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Jan Doering, Assistant Professor of Sociology at the University of Toronto explores the complex relationship between sound, behavior, and social conflict, unpacking the social, cultural, and neurological dimensions of sound, and discussing how we can move toward a more considerate coexistence in our shared environments. Sound that delights one person can deeply distress another. Clare and Jan explore how our appreciation of sound is deeply subjective and why this gap often turns into tension in urban life. Through examples from everyday environments, they discuss how noise reflects culture, how it can become a form of power and resistance, and why some people respond to it with frustration or even aggression. The conversation challenges policymakers, urban planners, and designers to take sound seriously as an issue of well-being issue and accessibility, highlighting how neurological safety and collective responsibility can help create more peaceful and inclusive soundscapes. Clare and Jan also reflect on the deeper psychological and emotional layers behind how we relate to sound, revealing that finding peace in a noisy world might start with changing how we listen. Jan Doering is an Assistant Professor of Sociology at the University of Toronto. His research explores social control and conflict in urban neighborhoods, as well as how individuals experience and respond to discrimination. He has received research funding from the National Science Foundation, the Fulbright Commission, and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Councils. His first book, “Us Versus Them: Race, Crime, and Gentrification in Chicago Neighborhoods” (Oxford University Press, 2020), examines the dynamics of community conflict and identity during the era of Trayvon Martin and Michael Brown. Key Takeaways Hearing is a sense we cannot turn off, making sound a constant, shared experience.Noise is not just about volume - there are more elements to consider Urban “vibrancy” often comes at the expense of rest and recovery, highlighting a policy blind spot.Municipalities, designers, and leaders can promote neurological safety by designing environments that support well-being and reduce sensory stress. CHAPTERS 03:00 Introduction 06:05 Tension Around Noise 09:10 Defining Noise and Perception 12:16 Reframing Noise Experiences 18:05 Joy in Noise: Machines and Gender 22:18 Noise and Cultural Responsibility 29:08 Government and Policy Failures 36:50 Consequences of Noise Stress 45:50 Allergic to Peace? 51:31 Sadism, Pleasure, and Noise-Making Behavior 58:45 Emotional vs. Intellectual Arguments for Quiet 01:04:40 Density, Well-being, and Cultural Vision 01:08:00 Creative Solutions and Happy Spaces Sources Clamor by Chris Berdik — https://www.chrisberdik.comGolden: The Power of Silence in a World Full of Noise by Justin Zorn & Leigh Marz — https://www.amazon.com/Golden-Power-Silence-World-Noise/dp/0063027607Just Think: The Challenges of the Disengaged Mind – Wilson, T.D. et al., Science (2014) — https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4330241Epstein, M. J. (2020). Sound and noise: A listener's guide to everyday life. McGill-Queen's Press-MQUP....

Dr. Ernesto Morales discusses evidence-based research for accessible airports and airplanes, emphasizing co-design, sensory needs, and the need for accountability in aviation accessibility. In episode 61 of the Happy Space Podcast, I spoke with Dr. Ernesto Morales, Full Professor at Université Laval, about two federally funded projects on accessible aviation in Canada. One focuses on airport accessibility, while the other addresses aircraft lavatories. Ernesto shares how involving 72 participants with diverse disabilities through walking interviews and mockups helped surface nuanced barriers and identify improvements. We also discuss the challenges of coordination between stakeholders, the need for sensory-friendly spaces, and the importance of dignity in travel. Ernesto stresses the value of co-design and inclusive research methods, calling for regulatory clarity and deeper accountability in delivering equitable air travel experiences. Ernesto Morales studied architecture and finished a Masters’ Degree in Industrial Design in Mexico City. He obtained a grant from the Government of Mexico to study his Ph.D. in Design at the Faculté de l’aménagement, of the University of Montreal. He did his first post doc in “Environmental Gerontology” at the Research Centre from the Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal and a second post-doc at the Research Centre for Innovation in Health Care at Utrecht, the Netherlands on “Healing Environments”. He is Full Professor at the School of Rehabilitation Sciences of the Faculty of Medicine at the Universté Laval and he is a Researcher at the Centre interdisciplinaire de recherche en réadaptation et intégration sociale in Quebec City. He is also a member of the Quebec government's Advisory Committee on Accessibility and Safety of Buildings for Persons with Disabilities. His research interests fall into the following areas: Inclusive design and adaptation of the physical environment. Design solutions to improve the quality of life of people with permanent or temporary disabilities (either cognitive, motor or sensory) in terms of objects, home spaces or urban design. Working and care environments in health institutions (acute and long-term care) and accessibility in emergency situations. CHAPTERS [00:00] Meeting Ernesto Morales and Project Overview [02:00] Walking Interviews at Airports [04:00] Designing Solutions Collaboratively [06:00] Challenges in Airport Coordination [08:00] Public and Private Reporting [09:00] Ernesto’s Personal Motivation [11:00] Co-Design as a Core Practice [13:00] From Heritage Sites to Airports [14:00] Merging Qualitative and Quantitative Data [16:00] Why Canada is Leading in Accessibility [18:00] Federal and Ministry Involvement [20:00] Autism, Sensory Input, and Airport Design [23:00] Stress at Security Checkpoints [26:00] Benefits of Hidden Disability Lanyards [28:00] Advertising and Sensory Overload [30:00] Sensory Zones, Not Just Rooms [33:00] Washroom Accessibility and Service Dogs [36:00] Dignity in Air Travel [38:00] Future Reports and Timelines [39:00] Centralizing Responsibility for Accessibility [41:00] Systemic Change Through Procurement and Training LINKS Rick Hansen Accessibility Certification Accessibility Standards Canada Airports  Quebec City Calgary Airport  Ernesto’s Website IMAGE CREDITS (see images on Youtube video) LOGO - Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Plane Mockup Photos -...

