What is gendered innovations? Gendered innovations refer to the creative and transformative processes that integrate sex and gender analysis into research and design. Rather than treating gender as an afterthought or a mere demographic concern, gendered innovations actively incorporate it as a critical variable that can influence the direction and outcomes of research. In this episode of KnowThyBrand Podcast, prof. Londa Schiebinger, from Stanford University, explains how accounting for sex and gender differences can lead to more accurate results, safer products, and more inclusive innovationsClick here for show notes and resources mentioned in this episode.

In the dynamic world of startups, securing venture capital is often a critical step towards scaling a business. However, for female founders, this journey can be fraught with additional challenges due to biases and stereotypes.Our guests in this episode are Tülin Tokatli and Hale Yildiz from Pitch Me First and they discussed the challenges faced by female founders in the venture capital industry. They highlighted the low percentage of funding received by female-led startups and the biases and cultural barriers they encounter during the fundraising process. They also explained the importance of increasing diversity in VC teams and suggested measures such as prioritizing female-led teams and promoting visibility for female founders.Click here for show notes and resources mentioned in this episode.

Have you ever felt held back from pursuing your dreams or potential due to beliefs about your own abilities? You're not alone. In today’s episode, psychologist Carolina Nikaedo explains how we form self-limiting beliefs from a young age and shares strategies to overcome them. She also dives deep into neuroplasticity - the brain's ability to form new connections. Through a focused effort to bring beliefs to consciousness, to take space and engage rational thinking, and to intentionally replace negative thoughts, we can "rewire" our brains.It's not easy to overcome deeply ingrained beliefs, but it is possible with neuroplasticity. With awareness, intention and practice strengthening new neural pathways over time, neuroplasticity allows us to reshape our self-image and overcome what once felt like fixed limitations. Because our abilities are not predetermined - there is always room for growth.Click here for show notes and resources mentioned in this episode.

Ageism, the discrimination or prejudice against individuals based on their age, remains a pervasive issue in today's workplaces. Recent studies reveal that nearly 65% of workers have experienced age-based discrimination at some point in their careers.In today’s episode Avivah Wittenberg-Cox, a thought leader in gender and generational balance and a CEO of 20-first, discusses the four phases of women’s careers and the overlaps between gender and age. Avivah also highlights the need for companies to leverage the talent and potential of older workers in the 21st century because embracing age diversity isn't just about compliance or meeting quotas; it's about unlocking the full potential of every employee and creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their best.Click here for show notes and resources mentioned in this episode.

Authenticity isn't just a buzzword—it's the cornerstone of building meaningful professional relationships, nurturing a strong brand reputation, and ultimately achieving lasting success. In a world where polished LinkedIn profiles and perfectly curated Instagram feeds can sometimes overshadow genuine connections, join us in this episode to discover the importance of staying true to yourself in every business interaction.At the same time, no matter how many accolades we add to our resumes or LinkedIn profiles, many of us battle with that nagging feeling of not being "enough." Imposter Syndrome sneaks in, whispering doubts and fears that can hold us back from reaching our full potential.In today’s episode Sophie Mathur, a Mergers and Acquisitions lawyer and Corporate Partner at Linklaters shares her story of success as well as her insights and practical strategies to not only overcome Imposter Syndrome but also to thrive authentically in your professional journey. Because at the end of the day, it's our human experiences and connections that truly define success.Click here for show notes and resources mentioned in this episode

In this episode, we're privileged to sit down with Mr. Gilles Roth, the Minister of Finance in Luxembourg. With a wealth of experience in both finance and politics, Mr. Roth offers unique insights into Luxembourg's pivotal role in global finance and its commitment to sustainable and inclusive financial practices.Join us as we explore Luxembourg's journey to becoming a cornerstone of international finance within the European Union, the challenges and opportunities of sustainable finance, and the initiatives driving gender diversity and inclusion in the financial sector.Topics covered in this episode:Luxembourg's position in global financeImportance of competitiveness, attractiveness, and legislative modernization to sustain Luxembourg's financial prominenceChallenges in sustainable finance, including regulatory complexities and data complianceAcknowledgment of gender disparities in finance and initiatives to foster women's involvement.Women in Finance Charter and its impact on gender diversity within companies.Discussion on the Gender Finance Task ForceReiteration of commitment to promoting gender finance and diversity globally.

