Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
The Inclusion Bites Podcast
#187 Healing at the Heart
Episode Category
1
/
1
Primary Category: Wellbeing
Secondary Category: Emotional Intelligence
🔖 Titles
1
/
1
1. Healing at the Heart: Equanimity, Emotional Intelligence, and Sustainable Social Change
2. Cultivating Equanimity in Difficult Conversations: From Passion to Purpose
3. Navigating Social Justice Work with Emotional Balance and Connection
4. Why Healing and Connection Drive Lasting Change in Inclusion and Belonging
5. Emotional Intelligence as the Foundation for Transformative Social Justice
6. How Inner Work and Letting Go Fuel Effective Activism
7. Equanimity, Empathy, and the Art of Sustainable Change
8. Moving from Outrage to Healing: The Journey of Inclusion
9. Building Inclusive Cultures Through Mindful Dialogue and Compassion
10. The Role of Healing and Connection in Difficult Conversations for Social Impact
A Subtitle - A Single Sentence describing this episode
1
/
1
Jared Karol explores the intersection of social change and personal healing, illuminating the power of equanimity, self-awareness, and connection to foster sustainable activism and transformative inclusion.
Episode Tags
1
/
1
Healing Centred Leadership, Equanimity in Action, Social Change, Emotional Intelligence, Inclusive Conversations, Personal Transformation, Mindful Advocacy, Overcoming Marginalisation, Connection and Letting Go, Sustainable Activism
Episode Summary with Intro, Key Points and a Takeaway
1
/
1
<p>In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood welcomes Jared Karol for a deep dive into the complexities of healing, social change, and the art of navigating difficult conversations. The discussion opens with the concept of equanimity, exploring how composure and self-awareness can transform the ways we engage in challenging and emotionally charged scenarios. Joanne and Jared dissect the dynamics between shutting down and fighting back when faced with marginalisation or oppression, highlighting the nuanced ground needed for genuine dialogue. They examine the progression from fervent activism to sustainable advocacy, referencing historic figures and drawing parallels to personal growth within social justice work.</p>
<p>Jared is a personal development coach at the intersection of healing and social change, helping individuals show up consciously, courageously, and sustainably. He describes his superpower as bringing equanimity to tough conversations, thus fostering honest engagement without resorting to combative or withdrawn responses. Sharing his lived experience as the son of a gay father who died during the AIDS crisis, Jared openly discusses his own journey through privilege and marginalisation. He emphasises the importance of inner work alongside outward activism, advocating for mindfulness and healing as critical components of lasting impact. His approach is practical and compassionate, applying Buddhist philosophy and emotional intelligence to bridge divides within the sphere of diversity, equity, and inclusion.</p>
<p>Throughout the episode, Joanne and Jared consider the balance between passion and purpose, the pitfalls of performative outrage, and the role of emotional regulation in creating societal change. They discuss the need to move beyond binary confrontations towards connection, empathy, and sustainable advocacy. A key takeaway is the transformative potential of healing-centred activism, where inner reflection and equanimity enable inclusive, impactful conversations that avoid perpetuating conflict. Listeners are encouraged to critically reflect upon their own “how” in creating change and subscribe for more honest, nuanced discussions that inspire positive action.</p>
📚 Timestamped overview
1
/
2
00:00 "The Art of Equanimity"
06:32 Reflecting on Personal Growth
14:50 Path to Collective Awareness
16:26 "From Lens to Mirror"
24:33 Finding Grounding Through Adversity
26:51 Healing Through Connection and Release
35:14 Blocking Negative LinkedIn Response
39:34 "Thought-Terminating Clichés"
47:42 Lens vs Inner Development
49:55 "Passion vs Purpose"
56:03 "Modern Interaction and Perception"
01:00:04 Healing Through Connection and Letting Go
01:05:10 "Join the Inclusion Journey"
🎞️ Clipfinder: Quotes, Hooks, & Timestamps
1
/
2
Jared Karol
Viral Topic: Woke Journey Reflections: "I'd say for the first, you know, eight to 10 years, I was that, you know, newly woke white guy who was telling everyone how unwoke they were until I decided that that wasn't really effective or sustainable, which I'm sure we'll jump into many, many stories of how and why and how I, how I shifted."
Jared Karol
Viral Topic: The Urgency for Social Justice in Education: "But to your point, yeah, we see that the world is unjust, is inequitable, is unfair historically and contemporarily on a micro and macro, on a local and global level. And we want change yesterday."
Jared Karol
Viral Topic: The Value of Diverse Roles in Social Movements: "Not all of us are and can be frontline protesters, rebel rabble rousers. There needs. There need to be caretakers, educators, coaches, storyteller."
Jared Karol
Personal Growth Without Major Events: "We have our own things. We have our own local things, our own personal things, our own, you know, but they're just as important. They're just as."
Jared Karol
Viral Topic: From Trauma-Informed to Healing-Centred Work: "The gist of the book is switching from trauma informed work to healing centred or healing centred, healing engaged. And so his first of the four pivots is from lens to mirror. Right. So the lens is the world is inequitable, unjust, unfair, we need to change it. Here's what we're going to do. So it's not like that goes away or that's wrong, but the mirror is okay, how do I need to change? What am I doing or not doing that's contributing to the chaos, to the, you know, to the status quo?"
Jared Karol
Finding Healing After Loss: "And when he died I decided, and it wasn't with the clarity that I had, but I decided that I would do the work that I described before to understand the injustices, but I would also do my personal work and develop equanimity, develop, cultivate the healing for myself so that I could do the work more effectively."
Jared Karol
Viral Topic: The 'Cultish' Mindset in Modern Groups
Quote: "She said, you know, when, when you know, a leader or a member of a group. And I would say if you've read Woke racism by John McWhorter, he talks about this like the, the Woke mob is kind of a cult. It's like this religion, right? Like either here's, here's the right way to believe and if you, if you deviate from that, then you're going to be excommunicated is, you know, the, the extent of the analogy."
Jared Karol
Holding Complexity Without Self-Destruction: "how do we, how do we hold all of this complexity and nuance without self destructing, without giving up or compromising our values, but also without self and self destructing and causing more chaos, more destruction to others."
Jared Karol
Viral Topic: Social Media Algorithms
Quote: "I'm sure if you asked a hundred people to tell you about the LinkedIn algorithm, you'd get a hundred different, you know, examples of why it's messed up and how we can't figure it out."
Jared Karol
Viral Topic: Healing Through Connection and Letting Go
Quote: "Connection, true connection, whether it's with people you know well and love and maybe live with or any interaction online, at the grocery store, in the community, in traffic centre, connection, however small, and resist the urge to other, to gossip, to dismiss, to ridicule, to mock. You can disagree, but really be so the other, the first agreement of the four agreements is be impeccable with your word."
Custom LinkedIn Post
1
/
1
🎙️ 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸 𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗕𝗶𝘁𝗲𝘀: 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁 🎙️
💥 What if approaching discomfort and disagreement with calm could transform your next tough conversation? Challenge your beliefs in just 60 seconds! 💥
This week, I’m delighted to introduce **Jared Karol**, a personal development coach working at the crossroads of social change and healing. Jared’s superpower? Bringing equanimity to difficult conversations, so people stay present and open, instead of shutting down or fighting back.
Together, we uncover:
🔑 𝗘𝗾𝘂𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗗𝗲𝗲𝗽 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 – Why composure matters when emotions run high, and how it nurtures healthier workplaces.
🔑 𝗟𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗚𝗼 & 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 – The art of releasing our need to be 'right' and building genuine human connections that foster healing.
🔑 𝗪𝗵𝘆 “𝗗𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸” 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗻𝘀 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗲𝗿 & 𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 – Exploring how healing-centred activism leads to sustainable progress in EDI.
**Why Listen?**
"Inclusion is about understanding, and this episode is packed with insights to help you create more #PositivePeopleExperiences."
**About the Podcast**
Each week on *Inclusion Bites*, I bring you thought-provoking conversations that spark real change—because here, we challenge, reflect, and disrupt the status quo.
**What’s your take?** 💭
Have you ever stayed “equanimous” in the face of challenge? Share your thoughts below 👇 or tell us how you cultivate healing and connection in tough situations.
🎧 Listen to the full episode and join the movement: https://seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen
#PositivePeopleExperiences #SmileEngageEducate #InclusionBites #Podcasts #Shorts #Equanimity #HealingCentred #WorkplaceCulture #SocialChange #EmotionalIntelligence
Don't forget to like, subscribe, follow, and share with anyone passionate about making inclusion real. With SEE Change Happen and Jared Karol.
TikTok/Reels/Shorts Video Summary
1
/
1
**Focus Keyword:** Healing at the Heart
**Video Title:** Healing at the Heart: Culture Change Starts Within | #InclusionBitesPodcast
**Tags:** healing at the heart, culture change, positive people experiences, inclusion, belonging, diversity, equanimity, societal transformation, emotional intelligence, mindfulness, personal development, workplace inclusion, inclusive culture, challenge the status quo, healing, empathy, human connection, transformation, sustainable change, social justice, courage, safe spaces, promote healing, mental health, impactful stories
**Killer Quote:** "How can we have firm beliefs and conviction, but remove the charge? We can write with conviction and purpose without being an arsehole." – Jared Karol
**Hashtags:** #HealingAtTheHeart, #CultureChange, #PositivePeopleExperiences, #InclusionBitesPodcast, #Inclusivity, #Belonging, #DiversityMatters, #Mindfulness, #SocialChange, #Equanimity, #Empathy, #EmotionalIntelligence, #PersonalGrowth, #ChangeMaker, #SustainableChange, #Transformation, #SafeSpaces, #Community, #InclusiveLeadership, #SEEChangeHappen
**Summary Description:**
Curious about what real culture change looks like? In this punchy short from the Inclusion Bites Podcast, I dive into the heart of "Healing at the Heart" with personal development coach Jared Karol, exploring how true transformation starts within. This episode unpacks how Positive People Experiences and equanimity fuel lasting change—far beyond surface-level inclusion. If you want to create an impact and nurture belonging, you’ll discover why self-awareness and inner healing matter just as much as external activism. Listen in for raw insights and practical wisdom to drive meaningful change in your organisation, your life, and beyond. Ready to move the dial on culture change? Watch, share, and ignite your spark for inclusion!
**Outro:**
Thank you so much for tuning in! If you found this conversation inspiring, please like and subscribe to the channel for more transformative stories about inclusion and culture change. There’s plenty more to explore on the SEE Change Happen website: [https://seechangehappen.co.uk](https://seechangehappen.co.uk).
Listen to the full episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast at [https://seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen](https://seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen).
Stay curious, stay kind, and stay inclusive – Joanne Lockwood
ℹ️ Introduction
1
/
1
Welcome to another compelling instalment of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, hosted by [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A). In this episode, “Healing at the Heart,” we welcome [Jared Karol](/speakers/C)—personal development coach, social change agent, and advocate for healing-centred leadership. Together, [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) unpack the pivotal role of equanimity in social justice work, drawing on personal stories and lived experience to illustrate how composure, self-awareness, and empathy can transform conflict into connection.
The conversation explores what it means to “do the work” of inclusion—beyond simply waking up to injustice—and why both societal progress and personal healing are essential for real, sustainable change. From navigating difficult conversations without shutting down, to understanding the complex intersections of privilege and marginalisation, this episode deftly challenges listeners to reflect on how anger, purpose, and passion can either divide or unite us. Expect bold insights, practical wisdom, and a fresh perspective on how we can foster belonging, build bridges, and create communities where everyone thrives.
Plug in and prepare for a thought-provoking journey—because at the heart of inclusion, it’s our capacity to heal and connect that drives us forward.
💬 Keywords
1
/
1
inclusion, belonging, societal transformation, equanimity, personal development, social change, healing, difficult conversations, privilege, oppression, marginalisation, discrimination, social justice, activism, protest, political change, coaching, emotional intelligence, emotional regulation, trauma-informed, healing-centred, mindfulness, Buddhism, empathy, awareness, inner work, connection, letting go, community, dialogue
About this Episode
1
/
1
About The Episode:
This episode features Jared Karol, a personal development coach who works at the nexus of social change and healing. Together, we delve into the role of equanimity in navigating marginalisation, challenging conversations, and sustaining authentic impact in inclusion work. Jared’s experience and reflections offer practical perspectives on cultivating emotional resilience, meaningful connection, and healing-centred activism.
Today, we’ll cover:
- Strategies for maintaining composure and presence in difficult conversations about equity, privilege, and social justice.
- How to approach healing as a lifelong process, including the importance of both “lens” (outward change) and “mirror” (self-reflection) perspectives.
- Understanding the continuum of activism, from protest and anger through to advocacy and sustainable social change.
- Ways to avoid polarisation and build dialogue, including practical approaches to calling in rather than calling out.
- How emotional intelligence, self-regulation, and letting go of dogma enable more effective engagement and transformation.
- The significance of life experience and personal awakening in recognising privilege, oppression, and collective suffering.
- Actionable insights on fostering connection, avoiding comparative suffering, and building empathy even when opinions differ.
Listen in for tools and mindsets that help anyone committed to inclusion act with clarity, intention, and compassion.
💡 Speaker bios
1
/
2
Jared Karol’s story is one deeply grounded in the belief that our greatest growth comes from meeting life's ups and downs with composure and poise. Whether in moments of hardship or joy, Jared brings a thoughtful presence to every conversation, encouraging others to face challenges calmly without succumbing to despair or self-deception. He inspires people to find balance—not to get swept away by adversity, nor overly elated by success. For Jared, this balanced approach is the heart of the human experience, guiding himself and others alike to respond with mindfulness, humility, and resilience in all things—trivial, serious, and everything in between.
❇️ Key topics and bullets
1
/
1
Certainly! Here’s a comprehensive sequence of the topics covered in the transcript, with sub-topic bullets outlined under each main theme:
---
**1. Introduction to Inclusion Bites and Episode Context**
- Framing the podcast as a space for bold, change-making conversations around inclusion and belonging
- [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) introduces the guest, [Jared Karol](/speakers/C), and highlights his work at the intersection of social change and healing
---
**2. Personal Connections and Shared Experiences**
- Conversation about living in Oakland, California, and previous visits to the area
- Shared interest in football (soccer) as a tool for cultural and geographical understanding
---
**3. Defining ‘Equanimity’ and Its Relevance**
- [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) explains ‘equanimity’ as composure, poise, and calmness when facing challenges
- The significance of maintaining emotional balance and presence in difficult conversations
---
**4. Reactions to Oppression and Marginalisation**
- [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) discusses the common responses: shutting down or fighting back
- Exploring the challenges of engaging with difficult dialogue without succumbing to these extremes
---
**5. [Jared Karol](/speakers/C)’s Personal Development Journey**
- Reflecting on his privilege as a cisgender, straight, white man and the impetus to do social justice work
- The influential role of his father, who was a gay man and passed away from AIDS, motivating his commitment to DEI
---
**6. Early Approaches to Social Justice Work and Personal Evolution**
- [Jared Karol](/speakers/C)'s initial ‘social justice warrior’ attitude: dogmatic, acerbic, and driven by new revelations
- Recognition of the ineffectiveness of righteousness and the maturing into a more sustainable approach
---
**7. Balancing Activism: The Arc of Change**
- The need for different approaches—direct activism versus political and nuanced lobbying
- Referencing historical leaders (e.g., Mandela, King) who shifted from protest to pragmatic leadership
- The ‘why, what, and how’ model for organising social change roles, noting the necessity of an ecosystem (caretakers, educators, facilitators, etc.)
---
**8. The Power and Practice of Healing**
- Reference to trauma-informed vs. healing-centred approaches in social change (inspired by thinkers like Dr. Shawn Ginwright)
- The importance of personal ‘mirror’ work (self-reflection and changing from within)
- Noting diverse influences, especially people of colour, LGBTQ+ people, and those with lived marginalisation
---
**9. Privilege, Marginalisation, and the Awakening of Empathy**
- [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) recounts her own transition into marginalisation and awareness of injustice
- The difficulty of grasping others’ lived experience without direct or analogous reference points
---
**10. Doing the Work—Internal and External**
- Redefining ‘doing the work’ to encompass both social education and deep inner healing
- [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) recounts his youth, the secrecy and eventual acceptance of his father’s sexuality, and the influence of Buddhist mindfulness practices
---
**11. Connection and Letting Go as Healing Pillars**
- Emphasis on human connection (with family, community, and broader society) as central to individual and collective healing
- The necessity of ‘letting go’—not ignoring struggle, but carrying it more lightly to prevent self-destruction and burnout
---
**12. Equanimity in Action: Navigating Conflict and Online Discourse**
- [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) shares a case study from LinkedIn, facing ridicule and mockery in activism spaces
- The challenge of engaging with ‘woke’ or highly polarised interactions, dealing with ad hominem attacks, and choosing boundaries versus curiosity
---
**13. Empathy, Dehumanisation, and the Social Justice Continuum**
- Identification of the ‘unreal other’ concept, highlighting dehumanisation in activist circles as mirroring oppressive tactics
- The risk of perpetuating cycles of blame, outrage, and ineffective change
---
**14. Behaviour Change and Emotional Regulation**
- Critique of ‘purpose’ being eclipsed by unchecked ‘passion’
- The importance of emotional intelligence, self-regulation, and the value of Buddhist-derived practices (e.g., the Four Agreements, emotional sobriety)
---
**15. The Influence of Social Media and Capitalism**
- Consideration of whether society is more polarised, and the role of media algorithms in fuelling outrage and us-vs-them mindsets
- Reflecting on the capitalist incentives underpinning engagement, branding, and competition online
---
**16. Practical Wisdom: Cultivating Equanimity**
- [Jared Karol](/speakers/C)’s advice: regular meditation or comparable inner work, nurturing connection, resisting the urge to ‘other’ or ridicule, and holding convictions without aggression
---
**17. Closing Reflections and Contact Information**
- Final thoughts on the ongoing journey of inclusion and healing
- Details on connecting with [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) (LinkedIn, Three Arrows Coaching, DJ work)
- [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) invites listeners to contribute to the podcast and keep fostering inclusion
---
This structured sequence reflects the full breadth and depth of the episode's content, providing a clear roadmap for anyone wishing to revisit or analyse the conversation thematically.
