Room at the Table: Building Culture by Breaking Barriers

Room at the Table: Building Culture by Breaking Barriers

Gather around the table for insightful conversations focused on building heart-centered workplaces that thrive on equality, inclusive workplaces, and exceptional leadership. Betsy Cerulo (she/her) and her expert guests explore what it takes to transform workplace culture through thoughtful, meaningful dialogues that drive real social impact. Each engaging episode of Room at the Table Podcast gets to the core principles of creating a heart-centered workplace. Through inspiring conversations, listeners will discover the critical role that inclusive workplaces play in achieving equality and enhancing workplace culture. Betsy and her diverse guests share powerful strategies to help leaders rise above mediocrity, fostering an environment of genuine inclusivity and significant social impact. Whether discussing compassionate leadership, the impact of inclusive workplaces on employee satisfaction, or addressing burnout and stress management, each episode emphasizes practical ways to cultivate a thriving workplace culture. Betsy’s expert guests provide tangible advice on how to implement meaningful changes that support both individual and organizational growth, reinforcing the values of equality and heart-centered leadership. Listeners will find rich, actionable insights on fostering emotional authenticity, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, and supporting disability inclusion in inclusive workplaces. Each conversation highlights the transformative power of equality, effective leadership, and workplace culture that prioritizes empathy, respect, and community engagement. Room at the Table also explores the powerful journeys of women in leadership, providing inspiration and guidance on how to break down barriers and achieve greater equality in the workplace. Episodes dedicated to navigating grief and loss underline the importance of compassion and understanding within heart-centered workplaces, reinforcing the value of empathy-driven leadership. Economic empowerment and financial equality are also central themes, demonstrating how inclusive workplaces drive both organizational success and broader social impact. Leaders will gain valuable insights into leveraging diversity, equity, and inclusion practices to build sustainable, thriving organizations that positively impact communities. Room at the Table Podcast is essential listening for leaders and team members dedicated to cultivating heart-centered workplaces. Betsy Cerulo and her expert guests offer clear pathways for creating inclusive workplaces where equality is prioritized, leadership is impactful, and the overall workplace culture significantly contributes to positive social impact. Subscribe now to Room at the Table Podcast and join a growing community committed to equality, inclusive workplaces, and leadership that transforms workplace culture into environments of empowerment, empathy, and enduring social impact. About the Host: Betsy Cerulo is the CEO of AdNet/AccountNet, a successful certified LGBTE, WBE and 8(a) management consulting firm focused on professional staffing and executive search, based in Baltimore, Maryland, and Co-Founder of the Maryland LGBT Chamber of Commerce. Betsy is the author of Miss Crabapple and Her Magical Violin, a children's book that was inspired by lighting up a dream for a child through their imagination. She is also a contributing author of two compilations: Women Living Consciously and Keys to Conscious Business Growth. Betsy lives in Baltimore with her wife, Susan, and their treasured Weimaraner, Grace Kelly. Their son and daughter-in-law, daughter, and three grandchildren complete the picture with lots of love, creativity, and laughter. Company Website: https://www.adnetp3.com/ Personal Website: betsycerulo.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/betsycerulo/ Shake it Off Leadership: https://books.google.ca/books/about/Shake_It_Off_Leadership.html?id=tZ3fxwEACAAJ&source=kp_author_description&redir_esc=y

Episodes

July 15, 2025 37 mins

Today on Room at the Table, Laura Howell and Mat Rice discuss the critical work they do for people with developmental disabilities in Maryland. They share insights on navigating funding shifts, advocating for rights, and combating misinformation. The conversation highlights the importance of treating those with disabilities with respect and dignity. Laura, representing Maryland Association of Community Services, and Mat, the Execut...

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What does it mean to be a great leader? How can great leaders incorporate leadership, diversity, inclusion, LGBTQ+ advocacy and resilience into their workplace culture? 

Today on “Room At The Table”, Betsy Cerulo sits down with Dr. Steve Yacovelli (“The Gay Leadership Dude®”) to discuss how strong, inclusive leaders navigate chaos and foster belonging in today’s political climate. 

Dr. Yacovelli shares actionable strategies...

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    Prospering Through Change: Women Leaders in Federal Contracting

    How do you prosper through change in the fast-paced world of government contracting? In this impactful episode of Room at the Table, host Betsy Cerulo speaks with Shelly McGuire, founder of Shelly’s Events and Chief Strategy Officer at Orange Slices AI, about navigating uncertainty and growth in the federal contracting space.

    Shelly shares how her career evolved from edu...

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    How to Lead with Heart: Creating an Inclusive Workplace Culture

    In this empowering episode of Room at the Table, host Betsy Cerulo sits down with Nedra Dickson, Managing Director of Global Supplier Inclusion and Sustainability at Accenture, to explore the vital role of heart-centered leadership in creating inclusive workplaces. Nedra shares insights on why authentic leadership, equality, and intentional social impact are key to cult...

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    The Power of Your Vote: Making a Real Impact in Your Community

    On Room at the Table, host Betsy Cerulo is joined by Nicole Schlinger, CEO of Campaign HQ and a leading political influencer. They discuss the importance of voting, particularly at the state and local levels, and how every individual's vote significantly impacts their community. Nicole shares valuable insights into voter engagement, overcoming political disillus...

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    How to Recognize and Address Subtle Racism for a More Inclusive Workplace

    In this thought-provoking episode of Room at the Table, host Betsy Cerulo engages in an eye-opening conversation with Tony Hill, Managing Partner at Edwards and Hill Office Furniture, and Dr. Shawne Duperon, CEO of Shawne TV and creator of Project Forgive. They discuss the subtle and often overlooked phenomenon of the "nice racist"—individuals who uni...

