In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood is joined by Bhavesh Naik to explore the transformative role of self-awareness and humanity in building successful, resilient organisations. The conversation navigates the nuances of self-awareness—both as lived experience and practical skill—in high-performing workplaces. Joanne and Bhavesh dissect the subtle power of observing oneself, moving beyond intellectual definitions toward a more embodied, present-centred awareness that empowers individuals and teams to thrive. Listeners are invited to reconsider the foundations of leadership, emotional intelligence, and the dynamics of inclusion, while drawing connections between personal insight and organisational change.

Bhavesh is a business performance and longevity expert who helps organisational leaders nurture thriving cultures by embracing the full humanness of their people. Renowned for his deeply realised sense of self-awareness and innovative thinking, Bhavesh champions a holistic approach to leadership development. His distinctive perspective challenges traditional management theories rooted in the industrial age, proposing instead that true transformation is driven by nurturing awareness and authentic connection across all levels of a business. Bhavesh draws upon years of experience with executive coaching and team facilitation to offer practical frameworks—grounded in both science and lived wisdom—that help organisations shift from dependency and disengagement into empowered, conscious collaboration.

Throughout their discussion, Joanne and Bhavesh probe how self-awareness can be harnessed to close the gap between reaction and reflection, move teams towards higher engagement, and reframe emotionally intelligent action as a form of emotional awareness. They address the need for leaders to foster open dialogues, offer practical exercises for cultivating self and situational awareness, and interrogate the impact of workplace culture on inclusion and belonging. The episode spotlights how authentic relationships and a celebration of individual uniqueness can unlock potential within organisations, even in the face of bias or resistance to change.

The key takeaway from this episode is that harnessing humanity—by fostering self-awareness and valuing genuine connection—creates the bedrock for organisational success. Listeners will be equipped with practical strategies to drive inclusive transformation, ignite cultural alignment, and elevate both individual and collective performance. Tune in for actionable insights to help you and your organisation not only belong— but truly thrive.

In this thought-provoking episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood welcomes Alexandra Bellitter to discuss "Unlocking Neurodivergent Potential". The conversation examines the limitations of traditional coaching methods for neurodivergent individuals, particularly those with ADHD, and spotlights the importance of genuinely adaptive, person-centred approaches. Joanne and Alex challenge the assumption that neurodivergence should be ‘fixed’. Instead, they explore how embracing natural differences can create pathways to thriving in both professional and personal settings. The discussion dispels the myth of one-size-fits-all strategies, offering practical examples of how to tailor workplace support and self-advocacy. Alexandra provides valuable insight into reducing overwhelm and building systems that operate in harmony with diverse minds, from managing deadlines and communication preferences, to leveraging technology without falling prey to distraction.

Alex is an operations manager and lead at Shimmer ADHD Coaching, where she pioneers neuro-inclusive coaching initiatives designed to support the ADHD community in reaching their aspirations. Driven by an enduring love of learning, Alex’s commitment is firmly rooted in advancing neuro-inclusivity, with expertise in translating neuropsychological theory into actionable coaching frameworks. Based in Dallas, Alex brings a global outlook to her practice, combining professional skills with lived experiences to facilitate empowerment, self-discovery, and advocacy for neurodivergent individuals. Her approach is founded on authentic partnership—enabling clients to co-create solutions that reflect their unique lived realities rather than adapting to preconceived expectations.

Highlighting real-life workplace scenarios—such as the stress of changing deadlines, struggles with memory, and the challenge of open communication—Joanne and Alex illustrate the importance of radical candour, mutual understanding, and tailored reasonable adjustments for all. The episode explores the rising visibility of neurodivergence, gender differences in diagnosis, and the stigma that still pervades many environments. Together, they unpack strategies for self-management, disclosure, and constructive advocacy that foster genuinely inclusive cultures.

A key takeaway is the transformative impact of rejecting deficit narratives in favour of empowerment and choice. This episode is essential listening for anyone keen to understand, support, or unlock the strengths of neurodivergent colleagues or themselves, offering practical wisdom and renewed optimism for building workplaces where everyone can flourish.

In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood explores what it truly means to “break the disability mould” with guest Lindsay Mitchison. Together, they navigate the practical, emotional, and societal layers of living with disability in the UK, challenging stereotypes and societal expectations at every turn. Joanne and Lindsay discuss everything from losing agency following a life-changing amputation to reclaiming confidence and control, offering listeners an unfiltered exploration of family anxieties, healthcare systems, stigma, and importantly, the power of embracing difference. The conversation shines a light on both the humour and hurdles of living with a disability, and asks challenging questions of how businesses and communities can do more to support access, dignity, and inclusion.

Lindsay is an award-winning disabled entrepreneur, recognised globally for her work as founder of NeoWalk. Her company produces bespoke, visually stunning acrylic walking sticks designed to empower individuals to step out in style and confidence, transforming a functional aid into a bold expression of personality. Lindsay’s career began in hairdressing before a catastrophic MRSA infection led to the amputation of her leg. Rather than letting circumstances define her, Lindsay became a sought-after circus performer and casualty actor, and now stands at the forefront of disability advocacy and inclusive design. With a lived understanding of disability, from mobility challenges through to community building, Lindsay exemplifies resilience, warmth, and a drive to serve others navigating similar paths.

Joanne and Lindsay consider the cultural shift from concealing impairments to celebrating assistive technology as fashion. They reflect on society’s readiness (or reticence) to adapt environments and attitudes, and how empowering disabled voices—especially through community—sparks both personal and collective transformation. Listeners will resonate with stories of overcoming social awkwardness, the critical importance of choice in assistive aids, and the need for business and policy to stop hiding behind red tape and start facilitating real change.

The key takeaway from this episode is a resounding call for agency, visibility, and joy in disability—reminding us that inclusion is not about fitting in, but about belonging and thriving. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking authentic insights into building a society where everyone can stand out, not just fit in.