Inclusive Leadership Coaching

Hosted by Terri Donohue

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Mar 2026

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What if your coaching practice could help redefine what leadership really looks like? Welcome to The Inclusive Leadership Coaching Podcast with me, Terri Donohue—your Neurospicy Inclusion Coach. This podcast weaves together storytelling, lived experience, and real tools for coaches who are ready to build practices that are inclusive, empowering, and deeply transformational. What makes this space different? I bring an intersectional lens to neurodiversity and other social juctice topics—because inclusive leadership isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is coaching. Join me (and sometimes other incredible inclusive coaches) every month as we reimagine coaching culture, celebrate inclusion, and grow together—one bold conversation at a time.

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March 7, 2026Episode 22129 min

How Capitalism Cultivates Narcissism in Inclusive Leadership Coaching

How Capitalism Cultivates Narcissism in Inclusive Leadership Coaching Discover why narcissism isn't just a personality disorder—it's a systemic pattern shaped by capitalism itself. In this eye-opening episode, host Terri explores the hidden connection between economic systems and narcissistic behaviour patterns that show up in coaching, leadership, and everyday life. Learn why coaching emerged inside capitalism, not outside of it, and how the industry's "we don't coach mental health" narrative creates a dangerous policy-practice gap. With 85% of coaches reporting clients seeking mental wellbeing support, it's time to challenge what we've been taught about scope of practice. This episode covers: • The spectrum of narcissistic traits from healthy ego to harmful behavior • How neoliberalism in the 1980s-90s shaped modern coaching culture • The true self vs. false self split and how capitalism weaponizes it • Why understanding system-shaped behavior is essential for inclusive coaching • The role of white supremacy, patriarchy, and oppression in shaping adaptations • Why 1 in 6 people may operate with strong narcissistic traits 🎙️ Listen now and join the Inclusion Lab for deeper conversations, coaching strategies and tools -> The Real Talk: Rest as Resistance Connect with Terri: https://terridonohue.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/terridonohuecoaching/ https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=37544869&appointmentType=85793642 Podcast Disclaimer Bio: As someone who is ADHD and dyslexic, Terri (she/her/hers) brings the expertise of lived experience to her coaching practice. She is a Jamaican American woman living and loving Canada and an ICF Professional Certified Coach (PCC) Life and Leadership coach with thousands of hours of coaching experience and credentials in DEIAA (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Anti-Racism, and Accessibility) and Neuro-Inclusive Equitable Systems Design from the University of British Columbia. As a mentor coach supervisor, she supports coaches in designing inclusive coaching practices that honour neurodiversity. Before coaching, she spent 23 years as an Emmy-nominated makeup artist in the entertainment industry, where she developed her strengths in creative innovation, design, systems thinking, and collaborative partnership. Whether you're a coach, leader, or someone navigating complex relationships, this episode will change how you see human behavior forever. Fair warning: once you see these patterns, you can't unsee them. Keywords: narcissism in leadership, capitalism and narcissism, inclusive leadership coaching, coaching mental health, neoliberalism and coaching, narcissistic traits, systems thinking, DEI coaching, coaching scope of practice, trauma-informed coaching

