Shows
Parity PodcastStretch, Seek Sponsorship, Succeed: Women's Guide to Experience CapitalIn this episode, Cathy and Deborah dive into the concept of experience capital, explaining how it plays a pivotal role in career advancement. They explore why it's not just about doing good work, but also about strategically positioning yourself through stretch assignments, developing strong sponsorship relationships, and building the right networks. Together, they share actionable tips on how to steer your career growth and set yourself up for greater success by seizing upon opportunities, raising your hand for the tough assignments, and actively building relationships that go beyond surface-level mentorship. They also outline actionable tips for organizations looking to do b...2025-05-1030 min
Parity PodcastAre You Ambitious? You're Not Alone.In this episode, Cathy and Deborah discuss the lesser known fact that women are, on balance, every bit as motivated to maximize their careers as men. With this in mind, how do women in the workplace navigate negative pushback when we are deemed too "aggressive"? How do employers ensure that they are capitalizing on women's talents? As always, Cathy and Deborah offer their own insights and practical advice for women and leaders encountering a sometimes "greedy" workplace.2025-04-1326 min
Parity PodcastKeep On Keeping OnMarking four years of the Parity Podcast, Cathy and Deborah discuss their ongoing efforts to nudge the workplace culture to be a more equitable place for women and to take advantage of the skills sets women have to offer. They recount their SCRIPT for change, review some of their favorite episodes, and share what they have learned. In answer to the question of whether something different is needed in this moment of the fight for a better workplace for all, Cathy and Deborah offer the understated response that is the title of this Episode: Keep On Keeping On.2025-02-2836 min
Parity PodcastUnlearning Silence: A Conversation with Elaine Lin HeringElaine Lin Hering joins the Parity Podcast to discuss the role that silence plays in each of our lives. Her 2024 book, Unlearning Silence, explores the ways in which we are silenced in the workplace, and the roles we play in silencing others. Driven by her own experience in being encouraged to speak up, yet not having her words welcomed, Elaine began pondering the larger dynamics in play and the consequences of remaining silent. According to Elaine, finding one's voice is more than what you say or don't say, it is about how you move through the world and show...2025-01-2854 min
Parity PodcastWhat Is It about Taylor Swift?The Parity Podcast has been curious about Taylor Swift's stunning success as a pop star and her potential as a role model to the next generation of women. In this episode, Deborah is joined by four Taylor Swift fans from across the country, ranging from the teens to late 20s, to discuss what she means to them. They describe her music as poetic, playful, self-deprecating, and deeply relatable and accessible, lending insight to the source of her magic. Offering a sound track for the experience of growing up, and loving and living, Swift makes a profound impact, reaching across...2024-12-3042 min
Parity PodcastThe Barbieland MessDr. Nithila Peter returns to the Parity Podcast and joins Deborah to discuss the magic and mess of the Barbie movie. Drawing on her background in media studies, Nithila offers insight into the cinematic experience and the bookends of the movie, from the birth of Barbie to the gynecologist's office. Simulatenously inspired and horrified by the perfectly sculpted Barbie as a role model, Nithila and Deborah discuss the film's depiction of the hyper-femininine and hyper-masculine worlds, and what they reveal about parity. They discuss the complexity of the Barbie doll as a toy, along with the film's depiction of...2024-11-1752 min
Parity PodcastNo Need to Apologize: A Conversation with Kara WojnowskiIn this episode, Cathy and Deborah speak to Kara Wojnowski, a Marketing Manager at Biorigin Specialty Products, who has studied the communication differences between women and men. One large difference is many women's tendency to apologize, even when there is no reason to do so. How does over-apologizing undermine a person's credibility? And when should someone apologize and when not? Kara discusses these issues and more with the Parity Podcast, and helps us think critically about communication styles--without violating Parity Podcast's golden rule against trying to change women.2024-10-2028 min
Parity PodcastThe DEI Vocabulary ListOver the last several years, we've developed a brand-new vocabulary to talk about very old problems. In this episode, Cathy and Deborah explore the importance of that vocabulary, as well as its imperfections and limitations. They also discuss how seemingly uncontroversial terms have become oh-so controversial, while identifying solutions to overcome the divide. 2024-09-2225 min
