Neuro-inclusive and gender-affirming practices that help leaders and workplaces achieve authentic belonging.

  • Generating Safety

    Embed best practices informed by the latest research and the most effective communication methods to generate trust and a sense of safety; this is especially important when leading a diverse community.

  • Affirming Gender

    Nearly 1 in 4 Americans under 25 identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, with many being transgender and gender-expansive. Gain the knowledge to embed LGBTQ+-affirming practices successfully.

  • Embracing Access

    Accessibility is not only related to noise-canceling headphones and flexible work schedules; it is core to the 21st-century workforce. Shift from believing you are accessible to knowing you are.

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  • “I partnered with Chris to lead a faculty workshop on gender-affirming pedagogy, and they delivered beyond my expectations. Chris weaves a story instead of lecturing, which is beautiful to experience. They expertly articulated how leaders build affirming spaces and repair relationships after harm. We felt inspired to recenter relationships in our work and to affirm one another as colleagues. I also appreciated that they stayed afterward to answer questions from participants."

    Amina L, Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at an independent school

  • “Each time Chris and I partner, I learn something new. They’re a true champion for intersectional equity and inclusion whose voice, perspective, intellect, and practices model bravery, authenticity, and hope. Working with Chris has undoubtedly enhanced my equity practice, and I recommend them without hesitation.”

    Ben R., Founder + CEO of a consulting firm

  • “Chris is an exceptional advocate for people who are marginalized and a disruptor of discriminatory systems. Their subject matter expertise is exceptional, while their ability to communicate complex concepts in accessible and digestible ways is outstanding. Chris is especially knowledgeable about the intersection of race/ethnicity, LGBTQIA+, and neurodiversity in an equity landscape that often collapses issues into black or white understandings.”

    Heliana R, Ph.D., L.I.S.W., Researcher and Clinician for a BIPOC & LGBTQ+ support organization

  • “Chris is a beautiful storyteller and masterfully cultivates affirming and secure spaces for communities to have difficult conversations. They demonstrate the power of vulnerability and use connection and empathy to inspire people-centered community building. Chris is a steadfast advocate for justice who models a deep commitment to affirming humanity, community, and growth. I’m honored to work with Chris to advance equity and access.”

    Alina S, Director, of an antiracism non-profit

  • “Having had the pleasure of working closely with Chris, I can confidently attest to their remarkable qualities. During their appearance on my podcast, Chris's contributions were nothing short of exceptional. Their presence infused the podcast with inspiration, education, and collaboration, leaving a lasting impact on both myself and the audience. Chris's authentic approach and engaging demeanor brought a unique perspective to our discussions, making every moment enriching and enlightening."

    Brien C, TEDx Speaker, Executive Advisor

  • "Chris is such a charismatic speaker, and their insights and expertise provided us with nuanced frameworks and tools to navigate community-building and equity work. Their Core Needs Framework and visuals are super helpful. Highly recommended!"

    Erika LDV Ph.D., Associate Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at a university

  • "When my transgender teen came out at school, a couple of teachers accidentally used the wrong name and pronouns that first day back. I asked Chris to please gently remind staff of my child’s new name and pronouns, and we were floored by Chris and their response. Not only did they sincerely and thoroughly apologize on behalf of the entire school, they changed school policy to prevent something like this happening to another child. My teen felt seen and supported. I felt deeply thankful that Chris was the person to handle things."

    Jessica K, parent of a Transgender child

  • "I invited Chris to be a guest speaker on my podcast, and I'm glad I did. Their perspective brings much-needed clarity, sparking crucial dialogue and offering honest, refreshing, and results-oriented solutions for advancing equity in the workplace and beyond. Chris' dedication to speaking truth and promoting justice sets them apart. As a speaker, Chris brings a unique and valuable perspective that will inspire and challenge audiences to consider what it truly means to show up with integrity in the pursuit of equity.”

    Shahzia N. M.Ed, Creator, and host of an equity-focused podcast

Chris D. Hooten, M.A. (they/them), is a certified Neuro-Mindfulness coach, educator, writer, and speaker. They are also an award-winning inclusion coach devoted over a decade to helping culturally diverse, gender-expansive, and neurodivergent leaders and teams discover the joy and benefits of authenticity, belonging, and affirming communication.

After earning a Master’s in Education and Human Development from George Washington University, they founded their consultancy. During their time at the university, they chaired the GW Alumni Association Multicultural Alumni Task Force, leading inclusion initiatives for over 60,000 graduates.

Throughout their career, they have pioneered an outcomes-based and relational approach to inclusion founded on practices from social sciences, mindfulness, organizational theory, and body-based awareness. Chris has a track record of diverse partnerships with national leaders, including The American Bar Association Tax Section, Chihuly Garden and Glass, Bastyr University, Levy Restaurants, and Space Needle, along with a robust one-on-one coaching practice.

Featured in

  • UnYielded Podcast