The L.O.F.T Podcast — Season 1, Episode 2 Inclusive Leadership, Blind Spots, and Innovation: Insights with Ian Shapiro

Guest: Ian Shapiro, Group Chief Executive Officer, Building Research Establishment (BRE)

Host: Ranil De Silva

Themes: Inclusive leadership • Blind spots • Psychological safety • Vulnerability • Trust • Transparent communication • Innovation • AI for social good • Generational leadership shifts

Episode Description

In Episode 2 of The L.O.F.T Podcast, host Ranil De Silva sits down with Ian Shapiro, Group CEO of BRE, for a thoughtful and practical conversation on what inclusive leadership looks like when it’s tested by complexity, uncertainty, and the need to innovate. Ian reflects on his leadership journey across diverse global environments—including Africa and India and how those experiences shaped his approach to humility, listening, and inclusive decision-making. Together, they explore how leaders can identify blind spots, create psychological safety through vulnerability, and build trust through consistent and transparent communication. The episode also looks forward, examining how AI and digital transformation can be leveraged for social good, and how inclusive leadership can become a real catalyst for better decisions, stronger teams, and meaningful innovation.

Key Leadership Takeaways

1. True inclusion requires active listening over speaking Inclusive leadership is not about having the best answer first—it’s about listening deeply, staying open to being changed by the conversation, and recognizing the value of diverse perspectives.
2. Demonstrating vulnerability creates psychological safety Leaders who admit what they don’t know and ask for help model humility and authenticity. This builds a culture where people feel safe to contribute honestly, take risks, and learn together.
3. Transparent communication builds trust during uncertainty In moments of ambiguity and pressure, trust is built through consistency and honesty. Leaders don’t need perfect information—but they do need credible, transparent messaging that avoids confusion or false certainty.

Call to Action

Take these insights into your own leadership practice: Listen more than you speak. Lead with humility. Communicate with clarity—especially when the answers aren’t easy.

Lead with clarity. Operate with purpose. Transform with insight.

Listen to the Episode

1. YouTube - https://youtu.be/s2FkjGh3UBk
2. Apple Podcasts
3. Spotify
4. Amazon Music

Coming Next

Episode 3: Operations Mastery in a Tech-Driven World

Guest: Kasun Siriwardene, Managing Director - Solutions Architects