Diverse & Inclusive Leaders

Join us as we welcome Julie Abraham, the inspiring CEO of Richer Sounds, who shares her incredible journey of hard work, tenacity, and the power of mentorship. Julie’s remarkable story showcases how dedication and the right opportunities can lead to unparalleled success, even if you start without formal qualifications.Our conversation unveils the unique ethos of Richer Sounds, a company that has thrived by placing people before profits. From transitioning to employee ownership to offering extraordinary benefits like holiday homes and an award-winning suggestion scheme, discover the strategies that have resulted in high employee retention and a motivated workforce. We discuss their hands-on leadership approach, the open-door policy that ensures every voice is heard, and the initiatives that nurture future leaders to secure the company's legacy.Lastly, we explore the evolving landscape of leadership and CEO activism, focusing on transparency, purpose-driven leadership, and the importance of diverse represe

What if your brand could achieve both social impact and economic growth? Join us as we uncover the inspiring journey of Jess Weiner, a cultural expert and brand advisor who has taken the road less travelled to become a successful entrepreneur and CEO. With a rich academic background in theatre, women's studies, and classics, Jess's passion for storytelling and tackling social issues shines through. From founding a nonprofit theater company to giving advice to millions as a columnist for Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Jess shares how these diverse experiences paved the way for her influential work with major brands like Dove.In this episode, we shed light on the crucial elements of "Building Long-Term Brand Purpose. Jess recounts her decades-long work across Dove's self-esteem initiatives and the proven impact of their research-driven approach. Learn from real examples such as Dove's multi-generational Campaign for Real Beauty and Mattel's body-positive transformation of Barbie. Jess

Chris Williams, MBA, shares this fascinating journey with us, marked by pivotal moments that changed his life's trajectory. From the tragic murder of George Floyd to a traumatic childhood incident involving his brother's racially motivated attack, Chris recounts the powerful experiences that fueled his passion for fighting discrimination and promoting inclusivity. His story is not just about career progression but about the profound impact of personal experiences in shaping a mission-driven life.The emotional toll of constantly advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion is immense. We dive into the delicate balance between energy-charging and energy-draining activities for DEI professionals. We discuss the risks of burnout and the importance of self-care, emphasising that the fight for inclusivity is more of a marathon than a sprint. It's a candid conversation on maintaining positivity and resilience while facing ongoing challenges in the DEI space, offering insights on how to sustain long

Ever wondered how a police officer's daughter rose to become the COO of a leading student property company? Hear Joanne Pollard's remarkable journey from her early days to the helm of Empiric Student Property PLC. Joanne opens up about her career path, spanning from Marks & Spencer management trainee to influential roles at Legal & General, Abbey National, and Bupa. This episode is a treasure trove for aspiring leaders, especially women balancing demanding careers with motherhood, as Joanne candidly discusses her shift to the student accommodation sector and its trajectory towards better standards and support for young adults.We dive deep into the critical issue of increasing ethnic diversity at senior leadership levels. Joanne shares her insights on the systemic barriers that hinder progress and the importance of targeted initiatives like the Parker Review. Learn how authentic leadership and intentional recruitment practices can transform organizational culture. Discover the role of employe

What if your morning cup of tea carries a hidden history of colonialism and exploitation? Join us as we welcome Machel Bogues, the dynamic Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Manager at the Royal Town Planning Institute. Through his compelling narrative, Machel draws on his powerful family heritage of activism against apartheid and colonialism, shedding light on the profound significance of names and legacy. From his grandparents' valiant efforts in South Africa to his impactful work with Bernie Grant MP, Machel's story underscores the necessity of addressing historical injustices to create a more inclusive society.In our conversation, we explore the surprising historical roots embedded in everyday British cultural practices. Have you ever considered how tea drinking, chocolate, or dining at Nando's might be tied to the painful histories of the slave trade and colonial expansion? Machel offers a thought-provoking examination of these connections, urging businesses and brands to acknowledge their

