In the newest episode of Wallet Watch, the hosts reflect on their season surrounding the topic of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We discuss what we learned from the interviews and consider how this relates to one of the Credit Union’s core values: encourage, embrace, and drive change. During our conversation, we explore how authenticity, sharing viewpoints in brave spaces, and having mutual respect are all necessary to be an effective change agent.

As the hosts dissect the idea of authenticity in the workplace, we come to the realization that it is not only employees who can benefit from being open, honest, and vulnerable. With a growing number of workers being concerned with DEI policies, practices, and procedures, companies are evolving. Job applicants are now more selective than ever as they consider positions with multiple organizations.

I point out that, “A great question to ask if you’re interviewing for a job is ‘How have your company policies evolved or changed over the years?’ See what they say and reflect on that if one of those [changes] does involve DEI because again, [the world is] constantly evolving and we need to grow with it. If they are not also growing in that facet, then it is leaving groups out of the conversation.” I go on to explain that workplaces who are willing to be vulnerable and are open to feedback from all employees will be the ones that are successful as they prioritize a positive work environment.

While being authentic and having conversations in brave spaces can combat ignorance, it is also inevitable that we may occasionally offend someone we are attempting to support. Amanda reflects on our Defining Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion episode, reminding us that this is a part of the DEI journey. “There has to be a space for mistakes to happen because a lot of growth comes from those mistakes. And not looking down on someone who makes that mistake, [but instead] letting them have that time and space for them to be able to grow, understand, and be open-minded.”

Being an effective change agent requires grace, but even when it is present, not everyone is as accepting of others’ thoughts, opinions, or life choices. DaVante discusses why respect should be at the forefront of all of our tough conversations. “You don’t always have to understand it, but choose to respect it. Why do you feel it is something you have to wrap your mind around? And if you have questions, then ask those questions and be willing to listen. I think listening is a super important piece of understanding differences. Be willing to listen and have an open conversation, and to allow [others’] experiences, new education, and learning to penetrate your heart.”

To hear more of our takeaways from the season and suggestions for those hoping to begin their journey as change agents, listen to the full episode by going to Spotify, Podbean, or Apple Podcast.

Do you want transcripts for any of our episodes? Email us a request at [email protected] Transcripts offer an excellent way to have a copy of the tips and topics we cover in each episode.

Also, we have a contest! All you have to do is comment under one of our podcast-related posts. Be sure to tag a friend and include the title of this episode, “Encourage, Embrace, and Drive Change.”

Spotify: App and Web Player

Apple Podcast: App and iTunes

Podbean: App and Website

Chances of winning are based on the number of entries during the contest time period. Only one entry per participant, per episode will be accepted. MSU Federal Credit Union and OU Credit Union employees, board of directors, and their families are not eligible to win.

You may also enter by sending a 3-inch by 5-inch card with your first and last name, address, phone number, and email address to: MSU Federal Credit Union ATTN: Financial Education Department: Wallet Watch Contest Episode “Encourage, Embrace, and Drive Change” 3777 West Road, East Lansing, MI 48823.

This contest runs from March 10, 2021 through August 27, 2021. The winner will be drawn on August 30, 2021, by the Financial Education department of MSU Federal Credit Union, whose decisions are final. The winner of the gift card must agree to sign a release form allowing MSU Federal Credit Union to use their name for promotional purposes for Financial 4.0 and any future MSUFCU promotional materials.

MSUFCU is not responsible for any damage caused to entrants' mobile device due to participation in the contest. MSUFCU reserves the right to cancel the online component of the contest should it become technically corrupted, and the winner will be chosen from all eligible entries received prior to that time.

Winner understands that prizes may not be substituted or assigned.

Entrants agree by entering that unless prohibited by law, MSU Federal Credit Union may use, if entrant is a winner, entrant's name, city and state of residence, photograph, and likeness for advertising trade and any other purposes in any media now or hereafter known without further compensation, permission, or notification. Entrants further agree that the aforementioned parties and all of their respective officers, directors, shareholders, employees, representatives, and agents will have no liability and will be held harmless by entrant for any claim, action, liability, loss, injury, or damage to entrant or any other person or entity, including, without limitation, personal injury or death to entrant or any other person or damage to personal or real property, due in whole or in part. MSUFCU maintains the right to change or modify these rules at any time without notice.