Cultural Agility in Action

In this thought-provoking episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood welcomes Mary Lynn Parnell for an exploration into the real meaning and lived experience of cultural agility. The conversation weaves through Mary Lynn’s extraordinary multicultural upbringing—born in the US to Haitian parents, raised in Montreal, and now settled in Spain—unpacking how her identity has been shaped by embracing the nuance and depth of multiple cultures. Together, they examine the challenges and joys of forging a sense of belonging amidst constant change, grappling with everything from preconceived notions about American identity, to the realities of adapting to European perspectives on collectivity, race, and individuality.

Mary Lynn brings an exceptional global perspective as a leadership development consultant, intercultural trainer, and relocation specialist. With roots in Haiti, formative years in Canada, and extensive experience navigating North America and Europe, she exemplifies what it means to bridge worlds through curiosity, empathy, and structure. Mary Lynn’s candid reflections reveal how moving between cultures has informed her adaptable approach to leadership and inclusivity. Her expertise lies in equipping leaders and organisations to build environments where difference is cherished, developing practical frameworks that foster trust and psychological safety in truly diverse teams.

The discussion delves into the power of curiosity over defensiveness, the importance of holding space for conflicting emotions in national history, and the complexities of forming new cultural identities—especially for children growing up between worlds. Joanne and Mary Lynn dissect communication styles within multicultural teams, the pitfalls of overlooking cultural nuances during mergers and organisational change, and the importance of consciously cultivating environments where everyone has permission and confidence to contribute.