#25: Storytelling for Belonging – Communication, Queerness, and the Workplace

In this Pride Month special, we have a special guest, Aruna Ganesh Ram, DEIB specialist, performer, and co-founder of Breath Beings, joining us to explore how storytelling and communication shape inclusive workspaces.From the personal challenge of “bringing your authentic self to work” to the systemic shifts needed to foster true belonging, this conversation dives deep into creating safe, equitable, and empathetic spaces—especially for the LGBTQ+ community.

Episode Breakdown

0:00 – 0:35 | Introduction
Episode theme introduction: storytelling and communication for Pride Month

0:36 – 2:03 | Why ‘Bring Your Authentic Self’ is Easier Said Than Done
Aruna discusses the emotional and psychological effort involved for queer individuals to show up authentically at work, and how repeated coming out is an everyday challenge.

2:04 – 4:37 | What Holds People Back?
Aruna explains how subtle judgments—such as a shift in someone’s gaze—can reinforce exclusion, and why allyship requires vulnerability, openness, and self-awareness from cis-het peers.

4:38 – 6:43 | Creating Belonging: Systems, Structures & Sport
Belonging is not programmed—it’s felt. Aruna shares how organizations can foster inclusion through mindful rituals, inclusive design, and everyday behaviors. She draws a compelling parallel with team sports and the feeling of mutual respect and shared goals.

6:44 – 10:33 | The Power of Storytelling to Shift Perspectives
From books to podcasts, Aruna emphasizes the transformative role of queer narratives. She recommends:
- Untamed by Glennon Doyle
- Following queer voices like Alok Vaid-Menon and Prarthana Prasad
- Listening to the Rainbow Diaries podcast
  She also urges listeners to be “story gatherers” and intentionally engage with the queer community.

10:34 – 12:15 | Scenario: A Teammate Comes Out Over Lunch
Aruna shares practical advice on how to respectfully receive a coming-out moment, emphasizing trust, empathy, and responsibility.

Key Takeaways

Coming out isn’t a moment—it’s a continuous effort.
Organizations must recognize the emotional labor queer people perform just to be seen.

Allyship begins with authenticity and unlearning.
Cis-het colleagues must drop performative allyship and embrace open, non-judgmental engagement.

Belonging can’t be mandated—it must be felt.
Systems and structures matter, but so do body language, eye contact, and cultural cues of inclusion.

Everyone is a storyteller—and a story.
From following queer creators to examining your own reactions, meaningful DEIB starts with reflection.

Ask. Listen. Learn.
It’s not the LGBTQ+ community’s job alone to educate others—it’s everyone’s responsibility to bridge the gap with curiosity and care.

Listen in to this thoughtful, vulnerable, and power-packed conversation—because inclusive communication starts with the stories we choose to tell and hear.