"Culture is really important at a company, and feeling like you belong”: Yvette Forrester and Zac Shander-Kelsey - BNY Mellon

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 model that marries the best of high-performance strategy with the tenets of DEI, setting the stage for organizations to harness a culture of intellectual humility, psychological safety, and a continuous growth mindset. Join us for a conversation that reimagines the essence of inclusion, directly at the intersection where personal journeys meet professional aspirations.

📔 Melody Moore recently released a book called "The Inclusive Team: How to Build and Develop Inclusive High Performing Teams" and you can get it here: https://amzn.to/3T5hmMj

🎧 Check our podcast audio here: www.dialglobal.org/podcast
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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 role models, and the pivotal moments that define the trajectory of a venture.

Our conversation culminates in a vision for the future—one where sustainable leadership is the cornerstone of both mental well-being and environmental stewardship. Tony's perspective on rapid decision-making, impactful investments, and the cultivation of social capital paints a picture of a world where opportunities are no longer bound by geography. Join us for an inspiring narrative that challenges the conventional, promising a tomorrow where businesses not only thrive but also contribute to a more equitable and flourishing global community.

🎧 Check our podcast audio here: www.dialglobal.org/podcast
📱 Join our Membership to access our DIAL Global Community Network app here: www.dialglobal.org/community
📩 Contact us at hello@dialglobal.org or www.dialglobal.org/contact-us

🌐 Visit us on www.dialglobal.org

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What if diversity wasn't a zero-sum game? What could you achieve if you understood the power of connecting with diverse audiences and truly grasped the value of stakeholder engagement? Join us as we take an in-depth look at diversity and inclusion in the business landscape with Alicin Reidy Williamson, Chief Diversity and Culture Officer at Yahoo. This isn't just about ticking boxes and making sure the workplace is representative. It's about how a diverse and inclusive environment can drive positive change and prosperity.

Alicin gives us a masterclass in communication and leadership. She shares their insights on the importance of resilience, the abundance mindset that comes with embracing diversity, and the vital role that a Chief Diversity Officer plays in an organization. We address the misconception that diversity is a zero-sum game and instead focus on the benefits it brings to innovation, economy, and the very identity of a business. For those interested in the role of the CDO, she even provides some invaluable advice. 

Our exploration doesn't stop there. We discuss the need to support female founders, create equitable workplace policies, and address the impact of inaction on diversity initiatives. We also talk about the need for businesses to constantly adapt and evolve to stay relevant in our ever-changing digital world. The wealth of knowledge shared in this conversation is invaluable for those looking to foster diversity and inclusion in their own organizations. Don't miss out on an episode that could transform the way you view diversity and inclusion in business.

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What if the secret to success goes beyond financial achievements? Join us as we explore this concept with our guest, Chris Mouskoundi, Non Executive Director, The Ocean Partnership. Chris takes us along his unique career journey, starting with his upbringing in an immigrant family that instilled in him a strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. We get an insider's view into the role his Greek-American background played in shaping his passion for diversity, inclusion, and equity, and how it guided him to his surprising love for tax and led to his active involvement in various boards and organizations.

Now, imagine a workplace where diversity and inclusion aren't just buzzwords, but the foundation of success and innovation. We dive into this critical topic, revealing that a shocking 30% of minority individuals worry about fitting in, which inhibits their full contribution. Through sharing my personal coming out journey and its impact on my career, along with the economic significance of diversity, we shed light on the importance of an inclusive and accepting work environment. We also delve into the concept of success that extends beyond just financial achievements, and the importance of finding role models who inspire us. Tune in for an episode that's packed with inspiring stories, insightful discussions, and empowering messages of self-acceptance.

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Have you ever wondered how a person's humble beginnings can shape their journey to becoming an influential leader and advocate for diversity and inclusion? Join us as we sit down with a phenomenal woman, Joanne Conway, who turns her challenging childhood into a powerful narrative of resilience and success. Joanne, the Head of Inclusion and Culture, International at DLA Piper, shares her story of growing up in disadvantaged areas and offers practical tips on how to navigate uncertainty and build strong networks.

As we delve deeper into the conversation, we explore a topic that often stirs up discomfort – privilege. We share personal journeys of grappling with this concept and discuss how leaders can reflect on and address their privilege to foster inclusivity. Joanne even provides a sneak peek into our ongoing research on creating a framework for leaders to make systemic changes in organisations. The discussion doesn't stop there. We dive into the intricacies of diversity and inclusion in organizations, sharing our perspectives and experiences. We emphasize the need for patience, a strong foundation, and the crucial role of leaders in implementing diversity initiatives. So, tune in to enrich your understanding of diversity, inclusion, belonging, and equity in the workplace.

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Prepare for an insightful conversation with Jon Dutton, the man behind British Cycling.  With his career spanning over 28 years in the sports field, Jon has taken the reins of leadership at illustrious events like the PGA, Rugby League World Cup 2021, and now, British Cycling. We dive into his journey, the power of resilience, the importance of a diverse and supportive culture within an organization, and how to navigate the challenges our complex world throws at us.

