Episode 279: The DEI Dilemma: Why Cutting Diversity Programs is Hurting Companies & How Improv Training Can Help Fill in the Gaps

Written By Erin Diehl
 
 
 

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What happens when companies slash the very programs designed to foster belonging and innovation?  The answer: disengaged employees, higher turnover, and a workplace culture stuck in reverse.  But what if there was a playful, research-backed way to rebuild connection and inclusion—without the corporate jargon? Enter: improv training. 

In this episode, Erin dives into a timely conversation: companies are cutting DEI programs, and the consequences are serious. But there’s hope—because while traditional DEI initiatives may be on the chopping block, improv training can help fill in the gaps and foster inclusive workplaces in unexpected ways.  Here’s what’s discussed in the episode:

1. The DEI Dilemma: A Step Backward 

Across corporate America, companies are scaling back their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives.  

Major organizations, including Citigroup, Meta Platforms, and McDonald's, have reduced or altered their DEI programs due to political pressures and legal uncertainties. Erin highlights this concerning trend, pointing to studies that reveal DEI-related roles are being cut at significantly higher rates than other positions. The result? A workplace culture that is regressing instead of progressing. 

2. The Impact: More Than Just Numbers 

Erin emphasizes that cutting DEI programs isn’t just a budgetary decision—it’s a move that affects employees on a deeply personal level. She shares the story of an employee who once thrived under the support of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and leadership development programs. When those programs were removed, they felt disconnected, unheard, and disengaged.  

Research backs this up: a Harvard Business Review study found that companies without DEI initiatives experience higher turnover rates and lower employee engagement. When employees feel unseen, productivity and innovation suffer. 

3. Improv Training: An Unexpected Solution 

While DEI programs remain essential, Erin introduces a fresh perspective—improv training as a tool for fostering belonging, communication, and empathy in the workplace. Improv isn’t just about comedy; it’s about adaptability, collaboration, and creating a psychologically safe environment.  

Research supports this approach: companies that implement play-based learning, including improv, see higher levels of engagement and team collaboration. Erin explains how the core principles of improv—such as Yes, And, active listening, and non-verbal communication—help create an inclusive culture, even when formal DEI initiatives are lacking. 

4. Real-World Success: Improv in Action 

Through her work with improve it!, Erin has seen firsthand how improv-based learning transforms workplace culture. She shares a success story of a company that faced communication and morale challenges after downsizing its DEI department.  

By integrating improv workshops into leadership training, the organization saw measurable improvements in team cohesion, psychological safety, and employee satisfaction. The impact was clear: when people are empowered to express themselves openly and collaborate authentically, workplace culture thrives. 

5. Take the Leap: Foster Inclusion Through Play 

Erin leaves her audience with an actionable challenge: how can leaders bring more radical empathy into their workplaces today? She suggests simple yet effective steps: 

  • Embrace "Yes, And": Instead of shutting down ideas in meetings, build on them with a “Yes, and…” approach. 

  • Actively Listen: Create safe spaces where employees feel heard and valued. 

  • Invest in Play-Based Learning: Consider incorporating improv-based training to strengthen communication, collaboration, and inclusion. 

 At the core of Erin’s message is this: making people feel seen, heard, and valued isn’t just a “nice-to-have”—it’s the foundation of a thriving workplace. Inclusion is a commitment, not just a corporate initiative, and leaders have the power to build cultures where people belong. 

To take the next step, organizations can bring improv-based training into their workplaces, explore Erin’s book I See You!, or connect with improve it! for customized team-building experiences. The conversation doesn’t end here—every workday is a playdate waiting to happen, and the world needs the unique it that only you can bring. 

If you’re interested in taking one small action right now, you can check out our newest freebie, The Empathy Cheat Sheet here. Break out this 3-part list of helpful phrases before heading into any conversation or meeting, responding to an email, or hosting a one-on-one call.  

No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) 

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Erin Diehl
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