In The ZOUD Fri, 10 Jul 2026 17:58:25 -0400 https://inthezoud.buzzsprout.com en-gb © 2026 In The ZOUD yes 5903a2c3-af6e-5285-af04-e22e98e5ec4e Sylvia episodic false In The ZOUD is where we stop avoiding the hard conversations about Equity, Diversity and Inclusion -  and start saying the things people usually whisper, avoid, or soften.


Hosted by Sylvia Stevenson, this podcast takes you into the Zone of Uncomfortable Debate - the place where real learning happens, assumptions get exposed, and leadership is tested. No sugar-coating. No corporate gloss. Just direct, meaningful conversations with people who are willing to name the truth about culture, power, race, identity and inequality.


If you’re tired of performative statements, tick-box strategies and safe conversations that change nothing, this is your space. Here, we ask the questions that make people shift in their seats — because that’s where change begins.


Welcome to In The ZOUD — if it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change anything.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Sylvia https://storage.buzzsprout.com/6xtt6xbukoy37f72rt3zf53crsp3?.jpg In The ZOUD https://inthezoud.buzzsprout.com Silence Wont Do It: Episode 4 - The Thundering Silence Silence Wont Do It: Episode 4 - The Thundering Silence What happens after someone speaks?

In this episode of In the ZOUD, we explore a different kind of silence - one that draws on conversations with women in senior leadership roles, 

We examine the silence that can follow after a contribution is made in senior leadership meetings and around Board tables. It's not about agreement or disagreement. It's about what silence may communicate when the conversation simply moves on.

Is this a uniquely female experience, or do men experience it too?

What impact does repeated exposure to this kind of silence have on confidence, participation and organisational culture?

Rather than offering easy answers, this episode invites leaders to notice what often goes unnoticed and to reflect on what silence may be teaching people about their place in the conversation.

Because perhaps the most important question isn't whether someone spoke... but what happened after they did.

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> What happens after someone speaks?

In this episode of In the ZOUD, we explore a different kind of silence - one that draws on conversations with women in senior leadership roles, 

We examine the silence that can follow after a contribution is made in senior leadership meetings and around Board tables. It's not about agreement or disagreement. It's about what silence may communicate when the conversation simply moves on.

Is this a uniquely female experience, or do men experience it too?

What impact does repeated exposure to this kind of silence have on confidence, participation and organisational culture?

Rather than offering easy answers, this episode invites leaders to notice what often goes unnoticed and to reflect on what silence may be teaching people about their place in the conversation.

Because perhaps the most important question isn't whether someone spoke... but what happened after they did.

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> Sylvia Buzzsprout-19476803 Fri, 10 Jul 2026 17:00:00 -0400 442 1 4 full false Silence Wont Do It: Episode 3 - Choosing Silence Silence Wont Do It: Episode 3 - Choosing Silence Why do people with something important to say decide not to say it?

In this episode of Silence Won't Do It, Sylvia Stevenson explores one of the most uncomfortable questions in organisational life: what happens when silence becomes a choice?

Using everyday workplace experiences, Sylvia challenges the assumption that culture is created only by leaders. She explores how repeated experiences shape whether people feel psychologically safe enough to contribute, challenge and speak honestly, and why the conversations that never happen often have the greatest impact on workplace culture.

This episode is a challenge to leaders and employees alike.

Because every time we choose silence, we make it a little easier for the culture to stay exactly as it is.

In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson

Exploring the conversations many organisations avoid, but can no longer afford to ignore.

Follow the podcast for future episodes and share this conversation with your network.

📌 Available on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> Why do people with something important to say decide not to say it?

In this episode of Silence Won't Do It, Sylvia Stevenson explores one of the most uncomfortable questions in organisational life: what happens when silence becomes a choice?

Using everyday workplace experiences, Sylvia challenges the assumption that culture is created only by leaders. She explores how repeated experiences shape whether people feel psychologically safe enough to contribute, challenge and speak honestly, and why the conversations that never happen often have the greatest impact on workplace culture.

This episode is a challenge to leaders and employees alike.

Because every time we choose silence, we make it a little easier for the culture to stay exactly as it is.

In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson

Exploring the conversations many organisations avoid, but can no longer afford to ignore.

Follow the podcast for future episodes and share this conversation with your network.

