Karith Foster
Karith is a Diversity Engagement Specialist whose signature programs are impacting lives at academic institutions, organizations and corporations across America in a time when humor, understanding, acceptance and respect are so desperately needed.For over two decades Karith Foster has taken her passion for entertaining and critical thinking nationwide- from the airwaves to organizations; from universities to corporations creating a seismic shift in mindsets and revolutionizing the way we address issues of diversity and leadership.
The former co-host of controversial radio personality Don Imus and former Fortune 500 human resources executive administrator brings the perfect blend of humor, knowledge and experience when conveying the ever-present need to address diversity & inclusion, effective communication, leadership and self-care. Karith leaves her audiences feeling engaged, connected, inspired and encouraged to commit to the journey of mutual respect, acceptance and a greater sense of belonging.
“If you can laugh at it you can get through it,” is not only her motto, but the invaluable lesson she seeks to instill in others. As a speaker, humorist, TV & radio personality, author, entrepreneur, wife, and mother Karith's sense of duty, service, along with her riotous sense of humor, have made her a positive force of change. The words “no” and “impossible” are not in her vocabulary as evidenced by her career path, life challenges, chosen adventures and desire to help others. She is a featured comedian in two hit documentary films, “Can We Take a Joke?” and "No Safe Spaces" which have garnered accolades in The Washington Post and TIME Magazine, as has her TEDx Talk “The Art of Defying Stereotypes: Learning to be True to Your Voice” from TEDx LincolnSquare Risk Takers and Change Makers in New York City.
Most Requested Programs
Inversity™ 101
A New Way to Address Diversity, Equity and Inclusion revolutionizes the traditional approach to DEI training and conversations (Because let's be honest, if it had been working we wouldn't be where we are now.) Diversity should be celebrated not feared and EVERYONE should have a place in the conversation. It's time to shift the focus from what separates and divides us to what we have IN common, how we can be truly INclusive of one another and how we can become more INtrospective- i.e. understanding one's own value and worth so that we can see it in one another. In this revolutionary program participants are provided with actionable tools to navigate this "great awakening" in which we currently find ourselves. Using the perfect blend of humor, interactive audience participation and heartfelt stories Karith engages her audiences while addressing the once taboo, but now in-our-face topic of racism as well as the other areas of division in America. This thoughtful and engaging conversation prompts us to think outside of ourselves, consider how we view the environment we consciously and subconsciously create, and how to proactively promote lasting positive change.
Perfect or Happy™
With stress levels at an all time high and most of us with less time for self-care, but more time to be self-critical this humorous and poignant interactive presentation is just what the doctor ordered. Karith reminds us we can choose perfection or happiness. Spoiler alert! The former is an impossibility, but by getting back to the B.A.S.I.C.S. Karith masterfully guides her audience through the crazy balancing act of life, work and social media with the end goal of finding peace and happiness in our imperfection.
Breaking the Laws of Leadership
It is widely known and accepted that leaders must be smart, strong and capable. Yet, the most telling sign of true leadership is humility, grace and heart. This program addresses head-on the most simplistic but effective method to gain discipline and have a practice of excellence in leadership.
The Art of Letting Go
A deep dive into how we can release habits, ideas, and situations that do not serve us and hold us back from personal and professional success. This engaging program reveals how by "letting go" we actually gain more than we could have ever anticipated- more freedom, more confidence, more knowledge, and more personal power.
Can We Speak Freely?™ (at School or Work)
No HR department wants or needs extra headaches or drama so this VERY timely program gives insight and understanding for navigating the treacherous world of political correctness. This program aims to educate executives and employees on free speech, expression and creating effective communication and awareness for an open exchange of ideas to benefit any professional environment.
Testimonials
Karith came to do a keynote speech during a workshop at Bristol Myers Squibb for a gathering of Leaders in The Finance and Procurement Function discussing strategy and leadership development. We invited Karith to present the topic of Diversity and Inclusion in her very powerful yet humorous style. As you know Diversity and Inclusion can be a difficult topic in which to engage a
large group in a manner that is both authentic, honest and impactful. Karith was successful in raising the level of discussion which has had true impact on our organization. I would highly recommend Karith for both other organizations at BMS and well as any other corporate, educational or non-profit group. - Paul Ashly, Director, Strategic Engagement Global Procurement, Bristol-Myers Squibb
Whether as a stand-alone presenter, an interview subject or as a panelist, Karith Foster creatively blends humor with her own personal experiences to discuss diversity in a way that relates to businesses, large and small. She is able to connect with her audience through a process that is engaging, educational and thoughtful. Her method breaks down traditional walls allowing for a thought-provoking dialogue about making valuable changes to create and foster diversity in the workplace. She was a terrific speaker at our meeting and we look forward to partnering with her in the future. - Suzanne Clark, Sr. Executive Vice President, United States Chamber of Commerce
We were so pleased to have Karith Foster join us at Descartes Labs to present her innovative Inversity 101 seminar. Her material is on-point, thought provoking and a jumping off point for a continuing dialogue within the company. Several employees immediately told us that this was the most productive addressing of the topic they had seen. We look forward to a continuing collaboration with Karith. - Carol Brummer, Head of People Operations, Descartes Labs
Forget the term “motivational speaker” -using humor, wit, and wisdom Karith Foster is so much more. She has a message that will resonate with any audience and will launch or close any event that is meaningful and memorable. This our third time she’s opened up our summer programs.We plan to ask her back again next summer! - Joseph Starrs, Dir. Institute on Political Journalism, Director, DC Internships, The Fund for American Studies
We are thankful for Karith speaking to our LYPA (LII Young Professionals Association)group today. We received a multitude of positive responses on the session from the participants and we had a little over 100 participants which is a great turn out for our group. I have actually also had a couple employees try and convince me they are a raffle winner for her book before the drawing even happened! The topic was “perfect” (haha) for us and very timely. Karith Foster’s You Can Be Perfect or You Can Be Happy presentation was just what the doctor ordered during this time, with the majority of our workforce remote and life being more stressful than ever before. Her easy to remember B.A.S.I.C.S. strategies mixed with her personal and funny stories kept our participants engaged throughout our event. Karith was relatable and a pleasure to work with and we look forward to the opportunity to hear her again. - Ashley Claborn, Manager, Communications, Lennox International Inc.