Learn how intersectionality shapes our lives and influences our workplaces!

In this episode of the Academy i3 podcast, hosts Charlie and Shane are joined by Audrey Tousant Shelby, a Clinical Assistant Professor of Practicum Education at USC and a child welfare professional with 16 years of experience. Audrey discusses her journey through social work, her passion for understanding disproportionality in child welfare, and her dedication to addressing disparities in care for children of color. The conversation covers key topics like intersectionality, positionality, and how organizations can create more inclusive and psychologically safe environments. Tune in to learn how you can contribute to healthier workplaces and communities.

Episode Chapters:

00:00 Introduction

00:03 Meet Audrey Tousant Shelby

02:30 Defining Intersectionality

03:22 Intersectionality in Organizations

04:45 Understanding Positionality

08:23 Challenges of Discrimination

10:50 Recognizing and Addressing Bias

22:13 Promoting Inclusivity in the Workplace

28:47 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Learn about our guest: 

Audrey Tousant Shelby, MSW, is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Practicum Education at USC, with over 16 years of leadership in child welfare across nonprofit, county, and state systems. She began her career at SHIELDS for Families, where she designed and led programs across the child welfare continuum and rose to oversee the entire division. Her career includes high-impact roles such as Chief of Staff to the Chief Deputy Director of LA County’s Department of Children and Family Services, Child Welfare Administrator, County Consultant, Program Manager, and Supervisor. In these capacities, she has led strategic initiatives including the Family First Prevention Services Act, Thriving Families, and equity-focused reforms. A USC MSW alumna, Mrs. Shelby has trained and coached professionals statewide, developed culturally responsive curricula, and advanced key practices like Safety Organized Practice and Family Finding. As an adoptee, she is deeply committed to transforming foster care into a system of child well-being, with a focus on equity and family preservation.

You can contact Audrey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audreyshelby/

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