Lexi Dring
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brufay.bsky.social
Lexi Dring
@brufay.bsky.social
#LowHangers #Fruit #LGBTQ hit me up ;)
Joy as Proof of Healing

In "Backstroke & Breakthroughs," the author reflects on the importance of joy in leadership amid challenging work. They emphasize that joy exists in healing moments, such as helping students and witnessing positive changes in others. This realization empowers leaders to…
Joy as Proof of Healing
In "Backstroke & Breakthroughs," the author reflects on the importance of joy in leadership amid challenging work. They emphasize that joy exists in healing moments, such as helping students and witnessing positive changes in others. This realization empowers leaders to embrace joy without guilt, reinforcing its role in transformative efforts.
brufay.com
December 19, 2025 at 11:52 AM
A New Model for Belonging”

The post emphasizes that true belonging in the workplace transcends mere inclusion and performance, advocating for a new model based on co-creation and reciprocity. It highlights the importance of trust, genuine leadership, and ongoing transformation, advocating for…
A New Model for Belonging”
The post emphasizes that true belonging in the workplace transcends mere inclusion and performance, advocating for a new model based on co-creation and reciprocity. It highlights the importance of trust, genuine leadership, and ongoing transformation, advocating for approaches that prioritize dignity and the active shaping of spaces where everyone genuinely belongs.
brufay.com
December 12, 2025 at 3:00 PM
The Cost of Emotional Labor

The author discusses the emotional labor often expected from marginalized individuals in predominantly white institutions, highlighting the toll it takes on their well-being. They emphasize that this labor is unrecognized and unpaid, urging leaders to honor and…
The Cost of Emotional Labor
The author discusses the emotional labor often expected from marginalized individuals in predominantly white institutions, highlighting the toll it takes on their well-being. They emphasize that this labor is unrecognized and unpaid, urging leaders to honor and compensate it. Setting boundaries is essential for personal survival and effective support for others.
brufay.com
November 25, 2025 at 5:57 PM
Conflict Isn’t the Enemy—Silence Is

The author emphasizes that true DEI work begins with disruption rather than comfort. Conflict isn't the enemy; silence is. Drawing from personal experiences in a diverse family, they advocate for facing tensions and conversations honestly, seeing conflict as a…
Conflict Isn’t the Enemy—Silence Is
The author emphasizes that true DEI work begins with disruption rather than comfort. Conflict isn't the enemy; silence is. Drawing from personal experiences in a diverse family, they advocate for facing tensions and conversations honestly, seeing conflict as a tool for clarity, accountability, and innovation, ultimately fostering a courageous dialogue in organizations.
brufay.com
October 30, 2025 at 12:35 PM
Writing Myself Home

The author reflects on their journey of writing "Backstroke & Breakthroughs" as a means to confront buried memories and emotions. This practice became essential for healing, serving as a ritual that transforms pain into clarity. By sharing their story, the author encourages…
Writing Myself Home
The author reflects on their journey of writing "Backstroke & Breakthroughs" as a means to confront buried memories and emotions. This practice became essential for healing, serving as a ritual that transforms pain into clarity. By sharing their story, the author encourages others to write for self-discovery and solace.
brufay.com
October 23, 2025 at 2:02 PM
The Power of Pausing

The author reflects on the transformative power of rest, emphasizing that it is a birthright and an act of resistance, especially in a society that thrives on exhaustion. Through personal experiences of hardship and self-discovery, they advocate for valuing stillness and…
The Power of Pausing
The author reflects on the transformative power of rest, emphasizing that it is a birthright and an act of resistance, especially in a society that thrives on exhaustion. Through personal experiences of hardship and self-discovery, they advocate for valuing stillness and encourage readers to embrace rest without guilt or justification.
brufay.com
October 2, 2025 at 1:50 PM
From Held to Holding

