Culture Stew

In this episode of Culture Stew, host Maria Maroukian welcomes Judy Oyedele, founder and principal consultant of Joyedele Consulting. Judy is an organizational development practitioner and executive leadership coach with over a decade of experience helping leaders across sectors break out of the status quo and lead with clarity, ease, and strong boundaries. Judy shares reflections on her upbringing as the daughter of Nigerian immigrants in Texas and how early messages around worthiness and faith shaped her identity and resilience. She and Maria explore the evolution of self-worth beyond external validation, particularly in academic and professional environments, and how redefining identity is a powerful act of liberation. They dive into Judy's approach to culture change—one that prioritizes joy, justice, and human-centered leadership—and the challenges and rewards of coaching and podcasting. Judy also discusses her own podcast, Transformation Horizon, which amplifies stories of people driving change through organizational development and human connection. Whether you're a coach, change leader, or just someone craving deeper joy in your work, this episode offers meaningful insights and actionable wisdom.  

In this live and in-person episode of Culture Stew, Maria sits down with the dynamic Melanie Smith, founder of Moves with Melanie, a health and wellness company based in Silver Spring, Maryland. With a powerful blend of pharmacy expertise, fitness instruction, and integrative nutrition coaching, Melanie shares her personal and professional journey one that took her from a military childhood to pharmacy school to a life changing pivot into holistic wellness. Maria and Melanie explore: How growing up as a "military brat" shaped Melanie's go for it mindset The realities of burnout in the healthcare system and the bold decision to walk away Why her retreats offer a rare mix of structure and radical freedom for women How imposter syndrome and racialized beauty standards show up in the wellness space The power of building inclusive, body-positive, and evidence-informed spaces for healing Melanie brings humor, honesty, and a no nonsense approach to helping others thrive emotionally, spiritually, and physically. This episode is a must listen for anyone navigating burnout, craving more authenticity in wellness, or searching for a place where they truly belong. Learn more about Melanie's work at mymoveswithmelanie.com

Dr. Rehman Abdulrehman returns to Culture Stew to dive even deeper into the emotional, cultural, and systemic layers of anti-racism, leadership, and psychological wellness. A renowned clinical and consulting psychologist, Dr. Abdulrehman shares insights from his groundbreaking tools like "Bias Outside the Box," his ongoing research, and his work as founder of tesbias.com and livingwithracism.com. We explore the intersections of social justice and psychological health, the realities of DEI work in both Canada and the U.S., and the personal narratives that shape his mission. From challenging Canada's polite silence around racism to launching the Celebrate Everything campaign, Dr. Abdulrehman is redefining how we create inclusive communities and healthier organizations. He also shares about his new book, Developing Anti-Racist Cultural Competence, his latest research findings, and his publishing venture: Leading with Diversity Press. This episode is a rich conversation about knowledge, discomfort, transformation, and what it takes to build systems rooted in empathy and truth. Key take aways: Discomfort is Necessary Real inclusion requires leaning into discomfort, not avoiding it. Bias is Human—but Action is Key We all have biases. The goal isn't guilt, it's growth. Inclusion Isn't Always Comfortable Psychological safety doesn't mean avoiding tough conversations, it means creating space for them. Data Doesn't Replace Humanity Evidence matters, but empathy and context are just as crucial. CelebrateEverything Inclusion should be joyful and year-round not just during heritage months. Innovative Tools for Tough Problems From tesbias.com to Developing Anti-Racist Cultural Competence, Dr. Abdulrehman offers fresh, practical ways to tackle bias.

In this episode of Culture Stew, host Maria Morukian interviews Paolo Gaudiano, a dynamic voice in the DEI space whose journey to this work is anything but traditional. With advanced degrees in aerospace engineering and neuroscience, Paolo brings a deeply analytical lens to a field often led by personal stories and emotion. As the founder and Chief Scientist of Aleria and author of Measuring Inclusion: Higher Profits, Happier People Without Guesswork or Bias, Paolo is on a mission to make inclusion measurable, actionable, and undeniable. Throughout the conversation, Paolo shares his personal backstory from growing up in Italy and confronting cultural misunderstandings, to discovering how his lived experiences and scientific training could converge to reshape how organizations approach equity. He talks about the importance of understanding exclusion not just inclusion and how centering those experiences can reveal the hidden gaps in our workplaces and systems. This episode explores how data and narrative can work hand-in-hand to foster more inclusive environments, and why those in positions of privilege have a unique opportunity and responsibility to drive real change. Listeners will take away: A deeper understanding of why inclusion needs to be visible to be measured How Paolo's interdisciplinary background shapes his data-first DEI approach Practical strategies that connect inclusion to business outcomes Why it's time to move from good intentions to evidence-based action Remember to review and comment to send us your feedback!  

