I love talking about diversity and inclusion - and that’s exactly what I do in this podcast, ‘The Inclusive Growth Show’. Each week, I interview diversity and inclusion experts, thought leaders and senior business leaders making an impact in the working world - all to help you cultivate your own culture of inclusive growth!
What if your biggest workforce segment is the least connected? In this episode, Toby Mildon speaks with Peter Durkin, CMO at Blink, about the hidden risks of overlooking frontline employees—and how organisations can turn connection into a strategic advantage.
They explore why traditional communication tools fail deskless workers and why solving this challenge requires more than just new technology. Peter introduces the concept of a “frontline connection methodology” and explains how organisations can move beyond surface-level fixes to drive meaningful engagement, productivity, and inclusion.
Key takeaways:
Guest: Peter Durkin, Chief Marketing Officer at Blink
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If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Are you always putting others first at work? You might be heading for burnout — and not even realise it.
In this powerful episode, Toby Mildon speaks with Pam Burrows, known as The People Booster, about her unique CARE model for wellbeing. Pam shares her own burnout experience and how leaders who constantly serve others without taking care of themselves can harm not only their health, but their teams too.
We explore practical ways for HR and ED&I professionals to avoid burnout, manage energy, and shift mindset — starting with ditching guilt and embracing balance.
Key takeaways:
Guest highlights:
Pam Burrows has over 30 years’ experience helping organisations boost wellbeing and reduce stress. She’s the creator of the CARE model and author of Burnout Buster.
Guest links:
Pam's Website
Connect with Pam on LinkedIn
Resources: Burnout Buster Book, Monday Motivation signup
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
What does it take to lead with inclusion in a complex, global organisation?
In this episode of the Inclusive Growth Podcast, Toby Mildon speaks with Rebecca Pearson, Chief Sustainability and People Officer at Bupa, about her incredible 31-year journey from frontline employee to executive leader. Rebecca shares how active listening, employee-led initiatives, and a values-driven culture underpin Bupa’s inclusive approach to leadership.
You’ll hear practical insights into how inclusion is embedded into the DNA of the organisation—not as a “nice to have” but as a core business priority. From frontline feedback leading to immediate policy changes, to the power of employee advisory boards, Rebecca offers invaluable lessons for Chief People Officers navigating today’s polarised and pressurised environments.
Key takeaways:
Guest Highlights:
Rebecca Pearson, Chief Sustainability and People Officer, Bupa
Rebecca's LinkedIn Profile
Bupa's Everyone's Welcome Website
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Why are disabled individuals still excluded from leadership?
In this episode of The Inclusive Growth Show, Toby Mildon speaks with Pravjoth Gill, a disability advocate and recent HR graduate, whose dissertation explores the misrepresentation of disabled people in leadership roles – and what inclusive HR practices can do to change this.
Pravjoth shares how her lived experience and intersectional identity shaped her research, what the biggest blockers to disabled leadership are, and how internalised ableism and outdated workplace systems continue to hold talent back.
Key takeaways:
Guest Highlight:
Pravjoth Gill, Associate at CIPD
🔗 LinkedIn profile
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If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Why short-term diversity efforts fail - and how to fix them
In this episode of The Inclusive Growth Show, Toby Mildon is joined by Juliane Schlüsener, a systemic organisational developer, researcher and coach. Together, they explore how organisations can drive sustainable equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) by going beyond surface-level initiatives and embedding change across systems, structures and people.
Juliane shares insights from her research into women working in male-dominated industries, revealing how stereotype threat undermines performance. She also explains why organisations must align their structures and processes with people-focused training to achieve lasting change.
Key takeaways:
Guest highlights:
Juliane Schlüsener, systemic organisational developer and EDI coach
🔗 Juliane Schlüsener's LinkedIn profile
🌐 Visit mildon.co.uk for more resources and support
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If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Are employee-owned organisations the key to inclusive, high-performing teams?
In this episode of the Inclusive Growth Show, Toby Mildon is joined by Jeremy Gadd, Partner at Telos Partners and former senior leader at the John Lewis Partnership. Together, they explore what it really means to be an employee-owned organisation and why this model is gaining traction across the UK.
Jeremy draws on over a decade of experience helping businesses transition to employee ownership, offering insights into the practical, cultural, and performance-based benefits this structure can bring.
Key takeaways:
Guest Highlight:
Jeremy Gadd is a Partner at Telos Partners LLP
and has 30+ years' experience with employee-owned organisations, including the John Lewis Partnership.
👉 Visit Jeremy’s LinkedIn
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Could you spot the signs of radicalisation in an employee’s home life?
In this moving and eye-opening episode, Toby Mildon talks to Sarah Hardy from Exit Hate, a charity helping individuals disengage from extremism and supporting affected families. Sarah shares her personal journey after her teenage son was radicalised by a far-right group and how that experience impacted her work, wellbeing, and relationships.
They explore the vital role of HR professionals and line managers in recognising signs of distress, showing empathy, and supporting employees dealing with radicalisation at home. Sarah provides practical advice on how workplaces can become safe spaces during difficult times.
Key takeaways include:
Guest highlight:
Sarah Hardy, Family Support Programme lead at Exit Hate.
Website: https://www.exithate.com/
Visit Exit Hate page on LinkedIn
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
You deal with conflict at work every day, and rising polarisation makes this harder. This episode gives you a straightforward way to strengthen your inclusive leadership and keep your team steady when views clash.
You’ll hear:
If you want support applying this work in your organisation, you can reach me at toby@mildon.co.uk.
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
How do we move from performative diversity to real inclusion?
In this episode of The Inclusive Growth Show, host Toby Mildon welcomes inclusion enabler and new associate Fiona Daniel. Drawing on her extensive career and deeply personal experiences, Fiona shares why real inclusion begins with asking, “Do I see myself here?”
This conversation goes beyond the surface, challenging exclusionary myths and exploring the emotional impact of systemic bias. Fiona also shares practical tips and outlines the strategic workshops she delivers to help organisations embed inclusion into their business goals—not just HR policies.
Key takeaways:
Guest highlight:
Fiona Daniel, Founder of FD2i, brings decades of EDI expertise from her time in banking and now through her consultancy work.
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Are you using your voice to its fullest potential in the workplace?
In this episode of the Inclusive Growth Show, Toby Mildon sits down with Clinton Jordan, a vocal coach and performer who has sung with the likes of Mariah Carey and Tina Turner, and even performed at a royal wedding. Clinton now dedicates his work to helping professionals find their true voice and use it to lead with confidence and impact.
Together, they explore how the voice shapes our workplace presence, the concept of sonic impact trauma, and why many of us are held back by early negative experiences with speaking. Clinton shares practical strategies for moving from convincing to conviction in communication and how leaders can cultivate a truly inclusive environment by mastering empathy and sound.
Key takeaways:
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Breaking down barriers to real disability inclusion.
In this episode of the Inclusive Growth Show, host Toby Mildon speaks with Ruben Carol—Mildon’s newest associate consultant—about his powerful journey from stroke survivor to actor and disability inclusion expert. Ruben brings a wealth of experience working with major organisations such as Transport for London and C2C Rail to remove barriers and create inclusive environments.
Together, they explore how the social model of disability transforms organisational thinking, why “treating everyone the same” is a dangerous myth, and how a culture of equity—rather than compliance—enables true belonging. Ruben also highlights why asking (not assuming) is key to inclusive practice, and outlines practical training offerings that help embed inclusion across teams.
Key takeaways include:
Guest: Ruben Carol
Associate Consultant at Mildon
🔗 Ruben's LinkedIn Profile
🔗 Ruben's Website
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If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Why values-led leadership creates truly inclusive growth
In this inspiring conversation, Gillian Drakeford shares her journey from management trainee to leading IKEA UK & Ireland, and her deep insights from helping IKEA expand into China.
She reveals how formative experiences shaped her leadership style, including a key moment when asking “why” was discouraged — an attitude she actively challenged throughout her career.
Gillian discusses how cultural intelligence, values-based recruitment, and inclusive leadership fostered sustainable business growth and stronger emotional connections with customers and colleagues alike.
In this episode:
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If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Neuro-inclusion isn’t just good practice - it’s smart business.
In this episode of The Inclusive Growth Show, host Toby Mildon chats with Andy Ryan, neurodiversity specialist and a new associate at Mildon. With a background in social care and a passion for reshaping how organisations view neurodivergence, Andy shares his journey into inclusion and offers practical ways to build neuro-affirming workplaces.
You will learn:
Andy also offers a glimpse into his workshops, including training for line managers of neurodivergent staff, and shares his personal strategies for staying well while working in the EDI space.
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If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Is your organisation truly inclusive, or just ticking boxes?
In this episode of the Inclusive Growth Podcast, Toby Mildon introduces new associate Dr. Christopher Owen - an expert in intersectional systemic oppression and founder of the consultancy Coliberate. Together, they explore what it really means to drive equity, diversity, and inclusion from the inside out.