The Hook
1
/
1
1. Ever found yourself wound up and ready to bite back... or forced to just shrink away when a conversation gets tough? What if you could stay calm, present—and actually create real change, right there in the heat of the moment? Welcome to the heart of emotional power. Ready to dial into the art of equanimity?
2. Have you ever wondered—what if there’s a way to transform outrage, stress, or the weight of injustice... into genuine clarity and impact? Imagine replacing your old reactions with something that actually changes the room (and maybe even the world). Old rules or something new?
3. “Don’t take anything personally.” Easier said than done, right? But what if mastering that skill unlocked a whole new level of leadership and influence—without losing your fire or your voice? Disrupt. Heal. Lead. But first... are you brave enough to look in the mirror?
4. Stuck between shutting down or fighting back? What if there’s a third way that doesn’t drain your spirit or your purpose? Picture holding your ground—with compassion—and never letting the world’s chaos throw you off balance. Up for the challenge?
5. Ready for conversations that don’t spiral or stall? There’s a secret to staying grounded—even when stakes are high and emotions run hotter than ever. Forget surface-level “self-care.” Think deeper. Curious how healing at the centre sparks real, sustainable change?
🎬 Reel script
1
/
1
On this episode of Inclusion Bites, I sat down with Jared Karol to explore how true social change starts with healing at the heart. We dived into the power of equanimity—staying present and open in tough conversations—and why connection and letting go are key to lasting impact. If you’re ready to move beyond outrage and create real, sustainable change, start with self-awareness, build your emotional intelligence, and remember—transformation always begins within. Join the movement at Inclusion Bites.
🗞️ Newsletter
1
/
1
**Subject:** Healing, Equanimity, and Real Inclusion: Your Latest Bite of Inspiration 🍏
---
Dear Inclusion Bites Community,
Welcome back to another insightful edition of the Inclusion Bites newsletter—where we spark meaningful conversations and champion bold change together.
This week, we’re delighted to share highlights from our powerful episode, “Healing at the Heart,” featuring personal development coach [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) in conversation with our host, [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A). Together, they explore what it truly means to nurture healing and resilience at the very core of social change.
**Episode Spotlights:**
**🧘 Equanimity: The Superpower for Difficult Conversations**
[Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) unfolds [Jared Karol](/speakers/C)’s unique approach to “equanimity”—composure under pressure. It’s not just about staying calm, but about meeting life’s adversities (and privileges) with a level head and open heart. Equanimity, as Jared shares, is a skill honed over decades, vital for keeping dialogue constructive and sustainable—even when emotions run high.
**💚 The Inner Work Matters**
Both speakers bravely dive into their personal journeys, discussing the importance of doing inner healing work alongside activism. [Jared Karol](/speakers/C)’s story—growing up with a gay father during the height of the AIDS crisis—highlights how personal reflection is essential for genuine empathy and resilience. The message: World-changing action starts with self-awareness and emotional regulation.
**🤝 Connection Over Division**
This episode shines a light on the balance between passionate advocacy and effective change. [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) examine why protest and political action are both necessary, but must be anchored in authentic connection, not dogma or divisiveness. Their call to action? Let go of the need to “be right” and lean into curiosity, compassion, and mutual respect—even amidst disagreement.
**🔊 Why This Conversation Matters**
In a world that feels increasingly polarised, Inclusion Bites is your sanctuary for refocusing on humanity. By prioritising inner healing and equanimity, we remind ourselves that dismantling injustice is as much about how we show up as what we fight for.
**Stay Connected & Join the Conversation**
Have thoughts or stories to share? We want to hear from you! Email Joanne at jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk
Missed the latest episode? Listen now: [Inclusion Bites Podcast](https://seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen)
Ready for deeper change? Share this newsletter with a friend, team, or community leader who strives for real inclusion.
Here’s to progressing from thought to action—one bold conversation at a time.
With purpose and curiosity,
The Inclusion Bites Team
P.S. Keep an eye out for more enriching narratives next week. Until then—be bold, be kind, and keep those minds (and hearts) open.
---
#InclusionBites #HealingAtTheHeart #Equanimity #InclusiveCulture #ChangeMakers
🧵 Tweet thread
1
/
1
🧵1/
What does *true* healing look like at the heart of social change? On episode 187 of Inclusion Bites, [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) sits down with [Jared Karol](/speakers/C), a coach with a passion for shifting the conversation from “fighting back” to true equanimity. Let’s dive in 👇 #InclusionBites
2/
[Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) frames this: the reality for many who face oppression is often an agonising choice—shut down and shrink, or bare teeth and fight. But must it always be a binary? [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) insists, “there's a middle path.” #InclusionBites
3/
What’s that “middle path”? Equanimity—an evenness of mind under stress or privilege. [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) shares how, for him, it’s rooted in composure, poise, and self-awareness: “I can handle it, even if it’s hard or I don’t know what to do.” #Equanimity
4/
But how does one get there? [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) reveals his journey: a cis, straight, white man awakened by the AIDS crisis after losing his father, a gay man. The shock led him on a path from dogma and fury to healing and authentic presence. #Storytelling #Healing
5/
“It’s about HOW we do the work,” [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) notes. Whether you’re the frontline protester, the carer, or the quiet educator—sustainable change thrives on diverse methods, shared ecosystems, and inner work as much as strategic action. #DEI #SocialChange
6/
Why do we burn out? Because, as [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) discuss, righteous anger without reflection undermines our purpose. “We want change yesterday, but impatience can morph into righteousness and alienation.” Sound familiar?
7/
The antidote? Healing is rooted in *connection* and *letting go*—not apathy, but releasing the charge so that our convictions can guide rather than consume us. Mindfulness and meditation aren’t escapes but tools for emotional resilience and true impact. #Mindfulness
8/
[Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) adds: “I’ve learnt to see hateful comments as just graffiti on a wall—it’s not really about me.” Imagine if we all practised this emotional sobriety. How much more inclusive and effective could our activism become?
9/
Real change isn’t just about winning arguments, it’s about building bridges—even across disagreement. [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) reminds us that calling in, not calling out, opens space for learning, empathy, and progress.
10/
TL;DR:
- Know your *why*
- Clarify your *role*
- Mind your *how*
- Do the inner work.
Let’s drive change that lasts—not just for attention, but for a more compassionate, equitable world. 🌎 #InclusionBites #PositivePeopleExperiences
🔗 Listen to the full episode: https://seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen
🙌 Got thoughts or want to join the conversation? Reach out to [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) at jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk
Guest's content for their marketing
1
/
1
**Reflections on Guesting: My Journey on the Inclusion Bites Podcast**
I was recently invited to appear as a guest on the Inclusion Bites Podcast, hosted by Joanne Lockwood, and it proved to be both a privilege and a thought-provoking experience. Titled “Healing at the Heart”, our conversation delved deeply into the nuanced intersections of personal development, social change, and the all-important journey of healing—both within ourselves and within our collective spaces.
**Bringing Equanimity to the Forefront**
My work centres on coaching individuals and organisations at the intersection of social change and healing. During the episode, I shared my perspective on equanimity—a concept I have honed over decades as both an educator and advocate. We discussed how equanimity provides the composure needed to navigate the hardships, complexities, and emotional charge that come with tackling injustice and fostering inclusion.
Joanne prompted thoughtful dialogue about the very human responses of “shutting down or fighting back” when faced with oppression or marginalisation. I reflected on my journey as a cisgender, straight white man with significant privilege, and how my motivations transformed from dogmatic social justice warrior to someone who seeks more sustainable, community-building methods of change. We examined how real transformation requires both fiery passion and level-headed pragmatism—what I described as the “why, what, and how” of effective activism.
**Holding Space for Healing and Connection**
One of the most valuable themes we explored was the importance of both “letting go” and “connection” on the road to healing. I shared personal stories about my father, whose experience as a gay man during the height of the AIDS crisis shaped not only my character but my entire approach to inclusion and healing-centred work. Joanne and I both exchanged moments where we confronted loss, privilege, and the opening of doors to empathise with those who have lived their whole lives against the metaphorical wind.
We discussed the difference between “doing the work” to understand others’ struggles and turning inward for personal healing—be it through mindfulness, meditation, or emotional intelligence. True progress, we agreed, cannot be fuelled solely by outrage or identity politics; it must be underpinned by empathy, humility, and a willingness to learn from every lived experience.
**A Call for Sustainable Change**
Our conversation did not shy away from complexity. Whether we were talking about the anatomy of peace, divisiveness on social media, or intentionally fostering spaces for dialogue rather than debate, our insights circled back to one overriding message: healing starts within and radiates outward. Social progress is rooted in emotionally regulated, purpose-driven action rather than performative outrage.
I closed by sharing thoughts from my new programme, “The Three Arrows of Life”, which offers structured support for this journey of personal healing, connection, and purposeful action. It was immensely gratifying to find common ground with Joanne and to realise, through open and honest dialogue, how shared values can change hearts as much as policies.
**Join the Conversation**
Being a guest on the Inclusion Bites Podcast reminded me that change happens one conversation at a time—when we listen deeply, reflect honestly, and show up fully human. If you’re interested in exploring these ideas further, or want to connect around personal coaching, healing, or social impact, I invite you to reach out or listen to the episode. Let’s foster a more inclusive world—one bold, honest conversation at a time.
To listen to my episode and more, visit [Inclusion Bites](https://seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen).
—
Jared Karol
Personal Development Coach
Co-founder, Three Arrows Coaching
[LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaredkarol)
Pain Points and Challenges
1
/
1
Certainly! Drawing directly from the podcast transcript for “Healing at the Heart” on the Inclusion Bites Podcast, here’s a focused analysis of the pain points and challenges raised by [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C), with content tailored to address these issues:
## Key Pain Points & Challenges Discussed
1. **Binary Responses to Oppression and Marginalisation**
- The tendency for individuals facing bullying, discrimination or oppression to either “shut down” or “fight back”, with limited space for nuanced engagement.
- Psychological pressure making it difficult to remain present and open during difficult conversations.
2. **The Sustainability of Social Justice Activism**
- The emotional toll and burnout associated with persistent activism, especially when change is slow or opposition is strong.
- The journey from “angry social justice warrior” to more sustainable, healing-centred approaches.
3. **Personal Healing and Inner Work**
- The underappreciation of inner healing and emotional regulation within the social change sector.
- The need for self-awareness and “equanimity” to manage difficult emotions and become more effective change agents.
4. **Connection Versus Othering**
- The isolation of individuals doing inclusion or social justice work.
- Practices of “othering”, ridicule, and ad hominem attacks within activist discourse that damage community-building and mutual understanding.
5. **Comparative Suffering and Empathy Gaps**
- Comparing pain and suffering, which can erode compassion and solidarity.
- Difficulty in building empathy across divides of privilege and marginalisation.
6. **Polarisation, Thought-Terminating Clichés, and “Woke” Culture**
- The rise of polarised thinking, especially online, where dialogue and curiosity are replaced by thought-terminating clichés and mockery.
- The limitations and risks of “call-out culture” stifling genuine exchange.
7. **Capitalism Driving Outrage and Scarcity Mindset**
- Social media algorithms rewarding outrage, competition, and divisive engagement over true connection and action.
- The commodification of activism and thought leadership.
## Solutions and Proactive Content to Address These Challenges
### 1. Building Dialogue Beyond Binary Reactions
- Encourage facilitation practices that centre on emotional regulation, giving participants the tools to respond with composure under pressure. This can include mindfulness techniques and explicit norms for constructive disagreement.
- Promote frameworks for “calling in” rather than “calling out”, emphasising education, curiosity and honest reflection (e.g., the “lens to mirror” pivot discussed).
### 2. Sustainable Activism & Self-Care
- Advocate for self-reflection routines and collective care in activist spaces, making space for individuals to acknowledge burnout and recalibrate their involvement.
- Celebrate a diversity of social change roles (educators, caretakers, storytellers, lobbyists) following Deepa Iyer’s “social change ecosystem” model, and affirm that “frontline protest” is only one mode among many.
### 3. Prioritising Healing and Emotional Intelligence
- Regularly introduce mindfulness, meditation or journalling into inclusion initiatives, supporting the development of equanimity and emotional sobriety.
- Design workshops and coaching offers that directly address inner work, enabling participants to explore and heal their limiting beliefs and emotional triggers.
### 4. Cultivating Connection and Resisting Othering
- Foster intentional community spaces that centre narrative sharing, active listening and mutual vulnerability.
- Challenge practices of othering and ridicule within activist circles, holding peers accountable for dismantling exclusion both outside and inside the movement.
### 5. Redefining Empathy and Suffering
- Replace “pain comparisons” with practices that honour the spectrum of lived experience, referencing Brene Brown’s work on comparative suffering.
- Engage participants in “empathy mapping” that values intersectionality and multiple points of adversity or privilege.
### 6. Combatting Polarisation and Entrenched Dialogue
- Develop guidelines for digital communication that discourage thought-terminating clichés and encourage open-ended questioning and nuanced perspectives.
- Address “Woke mob” culture through education about the risks of policing thought and undermining curiosity.
### 7. Reframing Capitalist Metrics of Success
- Resist outrage and click-bait strategies in social and organisational communications, prioritising genuine impact and action over likes and views.
- Question the drive for competition within inclusion spaces, promoting a mindset of abundance and collaboration.
-----
**Summary:**
By tackling psychological safety, sustainability, healing, connection, empathy, polarisation, and capitalist distortion head-on, inclusion and diversity practitioners can foster a more effective and caring movement. The stories and frameworks shared by [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) in this episode offer actionable starting points for driving positive, sustainable change in the sector and beyond.
For further listening, deep dives, or support, explore more at [the Inclusion Bites Podcast](https://seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen) and consider reaching out to the host at jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk.
Questions Asked that were insightful
1
/
1
Certainly! Several questions posed during this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast received particularly insightful and thought-provoking responses from [Jared Karol](/speakers/C). These exchanges offer fertile ground for a series of FAQs aimed at listeners interested in social change, healing, inclusion, and effective dialogue. Here are some recommended questions paired with the depth and nuance found in the guest’s answers, all suitable for developing a series of audience FAQs:
---
### Inclusion Bites Podcast: FAQ Series
**1. What does ‘equanimity’ mean in the context of difficult conversations and social change work?**
This was directly explored when [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) asked [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) to elaborate on the term ‘equanimity’, which he uses as his ‘superpower’. [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) described equanimity not just as calmness but as an ongoing practice of composure, poise, and the ability to stay present in the face of both adversity and success without becoming overly reactive. It involves a deep, self-aware confidence that enables individuals to engage meaningfully without shutting down or escalating conflict.
**2. Why do people tend to shut down or fight back in the face of oppression or marginalisation, and how can we cultivate a more productive response?**
[Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) raised this, prompting a powerful reflection from [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) on his own journey from “social justice warrior” to a more sustainable, empathetic approach. He shared that the instinct to shut down or become combative is often a reaction to psychological pressure and that developing skills such as equanimity can help individuals remain present, honest, and open during these moments.
**3. Is there a ‘right way’ to enact social change, or do different roles and approaches serve unique purposes?**
This question emerged in the discussion of activist archetypes, referencing models such as Deepa Iyer’s ‘social change ecosystem’. Both speakers agreed that roles range from frontline protesters to educators, caretakers, and policy advocates. All are necessary for a healthy movement, and individuals often evolve over time from impassioned activism towards more strategic, sustainable pathways.
**4. What is the importance of healing and inner work in facilitating social change?**
[Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) delved deeply into the role of personal healing—be it through mindfulness, reflection, or therapeutic practice—in sustaining long-term change work. [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) described the transition from purely external activism to integrating mirror work, advocating that real change is only possible when individuals tend to their own emotional regulation and healing, alongside systemic efforts.
**5. How can we manage and respond to ad hominem attacks or aggressive online behaviour, particularly in activism and inclusion work?**
The conversation highlighted strategies for managing personal attacks, where both [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) drew upon Buddhist principles and emotional intelligence. The “graffiti on a wall” analogy was particularly evocative: recognising that such attacks are usually not about the recipient but rather the sender’s own anger and projections.
**6. Is contemporary society really becoming more polarised, or are we simply more aware of division due to media and technology?**
This theme was raised towards the episode’s conclusion, questioning whether heightened polarisation is a symptom of current times or simply more visible due to social media algorithms and news cycles. The speakers reflected on how online platforms reward provocation and outrage, which exacerbates feelings of division and hampers constructive dialogue.
---
These core topics—generated from pointed and open questions during the interview—can be developed into a rich FAQ series. Each addresses not only the challenges of inclusion and social justice, but also the psychological, strategic, and relational dimensions underpinning effective change-making.
If you’d like to see these FAQs elaborated further, or wish to focus on particular areas (e.g., emotional regulation, activism strategies, or online behaviour), please specify, and they can be expanded to serve your audience’s needs.
