DiversityNL Podcast

Stephanie welcomes special guest Maria Murphy, an expert in feminist theory, gender and sexuality studies, and media communications. Maria discusses her 12-year academic journey at the University of Pennsylvania and her challenges in advocating for inclusivity and diversity, particularly in onboarding trans employees. Back in Canada and working with Bloom Funding, Maria shares her experiences with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and their efforts toward sustainability and inclusivity. The discussion delves into the importance of aligning workplace policies with employee well-being and social responsibility, highlighting strategies for meaningful engagement and the business case for diversity and inclusiveness.

In this episode, we talk with a businessperson, musician, and newly acclaimed author, Steve Randell. Steve shares his insights on living a fulfilling life despite experiencing unimaginable tragedy, including the loss of his son, Zach. Through years of therapy and personal growth, he learned that happiness and grief can coexist. Steve discusses the importance of resilience, the power of treatment, and finding meaning in difficult times. He also talks about his book and the impact it aims to have. Join us for this heartfelt and empowering conversation.

We are joined by Joanna Brown, a notable figure in the tech space and the founder of Rivet, a consulting firm. Joanna discusses her journey in tech, emphasizing the importance of stepping outside of one’s comfort zone for growth. She shares her experience navigating her career while blending her personal and professional identities, mainly focusing on her queer identity. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by the 2SLGBTQ+ community, particularly the trans community, in the workplace and society. Joanna highlights the importance of representation and authenticity and her efforts to support tech companies in their growth phases. She also discusses her plans for Rivet, including developing a digital sales toolkit to assist early-stage companies. Listeners can reach out to Joanna via LinkedIn or the RivetGrowth.com website.

In this engaging episode, Gina Battye returns to share her journey into the field of psychological safety and workplace cultures. She recounts her early career experiences that influenced her to start the Psychological Safety Institute. Gina delves into the responsibilities of leaders, HR, and managers in fostering a psychologically safe environment and offers practical tips for creating inclusive and thriving workplaces. The conversation also touches upon the interplay between psychological safety and inclusion, providing valuable insights and actionable advice for leaders at all levels.

In this episode, Jacqueline Lee discusses the crucial role of immigration in Newfoundland, given the province's negative birth rate. She emphasizes the importance of improving immigration policies and support systems to help newcomers thrive. Jacqueline shares insights from various newcomers, highlighting the community's efforts and challenges in creating a welcoming environment. She discusses programs like the Atlantic Immigration Program and the significance of continuous, genuine engagement in building inclusive workplaces. The conversation touches on the importance of language, psychological safety, and the ongoing journey of learning and adapting to support diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Kelly Ryan talks about her diverse background, from chef to holistic nutritionist, and how it led her to create Nerdy Nutrition. Ryan shares her insights on the interconnectedness of personal health, workplace wellness, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Discussion includes understanding the needs of employees, implementing practical wellness solutions in the workplace, and the benefits of a diverse and inclusive corporate culture. Tune in for tips on anti-inflammatory diets, stress management, and the significance of being an intentional and model leader.

Stephanie welcomes a special guest, Jeremy Bennett, back to the podcast to discuss techniques for calming the mind and improving one’s mindset. Sharing his journey with OCD, Jeremy delves into the brain’s inability to distinguish between actual events and thoughts and how this realization transformed his approach to life. He introduces the concept of the Reticular Activating System and emphasizes the importance of mindset and breaking the cycle of negative thoughts. Jeremy also shares his public speaking experiences and challenges in overcoming stage fright. You'll learn practical methods to manage stress and improve your mental well-being by tuning in. Don't miss out on this insightful and supportive conversation!

In this episode of DiversityNL Podcast, we are joined by Costanza Safatle, CEO of Newbornlander and former Dragon's Den participant. Cost anza shares her inspiring journey from immigration to entrepreneurship, shedding light on her personal and business definitions of success. She emphasizes the importance of time management, mentoring, and having a social impact, mainly through hiring and empowering women. Costanza discusses her vision for Newbornlander as a leading social enterprise in Canada and reflects on her experiences on national platforms like Dragon's Den and Canada Post. Tune in for insights on embracing challenges, believing in one's potential, and driving change as a leader committed to diversity and community growth.

