In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood welcomes AJ Hannah to explore the vibrant, challenging, and timely subject of animating queer futures. Together, they consider what it means to reimagine the animation industry—traditionally dominated by mainstream narratives—through unapologetically queer and intersectional lenses. AJ and Joanne unpack how authentic representation behind and in front of the camera can disrupt stereotypes, empower marginalised creators, and spark meaningful social change, especially amidst political and cultural backlash against inclusion. Their discussion deftly traverses the realities of building a grassroots, diversity-first studio, funding hurdles, the significance of community-driven support, and the defiant joy of making space where others refuse to tread.

AJ is the founder and creative director of 3dio Studios, a queer-led, BIPOC woman-founded indie animation studio. Her current projects, including the adult animated series Poison Us, position her on the frontline of championing globally resonant LGBTQ+ storytelling. Drawing on her background in journalism, personal journey as a gender fluid person of colour, and determination to provide platforms for talent overlooked by traditional Hollywood, AJ weaves her lived experiences into the narratives and opportunities she creates. Her focus is on telling the stories major studios eschew, ensuring characters and talent genuinely reflect the communities they represent both on screen and behind the microphone.

Joanne and AJ probe the nuances of representation, from refusing to erase queer identities for wider market appeal to the importance of paying underrepresented artists a fair wage. They address the responsibilities of queer-led organisations to hold space for authentic narratives and discuss the realities of operating without corporate safety nets—fuelled by defiant hope, community investment, and the will to dismantle outdated norms. With stories of resilience, creative chaos, and the pleasure of minor acts of rebellion, this episode offers both practical insight and inspiration, urging listeners to consider how inclusion is brought to life—not just in storylines, but within every line drawn and every voice amplified.

A key takeaway from this conversation is the transformative power of authentic, unapologetic storytelling that centres queer and BIPOC voices—not as an act of tokenism, but as an act of justice, hope, and cultural reclamation. Listeners will be inspired to reflect on whose narratives are missing, understand the value of investing in grassroots inclusion, and feel encouraged to be part of the movement animating a more inclusive future.

In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood is joined by Sile Walsh to explore what lies beyond mere performative inclusion in workplace culture. Their conversation traverses psychological safety, organisational power dynamics, and the nuances of identity and belonging. Sile bridges lived experience with leadership insight, laying bare the tensions between conforming to cultural expectations and remaining authentic at work. Joanne shares candid reflections on multiculturalism and its impact on identity formation, prompting Sile to examine how formative experiences in Ireland and the UK have shaped their perspectives on inclusion. The episode dives deep into the complexity of cultural adaptation, the relativity of gender identity, and the importance of creating environments where all individuals—regardless of their background—can thrive.

Sile Walsh is an award-winning coach, author, and leadership specialist from Dublin, with a reputation for embedding equity and psychological safety into global leadership and organisational practice. Volunteering from an early age and working with marginalised communities have given Sile a unique lens on the inequities that shape workplaces and society. Their work draws on lived experience, academic study, and community engagement, encouraging leaders to move from simply “being nice” to taking practical action. Sile runs LS Advantage and has authored "Inclusive Leadership: Navigating Organisational Complexity", equipping organisations with tools for genuinely systemic inclusion. Their approach prioritises meeting people where they are, fostering compassionate accountability, and addressing collective harm rather than seeking superficial approval.

Together, Joanne and Sile scrutinise the pitfalls of performative inclusivity, challenge the misconceptions around “bringing your whole self to work”, and unpack the unintended oppression within affinity groups. They dissect the dangers of power struggles, the perils of “cancel culture”, and the necessity of allowing room for diverse—even oppositional—beliefs, provided they do not result in harm. The episode unearths how polarisation and moral superiority can be antithetical to true inclusion, questioning whether workplace environments actually encourage authentic dialogue or simply reinforce groupthink.

A key takeaway from this episode is the distinction between genuine inclusion and shallow performance. Listeners are invited to reconsider organisational norms, engage curiously with opposing perspectives, and advocate for environments that value psychological safety above binary labels. Joanne and Sile encourage ongoing dialogue, urging listeners to share their stories and challenge their own assumptions—to help create workplaces where everyone is not only welcomed, but empowered to thrive.

In this powerful episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood is joined by Naseem Rochette to explore the profound impact of reframing adversity into opportunities for growth and connection. Naseem recounts the harrowing experience of being run over by a car three times and the resulting journey through trauma, resilience, and transformation. Their conversation delves deep into the emotional realities faced in the aftermath of life-changing events—from the disorienting lack of remorse from others, to the necessity of accepting help, and the discovery that energy, whether positive or negative, shapes both one’s perception and the reactions of those around us. Joanne and Naseem discuss the significance of ‘Unbreakable Day’, choosing joy as a principle, and the challenges of staying centred on kindness and optimism in a fragmented world.