Ivan Berazhny, Senior lecturer at Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences and accessibility advocate, shares how INCLAVI, an EU-funded initiative, equips aviation professionals with certified training to better support diverse travellers across the full journey. In this episode of the Happy Space Podcast, host Clare Kumar speaks with Ivan Berazhny, Senior lecturer at Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences, about INCLAVI, an EU-funded initiative to improve accessibility in aviation and tourism. Ivan shares the development of a free, multi-module training curriculum designed to educate industry professionals on best practices for supporting travellers with disabilities. Built through a wide consortium of partners, the program covers the full travel journey, from planning to post-arrival, and includes accredited modules with formal certification. During the conversation, they explore the importance of language in accessibility, the value of humility in learning, and the potential to apply this framework across industries. Ivan Berazhny is a senior lecturer at Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences (Finland), where Ivan has been developing and leading research projects and courses on topics including leadership, entrepreneurship, aviation business environment, corporate social responsibility and others. Prior background includes studies of international economic relations, communication, and vocational pedagogy. Ivan also holds several professional certifications in aviation and hospitality industries. In Haaga-Helia, Ivan has been engaged actively in curriculum development, export of education, RDI cooperation with industry partners, internationalisation, and other activities. Particularly, Ivan is committed to advocate inclusive society for people with disabilities. CHAPTERS 00:00 – Introduction and Welcome 02:15 – Origins of the INCLAVI Project 05:45 – Building a Practical, Multi-Stakeholder Curriculum 10:10 – Implementation and Early Impact 14:05 – Language, Translation, and Accessibility 17:30 – Clarifying Terms: Accessibility vs. Inclusion 21:00 – Beyond Labels: Focusing on Needs 24:40 – Expanding Awareness Through Storytelling 27:50 – Encouraging Curiosity in Accessibility 30:25 – Ivan’s Happy Space LINKS For active links, visit www.clarekumar.com/podcast IMAGE CREDITS (see images on Youtube video) Mediterranean Sea Video - Canva Horizon Video - Canva Learn more about and follow Ivan: Haaga-Helia University INCLAVI (Inclusive aviation curriculum)  Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program 😀😃😄😁😆 Everyone deserves a Happy Space. It might sound frivolous, but what I’m talking about is creating environments for each person to be able to perform at their best. Too often, people are invited to burn out or opt out of spaces, cultures, or experiences that are at best uncomfortable and at worst, toxic. Inclusion is a design opportunity. I hope to shine a light on those craftive more inclusive spaces, cultures, and experiences, leading the way to a more hospitable world because everyone deserves a Happy Space. Believing that productivity is personal, the podcast is produced in a variety of formats so you can enjoy it in the medium you prefer: Listen to the audio right here or on your fave podcast platform. If you prefer to watch video, check out the episode on YouTube. And look for the Shorts playlist for clips. If you prefer to read, please see the...

Leadership expert Jason Lauritsen tackles the question of whether we really need check-in meetings addressing barriers like discomfort, skill gaps, and the drive for workplace efficiency. Don’t miss the four key steps for effective check-ins. In this episode of the Happy Space Podcast, Clare speaks with leadership expert Jason Lauritsen about the role of check-in meetings. They explore why regular, intentional conversations between leaders and team members matter—not just for accountability, but for connection and well-being. Too often check-in meetings are discarded in the belief they are not serving real value. But it is perhaps because they are not being well implemented. Jason offers an easy-to-implement process for delivering check-ins that make a difference, making them more comfortable and worthwhile. The episode invites leaders to slow down, get curious, and prioritize relationships as the foundation for more human and productive work environments. A dynamic keynote speaker, Jason Lauritsen is a true thought leader in the world of work and employee engagement dedicated to revolutionizing the way we Lead With Relationship™. He fearlessly challenges traditional norms to reshape the employee experience by consistently placing authentic human connection at the heart of leadership. Jason is the author of two books, Unlocking High Performance and Social Gravity. His thought leadership has been featured in Forbes, Fast Company, Talent Management magazine, HR Executive magazine, and SHRM publications. CHAPTERS 00:00 – Intro: The Power of Conversation 03:30 – What’s Driving Interest in Check-Ins? 07:50 – Relationship Building is the Work 11:45 – The Four Steps of an Effective Check-In 18:10 – Frequency & Flexibility: What Works Best? 24:00 – Making Space for Connection in Hustle Culture 28:40 – The Role of Comfort in Performance 34:15 – Relearning How to Connect Post-Pandemic 40:00 – Final Thoughts & How to Connect with Jason LINKS IMAGE CREDITS (see images on Youtube video) WorkHuman Logo - Wikipedia Learn more about and follow Jason: Linkedin Youtube Website 😀😃😄😁😆 Everyone deserves a Happy Space. It might sound frivolous, but what I’m talking about is creating environments for each person to be able to perform at their best. Too often, people are invited to burn out or opt out of spaces, cultures, or experiences that are at best uncomfortable and at worst, toxic. Inclusion is a design opportunity. I hope to shine a light on those craftive more inclusive spaces, cultures, and experiences, leading the way to a more hospitable world because everyone deserves a Happy Space. Believing that productivity is personal, the podcast is produced in a variety of formats so you can enjoy it in the medium you prefer: Listen to the audio right here or on your fave podcast platform. If you prefer to watch video, check out the episode on YouTube. And look for the Shorts playlist for clips. If you prefer to read, please see the transcript below. Ready to learn more, or want to find out more about coaching with Clare or hiring her for your next engaging event? Contact Clare here. 😀😃😄😁😆 If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a heartfelt review as this will help other listeners discover the podcast. Please invite your colleagues, friends, and family to listen as well. Together we can design a more inclusive world where everyone can make...

