Reconstructing DEI by Lily Zheng Summary
Overview of Reconstructing DEI
"Reconstructing DEI" revolutionizes workplace inclusion with 40 practical exercises from renowned strategist Lily Zheng. While many companies falter with performative DEI, this groundbreaking workbook transforms good intentions into measurable outcomes. What if the secret to authentic organizational change fits in your hands?
Similar books to Reconstructing DEI
Feel the book through the author's voice
Turn knowledge into engaging, example-rich insights
Capture key ideas in a flash for fast learning
Enjoy the book in a fun and engaging way
Key takeaways
Transforming DEI from Buzzwords to Reality
Imagine a world where diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives actually deliver on their promises instead of serving as corporate window dressing. This is the vision behind "Reconstructing DEI" - a practical guide that transforms abstract concepts into actionable strategies. Beyond the typical surface-level approaches of mission statements and cultural celebrations, true DEI work requires deep personal introspection and systemic change. The journey begins not with organizational mandates but with understanding ourselves - our values, identities, biases, and experiences. This foundation prevents the common pitfalls that derail well-intentioned efforts: unexamined privilege, moral injury, and burnout. By establishing our core values and exploring our intersecting identities, we gain clarity about what matters most and how our social positioning influences our perspective. Self-awareness alone won't sustain you through the challenges of DEI work. You need internal resources - a personal compass that guides decision-making when the path forward isn't clear. This compass articulates your connection to DEI work, envisions what success looks like, and identifies the moral principles that keep you oriented during difficult moments. When facing resistance or backlash, what will keep you going? Emotional regulation techniques provide another crucial capacity. DEI work inherently involves emotional labor, as inequity and injustice affect people deeply. The balance comes through four complementary approaches: creating psychological distance, redirecting focus, practicing mindfulness, and taking action. Equally important is cultural humility - recognizing that cultural learning never ends and true "competence" is impossible. Finally, self-compassion completes this foundation. Learning to treat ourselves with the same kindness we offer others builds resilience that sustains long-term work.
Building Support Networks and Strategic Positioning
Evidence-Based Practice and Data-Driven Approaches
Creating Inclusive Environments and Championing Difference
Navigating Conflict and Restorative Approaches
Building Sustainable Movements for Systems Change
Quick Summary Mode - Read or listen to Reconstructing DEI Summary in 9 Minutes
Break down key ideas from Reconstructing DEI into bite-sized takeaways to understand how innovative teams create, collaborate, and grow.
Flash Card Mode - Top 8 Insights from Reconstructing DEI in a Nutshell
Distill Reconstructing DEI into rapid-fire memory cues that highlight Pixar’s principles of candor, teamwork, and creative resilience.
Fun Mode - Reconstructing DEI Lessons Told Through 24-Min Stories
Experience Reconstructing DEI through vivid storytelling that turns Pixar’s innovation lessons into moments you’ll remember and apply.
Personalize Mode - Read or listen to Reconstructing DEI Summary in 0 Minutes
Ask anything, pick the voice, and co-create insights that truly resonate with you.
From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco
"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."
"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."
"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."
"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."
"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."
"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."
"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."
"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."
"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"
"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."
"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."
"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco
"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."
"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."
"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."
"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."
"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."
"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."
"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."
"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."
"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"
"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."
"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."
"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."
"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."
"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."
"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."
"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."
"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."
"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."
"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."
"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"
"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."
"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."
"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."
"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."
"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."
"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."
"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."
"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."
"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."
"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."
"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"
"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."
"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."
"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
Get the Reconstructing DEI summary as a free PDF or EPUB. Print it or read offline anytime.