Imagine transforming your career from an Executive Assistant to a leading advocate for equality, diversity, and inclusion within a major company. Our guest, Sarah Munday, ED&I Wellbeing Manager at Britvic Soft Drinks, did just that, and she joins us to share her extraordinary journey. Sarah opens up about her personal battles with mental health and how those struggles ignited her passion for fostering workplace well-being. You'll hear how small initiatives like exercise classes and healthy breakfasts blossomed into comprehensive well-being programs, thanks to Britvic's unwavering support.Discover how embracing diversity can elevate business success through enhanced employee engagement, productivity, and morale. Sarah sheds light on the complexities of integrating different workplace environments, such as headquarters and factory sites, to bridge gaps and foster a unified, inclusive culture. Authenticity in leadership takes center stage as Sarah delves into the profound impacts of creating a safe

What does it take to transform lives through social impact and food sustainability? Join us as we engage in a heartfelt conversation with Joseph Mullings, Director of Programs for Social Impact and Food Sustainability for North America at ISS. From his humble beginnings in a preacher's household in the UK to his impactful endeavors in Canada, Joseph's journey is a testament to the power of community service and resilience. Hear how his father's relentless dedication to helping others shaped Joseph and his siblings, and the stark educational challenges they faced due to institutional racism.Discover the profound benefits of investing in employee development, particularly through language programs for frontline workers. Joseph shares compelling examples of initiatives like the English language program for janitorial and reception staff, revealing how these investments lead to higher employee retention, service consistency, and reduced recruitment costs. Learn how these strategic investments not o

Embark on an enlightening journey with us as we sit down with Nicola Grant, Chief People Officer at Hiscox, who opens up about climbing the ranks in the complex sphere of global human resources. Breaking through the confines of a homogenous upbringing, Nicola became a pioneer for her family by venturing into the world of academia and emerging as a champion of diversity and inclusion. Our conversation takes a deep dive into the pivotal moments of her life, from supporting her husband through career and health hurdles to seizing the helm of her own professional odyssey, illustrating the profound impact of embracing opportunity and positivity.In a candid exchange, we unravel the often-overlooked concept of psychological safety and its indispensable role in the workplace. My personal anecdotes from the contrasting corporate cultures of New York and Amsterdam enrich this exploration, highlighting the trials and triumphs of nurturing an inclusive atmosphere amidst diverse backgrounds. The narrative underscores how

From the gritty streets of a low socioeconomic childhood to the corporate halls of Grant Thornton, Jenn Barnett's journey is a masterclass in resilience and vision. Her story isn't just about overcoming odds; it's about transforming them into a ladder for others to ascend. As a psychologist turned champion for inclusion and diversity, Jenn unveils the intricate dance between personal growth and professional innovation, and how her past fuels her relentless pursuit to cultivate an environment where everyone thrives.This episode is a mosaic of experiences, from Jenn's early fascination with human behavior to her dynamic roles across industries, all converging to shape her understanding of the power of diversity in decision-making. You're invited on a voyage through the shifting landscapes of workplace culture, where the courage to embrace the unfamiliar paves the way for groundbreaking ideas. Our conversation traverses the delicate balance of fostering growth through challenge while ens

Embark on a journey with Andrew Neal, Chief People Officer at Nash Squared, as we uncover the transformative power of diversity and inclusion through the lens of human capital leadership. With a vibrant career that transitioned from the retail hustle to spearheading human resource strategies, Andrew's dedication to fostering belonging and equity shines a spotlight on the evolving landscape of talent management. As he shares pearls of wisdom from his time at Tesco and beyond, our dialogue encapsulates the essence of nurturing a workplace culture that celebrates every individual's journey toward success.Hear firsthand about the critical role employee resource groups (ERGs) play in driving engagement and organizational performance, illuminated through Andrew's experiences and bolstered by the support of executive champions. Our discussion stretches to the horizon of workplace agility, emphasizing the post-pandemic shift towards more adaptable practices and how these strategies are imperative for r