The author reflects on the transformative impact of creating safe spaces in both personal and professional contexts, particularly in public media. They emphasize leadership rooted in empathy and confidence-building, rather than mere titles. Despite personal achievements and…
From Held to Holding
The author reflects on the transformative impact of creating safe spaces in both personal and professional contexts, particularly in public media. They emphasize leadership rooted in empathy and confidence-building, rather than mere titles. Despite personal achievements and expertise in diversity and inclusion, systemic challenges persist, prompting a deeper commitment to restoration and connection.
brufay.com
September 25, 2025 at 12:50 PM
Back to the Water

In "Backstroke & Breakthroughs," the author reflects on returning to swimming as a means of healing after overcoming personal challenges. Teaching swim lessons at the YMCA helped reclaim their rhythm and trust in their body. The connection with students served as a reminder that…
Back to the Water
In "Backstroke & Breakthroughs," the author reflects on returning to swimming as a means of healing after overcoming personal challenges. Teaching swim lessons at the YMCA helped reclaim their rhythm and trust in their body. The connection with students served as a reminder that healing often involves revisiting what once brought joy and vitality.
brufay.com
September 18, 2025 at 1:25 PM
What My Grandmother Knew

The importance of scope in project management was highlighted through a friend's interview experience. Nathan felt uncertain after meeting with a sustainability company that failed to define his role and responsibilities. Clarity is essential for organizations to engage…
What My Grandmother Knew
The importance of scope in project management was highlighted through a friend's interview experience. Nathan felt uncertain after meeting with a sustainability company that failed to define his role and responsibilities. Clarity is essential for organizations to engage employees. Without it, both projects and talent may be lost, emphasizing the need for boundaries.
brufay.com
September 7, 2025 at 12:06 PM
Sticks and Stones; or something like that.

My brother constantly pushed boundaries at home and school, often causing chaos. His defiance wasn't just energetic; it stemmed from a deeper fear of silence and introspection. Through his mischief, he tested the world’s limits and taught me that those…
Sticks and Stones; or something like that.
My brother constantly pushed boundaries at home and school, often causing chaos. His defiance wasn't just energetic; it stemmed from a deeper fear of silence and introspection. Through his mischief, he tested the world’s limits and taught me that those who seem the loudest may hide profound inner struggles.
brufay.com
September 3, 2025 at 1:30 PM
Spirit Over Survival

The author reflects on their upbringing in Islam, highlighting the beauty of its structure despite personal doubt. Through growth and a near-death experience, their spirituality evolved beyond ritual, focusing on connection and presence with the divine. They emphasize the…
Spirit Over Survival
The author reflects on their upbringing in Islam, highlighting the beauty of its structure despite personal doubt. Through growth and a near-death experience, their spirituality evolved beyond ritual, focusing on connection and presence with the divine. They emphasize the coexistence of their past faith and current spiritual identity, encouraging personal exploration.
brufay.com
August 28, 2025 at 6:41 PM
Naming Myself

The author reflects on their multifaceted identity as a biracial, bisexual individual raised in a Muslim household, highlighting struggles with acceptance from various communities. They criticize toxic queerness for enforcing hierarchies and emphasize the importance of…
Naming Myself
The author reflects on their multifaceted identity as a biracial, bisexual individual raised in a Muslim household, highlighting struggles with acceptance from various communities. They criticize toxic queerness for enforcing hierarchies and emphasize the importance of self-acceptance. The takeaway is to create space for one's truth and assert one's wholeness.
brufay.com
August 21, 2025 at 1:17 PM
Lumen and the Lost Feather

In the Grove Between Worlds, Lumen, a unique being with deer legs and golden antlers, discovers a lost blue feather. He learns it belongs to a tiny bird, which he helps by returning it. This act of kindness teaches Lumen that assisting others in finding their way also…
Lumen and the Lost Feather
In the Grove Between Worlds, Lumen, a unique being with deer legs and golden antlers, discovers a lost blue feather. He learns it belongs to a tiny bird, which he helps by returning it. This act of kindness teaches Lumen that assisting others in finding their way also helps in finding oneself.
brufay.com
August 13, 2025 at 5:57 PM
Why Trust Is the First Metric

