks the limits of gender equality action plans when intersectionality is treated as an afterthought. They explore how compliance-driven approaches can unintentionally widen privilege gaps and pull organisations away from more holistic DEI work.
Drawing on real-world experience, Bree challenges "fix the people" programs and makes the case for system change, leadership accountability, and acting on imperfect data. This episode is a call to move beyond tick boxes and quotas and design DEI strategies that centre those most marginalised — because when systems work for them, they work better for everyone.

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In this episode of DEI Will Not DIE, Dr Bree Gorman sits down with gender equality leader Michelle Redfern to explore what it really means for organisations to choose the "right side of history" when it comes to DEI. They unpack why compliance and quotas aren't enough on their own, how global politics influences corporate strategy, and why intersectionality must sit at the centre of any genuine gender equity effort.

Michelle shares real-world examples from working with executives, boards and multinationals, highlighting the difference between performative commitments and deep cultural evolution. Bree and Michelle discuss visibility, governance, resourcing and the crucial role DEI practitioners play in translating intention into action.

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In this episode of DEI Will Not DIE, Dr Bree Gorman explores how we respond when harmful behaviours show up in our workplaces. From microaggressions and exclusionary comments to ongoing discrimination, Bree unpacks the difference between calling in, calling out, and calling on, and how each approach can support learning without compromising safety or accountability.

Drawing on research and real-life moments, Bree explains why shame shuts down growth, why empathy matters even when people "should know better," and how our own power and safety influence how we choose to respond. They share a practical example from community sport that highlights how a grounded, compassionate intervention can shift behaviour far more effectively than blame.

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In this episode of DEI Will Not DIE, Dr Bree Gorman reflects on how transferable skills can shape a meaningful career in DEI. From their beginnings as an analytical chemist to becoming a DEI strategist, Bree shares how critical thinking, stakeholder engagement, and bridging divides all play a role in creating more inclusive workplaces.

They also open up about navigating ADHD, career transitions, and the impact of leadership decisions that focus on outcomes rather than hours. This honest conversation reminds us that the path to DEI isn't linear and that inclusion starts when we remove barriers so everyone can thrive.

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Show notes and resources: breegorman.com/podcast

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In this episode of DEI Will Not DIE, Dr Bree Gorman and Andrew Fitisemanu explore what it really means to be a DEI consultant in today's world. They unpack the myth of "expertise" in a field that's still growing and discuss why humility, honesty, and collaboration are essential for lasting impact.

Drawing on personal experiences and candid reflections, Bree and Andrew share insights on protecting DEI practitioners from burnout, creating genuine partnerships with organisations, and amplifying diverse voices within the consulting space. This conversation challenges the idea that one person can do it all and highlights why DEI work succeeds when it's shared.

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Show notes and resources: breegorman.com/podcast

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In this episode of DEI Will Not DIE, Dr Bree Gorman explores the role of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and how to build inclusion in long-standing organisations.

Creating meaningful DEI change isn't straightforward, existing structures, competing priorities, and unclear objectives can all get in the way. Bree shares insights on how to start with a DEI action plan, clarify the purpose of ERGs, and adapt strategies to meet the evolving needs of your organisation.

Drawing on real-world experiences, Bree offers practical guidance for setting up ERGs effectively, evaluating their impact, balancing advocacy with social connection, and ensuring they truly support inclusion, helping DEI practitioners make progress without getting stuck in complexity.

For tools, coaching, and support: breegorman.com

Show notes and resources: breegorman.com/podcast

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