Staff and FaculTEA Sessions

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Publisher

Staff & FaculTEA Sessions Podcast

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

25 May 2025

Latest episode

23 Oct 2025

Latest episodes

13 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   23 Oct 2025

   C-Suite Secrets: Humane Leadership in a Dehumanizing System

   In this engaging conversation, Chelsea, Ana, and their guest, Beverly Dines, explore the intersections of leadership, empathy, and the current challenges facing higher education. Beverly shares her career journey, highlighting the importance of community and connection in navigating the complexities of leadership. The discussion delves into the need for empathy in leadership roles, the impact of systemic issues on education, and the evolving landscape of work. The trio emphasizes the importance of fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for both students and employees, advocating for a shift in how leadership is approached in educational institutions. In this conversation, Beverly Dines and the hosts discuss the importance of empathy, connection, and alignment in the workplace. They explore the impact of workplace trauma, the need for honest communication, and the role of leadership in fostering a supportive environment. The discussion emphasizes the necessity of accountability, transparency, and the inclusion of marginalized voices in creating systemic change. Practical steps for effective leadership and the importance of follow-through in implementing change are also highlighted. ABOUT OUR GUEST: BEVERLY DINES- Beverly Dines is a powerhouse of operational strategy and creative innovation, with 10+ years leading growth across Higher Education, Healthcare, FinTech, and the Non-Profit Arts. She specializes in scaling mission-driven organizations—non-profit and for-profit alike—with a sharp focus on collaboration, budget strategy, and organizational advising through empowerment & empathy-forward best practices. She’s the author of Create The Door, a practical guide to designing the opportunities you deserve, and a sought-after speaker whose insights have been featured at 1871’s Future of Canna Tech Summit, NACHA’s Smarter Faster Payments Conference, FDX Global Summit, and more. In 2024, Beverly launched the first-ever Payments Pulse event with Chicago Payments Forum, spotlighting voices from GoFundMe, Walgreens, NACHA, and Aeropay. She was also honored as a Women in Payments Innovation Award nominee, recently featured as a keynote speaker for Code Your Dreams, and is an official Foxsy Media Creator Partner. In 2025, Beverly grew rapidly from an audience of  0 to 160K+ in three months across her social media platforms. Dubbed TikTok and Instagram’s “Chief Empowerment Officer (CEO)” she has built a platform of over 200K dedicated to empowering all professionals with best practices to scale with alignment and advocacy. She’s also the host and creator of How To Give A Damn About Your Workplace, an innovative podcast, focused on having real conversations about how to give a damn about your workspaces and redefine the corporate landscape in 2025 and beyond. Beyond the boardroom, Beverly is an award-winning artist, recognized with multiple Daytony Awards and the prestigious Kitty Matt Award—twice. Whether she’s building systems, telling stories, or bringing a group together for karaoke, Beverly brings vision, heart, and high-impact execution to everything she touches. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Staff & FaculTEA Sessions Podcast Intro 00:57 Episode Intro and Check-In 06:10 Beverly Dines: Career Journey and Higher Education 11:02 The Disconnect Between Leadership and Ground Realities 13:47 The Importance of Mental Health and Support Systems 15:32 Addressing Systemic Issues in Higher Education 17:16 The Impact of Societal Changes on Education 19:17 The Future of Leadership and Empathy 46:23 Navigating Intersectionality in Higher Education 47:02 Reckoning with Institutional Values 48:41 The Power of Alignment in Leadership 50:11 Workplace Trauma and Its Impact 51:18 Finding Alignment in Job Searches 52:55 Empathy in Leadership Communication 54:47 Building Empathy-Forward Operations 56:24 Accountability and Transparency in Leadership 58:06 Creating a Supportive Work Environment 59:45 The Importance of Honest Communication 01:01:42 Addressing Unhealed Trauma in Organizations 01:02:41 Tangible Steps for Effective Leadership 01:04:59 Middle Management Challenges and Solutions 01:06:46 Documenting Leadership Experiences 01:09:15 The Role of Human-Centric Leadership 01:10:15 The Consequences of Ignoring Employee Feedback 01:12:10 The Need for Follow-Through in Training 01:14:19 The Dangers of Tokenism in Leadership 01:15:27 Investing in Long-Term Change 01:16:42 The Connection Between Employee Satisfaction and Financial Success 01:25:01 Closing 01:25:24 Disclaimer RESOURCES: Empathy-Forward Operations (https://beverlydines.com/) – Beverly Dines’ approach to integrating empathy, dignity, and human-centered systems into executive decision-making. Create the Door (https://foxsy.samcart.com/products/how-to-play-the-corporate-game-package-build-the-frame?sc_ref=KAODzGCvVFu6DwCt&sc_vis=uETeyoZ6OoJiEarrz2ynbNa6iVrh1r) – Beverly’s signature mindset framework and upcoming book on designing your own opportunities rather than waiting for permission. https://rollcall.com/2025/10/14/higher-education-is-hurting-why-should-you-care/ (https://rollcall.com/2025/10/14/higher-education-is-hurting-why-should-you-care/) https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/mit-refuses-accept-white-house-225931420.html (https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/mit-refuses-accept-white-house-225931420.html) https://abc11.com/post/dr-dwayne-dixon-unc-chapel-hill-professor-leave-during-investigation-alleged-advocacy-politically-motivated-violence/17912046 (https://abc11.com/post/dr-dwayne-dixon-unc-chapel-hill-professor-leave-during-investigation-alleged-advocacy-politically-motivated-violence/17912046/)/ (https://abc11.com/post/dr-dwayne-dixon-unc-chapel-hill-professor-leave-during-investigation-alleged-advocacy-politically-motivated-violence/17912046/) https://www.cnbc.com/2025/09/18/simon-sinek-backwards-career-moves-can-make-you-happier-more-successful.html (https://www.cnbc.com/2025/09/18/simon-sinek-backwards-career-moves-can-make-you-happier-more-successful.html) Dare to Lead – Brené Brown | on vulnerability, courage, and trust as leadership essentials.