Discover the transformative power of diversity and inclusion as we sit down with Dr. Yetta Toliver, Global Head of Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging at Xerox Corporation. With a legacy spanning 37 years, Dr. Toliver unravels the rich tapestry of her career, from her origins with the company to spearheading initiatives that carve paths for equity in the workplace. In a candid reflection on Black History Month, she sheds light on Xerox's trailblazing efforts in creating the first employee resource groups (ERGs), revealing how these platforms have become crucial in shaping policies and nurturing a sense of community and strategic business acumen.Embark on a journey through the corridors of Xerox's corporate culture where allyship and mentorship intersect, giving rise to programs like 'manbassadors' and an AI-driven enterprise mentoring program set to redefine professional relationships. Dr. Toliver shares how executive sponsorship and ERGs contribute to employee retention and engagement, pa

Imagine stepping into the role of a lifetime, where every challenge is an opportunity for growth, and every connection has the potential to change your trajectory. That's the journey Sherry Cassano, Pfizer's Chief Talent Officer and People Experience Lead, shares with us as she recounts her experiences in the corporate realm. She walks us through her initial spark for human resources ignited by an internship, leading to a flourishing 20-year path at Pfizer where she's navigated corporate shifts and led teams through the perils of a global pandemic. Her stories are testament to the power of embracing the unexpected, the profound influence of mentors, and the vital need for a corporate culture steeped in diversity and inclusion.Juggling a high-octane career with family life is akin to walking a tightrope, and Sherry reveals how partnership and support are the lifelines that keep everything balanced. We share stories of career leaps taken despite self-doubt and how fostering an environment where d

When Vivien Burnett speaks of her climb from the bustling streets of southeast London to the pinnacle of HR at HH Global, you can't help but feel the strength of her purpose. We bring you a tale of passion, not just for people but for the diversity that makes us thrive. Alongside Vivien, Thomas Huscroft joins us to share his transformation from banking to a champion of inclusion, proving that the heart of a company lies in its embrace of every individual's uniqueness.Our conversation journeys through the fabric of leadership, interwoven with personal growth and the courage to champion others. Vivien recounts her eye-opening gap year that expanded her world view, sowing the seeds for her dedication to creating an inclusive corporate culture. Thomas, with equal fervor, discusses the profound effect belonging has on every facet of the workplace, from engagement to mental health. Together, they are the embodiment of progress, illustrating how diversity and inclusion are not just HR buzzwords but the cor

Embark on an enriching odyssey with Josyln Dumas, an expert in the realm of Inclusion and Diversity at Elsevier, whose narrative illustrates the profound connection between the vibrancy of her dance background and her professional triumphs in talent development. Joslyn's story is a testament to the transformative potential of the arts, where her rise from the field of advertising to the pinnacle of IND work emerges as a beacon for nurturing talent and embracing diversity.Feel the rhythm of perseverance and empowerment as Joslyn recounts her journey from an introspective individual to a dynamo of confidence, all through the grace of dance. Her personal anecdotes lay the foundation for a broader conversation on the necessity of creating inclusive spaces, where the arts serve as a vehicle for personal and community growth. The thread of dance weaves through the discussion, portraying a rich tapestry of generational influence and the enduring impact of creative expression in shaping inclusive environments.Ve

Prepare to be whisked away on an insightful journey with Leila McKenzie-Delis, as I sit with the unparalleled Marc Coleman of Unleash. Together, we dissect the exhilarating evolution of the HR events industry and the nuanced art of fostering indispensable human connections in today's digital world. From Marc's unexpected shift from science to HR, to the extraordinary challenges and triumphs of a remote-first events business, his story is one of resilience and innovation amid the ever-changing corporate landscape.As the conversation plunges into the metamorphosis of HR, feel the pulse of a sector once confined to the background now catapulting to the forefront of strategic business change. You'll be gripped by tales of technological revolution and how employee empowerment has reshaped the corporate environment, culminating in an era where Chief Human Resources Officers are the new architects of workplace culture and connectivity. Our discussion pinpoints pivotal moments, like our experience at a