Christopher shares insights drawn from his lived experience and academic background, challenging traditional approaches to inclusion that stop at internal metrics. Instead, he advocates for a shift towards co-liberation - building workplaces that support both internal culture and external community.
Key takeaways:
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Discover how inclusive leadership unlocks hidden potential in the workplace.
In this episode of the Inclusive Growth Podcast, Toby Mildon sits down with Cynthia Fortladge, global award-winning consultant and new associate at Mildon. Cynthia shares her deeply personal journey from the C-suite to becoming a prominent voice in gender diversity and inclusive leadership.
Through candid conversation, Cynthia and Toby explore:
Learn how Cynthia’s lived experience and business acumen help her empower leaders to cultivate inclusive workplaces that foster trust, empathy, and authenticity.
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Is your organisation truly accessible – or just meeting the bare minimum?
In this episode of the Inclusive Growth Podcast, Toby Mildon has a compelling conversation featuring Luis Canto E Castro, a disability inclusion and accessibility consultant and new Associate at Mildon. Luis shares his journey from South Africa to the UK, the personal and professional experiences that shaped his advocacy, and the non-traditional recruitment story that brought him into Toby’s network.
Key takeaways:
Tune in to discover how Luis is redefining what it means to create equitable spaces and why investing in inclusion is more than just good intentions.
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
What if love, not fear, was the foundation of your workplace culture?
In this enlightening episode, Toby Mildon is joined by Simon Phillips - founder of The Change Maker Group and co-host of the Love Lead Change Podcast - to explore the transformative concept of a love-based organisation. They unpack the difference between love- and fear-based cultures and why empathy, psychological safety, and human-centred leadership are vital for inclusive growth.
Simon introduces the LACE Framework - Listening, Accountability, Collaboration and Empathy - and how it’s helping organisations shift from compliance-driven environments to high-performing, human-focused cultures. With references to Google’s Project Aristotle and Renee Smith’s research, Simon brings compelling evidence to back the business case for cultural change.
Key takeaways:
Guest Highlights:
Simon Phillips, Change Leadership Expert
🌐 Website: https://thechangemakergroup.com/
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonphillips/
🔗 Resources:
Send us a message
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
What happens when inclusion efforts stall at awareness?
In this compelling episode, Toby Mildon sits down with experienced EDI practitioner Emma Underwood to explore why equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) is facing what Emma calls a “global earthquake.” Together, they unpack the current challenges in the sector, the ethical tensions at play, and the need for a more skilled, credible EDI profession.
Emma draws from her varied background in public policy, students’ unions, and consultancy to outline the critical difference between performative allyship and meaningful change. She also tackles the need for professional standards in EDI roles and explains how legal developments are reshaping the field.
Key takeaways include:
Guest highlights:
Emma Underwood – EDI Practitioner
Connect with Emma on LinkedIn
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Is your organisation missing out on a powerful and overlooked talent pool?
In this episode of the Inclusive Growth Show, Toby Mildon speaks with Dr Andrew Jenkins, an expert in employment and age discrimination, to explore why older workers could be the key to solving the UK’s persistent hospitality staffing crisis.
With insights from Andrew's extensive research and real-world examples - including B&Q’s game-changing recruitment strategy the episode dismantles common myths about older employees and reveals the untapped potential of a multi-generational workforce.
Key takeaways include:
Guest Highlights:
Guest: Dr Andrew Jenkins
Title: Lecturer in Management
Institution: University of Cumbria / University of Huddersfield
Resources mentioned:
Send us a message
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Menopause and mental health: why silence in the workplace is no longer an option.
In this compelling episode of the Inclusive Growth Show, Toby Mildon is joined by Haley from Menospace and Victoria from Minds That Work to explore the powerful intersection of menopause and mental health in the workplace.
Haley shares her personal and professional journey into menopause advocacy, while Victoria reflects on her mental health work and how their collaboration emerged from a shared passion. Together, they highlight the often-overlooked impacts of perimenopause on psychological wellbeing and the urgent need for inclusive organisational support.
Key takeaways include:
Guest Highlights:
Don't miss their specialist course Breaking the Silence, an accredited training on menopause and mental health.
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
What if flexible working wasn’t just a perk, but a pathway to inclusive growth and business success?
Toby Mildon is joined by Molly Johnson-Jones, co-founder and CEO of Flexa, to unpack the real story—and real research—behind flexible careers. From being unfairly dismissed due to a disability to launching a platform that empowers over 3 million professionals, Molly shares her inspiring journey and vision for the future of work.
We dive into the benefits of flexible working for individuals and businesses alike, including improved productivity, better hiring outcomes, and economic gains beyond major cities. But we also tackle the tough stuff—like common misconceptions, cultural barriers, and why binary thinking (remote vs. office) holds organisations back.
Key takeaways:
Guest Highlight: Molly Johnson-Jones, CEO of Flexa—driving transparency and inclusivity in flexible careers.
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Are we doing EDI right – or just going through the motions?
In this powerful follow-up episode, Toby Mildon is joined by Poornima Luthra, Associate Professor at Copenhagen Business School and thought leader on inclusive leadership. They explore the growing backlash against Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), especially in light of shifting US policies, and what it means for leaders navigating this complex terrain.
Poornima shares insights from her upcoming book “Can I Say That?”, outlining the five key fears that stall EDI progress: fear of change, fear of saying the wrong thing, fear of being marginalised, discomfort with difficult conversations, and the fear of making no progress.
Key takeaways include:
Guest highlight:
Poornima brings both academic rigour and lived experience to the conversation, making her one of the most compelling voices in EDI today.
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Are your inclusion efforts grounded in a meaningful 'why'?
In this engaging episode, Toby Mildon speaks with Sarah Bettman—an executive coach and DEI strategist—about the importance of aligning equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) with organisational values, leadership integrity, and cultural dynamics.
Sarah’s journey from paramedic to DEI expert brings a unique lens to privilege, systemic bias, and leadership responsibility. She shares stories and insights about how leaders can build inclusion into the DNA of their organisation by slowing down, listening deeply, and understanding power dynamics within systems.
🎯 Key Takeaways:
🎤 Guest Highlight:
Sarah Bettman is a leadership coach and DEI consultant who works globally to help organisations, especially majority groups, shift mindsets and align inclusion with their strategic and cultural goals.
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
“You can’t transform without diversity.”
In this episode of the Inclusive Growth Show, Toby Mildon speaks with Aaron Barnes, former Managing Director of Parcelforce and now a consultant in operational excellence and leadership development.
Aaron shares his powerful journey of confronting and transforming a lack of gender diversity at senior levels in Parcelforce. When faced with the challenge of doubling business revenue, he realised that a homogeneous leadership team posed a significant risk to change. His data-driven and deeply personal approach led to the creation of employee resource groups, allyship campaigns, mentoring schemes, and recruitment reform.
Key takeaways:
Guest highlight: Aaron Barnes, ex-Parcelforce MD, now leading his own consultancy, shares honest, actionable lessons for leaders driving change.
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
How can we empower employees to address discrimination in the workplace?
In this episode of The Inclusive Growth Show, Toby Mildon sits down with Catherine Millan, founder of Be What You See Consultancy, to explore how active bystander training is helping organisations create inclusive and psychologically safe workplaces.
Catherine shares her personal experiences with ADHD, dyslexia, and workplace discrimination, which fuelled her passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). She explains how her training programs equip employees with practical strategies to challenge microaggressions and foster an inclusive workplace culture.
💡 Key Takeaways:
✔️ What active bystander training is and why it’s essential.
✔️ How to challenge discrimination effectively using the five Ds approach.
✔️ The impact of microaggressions and how to address them.
✔️ How organisations like the NHS are using bystander training to reduce workplace bullying and harassment.
✔️ The role of psychological safety in building inclusive teams.
🎧 Tune in now to learn how you can create a workplace where everyone thrives.
🔗 Connect with Catherine Millan:
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Is your workplace truly inclusive for neurodivergent employees?
In this episode of The Inclusive Growth Podcast, Toby Mildon sits down with Lekshmi Baburajan, a learning and development consultant and neurodiversity coach. Lekshmi shares her personal journey of being diagnosed as neurodivergent later in life and how that experience has shaped her professional path.
Together, Toby and Lekshmi explore the challenges neurodivergent employees face in the workplace, the role of HR in fostering inclusion, and the impact of strengths-based coaching.
Key takeaways:
Guest: Lekshmi Baburajan – Learning & Development Consultant and Neurodiversity Coach.
Connect with Lekshmi on LinkedIn
For more resources on inclusive workplace strategies, visit Mildon.co.uk.
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Are organisations truly moving the needle on boardroom diversity, or are they just ticking boxes?
In this episode of The Inclusive Growth Podcast, host Toby Mildon sits down with leadership coach and consultant Monique Carayol, founder of Bravery in the Boardroom. With over 20 years of experience in the NHS and a proven track record in diverse leadership development, Monique shares practical strategies for creating more inclusive, representative senior leadership teams.
