The Inclusion Bites Podcast

Joanne Lockwood
  • 5.0 (2)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Inclusion Ignited: Real Talks that Drive Change — Disrupting Norms with Conversations that Challenge

  1. Navigating Gender, Identity and Fear

    1D AGO

    Navigating Gender, Identity and Fear

    In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood welcomes Dr. Gwen Patrone to explore the theme “Fear as a Superpower.” Their conversation traverses the landscape of fear, resilience, and authentic living, particularly through the lens of trans and gender diverse experience. Joanne and Gwen draw compelling parallels with pop culture, likening Gwen’s ability to "see fear in slow motion" to the iconic Matrix scene, and discuss how strategies honed in the military can help reframe fear as a catalyst for clarity, strength, and growth. Together, they unpack the complex emotional barriers—dubbed “terror barriers”—that can accompany authenticity and how repeated, incremental exposure to fear can desensitise and empower. Gwen is a former US Marine sergeant, author, and coach whose journey spans technical expertise in cryptographic electronics to lived experience as a gender diverse advocate. After moving from New York City to Florida, she has channelled her resilience into supporting trans and gender diverse people seeking to transform anxiety and dysphoria into sources of self-belief. Her book, Dysphoria Hacks, draws on insights from her military career, leadership roles, and her evolution as both Peter and Gwen, blending practical techniques with philosophical reflection. Gwen’s candid anecdotes reveal her commitment to authenticity, whether navigating societal expectations, participating in the local community, or connecting with others seeking belonging. Through her writing, coaching, and public engagement, Gwen highlights the importance of finding strength in vulnerability and fostering inclusive connections, all while embracing the multiplicities of her identity. Joanne and Gwen’s dialogue offers a nuanced dissection of internal and external fears—whether paralysing uncertainty, fear of rejection, or the challenges of systemic barriers in contemporary society. They advocate for authenticity, encourage incremental acts of courage, and emphasise the transformative power of micro validations and kindness. A key takeaway from this episode is the idea that fear, once understood and domesticated, can become a powerful tool for personal growth and positive change—urging listeners to embrace discomfort, cultivate resilience, and build genuine connections. This episode will particularly resonate with those searching for self-acceptance, allyship, or pathways to thriving amidst adversity.

    1h 1m
  2. From Blind Spots to Superpowers: Unlocking True Inclusion in Team Dynamics

    MAY 14

    From Blind Spots to Superpowers: Unlocking True Inclusion in Team Dynamics

    In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood and guest Susan Drumm explore what it takes to make inclusion truly “stick” within organisations. Together, they investigate how blind spots can shape team dynamics and why curiosity, rather than resistance, serves as the real agent for personal and organisational growth. The conversation covers the value of diverse cognitive perspectives, the pitfalls of entrenched viewpoints, and practical tools such as the Enneagram for building trust, equity, and better decision-making in teams. Listeners will gain insights into the subtle ways habits and unspoken patterns influence inclusion, and how music and neuroscience can help leaders rewire unhelpful beliefs and unlock authentic change. Susan is a renowned leadership advisor and coach, known for helping organisations turn diversity into everyday performance by embedding inclusive habits that foster trust and voice equity. Based in Scottsdale, Arizona, she brings a global perspective, having lived in London and worked with multi-sector teams across healthcare, tech, and financial services. Her gift lies in spotting the invisible patterns running teams and translating complex neuroscience into actionable, repeatable habits. Susan is also the author of The Leader’s Playlist, blending her passion for music with the science of transformation, and she hosts The Enlightened Executive podcast, where she interviews leaders about their journey towards enlightened leadership. Joanne and Susan discuss the critical role of language in creating inclusive communication, the dangers of confirmation bias—exacerbated by AI—and the necessity of balancing empathy, curiosity, and authenticity. Using practical examples such as music playlists and leadership typologies, they illustrate how leaders can shift both their own and their team’s patterns, even in the face of imposter syndrome, burnout, and generational differences. The episode also examines common pitfalls in leadership teams, from missing creative voices to strengths that can become liabilities if left unchecked. A key takeaway from this episode is that sustainable inclusion is built on intentional curiosity and active engagement with diverse perspectives. Listeners are encouraged to look beyond surface-level solutions, embracing practical tools to reframe their mindset and make long-lasting change. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that will both challenge and inspire anyone interested in creating authentically inclusive workplaces.

