Welcome back to The Dr. Des Show! Today, we’re tackling a hot topic—the current attacks on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and what this means for public health professionals.

With federal funding cuts, layoffs, and policy rollbacks, many DEI and health equity professionals are being forced to pivot or redefine their roles. If that’s you, know that you are not alone—and there are opportunities beyond DEI-specific positions that allow you to continue making an impact.

In this episode, I’m breaking down:
✅ What’s happening with DEI and health equity roles right now
✅ The difference between equity and equality—and why some people still don’t get it
✅ How to pivot out of DEI roles into high-paying public health positions
✅ Why public health still needs equity-focused professionals—whether or not your job title says ‘equity’

If you’re worried about the future of DEI and health equity, this episode is for you. Let’s get into it!

🔹 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

💡 The truth about equity vs. equality—and why it’s misunderstood
💡 How Trump’s policies are impacting DEI and health equity jobs
💡 The stigma around “DEI hires” and the reality of workplace bias
💡 Why equity work isn’t disappearing—it’s just shifting
💡 How to reposition your skills to pivot into new public health roles

🚀 Actionable Takeaways:

📌 Don’t panic—pivot. Your skills in stakeholder engagement, strategic planning, and policy development are in demand beyond DEI roles.
📌 Refine your resume. Instead of labeling yourself only as a “DEI specialist,” highlight your strategic planning, policy, program evaluation, and partnership-building experience.
📌 Explore new industries. Public health exists in pharma, tech, corporate wellness, and nonprofit sectors—not just the government!
📌 Equity work isn’t dead. Even if your role disappears, true public health work must include an equity lens.

🎧 Subscribe & Leave a Review:

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✨ Equity isn’t a trend—it’s a necessity. Let’s keep this work alive, no matter what.

Join the Public Health Club for more strategies and guidance on transitioning your public health career: https://www.publichealthclub.com/