Leading with Identity: Adam Wolford's Journey from Big Firms to Bold Entrepreneurship In this episode of the LGBTQ+ Excellent Podcast, we welcome Adam Wolford, co-founder of Plan Perfect. Adam shares his intriguing journey from consulting at global firms like Accenture and Deloitte to founding a strategic planning platform for nonprofits. He speaks about the significance of leading with identity, the challenges he faced in embracing his LGBTQ+ identity in the corporate world, and the pivotal mom...
Jul 25, 2025•25 min•Ep. 18
Welcome to the LGBTQ+ Excellent Podcast! In this episode, host Ahmet Aydogan interviews Shana Feggins to explore the unique experiences and triumphs of LGBTQ+ professionals in the consulting world. They delve into the topic of driving Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) as well as innovation in corporate and nonprofit spaces amid changing political climates. Shana shares her journey from human rights law to DEI consulting, her expertise in multiple fields, and her commitment to continuous lea...
Jun 20, 2025•27 min•Ep. 17
On this episode of the LGBTQ+ Excellent Podcast , we sit down with Matthew ‘MoJo’ Jones, the visionary founder of Rainbow Creative. With over 15 years of experience leading content and strategy at powerhouse brands like Disney and WeWork, Matthew has carved a unique path as a sought-after podcast producer and a leading player in the podcast production industry. From launching deeply resonant shows like Navigating Narcissism to shaping global hits like The School of Greatness , MoJo opens up abou...
May 30, 2025•24 min•Ep. 16
In this episode, we delve into mental health within the LGBTQ+ community through the Queerness Diaries with our guest, Conor Edwards. Originally from a small town near Manchester and now based in Spain, Conor is a seasoned content strategist and the creator of the Queerness Diaries Podcast and YouTube channel. In our conversation he shares his journey of living authentically, the impact of living in different cultures, and the challenges and stigmas faced by neurodivergent LGBTQ+ individuals. Co...
Apr 11, 2025•36 min•Ep. 15
In this episode, host Ahmet Aydogan dives into the world of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) with Ömer Ongun, a global leader in organizational strategy at Korn Ferry. With over 20 years of experience, Ömer discusses the essentials of building sustainable and actionable DEI initiatives. From recounting his journey from a small town in Turkey to becoming a DEI leader, to sharing practical frameworks for fostering inclusive workplaces, Ömer provides invaluable insights on creating diverse an...
Mar 21, 2025•25 min•Ep. 14
In this episode, host Ahmet Aydogan is joined by Russ Terry, a coach, motivational speaker, and HR diversity consultant. Discover how Russ transitioned from a career in TV news to coaching over a thousand professionals from top companies like Microsoft and Google. Learn about his unique approach to executive coaching, career growth, and the power of gratitude in personal and professional success. Get insights into how diverse experiences can shape impactful leadership and consulting strategies. ...
Feb 07, 2025•21 min•Ep. 13
In this episode, host Ahmet Aydogan is joined by Nicholas Sharp, a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Ambassador at IntelliPro. Nicholas shares his personal journey from a myriad of careers to tech leadership, emphasizing the importance of living authentically and advocating for LGBTQ+ inclusivity. Discover how Nicholas navigates challenges, promotes diversity, and envisions a future where LGBTQ+ representation thrives in tech and consulting industries. Empowerment, visibility, and resilience are ...
Jan 10, 2025•20 min•Ep. 12
In this episode, host Ahmet Aydogan is joined by professional coach Matthew Westbrook to dive into the topics of navigating change, coaching for impact, and building resilience. Matthew shares his insights on leadership, the importance of doing what fuels your fire, and creating a culture of trust and innovation within teams. They discuss strategies for handling the Great Resignation, leveraging technology, and fostering a supportive work environment. Tune in to hear an enlightening conversation...
Dec 13, 2024•26 min•Ep. 11
Join host Ahmet Aydogan as he sits down with Lana, a seasoned licensed clinical social worker, therapist, and advocate. In this episode, explore Lana's multifaceted career and their approach to providing identity-affirming, culturally sensitive care to the LGBTQ+ community. Learn about Lana's extensive experience, their commitment to ongoing professional training, and their work in supporting individuals through anxiety, gender identity, sexuality, and more. The episode also delves into the impo...
Nov 22, 2024•22 min•Ep. 10
In this episode we interview Dr. Bill Dickinson, a senior leadership consultant, executive coach, and facilitator. In this episode, we discuss the power of vulnerability for transformative leadership. Dr. Bill shares his experiences and insights into guiding leaders to embrace empathy, adaptability, and psychological safety. Ahmet and Bill delve into case studies, leadership strategies, and real-world applications that have led to significant positive changes in various organizations. This episo...
