A Leader Like Me: Building a Culture of Inclusivity – Details, episodes & analysis

In this powerful episode of A Leader Like Me, we speak with Janelle Benjamin—award-winning DEI consultant, founder of All Things Equitable, and LinkedIn Top Voice—about her journey from workplace mistreatment to building an influential consultancy rooted in justice and inclusion.

Janelle opens up about life beyond the title: a dedicated single mum, a quiet changemaker, and a passionate learner committed to creating safer, more inclusive workplaces. She shares how her legal background sharpens her strategic lens and why humility, curiosity, and continuous learning are essential for truly inclusive leadership.

We explore:

• What real inclusion looks like beyond policy and posters

• The emotional cost of exclusion—and the power of turning pain into purpose

• How her legal training helps her spot risks others miss

• Practical steps for those who want to lead inclusively, even when DEI is being scaled back

• The power of connection, community, and shared accountability in driving cultural change

Whether you're just starting your inclusion journey or you're deep in the work, Janelle’s story will leave you inspired, challenged, and ready to act.

Listen now to discover what it takes to build cultures where everyone is truly seen, heard, and valued.

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Did you know? you can now order Priya and Advita's new book Building a Culture of Inclusivity

Order from

https://www.koganpage.com/

Discount Code ALLME20

The book is available in most online stores including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Waterstones, Indigo etc… and in some physical ones as well. 

Don't miss out. Get your copy of the book now and be part of the DEI conversation.

Building a Culture of Inclusivity

Effective Internal Communication For Diversity, Equity and Inclusion 

Want to evaluate where your business stands when it comes to the EI? Visit our website to learn more:

https://aleaderlikeme.com/

Have any questions? Would you like to book Priya and or Advita for a speaking event? Don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@aleaderlikeme.com

For our latest updates, continue to follow our LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram @aleaderlikeme.

If you read our book and would like to give us your honest review, feel free to post on social media. Don't forget to use the #ALLME and tag us.

Thank you for your continued support as we drive global DEI/EDI conversations forward.

If you want to transform your culture and build better inclusion then get in touch and let’s see how we can work together: info@aleaderlikeme.com. 

If you’re curious about inclusive cultures and want to understand what needs to happen in your organisation to cultivate belonging so you and your colleagues can thrive, you can purchase our book: https://aleaderlikeme.com/book/ 

In this episode of A Leader Like Me, we sit down with Garry Clarke-Strange —founder of Think Inclusion and passionate inclusion consultant, who shares his inspiring journey from a traditional corporate career to running his own consultancy while living in Spain. Garry opens up about what inclusion really means, how respectful curiosity can be a catalyst for change, and why joy and humanity must be at the heart of workplace culture.

Together with co-hosts Advita Patel and Priya Bates, this honest conversation explores the emotional realities of leadership, the importance of community, and how internal communications can shape truly inclusive environments. If you're a communications or HR leader looking to drive meaningful change, this episode is not to be missed.

Priya and Advita. 

______________

Did you know? you can now order Priya and Advita's new book Building a Culture of Inclusivity

Order from

https://www.koganpage.com/

Discount Code ALLME20

The book is available in most online stores including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Waterstones, Indigo etc… and in some physical ones as well. 

Don't miss out. Get your copy of the book now and be part of the DEI conversation.

Building a Culture of Inclusivity

Effective Internal Communication For Diversity, Equity and Inclusion 

Want to evaluate where your business stands when it comes to the EI? Visit our website to learn more:

https://aleaderlikeme.com/

Have any questions? Would you like to book Priya and or Advita for a speaking event? Don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@aleaderlikeme.com

For our latest updates, continue to follow our LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram @aleaderlikeme.

If you read our book and would like to give us your honest review, feel free to post on social media. Don't forget to use the #ALLME and tag us.

Thank you for your continued support as we drive global DEI/EDI conversations forward.

If you want to transform your culture and build better inclusion then get in touch and let’s see how we can work together: info@aleaderlikeme.com. 

If you’re curious about inclusive cultures and want to understand what needs to happen in your organisation to cultivate belonging so you and your colleagues can thrive, you can purchase our book: https://aleaderlikeme.com/book/ 

Creating an environment that empowers authenticity: Insights from Samantha Thomas Berry.

Join Priya Bates and Advita Patel, co-founders of 'A Leader Like Me', for another incredible discussion with special guest Samantha Thomas-Berry, VP of Global Talent and Chief Diversity Officer at Kellanova. – A pragmatic and authentic Human Resources leader with over 25 years experience across a range of industries including telecoms and aerospace. She is a strategic business partner delivering commercial success and her coaching approach to leadership ensures she gives the best of herself to, and gets the same in return from, those she is surrounded by.

