Inclusion sounds simple - until you’re running a women’s program and someone asks, “are trans people welcome too?”

Many organizations want to do the right thing but get stuck when it comes to trans and non-binary inclusion in single-gender spaces. It’s easy to say “everyone’s welcome,” but true inclusion takes a little bit of planning.

In this episode of Gender in Focus, Kai and El talk about what happens when good intentions meet complex realities. They explore how to define who a space is for, what can go wrong when inclusion is rushed, and why a slower, phased approach can create space amidst uncertainty.

Kai shares examples from his own experience in men’s programs and attending a women-only college, while El reflects on what it feels like to navigate women’s groups as a non-binary person. Together, they unpack how thoughtful preparation, from forms and language to group culture, can make a huge difference in creating spaces where everyone belongs.

🎧 Tune in to “Including Trans and Non-Binary People in Single-Gender Spaces” and follow Gender in Focus for more honest conversations about inclusion, allyship, and building spaces where everyone can belong.

Key themes: trans and non-binary inclusion, single-gender programs, inclusive leadership, allyship, gender diversity, belonging, inclusion in organizations

#TransInclusion #GenderDiversity #InclusiveLeadership #LGBTQInclusion #Allyship #Belonging #DiversityAndInclusion #InclusiveWorkplaces

Can Single-Gender Spaces Be Trans Inclusive?

From “it’s just a fad” to “you can tell who’s trans just by looking,” misconceptions about trans and non-binary people remain widespread - and often confidently repeated.

In this episode of Gender in Focus, Kai and El unpack some of the most common myths about trans and non-binary identities, exploring where these ideas come from and why they persist.

We explore how gender diversity has always existed across cultures, why trans and non-binary people are often misunderstood, and how language, privacy and beauty standards intersect with inclusion.

Whether you’re learning about gender diversity for the first time or looking to strengthen your allyship, this episode offers clarity, empathy, and practical insights to help move beyond myths toward meaningful understanding.

🎧 Listen to “What People Get Wrong About Trans and Non-Binary Folks” and follow Gender in Focus for more conversations on inclusion, allyship, and building safer workplaces for everyone.

Key themes: gender diversity, trans and non-binary inclusion, allyship, language and pronouns, inclusive workplaces, psychological safety, bias and perception, and cultural change.

Study mentioned: Enacted Stigma, Mental Health, and Protective Factors Among Transgender Youth in Canada (Veale et al 2017 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29279875/]) 


#TransInclusion #GenderDiversity #LGBTQInclusion #Allyship #InclusiveWorkplaces #PsychologicalSafety #DiversityAndInclusion #InclusiveLeadership

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What People Get Wrong About Trans and Non-Binary People

Efforts toward gender equity at work often run on parallel tracks... one focused on women, the other on trans and non-binary inclusion. But what happens when those tracks finally meet?

In this episode of Gender in Focus, Kai is joined by Erin Davis, award-winning inclusion strategist, to explore how bridging these movements can unlock real, lasting inclusion for everyone.

Together, we unpack why separating “women’s issues” from trans inclusion often leads to incomplete progress, and how shifting from 'who' we’re designing for to 'what' we’re designing can create shared benefit for all.

From inclusive washroom design to the evolving role of Employee Resource Groups, we look at practical examples of how organizations can move beyond silos and build systems that truly work for diverse identities.

We also talk about what gives us hope: the leadership of young people, the growing visibility of trans joy, and the power of shared values.

🎧 Listen to Bridging Gender Equity: Connecting Women’s and Trans Inclusion wherever you get your podcasts, and follow Gender in Focus for grounded conversations on inclusive leadership, intersectionality, and systemic change that benefits everyone.

You can find more about Erin and her work on her website: erindavisco.ca [https://erindavisco.ca/] and check out her podcast, Unapologetic, here: https://www.erindavisco.ca/unapologetic-podcast

Key themes: gender equity, trans inclusion, non-binary inclusion, intersectionality, inclusive leadership, systemic change, inclusive design, employee resource groups, allyship, belonging, DEI, inclusive workplaces.
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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]

Bridging Gender Equity: Connecting Women’s and Trans Inclusion

There’s no easy way to talk about Transgender Day of Remembrance. It’s a day that carries so much grief, and also a call to look closer at the systems that keep failing trans people around the world.

In this episode of Gender in Focus, Kai and El unpack the history and meaning of TDOR, explore why it’s not just a U.S. issue, and reveal the gaps in data that hide the true scale of violence against trans people in Canada and beyond. They also share ways allies can show up with commitment and purpose - not just on TDOR, but every day.

If you’ve ever wondered how to talk about Trans Day of Remembrance at work, school or in your community, or how to move beyond performative gestures to real allyship, this episode offers thoughtful guidance, grounded insight, and hope for change.

To read about those who have lost their lives this year please visit this website: https://tdor.translivesmatter.info/reports?view=map

Keywords: Trans Day of Remembrance, TDOR, trans inclusion, trans rights, nonbinary visibility, trans violence, LGBTQ+ allyship, inclusive workplaces, gender diversity, supporting trans people, how to be an ally on TDOR

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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/]  
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Holding Space on Transgender Day of Remembrance

“Preferred pronouns” might sound polite - but that one little word can change everything.

In this episode of Gender in Focus, we unpack why saying “preferred pronouns” can unintentionally suggest that gender identity is a choice, and how dropping the word “preferred” makes your language more inclusive and respectful.

Kai and El break down what to say instead, how to use pronouns respectfully, and why small language shifts make a big difference for trans and non-binary inclusion. From workplace forms to everyday introductions, this episode explores how inclusive communication builds trust, belonging and genuine allyship.

