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cover of episode Christopher CJ Gross - Overcoming Class Bias in the Workplace

Christopher CJ Gross - Overcoming Class Bias in the Workplace

2025/4/24
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CJ explains that he was initially reluctant to write the book but felt compelled to address the unaddressed issues in diversity and inclusion. A conversation with Rob, a gay African-American man, highlighted the varying levels of exclusion based on class. This realization, coupled with an article by Jones C. Williams and the book Hillbilly Elegy, spurred CJ to explore how class shapes our workplace interactions.
  • Reluctance to write the book due to labor involved
  • Conversation with Rob highlighted class-based exclusion
  • Influence of Jones C. Williams' article and Hillbilly Elegy
  • Addressing the gap in diversity and inclusion work

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Christopher “CJ” Gross, CEO of Jabbar HR Solutions, CEO and Founder of Ascension Worldwide, and author, joins us this episode to discuss key takeaways from his book, What’s Your ZIP Code Story? CJ shares how our backgrounds shape workplace interactions, techniques for navigating difficult conversations, and practical approaches to addressing class bias in professional settings. 

[0:00] Introduction

  • Welcome, CJ!
  • Today’s Topic: Understanding and Overcoming Class Bias in the Workplace

[6:55] What inspired CJ to write his book?

  • Where to begin when discussing class in the workplace
  • Understanding that it’s human to develop biases

[19:26] Where did CJ start the journey to write his book?

  • The power of conversations that stems from curiosity
  • Exploring the dualities within people

[31:39] How do you navigate difficult conversations with people who share opposing opinions?

  • How to engage productively with people who hold opposing opinions
  • Why face-to-face conversations build trust in ways digital communication cannot

[41:18] Closing

  • Thanks for listening!

Connect with CJ: 

  • LinkedIn)

 

Connect with David:  

 

Connect with Dwight: 

 

 Podcast Team 

 

 Produced by Afogato Media) 

Quick Quote

“If we’re not able to share [our stories] without fear of retaliation, then we don’t have an environment where we can have dialogue. When that happens, people will use power to protect themselves.”

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