How To Create a Diverse & Inclusive Workplace in 2025 | Vivian Acquah
This episode is sponsored by Deel.
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How do we move beyond DEI checkboxes to create truly inclusive, thriving workplaces?
In this episode, Nick Day sits down with Vivian Acquah, a leading DEI consultant at Amplify DEI, to explore how companies can build cultures of belonging, empathy, and inclusion that drive real business impact.
Vivian challenges the traditional "HR" mindset, advocating for a shift toward People & Culture—where leaders take ownership of inclusion and employees feel truly valued. She shares how Virtual Reality (VR) is transforming DEI training, why empathy is the missing ingredient in leadership, and what organizations must do to make diversity efforts stick.
She also answers a critical question: Why do so many DEI initiatives fail? From budget constraints to leadership buy-in, Vivian reveals the biggest obstacles—and how to overcome them.
If you're an HR leader, executive, or someone passionate about workplace transformation, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you turn DEI strategies into lasting cultural change.
Like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations on leadership, workplace culture, and the future of DEI!
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Connect with Vivian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vivianacquah/
Connect with Nick Day: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickday/
Of course, if you are an HR or L&D professional listening to this podcast and you have an HR, HRIS or L&D related vacancy that you would love some specialist HR recruitment support with – please also get in touch with me! I would love to help show you what a great HR recruitment experience feels like! You can reach out to me directly at nick@jgarecruitment.com or give me a call – 01727800377.
Thanks for listening folks – I look forward to bringing you the next episode of the HR L&D Podcast real soon!
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(00:00) Introduction
(01:18) Why HR Should Be Replaced with “People & Culture”
(03:45) The Importance of Work Culture
(05:13) Empathy in DEI & Workplace Inclusion
(09:20) Talent Attraction & Retention Challenges
(10:55) Virtual Reality in DEI
(16:43) Why VR is the Most Effective DEI Training Tool
(18:34) Diversity Fatigue & Why DEI Investments Fail
(20:28) How to Integrate Technology into DEI Strategies
(22:49) Measuring the Impact of DEI
(25:46) The Modern Workplace & DEI Challenges in 2025
(30:19) The Future of DEI
(32:31) Boundaries, Neuro-Inclusion & Supporting Workplace Diversity
(34:53) How AmplifyDEI Helps Organizations Build Inclusive Cultures
(38:28) Fixing DEI in Your Organization
(42:21) Rethinking DEI Budgets & Leadership Buy-In
(49:24) Call to Action for DEI Leaders
