Mindful Inquiry and Better Questions with Ashnie Butler

MESSAGE ME HERE!In this episode of Our True Colors, Dr. Shawna Gann sits down with returning guest Ashnie Butler for a rich conversation about identity, belonging, and the power of asking better questions. Together with Marcel De Jonghe, they explore what happens when curiosity crosses the line into assumption, why certain questions about race and ethnicity can feel intrusive, and how mindful inquiry can help us communicate with more care, honesty, and connection. Ashnie shares how her lived experience as an Indian Trinidadian woman has shaped the way she understands identity, marginalization, and the layered realities of fitting in and standing out.Drawing from her work as a certified professional diversity coach and creator of The Art of Mindful Inquiry, Ashnie offers a grounded framework for slowing down, noticing what is happening in the body, and asking questions from genuine curiosity instead of confirmation bias. This episode speaks directly to anyone navigating racial ambiguity, workplace tension, difficult conversations, or the everyday challenge of building authentic relationships across difference. One of the biggest takeaways is this: questions can either open a door or slam one shut. Mindful inquiry invites us to pause long enough to choose connection.If this conversation resonated with you, subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share this episode with someone who cares about identity, communication, and building deeper human connection.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!