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 effectively share it.
We also detail the importance of self regulation, understanding your responses and behaviors, the importance of accountability partners, and the value of grounding yourself in the mission and values of the work. The overarching theme: the need for leaders, regardless of their intentions, to be aware of their impact and to strive to lead responsibly.
Our Guest
Wendy Ashley, Psy.D., LCSW is a Professor and the Department Chair of the California State University at Northridge’s Master of Social Work (MSW) program. Dr. Ashley holds a doctorate in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.), a MSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and has over twenty-five years of social work practice experience. She maintains certification in Diversity and Inclusion Practices (from Cornell University) and in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (from EMDR International Association). Dr. Ashley is the author of multiple publications, speaks at conferences nationwide and internationally, maintains a private practice and provides training for multiple community agencies. She is passionate about promoting social justice, and infuses an intersectionality lens in her teaching, practice, training and research.
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To get in touch with Wendy Ashley, you can contact her here:
- Website: DrWendyAshley.com
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IG: @DrWendyAshley
Episode Chapters
00:00 Setting the Stage 01:12 Guest Intro Dr. Wendy Ashley 02:07 Clinical Aspect of DEI 06:57 'Shape Shifting' in Multiracial Experiences 13:07 Challenges of Leadership and Power Dynamics 27:34 Acknowledging and Unpacking Whiteness 33:50 Dangers of Cancel Culture and Performative Activism 34:56 Multiple Truths 35:47 Self-Regulation and Understanding Your Actions 36:44 The Nervous System in Our Reactions 39:11 Self-Regulation and Understanding Your Defaults 41:29 Accountability in Leadership 44:07 Understanding the Impact of Your Actions 45:43 Role of the Leader in Navigating Difficult Conversations 52:42 Accountability Partners in Leadership 55:47 Grounding Yourself in Your Mission and Values 56:32 Conclusion: Using Your Power Responsibly
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