Race in the Workplace with Joanna Shoffner Scott, Ph.D.

Dr. Joanna Shoffner Scott

Race in the Workplace is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the complexities of race, racism, and racial equity in the workplace. Join Dr. Joanna Shoffner Scott, an experienced organizational development consultant and the founder of the Stamey Street Consulting Group, as she provides practical guidance and insightful discussions for leaders. Whether you lead a nonprofit, philanthropy, or private business, this podcast offers valuable insights to help you build workplaces that work for everyone. 

  1. The Fullest Circle: Closing Out Season 3 | S3, Ep 12

    04/08/2025

    The Fullest Circle: Closing Out Season 3 | S3, Ep 12

    In the final episode of Season 3 of the podcast, "The Fullest Circle," host Joanna Shoffner Scott reflects on this season’s pivotal moments in her business while navigating the challenging landscape faced by nonprofits, government agencies, and foundations. Joanna reflects on her recent "Racial Equity for Adaptive Leaders" series with Anthony Armstrong of Make Communities and encourages organizations to be clear on their values, given today’s challenges. The episode touches on the emotional toll of the post-election atmosphere for many organizations.  Leading teams is hard in the best of times. In uncertain times, leadership becomes even harder. Key Takeaways: 1. Uncertainty can lead to Innovation:  Similar to the COVID shutdown in 2020, this time of uncertainty has forced me to look hard at my business. Part of that hard look has been to explore opportunities inside my business to fine-tune my systems.  Joanna discusses the importance of systems in S3, Ep 5 of the podcast— Why Systems and Processes are Critical to Leading Equitable Organizations. 2. Getting REAL with leaders: Joanna shares that she and Anthony put the series together as two experienced consultants sharing what they know about what it takes to lead equitably. Joanna wanted to unpack these lessons over several episodes. Executive Directors and Boards of Directors don't always understand the depth of commitment needed to support equitable leadership or have the courage to follow through beyond surface-level activities. 3. Grieve for lost opportunities, but don't forget joy: Joanna encourages leaders to grieve losses and focus on what can be controlled. Resources Mentioned: Check out the Let’s Get Real Series: Racial Equity for Adaptive Leaders (podcast episodes 3, 6, 7, 8, and 9)  Why Systems and Processes are Critical to Leading Equitable Organizations | S3, Ep 5 When People Rely on You to Lead [my newsletter] To Take Action: If you learned even one thing you didn't know before listening to the episode, leave me a + review on Apple Podcasts. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 If you liked this episode, you will LOVE my Race in the Workplace newsletter. Check it out here: https://newsletter.stameystreet.com/ Want to learn more about my work with leaders? Visit stameystreet.com About Your Host Dr. Joanna Shoffner Scott is an organizational development consultant who helps leaders of nonprofits, philanthropies, and businesses create workplaces that work for everyone.

    14 min
  2. Let’s Get REAL: Risk, Reflection, and Resilience in Uncertain Times—Wrapping up the Series | S3, Ep 11

    03/25/2025

    Let’s Get REAL: Risk, Reflection, and Resilience in Uncertain Times—Wrapping up the Series | S3, Ep 11

