
Classroom 5.0
Welcome to Classroom 5.0, a podcast helping you to design a future of learning, work and leadership that's both personally meaningful, and creates impact for a better world. Join host, CEO of The Posify Group Mariane Power in conversations that support Inclusive Impact. Expect topics and interviews that deep dive into what it takes to build a truly diverse and equitable world, and learn science backed skills and strategies that are helping our different kind of difference makers thrive.
Latest episodes

Jul 3, 2024 • 54min
#39 The Art of Hard Conversations and Transcendent Leadership, with Dr Cree Scott
Ever struggled with tough conversations, unsure how to approach them without causing harm? You're not alone. In this week's episode, Mariane Power sits down with Dr. Cree Scott, founder and CEO of Serenity Psy Consulting, to explore the art of navigating hard conversations. With over 20 years in psychology and leadership development, Dr. Scott shares insights on science-backed communication strategies and soul-filled connections that break through unconscious bias and help us build more inclusive communities, schools and workplaces. In this episode, Dr. Scott delves into: Self-awareness and addressing unconscious biases The role of curiosity in challenging biases Mental health equity in sustainable DEI initiatives Importance of diverse role models Employee well-being in the age of AI Transcendent leadership for fostering inclusivity To learn more about The neuroIMPACT Network, visit www.marianepower.com.au To learn more about The Posify Group, visit www.theposifygroup.com.au For show notes and resources and links to Dr Cree Scott's work, visit https://www.marianepower.com.au/blog/39 Connect with Dr Cree Scott directly via her website https://www.serenitypsyhealth.com/about Liked this episode? Here's how to rate and review on Apple Podcasts! Your ratings and reviews help us support more people, just like you, to imagine and create inclusive impact that benefits our future. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to share what you loved most about this and other episodes! Thanks for tuning into another episode, and for your interest in Inclusive Impact.

May 16, 2024 • 54min
#38 Diversity in Tech: Empowering Young, Female and Neurodivergent Talent, with Em Gulliver
Em Gulliver, founder of smart tag solution 'Meggi', takes us behind the scenes of what it's really like to navigate the triple minority threat of being young, female and neurodivergent in today's tech industry. From her early days at IBM to thriving as a sought after software developer and founder, Em has learned first hand how to play to her unique strengths for success. In this conversation, we explore: The initiatives and programs working to increase diversity and representation of more women in tech Why flexibility and support for working mothers is crucial in creating an inclusive and supportive work environment The benefits Technology and STEM careers can offer in providing flexibility for individuals with caregiving responsibilities How understanding and accommodating the needs of neurodivergent individuals can support your efforts in creating an inclusive workplace For links to today's resources and shownotes, visit the episode page here To learn more about Messy Magic, an ADHD coaching program for women, see here To learn more about how The Posify Group are creating a future-fit workforce, see here Liked this episode? Here's how to rate and review on Apple Podcasts! Your ratings and reviews help us support more people, just like you, to imagine and create inclusive impact that benefits our future. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to share what you loved most about this and other episodes! Thanks for tuning into another episode, and for your interest in Inclusive Impact.

May 2, 2024 • 1h 4min
#37 From Silence to Support. A Systems-Based Approach for Navigating School Attendance Difficulties
Last year, over 1.5 million Australian children experienced difficulties attending school. That number reflects 39% of families with school aged children. Their lack of attendance is not because they're 'naughty'. Not because they're 'defiant'. And not because of poor parenting. But because they can't. If we're to design a future of learning that's inclusive of all, this nation wide challenge requires nation wide participation, and must involve diverse voices representative of all industries, perspectives and backgrounds. In this special episode of Classroom 5.0, we're sharing the recording of our online training from earlier this year on this topic. It aims to help you understand the 'what' and 'why' of school attendance difficulties, and offers practical, actionable steps that parents, teachers and HR professionals can take to provide collaborative, community based support for children and families affected. Head to the episode webpage here to download the full webinar and presentation slides, and for links to today's resources. In this episode, you'll discover - 1. The key issues facing families navigating difficulties with school attendance, 2. Clinical and research backed insights behind what's driving school attendance difficulties, and why some individuals are more vulnerable than others, 3. Current solutions and supports currently available for families, and how we can learn from other countries 4. Practical things you can say and do to support children and families experiencing 'School Can't', or school attendance difficulties This training is in support of, but separate to, the incredible work and efforts of 'School Can't Australia', who can be contacted directly here EPISODE WEBPAGE To gain access to resources discussed in today's episode, and to download the free recording of the training and accompnaying slides, visit here .