Parity PodcastThere is a Better Way: INVERSITY's Approach to DEI with Karith FosterWe welcome Karith Foster whose new approach to achieving workplace inclusion rejects the use of blame and shame in diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. She offers a new path forward, recognizing that all of us are different and unique, and true change requires everyone to participate. You can learn more about how INVERSITY takes the division out of diversity.2024-07-2938 min
Parity PodcastMental Health and Getting Well in the Workplace, with Vivia ChenKicking off the fourth season, Cathy and Deborah welcome Vivia Chen to discuss the challenges of getting the care you need for your mental health. Vivia, an award winning columnist and prolific opinion writer, was denied short term disability because she was not deemed "sad enough." Vivia discusses mental health stereotypes and solutions for change. You can find Cathy and Deborah on LinkedIn.2024-05-2544 min
Parity PodcastThe Backlash: Unpacking the State of DEIIn this episode, Cathy and Deborah discuss the revolt against Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts - and women - in the workplace. How did the seemingly noncontentious goal of inclusivity become controversial? More importantly, what can we learn from this back lash to transform our own approach? As always, we offer solutions.2024-04-0829 min
Parity PodcastBelieving in Yourself, A Conversation with Angela B. FreemanIn this episode, we talk to Angela B. Freeman, mom, wife, law firm partner, and podcaster about where she's been and what she hopes for in teaming up with others. We discuss the moments White women have failed to be allies and partners to Women of Color, and what we all need to do to step up, including recognizing the advantages some people have based on skin color. Along with firmly believing in herself but knowing she had to be twice as good, Angela carried - and continues to carry - a deep curiousity for others. 2024-02-1754 min
Parity PodcastPipeline Problems and Strategies for Women, 2023 Year in ReviewThe year 2023 brought incremental gains at the top for women overall but not for women of color. Women in middle management also lost ground, leaving open the question of whether gains at the top were a passing fancy. Join us to discuss 2023 challenges as well as solutions.2024-01-1432 min
Parity PodcastWe're Not Going BackJoin us for a discussion with Blessing Adesiyan who entered corporate American with a baby in her arms, literally. She shares her nuggets about creating a care infrastructure for workers at all levels and how businesses can best adapt in this new post-COVID landscape. As Blessing says, we're not going back to how it was before. In this new reality, caring about workers is as imperative for their well-being as it is for the bottom line.2023-11-0528 min
Parity PodcastWhat's In It For Me?Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts surged in 2020, but are now experiencing headwinds. Carrie Fletcher, leadership and strategy consultant, joins us to discuss how and why DEI initiatives falter, the critical role of men, and the need to address the elephant in the room which asks "what's in it for me"? 2023-10-1237 min
Parity PodcastBringing Men to the Table with the Good GuysGood Guys authors David Smith and Brad Johnson say that men are the key to gender parity. We agree but we need many more men as allies. In this episode, Cathy and Deborah ask the tough questions. What is standing in the way of full engagement by men? And for those men who are engaged, what can they do right now? You can learn more about the important work that Dave and Brad are doing on their webpage. You can also read their books Good Guys: How Men Can Be Better Allies For Women in t...2023-08-2945 min
Parity PodcastGERI, Where Women and Men Talk GenderWe are joined by Gender Equity and Reconciliation International (GERI) to discuss bringing women and men together to listen to each other and bridge the gender divide. Its view? Parity isn't possible unless we engage with each other more deeply. GERI colleagues Cynthia Brix and Jon Levitt share a glimpse into what this process entails.2023-08-2745 min
Parity PodcastPrivilege: Breaking Down Defensiveness and Opening Up Dialogue People hear a lot of different things when they hear the word "privilege," both good and bad. In this episode, Cathy and Deborah discuss their own privileges and how to have a more constructive, nuanced discussion, including by ditching the word. They also discuss "aha" moments and best practices for using whatever privileges -- or advantages -- you have to create a more inclusive workplace. 2023-07-1631 min
Parity PodcastThey said what?!: Calling Out and Calling In BiasWe focus a lot in this day and age on unconscious bias, but women continue to experience head-scratching moments of in-your-face, outright explicit bias. From public shaming to cornering and bullying, listen in on these modern-day examples of good old-fashioned blatant sexism - and know you are not alone. Then, learn what you can do as the target of bias, and even more importantly as an ally, including by "calling out" and "calling in." For more information, we recommend these resources: Better Allies by Karen Catlin The Harvard Guide on Calling Out and Calling In Seed the Way Guide 2023-06-1030 min
