Our True Colors

By: Shawna Gann
  • Summary

  • Our True Colors is a podcast that explores the challenges of being racially ambiguous and focuses on identity and belonging. What’s it like when you fit everywhere yet belong nowhere all at the same time? If you or someone you care about might be considered a racial riddle, an ethnic enigma, or a cultural conundrum, this show is for you! Conversations are facilitated by your host, Dr. Shawna Gann, along with guest co-hosts who join each season.

    Our True Colors is an extension of True Culture Coaching and Consulting, a firm dedicated to enhancing workplace culture through the principles of business psychology and diversity, equity, and inclusion. For more information and to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Gann, visit www.truecultureconsulting.com.

    © 2024 Our True Colors
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Episodes
  • Cafecito, Culture, and Connection: The Power of Sisterhood in DEI Spaces
    Nov 4 2024

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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.

    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 ch

    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 and follow us on Instagram and new for Season 5, check us out on YouTube, and TikTok.

    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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    41 mins
  • Authenticity Under Pressure: The Evolving Role of DEI and Mixed-Race Identity
    Oct 15 2024

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    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.

    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






    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 and follow us on Instagram and new for Season 5, check us out on YouTube, and TikTok.

    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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    42 mins
  • Beyond Your Zip Code Story: Exploring Background, Bias, and Growth
    Oct 1 2024

    Join the conversation — Send a Text Message!

    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.

    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

    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 and follow us on Instagram and new for Season 5, check us out on YouTube, and TikTok.

    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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    55 mins

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