Keynotes
For conferences, leadership meetings, and organizational events that need a clear, memorable message about leadership and culture.
Speaking and executive briefings
Executive briefings and keynotes that change how leaders see their systems
Celeste Warren delivers keynotes, executive briefings, and facilitated conversations that challenge audiences to think differently about leadership, culture, systems, and the decisions that shape people's experiences at work.
Last updated: November 2026
What is an executive briefing, and when should a leadership team book one?
An executive briefing is a focused session that gives a senior team a shared perspective on a leadership or culture issue before they make decisions.
CRW Diversity briefings draw on the Equity in Action Model and Celeste Warren's decade as a Fortune 100 Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer. Book one when your team needs a common language, a candid outside view, or a prompt to look at the systems around your people, not only at the people themselves.
Executive briefings
For senior teams that need a candid, focused session on leadership, culture, talent, and systems before they act.
Facilitated conversations
For groups that need to talk honestly about the decisions that shape people's experiences at work.
TEDx: The Cost of Standing Still
What happens when talented people are ready to move forward, but the systems around them aren't?
In her TEDx talk, Celeste Warren explores how organizational momentum is shaped not simply by individual effort, but by the systems that either enable progress or quietly restrict it.
It is a message for leaders ready to stop asking only what their people need to do differently and begin asking what needs to change around them.
Watch The Cost of Standing Still on YouTubeThemes leaders take away
- Momentum depends on systems as well as effort.
- Standing still has a cost, even when nothing looks broken.
- The right question is often what to change around people.
- The six elements of the Equity in Action Model give leaders a way to act.
What audiences have said
Quoted as supplied by CRW Diversity.
"Celeste is a phenomenal leader. A true natural communicator who speaks with candor, passion, and lived experience. We have welcomed Celeste as a leading authority to speak at our DIAL Global Virtual summits as she truly epitomizes authenticity through her passion for positive affirmative change."
"Celeste was one of the most impactful speakers I have had visit my class. She has a vast knowledge of DEI issues and was tremendously effective in helping my students make connections between research and practice. Her approachable style facilitated a meaningful and productive dialogue on DEI in the workplace."
"Celeste delivered an insightful and engaging presentation that provided our members with practical strategies they could immediately apply in their career. Her depth of experience, authentic delivery, and ability to connect with participants made the session especially valuable. I would highly recommend Celeste to schools, universities, and organizations looking for a knowledgeable and impactful speaker."
Common questions
Short answers to what leaders ask most. See all 44 answers on the full FAQ.
What are executive briefings from CRW Diversity?
Executive briefings are focused sessions for leadership teams that challenge leaders to think differently about leadership, culture, systems, and the decisions that shape people's experiences at work. CRW Diversity also offers keynotes and facilitated conversations. Briefings suit senior teams who need a clear, candid perspective before making decisions.
More in the FAQWhat is Celeste Warren's TEDx talk about?
Her TEDx talk, The Cost of Standing Still, explores what happens when talented people are ready to move forward but the systems around them are not. It shows how organizational momentum is shaped not only by individual effort but by systems that either enable progress or quietly restrict it. It is available on YouTube.
More in the FAQWhat keynote topics does Celeste Warren speak on?
Celeste Warren speaks on leadership, workplace culture, organizational systems, equity, and the everyday decisions that shape people's experiences at work. Her keynotes draw on the Equity in Action Model, her TEDx talk, and her books. Specific topics are tailored to each audience, so share your event goals when you inquire.
More in the FAQWhat kinds of audiences has Celeste Warren spoken to?
Her supplied testimonials come from DIAL Global, where she spoke at virtual summits; Cornell University's ILR School, where she spoke to a human resource studies class; and HBCU CONNECT, where she presented to members. She also speaks to corporate leadership teams through keynotes and executive briefings.
More in the FAQHow do I book Celeste Warren to speak?
Use the contact form on the main CRW Diversity website at crwdiversity.com. It handles speaking, press, and general inquiries. Include your event date, audience, format, and the questions you want leaders to leave thinking about, so CRW Diversity can recommend a keynote, executive briefing, or facilitated conversation.
More in the FAQHow is executive advisory different from a workshop?
Executive advisory is a confidential, ongoing thought partnership for one leader or a small senior team. A workshop is a structured learning experience for a group of leaders. Advisory suits complex, sensitive decisions at the top. Workshops suit building shared skills across a leadership population. Many organizations use both together.
More in the FAQBook a briefing for your leadership team
Share your audience, date, and the questions you want leaders to leave with. CRW Diversity will recommend the right format.