Shows
Our True ColorsBloodlines and Borders: Tracing the Truth of Mixed Ancestry with Victoria KabeyaMESSAGE ME HERE!In this rich and vulnerable episode, Dr. Shawna Gann welcomes Belgian-French author, historian, and researcher Victoria Kabeya to discuss the complexities of multigenerationally mixed identity. From the trauma of slavery to the politics of racial categorization, Victoria shares personal stories, global insights, and the intellectual foundations behind her groundbreaking books. Together, they explore what it means to be Multi-Generationally Mixed—not just biologically, but culturally, historically, and emotionally.Stuff to Check Out:Matriarch by Tina Knowles Mixing: A History of Anti-Miscegenation Laws in the U.S.Fr...2025-06-1746 min
Our True ColorsConversations in Color: From Research to Real LifeMESSAGE ME HERE!This week, Dr. Shawna Gann—joined by her co-host Kat—welcomes Dr. Geoffrey Greif and Victoria Stubbs, LCSW-C, for a thoughtful and timely conversation about interracial and interethnic relationships, raising mixed-race children, and navigating identity across lines of race, culture, and experience.The discussion is rooted in research and real-world insight from their forthcoming book When Family Relations Are Race Relations, and it touches on how societal events press into private life, how couples process racial identity differently, and how families work through tension, silence, and love in the...2025-06-1059 min
Our True ColorsIan Gibbs-Hall on Curiosity Architecture and Rethinking IdentityMESSAGE ME HERE!In this episode of Our True Colors, Shawna is joined by co-host Rachel Sadler and special guest Ian Gibbs-Hall—a DEI advocate, thought leader, and creator of Curiosity Architecture. With over a decade of experience creating inclusive environments, Ian offers a fresh framework that invites us to move beyond checkboxes and binaries and into deeper, more curious ways of seeing one another.Together, they explore identity, belonging, masculinity, and the limitations of social categories—highlighting how “other” doesn’t just mean different, but often means left out. From coloring books to Frozen 2, neoliberal...2025-06-0346 min
Our True ColorsBelonging by Design: How a Choir Became a HomeMESSAGE ME HERE!In this powerful episode of Our True Colors, Dr. Shawna Gann is joined by Cindy Ogasawara and Kara De Maine, leaders in the Resounding Love Interfaith Gospel Choir—a multiracial, interfaith, LGBTQ+ embracing choir grounded in African American musical traditions and active anti-racism practice.Together, they explore:The complexities of racial identity, especially for those with mixed or ambiguous backgroundsWhat it means to be part of a community that doesn’t just sing together—but heals togetherHow they’ve created a choir that holds joy and accountability side by sideThe connection between...2025-05-2754 min
Our True ColorsBridging Identities and Building Belonging: A Conversation with Hallie PritchettMESSAGE ME HERE!In this episode of Our True Colors, Dr. Shawna Gann is joined by Hallie Pritchett — a public health leader, facilitator, and equity strategist — for a deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation about identity, belonging, and the challenges of showing up fully at work. Hallie reflects on growing up mixed-race in the Pacific Northwest, parenting a child who's already navigating complex identity questions, and how her lived experience has shaped her approach to leadership and equity in health systems.Together, Shawna and Hallie explore:The social landscape of race in the Pacific NorthwestRaising chil...2025-05-1537 min
Our True ColorsMasks, Mirrors, and Metamorphosis: Londell Jackson on Living UnboxedMESSAGE ME HERE!In this episode, Shawna sits down with Londell Jackson—educator, strategist, and author of Between the Opposites—for a powerful conversation about the complexities of identity. From growing up mixed-race in Denver to navigating masculinity as a same-gender-loving Black and Latino man, Londell shares his deeply personal journey of self-discovery, cultural belonging, and emotional growth. Together, they explore themes like authenticity, inherited narratives, and the courage it takes to confront our “shadow self.”Topics Covered:Growing up multiracial and feeling “not enough” for any one groupRedefining masculinity beyond social expectations...2025-05-0744 min