Tune in to discover:
Guest spotlight:
Monique Carayol is the founder of Bravery in the Boardroom, a movement dedicated to increasing diverse representation in senior leadership. With a background in strategy and transformation, she champions brave leadership in complex environments.
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Why do so many leaders struggle with inclusive leadership?
In this episode of The Inclusive Growth Show, Toby Mildon speaks with Sharon Amesu, a former barrister turned leadership consultant and founder of She Leads for Legacy. Sharon shares her journey from the legal profession into the world of leadership development and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
Together, they discuss the key traits of modern leaders, why courageous conversations matter, and how organisations can foster psychological safety.
Key takeaways from this episode:
Sharon also shares insights from her work with She Leads for Legacy, an organisation focused on empowering Black women professionals.
🔗 Find out more about Sharon and her work: She Leads for Legacy
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
How can organisations create meaningful change that lasts?
In this episode of The Inclusive Growth Show, host Toby Mildon is joined by Pritesh Patel, a Learning and Development professional at Colt Technologies. Together, they explore the challenges of workplace culture, inclusive leadership, and how to embed sustainable change in organisations.
Pritesh shares his personal and professional experiences, highlighting the importance of community, active listening, and psychological safety. He also delves into the resistance to change and how leaders can foster a culture of learning and accountability.
Key takeaways:
If you want to create an inclusive and high-performing organisation, this episode is packed with insights and strategies to help you take action.
🔗 Connect with Pritesh Patel on LinkedIn
🔗 Learn more about Toby’s work at: mildon.co.uk
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Why is accessible E-learning crucial for inclusive organisations?
In this episode of the Inclusive Growth Show, Toby Mildon is joined by Susi Miller, E-learning accessibility expert and author of Designing Accessible Learning Content. Together, they dive into the essential steps for creating accessible E-learning materials and the transformational impact it has on individuals and organisations alike.
Key takeaways include:
Whether you’re a Chief People Officer or a learning professional, this episode highlights why prioritising accessibility in E-learning isn’t just a compliance box to tick—it’s an opportunity to foster growth and innovation.
Find out more about Susi Miller’s work at elahub.net and connect with her on LinkedIn.
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
What does it take to build a harassment-free workplace?
In this episode of The Inclusive Growth Show, Toby Mildon is joined by Dr. Enya Doyle, also known as The Harassment Doctor. With her expertise in harassment prevention, Dr. Doyle shares actionable strategies to address workplace harassment and cultivate accountability.
Discover key insights, including:
Dr. Doyle’s perspective challenges organisations to rethink their metrics and embrace proactive cultural audits.
Connect with Dr. Doyle on LinkedIn or Instagram (@TheHarassmentDoctor). Tune in to learn how your organisation can create lasting, inclusive change.
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If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Are you leading intentionally or just managing?
In this engaging episode of The Inclusive Growth Show, host Toby Mildon welcomes leadership expert Kate Waterfall Hill. Kate, known for her humorous TikTok alter ego Linda, shares her insights on how leaders can move beyond superficial values to truly embody inclusivity in their organisations.
Key takeaways from this episode include:
Kate also introduces her latest book, How to Lead, designed as an accessible, everyday guide for leaders at all levels. Tune in for actionable advice and fresh perspectives on leadership and inclusivity.
Visit Kate’s Website for additional resources and support.
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Are you ready to challenge the status quo in workplace inclusion?
In this episode of The Inclusive Growth Show, host Toby Mildon welcomes Suzy Levy, author of Mind the Inclusion Gap and a leading voice in DEI. Suzy shares her journey from a global consulting career to championing human-centric leadership and tackling systemic inclusion challenges.
Together, Toby and Suzy dive into essential topics like:
About Suzy Levy:
Suzy is an inclusion expert and consultant with a rich background spanning public, private, and third sectors. Her groundbreaking book, Mind the Inclusion Gap, is a must-read for leaders seeking actionable insights on DEI.
Tune in to discover how to move beyond surface-level inclusion and drive meaningful change in your organization.
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
How can we build inclusive cultures in industries that traditionally lack diversity?
In this episode of The Inclusive Growth Podcast, Toby Mildon is joined by Monica Mwanje, a consultant making waves in the nuclear industry. With a career rooted in chemical engineering, Monica shares her inspiring journey from graduate engineer to a leader in equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) within the nuclear sector.
The conversation dives into Monica’s experiences in a predominantly male industry, the importance of intentional inclusivity, and actionable strategies for organisations striving to foster more equitable work environments. Monica highlights the significance of her annual EDI-focused conference and the groundbreaking research she’s conducted on diversity within the nuclear workforce.
Key Takeaways:
Whether you’re in the nuclear sector or another industry, this episode is packed with transferable insights for creating inclusive growth.
Guest Highlights:
Monica Mwanje is a consultant and advocate for EDI in the nuclear sector. She runs an annual diversity conference and conducts research to shape more inclusive workplaces.
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Are you ready for the UK’s Worker Protection Act?
In this episode of The Inclusive Growth Show, host Toby Mildon chats with Raj Ramanandi, co-founder of InChorus, about how organisations can prepare for and adapt to the new Worker Protection Act. Raj explains the role of speak-up platforms in enabling anonymous reporting, fostering inclusivity, and proactively addressing workplace challenges.
Key Takeaways:
Discover how tools like InChorus can transform your organization's approach to inclusivity and compliance.
Guest Highlight:
Raj Ramanandi, co-founder of InChorus, shares actionable insights from their work with leading organizations and their latest innovations in workplace culture analytics.
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If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
What makes coworking spaces the heartbeat of modern business?
In this episode of the Inclusive Growth Show, Toby Mildon chats with Ed Hobbs, National General Manager at X-Why, about how coworking spaces are evolving into hubs of inclusivity and collaboration. With 11 locations across the UK, X-Why is leading the charge in designing accessible, sustainable, and community-driven workplaces.
Key Takeaways:
Whether you're a business leader or a freelancer, Ed’s insights will inspire you to rethink the potential of your workplace.
Send us a message
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
“How can businesses better support breastfeeding parents returning to work? Toby Mildon speaks with Ros McFadden, founder of MumPod and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), about the innovative steps organisations can take to foster inclusivity for new parents.”
Episode Overview
In this episode of The Inclusive Growth Podcast, Toby Mildon interviews Ros McFadden, founder of MumPod, to discuss:
Key Takeaways
Guest Bio
Ros McFadden is the founder of MumPod and a Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), dedicated to creating practical solutions for breastfeeding parents. With a background in midwifery, design, and healthcare innovation, she’s committed to advocating for inclusivity in workplaces across the UK and beyond.
Timestamps
Call to Action
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review to support The Inclusive Growth Podcast!
Links & Resources
Contact Info
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Teaser
“Why do we make the choices we do, and how does that impact workplace inclusivity? Toby Mildon welcomes Dr Joshua Fullard, Assistant Professor of Behavioural Science at Warwick Business School, for a deep dive into decision-making and the biases that shape our behaviour.”
Episode Overview
In this episode of The Inclusive Growth Podcast, Toby Mildon speaks with Dr Joshua Fullard about:
Key Takeaways
Guest Bio
Dr Joshua Fullard is an Assistant Professor of Behavioural Science at Warwick Business School, specialising in decision-making processes, biases, and the psychology behind choices. With a strong background in applied labour economics, his research sheds light on how biases affect workplace and educational outcomes.
Timestamps
Call to Action
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review to support The Inclusive Growth Podcast!
Links & Resources
Contact Info
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
How can businesses unlock the potential of a multi-generational workforce? Join Toby Mildon and Michael O'Reilly, founder of the Age Diversity Network, as they discuss tackling ageism and leveraging the strengths of an age-diverse team.
Episode Overview
In this episode of The Inclusive Growth Podcast, Toby Mildon speaks with Michael O'Reilly, founder of the Age Diversity Network, about:
Key Takeaways
Guest Bio
Michael O'Reilly is the founder of the Age Diversity Network, an organisation committed to addressing ageism in the workplace. With a background in senior roles and lived experience of age-related barriers, Michael offers a unique perspective on how organisations can build inclusive, multi-generational teams.
Timestamps
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
This isn't my usual podcast episode, so you're in for a treat. This one is unique because it's 100% AI-generated. It's a bit cheesy, but I've been experimenting with Google's Notebook LM. One cool feature is that you can upload lots of documents and ask the AI to summarize them and answer questions. It can even create an AI-generated podcast episode that dives deep into whatever documents you upload.
For this experiment, I had Google's Notebook LM talk about my two books, Inclusive Growth and Building Inclusivity, along with some other materials I've recently published on my website. This episode is the result of that experiment. I hope you enjoy it! Remember, it's entirely AI-generated and a bit cheesy, but I love trying out new technologies.
In my books, I discuss how AI has a dark side due to inherent biases in its content. However, if used correctly, AI and machine learning can help accelerate diversity and inclusion. For example, I've been working with the University of Salford to see how AI can automatically analyze diversity data to give businesses real-time insights into their workforce's diversity.