2. 

   12 Oct 2025

   Not Company Property: Reclaiming Your Humanity in Toxic Workplaces

   About our Guest: Dr. Bradden is an organizational leadership and conflict resolution specialist, a researcher, and a corporate legal professional. Her work centers on psychological safety — what it looks like, what destroys it, and how we can rebuild it in workplaces that have learned to normalize dysfunction. Her research focuses specifically on Black women in legal support roles — how they experience conflict, leadership, and identity in environments that often silence or mislabel their voices. Today, through her company, TrustPoint Consulting Group, and her online platform @drbtheworkkplacecoach on TikTok, she helps over 11,000 leaders and employees navigate toxic dynamics with clarity, confidence, and strategy — because thriving at work should never require surviving it. Follow Dr. B! TikTok - @drbtheworkplacecoach Instagram - @drbtheworkplacecoach Email - drbworkplacecoach@outlook.com (mailto:drbworkplacecoach@outlook.com) YouTube coming soon! Episode Summary In this conversation, the hosts and Dr. Chanel M. Bradden explore the critical themes of psychological safety, gaslighting, and the dynamics of workplace environments. They discuss the importance of understanding nervous systems, the role of bystanders, and the necessity of self-work and emotional intelligence in navigating toxic workplaces. The conversation emphasizes the need for leaders to foster psychological safety and the importance of data in addressing workplace dynamics. They call for community support and empowerment through knowledge sharing to create healthier work environments. Dr. Chanel M. Bradden discusses the challenges of navigating toxic workplaces, particularly for marginalized individuals. She emphasizes the importance of identifying red flags during job searches, understanding the dynamics of gaslighting, and the necessity of documentation as a form of self-protection. The discussion also touches on the significance of setting boundaries, reclaiming one's identity, and the emotional toll of working in environments that exploit high performers. Dr. Bradden offers practical strategies for self-preservation and encourages listeners to recognize their worth beyond their professional roles. Takeaways Psychological safety is crucial for open communication. Gaslighting creates a toxic work environment. Understanding nervous systems can help navigate workplace dynamics. Bystanders play a vital role in addressing workplace issues. Self-work is essential for emotional intelligence. Leaders must foster psychological safety for their teams. Data is necessary to measure psychological safety. Navigating toxic workplaces requires resilience and strategies. Empowerment comes from sharing knowledge and experiences. Community support is vital for healing and growth. Look for transparency in company policies during job searches. Ask about workplace culture and psychological safety in interviews. Red flags include lack of clear roles and ambiguous feedback. Document interactions to protect yourself from gaslighting. Gray rocking can be a temporary survival strategy in toxic environments. Your energy and empathy are valuable resources, not company property. Recognize that workplace abuse mirrors patterns seen in personal relationships. Seek to reclaim your identity and autonomy in the workplace. Don't let toxic environments dictate your self-worth. Self-employment can be a viable exit strategy from toxic workplaces. Resources: Dr. B's Stan Store: Stan Store - https://stan.store/ (https://stan.store/)drbtheworkplacecoach (accessed via TikTok profile) where you can find: Toxic Workplace Survival Script High Performer's Guide to Thriving Workplace Red Flags Checklist (see attached for one to share) Detach Without Drama Guide Coaching Calls with Dr. B Articles: Workplace Incivility (https://www.facultyfocus.com/articles/academic-leadership/understanding-the-impact-of-workplace-incivility-in-higher-education/) Witnessing Bullying in Higher Ed (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/hequ.12472) Framework For Supporting Higher Ed Mental Health (https://www.facultyfocus.com/articles/academic-leadership/a-critical-framework-for-supporting-faculty-and-staff-mental-health-and-well-being/) Promote Staff Well-Being in Higher Ed (https://www.bps.org.uk/blog/why-its-time-promote-staff-wellbeing-universities) Unrelenting Demands and Stressors…  (https://www.highereddive.com/news/university-leaders-discuss-mental-health-academia/654223/) John Maynard Keynes Quote- "I'm rarely wrong, but I'm often early"

3. 

   7 Oct 2025

   Ep. 6- Finding Your Place in the Ecosystem

   In this solo episode, Ana explores the personal and political cost of silence in higher education and beyond. Through reflections on the genocide in Gaza, faculty retaliation, and the corporatization of colleges, she invites listeners to examine how fear has become a control mechanism and how reclaiming agency begins with truth-telling. Ana discusses the myth of neutrality, the emotional toll of self-abandonment, and the importance of acting with integrity even when your voice shakes. Drawing from current events and her own experiences in academia, she reminds us that silence is complicity and that resistance takes many forms. Takeaways The expectation of resistance can limit authentic expression. Flexibility allows for a more genuine self-presentation. Alignment with one's true self is crucial for personal integrity. Understanding where you fit in the ecosystem fosters growth. Authenticity can lead to deeper connections with others. Resistance doesn't have to conform to traditional expectations. Creating space for authenticity encourages self-discovery. Personal growth is a journey that requires self-reflection. The ecosystem provides various avenues for exploration. Embracing authenticity can transform relationships. Listener reflection prompts:• What have you stayed silent about that still weighs on you?• How does fear show up in your workplace or community?• What would integrity look like if you were not afraid? Referenced articles and resources: Victoria Bateman, The New Feminist: Feminist economics and women’s erasure from history Dr. Dwayne Dixon (UNC): Political targeting and fear in academia EdSource: Teacher vs. Charlie Kirk – Free speech and the weaponization of fear EdSource: LMU Faculty Union Dispute Dr. Kall Schmidt on the cost of academic silence (TikTok) Building Movement Project’s Social Change Ecosystem Map The ongoing genocide in Gaza and global resistance movements Connect with us:Instagram: @staff_faculteasessionspod TikTok: @staff_faculteasessionspod BlueSky: @staff-faculteapod.bsky.social Check out our Linktree to submit your story! https://linktr.ee/Staff_FaculTEAsessionsPod (https://linktr.ee/Staff_FaculTEAsessionsPod)

4. 

