The Unlock: Humanity at Work

Join Dr. Kecia Thomas and Dr. Sumona De Graaf as they explore over 30 years of Dr. Thomas' research and work in diversity, equity and inclusion. Listen in as they contemplate some of the most pressing issues of the modern workplace, talk about the experiences of being seen and belonging, and offer guidance on how leaders can create more inclusive and productive work environments for human beings to thrive.

Hear how Dr. Thomas has committed her career to teaching, guiding and mentoring students to understand power and privilege, while also inspiring systemic change with her research and insights. You will leave with a deeper understanding of the 'why' behind DEI and reconsider how you as a leader can acknowledge and embrace the humanity in those you lead.

Listen in on the second-half of a conversation between Sumona and Matthew McCarthy, former CEO of Ben & Jerry's and Unilever executive of 25+ years. Matthew will continue to talk about power, purpose and privilege and offer his perspective on what the world needs now from leaders.

He'll share moments that tested his leadership, how he listened with curiosity and empathy as he learned about topics that were foreign to him but so deeply important to those he led, and reminds us to see our roles as leaders to be a privilege and a gift, rather than a burden on our time. The conversation may shape how you think about leading people moving forward.

Listen in on a conversation about power, purpose, and privilege between Sumona and Matthew McCarthy, former CEO of Ben & Jerry's and Unilever executive of 25+ years. In the first of two episodes, Matthew will share about his experiences early in his career, and how he found the courage to ask why. He'll also talk about power, and the importance of recognizing how those who are most powerful are often least informed.

Wendy Clark has been a CEO of worldwide ad agencies and was a senior marketing executive at one of the world's most iconic brands: Coca-Cola. In her career, she has driven growth and impact across the globe and shares what she believes to be the secret formula: people.

Listen to Wendy share her personal mantra, and learn from her expertise as she offers advice to companies and leaders who are finding the courage to be brave, live by their values and speak their truth. You'll walk away inspired and energized to become a better version of yourself as a leader at home and at work.

Join Dr. Sumona De Graaf in an inspiring interview with Ronni Abergel, founder of The Human Library. With pop-up libraries all over the world, communities and companies have recognized the value of encouraging honest conversations between people who have different lived experiences.

The Human Library brings people together to learn and understand one another, tapping into our innate capacity to be curious and learn. We hope the conversation inspires you to be curious and ask others about their stories, and share your own story and experience with those around you, too.

Join Dr. Leah Brown and Sumona as they talk about the courage and resilience we have within. As an active member of the US Navy, a Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon for professional athletes and everyday humans, and a Board Member for several institutions and entities, Dr. Brown shares her views on the resilience of humankind, and what it takes to stay centered and strong no matter what you face in life.

You'll leave the conversation inspired to surround yourself with incredible humans who keep you going – because that is key to unlocking our courage inside.

We are kicking off the second season of The Unlock with a conversation about the world of work, and what we all seem to need more of (hint: human-centered leadership). In light of the many shifts happening to how we work and where we work, we'll talk about our human capacity to do hard things and persevere - so long as we stay strong in our core, and lean on each other along the way.

You'll get a preview of the types of stories and experiences that we'll feature this season - from conversations with CEOs, to surgeons, to scholars to entrepreneurs who are leading with humanity at work and in their lives.

In the season finale, Sumona reflects on the experience of starting a podcast - from overcoming fear to a serendipitous moment. She also shares research Idealis has done about the four characteristics where human center leaders shine. These are the qualities that help the most influential leaders at companies create environments where people can thrive. Join Sumona as she takes listeners through season 1 and what to expect next.

Join Carolyn and Sumona on a transformative journey as they delve deep into the art of rewriting our life stories to embrace a truly epic existence. As a renowned diplomat, trusted advisor, esteemed professor, visionary founder, and passionate entrepreneur, Carolyn has dedicated her life to guiding individuals to rethink their identities from humans doing, to humans being.

In this thought-provoking podcast, she illuminates the power within each of us to unleash our unique gifts and reshape our impact on the world. By emphasizing the influence of our upbringing and experiences, Carolyn inspires men and women alike to embark on a remarkable quest: to love more and create an extraordinary legacy. Get ready to embrace the epic life you were destined to live.

On the third anniversary of George Floyd's death, listen to Robert Samuels and Sumona talk about the life and death of a man who changed the national rhetoric on race and justice in America. In their Pulitzer Prize winning book, "His Name is George Floyd," Robert Samuels and Toluse Olorunnipa chronicle the deep roots, societal upbringing, systemic context, and human story of George Floyd.

Robert shares how he, as a journalist, seeks truth and understanding through curiosity, empathy and compassion for others. Their human-centered approach to storytelling enables all of us to learn about the life and livelihood of a man whose name must not be forgotten. Say his name. His Name is George Floyd.

THE BOOK:

His Name Is George Floyd (Pulitzer Prize Winner): One Man's Life and the Struggle for Racial Justice