This week, Stephanie talks with Joanna Brown to explore the concept of a growth mindset and its crucial role in entrepreneurship. Joanna shares her insights on resilience, navigating the tech industry, and the challenges of building a business. They discuss the importance of a supportive network and how mentors, allies, and authentic relationships contribute to professional and personal growth. The conversation also touches on the impact of diversity and inclusion in the business world, the importance of amplifying others' voices, and finding a balance between work and personal life. Joanna emphasizes the value of kindness, celebrating small wins, and the legacy we want to leave in our communities.

Host Stephanie welcomes special guest Maria Murphy, who shares her intriguing journey from academia to queer performance and voice processing. Maria, with a background in music and music history, delves into how voice can explore gender and sexuality, talking about her PhD research on performance artists like Laurie Anderson. The conversation covers the fascinating history of voice processing technologies, such as Auto-Tune, their military origins, and their artistic applications. Maria also touches on contemporary queer and trans activism, her unique performances, and the importance of community spaces. The episode concludes with Maria performing an original poem using voice transformation.

In this episode, Kelly Ryan from Nerdy Nutrition discusses the significance of health and wellness programs for companies of all sizes. The conversation covers how small companies can implement wellness strategies, the benefits of focusing on employee's health, and practical tips for fueling the body with natural foods. They also delve into the impact of stress on digestion and overall well-being and the importance of a positive workplace culture. Kelly shares insights on the role of mindset in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and guides how companies can assess and improve their wellness programs. Listeners will gain valuable knowledge on creating a supportive, health-conscious environment for their teams.

Meet Costanza, an immigrant entrepreneur and CEO of Newbornlander. Costanza shares her inspirational journey from arriving in Canada at 26 to becoming a commercial lawyer and eventually establishing her own business. She discusses the challenges and opportunities of being an immigrant and her experience in Dragon's Den. Costanza reveals how she taught herself to sew, started a business creating baby accessories, and built a supportive community for fellow immigrant women. She emphasizes the power of reinvention, the importance of addressing immigrant women's unique struggles, and her role in fostering a space for economic independence and empowerment. Costanza also highlights the systemic obstacles for immigrant entrepreneurs and advocates for better support from institutions. Her story is one of resilience, innovation, and community impact.

Stephanie chats with Jacqueline Lee, CEO of PolyUnity and co-founder of the women's peer group Tequity+. Jacqueline shares insights into the foundation and impact of Tequity+, a group that supports gender representation and facilitates DEI conversations among business leaders. The discussion covers the personal and professional growth fostered through these meetings, the challenges women face in the workplace, and the importance of community support. Jacqueline also speaks about her efforts to integrate DEI principles at PolyUnity and her advocacy for Indigenous communities, highlighting her journey as the mother of an Inuit child. Tune in to hear how purposeful actions and collective efforts drive meaningful change in the community.

In this episode of The DiversityNL Podcast,  Rhodes Perry, a renowned DEI expert, author, and consultant, joins the show to discuss the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) in the workplace. The conversation delves into why some organizations are omitting 'equity' from their DEI efforts and the implications of this decision. Rhodes emphasizes the significance of creating a culture of belonging, the role of employee resource groups (ERGs), and the impact of effective training and development in fostering inclusive work environments. He also shares personal experiences and insights on overcoming resistance to DEI initiatives, building psychological safety, and the broader vision of achieving workplace culture transformation.

In this episode, Steve Randell, also known as Steve, shares his profound journey of dealing with his son Zach's mental health and addiction issues. Reflecting on their first informal meeting 12 years ago and Steve's passion for music, the conversation delves into the impact of addiction on families and the motivation behind Steve's book "My Child is an Addict: Navigating Through Your Child’s Addiction." Discussing the challenges of navigating the system, the emotional toll, and the importance of the three C’s—Cause, Control, Cure—Steve offers insights and hope for families going through similar struggles. The episode concludes with information on purchasing the book and connecting with Steve for continued support.