📌 Available on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> Sylvia Buzzsprout-19433526 Wed, 01 Jul 2026 18:00:00 -0400 562 1 3 full false Silence Won't Do It - Episode 2: Silence from the Cockpit Silence Won't Do It - Episode 2: Silence from the Cockpit Financial pressures, restructures, workforce challenges and increasing demand have become familiar realities for many organisations. Most people know there is turbulence.

The question is whether leaders are communicating enough about how they intend to navigate it.

In this episode of Silence Won't Do It, we explore the leadership challenge of communicating during uncertain times. Using the analogy of turbulence on a flight, we reflects on why people often need more than acknowledgement of the problem. They need confidence that there is a plan, clarity about what lies ahead and an understanding of the role they can play in helping the organisation move forward.

Because when the aircraft starts shaking, hearing from the cockpit matters.

🎙️ In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson

Exploring the conversations many organisations avoid, but can no longer afford to ignore.

Follow the podcast for future episodes and share this conversation with your network.

📌 Available on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> Financial pressures, restructures, workforce challenges and increasing demand have become familiar realities for many organisations. Most people know there is turbulence.

The question is whether leaders are communicating enough about how they intend to navigate it.

In this episode of Silence Won't Do It, we explore the leadership challenge of communicating during uncertain times. Using the analogy of turbulence on a flight, we reflects on why people often need more than acknowledgement of the problem. They need confidence that there is a plan, clarity about what lies ahead and an understanding of the role they can play in helping the organisation move forward.

Because when the aircraft starts shaking, hearing from the cockpit matters.

🎙️ In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson

Exploring the conversations many organisations avoid, but can no longer afford to ignore.

Follow the podcast for future episodes and share this conversation with your network.

📌 Available on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> Sylvia Buzzsprout-19385085 Mon, 22 Jun 2026 12:00:00 -0400 351 1 2 full false Silence Won't Do It - Episode 1: The Human Tax of Silence Silence Won't Do It - Episode 1: The Human Tax of Silence I recently heard the phrase "financial pandemic" and it got me thinking.

In times of uncertainty, organisations naturally focus on visible costs such as budgets, vacancies, productivity and performance. 

But what about the hidden costs? 

What about the emotional cost paid by people who are filtering concerns, masking frustrations and carrying experiences they don't feel able to express?

In this first episode of Silence Won't Do It, I explore what happens when silence comes at a personal cost, and why some of the biggest organisational risks may never appear on a balance sheet.

Because whilst financial costs are measured, the human cost is often hidden in plain sight.

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> I recently heard the phrase "financial pandemic" and it got me thinking.

In times of uncertainty, organisations naturally focus on visible costs such as budgets, vacancies, productivity and performance. 

But what about the hidden costs? 

What about the emotional cost paid by people who are filtering concerns, masking frustrations and carrying experiences they don't feel able to express?

In this first episode of Silence Won't Do It, I explore what happens when silence comes at a personal cost, and why some of the biggest organisational risks may never appear on a balance sheet.

Because whilst financial costs are measured, the human cost is often hidden in plain sight.

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> Sylvia Buzzsprout-19344365 Sun, 14 Jun 2026 14:00:00 -0400 431 1 1 full false Trailer | In the ZOUD: Silence Won't Do It Trailer | In the ZOUD: Silence Won't Do It What happens when people stop talking? Not because they agree, or because everything is fine, but because they've stopped believing anything will change?

Over the coming weeks, I'll be launching a new 7-part podcast series called Silence Won't Do It, part of In the ZOUD – the Zone of Uncomfortable Debates. 

We're living through a period of significant change. Organisations are under pressure, leaders are under pressure and many employees are trying to make sense of increasingly complex conversations about culture, inclusion, fairness and belonging.

In that climate, it can be tempting to avoid difficult conversations altogether.
But what happens when silence becomes the strategy? Through honest reflection and thoughtful challenge, this series will explore workplace culture, psychological safety, trust, leadership and the role we all play in creating environments where people feel able to contribute, question and belong.

This podcast is an introduction to the series. Episode 1 coming soon.

What conversation do you think organisations are avoiding right now because it feels uncomfortable?



Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> What happens when people stop talking? Not because they agree, or because everything is fine, but because they've stopped believing anything will change?

Over the coming weeks, I'll be launching a new 7-part podcast series called Silence Won't Do It, part of In the ZOUD – the Zone of Uncomfortable Debates. 

We're living through a period of significant change. Organisations are under pressure, leaders are under pressure and many employees are trying to make sense of increasingly complex conversations about culture, inclusion, fairness and belonging.

