Creating a level playing field so every human can be inspired

Joanne Lockwood speaks with Mindy Gibbins-Klein about what it really takes to create a more level playing field so more people can be inspired and, crucially, feel able to speak up.

They explore how opportunity and access are often left to chance, and why intentional action matters in environments like conferences, publishing, recruitment, and media. Mindy and Joanne discuss allyship as a deliberate practice: noticing who is missing, creating space, amplifying voices, and taking responsibility for changing patterns that otherwise repeat by default.

The conversation also covers how people can become more thoughtful about language and impact, including acknowledging mistakes, apologising, and building psychological safety through everyday choices. Both share personal reflections on acceptance, belonging, and connection, including Mindy’s experience as the parent of a transgender son and Joanne’s experience of rebuilding relationships through openness and dialogue.

The episode ends with practical encouragement: focus on what you can influence, act with intention, and keep going even when traction feels slow—because small, consistent actions can compound into meaningful change.