In this powerful episode, I reflect on a personal story shared by a listener — one that captures the suffocating silence many professionals of colour face in the workplace. From subtle power dynamics to outright racialised control, we unpack how racism is often embedded structurally, not just personally. This episode explores how to navigate such environments with dignity, awareness, and self-preservation.

Key Themes:

• Structural racism and workplace hierarchies
• White fragility and power dynamics
• The emotional labour of code-switching and silencing
• Black professional isolation
• Strategies for protecting your mental wellbeing

Honoring Dr. Antoinette Candia-Bailey: A Legacy Cut Short by Workplace Racism

Dr. Antoinette “Bonnie” Candia-Bailey (March 12, 1974 – January 8, 2024) was a trailblazing academic administrator and passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and justice in higher education. A native of Chicago, she devoted over 23 years to serving students and championing marginalized voices in roles across multiple universities, including Lincoln University of Missouri, where she became Vice President for Student Affairs.

Dr. Candia-Bailey’s groundbreaking dissertation explored the barriers faced by Black women in academic leadership—a struggle she would experience firsthand. Despite her impressive credentials and dedication, she encountered workplace bullying, gaslighting, and exclusion at Lincoln University, culminating in her tragic suicide in January 2024. Her story sparked a national reckoning about the urgent need for systemic change, the toll of racial trauma, and the importance of safe, mentally healthy working environments for Black women and other minoritized groups.

Her legacy lives on as a powerful reminder: addressing racism at work is not just about policy—it is about dignity, safety, and saving lives.

The tragedy of workplace bullying (opinion)

Referenced Works:

• 📘 Why I’m No Longer Talking to White People About Race – Reni Eddo-Lodge
• 📘 Living While Black – Guilaine Kinouani
• 📘 Brit(ish) – Afua Hirsch
• 📄 Harvard Business Review: "The Cost of Code-Switching"
• 📄 TUC Report: Racism at Work (UK)

Wellbeing Resources:

• Black Minds Matter UK
• Mind: Support for Racism and Mental Health
• Race Equality First
• ACAS: Dealing with Discrimination at Work

Listener Shout-Out:
Thanks to everyone who tuned in to our last episode on “How to Bounce Back from a Personal Crisis”, requested by Sade. The episode reached new wavelengths! I’ve had so many thoughtful questions come through, and I’m working through them slowly — keep them coming!

🎧 If you haven’t already, check it out!