The Inclusion Bites Podcast

Navigating Inclusivity in the Digital Age

Luke explores the intricate challenges of navigating neurodiversity, the influence of alcohol culture in the workplace, and the journey towards creating inclusive environments in the digital age, highlighting his story of resilience and redemption.

In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood invites Luke Morrisen to explore the multi-faceted landscape of inclusivity in the digital age. Luke, who has navigated numerous challenges pertaining to neurodiversity and ADHD, both personally and as a father, provides a compelling narrative about overcoming adversity. Joanne and Luke delve into the intricacies of creating inclusive environments in the workplace, with a focus on the recruitment industry and the often-overlooked aspect of alcohol-free socialisation.

Journey of Self-Discovery and Giving Back: “I want to learn more and I want to give back to the community out there. And I I guess for me, the biggest part is is learning myself and learning on this journey, but also helping people like I’m helping my children at the moment understand who they are and how they can progress themselves and how they cannot have limiting beliefs really.”

The Impact of Budget Constraints on Education: “But it’s when you’re in that position and it’s your child, it’s so frustrating to know that the needs of your child aren’t being met just because of a budget.”

Balancing Diverse Work Styles in Tech: “Company needs a developer that’s really happy sitting at home, plugging away on their code, maybe working in the middle of the night and sleeping until 12 o’clock.”

“Changing Workplace Culture: It it’s a real tough tough line to walk. Like, how do you manage that? And I guess it comes down from it it comes from the top.”

Title: The Importance of Inclusive Leadership

Title: The Importance of Authenticity in the Workplace: “I wanna hire people that understand who they are or they they I don’t want to put anybody in an environment where they don’t feel safe or they feel like they have to be somebody that they’re not to fit in.”

Balancing Social Dynamics in the Workplace: “I definitely feel like you need to understand everyone on a deeper level, get to know them individually, get to know what they want, what they don’t want, and then coming up with ideas that, you know, maybe go out and do an event that doesn’t involve it.”

Balancing Work and Passion: “I wanna build something so she doesn’t have to work, so she can do something that she really loves doing.”

Prioritising Future Security Over Material Possessions: “But what’s important to me is making sure my wife’s pension is maxed out when we’re older and my children’s pensions are maxed out if I can.”

“Worried About Tick Box Exercises: ‘I am worried that some companies do it as a tick box exercise, which is a bit sad, but I’ve spoken to some brilliant companies the last few months that are it is part of their agenda, and they’re driven to change.'”

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Understanding Cultural Integration through Language Education

Caroline Praveen explores the profound impact of learning English on immigrant identity, the fight against societal biases, and the transformative power of cultural integration and empathy in supporting displaced families in Pittsburgh.

In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood and guest Caroline Praveen explore the profound impact of language on identity and integration. Caroline reflects on the complexities of learning English and how it has affected her connection to her native tongue and identity. Joanne and Caroline also discuss the myriad challenges that immigrants face, from cultural dissonance to navigating societal biases, and the indispensable role of communication in overcoming these obstacles.

Building a Better Future for Immigrant Children: “Right now, I’m kind of just helping them with their English language skills and also helping them to appreciate their culture while also learning about those of their neighbours.”

The Digital Divide for Refugees: “But if you’re talking to these refugees who have just left a traumatic environment and are trying to even stay on their feet, digital literacy is not their biggest concern, which makes sense, of course, but it’s definitely a disadvantage to them because there are so many opportunities online that they’ll just never know about.”

The Cognitive Challenge of Learning English: “You have to think about the parents, you know, because they’re in the same boat, but their brain is 25 years older.”

The Challenges of Learning English as a Second Language: “A lot of these students are completely clueless, but more than that, they come from a more disadvantaged background than I do.”

Global Connectivity and Conflict: “The closer you put people of different mindset and different background and of varying levels of stubbornness, the more you see this conflict and everything kind of blow up.”

Topic: Socioeconomic Inequality in Healthcare

Empathy in Communication: “You have to kind of consider the fact that even though they aren’t able to express themselves like a fully developed adult, they are a fully developed adult with the same thoughts and same feelings that you might have just in a different language.”

Globalization and Immigration: “I think the more that nations get into contact with each other or the more that globalization becomes more prevalent and you see this influx of immigration, it’s always been a kind of negative reaction.”