Our True ColorsBoth/And: Belonging, Identity, and the Bridge-Building Superpower with Annemarie ShrouderMESSAGE ME HERE!In this rich and candid episode of Our True Colors, Shawna is joined by Rachel, returning co-host and fellow deep thinker and wonderful guest Annemarie Shrouder, international speaker, facilitator, and bestselling author of Being Brown in a Black and White World.Together, they explore what it means to hold a “both/and” identity—especially as mixed-race or multiracial individuals navigating a world obsessed with binaries. Annemarie shares the powerful story behind her personal “aha” moment, the birth of the both/and framework, and the bridge-building superpower that comes with embracing complexity. They also talk...2025-04-3047 min
Our True ColorsOrnamental No More: Dr. Kalya Castillo on Identity, Hypervisibility, and HealingMESSAGE ME HERE!In this powerful conversation, Dr. Kalya Castillo—a Black and Japanese psychologist and trauma-informed therapist—joins Shawna to explore identity, racial ambiguity, and the lived experiences of multiracial individuals. Together, they unpack what it means to grow up without cultural mirrors, the coded messages around hair and professionalism, and how mixed-race identity can shape the way we’re seen, valued, and understood.Kalya shares insights from her research on the hypersexualization of Black and Asian women, and how these dynamics often show up in the workplace and therapeutic settings. She also offers a deep...2025-04-1652 min
Our True ColorsThird Culture Stories: Identity, Belonging, and Finding Home with Urmi HossainMESSAGE ME HERE!In this episode, Dr. Shawna Gann and Rachel Sadler sit down with Urmi Hossain—polyglot, author, global citizen, and financial services professional—for a deep conversation about identity, cultural complexity, and belonging. Urmi, who describes herself as "Bengali by blood, Italian by birth, and Canadian by law", shares her experiences as a third culture person navigating family expectations, global transitions, and what it means to truly belong.The three discuss the nuanced layers of culture, race, and language—what it’s like to be misunderstood or misidentified, how appearances influence assumptions, and why stor...2025-03-2741 min
Our True ColorsSensitive Curiosity: A DEI Leader’s Journey with Marcel De JongheMESSAGE ME HERE!What does it mean to navigate the world as a mixed heritage individual when belonging feels just out of reach? In this episode, Shawna and co-host Kat Aragon welcome Marcel De Jonghe, Head of DEI&B for Europe’s largest local authority, to explore identity, belonging, and the intersections of race and culture. Marcel shares his personal journey as a Zimbabwean-Belgian navigating life in the UK, the challenges of being "not quite Black enough" and "not quite White enough," and how his work in equity and inclusion is shaping a more thoughtful, empathetic world. Th...2025-02-1155 min
Our True ColorsFinding Self in a World of Assumptions: Multiracial Identity and BelongingMESSAGE ME HERE!In this episode, Shawna Gann is joined by graduate student Brieanna Hairston cohost Rachel Sadler. Together, they explore the complexities of racial identity, inclusion, and belonging through the lens of multiracial and racially ambiguous individuals.Brieanna shares personal experiences growing up in a predominantly White area, navigating racial microaggressions from an early age, and finding her place in diverse academic and professional settings. Rachel reflects on the intersection of race, culture, and societal expectations, providing a candid perspective on navigating life as a biracial Black woman. The conversation touches on the effects...2025-01-1442 min
Our True ColorsMixed-Race Parenting: Insights with Dr. Jenn NobleMESSAGE ME HERE!In this thought-provoking episode, Shawna sits down with Dr. Jenn Noble, psychologist, educator, and advocate for mixed-race families, to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities in parenting mixed-race children. Together, they explore:The nuances of mixed-race identity and how it shapes a child’s experience.Why starting conversations about race with children isn’t as daunting as it seems.How parents’ own experiences can influence their approach to raising mixed-race kids.Practical strategies to help children embrace their full identity while navigating societal complexities.Dr. Jenn shares powerful insights on meeting children where...2024-12-1749 min
Our True ColorsBetween the Lines: Black Identity, Mixed Race Realities, and a Nation DividedMESSAGE ME HERE!In this deeply reflective episode of Our True Colors, Shawna and guest Shari Baker dive into the emotional aftermath of the recent presidential election. Together, they unpack the complexities of identity, solidarity, and the nuances of navigating blackness in America. From the broader societal implications of the election to the personal journeys of mixed-race identity, Shawna and Shari offer a thought-provoking and heartfelt conversation about resilience, collective grief, and the power of community. Tune in to explore how we can heal, learn, and move forward—together.Guest Shari Baker, DEIJ strategist and co...2024-11-2746 min
