Did That Just Happen?! - by Stephanie Pinder-Amaker & Lauren Wadsworth (Paperback)

About the Book

"Across the globe, organizations have begun to appreciate that diverse groups provide superior outcomes; however we do not know how to sustain diversity in the workplace. This book offers relatable vignettes and evidence-based skill building to close this gap"--

Book Synopsis

An accessible guide showing all people how to create and sustain diversity and inclusivity in the workplace--no matter your identity, industry, or level of experience

Offering real-life accounts that illustrate common workplace occurrences around inclusivity and answers to questions like "How do I identify and handle diversity landmines at work?" and "What can I do when I've made a mistake?" this handbook breaks down ways that organizations (and all people) can improve their cultural awareness and become more equitable in their work and personal relationships.

We know that diverse teams are stronger, smarter, and more profitable, and many companies are attempting to hire more diverse teams, but most struggle to create a real culture of inclusivity in which people from all backgrounds feel comfortable. As clinical psychologists, as well as individuals with marginalized identities, Dr. Stephanie Pinder-Amaker and Dr. Lauren Wadsworth show the emotional and physical impact of marginalization and how that leads to a decrease in employee engagement and, often, increased job turnover.

"Did That Just Happen?!" will be invaluable for employees who come from underrepresented communities and identities (identities discussed include race, age, disability, sexual orientation, citizenship status, and gender expression). But the book is essential for leaders of companies, supervisors, HR departments, and for anyone who wants to understand and support diversity/equity/inclusion practices. The book will also make readers feel more confident in their navigating of friendships/interactions with people who hold different identities.

Review Quotes

"In the evolving realm of DEI titles, Pinder-Amaker and Wadsworth have provided a next-level standout, guiding all manner of organizations in establishing a sustainable, inclusive culture. With authority and authenticity, the authors provide practical, concise direction illuminating the pitfalls and opportunities faced by anyone engaging in this difficult work."
--Booklist

"Excels in providing constructive, tactical ways of creating workplace cultures that are more inclusive."
--Charter

"It's happening. Increasingly, employees, business leaders, and managers want to bring their 'whole self' to work, and more organizations are starting the tough conversations necessary to give everyone the opportunity for success. But it takes know-how to forge a smart path forward, and there are consequences for getting this wrong. Did That Just Happen?! is the step-by-step guide for leaders committed to getting diversity and inclusion right."
--Deb Elam, CEO, DEI thought leader, and former president and chief DEI officer, GE Foundation

"Successful leaders understand that culture really is everything. On winning teams, nobody stands on the sidelines; every team member is valued, empowered, and contributes toward shared goals. But you don't leave this to chance. Did That Just Happen?! is a game plan for leaders looking to create a culture built for the long term and built for success."
--Mike Krzyzewski, head basketball coach, Duke University

"Finally! In this era of corporate pledges of commitment to diversity, a detailed and accessible 'blueprint' for establishing and sustaining diversity in the workplace. The authors use case studies to demonstrate how and why organizations--even with the best intentions--so often miss their diversity goals. This is imperative reading for all workplace personnel irrespective of position, executives and staff alike."
--Harry Edwards, PhD, professor emeritus of sociology, University of California, Berkeley

"The term 'diversity' has become the 'it' word. Unfortunately, it's kind of like the word 'spirituality.' Many love to profess, but fewer are willing to commit to a sincere practice. Did That Just Happen?! helps us move beyond lip service with the practical skills and insights to foster cultures of inclusive excellence. So, if you're ready to move your business, faith community, or school beyond milquetoast homogeneity and mediocre productivity, buy this book!"
--Dr. Jonathan Lee Walton, dean of the School of Divinity and Wait Chapel, Wake Forest University

"An essential road map for moving from diversity as a hollow corporate initiative to building vital, resilient organizations that are inclusive at their core. Filled with real-world anecdotes that resonate and with skills and practices that leaders can deploy immediately."
--Rich Paret, entrepreneur and tech executive, former senior engineering director, Google, and VP of engineering, Twitter

About the Author

Dr. Stephanie Pinder-Amaker is a clinical psychologist and Harvard Medical School professor committed to achieving multicultural excellence in organizations. As founding director of McLean Hospital's College Mental Health Program, she has consulted with numerous institutions on diversity and inclusion. She is also the cofounder of Twin Stars Diversity Trainers, a consultation company offering diversity and identity-related trainings for organizations. Dr. Pinder-Amaker currently serves as the McLean Hospital-Harvard Medical School's chief diversity, equity, and inclusion officer.

Dr. Lauren Wadsworth is a clinical psychologist passionate about furthering diversity and inclusion efforts. She serves as a senior advisor on the Anti-Racist, Justice, and Health Equity team at McLean Hospital/Harvard Medical School. She is the founder and director of the Genesee Valley Psychology (GVP), a clinic providing evidence-based treatment to the Rochester, NY, area and specializing in OCD, trauma, DBT, and a newly launched Racial Trauma and Healing center. She is also the cofounder of Twin Stars Diversity Trainers, a consultation company offering diversity and identity-related trainings for organizations and leadership. Finally, she is a clinical senior instructor in psychiatry at the University of Rochester Medical Center.