“The Inclusive Generation”: “The way that people in gen z kind of view for example, mental health, They actually view that as a valid concern. They prioritize that in a lot of instances, whereas someone that’s older and maybe more close minded might not actually think of that because that wasn’t really a prevailing issue or a topic of conversation when they were growing up.”

Sympathy in the Age of Climate Change: “So I think as long as the almost like the ratio of the amount of people that are willing to understand what’s going on in the world, how the world is changing, and not just stick to their mindset and their point of view, I think that we’re on a good track.”

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From Tech Careers to Diversity Champions

Toby Mildon explores the transformative journey from technology to diversity and inclusion, underscoring the importance of understanding emotional motivations, challenging biases, and fostering a truly inclusive workplace culture through practical an

In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood is joined by Toby Mildon to explore the journey from technology to diversity and inclusion (D&I) transformation. Together, they discuss the pivotal events that are often necessary to raise awareness and inspire action on health, diversity, and inclusion issues. The conversation emphasises the emotional "why" behind actions and the challenge of effectively articulating these motivations to drive genuine change within organisations.

The Role of EDI in Leadership: “They said that we take a lot of the anxiety and the fear out of talking about EDI, which we see a lot with senior leaders and businesses. They’re worried about saying the wrong thing, causing offence, causing embarrassment.”

Gender Imbalance in Tech at the BBC: “I quickly learned that diversity was much bigger than women in engineering, that there are many other aspects to diversity that needed addressing in the corporation.”

The Diversity Iceberg: “You can see 10% of the iceberg poking above the waterline and these are all visible characteristics. But 90% of the iceberg is hidden beneath the waterline, and these are our kind of invisible, non apparent characteristics, and often they’re not the traditional types of diversity that we might think about.”

Unconscious Bias and Disability Representation: “When I worked for the BBC, we we did some research, and we found out that disabled people were more likely to be portrayed as villains, victims, and heroes than non disabled people.”

Creating More Equity in Society: “It’s about seeing the individual, understanding what disadvantages they do have, and trying to close the gap so that we do create that equality.”

Culture of Meritocracy: “A lot of organisations say, well, we have a culture of meritocracy. That kind kind of comment usually comes from the in group or the majority group who do believe that there is meritocracy because their experience is that there’s fairness, that there’s equality, that the best person gets the job.”

The Privilege of Being Born in the UK: “The NHS has saved my life for more than 1 occasion, and the health care that I’ve received from the NHS has enabled me to go off to university and get good jobs and things like that.”

Leadership and Inclusivity: “That’s really interesting, but but who am I as a straight bloke to be talking about LGBT matters in the in the organization?”

Understanding Your “Why”: “You have to understand what your why is for your business and then communicate that throughout the business.”

The Struggles of Trans Women: “She kind of talks about the first time that she steps outside her front door and walks down her street, she felt unsafe as a trans woman.”

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Insights on Addiction, Body Image, and Environmental Responsibility

Liv Maudsley explores the profound impacts of social media, mental health struggles, and the importance of self-awareness, while shedding light on generational differences and the ongoing journey towards understanding and inclusion.

In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood hosts an enriching conversation with Liv Maudsley, touching on various aspects of social media's influence, addiction, and personal journeys of recovery. Liv, a vibrant college student and co-host of The School Run podcast, introduces insightful perspectives on how different generations interact with social media and the broader implications on mental health and societal expectations. Joanne brings her own experiences into the discussion, exploring how algorithms shape our viewing habits and the pervasive nature of targeted advertising. Together, they untangle the complexities of digital life and its effects on modern society.

Liv Maudsley is no stranger to the pressures of today's world. A talented netball player who switched positions due to external perceptions about her height, Liv opens up about her struggle with anorexia triggered by the competitive nature of her sport and societal pressures for perfection. She recounts the harrowing journey through her eating disorder, the lack of adequate support during her recovery, and the ongoing challenges she faces in maintaining wellness. Beyond her battles, Liv remains a passionate advocate for mental health, inclusion, and sustainability, bringing a youthful yet profoundly wise voice to the episode. Her efforts extend to her podcast, The School Run, where she and her mother share poignant life insights and engage with guests to provide diverse perspectives to their audience.

Throughout their conversation, Joanne and Liv cover an array of significant topics. They discuss the addictive qualities of social media, the generational divide in digital engagement, and the pressing environmental concerns that loom over the future. Liv's decision to delete TikTok and Snapchat becomes a focal point, highlighting her quest for a more present and meaningful existence. The dialogue also explores the challenges of discerning truth from misinformation, the evolving attitudes toward recycling and sustainability, and the mutual need for intergenerational understanding.

