In this episode of the LGBTQ+ Excellent Podcast, we speak with Sterling Freeman, an HR recruiter and advocate for diversity and inclusion. They discuss Sterling's journey from competitive gymnastics to becoming a recruiter, his work in HR, and his commitment to promoting LGBTQ+ excellence in professional environments. Sterling shares insights on creating inclusive workplaces, overcoming challenges faced by LGBTQ+ professionals in the job market, and the importance of communication and resilience. The episode emphasizes the value of networking, advocating for oneself, and leveraging unique perspectives to succeed in the recruitment process.

About Sterling: Sterling Freeman grew up in Lake Tahoe, NV, where he grew up doing competitive gymnastics and competitive dance. He attended Chapman University in Southern California as a first-generation college student, majoring in Business Administration with a minor in Leadership studies. During his time in college, he worked with a company that one of his professors owned called “Leadership Inspirations” as Leadership Development Specialist, which kicked off his interest and passion in the HR space and his desire to help encourage and develop people personally and professionally. After graduation, he ventured into the field of admissions, then into sales, and he currently works in recruitment, where he’s specialized in working with HR professionals across a variety of levels and industries. In his role, he is an expert in all things HR and, consulting both candidates and clients on best practices, market trends, and information and helping make placements that are long-lasting and mutually beneficial. More than anything, he enjoys working with and helping people and is always excited for the opportunity to network and meet new people!

Connect with Sterling: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sterlingfreeman/

This show is presented by The Queer Consulting Network https://www.queerconsulting.org/ and Produced by Rainbow Creative with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Nathan Wheatley

Queer Consulting Network envisions a world where LGBTQ+ individuals are empowered to create thriving communities, build essential skills, and gain confidence through networking events and connections with relevant companies and people. We strive towards a future where everyone in our community feels safe, secure, accepted, and valued for who they are. Learn more at: https://www.queerconsulting.org/

00:00 Introduction to the LGBTQ+ Excellent Podcast

00:37 Meet Sterling Freeman: From Gymnastics to HR

02:06 Defining LGBTQ+ Excellence

03:07 Sterling's Journey into HR Recruitment

05:00 Prioritizing Diversity and Inclusion in Recruitment

06:45 Challenges Faced by LGBTQ+ Candidates

09:53 Supporting LGBTQ+ Candidates in the Hiring Process

12:27 Leveraging Unique Perspectives for Success

14:29 Crucial Skills for Consultants

17:11 Creating Inclusive Work Environments

19:31 Personal Reflections and Recommendations

25:41 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Leigh Cambre ( he/him) is business coach for optimistic overachievers, specializing in business owners and entrepreneurs. He helps them find balance and boundaries without adding more to their to-do list. He is a Certified Professional Coach, Energy Leadership Master Practitioner, and is currently seeking certification as an Enneagram Professional. He also owns two temporary staffing and recruiting companies, Alexander Staffing and Genuine Staffing.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leighcambre/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leighcambre

Website: https://www.leighcambre.com/

This show is presented by The Queer Consulting Network https://www.queerconsulting.org/ and Produced by Rainbow Creative https://www.rainbowcreative.co/ with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Nathan Wheatley ad Editor and Samie Acevedo & Rithu Jagannath as Copywriter and Associate Producer

Queer Consulting Network envisions a world where LGBTQ+ individuals are empowered to create thriving communities, build essential skills, and gain confidence through networking events and connections with relevant companies and people. We strive towards a future where everyone in our community feels safe, secure, accepted, and valued for who they are. Learn more at: https://www.queerconsulting.org/

00:00 Introduction to the LGBTQ+ Excellence Podcast

00:34 Meet Leigh: Business Coach and Enneagram Enthusiast

01:12 Understanding LGBTQ+ Excellence

02:23 Introduction to the Enneagram

04:57 The Role of Self-Awareness in the Enneagram

06:39 Leigh's Personal Enneagram Journey

10:03 Practical Tips for Using the Enneagram

14:35 Aha Moments and Insights

19:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode, host Ahmet Aydogan is joined by Marya Triandafellos, an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and workplace inclusion, to discuss the concepts of design thinking and system thinking. The discussion delves into how these methodologies can be applied to tackle complex problems in promoting LGBTQ+ workplace excellence. Marya shares insights on the importance of empathy and contextualization, offers practical advice for implementation, and highlights both advantages and challenges of these approaches. Furthermore, they underscore the significance of creating a safe and trusting environment for employees, fostering inclusive policies, and supporting allies.

