In this compelling episode, host Mitali is joined by Joy Burnford, founder of Encompass Equality, to tackle one of today’s most pressing workplace challenges: retaining women in the workforce and redefining leadership for a more inclusive future.

The conversation explores the systemic barriers that drive women to leave their roles, revealing surprising factors like workplace culture, ineffective line management, and burnout—problems that go far beyond personal circumstances. Joy shares her personal journey, from her entrepreneurial roots to becoming a champion for equity, including candid reflections on building confidence later in life.

Together, Mitali and Joy unpack actionable strategies to break the cycle, spotlighting solutions like sponsorship programs, adaptive leadership practices, and fostering cultural change. They challenge traditional workplace structures, discussing the risks of rigid return-to-office mandates and why women-only programs may fall short of driving systemic change.

Key themes include:

• Reframing Networking: Building genuine connections over self-promotion.
• Fixing Systems, Not Women: Why workplace structures must evolve for true gender equality.
• Inclusive Leadership Programs: How mixed-gender initiatives empower all employees.
• The Role of Innovation: Leveraging AI to de-bias hiring, monitor meeting dynamics, and foster equity.
• The Growth Mindset for Leaders: Practical tips to step out of comfort zones and create workplaces where everyone thrives.
• This episode is packed with insights, personal stories, and practical advice for leaders, allies, and change-makers. Tune in to explore the intersection of leadership, gender equality, and workplace innovation—and learn how to build a future where everyone can thrive.

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