We're delighted to be joined by Gary Elden, OBE for services to Business and Diversity for the latest episode of The Progressing Lives Everywhere Podcast.

From Estate Agent to FTSE CEO to Non-Exec Director and diversity driver; it's safe to say Gary Elden has had an illustrious career filled with invaluable insights and fascinating experiences.

But more than that, the work that Gary has done to put diversity on businesses' agendas - and not just as a box-ticking exercise - is truly remarkable.

Hosted by Natasha Crump, ESG Director at Amoria Bond Group, this instalment sees Gary speak on a wide range of topics; from his early career and the racism he has experienced in the workplace; to why a meritocratic environment isn't enough to create a diverse workplace (and what is enough), as well as a timely piece on why you need to turn your outrage into action.

Time Stamped Agenda:

00:35 - Introduction to Gary

02:02 - What does progression mean to you?

03:22 - Is a model of continuous improvement something you've always worked towards?

04:25 - Did you always plan your next career steps?

05:39 - What are the attributes that contribute towards "being the best"?

07:46 - Self-selecting role models and mentors

09:18 - How important has diversity been to your career and the businesses you've worked in?

10:35 - Why is it important to focus on stats as well as the environment when it comes to diversity in the workplace?

15:06 - What are the ways you've experienced racism and how does racism and discrimination still show up for black people in the workplace?

20:33 - How important have role models been in your life?

24:44 - How do you learn from mistakes to aid progression?

26:40 - How do you remove the "fear factor" from conversations about race and diversity?

29:06 - Tell me about the Diversity and Inclusion Charter, and why it's so important that businesses turn outrage into action?

35:48 - If the tables were turned and you had your pick of anyone to talk about progression, who would your dream guest be?

Resources Mentioned:

The Diversity and Inclusion Charter: https://diversityandinclusioncharter.com/message-from-chairman

Aleto Foundation: https://aletofoundation.org.uk/

Thanks for listening to The Progressing Lives Everywhere Podcast, brought to you by Amoria Bond.

This podcast is a Loaded Hype production.