January 23, 2026Episode 21920 min

Rest, Recognize and the Redesign of Inclusive Leadership Coaching By Terri

🎧 Rest, Recognition & Redesign: Why Black Women Don't Owe You an Explanation | Inclusive Leadership Coaching Discover why rest isn't a reward—it's a right. In this groundbreaking episode, we explore the hidden labor that black women perform daily, the anti-black misogyny embedded in workplace culture, and how to redesign systems for true equity. 🔥 What You'll Learn: ✅ The "Strong Black Woman" stereotype and its roots in slavery ✅ Why rest is political—and who benefits when you don't take it ✅ Intersectionality in action: race, gender, and workplace expectations ✅ How to recognize invisible labor and compensate it fairly ✅ Practical strategies for dismantling systemic racism in leadership ✅ The difference between self-care and actual systemic change Perfect for: DEI practitioners, HR leaders, coaches, managers, entrepreneurs, and anyone committed to anti-racist leadership and inclusive workplace culture. Featured: Insights from Dr. Shereen Daniels, bestselling author of The Anti-Racist Organization Keywords: inclusive leadership, DEI, diversity equity inclusion, anti-racism, workplace equity, black women in leadership, systemic racism, emotional labor, intersectionality, leadership coaching, organizational change, workplace culture, racial justice, feminist leadership, neurodivergent leaders, BIPOC leadership, rest as resistance, workplace burnout, equitable systems ⚡ Ready to move beyond performative allyship? This episode gives you the language, frameworks, and real talk you need to create actual change. 🎙️ Listen now and join the Inclusion Lab for deeper conversations, coaching strategies and tools -> The Real Talk: Rest as Resistance Connect with Terri: https://terridonohue.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/terridonohuecoaching/ https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=37544869&appointmentType=85793642 Podcast Disclaimer Bio: Terri Donohue is a passionate and ICF/PCC-certified Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) coach specializing in Neurodiversity Life and Leadership. With 23 years of experience in the entertainment industry, where she earned an Emmy nomination, Terri brings a unique blend of creative expertise and a deep commitment to empowering others. She works with and prefers to align herself with ours, which values honesty, personal development, fairness, and connection. Terri is a coaches coach who also enjoys supporting therapist as well.

October 8, 2025Episode 21732 min

Addressing Racial Harm in Inclusive Leadership Coaching By Terri

Racial harm in the workplace often goes unaddressed because leaders frame it as "perception" rather than reality. In this essential episode for coaches, diversity practitioners, and inclusive leaders, we explore how to support Black clients experiencing racial trauma through embodied, trauma-informed coaching practices. What You'll Learn: Why senior leaders fail to address everyday racial harm and how this impacts Black professionals The Terri Tools framework: five practical coaching strategies for supporting clients through racial trauma How to create psychologically safe coaching containers where Black clients feel seen and believed The role of EMDR therapy in processing racial trauma and when to refer clients out Somatic and body-centered practices for nervous system regulation after experiencing racial harm Strategic documentation and protection planning for clients facing workplace discrimination Loving-kindness meditation as a self-compassion practice for rebuilding worthiness Key Topics Covered: Racial trauma and its impact on the body, mind, and nervous system Trauma-informed coaching for BIPOC professionals Workplace racial harm and microaggressions EMDR therapy for racial trauma processing Somatic coaching practices and embodied awareness Ethical coaching boundaries and therapeutic referrals Organizational gaslighting and systemic racism This episode moves beyond intentions to focus on impact, offering coaches concrete tools to support clients navigating racial harm while honouring both the client's experience and the coach's ethical boundaries. Perfect for: Executive coaches, leadership coaches, DEI practitioners, inclusive leadership specialists, neurodiversity coaches, HR professionals, Therapist and anyone supporting professionals in workspaces. Connect with Terri: https://terridonohue.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/terridonohuecoaching/ https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=37544869&appointmentType=85793642 Podcast Disclaimer Bio: Terri Donohue is a passionate and ICF/PCC-certified Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) coach specializing in Neurodiversity Life and Leadership. With 23 years of experience in the entertainment industry, where she earned an Emmy nomination, Terri brings a unique blend of creative expertise and a deep commitment to empowering others. She works with and prefers to align herself with ours, which values honesty, personal development, fairness, and connection. Terri is a coaches coach who also enjoys supporting therapist as well. Contact Information for California EMDR Therapist: PAMELA J. WARREN, THERAPY: https://www.pamwarrentherapy.com/

September 10, 2025Episode 21628 min

When Productivity and Meritocracy Reinforce Ableism in Inclusive Leadership Coaching By Terri