Blog article based on the episode
1
/
1
**Healing at the Heart: Why Equanimity is the Missing Link in Inclusion Work**
What if the real barrier to transformative inclusion was not ignorance or bigotry, but the way we engage with ourselves and each other in the heat of difficult conversations? In Episode 187 of the Inclusion Bites Podcast, aptly titled “Healing at the Heart,” personal development coach [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) joins host [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) to unravel why healing—at a personal and collective level—is an overlooked essential in the fight for genuine belonging.
### The Problem: The Emotional Churn of Social Justice
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) work is as emotionally taxing as it is necessary. Burnout, frustration, and a tendency towards shutdown or combative behaviour often eclipse the good intentions of passionate advocates. [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) crystallises this issue: for those at the margins—those who are bullied or oppressed—the dominant choices are often to “shut down, run away… or come out with teeth showing and growling.” Rarely do we find the space to engage meaningfully and productively when under emotional siege.
But the truth is even starker. As [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) confesses from his own lived experience, the usual toolkit of outrage, dogma, and ‘wokeness’ can alienate not only would-be allies, but even ourselves from our broader purpose. Before equanimity, [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) shares, “I was snarky, acerbic, dogmatic… the newly woke white guy telling everyone how unwoke they were,”—but the change he sought remained elusive.
Why does this pattern persist? The relentless urgency for justice—a lifeblood in DEI—simultaneously sets in motion cycles of “thought-terminating clichés” and the very us-versus-them antagonism we purport to challenge. The podcast cites examples, from online exchanges to the classroom, where the ferocity of belief drowns out dialogue, reflection, and change.
### The Agitation: The Cost of Bypassing Healing
When we operate from perpetual agitation, we condense our roles to educators, warriors, and critics. But what happens when our “why” is consumed by the protest, and the “how” is lost to adversarial engagement? [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) offers a sobering insight: the ‘masters tools’—invective, shaming, dehumanisation—will never dismantle the master’s house. We lose sight of what actually creates sustainable, systemic change.
He shares a story from LinkedIn: reaching out to a fellow DEI professional, [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) is shut down not on the merits of his work, but whether he passes the litmus test on a highly-charged political issue. No dialogue, no exploration—just cancellation. [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) both reflect on how this approach forecloses the very empathy and connection needed to move the needle on inclusion.
And it isn’t just external relationships that suffer. [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) recounts deep, personal healing—navigating the coming out of his father during the AIDS crisis, and how for many years, secrecy and shame were often louder than pride or advocacy. It isn’t until acceptance and dialogue—first with himself—emerged, that the “healing at the heart” truly began, enabling more authentic, impactful advocacy.
### The Solution: The Power of Equanimity
Both [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) are clear: if we are to build inclusive worlds where all can thrive, we must locate ourselves as both mirrors and megaphones—doing not just the outer work of activism, but the inner work of healing. The bridge between suffering and sustainable activism? Equanimity.
What is equanimity, and why does it matter? As [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) explains, it is maintaining composure and presence amid hardship—neither suppressing our pain nor being captive to it. This means:
- **Letting go without giving up**: Not absolving ourselves from the fight for justice, but releasing defensiveness, self-righteousness, and the demand to always be ‘right’.
- **Practising proactive healing**: Whether through meditation, mindfulness, therapy, or another reflective practice, we must cultivate a baseline of emotional regulation. This practice—done consistently—creates the internal spaciousness needed to respond, not react.
- **Prioritising connection**: True connection—be it with colleagues, family, strangers or adversaries—depends on curiosity and presence, not on agreement or defeat.
- **Being impeccable with your word**: As referenced from Don Miguel Ruiz’s “The Four Agreements,” say what you mean without personal attacks, mockery, or gossip. Be clear, but also be kind.
[Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) phrases it incisively: “It's not about my life is tougher than yours… We all have our stuff to deal with and it's not about comparison… Your circumstances are all relative, aren’t they?” There’s power in holding both the urgency and pain of injustice with the grace to see the other—and ourselves—as still human.
### Actionable Items for DEI Professionals and Advocates
1. **Commit to Inner Work:** Establish a regular mindfulness or reflection practice. Dedicate five minutes daily—use apps, guided meditations, or simply observe your breath. Self-knowledge underpins your external impact.
2. **Redefine Success:** It's not the number of views, likes, or takedowns—it's meaningful action and incremental shifts. Seek quality of engagement over quantity, particularly in online spaces.
3. **Dialogue, Not Diatribe:** When confronted with disagreement, ask yourself: am I here to understand, or just to be right? Prioritise curiosity over cancellation.
4. **Embrace Connection:** Make time for honest conversations beyond transactional roles. Seek out diverse stories, especially within your own community. Listen with the intent to learn, not respond.
5. **Let Go of Comparative Pain:** Avoid the trap of “trading pains.” Honour each story, including your own, but resist the hierarchy of suffering.
6. **Set Boundaries with Compassion:** Not every engagement requires your energy. When necessary, disengage kindly, but remain open to future connection.
### The Heart of the Matter—A Call to Action
Inclusion work is, at its essence, both deeply personal and profoundly collective. As [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) illustrates, healing is not a retreat from activism, but its foundation. If we are to build inclusive workplaces, schools, and societies, we must first create space for equanimity in our hearts and minds. Only then do we unlock our potential for courageous, sustainable transformation.
Will you step into the discomfort of healing—which begins with yourself—so that your outer work rings true and endures?
Explore these themes and more by listening to “Healing at the Heart” on the [Inclusion Bites Podcast](https://seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen). Let [Jared Karol](/speakers/C)’s journey inspire the next chapter in your own. And if you’re ready to connect and share your story, reach out to [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) at jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk or join the Inclusion Bites community.
Together, let’s disrupt the norms and heal at the heart—one bold conversation at a time.
#InclusionBites #HealingAtTheHeart #Equanimity #PositivePeopleExperiences
The standout line from this episode
1
/
1
The standout line from this episode is:
"How can we be have firm beliefs and conviction in those beliefs, but remove the charge. So that's a skill that people can and do cultivate where you can say whether you're a speaker, you're a coach, you're a podcast host, you're whatever your role is, you're right, you're a thought Leader on LinkedIn. You can write with conviction and clarity and purpose without being an asshole." – [Jared Karol](/speakers/C)
This encapsulates the core message of the conversation: the importance of holding our values with passion and clarity, but always with emotional intelligence and humility.
❓ Questions
1
/
1
Certainly! Here are 10 discussion questions based on this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast (“Healing at the Heart”), featuring [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C):
1. **Equanimity and Difficult Conversations:** [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) describes equanimity as his superpower in challenging discussions. What does equanimity mean in practice, and how might developing this mindset transform the way organisations approach conflict and inclusion?
2. **The Varied Approaches to Social Change:** Both [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) discuss the spectrum from passionate activism to nuanced, political change-making. How can movements balance the need for protest with more strategic, long-term engagement? Are all roles equally valued in progressing social justice?
3. **Understanding ‘Doing the Work’:** The phrase “do the work” comes up repeatedly. How do each of the speakers define or challenge what it actually means to “do the work” of inclusion and justice, particularly regarding inner transformation versus outward activism?
4. **Impact of Personal Narratives:** [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) shares how his experience with his father’s sexuality and death led him to social justice work. How can personal stories drive systemic change, and what are the risks and rewards in foregrounding personal vulnerability in professional settings?
5. **Emotional Intelligence and Inclusion:** [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) links equanimity to emotional intelligence and self-regulation. In what ways do you see emotional awareness either enabling or impeding progress on inclusion within your circles or workplaces?
6. **Connection Versus Letting Go:** [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) argues that healing requires both connection and letting go. What might “letting go” mean in the context of social justice work, and how does it differ from indifference or disengagement?
7. **Online Discourse and Ad Hominem Attacks:** The episode explores incidents of online hostility when discussing sensitive issues. How can social justice advocates maintain resilience and effectiveness in the face of public ridicule or aggressive criticism online?
8. **“Thought-Terminating Clichés”:** The concept emerges when [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) recounts a shut-down encounter regarding Palestine. How do ‘thought-terminating clichés’ impede dialogue, and how might one invite deeper, more thoughtful engagement instead?
9. **Healing-Centred Approaches:** Referencing figures like Nelson Mandela and Lama Rod Owens, the speakers highlight a shift from trauma-centred to healing-centred activism. What does this pivot look like in real practice, and how might it alter the culture of diversity and inclusion work?
10. **Purpose Versus Passion:** [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) makes a distinction between passion driving activism and purpose sustaining it. How can individuals and organisations discern between the two, and why might this differentiation be critical for sustainable social change?
These questions are designed to provoke self-reflection, group dialogue, and insight into both personal and organisational development around inclusion and belonging.
FAQs from the Episode
1
/
1
### FAQ: Healing at the Heart — Inclusion Bites Podcast Episode 187
**1. What is the central theme of this episode?**
The main focus is on healing and equanimity in the context of social change and inclusion. The discussion explores how to balance passion for justice with sustainable, compassionate approaches to difficult conversations and activism.
**2. Who are the speakers in this episode?**
The host is [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) of SEE Change Happen, and the guest is [Jared Karol](/speakers/C), a personal development coach operating at the intersection of social change and healing.
**3. What does the term 'equanimity' mean in the context of DEI work?**
[Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) describe equanimity as the capacity to handle both adversity and success with composure, poise, and emotional stability. In DEI, it’s about navigating difficult conversations and situations without becoming overwhelmed, defensive, or shutting down.
**4. Why is emotional regulation important in social justice and inclusion work?**
Emotional regulation, or 'emotional sobriety', allows individuals to engage in change-making without causing harm to themselves or others, making their efforts more sustainable and effective. [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) relates this skill to his own journey, highlighting its importance in sparse and heated environments.
**5. How does the episode address the tension between passionate activism and sustainable change?**
The conversation identifies the roles of both passionate protest and more nuanced, pragmatic approaches in driving societal change. [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) acknowledge the need for a spectrum of roles—from frontline protesters to policymakers—to effect meaningful transformation, noting that maturing as a change-maker often means moving toward dialogue, connection, and healing.
**6. What personal stories are shared to illustrate the themes?**
[Jared Karol](/speakers/C) recounts his experience as the son of a gay man and how that shaped his early activism, leading to attempts at healing and self-awareness. He discusses his father’s influence, the significance of connection and letting go, and his journey toward inner work and mindfulness.
**7. What is meant by ‘do the work’ in this episode, and how is it framed?**
‘Doing the work’ is presented as both external (learning about injustice, supporting activism, advocating for policy change) and internal (self-reflection, healing, developing emotional intelligence). [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) stresses that both aspects are equally vital for effective, lasting impact.
**8. Why is connection highlighted as critical in inclusion work?**
Connection prevents isolation and fosters empathy, understanding, and effective communication—even amidst disagreement or difference. [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) explains that deep connection, not just with people we care about but across differences, lies at the heart of sustainable inclusion work.
**9. How do the speakers approach online conflict and polarisation?**
The episode discusses the rise of polarisation, especially on platforms like LinkedIn, and the temptation towards ad hominem attacks. Both [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) advocate for curiosity, empathy, and not taking things personally, while also recognising the influence of competitive and scarcity-driven online environments.
**10. What practical tips are suggested for cultivating equanimity?**
- Develop a meditation or mindfulness practice to proactively build emotional resilience.
- Prioritise connection over conflict, resisting the urge to ridicule or dismiss others.
- Learn to let go of dogma and the ‘need to be right’ without ignoring injustice.
- Invest in inner work to complement your external advocacy.
**11. How can listeners get involved or contact the speakers?**
Listeners are encouraged to reach out to [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) at jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk to join the conversation or share their perspectives. [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) is available on LinkedIn and at threearrowsoflife.com.
**12. What is the ‘master’s tools’ reference about?**
[Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) discuss the idea that using the same dehumanising methods as oppressors (‘the master’s tools’) does not achieve liberation, but perpetuates cycles of harm and polarisation.
**13. Where can I listen to more episodes of Inclusion Bites?**
You can access additional episodes and subscribe at [https://seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen](https://seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen).
---
For deeper engagement, reach out to contribute, suggest a guest, or participate in future bold conversations!
Tell me more about the guest and their views
1
/
1
The guest in this episode is [Jared Karol](/speakers/C), a personal development coach, whose work sits at the intersection of social change and healing. He describes his core superpower as bringing “equanimity to difficult conversations,” enabling people to remain present, honest, and open, rather than shutting down or becoming combative. [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) has accumulated over 25 years’ experience in this field, and his approach is shaped by personal history—particularly influenced by the loss of his father, a gay man who died from AIDS, and from [Jared Karol](/speakers/C)’s own journey from ignorance to active engagement in social issues.
His central philosophy revolves around the concept of equanimity, which he interprets not simply as calm, but also as a grounded presence that helps one hold both suffering and joy without overreacting to either. He maintains that this mindset is crucial for those engaged in DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) and social change work. Rather than riding the highs of performative activism or plummeting into despair and burnout when progress feels slow, [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) encourages a balanced, sustainable approach.
Early in his career, [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) admits he was “snarky, acerbic, dogmatic”—embodying the archetype of a newly ‘woke’ ally who sought to educate through confrontation and righteousness. Over time, he recognised that this approach was neither inclusive nor effective. He has since become a proponent of what he refers to as the “why, what, and how” of social change: knowing your personal motivation (why), understanding your role (what), and critically, being intentional and self-aware in your method (how).
[Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) also discuss the diverse roles that fuel social change - from protestors to educators, caretakers, and storytellers—citing Deepa Iyer’s social change ecosystem. [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) emphasises that lasting transformation requires inner work, including healing, mindfulness, and letting go of attachment to dogma and anger. He draws inspiration from Buddhist meditation and philosophy, as well as contemporary thought-leaders like Lama Rod Owens and Dr Sean Ginwright, who advocate healing-centred as opposed to trauma-informed approaches.
A key theme in [Jared Karol](/speakers/C)’s views is the tension between passion and purpose. He sees passion, when unchecked, as a potential obstacle to genuine connection and lasting impact—it can be divisive or performative, whereas a deep commitment to one’s purpose, grounded in emotional intelligence and self-regulation, is where real change happens.
Recent anecdotes from [Jared Karol](/speakers/C)’s coaching and interactions on social platforms illustrate his belief that reacting to hostility or mockery with anger simply perpetuates conflict. He favours curiosity, connection, and choosing to “let go”—not of fighting for justice, but of behaviours (such as ridicule, dogmatism, or ad hominem attacks) that hinder progress and healing.
Ultimately, [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) champions a humanity-first model: healing oneself enables one to contribute more effectively to healing communities and societies. He highlights the importance of emotional maturity, self-reflection, and a willingness to understand those we disagree with, as the only way to foster meaningful, sustainable inclusion and change.
Ideas for Future Training and Workshops based on this Episode
1
/
1
Certainly. Drawing upon the rich and nuanced conversation between [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) in this episode of Inclusion Bites, future training and workshop ideas can centre around the intersection of social change, healing, and the cultivation of equanimity within the context of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The dialogue explored personal stories, theories of change, emotional intelligence, and the practicalities of sustaining activism, providing a wealth of concepts to build educational experiences.
### 1. Cultivating Equanimity in Difficult Conversations
**Workshop Focus:**
Teach skills for remaining present, honest, and open in challenging DEI dialogues, including techniques for self-regulation, non-reactivity, and avoiding binary reactions (i.e., shutting down or fighting back).
**Core Components:**
- Defining equanimity and its relevance to inclusion work
- Role-playing charged scenarios and practising composure
- Strategies for transitioning between emotional trigger and pragmatic response
- Mindfulness and meditation tasters for emotional regulation
- Case studies based on real workplace interactions
### 2. Healing-Centred Approaches to Social Change
**Training Session:**
Build understanding of the shift from trauma-informed to healing-centred engagement (referencing Dr. Shawn Ginwright’s "lens to mirror" concept mentioned by [Jared Karol](/speakers/C)).
**Elements to Include:**
- Personal narrative work: examining our own stories for insight and healing
- The difference between "doing the work" externally and inner healing
- Group reflection on sources of burnout, cynicism, and self-doubt in activist circles
- Exercises in “letting go” and developing lighter, resilient mindsets
- Creating support networks to foster community and connection within DEI spaces
### 3. The Social Change Ecosystem: Finding Your Role
**Interactive Workshop:**
Use Deepa Iyer’s Social Change Ecosystem framework to help participants identify and embrace their unique roles within the broader movement for inclusion.
**Key Activities:**
- Mapping the "why," "what," and "how" of one’s personal journey
- Role exploration: educator, healer, protester, caretaker, organiser, storyteller, etc.
- Facilitated discussion on balancing passion with purpose
- Strategies for collaborating across “roles” to enact sustainable change
### 4. Emotional Intelligence and Inner Work for DEI Practitioners
**Professional Development Programme:**
Focus on the cultivation of self-awareness, emotional regulation, and emotional sobriety as foundational skills for those leading inclusion efforts.
**Programme Elements:**
- Introduction to emotional intelligence (EQ) and its Buddhist roots
- Self-assessment tools for emotional triggers and reactive patterns
- Guided mindfulness practices relevant to DEI
- Scenario analysis: responding to online hostility, ad hominem attacks, and contentious situations with grace
- Journaling and reflective exercises for ongoing growth
### 5. Facilitating Empathy, Connection, and Community
**Seminar Series:**
Address the importance of authentic relationship-building, empathy beyond comparative suffering, and resisting the urge to "other" or dehumanise, as highlighted in the dialogue.
