Episode 106 - Exploring Professionalism: Hair, Dress, and Code-Switching

In this episode of Over the Bridge Podcast, Kalil, Bilal, and Baker dive into a discussion inspired by recent personal conversations about the concept of professionalism. They explore the influence of hair, dress code, and the way they speak, especially as black and mixed-race men. The conversation covers personal anecdotes, cultural influences, and how professional norms can differ across various environments like hospitals, schools, and freelance settings. The episode also delves into the subconscious nature of code-switching and its impact on personal identity and professional interactions.00:00 Introduction and Host Introductions01:52 Hospital Dress Codes and Professionalism06:17 Teaching Profession Dress Codes09:42 Freelancing and Dress Codes15:42 Hair and Professionalism35:23 Colonialism and Hair Perceptions36:30 Media Representation and Hair Standards37:22 Generational Shifts in Hair Perception38:13 Professionalism and Natural Hair40:42 Code-Switching in Professional Settings42:05 Accent and Intonation in the Workplace43:21 Language Adaptation and Code-Switching46:29 Cultural Influences on Language56:08 Authenticity in Professional Communication59:02 Future Hair Styles and Personal Identity01:03:24 Live Event Announcement and Conclusion