🔥 The Productivity Obsession That's Actually Perpetuating Harm What if everything we've been taught about productivity in coaching is reinforcing 400+ years of ableist systems? This groundbreaking episode exposes the hidden pipeline from meritocracy to ableism that's infiltrating coaching practices everywhere. Discover why "just work harder" mentality violates inclusive leadership principles and learn the essential lens shift from "What's wrong with them?" to "What support do they need?" Perfect for mentor coaching, CCE credits, and coaches committed to neurodiversity inclusion. What You'll Learn: How toxic productivity undermines coaching ethics The meritocracy-to-ableism pipeline destroying client trust Sustainable productivity strategies for neurodivergent clients ICF-aligned approaches to inclusive coaching practices Why accommodations aren't weakness—they're accessibility rights Essential for: ICF Core Competencies & Ethics Alert! Inclusive leadership coaches, mentor coaches, neurodiversity specialists, ICF credential holders pursuing CCE hours, and any coach working with ADHD, autistic, or neurodivergent clients. Connect with Terri: https://terridonohue.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/terridonohuecoaching/ Podcast Disclaimer Bio: Terri Donohue is a passionate and ICF/PCC-certified Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) coach specializing in Neurodiversity Life and Leadership. With 23 years of experience in the entertainment industry, where she earned an Emmy nomination, Terri brings a unique blend of creative expertise and a deep commitment to empowering others. She works with and prefers to align herself with ours, which values honesty, personal development, fairness, and connection. Resources mentioned: Devon Price's "Laziness Does Not Exist" https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/laziness-does-not-exist-devon-price-phd/1137251962?utm_source=chatgpt.com Primary Tags: #InclusiveLeadership #NeurodiversityCoaching #ICFEthics #MentorCoaching #CoachingEthics #ADHDCoaching #AutismCoaching #ToxicProductivity#CCECredits #InclusiveCoach #NeurodivergentCoaching #CoachTraining #EthicalCoaching #AccessibilityCoaching #SustainableProductivity #CoachDevelopment#MeritocracyMyth #CoachingInclusion #NeuroInclusiveCoaching #DisabilityCoaching #CoachingJustice #AntiAbleistCoaching

