We explore the future of inclusive leadership with Kelli Lester, co-founder of Onyx Rising. Zoë opens with reflections on ageing, robotics in aged care, and the value of connection. And introduces Kelli, who shares insight on navigating today’s polarised workplace and equipping leaders for diverse, resilient teams.
Kelli unpacks the backlash against DEI programs, reframing them as essential business strategies rather than politically charged mandates. She explores how organisations can move beyond performative initiatives by anchoring their diversity efforts in clear objectives—be it talent, innovation, or community alignment.
This conversation covers emotional and cultural intelligence, generational divides, psychological safety, and the systemic barriers to inclusion. Practical frameworks like Kelli’s seven inclusive leadership traits provide a tangible pathway to fostering a thriving, human-centred workplace.
SHOWNOTES are here:
https://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leading-through-difference
Planet Human:
Robots in aged care boost retention by reducing carer injuries and burnout.
https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1069918
Kickstarter link:
Support Power Games: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/zoerouth/power-games-stop-toxic-power-in-the-workplace
Key Quotes:
“Maps are helpful, but they are not the territory.” – Zoë Routh
“Inclusive leadership is not just nice to have. It’s the future of leadership.” – Kelli Lester
“Any time you don’t share your thoughts, you’re hurting the company.” – Kelli Lester
“Just because someone’s pro-Black doesn’t mean they’re anti-white.” – Kelli Lester
Questions Asked:
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Why is there so much resistance to DEI in today’s climate?
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How can leaders reframe diversity as a business enabler?
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What are the seven traits of inclusive leadership?
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How do we build psychological safety and trust across generations?
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What does it take to dismantle systemic bias in hiring and promotion?
Take Action:
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Self-Audit: Reflect on your own lens—what influences how you see the world, and how does that shape your leadership?
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Amplify Voices: In your next meeting, actively include perspectives from quieter or less-represented team members.
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Define It Clearly: Have a leadership-level conversation about what diversity, equity, and inclusion means in your context and why it matters.
Tip of the Week
Facilitate a “Bias Interrupt” session: Identify where decisions are being made based on assumptions—hiring, promotions, even meeting invitations—and ask, “Who’s missing and why?”
Key Moments
00:00 Introduction and Weekly Question
00:15 Robots in Nursing Care Homes
02:07 Kickstarter Campaign for Power Games
03:48 Understanding Human Behavior and Categorization
07:27 Inclusive Leadership with Kelly Lester
08:26 Challenges and Misconceptions of DEI
28:48 America's Mythmaking and Cultural Conflicts
30:23 Polarization and Political Correctness
34:27 The Importance of Self-Awareness and Valuing Differences
37:49 Promoting Psychological Safety and Amplifying Voices
40:25 Emotional and Cultural Intelligence in Leadership
41:49 Managing Inclusively and Effective Mentoring
45:49 Fast Three Questions with Kelly
50:01 Book Recommendation: Why Are We Yelling?
51:05 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Changes
