Radical inclusion: Turning values into action - a recap of season 1
What does it take to move from intention to action—and truly build belonging in any environment? Season 1 of “I Know I Belong When…” proved that belonging is not just a feeling; it is the outcome of radical inclusion, authentic leadership, and everyday choices that shape an inclusive culture.
Hosted by Christopher Bylone, Principal Strategist at Innovation Unbiased, this special episode revisits the bold voices and transformative stories that defined our first season. Through first-person narratives, you will discover how to create belonging at work, build human-centered innovation, and turn strategic inclusion into a lived experience.
Watch the full episode :
Must-hear insights & key moments
Inclusive behaviors are daily choices. From speaking up for yourself to practicing consistent allyship, inclusion is built through intentional acts.
Diversity is about power, not just presence. True leadership means opening doors for others and ensuring every layer of influence reflects diversity.
Active inclusion celebrates individuality. Belonging happens when values align, stories are heard, and differences are honored—not erased.
Multicultural agility is a survival skill. Growth comes from curiosity, humility, and letting others’ experiences reshape your worldview.
Purposeful action disrupts bias. Being called in isn’t criticism—it’s care. Accountability and self-awareness are the foundation of equity.
Belonging is a radical act. It’s about challenging comfort, demanding accountability, and making space for every voice.
Guest Standout Quotes:
“If I don’t speak up for my own abilities, nobody really will… I belonged, I mattered. And then, man, this is just fun. Let’s just see what happens.” — Brooklyn Dicent
“It’s not a one and done, check the box activity… It has to be these everyday, continual allyship actions.” — Julie Kratz
“Whenever I enter those rooms, I figure out a way to make them bigger for others. Who am I lifting behind me?” — John Ferguson
“Respect and fairness are the key ingredients… for all these phenomenal abilities to be fully used for the benefit of all.” — Aniela Unguresan
“I know I belong when my values are aligned with the leaders’ values as well as the company’s values.” — Marissa Andrada
“It literally comes down to one thing, and that’s listen… when you genuinely care, and you come from a place of curiosity, and you listen, now all of a sudden you’re hearing the story.” — Chason Forehand
“It’s much better to be a curious leader than a delegating leader… Invite people in.” — Nancy J. Di Dia
“He didn't make me feel bad about it came from a genuine place of curiosity. I felt so seen. I felt like I belonged, you know, especially something that it's a visible difference.” — Dr. Victoria Mattingly
Why this episode matters
This recap is your blueprint for building belonging in the workplace, especially for HR leaders, DEI practitioners, and team managers seeking practical strategies for inclusive culture and human-centered innovation. You will gain language for belonging, discover how to create a sense of belonging at work (including in remote teams), and understand the difference between belonging vs inclusion.
By framing belonging as the outcome of IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility) work—not just another pillar—this episode gives you the tools to move from theory to action.
Who should listen
Leaders committed to building belonging and authentic leadership
HR, DEI, and people experience professionals seeking strategic inclusion
Anyone ready to disrupt the status quo and create workplaces where everyone is invited, seen, heard, and needed