In this powerful follow-on to The Great Gender Stalemate, Rikki Arundel explores why organisations are suddenly panicking about trans inclusion — and why they don’t need to. Drawing on the Girlguiding and Women’s Institute bans and the recent Peggie v NHS Fife judgment, Rikki shows that while the courts are offering nuance, political pressure groups are creating fear. The result is a chilling effect that leads well-meaning organisations to adopt policies that may actually increase their legal risk.
Rikki sets out a clear, practical framework for 2026: don’t police identity — manage behaviour. With simple, actionable steps, this article helps leaders write policies that are fair, lawful, and grounded in dignity. It’s a calm, sensible guide through a difficult moment — and a reminder that fairness isn’t complicated; it just takes courage.
In this powerful new article, speaker and gender inclusion expert Rikki Arundel explains why the UK’s long-running “gender wars” have suddenly stalled — and why this pause creates real challenges for employers. With the EHRC in disarray, the interim guidance withdrawn, and the Good Law Project case still pending, organisations are facing one of the most confusing legal landscapes in years.
Rikki highlights the influence of the Tufton Street network, the collapse of the political coalition that drove the culture war, and the growing role of the Free Speech Union in workplace disputes. They explain how the new Employment Rights Bill will reshape harassment law in 2026 and outline clear, practical steps for HR Directors, DEI leads and CEOs to stay safe, inclusive, and compliant. It’s an essential read for any organisation navigating sex, gender and dignity in the year ahead.
In this powerful and timely blog post, gender speaker and inclusion advocate Rikki Arundel exposes the misleading tactics of the gender-critical movement and highlights the growing consequences for trans people across the UK. Drawing on lived experience, current legal shifts, and a broader historical context, Rikki challenges leaders and managers to confront the real cost of policy rollbacks. With dignity, empathy, and clarity, this article reveals how trans exclusion is not only discriminatory but a warning sign for wider social regression. A must-read for anyone responsible for inclusion, equity, or workplace culture.
In this insightful and practical blog post, award-winning speaker and coach Rikki Arundel explores one of the most overlooked yet critical aspects of public speaking: Platform Mechanics. Drawing on decades of experience, Rikki explains how everything except your speech content—room layout, AV setup, tech crew, microphones, slides, lighting, and even late arrivals—can make or break your presentation.
With a gripping personal story from a disaster-stricken Wembley event, Rikki shares practical tips on how to work with the team, avoid common pitfalls, and adapt when things inevitably go wrong. Whether you’re a seasoned keynote speaker or preparing for your first big talk, this post will help you plan for the unexpected and stay in control. Essential reading for anyone serious about delivering unforgettable presentations.
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In this thoughtful and poetic article, professional speaker and storytelling coach Rikki Arundel explores the often-overlooked power of silence in public speaking — through the elegant lens of haiku poetry. Drawing from both live and virtual speaking experiences, Rikki weaves a series of original haiku that illuminate those quiet, pivotal moments speakers often fear: the pause before beginning, the silence after a powerful point, the awkward stillness when humour misses, or the quiet screen of a muted Zoom call.
The article introduces readers to the traditional structure of haiku while offering deeply relatable insights into the speaker’s emotional landscape. Each poem is paired with a descriptive title that speaks directly to a shared speaker experience. A unique fusion of art and coaching, this piece offers both seasoned speakers and nervous first-timers a gentle reminder: silence isn’t something to fear — it’s a tool to be embraced.
