Why Should You Work with Me?
The TL;DR version is this: I make this work FUN!
I have a unique approach to this work that I care deeply about: I use storytelling and humor as vehicles for learning about and understanding how Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging are crucial for the success of our people, businesses and communities.
For nearly a decade I've worked with hundreds of professionals, C-Suite folks, community members, clergy, lay leaders, teens, children, family members and more and I've seen time and time again that using our stories is a foundational way to build the empathy and understanding required to do this work well.
I have a coaching certificate from The Coach Training Program for Helping Professionals and I've completed the 'Managing to Change the World' training by The Management Center. I have more than a decade of experience of facilitation, improv and storytelling and seamlessly infuse fun into the work.
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Let's set up a call to discuss how we can work together to create spaces of belonging.
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Workshops & Trainings
All of my trainings and workshops are interactive and engaging, infused with humor, empathy, and storytelling, and will leave participants wanting to continue the conversation around creating a more equitable and just world. Each session is tailored to your company/organization to ensure it’s as applicable as possible.
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See below for select programs.
Consulting
Not sure if what you’re doing is unintentionally exclusive? Need help with some wording? Have policies that need updating? My team is equipped to work with you on creating safer and more equitable workplaces for all of your LGBTQIA+ employees, colleagues, clients, and constituents. Change starts from within both individually and organizationally; let’s find an entry point that supports you in your work and sets you up for success.
Trainings
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Building a Shared Language: LGBTQIA+ 101What do all the terms mean? This training will build a comprehensive foundation for understanding LGBTQIA+ identity and will begin to discuss real-world applications.
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Beyond the Binary: Transgender and Gender DiversityThis training provides a deeper understanding of gender identity, gender roles and expectations, the power of language, and real-world applications.
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All Things PronounsThis training will cover all things pronouns: What are they? Why are they important? How do I support someone who uses multiple pronouns?
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Supporting the LGBTQIA+ People in Your LifeThis training will cover the key concepts of active allyship and concrete tools.
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Dubbs' StoryThrough a unique blend of humor and the ability to tug ever so gently (and strategically) on the heartstrings, I share my story as a Genderqueer Trans person in a way that builds empathy, creates visibility, and educates about some of the most foundational LGBTQIA+ concepts. Time is built-in for questions and a brainstorm for how to turn what participants experienced into concrete, actionable tools.
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Build Your OwnIn collaboration with Dubbs and their team, and based on best practices and recommendations for your community, we can build a custom training/workshop that best fits you and your company/organization’s needs.
All of the above trainings are available in-person (COVID-pending) or online. We recommend at least 2 hours per training session with a maximum of 40 participants. Pricing upon request.
Speaking Engagements, Panels, Keynotes
I am passionate about visibility and changing hearts and minds through storytelling. Often I am invited to speak because of my openness, willingness to be vulnerable and my humor when speaking. Whenever I can, I use empathy as a driving force behind my motivational and educational presence. I am available to speak on the topics of self-discovery, acceptance, identity (gender, sexuality, Judaism), resilience, and authenticity to name a few.
Improv & Storytelling - Workshops and Shows
I, along with my company, Thank You For Coming Out, am excited to bring you into the world of improv and storytelling. We have seen time and time again the benefits of improv and the ‘Yes, And’ mindset along with vulnerable storytelling. Whether you’re a corporate office, a nonprofit, or a group of professionals who want to expand their skill sets around connection and vulnerability, these workshops are your ticket in.
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Building a Shared Language: LGBTQIA+ 101What do all the terms mean? This training will build a comprehensive foundation for understanding LGBTQIA+ identity and will begin to discuss real-world applications.
-
Beyond the Binary: Transgender and Gender DiversityThis training provides a deeper understanding of gender identity, gender roles and expectations, the power of language, and real-world applications.
-
All Things PronounsThis training will cover all things pronouns: What are they? Why are they important? How do I support someone who uses multiple pronouns?
-
Supporting the LGBTQIA+ People in Your LifeThis training will cover the key concepts of active allyship and concrete tools.
-
Dubbs' StoryThrough a unique blend of humor and the ability to tug ever so gently (and strategically) on the heartstrings, I share my story as a Genderqueer Trans person in a way that builds empathy, creates visibility, and educates about some of the most foundational LGBTQIA+ concepts. Time is built-in for questions and a brainstorm for how to turn what participants experienced into concrete, actionable tools.
-
Build Your OwnIn collaboration with Dubbs and their team, and based on best practices and recommendations for your community, we can build a custom training/workshop that best fits you and your company/organization’s needs.
All of the Improv workshops are available in-person only. We recommend at least 2 hours per workshop. Storytelling workshops can be done either online or in-person. . Pricing upon request.
Dubbs (and their team) is the most engaging, open, nimble and enlightening learning partner I have worked with in my career. Dubbs brought us each on a journey of awareness and understanding: I was constructively challenged in my views, felt comfortable to ask questions, and left the session energized and able to activate what I had learned in my life. I was excited to see both immediate and ongoing impact in my organization as well. Our team members communicate more respectfully and openly, they enhance client work with what they have learned, and they are eager to learn more!
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Kate Jimenez,
VP, Global Talent & HR, KWT Global
Dubbs brings so many gifts to their consulting and teaching and coaching—among them, impeccable listening skills, an open heart and mind, a genuine curiosity that leads them to ask incisive questions that inspire sharper clarity and purpose for the client, and warmth and humor that ease tension and push creativity. Dubbs also has a real knack for storytelling and an eye towards equity, inclusion, and visibility that informs all they do. They will help you grow as a human and as a leader, and they will bring tremendous value to your team and organization. And you’ll love working together. They have my highest endorsement.
Justin Rosen Smolen
Principal at Justin Rosen Smolen Consulting and Director of Jewish Emergent Network