Take a break, we’re on Smoko! This week we sit down with the thoughtful and dynamic Toby Michaud, a former wildlife biologist, DEI advocate, and founder of a facilitation practice centered on inclusion, equity, and collaborative leadership. With over 25 years of experience in STEM and a deep commitment to creating systems where everyone feels seen, Toby brings a wealth of personal and professional insight.

Toby shares her unique journey from the muddy boots of fieldwork in BC’s coastal wilderness to navigating leadership roles in corporate, government, and nonprofit sectors. She speaks openly about caregiving, chronic illness, and the often-invisible labor of those balancing family responsibilities with demanding careers. Through it all, she brings a perspective rooted in care, adaptability, and a fierce belief in the power of intentional, inclusive systems.

Her work shines a light on how we can foster belonging in STEM and trades, not just with policy but through everyday practices. From trauma-informed facilitation to disability-inclusive workshops, Toby offers tangible strategies for transforming workplaces and learning spaces. She reminds us that equity work isn’t a side hustle, it’s central to how we build futures that are sustainable, empowering, and human-first.

Toby Michaud:

www.linkedin.com/in/tobymichaud

Toby Michaud Facilitation & Coaching

Organizations & Ideas Mentioned in the Podcast:

• SOGI 1 2 3
  sogieducation.org
  @sogi123
• Inclusion Project by Toby Michaud
  Trauma-informed, access-centered facilitation and training
• Marbled Murrelet & Species at Risk work
  (Aka: yes, the bird is real — and adorable.)
• Equity-Centered Leadership
  Incorporating inclusive systems design, care-based leadership, and anti-oppressive practices in STEM/trade orgs