More impressively, AI can analyze employee feedback and sentiment within seconds. It can identify key themes about how employees feel in the organization. You can use this data to inform your equity, diversity, and inclusion strategy. The prototype software I've built can do this analysis in split seconds.
Typically, analyzing a diversity and inclusion survey takes two or three days for a human to complete and report findings to a client. With AI, we can turn this around in mere seconds.
So sit back, enjoy this episode, and I look forward to hearing your feedback!
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Unlock the secrets to creating an inclusive workplace with Toby Mildon, author of "Building Inclusivity" and "Inclusive Growth." Learn how to transform your organization through comprehensive change management, as Mildon shares invaluable insights from his journey as a disabled professional. He likens the process of fostering inclusivity to implementing a massive IT system—requiring meticulous planning, universal buy-in, and relentless effort. Discover how diversity in thought, experience, and leadership style can revolutionize decision-making, and explore practical tools like the GC Index to ensure balanced and inclusive leadership.
We'll also dive into Toby's Perceptions Inclusive Leadership Behaviors Checklist, a powerful framework for evaluating and enhancing leader inclusivity. By embracing human-centered design, organizations can create employee experiences that break down barriers to inclusivity. Hear about real-world examples, including a standout case from Intuit, and the role of technology in fostering a culture of respect and continuous improvement. Celebrate the wins and use them as a catalyst for ongoing positive change. Join us for actionable strategies and inspiring stories that will help your workplace not only embrace inclusivity but truly thrive.
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If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Discover the secrets to successfully pivoting your career and enhancing workplace inclusivity in this episode of the Inclusive Growth Podcast. Join me, Toby Mildon, as I share my transformative journey from a technologist at the BBC to a diversity and inclusion specialist at Deloitte, before founding my own consultancy. Alongside me is Iesha Small, a dynamic career pivot consultant, who brings their rich experience of transitioning from mechanical engineering to teaching and later to coaching leaders. Together, we unravel the motivations and strategies behind our career changes, offering you practical advice on leveraging side hustles, personal projects, and the power of networking.
Iesha and I dissect the concept of career pivoting, shedding light on the challenges and rewards that come with significant professional shifts. From understanding the intricacies of coaching in educational leadership to exploring the creation of compelling professional portfolios, we share first-hand stories and actionable tips to guide you through your own career transitions. Iesha's journey from teaching to career coaching exemplifies how varied experiences can shape a unique approach to helping others. We emphasize the importance of personal branding, structured support, and aligning your career with personal values to navigate complex career landscapes.
Lastly, we delve into the entrepreneurial mindset and how viewing your career as a business can revolutionise your professional journey. Learn how to build confidence, especially if you're in your 40s or 50s, and how to utilise personal branding to open new opportunities. We also discuss the challenges of networking in today's world and offer solutions to stay connected. By the end of this episode, you'll be equipped with a treasure trove of strategies and insights to help you pivot your career and foster inclusivity in your workplace. Connect with Iesha on LinkedIn for further guidance and resources.
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Unlock the transformative power of inclusive communication with our special guest, Ettie Bailey-King, an expert in inclusive and accessible communications. Join us as we explore how harmful practices in communication can perpetuate discrimination and how you can counteract this with specificity, accuracy, and respect. Ettie shares practical examples and key principles that underline the importance of mindful communication within organisations and with external stakeholders. Understand how words shape actions, perceptions, and behaviours, and learn to foster an inclusive environment through thoughtful language choices.
Ever wondered how a simple change in wording can alter your memory of an event? Discover intriguing research on language's profound impact on our judgments and societal biases. Ettie and I discuss the importance of mindfulness in word choice, particularly when it comes to marginalised groups, and the inevitable mistakes we all make in communication. From public speaking tips to insights on gendered language, we delve into the art of using language to reflect true values and encourage self-compassion and corrective actions when errors occur.
Expand your understanding of accessibility with a nuanced perspective that goes beyond specific conditions. Toby shares his experiences from the BBC, introducing the concept of permanent, temporary, and situational disabilities. We discuss practical strategies for creating inclusive communications, such as using simple language and making content available in multiple formats. Learn how to integrate these practices into your daily work and challenge narrow definitions of professionalism. For more insights, be sure to follow Ettie on LinkedIn and subscribe to her newsletter. Join us as we champion inclusive growth through better communication.
Send us a message
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
What if fostering a sense of belonging could be the key to overcoming resistance to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in your organisation? Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Cordell Carter, the founding director of the Aspen Institute on Belonging, as he shares his invaluable insights and personal journey. From his unique upbringing as a preacher's kid to his extensive experience at IBM and the Gates Foundation, Cordell offers a compelling narrative on how creating environments where employees feel seen, heard, and valued can drive both personal fulfilment and organisational success.
In this episode, Cordell emphasises the crucial link between organisational culture and inclusive growth, offering practical steps to cultivate an inclusive environment. Learn how simple yet impactful actions, such as a monthly book club, can build trust and understanding across all levels of your organisation. We also discuss the pyramid model of equity, equality, inclusion, and diversity, and the importance of executives understanding the 'why' behind belonging, inspired by Simon Sinek's principles. Tune in to discover how you can implement these strategies to motivate and retain talent while creating a culture of opportunity and belonging for all.
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
How does bias shape the healthcare experience for marginalised communities? Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with Ellen Edenbrough, co-founder of Inclusive Health, as we uncover the pressing need for equality in healthcare. Ellen’s diverse journey through various sectors of inclusion and diversity sets the stage for an eye-opening discussion on the unique challenges faced by patients and healthcare professionals alike. Through personal stories, including those of their wife, a junior doctor living with cluster headaches, Ellen reveals the often-overlooked assumptions in medical settings and how Inclusive Health is making strides with practical, relatable training to foster inclusivity.
We don’t shy away from the tough questions. What does it really mean to navigate the healthcare system as a non-binary individual or a member of the LGBTQ+ community? Ellen sheds light on the daily fears and biases that these patients encounter, from the lack of legal recognition to the dangerous consequences of medical assumptions. We also delve into the misconceptions surrounding physical disabilities, emphasising the critical need for a holistic approach to healthcare. The conversation introduces the unique training modules developed by Inclusive Health, leveraging personal lived experiences to improve the medical field's understanding and approach to comprehensive care.
Finally, we tackle the systemic issues plaguing the NHS, including the stark regional inconsistencies in patient care. Ellen illustrates these points with compelling examples, such as the struggles of a trans individual trying to receive hormone therapy after relocating. The narrative contrasts the dignified care in hospices with the often clinical environments of hospitals, highlighting how these settings impact patient well-being. The episode concludes with a powerful discussion on the financial and psychological costs of discrimination within the NHS, and the urgent need for creating psychologically safe environments for healthcare professionals. Tune in to understand how fostering inclusivity is not just a moral imperative but also a practical necessity for saving lives and reducing healthcare costs.
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Can a tool originally designed for deep space communication revolutionise inclusivity on Earth? Join us on the Inclusive Growth Podcast as we welcome back Rob, the co-founder of Braided Space, who shares the fascinating journey of transforming a space-age innovation into a groundbreaking tool for inclusive communication. Rob discusses the evolution of Braiding, a tool initially created to overcome communication delays in space missions, and its impactful transition to Earth where it supports neurodivergent individuals.
Rob explains how integrating braided interviews and meetings can enhance neuroinclusive hiring processes across various sectors, from tech giants to pharmaceutical firms. We explore the future role of AI in these processes and some unexpected applications for braided meetings, such as staff surveys and one-to-one interactions.
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
What if you could create an inclusive workplace strategy that not only aligns with your business goals, but stands resilient against external pressures and anti-DEI rhetoric? We sit down with Grace Mosuro, a distinguished inclusion strategist and founder of Acquaintz Consulting, who reveals the secrets to doing just that. Grace's journey, marked by her experiences as a black woman and a breast cancer thriver, offers profound lessons on connecting with your organisation's 'why' to ensure your DEI initiatives are both effective and enduring.
Our conversation delves into the frustrating realities of healthcare and racial inequity, illuminating Grace's personal struggles to be heard by medical professionals and the broader systemic issues that persist. We unpack the reluctance of senior leaders in the workplace to address race equity and the critical need for organisations to recognise and confront their role in perpetuating these disparities.
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
What if you could access mental health support tailored specifically for LGBTQIA+ individuals, no matter where you are in the world - even in places where being LGBTQIA+ is criminalised? Jaron Soh, CEO of Voda, has created a groundbreaking mental health app for the queer community. Jaron opens up about his journey, incuding his personal experience growing up in conservative Singapore, along with the unique challenges Voda addresses, from coming out; dealing with gender dysphoria; and navigating queer relationships.