**Seminar Topics:**
- Building empathy when reference points differ
- Practising curiosity over judgment in dialogue
- The anatomy of peace: heart-at-war vs. heart-at-peace mindsets
- Exercises in nonviolent communication and conflict transformation
- Creating inclusive environments where stories are shared and heard
### 6. Responding to Polarisation and Outrage in Social Media Spaces
**Training for Digital Civility:**
Equip DEI advocates with tools for engaging online—especially on platforms like LinkedIn—without fuelling outrage or clickbait dynamics.
**Curriculum Ideas:**
- Recognising and avoiding thought-terminating clichés
- Managing and responding to ad hominem attacks
- Responsible online activism: balancing reach and meaningful impact
- Campaigning for change: from outrage to action
- Best practices for digital wellbeing
---
Each session could incorporate storytelling, experiential exercises, small group discussions, and practical takeaways tailored to the audience context—HR, leadership, or grassroots activists. By intentionally weaving healing, equanimity, and connection into the training, participants are better equipped not merely to hold their convictions, but to realise real, sustainable, and human-centred change.
For details or to bring one of these workshops to your organisation, reach out to [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) at jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk. More inspiration is always available at [Inclusion Bites Podcast](https://seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen).
🪡 Threads by Instagram
1
/
1
1. Healing and social change start within. [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) explores how equanimity—calm in the face of challenge—helps us show up consciously and sustainably, not just reacting or shutting down, but engaging with courage and honesty.
2. True inclusion means letting go of charged emotions and building real connection. [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) remind us that finding empathy in difficult conversations is key to societal transformation.
3. We all have a role in social change: activists, educators, caretakers, and storytellers. It’s not about shouting the loudest—it’s about understanding our purpose. Change happens when we blend passion with wise action.
4. Emotional intelligence is more than a buzzword—it’s self-awareness, empathy, and regulation. Practise mindfulness, be impeccable with your word, and try to bridge divides, not harden them.
5. Fighting for justice isn’t a call for more division. It’s about clarity, recognising what doesn't work, and choosing sustainable methods. Let’s build a world where everyone thrives—without losing ourselves to outrage.
Leadership Insights - YouTube Short Video Script on Common Problems for Leaders to Address
1
/
1
**Leadership Insights Channel**
Are you a leader struggling to keep calm during tense conversations? It’s a common problem. When faced with criticism, conflict, or resistance, many either shut down or fight back—neither leads to progress.
Here’s a better approach: cultivate equanimity. That means handling both setbacks and success with composure, staying present and open, rather than lashing out or withdrawing. Start by recognising when you’re being triggered. Pause. Take a breath. Ask yourself, “How can I respond rather than react?”
Focus on connecting with others and letting go of the need to be right. Instead, centre on understanding your team’s perspectives and emotions. This not only builds trust but also encourages honest, solution-focused dialogue.
Challenge yourself to practise self-awareness and stay mindful in the heat of the moment. When you lead with balance and genuine connection, you create a culture where everyone can thrive—even in difficult times. That’s the mark of a truly effective leader.
SEO Optimised Titles
1
/
1
1. Healing at the Heart 3 Proven Strategies to Foster Equanimity and Inclusion in 2024 | Jared @ Three Arrows Coaching
2. Emotional Intelligence and Social Change How Inner Work Boosts Sustainable Impact by 80 Percent | Jared @ Three Arrows Coaching
3. From Social Justice Warrior to Healing Leader Stats Behind Effective Diversity Conversations | Jared @ Three Arrows Coaching
Email Newsletter about this Podcast Episode
1
/
1
**Subject: Discover Healing at the Heart – 5 Powerful Lessons from Inclusion Bites Episode 187!**
Hello Inclusion Bites Family,
Are you ready for an episode that goes beyond the usual chatter and truly drills into the heart of what it means to foster inclusion, healing, and authentic connection? Episode 187, "Healing at the Heart," features the brilliant [Jared Karol](/speakers/C), a personal development coach whose journey at the intersection of social change and healing will undoubtedly resonate with you.
Whether you're commuting, relaxing, or just in need of something thought-provoking, this isn’t one to miss! Here’s what you’ll take away from our bold conversation with [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C):
**5 Keys Listeners Will Learn:**
1. **Equanimity as a Superpower** – Discover what it means to bring calm, poise, and composure to difficult conversations, and why not freaking out or getting too elated is so powerful.
2. **The Role of Inner Work in Social Change** – Why personal healing and self-awareness (yes, even a bit of meditation!) are critical for sustainable activism.
3. **Navigating Passion vs Purpose** – Learn how unchecked passion can sometimes overshadow your true purpose, and how letting go can bring clarity.
4. **Connection versus Othering** – Unpack why real change happens through genuine connections—not through shutting down, fighting back, or dehumanising others.
5. **The Three Perspectives for Impactful Activism** – Explore the ‘why’, ‘what’, and ‘how’ of social change work, including Deepa Iyer’s Social Change Ecosystem Model to see where you fit in the movement.
**A Unique Fact Shared:**
Did you know [Jared Karol](/speakers/C)’s transformative journey began with his father, a gay man who passed away from AIDS in 2000? The powerful story of finding healing in Buddhist meditation circles shines a new light on the importance of inner work in a world often driven by external activism.
**Ready to Spark Change?**
Tune in and engage with real, gritty, and reflective insights that you can bring back to your own journey, professional practice, or community. Plus, don’t be shy—reply to this email or message [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) at jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk if you want to join the conversation, share your thoughts, or even sit in the hot seat for a future episode!
**Let’s Wrap It Up the Right Way:**
Healing at the Heart reminds us: meaningful progress begins within, and ripples out when we connect—rather than clash—with those around us. Subscribe now, share this episode with someone who’d benefit, and keep driving change through thoughtful action, one bite at a time.
Stay bold, stay kind, and catch you on the next Inclusion Bite!
Warmly,
The Inclusion Bites Podcast Team
Listen and subscribe: [Inclusion Bites Podcast](https://seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen)
#InclusionBites #PositivePeopleExperiences #DriveChangeTogether
Potted Summary
1
/
1
**Episode Summary**
In “Healing at the Heart,” [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) welcomes [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) for a deeply reflective exchange. Together, they navigate the complexities of social change, healing, and personal growth, exploring equanimity as a superpower in difficult conversations. From coaching at the intersection of social justice to the nuances of letting go and fostering sustainable activism, this episode invites listeners into a journey of emotional intelligence and connection.
---
**In this conversation we discuss**
👉 Equanimity in action
👉 The arc of activism
👉 Healing through connection
---
**Here are a few of our favourite quotable moments**
- “Two things cultivate healing, two areas of mindset, connection and letting go.” — [Jared Karol](/speakers/C)
- “We meditate so we can cultivate the behaviours and the mindsets that we want to have when the hard stuff happens.” — [Jared Karol](/speakers/C)
- “It’s so easy to dismiss people who don’t get it, who don’t want to get it, who are hurtful, harmful, but the ways we’ve been going about it aren’t working.” — [Jared Karol](/speakers/C)
---
**Listen and Reflect**
Immerse yourself in this thought-provoking episode as [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) present poignant insights on emotional regulation, the journey from activism to healing, and centring connection for real change. Challenge your perspectives—tune in to Inclusion Bites and ignite your spark for sustainable inclusion. Listen now at https://seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen.
LinkedIn Poll
1
/
1
**LinkedIn Poll Context:**
In Episode 187 of the Inclusion Bites Podcast, "Healing at the Heart," [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) explored how we handle difficult conversations around inclusion and social justice. They discussed the importance of equanimity, emotional intelligence, and balancing activism with inner healing to drive effective, sustainable change. As we strive to create more inclusive communities, learning how to remain open, present, and connected—even in the face of challenge—is vital.
**Poll Question:**
What helps you stay open and effective in tough inclusion conversations? #InclusionBites #HealingAtTheHeart #Belonging #Equanimity
**Poll Options:**
1️⃣ Practising mindfulness 🧘
2️⃣ Seeking honest dialogue 🗣️
3️⃣ Letting go of being "right" 🤝
4️⃣ Building diverse connections 🌍
**Why vote?**
Your insights can shape how leaders and changemakers approach inclusive dialogue. Help us spotlight the most impactful strategies for transforming debate into collaboration and positive action.
Highlight the Importance of this topic on LinkedIn
1
/
1
Just listened to "Healing at the Heart" on the Inclusion Bites Podcast – absolutely essential for anyone in HR or EDI leadership! 🎧✨
Why does this conversation matter?
- [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) dive deep into the power of equanimity in challenging conversations – a game-changer for our profession.
- Jared’s story about personal healing and self-awareness reminds us: sustainable social change starts within.
- The episode tackles how passion, trauma, and our purpose intersect – and how true connection, not division, drives lasting impact.
- This is not just theory. It’s a call for emotional intelligence, self-reflection, and dialogue that goes beyond surface-level activism.
In times when polarisation and ‘thought-terminating clichés’ shut down progress, the skills discussed here can help us create safer, more inclusive cultures at every level. 💪🏽🌍
A must-listen for anyone serious about driving real change in people, culture, and society!
#InclusionBites #HR #EDI #SelfAwareness #Healing #SocialChange #EmotionalIntelligence #Belonging #Leadership
L&D Insights
1
/
1
Absolutely! Here’s an L&D expert’s summary, geared for Senior Leaders, HR, and EDI professionals, extracting key insights, strategic “aha moments,” and actionable shifts informed directly by the conversation between [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) in the Inclusion Bites episode “Healing at the Heart.”
---
**Key Insights for Senior Leaders, HR, and EDI Professionals**
---
**1. Equanimity is Essential—Not Optional 🧘♂️**
The episode places “equanimity” front and centre as a pivotal competency in both individual and organisational responses to challenge and change. [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) reframes our understanding: true inclusion work isn’t just about content knowledge but emotional composure—the ability to stay present, honest, and open in difficult conversations. This steadiness allows conversations to progress beyond binary confrontation.
**2. Healing and Advocacy Must Go Together ❤️🩹**
Professionals are cautioned against binary approaches—either militant activism or bureaucratic, depersonalised ‘logic’. “Healing” is not withdrawal from the cause; it’s the necessary inner work (emotional regulation, self-reflection, connection) that ensures resilience and sustainability in activism. [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) openly shares how his journey pivoted from early fiery advocacy to a more reflective, sustainable model—one grounded in both connection and letting go.
**3. ‘Do the Work’ Means Inner AND Outer Work 🌱**
The expectation that professionals “do the work” in EDI is often misused to mean simply ‘get woke’ or build intellectual understanding. The conversation makes plain: it’s equally about doing the healing/inner work on yourself so you can show up sustainably, empathetically, and without perpetuating cycles of anger, burnout, or divisiveness.
**4. The ‘How’ Matters as Much as the ‘What’ 🛠️**
The “aha!” for many will be that method—*how* you engage, not just *what* you do—drives outcomes. Combative or righteous approaches frequently create resistance rather than dialogue. [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) reinforce that emotional intelligence, curiosity, and genuine dialogue underpin effective inclusion practice. Calling-in, not just calling-out, is presented as the truly transformative path.
**5. Comparative Suffering and Dehumanisation are Traps ⚖️**
A profound insight is how quickly we slide into “trading pain” or seeking to be “more marginalised” to justify our approach or shut down dissent. The episode warns that this fuels the same cycles of dehumanisation that underpin systemic injustice. Leaders are reminded to acknowledge context without diminishing the suffering or lived experience of others.
---
**“Aha Moments”**
---
- **Equanimity Enables Change:** The real magic is in being able to hold space, stay steady, and engage—these are the underused superpowers of true change leaders.
- **Self-Regulation Drives Inclusion:** Emotional intelligence is not peripheral—it *is* the work. Healing-centred engagement isn’t weak, it’s essential for courageous action.
- **Activism and Healing Co-exist:** Marchers and politicians both play a role. A thriving EDI ecosystem needs activists, reflectors, storytellers—all forms of advocacy—and the humility to shift roles as careers and contexts evolve.
---
**Practical Behaviour Changes for Professionals**
---
1. **Cultivate a Practice of “Equanimity”:** Introduce regular mindfulness or reflective pause to your leadership style—embed emotional regulation and self-awareness as leadership staples, not add-ons.
2. **Champion Healing Work:** Normalise the language of healing (not just resilience or toughness) in your team and your strategy. Question: “Are we connecting? Are we letting go of what we need to?”
3. **Prioritise Connection Over Being Right:** Shift from performative ‘calling out’ to meaningful ‘calling in’. Use curiosity, not confrontation, as your primary tool. Ask, “What do I not yet understand about this colleague’s perspective?”
4. **Acknowledge All Experiences—Don’t Compare Suffering:** Recognise and validate the unique stories in your workforce without creating hierarchies of pain or struggle.
5. **Balance Passion and Purpose:** Encourage your teams to reflect: is our passion obscuring our deeper purpose? Are we acting from defensiveness or from a desire to build something lasting?
---
**Social Sharing Hashtags**
- #EquanimityInLeadership
- #HealingAtWork
- #InclusionBites
- #InnerWorkOuterImpact
- #EmotionalIntelligence
---
**Summary**
If you’re leading people, shaping HR policy or spearheading EDI, this episode is your nudge to move from performative inclusion to embodied, sustainable culture change—by doing your inner work alongside your outer advocacy.
**Tune in to the full episode for more context at:** [Inclusion Bites](https://seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen)
**Contact [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A):** jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk
---
✨ True inclusion starts within. Is your practice as steady on the inside as it is bold on the outside?
Shorts Video Script
1
/
1
**Attention-grabbing video title:**
Unlocking Real Change: Why Inner Healing Matters in Social Justice #InclusionMatters
**Hashtags for posting:**
#Belonging #SocialChange #HealingTogether #Equanimity #EmotionalIntelligence
**[Text on screen: The REAL Secret to Social Justice ✨]**
What does it *really* take to drive meaningful change in our communities, workplaces, and society? Let's talk honestly—because it's not just about activism, protests, or policies.
**[Text on screen: Inner Work Matters 💭]**
If we're passionate about inclusion and fighting injustice, then we've got to start from within. Inner healing is *crucial*. By understanding our own beliefs, emotions, and triggers, we become resilient, calmer, and far more effective at challenging the status quo—but without burning out.
**[Text on screen: Connection Changes Everything 🤝]**
Social change isn’t just a solo mission. True change happens through genuine connections. When we pause and seek to understand others’ stories—not just argue or convince—we start building empathy. Dismissing or mocking only deepens division. Real growth happens through curiosity and dialogue.
**[Text on screen: Let Go of the Noise 🧘♂️]**
Here’s something vital: let go of the urge to be *right* all the time. Being charged and dogmatic might feel powerful, but it rarely changes minds. Instead, try shifting from outrage to purpose. Focus on what makes a lasting impact. Emotional intelligence, equanimity, and self-regulation are all tools we can sharpen to navigate those tough conversations.
**[Text on screen: Everyone Plays a Role 🗺️]**
Remember, not everyone will be a frontline protester. Change needs educators, carers, coaches, storytellers—all sorts. Find your role, and lean into it with clarity and intention.
**[Text on screen: Take Action Today 🚀]**
So, tune in to yourself. Practise mindfulness or meditation. Actively seek connection with others. Let go of what no longer serves you. That’s how we drive inclusion and real, sustainable change—from the inside out.
Thanks for watching! Remember, together we can make a difference. Stay connected, stay inclusive! See you next time. ✨
Glossary of Terms and Phrases
1
/
1
```markdown
## Less Common Concepts and Terms Discussed in "Healing at the Heart" — Definitions
1. **Equanimity**
- *Definition (as implied in the episode):*
A state of mental calmness, composure, and even-mindedness, particularly in difficult situations. Not being excessively elated by success nor overly dejected by setbacks. [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) describes it as handling the hardships and joys of life with poise and inner stability, helping individuals remain present and open in challenging conversations rather than shutting down or reacting defensively.
2. **Thought-Terminating Cliché**
- *Definition (as discussed):*
Phrases or responses that are used to end or avoid deeper thinking or dialogue, often deployed to dismiss nuance or shut down further conversation. In the context of the episode, such clichés prevent meaningful engagement and understanding of complex topics.
3. **Social Justice Warrior**
- *Definition (contextual):*
Originally used pejoratively, in this episode it refers to individuals who are aggressively vocal about social justice issues, sometimes described as newly 'woke,' and who can be dogmatic or confrontational in their approach to activism.
4. **Lens to Mirror Pivot**
- *Definition (as referenced from Dr. Shawn Ginwright):*
A conceptual shift in social change work:
- *Lens* = Focusing outwardly on the injustices and problems of the world.
- *Mirror* = Turning inward to reflect on how one's own attitudes, behaviours, and healing needs impact their activism and effectiveness in social change.
5. **Master’s Tools Will Never Dismantle the Master’s House**
- *Definition (contextual):*
A reference (attributed to Audre Lorde) meaning that oppressive systems cannot be dismantled using the same attitudes, methods, or power dynamics that sustain them. It questions whether replicating aggression or intolerance, even "for a just cause," can actually produce liberation or justice.
6. **Ad Hominem Attack**
- *Definition (as used):*
A rhetorical strategy where someone attacks an opponent’s character or identity rather than addressing the substance of their argument or perspective. These are presented as personal attacks rather than topic-specific debate.
7. **Calling In vs. Calling Out**
- *Definition (implied):*
- *Calling Out*: Publicly criticising or shaming someone for problematic behaviour or opinions.
- *Calling In*: Inviting others into dialogue and offering education or perspective in a more constructive, supportive manner, with the aim of fostering genuine growth or understanding.
8. **Unreal Other**
- *Definition (as used):*
The process of dehumanising an individual or group to the extent that they are seen as invalid, unworthy of empathy, or even beneath consideration. This concept relates to oppression, marginalisation, and exclusion by rendering people as "other" rather than fully human.