Our True ColorsCafecito, Culture, and Connection: The Power of Sisterhood in DEI SpacesMESSAGE ME HERE!SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Shawna, Rachel, and Kat introduce Hady Mendez, a DEI expert, who shares her journey and insights on employee resource groups, cultural wisdom, and the challenges of navigating racial identity. The discussion highlights the need for allyship, the evolving understanding of racial categories, and the significance of joy and community support in personal and professional growth.You can also watch the episode on YouTube!TakeawaysMixed race identity is complex and varies greatly among individuals.Self-advocacy is...2024-11-0440 min
Our True ColorsAuthenticity Under Pressure: The Evolving Role of DEI and Mixed-Race IdentityMESSAGE ME HERE!In this insightful episode, Dr. Shawna Gann sits down with DEI experts Lauren Dike and Katrina Liew Wilson for a candid discussion on the shifting landscape of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). The conversation explores the evolving role of DEI in the workplace, the pressures of being a "talking head" in the field, and the challenges of racial and cultural identity. Lauren and Katrina share their personal journeys navigating mixed-race backgrounds, dealing with imposter syndrome, and embracing authenticity while leading change. They also address the complexity of DEI rebranding, the struggle for collective healing...2024-10-1541 min
Our True ColorsBeyond Your Zip Code Story: Exploring Background, Bias, and GrowthMESSAGE ME HERE!In this episode, Shawna Gann and Rachel Sadler engage with author Christopher "CJ" Gross, an expert in cultural transformation, to discuss the concepts in his book, What's Your Zip Code Story? Together the group discusses implications on personal and professional experiences. They explore how one's background and community can shape perceptions, opportunities, and biases in the workplace. The discussion emphasizes the importance of mentorship, understanding class migration, and the need for a supportive culture that fosters growth and inclusivity, including expanding your zip code story through meeting new people, going to different places, and...2024-10-0154 min
Our True ColorsMeet Kat: Creating Spaces for Underrepresented VoicesMESSAGE ME HERE!In this episode, Shawna Gann introduces the new season of the podcast with one of her two co-hosts, Kat Aragon. They discuss their cultural backgrounds, the importance of representation in the beauty industry, and the need for advocacy and allyship. Kat shares her experiences as a makeup artist and the challenges faced in ensuring diversity in beauty products. The conversation emphasizes the significance of taking action in allyship and the importance of creating spaces for underrepresented voices.You can also watch the episode on YouTube!Other stuff to check...2024-09-1735 min
Our True ColorsMeet Rachel: Examining Layers of Racial IdentityMESSAGE ME HERE!In this episode, Shawna Gann introduces co-host Rachel Sadler, and together they explore the complexities of racial identity, particularly focusing on the experiences of biracial individuals. They discuss the fluidity of identity, the impact of family dynamics on self-identification, and the societal constructs surrounding race and gender. The conversation also gets into the privileges associated with racial ambiguity, the challenges faced in workplace settings, and the increasing recognition of multiracial identities in America. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of community and the need for critical discussions about identity and privilege. Rachel Sadler is...2024-09-1738 min
Our True ColorsSeason 5 Launching in September!Join the conversation — Send a Text Message!Welcome back!Join Dr. Shawna Gann and new co-hosts Kat Aragon and Rachel Sadler for Season 5 of Our True Colors, launching in September! This season, we will continue exploring the unique challenges of being racially ambiguous with personal stories and expert insights on identity, belonging, and diversity. Engage with us by texting your thoughts and stories through the link above, and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review!Want to be a guest or know someone who should join us? Click this...2024-08-0801 min
More Than Words PodcastCDI Symposium 2022 - Shawna Gann, PhDJoin us on the final episode of #thebigpivot series of the CDI Symposium 2022.
Today, we are featuring Shawna Gann, Founder and CEO of True Colors Consulting, LLC and host of the podcast titled Our True Colors.
