In this debrief episode, hosts Julienne Ryan and Jerome Deroy reflect on their conversation with Sona Sherratt (featured in Episode 125) and dive into the critical role storytelling plays in fostering belonging in the workplace. They explore how policies often fall short when they are disconnected from real human experiences and why sharing personal stories can bridge the gap between corporate initiatives and genuine inclusion.
This episode is a call to action for leaders and organizations to move beyond checkbox diversity efforts and create spaces where employees’ authentic experiences shape workplace culture.
You’ll Hear:
💡 From Policy to People – How well-intended corporate programs can feel empty if they don’t originate from real employee experiences.
🎭 The Power of Everyday Conversations – Why informal moments—like sitting on a stairwell with a colleague—can lead to deeper understanding than any PowerPoint presentation.
📢 Belonging Through Storytelling – How real, lived experiences help people connect beyond job titles, creating a workplace culture that feels authentic and inclusive.
🔄 Flipping the Perspective – Why leaders who share personal stories—especially about moments of exclusion—can foster a culture of trust and openness.
💬 The Role of Active Listening – How simply acknowledging someone’s experience can be a game-changer for inclusion, team collaboration, and personal growth.
Key Takeaways:
✅ Policies Should Emerge from People, Not Checklists – Employees resonate with initiatives that reflect their real experiences, not jargon-heavy mandates.
✅ Stories Create Bridges – Sharing personal experiences builds understanding across different perspectives, fostering a culture of authenticity.
✅ Vulnerability Strengthens Leadership – When leaders share their own moments of exclusion or struggle, they create an environment where others feel safe to do the same.
✅ Humanity Over Headlines – It’s not about chasing trends in DEI, but about making meaningful, human-centered connections.
✅ Everyday Moments Matter – Whether it’s a hallway conversation or a small act of listening, these micro-interactions shape workplace culture more than any formal training ever could.
For those looking to go beyond surface-level DEI efforts and build cultures rooted in authenticity and belonging, this episode offers valuable insights and practical takeaways.
Learn more about how to leverage Narativ’s storytelling method for your pitch and sales team: Download our free e-book, or you’re welcome to schedule a free 15-minute call with Jerome.
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