In this episode of the DiversityNL Podcast, we sit down with Jeremy Bennett, a writer and advocate, to discuss his journey with OCD and anxiety. Beginning with symptoms in grade 7, Jeremy shares how he struggled with obsessive behaviours and rituals, eventually discovering the term OCD through a magazine article. His story highlights the importance of seeking help and the profound impact of sharing personal experiences. As Jeremy talks about his transition from business presentations to speaking about mental health, he reveals how connecting with others who share similar struggles has been both challenging and empowering. This episode explores the power of vulnerability and the belief that sharing our stories can lead to greater understanding and support for those affected by mental health issues.

In this episode, Gina Battye, author of 'The Authentic Organization,' discusses the comprehensive concept of psychological safety in the workplace. The conversation highlights the common misconceptions around speak-up culture and interpersonal risk-taking, and emphasizes the need for a multidimensional approach to creating a truly psychologically safe environment. Gina shares insights on the importance of foundational elements, such as self-awareness, communication skills, and authentic self-expression for fostering a thriving workplace culture. Get Gina's Book here: https://www.ginabattye.com/authentic-self-at-work/

Welcome to the DiversityNL podcast, where we explore real-life and vulnerable topics on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. I'm Stephanie Howlett, your guide on this journey to embrace and celebrate our differences.  I'm all about having real conversations with people who share their inspiring stories that challenge the status quo. Each episode unpacks the ways inclusion opens up doors, creates innovations within business, why belonging is a superpower, and how equity is not just a buzzword - it's a real game changer. Let's create change together, have an impact, and make the world more vibrant one episode at a time!

Joanne Bath led teams committed to advancing life-changing health research and care in the Maritimes, across Canada, and beyond. With more than 20 years of experience in the philanthropic, health and health research fields, Bath’s knowledge and expertise have been instrumental to the success of major organizations over the years, including DMRF and the IWK Foundation. Over the past decade, Bath has worked diligently to build and lead high-performing teams, and has helped those teams raise millions of dollars through entrepreneurial thinking, meticulous vision, fundraising acumen and thoughtful leadership. Hailing from small-town Newfoundland, Bath strongly values community, connection and genuine relationships—values upon which she has built her rewarding career. Throughout her career, and truly in her time with DMRF, she has been a critical linkage between researchers and donors and between partner organizations who have a shared vision broadly or in specific areas of interest. For example, she played a key role in the creation of NS COVID-19 Health Research Coalition, unlocking $1.5M from 8 partnering organizations. Bath is an active member in her community and has contributed to several volunteer boards over the years, including Chisholm Services for Children, the Association of Fundraising Professionals of Nova Scotia, and Pier Labs. As a member of the Institute of Corporate Directors and Women Get on Board, Joanne has been taking advantage of the opportunities afforded to her to deepen her knowledge regarding good board governance. A strong believer in female ingenuity and a belief in the vision of Sandpiper Venture "to radically disrupt the venture capital landscape, deliver social change and economic value, and ensure fair representation of women’s innovation", Joanne has invested in this important endeavor. Bath holds a Bachelor of Social Work from Memorial University of Newfoundland. Music from ⁠#Uppbeat⁠ (free for Creators!): ⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/infraction/live-it⁠ License code: ZPT6QDNFAO6HWLO8 ⁠#podcast⁠ ⁠#diversity⁠ ⁠#lgbtq⁠ ⁠#inclusion

Morgen Mills is a former member of Canada's women's chess team.  She lives and works in Labrador as a publisher, consultant, and the co-owner of Brack and Brine. She is also writing her PhD dissertation on Labrador literature, through Memorial University. https://brackandbrine.com/ Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/infraction/live-it License code: ZPT6QDNFAO6HWLO8 #podcast #diversity #lgbtq #inclusion

Amy Harrison is the Founder & Force of Pixels & Pieces Design. She is a graphic and web designer from Halifax, Nova Scotia with over 20 years of experience. She is a neurodiverse optimist who wants to empower others so that we see opportunity. After spending time working in traditional environments like large government and academic institutions, she has cultivated her ideal lifestyle as an entrepreneur. She loves helping small business owners gain confidence in their branding with her DIY friendly approach. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/infraction/live-it License code: ZPT6QDNFAO6HWLO8 #podcast #diversity #lgbtq #inclusion

