Equity in the Workplace: What We’ve Learned from Doing the Work

What if one of the most misunderstood leadership concepts today is actually one of the most important?

In this episode of Because People Matter, Dr. Helen Fagan sits down with Celeste Warren, founder of Celeste Warren Consulting, former Global Head of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Merck, and author of The Truth About Equity, for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, inclusion, and creating environments where people can thrive.

Celeste challenges common misconceptions about equity and explains why equitable leadership is not about giving special treatment—it’s about understanding individual needs, removing barriers, and helping people access opportunities that allow them to succeed. She shares practical examples from her decades of leadership experience and explains why equity is ultimately about optimizing performance, building trust, and helping teams achieve collective success.

This episode offers valuable insights for leaders seeking to build stronger teams, create inclusive cultures, and lead in a way that truly helps people matter.