245. Find Your People: Create Belonging For All

Secrets From a Coach - Debbie Green & Laura Thomson's Podcast

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In the second episode of our Friendships at Work series, we’re joined by Karl Allcoat, a senior leader in construction and architecture, to explore what it really takes to create belonging — especially for those who may not see themselves represented in the majority.

Whether it’s being LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, or simply feeling like an outsider in a workplace culture, Karl shares his lived experience and practical insights on building inclusive environments that honour difference, encourage curiosity, and nurture connection. We dive into the idea of “finding your people” at work — and what leaders and colleagues can do to help make that possible.

We unpack tools like Spoon Theory to explore how energy, sensory load, and different processing needs affect how people show up, engage, and interact. It’s a rich conversation about learning to meet others where they are, challenging assumptions (including our own), and choosing to lead with openness rather than certainty.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone wanting to foster real belonging — not through token gestures, but through everyday choices that invite people to be seen, heard, and valued.

Expect fresh perspectives, personal truths, and a coaching lens on how to build workplaces where everyone has a place.

Chapters

1. Introduction to Workplace Friendships (00:00:00)

2. Meet Carl Allcoat: Inclusive Leadership Champion (00:03:34)

3. Navigating Identity in Professional Environments (00:08:28)

4. Masking and Autistic Burnout (00:16:06)

5. Creating Inclusive Workplace Culture (00:24:24)

6. Balancing Pride and Vulnerability (00:32:37)

7. Call to Action and Final Thoughts (00:40:26)

8. Key Takeaways and Weekly Challenge (00:45:27)