Ep. 9 | Building Supportive Work Environments for Black Women with Lauren Dike

Written By Sarah Bettman

In episode 9 of 'Live Stoked, Lead Stoked,' I engage in a wonderful discussion with my guest, Lauren Dike, about the crucial role of understanding others' needs and experiences, especially with the work being done for black women. We both emphasize the need for radical inclusion and humility in our continual learning journey.

Leading with Curiosity

Lauren stresses the importance of leading with curiosity and actively listening without imposing personal biases. Throughout our conversation, Lauren shares her insights on how to be more present and the setbacks she faces even with practices like meditation. Her approach to clearing the mind and being fully present offers a fresh perspective on mindfulness.

Navigating Understanding Gaps

Admitting struggles with trying to instinctively connect with others, we acknowledge the challenge of bridging gaps in understanding. This episode further explores the complexities of different experiences and the importance of intersectionality in understanding collective hurt.

Learning from Leaders

I recommend that you follow thought leaders like Lauren to expand your knowledge and growth. Both of us advocate for a continuous learning mindset and staying informed through books, podcasts, and other resources.

Embracing Fear and Living in Abundance

Lauren defines 'living stoked' as overcoming a scarcity mindset by embracing fear and living abundantly. She associates 'abundance' with the idea of 'there's more where that came from,' serving as a mantra for empowerment and growth.

Journey to Diversity and Inclusion

Lauren shares her personal professional journey from feeling isolated and anxious in corporate America to her impassioned involvement in diversity and inclusion work. Despite the struggles, including taking a significant pay cut, Lauren's path illustrates her commitment to creating a more inclusive work environment.

Supporting Black Women in the Workplace

A substantial part of this episode delves into the unique challenges that black women face in the workplace. Lauren and I discuss the need for leaders to understand and support black women's workload and well-being, considering their experiences of historical trauma and gendered racism.

Healing and Empowerment Program

Lauren is piloting a 6-week program that started on February 12th, aiming to help black women heal their nervous systems and understand the impact of gendered racism. The program promises tools for regulation, meditation, grounding exercises, art interventions, and the use of Oura rings to monitor stress levels.

This episode not only sheds light on the significance of understanding and inclusion but also celebrates the determination to live a stoked life fueled by abundance and empowerment.

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More About Live Stoked | Lead Stoked

Have you ever wondered if there is something more? Are you ready for something to change, but aren’t sure how to get started…or even what to change? Do you dream of living life on your own terms, full of purpose and the ability to choose what’s best for you? Are you ready to live stoked?

You’ve come to the right place! In this podcast, we will explore what it means to live stoked. To live a life on your terms, one where we’ve tossed away the pressures of roles, expectations, and identities that have been put on you and that you did not choose, is a bold choice. Frankly, it’s a series of small choices in micro-moments that lead to a bold life.

I am Sarah Bettman, coach, consultant, and speaker, but more importantly, I’m a person who found myself waking up in the wrong life and needed to find a way to me. 

I am on a mission to unravel the things we tell ourselves, the roles and/or identities we’ve taken on, and the expectations that drive our decision making, so that we can begin to live our most authentic and stoked lives. My guests and I will share our stories, solutions, and multitude of ideas…since one size definitely doesn’t not fit all. 

My hope is that you will find something meaningful for you, in the moment, that will move you forward on your path.

Sarah Bettman
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Ep. 10 | Embracing Your Big Yes Energy with Susan Hyatt
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Ep. 8 | From Emergency Medicine to Ultrarunning with John Goldfield