Parity PodcastAllies Wanted: A Discussion with Julie Kratz In our kick-off to Season 3, we return to the theme of allies, who are critical for parity in the workplace. But what do we mean by "ally" and what do we want and need allies to do? Julie Kratz, author of several works on allyship, answers these questions and discusses the importance of listening to others whose shoes you don't walk in. You can learn more about Julie Kratz and her work with allies here.2023-05-1637 min
Parity PodcastThe Broken Rung, Headwinds, and Women’s Leadership, 2022 in ReviewWomen and caregivers continue to feel the effects of the pandemic as unprecedented numbers of women leaders exit the workforce or switch jobs in search of better cultures. The Great Resignation, Quiet Quitting, and Quick Quitting are new phrases to describe how women and caregivers are coping with work and home demands. As we look back on 2022, we remain positive for the year ahead. Subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes! If you would like to learn more about today’s topic: 2022 Workplace in the Women by McKinsey and LeanIn.org Wher...2023-01-1043 min
Parity PodcastThe Price of Masculinity Norms with Guests Dr. Ronald Levant and Andy CooperThe price of men being led to believe that they must act in ways that conform to their gender can be enormous, for men and women alike. Guest Co-Host Andy Cooper joins Deborah Pollack-Milgate for a discussion with author, psychologist, and masculinity studies pioneer Dr. Ronald Levant. Dr. Levant talks about the socialization of boys and masculinity and its reverberations, while the trio explores the imprint on workplace culture. You can Subscribe! so you don’t miss any episodes! You can find a transcript of today’s episode on our webpage. If you would like to learn m...2022-11-051h 18
Parity PodcastSexism, Lies, and Fairy Tales: A Conversation with Dr. Anne BeallWe talk with Dr. Anne Beall, author of Cinderella Did Not Live Happily Ever After: The Hidden Messages in Fairy Tales. Using data science, we discuss fairy tale themes: women are passive and largely devoid of power and agency, except for witches and evil stepmothers, while men are smart, brave, and heroic. Join us as we discuss how these themes continue to hamper women in the modern workplace. You can read a transcript here.2022-09-2535 min
Parity PodcastThere’s an Eruption in My Living Room! The Care Economy, Part 2Caregiving is a second economy that requires a skilled workforce all its own. Yet, in the absence of acknowledging the scale and critical relevance of this economy, the main drivers and load-bearers of this economy remain women. We simply cannot achieve gender parity without more support and without others taking on their share of the load. Dr. Nithila Peter joins us in a 2-part series to discuss solutions. You can subscribe! so you don’t miss any episodes! Time-stamped show notes are below. You can find a transcript of today’s episode here If you would li...2022-09-0139 min
Parity PodcastThere’s an Eruption in My Living Room! The Care Economy, Part 1Caregiving is a second economy that requires a skilled workforce all its own. Yet, women are its main drivers, leaving us tired and worn out, and making it nigh impossible to compete in the workplace. We cannot achieve gender parity without more support. The pandemic showed us that caregivers and those we tend to deserve better. Dr. Nithila Peter joins us in a 2 part series to discuss solutions. You can Subscribe! so you don’t miss any episodes! Time-stamped show notes are below. You can find a transcript of today’s episode here. If you would...2022-08-071h 02
Parity PodcastP is for Practicing the Art of Respectful CommunicationsWorkplace communications are powerful - they can make and break careers, incent us to give our all, or cause us to run for the hills and join the Great Resignation. In this episode, we discuss inclusive communication tips for everyone including leaders and allies, as well as strategies when you find yourself in cultures where it is difficult to be seen and heard. You can Subscribe! so you don’t miss any episodes! Time-stamped show notes are below. You can find a transcript of today’s episode at our webpage. If you would like to learn...2022-07-0346 min
Parity PodcastSolutions for a Workplace Welcoming to All, Part 2 of a Conversation with Karen CatlinAfter 25 years as a senior leader in tech, Karen Catlin saw a decline in the numbers of women in tech. Frustrated but galvanized, Karen became an author and coach focusing on helping women navigate the male-dominated tech industry and coaching men to be better allies. In this episode, we discuss hiring for a “culture add” and other tips to create a more inclusive workplace. Subscribe! Time-stamped show notes are below. You can find a transcript of this episode on our webpage (link below). If you would like to learn more about today’s topic: Bette...2022-06-0139 min
