Kyla Dawson’s Post

Did you know there are five generations currently in the United States workplace? Learn more from The Folke Institute’s founder and CEO, Dr. Carrie Spell-Hansson, speaking on the American Society of Administrative Professionals' podcast. Follow the link below to listen as Dr. Carrie shares her valuable insights on “How to Navigate Generational Differences”, and be sure to check out ASAP’s channel. Link: https://buff.ly/4btxUoU

Starts At The Top is the podcast I co-host with Zoe Amar The podcast has allowed us to explore aspects of leadership and change that we don’t often get to follow up on in our day-to-day work. It also allows us to explore the liminal spaces between the sectors - public, private, and third - to share lessons across these spaces in the hope that leaders everywhere can benefit from what they hear. In planning season 9, we connected to Sal Naseem FRSA, former regional director for London at the Independent Office for Police Conduct and author of the fantastic new book, True North, a story of racism resilience and resisting systems of denial. We spoke with Sal last week and it was one of the most affecting conversations we’ve had on the podcast so far. We immediately decided we wanted to share it as soon as possible, so here it is! Trigger warning: This episode contains descriptions of racial abuse, workplace bullying, and discrimination which some listeners may find distressing. However, this is also a brave and honest account of an extreme period in Sal’s life and career. Sal shares his extraordinary story of leading change within policing oversight, at a time that saw some of the most challenging cases in recent history. We discuss how maintaining your values and moral compass is crucial when pushing for systemic change, even in the face of intense resistance. Sal shares vital lessons about leading change in complex systems: 💡 Why finding a common purpose with unlikely allies is crucial for driving meaningful change 💡 The importance of approaching leadership with humility and leaving ego at the door 💡 How to maintain your values when faced with systemic resistance 💡 The true cost of driving change and the importance of self-care 💡 Why exceptional leadership is rooted in consistent character both inside and outside work One of Sal's most powerful insights is that "to lead in a values-led way and to lead in a true sense is hard because you have to make hard choices." His experiences demonstrate how maintaining your moral compass can guide you through the most challenging leadership decisions. We hope you enjoy this conversation as much as we did. You don't hear much from me on this one - Sal's story didn't need much input from me and it was a privilege to be there and to allow Zoe and Sal the space to have this remarkable conversation. Don't miss it! (Why not sign up to receive an episode link directly to your inbox? Go to www.startsatthetop.co.uk) #leadership #change #inclusion

"The best way to predict the future is to create it." - Peter Drucker One of the most powerful ways we can create a better future—whether in our teams, organizations, or communities—is by embracing the power of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). But as you probably know, this work isn’t always easy. It can feel overwhelming and uncertain at times. That’s where the "Yes, And" mindset comes in. When we say "Yes, And," we’re choosing to step into uncertainty, listen actively, and build something better together. It’s about letting go of preconceived ideas, hearing all voices, and embracing the imperfections that come with any meaningful change. In my recent interview with • Jessica Pettitt, MBA, CSP, MEd, we talk about how humor plays a huge role in facilitating these difficult conversations, and how taking small, imperfect steps today can create real progress in DEI tomorrow. We discuss the importance of making room for edits—both in our own beliefs and in our organizations. After all, change isn’t about being perfect, it’s about showing up with the right mindset, and being willing to learn along the way. 🎧 Use the link in the comments to listen to the full episode here If you’re interested in bringing more empathy, inclusivity, and "Yes, And" thinking into your work, I highly recommend giving this episode a listen. Jess shares amazing insights on how we can all take action in our own circles to foster a more inclusive world. #DEI #Leadership #Inclusion #YesAnd #Diversity #OrganizationalCulture #GrowthMindset #Podcast

Do you have a mantra— something you say to yourself when you need a reminder of who you are or want to be? In today’s episode of the Beautiful Work Beautiful Life podcast, Heart-Centered Leadership with Ericka Lewis, my guest, Ericka Lewis, shares her mantra— “I’m here to surrender to the flow and stay connected to love.” Ericka also shares her morning rituals and practices that set the tone for her day, and her approach to leadership at home, in her community, and at work. The conversation with Ericka was so inspiring! We discussed the importance of balance and surrender in our lives, the need to let go of control and embrace imperfection, and leading away from control and into chaos. As a model for her daughters at home and other women in her workplace, Ericka is intentional about who she wants to be and how she shows up. As a parent, she wants her children to know that it’s possible to be busy, have a career, and be present, kind, and loving. As a leader in a predominately male industry, she wants others to know that it’s possible to be honest about who you are and lead with vulnerability. This is precisely what heart-centered leadership is. I genuinely believe that the world will change when we get out of our heads and into our hearts and when heart-centered leadership becomes the norm. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did! #leadership #heartcentered #changetheworld #bethechange

