Dignity: Telling My Story 

Today I have the honor of being interviewed by Joel Onyshuk the host and creator of The Frontline Industry Podcast where he talks with some of the top leaders and executives from around the country. I was introduced to Joel after Cynthia Brandt from Atana shared one of my Dignity Friday posts with him. When I was asked to be interviewed, I was happy to say yes. Anytime I can share my story in hopes of helping others I will always make time. I believe that when we are given the opportunity to make a difference, we should take that step forward and do whatever we can to help others. It is why I became a nurse, and it is why I chose to become the first diversity officer for Berkshire Health Systems. It was an opportunity to make a difference in the health of the community I call home. 

I wanted to prepare myself for today, so I started listening to the podcasts. My first response was probably a normal one, at least for me. I thought these are some amazing leaders with great successes. What do I have to offer? Where do I fit in with the sixty plus leaders he has interviewed. This was a normal response for me because I always felt I had to prove myself in any position I obtained. This was the old Charles who I have been continuing to overcome. Then I heard my mother’s voice telling me, son, they would not have asked you if they didn’t think your story has value. You have worked hard to change and now you get the opportunity to tell your story and maybe help others. You belong. Now those may not be her exact words, but she would never allow me to put myself down. I had to hold my head up high and move forward.  

When you feel that you do not deserve your success because of your past It is hard to understand why you have been given this opportunity. What I am beginning to learn though my continuous dignity work is that doors have been opened for me and it is my obligation to hold it open for others to walk through. This is no longer just about me but about what I can do to make a difference. I tell people all the time that I am the DEI officer for all 4000 employees and for the 130,000 who live in Berkshire County. This means I work for them. When I am out in the community, I represent the organization. I proudly wear my name badge and people stop me to talk and sometimes it is for a positive message and sometimes there are challenges. I will always try to help. I will guide them to those who can help. It is never about me. I am not a superhero. I am just a man who has been blessed with an opportunity to make a difference.  

I am looking forward to today. I am looking forward to sharing my story. I am looking forward to representing BHS and the Berkshires. It is not about me. It is about a community and an organization who has given me a chance to make a difference. 

I encourage you to listen to this podcast. Joel does an amazing job bringing you great leaders to learn from. 

No, I was not paid for this advertisement. I have learned so much from listening to these amazing leaders like Joel. 

The Frontline Industry Podcast on Apple Podcasts 

Charles Redd RN 

Dignity Freedom Fighter