Living Out Loud Discussion Series
Living Out Loud is a discussion series that openly unpacks real scenarios and issues that arise in professional and “buttoned-up” settings. Join host Charmaine Utz, Relational DEI Expert, and special guests as they process and explore experiences that go unspoken in workplaces. This series is for leaders in organizations and higher education, as well as employees and students who are invested in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Gain insights, learn from our communal lessons, and explore DEI topics in a relatable and informative way. Tune in to explore practical tools to engage in meaningful conversations and create positive change. Let’s get into it!
Episodes
Wednesday Apr 17, 2024
Intent, Impact, and Accountability in DEI ft. Kim Mettler
Wednesday Apr 17, 2024
Wednesday Apr 17, 2024
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, facilitator, trainer, mediator, leader, advocate, mentor and “recovering attorney.” She inspires reflection, learning and growth through her ability to co-create supportive spaces and to help build bridges between differing perspectives and experiences. Kim has a unique ability to quickly gain peoples’ trust through her sense of humor, grounding energy and authenticity. Kim’s resilience-oriented work is informed by her lived experience and more than 25 years working with Native American activists and in/on behalf of Native Nations. Of Ukrainian German and Jewish descent and a citizen of the Mandan, Arikara and Hidatsa Nation, Kim is rooted in her cultural values of connection, community, equity and healing. To maintain a full-cup for her work, Kim enjoys being outdoors, creating ceramic and mixed media art, storytelling, cooking, yoga and is a dedicated nap-taker.
Share this episode with people so they can learn with you- use it as a discussion tool with groups, teams, supervisors, and your network. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and follow us across our platforms!
http://www.livingunapologetically.com
http://www.youtube.com/@livingunapologetically
https://www.linkedin.com/in/charmaine-utz-lcsw/
http://www.instagram.com/theunapologetictherapist/
http://www.facebook.com/livingunapologeticallyservices/
https://twitter.com/LivingDEI
To get in touch with Kim Mettler, you can contact her here:
Email: heartrivercoaching (AT) gmail.com
Episode Chapters:
00:00 Setting the Stage03:08 Kim Mettler's Journey and Advocacy Work08:52 Accountability and Community Impact21:17 Safety and Discomfort in Conversations27:41 Skill Sets in Feedback and Reflection29:58 Intent vs. Impact34:37 The Nuances of Accountability and Safety40:11 Creating Supportive and Accountable Environments48:42 Leadership, Inquiry, and Cultivating Open Spaces54:26 Continuous Learning and Growth57:05 Wrap Up
Tuesday Mar 19, 2024
White Supremacy Culture Characteristics: Context Matters ft Gina Amato
Tuesday Mar 19, 2024
Tuesday Mar 19, 2024
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 understanding and unpacking the layers of in our identities and being curious of others. Our convo highlights the need for self-awareness and reflection in recognizing and challenging the norms of white supremacy culture, calling attention to the significance of relational approaches and creating spaces for authentic self-expression to invite a safer, more inclusive environment.
Our Guest
Gina Amato Lough is the Directing Attorney of Public Counsel’s Immigrants’ Rights Project. She leads a 30-member team of attorneys, paralegals, administrative staff, and social workers who serve asylum seekers, immigrants in detention, survivors of violent crime, unaccompanied children, and victims of notario fraud. Her team works toward a world where all (im)migrants live with dignity, power, and opportunity.
Gina has been a public interest attorney and community leader for over twenty years. She joined Public Counsel in 2008, and for 14 years, she led the Immigrants’ Rights Project’s Survivor Team. The Survivor Team provides holistic services to immigrant survivors from a trauma-informed, client-centered perspective. In addition, Gina has engaged in widespread policy advocacy to protect the rights of immigrant survivors, and has worked in partnership with governmental and non-profit organizations to launch a campaign to combat notario fraud – a type of legal services fraud that is devastating to immigrant communities.
