The Power of Human Connection - building trust, empathy and courage. A conversation with Kat Parsons, Group Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Centrica

What does it take to truly collaborate?How can leaders create environments where diverse perspectives are valued, trust is nurtured, and meaningful conversations drive innovation? Finding Your Collaborative Edge™ is a podcast for leaders, teams, and professionals who want to unlock the full potential of collaboration in their organisations and lives.Hosted by Anni Townend and Lucy Kidd, co-founders of Collaboration Equation™, this show explores the essential elements of psychological safety, inclusive dialogue, and diversity of thought and feeling—helping you cultivate a mindset of curiosity, care, and courage.Each episode delves into real-world leadership challenges, expert insights, and powerful stories from those who are finding their Collaborative Edge™. Whether you’re a senior leader, team manager, or someone passionate about creating human-centred workplaces, this podcast will inspire you to build connections, embrace difference, and lead with authenticity.Join the conversation and start your journey towards more impactful, collaborative leadership. Find out more at: www.collaborationequation.comFollow us on LinkedIn: Collaboration EquationABOUT THIS EPISODE:In this episode we are delighted to be in conversation with Kat Parsons, Group Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at CentricaTogether we explore:The power of open questions to create connection and build trustHow diversity metrics can get in the way of inclusive behaviours—and how to move beyond themWhat it means to invite others to feel what it’s like for someone elseFinding freedom in career change and personal rebrandingThe courage it takes to step aside, so others can step forwardKnowing when, and how, to ask for help—and to receive itKat’s three encouragements to invite you to explore your Collaborative Edge™:Find the areas you are less comfortable with, get curious and immerse yourself Notice the differences between you and others and create some flex to meet each other wellReal success is seeing others find their voice to step up and lead the wayAbout Kat:Kat is the Group Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for Centrica, a thought leader who has experience driving company wide cultural change and inclusion where all colleagues feel they belong - Every Colleague Counts: Powering Inclusion: Fuelling Change.Kat’s passion and drive for change led her to join the Fellowship of Leaders, appear on the HIVE Top 75 D&I leads in EMEA and the WiTHL Women to Watch list, The Pride Power List is 2023 and 2024 as well as multiple Head of D&I Awards. Kat’s work supported ISS receiving a highly Commended commendation at the European Diversity Awards.Connect and collaborate with Kat:On LinkedInOn InstagramLearn about Centrica : https://www.linkedin.com/company/centrica/ Learn about Work Boutique : https://www.linkedin.com/company/work-boutique/ In this conversation we referenced Diversity Umbrella and Meno vests Thank you to you, the listener and viewer. And a huge thank you to Brown Bear Studios for the production of our show, to SHMOGUS Media and Pennywriting for the marketing of it.Please share, subscribe and continue to join us in Finding Your Collaborative Edge™.