Michel Arsenault on the intersection of gender diversity, workplace policies and authenticity

Authentic Living

In this episode, social worker Michel Arsenault joins Roxanne Derhodge to discuss the evolving recognition of gender diversity in the workplace. They delve into common misunderstandings, the importance of incorporating gender diversity in company policies, and navigating the delicate balance between employee privacy and company transparency. Strategies for addressing potential transphobia on social media platforms are also considered, alongside the vital role of diversity in innovative businesses.

Michel is an award-winning expert for his vision and efforts to help organizations manage gender diversity in the workplace and support transgender individuals ready to make the transition at work in a sensitive and respectful manner. Michel has worked with organizations and their staff all over the globe and can deliver all support in English and French. He obtained his Masters of Social Work from McGill University in Montreal and has worked in a clinical setting for over 30 years. He has worked as an HIV/AIDS Social Worker (his Masters’ having focused on helping gay men living with HIV/AIDS), Counsellor, Trauma Counsellor, Trainer, Manager, and Senior Clinical Director within the Employee Assistance Program industry. His Critical Incident response experience includes two weeks in Haiti after the 2010 earthquake and coordinating clinical services and deployment of over sixty counsellors in NY after 911. For over 10 years Michel designed and hosted a monthly real-time Learning Line training series for clinicians and service providers. He is the recipient of the 2018 Leadership Award of Excellence from the Employee Assistance Society of North America (EASNA) for his work in the area of LGBTQI2S+.links

www.avorawellbeing.com

www.roxannederhodge.com

(0:00) Introduction with Roxanne Derhodge and guest Michel (2:15) Michel's work in supporting transgender individuals and corporates' approach (7:18) Addressing common misconceptions about gender identity (11:15) Steps for companies to support transgender employees and proactive measures (16:18) Balancing confidentiality with open communication in the workplace (20:45) Handling phobias and resistance within the organization (23:48) Comparing transgender transition and racial diversity in the workplace (27:38) Importance of open-mindedness and understanding diversity (30:55) Psychological struggles of non-authenticity at work and impact on ROI (33:43) Introduction to Avora Well-being and the concept of proactive diversity (36:18) Roxanne's new book, ROR: Return on Relationship and closing remarks