Parity PodcastPrivilege, Parity, and Pie: Part 1 of a Conversation with Better Allies Author Karen CatlinAfter 25 years as a senior leader in tech, Karen Catlin saw a decline in the numbers of women in tech. Frustrated but galvanized, Karen became an author and coach focusing on helping women navigate the male-dominated tech industry and coaching men to be better allies. In this episode, Karen gives us 10 tips to be better allies. Subscribe! Time-stamped show notes are below. If you would like to learn more about today’s topic: Better Allies: Everyday Actions to Create More Inclusive, Engaging Workplaces Karen Catlin's list of 50 privileges Waking Up W...2022-05-1137 min
Parity PodcastHow to Spot and Snuff Out Gender BiasIn this episode, we discuss how to gender sleuth so you can detect when people are responding to the often hidden pressure of gender stereotypes. When we unwittingly conform to gender stereotypes, women face increased gender bias, particularly in male-dominated workplaces and as they move up the career ladder. We offer solutions with 4 action steps so women and male allies can snuff out gender bias.2022-04-1943 min
Parity PodcastHow to Close the Gender Pay Gap with TEADespite the pay equity win by the U.S. Women's Soccer Team, the gender wage gap persists. In this episode, we discuss how the gap is measured, how some companies like L’Oreal, Starbucks, and Salesforce are making a difference, and how TEA - Transparency, Education, and Audit - can reduce the gap. Subscribe! Time-stamped show notes are below. 1:40 What is the gender wage gap, what are the gender wage gap facts, and solutions for equal pay 2:14 Why are women paid less than men 3:08 How is the pay gap calculated 4:10 American Progress is a top...2022-03-2539 min
Parity PodcastHow to Break the Bias with Guests Lilian Agyemang-Yeboah and Ashia JohnsonWe’ve been called bellicose, belligerent, and bombastic, and connected with male allies at banana stands, and through these experiences, we have solutions for you to break the bias. Together with guests Lilian Agyemang-Yeboah and Ashia Johnson, we offer over 20 ways that you can break the bias, the 2022 International Women’s Day theme. Subscribe! Time-stamped show notes are below. 1:54 Introduction of Guests 2:15, Lilian Agyemang-Yeboah Born and raised in Ghana Plastics engineering degree from UMass - Lowell Current position is an applications engineer at a life sciences company Host of new podcast to be lau...2022-03-0653 min
Parity PodcastUnconscious Bias, a Stick of Dynamite, and More As We Look Back on 2021In this final Episode of 2021, Cathy and Deborah share their favorite tips for achieving parity, discuss the latest data on women in the workplace, and look forward to 2022 and blowing up the status quo. Subscribe! Time-stamped show notes are below. Most Positive Developments for Women in 2021 2:24 We are finally discussing unconscious bias, intersectionality challenges for women who identify as BIPOC, and burnout for women How to Understand Unconscious Bias So We Can See Women, Only Wonder Women Need Apply: Solutions for Working Moms; Unconscious Bias: Hidden Forces Undermining Women at Work 3:34 We...2021-12-1451 min
Parity PodcastThe World Is Bigger Than Your Backyard, Interview of Tracy J. EdmondsIn this episode, Tracy J. Edmonds, the author of Wild Hair and the owner of TJE Coaching and Consulting, explains how authenticity can disrupt gender bias, help us connect with others, and transform women into more effective and visible leaders. Subscribe! Time-stamped show notes are below. Intro 1:20 Tracy J. Edmonds is a mom, coach, consultant, and author of Wild Hair Episode Breakdown 1:55 In today’s episode we discuss: What is authenticity and how do we discover who we are How does authenticity impact leadership, working...2021-11-091h 05
Parity PodcastHow to Discover and FLEX Your Authenticity at WorkWomen receive mixed messages to be authentic but also to conform, fall in line, fit in. It’s a challenging tightrope to walk but we have solutions. In this episode, learn how to discover your own authenticity, and then how to FLEX so that you can contribute at work in a way that reflects who you are. Subscribe! Time-stamped show notes are below. Intro 2:10 Women are told to be authentic but also to conform 2:29 We need to stop trying to change women 3:00 Mixed signals start at bir...2021-10-1153 min
Parity PodcastOnly Wonder Women Need Apply: Solutions for Working MomsJuggling work and motherhood is a bone-weary challenge unless you’re Wonder Woman. While women’s skills grow after becoming mothers, we often face biases that stall careers. The pandemic made the situation more dire but now is a golden opportunity to find solutions with the Parity Prescription. Subscribe! Time-stamped show notes are below. Intro 00:27 Time for gender parity increased from 100 to 135 yrs; COVID widened the gender gap, CNBC 5:23 Need workplace support; Unfinished Business by Anne Marie Slaughter Unique Skills of Working Moms 8:29 Skills grow; Modern Family Index...2021-09-1256 min
