Our True Colors: Mixed Race Voices and Other Stories of Belonging

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In this deeply reflective episode of Our True Colors, Shawna and guest Shari Baker dive into the emotional aftermath of the recent presidential election. Together, they unpack the complexities of identity, solidarity, and the nuances of navigating blackness in America. From the broader societal implications of the election to the personal journeys of mixed-race identity, Shawna and Shari offer a thought-provoking and heartfelt conversation about resilience, collective grief, and the power of community. Tune in to explore how we can heal, learn, and move forward—together.

Guest Shari Baker, DEIJ strategist and co-founder of The Wells Collective, shares her insights on black identity, coalition-building, and fostering equity in challenging times.

You can also watch the episode on YouTube!

Stuff to check out from mentions in the episode:

• Kamala Harris’ racial and cultural background at the convention
• Why the term “BIPOC” is so complicated, explained by linguists
• Is It Time To Say R.I.P. To 'POC'?
• BAME We're Not the Same
• For Black women, Harris’s loss creates new wound
• The Blue Bracelet Movement, Explained
• A Look at Racial Incongruence
• Racist text messages sent to Black recipients, including children
• Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome

Don't forget to check out Dr. Gann's new book, Mixed Signals: A Multiracial Window into Civility and Belonging at Work available in hardcover, paperback, eBook, and audiobook. 

If this is your first time with OTC, check out  EPISODE 1: START HERE for more background on the show. Don't forget to follow us on Instagram

Our True Colors is powered by The Culture Crucible. Go to THE HUB to learn more!
Consider joining the Critical Mixed Race Studies Association!

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Summary

In this engaging conversation, Shawna, Rachel, and Kat introduce Hady Mendez, a DEI expert, who shares her journey and insights on employee resource groups, cultural wisdom, and the challenges of navigating racial identity. The discussion highlights the need for allyship, the evolving understanding of racial categories, and the significance of joy and community support in personal and professional growth.

You can also watch the episode on YouTube!

Takeaways

• Mixed race identity is complex and varies greatly among individuals.
• Self-advocacy is crucial for underrepresented groups in the workplace.
• Cultural idioms can provide valuable life lessons and wisdom.
• The importance of employee resource groups in fostering community and support.
• Allyship is essential for creating inclusive environments.
• Racial categories in forms often fail to capture the diversity of identities.
• Colorism exists within the Latino community and affects perceptions of privilege.
• Personal narratives and experiences shape our understanding of identity.
• Joy and positivity can be powerful tools for personal growth.
• Community connections can provide validation and support in shared experiences.

Stuff to check out from mentions in the episode:

• Planning for the 2030 Census is Underway
• Coming to Our Census: Are the Race and Ethnicity Questions Needed?
• How the Census Bureau Stood Up to Donald Trump’s Meddling
• Why the 2030 census will likely show a drop in 'white' Americans
• Who The Census Misses
• Chapter 1: Race and Multiracial Americans in the U.S. Census (Census taker decided race)
• The changing categories the U.S. census has used to measure race

Don't forget to check out Dr. Gann's new book, Mixed Signals: A Multiracial Window into Civility and Belonging at Work available in hardcover, paperback, eBook, and audiobook. 

If this is your first time with OTC, check out  EPISODE 1: START HERE for more background on the show. Don't forget to follow us on Instagram

Our True Colors is powered by The Culture Crucible. Go to THE HUB to learn more!
Consider joining the Critical Mixed Race Studies Association!

MESSAGE ME HERE!

In this insightful episode, Dr. Shawna Gann sits down with DEI experts Lauren Dike and Katrina Liew Wilson for a candid discussion on the shifting landscape of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). The conversation explores the evolving role of DEI in the workplace, the pressures of being a "talking head" in the field, and the challenges of racial and cultural identity. Lauren and Katrina share their personal journeys navigating mixed-race backgrounds, dealing with imposter syndrome, and embracing authenticity while leading change. They also address the complexity of DEI rebranding, the struggle for collective healing, and the nuanced experiences of being Black and multiracial in America.

Tune in to hear about the intersection of wellness, inclusion, and belonging, as well as the power of redefining what it means to "fit in" versus truly belonging. The episode concludes with thoughts on Kamala Harris's potential presidency, and the ongoing need for hope and active participation in shaping a more inclusive future.

This episode offers a refreshing take on DEI that challenges common assumptions and invites listeners to rethink how we approach identity and equity in today's society.

You can also watch the episode on YouTube!

Extra Stuff to Check Out:

• Kamala Harris on The Breakfast Club (2019)
• Tema Okun on Her Mythical Paper on White Supremacy
• White Supremacy Culture – Still Here...A Short History of the Original Article 

Don't forget to check out Dr. Gann's new book, Mixed Signals: A Multiracial Window into Civility and Belonging at Work available in hardcover, paperback, eBook, and audiobook. 