   26 Sept 2025

   The Impact of Uncertainty and How To Build Our Agency

   Summary In this episode of the Staff and FaculTEA Sessions podcast, hosts Chelsea and Ana, along with guest- Professor Walid Afifi, delve into the pervasive theme of uncertainty in higher education and its broader implications in society. They discuss how authoritarianism manifests in educational institutions, the chronic uncertainty faced by marginalized communities, and the physiological and psychological impacts of living in a state of constant uncertainty. The conversation emphasizes the importance of building agency, community support, and the need for collective action to combat these challenges. The episode concludes with actionable steps for listeners to engage in resistance and foster empowerment within their communities. Chapters 00:00 Navigating Uncertainty in Today's World 15:13 Chronic Uncertainty and Its Impact 30:52 Building Agency and Community Resilience 36:11 Navigating Financial Aid Challenges 38:24 Building Agency in Communities 40:55 Understanding Mental Health and Liberation 43:49 The Role of Fear and Uncertainty 46:31 Collective Action and Community Support 49:24 The Importance of Speaking Up 52:25 Practicing Resistance and Agency Takeaways Higher education is not isolated from authoritarianism. Chronic uncertainty affects marginalized communities disproportionately. Building agency can mitigate the negative effects of uncertainty. Mental health is tied to liberation and community support. Collective action is essential for overcoming uncertainty. Uncertainty can lead to inaction, but small steps can create change. Community support is vital for navigating systemic challenges. Understanding the rules of engagement in institutions is crucial. Empowerment comes from sharing knowledge and resources. Resistance can take many forms, and every action counts.

5. 

   5 Sept 2025

   FA 2025, EP. 2- Survivors Speak: Demanding Transparency and Change

   This week, we pause our regular programming to honor the survivors of Jeffrey Epstein’s trafficking ring, who spoke out publicly on September 3. These women are risking everything to demand transparency, accountability, and legislative change to protect future generations. In this special mini episode, we highlight their press conference and reflect on how their fight connects to the broader struggle against sexual harassment and assault in higher education and beyond. Survivors’ voices matter. Their courage calls all of us to act. What you’ll hear in this episode: Survivors demanding accountability and transparency from the Department of Justice The call for legislative reform to protect victims of sexual violence Why secrecy protects perpetrators, not survivors The importance of systemic change across institutions to end abuse How collective resistance fuels justice and healing Key Takeaways: Transparency from institutions is non-negotiable Survivors’ voices are central to truth and healing Legislative and systemic reform are necessary to end cycles of abuse Solidarity and collective action are how we protect future generations Resources and Citations: Bill text- Epstein Files Transparency Act (https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-resolution/581/text) Find your reps to demand support of this act: https://www.congress.gov/members/find-your-member

6. 

