For ages, my happy place was influencing leaders through sheer charm and persuasive arguments (cue evil laugh: mwahahaha). Building relationships and connections felt like the real way to make change happen in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI).

But I've had a bit of an epiphany. While relationships are key, backing them up with solid data? That's where the magic really happens.

Yes Trump’s second presidency and the associated media hype around his executive orders are creating a backlash against Diversity Equity and Inclusion work. Unfortunately, this wasn’t a new situation.

I was contemplating this thought as I entered the gym this morning. Luckily, because it’s raining, I suspect, the gym was very quiet. The last time I went (over a week ago, on a public holiday), it was heaving. So. Many. People. There were people on every machine. Sometimes two people taking turns.