79: How To Create Psychological Safety With Starbucks VP Global Chief Inclusion & Diversity Officer Chéla Gage

Have you ever not felt safe at work?

Maybe you’ve dealt with microaggressions, gaslighting, and bullying…

And even if you have a senior title, you’ve also questioned yourself if you are even experiencing any of this.

In my recent podcast episode, I am joined by a friend who I was honored to coach, and Starbucks’ new VP Global Chief Inclusion & Diversity Office, Chéla Gage, where we talk about how to create psychological safety so you don’t feel like this…

6 years from now, 2030 will be a big year for Americans. According to the US Census Bureau, the majority of the population will be the minority.

An important question for companies to start strategizing is:

• What procedures and systems are you putting in place with this demographic shift?
• And how can you ensure your employees feel safe?

Because here’s the reality that you’ve probably experienced:

• A lot of companies are doing performative things like hosting workshops, but is it really solving the deep-rooted problem?
• Companies brag about having an increase in diversity, but that’s with their rank and file. How about C-Suite? Why are companies C-Suite still NOT diverse?

In today’s podcast, I have Starbucks' new VP Global Chief Inclusion and Diversity Officer, Chéla Gage, joining me. Chéla is not only a former client but also a good friend. Her greatest achievements include being an amazing wife for 20 years and a mother to 3 wonderful boys.

Chela has extensive talent and DEIB experience spanning over 25 years. She has successfully led global teams in various industries, such as high technology, automotive, and aerospace. Her leadership roles have taken her to different countries, including the U.S., Brazil, China, France, Japan, Mexico, Poland, Singapore, and the U.K.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• Challenges for Women of Color in Corporate roles
• The Importance of Creating Diversity Changes in Processes and Systems (a workshop won’t solve your diversity problems)
• Understanding The Role of External Coaches and Mentors

If you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/call

Related Podcast Episodes
Episode 28. The Importance of Trauma Informed Spaces
Episode 31. How to Advocate For Yourself asa WOC in Corporate America with Lindsey Ingram
Episode 47. Scripts and Strategies for Boundaries and Negotiation for WOC Leaders with Accion Opportunity Fund
Episode 40. Why Difficult Conversations Improve Our Life + Work Relationships with Erica Courdae and India Jackson

Resources Mentioned:
Subscribe to the Business & Career Diaries Newsletter: elainelou.com/join
Connect and follow Chela: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelagage/

Where We Can Connect:
Apply to the Business & Career Mastermind: elainelou.com/mastermind