In that climate, it can be tempting to avoid difficult conversations altogether.
But what happens when silence becomes the strategy? Through honest reflection and thoughtful challenge, this series will explore workplace culture, psychological safety, trust, leadership and the role we all play in creating environments where people feel able to contribute, question and belong.

This podcast is an introduction to the series. Episode 1 coming soon.

What conversation do you think organisations are avoiding right now because it feels uncomfortable?



Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> Sylvia Buzzsprout-19339577 Fri, 12 Jun 2026 19:00:00 -0400 298 1 1 trailer false 7 Things My Mother Gave Me: Day 7 - Substance 7 Things My Mother Gave Me: Day 7 - Substance In the final episode of the 7 Things My Mother Gave Me series, I reflect on one of the Jamaican sayings my mother often used to remind us about the difference between noise and substance.

“Empty barrel mek di most noise.” Literally, it means that an empty barrel makes the most noise.

Behind the saying is a deeper lesson: the loudest voices are not always the ones with the greatest substance. Real influence is often revealed not by how loudly we speak, but by the depth of our character, the intention behind our actions, and the value we bring to others.

In this closing reflection, I explore how this proverb connects to the wisdom my mother shared throughout my childhood—and how those lessons continue to shape how I think about progress, relationships, resilience, and the character we build over time.

Because sometimes the most meaningful wisdom we inherit is not material at all - but the principles that guide how we live.

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> In the final episode of the 7 Things My Mother Gave Me series, I reflect on one of the Jamaican sayings my mother often used to remind us about the difference between noise and substance.

“Empty barrel mek di most noise.” Literally, it means that an empty barrel makes the most noise.

Behind the saying is a deeper lesson: the loudest voices are not always the ones with the greatest substance. Real influence is often revealed not by how loudly we speak, but by the depth of our character, the intention behind our actions, and the value we bring to others.

In this closing reflection, I explore how this proverb connects to the wisdom my mother shared throughout my childhood—and how those lessons continue to shape how I think about progress, relationships, resilience, and the character we build over time.

Because sometimes the most meaningful wisdom we inherit is not material at all - but the principles that guide how we live.

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> Sylvia Buzzsprout-18844034 Fri, 13 Mar 2026 18:00:00 -0400 186 full false 7 Things My Mother Gave Me: Day 6 - Humility 7 Things My Mother Gave Me: Day 6 - Humility In Day 6 of the 7 Things My Mother Gave Me series, I reflect on a Jamaican proverb my mother once used in a moment I will never forget.

“Di higher di monkey climb, di more im expose.” Literally, it means that the higher the monkey climbs, the more it exposes itself.

Behind the saying is a powerful reminder: the higher we rise in life—whether in leadership, visibility, or influence - the more our character becomes visible to others.

In this reflection, I explore how success and opportunity bring not only recognition, but responsibility, and why humility and integrity matter even more the higher we go.

Because sometimes the greatest test of character comes not when we are struggling - but when we are succeeding.

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> In Day 6 of the 7 Things My Mother Gave Me series, I reflect on a Jamaican proverb my mother once used in a moment I will never forget.

“Di higher di monkey climb, di more im expose.” Literally, it means that the higher the monkey climbs, the more it exposes itself.

Behind the saying is a powerful reminder: the higher we rise in life—whether in leadership, visibility, or influence - the more our character becomes visible to others.

In this reflection, I explore how success and opportunity bring not only recognition, but responsibility, and why humility and integrity matter even more the higher we go.

Because sometimes the greatest test of character comes not when we are struggling - but when we are succeeding.

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> Buzzsprout-18837875 Thu, 12 Mar 2026 16:00:00 -0400 165 full false 7 Things My Mother Gave Me: Day 5 - Strength 7 Things My Mother Gave Me: Day 5 - Strength In Day 5 of the 7 Things My Mother Gave Me series, I reflect on one of my favourite Jamaican proverbs my mother often used when I came to her with a problem.

“Wen chubble kech yuh, pikni shut fit yuh.” Literally, it means that when trouble catches you, even a child’s shirt will fit you.

Behind the humour of the saying is a powerful reminder: in difficult moments, we often discover strength we didn’t know we had.

In this reflection, I explore how challenges can reveal resilience and courage we may not have realised were within us—and how the strength we gain through our struggles can become something we share with others.

