In this episode of the Intersect podcast, Nehar & Analu, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Oregon State University and founder of Belonging At. Analu shares her journey from growing up in Mexico to becoming a social psychologist and advocate for diversity. She discusses intersectionality and its role in understanding oppression and opportunity. Analu highlights her research on Latina entrepreneurs, focusing on how they use cultural wealth and community values to succeed. The episode explores the power of relational and spiritual knowledge in entrepreneurship and the critical role of belonging in mental health and empowerment.

Shownotes & Timestamps:

[00:02:09] The Power of Entrepreneurship in CommunitiesAnalu shares how her family's entrepreneurial spirit in Mexico inspired her to understand the impact of entrepreneurship on vibrant communities and economic empowerment.

[00:05:12] Intersectionality and Its ImportanceShe explains intersectionality, a concept introduced by Dr. Kimberly Crenshaw, and how it helps understand the multiple layers of oppression and opportunity based on different aspects of identity.

[00:10:57] Relational and Spiritual Knowledge in EntrepreneurshipAnalu highlights how Latina entrepreneurs use relational and spiritual knowledge to navigate different worlds and create successful businesses despite challenges.

[00:11:48] Turning Oppression into EmpowermentThe discussion shifts to how Latina entrepreneurs transform oppression into empowerment by leveraging cultural wealth and community values.

[00:14:26] Access to Wealth and Economic Independence Analu talks about the importance of women accessing wealth for freedom and empowerment, and how economic independence can help overcome historical disadvantages.

[00:23:00] The Role of Belonging in Mental Health and EmpowermentShe emphasizes the importance of belonging for mental health and empowerment, comparing it to nutrition for the body.

[00:24:50] Inclusive Innovation and Diversity of ThoughtThe conversation touches on the power of authenticity and diversity of thought in fostering inclusive innovation and creating solutions that benefit diverse communities.

Analu is the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Oregon State University's Division of Extension and Engagement. She is also a member of the Board of Directors at Oregon State Credit Union and the founder of Belonging At. Analu's work focuses on revolutionizing how organizations approach diversity, equity, and inclusion, with a particular emphasis on intersectionality. Her research and advocacy are deeply rooted in her personal experiences and her passion for empowering marginalized communities through entrepreneurship and cultural wealth.

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