August 22, 2025Episode 2151 hr 13 min

Identity Work in Inclusive Leadership Coaching with Natasha Aruliah

Podcast Description: In this powerful episode, Terri Donohue sits down with Natasha Aruliah—a psychologist, trauma-aware facilitator, educator, consultant, and coach with over 25 years of experience in equity, inclusion, and organizational transformation. Together, they explore the deep and often complex journey of identity work—what it means for leaders, coaches, and anyone committed to creating truly inclusive spaces. From unpacking privilege and bias to navigating the ways we’ve internalized societal expectations, Natasha and Terri dive into how identity shapes leadership, belonging, and transformation. Along the way, they honor the richness of diverse identities and the contributions of all groups, while also naming how systems of power, inequities, and oppression impact the coaching profession and the people we serve. They share practical tools and coaching strategies that support clients in noticing, naming, and nurturing their authentic selves. Whether you’re a coach seeking to deepen your practice, a leader striving to embody inclusive leadership, or simply someone curious about the intersection of coaching, identity, and DEI, this conversation will challenge and inspire you to “coach the who” — not just the what. nd inspire you to “coach the who” — not just the what. ✨ Key themes: Identity work as the bedrock of Inclusive Leadership Coaching Recognizing and respecting different identities and lived experiences How privilege, power, and systemic inequities shape our sense of self Practical frameworks for coaching identity, belonging, and inclusion Why Inclusive Leadership Coaching transformation must begin within If you’re ready to explore the heart of coaching indentity, inclusion, and equity, this episode is for you. Resources: Notice Your Soul in the Dark (21 minutes) - John Amaechi video Emotional Justice: A roadmap for racial healing - Esther Armah Connect with Natasha: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natasha-aruliah-75071420/ Bio: Natasha Aruliah is a coach, psychologist, therapist, and trauma-aware facilitator, consultant, educator, and coach specializing in JEDdi (social justice, equity, decolonizing, diversity, inclusion) and transformational organizational change. She began her career in higher education supporting international and marginalized students before moving to community settings, witnessing firsthand the impact of systemic structures and related trauma. With over 25 years of experience across government, union, non-profit, community, and corporate sectors in the UK, Europe, Canada, and the USA, Natasha creates spaces for all voices, supporting courageous dialogue on challenging or often-avoided topics. She has taught at the University of British Columbia, the Justice Institute of BC, and co-facilitated Effective and Inclusive Group Facilitation courses at Simon Fraser University. Her particular area of interest is identity development, which she teaches and speaks on widely. Connect with Terri: https://terridonohue.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/terridonohuecoaching/ Podcast Disclaimer Bio: Terri Donohue is a passionate and ICF/PCC-certified Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) coach specializing in Neurodiversity Life and Leadership. With 23 years of experience in the entertainment industry, where she earned an Emmy nomination, Terri brings a unique blend of creative expertise and a deep commitment to empowering others. She works with and prefers to align herself with ours, which values honesty, personal development, fairness, and connection. #CoachingIdentity #InclusiveCoaching #InclusiveLeadership #LeadershipCoaching #DiversityEquityInclusion #CoachingForEquity #IdentityAndLeadership #CoachTheWho #BelongingInLeadership #LeadershipTransformation #SystemicChange #EquityAndInclusion #SocialJusticeLeadership #TraumaInformedCoaching #CoachingPodcast #LeadershipMatters#InternationalCoachingFederation #ICF #CoreCompetencies #ICFMaintainingPresence

August 8, 2025Episode 21417 min

Demystifying Diversity in Inclusive Leadership Coaching By Terri

🎧 Unlock the Hidden "D" in DEIB: Why Diversity Goes WAY Beyond What Most Think Join me, your inclusive leadership coach and neurodiversity advocate, as I break down the REAL meaning of diversity in leadership coaching. If you think diversity is just about race and ethnicity, this episode will completely shift your perspective. What You'll Discover: ✅ 9 types of invisible diversity that impact every coaching conversation ✅ Why saying "diverse candidates" actually reinforces bias ✅ How to embody truly inclusive coaching ✅ The mentor coaching core competency and ethics insights that will transform your practice Perfect for: Executive coaches seeking inclusive leadership training ICF credential holders (ACC, PCC, MCC) working on renewals Business coaches wanting neurodiversity training Leadership development professionals Team coaches building psychologically safe workplaces and relationships Anyone passionate about DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging) Featured Topics: Invisible diversity in leadership coaching Neurodiversity and ADHD in executive coaching ICF ethics and inclusive coaching practices Communication styles and cognitive diversity Sensory processing in leadership development Emotional intelligence and diverse thinking patterns Systemic oppression in coaching relationships Professional coaching standards and inclusion Ready to make your coaching practice truly inclusive? This episode gives you the tools to see and honor ALL forms of human diversity. Connect with Terri: https://terridonohue.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/terridonohuecoaching/ Podcast Disclaimer Bio: Terri Donohue is a passionate and ICF/PCC-certified Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) coach specializing in Neurodiversity Life and Leadership. With 23 years of experience in the entertainment industry, where she earned an Emmy nomination, Terri brings a unique blend of creative expertise and a deep commitment to empowering others. She works with and prefers to align herself with ours, which values honesty, personal development, fairness, and connection. Keywords: inclusive leadership coaching, diversity in coaching, neurodiversity training, ICF ethics 2025, ADHD leadership coach, executive coaching, professional coaching, DEIB, mentor coaching, invisible diversity, cognitive diversity, inclusive coaching practices #InclusiveLeadership #Neurodiversity #ICFCoaching #DEIB #LeadershipCoaching #ExecutiveCoaching #ADHDCoach #DiversityAndInclusion #ProfessionalCoaching #MentorCoaching

