Keeping It Real with Dr. Anita

Culture isn’t a memo—it’s a rhythm. In this final segment, Amber shares one small ritual that makes a big difference in team belonging.Amber’s Insight:Belonging is built in the small, consistent moments—and leaders don’t need to wait for HR to create them.Dr. Anita’s Post-Podcast Prescription:Start doing:Introduce a “5-Minute Share” in your team meetings.Each week, someone leads by asking a thoughtful or fun question.Rotate the leader. Keep it light.Create a rhythm of connection.Why It Matters:Culture lives in your calendar. And rituals like this create psychological safety, deepen connection, and boost retention—without requiring more time. Try This:Add “5-Minute Share” as the first bullet on your next meeting agenda. Then let the team take it from there.Be sure to stay in the FLO:✅ Follow✅ Like✅ Overshare with your network…and repost with your own insight. I want to hear your voice in this community of practice!

In this bite-sized episode, Amber shares how leaders can shift from delivering feedback that causes defensiveness to offering feedback that inspires growth and engagement. The key? Clarity and intention. Amber’s Insight:Leaders who frame feedback through a lens of opportunity foster stronger, more trusting teams. Instead of focusing on what’s wrong, focus on what’s possible. Dr. Anita’s Post-Podcast Prescription:Start doing this month:Next time you give feedback, open with a growth-centered phrase like: “I see an opportunity for you to…”Notice how your team becomes more open, engaged, and ready to rise. Why It Matters:Framing feedback well isn’t just good communication—it’s good leadership. And it’s a core move toward building teams that trust faster and perform better. Try This:Before your next one-on-one, write down one opportunity-based feedback phrase. Use it. Watch what happens. Be sure to stay in the FLO:✅ Follow✅ Like✅ Overshare with your network…and repost with your own insight. I want to hear your voice in this community of practice!

Hello Community!This week marks the continuation of our new format—5 to 7 minutes of real talk designed to fit your busy schedule and still leave you with actionable insights about leadership, influence, and culture. Because transformation shouldn’t be time-consuming.In this series, I welcome Amber Micala Arnold, powerhouse messaging strategist, who shares how to:· Reframe leadership feedback to inspire action—not resistance· Influence inclusively by making room for all voices· Build connection with simple, consistent team ritualsAt the end of each episode, you’ll get Dr. Anita’s Post-Podcast Prescription—a practical takeaway to help you:· Stop what’s not working· Start something that will· Do more of what builds trust· Do less of what drains team cultureThis week’s insight? Change your frame. Change your focus. Change your future.If you’re ready to lead with more intention, influence authentically, and shape a culture that’s resilient and effective—then this series is for you.Be sure to stay in the FLO:✅ Follow✅ Like✅ Overshare with your network…and repost with your own insight. I want to hear your voice in this community of practice!Listen now and let’s keep it real—together.

Guest: Dr. Mayra Austin, Founder & CEO of Management CuesTopic: The Strategic Value of Workplace CultureIn today’s episode, we explore Perspective #3: Culture—and debunk the myth that workplace culture is just a “feel-good” concept. In truth, it’s a mission-critical asset that directly affects your bottom line, operations, and long-term growth.🔍 Key Insights from the Conversation:📊 Financial ImpactCompanies with happy employees outperform the S&P 500 by 20% and Nasdaq by 30%Organizations with strong culture report 30% more innovation and 40% higher retentionInvesting in workplace mental health delivers a 370% ROI⚙️ Operational ImpactDisengaged employees cost companies 34% of their salary in lost productivityHighly engaged teams experience 41% less absenteeism and 17% higher productivityOrganizations with strong engagement see 57% more discretionary effort🏢 Organizational ImpactEmployees aligned with company culture are 3.7x more likely to be highly engagedDisengaged team members are 2.6x more likely to leave for better cultureTurnover costs range from 30% to 200% of an employee’s annual salary—culture helps reduce that risk✅ Culture isn’t fluff—it’s fuel. The companies that win are the ones who treat culture as a competitive advantage.💊 Dr. Anita’s Post-Podcast PrescriptionChoose ONE action to take from today’s episode:Stop what’s not workingStart something that willDo more of what builds trustDo less of what drains team culture🛑 Today’s Post-Prescription:Stop sending mixed messages about your company’s values.Inconsistency undermines trust and weakens culture from the inside out.💡 Ready to lead with cultural clarity and conviction? This episode is your blueprint.