Gill Whelan is the founder and owner of Whelan Wellness Inc., and creator of the Whelan Wellness Virtual Bootcamp program: a holistic approach to Wellness. She works with clients globally to improve their wellness in order to grow into their absolute best selves, and live a purposeful and fulfilling life. She also hosts the podcast titled "For the Well of it", serving up powerful doses of every day inspiration. Gill is on a mission to shift the way we look at wellness, in order to rebuild relationships with food and fitness and help us learn to love our present selves - inside and out. Based on her journey to overcoming her own experiences with restrictive dieting and body image issues, she developed a 4-pillar system that is helping thousands of others globally accomplish the same. Leadership is Gill's middle name, and she does so passionately and unapologetically, and thrives on helping other leaders grow and develop to their full potential. Gill has studied under experts in fitness, health, nutrition, mindset, and overall wellness all over the world. She now has decades of experience coaching thousands of individuals toward elevating their health, wellness, and overall life. Gill holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Memorial University in St. John’s, NL. As a trailblazer in the world of leadership, motivational speaking, online connection and holistic wellness, Gill has been recognized by VOCM, CBC, Rogers TV, CTV news, NTV News, Atlantic Business Magazine, Best Health Magazine and All Newfoundland and Labrador. For 3 years now, (2021, 2022, and 2023) Whelan Wellness won the top platinum level awards in St. John's Community Votes in all categories: Nutrition & Weight Loss, Fitness Centres & Gyms, and Personal Trainer. In 2021 Gill was awarded an Entrepreneur of the Year award through NLOWE, in the category of Momentum. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/infraction/live-it License code: ZPT6QDNFAO6HWLO8 #podcast #diversity #lgbtq #inclusion

Schuyler is a seasoned advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) with over two decades of experience. They hold a Canadian Certified Inclusion Professional (CCIP) certification and has been recognized as an up-and-coming 2SLGBTQ+ leader by Pride at Work Canada’s Thrive program. They have helped build national momentum for non-profit and charitable organizations through fundraising, government relations, and community engagement. Schuyler's DEI leadership spans various communities and cultures, connecting with individuals at all levels from the executive suite to new hires. They excel at bridging gaps and promoting equity, accessibility, and belonging through policy and action within organizations, as well as building and strengthening relationships with external communities to form lasting partnerships. In addition to their DEI expertise, Schuyler is a skilled communicator, speaker and digital media strategist. Their compelling voice and strategic use of social media has been used to amplify important messages and drive positive social impact. Throughout their career, Schuyler has built strong relationships and collaborated with high-profile clients in education, public, and business sectors, with a deep focus on building capacity within Atlantic Canada.  Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/infraction/live-it License code: ZPT6QDNFAO6HWLO8 #podcast #diversity #lgbtq #inclusion

An award-winning former CEO and seasoned entrepreneur, Cathy's focus today continues to be growth. With over 35 years of business leadership, her own company Bennett Group of Companies grew from a small group of service businesses to operations in commercial and industrial construction, industrial manufacturing, human resource support, service, retail, industrial supply, and real estate investments and operations. She is also one of the founders and General Partners of Sandpiper Ventures, a venture capital fund created and launched to invest in women and women’s innovation as a proactive and profitable business decision. Sandpiper was one of the first venture funds in Canada investing in women-led companies at the seed stage, and the first on the east coast. Focused on supporting start-ups Cathy is an associate fellow with the Creative Destruction Lab, and a board member with Propel ICT, Atlantic Canada’s Virtual Accelerator, a mentor with the Pei Bioalliance. She has served on numerous private and public corporate boards with interests in real estate, natural resources, manufacturing, industrial construction, technology, and business services. She is currently an Independent Board Director Marathon Gold and the Business Development Bank of Canada. First elected in 2013 as a Member of the Newfoundland & Labrador House of Assembly, Cathy went on to serve in Cabinet as Minister of Finance, President of Treasury Board, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women, and the Office of the Chief Information Officer. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/infraction/live-it License code: ZPT6QDNFAO6HWLO8 #podcast #diversity #lgbtq #inclusion

