WWe all know that diversity and inclusion are important, but how do we move beyond just having a diverse guest list to actually creating a space where people feel like they belong? If you’re looking to build an authentic and inclusive community around your show, this episode is for you. In this episode of Podcasting Unlocked, we’re talking with Faith Clarke about why inclusion should be the first part of your diversity work, and how we as podcasters can avoid tokenism by creating a space for true belonging. This week, episode 232 of Podcasting Unlocked is about inclusion first podcasting for authentic diversity!
Key Takeaways:
- Exploring how feminism can increase equity in the world.
- How true inclusion involves building practices that facilitate belonging and address small differences.
- The role of podcasters in creating truely inclusive content.
- The power of individuals holding space and modeling inclusion.
Inclusion First Podcasting for Authentic Diversity with Faith Clarke
Step 1: Start with Inclusion, Not Diversity
Most of the time, when we talk about making a community more welcoming, we start with diversity. We think, “I need more people from different backgrounds on my show.” We believe that if we just bring in a few more people who are different from us, the job is done. But this can lead to what is called
tokenism.
Tokenism is when you add a few people who are different, but you do not make them feel like they belong. It’s like having a puzzle with a piece that doesn’t quite fit. The puzzle is diverse, but the person feels out of place.
The better way to do this is to start with
inclusion. Inclusion is about making sure that everyone feels welcome and that they belong. It’s about making sure your community is a place where people can be their true selves. This work should come before you even start thinking about diversity.
- Inclusion should be the first part of your diversity work.
- When you focus on inclusion, you create a space for real belonging.
- Tokenism happens when you just check boxes.
Step 2: Stop Trying to Do Everything at Once
Sometimes, the idea of doing “inclusion work” can feel huge and scary. You might think, “I have to change everything all at once, or I’m doing it wrong.” This is not true. You do not have to fix all the problems in the world today.
Instead, you can make small changes every day. Faith calls these
“micro-moments” of change. These are small, little things you can do that can make a big difference over time. It can be as simple as changing one word you use on your show or being more thoughtful about the questions you ask your guests. You don’t have to fix a big problem with one big solution. You can use many small solutions over time.
- You don’t have to do all the work at once.
- Find small, daily ways to practice inclusion and connection.
- Small changes can lead to big results over time.
Step 3: Find the “Both/And”
As podcasters and content creators, we are often told we have to choose between two things. We think we can either care for ourselves or care for others, but not both. We feel like if we are doing good for others, we must be putting ourselves last. But this is a big mistake.
Faith says it is possible to have a
“both/and” approach to life. You can take care of yourself while also holding space for other people. You don’t have to choose between your well-being and helping others. In fact, when you take care of yourself, you have more energy and love to give to your community. A good host knows they have to fill their own cup before they can pour into others.
- You don’t have to choose between self-care and helping others.
- It’s possible to do both at the same time.
- When you take care of yourself, you can show up better for your audience.
Step 4: Show Up as a Human
This is a big one. It’s easy to hide behind your brand or your microphone. You might feel like you have to be perfect or have all the answers. But your audience wants to connect with you, the real person.
Being vulnerable can build a level of trust that you can’t get in any other way. You can tell your audience about your own struggles or things you are learning. You can let them know that you don’t have all the answers. This is about showing that you are a human, too. When you do this, your audience will feel safe to be human with you. This is the path to real connection and true belonging.
- Your audience wants to connect with you, the person behind the show.
- Being vulnerable builds trust.
- Show up as a human, not just a brand.
Your Path to a Better Podcast
Creating a community where people feel like they belong is one of the most powerful things you can do as a podcaster. It’s not about checking boxes or being perfect. It’s about leading with empathy and a true desire to connect with people on a human level.
Your challenge this week is to take just one small step to make your podcasting community more inclusive. Maybe you will think about the words you use, or maybe you will be more open about your own story. Remember, small actions can lead to a big impact.
What is one thing you can do today to build a more inclusive podcast?
Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips on turning your podcast listeners into leads and to hear even more about the points outlined above.
Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to follow, rate and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!
Learn more about Podcasting Unlocked at https://galatimedia.com/podcasting-unlocked/
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