Whether you’re learning about pronouns for the first time or refining your approach to inclusive language, you’ll leave with insights to help make respect a habit - not a hesitation.

Follow Gender in Focus for more grounded conversations on inclusive leadership, allyship, and language that drives lasting change.

Key themes: gender pronouns, inclusive language, trans and non-binary inclusion, LGBTQ+ allyship, respectful communication, belonging, and inclusive workplaces.


Stop Saying "Preferred" Pronouns

Many people say inclusion is being “forced” on them - but is it really?

In this episode of Gender in Focus, we unpack the difference between 'feeling' forced to change and 'actually' being forced, and why that distinction matters for building lasting, meaningful progress in workplaces and beyond.

We explore what makes change feel like an invitation rather than an imposition, and how leaders can move forward without overwhelming people - or slowing things down. Along the way, we examine how perception shapes resistance and what sustainable, low-friction change really looks like in practice.

From pronoun use to all-gender washrooms, we discuss how initial discomfort often fades once people gain real experience - and how persistence, communication, and empathy are essential to bringing everyone along.

Whether you’re leading diversity and inclusion initiatives, supporting trans and non-binary colleagues, or navigating cultural change within your organization, this episode offers grounded, practical insight into how to balance compassion with accountability.

Key themes: sustainable change, inclusion fatigue, psychological safety, inclusive leadership, trans and non-binary inclusion, allyship, organizational culture, and managing resistance.
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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/]
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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]

Is Inclusion Being Forced on Us?

What does it really mean for a workplace to offer gender-affirming healthcare?

Many organizations believe their extended health benefits already cover trans and non-binary employees, but the details often tell a different story.

In this episode, we explore how gender-affirming care is often treated as an optional add-on rather than a core part of health coverage - and why that matters. From laser hair removal and hormone therapies to vocal training and mental health support, these benefits are far from “cosmetic.” They’re essential for wellbeing, safety and equity.

We also unpack the barriers that still exist, like the requirement for a gender dysphoria diagnosis, and how organizations can push back to create genuinely inclusive benefit plans. Whether you’re an HR leader, a small business owner or someone advocating for change from within, this conversation offers clear, practical insights into what inclusive healthcare really looks like, and why it benefits everyone.

Download our extended healthcare plan here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1L4v0WnWrh2klY1wf44NG-scU_5fptDEc/view

Key themes: gender-affirming care, healthcare equity, trans inclusion, extended health benefits, workplace wellbeing and inclusive policy.

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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/]  
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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]

Why Gender-Affirming Care Belongs in Every Health Plan

Halloween costumes can be a fun way to show creativity at work - but when those costumes play with gender, things can get complicated. In this episode, we explore what happens when someone dresses up as another gender in the workplace, and why it can be both affirming and harmful depending on the intent and impact.

We unpack the difference between dressing up as a specific person with respect versus mocking a gender through stereotypes or exaggeration. From “just a joke” to “deeply uncomfortable,” we look at the full spectrum of how gendered costumes land for different people - especially trans and non-binary employees.

We also talk about the fine line between drag, parody and genuine gender exploration, and why Halloween can sometimes act as a “permission structure” for jokes that reinforce bias. Together, we offer practical ways to check your intentions, get feedback, and ensure your costume choices align with a respectful workplace culture.

Whether you’re planning a costume contest, managing a team or just deciding what to wear, this episode helps you navigate gender, expression and inclusion during the spookiest season of the year.

Key themes: workplace inclusion, gender expression, Halloween costumes at work, trans and non-binary inclusion, respectful workplace culture, and diversity and belonging.

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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/]  
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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]

So, About That Halloween Costume at Work…

Salutations like Mr., Mrs. and Miss. might seem harmless, but they reveal a lot about gender, identity, and tradition. In this episode, Kai and El unpack how these everyday titles shape our sense of belonging at work and beyond.

They explore how gendered titles can both affirm and exclude, especially for trans and non-binary people, along with cisgender women, and why something as simple as a title can carry so much meaning. Together, they discuss solutions for making language more inclusive, from removing salutations altogether to expanding options like Mx.

Whether you work in government, banking, education or any sector where formality still matters, this conversation offers real insight into how to balance respect, authenticity and inclusion.

Key themes: gender-inclusive language, workplace inclusion, trans and non-binary identity, communication norms, and cultural change.

Download our guide here [https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IvdMOA1qtfz8_9GoHx_dnYFP4Tg0BElc/view]!

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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/]  
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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]

Should We Ditch “Mr.” and “Mrs.”? The Complicated Role of Salutations in Gender Inclusion

What happens when a trans or non-binary employee comes out at work and their manager suddenly becomes the person everyone looks to for guidance?

It’s a moment that can bring care, confusion, and pressure all at once. Many managers want to be supportive but don’t know where to start, and without a clear plan, that uncertainty can turn into silence or missteps.

In this episode, we explore what real support looks like when an employee comes out as transgender. How can managers respond with empathy instead of panic? How can they create a safe, inclusive workplace where gender diversity isn’t just acknowledged - it’s respected and celebrated?

We dive into what to say in that first conversation, how to plan each step together, and why education - not perfection - is what truly builds trust. Along the way, we talk about timelines, communication, travel, and the systemic changes that make transgender inclusion possible at work.

Perfect for: managers, HR leaders, DEI practitioners, and anyone passionate about gender diversity in the workplace and inclusive leadership.

(From TransFocus Consulting’s podcast on transgender inclusion, allyship, and building more equitable workplaces.)

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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/]  
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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 Happens When a Trans Employee Comes Out... and You’re the Manager?

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

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