Stop Playing Diversity® with Dr. Monica Cox

Professionalism is a social construct that often penalizes people who don't fit a mold. Today's episode offers examples of ways that professionalism is weaponized in oppressive systems and spaces and presents tips to open our minds about differences in the workplace.

Get ready for a thought-provoking, common sense DEI episode that challenges the norms of the workplace and introduces new terms that will revolutionize the way you think about overachieving, remaining silent, and understanding your workplace's norms. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to create positive workplace ch...

In 2023, Dr. Monica said her goal was not to be the bravest person in the rooms where she engaged. Learn what that means and how courage has its boundaries when one is doing DEI work. Visit www.drmonicacox.com to learn more about Dr. Monica Cox and her work. Follow her on all social media platforms @drmonicacox.

Today's episode delves into a fear that many marginalized people have about sharing their thoughts and views on social media. While it may not be the workplace, virtual spaces can be just as unforgiving as brick-and-mortar environments when it comes to penalizing those who express their opinions. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to navigate the often-choppy waters of expressing...

This episode talks about the importance of being honest and upfront in organizations to create a more diverse and inclusive environment. We need to call out organizations' DEI limitations and have candid conversations about the harm they cause. While it can be uncomfortable, we need to learn how to take feedback without getting defensive. Truthtelling is essential to make real change happen an...

Many organizations say they have advanced their diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts when marginalized people sit at the proverbial table. Even if someone has a seat and a voice at that table, actions are required to enact real DEI change. Learn what that means in today's episode. 

When an organization doesn't respond to DEI as you expect, believe that organization. Be literal as you notice the policies and how people move. Here's to trusting your DEI instincts as you grow in this work. 

Today's episode offers strategies to stay focused as diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is being politicized. No anti-DEI law can squash and delay this work.  Listen to these encouraging words as you move on a path that ensures all environments are equitable and safe. 

As diversity, equity, and inclusion wars intensify across the U.S. and world, marginalized people have the option to remain silent or call oppression out. Today's episode shares thoughts about having the option to extend grace toward people who oppress others. 

Today's episode offers practical lessons about inclusion and what it looks like in the workplace. Pick up your notebook and learn how to remove the fear of bringing everyone and their perspective to an organization's table. 

Today's episode is an in-your-face lesson about how silence is destroying organizations and the people in it. Learn the consequences of silence and why you can't move forward if you refuse to speak up against injustices and oppression at work. 

Today I'm sharing a practice that moves people toward authentic diversity efforts. Directness is a key feature in reducing misunderstandings and ensuring that the workplace is healthy for everyone. 

Trust is expected when you work in an organization. There are times, however, when employees must rely on their instincts despite what people in the organization might say or do. Learn how employees and employers should work to foster trust at work. 

This is my real story of harassment and how it impacted me. I'm pushing my listeners to use the tools available to them when bad things happen in the workplace. It's not enough to take diversity training. When bad things happen, put your training in place to protect yourself and those around you. 

Today's episode offers solid suggestions for moving beyond performative diversity. Like football, you have to get in the game once you've trained. It's time to execute what you know so you can get DEI work done. 

Today's episode pushes against systems and offers Stop Playing Diversity reminders that will make any environment better. 

Once you say you're a DEI advocate, it's important to own your DEI brand. That means walking the walk that you talk. Today's episode presents a reflection on what this looks like as you grow in the DEI space. 

Doing diversity, equity, and inclusion work is more than having good intentions. Sometimes you need someone in your corner promoting and protecting you as you take hits that will come your way. Learn the power of these two P's as you move beyond hopes and wishes for effective DEI outcomes. 

Many people have plans for doing DEI work. All those plans aren't effective. Today's episode offers advice about ways to move from mediocre to extraordinary DEI efforts. 

Anyone who does DEI work is going to experience resistance. Today's episode helps you reflect on ways to move beyond the DEI pushback so you can fulfill your purpose without fear and with no regrets. 

Seven years after Dr. Cox entered her organization, she shared her workplace trauma story. This episode reveals the power of owning and sharing your story and the healing that comes with that storytelling.

Sometimes diversity is more than how we traditionally define it. This includes caregiving and working in a pandemic. Today's episode highlights ways diversity isn't so straightforward but is still needed. It's time to think out of the box. 

It's hiring season and time for organizations to recruit candidates who will bring diversity to the workplace. Dr.  Cox offers a quick reflection about signs that you might be a token hire for an organization.

Lessons of Dr. Monica's childhood are front and center in today's episode. She encourages listeners to return to their core as they reflect on how they want and need to be treated in the workplace. 

Many people know about the patriarchy and its impact on diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in organizations. Today's episode discusses the toxic "Daddy Complex," which is prevalent in organizations and hinders true DEI efforts.