Featuring personal stories and expert advice, this episode covers the incredible work that Sam is doing to build inclusive cultures across all areas of the global organisation.

If you are passionate about fostering inclusivity, diversity, and belonging in your workplace, this episode will provide all the necessary insights and inspiration.

You can follow Samantha on Linkedin where she'd love to connect and hear from you.

If you want to transform your culture and build greater inclusion in your workplace, get in touch and let's have a chat on how we can support you: info@aleaderlikeme.com. 

You can also follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram to keep up with the latest news. 

Driving Inclusion, Diversity, and Belonging in the Workplace: Insights from Garry Clarke-Strange

Join Priya Bates and Advita Patel, co-founders of 'A Leader Like Me', in an enriching discussion with special guest Garry Clarke-Strange – a talent acquisition expert passion-driven about inclusivity and diversity. Garry the previous Head of Inclusion and Diversity at Green King, sheds light on his journey and his vision to create workplaces where everyone can thrive.

Featuring personal stories and expert advice, this episode covers the transformative impact of initiatives such as a peer-on-peer support system and the Green King's 'I'm not prejudiced but...' campaign. The power of employee networks in propelling an organization's inclusivity efforts is also explored.

The episode also delves into the concept of 'allyship', the challenges of ensuring that the voices of these groups are heard, and the fatigue and burnout associated with continuous involvement.

If you are passionate about fostering inclusivity, diversity, and belonging in your workplace, this episode will provide all the necessary insights and inspiration.

You can follow Garry on LinkedIn if you want to learn more about his new consultancy Think Inclusion. 

I’m not prejudiced video: https://youtu.be/Au4O-hy8Ojc?si=HYip8SiSE7ZxLfpC 

If you want to transform your culture and build greater inclusion in your workplace, get in touch and let's have a chat on how we can support you: info@aleaderlikeme.com. 

You can also follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram to keep up with the latest news. 

“We're focused on KPIs, we're focused on actually driving change, helping people through that change through the communications expertise. And it's really, it's all connected. And it's embedded,”

           - Priya Bates 

Welcome to a bonus episode of A Leader Like Me, where we launch our new season in which we'll be getting real about Building a culture of inclusion with the leaders who are making it happen.

In this bonus episode, Advita Patel and Priya Bates, Co-founders of A Leader Like Me, explore the challenges of sustaining inclusion in different organization.

Priya and Advita reveal A Leader Like Me's exciting new direction and how they can help bridge the gap between awareness and action.

Join us as we explore evidence-based strategies that drive real change.

Don't miss out! Tune in each Thursday for a new episode with a new guest and be inspired, empowered, and ready to make a positive impact.

__

Did you know? you can now order Priya and Advita's new book Building a Culture of Inclusivity

Order from

https://www.koganpage.com/

Discount Code ALLME20

The book is available in most online stores including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Waterstones, Indigo etc… and in some physical ones as well. 

Don't miss out. Get your copy of the book now and be part of the DEI conversation.

Building a Culture of Inclusivity

Effective Internal Communication For Diversity, Equity and Inclusion 

Want to evaluate where your business stands when it comes to the EI? Visit our website to learn more:

https://aleaderlikeme.com/

Have any questions? Would you like to book Priya and or Advita for a speaking event? Don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@aleaderlikeme.com

For our latest updates, continue to follow our LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram @aleaderlikeme.

If you read our book and would like to give us your honest review, feel free to head to social media and don't forget to use the #ALLME and tag us.

Thank you for your continued support as we drive global DEI/EDI conversations forward.

"I want sport to be more reflective of the world that we live in. So that is representation from a diversity point of view. But also, treating people as a whole. A person is not just a person of color. There's so many other characteristics and lived experiences that an individual brings. So it's about accepting a person as a whole, and really creating that belonging for them to be whoever they want in whichever sport they play. And hoping that we do reflect the society that we live in, and serve."

• Shruti Saujani 

In the final episode of Amplifying Diverse Voices season 3, Advita Patel and Priya Bates, Co-founders of A Leader Like Me, were delighted to be joined by Shruti Saujani from the Football Association where she's the EDI lead Equity Diversity and Inclusion. Shruthi is super passionate about making sports for all.

Dive into the world of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in sports as Shruti shares her inspiring story and passion for making a difference.

Discover how she transformed her dreams inspired by "Bend It Like Beckham" into a reality, breaking barriers for South Asian women in the sports arena. 

Join us as we explore Shruti's journey, her recognition as a sports industry next-gen leader, and the impactful initiatives she leads to empower underrepresented groups and reshape the industry of sports making it more inclusive and diverse. 