A key takeaway from this episode is the crucial balance between digital engagement and mental well-being. Listeners will gain valuable insights into managing the pressures of social media, fostering genuine connections, and advocating for both personal and planetary health. Whether you're navigating your own digital habits or supporting someone through recovery, this episode offers meaningful guidance to enrich your journey. Tune in to hear Liv's poignant story and join the conversation on creating a more inclusive and mindful world.

Phone as an Escape: “I know that some of my friends, their phone is like an escape from the real world And they think, well, TikTok, I can look into someone else’s life and and I’d I can get out of my life for a while.”

“Generation’s Key Concerns”: “I think we’re very heavy, our generation, on 1, mental health and 2, diversity diversity and inclusion. I think they’re both 2 very hue and and the planet and sustainability. I think those 3, I would say, are kind of the main 3 in our generation.”

Title: “Supporting Friends Through Transition”

**The Importance of Passion in Life Choices**: “Do what you love because then the drive to work hard, the drive to push through and carry on will come from passion and love for what you’re doing.”

“Generational Perspectives on Environmental and Social Issues”: “I hear a lot that we’re, you know, the snowflake generation and we’re very maybe because we’re so we really wanna help the planet and diversity and inclusion, and that’s not been traditional because older generations haven’t had the education or or awareness of that.”

Mutual Respect Across Generations: “Their experience is different. And to understand they have the right to that opinion, you know, whether we like it or not, they’re gonna say what they’re gonna say and that’s absolutely fine.”

“The Importance of Appreciating Nature”: “I do sometimes look at the nature and think like look how amazing this is and we’re not doing much to help it right now. And it’s so beautiful, and we should be super, super grateful for the world that we live in and for the for the things that we have which people before us haven’t had.”

“Struggling with News Credibility”: “I never know what is, what to believe, what’s not, what’s slanted, what isn’t.”

Understanding Passion Through Personal Experience: “Like for me, I had anorexia for 2 years, and I’m very passionate about, you know, eating disorders and very around food.”

Viral Topic: Overcoming an Eating Disorder: “People say you can never fully recover from an eating disorder, you know, it’s impossible, you can’t do it. And I, whether that’s right or wrong, I choose not to believe it because I think, do you know what? I can fully recover because this is I’m not gonna let this, you know, take over my life completely because it it has done once and it’s not going to again, and I make that decision for myself.”

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Gender Equity and Inclusive Workplaces: Moving from Performative Acts to Authentic Support

Valentina Jaramillo illuminates the future of gender equity by addressing the pitfalls of rainbow washing, advocating for genuine inclusion, and stressing the importance of pay equity and inclusive language to empower all gender identities in the wor

In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood engages with Valentina Jaramillo to explore "The Future of Gender Equity". Valentina sheds light on the pervasive issue of "rainbow washing" by companies, which superficially support the LGBTQ+ community without genuine actions. Joanne and Valentina examine the importance of authentic company support and its positive impacts on employee morale and retention. The conversation touches on the necessity for pay equity, transparent pay structures, and fostering discussions about gender equity within workplaces.

Valentina Jaramillo is an empowerment catalyst and inclusion advocate, dedicated to developing inclusive gender equity strategies for organisations. Valentina's personal journey of discovering their true identity at the age of 40, despite growing up in Colombia where non-binary identities were not recognised, fuels their passion for advocacy. Valentina stands as a beacon for inclusive language, policies, and spaces, promoting gender-neutral restrooms, and emphasising the importance of genuine support for all gender identities, including non-binary, agender, and gender non-conforming individuals.

The episode delves into challenges related to the use of pronouns, discussing how resistance from others persists. Joanne and Valentina recount experiences of being disregarded by recruiters on LinkedIn for listing pronouns and facing the need to conform while travelling. They explore the broader issues of inclusivity in language and the impact of traditional gender roles, highlighting the need for progressive changes to foster a welcoming environment for everyone.

Joanne and Valentina also address the pink tax, gender stereotypes in marketing, and the performative activism often seen during Pride season. They call for continuous advocacy and support for diversity within organisations, extending beyond superficial gestures to meaningful actions that drive change. The episode wraps up with a heartfelt call to listeners to engage in genuine support and inclusion, encouraging them to subscribe and share their thoughts and stories.

