In this episode of the podcast series on bridging the researcher/practitioner public divide, Dr. Priya Nalkur, president of the Round Table Institute and author of "Stumbling Towards Inclusion: Finding Grace in Imperfect," shares insights on bridging theory and practice. Dr. Nalkur emphasizes the importance of language in communication, advocating for accessibility and authenticity by embracing diverse vocabulary and genres. She encourages individuals to find their unique voice, navigating the discomfort of being different and the fear of not being accepted. Moreover, she discusses the significance of audience engagement and dialogue, highlighting the value of listening to diverse perspectives even amidst resistance. The conversation delves into Dr. Nalkur's upcoming book, which champions the idea that imperfection is inherent to humanity. She likens relationships to icebergs, with much depth hidden beneath the surface, and advocates for vulnerability and courage in acknowledging mistakes and repairing relationships. Furthermore, the framework of adaptive challenge in coaching and organizational work is explored, distinguishing between technical and adaptive challenges. Dr. Nalkur emphasizes the necessity of adapting to change, learning from experiments, and embracing life's lessons to navigate complex challenges effectively. Originally conceived as a companion to workshops, the book expanded in scope due to her publisher's interest in personal details like the origin of her workshop. Dr. Nalkur shares the excitement surrounding ongoing dialogues sparked by the book, even in the pre-order phase. Continuing research has led to the identification of eight common stumbling blocks for leaders, with an accompanying assessment on her website to aid readers in overcoming these obstacles. Through the podcast, Dr. Nalkur provides valuable insights into fostering inclusive communication, embracing imperfection, and navigating adaptive challenges in both personal and professional contexts. Three Key Takeaways: * To bridge the gap between researchers and practitioners we need to be aware of the language we use and how to use inclusive language. * Vulnerability and courage are the keys to owning mistakes, learning from them, and allowing others to do the same. * By listening and understanding diverse perspectives even in the face of resistance you can gain a powerful and new understanding of a situation or problem.