    Today's episode wraps up the series “Let’s Get REAL: Racial Equity for Adaptive Leaders” with Joanna Shoffner Scott and guest Anthony Armstrong from Make Communities. The episode explores the rapidly changing landscape of racial equity in organizational leadership. They discuss the challenges leaders face amid uncertainty, drawing parallels to past experiences like the early days of COVID-19 and examining what lessons can be applied today. Throughout the episode, the discussion unpacks the vital role of clear values, organizational identity, and adaptive leadership. Joanna and Anthony also discuss the importance of holding space for team members, recognizing struggles, and finding those small sparks of joy that keep us grounded. Whether directly involved in leading a racial equity program or looking to be a more effective leader, this conversation offers thoughtful reflections and actionable insights to help you lead with purpose and resilience. Key Takeaways: 1. The Power of Values and Identity: Joanna and Anthony discuss the critical role of values and organizational identity in guiding decisions, especially during challenging times. They emphasize living into those values beyond having them exist only on a website, ensuring they anchor an organization through difficult moments. 2. Adaptability and Resilience in Leadership: Anthony emphasizes the importance of adaptable and resilient leaders in times of rapid change and uncertainty. Drawing parallels to the onset of COVID-19, he highlights the need for leaders to step back, assess risks, and make clear, intentional decisions. 3. Create Space for Humanity: Joanna and Anthony encourage leaders to create a culture of appreciation. Allowing team members to express vulnerability without the pressure to overshare or justify their struggles is essential for maintaining trust and morale. Resources Mentioned: Let’s Get REAL Series: Episodes 3, 6, 7, 8, and 9 To Take Action: If you learned even one thing you didn't know before listening to the episode, leave me a + review on Apple Podcasts. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 If you liked this episode, you will LOVE my Race in the Workplace newsletter. Check it out here: https://newsletter.stameystreet.com/ Want to learn more about my work with leaders? Visit stameystreet.com About Your Host Dr. Joanna Shoffner Scott is an organizational development consultant who helps leaders of nonprofits, philanthropies, and businesses create workplaces that work for everyone.

    30 min
  3. How to Lead When It Feels Like the World is Burning Down | S3, Ep 10

    03/06/2025

    How to Lead When It Feels Like the World is Burning Down | S3, Ep 10

    In this episode, "How to Lead When It Feels Like the World Is Burning Down," Joanna talks about the importance of leadership that is both self-reflective and team-focused, as leaders do the hard work of maintaining racial equity commitments in an anti-DEI climate. Joanna provides insights into current anti-diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) movements and their implications for the workplace. Additionally, she points to the power of structural storytelling as a tool to shift anti-DEI narratives toward more honest stories. This 15-minute episode emphasizes the importance of self-care for leaders, supporting teams in uncertain times, and leveraging the power of storytelling to highlight racism's role in shaping the current moment.  Key Takeaways: 1. Self-Care for Leaders: Joanna emphasizes the need for leaders to prioritize self-care in the face of collective uncertainty.  Maintaining personal practices through coaching, meditation, or therapy is crucial for leaders to continue showing up effectively for their teams. 2. Supporting Teams in Disruptive Times:  Leaders should consider how to best connect with their teams.  Joanna prompts leaders to assess how they are present for their staff and plan forward to build team resilience. 3. Power of Structural Storytelling: Highlighting research on media narratives, Joanna stresses the importance of storytelling that names systems and structures rather than individual blame.  This strategy not only brings to light the underlying systems of privilege but also serves as a powerful tool to create narratives that counter the lies in the public sphere. Resources Mentioned:  Here is a list of resources mentioned in the episode.  Why So Many Organizations Stay White - by Dr. Victor Ray [article from the Harvard Business Review, November 19, 2019] Let's Get REAL: How to Overcome the Most Common Leadership Challenges | S3, Ep 9 [podcast episode] Great Work: Do What Matters Most Without Sacrificing Everything Else - by Dr. Amanda J. Crowell [book] The Collaborative on Media & Messaging for Health and Social Policy and the communications research Joanna referenced in the episode. [article] Race in the Workplace - a newsletter that provides the resources and help you need to lead organizational change delivered to you weekly [newsletter] To Take Action: If you learned even one thing you didn't know before listening to the episode, leave me a + review on Apple Podcasts. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 If you liked this episode, you will LOVE my Race in the Workplace newsletter. Check it out here: https://newsletter.stameystreet.com/ Want to learn more about my work with leaders? Visit stameystreet.com About Your Host Dr. Joanna Shoffner Scott is an organizational development consultant who helps leaders of nonprofits, philanthropies, and businesses create workplaces that work for everyone.