Share this episode with people so they can learn with you- use it as a discussion tool with groups, teams, supervisors, and your network. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and follow us across our platforms!
http://www.livingunapologetically.com
http://www.youtube.com/@livingunapologetically
https://www.linkedin.com/in/charmaine-utz-lcsw/
http://www.instagram.com/theunapologetictherapist/
http://www.facebook.com/livingunapologeticallyservices/
https://twitter.com/LivingDEI
To get in touch with Gina Amato, you can contact her here:
Email: chickawapinc (AT) yahoo.com
Episode Chapters
00:00 Setting the Stage01:32 Reminiscing Past Experiences and Connections02:50 Gina's Professional Journey and Personal Background06:34 Context Appropriateness in Addressing White Supremacy Culture08:05 Exploring the Concept of White Supremacy Culture11:47 The Impact of White Supremacy Culture in the Workplace13:28 Authenticity and Professionalism in the Workplace25:15 Intersection of Race and Gender in Workplace Norms28:01 Facing Consequences for Expressing Anger30:26 The Human Element in Leadership31:42 The Misconception of White Supremacy Culture34:25 The Danger of Weaponizing White Supremacy Characteristics36:49 Intersectionality of White Supremacy Culture38:39 Personal Experience with White Supremacy Culture50:51 The Importance of Authenticity in the Workplace54:10 Wrapping Up: Contact Information and Final Thoughts
Tuesday Mar 05, 2024
Understanding and Using Your Privilege Responsibly ft Lindsay Messoline
Tuesday Mar 05, 2024
Tuesday Mar 05, 2024
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 being aware of oneself, understanding the systemic contexts in which emotions and reactions occur, and the growth that comes from staying present in discomfort. Lindsay shares her journey from a transformative educational experience in Ethnic Studies to becoming an advocate for education and DEI-related efforts, as well as insights into managing internal reactions in tense situations. The goal of this episode is to model openness and provide insights into developing a healthier relationship with privilege.
Our Guest
Lindsay Messoline is an educator and writer with over 20 years of serving students from marginalized, minoritized and racialized populations. She has worked with refugees and migrants in Oregon and Tijuana, Mexico, and formerly-incarcerated and currently-incarcerated individuals in Los Angeles and New York. Her specialties include GED and adult high school completion, foundational literacy and math, English and Spanish-language acquisition, and fostering a sense of self-esteem, self-love and confidence through education. She is highly experienced in curriculum development and design, and works to center people with diverse perspectives to create material that truly serves all learners. In 2021, she founded Collaborative Voices Initiative in order to amplify traditionally-excluded voices in education and beyond. She is a published author and a contributing writer to Educate, a publication on Medium.
Share this episode with people so they can learn with you- use it as a discussion tool with groups, teams, supervisors, and your network. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and follow us across our platforms!
http://www.livingunapologetically.com
http://www.youtube.com/@livingunapologetically
https://www.linkedin.com/in/charmaine-utz-lcsw/
http://www.instagram.com/theunapologetictherapist/
http://www.facebook.com/livingunapologeticallyservices/
https://twitter.com/LivingDEI
To get in touch with Lindsay Messoline, you can contact her here:
IG: @lindsay.messoline and @collaborative_voices
Website: http://CollaborativeVoices.co
Episode Chapters
00:00 Setting the Stage01:16 Intro to Lindsay Messoline05:28 Past Experiences and Assumptions07:16 Understanding Privilege: A Deep Dive10:19 Lindsay's Personal Experiences with Privilege12:06 The Intersectionality of Privilege23:09 Lindsay’s Story29:28 Privilege in Different Contexts32:36 Competition in Oppression42:25 Emotions in Understanding Privilege44:19 Process of Engaging with Privilege46:50 Discomfort in Understanding Privilege55:20 Conclusion: The Ongoing Journey of Understanding Privilege
Tuesday Feb 20, 2024
White Executives Leading DEI from a Distance ft Wendy Ashley
Tuesday Feb 20, 2024
Tuesday Feb 20, 2024
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.
