“You're here for a reason. And so you need to use your seat of influence for good…I got in a lot of good trouble at Walmart…and that good trouble is rooted in conversation.” — Michael ByronThis episode is on one of Laurette’s absolute favorite topics—using your seat at the table for good. Laurette is joined by Michael Byron, a consultant specializing in diversity and inclusion training, and formerly the senior director of supplier inclusion for Walmart. Michael led Walmart’s national supplier inclusion initiatives, which enhance its purchasing activities and long-term relationships with women and diverse-owned businesses. Notably, he and his team successfully sourced  $21 billion from women-owned businesses over a five-year period, culminating in 2016 and exceeding their goal by $1 billion.In their conversation, Laurette and Michael explore how diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts play into the supply chain and the importance of educating one another on the subject. This episode is a must-listen, especially for women-owned and diverse-owned businesses.In this episode of Owning Your Legacy:Working toward equality in the supply chainThe power of your network and making connectionsOpening doors for small businessesWalking your talk as a woman- or diverse-owned businessCreating inclusion champions in the workplaceThe importance of good role modelsIf you enjoyed the episode please share it with others, and rate, review, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. To learn more about me and how I am Owning My Legacy, you can find me on Instagram @LauretteRondenet and online at lauretterondenet.com.