Dr. Shawna Gann effectively blends her expertise in business psychology and education to deliver DEI experiences that help organizations and individuals level up their practices to cultivate environments where employees don’t have to worry about cultural fit and can instead thrive in their workplaces free from worry about their authentic identities. Shawna is skilled and experienced in the de...2022-12-3018 min
Our True ColorsMultiracial Motherhood with Rach KassMESSAGE ME HERE!Rach Kass is a Nursing Station Technician (NST), life coach, and podcast host and joins us for this episode to talk about her experiences as the White mother of her five biracial children. Also joining us as a guest host, while Yolandie takes some time with her new little one, is Sarah Bacerra - a two-time former guest on OTC. Rachel and her husband, Chris, also host and produce Infusion Health Podcast.In this episode, she talks with us about being a White mom to biracial children and what that means for...2022-11-0239 min
Our True ColorsHey, Queen! Talking Racial Ambiguity with Christian Gann and Aimee AmourMESSAGE ME HERE!In this very special episode, I have a one-to-one real-talk session with my son, Christian Gann and his drag persona, Aimee Amour, who is also a DJ in NYC and music producer. In this episode, Christian is back for his second interview on Our True Colors. If you missed the first interview, you can check it out here. It's linked below, as well. In this episode, Christian talks about his experiences as a multiracial makeup artist and drag queen and shares his perspectives as Aimee. You don't want to miss it!2022-10-2643 min
Our True ColorsThe Velvet Punch: Talking Transracial Adoption with Amy Daniels (Part 2)MESSAGE ME HERE!This week we are back with Part 2 of the interview with Amy Daniels. If you missed Part 1, you can check it out here. In this episode, Amy and I continue our conversation about her lived experiences as a Korean woman who was adopted by White parents and what it's meant moving through spaces where people around you have certain expectations about your identity. We talk about her experiences dating, the "Guest Pass", and even the importance of names. For Further ExplorationThe Color of WhitenessThe Problem with ‘People of Co...2022-10-1926 min
Our True ColorsThe Velvet Punch: Talking Transracial Adoption with Amy Daniels (Part 1)MESSAGE ME HERE!This episode is the first of a 2-part interview with my friend, Amy Daniels. I'd been wanting to interview her for a couple of years now, and she happened to be hanging out my place when we were like...let's do this! Amy is a superstar recruiter in the management consulting industry in the DC Metro area - sometimes called the "DMV" since it encompasses parts of Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia. In this first part of her interview, Amy talks about navigating situations when people make assumptions about her identity, particularly...2022-10-1231 min
Our True ColorsConfronting Anti-Blackness with Daniel WashingtonMESSAGE ME HERE!Daniel Washington is an I/O Psychology Master's graduate with a passion for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. He was born in New York City but raised in Atlanta, GA and moved back to New York City in August of 2018 to further his education in I/O Psychology. I received my Master's from Touro College in the summer of 2020. He is now I'm working towards furthering my career in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.In this episode, Daniel talks with me about his identity journey and the way he has been working to confront...2022-09-1935 minOur True ColorsSPECIAL EPISODE: The Little Mermaid of ColorMESSAGE ME HERE!In this special episode of Our True Colors, Yolandie and I discuss Disney's new live action Little Mermaid, starring Halle Bailey as Ariel. Join us for this important conversation about social expectations and redefining norms.REFERENCESThe Little Mermaid TrailerAI Technology Making Little Mermaid WhiteCharlotte La Bouff - "Man Catchin' Beignets"Racists Are Worried About the Historical Accuracy of MermaidsRELATED ARTICLES2022-09-1931 min
Checkbox Other with Nikki InnocentShining a Light on the Racially Ambiguous Experience with Shawna GannMultiracial people make up the fastest growing demographic in the United States but there’s little research that’s been done to understand the unique dynamics of living in the inbetween in a society that has for so long been segmented by race. In this episode, Shawna Gann, certified diversity professional and PhD candidate joins Nikki to talk about the importance of creating space for deeper understanding of the multiracial experience and Shawna’s pioneering research around the experience of Black multinational women in the workplace. They discuss how Shawna’s lived experience of growing up in Alaska and her life...2022-09-131h 13