This episode also delves into Voda's ambitious mission to provide discreet, affordable, and tailored mental health support to millions globally. We explore Voda's commitment to activism, including efforts for marriage equality and fighting transphobia, while prioritising genuine social connections over AI-generated interactions. Jaron shares valuable insights on aligning business growth with company values, attracting like-minded investors, and the crucial role of feedback in fostering inclusivity. Whether you're passionate about mental health, LGBTQIA+ advocacy, or the intersection of design, impact, and technology, this conversation is a must-listen.
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Unlock the secret to fostering inclusive and high-performing teams with insights from Nathan Ott, co-founder and Chief Polisher of the Game Changing Index (GC Index). Nathan shares the innovative approach of the GC Index, which categorises individuals into five key roles: game changers, strategists, implementers, polishers, and playmakers, and explaines how embracing different thinking styles and contributions can revolutionise your workplace and promote cognitive diversity.
Discover practical applications of the GC Index framework in various settings, from businesses to schools. We discuss the importance of a shared language for defining roles and responsibilities, which helps to depersonalise feedback and align teams more effectively. Nathan provides real-world examples of how the GC Index aids in recruiting senior leadership, organising projects, and balancing team energies to boost productivity and collaboration. By understanding and leveraging these unique roles, you can unlock your team's full potential and foster a more inclusive environment.
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Ever wondered how early mediation can transform workplace conflict into a catalyst for growth? Today's episode is with Merry Brown, an experienced Workplace Conflict Restoration Consultant, who explains how managed conflict can yield positive results due to the diversity of opinions of others which encourages psychological safety.
Merry and I examine how valuing conflict can drive organisational growth, particularly through the lens of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). By setting clear guidelines for disagreements and maintaining open dialogue, organisations can harness the power of diverse teams to outperform homogenous ones. Merry shares real-life examples and practical strategies to build an inclusive work culture, encouraging a proactive approach to conflict.
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
In this episode of the Inclusive Growth Show, I was joined by Tony Burnett, Chief Executive of Kick It Out, to learn more about his mission to address racism within football. Tony talked to me about his aim to tackle discrimination within the sport to make it a safer and more inclusive environment.
Tony shared his experience of a dual heritage background; leading major diversity initiatives at companies like Ford and Lloyds Bank; as well as his experience at West London's police force, shedding light on the critical role leadership plays in driving meaningful change. His story offers a powerful testament to how senior leadership commitment, capability, and compliance can make a difference in tackling discrimination and promoting inclusivity.
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Gain invaluable insights into supporting working parents in the workplace with our special guest, Lizzie Martin, a parental return to work coach. Lizzie explores the identity transformations that new parents experience and outlines how organisations can facilitate smoother transitions back to work.
By implementing coaching, leadership training, and consultancy, organisations can not only retain talent but also help parents thrive professionally without sacrificing their roles at home. Discover practical strategies and the broader implications of robust parental support systems on career progression.
If you're enjoying this episode and looking to boost equity, inclusion, and diversity in your organisation, my team and I are here to help. Our team specialises in crafting data-driven strategies, developing inclusive leaders, designing fair recruitment processes, and enhancing disability confidence. With a blend of professional expertise and lived experience, we're ready to support you on your journey. Reach out to us through our website.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Discover the transformative power of workplace culture with our special guest, Patrick Penzo, former Onfido executive and current growth lead at Quench AI. Patrick reveals the secrets behind Onfido's remarkable success, emphasising the critical role psychological safety and inclusivity played in their record-breaking acquisition. From offsite team-building activities to core values that promote collective success and pride, you'll learn practical steps to foster an environment where innovation thrives.
Patrick opens up about his personal journey of embracing his true self in the workplace, detailing the challenges he faced while concealing his sexual orientation and the eventual success he achieved through vulnerability and authenticity. This episode underscores the importance of a supportive and inclusive company culture, demonstrating how such an environment enables employees to thrive and drives business success.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Discover the transformative impact of inclusive design with our special guest, Matteo Zallio, an inclusive design activist. Join us as Matteo unveils the significant gap in clients' awareness and perceived value of inclusive design that often stands in the way of its adoption in the building industry.
You'll learn about the barriers that prevent inclusive design from taking root and find out how empathy and compassion can drive a better understanding of diverse needs. Matteo also introduces the Inclusive Design Canvas, a tool that helps designers integrate these principles into their work, paving the way for more equitable and accessible environments.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
In this episode of the Inclusive Growth Show, I was joined by Kim Hoque who is one of the founders of the Disability Charter. Kim talked to me about what the Disability Charter is and why it was established. We also discovered how it can help organisations become great employers of disabled people.
We delve into the forces propelling the charter's establishment, the unification of voices within the disability community, and the pivotal steps proposed to government entities to amplify employment opportunities for disabled individuals.
Join us as we celebrate the remarkable advancements since the charter's inception in 2021, bringing together charities, trade unions, and corporations in a united front to spur meaningful policy dialogues. The charter's growing influence promises to pave the way for groundbreaking reforms like mandatory employment and pay gap reporting. This conversation is not just about acknowledging the successes and envisioning the future of disability employment; it's a testament to the power of inclusive growth as a catalyst for economic and societal progress. Tune in to gain invaluable perspectives on creating work environments where diversity is not just welcomed but is a cornerstone of success.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Discover how to reshape the workplace into an environment that thrives on diversity and inclusivity. My conversation with Natalie Pearce, co-founder of The Future Kind, unveils the transformative impact of integrating user experience design principles with diversity and inclusion strategies. As we journey from our experiences at the BBC to our current roles, we reveal how empathetic, human-centred design can form the bedrock of a culture that not only welcomes but also celebrates varied perspectives. Natalie brings a wealth of knowledge from her background in strategy and service design, and together, we dissect the art of creating operating systems that align with a company's cultural vision, turning strategy into reality.
What's the secret to building kinder, fairer, and more efficiently designed companies? Natalie and I explore the magic that happens when designers join forces with HR professionals, merging the worlds of creativity and compliance to forge experiences that resonate with employees. Learn how this powerful collaboration can lead to a workplace where everyone feels valued and heard, and where the very design of everyday interactions can contribute to employee retention and satisfaction. This episode promises a wealth of stories, insights, and practical advice for anyone looking to craft a workplace culture that is not only inclusive but also inspires growth and innovation.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
With a degree in biomedical science and investment banking experience at Goldman Sachs, Claire Myers-Lamptey has a plethora of skills beneath her belt. Now, as the tech founder of BioWired AI, she's on this podcast to share how her diverse background sparked the innovation behind a wellness and healthcare app that has huge potential in delivering inclusion in the workplace.
Claire takes us through the groundbreaking features designed to support those with disabilities, ensuring no one is left behind in our increasingly remote world. If you're drawn to the places where humanity meets technology, Claire's vision paints a future brimming with promise.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
Ever wondered how to turn your personal convictions into a thriving business? That's exactly what Emma and Nicola, two trailblazing recruitment consultants, have accomplished with the creation of Hera, a tech recruitment company that supports Founders to build diverse teams, empower women in technology, and amplify the voices of those from underrepresented and minority backgrounds.
On the Inclusive Growth Show, we sit down with these visionary leaders to hear the compelling story behind their entrepreneurial journey, and how their mission for diversity and inclusion has reshaped their approach to recruitment in the tech sector.
This episode peels back the layers of traditional recruitment, exposing the need for a more empathetic and representative process. Emma and Nicola reveal the secrets behind their success: a blend of genuine passion for diversity and a commitment to creating inclusive work environments that celebrate authenticity. We traverse the challenges they've faced, from balancing motherhood and career to confronting industry norms, and discuss how their approach has not only benefited their clients but also fueled their business growth.
Join us as we uncover the future of hiring, where diversity isn't just a buzzword but the cornerstone of a successful and inclusive workplace. Our guests highlight how they've implemented strategies that extend beyond the hiring phase, ensuring retention and satisfaction for a diverse workforce as well as anecdotes of the powerful impact their work has had on both candidates and companies.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
In this episode of The Inclusive Growth Show I was joined by Christopher Owen who talked to me about his work with Manchester Pride, how inclusion works intersectionally and how business can have a huge impact on the lived experience of LGBTQ+ individuals in today's society.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
When Hannah Bellamy of Charity Water joined me, Toby Mildon, the conversation took an unexpected turn towards the profound impact of workplace diversity on global issues like the water crisis. Throughout our discussion, we uncover the stark realities faced by women and children in developing countries who struggle daily for access to clean water, and how initiatives like those spearheaded by Charity Water can lead to inclusive growth and sustainable development.
