Because People Matter

This is Because People Matter, a podcast about the transformative power of diversity in leadership. Hosted by Dr. Helen Fagan, each episode features interviews with individuals in leadership positions who discuss the impact DEI has had on their organizations and on themselves personally. If you’re ready to learn how valuable diversity can be in your business or wish to hear positive stories of impact, this is the podcast for you.

Because People Matter is a business podcast hosted by Helen Fagan, with 19 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

Helen Fagan hosts Because People Matter, a business show with 19 episodes published.

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  Episode #17

  Steps to Powerful Communication with Salvatore Manzi of Leadership Communications

  Mar 19, 202542 minS1

  <p>Salvatore Manzi, Speaker, Facilitator and Coach at Leadership Communications, shares how leaders can elevate their communication to build trust, inspire action and create meaningful connections. He explains why his “you then me” approach shifts the way leaders interact, emphasizing the importance of understanding others before presenting their own ideas. Salvatore explores the role of self-awareness in developing presence, how storytelling enhances leadership and why cultural awareness strengthens communication.<br /> <br /></p> <p>Key Takeaways:<br /> <br /> (4:38) The path to feeling better with yourself. (6:42) Accepting yourself and finding a place in society.<br /> (10:58) Asking for feedback is the fastest path to g...

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  Episode #16

  The Role of Leadership in Retaining Top Talent with Kenneth Sharperson of Armstrong Teasdale

  Mar 5, 202530 minS1

  <p >In this episode, Kenneth Sharperson, Chief Diversity Officer of Armstrong Teasdale, shares how his experiences in law have shaped his approach to leadership. He explains why a strong workplace culture keeps employees engaged and how firms can create an environment where employees feel valued and supported, reducing the costly impact of high turnover. Kenneth emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and listening to employees and other leaders as key ways for leaders to grow.<br /> <br /> Key Takeaways:<br /> <br /> (02:45) Growing up as one of the only Black families in a neighborhood.</p> <p >(06:33) Working in pharmaceutical defense and clerking...

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  Episode #15

  Emotionally Intelligent Leader: Navigating Complexity in Uncertain Times with Samantha Guenther and Helen Fagan

  Feb 19, 202531 minS1

  <p >In this episode, Helen Fagan and Samantha Guenther have an in-depth conversation about the qualities and skills leaders need to succeed. They share how emotional intelligence shapes effective leadership, strengthens teams and fosters a cohesive workplace culture. They discuss how leaders can create environments where people feel valued and heard. Samantha also explains the difference between managers and leaders, how emotional intelligence helps navigate uncertainty and why these skills are more critical than ever in 2025.<br /> <br /> Key Takeaways:<br /> <br />(03:58) Emotional intelligence is essential for leadership.<br /> (06:58) Leaders with curiosity and  compassion build stronger teams.<br /> (07:47) Team members go...

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  Episode #14

  Onward: A Conversation With Inclusion Strategist Joe Gerstandt

  Feb 5, 202536 minS1

  <p >Inclusion strategist Joe Gerstandt joins us to discuss the journey of building inclusive leaders and organizations. He emphasizes the importance of reflective, deep work in leadership to achieve self-awareness and advance the journey toward building inclusive workplaces. Joe highlights the need for safe spaces and support circles to foster open dialogue and collaboration. He also shares practical advice on fostering inclusivity in remote work environments.<br /> <br /></p> <p >Key Takeaways:<br /> <br /> (02:32) From skeptic to practitioner, Joe shares his journey.<br /> <br /> (05:34) Inclusion is an ongoing process of change.<br /> <br /> (09:45) Intentions are not enough for inclusive leadership.<...

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  Episode #14

  Virtual Reality: Innovative Approach for Building Empathy and Preparing Clinicians To Support Gender-Diverse Veterans

  Jan 22, 202537 minS1

  <p>Dr. Christopher Deguire, faculty member at UT Southwestern Medical Center and LGBTQ Veteran Care Coordinator at the North Texas VA, shares his groundbreaking work in trauma care. His Deguire model examines why gender-diverse veterans develop PTSD three times faster than others, highlighting the impact of societal pressures on mental health and trauma. Dr. Deguire explains how VR exposure therapy rewires the brain, allowing veterans to process trauma in a controlled and safe environment. He also leverages VR technology to help medical workers understand and empathize with the challenges and aggressions faced by gender-diverse individuals.</p> <p>Key Takeaways:</p> <...

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