Explore every episode of the podcast Inclusion Unlocked: The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Podcast

Efforts to level the playing field for diverse talent are in the spotlight. Will employers stand by their DEI commitments, or in an increasingly politicised landscape will diversity targets, diverse shortlists and DEI talent programmes be deemed high risk? Sasha is joined in conversation with Joelle Emerson to find out more.

Joelle is the co-founder and CEO of Paradigm, a US-based consultancy working with some of the world's most innovative companies to develop diversity & inclusion strategies. Named by Recode as one of the 100 most influential people in business, and appearing on Marie Claire's "New Guard" list of 50 women changing the world, Joelle is a deeply respected leader on workplace diversity and culture. 

Having started her career as a civil rights lawyer, Joelle has seen first hand the consequences when companies fail to adequately consider Diversity. And at a point where hostility continues to grow in the US, the UK and beyond, Joelle unpacks the impacts of the Supreme Court Affirmative Action ruling and shares invaluable perspectives on how organisations and individuals maintain a strong focus on diversity.

We explore the potential to influence societal change through organisational change, and the importance of building collaborative, cross-generational cultures. And, with the Worker Protection Act soon to come into force on this side of the pond, we discuss the importance of creating cultures which are intolerant of inappropriate behaviour, and the role of training and awareness raising.

Whether your organisation's approach to diversity, equity and inclusion is global in nature, or you are a local DEI practitioner looking for new perspectives on how to drive change, this episode offers a wealth of practical insights.

To learn more about Inclusive Group and our comprehensive solutions for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, visit inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.

As organisations and individuals realise the importance of building both their understanding of neurodiversity and their capability around neuro-inclusion, Sasha is joined in conversation by Matt Boyd. Matt is the founder of Exceptional Individuals a trailblazing organisation providing neurodiversity consulting to employers, while offering recruitment and employment support to those with dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADHD and autism. 

Matt shares his personal experience of dyslexia, the shame he initially carried, and how dyslexia impacted his job-seeking journey. And we learn how this experience inspired him to provide practical support to others. 

We discuss the role Exceptional Individuals play in helping candidates to understand their neuro-divergent profile, and the importance, both for individuals and employers, of focusing on strength areas as well as challenging areas. Matt discusses the barriers faced by neurodivergent job-seekers, what has inspired the shift in openness and interest in neurodiversity in the workplace. 

Whether you are an employer who is relatively early in your journey to support neurodivergent job-seekers, or an individual who is looking for personal insights and tips, this episode offers a range of exceptionally valuable insights.

To learn more about Inclusive Group and our comprehensive solutions for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, visit inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.

Do men have a friendship problem? Research indicates that, generally, men have less close friends than women - and the problem is getting worse. In the latest episode of Inclusion Unlocked, Sasha speaks with actor, presenter, comedian and author Max Dickins on masculinity, mental health, loneliness, and why friendship can feel trickier for men.

Max gives an insight into his work helping others to tap into the different versions of themselves through theatre and improvisation, and the value of creating space for self reflection. We explore the personal realisation that formed the impetus for Max's book, Billy No Mates. Max shares the insights gained from leading experts on the factors that can hamper men's friendship. 

Does this matter, and what can do about it? We explore the long term damage loneliness can create, the importance of investing in building and preserving strong social relationships and we ask whether technology is helping or hampering human connection. This is an immensely important conversation, whether you find this topic of loneliness and friendship struggles relatable, or you are involved in workplace inclusion, mental health and wellbeing programmes. 

To learn more about Inclusive Group and our comprehensive solutions for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, visit inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.

In one of the most thought-provoking episodes yet of Inclusion Unlocked, Sasha is joined by founder of APS Intelligence LTD, Professor John Amaechi OBE.

John is widely recognised as an influential thinker in HR and a respected organisational psychologist who partners with businesses to build bespoke programmes focused behavioural change. We learn about his experience of cultivating effective leadership and authentic workplace cultures, and John shares a glimpse into what drew him to psychology, including the lasting impact of the deep pragmatism role-modelled by his mother.

This deep and wide reaching conversation lives up to its promise. We unpack what it takes to drive high performance in today's workplace, and the leadership imperative of living up to the commitments made on workplace culture. We also explore the energy cost experienced both by introverts and extroverts, and how small adjustments in our approach can help our team members to thrive.

Whether you are a leader, an aspiring leader or a people practitioner looking to drive change, this episode offers a wealth of insights.

To learn more about Inclusive Group and our comprehensive solutions for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, visit inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.

In the latest episode of Inclusion Unlocked, Sasha is joined by Sharon Peake, the award-winning founder and CEO of Shape Talent.

