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Authentic conversations at work 🏳️‍🌈 All Pride, No Ego Newsletter #28

January 31, 2024

Hello beautiful people!

I just wrapped up my California trip and it was spectacular. So many amazing people... including old friends and colleagues... and countless wonderful conversations!

With all the travel happening early this year, I am dialing back the APNE newsletter to twice a month. BUT I hope to have even better stories to share with that extra time.

Speaking of stories, let me tell you about the surprising joy of... corporate workshops??!

Yes, you heard that right.

✅ One Big Thing: Having Authentic Conversations Inside Corporate Walls

So far in 2024, I have had the chance to speak to several corporate groups about authentic leadership and inclusive workplaces.

I start each event by sharing my personal story of being an Out executive and struggling to find (and LOVE) my true self.

Then, to my surprise, folks in the audience (who are at work, let me remind you) start to share their stories, in front of me and all of their colleagues.

It makes me emotional every single time, because I know how difficult it is to be your true, authentic, vulnerable self at work. The larger the company, the harder it typically is.

That is why the All Pride, No Ego corporate workshops have been such a breath of life for companies and their employees.

Folks are eager to share their stories, have authentic conversations, and connect with their colleagues in a deeper way.

After one of my corporate events in the heart of the Midwest, I received this message from the company's Director of DEI:

"Two of our team members thanked me personally for [our company] holding this type of event. Both of them were parents with children who identify within the LGBTQ+ spectrum. They shared that they were so appreciative to have an avenue to discuss with adults. To ask questions that were on their minds without judgement."

Conversations about authenticity are not just for marginalized communities and those struggling to find themselves. They are also for parents, siblings, friends, and colleagues who wish to SUPPORT their loved ones on their authentic journeys.

I have spoken at high schools and colleges, bookstores and social clubs, and across the country. Now I believe the All Pride corporate workshops will have the biggest impact on the world... Because that is where conversations on authenticity are most dearly needed.

We spend one-third of our lives at work. Whether we like it or not, work is part of our identity.

We should all have the opportunity to work at places, and with people, who respect and embrace our authentic selves.

That is my mission!

I am still booking corporate workshops around the country for 2024. If you want to have more authentic conversations within your company, email me at [email protected]​

🌈 What I'm Loving

✊ What's Worth Fighting For

🏳️‍🌈 Read All Pride, No Ego. Out Now!

Love the book?? It would mean so much if you would leave a review.

And if you see the book out in the while, send me a pic! This is from Philadelphia Airport.

Last thing... Cali may be over, but the All Pride, No Ego tour rolls on!

Next week, I will be back on the east coast, NYC and Philadelphia, for events.

Shoot me a message if you are interested in catching up or hosting an impromptu event! I would love to see you.

Until next time...

Jim