Share this episode with people so they can learn with you- use it as a discussion tool with groups, teams, supervisors, and your network. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and follow us across our platforms!
http://www.livingunapologetically.com
http://www.youtube.com/@livingunapologetically
https://www.linkedin.com/in/charmaine-utz-lcsw/
http://www.instagram.com/theunapologetictherapist/
http://www.facebook.com/livingunapologeticallyservices/
https://twitter.com/LivingDEI
To get in touch with Wendy Ashley, you can contact her here:
Website: DrWendyAshley.com
IG: @DrWendyAshley
Episode Chapters
00:00 Setting the Stage01:12 Guest Intro Dr. Wendy Ashley02:07 Clinical Aspect of DEI06:57 'Shape Shifting' in Multiracial Experiences13:07 Challenges of Leadership and Power Dynamics27:34 Acknowledging and Unpacking Whiteness33:50 Dangers of Cancel Culture and Performative Activism34:56 Multiple Truths35:47 Self-Regulation and Understanding Your Actions36:44 The Nervous System in Our Reactions39:11 Self-Regulation and Understanding Your Defaults41:29 Accountability in Leadership44:07 Understanding the Impact of Your Actions45:43 Role of the Leader in Navigating Difficult Conversations52:42 Accountability Partners in Leadership55:47 Grounding Yourself in Your Mission and Values56:32 Conclusion: Using Your Power Responsibly
Tuesday Feb 06, 2024
How to Unpack Our Responses to Interpersonal Interactions ft. Allen Lipscomb
Tuesday Feb 06, 2024
Tuesday Feb 06, 2024
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, particularly in organizations, and weaves in his experiences studying communities targeting for marginalization, mental health, and systemic racism. The conversation revolves around understanding oneself, embracing imperfections, handling reactivity, and building better interpersonal relationships. Allen also shares a practical technique called the PAUSE method to tackle adverse responses at work and advocates for starting DEI efforts from an individual level.
Our Guest
Allen E. Lipscomb, PsyD, LCSW is an Associate Professor, Associate Chair, Director of MSW Online Program; as well as Director of Minority Male Mentoring (M3) and Student Success Allies (SSA) program at California State University Northridge in the Department of Social Work. Dr. Lipscomb is a clinical psychologist with the highest degree earned and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of California. In addition, Dr. Lipscomb studied diversity and inclusion practices within organizations through Cornell University, earning a certification from the School of Industrial and Labor Relations at Cornell. In 2022, Dr. Lipscomb earned a certification in Executive Public Leadership within organizations at Harvard University in the Kennedy School of Executive Education.
Share this episode with people so they can learn with you- use it as a discussion tool with groups, teams, supervisors, and your network. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and follow us across our platforms!
http://www.livingunapologetically.com
http://www.youtube.com/@livingunapologetically
https://www.linkedin.com/in/charmaine-utz-lcsw/
http://www.instagram.com/theunapologetictherapist/
http://www.facebook.com/livingunapologeticallyservices/
https://twitter.com/LivingDEI
To get in touch with Allen Lipscomb, you can contact him here:
IG: dr.alipscomb
Twitter: alcombs101
Episode Chapters
00:00 Setting the Stage
01:37 Allen Lipscomb's Expertise and Approach
05:27 Importance of DEI in Various Roles
08:06 Interpersonal Reactions
13:49 The Role of Leadership in DEI
15:21 Recognizing Individual Experiences
18:04 Addressing the Challenges of DEI in Different Roles
20:09 Impact of DEI on Organizational Culture
29:41 Struggles of Supervision and Learning Differences
30:40 Power of Patience and Curiosity
31:35 Understanding Different Learning Styles
33:45 Self-Awareness and Reflection
38:02 Accountability and Accepting Mistakes
45:07 The Power of the PAUSE Method
49:46 Individual Accountability in Collective Progress
50:42 Closing Remarks and Contact Information
Tuesday Jan 09, 2024
Intersectional Identities & ”isms” Missing in DEI Conversations ft. Jessie Prado
Tuesday Jan 09, 2024
Tuesday Jan 09, 2024
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. As an advocate for mental health and a queer Salvadorian, Jessie provides insights into their personal journey of learning and unlearning in their constant quest for professional growth. This discussion emphasizes the importance of being mindful of language, opening up dialogue, and making conscious efforts to guide these discussions on seemingly uncomfortable subjects in the DEI sphere.