In this episode of Culture Stew, Maria sits down with psychologist and behavioral scientist JonRobert "Tat" Tartaglione to explore the complexities of human behavior, persuasion, and the psychology behind social change. Tat shares how his winding path from philosophy major to behavioral scientist was driven by a deep curiosity about human nature. He introduces a compelling metaphor of the mind as private property, explaining why people instinctively resist even the most well-intentioned efforts to "plant new ideas." Through stories, research, and his signature clarity, Tat breaks down why social context matters, how polarization can be misunderstood, and what DEI leaders can learn from behavioral science to drive lasting progress. Whether you're a changemaker, leader, or just curious about what actually moves people this episode will leave you thinking differently about influence, connection, and how we navigate differences.

Welcome back to Culture Stew! In this special Women's History Month episode, your host, Maria Morukian, reflects on the strength of women in leadership, the power of collaboration, and why we need to rethink the way we define workplace success. Inspired by a conversation with her daughter, Maria shares an insightful analogy comparing the cooperative and resilient nature of lionesses in a pride to the way women support each other in communities and workplaces. She challenges the outdated, aggressive leadership models often associated with masculinity and highlights research-backed reasons why organizations thrive when they embrace more collaborative and inclusive cultures.   

In this solo episode, Maria dives into the pressing challenges facing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in the wake of the new administration's executive orders. With DEI programs under increasing scrutiny and pressure, Maria discusses the broader implications for organizations in both the public and private sectors, and what they can do to uphold their commitments to equity and inclusion.  

Explore the incredible journey of Elmer Dixon, co-founder of the Seattle Chapter of the Black Panther Party. From the turbulent 1960s to his role as a global diversity consultant, Elmer's story offers a unique perspective on the fight for racial justice. In this episode, Elmer Dixon shares his experiences as a Black Panther Party co-founder, detailing the challenges they faced, such as government opposition and surveillance. His journey from activism to a diversity consultant underscores the ongoing importance of addressing racial injustice and adapting strategies. Key Takeaways: Relevance Across Eras: Elmer's experiences with the Black Panther Party in the 1960s echo today's struggles for racial justice, highlighting the enduring fight against systemic racism and police brutality. Community Empowerment: The Party's grassroots initiatives, including food assistance and healthcare, exemplify the power of community-based programs in addressing racial disparities. Legacy and Adaptation: Elmer's transition to a diversity consultant emphasizes the need for adaptive strategies and collective action in the ongoing battle for equality. Join us for a powerful conversation with Elmer Dixon, shedding light on his remarkable journey and his unyielding commitment to advancing racial justice. Don't miss this episode on the podcast.  

In this compelling episode of Culture Stew, host Maria Morukian speaks with Dr. Carolyn Sufrin, medical anthropologist, obstetrician/gynecologist, and a leading advocate for the reproductive health and rights of incarcerated women. Dr. Sufrin shares her journey from delivering babies shackled to a bed as a young resident to leading groundbreaking research and advocacy for some of the most marginalized individuals in the healthcare system. Dr. Sufrin reflects on how her early experiences shaped her commitment to systemic change and justice, emphasizing the need for compassionate healthcare, accurate data, and dismantling oppressive structures. Her team's pivotal PIPS Project revealed staggering gaps in care and outcomes for pregnant individuals in carceral settings, highlighting the need for community-based alternatives and policy reform. Together, Maria and Dr. Sufrin explore how the intersection of race, gender, and reproductive justice underscores the urgency of reimagining healthcare for incarcerated individuals. Key Topics: The story that inspired Dr. Sufrin's advocacy journey Racial disparities in incarceration and reproductive healthcare Systemic challenges and reforms in carceral healthcare The power of reproductive justice as a framework for change Collaborative and abolitionist approaches to reimagine justice Mentioned Resource: Belly of the Beast (documentary): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11454670/ Connect with Us: Visit MSM Global Consulting for more insights and resources. Share your thoughts on this episode by tagging us and using #CultureStewPodcast.  

We are reheating one of our favorite Culture Stew episodes! If you missed this fascinating interview with Dr. Shaista Khalji from Season June 2020, take a listen. More than ever, we need leaders who are committed to treating all humans with dignity, compassion, and respect.  -- Dr. Shaista Khiliji is a professor of Human and Organizational Learning and International Affairs at George Washington University. Her research focuses on issues related to Macro Talent Development, Diversity & Inclusion, humanizing organizations/ leadership, and individual experiences with inequality. Happy Holidays from MSM Global Consulting! 