    15 min
  4. Let's Get REAL: How to Overcome the Most Common Leadership Challenges | S3, Ep 9

    02/20/2025

    Let's Get REAL: How to Overcome the Most Common Leadership Challenges | S3, Ep 9

    Personal growth for leaders is more than just a buzzword. It's a necessity for anyone striving to align their actions with their values. In this episode of the Race in the Workplace Podcast, host Joanna Shoffner Scott is joined by guest Anthony Armstrong to discuss the opportunities and hurdles leaders most commonly face in equity work. Joanna and Anthony explore the unique challenges leaders face, especially those of color, and the importance of building robust support systems. Using personal stories and research insights, they highlight the need for safe spaces where leaders can express themselves without judgment. The episode concludes by celebrating the joy of living a life that is true to one's values.  Key Takeaways: 1.  With REAL Change Comes Resistance Leaders should anticipate and prepare for REAL change in their organizations that come from changes in practice. A common pitfall is organizations make public commitments to equity without enacting tangible changes that affect staff and external partners. Resistance often stems from inertia or a fear of losing comfort and operational norms. Understanding this natural reaction can help leaders manage it more effectively. 2.  Create a Culture Open to Learning  Create a culture that welcomes continuous learning. Encouraging staff to ask critical questions about existing processes and being open to new ways of doing things is how you work as a team.  Leaders must challenge dominant cultural norms and integrate equity into day-to-day operations to align with mission, vision, and values. 3. Prioritize Personal Growth Development Equity as a practice is an organizational challenge and a personal journey. Building a strong support system through peer groups or professional coaches can aid leaders on this personal development path, allowing them to approach setbacks and necessary pivots with resilience and creativity. Resources Mentioned: Let's Talk Racial Equity and Leadership with Sheri Brady | S2, Ep 4 [podcast episode] Supporting Executive Leaders of Color: A Conversation with Sean Thomas-Breitfeld | S2, Ep 12 [podcast episode] How to Plan for Leadership Transitions | S3, Ep 7 [podcast episode] To Take Action: If you learned even one thing you didn't know before listening to the episode, leave me a + review on Apple Podcasts. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 If you liked this episode, you will LOVE my Race in the Workplace newsletter. Check it out here: https://newsletter.stameystreet.com/ Want to learn more about my work with leaders? Visit stameystreet.com About Your Host Dr. Joanna Shoffner Scott is an organizational development consultant who helps leaders of nonprofits, philanthropies, and businesses create workplaces that work for everyone.

    34 min
  5. Let's Get REAL: How to Design Equity Programs that Work | S3, Ep 8

    01/28/2025

    Let's Get REAL: How to Design Equity Programs that Work | S3, Ep 8

    In this episode of the Race in the Workplace Podcast, host Joanna Shoffner Scott is joined by guest Anthony Armstrong to unpack strategies for designing an equity program. Together, they discuss the factors that leaders should consider before starting on an equity journey, addressing both the opportunities and challenges that can arise. From assessing organizational readiness to aligning aspirations with actionable steps, this thought-provoking conversation aims to provide listeners with insights for building meaningful and sustainable programs, even in changing times. Key Takeaways: 1.  Timing and Intentionality Matter Joanna and Anthony stress the significance of understanding the timing of an equity initiative. Leaders need to be clear on why they are starting the initiative. Timing affects the strategy, receptiveness, and overall success of the program. 2. Leaders Need Commitment and Capacity The demands of leadership differ by identity. Joanna and Anthony emphasize that successful equity work requires more than just aspirational goals; it demands a realistic assessment of the organization's capacity, including resources, commitment levels, and the extent to which the organization is willing to embed systemic changes. 3. Navigating Challenges and Building a Respectful Culture The conversation notes potential challenges, such as varying degrees of readiness among staff and the different racial dynamics that shape participation. They outline strategies for building a workplace culture that encourages honest dialogue and continuous professional development to support equitable practices. Additional Resources: Check out the Proposal Pyramid from Make Communities  [Podcast Episode] What To Do When Your Organization Declares Itself To Be Anti-Racist Too Soon | S1, Ep 3 To Take Action: If you learned even one thing you didn't know before listening to the episode, leave me a + review on Apple Podcasts. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 If you liked this episode, you will LOVE my Race in the Workplace newsletter. Check it out here: https://newsletter.stameystreet.com/ Want to learn more about my work with leaders? Visit stameystreet.com About Your Host Dr. Joanna Shoffner Scott is an organizational development consultant who helps leaders of nonprofits, philanthropies, and businesses create workplaces that work for everyone.