Our Guest
Jessie Prado is an ASW with many interests in mental health advocacy, challenging dominant perspectives, and ongoing professional growth. Their specialization includes LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, size and non-traditional relationship structures, inclusivity, and intersectionality. They recently graduated with their MSW from California State University, Dominguez Hills, with an emphasis on community mental health, Critical Race Theory, and Intersectionality. Currently, they offer all-affirming clinical services to youths of all ages and aspire to continue or generate inclusivity conversations.
Share this episode with people so they can learn with you- use it as a discussion tool with groups, teams, supervisors, and your network. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and follow us across our platforms!
http://www.livingunapologetically.com
http://www.youtube.com/@livingunapologetically
https://www.linkedin.com/in/charmaine-utz-lcsw/
http://www.instagram.com/theunapologetictherapist/
http://www.facebook.com/livingunapologeticallyservices/
https://twitter.com/LivingDEI
To get in touch with Jessie Prado, you can contact them here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpradoasw/
Episode Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Discussion01:08 Introducing the Guest Speaker: Jessie Prado03:59 Defining All Affirming Spaces04:59 Addressing Power Dynamics in the Conversation07:14 The Importance of Challenging Dominant Perspectives12:39 Unpacking Sizeism in Workplaces24:07 Exploring Non-Traditional Family Structures31:45 Understanding Ethical Non-Monogamy32:34 Implications of ENM in Workspaces33:08 Challenging Stereotypes and Biases35:37 The Role of Language in Inclusivity36:05 The Importance of Open-Mindedness43:35 The Struggles of Learning and Unlearning43:49 The Journey of Self-Reflection47:49 The Challenges of Being a Learner52:03 The Power of Open Questions55:30 Wrapping Up
Tuesday Dec 05, 2023
Radically Changing the Talent Search & Hiring Process ft Stephanie Castellanos
Tuesday Dec 05, 2023
Tuesday Dec 05, 2023
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 work, such as boldness, intentionality, foresight, listening, and follow-through. The interview also delves into Stephanie's personal career journey, her experience and growth in challenging the status-quo, and the value of transparency and empathy during the hiring process.
Stephanie Castellanos is a justice & equity strategist and the founder of Uproot Talent – an award-winning boutique talent advising and executive search firm based in Los Angeles, CA.
To get in touch with Stephanie, you can contact her here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uproot-talent
Social Media Handles: @uproottalent @purposehustle
Share this episode with people so they can learn with you- use it as a discussion tool with groups, teams, supervisors, and your network. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and follow us across our platforms!
http://www.livingunapologetically.com
http://www.youtube.com/@livingunapologetically
https://www.linkedin.com/in/charmaine-utz-lcsw/
http://www.instagram.com/theunapologetictherapist/
http://www.facebook.com/livingunapologeticallyservices/
https://twitter.com/LivingDEI
00:00 Setting the Stage02:09 Stephanie's Personal Background and Journey05:37 The Birth of Uproot Talent17:31 The Unique Approach of Uproot Talent21:56 The Hiring Process and Practices at Uproot Talent27:08 Supporting Black Women in the Workplace27:42 Intentionality in Professional Relationships28:56 Understanding Anti-Oppressive Practices31:04 Experience and Degrees in Job Applications33:14 Confidentiality in Job Searches34:46 Impact of Bias and Racism in the Workplace38:09 Trust and Integrity in Professional Relationships46:41 Boldness and Intentionality in Professional Success48:37 Listening and Following Up in Building Trust49:51 Being True to Your Word in Professional Relationships52:45 The Journey of Uproot Talent
Tuesday Nov 07, 2023
White Privilege, Narratives, and the Reality of Hard Work ft Bryce Ezrre
Tuesday Nov 07, 2023
Tuesday Nov 07, 2023
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 unpacking privilege for the purpose of improving relationships with others. Check it out!