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> In Day 5 of the 7 Things My Mother Gave Me series, I reflect on one of my favourite Jamaican proverbs my mother often used when I came to her with a problem.

“Wen chubble kech yuh, pikni shut fit yuh.” Literally, it means that when trouble catches you, even a child’s shirt will fit you.

Behind the humour of the saying is a powerful reminder: in difficult moments, we often discover strength we didn’t know we had.

In this reflection, I explore how challenges can reveal resilience and courage we may not have realised were within us—and how the strength we gain through our struggles can become something we share with others.

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> Buzzsprout-18832256 Wed, 11 Mar 2026 18:00:00 -0400 160 1 5 full false 7 Things My Mother Gave Me: Day 4 - Guidance 7 Things My Mother Gave Me: Day 4 - Guidance n Day 4 of the 7 Things My Mother Gave Me series, I reflect on a Jamaican proverb my mother often used - one that took on deeper meaning when I became a mother myself.

Growing up as the youngest of five children in a family spanning five generations, I heard this saying many times. But only later did I understand its meaning.

The proverb speaks to the importance of shaping values early—while character and habits are still forming.

In this reflection, I explore the responsibility we have in guiding the next generation and instilling the values they will carry throughout their lives.

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> n Day 4 of the 7 Things My Mother Gave Me series, I reflect on a Jamaican proverb my mother often used - one that took on deeper meaning when I became a mother myself.

Growing up as the youngest of five children in a family spanning five generations, I heard this saying many times. But only later did I understand its meaning.

The proverb speaks to the importance of shaping values early—while character and habits are still forming.

In this reflection, I explore the responsibility we have in guiding the next generation and instilling the values they will carry throughout their lives.

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> Sylvia Buzzsprout-18826051 Tue, 10 Mar 2026 18:00:00 -0400 139 full false 7 Things My Mother Gave Me: Day 3 - Discernment 7 Things My Mother Gave Me: Day 3 - Discernment In Day 3 of the 7 Things My Mother Gave Me series for International Women’s Day, I reflect on another Jamaican proverb my mother often used while I was growing up: “Wha sweet nanny goat ah go run im belly.” What tastes sweet to the goat today will upset its stomach tomorrow.

For a long time, I didn’t fully understand what she meant. But over time, I began to see the wisdom behind it. This proverb reminds us that what feels like the best choice in the moment is not always the one that leads to the best outcome later. Some decisions that seem appealing today can carry consequences we only recognize with time.

In this reflection, I explore how discernment helps us look beyond immediate comfort and consider the longer-term impact of our choices.

Because sometimes the most important question is not what feels good now, but what will truly serve us - and others -later.

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> In Day 3 of the 7 Things My Mother Gave Me series for International Women’s Day, I reflect on another Jamaican proverb my mother often used while I was growing up: “Wha sweet nanny goat ah go run im belly.” What tastes sweet to the goat today will upset its stomach tomorrow.

For a long time, I didn’t fully understand what she meant. But over time, I began to see the wisdom behind it. This proverb reminds us that what feels like the best choice in the moment is not always the one that leads to the best outcome later. Some decisions that seem appealing today can carry consequences we only recognize with time.

In this reflection, I explore how discernment helps us look beyond immediate comfort and consider the longer-term impact of our choices.

Because sometimes the most important question is not what feels good now, but what will truly serve us - and others -later.

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> Buzzsprout-18822506 Tue, 10 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0400 169 full false 7 Things My Mother Gave Me: Day 2 - Community 7 Things My Mother Gave Me: Day 2 - Community In Day 2 of the 7 Things My Mother Gave Me series for International Women’s Day, I reflect on another Jamaican proverb my mother often used while I was growing up: “Han wash han mek dem clean.” When hands wash each other, they both become clean.

This simple saying carries a powerful reminder that none of us moves through life entirely on our own. Progress, opportunity, and growth often happen through the ways we support and uplift one another.

Sometimes giving means sharing knowledge, opening doors, or creating space for others to move forward.

In this reflection, I explore how the wisdom behind this proverb connects to the theme of Give to Gain — and how the strength of our networks and relationships is often shaped by what we are willing to give to others.

Because when we help one another rise, everyone benefits.

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> In Day 2 of the 7 Things My Mother Gave Me series for International Women’s Day, I reflect on another Jamaican proverb my mother often used while I was growing up: “Han wash han mek dem clean.” When hands wash each other, they both become clean.