9. **Comparative Suffering**
- *Definition (referenced conceptually):*
The notion of weighing and comparing one person’s suffering or hardship against another’s, often as a way to invalidate or diminish someone’s experience. The episode highlights how this mindset is unhelpful and can hinder genuine connection and empathy.
10. **Healing-Centred Engagement**
- *Definition (from the episode via Dr. Shawn Ginwright):*
Moving from a 'trauma-informed' approach (focused on the problem and pain) to a 'healing-centred' one that prioritises growth, resilience, and self-awareness in change-making and activism.
11. **Emotional Sobriety**
- *Definition (as mentioned):*
The capacity to self-regulate one’s emotions and maintain balance, especially during emotionally charged situations, linked to the concept of equanimity and emotional intelligence.
12. **Outrage Bait**
- *Definition (contextual):*
Content—typically on social media—designed specifically to provoke strong emotional reactions, particularly anger or outrage, in order to drive engagement or visibility.
13. **Social Change Ecosystem**
- *Definition (referenced via Deepa Iyer):*
A framework illustrating that effective social change requires a combination of roles (e.g., rebels, organisers, storytellers, coaches, caregivers) and not everyone should or can play the same part in driving societal transformation.
14. **Letting Go (as a healing practice)**
- *Definition (contextual):*
Not ignoring or suppressing challenges, but releasing unhelpful rumination, heavy emotional burden, or dogma in order to bring a lighter, more sustainable energy to activism, dialogue, or daily life.
15. **Be Impeccable with Your Word**
- *Definition (as referenced from The Four Agreements):*
Speaking with integrity and care, being honest and kind, and only saying what you mean—presented as foundational for effective communication and self-leadership.
---
These concepts, while present in specialist circles within social change and personal development, are seldom used in mainstream conversation with such specificity or depth as demonstrated in this episode.
```
SEO Optimised YouTube Content
1
/
1
**Focus Keyword:** Healing at the Heart
---
### Title
Healing at the Heart: The Power of Equanimity for Culture Change | #InclusionBitesPodcast
---
### Tags
Tags: Healing at the Heart, culture change, Positive People Experiences, inclusion, equanimity, diversity, belonging, personal development, inner work, emotional intelligence, sustainable change, DEI, social justice, letting go, connection, workplace inclusion, allyship, healing centred, inclusion podcast, mindset shift, empathy, transformation, societal change, Joanne Lockwood, Jared Karol
---
### Killer Quote
Killer Quote: "How can we have firm beliefs and conviction in those beliefs but remove the charge?" – Jared Karol
---
### Hashtags
Hashtags: #HealingAtTheHeart, #CultureChange, #PositivePeopleExperiences, #InclusionBites, #InclusionPodcast, #Belonging, #Equanimity, #DEI, #SustainableChange, #MindsetShift, #EmpathyAtWork, #JoanneLockwood, #JaredKarol, #InnerWork, #AuthenticInclusion, #LettingGo, #ConnectionMatters, #SelfAwareness, #HealingCentred, #SocietalChange
---
## Why Listen
In this episode of Inclusion Bites, we’re diving ‘Healing at the Heart’, a conversation designed to spark the culture change we all crave. As your host, Joanne Lockwood, I take you directly to the intersection where inclusion meets true healing, joined by the insightful personal development coach, Jared Karol.
Our focus keyword for this episode, Healing at the Heart, isn’t simply about self-help mantras; it’s about the rigorous inner work underpinning Positive People Experiences and authentic culture change. Too often, organisational change and DEI attempts are derailed by reactivity, polarisation, and shallow “optics.” Here, Jared and I examine how equanimity—remaining present, honest, and open, even during uncomfortable conversations—can genuinely transform environments and ourselves.
Why should you listen? Simply put, if you’re an HR leader, change driver, or anyone determined to foster a thriving, inclusive culture, this conversation opens the door to what mainstream DEI initiatives frequently miss: the need for personal healing as a basis for real change. We discuss how genuine culture change cannot be sustained by “calling out” alone, nor by mere intellectual acknowledgement of injustice—transformation starts from within.
Jared shares his moving personal journey, including how his father’s coming out and passing from AIDS catalysed his own awakening. This led him to embrace mindfulness, meditation, and a healing-centred approach to social impact. You’ll hear concrete discussion of how shutting down or fighting back are default reactions to marginalisation—but there’s a powerful alternative in cultivating equanimity. This isn’t about spiritual bypass; it’s about building emotional intelligence and self-awareness (the true underpinnings of a psychologically safe workplace).
We probe why culture change depends on understanding the “why”, “what”, and “how” of this work—and how a single, rigid approach (the angry “woke” calling-out or even performative allyship) is not enough. Real sustainable impact arises when we can sit with discomfort, listen deeply, and avoid perpetuating cycles of trauma, defensiveness, and blame. After all, no one was ever shamed into genuine inclusion.
Throughout our dialogue, we uplift the essential role of diverse approaches – from passionate advocates and protesters to those who transform systems quietly, via policy, coaching, or storytelling. Whatever your natural strengths, there’s a place for you in this movement—provided we commit to our own healing and emotional regulation, and to truly connecting over simply proving our point.
We also take a real-world look at social media “debate” and its impact on culture. From the LinkedIn controversy Jared recounts, where dialogue is shut down by derision or purity tests, to the daily experience of ad hominem attacks, we reflect on how we can resist this adversarial posture. Instead, can we show up in the spirit of connection, curiosity, and letting go—while not letting go of justice itself?
Listeners, you’ll receive practical insights: the difference between purpose and passion, why mindfulness and meditation are essential tools for inclusivity, and how letting go of emotional “charge” helps you achieve conviction without “colluding with chaos.” If you want to see lasting inclusion—not just performative statements or reactive outrage—this is your episode.
This conversation is a must-listen for anyone invested in culture change, workplace wellbeing, and Positive People Experiences. We’ll equip you with frameworks, language, and living examples you can take back to your teams, boardrooms, or communities. Expect honest stories, challenging questions and plenty of actionable wisdom.
---
## Closing Summary and Call to Action
**Key Learning Points and Actionable Insights:**
1. **Healing Is Foundational to Culture Change:**
Cultivating healing within is essential for effecting real, lasting change in the workplace and society. Without personal healing and emotional clarity, DEI efforts too easily fracture into blame and defensiveness.
2. **Equanimity Is Action, Not Passivity:**
Practising equanimity—remaining composed and present amid challenge—is a proactive choice. It means consciously deciding not to be either combative or withdrawn, but instead standing our ground with both conviction and maturity. Reflect: In your own working life, how often do you react rather than respond?
3. **Multiple Roles Are Needed for Change:**
As Jared and I highlight, there’s no single “right” posture: from frontline activists to subtle influencers in HR and leadership, change requires storytellers, educators, and bridge builders. Ask yourself: What role do you naturally occupy? Can you stretch into new ones as needed, without judgement of others’ approaches?
4. **Purpose Over Passion:**
Passion without self-reflection can lead to burnout or adversarial exchanges, derailing Positive People Experiences. Rediscover your core purpose—your “why”—and align your actions accordingly. Are you driving connection, or just adding to the noise?
5. **Transformative Inclusion Begins with Inner Work:**
Tools like mindfulness, meditation, or reflective journalling are not soft skills; they are integral to building the emotional intelligence and self-regulation necessary for inclusive leadership and courageous conversations. Start small: Can you bring one deliberate pause into your next charged discussion?
6. **Let Go of the Us-Versus-Them Binary:**
Challenge yourself to connect with others’ humanity before their opinion. When the focus becomes “winning” or being “right,” culture change is lost. Try: In the face of disagreement, seek understanding rather than the last word.
7. **Turning Pain Into Purpose:**
Both Jared and I speak candidly about our journeys through marginalisation and loss, and how these shape empathy. Use your pain—rather than letting it calcify into resentment—as a springboard for greater compassion and effectiveness.
8. **Healing Is for Everyone—not Just the Marginalised:**
Healing-centred practices serve all of us: those with privilege and those who have been historically marginalised. It is not your circumstances but your response that determines your power to create change.
9. **Resist Thought-Terminating Clichés:**
Avoid responding to complex issues with simplistic slogans or “purity tests.” Real conversations—especially in the age of social media—require patience and intellectual honesty. Practise: When tempted to dismiss, pursue curiosity instead.
10. **Embrace Connection and Letting Go Every Day:**
Make it a daily practice to find small moments of genuine connection—with colleagues, strangers, and even those you disagree with. Equally, commit to letting go of emotional baggage that does not serve you or your purpose.
11. **Adopt Emotional Sobriety:**
As explored in the episode, cultivate the ability to remain steady, balanced, and non-reactive—especially in volatile scenarios. This “emotional sobriety” is the bedrock of mature leadership and sustainable inclusion.
12. **Understand the Limitations of Outrage:**
High-volume, reactionary outrage rarely leads to sustainable change or culture transformation. Far more impactful is a nuanced, thoughtful challenge—what we call “calling in” rather than “calling out.”
13. **Recognise the Power of Small Actions:**
Whether five people take meaningful action or a million react, true change is measured by real-world impact, not online traffic or “outrage bait.” Consider: What’s your metric for success?
14. **Practise Non-attachment (Let Go of the Charge):**
Advocate for justice and inclusion, but do so without personalising attacks or holding onto emotional overwhelm. What traditions or tools might help you “set the charge down”?
15. **Balance Empathy and Boundaries:**
Connection is central, but so are boundaries—emotional and otherwise. It’s possible to remain open and compassionate without absorbing others’ negativity.
16. **Emotional Intelligence Is Teachability:**
Leaders at every level can and should focus on developing emotional intelligence—self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy and social skills. This is the scaffolding of an inclusive culture.
17. **Foster a Reflective Practice:**
Make time regularly for self-examination: Where did I react unconsciously? Where did I act from my values?
18. **Champion Psychological Safety:**
By de-escalating drama and centring emotional safety, you enable teams and individuals to show up authentically and creatively—all foundational to Positive People Experiences.
19. **Take Responsibility for Your Triggers:**
Use every “trigger” as an opportunity to explore and understand, not to escalate or retreat.
20. **Stay Curious, Stay Engaged:**
As always on Inclusion Bites, the path forward requires curiosity, active listening, and a willingness to keep showing up, even when the stakes are high and the terrain is uncertain.
**Call to Action:**
Bring these insights back to your sphere of influence. Start with your next team meeting, online conversation, or family discussion. Practise curiosity, equanimity, and healing. Join the growing Inclusion Bites community—subscribe, share, and reflect with us as we ignite inclusion and drive sustainable, Positive People Experiences through real, human-centred culture change.
---
## Outro
Thank you for tuning into this episode of Inclusion Bites. If you found this conversation on Healing at the Heart and culture change valuable, please like, subscribe, and share it—let’s amplify voices making a difference in the world of inclusion. To discover more episodes and insights, visit:
SEE Change Happen website: https://seechangehappen.co.uk
The Inclusion Bites Podcast: https://seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen
Stay curious, stay kind, and stay inclusive – Joanne Lockwood
Root Cause Analyst - Why!
1
/
1
Certainly. Below is a structured root cause analysis of the main problems surfaced in this episode of Inclusion Bites, “Healing at the Heart”, featuring [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C):
---
**Key Problem 1:**
*Conversations around inclusion, social justice, and marginalisation often become polarised, unproductive, and emotionally charged, leading to disengagement or conflict rather than resolution and sustainable change.*
### 1. Why does this problem exist?
Because individuals tend to respond to difficult or emotionally charged discussions with either withdrawal (“shutting down”) or defensiveness (“fighting back”), rather than maintaining composure and openness (“equanimity”).
### 2. Why do individuals tend to shut down or become defensive?
Because lived experiences of marginalisation or privilege, together with strong personal convictions, generate intense emotional responses that are difficult to regulate in challenging situations.
### 3. Why is it difficult to regulate these emotional responses?
Because many people lack the tools, training, or ongoing practise in emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and inner healing, which are necessary to bridge the gap between passionate beliefs and constructive, collaborative engagement.
### 4. Why do people lack these tools or experience with inner healing and emotional intelligence?
Because most education and training in DEI and social justice spaces focus on understanding external systems (“the lens”) and activism (“the what”), rather than prioritising inner work (“the mirror”) and sustainable approaches to personal wellbeing.
### 5. Why is the focus on external systems rather than internal self-awareness and healing?
Because of historic and systemic urgency to address injustices (“change needed yesterday”), which prioritises immediate action and advocacy over reflection and the cultivation of sustainable, healing-centred frameworks.
---
**Key Problem 2:**
*Adversarial or dogmatic behaviours (e.g., online mockery or shutting down engagement) block opportunities for meaningful dialogue and mutual understanding.*
### 1. Why does this happen?
Because charged issues and identity-based pain lead individuals to perceive those who disagree or lack visible support as “unreal others,” dehumanising and excluding them from dialogue.
### 2. Why do individuals dehumanise or exclude others in this way?
Because high emotional investment in a cause can produce rigid “us vs. them” mentalities, reinforced by social media echo chambers and lack of nuanced discourse.
### 3. Why is there high emotional investment and echo chamber reinforcement?
Because ongoing societal trauma, historical injustice, and current events sustain a collective sense of threat and urgency, amplified through online spaces that reward outrage over nuance.
### 4. Why are online spaces rewarding outrage and polarisation?
Because algorithms and digital capitalism privilege engagement—often in the form of controversy or “outrage bait”—over meaningful debate, incentivising provocative posts over educational content.
### 5. Why is digital engagement prioritised over genuine dialogue?
Because the business models of mainstream platforms profit from attention and division, rather than from measured, healing-centred conversations.
---
**Root Cause Summary**
Across both problems, the root causes converge around:
- **Societal and systemic prioritisation of activism over healing and self-reflection**
- **Lack of widespread emotional regulation and equanimity skills**
- **Digital and social structures that favour controversy and polarity over connection and understanding**
---
**Suggested Solutions**
1. **Embed Self-Reflection and Healing:**
Encourage DEI professionals, social justice advocates, and leaders to balance the external focus (“lens”) with deep inner work (“mirror”)—as [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) recommends. Offer training in emotional intelligence, mindfulness, and healing-centred approaches.
2. **Model and Reward Equanimity:**
Highlight and multiply stories, case studies, and leadership examples (such as [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A), [Jared Karol](/speakers/C), Nelson Mandela, or Thich Nhat Hanh) who demonstrate equanimity, healing, and bridge-building. Incorporate these narratives into organisational cultures and public discourse.
3. **Foster Thoughtful Dialogue Spaces:**
Develop and curate digital forums, workshops, and communities where curiosity, empathy, and inquiry are valued over binary arguments or performative outrage. Invest in moderating and designing these spaces to reward nuance and genuine exchange.
4. **Update DEI/Activism Frameworks:**
Shift part of the training and development focus from pure advocacy and identity politics towards skills-building around resilience, letting go of ego attachment to being “right”, and practising non-violent communication.
5. **Advocate Platform Reform:**
Where possible, influence or campaign for social media platforms to incentivise meaningful conversation (e.g., quality scoring systems, highlighting collaborative posts, de-amplifying divisive content).
---
**Conclusion**
Addressing polarisation and emotional dysregulation in social justice and inclusion work requires a structural shift toward integrating healing, self-awareness, and equanimity as core competencies—not just for “privileged” identities, but as essential for everyone seeking sustainable change. Only by healing at the heart can effective, inclusive, and lasting transformation become the norm rather than the exception.
Canva Slider Checklist
1
/
1
| Opening Slide |
|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Discover five essential best practice checkpoints for fostering sustainable inclusion and healing-centred leadership in your organisation. Use these insights to ensure your culture of belonging is driven by self-awareness, connection, and authentic, emotionally intelligent engagement at every level. Create real, lasting change—starting from within. |
| Slide 1: Embrace Equanimity in Challenging Conversations |
|---------------------------------------------------------------|
| Foster an environment where difficult topics can be addressed calmly and openly. Encourage composure, poise, and mindful self-awareness in all discussions—especially around issues of equity and inclusion—to prevent shutdowns and adversarial reactions. |
| Slide 2: Prioritise Inner Work and Emotional Regulation |
|---------------------------------------------------------------|
| Invest in personal development practices such as mindfulness or reflective self-assessment. Cultivate emotional intelligence across leadership to build resilience and sustain effective change, even when confronted with resistance or emotionally charged situations. |
| Slide 3: Value the Power of Connection and Storytelling |
|---------------------------------------------------------------|
| Centre workplace wellbeing and inclusion on genuine connection, empathy, and curiosity. Prioritise sharing personal stories to humanise experiences of marginalisation while also acknowledging the diverse journeys of your people. Use this as the foundation for collective understanding. |
| Slide 4: Encourage Nuanced, Sustainable Change |
|---------------------------------------------------------------|
| Strike a balance between activism and strategic advocacy. Recognise the need for a range of roles—educators, organisers, policymakers, caretakers—and value political, community, and individual levers for sustainable progress. Change is most effective when all approaches are embraced. |
| Slide 5: Let Go of Othering and Cultivate Healing |
|---------------------------------------------------------------|
| Shift organisational culture away from judgement, blame, or rigid “us versus them” mindsets. Promote dialogue, active listening, and letting go of dogma. Support ongoing healing practices to build lasting bridges, reduce polarisation, and prevent burnout on your EDI journey. |
| Closing Slide |
|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| For bespoke guidance on embedding healing-centred inclusion in your organisation, connect with Joanne Lockwood and SEE Change Happen. Visit https://seechangehappen.co.uk to start your journey towards real cultural transformation. Ready to lead change with empathy and purpose? Let’s talk! |
Episode Carousel
1
/
1
**Slide 1:**
🌱 *What does it really mean to heal at the heart of social change?* 🌱
Are passion and outrage enough to create real, lasting inclusion?