☕🌟 Espresso Exchanges Episode 21 🌟☕ This week, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Farhana Muna, an esteemed Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion leader, navigating the complex dynamics of today's corporate world. Farhana shared her profound insights on the challenges and transformative strategies within the realm of DEI. 📍Q: What are some of the most significant challenges you face as a DEI leader in and how do you address them? Farhana: "The role of a DEI leader is multifaceted, involving personal and professional challenges. Personally, leaders face burnout and a sense of isolation as they work to shift mindsets and confront deeply rooted biases. Professionally, the challenge is dismantling systemic barriers that have been built and reinforced over generations and are often perpetuated by limited resources, lack of commitment from leadership, and resistance to change. To address them, I focus on leveraging the power and privilege of key stakeholders within the organization to ensure equitable allocation of resources and prioritize initiatives that drive systemic change ensuring that DEI efforts are not just symbolic but are backed by tangible support and influence, making a lasting impact." 📍Q: Reflecting on the complexities of DEI, what common challenges have you faced in implementing the initiatives? Farhana: "A core challenge is the perception of DEI as peripheral rather than strategic. Many organizations view it as an add-on rather than an integral part of their operations. My strategy has been to embed DEI principles into every aspect of the organization. This is supported by leveraging influence within the organization to redistribute resources and align priorities equitably. By aligning DEI with business outcomes like innovation and employee retention, I’m able to move DEI from the sidelines to the center of the organization's agenda. It’s about changing the narrative—showing that DEI is not just the right thing to do, but also a driver of success and growth." 📍Q: What practical advice can you offer to leaders and teams looking to create more inclusive work cultures, particularly in diverse settings? Farhana: "Leaders should use their influence to create equitable opportunities, embedding DEI in decision-making. It’s about moving beyond symbolic gestures towards impactful actions that demonstrate inclusivity’s value. Distributing the cultural load equitably and promoting a responsibility for inclusion across the team helps build a sustainable culture of belonging." 📍Q: One message for the world? Farhana: “You are not what you have been told; you are what you create.” Key Takeaways: ✨ Farhana's perspective illuminates the intricate and essential role of DEI in shaping not only a just workplace but a just world. Her emphasis on systemic integration and deep psychological understanding showcases the path forward for creating enduring and effective change. #EspressoExchanges #Leadership #Diversity #Equity #Inclusion

It’s been hard to keep a focus on the positives this week as, in the UK, we’ve seen the very worst of some people but at the same time, the absolute best of so many others. Here are my three takeaways from a week of real peaks and troughs… 💡 I’ve had lots of conversations this week about culture in different organisations. People have been the common factor in all these discussions. The folk that may have got you where you are now, might not be the right people to help you get where you want to be next. And they may not want to be part of your new world either. How leaders deal with this can make all the difference in moving forward positively - or not. 💡dealing with the hard stuff goes with the territory for leaders and managers. But, having what might feel like difficult but brave conversations that come from a position of respect, can help everyone involved. 💡community and connection win. Whether it’s teams inside organisations pulling together or local communities coming together after tragedy, connection can be hugely powerful and create really positive change. Finally, a big thank you to Jessica Lorimer for the though-provoking discussion that we had this week, for her podcast. I’ve been running Twist Consultants for 20 years this month and this chat was a great opportunity to reflect on what’s changed since 2004, how far I’ve come in that time and how learning never really stops… 😀 How’s your week been? #ThreeThings #change #peopleattheheart

The Power of True Self-Acceptance with Mary Haddock-Staniland!
 This week, I sit down with someone who I have wanted to speak with since deciding to launch the podcast, the amazing Mary! A globally recognised Diversity & Inclusion Executive, keynote speaker, and thought leader. 

Mary shares her courageous story as a trans woman who has overcome numerous challenges to become a leading advocate for equity and inclusion. 

You will get valuable perspectives on how to value YOURSELF, and how as a Leader you can create inclusive environments and lead with empathy and authenticity.

