Beyond Performative DEI — Building Team-Centered Equity with Dr. Christen Behzadi

In this episode of the Leaderful Podcast, Jeff and trusted advisor Denyelle Fraser sit down with Dr. Christen Behzadi—anesthesiologist turned DEI strategist and founder of IIC Firm—for a rich, honest conversation on what it really takes to create inclusive, high-functioning teams in today’s complex organizational climate.

Dr. Behzadi shares how her intercultural experience and early advocacy shaped her transition into equity work, and why she believes true DEI success starts with organizational maturity—not media trends or token efforts. Together, they unpack what readiness really looks like, why passive leadership is so harmful, and how methodical, diagnostic approaches can create lasting change.

You’ll hear how Dr. Behzadi strategically assesses organizations before engaging, why she avoids “identity deep dives” until the groundwork is laid, and how equity work done wrong can cause more harm than good.

🔍 Also covered in this episode:

• The backlash against DEI—and what’s fueling it

• How to assess if your organization is actually ready for equity work

• The link between team connection and sustainable DEI outcomes

• Why power, not identity, should be the starting point for equity training

• How leaders can reduce harm by understanding their role power

• The importance of maturity, not urgency, in long-term DEI success

Whether you're a DEI consultant, a team leader, or an executive navigating the future of inclusive leadership, this episode offers sharp insights and grounded strategies to help you do this work well—and do it right.