Guest: Dr. Mayra Austin, Founder & CEO of Management CuesTopic: The Power of Inclusive InfluenceIn this episode, we tackle Perspective #2: Inclusive Influence—a leadership approach that goes far beyond representation.✨ What is Inclusive Influence?It’s the active shaping of culture and decision-making so that diverse voices are heard, valued, and integrated into the DNA of the business.🔑 Why it matters:Financially → Drives innovation, expands market reach, and reduces costly turnoverOperationally → Builds collaboration, strengthens problem-solving, and reduces frictionOrganizationally → Creates belonging, boosts engagement, and positions your company as an employer of choiceWhen leaders embrace inclusive influence, DEI stops being performative and becomes a sustainable competitive advantage.💊 Dr. Anita’s Post-Podcast PrescriptionChoose ONE action from today’s conversation to commit to:Stop what’s not workingStart something that willDo more of what builds trustDo less of what drains team culture✅ Today’s Post-Prescription:Do empower managers and leaders at every level with the language, tools, and mindset to champion inclusivity in daily interactions—ensuring influence cascades throughout the organization.If you’re ready to lead with influence that inspires and sustains, this episode is for you.

Guest: Dr. Mayra Austin, Founder & CEO of Management CuesTopic: Reframing the DEI Conversation in a Shifting LandscapeToday’s episode takes a bold look at the dismantling of DEI efforts under the current administration—and why many businesses are responding to headlines rather than facts.Dr. Mayra Austin joins me to clarify a critical point: There are no federal laws forcing companies to abandon DEI. So why the panic?We explore this question from three angles, beginning with Leadership:💡 Perspective #1: Leadership Clarity Over Fear-Based DecisionsToo many executive teams are reacting to perception rather than reality. When that happens, organizations risk:Wasted resources from misaligned investmentsOperational strain from internal confusionEroded trust across teams and culture✅ Leadership takeaway: Ground your decisions in facts—not fear. That’s how you protect your business, preserve morale, and prepare for growth.💊 Dr. Anita’s Post-Podcast PrescriptionChoose ONE action to implement from what you heard today:Stop what’s not workingStart something that willDo more of what builds trustDo less of what drains team culture🛑 Your Post-Prescription:Stop framing DEI as optional or “nice to have.”✅ Reaffirm it as essential to leadership excellence and long-term competitive advantage.If you’re ready to lead with more clarity and courage, Dr. Anita On Call is in session.

There’s a lot of buzz about workplace culture these days—and for good reason. In this week’s episode of Keeping It Real with Dr. Anita, I’m diving into the importance of culture and how shifting workforce demographics are making inclusive leadership not just a nice-to-have, but a business imperative. With projections showing that by 2050, half the workforce will be racially and culturally diverse—including a rise in neurodiversity and people with disabilities—organizations must rethink how they lead, engage, and foster belonging.A strong, inclusive culture isn’t just about doing the right thing—it’s about building environments where people want to stay. When employees feel seen, valued, and empowered, they’re more loyal, more productive, and more invested in your mission. This episode is full of insight and energy, and if you’re a leader who cares about the future of work, you won’t want to miss it. Tune in and let’s talk about what it really means to lead in a way that embraces difference and builds belonging from the inside out.#WorkplaceCulture #Culture #FutureofWork #WorkplaceBelonging #TalentRetention #KeepingItReal #DoctorAnita

As a C-Suite Trusted Advisor, I often say: just because something is efficient doesn’t mean it’s equitable. In this week’s episode of Keeping It Real with Dr. Anita, I take a detour from our usual focus on belonging to explore a timely topic—Artificial Intelligence in HR. While AI can streamline processes like hiring and performance reviews, it can also unintentionally reinforce existing biases, especially when the data it’s trained on isn’t equitable to begin with.AI should support—not replace—human decision-making. When it comes to people’s dignity, advancement, and sense of belonging, we can’t afford to get this wrong. This episode unpacks how leaders can use AI responsibly, why transparency and human oversight are non-negotiable, and what it really takes to foster fairness in a tech-driven workplace. If you're serious about inclusive leadership and building a culture that thrives in the future of work, I invite you to tune in and join the conversation.#ExecutiveCoaching #InclusiveLeadership #FutureOfWork #AIinHR #WorkplaceEquity #DoctorAnita #KeepingInReal #BelongingAtWork #LeadershipDevelopment

