Thank you for tuning in to season eight: “Why is respect in the workplace necessary and important?” See you again in Season 9! 

Connect with Dr. Gaye Lang:

Don’t forget to subscribe to the show, so that you don’t miss a single episode; and please leave a rating and review. I would greatly appreciate it. 

Follow our show on Facebook and check out our Website for more details and to engage with our podcast community. You can also follow Dr. Lang on LinkedIn.

Download Three Vital Practices to avoid a potential lawsuit for free by clicking this link: www.WorkplaceRestorativePracticesInc.com  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaye-lang-1735761b5/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.Gaye.Lang/ 

KEY WORDS: 

Diversity, inclusion, equity, tolerance, racism, bias, implicit bias, and explicit bias.  

Show notes by Podcastologist: Justine Talla

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

Today's guest is Helana Myatt Taylor is a native of Fort Wayne, Indiana. She is a historically black college university graduate, twice removed, completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Maryland, Eastern Shore, earning a dual bachelor's degree in humanity, ecology, slash concentration and dietetics, with a minor in Chemistry and rehabilitation services. 

Helana is adventurous. She threw a coin on the map to decide where she wanted to move. Upon completing her graduate studies, she landed in Houston, Texas in April 2003. She attended Prairie View A&M University, where she received her Masters of Arts in Educational Leadership and Counseling in 2007. Helana has been a vocational rehabilitation counselor and currently is an area business manager for a pharmaceutical company. She is passionate about helping others, with emphasis on health and wellness in children the foster care system. Helena is a proud mother of two. 

In this episode Dr. Gaye Lang and Helana Myatt-Taylor discuss:

• Respecting privacy and avoiding gossip

• Demonstrating professionalism 

• Respectful behavior starts with us. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Respect privacy and avoid gossip to foster meaningful relationships at work

• Demonstrate professional manners like conflict avoidance to increase collaboration, creativity, productivity, and job satisfaction

• Model respectful behavior and prioritize psychological safety to improve performance, health, and idea-sharing

“I like it when the environment where I work in respect your privacy, your personal life. I can be your friend at work. We can be professional colleagues, but friendship outside of my job looks different.” - Helana Myatt-Taylor 

Connect with Dr. Gaye Lang:

Don’t forget to subscribe to the show, so that you don’t miss a single episode; and please leave a rating and review. I would greatly appreciate it. 

Follow our show on Facebook and check out our Website for more details and to engage with our podcast community. You can also follow Dr. Lang on LinkedIn.

Download Three Vital Practices to avoid a potential lawsuit for free by clicking this link: www.WorkplaceRestorativePracticesInc.com  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaye-lang-1735761b5/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.Gaye.Lang/ 

KEY WORDS: 

Diversity, inclusion, equity, tolerance, racism, bias, implicit bias, and explicit bias.  

Show notes by Podcastologist: Justine Talla

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

Kimberly Collins is a dedicated educator, wife and mother of three boys from Houston, Texas. She's a graduate of Prairie View A&M University with 17 years of experience in the field of education as a reading teacher. She is passionate about helping young readers. Kimberly founded the Take The Spotlight Foundation in 2023 to provide mentorship and guidance to young people in Houston and the surrounding areas with her commitment to empowering youth. It's Kimberly's wish to make a positive impact on the lives of the next generation.

In this episode Dr. Gaye Lang and Kimberly Collins discuss:

• Overcoming disrespect with action 

• Benefits of a respectful workplace .

• Promoting respect in the workplace 

Key Takeaways: 

• Proving capabilities through hard work and results can overcome disrespect.

• Increased productivity and creativity, the desire to go above and beyond, and a warm and less stressful environment are some of the benefits of a respectful workplace.

• Modeling respect, communicating issues privately, embracing diversity, and working around differences can promote respect in the workplace.