As Vice President Business Markets for RBC, Colin Krulicki is responsible for the overall management of RBC’s Small & Medium Size Business Client base across Atlantic Canada. His team of Leaders & Relationship Managers stretch across all 4 provinces in every city and most towns, and they would support over 9,500 clients. Colin has more than 29 years’ experience in the financial services sector. His career has encompassed management positions in Retail Banking, Commercial Banking, Group Risk Management, Private Banking, Human Resources and Career Sales. Prior to this assignment that he took 18 months ago, Colin was the Regional Vice President for Newfoundland & Labrador. Colin has strong connections across the province and is active in the community, including serving as Board Member of the Janeway Foundation, and past Board Member of Choices for Youth in St. John’s. He is also the Chair of the RBC Diversity & Inclusion Council for Atlantic Canada. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/infraction/live-it License code: ZPT6QDNFAO6HWLO8 #podcast #diversity #lgbtq #inclusion

Chris Forward is the General Manager of Harvey’s Oil and Harvey’s Home Heating. He has been part of the Harvey’s team since 2008 and now oversees operations that guide the strategic direction of the organization and day to day management of over 7000+ energy utility customers in Newfoundland and Labrador. Chris has established a reputation for positive, innovative leadership, having fostered longstanding relationships within the organization, with its customers, and within the community. From inspiring front-line team members, to being a consistent voice for equality and inclusivity, personally and professionally. A champion of local and national causes, Chris his vast record of volunteering and strategic council for organizations such as Pride at Work Canada, Petro Canada Caremakers Foundation, and Boys and Girls Clubs of St. John’s, in addition to a broad spectrum of deserving causes in Newfoundland and Labrador, and beyond. Chris has been a champion for the queer community, spearheading and supporting several pride events on the Island, including 2022's Drag Bingo and St. John's annual Pride on The Pier (a family focused celebration of warmth, love, and pride in the heart of downtown), proceeds of which went directly to Quadrangle – an essential space serving as a community centre for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and organizations. Chris continues to be a force for change, and leadership example for the business community and queer community as well. #inclusion #workplace #lgbtq Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/infraction/live-it License code: ZPT6QDNFAO6HWLO8

Alison Butler is from St. John’s, Newfoundland. She holds a Masters in Employment Relations from Memorial University and has 17 years of experience as a trainer and speaker for workplaces. She is a mother, mental wellbeing advocate, and has lived experience with mental health that came to light in her late 30's as a working professional. She believes that we can create change in our workplaces by normalizing conversations around mental wellbeing, stress, burnout and more and is well known for “real talk” about mental wellness in a way that everyone can understand. She is a business owner with a training focus on mental health, wellbeing, stress management, burnout prevention and work-life balance. She is a Certified Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Trainer through the Mental Health Commission of Canada and teaches courses virtually and in person across Canada. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/infraction/live-it License code: ZPT6QDNFAO6HWLO8 #podcast #mentalhealth #wellness #wellbeing #stressrelief

Didan Wedderburn is a Migrant Integration Specialist and the author of the upcoming book, "The Resilient Foreigner's Toolkit." Through her consultancy, Resilient Foreigner, Didan has been helping people working or studying abroad to develop the adaptability skills and resilience-building habits they need to thrive in new and strange places. Born and raised in Jamaica, Didan has spent more than 20 years travelling and thriving throughout the Caribbean, North America, Africa, Europe, and Asia. These journeys allowed her to become uniquely familiar with many of the hurdles and hassles people face when acclimating to a new country. By leaning into her professional expertise in the fields of guidance counselling, second language education and cross-cultural adaptation, Didan developed a resilience-based framework for social integration. Of the 281 million study permit and work permit holders worldwide, Didan's goal is to equip 1 million foreigners to conquer the acculturation process, so they can bounce back from crisis and thrive in their host countries. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/infraction/live-it License code: ZPT6QDNFAO6HWLO8

