A Leader Like Me: Building a Culture of Inclusivity
The A Leader Like Me Podcast is for HR professionals, leaders, and communication experts who want to create truly inclusive workplaces where everyone feels valued, heard, and empowered to thrive. Hosted by Priya Bates (she/her) and Advita Patel (she/her), co-founders of A Leader Like Me, this podcast features candid conversations with inspirational leaders who are driving real change in the world of work. Through their insights, you’ll discover practical strategies to embed equity, diversity, and inclusion into leadership, workplace culture, and communication. If you’re passionate about building belonging, enhancing employee engagement, and using strategic communication to foster inclusion, this podcast is for you. 🎧 Subscribe now and start leading with impact. Find out more at aleaderlikeme.com
The A Leader Like Me Podcast is for HR professionals, leaders, and communication experts who want to create truly inclusive workplaces where everyone feels valued, heard, and empowered to thrive. Hosted by Priya Bates (she/her) and Advita Patel (she/her), co-founders of A Leader Like Me, this podcast features candid conversations with inspirational leaders who are driving real change in the world of work. Through their insights, you’ll discover practical strategies to embed equity, diversity, and inclusion into leadership, workplace culture, and communication. If you’re passionate about building belonging, enhancing employee engagement, and using strategic communication to foster inclusion, this podcast is for you. 🎧 Subscribe now and start leading with impact. Find out more at aleaderlikeme.com
Episodes

Sep 13, 2024
Sep 13, 2024
47 min
In today's episode were interviewing Katherine Power and Tony Tenicela from Sodexo. Katherine is Vice President of Communications in North America. She is recognised for driving innovation, Inclusion and delivering superior communications results. A regular speaker at national and international conferences on Diversity and Inclusion, Corporate Social Responsibility and Leadership. Tony Tenicela is the Chief Diversity Equity and Inclusion officer, he is responsible for leading DEI Initiatives that help to foster an inclusive workplace culture and ensures that Sodexo attracts, recruits and develops a high performing workforce in the communities in which they serve. Tony was named one of the top 50 LGBT Executives by the Telegraph in the UK, and listed as one of the top 50 LGBTQ Legacy Leaders by Business Equality Magazine. ___
Did you know? you can now order Priya and Advita's new book Building a Culture of Inclusivity
Order from
https://www.koganpage.com/
Discount Code ALLME20
The book is available in most online stores including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Waterstones, Indigo etc… and in some physical ones as well.
Don't miss out. Get your copy of the book now and be part of the DEI conversation.
Building a Culture of Inclusivity
Effective Internal Communication For Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Want to evaluate where your business stands when it comes to the EI? Visit our website to learn more:
https://aleaderlikeme.com/
Have any questions? Would you like to book Priya and or Advita for a speaking event? Don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@aleaderlikeme.com
For our latest updates, continue to follow our LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram @aleaderlikeme.
If you read our book and would like to give us your honest review, feel free to post on social media. Don't forget to use the #ALLME and tag us.
Thank you for your continued support as we drive global DEI/EDI conversations forward.
If you want to transform your culture and build better inclusion then get in touch and let’s see how we can work together: info@aleaderlikeme.com.
If you’re curious about inclusive cultures and want to understand what needs to happen in your organisation to cultivate belonging so you and your colleagues can thrive, you can purchase our book: https://aleaderlikeme.com/book/
Sep 13, 2024
47 min

Jul 25, 2024
S4 EP6: How important is equity in the workplace
Jul 25, 2024
Jul 25, 2024
33 min
In this special bonus episode, Priya Bates and Advita Patel, co-founders of 'A Leader Like Me,' discuss the Society for Human Resources Management's (SHRM) decision to remove Equity from their terminology.
SHRM, a career development membership based in America, equips today’s HR professionals with the knowledge, resources, skills, and support to make a true, lasting impact—creating a world of work that works for all.
Advita and Priya also discuss the political landscape in the USA following President Biden stepping down from the candidate race and naming Kamala Harris as his nominee. The hosts discuss the challenges Black women and women of color may need to watch out for if Kamala succeeds in being named the leader for the Democrats.
The end the podcast with some of their favorite moments from the season so far.
Resources mentioned in the episode
SHRM website: https://www.shrm.org/home
Lily Zheng's post: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/lilyzheng308_equity-activity-7220125682893254656-gc-X?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop
If you want to transform your culture and build better inclusion then get in touch and let’s see how we can work together: info@aleaderlikeme.com.
If you’re curious about inclusive cultures and want to understand what needs to happen in your organisation to cultivate belonging so you and your colleagues can thrive, you can purchase our book: https://aleaderlikeme.com/book/
Jul 25, 2024
33 min