“Understand that everyone's coming from different walks of life, and either you walk with it or you work around it, that's the best way.” - Kimberly Collins

Connect with Kimberly Collins:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-collins-a0b9ab166/ 

Connect with Dr. Gaye Lang:

Don’t forget to subscribe to the show, so that you don’t miss a single episode; and please leave a rating and review. I would greatly appreciate it. 

Follow our show on Facebook and check out our Website for more details and to engage with our podcast community. You can also follow Dr. Lang on LinkedIn.

Download Three Vital Practices to avoid a potential lawsuit for free by clicking this link: www.WorkplaceRestorativePracticesInc.com  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaye-lang-1735761b5/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.Gaye.Lang/ 

KEY WORDS: 

Diversity, inclusion, equity, tolerance, racism, bias, implicit bias, and explicit bias.  

Show notes by Podcastologist: Justine Talla

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

Debra S. Weatherspoon is a native of New Orleans, Louisiana. She relocated to Houston, Texas after Katrina. She is a graduate of Delhi University and HBCU. Debra graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting. She also graduated from Florida Institute of Technology with an MBA. She retired as senior auditor of the Department of Defense. After 35 years of service, Debra was VP of membership of the American Federation of Government Employees Union and, additionally, the regional treasurer. She has served in numerous financial capacities and many civic public service and private organizations. Debra is also a neighborhood and community activist. 

In this episode, Dr. Gaye Lang and Debra S. Weatherspoon discuss:

• Respect and professionalism

• Benefits of avoiding gossip

• How to model respectful behavior

Key Takeaways: 

• A respectful workplace involves being non-judgmental, showing professional courtesy and manners, respecting privacy, being helpful, listening well, and avoiding gossip, conflict, and petty behavior.

• Respect, good manners, being non-judgmental, and avoiding gossip can reduce stress, and increase productivity, creativity, collaboration, goal achievement, and motivation in the workplace.

• Model respectful behavior, initiate private conversations to address issues, and treat others as you want to be treated.

“We should always remember the golden rule - treat people as you want to be treated. Take that to the workplace and to any organization that you are involved in, that will be positive in any arena.” - Debra S. Weatherspoon

Connect with Debra S. Weatherspoon:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-sterling-weatherspoon-mba-7446763/ 

Connect with Dr. Gaye Lang:

Don’t forget to subscribe to the show, so that you don’t miss a single episode; and please leave a rating and review. I would greatly appreciate it. 

Follow our show on Facebook and check out our Website for more details and to engage with our podcast community. You can also follow Dr. Lang on LinkedIn.

Download Three Vital Practices to avoid a potential lawsuit for free by clicking this link: www.WorkplaceRestorativePracticesInc.com  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaye-lang-1735761b5/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.Gaye.Lang/ 

KEY WORDS: 

Diversity, inclusion, equity, tolerance, racism, bias, implicit bias, and explicit bias.  

Show notes by Podcastologist: Justine Talla

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Melanie Pondant has over 32 years of experience in education as a teacher, assistant principal, associate principal, Director of Secondary Curriculum and Instruction; and middle school principal at a STEAM Academy in Texas. She has also worked closely with district-level instructional specialists and campus-level administration, playing a pivotal role in turning around campuses to meet state accountability requirements within the district, as well as in other districts in the state. As head of school at the STEAM Academy, Melanie Pondant has focused on fostering a culture of high expectations for all students and staff, where she has implemented innovative student courses and programs to create a strong middle-to-high-school transition. Under her leadership, this STEAM Academy has earned the distinction and designation as a Texas School to Watch by the National Forum of Accelerated Middle School Reform, along with the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals. She earned her bachelor's degree from Henderson State University and a Master of Education from Texas A&M University.

In this episode, Dr. Gaye Lang and Melanie Pondant discuss:

• The role of a safe environment in promoting respect 

• The benefits of a respectful workplace. 

• Modeling professionalism and respectfulness 

Key Takeaways: 

• A nonjudgemental and safe environment is important for people to feel respected. Feeling safe and heard is crucial for productivity and creativity. 

• A respectful workplace reduces stress and fosters positive workplace experiences leading to more productivity and creativity of ideas. 