Naseem is an award-winning author, renowned keynote speaker, and advocate for joy who helps others reframe their stories and embrace personal growth during life’s toughest moments. Rooted in her Indian heritage and shaped by a childhood of both insecurity and festivity, Naseem’s journey spans corporate experience at Microsoft, extensive recovery from significant trauma, and the authorship of ‘The Unexpected Benefits of Being Run Over’. She brings an authentic voice, blending vulnerability with optimism, and now supports individuals through coaching, speaking, and candid storytelling—demonstrating that openness about struggle builds deeper connections and that reframing adversity can lead to renewed strength and self-acceptance.

Joanne and Naseem reflect on the transformative power of shifting perspective, the myth of instant resilience, and the importance of building inclusive, meaningful relationships—especially in times of crisis. They highlight the need to allow space for difficult emotions, to show grace to oneself and others, and to celebrate not only large achievements but also the incremental steps towards healing and connection.

The key takeaway from this episode is that cultivating joyful energy and embracing vulnerability enables genuine inclusion and belonging. Listeners will discover practical wisdom on reframing traumatic experiences, supporting others through adversity, and prioritising connection over perfection. This episode is an essential listen for anyone seeking hope, resilience, and inspiration to navigate life’s challenges with an unbreakable spirit.

In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood explores the intersection of leadership, learning, and belonging in a conversation with Dr. Cedric Howard. Cedric unpacks the realities and misconceptions surrounding diversity and inclusion in higher education, reflecting on his personal journey from a crisis moment during the Rodney King verdict, through becoming a respected thought leader and advocate for financial empowerment. Joanne and Cedric examine how educational institutions mirror wider society, why authentic student voice is essential in decision-making, and the challenges of tackling systemic disadvantage. The conversation is rich with anecdotes—ranging from the vibrant inclusivity of Seattle to the importance of failure as a component in growth—and offers actionable insights for listeners seeking to create lasting change in their own organisations and communities.

Cedric is a higher educational thought leader and financial empowerment advocate whose life’s work is dedicated to breaking cycles of poverty through inclusive leadership and real-world impact. As a first-generation graduate, Cedric transformed challenges into opportunities, nurturing a legacy of achievement for his entire family. His superpower—translating complex policy into everyday stories—shines as he recounts how his intervention during campus unrest redirected his career towards higher education. His expertise is regularly sought in national publications and policy discussions, with over thirty years in transformative educational leadership. Joanne draws on his experience to unpick what it truly means to humanise policy, empower young people, and create a culture where everyone can belong and thrive.

Listeners will come away from this episode with a renewed appreciation for the role of authentic relationships and shared experience in educational and societal change. Key takeaways include the necessity to centre lived experience in leadership, the power of resilience forged through failure, and how systemic expectations and habits can be reimagined for collective advancement. This episode is a call to ground leadership in empathy and action—be that through duct tape moments or rethinking how we define success—tailored for anyone passionate about making inclusion a lived reality.

In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood explores the transformative power of raising collective vibrations with her guest, Dariya Krasnova. Dariya shines a light on holistic health, authenticity, and the interconnected nature of human experience. The conversation weaves through cultural identity, neurodiversity, and the importance of genuine human connection, all contextualised by Dariya’s own migration journey—from Vladivostok to Munich and ultimately Glasgow. Together, Joanne and Dariya interrogate what it truly means to belong and thrive in today’s complex society, unpacking the impact of environment, culture, and personal responsibility on wellbeing.

Dariya brings a wealth of lived experience and passion as a holistic health advocate and co-founder of Vibe Insight. Her work centres around educating people on alternative and complementary treatments, while championing authenticity and curiosity as vehicles for genuine connection and positive change. Drawing on her expertise and personal history, Dariya articulates the necessity of integrating body, mind, and soul, all underpinned by compassion, gratitude, and kindness. Her unique perspective bridges the fields of holistic health and quantum physics, offering practical steps for individuals to take charge of their own health and happiness. Dariya advocates for creating communities rooted in inclusion, diversity, and active self-betterment.

Joanne and Dariya’s dialogue covers the challenges of over-reliance on Western medicine, the impact of environment and diet on neurodiversity, and the societal traps which hinder connection and resilience. They discuss practical strategies for fostering wellbeing, encouraging listeners to reflect on personal values and take proactive ownership of their health. Central themes include the need to let go of limiting beliefs and step beyond the comfort zone, as well as the essential role of both self-awareness and community in nurturing a sense of belonging.

A key takeaway from this episode is the provocative invitation for listeners to cultivate self-awareness and curiosity without waiting for crisis or epiphany. By foregrounding personal responsibility, authentic connection, and holistic approaches to health, Joanne and Dariya empower the audience to co-create a future that is inclusive, compassionate, and consciously vibrant. This episode offers actionable insight for anyone seeking more meaning, wellbeing, and inclusivity in their own life and community.

