What People Really Need: Coaching Insights from Inside the System - Free White Paper by Mike Sealy
Discover what 31 professionals women, people of colour and marginalised leaders revealed about navigating workplaces not built for them. This white paper uncovers the hidden costs of success, the toll on identity and well-being, and the strategies leaders truly need to thrive.
The Hidden Cost of Playing by Outdated Rules
At X-INC Global, we know leadership today requires more than ambition.
If you're a woman or minority leader navigating modern leadership spaces, you’re likely facing:
- Managing diverse, cross-functional teams with limited resources
- Battling self-doubt rooted in systems that weren’t built for your rise
- Systemic barriers, implicit bias, and unequal access to support
- Navigating cultural complexity and unspoken workplace politics
- Outdated leadership norms that ignore inclusion and empathy
- Feeling isolated, even when you're in a "leadership" seat
Imagine leading teams that thrive
not in spite of who you are, but because of it.
Even when the day is hard, it’s just one part of a career that aligns with your purpose, pays you your worth, and lights you up.
Hi, I'm Mike
A leadership strategist, executive coach, and co-founder of X-INC Global.
I grew up in the UK during the 70s and 80s, where early challenges taught me resilience, determination, and the importance of belonging. Those experiences shaped my belief that adversity can fuel growth and that true leadership is about opening doors for others.
Over two decades in senior roles at Hewlett Packard, Microsoft, BBC, and Informa Markets have taught me that leadership isn’t about titles; it’s about impact, courage, and lifting others as you lead. Along the way, I observed how often talented individuals were overlooked, and how the right support could significantly impact the course of a career.
That’s why I now coach, write, and host the Diversity Matters podcast. Through my books—The Belonging Shift, Leadership in Action, and Mindset Unlocked, as well as my work at X-INC Global, I provide inclusive leadership training and development, helping women, minority leaders, and underrepresented professionals break through barriers, build confidence, and lead authentically.
For me, this work is personal. When leaders grow, organisations transform, and when organisations transform, people thrive.
You’re in the right place if…
You’re Ready to Lead Confidently
But imposter syndrome, self-doubt, or outdated leadership models are keeping you stuck. You want a leadership path that reflects who you really are.
You’re a Woman or Minority Leader Facing Invisible Barriers
You’re a woman or minority leader tired of navigating invisible barriers and looking for fundamental strategies to rise and lead with impact, not just encouragement.
You Lead Teams and Know Diversity Training Isn’t Enough
You’re leading a team or organisation and know that “diversity training” isn’t enough — you want to build an inclusive culture that sticks.
You’re Ambitious and Purpose-Driven
You’re ambitious, purpose-driven, and done with playing small. You want coaching, tools, and support that move you from intention to action.
You Want to Shape Change, Not Just Keep Up With It
You want to be the kind of leader who doesn’t just keep up with change but shapes it with clarity, cultural intelligence, and authenticity.
Okay, let's get started!
Work With Me 1-1
Personalised coaching for women and minorities ready to lead with confidence and impact
The most meaningful change happens in conversation. In Rise & Lead, my 1:1 coaching programme, I work directly with you to create a safe, focused space where you can bring your challenges, questions, and ambitions.
Together, we’ll unlock your strengths, own your voice, and shape a leadership path that’s true to who you are.
If you’re ready to step forward with clarity and confidence, this is where we begin.
Click the button below to learn more.
LEARN MOREThis isn’t about tweaking your LinkedIn profile or adding another bullet point to your CV.
This is about real transformation from the inside out.
Are you ready to lead like you were always meant to?
"Working with Mike has been transformative."
His approachable, open style made it easy to explore what truly matters to me. Through our sessions, I've gained a deeper self-awareness of my values and energy drivers, whilst also recognising just how much I have already achieved - something I rarely paused to reflect on before!
Mike has helped me to strip away the noise and identify 3 core priorities that now form my ultimate focus. This clarity has boosted my confidence and given me a clear vision for where I am heading. I'd highly recommend Mike to anyone looking for a thoughtful, considerate and encouraging coach who is committed to helping you get real results
Alison B.
Senior Commercial Events Lead | Consultant
Inclusion Insights Blog
Stories, strategies, and lessons to help women and minorities lead with confidence and impact.
Diversity Matters Podcast
Real Stories. Real Talk. Real Change.
Diversity Matters is a podcast that moves beyond buzzwords to uncover what inclusion, equity, and belonging truly mean in today’s workplaces. Hosted by author, coach, and leadership strategist Mike Sealy, each episode explores the personal stories, challenges, and successes of leaders, changemakers, and everyday people striving to make a difference.
Are we witnessing genuine progress? Do you feel a deeper sense of belonging in your workplace or community? Each week, Mike and his guests open honest conversations on timely topics—some uplifting, some challenging, but always thought-provoking and real.
LISTEN HERE
INFORMATION
Registered office
Arena Court Crown Lane Maidenhead SL6 8QZ
VAT number
17 12666 12
X-Inc Global is a trading style of Equipe ProSolutions Ltd, registered in England no. 8656954
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