What do you do when your values tell you one thing, but the system won’t budge?

In this episode, I’m joined by Hélène Frohard-Dourlent, a community organizer with years of experience inside big institutions, navigating the tricky gap between good intentions and outdated infrastructure.

We talk about what it’s like when the structures around us - forms, policies, washrooms - don’t reflect the values we hold, and how staff can still offer care and respect in the meantime.

Hélène shares insight into how long change really takes, what’s possible in the moment, and how to navigate those awkward in-between spaces where intention and reality don’t quite line up.

It’s a conversation for anyone who’s ever felt stuck between wanting to help and being told to wait, and a reminder that even small actions can make a difference while we work toward bigger shifts.
__________
We want your feedback! Got some ideas about how we can improve the podcast?! We’ve made a short, painless survey to find out what you think, what you want more of... and what topics you'd love to hear us cover next. Let us know your thoughts here [https://podcastsurvey.scoreapp.com/]
___________

Want to get in touch? Contact us at podcast@transfocus.ca

Join us on social media: LinkedIn [https://ca.linkedin.com/company/transfocus-consulting] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/transfocusconsulting] | TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@transfocus] | Threads [https://www.threads.net/@transfocusconsulting] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/transfocusinc]

The System’s Outdated... Now What?

Sometimes helping doesn’t help.

In this episode, we’re unpacking saviourism... the kind that sneaks in when we want to do good, but end up taking up space that wasn’t ours to begin with. We explore how it differs from real, respectful allyship and what it looks like to support inclusion without stepping into the spotlight.

Saviourism can be hard to spot in ourselves. It often shows up wrapped in good intentions: speaking on behalf of someone instead of making room for their voice, leading change without listening first, or rushing in to fix things that need a bit more time to develop.

It’s not about having perfect answers, but it is about noticing the impact of what we do, even when the intention is good. This episode is an invitation to reflect, recalibrate and keep showing up in ways that don’t take over.

__________

We want your feedback! Got some ideas about how we can improve the podcast?! We’ve made a short, painless survey to find out what you think, what you want more of... and what topics you'd love to hear us cover next. Let us know your thoughts here [https://podcastsurvey.scoreapp.com/]

___________

Want to get in touch? Contact us at podcast@transfocus.ca

Join us on social media: LinkedIn [https://ca.linkedin.com/company/transfocus-consulting] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/transfocusconsulting] | TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@transfocus] | Threads [https://www.threads.net/@transfocusconsulting] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/transfocusinc]

Step Aside, Superman! This Isn’t About You

Sometimes, conflict shows up at work in ways that catch us off guard. A comment lands wrong, someone raises a concern, and suddenly, you’re the manager everyone turns to for what happens next.

If it’s about gender diversity, it can feel especially high-stakes. You want to support your team, but you don’t want to get it wrong. So you pause, hesitate or hope it’ll just blow over.

In this episode, we’re talking about what it really means to step in, especially when a trans or non-binary team member is involved. About how easy it is to slip into keeping things smooth for everyone else, while someone on your team is left feeling unseen or unsafe.

We’re not here to blame or shame. We know it’s hard. But we also know that going through conflict, rather than around it, can open the door to stronger trust, better conversations, and a workplace where everyone gets to feel like they belong.

__________
We want your feedback! Got some ideas about how we can improve the podcast?! We’ve made a short, painless survey to find out what you think, what you want more of... and what topics you'd love to hear us cover next. Let us know your thoughts here [https://podcastsurvey.scoreapp.com/]  
___________

Want to get in touch? Contact us at podcast@transfocus.ca

Join us on social media: LinkedIn [https://ca.linkedin.com/company/transfocus-consulting] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/transfocusconsulting] | TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@transfocus] | Threads [https://www.threads.net/@transfocusconsulting] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/transfocusinc]



When Conflict Involves a Trans Employee, Here’s What Managers Can’t Overlook

There are days when it feels like the tide is turning backwards - when every step forward for gender diversity is met with a wall of resistance, and showing up starts to feel just a bit too much.

This week, we’re talking about allyship burnout. The slow, quiet kind of exhaustion that creeps in when you care deeply but feel like nothing is shifting. We share the gentle practices that help us stay in it, the moments we’ve struggled, what brought us back, and the small ways we keep tending to this work, even when it feels heavy.

