The E Word with Karen & Brittany
The E Word is a bold conversation about culture, leadership, power, and identity—and how the systems that shape them influence the way we live, work, and lead.
Hosted by leadership strategists Karen McFarlane and Brittany S. Hale, The E Word is made for curious leaders, culture shapers, and deep thinkers navigating power, purpose, and change. Each episode explores the structures, decisions, and dynamics driving business, politics, culture, and everyday life.
Grounded in Aristotle’s five intellectual virtues, we connect the dots between timeless wisdom and today’s most urgent questions to help you find your power, reimagine what’s possible, and shape the world you want to see
Episodes
41 episodes
How The Real Housewives Mirror American Society and Teach Us Life Lessons
BREATHER EPISODE: Every now and then, we need to hit pause on the heavy stuff and kick back with some laughs! Because let’s be real—life can’t be all serious all the time! ----Have you ever wondered how a reality TV...
How Authenticity Influences Kamala Harris' Campaign and Sparks Connection
Karen and Brittany kick off the conversation and delve into the excitement of the upcoming U.S. presidential election, focusing on Vice President Kamala Harris' run. Her candidacy is not just a political event; it's a cultural moment that reson...
Why Black Woman Must Learn the Intricate Dance of Race and Gender in Modern Leadership
This episode unpacks monumental moments like Mexico's inaugural woman president and the significance of a mixed-race Black woman running for the U.S. presidency. The challenges faced by political figures like Kamala Harris are front and center,...
Do Political Debates Prioritize Performance Over Policy Substance?
Ever wondered how polished delivery can overshadow policy substance? We promise you'll learn how vice-presidential debates often favor soundbites and media-savvy appearances, potentially leading to public misconceptions. Brittany and Karen disc...
Is Academic Freedom Being Used to Shield Racism in Higher Education?
Is academic freedom a shield for hate speech, or should educators be held accountable for perpetuating racism? Karen & Brittany confront the provocative actions of Professor Amy Wax at the University of Pennsylvania, whose racially insensit...
How 88 CEOs' Support of VP Harris is Influencing Corporate America's Political Agenda
Ever wondered how Corporate America shapes its political landscape? Tune into "The E-Word" as we discuss the recent endorsement of Kamala Harris by 88 powerhouse CEOs. We'll uncover what this wave of support means for economic stability and cor...
A Tale of Two Americas: How Do Fear and Hope Shape the Future of Leadership?
How do fear and hope drive American politics in opposite directions? Join us as we explore this provocative question, beginning with a deep dive into the often-ignored "E" in DEI—equity. We examine the stark contrasts between the Democratic and...
Why Is Kamala Harris' Identity Under Political Scrutiny?
Is Kamala Harris' multiracial identity being used as a political weapon? Join Karen & Brittany as they confront this controversial issue head-on, sparked by provocative remarks at the recent NABJ event featuring the Republican presidential ...
Why does Kamala Harris have us HOPE-SCROLLING for inclusivity and representation?
Imagine the powerful combination of Kamala Harris' diverse heritage and her historic nomination as the presumptive Democratic nominee for president. Join our celebration of this milestone as we discuss the significance of her candidacy, represe...
Why Did SHRM Strip 'Equity' From Its DEI Strategy?
Is SHRM abandoning equity? Join Brittany and Karen as they dissect SHRM's rather confusing shift from diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) to a narrower focus on inclusion and diversity (I&D). In this episode, Brittany and Kar...
How does belief and bias affect the Cassandra's of Corporate America?
Ever found yourself echoing the unheard prophecies of Cassandra, the Trojan priestess doomed to speak truths no one would believe? That's the thread Karen & Brittany tug at as they explore the labyrinth of trust and credibility, where the w...
Why Can't We Unravel the Strands of Hair Equity and Expression in the Black Community?
Every strand tells a story, and in our latest episode, we weave through the complex tapestry of hair's role in equity and self-expression. I open up about the personal hurdles I've faced sporting dreads and dyed hair in professional spheres, wh...
Has Marketing Leadership Truly Achieved Gender Parity?
Discover how the landscape of marketing leadership is being reshaped with a historic shift towards female empowerment, as we examine what it really means to hold power and influence in this competitive industry. Celebrations may be in order for...
Why Is the Corporate Ladder Still So Steep for Black Women?
Karen & Brittany's candid conversation sheds light on the systemic obstacles Black women leaders face climbing the corporate ladder back by disturbing findings from the McKinsey and LeanIn 2022 report. Learn how Black women, ambitious and p...