The sports field is not just about games and records; it's also a mirror reflecting societal issues. Underneath the glitz and glamour, sports have been impacted by the weaponization of racism, misogyny, and homophobia. Jon shares his unique insights on how these issues have filtered into the sports world, the role of media in combating these inequalities, and the value of role models in our society. We also discuss the constant evolution of culture and the changing expectations of younger generations in our increasingly digitized world.

Wrapping up our conversation, we delve into a personal reflection on leadership, purpose, and the importance of a strong support system. Jon shares his thoughts on the power of honesty and resilience, and how his support system has been instrumental in his successful career. We also discuss the social impact of sports, its role in building better communities, and driving engagement. If you're passionate about sports, social equality, or just an avid follower of Jon's work, this episode is an absolute must-listen.

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Jenny Packwood, a name synonymous with sustainability and leadership, graces our podcast with her inspiring journey. Her story begins in the agency world as a PR professional and segues into her current role as KFC's Chief Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer, where she is transforming the global brand. As we navigate through her two-decade career, we delve into the pivotal role she's played in embracing the shift from CSR to ESG, reflecting the changes and expectations in the business world today.

Life, however, has a way of throwing curveballs. Jenny courageously shares her personal battle when her late-husband was diagnosed with aggressive cancer, a struggle that deeply affected her mental health. The empathy and support she received during this challenging period from her KFC family has sparked a passion within her to actively address mental health issues in the workplace. 

Our conversation also highlights the untapped potential and resilience of single parents in the workforce, a personal experience for Jenny. We explore how diversity, inclusion, and belonging are not just buzzwords but are essential drivers for commercial success. We examine policies that empower women in leadership roles and discuss ways to address systemic breaks to achieve true equality. The episode is a profound reflection of Jenny's journey, her values, and her pursuit of creating an inclusive and diverse workspace.

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What would you do to ensure your children have limitless opportunities? Our intriguing guest, Joshua Partridge,  Vice President & Head of EMEA at Yahoo! an Australian-raised father of two living in London, shares his enlightening views on parenting, and how his multicultural upbringing influenced his perspective. He artfully weaves his personal experiences, reflecting on the relationships he built during his time at Yahoo! and Shazam. It's a riveting peak into the thrilling world of travel and the opportunities it can present.

Ever thought about the role diversity and inclusion play in shaping future generations? Our guest emphasizes the importance of conscious inclusion and the celebration of our similarities as humans. He takes us on a thoughtful exploration of the diminishing civil discourse in our society, and the potential dangers of polarization. This conversation offers fascinating insights into the necessity for leaders to compromise and listen effectively. 

Curious about the impact of a multicultural upbringing on children? Our discussion sheds light on this significant aspect, focusing on how cultural diversity shapes our children. The value of language learning, the importance of celebrating successes, and the role of a supportive peer group are also insights you cannot afford to miss. Join us as we uncover the lessons learned from our guest's extraordinary life journey. It's an episode filled with thought-provoking narratives and meaningful gems about leadership, parenting, and the power of diversity in society.

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How can a single experience mold your identity and shape your destiny? Our conversation with Cesar Wurm, the charismatic and empathetic VP of Commercial and Premium Brands at IHG Hotels & Resorts, has us grappling with these profound questions. He takes us down the memory lane, revealing a mesmerizing journey from heart-wrenching loss to finding his passion in hospitality, through a path filled with valuable connections and growth opportunities. Cesar's story is a testament to the power of human connection, underlining how every interaction holds the potential to influence and inspire.

But the journey to success is never a bed of roses. It's more like a rollercoaster ride with its highs and lows, and Cesar is no stranger to it. He bravely opens up about the struggles he faced, including his battle with addiction and mental health issues. Caesar's thoughtful reflections on the importance of vulnerability in leadership and the pressing need to normalize seeking help are like a breath of fresh air. His insights into the changing definitions of success and the interconnectedness of our lives remind us that beneath the surface, we are all more similar than we are different. Steer clear of the usual rhetoric and join us for a thought-provoking conversation that transcends the ordinary.

Listen to the full podcast here: https://lnkd.in/gjcbqun

#inclusion #diversity #movingtheDIAL

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Ever pondered on the stark reality of a CEO's life or the power of personal branding? Well, you're in for a treat! We're thrilled to welcome Freddie Paxton, the dynamic CEO of the UK's leading personal branding agency, WOAW. Freddie takes us on an inspiring journey, sharing his transition from a university dropout to a C-suite executive. He peels back the layers of the CEO role, revealing its challenges and responsibilities - which can often be a far cry from the perceived glamour.

Freddie's insightful narrative extends to the realm of personal branding in our digital age. He emphasizes that we all have a personal brand, often unconsciously, and harnessing it can yield significant benefits. With Freddie's expert guidance, we delve into the importance of carefully crafting our messages and the role of a robust personal brand in streamlining networking. His unique perspective on this emerging branch of marketing is a treasure trove of knowledge.

We are not just about business; we delve deep into Freddie's life experiences and values. Growing up with a single mother, Freddie discusses the importance of hard work, mental health, and supportive environments. He even opens up about his favorite clients, mission-led campaigns, and influential books.

Join us, and let's explore the intricacies of personal branding, leadership, and the transformative power of vulnerability together.

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