In this episode, Happy Space Podcast host, Clare Kumar, speaks with Kay Sargent, principal designer at HOK, about their latest release, Neuroinclusive Workplace Design. Clare and Kay discuss the need to move beyond universal design toward more inclusive, actionable strategies for creating workspaces that support diverse sensory and cognitive needs. The conversation explores the evolution of language around neurodiversity, the importance of continual learning, and the challenges of designing spaces that acknowledge human complexity. Kay emphasizes that thoughtful, inclusive design benefits everyone by removing barriers and enabling people to perform at their best. BIO With 35 years of experience, Kay is a recognized expert on workplace design and strategy. She is an award-winning designer who has worked with Fortune 500 companies to optimize their global real estate portfolios and create innovative work environments. As director of HOK’s WorkPlace team, a practice that supports organizations undertaking multiple projects in various locations, and a member of HOK’s Board of Directors, Kay is responsible for helping clients redefine how, when, and where their people work, working in tandem to support a holistic design approach that integrates an organization’s people, processes and technology. Kay is considered an industry thought leader in the workplace. She has authored multiple white papers and articles on topics including well-being; the next-gen workforce; technologies’ impact on the workplace; space fusion and the rise of the human factor. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Sensory Processing and Cognitive Wellbeing 00:22 Guest Introduction: Kay Sargentfrom HOK 01:03 The Inspiration Behind Neuroinclusive Workplace Design 01:44 Practical Applications of Neuroinclusive Design 01:58 Exploring Sensory Sensitivity and Inclusive Design 02:32 The Importance of Intersectionality in Design 03:50 The Launch of NeuroinclusiveWorkplace Design 04:45 The Journey of Writing the Book 07:02 Challenges and Evolution in Workplace Design 08:40 Understanding Neurodiversity and Sensory Sensitivity 13:22 Inclusive Design vs. Universal Design 15:48 Embracing Complexity and Individual Needs 17:05 Real-World Impact of Inclusive Design 21:38 Simple Adjustments for Better Productivity 22:17 Personal Story: Managing ADHD 23:55 The Spoon Theory and Energy Management 24:40 The Impact of Sound and Environment 25:19 Six Modalities of Work 31:16 The Importance of Neurological Safety 33:11 Designing Inclusive Workspaces 40:02 Final Thoughts and Book Promotion IMAGE CREDITS (see images in Youtube video) Kay Sargent headshot - Kay Sargent "Neuroinclusive Workplace Design" Book Cover - Wiley Other Images and Graphics - Canva Learn more about and follow Kay: Instagram Youtube X LinkedIn Website 😀😃😄😁😆 Everyone deserves a Happy Space. It might sound frivolous, but what I’m talking about is creating environments for each person to be able to perform at their best. Too often, people are invited to burn out or opt out of spaces, cultures, or experiences that are at best uncomfortable and at worst, toxic. Inclusion is a design opportunity. I hope to shine a light on those craftive more inclusive spaces, cultures, and experiences, leading the way to a more hospitable world because everyone deserves a

In this curated selection from the Happy Space Podcast, I’m bringing back voices that challenge, inspire, and expand our thinking about designing for inclusion and accessibility. These encore episodes highlight conversations that continue to resonate—on neurodiversity, workplace design, and the small shifts that can make a big difference. Whether you’re tuning in for the first time or revisiting a favourite, I hope these episodes offer fresh insight into how thoughtful design can help everyone show up and perform at their best. Having had to leave numerous experiences because of sensory overwhelm, I was immediately drawn to the work of Google’s The NEU Project which shares rich resources evolved from Google’s Experience Institute.  After learning about the Google Experience Institute (Xi) and The NEU Project, I knew I had to speak with the Strategic Lead of Global Event Solutions for Google, Megan Henshall. Hear what brought Megan to do this important work, why it matters, and her simple advice to leaders who want to make a difference for their own teams. She’ll also let you in on the three futures she spends 60% of her time thinking about. Megan (she/her) joined Google in April 2019 and serves as the Global Events Solutions, Strategic Lead. She partners across Google to understand how events drive business, build communities, and promote cultural continuity, informing strategy for a global team of amazing event professionals. She leads an internal/external innovation effort called the Google Experience Institute (Xi), focused on the future of human-centered, multi-modal experience design.   