A key takeaway from this episode is the emphasis on authentic, ongoing support for gender equity, and the need for inclusive language and policies that reflect genuine intentions. Listeners will gain valuable insights into fostering an inclusive workplace culture, the importance of addressing gender disparities, and the challenges and triumphs of gender nonconforming individuals. This episode serves as a call to action for everyone committed to driving gender equity and inclusion forward.

The Benefits of Diverse Identities in the Workplace: “Diverse identities in the workplace bring they increase profit, they retain talent, they increase productivity. So we already know the benefits.”

Future Equity Concerns: “We should be pulling putting everyone up trying to get to that equity for everyone, and that’s where I see the issue that it’s not that conversation is still not happening.”

Corporate Inclusion Challenges: “So 1 of the things that I I know that happens in a lot of corporate or that started to happen is that the the the ERGs, the women ERD was suddenly kind of they they put all the other genders in there, but it was kind of like, oh, we don’t know what to do with you, so let’s just tie them up here.”

Inclusive Language Debate in Spanish-Speaking Countries: “He is actually explaining why their course and why the institute is advocating for inclusive language in Spanish, whether it’s an x instead of a or o or an e, and it’s just because language evolves and it changes.”

Language and Inclusivity: “I have a group of friends that are very woke, and they do their effort, and they do it, and by now, they’re used to.”

Gender Equity Strategies: “Gathering the data, making sure that they are using inclusive policies, that people use inclusive language for everyone, that trying to to start to build even in these small spaces, that ground start.”

Viral Topic: Inclusivity in Workplace Policies: “It is a simple thing, but it is also not a simple thing.”

Topic: The Impact of Oppressive Systems on Gender Identity

The Social Construct of Gender: “But to people who are using it, in this case, women who are using this rhetoric against trans women, it’s like, seriously? Like, what what part of your femininity is being aggravated because of a trans woman?”

The Impact of Diversity on Companies’ Success: “I think we by now, we can start to notice and really see those companies and if they haven’t figured it out, and they will probably start to see it in their revenue also because and in the way they attract people and talent and retain their talent because, and again, every generation is becoming even more queer.”

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Moving Beyond Meritocracy and Systemic Inequities

Sharita Marshall delves into the intricate financial implications of employee turnover, the relentless push for true equity over meritocracy, and the necessity of strategic Employee Resource Groups to foster a deeply inclusive workplace culture.

In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood and guest Sharitta Marshall delve into the financial and emotional implications of employee turnover within organisations. Sharitta, a seasoned expert in diversity, equity, and inclusion, questions traditional decision-making processes and advocates for a deeper understanding of why employees leave, urging companies to focus on keeping them engaged. Joanne and Sharitta explore the tangible costs of poor employee experience and high turnover, stressing the importance of making a compelling business case for human experience, especially in a capitalist-driven world.

Sharitta Marshall, founder of Visionary Development Consulting, is dedicated to fighting for workplace equality and liberation for all. Her consultancy focuses on providing strategies for businesses to empower Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and develop equity within organisations. Sharitta's advocacy reaches beyond the boardroom; she is committed to challenging systemic inequities, addressing the often overlooked individual impacts of DEI, and fighting against late stage capitalist resistance to equity. With her experience as a global ERG leader, Sharita brings a wealth of knowledge on aligning ERG initiatives with organisational goals to drive meaningful change.

The conversation touches on the ongoing challenges and resistance faced in driving DEI efforts, with Sharita highlighting the influence of the impending US election and the broader political climate on DEI funding and initiatives. Joanne and Sharitta also delve into the concept of meritocracy, privilege, and the challenges of addressing systemic inequalities. They discuss the role of ERGs as strategic business units and the importance of executive sponsorship for ERGs, underlining the need for clear roles, responsibilities, and alignment with business objectives.

The episode concludes with a powerful message on the interconnectedness of societal issues and the necessity of shifting towards understanding collective global impact. Joanne encourages listeners to subscribe to Inclusion Bites, share their journeys, and reach out with thoughts and stories for future episodes.

A key takeaway from this episode is the pressing need for organisations to prioritise DEI initiatives and understand their cost implications, not just financially but also in terms of human experience. Listeners will gain valuable insights into effectively engaging employees, addressing systemic inequalities, and leveraging ERGs to drive business success and foster an inclusive workplace culture. This episode is a call to action for leaders to re-evaluate their DEI strategies, ensuring they are meaningful and impactful.

