In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood welcomes Fredrik Haren to discuss the potent role of difference in unlocking creativity and innovation. The conversation navigates how stepping outside one’s comfort zone – be it through travel, cross-cultural parenting, or simply rethinking everyday norms – ignites curiosity and challenges entrenched beliefs. Together, Joanne and Fredrik emphasise that while homogeneity breeds complacency, it is embracing multiple perspectives that genuinely fuels human potential. Their insights cover personal anecdotes from global travels, practical lessons from multicultural family life, and the overlooked value of questioning one’s own rulebook for living and working.

Fredrik, known globally as The Creativity Explorer, has spent over two decades traversing more than 75 countries to uncover how diverse cultures foster creative thinking. Originally based in Sweden, his years living in Asia—including China and Singapore—provided a rich lens through which he re-examined the intersection of diversity and innovation. Fredrik’s career as an author and international keynote guest has seen him address vast audiences, distil wisdom from personal and professional encounters, and synthesize creative lessons from everything from off-grid living to multicultural parenting. His recent book, “The World of Creativity,” explores creativity across 37 countries, revealing the secrets behind truly inventive minds and highlighting how openness to difference lies at the heart of meaningful progress.

Throughout their discussion, Joanne and Fredrik explore why curiosity precedes knowledge, how technology, travel, and communities of interest dissolve barriers, and the necessity of self-reflection to nurture authentic creativity. They challenge listeners to ask: who sets the rules I live by, and how might embracing others’ ideas transform my own thinking? The key takeaway is a call to crowdsource wisdom across borders and disciplines, urging everyone to appreciate the freedom of making up your own rules as the most fertile ground for creativity. Tune in for fresh perspectives on belonging, innovation, and how difference truly drives creative breakthroughs.

In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood explores the complex landscape of men’s wellbeing and identity with Tom Gold, a bushcraft instructor and life coach. The conversation moves beyond the stereotypes often associated with men—challenging the “man code” and scrutinising the societal expectation that men should always be outwardly strong while keeping inner struggles hidden. Joanne and Tom discuss how nature, risk-taking, and community can catalyse real growth, and why providing spaces where men can simply “be” without the pressure to share or fix is vital in today’s world.

Tom Gold has spent a lifetime immersed in the outdoors, drawing early inspiration from his adventurous childhood with his father. Now based in rural Scotland, Tom works with men of all backgrounds, especially those in recovery, helping them reconnect with their innate resilience through practical wilderness skills. His approach goes beyond performative conversation, focusing on creating experiences where men can gain confidence, purpose, and—crucially—belonging, whether through splitting wood, making campfires, or simply being present around the flames. His work highlights the importance of practical empowerment and community for men who may feel sidelined by modern conversations around inclusion.

Joanne and Tom candidly address the shifting dynamics of masculinity, the loneliness some men experience, and the risk that mainstream diversity and inclusion work can leave certain groups behind. The episode delves into how the lack of meaningful male community, combined with performative dialogues about emotion, can drive young men towards unhealthy influences or negative group identities. Joanne raises the reality that men don’t always want to talk but still crave a sense of group solidarity and support, to which Tom’s bushcraft-based approach offers a refreshingly inclusive solution.

A key takeaway from this episode is that fostering belonging among men requires understanding, not stereotypes. By creating honest, practical, and inclusive spaces—rather than pushing only for open sharing—everyone can contribute to a more supportive and integrated society. Tune in to gain new perspectives on vulnerability, identity, and how real inclusion means ensuring no one feels left out of the conversation.

In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood is joined by Nena Gilreath for an illuminating conversation entitled "Centering the Margins". Delving into the world of ballet through a radically inclusive lens, Joanne and Nena explore how dance can both reflect and shape the narratives of belonging, cultural identity, and representation. Through discussions on redefining the ballet aesthetic and breaking entrenched norms, listeners are invited to reconsider what constitutes excellence and authenticity in the performing arts. The episode challenges assumptions about body image, tradition, and artistry, demonstrating the need for creative spaces where everyone’s story has a rightful place.

Nena is the co-founder of Ballethnic, a trailblazing dance company rooted in Atlanta and renowned for reimagining ballet through the centring of Black excellence and the integration of African dance concepts. With more than three decades of artistic leadership, Nena has made it her mission to cultivate legacy and opportunity for those overlooked by traditional ballet institutions. She articulates her superpower as "holding the line" for Black dancers—establishing space, legacy, and far-reaching possibility. In her conversation with Joanne, Nena shares her journey from the Atlanta Ballet to creating a new dance vocabulary with her husband, incorporating not just ballet tradition but also social dance, African music, and a celebration of all body types and backgrounds. Their approach champions representation on stage and off, whilst inspiring profound cultural and artistic change.

