While the fashion world is known for its groundbreaking aesthetics, it has often lagged behind in embracing diversity in its leadership roles. Today, Shawn Pean, the creative genius behind an absolutely fabulous fashion brand, June79, will walk you through the highs and lows of being a heterosexual black man in this field and highlight the importance of staying true to yourself while navigating it.  Shawn doesn't shy away from discussing the stark underrepresentation of black leaders in fashion, in fact, he's on a mission to change that narrative, advocating for more diversity, equity, and inclusion in the industry. His story is a testament to resilience and a deep commitment to amplifying diverse voices. Inside the episode, Shawn offers a sneak peek into how the fashion industry is evolving. He's a strong believer in the power of adaptability and diversity, especially in response to changing norms and he encourages us to value the fresh perspectives of younger generations, recognizing their vital role in shaping the future of fashion. Shawn’s Guilty Privilege? He refuses to feel guilty about his intelligence and eloquence, and we couldn't agree more – because he's making incredible contributions to the fashion world. June79 is Shawn’s brainchild and is all about versatile and stylish fashion, the kind that makes you feel confident and comfy in any situation. This episode isn't just about fashion; it's a deep dive into diversity and the wonderful impact of Sean's work. So get ready for a chat that's as warm and inspiring as it is informative. KEY POINTS: -Recognize and leverage your privileges to make a positive impact on the world -It's vital to be authentic while adapting your communication style as needed -Clothes aren't just garments, they convey your emotions and should help you feel your best -Your appearance should communicate your message effectively -Don't judge based on logos or clothing -Listen to the younger generation: They shape the future and their perspectives matter -Embrace your intelligence, it's an asset in any setting QUOTABLES: "And one of the things for me, I think that led to my success, I never took anything personal." - Shawn Pean "The biggest call outs are how are we making people feel." -Shawn Pean "I always say have the courage to listen to the youth." -Shawn Pean "We tend to undervalue the power that they have and they tend to undervalue the influence that we have." -Amber Cabral GUEST INFORMATION:  Shawn Pean | June79 IG | @mr.shawn.p Twitter | @peanshawn Facebook | @shawn.pean.9 Amber Cabral  IG | @bamcabral LinkedIn | @ambercabral Facebook | @amber.cabral Twitter | @BamCabral  Grab a copy of Amber’s books at Amazon!  Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture Say More About That: ...And Other Ways to Speak Up, Push Back, and Advocate for Yourself and Others -  Guilty Privilege is produced by EPYC Media Network