{"id":12842,"date":"2024-11-30T14:00:25","date_gmt":"2024-11-30T13:00:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.tonnievanderzouwen.nl\/?page_id=12842"},"modified":"2025-06-20T09:48:41","modified_gmt":"2025-06-20T07:48:41","slug":"podcast-transcripts","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.tonnievanderzouwen.nl\/en\/profile\/podcast-transcripts\/","title":{"rendered":"Podcast Creating a level playing field for collaboration"},"content":{"rendered":"
Episode 16 – Lieteke van Vucht Tijssen: Courageous executives \u2013 realising a cultural turnaround in a collaborative manner <\/strong><\/h5>\n

What is the role of executive leaders in a collaborative change process? In this inspiring episode, we sit down with sociologist and former university executive, Lieteke van Vucht Tijssen. <\/strong>She takes us back to a pivotal moment in her career: stepping in as interim board member at a Dutch University of Applied Sciences in crisis. With financial instability and declining educational quality, Lieteke faced the challenge of turning things around, without resorting to yet another costly reorganisation. Instead, she championed a bold cultural shift: moving from a rigid, top-down management style to a participatory, quality-driven educational ethos. She takes us behind the scenes of a pivotal moment\u2014the 2010 \u201cCraftsmanship and Mastery\u201d conference, where 300 staff, students, and leaders came together for a one-day large-scale intervention. Through carefully designed dialogue, clear frameworks, and inclusive participation, the university community began to reimagine itself\u2014not as a \u201cbachelor production machine,\u201d but as a true house of education. Through her story, we explore the power of intrinsic motivation, professional responsibility, and the role of co-creation in building sustainable change. She also shares practical lessons on executive leadership, student engagement, and sustaining change through follow-up actions.<\/p>\n

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Read the transcript<\/a> or listen on Spotify<\/a> or listen and add subtitles in your preferred language on YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n

Episode 15 – Babah Tarawally: The wisdom of Ubuntu – a path to connection<\/strong><\/h5>\n

In this episode, we welcome Babah Tarawally, a journalist, columnist, and author originally from Sierra Leone<\/span>. <\/em>Baba discusses the philosophy of Ubuntu and its relevance to creating a level playing field for collaboration. He shares his experiences as a migrant from Sierra Leone to the Netherlands, highlighting the challenges of integration and the importance of seeing each other as human beings. The discussion also touches on the need for reciprocity in relationships, the differences in how migrants and refugees are welcomed, and the role of community support systems in fostering a sense of belonging. Reflecting on the broader journey of life, Babah encourages listeners to consider what they will leave behind for future generations. He stresses the importance of investing in others and taking care of the environment, so that we leave the world in a better state for those who come after us.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Read the transcript<\/a> or listen on Spotify<\/a> or listen and add subtitles in your preferred language on YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>

Episode 14 – Siddharth GJ: The essence of collaboration beyond disabilities<\/strong><\/h5>\n

In this episode, we welcome Siddharth, a senior banker from Bengaluru, India, with over 20 years of experience in the banking industry. Siddharth shares his inspiring journey of living with cerebral palsy, a condition that affects his coordination, and how he has overcome numerous challenges to achieve success. He holds multiple master\u2019s degrees and has authored a book titled \u201cSimply Being Sidd.\u201d Siddharth is also a motivational speaker who loves discussing topics like leadership, management, and self-awareness. He shares stories of how his childhood experiences have made him mentally stronger and how he has learned to take control of situations without worrying about others\u2019 perceptions of his condition. Siddharth highlights that effective collaboration requires a two-way process towards a common goal. He also talks about the importance of building personal relationships before starting any collaborative project. He shares his strategies for connecting with colleagues, especially those who may have different perceptions about disability. Siddharth\u2019s advice for facilitators, leaders, and researchers is to take the time to get to know each other and build relationships before expecting collaboration. He emphasises that understanding each other as whole human beings, beyond any disabilities or differences, is crucial for effective collaboration. Tune in to hear Siddharth\u2019s valuable insights on leadership, collaboration, and the importance of personal connections in creating an inclusive and productive work environment.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Read the transcript<\/a> or listen with subtitles on YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>

Episode 13 – Fiona Frank: Creating inclusive activism – courageous and intersectional leadership<\/strong><\/h5>\n
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Join us for an inspiring episode with Fiona Frank, an educator, politician, activist, and consultant from the Netherlands. With over 22 years of experience, she teaches at the University of Applied Science in Amsterdam and the University for Humanistic Studies in Utrecht.\u00a0In our conversation, Fiona shares her political journey and dedication to activism, particularly in diversity, equity, and inclusion. She recounts coordinating the Black Lives Matter demonstration in Utrecht during the COVID-19 lockdown, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in activism.\u00a0Fiona advocates for courageous leadership that challenges the status quo to create real change. She highlights the power of collective action among diverse communities embracing intersectional thinking. Don\u2019t miss this chance to discover how fearless leadership can pave the way for a more equitable future!<\/p>\n