JENNIFER BROWN is an award-winning entrepreneur, speaker, diversity and inclusion consultant, and author. As the successful Founder and CEO of Jennifer Brown Consulting (JBC), Jennifer and her team are well-known for their process of designing workplace strategies and educational programming that have been implemented by some of the biggest companies and non-profits in the US and around the world, including FedEx, Hearst, American Red Cross, Under Armor, Major League Baseball, NBA, Toyota, Wells Fargo and many more. Jennifer envisions inclusive organizations where all of us can thrive. As someone who has experienced both the advantages of privilege and the sting of stigma, Jennifer is boldly redefining what it means to truly belong—in the workplace, in our families, and in our communities – and openly shares her powerful and unforgettable true story with audiences to help us challenge our assumptions—about ourselves, about leaders, and others—and take inspired action today for a more inclusive tomorrow. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/infraction/live-it License code: ZPT6QDNFAO6HWLO8 #podcast #diversity #inclusion

Judy White is a Mi’kmaq, a member of the Flat Bay Band, and a King’s Counsel lawyer with significant experience in human rights issues, Indigenous governance, and legislative matters.Judy White was previously the Assistant Deputy Minister of Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation in the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and, through an interchange arrangement, served as Director of Engagement for Distinctions-based Legislation with the Government of Canada.She has worked on numerous boards and in governance, serving many agencies in various capacities, including as the former Chairperson of the Human Rights Commission of Newfoundland and Labrador, Chair of the Inuvialuit Arbitration Board, and Co-Chair (Indigenous) of Equal Voice’s Newfoundland and Labrador chapter.In 2022, Judy White received the Governor General’s Award in Commemoration of the Persons Case in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the advancement of gender equality. She is also the 2023 recipient of the prestigious Gordon M. Stirling Distinguished Service Award from the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador.Senator Judy White holds a Bachelor of Laws from Dalhousie University with a particular emphasis on Indigenous law. She also completed the Intensive Program in Indigenous Lands, Resources, and Governments at York University’s Osgoode Hall Law School, the Leading People and Investing to Build Sustainable Communities Program – an Indigenous certificate program – at Harvard Business School, and the Chartered Director Program at McMaster University. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/infraction/live-itLicense code: ZPT6QDNFAO6HWLO8 #podcast #change #senator #canada #indigenous #lgbtq

A Red Seal Electrician, JoJo Greeley works to promote and advocate for women working in skilled building trades. JoJo thrives on helping and supporting people to live their best lives. The world as we know it is changing rapidly and Joann’s eagerness to support that change and the people around her makes her a leader in both industry and community. Diagnosed with ADHD at 52 has opened a new world where she is discovering her challenges and how they are intertwined into her life. It’s a new journey that she is taking head on. Jojo is also a 500HR certified yoga instructor.She loves to share her story and success in skilled trades. While not sugar coating the environment she has lots of funny stories. Chosen as a Governor General Leader, she knows the important work that has been done and needs to happen in the future. Her passion is supported by her values and integrity. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/infraction/live-it License code: ZPT6QDNFAO6HWLO8

For the past 30 years, Dr. Manju Varma has focused on issues pertaining to diversity and anti-racism in the Atlantic Region. From 2001-2008, she was an Assistant Professor with the University of New Brunswick in the department of Education. Later, she joined the Federal government where she worked on portfolios that included Indigenous issues, multiculturalism, anti-racism, mental health, accessibility, and conflict management. She also co-owns Engaging Matters Diversity Consultants, a business that teaches organizations how to be inclusive and anti-discriminatory.  In October 2021, Manju was appointed as New Brunswick’s Commissioner on Systemic Racism - this position is the first of its kind in Canada.   Currently, she is the Executive Director of the department of Human Rights, Equity and Inclusion for the Nova Scotia Community College. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/infraction/live-it License code: ZPT6QDNFAO6HWLO8