In this deeply reflective episode of Culture Stew, host Maria Morukian reconnects with Wendy Moomaw, founder of the Conscious Collaboratory, executive coach, facilitator, and systems thinker. Wendy brings her expertise in embodiment practices and her passion for uncovering leaders' potential to explore and co-create new futures with their teams and communities. Maria and Wendy dive into a heartfelt conversation about the transformative power of moving from "holding up a lens" to "holding up a mirror." They explore the vulnerability and courage required for social change agents to confront their own biases and truths reflected in others. Wendy shares her insights on the shift from doing DEI work to being justice and equity—living these principles at a cellular level and infusing them into every aspect of life. The conversation also touches on systemic oppression, the challenges of reimagining entrenched structures, and how practices like storytelling, embodiment, and emergent strategy can guide us toward hope and possibility. Wendy's thought-provoking questions, rooted in her extensive experience and wisdom, will leave you pondering your own journey in leadership, equity, and social change. Key Topics: Shifting from "doing" to "being" in DEI work Embodiment practices as a catalyst for systemic change The power of storytelling and warm data labs in fostering connection Reflecting on personal biases and embracing vulnerability as leaders Reimagining racial equity and patriarchy from a place of discovery  

In this solo episode, host Maria Morukian reflects on themes from the Culture Stew November Newsletter, exploring the challenges and opportunities in continuing the fight for social change amid a tumultuous post-election climate. Maria shares personal insights inspired by her father's lessons as a history teacher and invites us to consider how patterns from the past can guide us toward a brighter, more equitable future. She introduces the TRU framework as a way to reconnect with our purpose and sustain the long journey ahead.   What You'll Hear in This Episode: Reflecting on the Election Results: How the election highlights systemic divides and what it means for ongoing efforts toward justice. Personal Practices for Resilience: Maria's strategies for maintaining peace and momentum, including "Yes Days," creative outlets, and nurturing community connections. Finding Inspiration in the Orbital Perspective: How shifting our view can empower transformative thinking and collective action. The TRU Framework Transcend the Static: Finding quiet amidst the noise and reconnecting with purpose. Redefine the Concept of Care: Moving beyond self-care into community and systemic care practices that sustain activism. Unleash Our Wild Imagination: Dreaming boldly of a just future and believing in its attainability. When the work feels overwhelming, remember you are not alone. Reach out, and together, we'll remain TRU.  

In this episode of Culture Stew, host Maria Morukian speaks with Kai Stowers, a chemist turned Leadership and DEI Consultant and Coach. Kai shares his journey from the lab to a career centered on building high-performing, inclusive teams, driven by a passion for both science and the human dynamics of leadership. Through candid stories, he reflects on the challenges of embracing one's full identity in professional spaces, especially as a transgender man in male-dominated fields. Maria and Kai explore the importance of empathy, community, and the resilience needed to create lasting change. They discuss the complexities of navigating workplace culture as a scientist, the transformative power of trust in leadership, and the role of vulnerability in growth and solidarity.   About Kai Stowers, MA, PCC: Kai Stowers is a scientist turned Leadership and DEI Consultant with a passion for building inclusive, resilient teams. After beginning his career as a chemist focused on novel therapeutics, Kai's interest shifted toward understanding the impact of leadership and culture on human potential and organizational success. Today, Kai is an International Coaching Federation (ICF) Professional Certified Coach (PCC) with a master's in Organizational Psychology and Change Leadership from Columbia University. His unique perspective as a transgender man and his dedication to mindfulness, intentional development, and learning bring a rich depth to his coaching practice. 

In this special episode of Culture Stew, recorded at the University of Colorado Denver, we explore the transformative power of Ember: Igniting and Sustaining a Community of Equity Practitioners. We had the privilege of sitting down with all four facilitators, Maria Morukian, Chris Haigh, Aaron Barlin and Carmen Foster, to dive into discussions about the critical role of community in driving equity work, the concept of emergent change, and the journey toward gaining a liberatory mindset. Our conversation touched on how change often arises organically through collaboration and mutual support, emphasizing that real, lasting transformation requires not just action, but deep, intentional reflection on how we engage with systems of power and privilege. Special Thanks: A heartfelt thank you to UC Denver and the Learning Commons for providing a beautiful, inspiring space to make this conversation possible. Special thanks to Kerri Clarke and Dennis DeBay for their support, time, and thoughtful planning, as well as the recording studio for making this a seamless experience. Without their partnership, this podcast and the Ember program would not have been the same. Learn more about Ember on the MSM Global Consulting Website: https://msmglobalconsulting.com/home/ember-igniting-and-sustaining-a-community-of-equity-practitioners-2/

