Nearly 40% of discrimination cases are never reported. Employee claims of discrimination hit a record high in 2024 (the highest level in nine years of tracking) - and that's just what gets reported. 45% of workers aren't even aware their company has an anti-discrimination policy. Let some of those numbers sink in... This week on the podcast I am joined by Laura Iancu, founder of Searchpedia, the SEO Gal at Octopus Energy, and a proud member of Women in Tech SEO & NDs in SEO. She refers to herself as a search activist, meaning she doesn’t just talk about making search better, fairer, and more useful, she walks the walk. We talk about why representation and inclusion matters both online and in the workplace. She shares what frustrates her most, the impact it has in the workplace and how community plays an important role. She also shares practical tips for people who feel excluded and how we can all be better allies. As this is such a big topic, I have decided to do a part one and part two. This is part one of the conversation, where me and Laura have a heart to heart and put some worlds to right. We discuss so many different topics including, the problem with “default user" design, whether its lack of awareness or money constraints that get in the way, being aware of how our own background and experiences can give us biases, how exclusion shows up in the workplace and so much more. About Laura Laura Iancu is the founder of Searchpedia, the SEO Gal at Octopus Energy, and a proud member of Women in Tech SEO & NDs in SEO. She refers to herself as a search activist, meaning she doesn’t just talk about making search better, fairer, and more useful, she walks the walk. She’s also a mentor, something she genuinely loves, helping others find their confidence, voice, and place in the industry. Born in Romania and shaped by life across the UK, China and Europe, Laura brings an international lens to sustainability, search, accessibility, and inclusive communication. Where to find Laura Laura Iancu on LinkedIn Laura's Website About 'The SEO Mindset' Podcast Build your inner confidence and thrive. The SEO Mindset is a weekly podcast that will give you actionable tips, guidance and advice to help you not only build your inner confidence but to also thrive in your career. Each week we will cover topics specific to careers in the SEO industry but also broader topics too including professional and personal development. Your hosts are Life Coach Tazmin Suleman and SEO Manager Sarah McDowell, who between them have over 20 years of experience working in the industry. Get in touch We'd love to hear from you. We have many ways that you can reach out to us to say hello, ask a question, or suggest a topic for us to discuss on a future episode. Follow us on Instagram Follow us on LinkedIn Send us an email Check out Tazmin's Website Check out Sarah's Website Click here to download your copy of our free 'Growth versus Fixed Mindset' ebook. Click here to sign up for our newsletter to receive news and updates from the podcast eg latest episodes, events, competitions etc. We will never spam and you can unsubscribe at anytime. Subscribe and never miss an episode: Listen to The SEO Mindset Podcast Resources used for episode Women in Tech SEO | Global CommunityRoxana Stingu LinkedInStatistics on Workplace Discrimination (2026 Guide) - Meditopia for WorkRecord high reached for workplace discrimination, harassment and retaliation claimsWorkplace Discrimination Insights | Employment Law Blog Copyright 2026 Sarah & Tazmin Mentioned in this episode: Previsible helps brands grow Search has changed but most strategies haven’t. If you’re still measuring success purely on rankings and clicks, you’re missing where real decisions are happening. Previsible helps brands understand and grow their visibility across AI platforms so you’re not just present, you’re chosen. If you want to see where your brand stands and how to build trust in AI-driven search today. Check out Previsible Support the podcast today! For the same price of a Starbucks, Costa, or your favourite local coffee shop drink, you can give us a one off tip or a monthly donation. Also, have you subscribed to the podcast? If not why not! Receive notifications whenever a new episode is available, and why not leave us a cheeky 5-star review or rating while your there? Give us a one off donation