In this episode,  Danielle Di Martino, CEO and chief strategist at QI Research, delves into the critical importance of financial literacy and inclusion.  Drawing from her own journey, Danielle highlights the underrepresentation of women in finance and stresses the necessity of empowering them through financial education.Topics covered in this episode: Importance of financial literacy and inclusionGender disparities in financeChallenges and advice for women in financePromoting financial literacy through accessible resourcesEducating young people about money managementAdvocacy for incorporating financial literacy into school curriculaConnect with Danielle on Twitter and make sure you take a look at her new book Fed Up: An Insider's Take on Why the Federal Reserve is Bad for America

At the heart of every organization lies the human element—their values, aspirations, and stories. It is in embracing and nurturing this humanity that true leadership and organizational excellence emerge.In this episode of KnowThyBrand, Pascal Viscor, an entrepreneur, storyteller, and strategist, shares his insights into the significance of purpose and vision for companies. The conversation covered the transformative potential of authentic storytelling, the essence of cultivating trust within organizational cultures, and the importance of aligning values with actions.Topics covered in this episode include:Importance of Enthusiasm and Resilience in Business Development Building Authenticity and Trust in Organizational Culture The Role of Leadership in Fostering Inclusivity The Evolution of Organizational Culture Reflecting on the Progress and Future Direction of Organizational CultureFind out more about Pascal and his work.

Ever wondered how many business cards you've handed out recently? For most, it's a fleeting exchange, a mere formality in the whirlwind of networking. But for Martine Bosch, founder of Ecofluent, each business card is a statement—an embodiment of sustainability, innovation, and the power of conscious consumption.In a world where disposable culture reigns supreme, Martine's approach challenges the norm and inspires us to rethink the way we connect and consume. Her unique business card, crafted from repurposed cardboard, make it evident that there is something remarkable about her and her mission.Topics covered in this episode include:Introduction to the concept of responsible consumptionReducing, reusing, and repairing items over constant buying and throwing awayConsumer power in driving change through purchasing decisionsFast fashion and the need for sustainable alternativesThe importance of individual action and collective advocacyCircular design as a key element in transitioning to a sustainable economyAdvocating for policy changes to support sustainable practicesThe necessity of embracing responsible consumption for a sustainable futureFind out more about Martine and her amazing work!

“From a very young age, girls are often taught to diminish our skills. You don't want to take too much credit, and you don't want to be too assertive, but at the same time, you have to be confident. But you can't be self promoting. So, don't promote yourself too much, but at the same time, be assertive and have leadership traits.”These are the words that my most recent guest on KnowThyBrand Women podcast, Mary Chung Hayashi, used when talking about women in politics. Mary Chung Hayashi is an award-winning author, national healthcare leader, and former California State Assemblymember. With a distinguished career in public service, Mary has spearheaded substantial reforms in mental health services, championed gender equality, and forged powerful, unprecedented partnerships for social causes that previously had no financial or public backing.In her book Women in Politics, Mary offers a riveting exploration of the strides made by women in government. This essential, contemporary analysis bridges the gap between past and present, blending Mary’s personal journey as an Asian American immigrant and former California State Assemblymember with the inspiring stories of trailblazing women in political leadership. Featuring interviews and insightful discussions, Mary brings to life the trials and triumphs of these women, showcasing their invaluable contributions to political landscapes and the transformative power of their perseverance. Her work sheds light on the ongoing struggles for gender-political parity and serves as a call to action: we must actively participate in shaping our democracy.

In a recent podcast episode, I had the honor to sit down with the former Minister of Finance and current Minister of Defence, Minister for Mobility and Public Works and Minister for Gender Equality and Diversity in Luxembourg, Yuriko Backes. We started our conversation by discussing a transformative initiative that marked a significant milestone in the pursuit of gender equality—the Luxembourg Women in Finance Charter - we followed with important insights into her experiences and the broader efforts to promote gender equality. Some of the topics we covered include:The importance of embracing the diverse needs of the LGBTIQA+ community The critical role of individuals, regardless of gender, in making a conscious effort to include diverse voices Financial independence for womenThe fight against gender-based violence Man allyshipand much more!