If this is your first time with OTC, check out  EPISODE 1: START HERE for more background on the show. Don't forget to follow us on Instagram

Our True Colors is powered by The Culture Crucible. Go to THE HUB to learn more!
Consider joining the Critical Mixed Race Studies Association!

MESSAGE ME HERE!

In this episode, Shawna Gann and Rachel Sadler engage with author Christopher "CJ" Gross, an expert in cultural transformation, to discuss the concepts in his book, What's Your Zip Code Story? Together the group discusses implications on personal and professional experiences. They explore how one's background and community can shape perceptions, opportunities, and biases in the workplace. The discussion emphasizes the importance of mentorship, understanding class migration, and the need for a supportive culture that fosters growth and inclusivity, including expanding your zip code story through meeting new people, going to different places, and trying new things. Throughout the conversation, they highlight the significance of being aware of biases and the necessity of creating psychological safety in mentorship relationships.

You can also watch the episode on YouTube.

Stuff mentioned in the episode that you should check out:

• The Financial Perks of Being Tall
• Stereotype Threat
• Half of U.S. states have passed the CROWN Act to ban hair discrimination

Don't forget to check out Dr. Gann's new book, Mixed Signals: A Multiracial Window into Civility and Belonging at Work available in hardcover, paperback, eBook, and audiobook. 

If this is your first time with OTC, check out  EPISODE 1: START HERE for more background on the show. Don't forget to follow us on Instagram

Our True Colors is powered by The Culture Crucible. Go to THE HUB to learn more!
Consider joining the Critical Mixed Race Studies Association!

MESSAGE ME HERE!

In this episode, Shawna Gann introduces co-host Rachel Sadler, and together they explore the complexities of racial identity, particularly focusing on the experiences of biracial individuals. They discuss the fluidity of identity, the impact of family dynamics on self-identification, and the societal constructs surrounding race and gender. The conversation also gets into the privileges associated with racial ambiguity, the challenges faced in workplace settings, and the increasing recognition of multiracial identities in America. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of community and the need for critical discussions about identity and privilege.   

Rachel Sadler is an empowerment coach and founder of Rae of Light Coaching, specializing in helping women unlock their potential and navigate personal and professional challenges. With a strong background in DEI facilitation, anti-racism education, and cultural competency training, Rachel is dedicated to advancing social justice and equity.   

You can also watch the episode on YouTube!

Other stuff to check out:

• The Infuriating Journey From Pet To Threat: How Bias Undermines Black Women At Work
• The Persistence Of Pet To Threat
• The US will become ‘minority white’ in 2045, Census projects
• The Myth of a Majority-Minority America
• GOP Rep. Burchett calls Kamala Harris a "DEI hire"
• What Might It Mean When Critics Call Someone A DEI Hire?
• Vice President Kamala Harris Is Anything But a DEI Hire
• How Italians Became ‘White’
•  "[Trump] is the Avatar for their Grievance"

Don't forget to check out Dr. Gann's new book, Mixed Signals: A Multiracial Window into Civility and Belonging at Work available in hardcover, paperback, eBook, and audiobook. 

If this is your first time with OTC, check out  EPISODE 1: START HERE for more background on the show. Don't forget to follow us on Instagram

Our True Colors is powered by The Culture Crucible. Go to THE HUB to learn more!
Consider joining the Critical Mixed Race Studies Association!

MESSAGE ME HERE!

In this episode, Shawna Gann introduces the new season of the podcast with one of her two co-hosts, Kat Aragon. They discuss their cultural backgrounds, the importance of representation in the beauty industry, and the need for advocacy and allyship. Kat shares her experiences as a makeup artist and the challenges faced in ensuring diversity in beauty products. The conversation emphasizes the significance of taking action in allyship and the importance of creating spaces for underrepresented voices.

You can also watch the episode on YouTube!

Other stuff to check out:

• Vintage Bandaid Commercial
• Browndages 
• This Is the Worst Way to Make an Inclusive Foundation Shade
• This brand made a BLACK Foundation!?
• The 5 S's of Engagement: Navigating Your Path Through Allyship

Don't forget to check out Dr. Gann's new book, Mixed Signals: A Multiracial Window into Civility and Belonging at Work available in hardcover, paperback, eBook, and audiobook. 

If this is your first time with OTC, check out  EPISODE 1: START HERE for more background on the show. Don't forget to follow us on Instagram

Our True Colors is powered by The Culture Crucible. Go to THE HUB to learn more!
Consider joining the Critical Mixed Race Studies Association!

Join the conversation — Send a Text Message!

Welcome back!

Join Dr. Shawna Gann and new co-hosts Kat Aragon and Rachel Sadler for Season 5 of Our True Colors, launching in September! 

This season, we will continue exploring the unique challenges of being racially ambiguous with personal stories and expert insights on identity, belonging, and diversity. Engage with us by texting your thoughts and stories through the link above, and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review!