Trust is the foremost metric in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), often overlooked yet essential for genuine participation. It's built on consistency, transparency, and care. To create effective Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), prioritize listening to community…
Why Trust Is the First Metric
Trust is the foremost metric in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), often overlooked yet essential for genuine participation. It's built on consistency, transparency, and care. To create effective Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), prioritize listening to community needs over superficial initiatives. Building environments of trust is crucial for true engagement and equity.
brufay.com
August 13, 2025 at 12:21 PM
The Platform I’m Building

The author expresses a desire to create a media platform that genuinely represents diverse voices, particularly those of marginalized communities. This space would prioritize honesty, healing, and empowerment, fostering storytelling that includes joy and pain alike. The…
The Platform I’m Building
The author expresses a desire to create a media platform that genuinely represents diverse voices, particularly those of marginalized communities. This space would prioritize honesty, healing, and empowerment, fostering storytelling that includes joy and pain alike. The aim is to support creators and build a future that honors lived experiences.
brufay.com
August 7, 2025 at 10:04 AM
Feeling Siloed, and When Is it Time to Go?

In a recent webinar by YAYAHPS, experienced public media professionals discussed career mobility and strategies for overcoming industry challenges. They emphasized the importance of networking, recognizing when to leave toxic workplaces, and seeking…
Feeling Siloed, and When Is it Time to Go?
In a recent webinar by YAYAHPS, experienced public media professionals discussed career mobility and strategies for overcoming industry challenges. They emphasized the importance of networking, recognizing when to leave toxic workplaces, and seeking management roles to improve the environment for others. The dialogue underscored the complexities of the public media landscape.
brufay.com
August 2, 2025 at 7:39 PM
Rudolph: The Last Battle of the Twelve

Episode 23 The Arrival at the Vault The sea parts. The Vault of Benjamin rises in full celestial majesty—a twelve-sided crystal pyramid, etched with names in every language of the tribes, both known and long-lost. Each side pulses with a different…
Rudolph: The Last Battle of the Twelve
Episode 23 The Arrival at the Vault The sea parts. The Vault of Benjamin rises in full celestial majesty—a twelve-sided crystal pyramid, etched with names in every language of the tribes, both known and long-lost. Each side pulses with a different rhythm—Time, Blood, Memory, Flame, Wind, Seed, Sand, Salt, Dream, Stone, Light, Shadow. And at its peak: Tzel’el.
brufay.com
July 26, 2025 at 12:13 PM
Sunshine and Shadows

After moving to Florida post-graduation, the author experienced a thrilling yet challenging transition to independence. However, a sudden medical emergency forced a year of bedridden recovery, prompting a journey of patience and resilience. The experience taught valuable…
Sunshine and Shadows
After moving to Florida post-graduation, the author experienced a thrilling yet challenging transition to independence. However, a sudden medical emergency forced a year of bedridden recovery, prompting a journey of patience and resilience. The experience taught valuable lessons about hope, progress, and the importance of trusting the healing process.
brufay.com
July 17, 2025 at 2:11 PM
College was supposed to be the place where I finally got to focus. Where hard work would speak louder than where I came from.
They Tried to Fail Me
The author reflects on their college experience at Baldwin Wallace, highlighting the challenges faced as a Black student in a supposedly inclusive environment. Despite encountering racism and bias from faculty, they persevered, graduated in 2016, and advocate for speaking out against marginalization, reminding others that they belong and should own their narratives.
brufay.com
July 10, 2025 at 1:09 PM
What the Water Taught Me

