Breaking Bias

In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood and guest Lorne Epstein dive deep into the world of unconscious bias and the transformative power of self-awareness. Lorne, a seasoned social scientist, brings to the table compelling insights into human goodness, the evolving understanding of diversity, and practical techniques for managing stress and enhancing decision-making. Joanne complements these insights with her rich experiences, making for a thought-provoking and inspiring discussion. Lorne Epstein has over 20 years of experience as a social scientist, focusing on unconscious bias and its implications in everyday life. Beyond his academic pursuits in cognitive neuroscience, Lorne has delivered workshops around the globe, reaching over 50,000 participants. His journey includes hosting a public radio show about jobs, conducting online workshops during the COVID pandemic, and offering training that has transformed perspectives in various settings, including a notable session at an Ohio hospital. Lorne advocates for continuous learning, self-reflection, and practical techniques to manage stress and decision-making, aiming to inspire positive change at both personal and societal levels. The conversation kicks off with Lorne's optimistic view of fundamental human goodness, despite the often-negative portrayal of people in the media. He and Joanne explore the nuanced understanding of diversity, emphasising the inclusion of different learning styles and interactions. Lorne introduces stress management techniques like breathing exercises and structured stand-up meetings to enhance clarity in decision-making. Key components for effective decision-making are discussed, including timing, relevant information, outcome analysis, and physical awareness. Joanne delves into the importance of recalibrating the definition of success and the role of authenticity in creative work. Listeners are given an intimate glimpse into overcoming personal failures and fears, with both Lorne and Joanne sharing poignant personal anecdotes. The episode wraps up by celebrating resilience, the importance of psychological safety, and fostering environments where individuals can thrive without fear of judgment. Joanne touchingly expresses her gratitude towards Lorne's contributions and hints at exciting future episodes. A key takeaway from this episode is the profound impact of self-awareness and continual learning in overcoming biases and fostering inclusive environments. Listeners will walk away with practical tools for managing stress and making effective decisions, as well as inspiration to challenge societal norms and embrace the transformative power of inclusivity. Tune in for an enriching experience that promises to equip you with actionable insights and drive meaningful change. #InclusionBites #BreakingBias