When Dr. Chuck Wallington, a visionary in the corporate realm and a passionate storyteller, graced our podcast, he didn't just recount his journey from a curious child to an illustrious executive at Cone Health, he also illuminated the path for future Black leaders. With a freshly minted book in hand, "A Seat at the Seasweet Table," Chuck offers an intimate glimpse into the successes and struggles of 30 Black executives navigating the tumultuous waters of today's business world. Our conversation ventured into the stark reality of African American men's scarcity in corporate leadership and how this drought limits mentorship and growth opportunities, an issue that resonates with my own experience as a Chinese, female, millennial leader.This episode is a melting pot of poignant reflections and practical wisdom, examining the underrepresentation issues in executive roles and celebrating the triumphs of those who have broken through the glass ceilings. We delve into the stories of these ex

The story of DeShaun Wise Porter, VP and Global Head of Diversity, Inclusion, and Engagement at Hilton, always reminds all of us about the profound impact one's heritage can have on their aspirations and achievements. DeShaun's journey from the finance world to the pinnacle of HR leadership is both fascinating and inspiring, embodying the tenacity and dedication required to build inclusive and thriving workplaces. She shares invaluable insights on the transcendent nature of people-centric skills and how, through authenticity and mentorship, one can lift others while achieving personal success.The resilience encoded in DeShaun's DNA, inherited from ancestors like her Tuskegee Airman grandfather, is a testament to the indomitable human spirit. Our conversation unveils how this legacy has not only shaped her approach to life and work but also reinforced her belief in the symbiotic relationship between economic growth and ethical action. The narrative of her family's enduring strength serves a

As a parent, witnessing your child encounter barriers can ignite a passion for change that resonates far beyond the confines of home. That's precisely what happened to Nathan Coe, CEO of AutoTrader, when he saw his daughters confront gender biases. On our show, Nathan walks us through his awakening to the realities of diversity and inclusion, illustrating how these revelations have transformed AutoTrader into a beacon of equality, offering lessons that extend to us all about the essence of leadership in today's ever-evolving workplace.With roots firmly planted in the working class, Nathan's journey to the helm of AutoTrader is a narrative of ambition, defying societal expectations, and the relentless pursuit of a culture steeped in positivity and social mobility. In our intimate conversation, he peels back the layers of traditional CEO roles, advocating for a leadership style that prizes trust and personal connection over top-down commands. This approach, he argues, is not only more aligned wit

When Melody Moore took a courageous leap, leaving behind a tenured NHS position to start anew in Canada, little did she know the journey would transform her into a DEI luminary and an inspiring voice for change. This episode peers into Mel's riveting narrative, tracing the pivotal shifts that launched her from healthcare to a champion of diversity, equity, and inclusion, now sharing her insights as a consultant and author. Her story is a vibrant tapestry, woven with threads of leadership, self-discovery, and the profound belief in the impact one can have on the world.As Mel's tale unfolds, we tread the path of integrating identity and experience into the professional realm, touching on the nuances of LGBTQ+ experiences and the solo voyage of single parenthood. In a candid exchange, I share my own strides as a single parent in the corporate sphere, alongside the lessons of empathy and efficiency parenthood instills. We then venture into the heart of my upcoming book, exploring an innovative team mode

From the remnants of a war-torn Lebanon to the zenith of entrepreneurship, Tony Jamous shares the odyssey that led him to champion the remote work revolution with Oyster, a beacon for global job democratization. His tale is one of triumph over personal and professional battles, a testament to the resilience that forges not just successful business leaders, but pioneers of social change. We explore how Tony's dedication to mental health, personal growth, and societal impact intertwines with his business acumen to create opportunities that bridge economic divides and foster wealth equality across borders.Venture with us as we unravel the fabric of mission-driven businesses, where profit meets purpose, and where the prosperity of people is as valued as the bottom line. Tony's insights illuminate the solitary nature of entrepreneurship and the challenges that come with fundraising and scaling a business. Yet, amidst these hurdles, we uncover the power of diversity, the importance of nurturing real-world