Creating Equity Through Employee Resource Groups: “Well, I start from the the lens of them looking at the employee resource group as a strategic business unit. Not an Infinity Group, not a community group, not a club, or just a checkbox, but program of individuals that are underrepresented typically within the organization and setting them up to create equity throughout the organization.”

**Equity vs. Capitalism**: “Equity is the antithesis of capitalism. And wherever equity thrives, capitalism dies a little bit.”

Ensuring Equity in the Workplace: “You can impact your bottom line in a positive way, but you don’t have to continuously traumatize people to pay bills.”

Strategic ERG Development: “It is not the ERG’s responsibility to handle all of the DEI objectives.”

Empowering Middle Managers: “When I say leadership, I just don’t mean, like, c suite. I mean, middle managers. They need to understand that they’re directly tied to the ERG success because they need to make sure that leaders have the support and ability to get those objectives done.”

“Diverse Leadership Development”: “They haven’t been able to be seen by directors in higher level management because they’re individual contributors, but now they’re doing presentations around the program goals to to date.”

“Pushback Against DEI Initiatives”: “And the pushback around DEI, to be quite honest with you, is coming from white supremacists and Joanne black sentiment.”

The Importance of Inclusive ERG Programs: “And if you have an ERG program and you see that you don’t have any executives, you don’t have any directors, you don’t have anybody that is in any of these ERGs, then maybe you need to look at that because they should represent the entire organization.”

The Power of Storytelling in Organisations: “There is power in storytelling, and there’s power in having the ability to share your lived experience from your lived experience Jo that people can have an insight and maybe create empathy around that.”

The Longevity of the Struggle: “I do believe we’re gonna be fighting this for years to come. I think it’s gonna get to the point where when late stage capitalism is no longer in the position to sustain itself, when it has completely worn out the the working class and it can’t continue to propagate and expand upon itself, that that’s when very widespread impactful change will happen.”

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The Power of Self-Awareness and Accountability in Leadership

Lina Jankauskeite explores the transformative power of reframing difficult situations, nurturing self-leadership, and embracing humility to foster genuine connection and drive systemic change in personal and professional realms.

In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood and guest Lina Jankauskeite explore the power of reframing our perceptions of people's actions and difficult situations. Joanne and Lina delve into the significance of viewing others through a positive lens and discuss strategies for reframing negative experiences to lessen frustration. Through personal anecdotes and learned insights, Joanne and Lina highlight the necessity of taking personal responsibility for our decisions and turning mistakes into invaluable learning opportunities.

Lina Jankauskeite is a psychologist, holistic life coach, and speaker who has journeyed from rural Lithuania to the diverse and bustling environment of the UK. At the age of 20, Lina moved to London, initially arriving for a break but eventually finding a sense of belonging and community, particularly through her work at the airport. Lina is dedicated to promoting self-awareness, resilience, and self-leadership. She focuses on empowering individuals to adopt proactive mindsets and avoid the victim mentality. Her engaging conversational style and thought-provoking insights make her an impactful guest on the podcast.

Together, Joanne and Lina unpack the barriers such as defensiveness that undermine effective self-leadership. They discuss how humility, vulnerability, and the willingness to admit mistakes are crucial in leadership and personal growth. Highlighting experiences from business and personal interactions, Joanne credits her own entrepreneurial journey for reinforcing the importance of personal accountability and effective leadership. Lina emphasizes the systemic change that begins with individual actions and shares her evolution in consciously using empowering language to alter thought patterns and foster resilience.

Joanne and Lina also address walking away from toxic situations and the importance of achieving closure. Lina reflects on her personal journey of recognising and changing disempowering language, framing it as a daily practice that requires self-awareness and consistent effort. Their discussion is not only enlightening but also equips listeners with practical strategies to cultivate a healthier, proactive mindset.

A key takeaway from this episode is the importance of reframing our perceptions and taking personal responsibility for our actions and decisions. By practicing self-awareness, embracing humility, and consciously using empowering language, listeners can transform their interactions and foster a more inclusive and positive environment. This episode encourages reflection and offers actionable insights for anyone seeking to drive personal and systemic change. Don’t miss out on this transformative conversation!

The Power of Reframing: “And if you reframe, for example just take that one second to reframe that exactly the same situation and just saying, I feel pissed off because of what you said or what she did.”