This simple saying carries a powerful reminder that none of us moves through life entirely on our own. Progress, opportunity, and growth often happen through the ways we support and uplift one another.

Sometimes giving means sharing knowledge, opening doors, or creating space for others to move forward.

In this reflection, I explore how the wisdom behind this proverb connects to the theme of Give to Gain — and how the strength of our networks and relationships is often shaped by what we are willing to give to others.

Because when we help one another rise, everyone benefits.

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> Buzzsprout-18822453 Tue, 10 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0400 158 1 2 full false 7 Things My Mother Gave Me: Day 1 - Patience 7 Things My Mother Gave Me: Day 1 - Patience In this first episode of the 7 Things My Mother Gave Me series for International Women’s Day, I reflect on a simple Jamaican proverb my mother often used while I was growing up:

“One one cocoa full basket.” Little by little, the basket fills.

In this short reflection, I explore how this wisdom continues to shape how I think about growth, relationships, and the theme at the heart of this year’s International Women’s Day: Give to Gain.

Sometimes the most meaningful things we build, as in trust, knowledge, opportunity, and change, happen one small step at a time.

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> In this first episode of the 7 Things My Mother Gave Me series for International Women’s Day, I reflect on a simple Jamaican proverb my mother often used while I was growing up:

“One one cocoa full basket.” Little by little, the basket fills.

In this short reflection, I explore how this wisdom continues to shape how I think about growth, relationships, and the theme at the heart of this year’s International Women’s Day: Give to Gain.

Sometimes the most meaningful things we build, as in trust, knowledge, opportunity, and change, happen one small step at a time.

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> Buzzsprout-18822445 Tue, 10 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0400 172 full false Holding The Line in 2026 Holding The Line in 2026 2025 showed us something uncomfortable: when pressure hits, a lot of equity, diversity and inclusion work disappears. Not because it was wrong, but because it was never strong enough to survive real challenge.

In this video, I share why 2026 has to be different. This isn’t about slogans, statements or performative action. It’s about staying in the work when things get awkward, political or risky. It’s about listening to under-represented voices, understanding the pressures senior leaders face, and holding ourselves accountable for doing what we say we believe in.

If you care about fairness, belonging and building organisations that don’t fall apart when things get tense, this conversation matters.

Thanks for listening - and for staying in the work.

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> 2025 showed us something uncomfortable: when pressure hits, a lot of equity, diversity and inclusion work disappears. Not because it was wrong, but because it was never strong enough to survive real challenge.

In this video, I share why 2026 has to be different. This isn’t about slogans, statements or performative action. It’s about staying in the work when things get awkward, political or risky. It’s about listening to under-represented voices, understanding the pressures senior leaders face, and holding ourselves accountable for doing what we say we believe in.

If you care about fairness, belonging and building organisations that don’t fall apart when things get tense, this conversation matters.

Thanks for listening - and for staying in the work.

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> Sylvia Buzzsprout-18443655 Fri, 02 Jan 2026 11:00:00 -0500 265 full false Standing Firm in Power and Resilience Part 3: Taking Action and Sustaining Change Standing Firm in Power and Resilience Part 3: Taking Action and Sustaining Change Welcome to the final episode in our three-part series.
 If Part Two explored psychological safety, this conversation focuses on what comes next.

Today, we move from reflection to action - and from intention to sustained change.

Conversations matter. Insight matters. But without follow-through, even the bravest dialogue risks fading once attention shifts. In this episode, we ask:

What does real action look like after the conversation ends?
 How do organisations sustain change over time?

In this episode, we explore:

  • Turning difficult conversations into meaningful action
  • What leaders must do differently once the dialogue is over
  • How accountability shows up beyond words and commitments
  • What it takes to sustain cultural change over time

This final episode is for people who don’t just value brave conversations - but are prepared to act on them.

Essential viewing. Essential listening.

🔔Listen to Parts One and Two to catch the full journey.

#ZoneOfUncomfortableDebate #LeadershipConversations #PsychologicalSafety #HonestLeadership #OrganisationalCulture #BraveConversations

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> Welcome to the final episode in our three-part series.
 If Part Two explored psychological safety, this conversation focuses on what comes next.

Today, we move from reflection to action - and from intention to sustained change.

Conversations matter. Insight matters. But without follow-through, even the bravest dialogue risks fading once attention shifts. In this episode, we ask:

What does real action look like after the conversation ends?
 How do organisations sustain change over time?

