What does it really mean to lead with authenticity and build an inclusive brand? In this episode of My Therapist is Out!, Renae Johnson sits down with Crystal Whitaker, founder of Crystal Lily Creative, to talk about how diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) shape thriving organizations and happier teams.

Crystal shares her journey from building a photography business rooted in diversity to creating a values-driven branding and leadership consultancy. She opens up about the importance of finding core values, embracing authenticity in leadership, and serving community with intention. From the role of karma in corporate accountability to dreams of future LGBTQ+ leadership retreats, this conversation is all about showing up fully—personally and professionally.

If you’re ready to explore how mindfulness, discernment, and community engagement can transform leadership and business, this episode is for you.

🎧 Tune in and get inspired to lead with heart, purpose, and authenticity.

#InclusiveLeadership #AuthenticBranding #LGBTQBusiness #DiversityEquityInclusion #MindfulLeadership #ValuesDriven #QueerEntrepreneurship #CommunityEngagement #LeadershipWithHeart

Takeaways

• Crystal Whitaker runs an inclusive branding consultancy.

• Inclusion in leadership leads to better organizational performance.

• Organizations that prioritize their people outperform competitors.

• Personal experiences shape professional practices.

• Finding core values is essential for authentic leadership.

• Mindfulness and discernment are key in leadership roles.

• Diversity in representation is crucial in the wedding industry.

• Community engagement is vital for personal and professional growth.

• Karma plays a role in corporate accountability.

• Future aspirations include leadership retreats for the LGBTQ+ community.

Featured Queer Moment of Joy Guests:

Aaron Valeenzuela @Aaronvalenzuela

Bubbles aka Susan Esco @susanescoofficial  

Guest Bio : 

Crystal Whiteaker (she/her) is the Founder and CEO of Crystal Lily Creative, and Author of Brave Leadership is a Choice: An Inclusive Guide to Creating Belonging. Crystal is a coach, photographer, and inclusive branding and leadership development consultant who helps mission driven brands and leaders create values-aligned human-focused environments through aligned decision making. Crystal brings 20 years of practical, creative, relational, process driven experience across multiple industries. She is a Professional SPEAKer and "corporate trained, creative hippie” who puts a strong focus on core values to help people connect, communicate and lead with belonging in mind. Recognized as the 2024 Empowerment Leader of the Year by BRA Network, Crystal cares deeply about diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging and is an advocate for leaders and organizations that provide resources and support for healing. Beyond her work, Crystal enjoys spending time in nature, connecting with people, practicing/teaching yoga, and exploring new places. 

To find more from us visit:

Website: CrystalLily.co

Email: YouBelong@crystallily.co

Socials: @crystallilycreative

Host Bio: 

Renae Johnson, LPCC, ATR-BC (they/them), is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Board-Certified Art Therapist with a deep commitment to advancing mental health care tailored to the LGBTQ+ community and their allies. As the founder and CEO of Open Space Therapy Collective, Renae has built a group practice dedicated to fostering inclusive, affirming care that prioritizes the unique needs of queer and trans individuals.

A respected leader and activist in the mental health field, Renae is passionate about raising awareness and creating resources to ensure queer- and trans-informed care becomes a professional standard.

To find more from us visit:

Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com

Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective 

TikTok: @openspacetherapy 

Spotify: @MyTherapistisOut 

Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout

YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective

Content transparency: na

Keywords: inclusion, leadership, branding, diversity, equity, personal growth, core values, consultancy, LGBTQ+