Don't miss out! Tune in now to be inspired, empowered, and ready to make a positive impact.

Connect with Shruti to follow her inspiring journey: Shruti Saujani on LinkedIn 

__

Did you know? you can now order Priya and Advita's new book Building a Culture of Inclusivity

Order from

https://www.koganpage.com/

Discount Code ALLME20

The book is available in most online stores including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Waterstones, Indigo etc… and in some physical ones as well. 

Stay tuned for weekly episodes of season 3 of Amplifying Diverse Voices.

Don't miss out. Get your copy of the book now and be part of the DEI conversation.

Building a Culture of Inclusivity

Effective Internal Communication For Diversity, Equity and Inclusion 

Want to evaluate where your business stands when it comes to the EI? Visit our website to learn more:

https://aleaderlikeme.com/

Have any questions? Would you like to book Priya and or Advita for a speaking event? Don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@aleaderlikeme.com

For our latest updates, continue to follow our LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram @aleaderlikeme.

If you read our book and would like to give us your honest review, feel free to head to social media and don't forget to use the #ALLME and tag us.

Thank you for your continued support as we drive global DEI/EDI conversations forward.

Inclusion work is not about flags, food, and fun. It's about execution, strategies, tactics, and most importantly, impact. Let's move beyond performative gestures and dive into the real conversations that drive change. 

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In this episode, Priya and Advita, co-founders of A Leader Like Me are joined by Dr. Jonathan Ashong-Lamptey, a leading expert in diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

Dr. Jonathan is a speaker, broadcaster, and inclusion advocate, he holds a PhD from the London School of Economics, infusing academic precision into his work. Dr. Jonathan's evidence-based approach, fueled by captivating case studies and global perspectives, is the key to building inclusive organizations where everyone thrives. 

Uncover the truth about unconscious bias training, the pitfalls of performative gestures, and the critical importance of evidence-based inclusion

During the episode, Dr. Jonathan highlighted the importance of evidence-based inclusion, emphasizing the need to move beyond generic solutions and understand how diversity uniquely matters to each organization.

Join us as we challenge the norms and explore the real impact of diversity initiatives.

Tune in to be inspired and informed!

Connect with Dr. Jonathan Ashong-Lamptey on LinkedIn  

Or visit: elementofinclusion.com/ 

Read also: So Good They Can't Ignore You  by Cal Newport.

---

Did you know? you can now order Priya and Advita's new book Building a Culture of Inclusivity

Order from

https://www.koganpage.com/ 

Discount Code ALLME20

The book is available in most online stores including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Waterstones, Indigo etc… and in some physical ones as well. 

Stay tuned for weekly episodes of season 3 of Amplifying Diverse Voices.

Don't miss out. Get your copy of the book now and be part of the DEI conversation.

https://www.koganpage.com/product/building-a-culture-of-inclusivity-9781398610392 

Want to evaluate where your business stands when it comes to the EI? Visit our website to learn more:

https://aleaderlikeme.com/

Have any questions? Would you like to book Priya and or Advita for a speaking event? Don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@aleaderlikeme.com 

For our latest updates, continue to follow our LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram @aleaderlikeme.

If you read our book and would like to give us your honest review, feel free to head to social media and don't forget to use the #ALLME and tag us.

Thank you for your continued support as we drive global DEI/EDI conversations forward.

"Your DEI strategy should not be some separate thing that sits over here, it should be a light. It should be through the center of your business strategy. It should be touching every single bit of what your business is doing. It should be central to your mission and your vision.

- David Blackburn 

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In this episode, Priya and Advita, co-founders of A Leader Like Me are joined by be inspiring, David Blackburn, a senior manager executive with over 25 years of experience in leading all aspects of human resources. David has a diverse career background including financial services, IT, manufacturing, retail and social housing. 

Discover how to navigate the challenges of ownership, build strong partnerships, and create an inclusive environment where every individual can thrive. David's thought-provoking insights will leave you inspired to lead with kindness, empathy, and a commitment to unlocking the potential of those around you.

Listen in to learn about the ever-evolving landscape of diversity, equity and inclusion, how it impacts organizations across different sectors, and why this journey might be longer than we initially thought.

Tune in to be inspired and informed!

Connect with David Blackburn on LinkedIn

Did you know? you can now order Priya and Advita's new book Building a Culture of Inclusivity

Order from

https://www.koganpage.com/ 

Discount Code ALLME20

The book is available in most online stores including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Waterstones, Indigo etc… and in some physical ones as well. 

Stay tuned for weekly episodes of season 3 of Amplifying Diverse Voices.

