In this episode, Fiorenza Rossini sits down with Sam Kennedy Christian, an accredited executive coach, coach supervisor, and certified Fair Play Method facilitator at The Float Space.Together, they explore the often invisible but overwhelming mental load carried by working mothers. “Sharing the mental load or even just distributing the mental responsibilities can significantly reduce stress and improve mental health. It’s about surfacing those invisible tasks and having open conversations about them.”, says Sam.From understanding how societal expectations shape household responsibilities to practical tools for reducing stress, this conversation offers actionable insights to foster balance, belonging, and well-being. Whether you're juggling work, family, or both, you'll find strategies to make space for self-care, creativity, and shared responsibilities in this episode!In particular, I really enjoyed getting to know more about the Fair Play method!It’s a game-changing approach developed by Eve Rodsky. It's designed to help couples divide household responsibilities more equitably. The method uses a deck of cards, each representing a task, to make the invisible mental load visible and manageable. It's not just about who does what, but about having clear ownership of tasks from start to finish.Tune in for the full conversation 🎧Key topics explored:* (02:15) The concept of mental load and its impact on mental health * (06:30) Using the Fair Play Card System to Share Household Responsibilities* (09:45) Setting Boundaries Around Work and Transitions* (13:20) Introducing the Concept of “Unicorn Space” and Creative Hobbies* (17:50) How Gender Expression Influences Household Responsibilities* (21:05) The Role of Community and Small Wins in Fostering Belonging* (26:40) Recognition of the Mental Load as a Never-Off System and Its Brain Impact* (30:00) How Mental Load Affects Confidence and Practical Conversation Starters* (35:15) Protecting Time for Self-Care and Hobbies Like Sewing* (40:00) Reflections on Community Building and Societal Expectations⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you’ve enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review!Connect with Sam Kennedy Christian🔗 The Float Space 🔗 Sam Kennedy Christian - LinkedIn 🔗 Sam Kennedy Christian - InstagramAbout your host Fiorenza RossiniFiorenza started building her coaching business in 2016 while still working in investment banking. When her first child was born in 2019, she knew something had to give. Like many parents, she realised she couldn’t keep growing her career in the same way while also being the parent she wanted to be. Her priorities became clearer, and she chose to leave corporate life to focus fully on her coaching work. Today, Fiorenza supports driven professionals & leaders who are also parents of young children, who find themselves to be at a pivot point - whether that’s returning to work, stepping into leadership, or rethinking what career growth now looks like.🔗 Fiorenza on LinkedIn 🔗 Fiorenza on Instagram 🔗 More about Fiorenza’s work This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit belongingproject.substack.com

In this episode of The Belonging Project Podcast, Fiorenza Rossini deep dives into the impact of motherhood on women’s confidence in the workplace. She discusses the challenges faced by mothers returning to work, including the mental load, societal perceptions that contribute to a decline in confidence, and the motherhood penalty.Fiorenza offers practical strategies for rebuilding confidence, emphasising the importance of small resets and adapting to new circumstances. “I am passionate about confidence, not needing big intervention. It can really be about small resets, small little things, small strategies, small tools that you can do on the daily.", explains Fiorenza.The conversation highlights the need for understanding growth and the evolving definition of success as women navigate their roles as parents alongside professionals.Tune in for the full episode!Key topics we explored:* Confidence Changes After Parenthood (0:33 - 1:30)* Impact of a change of context and mental load (1:30 - 4:38)* Practical strategies for Rebuilding Confidence (5:26 - 10:33)* Growth and Adaptation (9:13 - 11:59)⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you’ve enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review!About your host Fiorenza RossiniFiorenza started building her coaching business in 2016 while still working in investment banking. When her first child was born in 2019, she knew something had to give. Like many parents, she realised she couldn’t keep growing her career in the same way while also being the parent she wanted to be. Her priorities became clearer, and she chose to leave corporate life to focus fully on her coaching work. Today, Fiorenza supports driven professionals & leaders who are also parents of young children, who find themselves to be at a pivot point - whether that’s returning to work, stepping into leadership, or rethinking what career growth now looks like.🔗 Fiorenza on Linkedin 🔗 Fiorenza on Instagram 🔗 More about Fiorenza’s work: www.growinnow.comIf you enjoy this episode, make sure to catch our episode with Hannah Douglas, public speaking and voice coach. Here to listen on your platform of choice or on Substack. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit belongingproject.substack.com