Jul 11, 2024
Jul 11, 2024
39 min
Building a Culture of Inclusivity With Dr Cornell Verdeja-Woodson
In this episode Priya Bates and Advita Patel, co-founders of 'A Leader Like Me', are joined by Dr Cornell Verdeja-Woodson, Founder and CEO of boutique consulting firm, Brave Trainings. Dr Cornell has been leading the conversation in DEIB for over a decade, helping senior leaders and organisations use data to improve their DEIB efforts and through His LGBTQIA+ training which is used in multiple organisations across countless sectors.
If you want to transform your culture and build better inclusion then get in touch and let’s see how we can work together: info@aleaderlikeme.com.
If you’re curious about inclusive cultures and want to understand what needs to happen in your organisation to cultivate belonging so you and your colleagues can thrive, you can purchase our book: https://aleaderlikeme.com/book/
If you’d like to connect with Dr Cornell, you can find him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cornellw/
Jul 11, 2024
39 min

Jun 27, 2024
Jun 27, 2024
40 min
In this episode of the podcast "A Leader Like Me," the hosts, Priya Bates and Advita Patel, interview Merima Baralić, the Director of Communications for PepsiCo Europe.
Merima discusses her personal background and experiences growing up in different countries, as well as her passion for storytelling and its connection to inclusive communication.
She emphasizes the power of communication and storytelling in mobilizing people, igniting emotions, and shifting perspectives.
Advita and Priya also discuss the role of communication professionals in promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace, and Merima shares her tips for communicating inclusively to diverse audiences.
Merima also discusses the culture of inclusivity at PepsiCo and the role of leaders in driving change and creating a safe space for voicing opinions.
She believes that DEI is not dying but rather flourishing, and that organizations need to prioritize people and create a sense of belonging to succeed.
The episode concludes with Merima encouraging listeners to embrace their uniqueness and approach communication from an audience-centric perspective.
If you want to transform your culture and build better inclusion then get in touch and let’s see how we can work together: info@aleaderlikeme.com.
If you’re curious about inclusive cultures and want to understand what needs to happen in your organisation to cultivate belonging so you and your colleagues can thrive, you can purchase our book: https://aleaderlikeme.com/book/
If you’d like to connect with Merima you can find her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/merimabaralic?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
Jun 27, 2024
40 min

Jun 13, 2024
Jun 13, 2024
42 min
Creating an environment that empowers authenticity: Insights from Samantha Thomas Berry.
Join Priya Bates and Advita Patel, co-founders of 'A Leader Like Me', for another incredible discussion with special guest Samantha Thomas-Berry, VP of Global Talent and Chief Diversity Officer at Kellanova. – A pragmatic and authentic Human Resources leader with over 25 years experience across a range of industries including telecoms and aerospace. She is a strategic business partner delivering commercial success and her coaching approach to leadership ensures she gives the best of herself to, and gets the same in return from, those she is surrounded by.
Featuring personal stories and expert advice, this episode covers the incredible work that Sam is doing to build inclusive cultures across all areas of the global organisation.
If you are passionate about fostering inclusivity, diversity, and belonging in your workplace, this episode will provide all the necessary insights and inspiration.
You can follow Samantha on Linkedin where she'd love to connect and hear from you.
If you want to transform your culture and build greater inclusion in your workplace, get in touch and let's have a chat on how we can support you: info@aleaderlikeme.com.
You can also follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram to keep up with the latest news.
Jun 13, 2024
42 min

May 23, 2024
May 23, 2024
43 min
Driving Inclusion, Diversity, and Belonging in the Workplace: Insights from Garry Clarke-Strange
Join Priya Bates and Advita Patel, co-founders of 'A Leader Like Me', in an enriching discussion with special guest Garry Clarke-Strange – a talent acquisition expert passion-driven about inclusivity and diversity. Garry the previous Head of Inclusion and Diversity at Green King, sheds light on his journey and his vision to create workplaces where everyone can thrive.
Featuring personal stories and expert advice, this episode covers the transformative impact of initiatives such as a peer-on-peer support system and the Green King's 'I'm not prejudiced but...' campaign. The power of employee networks in propelling an organization's inclusivity efforts is also explored.
The episode also delves into the concept of 'allyship', the challenges of ensuring that the voices of these groups are heard, and the fatigue and burnout associated with continuous involvement.
If you are passionate about fostering inclusivity, diversity, and belonging in your workplace, this episode will provide all the necessary insights and inspiration.
You can follow Garry on LinkedIn if you want to learn more about his new consultancy Think Inclusion.
I’m not prejudiced video: https://youtu.be/Au4O-hy8Ojc?si=HYip8SiSE7ZxLfpC
If you want to transform your culture and build greater inclusion in your workplace, get in touch and let's have a chat on how we can support you: info@aleaderlikeme.com.
You can also follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram to keep up with the latest news.
May 23, 2024
43 min