• Model professionalism and uplift others to demonstrate respect. Treat everyone with respect regardless of their position or paycheck. Building confidence in others, and encouraging professional growth, confidence, and respect are interconnected and are all essential for a successful workplace. 

“Diversity is the most important thing in the workplace and society, we all learn from one another.” - Melanie Pondant

Connect with Dr. Gaye Lang:

Don’t forget to subscribe to the show, so that you don’t miss a single episode; and please leave a rating and review. I would greatly appreciate it. 

Follow our show on Facebook and check out our Website for more details and to engage with our podcast community. You can also follow Dr. Lang on LinkedIn.

Download Three Vital Practices to avoid a potential lawsuit for free by clicking this link: www.WorkplaceRestorativePracticesInc.com  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaye-lang-1735761b5/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.Gaye.Lang/ 

KEY WORDS: 

Diversity, inclusion, equity, tolerance, racism, bias, implicit bias, and explicit bias.  

Show notes by Podcastologist: Justine Talla

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

Dr. Danita Bailey-Samples holds a baccalaureate degree from Fisk University, an M.A. degree from George Peabody College for Teachers (currently Vanderbilt-Peabody University), and a Ph.D. in Educational Administration from The University Of Texas at Austin. She has served in various roles with numerous public and private entities. These include teacher in Dayton, Ohio, and Houston, Texas, Department Chairperson in Spring Branch I.S.D., Director of Educational Services at Spring Shadows Glen and the West Oaks and HCA Houston Hospital Systems and Adjunct Professor at the University of Houston. She also served as the Academic Enhancement Administrator, Director Of University Scholars and an Assistant Professor in the Department of Educational Leadership and Counseling at Prairie View A&M University; and Senior Coordinator Of Training and Professional Development at The Texas A&M University System for The Regents’ Initiative of The Texas A&M University System, heading a noted faculty development initiative with all nine universities within this system.

In this episode, Dr. Gaye Lang and Dr. Danita Bailey-Samples discuss:

• Confronting a disrespectful person 

• Showing respect with words and actions 

• The benefits of a respectful environment

• Modeling respect in the workplace

Key Takeaways: 

• Sometimes, the way to address a lack of respect is to confront a person with facts and to set clear expectations. 

• Respect must be shown not only with words but also through actions. A non-judgmental environment where employees feel safe and comfortable sharing their ideas is a place where respect blossoms. 

• Reduced stress, increased productivity, and job satisfaction are some of the benefits of a respectful workplace environment. It also leads to more fun and enjoyment among employees. 

• The best way to encourage people to be respectful is for you to model respect in your own words and actions. Show empathy, say kind words, and practice simple gestures. 

“It’s so important for people to know that they are valued. We need to show people that. We need to show empathy to people. We need to let them know that we understand them.” - Dr. Danita Bailey-Samples

Connect with Dr. Gaye Lang:

Don’t forget to subscribe to the show, so that you don’t miss a single episode; and please leave a rating and review. I would greatly appreciate it. 

Follow our show on Facebook and check out our Website for more details and to engage with our podcast community. You can also follow Dr. Lang on LinkedIn.

Download Three Vital Practices to avoid a potential lawsuit for free by clicking this link: www.WorkplaceRestorativePracticesInc.com  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaye-lang-1735761b5/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.Gaye.Lang/ 

KEY WORDS: 

Diversity, inclusion, equity, tolerance, racism, bias, implicit bias, and explicit bias.  

Show notes by Podcastologist: Justine Talla

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

Charles Johnson is currently a director of customer and agent experience at an insurance company. He is responsible for ensuring that agents, stations, and workstations, provide them with the most effective and efficient technology in the marketplace. His corporate experiences also include several years at NCR and AT&T. Charles is also a retired colonel of the US Army. 