Apr 24, 2024 • 1h 7min
#36 Neurodiversity in Leadership: Building a Neuro-inclusive World and Workforce, with Will Wheeler.
In this unique, unfiltered episode of Classroom 5.0, podcast host Mariane Power and Will Wheeler, Neurodiversity Consultant at Untapped and co-founder of the Neurodiversity Academy, dive into the challenges and advantages of living and leading with ADHD. This episode deviates from our usual podcast format with no edits or post-production—just real, raw dialogue between two neurodivergent minds, offering you a sneak peek into the unpolished conversations and glorious thought-bubble deviations that reflect the true dynamics of neurodivergent thinking. Through sharing lived experience stories and real world case studies from their diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, Mariane and Will offer a deep dive into the realities of advocating for, creating and sustaining inclusive environments for learning, work and leadership. LINKS FOR THE SHOW: For a full list of resources and links to today’s shownotes, see the episode webpage here Connect with Will via LinkedIn here Join Messy Magic, an online program supporting women with ADHD here To discover how The Posify Group can support your school or workplace in achieving its diversity and inclusion learning and development goals, visit www.theposifygroup.com.au Liked this episode? Remember to Rate, Review and Follow on Apple Podcasts here This helps us support more people, just like you, to imagine and create inclusive impact that benefits our future! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to share what you loved most about this and other episodes!

Apr 18, 2024 • 33min
Ep 35 Leading with Vulnerability and Creating Connected Cultures, with Karen Oldaker
Where corporate boardrooms were once considered the place for Executives to buckle down and armour up, my guest today, Karen Oldaker, shares what's driving the shifting desire and demand for authentic, vulnerable leadership. Karen is a Senior Executive, specialising in driving Societal Change and Social Impact both from an employee health and community lens. With over 2 decades of experience in large Corporates her focus is on creating mentally healthy workplaces, starting with psychological safety and Inclusion as the foundation. Karen is leading Medibank’s 10-year social impact initiative to tackle Loneliness; one of the most misunderstood health issues of our time. Today, she shares an intimate glimpse into her childhood, reflecting on how her personal relationships have fuelled her commitment to creating change for good. 04:05 Karen's personal story, and how it's shaped her passion for mental health and well-being 10:25 Vulnerability, courage and compassion in leadership 14:16 Breaking the silence at work around women's health, menopause and neurodiversity 21:59 The We Are Lonely Podcast, exploring highlights and stories from Season 2 For links to resources in today's conversation, head to the episode webpage here Learn more about Messy Magic, an ADHD coaching program supporting late diagnosed women here And to learn more about how The Posify Group are supporting the next gen with the skills and mindsets they need to be 'future fit', visit the website here

Apr 4, 2024 • 46min
#34 Who’s Who in Adult ADHD: Navigating Assessment, Diagnosis and Support in Australia, with Mariane Power
'I think I might be ADHD. What do you suggest I do first?’ This is by far the most common question I'm asked. And with increased awareness and story sharing by those, like me, receiving a late diagnosis, I'm not surprised. In fact - I'm thrilled! This is a topic close to my heart. In sharing both my clinical insights and lived experience, I hope this solo episode helps to bust some myths and misconceptions circulating about ADHD, and offer you science-backed insights to inform your conversations and self-discovery journeys. Key Timestamps: 01:23 Recap of previous episode, and listener feedback and questions - where to start and who to see if you think you have ADHD 04:05 Myth busting around the claims of over-diagnosis of ADHD in adults - what the Australian numbers really tell us. 09:14 ADHD defined, and what research reveals about the real world costs of undiagnosed and unsupported ADHD 13:01 Understanding the different types of ADHD 26:00 The role of ADHD coaching in supporting desired behaviour change 37:28 Supporting individuals with ADHD in the workplace LINKS FOR THE SHOW: See the episode webpage with links to resources discussed in this conversation here Connect with Mariane via LinkedIn here, and via her website here Join Messy Magic, an online program supporting women with ADHD here To discover how The Posify Group can support your school or workplace in achieving its diversity and inclusion learning and development goals, visit www.theposifygroup.com.au Liked this episode? Remember to Rate, Review and Follow on Apple Podcasts here This helps us support more people, just like you, to imagine and create inclusive impact that benefits our future! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to share what you loved most about this and other episodes! And if you haven't already done so, be sure to visit my homepage here and sign up to my weekly newsletter, where I share bonus updates, behind the scenes action and hand-picked recommended readings for every episode here on Classroom 5.0.

Mar 28, 2024 • 56min
#33 Integrated Identity: Healing, Belonging and Inclusive Impact, with Mariane Power
With a balanced look at both mitigating psychological hazards and cultivating peak performance, this episode revisits highlights from guests in this series, and takes a look at research that builds both the wellbeing and business case for investing in identity development and boosting belonging in our communities and workplace cultures. Key Takeaways 08:17 Safeguarding our psyche at work - the essentials of psychosocial safety and how it shields us from risks that threaten our mental well-being. 15:34 How our group affiliations shape our sense of self and our interactions with the world. 25:18 Revisiting Imposter Syndrome and how it relates to our identity with Alison Shamir 28:04 Understanding the changing expectations of today's workforce and what the research says about what top talent are seeking in their professional lives 29:32 Charlotte Connell shares insights on how the push for sustainability is intertwined with our need to belong and find our place. 32:06 Navigating the complex world of labels and the influence they hold . 33:03 Why founders must invest in their own development to lead with authenticity and vision. 36:50 The business case for building belonging, from financial gains to enhanced performance. 38:15 The critical role of schools in nurturing identity development and fostering inclusion. 41:58 How a strong sense of self can amplify our ability to create positive change. 44:13 The challenges and rewards of incorporating our traumas into our identity narrative, and exploring post-traumatic growth - a revisit of conversations with Zach Mercurio. 53:23 Practical steps for cultivating environments where everyone feels they truly belong Episode webpage with links to resources discussed in this episode coming tomorrow! LINKS FOR THE SHOW: See the episode webpage with links to resources discussed in this conversation here Connect with Mariane via LinkedIn here, and via her website here Join Messy Magic, an online program supporting women with ADHD here To discover how The Posify Group can support your school or workplace in achieving its diversity and inclusion learning and development goals, visit www.theposifygroup.com.au Liked this episode? Remember to Rate, Review and Follow on Apple Podcasts here This helps us support more people, just like you, to imagine and create inclusive impact that benefits our future! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to share what you loved most about this and other episodes! And if you haven't already done so, be sure to visit my homepage here and sign up to my weekly newsletter, where I share bonus updates, behind the scenes action and hand-picked recommended readings for every episode here on Classroom 5.0.

Mar 20, 2024 • 56min
#32 The Neurodiversity Advantage : A Business Case for Inclusive Change, with Natalie Phillips-Mason
Today's shopping malls work hard to grab our attention. But in their attempts to 'delight' our senses with all their bells and whistles, new findings uncovered in research conducted by today's guest, Natalie Phillips-Mason, reveals today's retail giants might be missing the mark. It's by no mistake this conversation is timed to reach your ears for Neurodiversity Celebration Week. And if you think inclusive language, customer experience and workplace design is only for the 20% of people who represent our neurodivergent community, think again! As Natalie's research reveals, what works well in supporting and delighting those of us with lived experiences of ADHD, Autism, OCD, Dsylexia, Tourettes and other minority neurotypes, happens to also be of preference to neurotypical folk, too. Grab your pen and paper, and get ready to learn. I ask the tough questions you've been wanting the answers to around inclusive communication and action, and Natalie shares a wealth of personal stories alongside her professional insights and cutting edge findings. Plus, a list a mile long that celebrates some of our neurodiversity change champions and supports your future learning! Key Moments: 00:59 A background to Neurodiversity Celebration Week 07:03 Understanding Neurodiversity and exploring inclusive language 14:08 Symbolism in Neurodiversity - do we get it right, and why curiosity matters 15:33 Shifts in culture and inclusivity in the Corporate sector 22:00 Natalie shares her research findings on Neurodiversity in the Retail Sector 28:04 Creating equity in shopping experiences, why it matters and who for 31:46 Uplifting sensory joy in our community 33:09 The Hidden Disability Sunflower program and its impact 34:36 The importance and value of designing in-store shopping experiences 46:40 Inclusive Impact: a future that embraces partnership and co-design LINKS FOR THE SHOW: For a full list of resources and links to today’s shownotes, see the episode webpage here Connect with Natalie via LinkedIn here, and via her website here Join Messy Magic, an online program supporting women with ADHD here To discover how The Posify Group can support your school or workplace in achieving its diversity and inclusion learning and development goals, visit www.theposifygroup.com.au Liked this episode? Remember to Rate, Review and Follow on Apple Podcasts here This helps us support more people, just like you, to imagine and create inclusive impact that benefits our future! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to share what you loved most about this and other episodes! And if you haven't already done so, be sure to visit my homepage here and sign up to my weekly newsletter, where I share bonus updates, behind the scenes action and hand-picked recommended readings for every episode here on Classroom 5.0.