Joanne and Nena discuss how centring the margins is both disruptive and affirming, addressing resistance, funding inequities, and the challenges of moving from ‘diversity act’ status to mainstream artistic visibility. They highlight the joy, liberation, and community that arises when creative standards are redefined to include everyone. A key takeaway is the power of reimagining tradition: inclusive artistry not only enriches culture, but also transforms collective understanding of belonging and beauty. Listeners are encouraged to confront legacy narratives, celebrate difference, and discover the vibrant possibilities of inclusive community building through the arts.

In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood welcomes Solveiga Jaskunas for an in-depth exploration of belonging beyond borders. The conversation unpacks what it means to create inclusive cultures, particularly for immigrants and expats navigating new environments and societal expectations. Joanne and Solveiga delve into the nuances of transition, the challenge of language barriers, and the impact of external and internal stereotypes. They discuss how the experience of belonging evolves, reflecting on shifting societal attitudes towards immigrants and the importance of providing practical support through recruiting, mentoring, and visibility. This episode confronts the reality of imposter syndrome for those living and working across cultures, offering strategies to foster comfort and growth by stepping out of safe spaces and seeking genuine connection.

Solveiga is an international keynote presenter and HR consultant noted for turning lived immigrant experience into practical, human-centred inclusion. Originally from Lithuania, she relocated to the US over twenty years ago, drawing on her journey of adapting to unfamiliar cultures and languages. Solveiga leads with hope, compassion, and vulnerability, mentoring others through the complexities of workplace integration and societal acceptance. Her approach inspires immigrants and expats to embrace their unique perspectives and overcome imposter syndrome. She frequently addresses global audiences and has developed an active presence online, serving as a voice for those navigating the intersection of cultural identity and professional ambition.

The conversation challenges assumptions surrounding immigrant identity and belonging, probing the dichotomy of “good” versus “bad” immigrants and highlighting the power of diverse perspectives to expand organisational culture. Joanne and Solveiga examine how internal and external barriers influence confidence, progress, and visibility—whether through employment interviews, public speaking, or leadership roles. They also address the current climate of political polarisation and rising nationalism, emphasising the need for courage and resilience to foster positive change even amidst societal tension.

The episode concludes with a call to amplify lived experience and the value of immigrant voices within HR and beyond. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own definitions of belonging and take action to nurture inclusive spaces. A key takeaway is the transformative impact of stepping beyond comfort zones, embracing diverse identities, and cultivating empathy and openness—both as individuals and within organisations. This episode is a powerful resource for anyone seeking guidance, understanding, and inspiration to drive inclusion across borders.

In this energising episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood welcomes Janet Tanguay for an enlightening conversation on turning ‘Dreams Into Action.’ Joanne explores her own journey of self-employment and the shift from working in her business to working on it, whilst Janet explains how she helps clients clarify, visualise, and manifest their aspirations using inclusive visioning practices. The discussion traverses the emotional realities of leaving the safety of employment, breaking routine, and building entrepreneurial purpose through authenticity and resilience. They also consider the significance of vision boards and how powerful it is to crystallise hopes and dreams into visual, tangible representations, making the dream-building process accessible and inclusive to all, regardless of background or means.

Janet is a business strategist, creative catalyst, and self-described ‘super connector’ who takes pride in her Abenaki First Nation heritage. Based in upstate New York, she draws on her ancestral roots and wide-ranging experience in community building, entrepreneurship, and expressive arts to support others in manifesting their dreams. Her work spans diverse groups—from marginalised communities to high-net-worth individuals—focusing on inclusivity, cultural relevance, and creating spaces where authentic aspirations can take shape. Janet’s approach features vision board workshops that integrate everything from traditional collage making to AI technology, sound healing, and even music composition through platforms such as Suno, ensuring clients can see themselves in their dreams and express them in ways that feel meaningful and achievable.

Throughout their conversation, Joanne and Janet challenge listeners to recognise common blocks to pursuing dreams, such as cultural conditioning, self-doubt, and practical constraints, and offer practical strategies to move beyond them. The episode highlights the deep human need for belonging, purpose, and joy, and showcases how intentional inclusivity, creativity, and connection can help individuals and communities to thrive. A key takeaway from this episode is the invitation to actively visualise, articulate, and nurture your dreams—proving that real change begins with having the courage to imagine and the commitment to act. Listeners will be inspired to build their own vision boards and harness the power of community and creativity to turn dreams into reality.

In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood is joined by Silvia Causo and Adrianne Arendse to explore the transformative power of healing through human connection. The conversation journeys through personal experiences of trauma, belonging, and identity, highlighting the importance of creating gentle yet impactful spaces for growth—spaces where leaders and teams are invited to shift from mind-centred to truly human-centred approaches. Together, Joanne, Silvia and Adrianne dissect the difference between inclusion and belonging, the limits of empathy, and the collective process of healing. They challenge the notion that belonging can be prescribed or performed, revealing how it emerges authentically as a state of being.

