DEI and The Psychology of Mindsets
In this conversation with Greg Suart, Nadia Nagamootoo shares her journey as a chartered psychologist and leadership coach, emphasizing the importance of inclusive leadership and the challenges that come with it. She discusses her book ‘Beyond Discomfort’, which explores the discomfort leaders face when addressing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in organizations.
Nadia highlights the role of unconscious bias, the need for self-reflection, and the importance of understanding one’s own identity in fostering an inclusive workplace.
The conversation also delves into the psychological aspects of leadership, the necessity of shifting mindsets in DEI, and practical steps leaders can take to create a more inclusive environment.
For more information about Nadia Nagamootoo, her book and her work visit:
https://www.nadianagamootoo.com/
https://www.avenirconsultingservices.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nadia-nagamootoo-she-her-98436613/
SPONSORED BY: This podcast by Meta-Conscious Leaders is sponsored by Ultimate Goal Ltd: Partners in Personal, Leadership & Business Growth, Developing Personal Mastery, Emotional Intelligence and Transcendent Leadership https://www.ultimategoal.co.uk
Nadia Nagamootoo is a Chartered Psychologist, leadership coach, and award-winning Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) strategist. She is the Founder and CEO of Avenir, a consultancy dedicated to creating cultures of belonging and driving measurable, inclusive change. With over two decades of experience in organisational development and talent strategy, Nadia has partnered with global businesses to transform leadership, embed equity, and cultivate psychological safety.
A recognised thought leader, she was named HR Most Influential Thinker and Diversity Champion of the Year in 2023, and is the author of the best-selling book Beyond Discomfort: Why Inclusive Leadership Is So Hard (and What You Can Do About It). Nadia also hosts the “Why Care?” podcast, where she explores the deeper human and business case for DEI with leaders and change makers.
Drawing on her own lived experience as a first-generation UK-born Mauritian, Nadia’s work is fueled by the belief that when people feel they belong, organisations thrive. Her purpose is clear: to create ripples of change so that workplaces – and the world – feel like they were designed for everyone.
TAKEAWAYS
Nadia’s mission is to create workplaces where everyone feels they belong.
Inclusive leadership requires self-reflection and understanding of biases.
Discomfort is a natural part of the journey towards inclusion.
Unconscious biases can hinder inclusive decision-making.
The two-by-two model helps leaders assess their inclusivity.
Leaders must challenge existing power dynamics to foster inclusion.
The ‘us vs. them’ mentality is a barrier to inclusivity.
Diversity is essential for long-term organizational success.
Open conversations can bridge gaps between diverse individuals.
Mindset shifts are crucial for effective DEI implementation.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Nadia’s Journey to Purpose
06:01 Understanding ‘Beyond Discomfort’
09:08 The Role of Unconscious Bias
15:13 The DEI Model Explained
22:25 The Business Case for DEI
23:31 The Psychology of Inclusive Leadership
24:17 Navigating Identity and Language in Conversations
25:44 Challenging Power Dynamics in Leadership
27:37 The Us vs. Them Mentality
30:30 The Importance of Caring for Others
31:39 Self-Actualization and Inclusive Leadership
34:56 Practices for Meta-Conscious Leadership
39:19 Understanding and Challenging Our Judgments
42:07 The Complexity of Current Leadership Challenges
47:08 The Pitfalls of Diversity and Inclusion Efforts
49:36 Integrating DEI into Business Strategy
53:16 Engaging Conversations: The Importance of Feedback