For Episode 18 of Series 5 of the Engaging Internal Comms podcast, I had the privilege of interviewing
Dr. Frank L Douglas PhD, MD
. With a remarkable 24-year career in the pharmaceutical industry, Dr. Douglas now dedicates his expertise to helping individuals and organisations tackle discrimination and exclusionary practices. Here are some key takeaways from our enlightening conversation:
- Personal Experiences with Discrimination: Dr. Douglas opens up about his own encounters with discrimination, sharing poignant stories of being denied opportunities due to his ethnicity. His journey is both inspiring and eye-opening.
- Reframing Problems for Better Outcomes: One of the standout lessons from Dr. Douglas is the power of reframing problems. By stepping back from the emotional turmoil and focusing on finding a better problem to solve, individuals can achieve outcomes that benefit not just themselves but the entire work group.
- Rational Approaches to Irrational Prejudice: Dr. Douglas advocates for addressing discrimination in a rational and reasonable manner, even when faced with irrational prejudice. His approach is both practical and empowering, encouraging individuals to focus on productivity issues that resonate with managers.
- Evaluating Real vs. Aspirational Culture: We delved into the importance of assessing the actual culture within organisations, beyond the glossy annual reports and websites. Dr. Douglas stresses the need to focus on individual experiences and well-being, highlighting the profound impact of discrimination on health.
- Tailored Solutions and Middle Manager Training: Dr. Douglas suggests that programmes should be tailored to specific situations and emphasises the crucial role of training middle managers to effectively address discrimination.
- Bridging Divides in Polarised Environments: We also discussed the challenges of polarisation and lack of trust in some work environments. Dr. Douglas and I shared strategies for finding common ground and fostering a more inclusive atmosphere.
- Impact of Discrimination on Health: Dr. Douglas highlights the often-overlooked impact of discrimination on individuals' health, urging organisations to consider well-being in their diversity and inclusion efforts.
- Resources for Further Support: Throughout our conversation, Dr. Douglas offers valuable resources for those seeking further support and discussion on these critical issues.
This episode is packed with insights and practical advice that can help anyone facing similar challenges in their organisations. I encourage you to listen to the full interview to gain a deeper understanding of Dr. Douglas’s approach and to be inspired by his wisdom and experience.
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