A member of Qalipu First Nation, Tera McDonald (she/they) is the owner of Kalawikk (Gal-a-wikk) and the soon to open Kalawikk micro Gallery. Through Kalawikk, a social enterprise, Tera leverages 20 years of accommodations experience in communications education to exact greater impact in inclusivity, accessibility, diversity, and equitability standards for clients. Training is offered in full and half day sessions and aligns clients ranging from educational institutions, tourism operators, to health providers, with actionable inclusion tools to build Kind Spaces. This training is guided by the CLEAR framework which was developed by Kalawikk through 2022-2023 to emphasize action over awareness to support inclusive behaviour development. Alongside working to create Kind Spaces, Tera combines her communications knowledge with digital art through illustration, branding and marketing materials, and personal expression. A graphic designer and lifelong artist, Tera’s artwork can be found on Quidi Vidi Artist Series beer cans, local posters for plays, and business’ storefronts and webpages. Tera’s work was nominated for and awarded the International Association of Business Communicator’s NL Chapter Pinnacle Award for Creative Design in 2019. Now developing Kalawikk micro Gallery, Tera aims to provide NL’s Indigenous artists a decolonized space in which to share and sell their artwork. This intimate space, which plans to open late summer 2023, will be reservation only and provide small, interactive group engagements in a Kind Space to explore and discuss Indigenous artwork. Over the years, as an individual and working through Kalawikk, Tera has worked with Indigenous communities and organizations within NL such as Shushepishipan Ishpitentamun Mitshuap Inc. and Empowering Indigenous Women for Stronger Communities. Currently, Tera guest facilitates in the Indigenous Leadership Development Institute’s Community LeadershipTraining program and is committed to building leadership capacity in Indigenous women across Canada. For more information pertaining to Kalawikk, please visit: www.Kalawikk.com. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/infraction/live-itLicense code: ZPT6QDNFAO6HWLO8

Michael Bach is a nationally and internationally recognized thought leader and subject matter expert in the fields of inclusion, diversity, equityand accessibility. He is the founder of the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI), CCDI Consulting and Pride at Work Canada. Michael has worked professionally in the areas of inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility for nearly 20 years, most recently as the founding CEO of CCDI and CCDI Consulting. Prior to taking on this role, he was the national leader for diversity, equity, and inclusion for KPMG Canada. Additionally, Michael spent 2½ years as Deputy Chief Diversity Officer for KPMGInternational.Over the course of his career, Michael has received repeated recognition for his work, including being named: -Women of Influence’s Canadian Diversity Champions -Catalyst Canada Honours Human Resources/Diversity Leader -Inspire Award as LGBTQ Person of the Year -Out on Bay Street Leaders to be Proud of LGBT Advocate Workplace Award -Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council’s IS Award -Canadian HR Reporter Individual Achievement Award Under Michael’s leadership, CCDI and CCDI Consulting received numerous awards, including winning the Canadian HR Reporter Readers’ Choice Awardin the category of Diversity/Employment Equity Consultantin all the years the award has been given out (2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022). Michael has a Post-Graduate Certificate in Diversity Management from Cornell University and holds the Cornell Certified Diversity Professional, Advanced Practitioner (CCDP/AP) designation.His 2020 book Birds of All Feathers: Doing Diversity and Inclusion Rightis a Globe and Mail, Toronto Star, and Amazon best-seller, and recipient of the silver 2020 Nautilus Book Award in the category of Rising to the Moment. His new book Alphabet Soup: The Essential Guide to LGBTQ2+ Inclusionwas released in March of 2022 and is a Toronto Start best-seller.He lives in Toronto with his husband Mike, and their two fur-babies Sasha and Pepper. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/infraction/live-it License code: ZPT6QDNFAO6HWLO8

Charlie Murphy (pronouns he, him, they, them) is a long-time 2SLGBTQIA+ and sexual health activist Charlie Murphy (pronouns he, him, they, them) is a long-time 2SLGBTQIA+ and sexual health activist currently residing in what is colonially known as St. John’s NL and is the Executive Director of Quadrangle NL, the only solely mandated registered 2SLGBTQIA+ charity creating a Provincial 2SLGBTQIA+ Community Centre with dedicated programs and services for the province. For the past 12 years he has worked for the community through a number of organizations like PFLAG St. John’s chapter as a peer support facilitator, a former board member of St. John’s Pride,  is currently the Newfoundland and Labrador representative for The Enchante Network and sits as a RAB member of the Reaching Home Indigenous NL, is the 2021 Building Healthy Communities Award recipient from the City of St. John’s as volunteer of the year.