   27 Aug 2025

   From Social Justice Hire to Targeted Dissenter- Dr. Sang Hea Kil

   "The only moral thing Palestinian civilians can do, apparently, is to die. The only legal thing the rest of us can do is to watch them die. And be silent. If not, we risk our scholarships, grants, lecture fees, and livelihoods." Arundhati Roy Staff & FaculTEA Sessions is back spilling the tea hotter than ever. In this episode, we spill tea with Dr. Sang Kil, a justice studies professor at San Jose State University currently facing dismissal for refusing to be silent about Gaza, labor rights, and institutional corruption. From whistleblowing on financial misconduct to resisting Zionist repression, Sang lays bare how higher ed weaponizes policy to criminalize dissent, and why laughter, joy, and general strikes are our fiercest weapons against fascism. We get into whistleblowing, gaslighting, unions, encampments, and what it takes to build courage contagion in a time of global crisis. This is more than one professor’s fight! It’s a call to workers everywhere: sign the goddamn card, join the resistance, and imagine the liberatory futures they fear. Scroll down for links to resources from the episode. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Context 02:56 Personal Experiences and Check-ins 05:58 Whistleblowing and Institutional Challenges 09:05 Activism and Academic Freedom 11:47 Controversial Events and Responses 17:16 Gaslighting and Accusations 22:46 The Fight for Justice and Accountability 31:24 Navigating University Policies and Executive Orders 33:32 The Chilling Effect of Disciplinary Actions 37:09 The Fight for Free Speech and Faculty Rights 40:27 Union Dynamics and Collective Action 42:23 The Broader Implications for Higher Education 45:15 Solidarity and Support in the Academic Community 47:45 Connecting Global Struggles and Local Actions 53:26 Navigating Academic Politics and Recognition 56:17 Finding Joy Amidst Struggles 58:08 Radical Aspirations and Collective Action 01:01:16 Interrogating Capitalism and Class Identity 01:06:08 The Role of Leadership in Social Movements 01:09:06 Unity in the Face of Oppression 01:15:05 Taking Risks for Change Resources: General Strike campaign – call to sign the card (3.5% of population needed, 10.6M people) → Click here to join the Movement (https://generalstrikeus.com/strikecard)! Sang's SJSU Profile (https://www.sjsu.edu/people/sang.kil/) Petition Supporting Sang (https://www.change.org/p/defend-academic-freedom-reinstate-dr-sang-hea-kil) GoFundMe for Sang (https://www.gofundme.com/f/defend-freedom-of-speech-in-the-csu) Mariame Kaba – “Hope is a discipline (https://friendsofattention.net/sites/default/files/2022-11/Excerpt%20from%20interview%20with%20Mariame%20Kaba%20who%20often%20says%20that%20%281%29.pdf)” (excerpt from interview with Mariame Kaba) ⁠Arundhati Roy⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/reel/C68rQ1Ni9aC/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link) talking about Militant Laughter- "We will destroy them with our laughter, with our joy, with our dance” Pandemic as Portal (https://www.ft.com/content/10d8f5e8-74eb-11ea-95fe-fcd274e920ca)- Roy Chris Smalls IG (https://www.instagram.com/chris.smalls_/?hl=en) (Amazon Labor Union) – solidarity, kidnapping in Gaza, global worker struggle Zapatista Principles (https://www.themixedspace.com/7-principles-of-zapatismo-to-consider-in-community-building/)– building a more equitable and suitable world for everyone International Court of Justice (https://www.hrw.org/news/2024/01/26/gaza-world-court-orders-israel-prevent-genocide?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=16363698676&gbraid=0AAAAADrFXchiHnCGf_0NwEcUgjQI_IRoe&gclid=CjwKCAjwtrXFBhBiEiwAEKen1zUTC7LURcd4cWBjAeHzmmiUhgkKTDQCA2Gwp-zFIvofxYOsdQz_uhoCx_EQAvD_BwE), Amnesty International (https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2024/12/amnesty-international-concludes-israel-is-committing-genocide-against-palestinians-in-gaza/), Israeli human rights groups (https://www.npr.org/2025/07/28/nx-s1-5482881/israel-gaza-genocide-rights-groups-btselem-physicians)– confirming genocide in Gaza Education Code Section 89535 (https://codes.findlaw.com/ca/education-code/edc-sect-89535/) – being misapplied against Sang (usually reserved for crimes like fraud, child porn, etc.) University Policy SO1-13 (https://www.sjsu.edu/senate/docs/S01-13.pdf)& Senate Policy 99-8 (SJSU) (https://www.sjsu.edu/senate/docs/S99-8.pdf) – academic freedom policies cited in her dismissal case IHRA vs. AAUP definitions of antisemitism (https://www.aaup.org/reports-publications/aaup-policies-reports/policy-statements/legislative-threats-academic-freedom) – showing the contradiction being weaponized Winner of 2021 Outstanding Academic Title: Media and Communication, Choice (the publishing unit of the Association of College and Research Libraries, a division of the American Library Association) for “Covering the Border War: How the News Media Creates Crime, Race, Nation, and the USA-Mexico Divide” (Lexington Press): https://www.choice360.org/choice-pick/2021-outstanding-academic-titles-media-communication/ (https://www.choice360.org/choice-pick/2021-outstanding-academic-titles-media-communication/) Publications (https://sjsu.academia.edu/sangkil) by Sang

7. 

