Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

In this episode of the Project Good Podcast, host Annmarie Hylton interviews Michael Bach, an internationally recognized expert in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). They discuss the origins and evolution of DEI initiatives, the challenges and backlashes faced by organizations, and the importance of sustainable and authentic DEI efforts. Bach shares his journey and insights into the financial and ethical imperatives of fostering inclusive work environments. They also explore the complexities of hiring for DEI roles and the critical need for long-term systemic change. This episode offers practical advice for businesses aiming to strengthen their DEI strategies amidst a rapidly shifting landscape.   00:00 Welcome to Project Good Podcast 00:26 The Evolution of DEI Initiatives 01:18 Introducing Michael Bach: DEI Expert 04:19 Michael Bach's Journey into DEI 07:00 Current State of DEI in 2025 14:05 Economic Impact of DEI Rollbacks 20:59 Ethics and Business: A Complex Relationship 25:19 Defining DEI: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion 30:32 The Post-COVID DEI Landscape 33:35 Advice for Companies on DEI 36:51 Challenges and Misconceptions in DEI 43:32 Creating Inclusive Work Environments 48:52 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks Guest Bio DEI expert Michael Bach who is a nationally and internationally recognized thought leader and subject matter expert in the fields of inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility. He is the founder of the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI), CCDI Consulting  and Pride at Work Canada. Michael has worked professionally in the areas of inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility for nearly 20 years, most recently as the founding CEO of CCDI and CCDI Consulting. Prior to taking on this role, he was the national leader for diversity, equity, and inclusion for KPMG Canada. Additionally, Michael spent 2½ years as Deputy Chief Diversity Officer for KPMG International. Over the course of his career, Michael has received repeated recognition for his work, including being named: Women of Influence’s Canadian Diversity Champions Catalyst Canada Honours Human Resources/Diversity Leader Inspire Award as LGBTQ Person of the Year Out on Bay Street Leaders to be Proud of LGBT Advocate Workplace Award Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council’s IS Award Canadian HR Reporter Individual Achievement Award In 2023, he was named as one of the 10 Most Influential DE&I Leaders Revamping The Future by CIO Views Magazine.   DEI expert Michael Bach covers many of these topics and issues in his 2020 book Birds of All Feathers: Doing Diversity and Inclusion Right which is a Globe and Mail, Toronto Star, and Amazon bestseller, and he recipient of the silver 2020 Nautilus Book Award in the category of Rising to the Moment, and a finalist in the Legacy Nonfiction category for the American Bookfest's Best Book Awards. His new book Alphabet Soup: The Essential Guide to LGBTQ2+ Inclusion at Work released in March of 2022 and is a Toronto Star bestseller and finalist in the General Nonfiction category for the American Bookfest's Best Book Awards.