Mindfulness on the Road: “The moment I reframe that situation, I couldn’t care less that it’s possibly not true. But it works for me, and I just use that. So this is this is what they’re doing, and this is why they’re going slow.”

Tech Frustrations: “I remember I was visiting my mum a few months back, and she she fired up Zoom because she had to she wanted to remind herself how to put people in the breakout rooms, and she something didn’t work or something. And she was, oh, all of this is nonsense, and she sort of just stood up and went off in the straw.”

Questioning Conformity: “They encourage and enforce conformity to the rules that I imposed on you, which kind of takes away to a degree and everything.”

**The Importance of People in Systems**: “But even though sometimes it seems that systems take up a life on their own, I, at least, personally, still strongly believe that the systems are run by people.”

The Impact of Competition on Self Image: “A lot more competition orientated than it is collaboration orientated when it comes down to it.”

The Power of Vulnerability: “Vulnerability is what connects me to other people because that defending your corner, it’s a very lonely place to be, just defending your corner no matter what.”

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: “Why do you feel that you have to be the master of things? You know, you you only need to be a guide.”

Toxic Relationships and Personal Growth: “You have to be open to stepping away because it just consumes your energy and really brings out the worst in you as well if you stay too long in those situations.”

The Path to Self Leadership: “You have to be securing yourself sufficiently to not fall for that kind of provocation.”

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Understanding Ourselves, Enhancing Our World

Manoj Krishna explores the profound connection between self-understanding and societal peace, emphasising how deep introspection can lead to harmonious interactions and diminish global conflicts.

In this insightful episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood welcomes Manoj Krishna to discuss the profound connection between self-awareness and societal peace. Manoj, a former spine surgeon turned wisdom educator, explores how personal enlightenment can lead to broader societal transformation. The conversation revolves around the themes of inner peace, the quest for happiness, and the transformative potential of truly understanding ourselves and others. Joanne and Manoj delve into the pitfalls of modern education systems that curb natural curiosity and discuss the societal obsession with material accumulation as a false path to happiness.

Manoj Krishna is the founder of the Human Wisdom Project and the creator of the HappierME app. With his medical background and extensive training, he pivoted from medicine to focus on fostering a better future for humanity through promoting inner peace and self-understanding. His work, particularly in schools, is dedicated to drawing out children's innate intelligence rather than imposing information, aiming to cultivate a generation that prioritizes wisdom and emotional intelligence. Through his initiatives, Manoj endeavors to help individuals unlock their inner potential, enabling them to make better decisions and contribute positively to a peaceful world.

The episode is rich with thought-provoking anecdotes and practical advice, highlighting how shifting our focus from external achievements to internal growth can mitigate widespread issues like stress and loneliness. They discuss the necessity of exposure to diverse perspectives and the critical role of education in cultivating a deep understanding of the human mind. Joanne and Manoj emphasize the importance of embracing change and personal growth as pathways to reducing global suffering and enhancing relationships.

The conversation underlines the urgency of reevaluating our priorities and values to address the root causes of personal and societal discord. A key takeaway for listeners is the empowerment that comes with self-awareness and the impact this can have not only on personal contentment but also on achieving a harmonious society. This episode is a compelling call to cultivate a deeper understanding of ourselves to foster a world characterised by peace and understanding.

Empowering Individual Action: “And you think, who am I? And then you realize you have the ultimate power because you’re an ordinary human being.”

Rethinking Educational Approaches: “But the root word of education, adusory, is to draw out. You see? And what we really need to do in education is draw out their innate intelligence or wisdom, whatever word you want to call it.”

Harnessing Childhood Wisdom: “If we can bottle up their wisdom and share it with the world, we really could not only help each child flourish, but change the future of humanity.”

Understanding Self-Awareness: “And all it does is ask you questions and helps you unlock your own inner intelligence. So I said recently it’s like walking into a room and putting the light on, except the light goes on in your own mind.”

Transformative Change in Mental Health: “And the change happens effortlessly, You see, without conflict, without any kind of resistance, it just flows. Your relationships become happier, you become happier.”

Understanding Happiness: “After all, happiness is peace, you see. If you ask anybody, what do you want from your life? They say I wanna be happy. And happiness is really at the core of it is living with peace.”

