Pride Month: Diversity and Practical Tips for Difficult Conversations

Explicit content warning

06/14/24 • 43 min

If you haven't already, go back and listen to our What is the Difference Between Discomfort and Insecurity episode here!
Also, before we get started, here are some important concepts we go over:

SOGIE: Sexual Orientation Gender Identity and Expression. We use this acronym as our umbrella term for the conversation

Safe space versus welcoming and inclusive space

Dispelling misinformation: Specific to drag queens and the belief that there is kitty litter in schools... Yes, we sure talk about it!

Attacks on identity and how some people in the SOGIE community lean into parts of self and others lean away

The mental health challenges people in the SOGIE communities face

How to create normalization in conversations

Diversity at the table. Who sits at your table?

Pronouns! Making mistakes is part of learning

The difference between worldview and actions

What is the difference between being a shield and a sword?

Allyship and co-conspiratorship.

Ally is a verb. What actions can we take?

It's Pride Month! On this weeks podcast, Mindbuffs Unlicensed Mental Health Therapist, Dayna will be sharing personal stories and experiences from the LGBTQ+ community. This cast we will focus on sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression (SOGIE) within the 2S LGBTQIA+ community, and providing tools and insights for approaching conversations about diversity and inclusion.
We all come from a wide variety of backgrounds. Dayna idetifies as LQBTQ+ and is married to a transgender person. Mat grew up in a Christian family and played hockey, resulting in a unique upbringing. As such, these two have experienced significant differences in language and attitudes towards non-heteronormative individuals. We know that our different backgrounds influences current perspectives and understanding of these topics.

It can be difficult to reconcile the belief systems we hold from our upbringing. It is for these reasons why it is so important that we have conversations about self-discovery and identity. Open and honest discussion is the best way to foster understanding among such diverse individuals, even if it can be uncomfortable at times.

Speaking of Discomfort, we have a podcast all about it. If you haven't already, go back and listen to our What is the Difference Between Discomfort and Insecurity episode here!

A major problem facing us in the modern world is the role of social media. Social media can lead to polarization of ideals by amplifying minor issues and instilling fear. It presents an exaggerated view of reality, focusing on sensationalism rather than providing a balanced perspective. By distorts conversations, making them aggressive and polarized. A better approach is to express discomfort or suggest changes based on personal experiences. The goal is to foster open conversations regardless of individual backgrounds, validating experiences and adding to them, rather than rejecting them.

Conversations are essential for learning and growth. Asking questions and seeking answers is crucial. Diversity in conversations and communities enriches perspectives. By avoiding defensiveness and promoting open communication we can begin moving from a culture of objections to a culture of collaboration and addition.

Diversity is essential for human progress and development.
As we always say curiosity, not judgment, should be the approach to understanding diversity.

TIMESTAMPS

Introduction to Podcast on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (01:06)
Self Discovery and Identity (02:24)
Promoting Inclusivity in Sports (03:20)
Intro to Conversations (04:17)
Creating Inclusive Environments (05:43)
Importance of Expressing Opinions (06:36)
Creating a Safe Space for Open Communications (07:12)
Promoting Inclusive Conversations (08:06)
"Yes, but" vs "Yes, AND" Culture (09:06)
Social Media's Impact Perception (10:41)
Drag Queens in Schools: A Discussion (12:06)
Addressing Misinformation about Kitty Litter in Schools (16:12)
Addressing Concerns about Parental Involvement in Education (17:21)
Education and Vulnerability (19:18)
Fostering Conversations about Identity and Religion (20:02)
Exploring the Connection Between Worldview and Actions (21:09)
Overvaluing One Aspect of Self (21:55)
Privilege and Visibility (23:44)
Intersectionality and Identity (25:21)
Polarization in Society (26:40)
Embracing Neurodiversity and Unique Experience (27:31)
Normalizing Pronoun Introduction (28:59)
Social Media and Allyship (32:31)
Importance of Conversations and Diversity (39:27)
Diversity and Inclusivity (40:25)

If you haven't already, go back and listen to our What is the Difference Between Discomfort and Insecurity episode here!
Also, before we get started, here are some important concepts we go over:

SOGIE: Sexual Orientation Gender Identity and Expression. We use this acronym as our umbrella term for the conversation

Safe space versus welcoming and inclusive space

Dispelling misinformation: Specific to drag queens and the belief that there is kitty litter in schools... Yes, we sure talk about it!

Attacks on identity and how some people in the SOGIE community lean into parts of self and others lean away

The mental health challenges people in the SOGIE communities face

How to create normalization in conversations

Diversity at the table. Who sits at your table?

Pronouns! Making mistakes is part of learning

The difference between worldview and actions

What is the difference between being a shield and a sword?

Allyship and co-conspiratorship.

Ally is a verb. What actions can we take?

Speaking of Discomfort, we have a podcast all about it. If you haven't already, go back and listen to our What is the Difference Between Discomfort and Insecurity episode here!

Diversity is essential for human progress and development.
As we always say curiosity, not judgment, should be the approach to understanding diversity.

TIMESTAMPS

Previous Episode

Accommodations and Understanding Neurodiversity at Work Pt 2 | Business and Culture Ep 7

Continuing their chat about tangible accommodations for neurodiverse employees, Mat and Shawna dive into the science of neurodiversity. Are we all neurodiverse, or has social media taken over the world of medicine? This episode offers additional tools for you to use or gain a better understanding of, giving a glimpse into the mind of the neurodiverse.

Expanding on the previous episode, we go deeper into strategies that can be put into action. We'll share some tools and insights aimed at benefiting employees, employers, teachers, students, and a variety of environments.