Want to be a guest or know someone who should join us? Click this link to complete the guest interest form.

Don't forget to subscribe!

If this is your first time with OTC, check out EPISODE 1: START HERE for more background on the show.

Our True Colors is sponsored by True Culture Coaching & Consulting. Head to our website to find out how True Culture Coaching and Consulting can support you and your organization, and subscribe to our LinkedIn Newsletter, The Culture Clinic, for more great content. You can find us at truecultureconsulting.com where you can also contact us to schedule a free consultation.

Join the conversation — Send a Text Message!

Welcome to the community!

This introductory episode introduces listeners to the premise of Our True Colors. In this opening episode, I discuss terms and concepts surrounding issues of race. The links below are here for your reference and to learn more.

Want to be a guest? Click this link to send me your thoughts on how you could add to the convo as a guest on the show!

I encourage you to reach out to me and share your thoughts! What topics would you like to discuss? Do you have some feedback? Reach out with a direct text.

Link further exploration:

• Race as a Social Construct
• Human Genome Project
• Race, Ethnicity, and Culture with Jelly Beans
• Eugenics and Scientific Racism
• Biden Administration's Proposal for Updated Census Data Collection
• Honorary Whiteness - Eduardo Bonilla-Silva
• Colonialism
• Culture
• Being a 3rd Culture Kid
• Being a Third Culture Kid
• Intersectionality
• Blumenbach and "Caucasian"
• More on Blumenbach and the term "Caucasian"
• The Construction of Race and Racism

Want to be a guest or know someone who should join us? Click this link to complete the guest interest form.

Don't forget to subscribe!

If this is your first time with OTC, check out EPISODE 1: START HERE for more background on the show.

Our True Colors is sponsored by True Culture Coaching & Consulting. Head to our website to find out how True Culture Coaching and Consulting can support you and your organization, and subscribe to our LinkedIn Newsletter, The Culture Clinic, for more great content. You can find us at truecultureconsulting.com where you can also contact us to schedule a free consultation.

Join the conversation — Send a Text Message!

Welcome to the community!

This introductory episode introduces listeners to the premise of Our True Colors. In this opening episode, I discuss terms and concepts surrounding issues of race. The links below are here for your reference and to learn more.

Want to be a guest? Click this link to send me your thoughts on how you could add to the convo as a guest on the show!

I encourage you to reach out to me and share your thoughts! What topics would you like to discuss? Do you have some feedback? Would you like to respond to an episode? Reach out with a direct text.

Link further exploration:

• Race as a Social Construct
• Human Genome Project
• Race, Ethnicity, and Culture with Jelly Beans
• Eugenics and Scientific Racism
• Biden Administration's Proposal for Updated Census Data Collection
• Honorary Whiteness - Eduardo Bonilla-Silva
• Colonialism
• Culture
• Being a Third Culture Kid
• Intersectionality
• Blumenbach and "Caucasian"
• More on Blumenbach and the term "Caucasian"
• The Construction of Race and Racism

Want to be a guest? Click this link to send me your thoughts on how you could add to the convo as a guest on the show!

Don't forget to subscribe!

If this is your first time with OTC, check out EPISODE 1: START HERE for more background on the show.

Our True Colors is sponsored by True Culture Coaching & Consulting. Head to our website to find out how True Culture Coaching and Consulting can support you and your organization, and subscribe to our LinkedIn Newsletter, The Culture Clinic, for more great content. You can find us at truecultureconsulting.com where you can also contact us to schedule a free consultation.

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Join the cohosts and me as we reflect on this journey and enjoy the sampler platter we've prepared for you as we talk about the themes we explored, lessons learned, and incredible growth over the years during what we thought would be the last episode.

But it's not!

OTC is coming back for a 5th season, Fall 2024. Stay tuned!

About This Episode:

Part 1: The Mixed Tape with Jason

• Season 2: I'm Gumbo, Baby! 
• Season 2: What's in a Name? 

Part 2: The Mixed Tape with Shannon, Carmen, and Yolandie

• Season 4: Kickin it with Karlton Hoskins
• Season 1: Coming to Our Census
• Season 3: Good Vibes Family Reunion
• Season 3: Sticks and Stones
• Season 1: Growing Up Ambiguously Across the Generations
• Season 3: Unwrapping the Gift of Dialogue
• Season 3: A Mother's Love
• Season 1: Talking H & M: Race and Royalty

Other Stuff:

• Animated map shows the evolution of American accents
• NPR Code Switch: Talk American
• Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents

Don't forget to check out Dr. Gann's new book, Mixed Signals: A Multiracial Window into Civility and Belonging at Work available in hardcover, paperback, eBook, and audiobook. 

If this is your first time with OTC, check out  EPISODE 1: START HERE for more background on the show. Don't forget to follow us on Instagram

Our True Colors is powered by The Culture Crucible. Go to THE HUB to learn more!
Consider joining the Critical Mixed Race Studies Association!