---
**Slide 2:**
[Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) welcomes personal development coach [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) to explore how “equanimity” can keep us engaged, not enraged, in tough conversations about justice and belonging.
---
**Slide 3:**
Discover the journey from “calling out” with anger to deeply “calling in” with empathy and clarity—why letting go and connection are key to sustainable social impact.
---
**Slide 4:**
Real talk: Does fighting for change mean we must abandon calm, compassion, or nuance?
Hear stories of transformation, vulnerability, and the power of healing-centred activism.
---
**Slide 5:**
🎧 Ready to reimagine how we show up for inclusion and justice?
Listen to “Healing at the Heart” on the Inclusion Bites Podcast now!
🔗 Link in bio or visit [seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen](https://seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen)
#InclusionBites #HealingAtTheHeart #SocietalChange #ListenNow
6 major topics
1
/
1
**Healing at the Heart: Six Pillars for Inclusive Cultures**
*Meta Description: Dive into key topics from my heartfelt conversation on Healing at the Heart, exploring equanimity, privilege, effective social change, connection, emotional intelligence, and navigating polarisation. Discover practical insights for building truly inclusive cultures.*
Reflecting on one of my most meaningful conversations, I’m compelled to share the themes that underscored our discussion around what it truly means to nurture inclusive cultures. My guest, Jared Karol, brought fresh perspective and candour, showing how the right blend of personal healing and intentional action can foster belonging, understanding, and sustained transformation in society. We journeyed through the power of equanimity, the role of privilege, practical methods for sustainable social change, the necessity of authentic connection, the foundations of emotional intelligence, and the landscape of modern polarisation. Building inclusive cultures takes deeper awareness and a willingness to do the reflective work. Here are the six major topics we explored—each raising more questions, inviting continued curiosity, and offering building blocks for a more inclusive future.
---
**Equanimity: The Heartbeat of Inclusive Cultures**
From the outset, Jared introduced me to the concept of equanimity—a state of calm and composure amid chaos. I’ll admit, it wasn’t a word I bandied about often before, but the idea resonated with me. We discussed how equanimity isn’t just a vague philosophical notion: it is a practical skill, one that means holding space not only for our own pain and joy but also for the discomfort that often accompanies difficult conversations. It’s about not shutting down, nor fighting back with aggression, but finding a poised middle ground that invites honest dialogue.
Curiously, is it possible to teach equanimity as a core leadership skill? How might it change the dynamic of workplace interactions if everyone, regardless of background or identity, were trained in emotional composure under pressure? Imagine the effect on conflict resolution and on nurturing truly inclusive cultures where difference is not just tolerated but meaningfully engaged.
---
**Privilege: Navigating Personal Identity for Collective Belonging**
We didn’t shy away from the thorny subject of privilege. Jared openly shared that, as a cis straight white man, he sits atop what he called “the privilege food chain”. His personal journey—triggered by his father’s experiences as a gay man—led him to confront systemic injustice, awaken to his own position, and begin channelling his privilege into advocacy. Our mutual reflections recognised the danger of succumbing to a saviour complex or dogmatic self-righteousness, but also the necessity of owning one’s privilege as a tool for change.
What happens when we step outside our lane? I shared my own experience of losing privilege and gaining marginalisation. When the wind of injustice hits you full in the face, empathy stops being theoretical. Is true understanding possible without personal reference points? And what is the best way for someone with privilege to support, rather than overshadow, marginalised voices in the pursuit of inclusive cultures?
---
**Sustainable Social Change: The Why, What, and How**
Another powerful layer in our conversation revolved around strategies for enacting real social change—an essential ingredient for inclusive cultures. Jared introduced a helpful framework: knowing your personal “why”, defining your “what” (your practical role or intervention), and, crucially, crafting your “how”. We mused on Deepa Iyer’s social change ecosystem, the need for rebels and caretakers, educators and storytellers—all interconnected in a web of impact.
Can social change thrive if driven solely by anger or protest? Or does sustainability require a pivot to healing, as Jared described, such as Sean Ginright’s shift from “trauma-informed” to “healing-centred” approaches? Are change-makers undervaluing the quieter, relational work that happens outside the spotlight? The curiosity here lies in how each individual’s approach feeds the collective momentum, and what combinations truly accelerate belonging for all.
---
**Connection: Letting Go and the Power of Human Relationships**
Connection emerged as an antidote to isolation—so vital for building inclusive cultures but easily eroded by stress, judgement and disengagement. Jared relayed poignant stories from his childhood—his mother’s and father’s differing struggles, the impact of honesty, and the trade-offs between pain and empathy. We agreed that comparative suffering often misses the point; everyone’s story is valid, and deep connection comes from seeing beyond the surface.
Why do we so often choose to “other” those who don’t match our expectations, rather than pursue nuance and understanding? I was reminded that when our hearts go to war—we become part of the problem, not the solution. Might a gentle inquiry into someone’s ‘why’ transform defensiveness into trust? What are the pathways to connection across the boundaries of pain and history?
---
**Emotional Intelligence and Healing: The Architecture of Inclusive Cultures**
Throughout our conversation, emotional intelligence loomed large—self-awareness, regulation, and resilience form the foundation for any inclusive culture. Jared advocated for cultivating healing, not as a luxury but as a necessity. Meditation and mindfulness, he argued, are tools not just for personal peace but for greater clarity and impact in the world. I’ve found that regulating my emotional triggers allows me to shift out of binary thinking and embrace reasoned engagement.
But can emotional intelligence bridge the gaps left by systemic injustice? Is there a boundary where emotional regulation slips into emotional self-silencing? How do we remain committed to justice without losing our emotional sobriety? These questions remind me that embracing imperfection, ongoing self-work, and open feedback are imperative to creating inclusive cultures in practice.
---
**Polarisation and Social Media: Navigating Division in Pursuit of Belonging**
As our conversation drew towards reflection on the outside world, Jared and I examined whether society, fuelled by capitalism and social media, is becoming more polarised—or if we’re just more aware of it through our current lens. We pondered where outrage, clickbait, and algorithm-driven division lead us, and whether a million views matter as much as one person taking positive action.
If inclusive cultures are our goal, does the constant churn of digital opinion serve or hinder transformation? Should we be investing in small, impactful connections rather than chasing viral reactions? The drama of online attacks, ad hominem ridicule, and performative allyship makes me curious: where do we find balance between amplifying voices and hearing each other deeply?
---
**Conclusion: Building Inclusive Cultures is a Collective Journey**
At heart, my conversation with Jared was an invitation—a call to re-examine the meaning of inclusive cultures in our homes, organisations, and society at large. It calls for equanimity in difficult conversations, awareness and use of privilege, practical and sustainable social change, authentic connection, emotional intelligence, and conscious navigation of societal polarisation. My hope is that by opening these doors, we nurture belonging, foster healing, and inspire transformative change.
Curious about your own journey towards building inclusive cultures? Reach out to me at jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk, or explore further inspiring conversations at https://seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen. Let’s explore together what it really means to belong—and what more we can do, one step at a time.
TikTok Summary
1
/
1
Ready for a conversation that actually challenges the status quo? 🎙️
On this episode of Inclusion Bites, host Joanne Lockwood is joined by personal development coach Jared Karol for a deep dive into what it really means to heal, connect, and drive social change. From facing difficult conversations with equanimity to letting go of charged emotions and finding sustainable ways to build inclusion—this taster’s all about moving from outrage to real understanding.
Are you tired of surface-level diversity talk? Want actionable insight, raw stories, and practical wisdom? Get a bite of inclusion, and catch the full episode for more thought-provoking content, bold ideas, and inspiration to disrupt the norm.
Tap here to listen to the full episode:
👉 https://seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen
#InclusionBites #HealingAtTheHeart #DisruptTheNorm #DEI #Equanimity #PodcastClip
Slogans and Image Prompts
1
/
1
Certainly! Here are some memorable slogans, soundbites, and quotes pulled directly from the episode transcript—each designed to fit perfectly on a mug, t-shirt, sticker, or as a hashtag. For each one, I’ve included a detailed AI image generation prompt to enhance their appeal for merchandise.
---
**1. Slogan:**
“*Ignite the Spark of Inclusion*”
**Image Prompt:**
A glowing ember or stylised spark radiating from the centre, surrounded by subtly interlinked hands of various skin tones forming a circle. The background features modern, bold text and a soft, inclusive gradient reminiscent of dawn—invoking hope and new beginnings.
---
**2. Slogan:**
“*Healing at the Heart*”
**Image Prompt:**
A luminous heart at the centre emitting gentle, soothing light. Around the heart, abstract waves or patterns ripple outward, symbolising healing. Gentle, neutral colours with hints of gold or teal, and elegant serif font, give a calm and restorative vibe.
---
**3. Quote:**
“*Equanimity: Confidence to Handle It All*”
**Image Prompt:**
Strong, grounded figure (gender-neutral silhouette) standing at the edge of a cliff, facing a vast, dynamic landscape—half stormy, half sunlit. The sky behind spells the quote in calligraphic, inspiring script. The composition implies overcoming challenge with calm and composure.
---
**4. Soundbite:**
“*Show Up Consciously, Courageously, Sustainably*”
**Image Prompt:**
Three vibrant brushstroke arcs, each labelled “Consciously”, “Courageously”, “Sustainably”, converging to a bright focal point at the bottom. Overlay this with an empowering pose (arms open, facing forward), rendered in bold, empowering colours—teal, magenta, and gold.
---
**5. Quote:**
“*Do the Inner Work; Heal to Change the World*”
**Image Prompt:**
A tree growing from an open book, its roots forming a heart shape, symbolising inner work. The branches hold diverse faces or small icons representing community. Soft earth tones, lush greens, and a handwritten script celebrate wisdom and growth.
---
**6. Hashtag:**
#LetGoConnectHeal
**Image Prompt:**
Flowing ribbons or threads unravelling then interweaving into a strong knot, embodying “letting go” and “connection”. Gentle pastels emphasise unity. The hashtag sits elegantly beneath in a rounded, modern sans serif font.
---
**7. Quote:**
“*Purpose Over Passion—Lead with Meaning*”
**Image Prompt:**
Scales balancing on one side a lively heart (“Passion”) and on the other a symbolic compass (“Purpose”)—the compass is shining slightly brighter. Subtle, elegant lines and clean, minimalist design with gold highlights for sophistication.
---
**8. Soundbite:**
“*The World Needs Healing—One Conversation at a Time*”
**Image Prompt:**
A pair of stylised, diverse faces engaged in dialogue, with colourful sound waves emerging and blossoming into a garden or flourishing branches, set against a soft off-white background. Uplifting and hopeful atmosphere.
---
**9. Slogan:**
“*Turn Outrage Into Impact*”
**Image Prompt:**
A tornado or swirl of chaotic scribbles at left, transforming seamlessly into a straight arrow cutting forward through bright, clear space. The phrase overlays the transition—dynamic, powerful, and modern.
---
**10. Hashtag:**
#InclusionBites
**Image Prompt:**
A vibrant, playful set of ‘bite’-shaped marks (like nibbled doughnuts or cookies) around the edges of the text, which is rendered in bold, attention-grabbing font. Diverse tiny cartoon faces peeking in from the letters.
---
*Each of these options is grounded in the themes and language of the episode, offering both inspiration and visual impact for merchandise sure to resonate with your listeners and community.*
Inclusion Bites Spotlight
1
/
1
Jared Karol, this month’s featured guest on Healing at the Heart, offers a transformative exploration into the intersection of personal healing and driving social change. As a personal development coach, Jared works within the challenging spaces of privilege, marginalisation, and systemic inequity. His commitment is to fostering conscious, courageous, and sustainable approaches to activism and inclusion—core to the ethos of The Inclusion Bites Podcast.
Jared’s superpower is equanimity: maintaining composure and openness amidst difficult conversations, particularly where tensions of oppression and discrimination run high. He draws on personal history—including the journey alongside his gay father during the AIDS epidemic—and decades of experience in DEI and social justice education. Jared understands all too well the human tendency to either shut down or fight back when confronted with exclusion, and his story is one of learning how to stay present and engaged with empathy.
Throughout this episode, Jared and host [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) explore what it means to move from social justice fervour to sustainable and healing-centred change. They discuss roles within movements—activist, educator, caretaker—and the transformation needed to balance purpose and passion, allowing genuine understanding and connection to flourish. Jared’s approach prioritises inner work and emotional regulation, promoting letting go of dogma while strengthening ties of community and support.
Jared’s insights prompt us to consider: can true inclusion be advanced without first healing ourselves and our relationships? How does emotional intelligence, mindfulness, and genuine connection underpin the drive for lasting impact?
In this month’s Spotlight, get ready to re-examine how we enact change—moving beyond the noise and outrage, and towards clarity, compassion, and resilience. Healing at the Heart will inspire you to see inclusion work not only as a call to action, but as a call to personal and collective healing.
YouTube Description
1
/
1
**YouTube Description:**
**Opening Hook:**
Is your fight for justice actually fuelling more division? Discover why “being right” in social justice spaces may be pushing us further apart—and how true healing begins at the heart.
**Summary of Insight:**
In this thought-provoking episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, host [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) is joined by personal development coach [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) to explore the transformative power of equanimity and healing at the intersection of social change. Together, they challenge the default reactions of “shutting down or fighting back,” urging us to reflect on how we respond to injustice—both externally and within ourselves.
You’ll hear honest dialogue about:
- How privilege and marginalisation shape our instincts in tough conversations
- The dangers of righteousness without emotional regulation
- Lessons from social justice leaders who evolved from anger to compassionate action
- The underappreciated role of inner work, mindfulness, and connection in driving sustainable change
- Practical techniques for building equanimity and emotional intelligence in the face of conflict, ridicule, or online toxicity
**Takeaways & Actions:**
After watching, you’ll think twice about letting righteous outrage control your narrative. You’ll feel empowered to pause, breathe, and seek connection instead of conflict—making your activism more sustainable and impactful. And you’ll act with greater emotional intelligence, whether advocating for change online, offline, or within yourself.
**Ready to disrupt the status quo with empathy and wisdom? Hit subscribe and join the bold Inclusion Bites community. Share your insights below or reach out to join the conversation!**
#InclusionBites #SocialChange #EmotionalIntelligence #Belonging #DEI #InnerWork #EmpathyInAction #HealingJustice #MindfulDialogue #SustainableChange
---
For more bold conversations, visit the Inclusion Bites Podcast: [https://seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen](https://seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen)
Contact Joanne: jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk
10 Question Quiz
1
/
1
**10-Question Multiple Choice Quiz – “Healing at the Heart”, Inclusion Bites Podcast (Host: [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A))**
**1. What central idea does [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) use to introduce the Inclusion Bites Podcast?**
A) The latest trends in HR
B) It is a sanctuary for bold conversations that spark change
C) Exclusive interviews with celebrities
D) Financial advice for marginalised communities
---
**2. According to [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A), what does the podcast aim to help listeners do?**
A) Identify famous activists
B) Uncover the unseen and challenge the status quo
C) Organise protests
D) Learn the basics of DEI work
---
**3. What phrase does [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) use to express what Inclusion Bites provides listeners?**
A) “All you need to solve inclusion”
B) “Your guide to a new career”
C) “Your sanctuary for bold conversations”
D) “Ten steps to success”
---
**4. How does [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) position herself in relation to the audience in her introduction?**
A) As a passive observer
B) As their guide on a journey of exploration
C) As their competitor
D) As a distant commentator
---
**5. What analogy does [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) use to encourage listeners to engage with the podcast?**
A) “Tighten your shoelaces and get ready”
B) “Adjust your earbuds and settle in”
C) “Sit up straight and take notes”
D) “Grab a toolkit for change”
---
**6. What opportunity does [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) regularly offer her listeners?**
A) To sign up for discounts
B) To join her in protests
C) To participate and share their insights or join her on the show
D) To win merchandise
---
**7. When reflecting on how to achieve change, what does [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) suggest is required?**
A) Only passionate protestors
B) Only logical negotiators
C) A spectrum of approaches – from visible activism to nuanced lobbying
D) Personal isolation
---
**8. How does [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) describe her own personal growth in advocacy over time?**
A) Becoming less involved
B) Moving towards a more relaxed, logical and pragmatic approach
C) Becoming more radical
D) Giving up on DEI work
---
**9. In the context of disagreement or criticism, how does [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) suggest one should respond?**
A) By counter-attacking
B) By simply ignoring critics
C) By reframing criticism as graffiti – not taking it personally
D) By withdrawing from public life
---
**10. What does [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) identify as the ultimate aim of the podcast in her conclusion?**
A) To make money for sponsors
B) To foster a more inclusive world
C) To convince everyone to agree
D) To critique government policy
---
### Answer Key & Rationale
1. **B** – [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) opens by describing the podcast as “your sanctuary for bold conversations that spark change.”
2. **B** – She explicitly states her aim: “Join me as we uncover the unseen, challenge the status quo and share stories that resonate deep within.”
3. **C** – The phrase she uses is “your sanctuary for bold conversations that spark change.”
4. **B** – [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) says, “I’m Joanne Lockwood, your guide on this journey of exploration…”
5. **B** – She encourages, “So adjust your earbuds and settle in. It’s time to ignite the spark of inclusion...”
6. **C** – She invites listeners to “be part of the conversation too… share your insights or join me on the show.”
