OM DENNE EPISODE
In Part II, Mel and Suzanne move from principles to practice, focusing on what inclusive language looks like when you’re leading teams, setting standards, and holding power.
They explore why inclusive language efforts often trigger backlash, how leaders confuse discomfort with danger, and what actually builds credibility when language norms are shifting. Suzanne challenges the idea that leaders need to “get it right” all the time, arguing instead for accountability, repair, and consistency.
This conversation is about leadership maturity — knowing when to listen, when to lead, and how to respond when language mistakes happen in real workplaces with real consequences.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
Why backlash is a predictable part of cultural change
How leaders can respond to language missteps without defensiveness
The role of power in shaping whose language is policed — and whose isn’t
Why inclusive language is a leadership responsibility, not an HR script
How leaders model learning without losing authority
Together, Parts I and II position inclusive language as a core leadership capability — one that shapes culture, safety, and performance over time.
If this episode was useful, there are three simple ways to go further:
Subscribe on Substack
This is now the home of the Lead to Soar podcast. Subscribers get new episodes, curated guidance from the back catalogue, and written insights to help you navigate leadership and career decisions with sound judgement.
Explore the Lead to Soar Network
Lead to Soar is a leadership development network for ambitious women and for organisations serious about closing the leadership gender gap. Members get access to group coaching, practical leadership tools, and a network of women who are actively working on their careers. Explore
Share the episode
If this resonated, share it with a colleague, manager, or friend who might need it. Leadership is shaped by what we notice, name, and talk about.
Get full access to Lead to Soar Podcast at leadtosoarpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