He held several leadership roles, including company and battalion commander. His most enjoyable assignments included time spent at the Pentagon, in the Army Operation Center, and as a battalion commander of a drill sergeant battalion. He is married to Carrie Johnson and they have four adult children, Sydney, Charles the Second, Chad, and Sierra. They also are proud grandparents of Lively and Ever.

In this episode Dr. Gaye Lang and Charles Johnson discuss:

• Finding a solution when disrespected 

• Characteristics of a respectful environment 

• Benefits of a respectful environment 

Key Takeaways: 

• When you are in a situation where you feel disrespected, try to find a solution, seek help from a supervisor, and stand up for yourself. 

• Non-judgemental environments and professional manners make people feel respected at work. Everyone must treat others like an adult in their communication. Respect other people’s worth ethic. 

• A respectful environment leads to increased productivity, better cohesion and collaboration, and job satisfaction. It reduces stress and promotes a better relationship with colleagues. 

“If you have a sense that you're being heard, that people value your opinion, they value your work ethic - all of that leads to a feeling of being respected at work. All of that's that's very important.” - Charles Johnson

Connect with Dr. Gaye Lang:

Don’t forget to subscribe to the show, so that you don’t miss a single episode; and please leave a rating and review. I would greatly appreciate it. 

Follow our show on Facebook and check out our Website for more details and to engage with our podcast community. You can also follow Dr. Lang on LinkedIn.

Download Three Vital Practices to avoid a potential lawsuit for free by clicking this link: www.WorkplaceRestorativePracticesInc.com  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaye-lang-1735761b5/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.Gaye.Lang/ 

KEY WORDS: 

Diversity, inclusion, equity, tolerance, racism, bias, implicit bias, and explicit bias.  

Show notes by Podcastologist: Justine Talla

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

Stephanie Booker is from Alton, Illinois, and is a licensed professional counselor who works at a school as a counselor. Stephanie received her Bachelor's of Arts from Greenville University, Greenville, Illinois, Masters in Education, and a Masters of Arts in Counseling from Missouri Baptist University, St Louis, Missouri. Currently pursuing her doctoral degree from Liberty University, Stephanie has always worked in a helping profession, first as a licensed practical nurse for 19 years. She has been an educator for 10 years. Stephanie's personal motto is, “remember that every stumbling block is merely a stepping stone on your own pathway to success.” In other words, use whatever's tripped you up to lift you up. Stephanie is a member of life changer Community Church in Katy, Texas.

In this episode, Dr. Gaye Lang and Stephanie Booker discuss:

• Stand up for yourself

• Set boundaries 

• Lead by example 

Key Takeaways: 

• Stand up for yourself and address disrespect directly until you are able to gain the respect you deserve.

• Set boundaries and communicate your expectations upfront. Advocate for yourself in advance by clearly establishing your boundaries and what you need to feel respected.

• Model the respectful behavior you want to see from others. Lead by example and treating others the way you want to be treated can help foster a more respectful workplace culture.

“Advocating for yourself is important, and sometimes you have to do that in the beginning so that people already know your boundaries, and then once you set your boundaries and respect your boundaries, you don't let other people disrespect them.” - Stephanie Booker

Connect with Dr. Gaye Lang:

Don’t forget to subscribe to the show, so that you don’t miss a single episode; and please leave a rating and review. I would greatly appreciate it. 

Follow our show on Facebook and check out our Website for more details and to engage with our podcast community. You can also follow Dr. Lang on LinkedIn.

Download Three Vital Practices to avoid a potential lawsuit for free by clicking this link: www.WorkplaceRestorativePracticesInc.com  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaye-lang-1735761b5/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.Gaye.Lang/ 

KEYWORDS: 

Diversity, inclusion, equity, tolerance, racism, bias, implicit bias, and explicit bias.  

Show notes by Podcastologist: Justine Talla

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Ralphaletta Hall is married and is the mother of two children. She is originally from Miami, Florida, and has been living in Houston for 12 years. Ralphaletta graduated from Florida Memorial University with a Bachelor of Science degree in varying exceptionalities. Additionally, she holds a Master of Science degree in reading and learning disabilities from the University of Miami. She has 24 years of teaching experience in the special education department. Currently, Ralphaletta is an art specialist in a Texas public school. 