7. **C** – She explains the importance of both passionate activism and nuanced, logical approaches to change.
8. **B** – [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) discusses becoming more pragmatic and logical as she’s matured in advocacy.
9. **C** – She uses the analogy of ‘graffiti on a wall’ to illustrate not absorbing personal attacks – a way of maintaining equanimity.
10. **B** – In her closing, [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) reaffirms her commitment “to fostering a more inclusive world one episode at a time.”
---
### Summary Paragraph
Through her role as host, [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) defines Inclusion Bites as a sanctuary for bold conversations that seek to spark societal change. She positions herself as a guide on a journey with listeners, encouraging them to adjust their earbuds and settle in as the podcast explores unseen challenges and inspires action. [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) offers her audience the opportunity to engage directly, emphasising the importance of combining passionate activism with nuanced, logical advocacy to achieve real change. Reflecting on her own growth, she describes a transition towards a more pragmatic approach, advocating for resilience in the face of criticism by reframing attacks as mere ‘graffiti’, not to be internalised. Ultimately, the podcast’s purpose is to foster a more inclusive world, uniting stories and voices for collective progress.
Rhyme Scheme and Rhythm Podcast Poetry
1
/
1
**Healing at the Heart: A Rhyme on Inclusion**
Within each soul, a battle brews,
A need for calm when faced with news—
Of pain and scorn, of being “other,”
Of longing simply to recover.
Composure found in turbulent air,
Equanimity—when life’s unfair—
To neither rage nor shroud in grief,
But greet each storm with measured belief.
The world calls loud for urgent change,
Yet passion wild can oft estrange.
Let anger breathe, but do not dwell;
Let purpose rise, and truths compel.
Marchers shout through city crowds,
While others wear their logic proud.
Each role essential, each voice a part
Of building hope—a healing art.
So mirror self, the lens reframe,
For justice thrives when hearts acclaim—
That letting go and forging ties
Transforms not only mind, but skies.
Graffiti words may scar the wall,
But not the soul who’s heard the call
To rise above, to wish no ill,
Yet hold conviction, calm and still.
For wounds may ache and rights be slighted,
But empathy keeps paths united.
Let stories flow, let listening start,
For change is kindled—at the heart.
If lines like these inspire your mind,
Subscribe, connect, and help us find
New voices keen to share and grow—
Together sow the seeds we know.
*With thanks to Jared Karol for a fascinating podcast episode.*
Key Learnings
1
/
1
**Key Learning & Takeaway:**
The core takeaway from this episode of Inclusion Bites, "Healing at the Heart," is the vital role of equanimity and healing-centred approaches within social change and inclusion work. True, sustainable impact in DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion) stems not just from external advocacy or impassioned activism, but from cultivating inner awareness, emotional regulation, and meaningful connection. Rather than perpetuating divisiveness, effective change-makers blend conviction with compassion—bridging the urgent "why" of the cause, the "what" of their actions, and the "how" of bringing people together, fostering true inclusion and healing at both individual and collective levels.
---
**Point #1: Equanimity as a Superpower**
Equanimity—defined here as composure and poise amid challenge—enables individuals to stay present and open in difficult conversations, rather than shutting down or escalating conflict. [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) illustrated how this skill helps avoid reactive extremes and instead creates space for dialogue, truth, and learning.
**Point #2: From Woke Activism to Sustainable Change**
The episode explored the evolution many people go through, moving from "social justice warrior" intensity to a more nuanced understanding of activism. Sustainable progress is achieved not merely by fighting injustice, but by integrating healing, self-reflection, and emotional intelligence—embracing both protest and pragmatic dialogue.
**Point #3: Healing Requires Connection & Letting Go**
Healing in inclusion work emerges from genuine connection and the capacity to let go of dogma and divisiveness. Through storytelling, [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) emphasised making space for empathy, deeper relationships, and understanding the why behind others’ behaviours, rather than perpetuating cycles of outrage or comparative suffering.
**Point #4: Thought-Terminating Clichés & Dialogue Breakdown**
The dangers of “thought-terminating clichés”—responses that shut down dialogue and understanding—were highlighted. True inclusion means resisting the urge to other, ridicule, or disengage, opting instead for curiosity and compassionate engagement, even across difference and discomfort. Change is stifled when individuals become fixated on being right vs. being effective.
---
**Summary:**
Healing at the Heart isn’t about ignoring pain or injustice—it’s about recognising that inner work and interpersonal connection are just as crucial as external advocacy. The path to a more inclusive world demands sustained emotional intelligence, compassion, and a willingness to transcend binaries—for only then does inclusion bite, and real change ignite.
Book Outline
1
/
1
**Book Outline Based on Guest’s Perspective from the Inclusion Bites Podcast: "Healing at the Heart"**
---
### Title Suggestions
1. **Healing at the Heart: Equanimity and Social Change**
2. **From Lens to Mirror: Cultivating Healing in Social Justice**
3. **Equanimity in Action: Personal Development at the Intersection of Change**
4. **The Courage to Heal: Connection, Letting Go, and Transformation**
5. **Beyond Outrage: Sustainable Approaches to Inclusion and Justice**
---
### Book Structure
---
**Introduction: Setting the Stage for Healing Social Change**
- Overview of the necessity for healing-centred engagement in social change work.
- Personal journey into the intersection of privilege, trauma, and activism.
- Defining ‘equanimity’ and its central role in transformation.
- The challenge: balancing passion for justice with sustainable personal and collective progress.
---
**Chapter 1: The Awakening—Recognising the Need for Change**
- Discovering privilege: The journey from ignorance to awareness.
- Catalyst experiences—family history, loss, and personal evolution.
- Initial reactions: Waking up to injustice, embracing activism, reckoning with privilege.
- Real-life Example: Coming to terms with a father’s sexuality and loss as a crucible of awakening.
*Quote:*
“I have, I'm at the top of the privilege food chain... for a long time, I was the social justice warrior, until I decided that wasn't effective or sustainable.”
---
**Chapter 2: Equanimity—The Foundation of Sustainable Activism**
- Defining equanimity for real-world activists.
- Navigating hardships and suffering with composed presence.
- Avoiding emotional extremes: Steadiness in adversity and success.
- Recognising and dismantling untrue storylines.
*Subheadings:*
- What Is Equanimity? (NLP definition plus lived meaning)
- Maintaining Calm in the Storm
- Staying Present: Avoiding Shut Down or Conflict
*Quote:*
“It’s this ongoing self and meta awareness of what’s going on and having the confidence to know I can handle it, even if I don’t like it.”
---
**Chapter 3: Shifting From Trauma to Healing—A New Paradigm**
- Moving from a trauma-informed to healing-centred approach.
- The lens versus the mirror: From seeing injustice to self-reflection.
- Examples from healing-centred practitioners: Dr. Shawn Ginwright and others.
- Healing for sustainability—not just to survive, but to thrive.
*Quote:*
“He talks about from lens to mirror… not like that lens goes away, but the mirror is ‘how do I need to change?’”
---
**Chapter 4: Connection and Letting Go—Two Pillars of Healing**
- How connection with others fosters personal growth and resilience.
- The meaning of ‘letting go’: Not indifference, but lightness and emotional liberation.
- Comparing pain: Dangers of the “who’s had it harder” game.
- Real-life Example: Mother’s story of raising a child alone—expanding the field of empathy.
*Quote:*
“Connection, true connection, whether it’s with people you know well and love or any interaction… centre connection and resist the urge to other, gossip, dismiss, ridicule, mock.”
---
**Chapter 5: Emotional Intelligence and Self-Regulation for Changemakers**
- Integrating emotional intelligence, mindfulness, and Buddhist philosophies.
- Cultivating practices (e.g., meditation) for resilience.
- The role of emotional sobriety in responding to attacks, criticism, and polarisation online.
- Actionable exercises: Developing self-regulation, self-awareness, and self-management.
*Visual Aid Suggestion:*
Diagram illustrating the emotional regulation process; comparison of amygdala vs. prefrontal cortex responses.
---
**Chapter 6: Navigating Polarisation—Healing Within and Beyond the Movement**
- Dealing with ‘thought-terminating clichés’ and dialogue gridlock.
- The impact of social media algorithms and capitalism on polarisation.
- Dehumanisation, “unreal other”, and the dangers of us vs. them thinking.
- Cultivating curiosity over boundaries: Choosing engagement over mockery.
*Quote:*
“Her mocking me doesn’t make the genocide end… A healed person doesn’t do that.”
---
**Chapter 7: Purpose Over Passion**
- Differentiating between authentic purpose and charged passion.
- Risks of allowing passion to obstruct long-term impact.
- Finding clarity: Serving the why through balanced action.
*Exercise Suggestion:*
Reflection questions for finding one’s ‘why’ and aligning passion with purpose.
---
**Chapter 8: The Path Forward—Practical Tools for Healing Centred Change**
- Adopting proactive healing practices.
- Building community and connection as acts of resistance.
- The anatomy of peace: Hearts at war vs. hearts at peace.
- Interactive Elements: Reflection questions and journaling prompts for sustained change.
*Quote:*
“We meditate so we can cultivate the behaviours and mindsets we want to have when hard stuff happens.”
---
**Chapter 9: Stories as Bridges—Learning from Real-Life Journeys**
- Sharing stories from personal and professional journeys—father, mother, online encounters.
- How storytelling fosters empathy, awareness, and connection.
- Celebrating diversity of paths to healing, from privileged to marginalised identities.
*Reflection Prompt:*
How has your story shaped your perspective on healing and inclusion?
---
**Conclusion: From Healing to Action—The Call for Sustainable Inclusion**
- Summarising the main insights: Equanimity, connection, letting go.
- Emphasising personal and collective healing as transformative beyond fleeting outrage.
- Final call to action: Practice, connect, reflect, and engage with compassion.
*Quote:*
“Clarity… I don't believe any less in the injustices, but I also see more clearly what's not working… I'm not going to be part of that collusion anymore.”
---
### Supplementary Elements
- **Additional Research Topics:** Brief digests on Buddhist mindfulness, Dr Ginwright’s healing-centred engagement, emotional intelligence models, ‘thought-terminating clichés’ in cult psychology.
- **Interactive Sections:** End-of-chapter exercises—reflection questions, prompts for self-awareness, and group dialogue guides.
- **Visual Aids:**
- Charts contrasting trauma-informed vs. healing-centred approaches.
- Infographics on levels of connection and belonging.
- Flow diagram: The continuum from awareness to action.
---
### Chapter Summaries
**Introduction:** Outlines the journey from privilege to active healing and social justice, setting the context for the book’s approach.
**Chapter 1:** Explores personal awakening to injustice and the role of personal catalyst moments.
**Chapter 2:** Discusses the central concept of equanimity, providing frameworks for sustainable activism.
**Chapter 3:** Examines the shift from trauma-focused activism to healing-centred practice.
**Chapter 4:** Presents connection and letting go as foundational practices for personal and collective healing.
**Chapter 5:** Provides practical methods for emotional intelligence and self-regulation.
**Chapter 6:** Investigates societal polarisation, its roots, and approaches to transcend it.
**Chapter 7:** Clarifies the distinction between purpose and passion, guiding the reader toward meaningful impact.
**Chapter 8:** Offers actionable tools and exercises for embedding healing-centred approaches in daily life.
**Chapter 9:** Utilises storytelling to showcase inclusive journeys and centres the importance of empathy.
**Conclusion:** Calls for sustained, healing-centred action in pursuing inclusion and social justice.
---
### Feedback Process
- Invite subject matter experts and sensitivity readers to review outline and draft chapters.
- Develop focus group sessions for test-readers from HR, D&I, coaching, and activist communities.
- Iteratively refine structure and chapter content based on received feedback.
---
This outline captures the nuanced, holistic journey from personal awakening to healing-centred activism, offering readers not only wisdom and context but tools for real change.
Maxims to live by…
1
/
1
**Maxims to Live By: Healing at the Heart**
1. **Cultivate Equanimity.** Approach both adversity and success with composure and balance. Avoid being swept away by elation or drowned by hardship; centre yourself and act consciously.
2. **Do Your Inner Work.** True understanding begins with honest self-reflection. Attend to your healing, examine your motivations, and trace the roots of your reactions before seeking to change the world around you.
3. **Hold Conviction Without Hostility.** Advocate for your values with clarity and purpose, but resist arrogance, dogma, or aggression. Let go of the need to be “right” at all costs.
4. **Choose Connection Over Division.** Seek genuine connection with others—even (and especially) those who see the world differently. Move beyond labelling, gossiping, and “othering”.
5. **Listen with Curiosity, Not Certainty.** Cultivate an openness to nuance. When challenged, prioritise curiosity rather than defaulting to defensiveness or disengagement.
6. **Let Go to Heal.** Release the urge to control every outcome, to cling to righteous anger, or to perpetuate a narrative of perpetual conflict. Healing and progress are rooted in lightness and flexibility.
7. **Recognise Intersectionality of Experience.** Honour that everyone navigates the world with differing degrees and types of privilege and marginalisation. Don’t compare suffering—hold compassion for the realities of all.
8. **Lead with Emotional Intelligence.** Practise self-awareness, emotional regulation, and thoughtful engagement. Avoid reactive behaviour that serves only to escalate division.
9. **Resist Thought-Terminating Clichés.** Don’t shut down complex conversations with slogans or dismissals. Allow space for difficult dialogue and for perspectives to evolve.
10. **Model What You Wish to See.** Change is enacted not just through protest but through the ways you build community, create safety, and foster sustainable relationships.
11. **Harness Purpose, Temper Passion.** Let your purpose guide you, rather than unchecked passion that may cloud judgement. Steadiness of intent is more enduring than incendiary rhetoric.
12. **Embrace Healing as Collective and Individual.** Healing is not only an inner journey but also a communal act. The wellbeing of all depends on how we each show up—in solidarity and with empathy.
13. **Reject Dehumanisation—In All Its Forms.** Whenever you find yourself tempted to dehumanise or dismiss others, pause. Meeting harm with harm perpetuates suffering; meeting it with integrity breaks cycles.
14. **Cherish Progress Over Perfection.** Social change is slow, complex, and often untidy. Contribute where you can and with humility, trusting that accumulation of small acts shapes the whole.
15. **Let Generosity Guide Your Dialogue.** Approach every interaction as an opportunity to learn, support, and uplift. Genuine change is built on the foundations of openness and kindness.
In living these maxims, both individual healing and societal transformation are possible.
Extended YouTube Description
1
/
1
**YouTube Video Description: Healing at the Heart | Inclusion Bites Podcast with Jared Karol & Joanne Lockwood**
---
**Timestamps**
00:00 – Introduction to Inclusion Bites
01:15 – Welcoming guest Jared Karol
03:54 – Unpacking ‘Equanimity’ as a superpower
06:02 – Navigating social justice, privilege, and lived experience
13:18 – The ‘why’, ‘what’, and ‘how’ of social change
18:03 – Awakening to privilege and shifting perspectives
25:41 – The role of healing and mindfulness in social justice
31:10 – Personal stories: Connection, compassion, and letting go
39:34 – Dialogue breaks down barriers, not outrage
42:01 – Understanding “unreal othering” and the cycle of dehumanisation
46:59 – Coaching for inclusive, sustainable change
51:31 – Emotional intelligence and managing attacks
59:29 – Practical steps for cultivating equanimity
1:02:13 – Call to action and closing remarks
---
**In This Episode:**
*Healing at the Heart* explores the transformative power of equanimity, self-awareness, and authentic connection within the landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
Host [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and guest [Jared Karol](/speakers/C) (personal development coach and co-founder of Three Arrows Coaching) delve into practical strategies for fostering resilient, compassionate conversations—even amidst heated debate and injustice. Drawing on lived experiences, including Jared’s journey with privilege, marginalisation, and mindfulness, this episode equips listeners with actionable steps to:
- Develop equanimity and emotional intelligence when confronting societal challenges
- Move beyond “social justice warrior” burnout to sustainable, impactful change
- Balance passion and purpose for long-term inclusion results
- Break the cycle of “othering” and master techniques for connecting across differences
- Transform conflict into growth, with frameworks from thought leaders like Deepa Iyer, Lama Rod Owens, and Don Miguel Ruiz
Whether you’re a DEI professional, HR leader, changemaker, or anyone striving to nurture belonging and inclusion, this conversation offers both inspiration and practical tools for everyday and long-term impact.
**Key Takeaways for Inclusion Champions & People Leaders:**
- Learn why emotional regulation and self-reflection are vital for sustainable advocacy
- Actionable mindfulness and healing techniques for dealing with adversity
- Understand the spectrum of social change roles and why each is essential
- How to reframe online negativity and disengage from unproductive outrage cycles
- Next-level strategies to turn personal stories into powerful inclusion drivers
Ready to create meaningful change in your organisation or community? Start by healing at the heart!
---
**🔔 Subscribe for more actionable inclusion insights: [Inclusion Bites Podcast](https://seechangehappen.co.uk/inclusion-bites-listen)**
👍 Like, comment, and share to inspire inclusive action in your network!
🌐 Visit [seechangehappen.co.uk](https://seechangehappen.co.uk) for resources, coaching, and to join our next DEI conversation.
🎧 Listen to another inspiring episode: [Related Video]
---
**Relevant Hashtags:**
#InclusionBites #DEI #DiversityandInclusion #HealingCentered #Equanimity #SocialChange #EmotionalIntelligence #Mindfulness #Belonging #JoanneLockwood #JaredKarol #PositivePeopleExperiences
---
**For business enquiries, guest opportunities, or to share your inclusion story, contact:**
jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk
---
Transform your approach to inclusion. Join the conversation, one bold episode at a time.