    36 min
  6. Let's Get REAL: How to Plan for Leadership Transitions | S3, Ep 7

    01/14/2025

    Let's Get REAL: How to Plan for Leadership Transitions | S3, Ep 7

    In this episode of Race in the Workplace, Dr. Joanna Shoffner Scott and Anthony Armstrong continue this season’s leadership series called Let's Get REAL: Racial Equity for Adaptive Leaders. This week’s discussion explores how to plan for leadership transitions. As Joanna and Anthony unpack the complexities of leadership transitions, they discuss the opportunities and challenges accompanying these shifts, emphasizing the importance of mindful and equitable practices. Whether you're a leader preparing to transition out, stepping into a new leadership role, or just interested in how leadership changes impact racial equity initiatives within organizations, this episode is filled with thoughtful insights and practical guidance. Key Takeaways: 1.  Avoid Too Much Change at One Time Joanna and Anthony highlight the importance of gauging how much change staff can absorb at once. They caution against overwhelming staff with new equity initiatives during leadership transitions. Too much change at once can lead to increased stress and resistance when leaders need staff buy-in the most.  2. Incoming Leaders Experience Racialized Expectations The discussion addresses how the identity of incoming leaders affects organizational expectations and dynamics. Anthony and Joanna point out that new leaders (who are most often Black) face different and heightened staff expectations compared to their white counterparts. Anthony emphasized the need for white-identified leaders to acknowledge this dynamic and take a proactive role in disrupting harmful patterns as they emerge.  3. Build Honest and Respectful Relationships Joanna and Anthony underscore the importance of building trust and respect within teams, especially during times of transition. Joanna emphasizes authentic communication and respect for each team member's humanity. Establishing these principles creates a foundation for more equitable and supportive working conditions, regardless of the changes taking place within the organization. Additional Resources: [Podcast Episode] Supporting Executive Leaders of Color: A Conversation with Sean Thomas-Breitfeld | S2, Ep 12 To Take Action: If you learned even one thing you didn't know before listening to the episode, leave me a + review on Apple Podcasts. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 If you liked this episode, you will LOVE my Race in the Workplace newsletter. Check it out here: https://newsletter.stameystreet.com/ Want to learn more about my work with leaders? Visit stameystreet.com About Your Host Dr. Joanna Shoffner Scott is an organizational development consultant who helps leaders of nonprofits, philanthropies, and businesses create workplaces that work for everyone.

    19 min
  7. Let's Get REAL: Are you a Transactional or a Transformational Leader? | S3, Ep 6