Amidst the prevailing gender disparities in today's society, one might wonder if reconciliation between the genders is even possible. Enter William Keepin and Cynthia Brix, the authors of the book "Gender Equity and Reconciliation." Their interesting work offers a different perspective on fostering harmony and understanding between men and women, paving the way for a brighter future.For over three decades, William and Cynthia have dedicated their lives to reshaping the conversation around gender and sexuality, challenging societal norms and inspiring individuals to embrace transformative change. Their work, encapsulated in their book, provides a safe space for people to share their truths without judgment, guilt, or blame. It is a collaborative journey towards gender reconciliation, rooted in the concept of Ubuntu – "I am because you are."

In an era where businesses often prioritise profit above all else, Johnny Pawlik, the driving force behind Mantra Media, emerges as a beacon of hope for those seeking a more ethical approach to marketing and entrepreneurship. With a compelling story and a philosophy that transcends the ordinary, Johnny embodies a commitment to ethical values in business that inspires many.In fact, Forbes has bestowed the prestigious title of the "most ethical marketing and branding company" upon Johnny's company, solidifying their unparalleled reputation in the industry.With Johnny we discussed:  Honesty and Transparency as foundations of SuccessChoosing the Right Employees and the Right ClientsOvercoming Challenges and Discovering PurposeWhat Does Success Mean to You Find out more about Johnny: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mantramarketing/and about Mantra Marketing: http://www.mantrahq.com/

In an era where gender equality is a pressing global concern, Daniele stands at the forefront of challenging traditional norms and advocating for change. Daniele Fiandaca, the visionary founder of Token Man Consulting, is an expert in the field of inclusion and diversity. His insights on the pivotal role of men in the gender equality movement, as well as the obstacles they face, provide a fresh perspective on this critical issue.Daniele’s journey toward advocating for gender diversity began a decade ago during his career in advertising, where he held various leadership roles. At that time, he organized events for creative directors globally, including one pivotal dinner event for twelve women. While the presence of twelve women didn't surprise him, what transpired when he entered the room was entirely unexpected.Upon entering the dinner, Daniele experienced an abrupt loss of confidence—an invisible force seemed to snatch it away. As the dinner progressed, he found himself surrounded by conversations he couldn't relate to, pushing him further into the periphery. When he attempted to introduce the dinner he had funded, his co-host, a woman, interrupted him. These experiences were strikingly similar to what women often encounter in male-dominated settings.It was through these firsthand experiences that Daniele  truly grasped what it felt like to be part of the "out group." Despite his numerous privileges, he hadn't fully comprehended the extent of the impact such exclusionary experiences could have on individuals. This awakening marked the beginning of his commitment to driving change in the field of gender equality.In this episode Daniele Talks with us about:> The Necessity of Men's Involvement> Fostering Uncomfortable Conversations> Positive Masculinity: Nurturing a New NarrativeLinks and resources: Masculinity in the Workplace (21 Nov) https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/masculinity-in-the-workplace-2023-virtual-edition-tickets-705891599777?aff=oddtdtcreator Token Man Panel series - https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/token-man-panel-series-1095089 Token Man Brave Spaces - https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/token-man-brave-spaces-tickets-714728571397?aff=oddtdtcreat orResearch reports - https://www.tokenman.org/thought-leadership Sign up to Token Man Newsletter - http://eepurl.com/cixUBX Connect with Daniele - https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielefiandaca/

In the world of art, where creativity knows no bounds, lies a visionary with a passion for positive change. Patrizia Luchetta, an Italian name with an unwavering determination, is the driving force behind an inspiring non-profit organization called Charlotte in Red. This remarkable initiative aims to address gender inequality in the art world while promoting sustainability through the captivating medium of documentaries featuring talented female artists.Join us as we delve into the extraordinary work of Patricia Luchetta and explore the transformative power of art and sustainability.