CHAPTERS 00:03:41   Megan's journey to this important work 00:06:01   Global Event Solutions - today and tomorrow 00:07:19   Pandemic effects on work culture 00:08:50   The pandemic boosted sensitivity 00:10:00   Sensitivity and neurodivergence may be evolutionary 00:13:10   The definition of neurodivergence 00:16:38   Neurodivergent people speaking up 00:18:57   Leadership resistance to being inclusive 00:21:00   Museum concept event 00:23:09  The Experience Institute (Xi) and The NEU Project 00:28:36   The error in fundamental attribution 00:30:24   The three futures 00:38:12   What a leader can do   LINKS Episode 10 - Hiring for Neurodiversity - with Keith Isaac, TD Bank Episode 15 – A Fresh Look at Sensitivity – with Andre Sólo Episode 27 – The Undeniable Value of Neurodiversity – with Theo Smith Google Experience Institute Marcus Buckingham Love + Work by Marcus Buckingham - Goodreads Newton Cheng - Director of Health + Performance, Google  Belonging by Geoffrey L. Cohen - Goodreads IMEX America   IMAGE CREDITS (see images on Youtube video) Megan and Otis - credit Megan Henshall Happy Space Podcast ep 10...

In this curated selection from the Happy Space Podcast, I’m bringing back voices that challenge, inspire, and expand our thinking about designing for inclusion and accessibility. These encore episodes highlight conversations that continue to resonate—on neurodiversity, workplace design, and the small shifts that can make a big difference. Whether you’re tuning in for the first time or revisiting a favourite, I hope these episodes offer fresh insight into how thoughtful design can help everyone show up and perform at their best. MillerKnoll’s Ryan Anderson shares his research and talks about the benefits of respite spaces, place attachment, recognizing your own belonging cues at work, and how being intentional about usable designs makes for the most beautiful workspaces. You're listening to Episode 37 of the Happy Space Podcast. Today, I speak with MillerKnoll’s Global Research lead, Ryan Anderson, about opportunities for organizations to create more inclusive workspaces that support sustainable performance. Ryan Anderson, VP of Global Research and Insights at MillerKnoll, shares his research, deep passion, and appreciation for inclusive design. Ryan suggests that we must dramatically rethink our workspaces in order to better reflect our biological, mental, and emotional needs at work. Ryan talks about the current need for “spaces for everyone”, including those who identify as neurodivergent. In addition, he discusses place attachment, the human tendency to form connections with physical spaces, and the challenges and limited opportunities offered by the practice of hoteling. The discussion underscores Clare’s often made point that if you design for wellbeing performance will flow.  Ryan Anderson serves as Vice President of Global Research and Insights at MillerKnoll, renowned workspace and furniture design company. Ryan’s team leads MillerKnoll’s research, shares insights publicly across the world, and provides workplace strategy and design services to MillerKnoll customers. With nearly thirty years of industry experience, Ryan’s work has centered on how the places we inhabit can be better designed to support healthy, inclusive, and productive communities. Ryan hosts MillerKnoll’s “About Place” podcast on the future of the workplace and regularly speaks at public events about MillerKnoll’s historical and current research. He is a member of the SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) Executive Network, an Executive Fellow at Woxsen University in Hyderabad India, and has been featured in a wide variety of publications such as The Wall Street Journal, NPR, the BBC, Fortune, Bloomberg, and beyond. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction  05:49 The role of belonging cues in inclusive design 11:28 The business case for inclusive design 19:24 The future of workspace design and commercial real estate 22:55 Respite spaces in the workspace 26:34 The impact of diversity and culture on workspace design 28:49 Sustainable productivity 30:40 The role of leadership in promoting wellbeing and preventing burnout 35:08 Hotelling and depersonalization of office space 40:27 The importance of team-based workplace design 42:13 The need for empathy in the workplace LINKS Herman Miller  MillerKnoll Harkin Institute for Public Policy Nigel Oseland Bill Stumpf a href="https://www.penguinbookshop.com/book/9780578375885"...