In one of my favorite episodes of Keeping It Real with Dr. Anita, “DEI as a Strategic Business Imperative,” I make the case—again and again—that diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging aren’t just moral imperatives—they’re smart business. The data is clear: companies with diverse leadership outperform their peers, innovate more effectively, and experience higher employee engagement and retention. DEI also helps brands build stronger connections with today’s values-driven consumers. If you're in the C-suite and still treating DEI as optional, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in and discover why inclusive leadership is a competitive advantage.#InclusiveLeadership #StrategicLeadership #BelongingAtWork #CLevelLeadership #ExecutiveCoaching #OrganizationalCulture #LeadershipDevelopment #KeepItReal #DoctorAnita 

One of the top episodes from Keeping It Real with Dr. Anita, my episode,  "DEI Hesitancy in Organizations," dives into why so many companies are still stuck in check-the-box initiatives instead of committing to culture-changing behaviors.  From lack of transparency and fear of backlash to limited resources and resistance to change, the barriers are real—but so are the opportunities. When DEI is embedded into your organizational DNA, it fosters a sense of belonging, which in turn drives performance. If you're a leader navigating these challenges, this episode is a must-listen.  Tune in, reflect, and let’s explore what real transformation could look like for your team.

We’re seeing more and more companies dismantle their DEI teams, reduce budgets, and deprioritize efforts—and it’s sending a loud message to employees: “This no longer matters.” In this powerful episode of Keeping It Real with Dr. Anita, I break down why this short-sighted shift hurts more than it helps. When DEI is treated as optional, organizations lose trust, morale, and the sense of belonging that fuels high-performing teams.Research shows that companies committed to inclusion are more resilient during tough times, not less. The work isn't done, and pulling back now risks undoing real progress.If you’re a leader navigating culture, complexity, and change, this is a conversation you can’t afford to miss.Listen to the episode here: https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-deprioritization-of-diversity--61119201#Leadership #Belonging #OrganizationalCulture #CulturalIntelligence #KeepingItReal #DoctorAnita

Performative diversity & inclusion initiatives were never about progress.They were considered as performative for a reason—because it looks like change without being change.That’s the conversation I’m having in one of my most viewed episodes of Keeping It Real with Dr. Anita—and it's a message that matters now more than ever.In this episode, I break down:-Why social statements without internal action erode trust-How failure to lean into inclusive influence ultimately limits impact-What real accountability looks like when it’s cascaded from the top throughout the organizationIf we want real representation and retention, we must move beyond checking boxes and start changing cultures.Watch now, and if it speaks to you, please share it ➡️ because we all have a role to play in getting this right.

This week, we feature one of the most-watched episodes of Keeping It Real with Dr. Anita—and for good reason.In the aftermath of George Floyd’s murder in 2020, companies around the world made bold public promises to create more inclusive workplaces. Many invested in new roles, employee resource groups, and training efforts aimed at fostering equity and belonging.But here’s the truth: real inclusion is not a one-time initiative. It’s a continuous journey—one that demands transparency, accountability, and a genuine commitment to cultivating environments where everyone feels like they truly belong.In this episode, I unpack how that global moment reshaped the workplace—and what it takes to keep the momentum alive.🎧 Listen in:https://www.doctoranita.com/

In this episode Dr. Anita discusses her journey marked by resilience and adaptability. This episode delves into the highs and lows of Dr. Anita's career, shedding light on the pivotal moments that shaped their professional and personal life. Memorable Quotes: "Resilience isn't about never failing; it's about rising stronger each time we fall." - Dr. A "Adaptability is the key to thriving in an ever-changing world." - Dr. A Connect with me!Web - https://www.doctoranita.com/YouTube - https://bit.ly/DrAnitaYouTubeLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anita-polite-wilson-ph-d-77695b/

This month, I celebrate a milestone birthday. As I enter a new decade, I’m reimagining what success means — not just for my business, but for myself. This episode is about embracing what’s next with vision, confidence, and a deep sense of calling. The pivot isn’t just personal — it’s strategic.As I look ahead, I’m clear about where I need to focus. For the next two months, I’ll be working behind the scenes to strengthen the business and chart new territory.  Please return for my final chat from this special series of Real Conversations from the C-Suite with my amazing and insightful guest host, Kelli Kirkland, as we leave you with what I hope you’ll find to be some nuggets of wisdom that every leader, at every level of leadership, can relate to, reflect on, and repurpose for exponential growth.Connect with me!Web - https://www.doctoranita.com/YouTube - https://bit.ly/DrAnitaYouTubeLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anita-polite-wilson-ph-d-77695b/  