July 23, 2025Episode 21333 min

Challenging Neurodivergence in Inclusive Leadership Coaching

In this episode of Challenging Neurodivergence, we go where most conversations about neurodiversity and inclusion refuse to. Host Terri Donohue opens up a powerful dialogue inspired by Nathalie Martinek’s article, “Dark Neurodivergence or Cluster B Traits?”, and invites listeners to examine what happens when neurodivergent identities are used to deflect accountability. We explore: What Nathalie calls “dark neurodivergence” How some are using the neurodivergent labels as moral shields in coaching, leadership, and workplace settings What coaches and inclusive leaders need to know about DARVO, toxic empathy, and when to challenge vs. accommodate How this relates to the ICF Core Competencies of Facilitating Growth This isn’t another neurodiversity 101. It’s a grounded, truth-telling session for leaders and practitioners ready to lean into complexity, discernment, and ethically grounded inclusion. Connect with Nathalie Martinek: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathalie-martinek/ Her article: Dark neurodivergence or Cluster B traits? Connect with Terri: https://terridonohue.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/terridonohuecoaching/ https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=37544869&appointmentType=85793642 Podcast Disclaimer Bio: Terri Donohue is a passionate and ICF/PCC-certified Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) coach specializing in Neurodiversity Life and Leadership. With 23 years of experience in the entertainment industry, where she earned an Emmy nomination, Terri brings a unique blend of creative expertise and a deep commitment to empowering others. She works with and prefers to align herself with ours, which values honesty, personal development, fairness, and connection. Resource's: ** Dr. Rami **: Holding Narcissists ACCOUNTABLE: The DARVO method: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jPGrxHEcnp8 **How to ADHD by Jessica McCabe** A comprehensive, shame-free guide with practical strategies grounded in neurodivergent experience. — Jessica McCabe, creator of How to ADHD on YouTube https://riverbookshop.com/products/9780593578940?variant=44659941638399 ** Title:The Autistic Survival Guide to Therapy ** Author: Steph Jones (late-diagnosed autistic therapist) www2.internationalinsurance.org+15Jessica Kingsley Publishers - USA+15Barnes & Noble+15 Publisher: Jessica Kingsley Publishers, Feb 21 2024; 256 pages Google Books Formats: Trade Paperback (US $19.95), e‑Book, Audiobook (narrated by Collette Byrne) 🎧 Tune in if you’re ready to question what’s being framed as inclusion — and start building spaces that are not just safe, but honest.

July 2, 2025Episode 21259 min

Intentionally Choosing Coaching Education with Lisa MacVicar

🎙️ Episode Description I’m thrilled to partner with Lisa MacVicar—leadership educator, Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) strategist, and creator of Learn with Lisa—to unpack how intentional, inclusive education can truly transform your coaching practice and inclusive leadership impact. In this energizing episode, we dive into: • Why coaches have a responsibility to critically assess what they’re learning—Who created this course? Whose voices are centered? Is it truly inclusive or just performative? • How to tell the difference between CEU-earning programs that check boxes and those that actually shift your mindset, deepen your skills, and create real transformation • Lisa’s proven approach to building online learning experince—starting with real-world impact and designing curriculum that supports meaningful change Our ethical practice as ICF Coaching to continusly learning and growing 👥 Whether you're a coach, leader, or educator, this conversation is a must-listen if you’re committed to learning that includes everyone and drives real results. Learn with Lisa • Main page & course catalog → https://learnwithlisa.thinkific.com/collections • Exclusive “Anyone Bundle” for podcast listeners → https://learnwithlisa.thinkific.com/bundles/anyone-bundle Connect with Lisa • LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-macvicar-d-sousa-544177/ • Website → https://www.lisamacvicar.com/ Connect with Terri: https://terridonohue.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/terridonohuecoaching/ Podcast Disclaimer Bio: Terri Donohue is a passionate and ICF/PCC-certified Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) coach specializing in Neurodiversity Life and Leadership. With 23 years of experience in the entertainment industry, where she earned an Emmy nomination, Terri brings a unique blend of creative expertise and a deep commitment to empowering others. She works with and prefers to align herself with ours, which values honesty, personal development, fairness, and connection. Tune in to discover how to choose—and create—learning that truly transforms you, your team, and your community.