In this curated selection from the Happy Space Podcast, I’m bringing back voices that challenge, inspire, and expand our thinking about designing for inclusion and accessibility. These encore episodes highlight conversations that continue to resonate—on neurodiversity, workplace design, and the small shifts that can make a big difference. Whether you’re tuning in for the first time or revisiting a favourite, I hope these episodes offer fresh insight into how thoughtful design can help everyone show up and perform at their best. Exploring a seemingly old-fashioned and often overlooked key ingredient necessary for workforce inclusion, organizational psychologist Gena Cox reminds us that the way we make people feel matters. As a highly sensitive person able to quickly assess whether respect is present in interactions… or not, Gena encourages leaders to make compassionate action the norm. She shares the 3 C’s every leader needs to adopt and encourages everyone to get an “Inclusion MBA”. Dr. Gena Cox is an Organizational Psychologist, Leadership Impact Strategist, Executive Coach, Speaker, and award-winning author. She is known for her nuanced, multi-disciplinary insights and honest-but-supportive style. Gena spent decades working in and consulting to global companies, including the Fortune 500. Now, in her private practice, she works with leaders personally to optimize their impact and influence, and to build respect-first, inclusive organizations.  Tune in to Gena’s insights for a more inclusive tomorrow.   CHAPTERS 00:00:00 Intro 00:03:38 Change you can feel 00:09:50 The key to inclusive leadership 00:11:58 Deciphering respect 00:16:57 Understanding culture 00:19:23 Gena's generosities 00:20:29 Response to DEI initiatives 00:25:13 The Global South has had enough 00:28:30 The Inclusion MBA   LINKS Blog post - Four Step P.L.A.N. to Get Organized™ "Five Love Languages" by Gary Chapman Michael J Fox on CBS News   IMAGE CREDITS (see images on Youtube video) George Floyd - credit Wiki Commons Maya Angelou - credit Depositphotos “Five Love Languages” by Gary Chapman - credit Clare Kumar Thai people smiling - credit Envato Elements Japanese commuters not engaging with each other - credit Envato Elements Michael J Fox - credit Wiki Commons Lisa Whited - credit LinkedIn “Work Better: Save The Planet” by Lisa Whited - credit Clare Kumar Jamie Dimon - CEO JP Morgan Chase - credit LinkedIn REDI “Respect to Lead” Model and eBook - credit Gena Cox   Learn more about and follow Gena: Instagram Youtube Twitter LinkedIn Website 😀😃😄😁😆 Highly sensitive executive coach and productivity catalyst, Clare Kumar, explores the intersection of productivity and inclusivity continually asking how can we invite the richest contribution from all. She coaches individuals in sidestepping burnout and cultivating sustainable performance, and inspires leaders

In this curated selection from the Happy Space Podcast, I’m bringing back voices that challenge, inspire, and expand our thinking about designing for inclusion and accessibility. These encore episodes highlight conversations that continue to resonate—on neurodiversity, workplace design, and the small shifts that can make a big difference. Whether you’re tuning in for the first time or revisiting a favourite, I hope these episodes offer fresh insight into how thoughtful design can help everyone show up and perform at their best. Author of the Canary Code, Ludmila Praslova discusses how moral injury can cause autistic burnout, and how dignity plays a part in setting boundaries in neurodiverse workplaces. Ludmila Praslova, the author of The Canary Code, discusses the common misconceptions about autism, the importance of recognizing female and high-functioning presentations of autism, and the challenges faced by those seeking diagnosis and acceptance. This episode touches on authenticity, moral injury, and the need for accommodations at work. She also shares about her work on the concept of dignity and how it’s imperative to setting boundaries and better understanding social situations involving neurodivergent individuals. Finally, she talks about the implications of the DSM-V's categorizations, and practical advice for organizations to move forward in their DEI evolution.  Ludmila N. Praslova Ph.D., SHRM-SCP is the author of “The Canary Code: A Guide to Neurodiversity, Dignity, and Intersectional Belonging at Work” (Berrett-Koehler Publishers, April 2024) and the member of the Thinkers50 Radar 2024 cohort of global management thinkers most likely to impact workplaces.  She is a Professor of Graduate Industrial-Organizational Psychology and Accreditation Liaison Officer at Vanguard University of Southern California.  With over 25 years of experience in developing talent-rich organizations, she is a global inclusive talent strategy expert with deep knowledge of global diversity and neurodiversity.  Her current consulting is focused on creating organizational systems for inclusion and wellbeing and providing neuroinclusion training and support to organizations such as Amazon, Bank of America, and MIT. Dr. Praslova is also the editor of “Evidence-Based Organizational Practices for Diversity, Inclusion, Belonging and Equity” (Cambridge Scholars, 2023) and the special issue of the Consulting Psychology Journal: Practice and Research, “Disability inclusion in the workplace: From “accommodation” to inclusive organizational design.”  She regularly writes for Fast Company, Harvard Business Review and Psychology Today, and is the first person to have published in Harvard Business Review from an autistic perspective. CHAPTERS 7:00 Clare’s self-diagnosis of autism 8:15 Women and the misunderstanding of autism  10:48 Autistic and neurodiverse traits 12:00 Masking and Ludmila’s journey with autism 17:47 Why there are so many autistic actors 19:50 How moral injury affects autistic burnout 21:58 The consequences of moral injury for neurodivergent individuals 24:11 Autistic burnout vs. regular burnout 28:20 What can leaders do to create a better work culture? 32:30 What is behind a leader’s need to control? 36:45 The need for more conscious social interactions in the workplace 39:10 Socializing and masking with autism 43:02 How to honor your own dignity 44:19 How dignity can help establish boundaries at work 46:12 How do we navigate the growing neurodivergent population? 48:53 Autistic people and how empathy is expressed 57:12 The medical model of diagnosis in autism 01:06:04 The Canary Code and where you can find it LINKS a...