Read the transcript<\/a> or listen on Spotify<\/a> or listen and add subtitles in your preferred language on YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>

Episode 12 – Tineke Abma: Redefining research – the power of sitting next to, not in front of people<\/strong><\/h5>\n
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In this episode, we welcome Tineke Abma, a professor of arts and health at Erasmus University and Leiden Medical Center and executive director of Leiden Academy on Vitality and Aging in the Netherlands. Tineke shares her fascinating experiences and insights on participatory research, particularly with older adults and people with disabilities. She emphasizes the importance of experiential knowledge and collaboration in making research relevant and impactful. This implies seeing people as a whole and creating a level playing field by sitting next to them rather than sitting in front of them and asking questions. For example, taking nursing home residents seriously and involving them as co-researchers, sharing uncertainties, and collaboratively seeking solutions are crucial for building trustful relationships. Listen to this inspiring episode to learn more about how creative methods, working with artists, and collaboration with stakeholders can positively change healthcare and research agendas.<\/p>\n

Read the transcript<\/a> or listen on Spotify<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>

Episode 11 – Rekha Nair: Dignity in mergers, acquisitions and restructuring<\/strong><\/h5>\n
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In this episode, we welcome Rekha Nair, an experienced HR consultant and founder of Align HR, based in Chennai, India. Rekha shares her extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and organizational restructuring, emphasizing the importance of trust, respect, and transparent and continuous communication. Rekha discusses how small gestures of respect from senior leaders can build a strong foundation for successful integration during M&A. She highlights the need for continuous and transparent communication to reduce anxiety and foster collaboration. Rekha also shares the significance of honouring the history and achievements of acquired organizations to foster pride and inclusion. In addition, Rekha recounts a successful restructuring process at a multinational bank, which involved meticulous planning, transparent communication, and opportunities for growth and lateral movement. She emphasizes the importance of handling redundancies with dignity and providing support for outplacement. Reflecting on her experiences, Rekha underscores the value of collaboration and working towards a common good. She believes that transparent dialogue and a focus on collective success can lead to better outcomes for both individuals and organizations.<\/p>\n

Join us as Rekha Nair shares her insights and practical strategies for navigating complex organizational changes with empathy and respect.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Read the transcript<\/a> or listen on Spotify<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

Episode 10 – Lucy Wairimu Mukuria: The essence of humanity – unpacking colonialism and identity<\/strong><\/h5>\n
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In this episode, we welcome Lucy Wairimu Mukuria from Nairobi, Kenya. Lucy shares her insights on how Western people often unconsciously reinforce colonial practices. She recounts personal stories about her experiences with racism and colourism, both in Kenya and internationally. Lucy emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and identity and how these factors contribute to the ability of Africans to stand up for themselves. She also discusses the challenges of social expectations and the impact of historical traumas on contemporary society.\u00a0Lucy reflects on her 20 years of experience in psychology and the limitations of Western approaches to mental health. She advocates for a broader perspective on normality and abnormality, highlighting the need for cultural inclusivity and understanding. The conversation concludes with a powerful message about the essence of humanity and the necessity of recognizing and celebrating our shared humanity.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Read the transcript<\/a> or listen on Spotify<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

Episode 9 – Ben Roberts: Power shift – collaborating to reimagine funding governance for systemic transformation<\/strong><\/h5>\n
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Discover how a group of visionaries broke traditional hierarchies to develop a collaborative model for funding governance. In this episode, we delve into the challenges and successes of co-creating a blueprint for systemic transformation. Learn how shared ownership and action learning led to blueprints for innovative funding practices. Hear firsthand accounts of how the team of the Blueprint Project 2023 navigated the complexities of shifting power dynamics and fostering a truly inclusive process. Tune in and be inspired by Ben\u2019s stories of regenerative funding, the power of collaboration, and the potential for creating a more equitable future.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Read the transcript<\/a> or listen on Spotify<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

Episode 8 – Cihan Koral: From blue-collar workers to CEOs – facilitating change of perspectives<\/strong><\/h5>\n
In this episode, we welcome Cihan Koral, a seasoned facilitator and consultant based in Istanbul. Cihan shares her rich experiences working with diverse groups, focusing on social change and inclusivity within organizations. She provides stories illustrating the importance of consciousness, trust, and perspective in facilitation. Cihan emphasizes the need for understanding privilege and guilt in organizational settings and advocates for Deep Democracy practices to foster open dialogue and transformation. She concludes with a vision for the future of facilitation, highlighting its potential for healing and empowerment. Tune in to learn from real-life examples and gain practical insights into the power dynamics in leadership and the need for safe spaces to foster honest conversations.<\/div>\n

Read the transcript<\/a> or listen on Spotify<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

Episode 7 – Laure Bru\u00e8re – Dawson:
\nReconnecting through the Conversation Forum – the impact of listening to youth<\/strong><\/h5>\n

