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.

Tiffany Ansick

I feel that making my clients feel comfortable is highly important. Whether they are clear about their gender roles, or want to talk about work, family, traumas, rough days, celebrations, moving, or family vacations. I want my clients to know that my chair is a safe space that they all deserve to have a comfortable place to sit and be authentic. I want them to have the hair that makes them feel the best in their own skin. I want them to feel confident, and strong when they walk out of my salon. Read more>>

Derek Law

We want everyone to not only feel comfortable at Slackers Brewing Co., but safe as well. Being on the edge of NW Austin we have guests with all sorts of affiliations and views and we wouldn’t want it any other way. Our taproom, marketing, and hiring practices all go towards creating a space that folks feel free to come and be themselves. A home away from home. Read more>>

Lauren Bello

Complex problems have complex solutions, and I think leaders in the workplace have to remember that. So many times policies treat symptoms in a silo without thinking about the implications or greater cause of the situation they’re trying to resolve. A huge example of this is companies’ policies around parental leave (or lack there of). So many companies state, many times well intentioned, their support for workplace equality and their commitment to closing the wage gap. Read more>>

Heather Billingsley

I’m the co-owner of Glitter Critter Studios, and we really focus on inclusivity and accessibility. Our owners and staff are all lgbt and disabled creators, and it’s a huge passion project for us to be a beacon in those communities and do our best to provide safe inclusive spaces. It’s so important to have everyone play to their own strengths, and feel comfortable with voicing their own concerns or feelings. Read more>>

Makayla Sweeney

As a woman working in a male dominated industry, it has been my goal from the beginning to create a safe place for people to get tattoos done and feel a sense of belonging. Historically, tattoo shops and artists have had the reputation of being a tough, non inclusive “boys club”, and you would be called names or kicked out for not following suit. Read more>>

MariAlda Matos

In the wake of Barbenheimer, we saw some concerning announcements come out of the major studios and toy companies. A Polly Pocket movie, a Hot Wheels movie, a Rubix Cube (huh?) movie all intent to ride the coattails of the billion-dollar behemoth that graced our screens in glitter and pink. When asked about this rising tide, actor Randall Park made the brilliant point that studios are missing the lesson entirely. Read more>>

Lutze Segu

My advice for creating a more inclusive workplace starts with leadership. Leaders must ask themselves whether they have what it takes to meet the current challenges at work. The pandemic has radically changed how people see work and approach work. And as we learn to live with this enduring global pandemic, workers across industries, race, ethnicity, and roles are asking for more equitable and hospitable work conditions, pay, and environment. Read more>>

Jacqueline Smith

Every Phase Leadership collaborates with mission-driven organizations and individuals, delivering impactful leadership training and actionable plans to fuel leaders’ success. Our approach fosters an inclusive work environment, empowering leaders at all stages by amplifying their confidence and capabilities. The Press to Lead podcast shines a spotlight on hidden community leaders, elevating their voices and inspiring others. Read more>>

Rikki Porter

Working in a predominantly white space can be intimidating for people of color (POC). The film industry is slowly changing, but not at the rate we would like to see it evolve. Right now, the most important thing I can do is to show everyone that even though it may be uncomfortable, it is important for us as POC to push the boundaries. We should expect people in the current majority to feel uncomfortable with us; and we should allow them to sit with their own emotional discomfort. Read more>>

Danielle Paulo

In the three years since I founded my digital marketing agency, I’ve learned that inclusivity isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a commitment. It’s about recognizing the unique strengths that each individual brings to the table and fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and heard. Read more>>