In this episode, we delve into the concept of being "qualified" in the workplace, examining who gets labeled as such, who doesn't, and the underlying reasons. We explore "competency checking"—the practice of scrutinizing individuals' abilities—and how it disproportionately affects underrepresented groups, often going unnoticed or unchallenged. Our discussion aims to redefine qualifications in a fair, equitable, and actionable manner. Our guest, Shari Dunn , is an accomplished journalist, former attorney, news anchor, CEO, university professor, and sought-after speaker. She has been recognized as Executive of the Year and a Woman of Influence, with her work appearing in Fortune Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, Ad Age, and more. Her new book, Qualified: How Competency Checking and Race Collide at Work , unpacks what it truly means to be deserving and capable—and why systemic barriers, not personal deficits, are often the real problem. Her insights challenge the narratives that hold so many of us back and offer practical solutions for building a more equitable future. Together, we can build workplaces and communities that don’t just reflect the world we live in, but the one we want to create. A world where being qualified is about recognizing the talent and potential that’s been overlooked for far too long. It’s not just about getting a seat at the table—it’s about building an entirely new table, one designed with space for all of us. Connect with Our Guest Shari Dunn Website& Book - Qualified: https://thesharidunn.com LI: https://www.linkedin.com/today/author/sharidunn TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesharidunn Related Podcast Episodes: How To Build Emotionally Mature Leaders with Dr. Christie Smith | 272 Holding It Together: Women As America's Safety Net with Jessica Calarco | 215 How To Defy Expectations with Dr. Sunita Sah | 271 Share the Love: If you found this episode insightful, please share it with a friend, tag us on social media, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! 🔗 Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music…
Our clients, Rosie and Rod, had lived in their beautiful, listed farmhouse in Herefordshire for over twenty years. Their kitchen had always felt too dark and small, so when its roof sprang yet another leak it was the catalyst to reimagine the entire space...
Our clients had an area of land on their property that seemed perfect for a new dwelling but where planning permission had already been refused twice. However, there were intriguing possibilities for the right project. We collaborated with our clients to help them design a ‘modern barn’ and then worked carefully to secure the permission needed. Join us as we follow their journey which resulted in a beautiful, environmentally responsible home ...…
We first began working with St. Matthias Church, Torquay, in 2015. The church had a thriving congregation but needed to reconsider how it used its space to reflect its vibrant, modern outlook. St. Matthias formally reopened in December 2019 when the reordering work was completed. In this episode we catch up with PCC members Sylvia, John and Paul, a little over two years after the reopening, to review the process and reflect on the evolution of this wonderful building.…
In this episode we chat to Steve and Liz, owners of a charming nineteenth century cottage in the beautiful Worcestershire countryside. The couple have lived here for many years and love their home, however they felt it lacked a large family space where they could entertain their extended family. Join us as we hear their insights into the journey of building a wonderful orangery extension ……
Our client Russell lives in a 1960s house with beautiful views over the River Wye. He talks to us about his experience of undertaking a significant renovation project to update his mid-century home for the modern day.
In this episode we talk to Peta Darnley, founder and owner of Pensons at the Netherwood Estate, an award winning, Michelin Star restaurant on the Herefordshire-Worcestershire border. Peta talks about her vision for the project which saw a series of dilapidated agricultural buildings transformed into an enterprise which celebrates the very best of local food, drink and design, while giving back to the local community. Join us as we hear how a forgotten corner of England is now on the foodie map...…
Welcome to the Take a Pew Tearoom at St Michael & All Angels, a 12th century church in Kingstone village in Herefordshire. In this episode we hear from the church family about the re-ordering of St Michaels, which has allowed the building to be used for a wider range of events. Join us as we listen to how a simple re-ordering scheme has created an accessible hub to see a community transformed. To see photos and discover more about this project visit communionarchitects.com…