Ever grappled with the need to have tough conversations, yet felt at a loss for how to approach them without causing more harm than good? 

You're not alone. In this week's episode of Classroom 5.0, we uncover the essence of navigating hard conversations—an art form requiring both science-backed strategies and a soul-filled connection driven by judgment-free curiosity and our shared humanity. 

In episode 39, Dr. Cree Scott brings her rich expertise from both Clinical Psychology and Executive Leadership to help us understand what drives unconscious bias, and how we can have crucial conversation with courage and kindness.

"Self-awareness is the starting point," she says, emphasising the importance of recognising and addressing our own limiting beliefs and worldviews. Dr. Scott passionately believes that curiosity, coupled with the right evidence, can dismantle the invisible barriers brought about by bias in our communities, schools and workplaces. 

It's not often I find myself in conversation with such a kindred spirit - and the palpable joy and moments of shared delight and hope for a brighter tomorrow had me listening to our conversation on repeat!

Cree is an indomitable force of good in her contribution to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEI&B) efforts, and recognises the ongoing, significant challenges we face in creating sustainable change. She shares how mental health equity and human sustainability are no longer optional but essential components of any serious DEI initiative and we explore the vital role of inclusive leadership and representation, emphasising the profound impact of having diverse role models in our communities and workplaces.

"Representation matters. It's about creating spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued."

We also took a moment to consider our emerging workforce, and the changes occurring as we navigate the digital age. The rise of AI presents both opportunities and challenges and Dr. Scott highlights the importance of prioritising employee well-being in this evolving landscape. We discuss transcendent leadership, a concept rooted in recognising our interconnectedness and fostering a sense of belonging for all employees.

"AI is changing the game. But human connection remains irreplaceable. We need leaders who can blend technological advances with deep empathy and understanding."

LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODE HERE 

In this episode we discuss:

• Self-Awareness and bias, and how the journey toward inclusivity starts with recognising and addressing our unconscious biases.

• The role curiosity play is challenging biases, and the commitment we must make to gathering and applying the right evidence.

• Mental health equity, and why prioritising mental health is crucial in creating sustainable and inclusive DEI initiatives.

• Representation and why diverse role models are essential in building inclusive communities and workplaces.

• Employee well-being, and how we as leaders must ensure that in the age of AI, human connection and employee well-being must remain at the forefront.

• Transcendent leadership and our capacity to embrace our interconnectedness to foster a sense of belonging and inclusivity.

About Dr Cree Scott: 

Links to resources discussed in the episode:

• See Dr Cree Scott's free training on LikedIn, Facilitating Safe, Authentic Communication as a Leader here
• To connect with Dr Cree and explore her full list of service offerings, visit her webpage here 
• Read The Alchemist by Paulo Coelhlo here

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