Understanding Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) with Toby Mildon

09/04/24 • 47 min

In this insightful episode I sit down with with Toby Mildon, an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Architect and founder of Mildon, a consultancy specialising in creating inclusive workplaces. Toby shares his journey from IT consulting and healthcare technology to becoming a full-time EDI professional at the BBC and eventually founding his own consultancy. Drawing from personal experience and professional expertise, Toby discusses the importance of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in the workplace and beyond.
Key Topics Discussed:
1. Toby's Journey into EDI: Toby shares how his career began in technology before transitioning into diversity and inclusion roles at the BBC. He discusses how his own experiences as a person with a disability shaped his understanding of inclusion.
2. Understanding Diversity and Inclusion: Toby explains the fundamental differences between diversity and inclusion, emphasising that everyone is diverse and that true inclusion is about creating a sense of belonging in the workplace.
3. Challenges and Misconceptions in EDI: Toby dispels common myths about diversity and inclusion, such as the idea that diversity only pertains to specific groups or characteristics. He also discusses the pitfalls of using diversity targets and the potential for these to drive the wrong behaviors.
4. Strategies for Implementing EDI in Organizations: Toby outlines his approach to helping companies develop effective EDI strategies, using data and insights to create tailored action plans. He provides examples of how he has worked with clients like the NHS, Centrica, and Sony to foster inclusive environments.
5. The Role of Unconscious Bias: Toby talks about the importance of understanding and addressing unconscious biases in both professional and personal contexts, sharing his own surprising experiences with bias.
6. Practical Steps for Building Inclusivity: Toby introduces his latest book, Building Inclusivity, which provides practical guidance on implementing EDI strategies. He also shares tips for HR managers and individuals looking to build a career in EDI.
7. Impact of EDI on Business Growth: Toby discusses the tangible benefits of implementing EDI strategies, including increased employee engagement, reduced turnover, and improved profitability, supported by research from McKinsey and others.
Additional Resources:
- Visit Toby Mildon's website at https://www.mildon.co.uk/ for more information on his work, books, and resources.
- Connect with Toby on LinkedIn for updates and insights on EDI.
- Check out Toby's podcast, Inclusive Growth Show, where he interviews various experts and business leaders about diversity and inclusion topics.
- https://dileaders.com/ A free online community for all interested parties keen to accelerate EDI in workplaces
Call to Action:
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends. Don’t forget to subscribe to *Undercurrent Stories* for more insightful conversations with fascinating guests.
Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee' Bob Wells © 2020

Question or comment? Send us a text message.

www.undercurrentstories.com

Question or comment? Send us a text message.

www.undercurrentstories.com

Previous Episode

How to Improve Your Memory: Dr. Megan Sumeracki

How many times have you forgotten where your car keys are. Have you ever mislaid your phone? What about the person you met yesterday? Can you still remember their name? On the other hand you might well remember some childhood memories such as specific toys you had or the year in which a specific pop song was in the charts.
Here to talk about memory, answer some of those questions and give some advice on how we can improve our memory I’m joined by Megan Sumeracki. Megan is Associate Professor of psychology at Rhode Island College. She’s a cognitive psychologist in learning and memory and author of the book, The Psychology of Memory.

Throughout the conversation Megan delves into the intricacies of memory, offering insights into why we remember some things vividly while forgetting others. We learn about the differences between short-term and long-term memory, the concept of implicit memory, and how attention plays a crucial role in what we retain. We are given practical tips on how to improve memory, such as using retrieval practice and spacing techniques.
Listeners will also learn about the impact of sensory experiences on memory, the challenges of remembering names, and the importance of applying evidence-based strategies in education. Whether you're curious about the psychology behind memory or looking for ways to boost your own, this episode offers valuable takeaways.
Key Topics Covered:
- The basics of memory: short-term vs. long-term memory
- Implicit memory and its influence on behavior
- The role of attention in memory retention
- Techniques for improving memory, including retrieval practice and spacing
- The effect of sensory experiences on episodic memory
- Educational strategies for enhancing learning and memory
Guest Bio:
Dr. Megan Sumeracki is an Associate Professor of Psychology at Rhode Island College. Her research focuses on learning and memory, with an emphasis on applying cognitive psychology principles in educational settings. She is the author of *The Psychology of Memory* and is passionate about helping others understand how memory works to improve learning outcomes.
Links & Resources:
https://www.learningscientists.org/megan-sumeracki
https://x.com/DrSumeracki
Purchase 'The Psychology of Memory'
Call to Action:
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends. Don’t forget to subscribe to *Undercurrent Stories* for more insightful conversations with fascinating guests.
Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee' Bob Wells © 2020

Question or comment? Send us a text message.

www.undercurrentstories.com

Next Episode

Alicia Kearns MP for Rutland and Stamford

In this revealing conversation with Alicia Kearns, Conservative MP for Rutland and Stamford and currently Shadow Minister for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, Alicia shares insights from her journey into politics, discusses her work as an MP and provides an in-depth analysis of several pressing national and international issues.
Alicia discusses the ongoing learning process within the Conservative Party following their recent electoral defeat and the importance of returning to core values like ethics and competence.
Coming from a politically active, left-wing family, she explains her journey from being deeply influenced by Labour ideals to becoming a Conservative MP. She reflects on her background in the civil service, working in crisis communication, counter-terrorism, and national security before transitioning to politics.
Alicia provides a candid account of the demanding and often misunderstood role of an MP, including her weekly routine, the challenges of maintaining a work-life balance, and the impact of dealing with abuse and threats.
We hear about local concerns such as the A1 road safety improvements and the controversial Mallard Pass solar farm proposal. She explains her stance on prioritising food security over using prime agricultural land for solar farms and the ethical implications involving companies accused of using forced labour.
We learn about her perspective on current national issues including immigration, waterways and sewage and healthcare system reforms particularly in regard to her efforts to improve local healthcare services.
With her background as Chair of the House of Commons Foreign Affairs Committee up until the election, we explore the critical role of parliamentary scrutiny in shaping foreign policy in regard to China, war in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas war.
We wind up with Alicia emphasising the need for public engagement and critical thinking, especially regarding national security, foreign policy, and complex international conflicts. She advocates for more open debate and education on these issues at all levels.
Alicia Kearns provides an insightful look into her life as an MP, the challenges facing the Conservative Party, and the complex issues shaping the future of the UK and its global relationships. Her dedication to her constituents, commitment to ethical governance, and passion for robust foreign policy shine throughout the episode.
Links:
https://www.aliciakearns.com/about-alicia-kearns
Call to Action:
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends. Don’t forget to subscribe to *Undercurrent Stories* for more insightful conversations with fascinating guests.
Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee' Bob Wells © 2020