In a wide reaching conversation, we learn about how Sharon's psychology and talent management background have influenced the way she works with organisations and leaders to drive authentic change.

From navigating the complexities of organisational culture to implementing practical strategies for fostering inclusivity, we explore invaluable insights into creating workplaces where everyone can thrive.

Together, Sasha and Sharon emphasise the importance of authentic leadership and the role it plays in creating environments where all individuals feel seen and heard. They share personal anecdotes, practical tips, and heartfelt reflections on the journey toward a more inclusive future.

Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with wisdom, empathy, and actionable takeaways.

To learn more about Inclusive Group and our comprehensive solutions for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, visit inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.

In one of the most candid episodes yet of Inclusion Unlocked, Sasha is joined by Lewis Raymond Taylor. Lewis is the founder of global coaching phenomenon the Coaching Masters and has been listed among the top 10 coaches in the world by Yahoo Finance.

Lewis recently featured in recent Netflix documentary, the Psychopath Life Coach, a powerful and, in parts difficult, watch tracking how childhood trauma and abuse led to a life of crime and self-sabotage. Having been diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder, emotionally unstable personality disorder and bipolar disorder, the documentary explores the uncomfortable question of whether Lewis has managed to turn his life around after a deeply troubled start - or whether his success is simply rooted in manipulation. 

Lewis shares incredibly open insights into both his personal journey, and the positive and negative responses he has received since the documentary aired. We take a deep dive into identity, behaviour, and how the self beliefs formed in childhood continue to distort our reality as adults.

This is an open discussion highlighting the impact of early trauma - but there is also a great deal of inspiration here. Lewis's experience of "flipping the script" is powerful, as is his view on the immense value coaching holds to unlock our inner potential. If you have watched the documentary, I would urge you to put any views and opinions to one side, and dive into the discussion.

Trigger warning: This episode covers content some may find challenging, including childhood abuse, addiction and suicide.

To learn more about Inclusive Group and our comprehensive solutions for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, visit inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.

To learn more about Inclusive Group and our comprehensive solutions for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, visit inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.

Welcome to our latest episode of Inclusion Unlocked. Sasha is joined in conversation by one of the most respected leaders in the DEI space, Sonia Bate, founder and Managing Director of Edit Development. Edit was created with the goal of making a difference and since its inception in 2010, Edit has been at the forefront of advancing gender diversity and women in leadership, working closely with some of the world's most forward-thinking organisations.

We discuss Sonia's career journey, and unpack some of the most challenging and sensitive issues facing DEI professionals, from overcoming the fear of failure to managing discomfort and hostility. We also explore the importance of community, purpose, safety and laughter in preserving the resilience of DEI professionals.

Sonia brings a wealth of experience when it comes to gender diversity. We explore how well-intentioned initiatives and programmes can miss the mark and fall into the trap of "fixing the women" and discuss the interventions and approaches that make a real impact. For anyone looking to accelerate progress on gender and to make lasting change, this episode is quite simply a must listen.

To learn more about Inclusive Group and our comprehensive solutions for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, visit inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.

To learn more about Inclusive Group and our comprehensive solutions for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, visit inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.

In our latest episode of Inclusion Unlocked, Sasha is joined by Funke Abimbola, MBE. Funke is an award-winning, C-suite diversity, equity and inclusion leader, lawyer, media commentator and author who, following a highly successful legal career, has become a leading figure in the DEI space.

We explore Funke's early career, her experience of adversity and discrimination and the impact this had in shaping her approach as a diversity advocate and champion. Funke shares a candid insight into how the murder of George Floyd acted as a catalyst for her career move into DEI, and her experience of growing a successful DEI business alongside her incredible son Max Abimbola. We also explore the importance to Funke of celebrating - and educating others around - her Nigerian heritage. And Funke gives us a hint of what to expect from her first book, Climbing Mountains, set for release in 2024.

For leaders who are committed to addressing inequity and discrimination, and for colleagues at all levels who would like to use their voice to lift others up and inspire change, the candid and personal insights shared by Funke make this episode an absolute must listen.

To learn more about Inclusive Group and our comprehensive solutions for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, visit inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.

To learn more about Inclusive Group and our comprehensive solutions for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, visit inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.

Get ready for a thought-provoking journey in the newest episode of Inclusion Unlocked, as Sasha engages in one of our most open and candid discussions yet, with Director of Inclusion and Impact at CSM, Karima Green.

We explore the nuanced landscape of sports and inclusion, and unpack the often-unseen challenges faced by DEI practitioners. Karima's insights cast a spotlight on the strength of our resilience amid adversity.

Whether you're an aspiring or seasoned DEI practitioner, a dedicated member of an employee resource group, or a forward-thinking leader, this episode promises plenty of food for thought, along with practical tips to empower both yourself and others in the pursuit of a more inclusive workplace.

