Hiya Babs

In this episode, Chris and Lee are joined by the brilliant and refreshingly honest Nathyn.Fresh off his 40th birthday and proudly owning his identity as a combined ADHDer, Nathyn takes us on a journey from the corporate grind to carving out his own path in diversity and inclusion — with a special focus on neurodiversity. He opens up about getting diagnosed later in life, years of masking, and the “aha” moments that led him to become a passionate advocate and start his own consultancy.But it’s not all deep reflection — expect some spicy takes too. Together, the trio dive into what’s really going wrong in corporate D&I efforts. From performative “tick-box” exercises to the hollow fanfare around calendar dates like Black History Month, nothing’s off-limits. Their message? Stop the surface-level stuff. Instead, look inward, do the work, and recognize the incredible (and often hidden) neurodiverse talent already in your workplace.Oh and we can't forget about a memorable 'what are you dunking' anecdote!

After a short break, Babs and Lee are back to tackle the "shit show" of recent media and political events through a D&I lens. They dive into the frustrating narrative of D&I's supposed demise, passionately arguing for its fundamental importance and highlighting often-overlooked aspects. The conversation then navigates the contentious transgender rights debate, particularly the bathroom issue, with disbelief and concern. They also touch on the spread of misinformation, the puzzling stances of political groups like Reform UK, and their somewhat cynical take on the media spectacle of the all-women space launch. Looking ahead, they discuss the quiet lead-up to Pride Month and the often performative nature of corporate involvement. Despite the serious topics, the conversation is peppered with personal anecdotes, humorous tangents (including a memorable "teeny tiny penis" keyring), and ultimately a call to continue fighting for a more inclusive world.

In this episode of DiversiTea, we're joined by the incredible Khakan Qureshi, founder of the social support group Finding a Voice and recipient of the British Empire Medal for his advocacy in LGBTQ+ equality.Khakan shares his powerful journey as an activist, starting later in life and navigating the complexities of being a gay Muslim man. 1 He opens up about the challenges he's faced, including online abuse and burnout, and the importance of finding your tribe and creating safe spaces.   We delve into the importance of intersectionality, the power of representation, and the need for more positive stories in the media. Kakaan also discusses the nuances of faith and sexuality, encouraging listeners to educate themselves and find their own personal truth.This episode is full of inspiring insights and honest reflections on identity, resilience, and the importance of community. Join us for a cup of tea and a conversation that will leave you feeling empowered and hopeful.

This week's LGBT+ History Month episode of Diversitea, we're joined by Kevin Drew, Director of Ascentant Accountancy based in Derby this week. Kevin discusses the pressures and expectations he faced within the sector before building his own inclusive business.We chat to about the power of community, running an accountancy without judgement, being an advocate and ally at Derby Pride and more.

This week on Diversitea we spill the tea with Michelle Butler. Michelle has worked as a youth alliance coordinator for community action Derby and now in programme support. We spoke to her about her work within the LGBTQIA+ community, the awareness, work and allyship that she so passionately talks about.She discusses why now more than ever allyship is so importnat and why listening and turning up for others is an integral part of being a good allyMichelle is a trailblazer for the LGBT+ community, from her work in derbyshire to representation of LGBTQIA+ people in sport!Grab yourself a piping hot cuppa and enjoy!

Activism & social change. This year's theme for LGBT+ History Month feels more fitting than ever. It's also timely to speak to Founder of Diversity Scotland, Tony Mccaffery who discusses challenges for gender equity and their Gender Queer identity journey.Tony is not only articulate but speaks so much honesty and truth when it comes to the social constructs of gender. Not to mention, their dog being somewhat a local Scottish celebrity.

We were so excited to be joined by the fabulous Saski for this wee's episode. Saski is a renowned and well established LGBTQ+ Inclusion Consultant and in her own words, fabulous lesbian. As well as being the official PRIDE host, radio presenter, panel moderator, she is also a professional singer and proud Queer parent. Is there anything that she can't do!?We kick off LGBT History Month by discussing the education pieces she does in schools, with the metropolitan police and organisations. Why now, more than ever, it's important to be an ally, why LGBTQIA+ sex education should be liberated and much more.Her infectious personality made us laugh especially when it came to discussing sex education.

We're back! To kick off a new season, a new year and the start of LGBT+ History Month, we're delighted to have the amazing Ollie, Robbie & Divanka of @prideprescription.These guys are three gay GPs from South London on a mission to de-bunk myths, educate and protect when it comes to LGBTQIA+ healthcare. Not only are they three of the nicest guys to have a laugh with (we'll never look at a sausage in the same way again) but they're also so passionate about what they do. We talk the pressures the NHS and LGBTQIA+ community face, kinks, expectations and vulnerabilities.

In our season finale of Diversitea, we sit down with the incredibly talented queer country pop artist, Smashby. Known for their viral TikTok videos and joyful presence, Smashby opens up about living authentically, the healing power of music, and why reporting hate crimes is crucial. We dive into their journey as a queer artist, navigating social media, mental health, and the importance of speaking your truth. Smashby’s wisdom, positivity, and candid insights make this conversation a perfect way to wrap up Season 5. Tune in for an uplifting and thought-provoking episode with Smashby! This one’s full of joy and inspiration.