Here's what else you’ll learn: - What the true meaning of inclusion is - What it takes to be seen and heard for who you genuinely are - Signs of living an inauthentic life and the emotional and psychological impacts it can have - Get strategies to help you embrace your true self and cultivate internal self-acceptance  - Insights into the critical actions leaders must take to build truly inclusive and accepting workplace cultures One powerful insight Mary shared: “If we don’t accept ourselves, who will? Your self-worth goes out the window along with your ability to engage, your confidence, and any chance of happiness.” Authenticity is one of the biggest superpowers you have in the workplace, and this episode talks to exactly why! Find the podcast links in the “Visit my Website” link at the top of this post or in the comments below! (LinkedIn is hiding offsite links (annoying) so please comment and I’ll send it over so you don’t miss out! #leadership #LeadershipSkills #deib #DiversityAndInclusion #leadwithless

✨ Redefining Rejection: The Power of Collecting Nos ✨ I recently listened to an inspiring episode of the Women at Work podcast, and the idea of “collecting nos” stopped me in my tracks. The challenge? Make bold asks until you hear “no” at least 10 times. The surprising part? Most of us hear yes more often than we expect—and even a “no” can be a powerful confidence-builder. This feels so timely for me as I focus on asking for what I want and saying no to what doesn’t align with my goals. This exercise reframes rejection: a “no” isn’t the end—it’s often a step toward growth, clarity, or a better opportunity. Each response, yes or no, is a win: 🚀 Yes - builds momentum. 💎 No - builds resilience and clarity. A key takeaway from the podcast was the CIB model: Context, Intent, and Benefit. Setting the stage with context, clarifying your intent, and highlighting the benefit to the person you’re asking can make your requests clearer and more collaborative. The act of asking strengthens your voice and confidence while aligning how you see yourself with how others perceive you. Each ask is a chance to grow, refine, and leave a lasting impression. I’d love to invite other women in my network to join me on a “No Tour.” Let’s make bold asks, embrace the nos, and share what we learn. Together, we can build confidence, uncover opportunities, and redefine what’s possible. What’s one thing you’ve been hesitant to ask for? Let’s support each other in collecting those no’s—and turning them into growth. 💪 #WomenAtWork #ConfidenceBuilding #CollectingNos #BoldAsks #NoTour #HBR

Tethering and untethering. Why are they important? My recent trip to the Outer Hebrides for a creative retreat run by the brilliant Margaret Soraya and Lesley Lintott helped me focus on and explore these two particular ideas, of tethering and untethering, and encouraged me to notice the things in my own life and leadership to which I have become tethered, the things from which I need to untether myself, and the importance of creating both connection and space. In some situations a grounding or anchoring can create feelings of safety, it can provide purpose, direction, and feelings of connection that, in leadership, can bring creativity, innovation, and collaboration. It is one of the foundations of my work with Lucy Kidd on our Collaboration Equation. However, when bound too tightly to rigid methods and established rules, our teams can begin to feel excluded and like they don’t belong, leading to disruptions, lack of connectivity, and drifting. How do we, as leaders, create a balance between tethering and untethering that will allow our teams to feel psychologically safe but also free to explore and create? Lucy Kidd and I speak about the importance of creating these environments in which teams feel nurtured, acknowledged, and appreciated on a special episode of my podcast Leaders In Conversation With Anni Townend that airs tomorrow. Our guest is Somya Agrawal, Leader and Collaborator, who talks to us about connecting through vulnerability as she shares her experiences of hearing loss and how that impacted how she interacted and created connection with others. Don’t miss hearing Somya’s insights here tomorrow morning. I look forward to connecting with you. #leadershipinsights #ukpodcast #leadershippodcast #collaboration #creatingconnection #tethering #untethering

There’s an age-old saying that people don’t leave organizations, they leave bad bosses. It makes sense. Bad bosses tend to be selfish… They put themselves before their team. And if you’re like most ambitious women I work with, then you can’t stand that. In fact, I’m guessing that 1 big reason you want to be a leader is so that you can impact your organization by being the opposite… Unselfish. Empathetic. Compassionate. You want to lift your team up. But the truth is… While bad leaders are selfish… So are the great ones. The difference is which kind of selfish person they are. Because believe it or not, there are TWO types of selfishness… And only ONE will skyrocket your career and help you make the impact you so deeply desire. The 1st type is the one we're all familiar with… The kind that creates toxic work environments and leaves employees feeling unappreciated and undervalued. But the second type? It's a game-changer. It's the kind of selfishness that allows you to: ⛱️ Go on a 5-week sabbatical and still get promoted when you return… 👋 Leave work every day at 4pm to pick up your kids (despite being the person everyone looks to for decisions)… 💖 And completely change how your organization is run without being the “bad” kind of selfish. On episode 220 of my podcast, I show you how to use THIS type of selfishness to your unfair advantage to get promoted. I’ll drop the link to the episode in the comments. #WomenLeaders #CareerAdvice #ExecutiveLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment