Right on.
As to the rest... I don't use the n word and I can't remember the last time I heard a friend of mine use it (if they ever have). I'm not afraid of being beat up by black people--certainly not in a professional context! And yes, I'm aware that in-person interactions are much less likely to result in cancellation haha. So I guess I'll take your advice of just assuming that it's in my head. It usually goes away when I spend enough time around someone regardless.
Anyway, take it easy.