In this compelling episode of The Health and Wellness Coach Journal Podcast, Dr. Jessica Singh is joined by Tiffany Jana—widely known as Doc Jana (they/them)—to unpack Subtle Acts of Exclusion (SAEs) and why understanding them is essential for every coach and leader seeking to foster belonging and psychological safety.

Doc Jana brings a holistic and transformative lens to this work as a best-selling social justice author, international keynote speaker, and founder of the world’s first diversity-focused Certified B Corporation. They are a certified Sound Healing Practitioner, yoga, reiki, and meditation teacher, International Coaching Community (ICC) Certified Professional Coach, death doula, artist, and energy worker. Doc Jana has been featured in numerous publications and media including Fast Company, NY Times, and Forbes for their work on diversity, equity, empowerment, and inclusion. 

Together, Dr. Singh and Doc explore insights from Doc Jana's book, Subtle Acts of Exclusion: How to Understand, Identify, and Stop Microaggressions, co-authored with Dr. Michael Baran. The book offers a comprehensive framework for recognizing, reframing, and addressing microaggressions—often unconscious behaviors that can marginalize individuals and undermine psychological safety.

Doc also discusses attributional ambiguity and internalized marginalization, offering strategies to turn negative self-talk and societal messages into affirmations of worthiness. They share how cultivating self-awareness and cultural humility enables coaches and leaders to create safer, more inclusive environments.

This conversation is both deeply human and profoundly actionable. Doc Jana reminds us that inclusion begins within and that every coach and leader can foster belonging through presence, accountability, and compassion—one conversation at a time.

For detailed show notes, resources, and information to connect with Doc Jana, visit: https://www.centerforhealthandwellnesscoaches.com/blog/doc-jana-on-subtle-acts-of-exclusion-key-insights-for-coaches-and-leaders

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Timestamps:

0:00 -  Introduction

3:26 - From Awareness to Action: Doc Jana’s Journey Into the Field of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

6:30 - Subtle Acts of Exclusion: Book Insights and Summary by Doc Jana

11:52 - Leading With Awareness: The Transformative Impact of Subtle Acts of Exclusion

17:14 - Understanding Attributional Ambiguity

20:26 - The Power of Self-Talk: Rewriting the Messages of Internalized Marginalization

25:22 - Exploring Gaps In Coaching Education

34:05 - Takeaways