If you’ve been wondering how to keep going in the face of backlash and fatigue… you’re not alone. We're in this together!

We want your feedback! Got some ideas about how we can improve the podcast?! We’ve made a short, painless survey to find out what you think, what you want more of... and what topics you'd love to hear us cover next. Let us know your thoughts here [https://podcastsurvey.scoreapp.com/]  
___________

Want to get in touch? Contact us at podcast@transfocus.ca

Join us on social media: LinkedIn [https://ca.linkedin.com/company/transfocus-consulting] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/transfocusconsulting] | TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@transfocus] | Threads [https://www.threads.net/@transfocusconsulting] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/transfocusinc]

Staying the Course: Allyship, Burnout & Trans Rights

It’s easy to say your hiring process is inclusive - but what do your job ads, interview questions and onboarding forms quietly communicate?

In this episode, we’re peeling back the layers of recruitment to see what really makes a difference for trans and non-binary candidates. We talk about the subtle ways bias creeps in, how to build trust from the first click and why language - on your website, in your offer letter, in your reference checks - matters more than you think.

There are personal stories here and surprising stats that might shift your assumptions (did you know trans candidates are often more qualified than average!?) We also get into the kinds of details that build trust - like how you navigate background checks, what not to say in interviews, and naming your inclusion efforts honestly, even if they’re still a work in progress.

Check it out!

We want your feedback! Got some ideas about how we can improve the podcast?! We’ve made a short, painless survey to find out what you think, what you want more of... and what topics you'd love to hear us cover next. Let us know your thoughts here [https://podcastsurvey.scoreapp.com/]  
___________

Want to get in touch? Contact us at podcast@transfocus.ca

Join us on social media: LinkedIn [https://ca.linkedin.com/company/transfocus-consulting] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/transfocusconsulting] | TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@transfocus] | Threads [https://www.threads.net/@transfocusconsulting] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/transfocusinc]

Small Details, Big Signals: Inclusive Recruitment for Trans Candidates

For trans and non-binary people, choosing a name can be one of the first steps in recognising who we are - and asking the world to do the same.

In this episode, we explore the deep meaning that names can hold. You’ll hear personal stories about the search for a name that feels like home, and the joy and affirmation that come when it finally fits. We also talk about what it feels like when the wrong name is used - by people, by systems… and by those who mean well but still miss the mark.

We get into the messy realities too: navigating mismatches between legal and chosen names, how to talk about past names with care and what organizations can do when their systems fall short.

This conversation is about identity, belonging and what it means to be truly seen. Whether you’re trans, non-binary or someone trying to better support the people around you, this episode offers plenty to reflect on.  Got some ideas about how we can improve the podcast?! We’ve made a short, painless survey to find out what you think, what you want more of... and what topics you'd love to hear us cover next. Let us know your thoughts here [https://podcastsurvey.scoreapp.com/]! ___________

Want to get in touch? Contact us at podcast@transfocus.ca

Join us on social media: LinkedIn [https://ca.linkedin.com/company/transfocus-consulting] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/transfocusconsulting] | TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@transfocus] | Threads [https://www.threads.net/@transfocusconsulting] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/transfocusinc]

What''s in a Name?

So much of the language we use at work flies under the radar, but that doesn’t mean it’s harmless. In this episode, El and Kai talk about how gender shows up in written communication more often than we think - from outdated honourifics to the casual use of “he/she,” and policies that only acknowledge men and women.

They unpack how these patterns reinforce assumptions and why it matters for everyone - not only for trans and non-binary people, but for cisgender people too. Along the way, they talk through the messiness of language, what gets overlooked and how small changes can support a more thoughtful and inclusive culture.

It’s a great place to begin if you’re thinking about how to shift culture at work - starting with something as everyday as language.

Download our FREE inclusive writing guide: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1evq7oUYUIuHUQisknl6FE7J0J-CHS0d_/view

Got some ideas about how we can improve the podcast?! We’ve made a short, painless survey to find out what you think, what you want more of... and what topics you'd love to hear us cover next. Let us know your thoughts here [https://podcastsurvey.scoreapp.com/]!
___________

Want to get in touch? Contact us at podcast@transfocus.ca

Join us on social media: LinkedIn [https://ca.linkedin.com/company/transfocus-consulting] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/transfocusconsulting] | TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@transfocus] | Threads [https://www.threads.net/@transfocusconsulting] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/transfocusinc]

Mind the Gap in “Ladies and Gentlemen”

To mark International Non-Binary People’s Day, we’re switching seats!