The synergy between businesses and charities unfolds in this episode as we explore how strategic partnerships and innovative fundraising are amplifying the impact of nonprofits globally. Companies like Boston Consulting Group don't just offer support probono; they're part of a larger movement that aligns corporate responsibility with the values of their employees and broader societal needs.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
This episode of the Inclusive Growth Show features Tracy Boylin who is the CEO of Organisational Genetics. Tracy talks about how her experience of toxicity in the workplace led to founding her business.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
In this episode, I was rejoined by one of our previous fabulous guests, Rachael Edmondson-Clarke. Rachael returned to talk with me about burnout and steps we can all take to look after our wellbeing, spot burnout in colleagues, and the real impact that burnout has in the workplace.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
In this episode of the Inclusive Growth Show, Toby talks to Ed Warner from Motionspot and discusses the importance of thinking holistically and intersectionally about inclusive design and its benefits for people and businesses.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
In this episode of the Inclusive Growth Podcast, I spoke with Rachael Edmondson-Clarke about the importance of moods and how you can check in with yourself to be a more inclusive and impactful leader.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
For this conversation with Kathrina Robotham from Catalyst, we talked about the importance of adaptability and empathy in managers to support the performance of teams and organisations.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
This episode features Lee Gudgeon the Managing Director of Reed Talent Solutions talking about the evolution of the diversity and inclusion journey that Reed Talent Solutions is on. The conversation covers what he has learned along the way and the part that he's played in his role as an executive sponsor.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
In this episode, I talk to Laura Durrant, Chief Executive of the Black Talent Charter. We cover why the charter is needed, how itwill set about achieving its aims and the tangible results Laura anticipates.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
In this episode of the Inclusive Growth Show, Toby is joined by Pippa Catterall, Professor of History and Policy at the University of Westminster, about her report written in collaboration with Arup called ‘Queering Public Space’.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
This conversation on the Inclusive Growth Show is with Pil Byriel, co-founder of Develop Diverse, an impactful tool that highlights both the power of language and the role that technology can play in accelerating progress towards inclusive workplaces.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
For this episode of the Inclusive Growth Show, I was joined by Amanda Tuite CEO and co-founder of Access Vine to talk about disability inclusion for people who are deaf and living with hearing impairments.
If you want to build a more inclusive workplace that you can be proud of please visit our website to learn more.
This episode of the Inclusive Growth Show features Buki Mosaku, author, diversity and inclusion consultancy founder, thought leader and global expert in bias navigation for workplaces.
You can boost company productivity, avoid PR disasters, and build a thriving workplace that attracts the best talent by watching our webinar!
In this episode, Faydra Aldridge, CEO of the British Columbia Schizophrenia Society explained how to talk more confidently about mental wellness and mental illness and gave us some ways to support a colleague at work, family member or loved one who might be experiencing a severe mental illness.
You can boost company productivity, avoid PR disasters, and build a thriving workplace that attracts the best talent by watching our webinar!
This episode of the Inclusive Growth Show features Daniele Fiandaca, speaker, coach author and founder of Token Man.
You can boost company productivity, avoid PR disasters, and build a thriving workplace that attracts the best talent by watching our webinar!
In this episode of the Inclusive Growth Show, I spoke with clinical psychologist and author Dr. Roxy Manning about Nonviolent Communication and how it can be used in diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging work and inclusive leadership.
You can boost company productivity, avoid PR disasters, and build a thriving workplace that attracts the best talent by watching our webinar!
This episode of the Inclusive Growth Show features Nadya Powell from Utopia, an award-winning diversity, equity, inclusion and culture change business which works with global clients to create inclusive and healthy workplaces.
You can boost company productivity, avoid PR disasters, and build a thriving workplace that attracts the best talent by watching our webinar!
In this episode of the Inclusive Growth Podcast, I spoke with Andy Nisevic from One Degree Training and Coaching about implicit bias. We talked about the role it plays in decision-making and its impact on inclusive leadership.
You can boost company productivity, avoid PR disasters, and build a thriving workplace that attracts the best talent by watching our webinar!
In this episode I talk to barrister and author Hashi Mohamed about his book ‘People Like Us: What it Takes to Make it in Modern Britain’. We also cover other fascinating topics including privilege, social mobility and the cost of code-switching in the workplace.
You can boost company productivity, avoid PR disasters, and build a thriving workplace that attracts the best talent by watching our webinar!
For this episode of the Inclusive Growth Show, I was joined by Natalie Boudou, executive coach, trainer consultant and author of a great book called ‘Human Force’ that suggests practical ways leaders can create positive emotional cultures in the workplace.
You can boost company productivity, avoid PR disasters, and build a thriving workplace that attracts the best talent by watching our webinar!
In this episode, I spoke with Rosie Turner and Raj Ramanandi co-founders of InChorus, a Speak Up platform that amplifies employee voice. Our discussion ranged from simplifying data and focusing on insights that can drive the right decision-making to engaging managers in culture change.
You can boost company productivity, avoid PR disasters, and build a thriving workplace that attracts the best talent by watching our webinar!
For this episode of the Inclusive Growth Show, I was joined by Julia Lynch who is the Founding Director of Global Girl Project. Julia spoke with me about feminist organisations, power and privilege in the workplace and the need to redefine leadership to be more inclusive.
You can boost company productivity, avoid PR disasters, and build a thriving workplace that attracts the best talent by watching our webinar!
In this episode of the Inclusive Growth Show, I was joined by my colleague, Luis, and two clients, Mica and Jeremy who both work within EDI in the UK National Health Service known as the NHS.
You can boost company productivity, avoid PR disasters, and build a thriving workplace that attracts the best talent by watching our webinar!
In this episode I talk to one of my clients, Jason Smith, Managing Director of Artex, about his personal diversity and inclusion journey and how reading my book, Inclusive Growth, prompted him to bring me in to work with his team.
You can boost company productivity, avoid PR disasters, and build a thriving workplace that attracts the best talent by watching our webinar!
In this episode, I talk to one of my clients, Andrew Myers, a leadership and culture consultant who works with the Medical Protection Society. We explored the impact of taking a train the trainer approach to rolling out my Diversity Includes Everyone training.
You can boost company productivity, avoid PR disasters, and build a thriving workplace that attracts the best talent by watching our webinar!
In this episode, I spoke with Cheryl Iontton from Electricity North West about her work delivering the company’s Diversity and Inclusion Strategy and the benefits of getting regular coaching in her role.
You can boost company productivity, avoid PR disasters, and build a thriving workplace that attracts the best talent by watching our webinar!
In this episode, I talk to Darren DuPorte from the Business Growth Fun about the impact of the work we’ve been doing with the business, from workshops and developing the internal diversity action group, to individual coaching.
You can boost company productivity, avoid PR disasters, and build a thriving workplace that attracts the best talent by watching our webinar!
In this episode, Toby has an epic conversation with Peter Wilson an internationally established thought leader, author, speaker and CEO in the field of diversity and inclusion.
You can boost company productivity, avoid PR disasters, and build a thriving workplace that attracts the best talent by watching our webinar!
In this episode, Toby spoke to an existing client, Michelle Meakin, Business Services Director at Agility in Mind. We covered the organisation’s approach to developing a DEI charter and bringing those values to life every day.
You can boost company productivity, avoid PR disasters, and build a thriving workplace that attracts the best talent by watching our webinar!
In this conversation, I spoke to Heather Hansen who is a speaker and author on the topic of accent bias. We spoke about all things accent bias from the use of AI to the importance of considering language bias as part of the culture when building and leading an inclusive organisation.
You can boost company productivity, avoid PR disasters, and build a thriving workplace that attracts the best talent by watching our webinar!
In this episode I talked to Dr Tara Van Bommel about her research and a recent report she has co-authored full of data-led policy insights to support diversity and inclusion professionals in their organisations.
You can boost company productivity, avoid PR disasters, and build a thriving workplace that attracts the best talent by watching our webinar!
If you're an LGBTQ+ budding entrepreneur, this episode with Stefaan De Vreese can help connect you with the tools and confidence to forge your own path.
You can boost company productivity, avoid PR disasters, and build a thriving workplace that attracts the best talent by watching our webinar!
In this episode, I spoke to author, speaker and executive coach Carice Anderson. Carice specialises in supporting Black professionals to get ahead in their corporate careers whilst also increasing their enjoyment and impact.
You can boost company productivity, avoid PR disasters, and build a thriving workplace that attracts the best talent by watching our webinar!
In this conversation I speak with Marlon and Kian from The People a company that works with brands that are interested in reaching younger consumers and attracting younger talent in the workforce.
You can boost company productivity, avoid PR disasters, and build a thriving workplace that attracts the best talent by watching our webinar!
In this conversation I spoke with Donald Thompson about the key learnings from his own life that he draws in his new book, ‘Underestimated’. We also covered his experience as an African American Chief Executive in the States, what his business does and the importance of taking an intersectional approach to implementing diversity and inclusion within organisations.
You can boost company productivity, avoid PR disasters, and build a thriving workplace that attracts the best talent by watching our webinar!
My fantastic guest for this conversation is Johnny Timpson OBE. Johnny has got loads of experience driving change at a very high level. He has more than 40 years of insurance and banking sector leadership, and business development experience. He is also the principal of Johnny Timpson Consulting and non-executive chair of specialist military insurance brokerage, Absolute Military and the founding chair of the Access to Insurance working group, an additional TISA Consumer Protection Committee. Additionally, he’s a Financial Inclusion Commissioner and a member of the Financial Services Consumer Panel, the Prime Minister's Champion Group for Dementia communities, the BIBA Access to Insurance Committee, the Building Resilient Households Group, the Institutes of Faculty Actuaries Mental Health Working Group, and gain the group for Autism Insurance Investment and Neurodiversity.
