Learning to talk, to listen and to learn

Joanne Lockwood is joined by Iain Chapman to explore what it means to learn to talk, to listen, and to learn, especially from the perspective of someone who describes himself as a white, heterosexual man in his fifties who wants everyone to be able to be themselves.

They discuss how inclusive conversations are built through curiosity, confidence, and a willingness to ask questions without judgement. Iain shares how his upbringing shaped his values, including early experiences around disability and the importance of language, and how workplace initiatives can create space for colleagues to share lived experience.

The conversation also looks at practical culture-building through internal speaker sessions that connect colleagues across an organisation, covering topics such as menopause, domestic abuse, autism, racism and everyday wellbeing. Iain reflects on the challenge of engaging people who resist change, the emotional toll of confrontational online exchanges, and how managing anxiety and protecting mental health can be part of sustaining allyship and inclusion work.