Parity Podcast8 Signposts of Cultures Where Women ThriveBusiness culture can make or break your career. It’s that invisible but ever-present force that determines whether you are seen and heard, welcomed and respected. In this episode, you will learn the eight signposts of a robust culture where women-- and everyone --can thrive. You can find the resources that we used for this episode at www.par-ity.com and we would love to hear from you at CathyandDeborah@par-ity.com. Follow us on Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn, and subscribe to this podcast so that you don’t miss a single episode. You can also...2021-08-2245 min
Parity PodcastThe Treasure Trove of Emotional Intelligence: An Interview with Dr. Nithila PeterEmotional Intelligence - understanding ourselves and relating to others - will help us achieve parity. Join us as we interview Dr. Nithila Peter of eiLeads to learn how to improve your emotional intelligence and how EI helps us implement the Parity Prescription. You can find the resources that we used for this episode at www.par-ity.com and we would love to hear from you at CathyandDeborah@par-ity.com. Follow us on Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn, and subscribe to this podcast so that you don’t miss a single episode. You can also find the ho...2021-08-0149 min
Parity Podcast5 Steps to Achieve Increased Leadership by WomenA majority of people rate women higher than men for leadership skills. Studies show that many of the core competencies necessary for success as a leader are competencies at which women excel. Despite these strengths as leaders, men are more often awarded the coveted positions of power. In this episode, we will explore why and propose 5 steps to promote women into more leadership roles. You can find the resources that we used for this episode at www.par-ity.com and we would love to hear from you at CathyandDeborah@par-ity.com. Follow us on Instagram, Twitter and...2021-07-0747 min
Parity PodcastHow Male Allies Can Lean In for Measurable Gains to Achieve ParityWomen are frequently encouraged to “lean in,” but we can only lean in so far before we lose our balance. Men, we need you to lean in as allies and meet us halfway because we cannot achieve parity without you. In this episode, we teach allies how to be effective by being mentors, sponsors, partners, and collaborators with women, and we guide women on how to identify and partner with male allies. You can find the resources that we used for this episode at www.par-ity.com and we would love to hear from you at CathyandDeborah@par-i...2021-06-0639 min
Parity PodcastHow to Have Tough Conversations at WorkWant to talk about gender inequality at work? Having those tough conversations is critical to achieving workplace parity, and in this episode, we will give you a framework so you can consider when and how to start. You can find the resources that we used for this episode at www.par-ity.com and we would love to hear from you at CathyandDeborah@par-ity.com. Follow us on Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn, and subscribe to this podcast so that you don’t miss a single episode. You can also find the hosts Deborah Pollack-Milgate and Cathy Nes...2021-05-1630 min
Parity Podcast5 Action Steps to Shake It Up with Greater Gender Diversity and InclusionIn this episode, we will lay out the business case for diversity and inclusion and give you 5 actions steps so that everyone feels welcome, connected, and included in your organization. You can find the resources that we used for this episode at www.par-ity.com and we would love to hear from you at CathyandDeborah@par-ity.com. Follow us on Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn, and subscribe to this podcast so that you don’t miss a single episode. You can also find the hosts Deborah Pollack-Milgate and Cathy Nestrick on LinkedIn. We hope to...2021-04-1832 min
Parity PodcastHow to Understand Unconscious Bias so We Can See WomenIn this episode, we will examine the science and culture which causes unconscious bias which can make women seem invisible, and we will bust some myths along the way. Spoiler Alert: Women don’t talk too much! You can find the resources that we used for this episode at www.par-ity.com and we would love to hear from you at CathyandDeborah@par-ity.com. Follow us on Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn, and subscribe to this podcast so that you don’t miss a single episode. You can also find the hosts Deborah Pollack-Milgate and Cathy Nest...2021-03-2828 min
Parity PodcastHow to Fight Gender Inequality with our Parity PrescriptionIn the premiere episode of the Parity Podcast, we discuss the dismal state of workplace gender equality, explore the working world by looking at the numbers, and make the case for our signature Parity Prescription. Subscribe! Time-stamped show notes are below. Intro 0:20 Experts believe that it will take 100 years to achieve gender parity [after the recording of this episode, the World Economic Forum has extended the time to achieve gender parity to ~135 years] World Economic Forum 1:48 We have been treating the symptoms instead of the cause of gender inequality an...2021-02-2838 min