In this curated selection from the Happy Space Podcast, I’m bringing back voices that challenge, inspire, and expand our thinking about designing for inclusion and accessibility. These encore episodes highlight conversations that continue to resonate—on neurodiversity, workplace design, and the small shifts that can make a big difference. Whether you’re tuning in for the first time or revisiting a favourite, I hope these episodes offer fresh insight into how thoughtful design can help everyone show up and perform at their best. Exploring how to change the way we think about business and work to respect both people and the planet, with workplace expert and award-winning author Lisa Whited. With the planet on fire and burnout an epidemic, we need to do things differently. Yet, until we reach the tipping point for social change, if only 8% of people can be counted on to do the “right thing”, what can we do to close the gap? Workplace expert Lisa Whited shares practical actions leaders can take to create more inclusive ways of working and treat resources with greater respect. With her holistic outlook on work, Lisa believes that when work is better, our world is better. Lisa Whited is an award-winning author and workplace expert. Her book, “Work Better. Save the Planet”, is a guide for building employee engagement while positively impacting climate change. Lisa is also an advocate for improving work and the workplace for people with invisible disabilities. Being the granddaughter of a potato farmer and the daughter of an engineer informs her work ethic and love of solving problems. CHAPTERS 00:03:31 Drawing hope 00:06:59 Patagonia and Conscious Capitalism 00:12:04 The circular economy 00:17:44 Fear of managing expectation and a path forward 00:21:13 Work Style Profile 00:24:07 The challenge of managing the abstract 00:28:18 Sprinkle rest and leisure throughout the day 00:35:00 Asoebi LINKS For active links, visit www.clarekumar.com/podcast Episode 16 – Still in Search of Excellence – with Tom Peters Episode 31 – Make Your Work-life Bloom – with Dan Pontefract How to Achieve Sustainable Remote Work | The New Yorker by Cal Newport DRiVE: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel Pink John Mackey Raj Sisodia Eileen Fisher, clothing brand EILEEN FISHER Renew - lightly used clothing Waste No More Bundles, clothing brand Community: The Structure of Belonging - Kindle edition by Block, Peter. Politics & Social Sciences Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com. Work Style Profile Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World by Cal Newport Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity by Bill Gifford and Peter Attia IMAGE CREDITS Lisa Whited Headshot - Lisa Whited Lisa and Family wearing their Asoebi - Lisa Whited DRiVE: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel Pink - Goodreads Girl eating pizza - Canva Woman trying on clothes - Canva Rotating earth graphic - Canva Woman browsing used clothes - Canva Teen browsing clothes on phone - Canva Woman donating clothes - Canva Person tossing bottle from car - Canva Woman corporate leader - Canva Group of young workers - Canva Female leader interacting with group - Canva Boy looking at phone - Canva Woman looking at phone - Canva Man sitting, isolated - Canva Forest fire, aerial view - Canva Melted polar ice caps - Canva Learn more and follow Lisa on: LinkedIn Website 😀😃😄😁😆 Highly sensitive executive coach and productivity catalyst, Clare Kumar, explores the intersection of productivity and...

In this curated selection from the Happy Space Podcast, I’m bringing back voices that challenge, inspire, and expand our thinking about designing for inclusion and accessibility. These encore episodes highlight conversations that continue to resonate—on neurodiversity, workplace design, and the small shifts that can make a big difference. Whether you’re tuning in for the first time or revisiting a favourite, I hope these episodes offer fresh insight into how thoughtful design can help everyone show up and perform at their best. Stephen Shedletsky is a Leadership Speaker, Author, and Coach. He has spent years helping leaders make it safe and worth it for people to speak up. Inspired by the work of Simon Sinek, Shed became the fourth person to join his team where for more than a decade, he contributed as Chief of Staff and Head of Brand Experience, Training & Development, and headed a global team of speakers and facilitators. Shed graduated from the Richard Ivey School of Business with a focus on leadership, communication, and strategy. He also received his coaching certification from The Co-Active Training Institute. I’m not sure entirely why but I’ve been speaking up for most of my life, but not everyone speaks up and not in every situation. I have been wondering about why that is and was thrilled when I learned that Stephen Shedletsky, aka Shed, was also deeply curious about this topic, especially in the workplace. Join us in this conversation as we explore why he felt the need to write this book now, how our environment can pressure us into being unethical, and the value of transitioning to a speak-up culture. CHAPTERS 00:05:27   Why this book and why now? 00:08:37   The value of transitioning to a speak-up culture 00:10:22   Personality versus environment 00:14:07   Combatting apathy 00:15:00   Low safety but high impact 00:17:00   A bad pickle 00:18:59   Leaders who listen  00:21:59   Environment can pressure us into being unethical 00:24:45   Human attributes rather than soft skills 00:29:30   Nelson Mandela on sitting in a circle and speaking last 00:32:30   Advice for speaking up LINKS For active links, visit www.clarekumar.com/podcast Simon Sinek If Your Employees Aren't Speaking Up, Blame Company Culture,  Hemant Kakkar and Subra Tangirala Hemant Kakkar Amy Edmonson Happy Space Podcast episode 16 - Still in Search of Excellence - with Tom Peters Alan Mulally Indra Nooyi Scott Sonenshein Nelson Mandela Craig Ferguson IMAGE CREDITS (see images on Youtube video) Simon Sinek - credit Simon Sinek website Amy Edmonson - credit Amy Edmonson's website Happy...

