Get ready to tackle another hot topic with Simon and Rachel as they have the conversations you want to In this episode, they're diving deep into the question: What exactly do we mean by free speech, especially at work?

From academic freedom and artistic expression to controversial workplace debates and social media snafus, Rachel and Simon fearlessly (and humorously) navigate the delicate dance of speaking your mind without breaking the office etiquette. Simon boldly explores how free speech can quickly turn chaotic without clear boundaries, while Rachel brings her trademark clarity, unpacking the mechanics and dynamics behind workplace conduct, speech, and silence, she has talked before about measuring it and today she majors on leveraging it and lessons from a silent retreat!

Expect sharp wit, real-life scenarios (awkward comedy clubs, anyone?), and insightful tips as they tackle whether expressing your "authentic self" at work is a freedom or a potential landmine. With stories ranging from protest encampments to inappropriate office outfits, Simon and Rachel offer practical wisdom and plenty of laughs on managing tricky conversations, setting boundaries, and embracing the essential art of disagreeing well.

Join Simon and Rachel as they redefine free speech at work where sometimes the bravest thing you can say is nothing at all!

For more about Rachel: Who Is The Fearless Facilitator? - Fearless Facilitator

For more about Simon: Who We Are – Diversity by Design

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Hold on tight as Simon and Rachel tackle a red-hot question: Are your employees still just employees, or are they morphing into activists? From baked beans to workplace tussles about toilets (a subject that disproportionately is vexing employers and their staff right now!) and drag pantos at Christmas parties, this conversation has everything, and a few surprises.

Find out why Rachel was kettled by the Metropolitan Police outside Miss World in her younger years, while Simon fondly remembers being “bullied” by bolshy feminists into joining activism life-changing, he insists! Together they dive headfirst into the messy business of workplace activism, staff networks, and how companies are struggling to balance societal debates with core business objectives.

Expect insightful banter, playful disagreement, and a healthy dose of practical wisdom as they explore whether activism at work builds belonging or creates division, and why some issues spark genuine progress while others ignite polarisation. Is your CEO secretly terrified of town halls? Could your company accidentally silence the majority while amplifying a few loud voices? And just why are women’s networks sometimes named so awkwardly?

Join Rachel and Simon as they fearlessly unpack this sensitive, complex topic with humour, empathy, and (of course!) courageous candour.

For more about Rachel: Who Is The Fearless Facilitator? - Fearless Facilitator

For more about Simon: Who We Are – Diversity by Design

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In our second episode on the Supreme Court Judgement on the meaning of sex in the Equality Act, Rachel and Simon again explore the complexities. The re-statement of the law by the Court is crystal clear. But the reaction has ranged from the practical and sensible to the defiant and the downright defamatory. And from some people who should know better. Why did one of the leading law firms in the UK host a session where the Supreme Court Judges were described by a panellist to laughter as “f******g idiots”? Who shouted what insult at Simon on the bus? Why was Rachel’s conversation with a bricky on the train so surprising? What's the article with the best legal advice that we've found so far? Why should leaders be very cautious about them or their company grandstanding on the issues rather than remaining impartial and lawful and practical? Which is the best and most straightforward advice to be found for leaders navigating all this? More conversation and common sense from R&S on a subject to which we will undoubtedly return

Links:

Joanne Moseley - Irwin Mitchell

Do retailers have to provide single sex toilets and changing rooms for their customers and staff?

https://www.irwinmitchell.com/news-and-insights/expert-comment/post/102kb9l/do-retailers-have-to-provide-single-sex-toilets-and-changing-rooms-for-their-cust

Strathclyde Uni Law Blog

https://www.strath.ac.uk/humanities/lawschool/blog/genderdoesntmatter/

https://www.strath.ac.uk/humanities/lawschool/blog/gendermatters/

Times Editorial: Opponents of trans ruling should put pragmatism over ideology

Supreme Court judgement: For Women Scotland Ltd (Appellant) v The Scottish Ministers (Respondent)

EHRC Statement: An interim update on the practical implications of the UK Supreme Court judgment | EHRC

For more about Rachel: Who Is The Fearless Facilitator? - Fearless Facilitator

For more about Simon: Who We Are – Diversity by Design

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.