To learn more about Inclusive Group and our comprehensive solutions for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, visit inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.

In this episode, Sasha is joined by Asif Sadiq MBE, Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer for Warner Brothers Discovery.

With a career spanning the City of London Police, EY, Adidas, and the Telegraph, Asif has emerged as one of the world's most prominent and influential DEI leaders. Asif has received a broad range of awards and recognition for his work to drive meaningful change in DEI, including being honoured with an MBE in 2017. 

As anti-woke sentiment and polarisation increase at alarming rates, Asif discusses the need to create space for meaningful dialogue and conversation around DEI, and the value for leaders in replacing fear and anxiety around with humility and vulnerability. 

We explore the factors that drive long term systematic change, and the value of going back to basics, from putting the DEI foundations in place to addressing the everyday and informal interactions that adversely impact diverse talent.

Packed with a wealth of practical insights and tips, this episode is a must listen, not only for DEI experts and HR practitioners but for leaders who are committed to making progress on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

To learn more about Inclusive Group and our comprehensive solutions for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, visit inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.

To learn more about Inclusive Group and our comprehensive solutions for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, visit inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.

In this new episode of Inclusion Unlocked, Sasha is joined by music industry powerhouse Emma Banks. Emma, a formidable music agent, represents some of the world's most successful artists, including Kylie Minogue, Katy Perry, Muse, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Florence & The Machine. 
 
 Deeply respected for her ability to spot talent and her care for the artists she represents, Emma is trailblazer in the industry, whose achievements include being a nine-times winner of Pollstar's UK Agent of the Year Award and being twice honoured by the UK's Women Of The Year Awards for the Music Industry. In 2018, Emma became the first woman executive and the first agent to win the highly prestigious Music Industry Trust Awards, and earlier this year Emma won Music Week's Strat Award, the top honour handed to an industry icon each year.
 In this must-listen episode, Sasha and Emma delve into Emma's remarkable 30-year career in music. They explore topics ranging from diversity and innovation in the music industry to navigating change and uncertainty. Whether you're passionate about the music industry, or you are tuning in to be inspired by a ground-breaking woman leader this episode will not disappoint.

To learn more about Inclusive Group and our comprehensive solutions for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, visit inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.

To learn more about Inclusive Group and our comprehensive solutions for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, visit inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.

In this episode, Sasha is joined by broadcaster, journalist and author Clare Balding CBE.

Alongside being one of Britain's best known broadcasters, Clare is an ardent campaigner for the representation of women in sport. Clare's extensive charity work with organisations close to her heart include her role as Patron of Riding for the Disabled, the British Paralympic Association and Diversity Role Models.

Clare shares her passion for improving young people's access to sport and the wide range of wellbeing benefits sport can bring. We explore the importance of embracing original ideas in order to open doors and remove barriers - both physical and metaphorical. And we discuss how 'showing' rather than 'telling' can be the most effective way to debunk stereotypes. Clare also shares her love of walking, and the steps she takes, both to decompress and to be present.

Whether you have a passion for sport, accessibility or wellbeing (or all three!), this episode is a must listen.

To find out more about Inclusive Group, visit the solutions page of our website: www.inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.
 

To learn more about Inclusive Group and our comprehensive solutions for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, visit inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.

In this episode, Sasha is joined by Ellie Austin-Williams, personal finance writer and founder of online community This Girl Talks Money.

Ellie is a strong believer that understanding how to manage money and look after our financial wellbeing should not be reserved for the rich and privileged.  This Girl Talks Money has helped to create a community of thousands of financially empowered women, breaking the taboo around talking about money and opening the conversation up around earning, spending, saving and managing money.

As the financial crisis bites for individuals and organisations, Ellie discusses the toll the crisis is taking , particularly on gen-z and millennials.   We explore the importance of prioritising our financial wellbeing, and Ellie walks us through practical tips to help us to regain control of our finances.

This episode is not only a must for those who are grappling with the financial crisis and those wanting to manage their personal finances more effectively - but for HR practitioners, leaders and managers who wish to understand and support financial wellbeing concerns in their team.

To find out more about Inclusive Group, visit the solutions page of our website: www.inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.
 

To learn more about Inclusive Group and our comprehensive solutions for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, visit inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.

As a trauma doctor and rapid response driver, specialising in major incidents, when Dr Amit Patel lost his sight overnight in 2013, he felt he had lost 'who I was, and what I was'.  Just six weeks later, in one of the fasted matches in guide-dog history, Amit was paired with Kika - who he credits with rebuilding his confidence and independence. 

Amit and Kika shot to the public's attention after posting videos revealing the challenges, hostility and animosity they faced while travelling on public transport in London. 

