298: Male Allyship: Building Inclusive Actions at Work with Shawn Andrews and Michael O'Brien

In this episode of Work from the Inside Out, Tammy Gooler Loeb speaks with Dr. Shawn Andrews and Michael O'Brien, co-authors of The 5 Levels of Male Allyship: A Guide to Building Better Teams Through Real Inclusion. Together, they explore how allyship can help create more inclusive workplace cultures and stronger professional relationships.

Drawing on their research and experiences, Shawn and Michael discuss why many men want to be allies but often struggle to know where to begin. They explain the five levels of allyship, the importance of awareness and courage, and how individuals can move from good intentions to meaningful action.

The conversation also examines the differences between allies, mentors, and sponsors, the role leaders can play in fostering cultures of inclusion, and the challenges created by workplace dynamics such as "bro culture." Shawn and Michael share practical tools from their book that help individuals assess their allyship and identify potential advocates within their organizations.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into how allyship benefits everyone, strengthens workplace culture, and creates opportunities for people to thrive together.

In this week’s Work from the Inside Out podcast, learn more about:

The definition of allyship and why it mattersThe five levels of male allyshipWhy awareness is the foundation of allyshipThe role of courage in supporting othersHow allyship differs from mentorship and sponsorshipThe impact of workplace culture on inclusionCommon barriers that prevent men from becoming alliesThe influence of "bro culture" in organizationsPractical tools for identifying and developing alliesWhy allyship benefits both individuals and organizations

Learn more about Michael and Shawn:

Read: The 5 Levels of Male Allyship: A Guide to Building Better Teams Through Real InclusionTake the assessment: 5 Levels of Allyship Assessment  Visit drshawnandrews.com/5levelsofallyshipFollow Shawn Andrews on LinkedInVisit michaelobrienshift.com/Follow Michael O’Brien on Linkedin

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