In this curated selection from the Happy Space Podcast, I’m bringing back voices that challenge, inspire, and expand our thinking about designing for inclusion and accessibility. These encore episodes highlight conversations that continue to resonate—on neurodiversity, workplace design, and the small shifts that can make a big difference. Whether you’re tuning in for the first time or revisiting a favourite, I hope these episodes offer fresh insight into how thoughtful design can help everyone show up and perform at their best. As the open-concept office proliferated, people took work away from the office to find quieter places where they could think. It's no surprise to me that millions of people have fallen in love with working from home. But, if we need to be in the office, shouldn't we have the option of neurologically safe spaces. You will have heard a lot about that with HoK design principals in episode 2. In this episode, I am thrilled to have Nook Director, David O'Coimin joining me to bring the Nook furniture experience to life. David is the founder & CEO of The DO Company, a product innovation organization delivering bold solutions to better integrate work and life. Enjoy our conversation as we explore how Nook helps calm an open-concept office and more: 00:03:16 Meet David O'Coimin 00:07:14 What is Nook? 00:10:25 What does Nook look like? 00:14:40 Different brains work in different ways 00:19:00 The importance of lighting 00:23:32 Productivity is personal   00:25:02 Hackability is they key    00:28:35 Fear of investing in workspaces 00:31:20 Implementation in hospitals 00:32:54 Citi Field New York   00:35:42 One size doesn’t fit all 00:37:21 Total cost of ownership LINKS Nook  The British Standards Institute Trauma-Informed Design Society Wiltshire Health and Care Pods in the Wiltshire hospital HoK Kay Sargent Episode 2 – How to Design with Sensitivity in Mind – HoK’s Kay Sargent and Mary Kate Cassidy Podcast Youtube version Learn more about and connect with David and Nook: Website: https://nookpod.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidocoimin/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/nookpod Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nookwellnesspods Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nookwellnesspods/ YouTube:  a href="https://www.youtube.com/nookwellnesspods" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

In this curated selection from the Happy Space Podcast, I’m bringing back voices that challenge, inspire, and expand our thinking about designing for inclusion and accessibility. These encore episodes highlight conversations that continue to resonate—on neurodiversity, workplace design, and the small shifts that can make a big difference. Whether you’re tuning in for the first time or revisiting a favourite, I hope these episodes offer fresh insight into how thoughtful design can help everyone show up and perform at their best. We have a declared global intent to be more inclusive of those with disabilities as expressed in the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Despite being created in 2006 and with 183 countries on board, there is much work to do. Furthering this work is my guest today, Denis Boudreau. Find out how Denis connected his own feelings of being marginalized as a young boy to empathy and compassion for the disabled community and why there is such a strong business case to create more inclusive organizations. He also shares his perspective on what is getting in the way of leaders from taking action and what to do about it. Denis Boudreau has been bringing his talent to inclusive design in the online world since the early 2000s. Today he is a consultant, trainer, coach and speaker helping organizations create truly inclusive digital experiences for everyone, especially those who are marginalized. Denis founded Inklusiv Communication to work with leaders who want to develop inclusive communication skills online or from the stage, and remove barriers for the up to 40% of the population who struggle with technology. CHAPTERS 00:03:06 What brought Denis to what he does now 00:06:10 Acts of compassion for others 00:15:08 UN Convention for Rights with People with Disabilities 00:21:53 Why businesses should consider the disabled 00:28:14 What is holding leaders back? 00:31:51 Asking others what they need to work best 00:37:33 Is it safe to speak up? 00:39:26 Navigating around our disabilities 00:42:35 Denis’ 15 Keys LINKS For active links, visit www.clarekumar.com/podcast Ontario ADA Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act The Americans with Disabilities Act Accessible Canada Act How Can a Watermark be a Human Rights Issue? Happy Space Work Style Profile Episode 30 – Creating a Speak-Up Culture – with Stephen Shedletsky Unlock your 15 keys to a diverse and empowered workplace The Inclusive Speaker: How to Truly Connect With All of Your Audience Without Leaving Anyone Behind IMAGE CREDITS (see images on Youtube video) A blind person using a computer - credit Colorblind test - credit Police car chase -...