In this episode, Fiorenza Rossini welcomes award-winning actress Hannah Douglas who decided to launch LoudHer Voice Coaching (a public speaking and voice coaching business) after becoming a mum.“After I became a mum, I was talking to so many mums who were feeling like weren’t heard properly at work or were nervous about going back to work or didn’t quite know what their voices were anymore. And I really felt that kind of sense of identity shift as well”, says Hannah.Hannah’s work use the breath as foundation and not only she gives us practical tips in this episode but she also guides us through a breathing exercise called the balloon breathing, which works great to instantly ground oneself before speaking or stepping into a room.Public speaking is a big topic in our working life, sometimes a past event is casting a shadow and holding us back, sometimes we fell in a perfectionism trap.What if we give ourselves permission and choice to be confident with our own voice?Tune in for the full conversation!Key topics we explored:* Hannah’s transition from acting to voice coaching driven by motherhood and personal experience (00:00 - 02:44)* The deep connection between breath and confidence (07:14 - 08:05)* Common challenges women face with their voice in professional and personal settings (09:54 - 10:53)* How societal expectations and internal permission influence speaking up (39:45 - 41:25)* Practice with us a breathing exercise, the balloon breathing to manage nerves (13:15 - 14:22)* The impact of motherhood on self-identity and confidence (32:58 - 39:45)* Navigating the acting industry’s approach to pregnancy and motherhood (17:43 - 21:36)* The importance of feeling safe and having permission to express oneself (41:25 - 42:16)* External vs internal permission and overcoming judgments (42:16 - 43:02)⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you’ve enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating & review and hit subscribe!Connect with Hannah Douglas🔗 LoudHer Voice Coaching 🔗 Hannah Douglas - LinkedIn 🔗Hannah Douglas - InstagramAbout your host Fiorenza RossiniFiorenza started building her coaching business in 2016 while still working in investment banking. When her first child was born in 2019, she knew something had to give. Like many parents, she realised she couldn’t keep growing her career in the same way while also being the parent she wanted to be. Her priorities became clearer, and she chose to leave corporate life to focus fully on her coaching work. Today, Fiorenza supports driven professionals & leaders who are also parents of young children, who find themselves to be at a pivot point - whether that’s returning to work, stepping into leadership, or rethinking what career growth now looks like.🔗 Fiorenza on Linkedin 🔗 Fiorenza on Instagram 🔗 More about Fiorenza’s work This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit belongingproject.substack.com

This season is about working parenthood, the real-life challenges that shape how we show up professionally when life is full, and of course, belonging.Expect a mix of thoughtful reflection and energising conversation, grounded in the realities of working parenthood, and what sustainable growth can look like in this season of life.🎧 New episodes dropping every other Wednesday! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit belongingproject.substack.com

In this episode of the Belonging Project Podcast, host Fiorenza Rossini sits down with Tim Yeo, chief introvert of the Quiet Achiever. Tim shares insights on how introverts can have an impact at work without pretending to be extroverts. “Reframe introversion as a strength”, says Tim Yeo.In this conversation with Fiorenza, Tim opens up on his journey from Singapore to Australia, the cultural differences he encountered, and how he embraced his identity as a quiet achiever. Thanks for supporting The Belonging Project Podcast! Subscribe for free to receive new posts!This episode is also super packed with practical tips for introverts to be seen and heard in the workplace. Such as:* Introducing ourselves to a group* Small Talk* What to do when you’re asked something on the spot in a meeting* Giving yourself permission to speak up even when your ideas are not fully formed* Networking* Public Speaking* How to make remote working more inclusive (aka spend less time speaking in online meetings!)And finally, one of my favourite part of the conversation with Tim is when we explore how we can make introverts and extroverts coexist in a team!Episode’s resourcesYou can find more about Tim on thequietachievr.com where you can find out about his book, The Quiet Achiever and the Quiet Achiever School (which offers courses on public speaking, networking, and more).👩🏽‍💻 ✨ This podcast is fully self-funded.I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please comment below!Any questions or if you’d love to reach out, DM me here or on fiorenza@growinnow.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit belongingproject.substack.com

