Leading When Identity Is Always In The Room

Leadership isn’t neutral and identity is never really left at the door.In this first episode of Lime, Listen & Learn: The People Leadership Lounge, host Abbiola Ballah is in conversation with Sara Chandran to explore what it means to lead when identity is always in the room, even when no one names it.This isn’t a panel. We're not here for perfect soundbites. This is a lime: a Trinidadian term that means to hang out, connect, and vibe.Together, Abbiola and Sara talk honestly about leadership, workplace dynamics, and the moments we often avoid addressing out loud. The conversation invites leaders to pause, reflect, and consider what it really takes to create space for people to show up fully at work.Grab your snacks and drink. Come lime with us!This Conversation Touches On:Leading when identity is always presentNavigating unspoken dynamics at workCreating space for honest, open conversationsAddressing moments of harm and misalignmentThe role of community in sustaining leadersAbout Our GuestSara Chandran (She/They) founded Fresh and Fearless, a diversity, equity, and inclusion consultancy, in January 2020 to support businesses in diversifying the workplace and being an inclusive place for all employees. Since then, Sara has facilitated hundreds of workshops worldwide and consulted with over 40 global companies. In 2024, Sara launched Out of the Office, a one-of-a-kind inclusion podcast, by facilitating discussions with HR, DEI and L&D experts to discuss the lessons we can learn from the hit TV show The Office. Additionally, Sara is a trustee at the environmental education charity Another Way. And last but not least, Sara is the proud parent of Casper, the most friendly, loveable labrador who brings joy to all.Learn more about Sara's work here:Website | LinkedIn | Podcast | InstagramAbout Our HostAbbiola Ballah (she /her)  is a people leadership consultant, coach, and facilitator who supports directors & managers navigating the human side of leadership. She is the Founder of Phern Education Studios and the creator of the CLEARER Conversations™ Experience, a signature leadership program designed to help people leaders approach hard conversations with care, discernment, and intention.With over 20 years of experience in leadership development, program design, and organizational learning, Abbiola partners with organizations across the health, education, philanthropy, and nonprofit sectors to design and facilitate people-centered leadership experiences that improve communication, support managers & directors through team dynamics, and rebuild trust. Originally from Trinidad and Tobago, she brings a global perspective shaped by long-term, cross-cultural work with leaders and organizations.Learn more about Abbiola's work here:Website | LinkedIn | Instagram