Diversity Conversations W/ Eric Ellis & Tommie Lewis

More Than Gifts: The Real Meaning of Giving & Grace

In this special holiday episode of Diversity Conversations, Eric Ellis and Dr. Tommie Lewis dive deep into “The Season of Giving and Grace.”  From 2:30 a.m. moments of quiet reflection to a breakthrough idea about “trillion-dollar stars” in underserved communities, Eric and Tommy explore what it really means to give, receive, forgive, and reset.  You’ll hear:  * How giving beyond material gifts—time, attention, empathy, presence—can matter more than anything money can buy. * Eric’s powerful story of loaning his brother $10,000, not speaking for two years, and then being led to call and apologize, which completely transformed their relationship. * Tommy’s honest account of wrestling with anger, control, and change at home—and how a real encounter with the Holy Spirit “hit the reset button” on his heart, teaching him to live with more grace, abundance, and compassion in real time. * A fresh look at diversity conversations themselves: why this show is not just for DEI experts, but for anyone willing to bring their real stories, questions, and humanity to the table. This episode is a vulnerable, hope-filled invitation to ask yourself:   * What am I really giving this season? * Where do I need to extend grace—to others and to myself? * What new story is God (or life) inviting me to live into? Thank you for listening and for being part of the Diversity Conversations community. Your presence is a gift. 🎄✨   📅 New conversations every Saturday 9:30 AM EST 📩 Subscribe, share, and join us in moving diversity forward—one conversation at a time. 🌐 Watch more episodes on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@diversityconversations2641]

The Power of Embracing Gratitude in a Wild, Wild World

In today’s episode of Diversity Conversations, Eric Ellis and Tommie Lewis explore the power of embracing gratitude in a “wild, wild” world—where politics are volatile, emotions run high, and it’s easy to get lost in fear, anger, and division. Eric shares how his faith and gratitude practice shape the way he views leaders, conflict, and even the most polarizing figures in public life—choosing to see people’s humanity instead of letting them become “boogeymen” in his mind. Tommie brings a powerful story from Dolores, Colorado, where he spoke to elementary, middle, and high school students about “My Helping Hand”—who has helped you, who have you helped, and who will you help? That assembly opened space to address student suicide, mental health, and asking for help through the lens of love instead of fear. And yes… you’ll hear the unforgettable moment when Tommie decided to race a high school student in his dress shoes 😂—and how that painful hamstring taught a beautiful lesson about connection, humility, and being “more than your job title.” Throughout the conversation, they return to one core invitation:  👉 Don’t let hate, outrage, and fear train your nervous system. Train it with love, gratitude, and purpose. 💬 Join the Conversation * What are you grateful for right now? * Which relationship in your life is stretching you to become a better version of yourself? * What are your unique gifts—and how are you using them to serve others? Share your reflections, wins, and questions with us. We love hearing from our community. 🤝 Support Diversity Conversations For 7+ years, Eric and Tommie have self-funded this show to bring positive, courageous, hope-filled conversations into a media landscape that often rewards outrage and division. If this podcast encourages you, consider supporting the show financially to help us: * Elevate our global reach and influence * Bring on more powerful guests and voices * Continue offering this content free to listeners around the world  ✨ Make a contribution here: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/AWUVHCJRTUWNJ [https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/AWUVHCJRTUWNJ] Every amount matters—whether it’s a few dollars or a major gift.  Thank you for being part of the Diversity Conversations community. 🙏 📅 New conversations every Saturday 9:30 AM EST 📩 Subscribe, share, and join us in moving diversity forward—one conversation at a time. 🌐 Watch more episodes on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@diversityconversations2641]