We’ve all heard the advice: bring your whole self to work.But recently, two voices made me stop and rethink that message — Amy Edmondson, who reminds us that authenticity needs accountability, and Jodi-Ann Burey, whose book Authentic: The Myth of Bringing Your Full Self to Work explores how “being yourself” can carry a cost, especially for women and people of colour.Amy’s post offered a great example: a colleague who interrupts everyone and says, “That’s just how I am.” Authentic? Maybe. But not exactly inclusive. Her point: instead of bringing our whole selves, we should bring our best selves — still imperfect, but aware of others.Then there’s Jodi-Ann’s story: accused of having a “race agenda” two weeks into a new job, even though inclusion was part of her role. It highlights the contradiction so many people face — workplaces say they want authenticity and diversity, but often punish it when it shows up in real life.For me, authenticity isn’t about exposure, it’s about integrity — showing up in a way that feels aligned and safe. True belonging means both care and accountability, for ourselves and for the spaces we share.🕰️ Episode Chapters00:00 – Why “whole self” can be both promise and trap01:30 – Amy Edmondson: authenticity with accountability04:00 – Jodi-Ann Burey: when being yourself has a cost09:00 – Gen Z and shifting ideas of success11:30 – My reflections on authenticity and belonging✨ Key Takeaways* Authenticity matters, but so does accountability.* Being yourself shouldn’t come at a personal cost.* You don’t owe work your whole self — only your best self.📚 Mentioned* Amy Edmondson’s post on authenticity (on LinkedIn)Authentic: The Myth of Bringing Your Full Self to Work by Jodi-Ann Burey👩🏽‍💻 ✨ This podcast is fully self-funded.I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please comment below!Any questions or if you’d love to reach out, DM me! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit belongingproject.substack.com

In this episode of The Belonging Project podcast, join hosts Fiorenza Rossini and Marie de Champchesnel as they explore the transformative power of curiosity. Discover how Marie's journey from working in the field of history of art to in the field of coaching was fueled by a relentless pursuit of curiosity, leading to personal growth and a renewed sense of belonging. Tune in to learn how embracing curiosity can unlock new paths and opportunities in both personal and professional realms.This episode dives into:* Exploration of Identity and Belonging: This episode dives into how personal experiences and cultural backgrounds shape our sense of identity and belonging.* Navigating Career Transitions: Discover insights on how embracing change and curiosity can lead to fulfilling career transformations.* The Role of Support Systems: Learn about the importance of having a supportive network in personal and professional growth.* Motherhood and Isolation: Understand the challenges of motherhood, feelings of isolation, and the journey to finding belonging.🎧 Episode Highlights:05:00 Marie’s Journey10:00 Curiosity in Personal Growth15:00 Navigating Motherhood, feeling of isolation and a search for belonging20:00 Professional Transformation25:00 Finding Belonging Through Curiosity30:00 Key takeaways on the power of curiosity.🔗 Resources + Links* Connect with Marie de Champchesnel on LinkedIn.You can find more about her work on her website.Enjoyed this episode? Help more people discover The Belonging Project Podcast! ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and don’t forget to subscribe to our Substack for more insights on belonging: This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit belongingproject.substack.com