00:00 Introduction to the LGBTQ Plus Excellent Podcast

00:35 Meet Marya: Advocate for LGBTQ Plus Rights

01:08 Defining LGBTQ Plus Excellence

01:45 Introduction to Design Thinking and System Thinking

04:37 Applying Design Thinking and System Thinking in the Workplace

08:26 Challenges and Solutions in Implementing Design Methodologies

10:25 Practical Steps for Using Design Principles

12:36 Aha Moments in Advocating for LGBTQ Plus Rights

15:28 Summary and Key Takeaways

16:06 Final Thoughts: Empathize and Contextualize

Marya Triandafellos is a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and workplace inclusion.

With a background in Design Thinking and Design Operations, she brings valuable

insights and experiences to the conversation. Marya’s clients have included American

Express, Marriott, Tapestry, and Etsy.

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

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marya.nyc

Website: https://www.marya.nyc/

This show is presented by The Queer Consulting Network https://www.queerconsulting.org/ and Produced by Rainbow Creative https://www.rainbowcreative.co/ with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Nathan Wheatley ad Editor and Samie Acevedo & Rithu Jagannath as Copywriter and Associate Producer

Queer Consulting Network envisions a world where LGBTQ+ individuals are empowered to create thriving communities, build essential skills, and gain confidence through networking events and connections with relevant companies and people. We strive towards a future where everyone in our community feels safe, secure, accepted, and valued for who they are. Learn more at: https://www.queerconsulting.org/

In this premiere episode of the LGBTQ Plus Excellence podcast, host Ahmet Aydogan explores the crucial topic of transgender and non-binary inclusion in professional environments. Joined by JD, a recognized figure in LGBTQ plus advocacy, they explore personal insights and experiences around misconceptions surrounding gender identity and expression. From dismantling traditional binary systems to advocating for inclusive practices like proper pronoun usage and gender-neutral hiring procedures, JD emphasizes the necessity of fostering an environment that values diverse gender identities. By prioritizing professional expertise over gender identity, they highlight the significance of creating an inclusive workplace culture that resonates with all individuals.

JD Valladares-Williams (he/they) is an Instructional Designer, Content Writer, and Storyteller specializing in emotional intelligence training. Growing up multiracial and neurodivergent, JD developed a passion for understanding human behavior. With a psychology degree, they embarked on a journey of education, honing their social skills and advocating for inclusivity. Collaborating with Fortune 500 companies, Tony Award-winning musicals, the It Gets Better Project, the NYC Department of Education, and Spain’s Ministry of Education, JD continues to empower individuals to embrace diversity and develop emotional intelligence.

Connect with JD

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdvawi/
• Website: https://www.vawiconsulting.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vawiconsulting/

This show is presented by The Queer Consulting Network https://www.queerconsulting.org/ and Produced by Rainbow Creative https://www.rainbowcreative.co/ with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Nathan Wheatley ad Editor and Samie Acevedo & Rithu Jagannath as Copywriter and Associate Producer

Queer Consulting Network envisions a world where LGBTQ+ individuals are empowered to create thriving communities, build essential skills, and gain confidence through networking events and connections with relevant companies and people. We strive towards a future where everyone in our community feels safe, secure, accepted, and valued for who they are. Learn more at: https://www.queerconsulting.org/

00:00 Introduction to LGBTQ+ Excellence Podcast

00:37 Meet Our Guest: JD's Impressive Background

02:01 Defining LGBTQ+ Excellence

02:36 Challenges of Navigating the Workplace as Non-Binary

04:16 Understanding Gender Beyond the Binary

06:09 Fostering an Inclusive Workplace

08:37 The Impact of Acknowledging Gender Diversity

09:49 Summary and Final Thoughts

Welcome to the LGBTQ+ Excellence Podcast, where we dive into the hidden tales of triumph, resilience, and leadership within the consulting world, all through the vibrant spectrum of the LGBTQ+ community. Hosted by Ahmet Aydogan, in this show, we delve beyond the conference room, uncovering the remarkable journeys and victories of LGBTQ+ professionals. From candid conversations with executive leaders to insightful discussions with industry pioneers, we explore the secrets of success and the transformative power of diversity and inclusion.

Expect surprising revelations, genuine insights, and the courage born from shattering barriers. This isn't just a podcast; it's a celebration of voices that ignite change, challenge conventions, and lead with authenticity.

Get ready to be inspired, empowered, and propelled forward in your consulting career. Follow the LGBTQ+ Excellence Podcast today and join us in amplifying these powerful stories of excellence.

This show is presented by the Queer Consulting Network and Produced in partnership with Rainbow Creative by Executive Producer Matthew Jones.