In this episode Dr. Gaye Lang and Ralphaletta Hall discuss:

• The benefits of cultivating respect

• How respect can create a stress-free workplace

• The universal value of respect and diversity

Key Takeaways: 

• Cultivating a work atmosphere where employees feel genuinely respected leads not only to heightened communication but also to overall job satisfaction.

• Acknowledging the central role respect plays, individuals can adopt strategies that contribute to a constructive and stress-free workplace, garnering esteem from peers and supervisors.

• Emphasizing the value of diversity and universal respect ensures an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of their role, is valued and honored.

“No matter what position you hold, to the highest to the lowest, respect is due to everyone.” - Ralphaletta Hall

Connect with Dr. Gaye Lang:

Don’t forget to subscribe to the show, so that you don’t miss a single episode; and please leave a rating and review. I would greatly appreciate it. 

Follow our show on Facebook and check out our Website for more details and to engage with our podcast community. You can also follow Dr. Lang on LinkedIn.

Download Three Vital Practices to avoid a potential lawsuit for free by clicking this link: www.WorkplaceRestorativePracticesInc.com  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaye-lang-1735761b5/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.Gaye.Lang/ 

KEY WORDS: 

Diversity, inclusion, equity, tolerance, racism, bias, implicit bias, and explicit bias.  

Show notes by Podcastologist: Justine Talla

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

Daniel Bennett is a dedicated leader with over ten years of experience in finance, currently managing the Central Austin branch at WaFd Bank. Originally from Mossville, Louisiana, Daniel holds a BS in management and an MBA, embodying a commitment to continuous learning and growth.

In addition to his financial expertise, Daniel is a visionary advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion. He chairs the BIPOC DEI ERG at WaFd Bank, Chairs the board of A Little Bit of Good nonprofit, and serves as the secretary of the Austin CenTex Chapter of the NABA, as well as recently joining the board of EGBI, fostering community impact and empowerment.

Daniel's creative pursuits include Snapshots by D. Bennett, where his storytelling skills shine through photography and videography, adding depth and resonance to his impactful work. He is also recognized for his work on the award-winning film 'Mossville: When Great Trees Fall,' a powerful exploration of environmental justice issues.

In this episode Dr. Gaye Lang and Daniel Bennett discuss:

• Acknowledging contributions without judgment 

• How collaboration fuels productivity 

• Humility, dignity, and self-assurance

• Empowering communities through active participation 

Key Takeaways: 

• Acknowledgment of authentic contributions without judgment and an emphasis on respecting privacy fosters a culture of trust and genuine relationships among colleagues.

• Brave and open collaboration not only fuels a productive atmosphere but also personal development and reinforcement of a consistent personal brand.

• Presenting oneself with dignity and self-assurance, while maintaining humility, is central to commanding respect and setting the stage for genuine engagement.

• Active participation in community affairs and empowering initiatives showcases a commitment to inclusivity, creating a ripple effect that extends beyond the office walls.

“Respect isn't just given, you have to earn it. And in earning it, I demanded it as well.” - Daniel Bennett

Connect with Daniel Bennett:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-bennett-mba-loyd/ 

Connect with Dr. Gaye Lang:

Don’t forget to subscribe to the show, so that you don’t miss a single episode; and please leave a rating and review. I would greatly appreciate it. 

Follow our show on Facebook and check out our Website for more details and to engage with our podcast community. You can also follow Dr. Lang on LinkedIn.

Download Three Vital Practices to avoid a potential lawsuit for free by clicking this link: www.WorkplaceRestorativePracticesInc.com  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaye-lang-1735761b5/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.Gaye.Lang/ 

KEY WORDS: 

Diversity, inclusion, equity, tolerance, racism, bias, implicit bias, and explicit bias.  

Show notes by Podcastologist: Justine Talla

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.