   22 Aug 2025

   Don't Agonize, Organize!

   Tech issues? Delays? 👀 The powers that be don’t want y’all to hear this one… but we got it out anyway. 🔥🎙️ In this conversation, we have Zachery joining us to discuss the importance of resistance and ancestral wisdom in the face of capitalism and fascism. We also explore the dynamics of labor movements and unions, emphasizing the need for solidarity across communities. The role of students in activism is highlighted, along with the significance of civil disobedience and the necessity of building a coalition against oppressive systems. The discussion culminates in a call to action for individuals to engage in their communities and advocate for workers' rights. #HigherEd #LaborRights #Unions #PodcastDrop #VitalVidaVendors #TechIssuesButMakeItRadical #StaffAndFaculTEASessions

8. 

   13 Aug 2025

   Welcome to the Fall (of Fascism) 2025!

   In this episode of Staff & FaculTEA Sessions, Chelsea and Ana discuss their reflections on the summer, the importance of finding joy amidst challenges, and the ongoing fight for justice in higher education and beyond. They emphasize the need for hope and activism, the significance of truth-telling, and the role of community in resistance efforts. The conversation also touches on personal journeys of self-acceptance and the importance of documenting experiences in the workplace. The episode concludes with a resource recommendation for those seeking legal support in employment matters.Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Resistance 10102:04 Summer Reflections and Collective Joy07:35 Navigating Hope Amidst Challenges09:28 The Importance of Truth and Journalism14:33 Legal Battles and Political Resistance16:00 Podcast Evolution and Future Directions18:00 Exciting Future Guests and Perspectives20:18 Lessons from Resistance Journeys24:32 Self-Acceptance and Personal Growth27:17 Navigating Fear and Discomfort30:25 The Importance of Resistance32:14 Activating Community Support35:33 Legal Resources and Employee Rights39:02 Documenting Experiences for Accountability42:38 Empowerment Through Accountability45:55 Closing Thoughts and Future EngagementsResources: CA Lawsuits: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2025/08/04/fighting-federal-government-pays-off-californias-legal-challenges-have-restored-at-least-168-billion-in-federal-funding/UCLA Funding:https://subscriber.politicopro.com/article/2025/08/uc-regents-hold-emergency-meeting-over-ucla-funding-cuts-00504661NELA (National Employment Lawyers Association: https://www.nela.org/about/affiliates/Submit your stories to us! https://tinyurl.com/TeaSpillingHE Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Staff_FaculTEAsessionsPod

9. 

   25 Jun 2025

   Episode 5: The Wellness Mirage- A Higher Ed Grift

   Hosts CHELSEA and ANA examine higher education's systemic issues, revealing how institutions exploit staff under the guise of community values, urging listeners to resist injustice and push for change.

10. 

    18 Jun 2025

    Episode 4: Performative DEI, Silenced Voices & Authoritarian Culture in Higher Ed

    Ana and Chelsea expose how higher education's performative DEI efforts oppress rather than liberate, reinforcing white supremacy and silencing marginalized voices through authoritarian tactics in this interview episode.

11. 

    9 Jun 2025

    Episode 3: You’re Not the Problem, The System Is! Surviving Higher Ed While Staying True to Yourself

    Hosts Ana and Chelsea explore activism and community solidarity, revealing failures of leadership within higher education and emphasizing the need for transformative change.

12. 

    2 Jun 2025

    Episode 2: The Hidden Costs of Live-In Roles in Higher Ed

    Hosts Chelsea and Ana explore the exploitation and inhumane living conditions faced by residential life staff in higher education, emphasizing the need for transparency and advocacy.

13. 

    25 May 2025

    Episode 1: Meet Your Hosts: Fostering CommuniTEA and SolidariTEA

    Hosts Chelsea and Ana introduce their podcast, Staff and FaculTEA Sessions, and discuss their experiences as Latina women in higher education, aiming to foster community and solidarity in academia.

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Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

6 ratings