You can boost company productivity, avoid PR disasters, and build a thriving workplace that attracts the best talent by watching our webinar!
In this episode I speak to Sophie Hulm, Chief Executive of Progress Together, a membership organisation for the UK financial and professional services sector that focuses on progressing the socio-economic agenda in firms particularly around developing and retaining talent.
Positively Purple is the title of the new book by Kate Nash, founder of PurpleSpace. Kate sat down with me to talk about the book and her work on disability inclusion in the workplace.
Ashleigh Wilson is the founder of Auditmate which is the first ever elevator and escalator auditing and management software. What sets Ashleigh’s organisation apart is their great philosophy around diversity and inclusion and putting people before profits.
In this discussion I spoke with EDI practitioners Emma Palmer and Meera Somji about success factors for running organisational programmes and, crucially, how practitioners can look after their own wellbeing and resiliency in a demanding profession.
Laurie Sudbrink a leadership development coach, trainer and author of a book called Leading with GRIT came in to talk to me about her framework and how to apply it in your inclusive leadership development journey and organisation.
Rob Brougham and Drew Smithsimmons are the co-founders of a company that makes an incredibly exciting collaborative communications product called Braided Space. They talked to me about how they have developed this product for use in deep space and how it can be used by earthbound organisations to increase diversity and inclusion.
This week I spoke with Khyati Sundaram, a founder and technologist who has developed Be Applied to help improve diversity and inclusion within recruitment and onboarding processes.
Rosie and Raj are the founders of InChorus, an innovative technological Speak Up tool that helps workplaces gain insights on any microaggressions that are happening in the workplace, in turn offering greater potential success for the impact of targeted interventions.
In this episode, I spoke to author and leadership expert Janet Polach about frontline leadership and some of the challenges that managers face. We framed our conversation around the mistakes in her book that we felt had strong links to diversity and inclusionas well as sharing some practical tips for avoiding the mistakes.
In this conversation I spoke to author, speaker and diversity, equity and inclusion consultant Farzana Nayani about the power of employee resource groups to drive organisational changes and cultivate a culture of belonging.
This conversation features solicitors Lynne and Babs from Jamieson Law. Lynne and Babs talked about the reasons behind establishing a legal practice in the context of the ongoing diversity and inclusion challenges in the wider profession.
This insightful conversation was with Nate Shalev, an expert in workplace inclusivity based in the USA. Nate talked me through how we can make others feel safe by learning to use more inclusive language.
In this conversation, I spoke with Rich Purcell, who is a medical doctor and the founder of the assistive technology Caption.Ed, a company which keeps the user’s voice at the heart of their innovation.
In this conversation, I spoke with Arthur Woods, an author and co-founder of the company Mathison which is on a mission to build organisations that are representative of the communities they employ and serve.
In this conversation, I talked with Robin Shephard, President of Bespoke Hotels. Robin came in to tell me about why the company is pioneering an approach to accessible design-led spaces showcased in properties like the Brooklyn Hotel in Manchester.
My guest Jody Day is the British founder of Gateway Women, a global friendship support and advocacy network for childless women with a social reach of about 2 million people. Jody came in to talk to me about the implications of diversity and inclusion in the workplace for non-parents.
Nazir Makda works as a Diversity and Inclusion Lead in the NHS. He came in to talk to me about the incredible results he has had in shifting the equality dial throughout the organisation by taking a systemic approach.
Fiona Daniel is a diversity and inclusion consultant and an experienced HR professional with a range of experience in blue-chip financial services companies. Fiona came in to talk to me about her take on inclusive leadership as both an opportunity for developing everyone in the workforce and for self-improvement too.
After her own bad experience with the menopause, Katie Taylor founded The Latte Lounge to support other women. Katie came in to talk to me about the importance of the topic. With an estimated 1 in 6 women in the workforce now aged 50 and over and 1 in 5 leaving employment because of menopause symptoms it’s critical that HR and diversity and inclusion practitioners are aware of the challenges women face.
In this conversation, I spoke to Aggie Mutuma about the importance of HR practitioners being fully conversant in the language of their business. Aggie gained her senior HR experience in a range of businesses that are household names. She is also an executive coach and the founder of Mahogany Inclusion Partners.
Helen Cooke is the founder and chief executive of MyPlus. Helen joined me for this brilliant conversation about her company which specialises in employment and disability. I met Helen years ago while working at the BBC whilst running the BBC's disabled staff forum, BBC Ability. I was interested in the employment of disabled people within the corporation and reached out to Helen for some support and advice.
In this conversation, I spoke with Emily Taylor, CEO of Oxford Information Labs, known as Oxil. The company is a cyber intelligence consultancy working at the intersection of different disciplines. It is also notable for its own culture of inclusion and a female CEO.
Helen McGuire, founder and CEO of Diversely, came in to talk to me about how their product uses technology to help organisations bake in diversity from the very top of the recruitment funnel.
Alfred Nelson is the Integration Co-ordinator and chair of the Embrace network at the Growth Company. I was excited when I came across Alfred’s work and the Growth Company because it is very much in alignment with the approach that I take to diversity and inclusion in the book that I wrote, Inclusive Growth.
Steven Jones set up Disability Connect which runs a reverse mentoring programme with disabled people that helps organisations achieve their diversity and inclusion goals. In this conversation, we talk about Steven’s reasons for setting up Disability Connect and the range of benefits employees bring back to their organisations from getting involved as a mentee on the programme.
Meg Sunshine is an university student and eSport pro gamer who has set up a Women in eSports Network. Through this network and her Diversity and Inclusion Officer role, Meg hopes to help change the toxic culture in this space as well as provide positive role models for upcoming girls and women who want to get into eSports.
In this conversation, I spoke to Mayank Shah of MSDUK. The company supports ethnically diverse business owners to create amazing impacts in their communities through diversifying supply chains.
In this conversation Dr John Mervyn-Smith talked me through The GC Index which is the world’s first Organimetric connecting people and business with data that organisations have never had before.
Dr John Mervyn-Smith is one of the Co-Creators and Chief Psychologist of the GC Index, also known as the Game Changing Index. The GC Index is an organisational metric system that empowers organisations to drive performance and achieve innovation by creating game changing teams and cultures. The GC Index is a radical rethink of how organisations identify and nurture key talent and how people at all levels in the organisation make their best impact.
Helen Farmer is a diversity and inclusion and social mobility consultant, activist and speaker. In this episode of the Inclusive Growth show, Helen and I talked about the need to be brave and have frank conversations when it comes to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
As diversity and inclusion practitioners, HR leaders, and business leaders, we must step up again (like we have done during the pandemic). It is imperative that we create an environment of respect and inclusion for Ukrainian, Russian and Eastern European colleagues in our organizations. As employers, it is our duty to support these colleagues during this extremely difficult time.
In this episode I reference the Help Ukrainians with Disabilities campaign that I am donating to and also the BBC World Service interview with Tanya Herasymova.
In this conversation, I spoke with gender identity speaker, consultant and specialist Cynthia Fortlage. We spoke about her lived experience, how it brought her to this work and she shared her insights and unique method, not only of seeing the world, but making it a more inclusive space for all marginalised groups of people.
Dr Steven Yacovelli is the author of Pride Leadership: Strategies for the LGBTQ+ Leader to be the King or Queen of Their Jungle. Our conversation covered his take on diversity and inclusion and we took a close look at the six key areas he covers about leadership in his book.
Jane Hatton is an author who runs Evenbreak which is a jobs site, career service and consultancy for disabled people and employers. I talk to her about why and how to recruit disabled people and we take a deep dive into her latest book covering four key areas that employers really should be thinking about to get more disabled talents into their organisation.
In this eye-opening interview, I spoke to Josh Munro, COO of Break the Silence UK about different types of domestic abuse. Josh shone a light on the groups of people who are equally affected by this but sometimes overlooked by services. We discussed how organisations can support employees to safely access support and other useful signposts to resources.
Trigger warning: this article contains references to domestic abuse and descriptions of emotional and psychological abuse.
In this episode I talk to Chris Jones from Enboarder. Chris explains how the Enboarder digital platform creates a great onboarding experience and is crucial to creating that sense of belonging on an employee journey.
William Wildridge runs a tech start-up that has developed an innovative digital product called WiggleDesk. The product has harnessed user-led design to help organisations manage hybrid working in a more inclusive way.
For further details about Wiggle Desk including a trial go to https://wiggledesk.com/
In this episode of Inclusive Growth I spoke to Lea Sellers and Ros Adler the co-founders of Confidence People and experts on impostor syndrome, which affects a lot of people.
Leana Coopoosamy-Pearson is a diversity and inclusion practitioner at the global law firm Clifford Chance. In this conversation we discussed how the firm uses data to set specific but nuanced targets and how they never rest on their laurels when the goal is reached.
