Inclusion doesn’t fail because people don’t care — it fails in the small, everyday moments we barely notice. Who gets interrupted. Who gets invited in. Who’s expected to “just know how things work.” In this episode of No One Left Behind, JR breaks down three micro-behaviours that quietly shape whether people feel safe, heard, and valued at work. No frameworks. No budgets. No leadership title required. Just small, intentional shifts that anyone can start today — and that change team culture faster than any policy ever will.

Being labelled a “diversity hire” can quietly undermine confidence, belonging, and leadership — even for highly capable people. In this episode, we explore where the term comes from, the psychological toll it can take, and why diversity initiatives exist in the first place. With real-world context from Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia, and beyond, this conversation challenges assumptions and offers practical ways to lead with confidence, fairness, and inclusion — without shying away from the hard truths.

Unconscious bias is one of the most common themes that comes up in my DEI work — and while I’ve recorded on this before, this longer session goes deeper. In this episode, I unpack what unconscious bias actually is, where it hides, and how it affects our decisions, workplaces, and relationships without us even realising it.

We explore:

• Why “good intentions” aren’t enough

• How bias shapes hiring, leadership, and everyday interactions

• Practical tools to slow down automatic thinking

• How to build habits that interrupt bias in real time

• Why self-awareness is a lifelong practice, not a tick-box exercise

If you’re looking to build more equitable teams, strengthen your own awareness, or start better conversations, this episode gives you a grounded, real-world starting point.

While you’re here, take a look through my past episodes — there’s a full series of short, practical DEI conversations covering culture, inclusion, allyship, Te Tiriti, leadership and more.

🎧 Available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
🎙️ No One Left Behind — conversations that move us forward.

In this episode of No One Left Behind, we unpack the fine line between cultural appreciation and cultural appropriation — and why it matters. From fashion and music to food and art, we explore how good intentions can still cause harm when respect and context are missing. With examples from around the world and right here in Aotearoa New Zealand, this conversation is about learning before we borrow, crediting before we copy, and celebrating without exploiting. Because true inclusion means honouring culture, not just enjoying it. Join me as we explore how to engage respectfully — and leave no culture behind.

Is DEI disappearing — or simply evolving? In this episode of No One Left Behind, I examine the evolving landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion. From backlash and “DEI fatigue” to more values-driven, human-centred approaches, we unpack what’s really happening beneath the headlines. Is this the end of DEI as we know it, or the beginning of something deeper and more authentic? Join me for a thoughtful chat about how inclusion is evolving — and why it remains more important now than ever. Because progress isn’t disappearing; it’s transforming!

Exclusion has a price—and it’s higher than many of us realise. From turnover to lost trust, the hidden costs ripple through teams and organisations.

In this episode of No One Left Behind, I explore what exclusion really costs and how we can all take steps to build genuine belonging at work.

Because when people belong, everyone thrives.

New episode of No One Left Behind: We’re talking heuristics — the mental shortcuts our brains use to make snap judgments. They help us make quick decisions, but in DEI they can also fuel bias, stereotyping, and exclusion. In this episode, I unpack how heuristics work, share everyday examples, and give practical tips for slowing down and challenging them — so we can build fairer, more thoughtful workplaces where no one’s left behind.

What’s the real difference between equity and equality — and why does it matter?

In this episode of No One Left Behind, we explore how equality focuses on giving everyone the same resources, while equity recognises that people start from different places and need different kinds of support to succeed.

Through simple explanations and real-world examples, I unpack why equity is often the more powerful and meaningful goal — in workplaces, communities, and everyday life.

If you’re interested in diversity, equity, inclusion, fairness, or leadership, this episode will give you a practical lens to spot barriers, ask better questions, and create environments where everyone can thrive.

A name is more than just a word — it’s identity, culture, and belonging. In this episode, I explore why getting someone’s name right matters, and how something so small can make a big difference in inclusion.

Aotearoa’s population is shifting fast — and politics that rely on an aging, mostly white voter base are on borrowed time. In this episode of No One Left Behind, JR explores the demographic changes shaping our nation, why ignoring them could be a costly mistake, and what it means for the future of leadership, inclusion, and power. Backed by stats, sprinkled with provocation, and grounded in hope, this is a good start for anyone who wants to understand where Aotearoa is heading — and who’s leading the way.