    47 min
  3. Restoring Relationships Beyond the Bedroom

    MAY 7

    Restoring Relationships Beyond the Bedroom

    In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Jo is joined by Xanet Pailet for a candid exploration entitled "Reclaiming Intimate Connection". Together, they tackle the often-taboo territory of intimacy, looking at how emotional connection can fade within long-term relationships and what it truly means to reclaim it. The conversation delves into the evolving definitions of sex and intimacy, challenging assumptions that sexual fulfilment is limited to penetrative acts, and inviting listeners to broaden their understanding of what authentic connection looks like. Through anecdote and expertise, Jo and Xanet discuss the complexities of communication, shame, desire, and how small moments of connection—like flirting, touch, and shared adventures—can reignite passion and closeness even after years of distance. Xanet is a nationally recognised sex and intimacy educator, coach, bestselling author, and retreat leader based in North Carolina. Having emerged from her own 26-year sexless marriage, Xanet brings both personal experience and professional insight to her work with couples. Her superpower lies in guiding people out of shame-filled silence into honest, embodied conversations that rebuild safety and connection. Xanet uses tools such as her Intimacy Equation quiz to help couples identify their intimacy types and encourage curiosity rather than blame during difficult conversations. Her pragmatic, sex-positive approach is grounded in creating emotional safety and fostering the kind of communication that enables partners to rediscover both physical and emotional closeness. Jo and Xanet examine topics such as the impact of stress, changing definitions of desire, the role of fantasy, and how to navigate rekindling intimacy through open dialogue and exploration. They stress the importance of prioritising sex and connection over routine, the benefits of vulnerability, and the realisation that intimacy is rooted in both communication and emotional safety. The episode’s key takeaway is that reclaiming intimate connection relies on ongoing, honest communication and a willingness to challenge assumptions about sex and relationships. Listeners will walk away with thought-provoking insights and practical steps to revive, nurture, and celebrate intimate connections in every stage of life.

  4. Creating Inclusive Spaces in Learning and Development

    MAY 1

    Creating Inclusive Spaces in Learning and Development

    In this thought-provoking episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood is joined by learning and development specialist Nikie Forster for an exploration into “Inclusion Through Play”. Joanne and Nikie unpick how playful methodologies—such as LEGO Serious Play—can foster psychological safety, genuine participation, and a sense of belonging within learning environments. Joanne recounts her experiences in Nikie’s workshops, highlighting how incremental engagement with hands-on tools like LEGO can transform even the most reluctant participants into confident contributors. Together, they examine the nuances of inclusive facilitation: designing for individual learning differences, setting adult-centric expectations, and prompting deeper listening and empathy through tactile play. Nikie is renowned for disrupting traditional approaches to training in favour of creating engaging, person-centred experiences. Her professional journey started with a drive to become a radio presenter, but found its true direction through hands-on roles in retail, where she unintentionally began designing and running interior design workshops. This formative experience led to a fulfilling career in learning and development—spanning from BNQ’s induction programmes to becoming a specialist in playful facilitation for leaders and managers. Nikie’s philosophy is rooted in accessibility and adaptability: she crafts activities that allow everyone, regardless of background or learning style, to safely explore ideas and build self-awareness. Whether in-person or online, she invests in creative resources—like custom card decks and playful mail-out packs—to ensure workshops are immersive and memorable. The conversation is lively, filled with practical anecdotes and playful metaphors. Joanne and Nikie discuss how inclusion is intrinsically linked to feeling valued, and how playful methods break down barriers—offering everyone a fair chance to contribute, reflect, and take ideas away. The episode closes by inviting listeners to rethink training as an opportunity for authentic belonging, not just knowledge transfer. A key takeaway is that, by intentionally designing learning experiences to be inclusive, playful, and reflective, organisations can unlock hidden creativity and enable every participant to thrive. This episode will inspire facilitators, HR, and leaders alike to reignite learning and make inclusion a lived experience—one playful moment at a time.

    59 min
  5. How Curiosity and Cultural Difference Ignite Creativity and Problem-Solving

    APR 23

    How Curiosity and Cultural Difference Ignite Creativity and Problem-Solving

    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.

    57 min
  6. What Men Need to Thrive in Today’s Changing Society

    APR 16

    What Men Need to Thrive in Today’s Changing Society

    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.

    1h 1m
  7. From Swan Lake to Leopard Tails

    APR 10

    From Swan Lake to Leopard Tails

    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.

    1h 9m
  8. Shattering Stereotypes Immigrant Experiences

    APR 3

    Shattering Stereotypes Immigrant Experiences

    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.

    57 min
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Inclusion Ignited: Real Talks that Drive Change — Disrupting Norms with Conversations that Challenge

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