199. Transforming Careers and Conversations: Insights from Natalie Haynes

In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Natalie Haynes, an educator, Registered Psychotherapist, and former logistics expert with Canadian Tire Corporation. Natalie shares her inspiring journey from a 13-year career in logistics to becoming a psychotherapist, and her passion for fostering meaningful conversations about race through her signature program, The Comfortable Race Conversation Process. Join us as we explore career pivots, the importance of psychological safety in race conversations, and how leaders can navigate these crucial discussions.

1. Who is Natalie Haynes? Natalie Haynes is a dedicated educator, Registered Psychotherapist, and speaker. With a background in logistics and supply chain management from Canadian Tire Corporation, Natalie transitioned into psychotherapy to support her own mental health journey. For over 15 years, she has been using her diverse experiences to facilitate workshops and online courses focused on mental health, equity, inclusion, and belonging.

2. The Career Pivot Natalie reflects on her significant career change from logistics to psychotherapy. She shares valuable advice for women contemplating a major career shift after spending over a decade in one field, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection, resilience, and seeking support during transitions.

3. Conversations about Race Natalie discusses her signature program, The Comfortable Race Conversation Process, which aims to address the psychoeducation often missing in race discussions. She explains the difficulties inherent in talking about race and provides insights into how these conversations can be approached in a psychologically safe manner. Her program has been recognized by the Government of Canada’s 50-30 Challenge as a valuable tool for promoting honest dialogues about race.

4. The Importance for Leaders Natalie underscores why it’s crucial for leaders to be adept at having conversations about race. She highlights how these discussions contribute to a more inclusive and equitable workplace and the role of leaders in fostering a culture of openness and understanding.

5. When Natalie is Not Working Natalie shares what she enjoys doing outside of her professional life, offering a glimpse into her personal interests and activities.

Must-Ask Questions:

• What makes it challenging to have conversations about race, and how can we approach them in a way that feels safe and productive?

• How has The Comfortable Race Conversation Process been received, and what impact has it had on organizations participating in the Government of Canada’s 50-30 Challenge?

Favorite Quote: Natalie shares a quote that resonates with her personal and professional philosophy.

Connect with Natalie Haynes:

• Instagram: Natalie Haynes Consulting Inc.

• LinkedIn: Natalie Haynes

• LinkedIn: Natalie Haynes Consulting Inc.

Learn More About Natalie’s Programs:

• The Comfortable Race Conversation Process - Next cohort begins October 4th, 2024

• Udemy Course: Beyond Respect: Inclusive Leadership in Conversations about Race

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