In this curated selection from the Happy Space Podcast, I’m bringing back voices that challenge, inspire, and expand our thinking about designing for inclusion and accessibility. These encore episodes highlight conversations that continue to resonate—on neurodiversity, workplace design, and the small shifts that can make a big difference. Whether you’re tuning in for the first time or revisiting a favourite, I hope these episodes offer fresh insight into how thoughtful design can help everyone show up and perform at their best. If we want our world to be more inclusive, we need to pay close attention to accessibility - the ease with which individuals can participate - at work, at home, and in daily life. Disability consultant Marjorie Aunos shares her highly relevant personal and professional lived experience. We explore what compelled Marj to dedicate her life to supporting adults with intellectual disabilities at a tender 20 years old, what motivated her when she became a paraplegic as a single mom to her 16-month-old son, and how to be a better ally to those who have accessibility challenges. Marjorie Aunos, Ph.D. is a researcher, speaker, and consultant on accessibility and inclusion. She teaches organizations and educators to solution-find and build environments that are accessible, inclusive, and welcoming to families with disabilities. Marjorie is an internationally award-winning speaker, author of Mom on Wheels: The Power of Purpose as a Paraplegic Parent and contributing author to We Got This: Essays By Disabled Parents. Her TEDx talk “What we can learn from disabled parents” has over 150,000 views.   CHAPTERS 00:03:20   Marjorie's journey 00:08:00   Building support networks 00:14:40   An invitation for greater empathy 00:16:47   Purpose from a young age 00:21:00   What has shifted in recent years? 00:24:30   Visible vs. invisible challenges 00:27:55   How and when to help 00:30:14   Do we treat those with disabilities differently? 00:34:00   Acknowledge the disabled as experts   LINKS Fyre Festival Benny & Joon (1993) UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities How Can a Watermark be a Human Rights Matter? Hidden Disabilities Rick Hansen Foundation Hold That Door…! Opportunities to Improve Accessibility are Closer Than You Think Remembering Air India Flight 182 What we can learn from parents with disabilities | Marjorie Aunos | TEDxWesternU   IMAGE CREDITS (see images on Youtube video) Marjorie and Thomas - credit Marjorie Aunos Accessible space - Envato Elements Old wheelchair symbol - Wiki Commons Sunflower lanyard - credit Hidden...

In this curated selection from the Happy Space Podcast, I’m bringing back voices that challenge, inspire, and expand our thinking about designing for inclusion and accessibility. These encore episodes highlight conversations that continue to resonate—on neurodiversity, workplace design, and the small shifts that can make a big difference. Whether you’re tuning in for the first time or revisiting a favourite, I hope these episodes offer fresh insight into how thoughtful design can help everyone show up and perform at their best. President & CEO of Seramount, Subha Barry tells us about her connections with neurodiversity, her widely recognized Autism Intern program, and gives practical advice on how to advance your DEI efforts in today’s corporate world. A trailblazer in diversity, equity, and inclusion, Subha Barry shares a wealth of insights through her work as President and CEO at Seramount. Barry shares her personal and professional journey from India to the United States, and her pioneering initiatives at Merrill Lynch and Freddie Mac, including her widely recognized Autism intern program at Freddie Mac. Key topics include the importance of embedding DEI into business strategies without relying solely on HR, understanding neurodiversity, and practical ways to create inclusive workplaces. She also gives her take on how she thinks leaders should approach DEI and foster better relationships with employees. Subha Barry is a C-suite leader and an advisor who brings a unique perspective on the alignment of corporate culture to talent strategy and business results. As a transformational change agent, she has a proven record of identifying and accelerating new business creation, driving sales, and increasing profitability. Subha is president of Seramount where she drives the firm’s vision, strategy, and business development. Subha joined Working Mother Media (WMM) in 2015 and during her tenure she dramatically improved margins, expanded its portfolio through growth in high-value consulting and learning and development, exponentially grew their client roster, and recruited talented executive leaders to amplify subject matter and functional expertise. In 2021, Subha oversaw the brand’s transformation from WMM to Seramount, a leading strategic professional services and research firm dedicated to building high-performing, inclusive workplaces. Today, Seramount works with 450+ organizations globally, including half of the Fortune 500, to help our partners navigate today’s talent and DEI landscape. Previously, Subha was senior vice president and chief diversity officer at Freddie Mac, where she served on the firm’s management committee and led their foundation. Prior to her time at Freddie Mac, Subha spent 20+ years at Merrill Lynch as managing director and their first global head of diversity & inclusion where she built their D&I strategy, infrastructure and execution plans from the ground up. She also created a highly successful Multicultural Business Development Group to focus their wealth management business on diverse and multicultural communities bringing in over $8 billion in new assets and $50+ million in annual revenues in just three years. She began her career at the firm as a financial advisor where she was a top 100 advisor among 16,000 in the firm. Subha is a former adjunct professor at Columbia University’s SIPA, and currently serves on the Boards of SHRM Foundation, Rice 360, Rutgers Cancer Center and the Rutgers Institute of Women’s Leadership. She is also a Board Advisor at PE-owned Snowden Lane Partners. In the past, Subha has served on a variety of Boards as Board Chair, Head of Nominating & Governance, Finance, and HR and DEI Committees. A native of India, Subha holds a BA from Bombay University and an MBA and MS in Accounting from Rice University. She enjoys golfing, reading poetry and rallying for social change. She has two grown children and lives in...