What an absolute force of nature Chikere is. It was a pleasure to have her join us for episode 9 of Diversitea.Chikere (Chee-kay-ray) is a DEI leader and a proud black woman who's championing, educating and commemorating inclusion, especially race within businesses.Chee spoke to us about the importance of going from an ally to accomplice, amplifying diverse stories and voices, not making assumptions based on race and reclaiming black narratives.If you ever have the opportunity to hear Chikere speak, take it. She's not only inspirational but her words speak volumes. The work she does and continues to do is incredible and we loved chatting to her.

How do you build a community of independent artists and creatives from all backgrounds?That's what Rhea of @handmadenotts has been doing for the past ten years. Supporting other independents, small businesses and championing those who have something to say.Handmade Nottingham recently celebrated their 10th Birthday and as Christmas fast approaches, Rhea took some time out of her busy Christmas prep to talk to us. We spoke about the importance of inclusion in retail, inclusive marketing on a smaller scale and how she's created a warm, welcoming space that celebrates diversity for both artists and customers.There's a reason why we love Handmade Nottingham. If you're about to start Christmas shopping or need a break, give a listen to episode 8 when it drops this Friday on Spotify, Apple Podcasts etc.And remember to shop local and support independents this Christmas.

On Episode 7 of Diversitea, we had a cuppa with @adhgreg to talk all things ADHD.Greg's grown a following and community on TikTok from his fly on the wall style videos that are wholesome, unpolished and show an insight into how someone with ADHD thinks, reacts, behave and the stigma attached.Being neurodivergent is something that many people are still learning about. The waitilist for ADHD diagnosis is through the roof so how do we tackle behaviours and ensure that small adjustments are made to support and educate?We chatted, laughed and spoke about Greg's views on perfection, healing, Irn Bru and Astros (the underrated South African chocolate)

we're delighted to announce Disability Advocate and all round amazing human being Mark Webb as our special guest for episode 6!Mark has an incurable progressive illness called Multiple Sclerosis (MS), delivers disability awareness and advocacy workshops, is a keynote speaker and TEDx talker.We met Mark on a panel back in March and his positivity, knowledge, humour and thirst for life is endearing. He joins us to talk about his experience with working at Dixons, reasonable adjustments, being kind, his purple personal branding and Chumbawamba....Purple Tuesday helps organisations to celebrate accessibility and inclusion. Purple is the symbolic colour of disability and with the Disability Power 100 Event and Purple Sock Day around the corner, forget green for Wicked and Red for Christmas, it's Purple's time to shine. 💜

From Disney World to the military to Mental Health Advisor and Psychotherapist trainee.Matt has done it all! It was great to have him on the podcast to speak about the science of therapy and why listening is a great healer. The myth that therapists give advice and so much more.

We're joined by friend, business owner and all round lovely human being Emma Glover for episode 3.Em is the Director of Victress Digital and a close friend of Lee & Chris. Over the past few years, she's become a big advocate for therapy, learnt that we can be our own biggest critics and talks about how routine keeps her grounded.We also talk about her love for anything emo or ginger. We were also shocked that Head Automatica got old and the lead singer looks like he owns a yoga retreat. More shocked that Paramore's first album was released nearly 20 years ago! Emo music is now apparently 'Dad Rock'.

We are now back with a fresh new feel and a wonderful cohost Lee. Listen now to episode 1 of season 5 now! This weeks episode ‘ tea for two’ covers the story of how Lee and I met, expectations of being gay, stereotypes, intersectionality and a host of other topics!

Welcome back to Diversitea!  To kick off season four, Chris, your host, and director of www.yourdandi.co.uk interviews the pop-punk band Action Adventure. The band went viral with the release of their 59-second hit 'Barricades' which they say was their elevator pitch to the music industry. The song went viral due to the messaging that was prominently featured in the song. The opening line 'Would you listen if we looked any different' really struck a chord in the genre especially as most bands within this scene are predominantly white. Action Adventure has gone from strength to strength since recording this episode. You can find them on Spotify and listen to the single here! https://youtu.be/-ytREQPfaXg

In this week's episode, we chat with Zoe Ogden the people Director of Impression, A digital marketing agency in Nottingham. Impression was Your D+I's first client when we first launched. We discuss with Zoe the benefits of Diversity and Inclusion to a fast-growing business and what their plans are for the future Episode recorded September 2021

In this episode, we spill the tea with our good friends at dinc. We discuss the power and importance of being a good ally as well as how dinc. came about. Founders Jack and Ross discuss their own careers and experiences and how that has helped shape and launch the social media platform. The dinc. community is a free-to-use, diversity & inclusion focused social network & learning app. The community was created to inspire cross-industry collaboration and engagement.  Centred around networks, resources and a jobsboard, it offers users a safe place to be their authentic selves, learn and discover opportunities to grow. With public feeds supporting several themes, news & blogs, videos, podcasts & regular live streams, dinc. is a hub of all things D&I. For more information and to download the dinc. app just click here or search 'dinc' in your app store This episode was recorded during our charity event for Freedom4girls - raising awareness and educating on period poverty and removing the stigmas that come from menstruating. find out more at https://www.freedom4girls.co.uk/ Grab your favourite cuppa and enjoy!

This week, I chat with Sam Warner about all things autism. From how the latest TV shows represent autism to the importance (or lack thereof) of having a formal diagnosis, Sam shares her personal views as an autistic woman. We also discuss how companies and events can better accommodate their autistic staff and attendees, including changes that can make spaces better for both neurodiverse and neurotypical people.