How would you feel if someone discriminated in public and no one came to your rescue? Would you have the courage to stand up for yourself?

In this episode of Born on 3rd podcast, I have the privilege of hosting the amazing Monique Kelley. She recently became an associate professor at Boston University's College of Communication. She's the faculty advisor for the university's award-winning Public Relations Student Society of America chapter. She's also an entrepreneur, the founder of Monique Kelley Consulting, and a founding member of the Women's executive organization called chief.

Monique grew up in New Jersey with her Iranian mom and Black dad from Trenton. Growing up, Monique had room to be independent and autonomous. Monique is a strong believer that you are what you tell yourself. Growing up, she challenged herself to do many things, especially in sports, even when she knew it wasn't her stronghold.

In this episode, we dig deeper into understanding how we can have intentional diversity and inclusion.

Key Takeaways from the Episode:

• Inaction is inexcusable: If you see or hear something racist, sexist, homophobic, or offensive, you must act. Being silent by the standard is signaling your approval.
• Putting fancy inclusive words up on a sign or painting them on the wall in an office to put them in an employee handbook does not make an organization inclusive.
• Take time to learn about other people's cultures. It will help you understand them better.

Quotes from the Episode:

"I'm a strong believer in you are what you tell your mind."- Monique Kelley

"Belonging is accepting people for who they are."- Tim

"Stop focusing so much on what you don't have and focus on what you do have and how you can add value."- Monique

"Any negative energy or negative experience that I have, I'd like just to flip it on its head and use it as fuel."- Monique

Connect with Monique Kelley:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquekelleygigliotti/