Redefining DEI and Civility in the Workplace with Dyann McDowell

DEI is Broader Than Just Race - Dyann McDowell emphasizes that Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) isn’t only about race—it includes disability, body type, age, religion, and more. Creating inclusive workplaces means considering everyone’s needs.

Eric here. I sit down with Dyann McDowell, a seasoned HR professional and DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) expert with over 25 years of experience. Dyann shares her journey from traditional HR training to her pivotal role in DEI—well before it became a mainstream corporate focus.

Together, we talk about the most pressing challenges facing today’s workplaces: the evolving meaning of DEI beyond race, the resurgence of incivility, and why genuine inclusion and civility are more critical than ever.

Dyann brings a fresh, honest perspective on what’s working and what isn’t in DEI, highlighting the danger of divisive tactics and the importance of true conversation and curiosity. She draws from personal and professional stories—from lessons on privilege to the very real impacts of workplace culture—to illustrate how organizations can move past surface-level initiatives and create truly welcoming, high-performing environments.

Hear more about Dyann's latest project, “Civility Unleashed,” a new framework designed to help organizations not only address but transform toxic workplace behavior, build accountability, and foster real, sustainable change.

If you’re passionate about the future of work—or just want to be inspired by a candid, solutions-oriented leader—this episode is a must-listen.

Here are three key takeaways that stood out to me:

• DEI Goes Beyond Race: Dyann emphasizes that diversity, equity, and inclusion aren’t just about race. True DEI means considering all forms of difference—ability, size, age, gender, and more—to ensure everyone feels like they belong and can contribute fully.
• Civility Is a Business Necessity: The rise of toxic workplace behaviors and incivility isn’t just a social or moral issue—it’s a bottom-line problem. Dyann shares that only 16% of today’s workforce is actively engaged, and uncivil behavior is a top driver of disengagement and turnover. Building a respectful, civil culture is non-negotiable for organizational success.
• Curiosity and Civil Discourse Matter: One of the most compelling parts of the discussion was the urgency to bring back curiosity and civil discourse. Dyann advocates for workplaces where difficult conversations happen with empathy and openness, rather than judgment or division. “If we’re not opening up the conversation, then we’re not advancing.”

Key Moments

04:12 DEI's Future Post-Election Analysis

06:31 "Glasses and Unfair Blame"

10:33 Generational Privilege and Education

13:20 Debate Over Wilson School Naming

17:20 Reevaluating Affirmative Action Beliefs

19:41 Misconceptions About DEI

22:32 "Curiosity Deficit's Societal Impact"

27:42 "Six-Second Rule in Decision-Making"

29:20 Rise in Workplace Misconduct Cases

34:33 "Superstars' Behavior Excused at Work"

35:39 Leadership's Impact Flows Downward

44:50 Owning Mistakes with Grace

45:44 Empowering Employees Against Microaggressions

48:55 "Empowering Employees Through Constructive Dialogue"

52:45 "Understanding Emotional Intelligence"

55:54 "Leaning In to Listen and Learn"

59:11 "Divine 3 AM Mosaic Vision"

Dyann McDowell is a powerhouse in the world of Human Resources and Training. As the President and HR Business Partner at Training Marbles, Inc., a company revolutionizing HR Consulting and training. With a mission to elevate conversations and exceed...