In this episode of The Equality Edit, Esi Hardy is joined by EDI specialist, confidence coach and fellow podcast host Katie Allen to unpack why conversations about equality can feel so risky and what leaders can do to make them feel safer, clearer and more human.

Together, they explore the fear of “saying the wrong thing”, why language keeps evolving, and how psychological safety is built through consistent actions (not a nice speech in a meeting). They also discuss lived experience, identity, and what it looks like to handle topics like access requirements, race, LGBTQIA+ inclusion and power dynamics with care and consent.

We cover:

· Why people feel unsafe speaking up (and why that fear is real, not silly).

· Psychological safety: what it is, why it’s contextual, and how leaders role model it.

· Why access requirements are part of feeling valued (physical comfort affects confidence).

· How to have “first time” conversations: setting intention, naming discomfort, asking consent.

· Why feedback without action damages trust and how to avoid cherry-picking what you hear.

Links mentioned in the episode:

· Katie Allen Consulting (website): www.katieallenconsulting.com

· Katie’s podcast: Speaking Of Inclusion (Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube)

· The Guilty Feminist podcast (Deborah Frances-White)

· ParaPride (London-based LGBTQ+ disabled people’s charity) : www.parapride.org

· TV references: Heartstopper and Sex Education (as examples of growing ace visibility)

Don’t miss future conversations subscribe to The Equality Edit on YouTube, Spotify, or your favourite podcast app. You can also connect with Esi and Celebrating Disability on LinkedIn.