Why does the “bad apples” story keep coming back, even in organisations that should know better? In this episode, I argue that the issue isn’t a lack of understanding, but rather the usefulness of the narrative itself.

This audio recording presents 30 Patterns of Harm: A Structural Review of Systemic Racism within the Metropolitan Police Service, an independent review by Dr Shereen Daniels, commissioned by the Met. Recorded and first shared on the 18 July 2025 as a privately hosted, it builds on the evidence base identified by Baroness Casey, Dr Daniels' review examines how institutional systems and leadership practices within the Met sustain the conditions described in previous reviews. It represents a continuation of scrutiny, moving from description to diagnosis.

The Structural Companion Guide was published alongside 30 Patterns of Harm on 18 July 2025. It translates the report’s analysis into a framework for leadership reform, helping the Metropolitan Police Service build the discipline required to address systemic racism at its structural roots.

This conversation between Shereen Daniels and Collette Phillip delves into their personal and career stories concerning anti-racism and DEI. Particularly, they acknowledge the shifts in representation in the media and the challenges faced in promoting anti-racism, while also addressing the ineffective nature of some DEI initiatives in addressing systemic racism. The dialogue between them highlights the importance of authentic discussions, profound introspection, and united efforts to address internalised oppression.

In this episode of Advancing Racial Equity 4.0, guest John Amaechi fills us in about the evolving landscape of leadership, as well as the complexities and socio-political dynamics impacting leaders today. He discusses how leaders often avoid uncomfortable topics by focusing too narrowly on commercial outcomes and highlights the importance of embracing discomfort within organizations. Throughout, John advocates for fostering inclusive environments and dismantling systemic barriers with empathy, resilience, and continuous learning.

Karia Samaroo, former CEO of Canada's largest crypto company, WonderFi, shares his journey from selling video games on floppy disks to leading the company. Karia discusses the transformation of his identity, including his name change from Ben to Karia, and its profound impact on his personal and professional life. He speaks about the importance of understanding his heritage, connecting with his roots, and how this journey has influenced his values and business approach.

James Francis founder and CEO of Paradigm Asset Management and the visionary pioneer behind BlackChatai.ai. Discussing the implications of generative AI, particularly for the Black community, James and Shereen discuss the potential opportunities open to Black communities who participate in AI development, particularly when thinking about the potential for cultural preservation, personalised healthcare, and educational advancement. But all that glitters is equally not gold.

Joel Goza and I reflect on our previous conversations about race, politics, and the ongoing impact of systemic racism in 2020. This time round we explore how historical figures like Thomas Jefferson shaped the racial ideologies that continue to influence society today. Joel shares his journey from scepticism to advocating for reparations, drawing on his experiences working in Kentucky prisons and as an ethics professor at an HBCU.

A conversation with journalists Ebony Reed and Louise Story about their powerful book, 15 Cents on the Dollar, which delves into the Black-White wealth gap in America. Reflecting on their personal journeys, shared values, and how their lived experiences informed their work together (Ebony is Black and Louise is white), this conversation isn’t just about the systemic financial disparities that Black Americans face; it’s also a profound exploration of partnership, equity, and the weight of history that continues to shape economic realities.

In this podcast episode, Keir Monteith, an experienced defence barrister and part-time Crown Court judge, sheds light on the pervasive issue of racial bias within the justice system. Drawing from his report co-authored with Professor Quinn, Monteith reveals alarming instances of racial bias obtained through surveys and narratives from legal professionals. He emphasizes the need for systemic changes beyond superficial diversity efforts, challenging the misconception that increased representation alone can solve racial bias issues. Monteith also criticizes the increasing reliance on music evidence, particularly rap or drill music, in criminal trials, advocating for a campaign against its introduction. Ultimately, he calls upon legal professionals to actively challenge racism within the system and work towards an anti-racist approach in the pursuit of justice.

Michelle Cox, a former North West senior nurse, won an employment tribunal against NHS England and Improvement (NHSE&I) after the judge heard evidence that her employer had treated her unfavourably because of her race and because she was willing to speak up. Michelle candidly shares her experiences of facing discrimination and mistreatment in the latter part of her career, including professional exclusion, criticism, and gaslighting due to institutional racism.

In this compelling conversation between Shereen and Coast Guard veteran, Dr. Kim McLear. Unfortunately, as part of her time in the Coast Guard, Kim faced bullying and racism, culminating in her decision to become a whistleblower. Dr. McLear's courageous stance against systemic injustice underscores her refusal to be silenced in the face of adversity.

Joined by Nicholas Marcus Thompson, a Canadian activist leading the Black Class Action movement, we discuss systemic anti-Black racism in Canada's federal public service. Nicholas has been at the forefront of advocating for the rights of Black Canadians, most notably through organising the landmark $2.5 billion class action lawsuit against the federal Government of Canada.

Dr Gillian Marcelle, a LinkedIn ‘Top Voice’ and CEO and Founder of Resilience Capital Ventures, draws from her background in economics and social justice to challenge capitalism's fundamental assumptions, highlighting its role in perpetuating systemic racism and inequality. She advocates for a holistic approach to addressing these issues, emphasising the importance of diverse alliances, activism, and narrative change.

Tejal Patel, Executive Director of SOC Investment, reflects on her post-2020 experience, shedding light on the complex dynamics and mixed reactions faced when pushing large financial institutions to go beyond mere diversity targets.

Named one of the ‘Top 32 ESG pioneers in the UK’, Stuart McLachlan has over 30 years of experience; Stuart is the CEO of Anthesis, a global sustainability company he founded in 2013, and with over 1,400 passionate team members, they support many FTSE 100 and Fortune 500 companies. In this conversation, Stuart discusses the evolution of sustainability from primarily environmental concerns to encompassing social and governance issues as well. He emphasises the interconnectedness of environmental and social challenges, citing the impact of regulations like the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) on driving businesses towards more responsible practices. One of my favourite parts of the conversation is where Stuart advocates for businesses to "emotionally divest from old models to embrace both the challenges and opportunities of this new era."

Diving into the dynamic world of sustainability and ESG with expert Terry Thornton. Join us to gain insights on the social aspects of ESG, the influence of changing regulation in Europe and navigating shifting stakeholder dynamics, particularly as it impacts on racism and discrimination.

Uncomfortable coalitions: Imagine a world where we broke one of the biggest taboos in business - and could this be the ultimate recipe for accountability and impact?

The most practical tips you’ll ever hear in how to intervene when you notice something but are not sure how to speak up.

Join me as I chit-chat with Alpesh Patel OBE, “Dealmaker” for the UK Department of Trade and Industry and also a best-selling investment writer.