In this episode of The Belonging Project Podcast, host Fiorenza Rossini is joined by Febronia Ruocco — Global Strategic Insights & Analytics Director and Executive Leadership Coach — for a heartfelt and thought-provoking conversation about what it really means for women to advocate for themselves, at work and beyond.Together, they explore Febronia’s professional journey across industries and cultures, and how self-advocacy has played a pivotal role in shaping her leadership path.They unpack the often-unspoken generational dynamics that influence how women show up at work, especially when it comes to speaking up, setting boundaries, and owning their voice.This episode dives into:* The impact of generational narratives on women’s confidence and communication* How cultural heritage and upbringing shape our ability to self-advocate* The connection between self-advocacy and a sense of belonging* Why creating psychologically safe environments is key to helping women thrive* Febronia’s personal reflections on leadership, identity, and authenticityWhether you’re early in your career or navigating leadership as a woman in today’s workplace, this episode offers both inspiration and practical wisdom on how to claim your space — with courage, clarity, and care.🎧 Episode Highlights:04:31 The Importance of Self-Advocacy07:23 Cultural Influences on Self-Advocacy09:58 Generational Perspectives on Advocacy13:19 When Self-Advocacy meets Belonging16:05 Finding Belonging in One's Own Skin19:22 Creating Supportive Work Environments21:21 Recognising Signs of Belonging🔗 Resources + Links* Connect with Febronia Ruocco on LinkedInEnjoyed this episode? Help more people discover The Belonging Project Podcast! ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and don’t forget to subscribe to our Substack for more insights on belonging: This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit belongingproject.substack.com

How do you show up, speak up, and get heard?In this episode, I sit down with Grace Fogarty, pitch expert, to unpack the skill of pitching—and why it matters far beyond sales calls. Whether you're a freelancer, founder, or working in a large organisation, your ability to pitch isn’t just about performance. It’s about showing up.“Pitching isn’t just for freelancers. It’s how we share our ideas, advocate for ourselves, and belong in the room.” – FiorenzaWe cover:* How to prep for pitches that actually connect* Why your mindset shapes your message* Where confidence really comes from (spoiler: it’s not perfection)* The link between great networking and great pitching* How to tailor your pitch for different audiences without faking itThanks for reading The Belonging Project Podcast! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.? This episode is packed with practical tools for anyone navigating business communication, presentations, or professional visibility.Sometimes, it might feel overwhelming to speak up in a meeting, and I love this quote from Grace:When your name gets called, smile, pause, take a breath, and take up space. That moment is yours.I think it really helps staying grounded during high-pressure pitching situations!? Episode Highlights* 01:38 – Grace’s story: burnout, pivot, and finding her voice* 05:28 – How to start pitching when you hate it* 09:23 – Why your 60-second pitch can make or break your networking* 11:47 – Staying authentic when the pressure’s on* 14:51 – Choosing the right networking groups for your goals* 19:25 – How pitching works inside organizations too* 22:06 – What acting taught Grace about pitching—and how she teaches it? Resources + Links* Connect with Grace Fogarty on LinkedIn and Instagram (@presentwithgrace)* Explore her Sell in 60 group program: Learn more →Enjoyed this episode? Help more people discover The Belonging Project Podcast! ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and don’t forget to subscribe to our Substack for more insights on belonging: This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit belongingproject.substack.com