The Book StoopShawna Gann: True Colors Consulting, Organizational Fairness, and Leading with IntentionAs a Certified Diversity Professional and Scholar-Practitioner, Shawna Gann successfully marries business psychology, learning theory, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) principles to support organizations as they advance DEI practices in the workplace and in everyday social situations. Though she works with employees at all levels of an organization supporting the many dimensions of diversity, she specializes in racial ambiguity, authenticity, and belonging. Through her world travels, Shawna has immersed herself in global and social culture granting a fresh perspective and the ability to think broadly, which has augmented her work as an effective and impactful consultant, educator...2022-09-0630 min
Our True ColorsSettings and Social Identity with Guest Ashnie ButlerMESSAGE ME HERE!After a bit of a summer break, Yolandie and I are back with our guest Ashnie Butler. Ashnie's story starts on the island of Trinidad with roots going back to Southern India. She has lived on the east and west coast of the United States, currently residing in Portland, Oregon, with her non-binary teenager. Her passion for cooking took her to culinary school and started her journey of learning about cultures and people through their food. Once Ashnie completed her B.A. in American Multicultural Studies, she began seeking to affect change through economic...2022-09-0546 min
Our True ColorsKickin' It with Karlton HoskinsMESSAGE ME HERE!In this episode of Our True Colors, we welcome Karlton Hoskins, #1 International Best Selling Author, Business Owner, Real Estate Investor, and Strategist. In this episode we talk about business and go all the way back to roots. Do NOT miss this fascinating conversation that takes us around the world and back in time.Resources related to the convo:What Became of the Taíno?From Acadian to CajunThe Creole Community in The United States of America, a storyWhat's the difference between Cajun and Creole—or is there one?Don...2022-08-0448 min
Our True Colors3rd Culture Empathy with Payal BeriMESSAGE ME HERE!In this fantastic episode with Payal Beri, we discuss what it's like living abroad for an extended amount of time as 3rd Culture folks. Along the way we talk about how this has equipped us to be empathetic and applying these life lessons to what we do every day. Come along for the ride!Don't forget to subscribe and follow us on Instagram and new for Season 5, check us out on and YouTube and keep up with True Culture on LinkedIn. If this is your...2022-07-1433 min
Our True ColorsConvos with Sandra Hunter: Stealth Aunties and Metaphorical Changing RoomsMESSAGE ME HERE!In this intriguing episode of Our True Colors, Sandra Hunter joins us to talk about her work with Wild Women Leaders of Colour and shares her own experiences of identity and "herstory". Together we talk about leaning on each other...and our ancestors...for support as we as women of color navigate space historically dominated by white men.Resources related to the convo:How a Lack of Sponsorship Keeps Black Women Out of the C-SuiteSista, Sista: How A Mentor Can Be The Key To Advancing Your CareerBattling...2022-07-0642 minOur True ColorsSPECIAL EPISODE: World v. Wade - Discourse about the Threat to Human AutonomyMESSAGE ME HERE!I am so happy to welcome back Season 3 Cohost, Carmen Watson, to talk with me about the news of the US Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade. I wanted to know her thoughts and perspectives as a Canadian and understand what conversations are happening among our neighbors to the north. Join us for this special episode as we discuss this incredibly impactful Supreme Court decision. Resources to Check OutWoman Whose Conception Sparked Roe v. Wade Case Breaks Silence: 'I'm Keeping a Secret but I Hate It'If Clarence Thomas...2022-07-0535 min
Our True ColorsYou Know What They Say About Making Assumptions...Discussion with Rahimeh RamezanyMESSAGE ME HERE!In this episode, we talk with Rahimeh Ramezany about identity and making assumptions about who people are and what their lived experiences must be. Rahimeh is a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Intercultural Specialist, whose work is focused on addressing the experiences of marginalized ethnic, racial, and religious communities in the United States, in order to create change on individual, interpersonal, and systemic levels. Rahimeh has a Master's degree in Intercultural Communication from San Jose State University, and has worked at multiple DEI-focused nonprofits and consulting firms.Don't forget to subscribe2022-06-3037 min
Our True ColorsWork-Life Harmony with Ruthie BowlesMESSAGE ME HERE!Ruthie Bowles is a US Army Veteran, mom to four kids, and lives in Maryland with her family, goats, and chickens. She focuses on bringing awareness to the unethical tactics and strategies in the small business coaching and consulting industry. Ruthie is also an audiobook narrator.She joins OTC this episode to talk about the difference between work-life balance and work-life harmony. Too often we try to juggle everything all at once rather than looking for how we can do some ebb and flow. Ruthie also talks with us in this episode...2022-06-2339 min
