Unlocking the Power of Circles in Leadership and DEI

In the latest episode of our podcast, Jerome and Julienne had the privilege of hosting Cecilia Loving and Gina Leow two dynamic leaders in the field of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) at PBS. Their insights into the transformative power of circles are not only enlightening but also deeply inspiring for anyone looking to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment in their workplace.

Cecilia and Gina bring a wealth of experience and a unique perspective on how the ancient practice of circles can be a powerful tool in modern leadership and DEI initiatives. Cecilia, the Senior Vice President of DEI at PBS, and Gina, the Director of DEI, have co-authored the book “Connecting Through Circles: Using Circles to Support Inclusion, Establish Belonging, and Build Trust.” Their work emphasizes the importance of listening, storytelling, and emotional intelligence in creating a positive and holistic work environment.

One of the key takeaways from our conversation is the concept of circles as a space for healing and connection. Cecilia and Gina explain that circles, an archetype over 100,000 years old, provide a unique opportunity for participants to share their stories, be vulnerable, and most importantly, listen to one another. This practice is essential in DEI work, where understanding and empathy are crucial.

Circles are not just about talking; they are about being present and listening. Gina shares that in circle practice, participants hold a talking piece, an object that gives them the power to speak. This object can be anything meaningful to the individual, and it serves as a reminder to speak from the heart and listen with intention. The practice of passing the talking piece and allowing silence if someone chooses not to speak creates a safe space for everyone involved.

Cecilia and Gina also highlight the versatility of circles. They can be used for conflict resolution, community building, emotional intelligence training, and even coaching. During the pandemic, they found that virtual circles were just as effective as in-person ones, proving that the power of circles transcends physical space.

One particularly moving example shared by Cecilia was a circle held with executives at a retreat. Despite initial hesitation, participants found themselves opening up, sharing deeply personal stories, and even shedding tears. This experience underscores the “magical” quality of circles that Cecilia and Gina often refer to.

For those interested in implementing circle practices in their own organizations, Cecilia and Gina offer certification for circle keepers. This training ensures that the tradition of circles continues to thrive and that more people can benefit from this powerful practice.

This conversation with Cecilia and Gina is a testament to the profound impact that circles can have on leadership and DEI efforts. By fostering a culture of listening, empathy, and connection, circles can transform workplaces into spaces of trust, inclusion, and healing. To learn more, be sure to listen to the full episode and consider reading “Connecting Through Circles” for a deeper dive into this transformative practice.

Tune in to the podcast episode here and explore how you can bring the power of circles into your leadership and DEI initiatives.