Apr 11, 2024
Apr 11, 2024
27 min
“We're focused on KPIs, we're focused on actually driving change, helping people through that change through the communications expertise. And it's really, it's all connected. And it's embedded,”
- Priya Bates
Welcome to a bonus episode of A Leader Like Me, where we launch our new season in which we'll be getting real about Building a culture of inclusion with the leaders who are making it happen.
In this bonus episode, Advita Patel and Priya Bates, Co-founders of A Leader Like Me, explore the challenges of sustaining inclusion in different organization.
Priya and Advita reveal A Leader Like Me's exciting new direction and how they can help bridge the gap between awareness and action.
Join us as we explore evidence-based strategies that drive real change.
Don't miss out! Tune in each Thursday for a new episode with a new guest and be inspired, empowered, and ready to make a positive impact.
__
Did you know? you can now order Priya and Advita's new book Building a Culture of Inclusivity
Order from
https://www.koganpage.com/
Discount Code ALLME20
The book is available in most online stores including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Waterstones, Indigo etc… and in some physical ones as well.
Don't miss out. Get your copy of the book now and be part of the DEI conversation.
Building a Culture of Inclusivity
Effective Internal Communication For Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Want to evaluate where your business stands when it comes to the EI? Visit our website to learn more:
https://aleaderlikeme.com/
Have any questions? Would you like to book Priya and or Advita for a speaking event? Don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@aleaderlikeme.com
For our latest updates, continue to follow our LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram @aleaderlikeme.
If you read our book and would like to give us your honest review, feel free to head to social media and don't forget to use the #ALLME and tag us.
Thank you for your continued support as we drive global DEI/EDI conversations forward.
Apr 11, 2024
27 min

Dec 21, 2023
Dec 21, 2023
32 min
"I want sport to be more reflective of the world that we live in. So that is representation from a diversity point of view. But also, treating people as a whole. A person is not just a person of color. There's so many other characteristics and lived experiences that an individual brings. So it's about accepting a person as a whole, and really creating that belonging for them to be whoever they want in whichever sport they play. And hoping that we do reflect the society that we live in, and serve."
Shruti Saujani
In the final episode of Amplifying Diverse Voices season 3, Advita Patel and Priya Bates, Co-founders of A Leader Like Me, were delighted to be joined by Shruti Saujani from the Football Association where she's the EDI lead Equity Diversity and Inclusion. Shruthi is super passionate about making sports for all.
Dive into the world of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in sports as Shruti shares her inspiring story and passion for making a difference.
Discover how she transformed her dreams inspired by "Bend It Like Beckham" into a reality, breaking barriers for South Asian women in the sports arena.
Join us as we explore Shruti's journey, her recognition as a sports industry next-gen leader, and the impactful initiatives she leads to empower underrepresented groups and reshape the industry of sports making it more inclusive and diverse.
Don't miss out! Tune in now to be inspired, empowered, and ready to make a positive impact.
Connect with Shruti to follow her inspiring journey: Shruti Saujani on LinkedIn
__
Did you know? you can now order Priya and Advita's new book Building a Culture of Inclusivity
Order from
https://www.koganpage.com/
Discount Code ALLME20
The book is available in most online stores including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Waterstones, Indigo etc… and in some physical ones as well.
Stay tuned for weekly episodes of season 3 of Amplifying Diverse Voices.
Don't miss out. Get your copy of the book now and be part of the DEI conversation.
Building a Culture of Inclusivity
Effective Internal Communication For Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Want to evaluate where your business stands when it comes to the EI? Visit our website to learn more:
https://aleaderlikeme.com/
Have any questions? Would you like to book Priya and or Advita for a speaking event? Don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@aleaderlikeme.com
For our latest updates, continue to follow our LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram @aleaderlikeme.
If you read our book and would like to give us your honest review, feel free to head to social media and don't forget to use the #ALLME and tag us.
Thank you for your continued support as we drive global DEI/EDI conversations forward.
Dec 21, 2023
32 min
A Leader Like Me: Amplifying Diverse Voices
Co-founders of A Leader Like Me, Priya Bates (she/her) and Advita Patel (she/her), amplify the voices of inspirational guests who are achieving great things in their careers in the hope to inspire others and bring change to biases many of us currently face. The discussions centre around diversity and inclusion but focus on their stories and motivation.
A Leader Like Me podcast has been created to help empower people to make a difference, to give hope to those who have struggled to belong and to amplify the voices of folks who do remarkable things.
You can find out more about A Leader Like Me at https://aleaderlikeme.com/





