In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood is joined by Toby Mildon to explore the journey from technology to diversity and inclusion (D&I) transformation. Together, they discuss the pivotal events that are often necessary to raise awareness and inspire action on health, diversity, and inclusion issues. The conversation emphasises the emotional "why" behind actions and the challenge of effectively articulating these motivations to drive genuine change within organisations.

Toby Mildon is a workplace inclusion specialist dedicated to demystifying equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) and making it practical for businesses to implement. With a rich background in technology, Toby transitioned to focus on D&I after recognising the workplace's pressing need for inclusivity. His personal experiences as someone with a physical disability have deepened his understanding of the impact of assumptions and biases on individuals. Toby is also an author and content creator, sharing his insights on inclusive growth via his books, podcast, and LinkedIn content.

During their discussion, Joanne and Toby highlight the struggle of tracking and realising ROI in D&I efforts, the importance of commercial skills in HR, and the need for businesses to prioritise retention through a positive work culture. They delve into the layers of the employee value proposition (EVP) and employer brand, drawing connections to Hertzberg's 2-Factor Theory and Maslow's hierarchy. The conversation also touches on the adverse effects of political rhetoric on society and emphasises the need for a workplace culture that values safety and inclusion.

The episode brings to light the myth of meritocracy, the importance of recognising privilege, and the necessity for allies within privileged groups to tackle systemic biases like sexism and racism. Additionally, Toby and Joanne discuss the evolving nature of work, particularly in the context of creativity, innovation, and values alignment amongst younger generations. They underscore the need for contemporary and inclusive communication styles in organisations, including the royal family.

A key takeaway from this episode is the critical role of understanding and voicing the emotional "why" behind D&I efforts to foster a culture of inclusion and safety. Listeners will learn about the nuanced challenges of achieving true equity in the workplace, understanding privilege, and the transformative power of inclusive leadership. This episode provides invaluable insights for anyone looking to create a more inclusive environment, both in society and at work. Whether you're a business leader, HR professional, or an advocate for change, this conversation is not to be missed.

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