Living Out Loud Discussion Series

In this episode of the Living Out Loud Discussion Series, I chat with Jared Zachary about the intricacies of navigating relationships and needs assessments within organizations. We highlight the various methods of conducting needs assessments, such as surveys and focus groups, noting their strengths and limitations. We also name the importance of addressing emotions, fears, and resistance that arise during organizational change ini...

In this episode of the Living Out Loud Discussion Series, I chat with Julieta Arámburo to explore the first-gen experience and its implications in professional settings. Julieta shares her personal journey as a first-generation college graduate, her struggles with imposter syndrome, and her career in higher education. We touch on concepts like hidden curriculum, the importance of community and support systems, and actionable steps ...

In this episode, I talk with Donovan Ackley III about people and communities with lower representation in professional settings and how that shows up in DEI work. Donovan shares his personal journey, highlighting how his experiences have shaped his understanding of self in workplaces and life in general. The discussion hones in on the importance of lived experiences and genuine relationships in DEI, while also addressing common fea...

In this episode of the Living Out Loud Discussion Series, I chat with Arlene Limas, a lifelong martial artist, Olympic gold medalist, and violence prevention expert. There was so much to learn when we unpacked the spectrum of violence in professional settings. Topics like the concept of 'human safety skills,' barriers to addressing violence in at work, the critical role of bystander intervention, and the challenges faced by middle ...

In this episode of the Living Out Loud Discussion Series, Kim Mettler and I talk about layers of accountability that are commonly missed within the context of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) work. We share personal stories while weaving the concepts together as they are all related and significant impact organizations' ability to create safe and healthy communal spaces at work.

Our Guest

Kim serves in many roles: coach, fa...

In this episode of the Living Out Loud Discussion Series, I chat with Gina Amato, a long-time friend, social justice attorney and the directing attorney of the Immigrant Rights Project at Public Council, and we get into the concept of context appropriateness when addressing white supremacy culture in professional settings. We explore the nuances of real-life scenarios and interactions in workplaces, emphasizing the importance of un...

In this episode of the Living Out Loud Discussion Series, I chat with Lindsay Messoline in a candid conversation about understanding and responsibly using privilege. Our discussion covers personal stories, acknowledging privilege's complexities, and the challenge of bringing one's whole self—including various privileges—to professional environments and discussions on diversity, equity, and inclusion. We stress the importance of bei...

In this episode of the Living Out Loud Discussion Series, I got to sit with Dr. Wendy Ashley for a convo about the challenges and common experiences of white executives who are engaging in DEI work. We touch on the nuances of interactions within professional settings- Dr. Ashley brilliantly uses an analogy of leaders as quarterbacks, emphasizing that they can't avoid their roles and need to acknowledge they hold in order to effecti...

This episode of the Living Out Loud Discussion Series features an insightful conversation on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) with Allen Lipscomb, an Associate Professor, licensed clinical social worker, and DEI practitioner. Our discussion emphasizes the value of understanding and learning to navigate varied interpersonal interactions in professional settings. Allen sheds light on his work and research in this area, particul...

In this episode of The Living Out Loud Discussion Series, I engage in a deep conversation with Jessie Prado. As one of my former students, Jessie brings a wealth of knowledge to the discussion on intersectional identities and 'isms' often overlooked in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) work. We get into topics like non-traditional family structures, ethical non-monogamy (ENM), and sizeism, and their relevance in the workspace....

In this episode, Stephanie Castellanos, founder of Uproot Talent, shares details about their unique and intentional approach to reforming the hiring process. By focusing on creating room, access, and opportunity for the global majority within social impact organizations, they redesign the job search process around deep listening and learning, breaking down traditional barriers. Stephanie discusses the key skills required for their ...

In this episode of the Living Out Loud podcast, I sit down with Bryce Ezrre to explore messages and behaviors she’s personally experiences in the social work industry. It was an honest discussion where she openly shares her responses to real situations, which includes internal narratives that didn’t serve her well. Our hope is that we normalize how real, hard, and necessary it is to do deeper work, especially as it relates to unpac...

I sat down with facilitation expert, Janice Boafo, to get into the turbulent waters of group dynamics, challenging the status quo, and holding space for unpopular opinions to create transformative dialogue and shared accountability.

Discover how to navigate these moments in group settings as a facilitator or leader, and learn valuable insights on balancing authenticity with core values. With powerful questions and intentional di...

In a world where diversity, equity, and inclusion have become buzzwords, my chat with Nicole Vazquez is timely as we challenge the status quo. Brace yourself for an honest account of the dark side of surface-level approaches in DEI work. Prepare to be awakened, as we expose the uncomfortable truth behind the shallow efforts that have become what most businesses now expect. Are you ready to delve into the depths of transformative c...

If you're feeling frustrated and overwhelmed by the lack of progress in creating a safe and inclusive culture in your social services organization, despite your best efforts to lead and implement change, then you are not alone! Many professionals like yourself may be experiencing a disconnect between their actions and the desired outcome. You may find that despite conducting trainings, implementing policies, and encouraging open d...

Join me and guest Krystal Williams Payne as we unpack the layers of learning, unlearning, and relearning, and be prepared for a shocking personal revelations. We share our lives transparently and apply our learning to what it means for people in the workplace. Find out how we navigate the emotional and physical challenges of growth and change.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Explore the dynamic cycle of learning, ...

In the world of DEI work, feedback can be a powerful tool for growth and change. But what happens when feedback becomes personal and DEI pioneers are left questioning their approach? Join us as we explore the challenges of receiving feedback in DEI efforts and the importance of understanding the layers of feedback to prompt the potential for change. But be warned, the path to progress may not always be smooth...

In this episode,...

A thoughtful leader confronts the bittersweet journey of leaving her long-time position, grappling with internalized oppression and the pursuit of aligning personal values, while navigating the challenging conflict between privilege and identity. The conversation went in an unexpected direction which illustrated the nuanced nature of reflective process.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the transformational...

Does this sound familiar? You've been told to avoid discussing power, privilege, and oppression in the workplace, believing it will disrupt harmony and productivity. But by keeping silent, you're feeling the pain of unaddressed dynamics and the perpetuation of inequality. It's time to challenge the ineffective approach and embrace open dialogue to uncover the subtle practices that hinder progress. Join us as we navigate through unc...