Welcome to the first episode of Season 6 and the 100th episode of Culture Stew! This season, the podcast focuses on gender equity through an intersectional lens, highlighting the stories of diverse women and femme-identifying individuals whose experiences are often overlooked or misrepresented. In this episode, we are joined by Devin M. Moran and Jasmin M. Robinson, two scholars conducting research centered on Black women's leadership and the unique challenges they face, particularly in predominantly white spaces. Devin and Jasmin share their insights on balancing the pursuit of justice with the necessity of self-care, offering reflections on how to sustain passion and purpose in this important work. Devin M. MoranDevin is a learner, educator, and advocate for educational equity with over 11 years of experience in K-12 and higher education. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership at Miami University, her research focuses on Black feminists, Black women's pedagogies, and intergenerational joy. Devin is based in Chicago and enjoys fitness, spending time with her nieces and nephews, and indulging in sushi or buffalo wings. Jasmin M. RobinsonJasmin is a consultant, educator, and DEI strategist with more than 12 years of experience in higher education, K-12 schools, corporate, and nonprofit sectors. As the Director of DEI Initiatives for MSM Global Consulting, Jasmin is also working toward a Ph.D. in Educational Administration, with research focused on the experiences of Black women in historically white institutions. Outside of work, she enjoys cooking, thrifting, and exploring brunch spots around Chicago. Key Topics Discussed: Black women's leadership experiences in predominantly white institutions Challenges and barriers for Black women leaders Strategies for balancing justice work with self-care Insights into Black feminists and Black women's pedagogies The importance of intergenerational joy and community Links & Resources: Devin M. Moran – LinkedIn Jasmin M. Robinson – LinkedIn MSM Global Consulting Tune in Next Episode: Join us as we continue exploring gender equity through an intersectional lens with more incredible guests and stories. Don't miss out!

Welcome to season six! This season, we are going to be experimenting with some new approaches and focusing on a central theme where exploring the experiences of women from an intersectional perspective, shifting the focus from deficit-based narratives to stories of strength, creativity, and resilience. Gender equity is a universal issue, and with reproductive rights under attack and the ongoing fight for trans and non-binary inclusion, these discussions are more critical than ever. We're excited to welcome a lineup of inspiring guests, from those amplifying marginalized voices in literature to advocates for incarcerated women's reproductive rights. Together, we'll dive into these issues with curiosity, hope, and a commitment to building a more equitable society. 

This episode of Culture Stew dives deep into the intersection of race, mental health, and systemic change with special guest Dr. Monnica T. Williams, a renowned clinical psychologist, professor, and leading researcher in racial trauma and mental health disparities. Dr. Williams joins Maria to explore the profound impact of racial injustice on psychological well-being—and how culturally informed care can lead to healing and transformation. Together, they discuss the history and ongoing harm of structural racism in mental health systems, the promise of psychedelic-assisted therapies for BIPOC communities, and the responsibilities practitioners hold in advancing equity in clinical settings. Key topics: Understanding and addressing racial trauma Culturally responsive clinical practices The role of psychedelics in mental health treatment The intersection of research, advocacy, and clinical care About our guest: Dr. Monnica T. Williams, PhD, ABPP, is a board-certified clinical psychologist and Professor at the University of Ottawa, where she holds the Canada Research Chair in Mental Health Disparities. She directs the Behavioral Wellness Clinics in Ottawa and Connecticut, and her research—spanning over 200 publications—focuses on BIPOC mental health, racial trauma, and cultural competence. She has been featured in NPR, CTV, CBS, the New York Times, and more.    Learn more: Website: monnicawilliams.com Certification Program: racialtraumahealing.com Anti-Racism Training: EB Training Solutions Retreat Video: YouTube Connect with Dr. Williams: X (formerly Twitter): @DrMonnica Instagram: @drmonnica LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/monnicawilliams Listen & Subscribe: Find this episode and more at https://msmglobalconsulting.com/category/culture-stew-podcast/ or wherever you get your podcasts.  

