Forget Sticks and Stones. The N-Word Can Break Bones.

In this episode of Wait, I’m Black?!, Michael sits in conversation with Grace Mosuro – inclusion specialist, speaker and advocate – about moving to the UK as a child, and the experiences that transformed her understanding of race, identity and belonging. Grace reflects on being called the N-word for the first time. Her first reaction was not outrage, but confusion, only gradually realising it was directed at her. They explore what happens when the way you see yourself collides with the way the world sees you, and discuss identity, belonging, exclusion, representation, and the subtle ways people learn where they are – and are not – expected to fit. Grace also reflects on how these experiences have informed her work and her commitment to helping create environments where people feel seen, valued and able to thrive. This is a thoughtful conversation about race, self-discovery, and the moments that can fundamentally change how we understand ourselves and our place in the world. If you would like to follow the journey, you can subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or follow us on Instagram (@wibpodcast). And if you – or someone you know – has a “Wait, I’m Black?!” moment you’d like to share, you are welcome to reach out.