In this episode, Amit shares a moving insight into his sight loss journey and the hostility, humanity and kindness he has encountered along the way.   Sasha explores how the support of those around Amit have influenced his journey to becoming an author (Kika & Me), disability rights campaigner, speaker and diversity consultant, whose work has prompted significant changes in policy and mindsets.

This wide-reaching episode is packed full of Amit's personal experiences and insights as well as practical tips that will inspire all of us to step forward as supporters, advocates and allies.

To find out more about Inclusive Group and how we can partner with you to support inclusion, wellbeing and employee engagement, visit the solutions page of our website: Solutions | Inclusive Group.

To learn more about Inclusive Group and our comprehensive solutions for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, visit inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.

What does gut health have to do with the world of work?  In post-pandemic workplaces, where wellbeing is front and centre for most employers, gut health matters more than ever.  And it can create opportunities to strengthen social connection in the workplace too!

In this episode, Sasha is joined by Sunni Patel, founder of Dish, Dash, Deets.  As a certified health, fitness and lifestyle coach with a specialist interest in gut health, Sunni promotes gut health through Dish, Dash, Deets' three key pillars: coaching, education and food.  Sunni shares the inspiration behind his move from the corporate world into culinary medicine.  We explore the strong connection between the gut and the mind and Sunni's ground-breaking work to engage and empower employees to make conscious healthy decisions.

This episode is a must for employers who are seeking to create a holistic approach to wellbeing and those who are prioritising social connection in a hybrid world.  To find out more about Inclusive Group, and how we can partner with you to support inclusion, wellbeing and employee engagement, visit the solutions page of our website: Solutions | Inclusive Group.

To learn more about Inclusive Group and our comprehensive solutions for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, visit inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.

Claire Harvey MBE has achieved huge success in the Diversity space and as a Paralympian competing at an elite level, including captaining the Team GB Sitting Volleyball team at London 2012. What you may not know is that Claire is a Forensic Psychologist and a former Prison Governor and Hostage Negotiator. During episode 3 of Inclusion Unlocked, Claire joins Inclusive Group founder and CEO Sasha Scott to share fascinating insights into her early career, and how these experiences shaped her approach today. This episode is packed with valuable insights for leaders and diversity practitioners, from learning to be authentic 'the hard way', through to the impact of building cultures based on trust and shared understanding.

Claire shines a light on the importance of ensuring everyone thrives.  We explore the increased focus on cultural and systemic change, as organisations begin to understand that sustained progress on DEI requires a shift away from 'managing diversity' and towards 'practicing inclusion'.

To find out more about how Inclusive Group can work with your organisation to drive lasting change in the DEI space, please visit the solutions page of our website: Solutions | Inclusive Group, or get in touch with us at info@inclusivegroup.co.uk. 

Episode segments

To learn more about Inclusive Group and our comprehensive solutions for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, visit inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.

In this  episode, Inclusive Group's founder and CEO Sasha Scott is joined by Gemma Parker, Diversity & Inclusion Lead at Pets at Home.  Gemma provides valuable insights into her experience leading and driving diversity in a complex organisation with an exceptionally broad employee base.

Gemma brings to life the importance Pets at Home place on understanding the needs of an increasingly diverse consumer base and shares her approach to building engagement and participation by ensuring Pets at Home's diversity work is consumer focused and accessible to all.  This is a must listen episode for DEI practitioners and anyone with a DEI component to their role.

Gemma was joined by her Cockerpoo, Bronwyn - who was on best behaviour!

To find out more about how Inclusive Group works with organisations, leaders and DEI practitioners to create inclusive environments and to drive meaningful change across Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, please visit the solutions page of our website: Solutions | Inclusive Group, or get in touch with us at info@inclusivegroup.co.uk. 

To learn more about Inclusive Group and our comprehensive solutions for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, visit inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.

At Inclusive Group, we know that Leaders, Managers and HR practitioners are often both wired and required to put the needs of others ahead of their own.  This episode of Inclusion Unlocked looks at the critical issues of workplace trauma and burnout and the toll the pandemic has taken on the mental health and wellbeing of those who spend their working lives putting others first.

Inclusive Group founder and CEO Sasha Scott is joined by psychotherapist and trauma and burnout specialist Anna Pinkerton to explore the steps we must take - after two incredibly turbulent years - to guard against burnout and to preserve our physical and mental wellbeing. 

To find out more about the Burnout & Trauma workshop Anna delivers for Inclusive Group, and how to introduce the session in your workplace, please visit the solutions page on our website: Solutions | Inclusive Group

To learn more about Inclusive Group and our comprehensive solutions for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, visit inclusivegroup.co.uk/solutions.