Silvia and Adrianne, life partners and co-founders of Lead and Belong, join the podcast with rich backgrounds in coaching, education, and energetic work. Silvia shares how her journey into the world of trauma-healing and self-awareness began with family challenges and gradually evolved into a dedication to helping others find safety, connection, and collective healing. Adrianne’s lived experience as a South African of deeply mixed heritage and an academic in the arts has heightened their awareness of identity, marginalisation, and the nuanced impact of socio-cultural trauma. Together, they exemplify the philosophy that you must belong to yourself first—centred in empathy, self-awareness, and the belief that radical transformation happens in relationship with others rather than isolation.

Joanne, Silvia and Adrianne reflect on how organisations must move beyond compliance and cognitive frameworks if leaders are to truly support psychological safety and belonging at work. Through lived examples and engaging dialogue, the episode reveals just how much depth sits beneath the surface of inclusion work—addressing nervous system responses, courage, bias, and the artistry of holding space. Listeners are offered practical insights into how to lead with vulnerability, foster collective healing, and meet people where they are, not just who they have been.

A key takeaway from this episode is the profound role of authentic human connection in healing and growth, both individually and collectively. By embracing our personal journeys and holding space for others, we unlock deeper empathy, genuine inclusion, and a workplace culture where everyone can thrive. This episode is essential listening for those ready to move beyond tick-box inclusion and nurture true belonging.

In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood explores the theme of embracing and dancing with difference, joined by Dr Khutso Madubanya. Together, they examine the profound connections between self-worth, identity, and the ways in which societal expectations shape our journeys. Joanne shares her insights into the emotional realities of belonging and transformation, while Khutso discusses the origins of her hyper-independence and the ongoing practice required to navigate and challenge norms around gender, status, and value. Listeners are invited into an honest conversation about how we can move beyond internalised narratives and build resilience when faced with significant change.

Khutso is a South African-born change catalyst, inspirational speaker, and author, now living in Michigan, USA. Having lived in eight different countries and experienced both the adversity of apartheid and the challenges of forging an independent identity as a woman of African descent, her work centres on empowering people and organisations to embrace difference with authenticity and courage. Khutso’s latest book, "No More Free Passes," is part memoir, part manifesto, and unpacks the invisible burdens—and trauma responses—often carried by strong, high-achieving individuals. Within her Pivot method, she offers a practical framework based on her lived experience, supporting others through transformational pivots by focusing on pause, introspection, leveraging strengths, overcoming fear, and travelling forward.

Joanne and Khutso discuss the significance of names, how self-labelling can act as a shield or source of empowerment, and the critical role of letting go of identities that no longer serve us. The conversation highlights the importance of destigmatising single motherhood, challenging patriarchal norms, and accepting that self-worth is intrinsic rather than earned through performance or credentials. With candour, they address perfectionism, asking for help, and the risk of burnout that attends those driven to prove their value in the world.

This episode’s key takeaway is the liberating power found in acknowledging difference, challenging inherited expectations, and recognising that worthiness comes from being, not doing. Khutso’s practical advice and heartfelt honesty offer invaluable perspectives for anyone learning to navigate change or support others on their journey towards inclusion and belonging. Subscribe now and be inspired to dance with difference, one conversation at a time.

In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne explores the theme of “Resilience Through Reinvention”, inviting listeners to consider their own capacity for transformation in later life. The conversation with Bobby is a compelling examination of embracing authenticity, navigating emotional growth, and finding genuine happiness against a backdrop of profound personal change. Together, Joanne and Bobby discuss the power of self-invention, experiencing life on your own terms, and the courage it takes to challenge internal and societal narratives. The episode also examines practical aspects of transition, the role of emotional vocabulary, and the significance of having open, emotionally intelligent communities—reminding us that reinvention is not just possible but vital for fulfilment and a sense of belonging.

Bobby Barrington is a wisdom coach and passionate advocate for personal reinvention, emotional intelligence, and inclusive spaces. Now based in Queensland after an international journey that’s taken her from London to France and back to Australia, Bobby draws from her lived experience as a trans woman who began her transition in her sixties. Her story encompasses loss, bravery, and ultimately, jubilation in being unapologetically authentic. Through her own reinvention, she has transformed pain into power and fear into fuel, inspiring others—especially those navigating major life changes—to find new possibilities and unlock potential whatever their age or background. Bobby’s coaching work centres on supporting others through transitions, bridging the gap between self-doubt and self-trust, and modelling what it means to live fully and joyfully.

The episode’s key takeaway is the liberating realisation that a new, authentic life can be crafted at any stage, provided we challenge our own narratives and remain open to growth. Listeners will be inspired by Bobby’s example to “tell a better storey” for themselves and embrace reinvention not only as a possibility, but as a path to deeper happiness and inclusion.