In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Co-Founder and CEO of DEI Pro Finder, Juan Taveras. Juan Tavares is a pioneer who recognized the untapped potential of creating a platform that bridges the gap between companies and DEI professionals. DEI Pro Finder is his brainchild, a specialized service connecting organizations with experts who foster inclusive work environments. Juan's journey to the helm of DEI Pro Finder is a testament to his commitment to making the corporate world more reflective of the society it serves. Juan shed light on the myriad challenges companies face when implementing effective DEI strategies. From unconscious bias to a lack of representation at the decision-making table, the road to inclusivity is fraught with obstacles. However, Juan also highlighted the immense opportunities to overcome these challenges. He shared success stories and the positive impact that a robust DEI framework can have on a company's culture and bottom line. Juan emphasized that it's not just about checking boxes or meeting quotas. It's also about creating a space where diverse voices are heard, valued, and leveraged for the betterment of the organization. He explained how DEI Pro Finder helps companies navigate this complex terrain by providing access to top-tier DEI talent. Juan also talked about the importance of leadership buy-in, the power of listening to employees, and the need for ongoing education and training. His experience has shown that when companies commit to DEI, they unlock innovation, drive employee engagement, and enhance their competitive edge. Key Points from the Episode: CEO of DEI Pro Finder, Juan Tavares Discussion on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace Strategies for implementing DEI initiatives Importance of DEI in business Challenges and opportunities in DEI efforts Impact of DEI on company culture and performance Practical tips for fostering diversity and inclusion About Juan Taveras: Juan Taveras is a seasoned Human Resources and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) professional with over 17 years of expertise. His career focuses on developing and promoting inclusive workplace initiatives to enhance psychological safety, organizational alignment, and engagement. Juan is a passionate advocate for diversity advancement, guiding leaders in creating equitable work environments through his nuanced understanding of cultural transformation dynamics. Known for his intuitive and collaborative leadership style, Juan excels in building strong relationships, providing advice, and convening stakeholders to co-create vision and strategy. Beyond his professional role, Juan is a devoted husband and father, residing in Phoenix, AZ. He is also the co-founder and CEO of DEI Pro Finder, a public online directory for DEI consultants. In his leisure time, Juan enjoys family activities, house projects, cooking with a touch of dance, and indulging in romantic comedies with his wife. About DEI Pro Finder: DEI Pro Finder is a vital public directory for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) consultants, aiming to streamline the connection between HR and business leaders and the essential resources required to optimize DEI strategies. Recognizing the complexity of the DEI industry, the platform is on a mission to alleviate the challenges overwhelmed leaders face. By acting as an online hub, DEI Pro Finder facilitates connections with DEI practitioners, offering a centralized source of information and resources. The platform's goal is to empower organizations to maximize the impact and effectiveness of their DEI initiatives, ultimately contributing to enhancing workplace culture. With a commitment to fostering inclusivity, DEI Pro Finder is crucial in navigating and simplifying the intricate landscape of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out DEI Pro Finder website at https://www.deiprofinder.com/ Check out DEI Pro Finder on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/dei-pro-finder/ Check out Juan Taveras on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/juan-taveras-mba-sphr/ More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.