Mentoring and coaching, two words often used interchangeably, yet they shape workplace culture in profoundly different ways. When you look closer, the nuances reveal powerful insights into how organizations can drive equity, nurture belonging, and boost retention.
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To dive into this layered conversation, I’m joined by Lindiwe Davis, Google’s Culture Coach and a podcaster who’s spent years guiding leaders and teams to build inclusive, thriving workplace cultures. With her expertise and passion for people, we explore how intentional mentoring and coaching can spark real, lasting change.
Host of this Episode: Sanjeevani Saikia
Guest Bio
Lindiwe Davis is a Senior DEI Practitioner and Leader currently supporting Google. With over 27 years of experience across marketing, finance, tech, media, and publishing, she has dedicated her career to building inclusive and thriving workplace cultures.
In her current role, she strategically designs and leads DEI programs, training, and community initiatives, driving awareness and turning uncomfortable conversations into data-driven action. Her expertise spans cultural development, DEI advocacy, branding, and leadership strategy.
Beyond the corporate sphere, Lindiwe is a cultural career coach, podcaster (A Stranger Down The Hall™), and media host who has interviewed notable personalities and spoken on panels exploring identity, technology, and workplace equity. She holds an M.S. in Publishing (Digital Media) and dual B.A.s in Political Science and English.
Connect with Lindiwe: Linkedin
Timestamps
01:12- Lindiwe shares her corporate journey so far.
04:18- Why mentoring and coaching aren’t the same thing.
08:17- How mentoring and coaching serve different purposes in leadership development.
17:32- What strong mentoring can unlock for underrepresented employees.
21:14- How to prevent bias and make programs truly inclusive.
21:14- What Gen Z looks for in mentoring today.
25:28- How mentoring and coaching influence company culture and retention.
33:38- The future of mentoring and coaching in the age of AI and hybrid work.
