Stop Playing Diversity® with Dr. Monica Cox

Originally released 10/22/2021 Confrontation and accountability—two words that can make people uncomfortable, but they’re essential if you're serious about doing meaningful diversity work. In this episode, we explore why these concepts matter and how to use them with clarity and confidence. These aren't just buzzwords—they’re tools for transformation. Don’t be afraid to name harm, challeng...

Originally released 11/19/2021 This episode extends ideas of cognitive dissonance presented in Dr. Joy DeGruy’s book, Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome . We’re focusing on what happens when there’s a gap between the diversity words people say and the diversity work they actually do. Whether you’re a leader, practitioner, or someone simply trying to hold your organization accountable, this conversation...

Originally released 12/03/2021 This word is overused and an excuse many organizations use to prevent diversity efforts from succeeding. Listen to this week's episode to determine if this word is overused in your environment too.

Originally published 2/7/2022 People often ask me how much “pain” they should endure when diversity efforts fall short in their organization. It’s a hard question with no one-size-fits-all answer, but it deserves serious reflection. In this episode, I’m offering guidance on assessing your personal tolerance level for diversity-related harm in the workplace. We’ll explore what it means to protect y...

Here's a throwback episode from 2021. Many of the principles still apply. How do you keep showing up in a workplace that chips away at your confidence, peace, or purpose—but you need that job to survive? In this episode, we’re talking about the hard reality of working in harmful organizations. Whether you’re navigating microaggressions, toxic leadership, or a culture that consistently undermin...

The workplace equity journey can be daunting and filled with challenges and setbacks. This episode is for those who sometimes feel discouraged in their DEI journey. Allow these words to help you keep pushing boundaries, amplify voices, and drive meaningful change.

What does it mean to oppress, and how can we dismantle oppressive systems? This episode unpacks the mechanisms that uphold unjust systems and explores practical strategies for dismantling them. Learn actionable tips for effecting slow and methodical change and becoming agents of transformation to work toward a more equitable future one step at a time.

In the realm of workplace dynamics, it's crucial to recognize that safety isn't universal. From hiring practices to promotion policies, many processes aren't designed with inclusivity in mind, leaving vulnerable communities at risk. This episode sheds light on the systemic flaws that endanger the well-being and advancement of marginalized voices.

This episode reminds listeners to remain vigilant about remaining safe at work. It also encourages leaders to operate with a spirit of integrity as they oversee the work experiences of those they supervise.

In a climate where the anti-DEI and anti-woke movements gain traction, it's crucial to examine the narratives we're fed. This episode invites you to filter through the noise of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives to engage in critical thought and question prevailing DEI assumptions. Tune in to learn how to push against DEI lies and empower listeners to embrace independent thinking...

This episode reminds employees of their rights and their values at work. Allow these words to empower you amid workplace storms.

Black women are dying and suffering in higher education and across industries. Today's episode presents several strategies for Black women to remain safe in spaces where they aren't always centered as priorities.

Today's episode goes back to basics with ways to demonstrate equity at work. If you've never learned how to work in ways that protect others and demonstrate equity excellence and integrity, this episode is for you.

Today's episode aims to provide comfort, understanding, and support to those who have faced harm in their pursuit of equity, reminding them that healing is a deeply personal process without a set timeline.

Today's eye-opening episode offers advice about ways to avoid being a scapegoat in the realm of equity work. As you journey toward creating more inclusive and equitable environments, learn how to recognize the complexities and potential pitfalls that come with being an equity accomplice.

This episode defines what it means to be a wishy-washy leader and why it's dangerous in workplaces. Learn how to challenge the status quo in your decision-making and change inequitable policies and practices. If you want to be a courageous leader who steps out of your comfort zone, leads with conviction, and makes a lasting impact in your organization, this episode is for you.

This episode is a continuation of practical advice I offered about being more than a diversity, equity, and inclusion ally. Equity accompliceship involves doing the real work that moves people to professional safety and to places where they can thrive at work.

Today's episode addresses the topic of work grief. Although much is known about mourning the loss of a person, what's it like to grieve the potential of your professional dreams and opportunities? Let today's episode guide you on a reflection of the ups and downs of your job.

Today's episode exposes the tentacles of the patriarchy at work and its harmful impact on organizations. Learn how to push against silence to uplift others, create more inclusive futures, and be on the right side of history.

Sometimes good intentions aren't enough when you engage in DEI efforts. Today's episode offers examples of how DEI can be weaponizing and what it looks like to protect people against attacks that can harm one's career and reputation.

Never be so connected to your job that you can't separate your identity. Today's episode offers guidance about how to remain whole and bold beyond the duration of your employment.

Today's episode presents a somber reality about many workplaces that may not ever improve their DEI efforts. Dr. Cox challenges listeners to reflect on their professional experiences as they navigate work and decide what they want their workplace futures to be. Learn more about Dr. Monica and her offerings at  www.drmonicacox.com , and follow her on all social media platforms @drmonicacox.

Many people know what it means to work in toxic workplaces, but what is it like to work in a space or with people who bring you joy? Today's episode shares a reflection on moving between healthy and unhealthy environments and ways to move into sustained safe places. Learn more about Dr. Monica and her offerings at  www.drmonicacox.com , and follow her on all social media platforms @drmonicacox...

Today's episode emerges from Dr. Monica's reflection on the loss of her mother and father. She reflects on their core workplace values through storytelling and focuses on practical tips and strategies to foster understanding, empathetic, and human-centered work environments. Tune in to learn how to navigate these nuances and thrive in your workplace effectively. Learn more about Dr. Monica...

Humanity is the core of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) work. Today's episode reminds you about how understanding and sharing stories move diversity, equity, and inclusion forward.