In the third episode of our Summer Reflection Series, Todd Culp shares his experiences in conflict zones around the world. Learn how authentic connections and embracing change can bridge divides and promote peace. Todd's stories highlight the universal nature of humanity and the power of genuine communication, reminding us of the importance of seeing beyond differences to find common ground. From Conflict to Connection: A Journey with Todd Culp In this Illuminating episode, we delve into the fascinating world of conflict zones with Dr. Todd Culp, a distinguished professor of political science and history. With extensive research spanning regions like the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and even Ireland, Todd's journey provides a rare glimpse into the realities of violence, terrorism, and the pursuit of peace. Todd Culp's Biography: Dr. Todd Culp's journey began in 1993 during the first Palestinian Uprising in the Middle East. He resided in the West Bank, conducting interviews with militant groups such as Islamic Jihad and Hamas, seeking to better understand the turmoil surrounding him. His experiences have since taken him to regions where terrorist attacks and violence are all too common. Notably, he interviewed Irish Republican Army (IRA) members, including an assassin serving a 284-year prison sentence. Apart from his research and teaching, Todd actively collaborates with peace activists, committed to confronting the ongoing violence in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. He often leads educational tours into these conflict zones to provide a firsthand look at the harsh realities of these battles. Key Takeaways: The Universal Nature of Humanity: Todd highlights the remarkable power of travel in breaking down cultural barriers and discovering the shared human experience. No matter the culture or politics, humor and laughter serve as bridges that connect us all. Authentic human connections can be formed when we are willing to laugh at ourselves and look beyond differences. The Call for Authentic Voices: Todd emphasizes the importance of taking risks to be an authentic voice for peace and humanity. While his own experiences may sound extreme, he encourages listeners to recognize that there are countless ways to make a difference. Small acts of involvement, such as supporting peace activists, can have a significant impact. The Value of Embracing Change: Todd highlights the inherent risk in life and how embracing change can lead to a more meaningful existence. In today's often sterile and protected environments, stepping outside one's comfort zone can provide a deeper sense of purpose. It's a reminder that beauty can be found in the midst of ugliness, and pressure can lead to inspiring heights.

Our Summer Reflection Series continues with Elmer Dixon, whose journey from co-founding the Seattle Black Panther Party to becoming a global DEI consultant showcases the power of activism and strategy. Elmer shares powerful stories of standing strong against racial injustice and the Black Panther Party's community work. Discover how community efforts continue to play a crucial role in the fight for racial justice and equality. Die Standing with Elmer Dixon  For those individuals and groups who have been the target of oppression and injustice, liberation is about finding voice to raise attention to those injustices, and at the same time centering the needs of the community.  And…it's about adapting and evolving our work to not only involve activism but also strategy.  Elmer Dixon's  journey from antiracist activism to global DEI and intercultural consultant underscores the ongoing importance of addressing racial injustice and adapting strategies. Elmer shares his experiences as a co-founder of the Seattle Chapter of the Black Panther Party, detailing an incredible story of standing strong in the face of adversity and danger. He also recounts the often untold story of the Black Panther Party's community work, ensuring that families and children not only had adequate food, shelter, and healthcare, but also a sense of cultural identity and pride. Elmer's experiences with the Black Panther Party in the 1960s echo today's struggles for racial justice, highlighting the enduring fight against systemic racism and police brutality. Elmer's subsequent metamorphosis to global DEI consultant emphasizes that all of us may need to pivot, to adapt our strategies and approaches in service of advancing the battle for equality.

As part of our Summer Reflection Series honoring the 60th anniversary of Freedom Summer, we explore how embracing a liberatory mindset can drive strategic change. Kay Suarez, director of Equity in the Center, shares how waking up to new perspectives can transform community-driven equity work. She emphasizes the importance of collective action and the role each of us can play in creating a more equitable world. Kay's insights remind us that liberation is a communal effort, not a solo journey. Summer Reflection Series - Episode 1: Awake to Woke to Work® with Kay Suarez As part of our Summer Reflection Series honoring the 60th anniversary of Freedom Summer, we explore how embracing a liberatory mindset can drive strategic change. Kay Suarez, director of Equity in the Center, shares how waking up to new perspectives can transform community-driven equity work. She emphasizes the importance of collective action and the role each of us can play in creating a more equitable world. Kay's insights remind us that liberation is a communal effort, not a solo journey. — – –  Awake to Woke to Work®  with Kay Suarez  Join us in the first guest episode of the season as Maria and Roger have an enlightening conversation on the intersection of race, equity, and culture. Our special guest, Kay Suarez, a leading expert in this field, delves deep into the nuances of building an inclusive society where everyone has a fair shot at success. In this episode, we explore: The importance of acknowledging the importance of DEI work  Strategies for promoting racial equity in our communities How embracing different perspectives can lead to innovation The role each of us plays in creating a more equitable world   Tune in as we unravel the layers of race equity culture and uncover actionable insights that can help us build a more inclusive and harmonious future. Don't miss this thought-provoking discussion on Culture Stew!