Our True ColorsBlack in Bali: Adventures with Twanette BarrettJoin the conversation — Send a Text Message!Join Yolandie and me this week as we chat with my wonderful friend, Twanette Barrett. She is a retired army vet and now a life coach living in Bali, Indonesia.Want to be a guest or know someone who should join us? Click this link to complete the guest interest form.Don't forget to subscribe and follow us on Instagram and new for Season 5, check us out on and YouTube and keep up with True Culture on LinkedIn. ...2022-06-0934 min
Our True ColorsCaught Between Worlds with Dr. Christopher RiddickMESSAGE ME HERE!While Washington, DC is the city where he resides, Dr. Christopher Riddickis a proud son of North Carolina and hails from the rural county of Gates. His upbringing was significant in shaping his identity and fuels many of his passions today. Dr. Riddick is intent on helping organizations truly exhibit what they frequently say but are often challenged to demonstrate: that people are their most valuable assets. Dr. Riddick is a devoted husband and father of three. He is a lover of music, bacon, and bourbon and enjoys quality time with friends...2022-05-2634 min
Our True ColorsIdentity Beyond Chapter Titles with Katrina StrohlMESSAGE ME HERE!Katrina Strohl (they/them) served as an Aviation Structural Mechanic in the US Navy. In 2018, Katrina decided to take their own life after internalizing the behavior of an unsafe workplace. They now serve others through their work in psychological safety, mental health and boundary strategy for people who share their identities or their lived experiences.This work includes Absolutely Not!, the weekly live podcast dedicated to providing examples of setting personal boundaries at work and the vocabulary needed to name harm in those spaces. Katrina is Black, Sāmoan and Queer and l...2022-05-1933 min
Our True ColorsWelcome to Season 4 - Meet Yolandie!MESSAGE ME HERE!Welcome to Season 4 of Our True Colors! I am happy to introduce my co-host for this season, Yolandie Hamilton. She'll be hangin' with us for the season, so get to know a little bit about her in this episode.Yolandie Hamilton is a personal style and confidence coach, mom and proud to be the very interesting mix of Jamaica and Poland, with a lot of other stuff in there. She is passionate about giving women back to themselves through style and connecting with others to learn what they are passionate about. She...2022-05-1235 minOur True ColorsAnother "Mixed" Tape: Wrapping up Season 3MESSAGE ME HERE!Join Carmen and me as we talk about our experiences, what we've learned, and the takeaways from Season 3.Don't forget to subscribe and follow us on Instagram and new for Season 5, check us out on and YouTube and keep up with True Culture on LinkedIn. If this is your first time with OTC, check out EPISODE 1: START HERE for more background on the show.Our True Colors is powered by True Culture Coaching & Consulting. Head...2021-05-0633 min
Our True ColorsRevisiting Intersectionality with Stefanie KurgattMESSAGE ME HERE!Our guest this week is Stefanie Kurgatt. Stefanie was born in Eldoret, Kenya but moved to the states at a young age and most of her childhood was spent in Tallahassee, Fl. She attended Georgetown University, where she earned her B.S. in Healthcare Management/Policy and M.S. in Health Systems Administration. She holds a great interest in health disparities, community health, and social determinants of health and strives to increase access to care for the underserved. In her spare time, Stefanie loves to workout, go on runs and bike rides around DC...2021-04-1635 min
Our True ColorsThe Liberation of Self-Love and Authenticity with Dr. Charletta WilsonMESSAGE ME HERE!Dr. Charletta Wilson is an industrial & organizational psychologist, an International Coaching Federation (ICF) Certified Professional Coach, Global Team Coach, TEDx Speaker and Certified Dare to Lead™ Facilitator at CaPeesh Consulting LLC. For over two decades, she’s served thousands of clients in business startups, leadership and organizational development. In our interview, Dr. Wilson shares stories of how she was introduced to colorism and how it parlayed with stories of not being good enough. With this talk, she is able to put language to hard experiences that may, otherwise, go unnoticed in our everyday biases.D...2021-04-0845 min
Our True ColorsMixed History with Haley and MeganMESSAGE ME HERE!Haley and Megan are sisters who grew up in rural Louisiana. Haley is now a school psychologist working in South Louisiana. Megan lives in New Orleans and works in the film industry. These sisters love history and started making a list of historical figures who were mixed race a few year ago. Two years ago they decided to turn their list into a blog. Since then they’ve been adding more people to the list and sharing blog or Instagram posts about them. Some of the people on the list are well known historical fi...2021-03-2534 minOur True ColorsSticks and Stones Reboot: Stop the Violence!Join the conversation — Send a Text Message!In light of the continued violence against Asian communities around the US and, indeed, around the world; and in an effort to bring renewed awareness, I am bringing back an episode from earlier this year.Daniel Quan-Watson, a high-ranking official in Canada's Public Service, has a unique blend of experiences. He's held the highest Canadian civil service position, is fluent in both English and French, has lived in 13 Canadian locations, traveled extensively across the country, authored long-lasting legislation, overseen a prominent National Parks system, and contributed to shaping Ca...2021-03-1858 min