Exploring Inner Peace: “So I’m constantly chasing something on the outside to make me feel good on the inside. But if we pause and ask, why don’t I feel good on the inside? What’s going on? Because if I could answer that question and find the peace within me, right, then I don’t need to chase all this stuff on the outside.”

Chasing Happiness: “I feel bored, empty, and restless.”

Child’s Insight on Consumerism: “if we could find an answer to our inner boredom, then we wouldn’t need to consume so much. We wouldn’t need to buy so much. Right? Because that’s what’s pushing us to buy all this stuff.”

Personal Growth and Freedom: “And as soon as you wake up and realize that, then you begin your own journey of learning and you’re free.”

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The Life-Saving Power of Inclusive Healthcare Practices

Ellen Edenbrow explores the critical importance of inclusive healthcare, emphasizing how I&D initiatives enhance patient outcomes and foster a culture of belonging across diverse communities.

In this instalment of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood is joined by Ellen Edenbrow to explore the critical role of inclusive healthcare. The episode titled "Inclusive Healthcare for All" dives into the nuances of diversity and inclusion within healthcare settings. Ellen shares her insights on the necessity of I&D training for healthcare professionals and the importance of inclusive health policies not only for LGBTQ+ individuals, but for everyone. Joanne adds her perspective as a transgender woman, discussing the direct impact inclusive practices have had on her healthcare experiences.

Ellen has an extensive background in promoting diversity and inclusion within the healthcare sector. Through her initiative, Inclusive Health, launched in January 2024, she aims to foster a healthcare environment where every individual feels respected and valued. Ellen's expertise is rooted in her prolific career spanning the private, charity, and public sectors, consulting with 28 businesses to embed inclusive practices effectively. Her passion is driven by a commitment to ensure that inclusivity saves lives and money, emphasising the broad, positive impact of I&D initiatives.

The conversation between Joanne and Ellen addresses critical issues, such as the potential rollback of budget allocations for I&D initiatives and the consequent impact on patient care. They explore real-life examples where inclusive healthcare practices, or their absence, directly influenced patient outcomes. Special attention is given to the mainstream media's role in shaping public perception and the need for more constructive and supportive narratives surrounding LGBTQ+ healthcare needs.

This episode of Inclusion Bites underscores the imperative of understanding and implementing inclusive healthcare practices that accommodate all patients, regardless of their background or identity. Ellen and Joanne advocate for continuous advocacy, allyship, and policy-making that collectively push towards comprehensive inclusivity in healthcare.

A key takeaway from this episode is the undeniable value of inclusivity in healthcare, not just in improving individual health outcomes but also in enriching the healthcare system as a whole. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on how they can contribute to fostering an inclusive environment in their spheres of influence. This conversation is essential for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and anyone committed to supporting diversity and inclusion in every facet of society.

Navigating Healthcare and Entrepreneurship: “I think my dad was trying to get me to be self employed since I was about 18. And I thought, finally, I’ll give it a stab.”

Economic Challenges for the Self-Employed: “The work is a bit different. You know, a lot of LGBTQ+ people, usually June saves them financially because of pride and people are worried and people aren’t getting the the call outs that they thought they were gonna get.”

Exploring LGBTQ+ Travel Concerns: “So when we book a holiday, it’s not just where’s the weather, where is it nice. It’s where will we be okay as tourists? Secondly, where would it be okay if we were born there?”

Navigating Healthcare as a Trans Individual: “I chose specifically to go to, an LGBTQ plus, kind of sexual health partnership in Leeds as a charity that works with the sexual health clinic and they do a specific trans and non binary opening session. So you feel acknowledged straight away and the only, you know, questions will be asked in a considered way.”

Inclusive Health Advocacy: “I promise you there’s more people in health care that are trying to advocate this stuff than you are being told to believe.”

Exploring Identity During Isolation: “It was only when I wasn’t out there in the world constantly, possibly hiding who I was, that I could start being who I was because of our without fear or worry of other people.”

Gender Identity and Early Awareness: “I very much knew who I was before I was taught or learned anything.”

Confronting Gender Identity in Healthcare: “So I had top surgery, had my, my breast removed, and I went private because the NHS, it would take many, many years, and my mental health couldn’t cope with that.”

Understanding Personal Transformations: “I wish I could have ordered this for you because it makes so much sense, you know?”

Holistic Support in Charitable Organizations: “I’m doing a session soon and supporting people that give group and support to young people that are in families and communities with drug and alcohol abuse and supporting their LGBTQ plus service users.”