Join us as Laure Bru\u00e8re-Dawson shares her journey as a <\/span>French facilitator creating safe spaces for conversations that matter. She talks about the Conversation Forum, an event designed to bring people together during COVID-19, and how it developed into a yearly event. Laure highlights the <\/span>importance of diversity, youth involvement, and listening across generations. She shares striking stories about the impact of young participants. Discover how these forums build strong connections and inspire inclusive dialogue. The <\/span>theme of the event for 2025 is \u2018If we shared the topics we really care about for next year, what might we discover?\u2019. Laure invites you to expand the format of the Conversation Forum to other countries and other languages.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Read the transcript<\/a> or listen on Spotify<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

Episode 6 – Craig Freshley:
\nBridging divides – The art of neutral facilitation in politically charged conversations<\/strong><\/h5>\n

Craig Freshley is an expert in neutral facilitation and guiding good group decisions. He shares his experiences with Make-Shift Coffee Houses, designed to bridge divides between differing political views. He gives criteria and techniques for engaging diverse perspectives and creating a welcoming and safe conversation space. He emphasises the importance of a neutral venue, welcoming live music, and providing a set of ground rules. He describes the neutral facilitator as a ‘referee’ who ensures equitable participation. Additionally, Craig explains how he encourages involvement from underrepresented groups and addresses power imbalances in conversations and decision-making.<\/p>\n

Read the transcript<\/a> or listen on Spotify<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

Episode 5 – Nancy Bragard:
\nEmbracing cultural differences through understanding<\/strong><\/h5>\n

Nancy Bragard is an expert in intercultural consulting and collective intelligence. \u00a0She shares a compelling story about workshops she led for Dutch and French HR teams who <\/span>were facing cultural misunderstandings. Through creative activities like creating cultural DNA profiles, she helped them uncover and appreciate their own and each other’s cultural values. The Dutch and French teams learned to navigate their differences, such as the Dutch directness and the French <\/span>preference for nuanced communication. She also highlights the importance of creating safe spaces for open dialogue and the value of team diversity. Nancy explores broader themes of intercultural sensitivity and the benefits of embracing cultural differences for more effective collaboration.<\/span>
\nRead the transcript<\/a> or listen on Spotify<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

Episode 4 – Harold Shinsato:
\nSelf-discovery, taking responsibility for your own path<\/strong><\/h5>\n

Harold Shinsato shares his journey in discovering the principles of Open Space Technology. He recounts his experiences as a consultant dealing with conflicts in large companies, his participation in self-organized Rainbow Gatherings that attracted 25,000 people, the transformative impact of COVID-19, and how what recently happened at the WOSonOS in Istanbul motivates him to take new steps in his professional path. He explores the connections between family constellations and Open Space Technology, highlighting the importance of ancestral wisdom. Additionally, he reflects on the challenges posed by artificial intelligence and emphasizes the necessity of maintaining authenticity as human beings in a rapidly changing world.
\nRead the transcript<\/a> or listen on Spotify<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

Episode 3 – Tova Averbuch:
\nShared Leadership – Challenges and Opportunities<\/h5>\n

Tova Averbuch shares insights from her extensive experience as a consultant, teacher, and facilitator of Organizational Development. Opening space on a level playing field means sharing leadership and power, which must have a good reason. She provides striking examples of when and how this works, even better in hierarchical organizations. Consultants\/facilitators adopt the role of a midwife, fostering authentic participation of the formal leaders and inviting everyone needed in ever-widening circles in the system.
\n<\/span> <\/span>Read the transcript<\/a> or listen on Spotify<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

Episode 2 – Peggy Holman:
\nGetting the whole system in the room for collective ownership<\/h5>\n

Peggy Holman talks about the importance of diversity and inclusion in change processes. She shares insights from her extensive experience in journalism and facilitation, emphasizing the need for open spaces where all voices can be heard and valued. In her examples, she highlights the significance of purpose, the role of diversity in collective ownership, how deep listening breaks through tensions, and the ethical responsibility of facilitators to create hospitable environments that encourage authenticity and belonging.
\n<\/span>Read the transcript<\/a> or listen on Spotify<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

Episode 1 – Jane Lewis:
\nCreating an environment where everyone feels successful<\/h5>\n

Jane Lewis discusses collaborative spaces and creating an environment where everyone can feel successful. She tells how this works in Studio Tainan, a self-organizing space for co-creation in Taiwan. It starts with listening and understanding what people feel passionate about so creative energy can flow. Jane is an experienced facilitator and researcher who has lived and worked in Taiwan for over 30 years.
\nRead the transcript<\/a> or listen on Spotify<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

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About the series<\/h4>\n

How can we make a difference together, in equity and mutuality, instead of inviting people to participate in a project they do not own? In this series, we discover what works by sharing stories of lived experience from a diversity of wise guests. Organizers, participants, facilitators, researchers of participatory projects. By sharing examples and insights we want to contribute to co-creating a world that works for all. Special thanks to Jane Lewis for helping to bring this series to life, and to our guests. Hosted by Tonnie van der Zouwen<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>

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