Updates from Rikki Arundel

In a world increasingly defined by polarisation, language has the power to break down barriers. In their latest article, Rikki Arundel explores how embracing they/them pronouns is not just about inclusivity - it’s about challenging binary thinking and fostering a more equal society.

 

We already use they/them in everyday speech:

• Someone left their phone - do you know if they’ll be back?

• Tell whoever calls that I’ll get back to them.

 

If this is second nature, why do we struggle when someone asks for they/them as their identity? Rigid binaries fuel division - whether in politics, gender, or identity - and adopting non-binary pronouns is a small but powerful way to move toward a more nuanced, inclusive world.

In this insightful article, Rikki explores how business leaders, HR professionals, and DEI specialists can navigate the divisive debate around trans rights in the workplace. Drawing on Justin Lee’s Talking Across the Divide and Social Identity Theory, the article explains why these discussions often become emotionally charged and how leaders can foster meaningful, respectful dialogue. Rather than forcing agreement, Rikki advocates for a strategic approach—shifting the goal from winning debates to planting seeds of understanding, using storytelling to create emotional connections, and emphasising shared values to build common ground. The article offers practical steps for facilitating workplace discussions that reduce polarization, ensuring all employees feel respected and heard. With trans rights increasingly at the forefront of workplace culture, this article provides timely guidance for leaders looking to manage these conversations effectively. It also highlights Rikki’s expertise as a speaker for Pride Month and beyond.

Award-winning speaker and LGBTQ inclusion expert Rikki Arundel exposes the misleading narratives pushed by the gender-critical movement in their latest article, “The Manufactured Crisis: How the Gender-Critical Movement Misleads the Public on Trans Rights.”

For years, gender-critical activists have used distorted statistics and fear-driven rhetoric to portray trans women as a threat to cisgender women. However, there is no credible evidence supporting these claims. Instead, the real dangers to women—rising sexual violence, police misconduct, and the radicalization of young men into misogyny—are being ignored.

Rikki argues that business and public sector leaders cannot afford to ignore the impact of this misinformation. A toxic workplace culture, where trans employees feel unsafe or silenced, damages productivity, morale, and inclusivity.

Through compelling analysis, Rikki dismantles gender-critical fear-mongering and calls on leaders to take action. The solution? Education, inclusion, and truth. Hiring trans speakers and educators ensures organizations foster a culture of respect, equality, and belonging.

This is a must-read for those committed to diversity, equity, and real social progress.

In a recent episode of the Speaking Business Podcast, listeners were treated to an in-depth conversation about building a successful career in public speaking. The episode highlighted the journey of an award-winning speaker and founder of the Professional Speakers Association, who shared their path from humble beginnings to receiving a prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. Key takeaways included the significance of identifying a niche, maintaining resilience amidst career changes, and the art of crafting messages that deeply connect with audiences.