Bernadette Smith They/Them

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion Speaker, Bestselling Author, Inclusive 360

Fields of expertise:

Author Leadership development Allyship Psychological Safety PRIDE Month DEI and DEIB LGBTQIA+

Conversations can feel more complicated these days. People want to connect and get it right, but when something lands the wrong way, even well-meaning professionals can freeze, overthink, or avoid the moment altogether.

That is where Bernadette Smith comes in. As the Founder and CEO of Equality Institute and the award-winning author of four books, including the bestseller Inclusive 360: Proven Solutions for an Equitable Organization, Bernadette helps teams move past discomfort and respond with more confidence, clarity, and care.

Using her ARC Method® — Ask, Respect, Connect — Bernadette gives audiences a practical, in-the-moment framework for navigating hard conversations without shutting down or walking on eggshells. Her approach is simple, usable, and grounded in real life, helping people build trust and handle tension in a way that feels human.

Bernadette’s sessions are high-energy, practical, and genuinely engaging, leaving participants with tools they can use right away. Her insights have been featured by The New York Times, Forbes, The Washington Post, and Fast Company, and she has appeared on the Today Show, BBC, NPR, and CNN.

What our clients say about this speaker

Bernadette was awesome! Loved her speaking style, examples, and ability to keep everyone's attention. A heartfelt, engaging, and powerful conversation that I continue to think about.

Steve Smith, Association Management Center

Bernadette Smith is the leader to listen to when you're intimidated by diversity

Rubén Ramírez, Head Diversity and Inclusion, Syngenta Group

Bernadette is a spark plug of energy and ideas. I wish I could hear her every week!

Graysen B. Constellation Brands

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Talks & Presentations

More Than Words: Accelerate Your Organization’s Diversity Goals Through Purpose, Strategy, and Accountability

This high energy, engaging keynote session will introduce you to PSA a proven formula for expanding

With

Bernadette Smith They/Them

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion Speaker, Bestselling Author, Inclusive 360

Come As You Are: Build Authentic Connection with Increasingly Diverse Clients

In sales, first impressions count, but unchecked assumptions can derail client relationships. With a

With

Bernadette Smith They/Them

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion Speaker, Bestselling Author, Inclusive 360

Voices Carry: The ARC of Inclusive Leadership

In an increasingly polarized society, it can be hard to remember that true diversity encompasses eve

With

Bernadette Smith They/Them

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion Speaker, Bestselling Author, Inclusive 360