Bernadette Smith They/Them

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

Fields of expertise:

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

Bernadette Smith is founder and CEO of Equality Institute and award-winning author of four books, including the bestseller Inclusive 360: Proven Solutions for an Equitable Organization.

Bernadette has presented to enthusiastic audiences of CEOs, associations, entrepreneurs, leadership teams, sales professionals, account executives, marketing executives, human resource managers and more. Her expertise has been sought after by the New York Times, Forbes, the Washington Post, and Fast Company, among many others, and she’s appeared on the Today Show, the BBC, National Public Radio, and CNN.

Bernadette has been named one of Chicago’s Notable LGBTQ Executives by Crain’s Chicago Business and hosts the weekly podcast 5 Things in 15 Minutes: Bringing Good Vibes to DEI. When she’s not busy speaking, you can probably find her on a local pickleball court!

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

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. Wit

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

With

Bernadette Smith They/Them

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