Sep 20, 2024•20 min•Ep. 9
In this episode of the LGBTQ+ Excellence podcast, host Ahmet speaks with Sam Leicht, an actor, health coach, and entrepreneur from New York City. Sam shares his journey of founding the LGBTQ+ fitness app PrideFit, which promotes sustainable health and wellness within the queer community. Ahmet and Sam discuss the importance of fitness, sleep, stress management, and community in achieving sustainable wellness. Sam also provides insights on overcoming obstacles in the fitness industry, particularl...
Aug 30, 2024•29 min•Ep. 8
In this episode, we dive into Spencer's journey as an Emmy-nominated, Gracie Award-winning producer and LGBTQ+ journalist. Spencer discusses the inspiration and mission behind launching Uncloseted Media, an investigative LGBTQ+ news outlet. We explore the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community, the importance of rigorous journalism, and the power of storytelling to foster understanding and amplify marginalized voices. Join us as we uncover the essence of resilience, courage, and leadership in ...
Aug 16, 2024•18 min•Ep. 7
In this episode we delve into the inspiring journey of Alexander Ali Dalipe, a seasoned expert in human resources and payroll with over 20 years of experience. Alexander shares his journey, insights on fostering inclusive and equitable workplaces, and the importance of self-confidence in navigating professional challenges. Learn about his strategic vision, leadership, and the key skills necessary for budding consultants. This episode is a must-listen for those looking to excel in consulting whil...
Aug 02, 2024•27 min•Ep. 6
In this episode we speak to Andrea Paviglianiti - a data scientist and AI engineer from Bratislava. The discussion explores Andrea's journey into AI, ethical AI practices, and how AI must include diversity and be free of gender and cultural biases. Andrea emphasizes the importance of making AI accessible, trustworthy, and safe while sharing his insights on the current challenges and future directions for inclusivity and ethical standards in AI development. About Andrea Andrea Paviglianiti comes ...
Jul 19, 2024•26 min•Ep. 5
In this episode of the LGBTQ+ Excellent Podcast, we speak with Sterling Freeman, an HR recruiter and advocate for diversity and inclusion. They discuss Sterling's journey from competitive gymnastics to becoming a recruiter, his work in HR, and his commitment to promoting LGBTQ+ excellence in professional environments. Sterling shares insights on creating inclusive workplaces, overcoming challenges faced by LGBTQ+ professionals in the job market, and the importance of communication and resilience...
Jul 05, 2024•27 min•Ep. 4
Leigh Cambre ( he/him) is business coach for optimistic overachievers, specializing in business owners and entrepreneurs. He helps them find balance and boundaries without adding more to their to-do list. He is a Certified Professional Coach, Energy Leadership Master Practitioner, and is currently seeking certification as an Enneagram Professional. He also owns two temporary staffing and recruiting companies, Alexander Staffing and Genuine Staffing. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leighcamb...
Jun 21, 2024•20 min•Ep. 3
In this episode, host Ahmet Aydogan is joined by Marya Triandafellos , an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and workplace inclusion, to discuss the concepts of design thinking and system thinking. The discussion delves into how these methodologies can be applied to tackle complex problems in promoting LGBTQ+ workplace excellence. Marya shares insights on the importance of empathy and contextualization, offers practical advice for implementation, and highlights both advantages and challenges of these ap...
Jun 14, 2024•17 min•Ep. 2
In this premiere episode of the LGBTQ Plus Excellence podcast, host Ahmet Aydogan explores the crucial topic of transgender and non-binary inclusion in professional environments. Joined by JD, a recognized figure in LGBTQ plus advocacy, they explore personal insights and experiences around misconceptions surrounding gender identity and expression. From dismantling traditional binary systems to advocating for inclusive practices like proper pronoun usage and gender-neutral hiring procedures, JD e...
Jun 06, 2024•12 min•Ep. 1
Welcome to the LGBTQ+ Excellence Podcast, where we dive into the hidden tales of triumph, resilience, and leadership within the consulting world, all through the vibrant spectrum of the LGBTQ+ community. Hosted by Ahmet Aydogan, in this show, we delve beyond the conference room, uncovering the remarkable journeys and victories of LGBTQ+ professionals. From candid conversations with executive leaders to insightful discussions with industry pioneers, we explore the secrets of success and the trans...
Apr 25, 2024•1 min