June 18, 2025Episode 2111 hr 13 min

Equity in Inclusive Leadership Coaching: Moving Beyond Equality with Susana Rinderle

Heeey Leaders, Are you a coach who values inclusion and curious about how to shift from neutrality toward equity? Then this episode is a must-listen!!! Join Terri Donohue, ICF PCC-accredited leadership coach and DEI strategist, in conversation with Susana Rinderle—ICF PCC, trauma-informed somatic coach, writer, and former DEI executive—as they unpack the real difference between equality and equity in coaching. In this powerful episode, you’ll learn: ✅ Why equity—not just equality—is critical in inclusive leadership coaching 🔍 How colorblindness and power-blindness show up in coaching (and why they’re dangerous) 🛠️ Tools to apply equitable, trauma-informed approaches rooted in ICF Core Competencies 💬 Real stories on identity, systems of oppression, and the lived experience behind the theory Whether you're a professional coach, DEI practitioner, or organizational leader seeking to deepen your awareness—this episode offers honest insights, rich nuance, and practical wisdom you can put into action. 🎧 Listen now and start aligning your coaching with justice, empathy, and real-world impact. Don't forget to leave a review and rating Connect with Susana: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanarinderle/ Choice Article: The Magazine of Professional Coaching: Six Keys to Coaching Across Color Lines Websites wordswisdomwellness.com (Company) traumainformedcoachingusa.com (Company) Connect with Terri: https://terridonohue.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/terridonohuecoaching/ Podcast Disclaimer Bio: Terri Donohue is a passionate and ICF/PCC-certified Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) coach specializing in Neurodiversity Life and Leadership. With 23 years of experience in the entertainment industry, where she earned an Emmy nomination, Terri brings a unique blend of creative expertise and a deep commitment to empowering others. She works with and prefers to align herself with ours, which values honesty, personal development, fairness, and connection.

June 4, 2025Episode 21027 min

Neurodiversity to Neuro-Inclusion: Redefining Inclusive Leadership Coaching

What does it mean to move from understanding neurodiversity to practicing neuro-inclusion in leadership coaching? In this powerful episode, Terri Donohue, an ICF-accredited Inclusive Leadership Coach, dives deep into how neuro-inclusive coaching is more than just a niche—it's a movement. With personal stories, sharp insights, and practical strategies, Terri explores how leaders and coaches can transform environments to support all brains—not just neurotypical ones. 🧠 Learn how to: Define neurodiversity and neuro-inclusion in practical terms Shift from awareness to action using the neurodiversity paradigm Create coaching spaces that honor sensory, processing, and communication needs Build systems using universal design that benefit everyone, not just neurodivergent people If you're a coach, leader, HR professional, or simply someone who believes in the power of inclusion, this episode offers a blueprint for leading with intention, compassion, and equity. Connect with Terri: https://terridonohue.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/terridonohuecoaching/ Disclaimer Bio: Terri Donohue is a passionate and ICF/PCC-certified Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) coach specializing in Neurodiversity Life and Leadership. With 23 years of experience in the entertainment industry, where she earned an Emmy nomination, Terri brings a unique blend of creative expertise and a deep commitment to empowering others. She works with and prefers to align herself with ours, which values honesty, personal development, fairness, and connection. Keywords: neuro-inclusion, neurodiversity coaching, inclusive leadership, universal design, ADHD, dyslexia, intersectionality, inclusive coaching, executive functioning, DEI, ICF coach, accessible leadership, inclusive workplace