Podcast 1151: Thinking at the Speed of Bias: How to Shift Our Unconscious Filters with Sara Taylor

In this podcast, Sara Taylor, a renowned Diversity and Inclusion strategist and the President of deepSEE Consulting, delves into the pervasive issue of unconscious bias and how it shapes our interactions and decision-making processes in the workplace and beyond. Drawing on her extensive experience and her upcoming book, "Thinking at the Speed of Bias," Sara provides a practical roadmap for individuals and organizations keen to foster true equity and inclusion in an increasingly polarized world. Recognizing Unconscious Bias Unconscious biases are automatic, mental shortcuts used to quickly assess situations and people. While these biases are a common aspect of human cognition, they can lead to skewed decisions and perpetuate inequality. Sara Taylor encourages us to slow down our thought processes to recognize and scrutinize these biases. By asking ourselves questions like, "Is my reaction based on facts or my assumptions?" we can begin to dismantle these often invisible barriers. Building Cultural Competence Cultural competence is not just about understanding diverse backgrounds; it's about integrating knowledge into everyday actions. Sara outlines a clear set of skills and strategies aimed at developing cultural competence. Through engaging examples, she illustrates how these competencies can lead to more nuanced understandings and interactions with people from different cultures and walks of life. Scaling Change The insights provided in Sara's work extend beyond individual changes. She explains how organizations can amplify their impact by scaling cultural competencies across their structures and systems. This transformative approach ensures that inclusivity becomes embedded within the organizational fabric, promoting long-term equity and effectiveness. A Vision for the Future With unwavering optimism, Sara shares how deliberate and informed efforts can create a more equitable world. Her practical guide is an indispensable resource for anyone looking to make meaningful changes in their personal and professional lives. Sara Taylor's message is clear: By confronting and controlling our unconscious biases, we can create environments where diversity and inclusion are not just goals but realities.

You may also refer to the transcripts below for the full transciption (not edited) of the interview.