In this episode of The Belonging Project, I’m joined by Carol Paddison, a people leader with over 20 years of experience, and now co-founder of Fractional Human Resources. Carol shares her journey from in-house HR leadership to co-creating a consultancy that brings senior-level HR expertise to small and scaling businesses—just when they need it, and only as much as they need.We talk about the evolving landscape of HR, the importance of fostering belonging in organisations, and the unique challenges faced by startups and scale-ups. Carol shares her insights on the differences between traditional HR roles and modern people-centric approaches (the differences between HR and People & Culture teams), emphasising the need for flexibility and inclusivity in the workplace. Flexibility is probably my favorite one. We implemented flexible bank holidays, remembers Carol.The conversation also touches on the role of leadership in creating a culture of belonging and the impact of hybrid work arrangements on employee engagement.How can leaders foster belonging in SMEs? asks FiorenzaVulnerability is really key for leaders, replies CarolCarol also shares brilliant insights on making people feel safe and seen at work, why performance frameworks shouldn’t be about ticking boxes, and how clear, values-led communication builds trust across teams.Whether you’re a founder, a people leader, or navigating your own career pivot into the HR space, there’s so much wisdom in this conversation.Key moments02:51 Carol's Journey in HR04:35 HR vs People & Culture terminology06:54 Characteristics of HR in start-ups and scale-ups08:25 Tools to foster belonging in start-ups and scale-ups14:09 The Role of HR in Belonging16:14 Leadership's Influence on Belonging18:53 The Impact of Hybrid Work on Belonging22:30 Integrating Belonging into HR Practices24:31 Personal Experiences Shaping HR PerspectivesConnect with Carol:? LinkedIn – Carol Pattison? Fractional HR WebsiteEnjoyed this episode? Help more people discover The Belonging Project Podcast! ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and don’t forget to subscribe to our Substack for more insights on belonging:Thank you for your support!? Listen now to hear:✔️ What founders get wrong (and right!) about HR✔️ The beauty of designing work around your life and values✔️ How to create a culture of trust and transparency from day one✔️ Why HR should always be more than just processes and policies This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit belongingproject.substack.com

In honor of International Women’s Day 2025, I’m thrilled to bring you this episode with my guest, Laura Howard, where we dive into the topic of women in leadership.How can women overcome barriers?How can women find belonging at the top?How can women thrive in male-denominated spaces?Laura Howard is a psychologist and executive coach. She shares… This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit belongingproject.substack.com

In this episode of the Belonging Project Podcast, host Fiorenza and psychologist Leila Ainge delve into the concept of imposter phenomenon, reframing it from a syndrome to a more inclusive phenomenon. They explore how feelings of self-doubt intersect with belonging, the impact of gender and cultural context, and the importance of community. The conversation emphasises the need for self-acceptance and offers practical tools for navigating imposter feelings, ultimately transforming them into opportunities for growth and self-discovery.Imposter phenomenon can lead to self-discovery.Episode takeaways* Imposter phenomenon is a common experience, not a syndrome.* Reframing imposter syndrome as a phenomenon encourages curiosity.* Gender and context significantly influence experiences of imposter feelings.* Cultural values can normalize self-doubt and imposter feelings.* Belonging is a complex interplay of individual and group dynamics.* Imposter feelings can lead to self-discovery and growth.* Language plays a crucial role in shaping our experiences of belonging.* Communities can provide both support and feelings of disconnection.* Self-acceptance is key to overcoming imposter feelings.* Practical tools can help individuals navigate their imposter experiences.Chapters04:00 Understanding Imposter Phenomenon05:43 Reframing the Conversation11:44 The Impact of Gender and Context17:06 Cultural Influences on Imposter Feelings23:01 Navigating Belonging and Identity29:45 Transforming Imposter Feelings into Growth35:52 Practical Tools for Self-AcceptanceEpisode’s resourcesYou can find Leila’s podcast hereAnd this is her own podcast episode on the imposter phenomenon, if you fancy a deep dive.You can find more about my guest Leila Ainge on:www.leilaainge.co.uk https://www.linkedin.com/in/leilajaneainge/??‍? ✨ This podcast is fully self-funded.I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please comment below!Any questions or if you’d love to reach out, DM me! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit belongingproject.substack.com

