Episode 488: Rethinking Diversity - A New Perspective with Jennifer Tardy

🎧 Tune in to an inspiring and timely episode of the Ellevate Network Podcast, “Conversations with Women Changing the Face of Business.” In this episode, host Tammy Williams sits down with Jennifer Tardy, recruiter turned advocate, and the visionary Founder & CEO of Jennifer Tardy Consulting. With nearly two decades of experience in talent acquisition and diversity strategy, Jenn brings both passion and precision to the conversation around equity in the workplace.

Together, they unpack the persistent biases baked into hiring systems and the need for a shift from “bias-free” ideals to bias-aware practices that actually drive change. Jenn shares her professional journey from the corporate recruiting world to launching her own consulting firm, fueled by a mission to create inclusive spaces where everyone has a fair shot at opportunity.

A central focus of their dialogue is Jenn’s groundbreaking framework of Lived Experience Intelligence (LEI), a concept that recognizes the value of nontraditional knowledge gained through life experience and its impact on hiring and retention. She also offers candid insights into the challenges job seekers from underrepresented backgrounds continue to face, and the role leaders must play in dismantling those barriers.

From sourcing strategies to creating cultures of belonging, this conversation is filled with actionable takeaways for organizations serious about not just attracting—but retaining—diverse talent. Jenn also shares her vision for the future of DEI, one where organizations are held accountable not just for what they say, but for the impact they deliver.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone committed to building workplaces where equity is not just an initiative, but a mindset.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

·      Diversity is a collective responsibility, not an individual trait.

·      Resistance to inclusive hiring practices often stems from a lack of understanding.

·      Language matters: using 'diverse' as an adjective can create barriers.

·      Lived experience intelligence adds unique value to organizations.

·      Job seekers must navigate biases while demonstrating their skills.

·      Retention is as important as recruitment; belonging is key.

EXPLORE KEY SEGMENTS

·      00:00 Introduction to Diversity and Inclusion in Business

·      06:09 Understanding Diversity: A Collective Responsibility

·      09:03 Challenging Assumptions in Diversity Recruiting

·      16:11 Lived Experience Intelligence: Valuing Unique Perspectives

·      21:13 Navigating Biases as Job Seekers

·      27:02 Retention Strategies for Diverse Talent

Jennifer’s message is a powerful reminder that equity isn’t a checklist. It’s a commitment to disrupting the status quo. In this episode, she sheds light on the silent assumptions shaping hiring decisions, the weight of navigating bias, and the courage it takes to challenge systems from the inside out. From corporate recruiter to equity advocate, Jennifer shares hard-earned wisdom on lived experience, belonging, and why inclusive workplaces require more than good intentions, they demand bold, sustained action.

Don’t miss this one. Download the Ellevate Network Podcast, Conversations with Women Changing the Face of Business, on your favorite platform or 🎧listen now to be inspired by Carrie and all the extraordinary women changing the face of business.

 

Episode produced by BGoodPartners