    12/11/2024

    Let's Get REAL: Are you a Transactional or a Transformational Leader? | S3, Ep 6

    This episode is the second conversation in their series, Let's Get REAL: Racial Equity for Adaptive Leaders. In it, Dr. Joanna Shoffner Scott talks with longtime colleague Anthony Armstrong about the difference between transactional and transformational leadership. The distinctions between these two leadership styles matter, particularly in building racially equitable organizations. They also discuss their collaborative journey, the frameworks they've developed to help organizations approach racial equity holistically, and the importance of a shared “why” to anchor meaningful change. Key Takeaways: 1. The Importance of Purpose in Racial Equity Work: Joanna and Anthony identify the significance of beginning with a clear "why" when starting racial equity initiatives. Building a foundational understanding helps leaders and organizations align their actions with their mission, vision, and values, making the subsequent steps more impactful and meaningful. 2. Frameworks for Holistic Change: The episode explores the frameworks that Joanna and Anthony use, such as the 6P Racial Equity Framework and the Racial Equity Growth Continuum.  These tools help organizations move beyond siloes to embed equity systematically across all aspects of their work. These frameworks can be used to address everyday challenges.  3. Differentiating Transactional from Transformational Leadership: The discussion lifts up the reality that while tools and technical solutions are valuable, they alone do not lead to transformational change.  Transformation requires adaptive leadership that considers deeper, often unseen organizational dynamics. Leaders must be willing to step back, assess their organizations from a broader perspective, and address the systemic issues that perpetuate inequities in the ways they work. Additional Resources: Explore the 6P+ Racial Equity Framework to anchor your approach in ways that center your organizational values [created by Joanna and Anthony] Becoming An Adaptive Leader [Based on the work of Ronald Heifetz and Marty Linsky]To Take Action: If you learned even one thing you didn't know before listening to the episode, leave me a + review on Apple Podcasts. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 If you liked this episode, you will LOVE my Race in the Workplace newsletter.  Check it out here: https://newsletter.stameystreet.com/ Want to learn more about my work with leaders? Visit stameystreet.com About Your Host Dr. Joanna Shoffner Scott is an organizational development consultant who helps leaders of nonprofits, philanthropies, and businesses create workplaces that work for everyone.

    23 min

  8. 12/03/2024

    Why Systems and Processes are Critical to Leading Equitable Organizations | S3, Ep 5 [A Mini Episode]

    In this mini episode, host  Joanna Shoffner Scott highlights the significance of systems and processes in creating racially equitable organizations. Drawing from her extensive experience as an organizational development consultant and founder of the Stamey Street Consulting Group, Joanna explains why clear systems and processes are foundational to equity work. She unpacks the often hidden but crucial role systems play in fostering an inclusive workplace. Whether you're a nonprofit leader, executive, or manager, this episode provides valuable insights to help you see the benefits of leveraging your processes to build equity into your everyday work. Key Takeaways: 1. The Essential Components for Building Racially Equitable Organizations: Joanna highlights four critical components for creating equitable organizations: a committed leader, clear values and identity, robust systems and processes, and organizational behaviors aligned with these elements. Systems and processes, in particular, are necessary for sustaining the work of racial equity but are often overlooked and underutilized. 2. Seven Key Systems for Nonprofits: Joanna outlines seven crucial systems every nonprofit organization needs. 3. Equity in Most Felt in Small, Everyday Decisions: While many view equity through the lens of grand initiatives and public-facing projects, Joanna emphasizes that equity also resides in the small, day-to-day decisions leaders make. Proper systems and processes help mitigate bias and ensure that organizational history and decision-making are transparent and accessible, promoting a more inclusive environment. Additional Resources: Graphic on structures, systems, processes, tasks, and steps from The Power and Limitations of Racial Equity Audits: How to Uncover Organizational Weaknesses and Address Inequities via stameystreet.com  Intentionality Goes A Long Way In Sustaining Your Racial Equity Commitment [BLOG]To Take Action: If you learned even one thing you didn't know before listening to the episode, leave me a + review on Apple Podcasts. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 If you liked this episode, you will LOVE my Race in the Workplace newsletter. Check it out here: https://newsletter.stameystreet.com/ Want to learn more about my work with leaders? Visit stameystreet.com About Your Host Dr. Joanna Shoffner Scott is an organizational development consultant who helps leaders of nonprofits, philanthropies, and businesses create workplaces that work for everyone.

    12 min
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5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

Race in the Workplace is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the complexities of race, racism, and racial equity in the workplace. Join Dr. Joanna Shoffner Scott, an experienced organizational development consultant and the founder of the Stamey Street Consulting Group, as she provides practical guidance and insightful discussions for leaders. Whether you lead a nonprofit, philanthropy, or private business, this podcast offers valuable insights to help you build workplaces that work for everyone. 

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