In this episode of The Belonging Project Podcast, host Fiorenza Rossini welcomes Zora Lazarov, a behaviour disruptor and corporate psychologist, to discuss how organisations can thrive by embracing anti-fragility and addressing toxic workplace behaviours. Together, they explore how to build resilient teams, foster inclusivity, and empower leaders to navigate the challenges of modern organizational dynamics.   Zora shares her unique approach to identifying and mitigating toxic behaviours that undermine team morale, and how leaders can shift from reactive to proactive strategies. She also explains the concept of anti-fragility—thriving through disruption—and its importance in today’s volatile workplace environments. Key Topics: What is Anti-Fragility? (37:24) A framework for turning challenges into opportunities for growth Recognising and Addressing Toxic Behaviours (15:00) How to spot and eliminate behaviors that damage workplace culture. Leadership Strategies to Build Resilient, Inclusive Teams that foster belonging (18:46) Practical tips for leading teams through disruption and change. Packed with actionable insights! If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to The Belonging Project Podcast and share it with your network. Follow Zora Lazarov on LinkedIn for more insights on anti-fragility, leadership, and organizational psychology.   The podcast is supported by InNow. #thebelongingprojectpodcast #belonging

In this episode, Fiorenza sits down with Victoria Rennoldson.   Victoria shares her expertise on cultural intelligence, strategies for global team dynamics, and her journey transitioning from a corporate role to running her own business. Together with Fiorenza Rossini, they explore creating meaningful connections in culturally diverse hybrid teams, evolving leadership styles, and fostering a sense of belonging in both professional and personal contexts.   This episode is packed with insights, practical tips, and relatable experiences that will resonate with leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone seeking to thrive in today’s interconnected world. Chapters: 00:45 - Introduction 04:17 - Understanding Cultural Intelligence Victoria explains the importance of cultural awareness and its impact on fostering mutual understanding in diverse teams.   10:26 - Strategies for Diverse Teams Key tips for creating connection and belonging in culturally diverse teams while addressing common challenges.   16:15 - Observing Team Dynamics The importance of observation and adapting communication styles to different cultural and individual preferences.   25:19 - Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneurship Victoria shares her journey of leaving the corporate world to start her own business, including the challenges and lessons learned. Resources & Links: • Victoria Rennoldson on LinkedIn: here • Our host Fiorenza Rossini on Linkedin: here • Deep dive on global leadership with Victoria's 7 communication strategies for global leaders • Find Fiorenza's curated selection of books to navigate and embrace multiple cultures more effectively The podcast is supported by InNow. #thebelongingprojectpodcast #belonging

In this episode, our host Fiorenza Rossini welcomes Tash Bristowe, a Brighton-based freelancer, entrepreneur, and community builder. Tash shares her personal journey of navigating a career setback and how that led to creating a safe space for job seekers through the Open to Work Connection Community.    When Tash unexpectedly lost her job, she turned a challenging experience into an opportunity to uplift others in similar situations. Through open discussions on LinkedIn, she discovered the power of vulnerability and connection, which led her to establish a supportive (Slack-based!!) community for those navigating job searches in a tough market.  Fiorenza and Tash discuss the emotional toll of job loss and the strategies that can help maintain mental well-being, including setting boundaries, and prioritizing self-care. Tash also opens up about the risks of tying identity too closely to work, and how she’s now redefining her career through freelancing and consulting.   The conversation provides practical advice for job seekers, such as how to stand out in a competitive job market by leveraging LinkedIn, nurturing professional networks, and starting passion projects that showcase your unique strengths.  Episode Highlights: [00:00] Welcome & Introductions [08:22] The Open to Work Connection Community [09:37] Mental Health & Resilience During Job Loss; Finding Identity Beyond Work [18:45] Listener Q&A: How can I stand out in a crowded job market? [23:08] Freelancing & Finding Identity Beyond Work Resources & Links Tash Bristowe on Linkedin here Open to Work Connection Community: If you'd like to join, email tashbristowe23@gmail.com Our host Fiorenza Rossini on Linkedin here Download our free Career Handbook to help you land your next role here The podcast is supported by InNow. #thebelongingprojectpodcast #belonging