We don’t talk enough about how deeply personal the leadership journey really is. This episode brings together moments of growth — not just as a professional, but as a person. From health challenges to healing, from striving to surrendering, this is where my inner work met my outer work. This phase of my life has reinforced that success isn’t just measured by revenue or recognition.  It’s also measured by resilience, relationships, and readiness to evolve.As poet Maya Angelou once said, "I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it."  I carry that wisdom with me every day — personally and professionally.  Join me and my guest host, Kelli Kirkland, as we unpack what this means for me in this insightful episode of Real Conversations from the C-Suite.#LifeLessonsFromTheC-Suite #LeadershipAndLife #LeadingWithGrace #RealConversations #WomenOfImpact #FromTheC-Suite #KeepItReal #DrAnitaConnect with me!Web - https://www.doctoranita.com/YouTube - https://bit.ly/DrAnitaYouTubeLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anita-polite-wilson-ph-d-77695b/  

Over the last seven years, I’ve learned that building a business is equal parts courage and clarity. This episode revisits the very real lessons I’ve learned — from owning my voice to owning my value — especially as a woman of color navigating corporate ecosystems as a solopreneur and advisor to executive leaders. Join me for another Real Conversation from the C-Suite hosted by my dear friend, Ms. Kelli Kirkland as we explore how DEI continues to evolve in today’s business landscape, how I remain committed to the deeper, strategic work of culture, complexity, and change, and how this moment is shaping the mission that still guides me.Connect with me!Web - https://www.doctoranita.com/YouTube - https://bit.ly/DrAnitaYouTubeLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anita-polite-wilson-ph-d-77695b/ 

This past February marked the 7th anniversary of Dr. Anita Enterprises, Inc. — seven years of standing in the gap between where organizations are and where they aspire to be, especially as they navigate today’s complex and evolving landscape.  And this month, I’m celebrating another milestone: stepping confidently into a new decade of life. But in the spirit of keeping it real, I would be remiss if I didn’t also acknowledge that this season — both professionally and personally — has brought its share of challenges. So this month on Real Conversations from the C-Suite, we’re doing something a little different. I’ll be sharing more about what’s happening in my business, what’s unfolding in my life, and the lessons I’m learning as I navigate this next chapter. Joining me as guest host for this special reflective series is someone who needs no introduction to our community — the incomparable Ms. Kelli Kirkland! I invite you to tune in for a more introspective edition of Real Conversations from the C-Suite, where the roles are reversed — and this time, I’m the one in the guest chair.Connect with me!Web - https://www.doctoranita.com/YouTube - https://bit.ly/DrAnitaYouTubeLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anita-polite-wilson-ph-d-77695b/

Welcome to the month of May, and a special series of revelatory, Real Conversations from the C-Suite with Dr. Anita!  Navigating the pivot into a New Decade of life, and the next phase of leadership as an entrepreneur, I’m embracing two things:  Intention and innovation. For my business, that means deepening my focus: working with organizations serious about cultivating elite teams — culturally competent, high-performing, human-centered teams.  For myself, it means continuing to grow — but also allowing space for rest, reflection, and recalibration.  The truth is that longevity — in business and in life — requires pivoting without losing your purpose.  And that’s exactly what I plan to do.  Join me during this special series of Real Conversations from the C-Suite as the tables are turned and I, Dr. Anita, become the featured guest!Connect with me!Web - https://www.doctoranita.com/YouTube - https://bit.ly/DrAnitaYouTubeLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anita-polite-wilson-ph-d-77695b/

Hello Community!  Having a discussion about diversity—by whatever name you choose to call it—is not an option. Your employees, customers, and stakeholders are watching, and in many cases, waiting. You don’t have to have all the answers, but you do have to be willing to engage. The most successful organizations are those whose leaders are willing to lean into complexity and seek wisdom from their peers. When companies face industry disruption, they don’t rely on gut feelings—they consult advisors, peer groups, and experts to chart a way forward. Why should this conversation be any different? Today we’re going to get comfortable with discomfort during our final Real Conversation from the C-Suite with my guests, Leo Bottary, author of the newly released book, Peernovation Second Edition, Forged by CEO Forums, Perfected For Teams, and Jim Roberts, author of the peer-reviewed article, DEI is Dead, Long Live DEI.Connect with me!Web - https://www.doctoranita.com/YouTube - https://bit.ly/DrAnitaYouTubeLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anita-polite-wilson-ph-d-77695b/