In this episode, we explore:

  • Turning difficult conversations into meaningful action
  • What leaders must do differently once the dialogue is over
  • How accountability shows up beyond words and commitments
  • What it takes to sustain cultural change over time

This final episode is for people who don’t just value brave conversations - but are prepared to act on them.

Essential viewing. Essential listening.

🔔Listen to Parts One and Two to catch the full journey.

#ZoneOfUncomfortableDebate #LeadershipConversations #PsychologicalSafety #HonestLeadership #OrganisationalCulture #BraveConversations

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> Sylvia Buzzsprout-18376200 Wed, 17 Dec 2025 17:00:00 -0500 1138 full false Standing Firm in Power and Resilience Part 2: Strength in the Struggle Standing Firm in Power and Resilience Part 2: Strength in the Struggle Welcome back to Part Two of our three-part series. 

If Part One was about honesty, Part Two takes that honesty into a very different space.

Today, we’re diving into psychological safety - not from the usual angle of staff experience, but from a perspective we rarely stop to examine: 

 What does psychological safety feel like for senior leaders?

We spend a lot of time encouraging teams to speak up, challenge, and share concerns, but senior leaders are often expected to be always composed, always resilient, and always accountable. So here’s the real question:

How safe do they feel in speaking up about sensitive or uncomfortable issues -  without fear of being judged, misunderstood, or even cancelled?

 In this episode, we explore:

  • The unseen pressure leaders carry.
  • What support actually exists behind the scenes.
  • The personal and organisational risks beneath the surface.
  • The kind of culture that encourages honest leadership - and the kind that quietly shuts it down.

This series is for people who aren’t afraid to step into difficult truths and hear what’s often left unsaid.

 Featuring:

Rachna Vyas | Roger Kline | Professor Ivan Browne| Sandra Goatley | Dr MaryAnn Ferreux 

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> Welcome back to Part Two of our three-part series. 

If Part One was about honesty, Part Two takes that honesty into a very different space.

Today, we’re diving into psychological safety - not from the usual angle of staff experience, but from a perspective we rarely stop to examine: 

 What does psychological safety feel like for senior leaders?

We spend a lot of time encouraging teams to speak up, challenge, and share concerns, but senior leaders are often expected to be always composed, always resilient, and always accountable. So here’s the real question:

How safe do they feel in speaking up about sensitive or uncomfortable issues -  without fear of being judged, misunderstood, or even cancelled?

 In this episode, we explore:

  • The unseen pressure leaders carry.
  • What support actually exists behind the scenes.
  • The personal and organisational risks beneath the surface.
  • The kind of culture that encourages honest leadership - and the kind that quietly shuts it down.

This series is for people who aren’t afraid to step into difficult truths and hear what’s often left unsaid.

 Featuring:

Rachna Vyas | Roger Kline | Professor Ivan Browne| Sandra Goatley | Dr MaryAnn Ferreux 

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> Sylvia Buzzsprout-18327041 Tue, 09 Dec 2025 15:00:00 -0500 1366 full false Standing Firm in Power and Resilience Part 1: The Power of Our Story Standing Firm in Power and Resilience Part 1: The Power of Our Story In Part One, we dive straight into how identity, symbols and lived experience shape the culture of our public services - often in ways we don’t name out loud.
 Using the debate around the St George’s flag as our starting point, our panel challenge us to face what these moments reveal about trust, belonging and the reality of inclusion today.

This is where the story begins - and why it matters.

Featuring:
Rachna Vyas | Roger Kline | Professor Ivan Browne | Sandra Goatley | Dr MaryAnn Ferruex

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> In Part One, we dive straight into how identity, symbols and lived experience shape the culture of our public services - often in ways we don’t name out loud.
 Using the debate around the St George’s flag as our starting point, our panel challenge us to face what these moments reveal about trust, belonging and the reality of inclusion today.

This is where the story begins - and why it matters.

Featuring:
Rachna Vyas | Roger Kline | Professor Ivan Browne | Sandra Goatley | Dr MaryAnn Ferruex

Thank you for listening to In the ZOUD Podcast with Sylvia Stevenson.

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from the conversation.

You can find In the ZOUD Podcast on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

Until next time, keep leaning into the conversations that matter.

]]> Sylvia Buzzsprout-18308097 Fri, 05 Dec 2025 20:00:00 -0500 1302 full false