How can we create Belonging in the workplace? How could workplaces foster inclusive behaviours?   In this episode, our host Fiorenza talks to Sean Dubberke, Principal & VP of Learning @RW3 Culture Wizard.   They talk about the importance of self-awareness and understanding of what shaped us, ahead of trying to understand others, their cultures and what should change look like. (14:26).   When organisations have goals around Inclusion and Belonging, it's also important to understand what are common obstacles to Inclusion (15:59) and to find the best Enablers for Belonging in your organisation (25:24).   "Treat others the way they want to be treated, not the way you want to be treated". Fiorenza and Sean also talk about the power of vulnerability in the inclusion equation, and how leaders can make space for vulnerability in their leadership and how they can do so in a culturally appropriate way. (28:28)   They also explored: (01:33) - From growing up in a multicultural family to getting a job working across cultures and going up the corporate ladder (10:40) -  Inclusive workplaces lead to more Belonging (14:26) - Start with self-awareness: understand what shaped you  (15:59) - Common obstacles to Belonging (18:30) - Working in virtual, hybrid teams (20:20) - Working in satellite offices: top tips to make it work (25:24)- How to Enable Belonging (28:28) - The importance of vulnerability (32:31)- How different cultures look at D&I (36:15) - Building inclusive collaboration: a client success story (39:32) - The importance of Inclusive Behaviours during an organisational reorganisation   ?Connect with your host, Fiorenza Rossini here and your guest Sean Dubberke here. You can find out more about Sean's work here. ⭐️For free monthly Nudges about Belonging, Leadership and Career Transitions, fill in your name & email on: https://www.growinnow.com/connect/ Thepodcast is supported by InNow. #thebelongingprojectpodcast #belonging

In this episode, we talk about starting a business with your spouse, the challenges of all the multiple hats freelancers have to wear, moving abroad multiple times and working across culture. Our guest is Dominique, co-founder of The Werks and we had so much fun talking! Do you know that feeling when you start something new? I really loved Dominique's take on this: there are indeed many similarities to how moving abroad feels like, or even speaking a new language. Do you agree? Let us know in the comments section. Have you ever considered how a sense of connection is so linked to our sense of belonging? Jump in to (28:37) for Dominique's thoughts and listen to Fiorenza and Dominique discuss how it's easier to belong somewhere when you know who you are (34:45). Make sure to not miss out Fiorenza's and Dominique's best tips on changing career at the end of your thirties (35:30).   We also explored: (01:01) - Moving country, from Austria to the Netherlands with two sons, the grieving process and saying goodbye (06:24) - A journey towards self-employment, and being in business with your spouse (12:40) - What has surprised you the most about having your own business (17:53) - Learning to write content can be a skill that can be learned (21:18) - Working across cultures that are not your own (24:08) - What would be your hot tips for people relocating for the first time (28:37) - Connection, self-knowledge leading to Belonging (34:45) - When you know who you are, it's easier to belong somewhere (35:40) - Questions to ask yourself ahead of deciding for a career change If you'd like some support about your next career step, we've compiled our most effective exercises and strategies into a Career Handbook. You can access it here: https://resources.growinnow.com/careerhandbook ?Connect with your host, Fiorenza Rossini here and your guest Dominique here. ⭐️For free monthly Nudges about Belonging, Leadership and Career Transitions, fill in your name & email on: https://www.growinnow.com/connect/ The podcast is supported by InNow. #thebelongingprojectpodcast #belonging

I'm dedicating this episode of the Belonging Project podcast to all the amazing fathers out there. I really enjoyed talking with Tomasso Maggio about fatherhood, parenthood and increasing representation of fathers as the main caregiver, especially online.   As you know, recently out of my second mat leave, I have attended many baby groups and activities and not only it's mostly mums, when dads attend they are clearly off the norm and get not only kind smiles but also inquisitive ones. And I know some dads on pat leave (still a minority) feeling intimidated to joint baby groups as they don't want to be the 'only dad'.   We also talk about Tommaso hot and current tips on parenthood and also his community building project for kids with an Italian heritage in South East Asia.   Hope you enjoy the episode! -- Chapters (04:30) The podcasting Journey (10:00) Italian community building in South east Asia (25:00) Current challenges and lessons from being a father -- Connect with Tomasso here: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommasomaggio⁠ and listen to his podcast the Fatherly Edition: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/2ENscRJXGHOr8ZoDA42KVm?si=P5Cz6CL1Sv-xKdopvuR8hQ⁠ or on your usual podcast platform!   ❤️Podcast is proudly sponsored by InNow and hosted by Fiorenza Rossini.  https://www.linkedin.com/in/fiorenza-rossini