Jason Stock (He/Him) is a member of the local Newfoundland tech community, currently employed by PolyUnity Tech. Jason is five years sober, neurodiverse and a self-admitted work in progress regarding DEIB. He is a husband, has 2 Teenage sons and practices jiujitsu. His favourite quote is "We can do hard things" by Glennon Doyle Melton.

Kathy Hawkins is the Executive Director of Empower, The Disability Resource Centre which provides corporate service province-wide under InclusionNL: Employer Support Services. Kathy provides support and services to employers interested in creating more inclusive workplace environments for current and new employees with multiple types of disabilities.  In this capacity she advises employers and businesses on all facets of creating barrier-free work environments & building accessibility confidence including; recruitment & hiring, accessibility reviews of physical locations, reasonable workplace adjustments & employee accommodations, as well as staff training & professional development. Kathy also provides expertise to businesses interested in creating accessible websites, technical applications and mobile apps and holds professional certification in website accessibility from the University of South Australia. Kathy is currently the President of the DisAbled Women’s Network of Canada, served on the Board of the NL Association of the Deaf for eight years, and is an active member of the International Association of Accessibility Professionals.

Jenny Brake (she/her) is the Western Vice Chief of Qalipu First Nation, and the Chair of Empowering Indigenous Women for Stronger Communities. Through these organizations, Jenny works to build capacity through education, enterprise and cultural wellness. With the support of her three children, Jenny is committed to the growth and preservation of Indigenous values and traditions. She is an artist and well known for her contribution to the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls memorial Mikwite’km Garden in Corner Brook, NL, with her centrepiece image “Don’t Forget Me, Mukk-aqanta’sualiq” Jenny is also a welder by trade and is a director for the Labrador Office for Indigenous and Northern Skilled Trades where she helps increase career opportunities in skilled trades and advocates for diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Jenny currently works at NLITA as events Coordinator.

Laurabel Mba is a Communications, Marketing and Fund Development Specialist and a mom to a 4-year-old boy. She recognizes and has lived experiences of the disparities in society for BIPOC, marginalized and underrepresented communities. She lends her voice and leverages her experiences to bring their concerns and struggles to the decision-making table. She is one of the hosts of Rogers TV's "Out of the Fog" show. Laurabel enjoys shining light on those working hard and smart to make Newfoundland and Labrador a more welcoming province as well as those striving to improve the lives of all who call it home. As a member of the Anti-racism Coalition of Newfoundland and Labrador, a member of both the St. John's Status of Women Council and Happy City St. John's. She works with a wide variety of like-minded individuals to improve the experiences of marginalized communities in our province. Her activist spirit became public after the murder of George Floyd. The unfortunate incident inspired her to write a series of poems focused on the black experience and fighting racism and prejudice. Laurabel Mba is involved in numerous campaigns focused on advocacy on issues about 2slgbtq+ representation, inclusion and diversity in politics and mental health. As the founder of Race 2 Dinner NL chapter, she actively confronts racism and white supremacy and empowers White Allies to be powerful advocates. Individuals.

The conversation is real, raw and vulnerable. Meet my first  guest who is my person, the voice of techNL podcast, “Creators at The World's Edge,” CEO and business owner who helps niche firms implement sales strategy, sales process, and sales training. Carol jumped off the corporate ladder after 20 years in oil and gas, as VP Sales and Marketing for one of the largest privately held companies in Atlantic Canada managing over $200M annually to develop and launch The Leap Method. Over the last 10 years, Carol has focused on experiential learning, in sales training and career growth. During this episode have a listen as we talk about life, our partnership, business and belonging. Learn about sales and sale strategies Creating culture in organizations What does belonging look like? And so much more…