In this episode, we chat with Grace Osborne about the challenges of privilege, social mobility, and navigating societal expectations. Grace shares her story of growing up with privilege, going to private school, and coming from a family where university education was the natural course, 5 generations of women in her family went to University. She talks about the naivety that often comes with privilege and the guilt and shame she sometimes feels.
Grace is passionate about her work in social mobility, it's a big part of who she is. She reflects on the stark contrasts between her upbringing and the reality many others face, a difference she only truly understood as she got out of her bubble. Her work has made her realise how privilege can shape your confidence and opportunities, and how family and society often value prestigious careers like banking or consulting over social impact.
A key moment in Grace’s life was when she realised that everyone in her circle had been to university—a norm far from the reality for many others. This highlighted for her how deeply privilege influences our lives and the unconscious biases that come with it. She stresses the importance of getting out of your own bubble, perhaps through volunteering, to see the world from different perspectives.
Grace also talks about the dynamics within her family and social circles, where discussions about careers and salaries are common, reinforcing the pressure to succeed. She touches on conversations had to describe the work she does as "window dressing" for the company she works for. She helps the organsation look good but lack real substance.
Throughout our conversation, Grace reflects on how cultural fit has played a big role in her life. She recognises that her ability to thrive in certain environments and at work has been influenced by her privileged background, her ability to fit in and understand the social capital this privilege gives her. She is also critical of these norms and how they affect and impact others ability to get ahead.
Key Takeaways:
- Privilege can lead to a lack of awareness about the struggles others face
- Social mobility isn't just about careers; it's central to people’s identity and values
- Privilege often makes success seem like a given
- It’s important to challenge our unconscious biases by stepping outside our usual circles
- Understanding the unspoken rules of certain environments can make a big difference in success, but it’s crucial to question these norms
Grace’s story offers a thoughtful look at how privilege shaped her life and why it’s so important to work towards a fairer society. Tune in to hear her insights on dealing with these challenges and her dedication to making a difference.
Grace #YouAreAClassOfYourOwn
Guest Grace Osborne
https://www.linkedin.com/in/grace-osborne-85557096
Listen on Apple Podcasts:
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Host: Mira Magecha
https://www.linkedin.com/in/miramagecha
https://www.instagram.com/mira_magecha
Creative Director: Alex Payne
https://www.instagram.com/alexjamespayne
Editor: Josh Partridge
https://www.instagram.com/joshfilmmaker
Music: Jay Witsey
https://www.instagram.com/jay.witsey
Studio: Podcast House
https://www.podcasthouse.uk
Episode bought to you by: play for change
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