Our True Colors"Calling In" with Nikki InnocentMESSAGE ME HERE!My guest this week is Nikki Innocent. Nikki is a 2-time TEDx speaker, certified women’s leadership coach, diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI) strategist and the host of the podcast Checkbox Other, that focuses on the journey toward belonging. Five years ago, Nikki left behind her career in corporate America to live and lead fully as herself focusing on belonging, releasing the pressure to “fit in” and embracing the ways she differed as a creative, biracial, Millennial woman. Nikki’s work focuses on fostering a new generation of leaders looking to leverage their unique po...2021-03-1138 min
Our True ColorsDr. Shantel Buggs on Dating, Technology, and What's to Come for DEIMESSAGE ME HERE!My guest this week is Dr. Shantel Gabrieal Buggs. Dr. Buggs is an assistant professor of sociology and African American studies at Florida State University, specializing in research on multiracial identity, representation, and romantic, sexual, and family relationships. She is currently working on an edited collection of essays on "queering" consent for LGBTQ people in the #MeToo era and her first monograph on the online dating experiences of multiracial women in Central Texas. She's also collaborating on several other projects exploring race, gender, and inequality within higher education.Her primary research agenda...2021-03-0448 min
Our True ColorsMixed Up School Daze - Talking Then and Now with Maris LidakaMESSAGE ME HERE!Maris Lidaka is a filmmaker in Los Angeles and the creator of the Blended Future Project. Maris talks with me about his experience growing up mixed both in a mostly white suburb but also abroad in high school. This experience allowed him to gain some perspective on race and who he is.Don't forget to subscribe and follow us on Instagram and new for Season 5, check us out on and YouTube and keep up with True Culture on LinkedIn. If this is your first time...2021-02-2446 min
Our True ColorsDiscovering and Embracing Purpose with Natalie ForestMESSAGE ME HERE!Natalie Forest, Ph.D. an intuitive transformational Mentor with a background in history and teaching. She is a teacher inside and out in all she does. She helps people going through a "midlife crisis" reconnect with their own unique self through addressing "the Hidden Power of Patterns" so that they can finally live their lives, their way. Natalie is from Germany, studies U.S. and "USSR" history to become an experts in issues relating to equality in the U.S. through her studies of history, humanities, psychology and life - transferring skills...2021-02-1839 min
Our True ColorsMaking a Space for Mixed-ness with Life Coach Sarah Lotus BarrettMESSAGE ME HERE!Sarah Lotus Garrett is a life coach working with mixed adults and monoracial parents of mixed children. She was born and raised in northern California and has lived in Northern Italy for the past 15 years. She is a woman, daughter, sister, mother, wife, auntie, friend, world citizen, chef, gardener, creator of beautiful things, a napper, and a joy seeker.You can check out her work on her Mixed Bloom Room site, where can also learn about her courses. Don't forget to follow her on Instagram, too!P.S. You can...2021-02-0348 min
Our True ColorsUnwrapping the Gift of Dialogue: Race Talk with Meredith and CindyMESSAGE ME HERE!How was the topic of race handled in your household? Something you've always discussed or an area that typically went untouched? Meredith and Cindy Palomo are a couple living in the Kansas City area. They recently paused a three-year endeavor as foster parents. They're lucky to have three amazing daughters, aged 20, 17, and 3. They have a passion for sharing what they know about trauma-informed care, and have a deep belief that every child deserves to grow up with a connection to their roots, biological and otherwise.Meredith Palomo and Lauren Wiggins a...2021-01-2838 minOur True ColorsThis Land is Our Land: A Message as we Observe Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s BirthdayMESSAGE ME HERE!Don't forget to subscribe and follow us on Instagram and new for Season 5, check us out on and YouTube and keep up with True Culture on LinkedIn. If this is your first time with OTC, check out EPISODE 1: START HERE for more background on the show.Our True Colors is powered by True Culture Coaching & Consulting. Head to our website to find out how True Culture Coaching and Consulting can support you and your organization, and...2021-01-1811 min