James delves into the transformative power of storytelling as a potent tool for equality, diversity, and inclusion with Mo Kanjilal, a diversity and inclusion business transformer and the Co-creator of the multi-award-winning company Watch This Sp_ce.
Mo is a living library of actionable advice that you won't want to miss!
Fully transcribed version here
"You Can't Be What You Can't See": Mo emphasises the importance of having diverse role models in stories to inspire and encourage underrepresented groups.
Beyond Protected Characteristics: While laws like the Equality Act 2010 offer some protection, Mo urges us to think about diversity in a broader spectrum, from personality types to political leanings.
The Case of the Oversized iPhone: A telling anecdote on why diversity in design and innovation is not just an ethical imperative but a business necessity.
Telling Stories, Authentically: Mo discusses the need for authenticity and respect in storytelling, particularly when stories involve individuals who are marginalised or vulnerable.
Staying Current in Language: As language is always evolving, Mo highlights the importance of staying updated on respectful and appropriate terminology.
Challenging Negative Narratives: Mo offers her insights on how storytelling can either reinforce or disrupt societal biases and what we can do to steer the narrative positively.For anyone interested in diversity and inclusion, or the art of storytelling itself, this episode is an absolute must-listen!Resources mentioned in episode:
The Girls Network - #youcantbeatwhatyoucantsee
Watch This Sp_ce
Inclusion Journey Mapping
(Paper) Boston Consulting Group Research - https://www.bcg.com/publications/2018/how-diverse-leadership-teams-boost-innovation
(Book) The Shoulders We Stand On: How Black and Brown people fought for change in the United Kingdom - Preeti Dhillon
Book Publisher for Watch This Sp_ce's upcoming book
(Book) Rebel Ideas: The Power of Thinking Differently - Matthew Syed
(Book) What's in a Name?: Friendship, Identity and History in Modern Multicultural Britain - Sheela Banerjee
(Charity) The Clocktower SanctuaryListen now to hear Mo navigate us through some incredibly important topics:
The crucial role storytelling plays in reshaping the careers and lives of underrepresented groups.
The impact of diverse role models
The intricacies of diversity covering aspects from race to personality types.
The urgency to democratise storytelling platforms and give voice to missing narratives, especially in sectors like education and publishing.
The necessity for respectful and authentic storytelling, backed by real-life examples.
The evolving landscape of language and acronyms in diversity and inclusion.
The double-edged sword of storytelling—how it can perpetuate stereotypes and biases.Fully transcribed version here
