4. Creating Space to Talk About Hard Things with Veronique Porter

Live Stoked, Lead Stoked

Welcome to another episode of Live Stoked, Lead Stoked! In this episode, Sarah engages in a thought-provoking conversation with guest, Veronique Porter, delving into the nuances of navigating discomfort in relationships with people who have different beliefs. Sarah and Veronique discuss the importance of embracing the messiness of relationships and experiencing both highs and lows in life to appreciate the fullness and joy of living "stoked." They also explore the significance of heritage-based observances in navigating diversity and inclusion initiatives in the workplace, as well as the unexpected development of Veronique's business focusing on race and gender impacts on relationships and organizations.

Meet Veronique:

Veronique, also known as V, is the Founder, CEO, and Lead Educator at Ampersand Workspace. She gives organizations, groups, and companies the tools to enact anti-racist and gender-inclusive values within their organizations to create a productive, inclusive culture. Veronique shapes mindsets, builds skills, and creates lasting impact through facilitator trainings, heritage month and identity holiday workshops, custom sessions, and consulting. Her interactive and collaborative approach results in increased capacity, taking participants from passive knowledge to putting learning into action. She also creates an open space to unpack and learn difficult and controversial topics. Veronique utilizes her years of experience as a Black American woman living and traveling abroad, her research in American studies & culture, and her background in International Development.

In this episode we share:

• Navigating Discomfort in Relationships with Different Beliefs
• Embracing the Fullness of Life
• Veronique's offering of heritage and identity-based observances for organizations
• Meaningful Approach to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
• Deepening Authenticity and Connection
• Navigating Discussions About Difference

Connect with Veronique Porter:

• Instagram - @ampersandworkspace
• LinkedIn - ampersandworkspace
• Website - www.ampersand-workspace.com

Connect with Sarah:

• Follow on Instagram - @livestoked_leadstoked (business) & @sea2mountains (personal)
• LinkedIn - sarahbettman
• Website - www.sarahbettman.com & www.livestoked.com
• Follow on Facebook - CoachBettman

Visit the Show Notes:

• 4. Navigating Diversity and Inclusion with Veronique Porter

Resources Mentioned:

• Korea Book
• Live Stoked Guest Presenter: Afrofuturism with Veronique Porter - 2/13/24

Cover Art Photo by: Kim Thomson Steel

Podcast Production by: Allison Nitsch | Podcast Management