Reflecting on Our Worth. Part 2

In this powerful continuation of last week’s dialogue, Eric Ellis (President & CEO, Integrity Development Corporation) and Tommie Lewis (President & CEO, Make It Plain Consulting) invite you into an honest, strategic, and deeply human reflection on worth—both personal and organizational. As Diversity Conversations celebrates 7 years and over 375 episodes, Eric and Tommie pause to evaluate the journey through multiple lenses: • Alignment: Living and leading with purpose • Growth: Evolving through challenge and change • Resilience: Responding to adversity with courage • Relationships: Strengthening authentic, meaningful connections • Joy & Fulfillment: Creating space for what makes us come alive This episode blends heartfelt storytelling with executive-level insight as they discuss:  • The shifting landscape of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion  • Strategic adaptation during disruption  • The role of faith, inner guidance, and accountability in leadership  • Real-world examples of pivoting through uncertainty  • Why personal worth is foundational to professional impact Eric and Tommie also share transparent reflections on sustaining this work over nearly a decade—largely self-funded—and express deep gratitude for the global community that continues to show up every week. If Diversity Conversations has inspired, empowered, or supported you in any way, we invite you—at your comfort level—to contribute to the future and expansion of this platform. Support Diversity Conversations: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/AWUVHCJRTUWNJ [https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/AWUVHCJRTUWNJ] Thank you for being part of this mission-driven community.  Your engagement, your presence, and your support truly matter. 📅 New conversations every Saturday 9:30 AM EST 📩 Subscribe, share, and join us in moving diversity forward—one conversation at a time. 🌐 Watch more episodes on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@diversityconversations2641]

Reflecting on Our Worth | Faith, Forgiveness & The Power of Knowing Your True Value

In this heartfelt episode of Diversity Conversations, Eric Ellis and Tommie Lewis invite us to slow down and reflect on the question: What defines our true worth? 💫  From the inspiring Goins family legacy to the viral Miss Mexico story that’s sparking reflection worldwide, Eric and Tommie explore how faith, forgiveness, and alignment shape the lives we build — at home, in business, and in community.  You’ll hear stories of humility, legacy, and love that transcends convenience.  You’ll be reminded that leadership begins with self-respect and that love is stronger than hate. 💖  Join us for an uplifting conversation on purpose, alignment, and the kind of worth that can never be measured in titles or applause — only in how we live and love. 🌍✨   🕒 Episode Highlights  * Remembering the quiet power of William Goins and his enduring family legacy * Tommie’s moving story of forgiveness and divine guidance * How faith and alignment build authentic leadership * The Miss Mexico moment: standing in your worth 👑 * Closing reflections on legacy, love, and gratitude 🎙️ Hosts Eric Ellis, President & CEO of Integrity Development Corp. [https://www.integritydev.com/] Tommie Lewis, President & CEO of Make It Plain Consulting [https://mipcllc.com/] Together they’ve hosted Diversity Conversations for over seven years—creating space for authentic dialogue on leadership, inclusion, and humanity.   📅 New conversations every Saturday 9:30 AM EST 📩 Subscribe, share, and join us in moving diversity forward—one conversation at a time. 🌐 Watch more episodes on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@diversityconversations2641]

The Ripple Effect: Life After SNAP — A Conversation with Sharon Watkins (Community Action Agency)

In this powerful episode of Diversity Conversations, host Tommie Lewis, President and CEO of Make It Plain Consulting, speaks with Sharon Watkins, Community Engagement Director for the Cincinnati Community Action Agency (CAA), about the nationwide phase-out of the SNAP benefits program and its real impact on American families. Sharon shares firsthand experiences from local food pantries—where lines stretch for blocks—as families face food insecurity and uncertainty. Together, Tommie and Sharon explore the power of community, compassion, and volunteering in responding to this crisis. You’ll hear touching stories of resilience, including seniors and families who rely on pantries, and a reminder that “it could be any of us.” Sharon also provides essential resources, volunteer opportunities, and hotline information to help those affected. 🎧 Key Topics: * The end of SNAP benefits and its ripple effect on millions of Americans * Food insecurity and community action in Cincinnati * Stories of hope, resilience, and service * How to volunteer or donate through CAA and local food banks * The importance of empathy, humility, and collective responsibility 🔗 Resources Mentioned: * Community Action Agency (CAA): www.cincy-caa.org [https://www.cincy-caa.org] * Call 2-1-1 for local food, housing, or utility assistance * Volunteer or donate at Free Store Food Bank  [https://freestorefoodbank.org/] 🎙️ Hosted by Tommie Lewis of Make It Plain Consulting. Follow us on YouTube and join the conversation: Diversity Conversations. [https://www.youtube.com/live/v8rpl_POLto?si=Z28ZnBIHCsvu-Led] 📅 New conversations every Saturday 9:30 AM EST 📩 Subscribe, share, and join us in moving diversity forward—one conversation at a time. 🌐 Watch more episodes on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@diversityconversations2641]