In a recent interview, Crystal Whiteaker, an L.A.-based inclusive branding and leadership development consultant, shared her journey and insights into creating inclusive, values-aligned, human-focused environments. Crystal’s multifaceted career spans photography, coaching, consulting, and training, all aimed at fostering inclusivity. 

The Journey to Inclusive Consulting 

Crystal Whiteaker’s path to becoming an inclusive branding consultant began in the corporate world. With a strong desire to pursue her creative passions, she started a photography business focused on weddings and events. Her ability to cultivate a diverse and inclusive photography business drew attention, leading her to work with other business owners and leaders to create inclusive environments. This evolution eventually led her to bundle her skills and experiences into a comprehensive consulting business. 

Addressing Inclusivity Challenges 

When organizations seek Crystal’s expertise, they usually have two primary motivations: proactively creating an inclusive environment aligned with their core values or addressing a harmful incident that has impacted their reputation. Crystal’s approach helps organizations ensure that everyone feels a sense of belonging and that inclusivity is woven into the fabric of their operations. 

Defining Inclusive Environments 

Crystal emphasizes that an inclusive environment is one where people are seen, heard, and understood, honoring their humanity and diverse lived experiences. Inclusivity involves considering accessibility for people with disabilities, creating a welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ community, and enforcing zero-tolerance policies for bigotry and racism. It’s about ensuring that everyone can bring their whole selves to work without fear of mistreatment. 

The Initial Consultation Process 

When an organization reaches out for help, Crystal begins with a thorough consultation. She asks about the reasons for seeking her services, the work done so far, the organization’s demographics, and core values. Her approach focuses on cultivating inclusive environments through the lens of core values, ensuring that inclusivity is intrinsic to the organization rather than a superficial checkbox. 

Deliverables and Impact 

The deliverables from Crystal’s consulting projects vary based on the organization’s needs. For long-term projects, this can include reviewing and refining all messaging, processes, and structures to ensure they are inclusive. Crystal also offers custom brand photography to enhance visual inclusivity. 

Crystal’s Aligned Values Framework is central to her consulting approach. This framework guides clients through six core steps: clarifying inclusive language and messaging, connecting to their identity as leaders, rooting in core values, managing discomfort and implicit biases, embodying values-driven leadership, and creating inclusive messaging and environments. This holistic approach helps organizations lead inclusively and authentically. 

Crystal’s Book: A Starting Point 

Crystal’s book, “Brave Leadership is a Choice: An Inclusive Guide to Creating Belonging,” serves as an accessible introduction to her frameworks and teachings. It’s an excellent starting point for those interested in learning more about her approach to inclusive leadership and branding. 

Connecting with Crystal Whiteaker 

For those interested in a more in-depth conversation or consultation, Crystal Whiteaker can be reached through her website, crystallily.co. 

Crystal Whiteaker’s work in inclusive branding and leadership development is transforming organizations, helping them create environments where everyone feels valued and respected. Her values-driven approach and dedication to inclusivity make her a vital resource for businesses and leaders striving for meaningful change. To listen to her full journey on Women in Motion, click this link: https://businessradiox.com/podcast/women-in-motion/inclusive-branding/ 

About Women’s Business Enterprise Council-West (WBEC-West)  

WBEC-West is a regional partner of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), a coalition of corporations, WBEs, and regionally focused women’s business organizations. As an affiliate organization, WBEC-West implements the certification standards of WBENC throughout Arizona, Colorado, Southern California, Utah, Wyoming, Nevada, Hawaii, and Guam. WBENC is the largest certifier of women’s business enterprises in the U.S. and a leading advocate for women business owners, leaders, and entrepreneurs. WBENC certification is nationally recognized and accepted by more than 10,000 major corporations. We also support corporations in their efforts to include WBENC Certified WBEs in their supply chain.