Between work-from-home/hybrid options to open office layouts and bullpens, office life can come in all forms these days. Some people love the freedom of choice, but for some neurodiverse individuals, all these options can come with their own set of challenges. We look at how companies can have conversations with employees to find unique solutions that balance the company's culture and individual needs while promoting a positive company culture. It could be as easy as providing employees with a dedicated workspace or a quiet corner to help them focus and reduce anxiety.

Neurodivergent individuals may experience heightened sensitivity and intensity compared to neurotypical individuals. This sensitivity can contribute to their ability to excel and reach high levels of skill and even genius. For example, it is often their increased sensitivity that allows them to intensely focus on their passions. We explore some other ways employers can create work environments that minimize distractions and support the productivity of neurodivergent individuals.

From dress codes and fluorescent lights, to effective communication and the Pomodoro technique for sustained focus, join us as we delve ever deeper into the fascinating topic of Accommodating and Understanding Neurodiversity in the Workplace.

TIMESTAMPS

Practical Tips for Workplace Diversity (00:08)
Different Preferences for Office Workspaces (01:02)
Addressing Anxiety in Hybrid Work Environments (02:32)
Sensitivity and Neurospicy People (03:26)
Sensory Friendly Workplace (05:14)
Healthy Lifestyle and Sensory Environment (06:00)
Avoiding Interuptions in the Workplace (06:54)
Effective Communication with Diverse Teams (07:38)
Distractions while WOrking From Home (08:20)
Tips for Parents of Neurodivergent Kids (08:59)
Understanding and Addressing Sensory Proccessing
Disorders (10:37)
Neurodiversity and Evolution (11:22)
Sensory Proccessing and Professional Attire (12:03)
Pomodoro Technique and Focus Breaks (15:02)
Optimizing Focus and Productivity (18:18)
Training Management to Handle Situations (20:54)
Psychologiical and Cultural Needs Analysis for Business (21:41)
Differentiate Tik Tok ADHD from Genuine ADHD (22:46)
Time Management Strrategies for Neurospicy Individuals (29:45)
Addressing Frustration in the Workplace (31:25)
Managing Work Environment (34:39)
Understanding Neurodiversity in Decision Making (35:29)
Impact of Technology on Decision Making (36:26)
Tips for Decision Making (38:39)
Effective Communication in the Workplace (39:37)
Exploring Neurodiversity and its Impact on Performance (43:48)Creators & Guests

Mat de Moissac - Host
Shawna Shuster - Guest

Next Episode

What is Confidence? Ep 1

The positive mindset and emotions that come with genuine confidence are so powerful that they can significantly alter our neurochemistry. Dozens of studies in medical journals show that confidence in one's recovery leads to accelerated and longer-lasting healing. In performance, confidence gives us a direct pathway to that sweet, sweet flow state.

Unfortunately, there is no quick fix or simple solution for building confidence; it takes time and effort. It also takes time to explain, which is why we're starting a new series where we dig deep into the subject of confidence: what it means, how to access it, and how it can affect our performance in various situations. This first episode will introduce the topic and its significance.

What is confidence? Confidence can be thought of as a complex system influenced by various factors. Many psychologists separate confidence into two types: trait confidence and situational confidence.

Trait confidence, or more colloquially, self-confidence, is the belief in one's ability to perform a task well. It's about trusting one's ability to engage successfully with the world. It involves various internal and external factors such as skills, abilities, relationships, resilience and engagement. The journey to self-confidence can be long and complex. Commitment to learning and improving in a task you enjoy over time that can be shared with others or just for yourself is the most simplistic way of understanding how to acquire it.

Situational confidence, on the other hand, is the belief in one's ability to succeed in a specific situation. A pianist can often feel very confident when playing along, but if you put that same person in a room full of people, it can begin to feel like the situation is getting in the way of trait confidence. A large portion of sports psychology aims to assist people in maintaining their trait confidence regardless of the situation because our brain likes to think that every new situation requires a new way of performing. Practicing or even visualizing performance in various situations is a very helpful way of ensuring both trait and situational confidence are on the same page.

Our past trauma can also interfere with both types of confidence. Sometimes, the brain associates similar stimuli with past trauma, leading to a reliving of the experience. This can lead to a fight, flight or freeze response that gets in the way of our ability to perform. Most of us know that discussing your past with a professional can help you overcome this emotional response. Still, many of us will wait until another tragedy brings us to our wit's end before we seek help. The reality is that it's actually more effective to work on self-esteem when you're feeling goodish, not when you've hit rock bottom. Therapeutic work is easier during good times and prepares individuals for future struggles. So, take advantage of positive periods in your life to make those challenging internal changes less difficult and time-consuming.

TIMESTAMPS

Understanding Confidence (00:07)
Confidence Building (02:44)
The Importance of Confidence (03:39)
Impact of Confidence on Health and Wellness (05:23)
Understanding Confidence and Flow State (07:42)
Acceptance of Uncertainty (08:39)
Types of Confidence (10:25)
Sports Performance and Trauma (12:35)
The Brain's Adaptation to Negative and Positive Situations (13:25)
Overcoming Self-Doubt (14:31)
Psychological Mindset (15:04)
Understanding Confidence in Sports (15:53)
The Complexity of Build Self-Confidence (16:50)
Understanding Self-Confidence (17:44)
Engaging with the World:: Confidence and Internal Struggles (19:00)
The Role in a Leader in Maintaining Positivity (20:05)
Confidence and Authenticity (20:47)
Different Therapeutic Modalities (21:45)
Changing Internal Narratives (22:23)
Understanding Situational Confidence (23:38)
Self-Efficacy (24:33)
Psychological Therapy (28:49)
Overcoming the Brain's Negativity (29:42)
Complexity of Brain Recalibration (33:05)
Introducing Our New Series (34:31)