One of the most powerful things about being a business owner is the ability to create a work environment according to your own principles. So many of us have worked within a company or organization and been disappointed by the way things were run, the way team members were treated. So, we wanted to ask some fantastic business owners and operators how they’ve gone about creating a more inclusive workplace.

Dex Hawn

Well first I wanna thank you for having me. I’m grateful to have this opportunity in having this interview and for everyone reading ur appreciated. But too answer these questions, My best advice to create a better more inclusive workspace is too know exactly what u want, know that the things that u invest in will be beneficial too u in the future, never forget about that creative spirit within! For my workspace/setup its very simple nothing too expensive but everything is just right too me , its no need too spend all this money specific things when u can work with what u got until you know the time has came where u can actually go big in investing. The total of my recording setup for music is 250 dollars, Read more>>

Christina Salerno

An inclusive workplace (to me) means that each person has the freedom and support to thrive. They are encouraged to work in the ways that work best for them. They can collaborate with others who have complementary strengths and are safe to have gaps and be imperfect. Read more>>

Liz Venendaal

One of the most important pieces of advice I can offer for creating a more inclusive workplace is this: inclusion should never be an afterthought—it needs to be built into the foundation of your culture, your systems, and your leadership mindset. At Fowler International Academy of Professional Coaching (FIA), we have We Live Without Limits Division, which is dedicated to providing accessible, empowering life coach training for individuals with disabilities. I also work directly with clients as a certified life coach, many of whom are navigating the world with disabilities of their own. What I’ve learned—personally and professionally—is that accessibility and inclusion don’t just benefit one group. They create stronger, more creative, more compassionate workplaces for everyone. Read more>>

Laura Valdes

As the founder of Valdes Language Services, I truly believe that language access is at the heart of an inclusive workplace. My journey began as a child interpreting for my immigrant family, so I know firsthand how isolating it can feel when you can’t fully participate or be heard. Early in my career, I worked in environments where meetings and important communications were only in English, even though many team members spoke other languages more comfortably. I saw talented, passionate people left on the sidelines simply because they didn’t have access to the conversation. It was a stark reminder that inclusion is about both intention and action. Read more>>

Caitlin Muelder

I approach my Astrology and artistic projects with a commitment to creating a more empathetic and inclusive framing to the human experience. My astrological approach is focused on increasing greater awareness and through that empowering my clients and my characters. Read more>>