In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood is joined by Sam Turlington for a vibrant exploration of what it means to live authentically, both on and off the stage. Together, they unpack the art of self-discovery, tapping into how curiosity, empathy, and a willingness to step beyond binaries can foster true inclusion. Joanne reflects on her own journey through identity and belonging, drawing parallels between public speaking and acting as forms of performance and authentic expression. The conversation delves into the realities of queer representation in creative spaces, the challenges of navigating non-inclusive environments, and the subtle yet profound ways “joy as resistance” has become vital for marginalised communities facing adversity.

Sam is a non binary, award-winning actor and multi-hyphenate creative whose work centres on championing queer joy and the nuances of authentic storytelling. Based in New York City, with strong ties to the UK via their education and ongoing creative collaborations, Sam brings a global perspective to the discussion. Their superpower lies in soulfully honouring the truth of people’s experiences, a quality that informs their approach to both performance and activism. From playing roles written for genders different to their own to actively consulting on scripts to improve queer representation, Sam’s commitment to authenticity is palpable. The episode shares candid insights into the practical, emotional, and ethical aspects of creative work that challenges stereotypes and expands what is possible in storytelling.

Listeners are invited to consider the dynamic relationship between authenticity, empathy, and inclusion—whether as creatives, allies, or simply those interested in living more truthfully. A key takeaway is the resilience forged through expressing and affirming one’s identity, and the value of engaging in spaces where you can both challenge and celebrate. Joanne and Sam encourage us all to open more doors—figuratively and literally—knowing that the journey towards belonging is ongoing and best pursued alongside community. This episode is a potent reminder of the power in owning your narrative and building inclusive spaces that allow everyone to thrive.

In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood welcomes Jared Karol for a deep dive into the complexities of healing, social change, and the art of navigating difficult conversations. The discussion opens with the concept of equanimity, exploring how composure and self-awareness can transform the ways we engage in challenging and emotionally charged scenarios. Joanne and Jared dissect the dynamics between shutting down and fighting back when faced with marginalisation or oppression, highlighting the nuanced ground needed for genuine dialogue. They examine the progression from fervent activism to sustainable advocacy, referencing historic figures and drawing parallels to personal growth within social justice work.

Jared is a personal development coach at the intersection of healing and social change, helping individuals show up consciously, courageously, and sustainably. He describes his superpower as bringing equanimity to tough conversations, thus fostering honest engagement without resorting to combative or withdrawn responses. Sharing his lived experience as the son of a gay father who died during the AIDS crisis, Jared openly discusses his own journey through privilege and marginalisation. He emphasises the importance of inner work alongside outward activism, advocating for mindfulness and healing as critical components of lasting impact. His approach is practical and compassionate, applying Buddhist philosophy and emotional intelligence to bridge divides within the sphere of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Throughout the episode, Joanne and Jared consider the balance between passion and purpose, the pitfalls of performative outrage, and the role of emotional regulation in creating societal change. They discuss the need to move beyond binary confrontations towards connection, empathy, and sustainable advocacy. A key takeaway is the transformative potential of healing-centred activism, where inner reflection and equanimity enable inclusive, impactful conversations that avoid perpetuating conflict. Listeners are encouraged to critically reflect upon their own “how” in creating change and subscribe for more honest, nuanced discussions that inspire positive action.

In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood welcomes Scott Grates for an exploration of personal branding, authentic relationship building, and the journey from setbacks to success. The conversation takes listeners through the differences between traditional and digital relationship marketing, highlighting the enduring power of human connection amidst the rise of technological advances such as artificial intelligence. Joanne draws upon her own experiences in business and networking, while Scott explains the value of nurturing genuine, reciprocal relationships, focusing not just on transactional gains but on lasting impact within communities and organisations.

Scott is a visionary entrepreneur and bestselling author who specialises in harnessing relationship marketing to foster real-world success. Based in central New York, he brings a wealth of experience from founding and growing an insurance agency during challenging economic times. Scott’s passion for building authentic connections extends beyond business—he works extensively with students, educators, and local organisations to cultivate self-awareness and resilience. With his contrarian approach and servant heart, Scott encourages critical thinking and empowers both adults and young people to look beyond superficial achievement, nurturing the confidence needed to thrive in modern society.

Joanne and Scott analyse themes of trust, empathy, and personal brand, questioning whether digital tools can ever truly replace the warmth and understanding found in human relationships. They address the complexities of today’s multi-channel communication, such as the influence of social media, the value of emotional intelligence, and the challenges of building meaningful ties in an era of comparison and constant connectivity. The discussion also covers practical strategies for leveraging AI responsibly, balancing efficiency with authenticity, and how the best entrepreneurs often arise from adversity rather than academic success.

A key takeaway from this episode is the critical importance of purposeful, value-driven relationships—whether with colleagues, clients, or communities. Listeners will discover why embracing resilience, empathy, and the courage to fail is vital for both personal and professional growth. This episode encourages individuals to look past quick wins and cultivate real connections, inspiring anyone seeking to transform textbook knowledge into genuine triumph.