Share this episode with people so they can learn with you- use it as a discussion tool with groups, teams, supervisors, and your network. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and follow us across our platforms!
http://www.livingunapologetically.com
http://www.youtube.com/@livingunapologetically
https://www.linkedin.com/in/charmaine-utz-lcsw/
http://www.instagram.com/theunapologetictherapist/
http://www.facebook.com/livingunapologeticallyservices/
https://twitter.com/LivingDEI
To get in touch with Bryce Ezrre, you can contact her here:
Email: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryce-ezrre-6761b2109/
Monday Oct 23, 2023
Monday Oct 23, 2023
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 discussions, we draw upon our own experiences to guide you in inviting open and meaningful conversations. Join us as we get into the importance of shared accountability in creating change within your teams and organizations. Don't miss this engaging conversation that will inspire you to challenge the status quo and embrace diverse perspectives.
In this episode, you will be able to:
Enhance group dynamics by learning the art of holding space for unpopular opinions.
Foster inclusivity and understanding by creating a safe environment for diverse perspectives to thrive.
Gain insight into the responsibilities of facilitators in group settings and learn how to effectively navigate challenging conversations.
Transform your group sessions from passive learning experiences to experiential development opportunities for deeper understanding and growth.
Find the balance between authenticity and core values in open dialogue, creating a space where all voices are heard and respected.
The guest for this episode is Janice Boafo
Janice Boafo is an experienced professional in the field of social work with a background in coaching and training. She brings a wealth of expertise to the table. As a licensed clinical social worker, she has worked extensively with social workers, resource parents, and drug and alcohol counselors. Janice's passion for facilitating spaces and creating community led her to start her own company called Evergreen Cypher. Through her business, she aims to foster growth, potential, and connection within communities. Her ability to witness, see, and hear others is truly special. Janice has a grounded earthly energy and an appreciation for lessons that are revealed from personal experiences- these have helped her embrace the messiness of DEI work. With her guidance, facilitators and leaders can learn valuable techniques for creating safe and inclusive spaces where unpopular opinions can be explored and understood.
One of My Fav Moments 🧡 Shared Space and Group AgreementsA crucial part of shared spaces involves negotiating group agreements, or commitments. This covers not just the boundaries of conversation but also the actions and behaviors of people within the space. At its core, this is a collective experience. Janice and I talked about the essentiality of shared accountability in creating and maintaining the space everyone is in together. Janice talks about her approach to facilitation, focusing on collective thinking and decision-making, which involves acknowledging and respecting the uniqueness of each group.
Share this episode with people so they can learn with you- use it as a discussion tool with groups, teams, supervisors, and your network. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and follow us across our platforms!
http://www.livingunapologetically.com
http://www.youtube.com/@livingunapologetically
https://www.linkedin.com/in/charmaine-utz-lcsw/
http://www.instagram.com/theunapologetictherapist/
http://www.facebook.com/livingunapologeticallyservices/
https://twitter.com/LivingDEI
To get in touch with Janice Boafo, you can contact her here:
Email: janice@everygreencypher.com
The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Setting the Stage, 00:01:13 - Getting to Know Janice Boafo, 00:06:09 - Understanding Holding Space, 00:09:57 - No Spectators, 00:10:48 - Facilitating vs. Directing, 00:16:03 - Holding Space and Activations, 00:17:52 - Holding Space for Unpopular Opinions, 00:19:48 - Parallel Process of Facilitation, 00:23:15 - Shared Space and Group Agreements, 00:31:03 - Openness to New Ideas, 00:31:57 - Experience and Understanding, 00:34:15 - Challenging Conversations, 00:38:49 - Multiple Truths, 00:41:30 - Holding Space for Differences, 00:47:36 - Understanding the Inner Workings of Facilitation, 00:49:09 - Embracing the Unpredictability of Facilitation, 00:50:12 - Knowing Your Gifts as a Facilitator, 00:51:24 - Self-Regulation and Honoring Personal Experiences, 00:55:35 - Creating an Intensified Moment of Connection, 01:04:11 - The Responsibility to Protect People, 01:05:15 - Holding Space for the Process, 01:07:02 - Highlighting Discrepancies and Inviting Consideration, 01:08:33 - False Harmony and the Stifling of Diversity, 01:10:03 - Embracing Change and Diversity,
Monday Oct 09, 2023
Monday Oct 09, 2023
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 change, or will you choose to stay adrift on the surface?