This conversation features Bernadette Smith, who is an author, keynote speaker and D&I advisor to top companies. She also finds time to send out the 5 Things newsletter every Saturday morning, which is packed with good news diversity, equity and inclusion stories to inspire organisations and individuals.
Robert Hopkin is a former management consultant who has spent a lot of time in meetings over the years. Through his experience he realised that many meetings aren’t inclusive or effective. With his co-founders he has set up Axis, a digital platform to help people run meetings that make the most of diversity and let everyone have a voice.
Learn more about Axis at https://www.getaxis.co/
Connect with Robert on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-hopkin-9952b61/
In this interview I spoke to Karen Catlin author, speaker and leadership coach about her book “Better Allies” and everyday actions people can take in the workplace towards being a better ally.
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In this interview I speak to the founders of Digit Music and creators of Control One, a device that removes the restrictions to music creation for disabled artists.
You can listen to Jess' soundtracks on Sound Cloud
Emma Codd, the Global Inclusion Leader at Deloitte, talked to me about inclusion, changing organisational culture through everyday behaviours and the importance of leaders being accountable for change.
Kamran Mallick is the chief executive of Disability Rights UK. In this conversation we discuss inclusion in the context of the workplace and the pandemic and the importance of keeping intersectionality in mind for any diversity and inclusion initiatives.
Nicola Paul is a diversity and inclusion practitioner and founder of Good Work Life. In this interview we talked about good governance, looking at the same data through a different lens and personal actions around inclusion that everyone can commit to.
Josh Wintersgill is an entrepreneur whose love of travel led to him developing a product to make other disabled travellers' lives easier which also won him the Stelios Award for Disabled Entrepreneurs. I chatted to him about his career so far and future plans.
Freddie Herbert talked to me about The Inclusion Initiative. The team is based at the London School of Economics and is working to create a valid evidence base for inclusive companies and the impact of that on the balance sheet.
Iyas AlQasem set up Beyond the Quarter to help business grow in line with their purpose and values. In this interview he eloquently explains the approach and how it links with diversity and inclusion. Learn more about Iyas work and contact him at https://beyondthequarter.com/
Rikia Birindelli-Fayne is a Director at Catalyst, a global non-profit that works with leading organisations to build workplaces that work for women. Rikia has particular expertise in creating psychological safety which was the focus of our conversation.
Jenifer Clausell-Tormos is on a mission to close the gender and diversity gap at speed. Her company Develop Diverse is achieving staggering results with its technology that leverages language to increase the diversity of the talent pipeline and more besides.
In this interview I learned how my friend Srin Madipalli keeps inclusion at the heart of everything he has done in his diverse career. It’s a fascinating journey that’s taken him from genetics to law to coder to Airbnb in San Francisco and now back to the UK.
Mark Baker, Founder of d&i Leaders, has created a purpose-led organisation dedicated to providing high-quality content, training and events which helps D&I professionals deliver positive change within their organisations.
Toby speaks with Anna Brailsford, CEO of Code First Girls, an organisation dedicated to transforming tech. Code First Girls provide the skills, space and inspiration for women to become developers and future leaders in the tech industry.
Toby talks to Darren Burns, the National Recruitment Ambassador at the Timpson Foundation. He finds out why the Timpson Group is at the forefront of ex-offender employment and why other employers might want to rip up their HR policies and do the same.
Christine Hemphill talked to me about her consultancy Open Inclusion and the tools and impact of their work with clients to create better, more inclusive products and services for every customer.
In this Inclusive Growth conversation I caught up with Nick Davis, the Director of Engagement and Inclusion at the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. Nick shared both his experiences of embedding diversity in the organisation’s DNA and the impact of racial discrimination in his life.
This conversation is with Dr Alice Maynard, an expert on inclusion and diversity in senior leaders and within non-exec directorships on a range of boards.
In this episode I had a great catch up with the business psychologist Dr Sylvana Storey Eisenecker who talks about the importance of leadership, and diversity and inclusion for successful organisational culture change.
I talk to Mark Dearlove, chairperson of Spinal Muscular Atrophy UK, who has experience of the benefits of diversity and inclusion in both the not-for-profit and the banking and finance sector.
For this conversation the author of ‘The Human Workplace’ Andy Swann came and talked about the link between diversity and inclusion and enabling people to do good work in the workplace.
In this episode I talk to Mitzi Wyman about using the Thinking Environment to transform the quality of people’s listening and capture their freshest thinking by adopting its inclusive tools and techniques.
In this interview I spoke to the Paralympian, Andy Barrow, about the importance of teamwork, feedback and training when growing an inclusive business culture.
Riccardo Weber talks to me about the Three Ts and how his company True Innovation keeps diversity and inclusion at the heart of all successful innovation.
In this episode I talk to Joanne Lockwood about speaking the language of diversity, inclusion and belonging.
In this interview with Mei-Yee Oram I find out why designing with the whole community in mind not only makes more inclusive spaces but also saves money and improves wellbeing.
To learn more about the work that Mei’s team does on inclusive design, visit their team page on https://www.arup.com/expertise/services/buildings/accessible-environments where their contact details are listed.
In this interview discover why staff satisfaction isn’t rocket science and how Michael Vela’s company Aequip can help companies to listen inclusively and improve their workforce experience.
Best practice in global digital accessibility has now been brought together in one International Standard. Learn how an organisation can use this learning to get better at digital accessibility, wherever they are starting from.
Find out how David O’Coimín has used inclusive design principles to give every office worker who needs some quiet time a nook to call their own.
In this podcast interview I talk to Ammo Talwar MBE about his diverse career building bridges between local communities and the music industry as well as his role as chair of the UK Diversity Task Force.
Dr. Jonathan Ashong-Lamptey reflects on his workplace diversity and inclusion doctoral research and the importance of understanding a range of privileges to create a true meritocracy.
Find out why Ursula Tavender from Taking Care of Business believes offering flexible working in every job role is the primary mechanism for building an inclusive workforce.
In this conversation, I talk with Kate Nash about PurpleSpace and her illuminating book "Secrets & Big News" which enables people to bring their authentic selves to the workplace.
Colin Campbell-Austin tells us about nurturing high-performing and inclusive teams in his British Airways Talent Garden
Employee experience is critical to building inclusive growth within an organisation. In this interview Miles Skelton of MVMNT shares how it's done.
In this episode I talk to Stephen Frost, CEO, author and lecturer about the possibilities that doubling down on diversity and inclusion create for business.
Microaggressions might appear to be an individual problem, but over time they can affect the health, wellbeing and productivity of the whole workforce. In this interview Rosie Turner tells me how InChorus can provide data to target emerging issues.
I interview Isabel Collins who is a specialist in culture and belonging. In it she speaks eloquently about developing organisational belonging and her strong belief that we always achieve more together.
In this interview the founders of a new influencer marketing agency Purple Goat talk about the power of the disabled community’s purple pound and how brands are missing a trick when it comes to advertising.
It might feel counterintuitive, but for some organisations, diversity and inclusion and a sense of belonging is even more important during the challenges of working through a global pandemic. To find out more, I spoke with Sally Bucknell, the Director of Diversity and Inclusiveness for EY in the UK.
To help future-proof business by creating a diverse workplace, I had a great conversation with Loraine Martins Director of Diversity and Inclusion at Network Rail. Having spent the last twenty years understanding how we implement diversity and inclusion throughout organisations, Loraine is one of the top D&I practitioners in the country.
Find out how HS2 is embedding equality, diversity and inclusion throughout the organisation to deliver its vision. Inclusive systems and processes are integral to becoming both the ‘backbone’ of the railway network and a catalyst for growth across Britain.
Discover how, even in an era-defining crisis, diversity and inclusion is the golden thread that can support business to survive and regrow successfully on the other side. I interview Peter Cheese. He is the Chief Executive of the CIPD, which is the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, and the CIPD is the professional body for HR, and people development. I was keen to find out what progress he feels diversity and inclusion has made.
In this interview, I speak to Boris, Chief Scientific Officer for Cognisess. Boris explains how its predictive people analytics platform works for organisations looking to build all kinds of diversity. Find out more about this powerful yet fun to use tool and how it delves beyond the superficial to harness workforce potential.
In this interview Ben Brown, Head of Engineering for Europe from Intuit QuickBooks talked to me about how the company uses inclusive design to improve the customer experience and diversity of colleague experience. He also explains how the whole thing started at a kitchen table.
Andrew Jones talks to me about Agility in Mind, the company he founded ten years ago to help companies apply the Agile manifesto principles. Andrew discusses how Agile principles benefit organisations, by bringing people and their diverse perspectives together to work on shared goals.
Jennifer Pyne talks to me about her research-based tips for companies keen to grow their diversity and inclusion brand activities and communications the right way. Find out how to avoid making common mistakes with visual content like not plastering those well-meant rainbows and hands everywhere. We discuss the RY report Demystifying D&I, which you can obtain from https://ry.com/request-publication/?publication=4435