298: Male Allyship: Building Inclusive Actions at Work with Shawn Andrews and Michael O'Brien
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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 matters
The five levels of male allyship
Why awareness is the foundation of allyship
The role of courage in supporting others
How allyship differs from mentorship and sponsorship
The impact of workplace culture on inclusion
Common barriers that prevent men from becoming allies
The influence of "bro culture" in organizations
Practical tools for identifying and developing allies
Why 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 Inclusion
Take the assessment: 5 Levels of Allyship Assessment
Follow Shawn Andrews on LinkedIn
Visit michaelobrienshift.com/
Follow Michael O’Brien on Linkedin
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About Tammy, host of
Work from the Inside Out
Before launching my coaching practice, I worked in mental health, higher education, public policy, and fundraising. Those experiences showed me how deeply our work shapes our sense of purpose—and now I help clients navigate change and growth so they can feel more fulfilled and aligned in what they do