In celebration of the Pride Month, we are delighted to share an episode with Jamie Love - a heartfelt conversation on themes of authenticity, inclusivity, and belonging. Jamie is the visionary founder and CEO of Monumental, a digital marketing and PR agency. Growing up in a conservative environment and struggling to be yourself is something many can relate to, but few can tell the story as Jamie does. Jamie’s story is captivating, from the early days as a child model in Italy to creating an agency that’s all about inclusivity - Monumental works on empowering diverse communities, with a strong focus on supporting sexual and gender minorities. We also talked about Jamie’s experiences growing up gay in the Middle East, overcoming burnout, human connection, the fluid nature of belonging and the universal human need to find our place in the world. We explore: (02:32) - From Child Model to Founder of his PR Agency (04:56) - Professional and Personal Growth Journey (07:57) - Impact of Experience on Belonging (12:52) - Hiring Based on Passion in Agency (18:48) - Client Relationships Through Shared Values (22:17) - Navigating Vulnerability in Relationships (26:55) - Defining the Ever-Evolving Concept of Belonging You can connect with Jamie Love here and with your host, Fiorenza Rossini here. The podcast is supported by InNow. #thebelongingprojectpodcast #belonging

As we hear about some personal stories and societal landscapes of nursing, in this episode, we confronted the gamut of reactions to breastfeeding in different context: at work, in public, beyond a certain time period and within different cultural contexts. From acceptance to negativity, the dialogue serves as a reminder of the need for visibility and community. The surprising shifts in breastfeeding rates during lockdowns and the discussion about nursing older children further reveal the intricate societal tapestry surrounding this natural aspect of motherhood.   Join me as I sit down with Lea Henry, co-founder of Cocorio, for a heartfelt conversation about the triumphs and tribulations of breastfeeding. Lea opens up about her personal struggles and the societal scrutiny that accompanies a mother's decision to breastfeed or formula feed. We tackle the stigma surrounding public breastfeeding and the importance of supporting mothers in their choices without judgment.   Later, I sit down with Katie Muir, a health visitor with the NHS Scotland, to explore her personal breastfeeding experiences with her two children. Despite facing a range of challenges, including faltering growth and latch difficulties, Katie's resilience shines through. We delve into the crucial role of support from partners and healthcare professionals. Katie's insights reveal the complexities of breastfeeding and underscore the importance of a robust support system for new mothers.   Our discussion is a powerful reminder of the need for compassion and understanding in the journey of new motherhood. We explore: (11:22) - Breastfeeding Norms and Challenges (23:22) - Normalizing Conversations Around Breastfeeding (27:45) - Empowerment and Belonging in Breastfeeding (34:39) - Breastfeeding Experiences and Support (45:51) - Supportive Workplace for Breastfeeding Mothers (51:48) - Transitioning Away From Breastfeeding (56:16) - Breastfeeding Challenges and Belonging   ** Selected Resources from the episode: Breastfeeding or Formula-Feeding support in the UK: National Breastfeeding Helpline (open 365 days a year): 0300 100 0212, here to support you and listen, including any grief around not being able to breastfeed if you wanted to <3. IBCLC are certified lactation consultants providing professional infant feeding support. First Steps Nutrition Trust is an independent public health nutrition charity. Articles written by Lea Henry: Feed your bubba proudly A stranger called me unhygienic for breastfeeding in a GP waiting room Article with input from Katie Muir: Continuing Breastfeeding when you return to work (including UK legal rights)   ** Connect withLea: Linkedin | Instagram | Website