Inclusive Leadership and Gender Biases w/ Simonetta Batteiger

In this enlightening episode of the Product Weekend Podcast, host João Moita welcomes Simonetta Batteiger, a respected product leadership and executive coach. Together, they delve into the intricacies of psychological safety within product teams, emphasizing the vital role of inclusion and the impact of gender dynamics in fostering a supportive work environment. Through Simonetta's wealth of experience and keen insights, listeners will uncover how conscious leadership can help build trust, recognize biases, and implement practical strategies for creating an inclusive and psychologically safe workplace. Key Takeaways Psychological safety is essential for high-performing teams, allowing members to feel safe voicing their ideas and concerns without fear of judgment or ridicule. Inclusion and psychological safety are intertwined; one cannot exist effectively without the other. Leaders must actively address systemic biases to create equitable environments. A leader's role includes modeling vulnerability and openness, which can encourage team members to share their feelings and experiences, enhancing overall team cohesion. Actionable steps to promote psychological safety include initiating open conversations about biases and creating awareness of different perspectives within the team dynamic. Celebrating small wins and encouraging proactive behaviors contribute significantly to maintaining a positive team atmosphere and a culture of psychological safety. Teams should establish rituals, such as inclusive humor or recognition practices, to reinforce a culture of trust and openness over time. Timestamps: 00:00 Coming Up 01:50 Introduction 03:20 Simonetta’s Career Journey 04:30 What's Psychological Safety? 11:08 Recognizing Discrimination in Teams 15:29 Managing Toxic Leadership 23:18 Promoting Inclusivity and Equality 25:38 Building Trust Through Vulnerability 35:00 Long-Term Strategies for Psychological Safety 47:45 The Challenges Women Face in Leadership 50:43 Closing Thoughts