Mar 13, 2024 • 51min
Sustainable Leadership: Harnessing Hope, Tech and Diversity for Impact, with Charlotte Connell
Imagine if the key to a sustainable future was already within our grasp, guided by the wisdom of traditional knowledge and the innovative potential of technology. Meet Charlotte Connell: surfer, mom, and green warrior. She's optimistic we can turn our eco-dreams into reality and shares inspiring insights on how to make it happen. Charlotte's journey includes kickstarting The Sustainability Collective and leading roles at Greenhouse and Climate Zeitgeist. Her goal? Bringing eco-friendly practices to every indidual and business for a healthier planet. In our chat, Charlotte dives into her holistic perspective on why and how we can;t create climate change without simultaneously addressing social issues, how she blends sustainability with business and what leadership means to her. We also explore why we need diverse voices in eco-conversations, how First Nations' wisdom is crucial for our environment, and the power of intergenerational mentorship for future leaders. This conversation is jamp-packed with uplifting case studies of companies doing good, prooving that purpose-driven innovation can deliver triple bottom line value for profit, the planet and it's people. TIMESTAMPS 01:18 Charlotte’s background and entry into tackling environmental issues 03:28 Decoding sustainability and the Sustainable Development Goals 05:18 The competitive advantage of taking sustainable actions in business 06:30 Systems thinking applied to climate goals 07:19 The intersectionality of climate and social equity, and why we can’t separate the two 11:05 Exciting innovations in climate tech, and case studies of startups leading the way in plastic recycling, waterless dyeing and food waste management 24:22 Diverse job opportunities in climate tech, and why carving your own impact in the space may be easier than you think 29:07 Gender equality and adverse effects of climate change on Women 33:12 First Nations voices and global diversity in climate tech 36:00 Leadership courage and creating safe spaces for belonging 39:37 The Next Generation and their impact on climate change 48:05 Living a meaningful life and practicing active gratitude LINKS FOR THE SHOW: For a full list of resources and links to today’s shownotes, see the episode webpage here Connect with Charlotte via LinkedIn here Join Messy Magic, an online program supporting women with ADHD here To discover how The Posify Group can support your school or workplace in achieving its diversity and inclusion learning and development goals, visit www.theposifygroup.com.au Liked this episode? Remember to Rate, Review and Follow on Apple Podcasts here This helps us support more people, just like you, to imagine and create inclusive impact that benefits our future! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to share what you loved most about this and other episodes! And if you haven't already done so, come say 'hi' to me, your host, Mariane Power via my homepage here . There you can sign up to my weekly newsletter, to receive bonus updates, behind the scenes action and hand-picked recommended readings for every episode here on Classroom 5.0, delivered straight to your inbox!

Mar 6, 2024 • 43min
Change Supercharged. Motivate with Creativity and Authenticity, with Sharon Connolly
In today's rapidly evolving world, our agility and capacity to change contributes to a multitide of success outcomes, including our ability to deliver impact. Enter Sharon Connolly, a change management expert loved by leaders around the globe for her innovative approach to communications and change training that looks as beautiful as it is effective. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, teacher, head of communications and marketing or a change consultant yourself, keep a pen and paper handy. You’ll want to note down all the practical communication, creativity, tech and mindset strategies that increase learner engagement, motivate change in others, and help you feel confident as you create and deliver impact! Episode Highlights: 2:24 Sharon's Unexpected Journey to Change Leadership 6:30 Tech's Evolution and Its Effect on Communication 11:51 Authenticity in Leadership and Communication 13:52 Defining Your Unique Value and Purpose 18:58 Prioritization for Enhanced Productivity and Performance 21:40 Exploring the Role of a Change Manager 23:01 The Importance of Support Through Change 24:37 Strategies for Engaging Communication and Learning 33:40 Amplifying Visibility for Women and Menopause Awareness 36:24 Leveraging Influence for Impact 37:54 Personal Development and Living a Meaningful Life LINKS FOR THE SHOW: For a full list of resources and links to today’s shownotes, see the episode webpage here Connect with Sharon via LinkedIn here, and via her website here Join Messy Magic, an online program helping ADHD women to lead with more confidence, creativity and clarity here To discover how The Posify Group can support your school or workplace in achieving its diversity and inclusion learning and development goals, visit www.theposifygroup.com.au Liked this episode? Remember to Rate, Review and Follow on Apple Podcasts here This helps us support more people, just like you, to imagine and create inclusive impact that benefits our future! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to share what you loved most about this and other episodes! And if you haven't already done so, be sure to visit my homepage here and sign up to my weekly newsletter, where I share bonus updates, behind the scenes action and hand-picked recommended readings for every episode here on Classroom 5.0.