Make the implicit explicit.

I’ve been thinking a lot about the importance of making the implicit explicit, both in the operations of a business and in life. There’s a certain power in shedding light on the unspoken, in saying the hard thing, in naming and challenging the assumptions we all take for granted.

Challenging assumptions is at the heart of the transformative process. It's about questioning the status quo and uncovering hidden biases. By bringing these implicit elements to the forefront, we create a path to genuine change.

In the realm of business operations, the impact is profound. Dismantling inefficient or inequitable systems allows us to customize smart, scalable processes, fostering an environment where everyone's strengths are recognized and valued. It's not just good for operations; it's a catalyst for positive cultural shifts as well.

In the pursuit of social and racial equity and justice, it's crucial to shine a light on the implicit biases that often linger in the shadows. By making the implicit explicit here, we challenge the assumptions built into unjust systems and pave the way for a more inclusive, equitable, and just future.

Why does this matter? Because diverse perspectives drive innovation, creativity, and success! It's not just about ticking boxes; it's about unlocking the full potential of our teams and creating workplaces that reflect the world we live in.

Let's break down barriers, challenge assumptions, and work together to build a future where equity isn't just a goal – it's a reality. Whether you need help optimizing processes, shifting culture, or saying the hard thing, I’m here to help. Let me show you just how much you’ve got this when you schedule a free consultation.


If you’re new here, I’m Shannon Parris, an equity-first management consultant, or as my clients think of me, a trusted, outsourced business partner. I help under-resourced entrepreneurs and nonprofit professionals activate their strategies, optimize their operations, measure and maximize their impact, and foster equitable environments so they can boost their capacity, resolve complex issues, and do the hard work of changing the world.

I plan to use this space to write about my experiences, hopefully in ways that will offer value to my readers. It’s not in my nature to try to sell things. I’m a nonprofit nerd; I just want to help. But what I’m learning about being self-employed is that I get to make choices about how to prioritize my values; I get to do what I want. So this blog may not follow the rules or best practices, but I hope that it does help someone. If there’s a topic you’d like to me to write about, please do let me know.

Shannon Parris

Shannon Parris (she/her) is the Founder & Principal of Shannon Parris Consulting, which propels nonprofits and small businesses to reach ambitious goals while protecting and uplifting the people who power them. Working at the intersection of nonprofits, entrepreneurship, and disability justice, Shannon is on a mission to reshape how we work, lead, and belong because most workplaces weren't set up for everyone to succeed. She is passionate about developing the next generation of leadership and believes that the people who are closest to the work often understand it best. Her approach blends strategic insight with practical guidance to support underrepresented leaders and people who have historically been excluded from positions of power.

As a Korean adoptee who was raised in a predominantly white community, Shannon has a unique perspective on privilege and equity. She is most passionate about working to dismantle systems of oppression and to advocate for and galvanize leaders with marginalized identities. Multiply-neurdivergent, Shannon specializes in working with autistic, ADHDer, and other neurodiverse clients. She resides in Ross Township with her husband, their twin daughters, and two "foster-fail" rescued cats.

https://www.shannonparris.com/
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I couldn’t find it, so I made it. (Part 1)

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Will you regret trying and failing, or will you regret never having tried at all?