Substack Post
1
/
1
# Holding the Centre: Healing as a Catalyst for Inclusion
Have you ever left a difficult conversation about inclusion feeling either utterly exhausted or completely shut down? You’re not alone. So many of us working in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) grapple with the challenge of how to keep talking, listening, and driving change—without burning ourselves out or losing the very connection we’re striving to build. This conundrum sits at the heart of this week’s *Inclusion Bites Podcast* episode, “Healing at the Heart”, and I’ll be honest: it might just be one of the most vital conversations I’ve had to date.
---
## Equanimity: The Bridge Over Troubled Waters
In this episode, I welcomed Jared Karol, a personal development coach whose work is rooted at the intersection of social change and healing. Jared’s journey is both deeply personal and universally resonant—he shared how witnessing his father’s experience as a gay man in 1980s America, the pain and growth that came with that, and his own evolution from snarky “newly-woke” teacher to a more measured advocate, shaped his perspective on true change.
We explored the often-overlooked skill of equanimity—that inner steadiness allowing us to hold conflicting truths, to stay present amid suffering, and to resist getting swept away by the emotional turbulence that inevitably arises when addressing injustice. This conversation is particularly relevant for HR professionals, D&I and Talent leads, Organisational Development specialists, and anyone in a leadership or people-centred role. In the world of workplace inclusion, it’s not simply what you do, but how you show up that makes all the difference.
---
## What We Unpacked Together
Jared and I delved into:
- The personal and organisational costs of approaching DEI work with unchecked fervour, and why passion without healing often leads to burnout or harmful divides.
- The difference between surface-level “doing the work” of DEI (understanding the issues, learning the history) and the deeper, sustaining inner work required for long-term change.
- How those at the centre of privilege can become meaningful allies, not by charging ahead as zealots, but through humility, listening, and a commitment to personal growth.
- Ways to hold space for outrage, grief, and protest—while building connections that sustain movements, organisations, and ourselves for the long journey.
It’s a conversation full of nuance and vulnerability, shining a light on what it really means to advance equity while remaining whole and healthy.
---
# Seeds to Plant: Insights to Nurture Inclusion
Here are the lessons I believe can make the DEI journey more sustainable and fruitful for professionals at every level:
### 1. Practise Equanimity, Not Indifference
Equanimity isn’t about staying neutral or apathetic—it’s about remaining composed in the face of adversity. Jared’s distinction between “shutting down” and “fighting back” versus staying present and open is critical. For those leading change, it means responding rather than reacting, even when the topic is deeply personal or the resistance feels overwhelming. A little more pause, a little less fire and brimstone, can go a remarkably long way.
### 2. Balance Passion with Purpose
Many of us enter DEI work with profound passion. Yet, as Jared wisely noted, “sometimes our passion gets in the way of our purpose.” When we’re intent on being right, when the heat of the moment governs our actions, we can alienate would-be allies and even those we aim to support. Reconnect often to your deeper why—what world are you truly hoping to build?
### 3. Lean into Healing—For Ourselves and Others
As practitioners, we often focus outward: fixing, changing, advocating for others. But healing-centred inclusion work, as inspired by thinkers like Dr Sean Ginright, asks us to look inwards too. What unhealed hurts do we carry into these spaces? Where are we still carrying shame, resentment, or fear? Addressing our own wounds is foundational; without it, collective healing remains elusive.
### 4. Honour the Value of Connection
Jared reminded us that being “right” is not the same as being effective. Lasting change is relational, not transactional. Especially in moments of disagreement, seek to understand before you seek to be understood. Build empathy through stories and human connection, not arguments and statistics alone.
### 5. Always Be a Student
The best leaders and changemakers are always learning. Whether it’s from the lived experience of people unlike ourselves, from our own mistakes, or simply from new frameworks (like Deepa Iyer’s “social change ecosystem”), curiosity beats certainty every time.
---
## Glimpse the Conversation: A Moment to Reflect
I’m delighted to share a specially selected one-minute audiogram from my conversation with Jared. If you’re after an authentic snapshot of the episode’s energy and wisdom, look no further.
[Watch the Audiogram Here](insert-video-audiogram-link)
Let this brief excerpt ground you in what’s possible when we approach DEI work from a place of both conviction and compassion.
---
## Listen and Share: Bringing Healing to the Forefront
If this resonates, don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself fully. The complete episode offers rich practical strategies, memorable personal stories, and the kind of earnest dialogue our sector desperately needs.
🎧 [Listen to the full episode](https://url.seech.uk/ibs187)
I encourage you to share this episode widely—whether with your D&I network, your HR team, or anyone keen to push inclusion beyond box-ticking and into the heart of workplace culture. The more we talk about healing-centred DEI, the more likely we’ll plant seeds for long-lasting change.
---
## Where Do We Go From Here?
So here’s my question to you: In your own DEI journey, how might you bring more steadiness and healing to your conversations—instead of anger or withdrawal? What if the true catalyst for workplace transformation is not outrage or shame, but presence and equanimity?
Let’s pause, breathe, and commit to nurturing both ourselves and our teams—one brave, healing-centred conversation at a time.
—
If you’d like to continue exploring how healing, belonging, and equity can shape your workplace, stay connected on [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jolockwood/), [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyQ8PhzTPfZOBvCBzwCo-hg), or visit [SEE Change Happen](https://seechangehappen.co.uk) for more thought leadership and resources.
To share your stories, collaborate, or discuss supporting your organisation’s inclusion goals, reach out to me at jo.lockwood@seechangehappen.co.uk.
Together, let’s ensure healing sits at the very heart of our work.
Warm regards,
**Joanne Lockwood**
*Host, Inclusion Bites Podcast*
The Inclusive Culture Expert at SEE Change Happen
1st Person Narrative Content
1
/
1
Healing at the Heart: How Equanimity Shapes Social Change
By Jared Karol
---
The Power of Equanimity Amidst Chaos
“There’s this ongoing question hanging over our sector: Can we truly shift systems without first healing ourselves?” It’s a hard-won awareness that anchors everything I do—not because it’s easy, but because the world constantly conspires to unnerve, divide, and distract us. The work of inclusion, justice, and social change demands more than clever strategy. It demands a steady mind, a regulated heart, and the rare ability to build connection in the heat of conflict.
This was the unmistakable throughline when I sat down with Joanne Lockwood, host of Inclusion Bites Podcast. Even as we traded stories of protest and patience, trauma and teaching, I kept returning to the same conviction: Systems only change sustainably when we, the “changemakers”, commit to emotional grounding. Without it, we become casualties of our own passion, lost in a cycle of righteous anger that seldom brings healing.
Why Healing Matters—Personally and Collectively
I never expected my journey into personal development and coaching to be so shaped by my father’s life, and death. Growing up as the straight, white son of a gay man dying of AIDS in 2000, I was handed both privilege and pain. I tried hiding from the harder truths for years, insulated by geographical separation and a youthful lack of maturity. But when he passed, I found myself drawn into two kinds of “work”—understanding injustice, yes, but also cultivating my own late-blooming equanimity.
The world is inequitable and unfair, and as I told Joanne, the suffering and hardship we encounter daily can either break us or reshape us. If we react only with anger or withdrawal, we perpetuate the very storylines we hope to change. If instead we embrace what Buddhist philosophy calls equanimity—a fierce kind of calm—we discover new ways to hold presence, to be open without being overwhelmed, and to keep engaging when the pressure mounts.
Inclusion Bites Podcast: A Platform for Disruption
Joanne Lockwood, the force behind Inclusion Bites, is herself a challenger of norms and status quos. With deep roots in SEE Change Happen and personal experience navigating marginalisation and belonging, Joanne brings both empathy and rigour to her interviews. She doesn’t just talk diversity; she embodies it—creating space for the sorts of stories mainstream discourse often rounds off or silences.
More than [INSERT_VIEW_COUNT] people have already watched our interview on YouTube, with many more tuning in via Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
If this conversation sparks something for you—questions, pushback, or agreement—I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. I read every one.
The Roots and Realities of Equanimity
When Joanne asked about the word “equanimity,” it was more than a semantic curiosity—it was about survival in the crucible of change. I described the essence not as passive calm, but as conscious composure when confronted by suffering or joy. I’ve seen so many activists, myself included, ricochet between elation and despair. Social justice work can be intoxicating, but also corrosive, when performed without self-awareness.
For me, equanimity is the antidote to those twin temptations: shutting down or fighting back. “When you’re oppressed, marginalised, at the brunt of someone else’s bullying or discrimination, those are often the two choices,” Joanne observed. “Shut down, run away, tail between your legs, or come out with teeth showing and growling…”
My own first decade after my father’s death was marked by that exact polarity. I charged into teaching, armed with new theories and righteous fervour, often telling others exactly how “unwoke” they were. It was unsustainable. Eventually, I saw that getting people to change required more than volume or correctness; it required showing, not telling. Staying present, not dominating. That’s when I made the shift and started to see real, lasting change in myself and those around me.
Why Purpose Needs More Than Passion
Too often, our “passion”—fuelled by urgency, trauma, and the desperate wish for a better world—derails our actual purpose. Jo and I both remarked on how movements need not just anger and activism, but also the slow, methodical change-making of the nuanced, politically oriented organisers. I came back to what I’ve learnt from systems thinkers like Deepa Iyer: not all of us are built to be frontline protesters. Movements need caretakers, educators, coaches, storytellers, and quiet connectors. The “what” of our role matters as much as the “why,” but most neglected is the “how”: the way we show up, the style in which we engage, and the emotional work we do.
It’s taken me decades, but I now believe most sustainable change happens when we mature from lens (seeing injustice everywhere) to mirror (examining our own contributions to chaos). Dr. Shawn Ginwright, whose work on healing-centred engagement I deeply respect, argues for just this pivot—a switch that’s demanded not by privilege, but by necessity.
From Personal Pain to Public Presence
My story is one of mourning privilege and gaining marginalisation, as Joanne described so well. When my father came out to me at fourteen, I was terrified, ashamed, and unable to speak the truth for years. Even as an adult, I lied and obfuscated about his life, dodging the emotional reckoning. It wasn’t until a friend shrugged off my confession (“Big fucking deal”) that I started letting go of the shame. Later, as I joined my father in meditation circles in San Francisco, I discovered not just Buddhist philosophy, but a practical toolkit for dealing with pain. After his death, I committed to both social justice and personal inner work—a dual path that’s shaped every coaching session and keynote I deliver.
Why Letting Go Is Not Giving Up
Letting go is a difficult, often misunderstood concept. “It doesn’t mean ignoring or dismissing,” I explained. “It means being lighter… understanding what’s going on for ourselves, for the world, for the people we care about, and not carrying it so heavily.” Trauma can motivate us, but unless we know how to move from obsession with “the cause,” we risk becoming brittle, burnt out, and divisive.
Joanne shared her own evolution from angry activist to pragmatic change-maker, recognising that “in order to enact change, you need different people with different levels of passion.” I agree—movements require those who march in the streets and those who lobby in parliament. But what’s most impactful is not the extremity of our stance, but the sustainability of our engagement.
Connection Over Comparative Suffering
Another pivotal shift was learning that connection matters more than comparative suffering. My mother, who raised me alone after my father left, reminded me one night, “You write a lot about how your dad being gay influenced you and your politics, but you never write about how he wasn’t around to raise you.” That moment recalibrated my empathy. We cannot trade pain or measure our hardship against one another; we must honour the complexity and interconnectedness of our stories.
It’s not about whose life is tougher, but about seeing every person’s experience as relevant and worthy. The wisdom here is simple: real inclusion happens when we stop trading pain and start building bridges—especially with those whose “unreal otherness” might tempt us to dismiss or attack.
Practising Thoughtful Engagement
As urgent as our work may be, outrage cannot be the only currency. Joanne and I both recounted experiences of ad hominem attacks online, graffiti-like slurs, or public ridicule—moments where dialogue collapsed into caricature. These exchanges rarely reflect personal reality, only the projective anger of the sender.
Equanimity allows me to face these attacks with clarity. “It’s just graffiti on a wall,” Joanne said. “All I’ve got to do is keep driving and drive past it.” This isn’t insensitivity; it’s strategic self-preservation. People may want to be “right,” but real progress demands nuance, empathy, and persistent openness—not the exhausted polarity of perpetual conflict.
Healing as a Systemic Imperative
Does the world feel more polarised than ever? Perhaps. Social media and news algorithms thrive on outrage bait, driving revenue through clicks and conflict rather than constructive action. What matters is not how many views or comments we receive, but whether anyone actually takes positive action as a result.
This is why equanimity is not just a personal practice, but a systemic imperative. It underpins emotional intelligence and regulates our collective response to injustice. I’ve often been asked, “Who are you to tell marginalised people how to react?” My answer is always the same: I’m inviting a shift toward healing, not replacement of anyone’s righteous feelings. Outrage alone hasn’t stopped suffering—or created the sustainable change we seek.
Practical Tools for Cultivating Equanimity
If I were to distil everything I know about equanimity into a book for practical action, I’d begin with meditation. Cultivate inner peace and clarity proactively—not as crisis management, but as daily practice. Build deep connection, not just with allies, but with everyone you encounter. Be impeccable with your word. Learn to let go of “charge” without surrendering conviction. And always write and speak with clarity and purpose, never from a place of contempt.
Emotional regulation is not just a Buddhist ideal; it’s the foundation of effective change-making. I call it emotional sobriety—a deliberate choice to move beyond knee-jerk reactions and into sustained leadership.
A Closing Reflection: Healing at the Heart
Change does not begin with the system; it begins with the individual, then radiates outward. Trauma, passion, and privilege are all real, but they need emotional grounding to be generative rather than self-destructive. Equanimity—my word for fierce composure in the fire—remains the most powerful tool I know for doing this work.
The world will always present us with storms. Our greatest task is to become the eye—calm, clear, and able to see both suffering and possibility. When healing sits at the heart of our practice, justice is no longer just a dream or a slogan; it becomes an everyday reality, seeded by each conversation, each act, each choice to show up differently.
If this journey resonates, let me know your own story below. We change as individuals, yes—but only together do we build a new, unshakeable foundation.
Song Lyrics from Episode
1
/
1
[**Title**
Healing at the Heart]
[**Synopsis**
Episode 187’s “Healing at the Heart” resonates as a compassionate call for inner change and social connection. Inspired by the honest dialogue between [Joanne Lockwood](/speakers/A) and [Jared Karol](/speakers/C), the lyrics blend vulnerability and bravery, advocating emotional balance, healing, and real belonging amid struggle. Warm acoustic textures and female vocals embody truthfulness, empathy, and a quietly unstoppable resolve.]
[**Vibe**
Empowering, reflective and emotionally grounded indie pop with acoustic nuances. Warm finger-picked guitar, gentle yet confident percussion, atmospheric pads. Female lead vocal — direct but warm, soft harmonies on the chorus and bridge. Instrumental builds in pre-chorus and bridge, ending with a gentle, echoing fade-out. Suitable for scenes of self-discovery, honest conversation, or slow-motion turning points.]
**Lyrics**
[Verse 1]
Woke with the world on my shoulders,
Caught in the stories, names, and rules,
Truth at the heart can feel colder —
Sometimes the wise ones are fools.
Mirror in hand, I faced my own silence,
Carved out the healing new,
Letting go, finding balance,
Compassion cuts through.
[Instrumental—gentle picked guitar, airy pads]
[Verse 2]
Been the teacher, the fighter, the seeker,
Stamped by history’s pain and pride,
Learned that fighting gets us weaker,
Learned to soften, not to hide.
We’re all walking this same border
Between the anger and the grace —
Building bridges takes disorder,
Connection takes space.
[Pre-Chorus]
Let’s make a circle from these broken lines,
Let’s trade our pain, not sharpen knives,
Strength grows from the wounds we mind,
Healing isn’t far — it’s inside.
[Chorus]
I’ll hold the light
Through the shadows, through the fight,
When your voice won’t rise
And you ache for the night,
You’re not alone,
No, you’re never alone —
Come heal at the heart
Come heal at the heart.
[Instrumental—uplift on guitar, subtle harmonies]
[Verse 3]
Graffiti words try to stick to my skin,
But I choose to drive past, let go,
This is not the war anyone wins,
But kindness finds a door to show.
Purpose outruns the passion,
True change is slow and brave,
Let connection be our action —
Let us show up, save what we can save.
[Bridge]
Bridge the war with wisdom,
Let the bullets fly on by,
Be the keeper of quiet courage,
Hold the hope, dry the eyes.
Let the mirror meet the lens
And the circle open wide —
We can only rise together
When our hearts are healed inside.
[Instrumental—layered harmonies, gentle percussion swell, falling to soft guitar]
[Final Chorus (Lifted)]
I’ll hold the light
When the headlines bite,
When the roads divide
And you struggle for right.
Bring your story, bring your scars,
I’ve got room, I’ve got arms —
Come heal at the heart,
Yes, we heal at the heart.
[Fading out—echoes of healing at the heart, soft humming, gentle guitar riff]
[Artistic Directions: Build verses with gentle storytelling and poetic metaphor. Chorus grows in hopefulness and communal resolve. Bridge brings emotional lift, then softens for introspection. Instrumentals should match the warmth and vulnerability, ending with hopeful fade-out. Make space for every word to sit with the listener before moving on — emotional intelligence as musical structure.]
Gemini Infographic Material
No results.
Hubspot Import format
No results.
What is Castmagic?
Castmagic is the best way to generate content from audio and video.
Full transcripts from your audio files. Theme & speaker analysis. AI-generated content ready to copy/paste. And more.