Don't miss out. Get your copy of the book now and be part of the DEI conversation.

https://www.koganpage.com/product/building-a-culture-of-inclusivity-9781398610392 

Want to evaluate where your business stands when it comes to the EI? Visit our website to learn more:

https://aleaderlikeme.com/

Have any questions? Would you like to book Priya and or Advita for a speaking event? Don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@aleaderlikeme.com 

For our latest updates, continue to follow our LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram @aleaderlikeme.

If you read our book and would like to give us your honest review, feel free to head to social media and don't forget to use the #ALLME and tag us.

Thank you for your continued support as we drive global DEI/EDI conversations forward.

"Yes, we want equality, but the world is not equal. For us to get to equality, you need to go through equitable practices."

- Nene Molefi  

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In this episode, Priya and Advita are joined by the three co-authors of The Global Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Benchmarks: Standards for Organizations Around the World, Nene Molefi, Julie O’Mara, and Alan Richter, PhD

Listen in to learn about the ever-evolving landscape of diversity, equity and inclusion, how it impacts organizations across different sectors, and why this journey might be longer than we initially thought.

Don't miss this opportunity to understand the driving force behind the GDEIB and the ongoing push for inclusive excellence. 

Dive into a captivating conversation that unveils the powerful journey towards Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. In this enlightening dialogue, our guests discuss the value of the Global Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Benchmarks (GDEIB) and their impact on organizations worldwide. They explore why the GDEIB has gained significant recognition and how it serves as a pivotal tool for assessing DEI strategies.

Tune in to be inspired and informed!

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GDEIB is a phenomenal guide for what could be the greatest systemic transformation of work in this century.  

Learn more about the GDEIB

Connect with our guests:

 Julie O'Mara LinkedIn

Alan Richter LinkedIn 

Nene Molefi LinkedIn 

Did you know? you can now order Priya and Advita's new book Building a Culture of Inclusivity

Order from

https://www.koganpage.com/ 

Discount Code ALLME20

The book is available in most online stores including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Waterstones, Indigo etc… and in some physical ones as well. 

Stay tuned for weekly episodes of season 3 of Amplifying Diverse Voices.

Don't miss out. Get your copy of the book now and be part of the DEI conversation.

https://www.koganpage.com/product/building-a-culture-of-inclusivity-9781398610392 

Want to evaluate where your business stands when it comes to the EI? Visit our website to learn more:

https://aleaderlikeme.com/

Have any questions? Would you like to book Priya and or Advita for a speaking event? Don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@aleaderlikeme.com 

For our latest updates, continue to follow our LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram @aleaderlikeme.

If you read our book and would like to give us your honest review, feel free to head to social media and don't forget to use the #ALLME and tag us.

Thank you for your continued support as we drive global DEI/EDI conversations forward.

"'When we know our why, then we feel less the how.' If I know why this is important, why it's important for my organization, when I can connect, sit not simply with the business imperative, which is clear and proven, but also the moral imperative, when I know why, there is nothing that will stop me, I will find a way through."

- Sharon Amesu 

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In this episode, Priya and Advita are joined by Sharon Amesu, an exceptional advocate for inclusion with a background as a successful criminal barrister for 16 years.

Sharon, a multi-award-winning motivational speaker, executive coach and leadership enthusiast, shares insights into the challenges leaders face in creating more inclusive workplaces and offers a compelling perspective on equity versus equality.

Her work with "She Leads for Legacy," a community focused on accelerating black women into leadership positions, highlights the importance of allies in driving positive change.

Get ready for a thought-provoking conversation on the why behind inclusion and the path to a more equitable world.

Want to learn more about Sharon?

Visit sharonamesu.co.uk/ 

Connect via LinkedIn 

Did you know? you can now order Priya and Advita's new book Building a Culture of Inclusivity

Order from

https://www.koganpage.com/ 

Discount Code ALLME20

The book is available in most online stores including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Waterstones, Indigo etc… and in some physical ones as well. 

Stay tuned for weekly episodes of season 3 of Amplifying Diverse Voices.

Don't miss out. Get your copy of the book now and be part of the DEI conversation.

https://www.koganpage.com/product/building-a-culture-of-inclusivity-9781398610392 

Want to evaluate where your business stands when it comes to the EI? Visit our website to learn more:

https://aleaderlikeme.com/

Have any questions? Would you like to book Priya and or Advita for a speaking event? Don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@aleaderlikeme.com 

For our latest updates, continue to follow our LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram @aleaderlikeme.

If you read our book and would like to give us your honest review, feel free to head to social media and don't forget to use the #ALLME and tag us.

Thank you for your continued support as we drive global DEI/EDI conversations forward.