In "Backstroke & Breakthroughs – Post #5," the author reflects on his journey as a Black swimmer from Cleveland, emphasizing the clarity and discipline gained through competitive swimming. This solitary sport fostered resilience, internal growth, and confidence despite…
What the Water Taught Me
In "Backstroke & Breakthroughs – Post #5," the author reflects on his journey as a Black swimmer from Cleveland, emphasizing the clarity and discipline gained through competitive swimming. This solitary sport fostered resilience, internal growth, and confidence despite feelings of not belonging. The key takeaway encourages personal focus and consistency over external validation.
brufay.com
July 3, 2025 at 11:41 AM
Rudolph: The Awakening of the Wordsmith

In "Descent into the Flame-Root," Rudolph and companions descend Mount Nyomi to confront Echo-Walkers, distorted forms of lost loved ones. Using the power of memory, Rudolph liberates them, reaching the Wordsmith, who gifts him the First Rune. This arcane…
Rudolph: The Awakening of the Wordsmith
In "Descent into the Flame-Root," Rudolph and companions descend Mount Nyomi to confront Echo-Walkers, distorted forms of lost loved ones. Using the power of memory, Rudolph liberates them, reaching the Wordsmith, who gifts him the First Rune. This arcane glyph and her Song awaken new potential against Tzel’el's dark ambitions.
brufay.com
July 2, 2025 at 4:37 PM
Rudolph: The Path of the Turning Flame

In Episode 21, Rudolph aids the Children of the Foundry, revealing their true identities and leading them to join the Circle. He confronts false prophets in a ruined Simeonite observatory, awakening their memories. He also influences warrior-lovers Amina and…
Rudolph: The Path of the Turning Flame
In Episode 21, Rudolph aids the Children of the Foundry, revealing their true identities and leading them to join the Circle. He confronts false prophets in a ruined Simeonite observatory, awakening their memories. He also influences warrior-lovers Amina and Kael to embrace hope over destruction. Tzel’el adapts his tactics, seeking the Vault of Benjamin for ultimate power.
brufay.com
June 28, 2025 at 12:49 PM
The Heart in the Middle

After a near-death experience following a move to Florida, the author faced a long recovery that necessitated relearning patience, asking for help, and believing in personal comeback. Returning to their first job at the YMCA, they learned that starting over is a courageous…
The Heart in the Middle
After a near-death experience following a move to Florida, the author faced a long recovery that necessitated relearning patience, asking for help, and believing in personal comeback. Returning to their first job at the YMCA, they learned that starting over is a courageous act, emphasizing resilience during life's quiet challenges.
brufay.com
June 26, 2025 at 11:52 AM
Rudolph: The Dreamforge Trials

In Episode 19, "The Threshold of Dreams," four protagonists face personal trials in the Dreamforge. Each emerges transformed: Sunny chooses uncertainty, Kito embraces freedom, Amirah redefines memory, and Rudolph accepts purpose over peace. Together, they awaken the…
Rudolph: The Dreamforge Trials
In Episode 19, "The Threshold of Dreams," four protagonists face personal trials in the Dreamforge. Each emerges transformed: Sunny chooses uncertainty, Kito embraces freedom, Amirah redefines memory, and Rudolph accepts purpose over peace. Together, they awaken the Dreamforge’s power, foreseeing a looming conflict driven by Tzel'el's ambition.
brufay.com
June 25, 2025 at 11:27 AM
Rudolph: The Covenant Rekindled

In Episode 18, Rudolph seeks to unite the Reubenites, Simeonites, and Issachar through memories and truths. He breaks their seals, sacrifices a cherished memory, and navigates time to find the Issachar Elder. Together, they complete the Circle of Twelve, opening the…
Rudolph: The Covenant Rekindled
In Episode 18, Rudolph seeks to unite the Reubenites, Simeonites, and Issachar through memories and truths. He breaks their seals, sacrifices a cherished memory, and navigates time to find the Issachar Elder. Together, they complete the Circle of Twelve, opening the path to the Dreamforge, a realm of possibilities.
brufay.com
June 22, 2025 at 11:27 AM