In this episode, Kai takes on the role of interviewer, inviting El - usually the one asking the questions - to share their story as a non-binary, gender-fluid person.

El speaks to what it’s like to navigate the world without a clear blueprint, and how turning inward has helped shape a life that feels grounded, open and full of possibility. We talk about common misconceptions, moments of recognition and the role of real, curious, human connection in expanding how we understand gender.

Whether you’re cis, trans, non-binary or still figuring things out, this episode is a reminder that gender isn’t necessarily a fixed point - it’s an unfolding story.

Download our FREE Non-Binary Resource here: https://www.transfocus.ca/freeresourcedownload
___________

Want to get in touch? Contact us at podcast@transfocus.ca

Join us on social media: LinkedIn [https://ca.linkedin.com/company/transfocus-consulting] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/transfocusconsulting] | TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@transfocus] | Threads [https://www.threads.net/@transfocusconsulting] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/transfocusinc]

International Non-Binary People’s Day and the Expansive Power of Gender and Connection

In this episode, El and Kai take a closer look at Pride - the parties, the protests and the many complicated feelings in between.

For some 2SLGBTQIA+ folks, Pride is a source of joy, visibility and connection. For others, it feels commercialized, disconnected or even painful - especially this year, as anti-queer and trans backlash continues to gain ground around the world.

They unpack the roots of Pride as a movement born from resistance, and why some people are now choosing to opt out altogether. They also explore the common missteps well-meaning allies make, and how to show up in ways that are more thoughtful and grounded.

Whether Pride feels like a homecoming or something you’re still trying to figure out, this episode offers space for reflection - and a few challenges that might just shift how you show up this season.  

We want your feedback!
Got some ideas about how we can improve the podcast?! We’ve made a short, painless survey to find out what you think, what you want more of... and what topics you'd love to hear us cover next.Let us know your thoughts here [https://podcastsurvey.scoreapp.com/]!

___________

Want to get in touch? Contact us at podcast@transfocus.ca

Join us on social media: LinkedIn [https://ca.linkedin.com/company/transfocus-consulting] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/transfocusconsulting] | TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@transfocus] | Threads [https://www.threads.net/@transfocusconsulting] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/transfocusinc]

It’s Pride Season... Why Does It Feel So Complicated?

In this episode, Kai and El unpack the impact of jokes about trans people - specifically those made by comedian Dave Chappelle. While some frame these moments as simple comedy, we explore why these kinds of jokes can be harmful, especially when they rely on tired stereotypes or feed into societal misunderstandings.

We talk about what makes a joke punch down, and why that matters - particularly when the target is a community already facing disproportionate discrimination. But we also dig into a more nuanced conversation: it is possible to make jokes about trans people. So what makes the difference between humour that harms and humour that connects?

Whether you’ve felt uncomfortable watching these stand-up moments, have struggled to articulate why they don’t sit right - or even if you've enjoyed them, this one’s for you.  

Download our FREE resource:"Yes - You Can Joke About Trans People!"  here [https://www.transfocus.ca/freeresourcedownload]!

___________

Want to get in touch? Contact us at podcast@transfocus.ca

Join us on social media: LinkedIn [https://ca.linkedin.com/company/transfocus-consulting] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/transfocusconsulting] | TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@transfocus] | Threads [https://www.threads.net/@transfocusconsulting] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/transfocusinc]

Let's Talk About Dave Chappelle's Trans Jokes

What does it really take to create an inclusive world for trans and non-binary people? If you've ever wondered how to make meaningful changes - whether at work, in your community, at home, or beyond - you're in the right place. Hosted by Kai, President of TransFocus Consulting, Gender in Focus dives into the heart of inclusion, with real stories, expert advice and practical tips. Sometimes Kai will be joined by special guests, but each week, you can expect fresh perspectives, moments of reflection, and actionable takeaways to help you lead with kindness, confidence, and a whole lot of heart. Hey, maybe you’ll learn more about your own gender through different experiences. So, whether you're already on your inclusion journey or just getting started, tune in and discover how you can make change happen. Let's get started - change is just a conversation away.

TransFocus

Shows