The post Inclusive Healthcare for All appeared first on SEE Change Happen: The Inclusive Culture Experts.

Understanding and Overcoming Cultural Barriers in the Workplace

Ritika Wadhwa explores the critical role of cultural intelligence in harnessing diversity, addressing the complexities of identity, and driving impactful change through informed and empathetic leadership.

In this thought-provoking episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood is joined by Ritika Wadhwa to explore the profound concept of Cultural Intelligence (CQ) and its pivotal role in harnessing diversity. Ritika, an expert in global diversity strategies, sheds light on the importance of CQ in business and personal interactions, highlighting key strategies for understanding and navigating variegated cultural landscapes. They delve into how CQ can aid not just in business survival but in thriving by advancing understanding and collaboration across diverse groups.

Ritika Wadhwa, originally from India, is the CEO and founder of Prabhaav Global, working with multinational organisations in places like Dubai, Hong Kong, and Singapore to improve their cultural intelligence and strategic expansion. Her compelling journey as an ethnic minority, immigrant, and female founder shapes her profound insights into the essence of inclusivity and the powerful impact of cultural competence in leadership and business dynamics. With her extensive experience, Ritika imparts critical understanding and actionable knowledge that drives major organisations toward effective inclusivity and diversity management.

Throughout the episode, Joanne and Ritika discuss practical ways in which leaders can cultivate cultural intelligence to foster an inclusive environment that respects and values individual differences. They touch upon the fundamental capabilities of CQ, including motivation (CQ drive), understanding (CQ knowledge), strategy (CQ strategy), and action (CQ action), emphasizing their role in transforming intentions into impactful inclusivity actions. The dialogue also explores the historical underpinnings of cultural conflicts and the modern-day implications of those dynamics in corporate and social settings.

Their conversation provides invaluable insights into why understanding and embracing cultural diversity is crucial not just for business leaders but for anyone looking to make a meaningful difference in a globalized world. By the end of the episode, listeners are equipped with the necessary tools to start implementing cultural intelligence in their daily lives and professional endeavors.

A key takeaway of this episode is the transformative power of cultural intelligence in driving innovation and inclusivity within global contexts, making it an indispensable skill in today's interconnected world. Listeners are encouraged to harness the depth of cultural insights shared in this discussion to enhance their interpersonal relationships and professional interactions. Subscribe to Inclusion Bites to continue exploring how diversity and inclusion shape our world.

Transforming Intent into Impact: “And what I was most interested in is to hold people, leaders more specifically, accountable from moving from intent to impact.”

Understanding Cultural Intelligence: “People fear each other because they don’t know each other, and this fear sits at that if we can level up and increase the knowledge about the communities, the groups, those parts of society that we’re not familiar with, that we don’t know much about.”

Navigating Cultural Intelligence: “One of the biggest backlash I get is whenever I talk about religion. It is it it divides more than any other facet of humanity.”

Leadership in the Digital Age: “There’s innumerable resources out there. There is no excuse for a leader now to say I don’t know about this because we’ve got the Internet.”

Cultural Assimilation and Gratitude: “It was so ingrained in us that everything white is so good that just to be part, just to get a job and work with white people, I felt grateful.”

Colonial Legacy and Economic Shifts: “Because India, economically, is doing better than the UK right now.”

Cultural Training Controversies: “And he was sent to Malaysia with the specific purpose of training Malaysian women to become more assertive. I mean, where do you start from that? Right? It’s just what does assertiveness mean? In what context? How is it expressed? And why is why is it that if it’s expressed differently, that’s not okay and that they you need training.”

Cultural Perception in Global Interactions: “What I’m thinking, everything that is the dominant way of doing things isn’t necessarily the only way of doing thing.”

Legacy of Partition: “So literally, one person took the map of that was all of India and drew a line across it going through farms and railway tracks and people’s properties and all of that and go, this is Pakistan, this is India.”

— Ritika Wadhwa [00:48:37 → 00:48:51]

Activism and Personal Experience: “It’s interesting though because, you know, again, if you’re if you’re completely privileged and you haven’t ever felt what it’s like to be marginalized, discriminated, bullied, harassed, hurt, or that people you love have been hurt because of just who they are, then it’s so hard to to stay curious or want to do something about it.”

The post Cultural Intelligence for Harnessing Diversity appeared first on SEE Change Happen: The Inclusive Culture Experts.