In this episode, you will be able to:
✅ Gain a deeper understanding of surface saturation in DEI work and how to navigate it effectively.
✅ Discover the performativity in DEI efforts and learn how to move beyond surface-level actions to drive meaningful change.
✅ Explore the concept of interest convergence and its significance in DEI work, unlocking new strategies for transformative change.
✅ Learn how to navigate the co-opting and watering down of DEI terms, ensuring the integrity of your DEI efforts.
✅ Enhance your DEI training with nuanced examples that challenge assumptions and encourage critical thinking for lasting impact.
The guest for this episode is Nicole Vazquez
With her extensive knowledge and experience in the field of diversity, equity, and inclusion, Nicole brings a fresh and innovative approach to the table. As a professor, she challenged traditional teaching methods, creating a dynamic and inclusive learning environment that left a lasting impact on her students. Nicole's unique background as an Afro Latinx, queer, cis-woman, fluent in both English and Spanish, gives her a perspective and expertise that's needed in this work. With her Master of Social Work and Master of Public Policy degrees, Nicole brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to help DEI practitioners navigate the challenges of surface-level approaches and drive transformative change.
One of My Fav Moments 🧡 Interest Convergence and White Supremacy Culture
Interest convergence is a theory that racial progress comes at a point when interests of the dominant white group align with the needs of marginalized racial groups. This interest alignment becomes problematic when they converge only to serve the majority's benefits. At the same time, White Supremacy Culture forms the backdrop, privileging white people and Western norms. The challenge lies in identifying and acknowledging these structures within your organization, addressing and working through them consciously. Charmaine Utz identifies with this. She believes DEI goes beyond mere productivity and profitability, advocating for workers' experiences and welfare. Nicole, in solidarity with Utz, calls out hierarchical thinking, emphasizing the importance of frontline workers. They both critique the practices where DEI work is regarded as separate to regular business practices and urge organizations to view it as integral to their overall success.
Share this episode with people so they can learn with you- use it as a discussion tool with groups, teams, supervisors, and your network. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and follow us across our platforms!
http://www.livingunapologetically.com
http://www.youtube.com/@livingunapologetically
https://www.linkedin.com/in/charmaine-utz-lcsw/
http://www.instagram.com/theunapologetictherapist/
http://www.facebook.com/livingunapologeticallyservices/
https://twitter.com/LivingDEI
To get in touch with Nicole Vazquez, you can contact her here:
https://www.instagram.com/amoradelante/
The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Setting the Stage, 00:01:47 - Nicole's Unique Teaching Approach, 00:03:54 - Explaining Surface Saturation, 00:06:15 - Interest Convergence and White Supremacy Culture, 00:10:44 - Widely Shared Not Knowing What to Do, 00:16:34 - The Importance of Doing the Deep Work on Race and Intersectionality, 00:17:48 - The Challenges of Doing the Deep Work, 00:19:33 - Overcoming Resistance and Blame, 00:21:41 - Integrating DEI into Business Practices, 00:26:24 - Focusing on Employee Experience, 00:32:27 - The Importance of Authenticity in Work, 00:33:14 - Setting Clear Expectations, 00:34:01 - Challenging White Supremacy Culture, 00:34:49 - Purpose-Driven Work Over Financial Gain, 00:37:35 - Internal Self-Reflection and Stepping Back, 00:48:19 - The Internal Response to Feedback, 00:49:55 - The Responsibilities of Leaders, 00:51:19 - Example of Denial and Dismissal, 00:55:10 - The Significance of Self Work, 00:58:24 - Normalizing the Human Experience,