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    Being a True Ally: Strengthening Community through Inclusive Leadership

    Join host Betsy Cerulo in this powerful episode of Room at the Table as she speaks with influential leaders Shanae Murray, Chief of Administration at Maryland Aviation Administration, and Patrick Mutch, CEO of Chase Brexton Healthcare. They explore what genuine allyship looks like, how it positively impacts workplaces and communities, and practical str...

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    Understanding Invisible Disabilities: Creating Inclusive Workplaces for All

    Join host Betsy Cerulo in a heartfelt conversation with Lynn Lafy, HR Consulting Team Lead at Adnet, and Sydney Blondell, Administrative Coordinator and indie author. In this powerful episode, they dive deep into the world of invisible disabilities, exploring the challenges and misconceptions individuals face in the workplace and beyond. Learn how ...

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    Embracing Faith and Pride: Journeys of LGBTQ+ Clergy

    In this empowering episode of Room at the Table, host Betsy Cerulo engages in a candid and heartfelt conversation with Kathy Corbett-Welch, an Episcopalian pastor, and Ken Kovacs, a Presbyterian pastor. Together, they delve deeply into their courageous journeys as LGBTQ+ clergy, illuminating the personal and professional challenges they have faced within their respective...

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    Navigating Grief and Loss in the Workplace: A Conversation

    In this deeply moving episode of Room at the Table, host Betsy Cerulo talks with Miranda Quinn, a professional dancer with the Alvin Ailey Dance Company. They explore the complex and often challenging process of grieving within workplace culture, highlighting the critical role of compassionate leadership and inclusive workplaces. Miranda shares her personal journey...

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    Unlocking Financial Equity: Strategies for Inclusive and Empowered Workplaces

    In this impactful episode of Room at the Table, host Betsy Cerulo is joined by Sam McClure, Executive Director of the Center for LGBTQ Health Equity at Chase Brexton Healthcare, and Aquiera Halsey, Board Member at Maryland LGBTQ Foundation and expert in organizational effectiveness. Together, they dive into the critical importance of financial eq...

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    Unlock Your Legacy: Building Belonging and Inclusive Workplaces

    Join host Betsy Cerulo in this inspiring episode of Room at the Table as she engages with Lisa Correno, President and CEO of United Way of the Wine Country. Together, they delve deeply into the concepts of legacy, belonging, and building equitable and inclusive workplaces. Lisa shares her journey of advocacy and leadership, emphasizing the importance of trust, ...

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    Leading with Courage: Empowering the LGBTQ+ Community and Allies

    In this compelling episode of Room at the Table, host Betsy Cerulo engages in a powerful conversation with Ashley Brundage, leadership expert and author of "Empowering Differences," and Ann Stoner, former PFLAG board member and passionate ally. They discuss their personal and professional journeys advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, emphasizing the power of courage...

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    The Courage of Disability Advocacy: Creating Empowered and Inclusive Workplaces

    On Room at the Table, host Betsy Cerulo engages in an insightful conversation with John Gingrich, President and CEO of The League, a nonprofit dedicated to advocating for people with disabilities. Together, they explore how to foster inclusive workplaces, break down barriers, and empower employees with disabilities. John shares his personal jou...

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    Women in Leadership: Empowering the Next Generation of Inclusive Leaders

    In this inspiring episode of Room at the Table, host Betsy Cerulo is joined by Dr. Femaine Brown, Director of the Office of Human Capital for a federal government agency, and Eileen Scully, author of "In the Company of Men: How Women Can Succeed in a World Built Without Them." Together, they discuss the powerful journey of women in leadership, emphasi...

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    Championing Healthcare Equality: A Conversation

    In this impactful episode of Room at the Table, host Betsy Cerulo speaks with Sam McClure, Executive Director of the Center for LGBTQ Health Equality, and Aya Shuman, Executive Director of the Institute for Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion at Chase Brexton Healthcare. They discuss the complexities and importance of healthcare equality, sharing practical strategies to ident...

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    Overcoming Burnout: Practical Strategies for Managing Stress at Work

    Join host Betsy Cerulo in this candid and impactful conversation with Kelly Mitchell, CEO and founder of Impact HR, as they explore the realities of burnout and stress in professional settings. Discover practical strategies and personal experiences that help leaders and employees recognize signs of burnout and effectively manage workplace stress. Betsy an...

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    Navigating Grief at Work: Compassionate Leadership

    In this heartfelt episode of Room at the Table, host Betsy Cerulo sits down with Jennifer Barchi, senior consultant at Design Group International, associate for Church and Leadership at the Presbytery of Baltimore, and executive coach at Artfully Caffeinated. Together, they discuss the complex nature of grief in the workplace, highlighting compassionate leadership, authen...

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    Creating Heart-Centered Workplace Cultures: A Conversation

    Join host Betsy Cerulo in the premiere episode of Room at the Table, featuring an engaging conversation with Sandy Brown, Director of Human Resources at AdNet. Betsy and Sandy delve deeply into the essence of heart-centered workplace cultures, exploring what sets AdNet apart in its commitment to empathy, accountability, and continuous growth. They discuss the cruci...

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    March 13, 2023 55 secs

    We spend more than half of our lives at work, and professionals are looking for more than the hustle and grind. We want our work to be satisfying, to have a sense of shared purpose, and to rise above mediocrity. Room at the Table is a new podcast where we’re having conversations about creating equitable and inclusive workplaces where teams thrive. 

    I’m Betsy Cerulo, and I’ll be your host as we navigate the difficult questions o...

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