Today, we have a special treat for you as we dive into the world of personal branding from a different angle with the incredible Sandy Grisby, a multi-talented photographer, and personal branding expert. In our efforts to develop our personal brand, we must acknowledge that we live in a world where image and perception matter. And like with work on our brand strategy, also with our image it's easy to fall into the trap of creating a fictional character to please others. However, Sandy urges her clients to understand their target audience without sacrificing their genuine identity.By striking a delicate balance between audience perception and personal authenticity, individuals can develop a personal brand that resonates deeply with their key stakeholders. Sandy's own journey in personal branding showcases the power of being genuine - a key aspect that has helped her connect with clients worldwide.So, let's explore the significance of authenticity, the power of natural photos, and the art of personal branding that stands out from the crowd.Find out more about Sandy's services here -> https://www.sandyinfocus.com/

In a world often filled with negativity, there are individuals and organizations working tirelessly to make a difference and create a better, more inclusive world. In our latest podcast episode, we had the honor of meeting Emanuele Santi, the visionary founder of "Riding the Rainbow," and Lena Shevchenko, a Ukrainian mother living in Luxembourg, who discussed their project's journey toward inclusivity and the power of donations to positively impact lives.How You Can Get Involved?Through Riding the Rainbow, people have the opportunity to form connections and better understand the struggles and triumphs of others, fostering a sense of gratitude and support.Here are the steps you can take to get involved today: Download the Riding the Rainbow app from their official website to participate in this transformative project.Encourage others to use the app and donate unused items, such as bicycles, toys, books, electronics, and more, to make a difference in the lives of refugees and vulnerable migrants.Advocate for the integration of technology platforms like the Riding the Rainbow app to foster empathy and understanding among individuals from diverse backgrounds.Support the mission of Riding the Rainbow by spreading awareness and exploring opportunities for collaboration or support from organizations interested in promoting inclusivity and creating a better world.Involve children in acts of giving back by encouraging them to use the app and witness firsthand the impact their donations can have on someone else's life.So, it's time to hop on this rainbow ride of spreading love, care, and support. Are you ready to make a difference? Download the app, spread the word, and let's change lives, one small act of kindness at a time. Together, we can truly make this world a better place!

In this podcast conversation, we had the pleasure of chatting with Hope, a remarkable woman who took a leap of faith and transformed her career from being a traditional yoga teacher to establishing her very own successful business called "Mother Trucker Yoga”. We dug deep into her journey, exploring the challenges she faced and the incredible decision-making process that led her to discover her true calling: providing truck drivers with unique yoga and wellness solutions.-> Key takeaway: The Power of Focused Targeting and Niche MarketingHope emphasized the importance of unwavering focus and truly understanding the unique problem she aimed to solve for her target audience. Initially, she grappled with the fear of narrowing her marketing efforts exclusively to truck drivers, worried about alienating a potentially larger market. However, by staying true to her mission and wholeheartedly targeting truck drivers, she found her path to success.Find out more about Mother Trucker Yoga herewww.facebook.com/MotherTruckerYogawww.instagram.com/mothertruckeryogawww.MotherTruckerYoga.com

In this episode, we talk with Maria Elo, an associate professor at the University of Southern Denmark and an immigration fellow at the Institute of Migration. Drawing from her academic expertise and personal experiences, Maria sheds light on the challenges encountered by spousal migrants and provides insights into this crucial topic. With a particular focus on women, Maria also highlights the alarming consequences of losing valuable talent due to inadequate support systems.In this episode, we cover:Different types of challenges faced by migrants, including institutional challenges related to formal identity and private business challenges related to social and work-life contextsThe challenge of language barriers faced by migrants and the difficulties of investing in language learning while balancing other responsibilitiesThe importance of long-term planning and strategic engagement with one's own talent and future developmentThe need for multi-stakeholder engagement to discuss how to put different resources into use and create innovation and developmentThe importance of doing a personal analysis of potential pathways before making decisionsJoin us as we explore the barriers faced by women in particular, the impact on individuals, companies, and society at large, and potential solutions to address this issue.FInd out more about Maria here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-elo-593579a2/

This episode is dedicated to Iran and the people who are protesting after the killing of Mahsa Amini. While most news outlets have long stopped covering what is happening in Iran after the initial wave of protests started in September, the reality is that people in Iran are still challenging the Government.In this episode, we talk with Nahid Mohammadi and Shabnam Sabzehi, two brave women who left Iran but continue to support women in their home country from Luxembourg.In this episode, we cover:A brief recap of Iran's history. How did we get here?What is it like to live in Iran as a young woman What happened after the killing of Mahsa Amini and why is such a different type of protest from previous onesThe role of men supporting women in this protest.What is happening at the moment, in Iran and outside in terms of fighting the regime What we can all doTune in to learn more about the protests in Iran and what people from all over the world can do.