BARDO's
Neuro-Inclusion Maturity Model TM

Working with Our Brain Biology - Not Against It

Traditional EDI approaches often amplify differences rather than fostering genuine connection, unintentionally deepening divisions and resistance, and reinforcing the good/bad person binary. Wilful Blindness (Heffernan, 2011) has kept organisations from confronting the systemic barriers to inclusion, while compliance-driven initiatives often create resistance rather than real change.

The BARDO Neuro-Inclusion Maturity Model TM takes a different approach—one rooted in neuroscience and anthropology. Research shows that while the brain defaults to unconscious bias, it is also capable of extraordinary neuroplasticity (Rock, 2008; Lieberman, 2013). By combining this with psychological safety (Edmondson, 1999) and shared relational ties (Dunbar, 1992), we can drive inclusion in a way that aligns with how humans naturally think, feel, and connect.

This model also challenges The Myth of Normal (Maté, 2022)—shifting the focus from ‘fixing’ individuals to transforming systems of people and behaviours. Inspired by Dr. Brené Brown’s work on courage and vulnerability, it prioritises connection over compliance and trust over tokenism.

By embedding habit formation (Dispenza, 2012) and behaviourally informed coaching, we move beyond outdated, box-ticking approaches.

This is inclusion redefined—working with our brain biology to create real, lasting change.

The Levels of the Maturity Model

COMPLIANCE

Baseline

At this stage, inclusion is seen as a legal obligation rather than a strategic asset. Diversity is managed reactively, with a focus on risk mitigation over growth. The status quo remains the default, and inclusion is not yet embedded in organisational thinking.

FOUNDATION

Level 1: Delta

Organisations take structured steps by increasing representation, setting demographic goals, and implementing foundational neuroscience training. A clear action plan aligns inclusive thinking with business objectives, building awareness and momentum for lasting cultural change.

EXPANDING

Level 2 - Alpha

Leaders champion inclusive behaviours, integrating neuroscience-based strategies to drive cultural transformation. Inclusion shifts from compliance to a catalyst for innovation and collaboration. Psychological safety, growth mindsets, and habit rewiring create a sustainable, instinctive culture of belonging.

MASTERY

Level 3 - Gamma

At this stage, inclusion is ingrained in the organisation’s DNA, driving every decision, interaction, and strategy. Diversity of thought fuels innovation and competitive advantage, while teams collaborate with trust and purpose. Inclusive behaviours become instinctive, supported by psychological safety, neuroplasticity, and dopamine-driven appreciation, making inclusion effortless, transformative, and self-sustaining.

Why Neuroscience Matters for Inclusion

Neuroscience tells us that bias is not just a social construct—it’s a cognitive shortcut. If we want to rewire bias, we must focus on habit formation, neuroplasticity, and social cognition rather than just awareness training.

Bias Training Alone Doesn’t Work → Studies show that traditional unconscious bias training has limited long-term impact (Forscher et al., 2019). The key is embedding bias-interrupting habits into workplace systems.
Psychological Safety is Critical → Dr Amy Edmondson’s research on psychological safety proves that inclusive cultures drive innovation and performance, not just compliance.
Social Threats & Rewards Shape Behaviour → Dr David Rock’s SCARF model demonstrates that inclusion efforts fail when employees feel socially threatened (e.g., status loss, uncertainty). The BARDO model integrates strategies to minimise threat and maximise engagement.

What is the BARDO Neuro-Inclusion Maturity Model?

The BARDO Neuro-Inclusion Maturity Model is a tiered, subscription-based framework that helps organisations and individuals build inclusive, adaptable cultures while tackling global challenges in equity, diversity, and sustainability.

Unlike traditional EDI approaches, every element of BARDO is grounded in neuroscience, using proven techniques, tools, and methodologies to drive real, lasting change.

Participants can progress through the framework independently or with guidance from a certified BARDO practitioner, ensuring flexibility and tailored support at every stage.

A Structured, Science-Based Pathway

Hosted online through Mighty Networks, BARDO guides participants through three levels of maturity, and offers a tiered licensing structure to meet diverse needs:

✅ Delta (Foundation) – Building awareness and essential skills
✅ Alpha (Expanding) – Embedding inclusion into everyday practices
✅ Gamma (Mastery) – Sustaining and scaling systemic change

Each level provides access to:
✔ Online courses and digital resources tailored to the employee and customer journey
✔ Customisable tools, templates, and scripts for practical, measurable impact
✔ A vibrant community of practice to share insights and accelerate progress

The model offers a tiered licensing structure for each stage of the maturity model, to meet diverse needs:
💡 Essential Package: Training modules, core resources, and community access
🚀 Advanced Package: Train-the-trainer certification, licensing for in-house use, and consultancy support
🏆 Enterprise Package: A fully verified inclusion review, impact measurement, and an exclusive ‘verified’ award

Participants can also earn a BARDO Badge—a public marker of their organisation’s progress towards neuro-inclusive maturity.

Who is it for?

✅ Businesses & Organisations – Companies embedding EDI & sustainability strategies
✅ HR & Leadership Teams – Professionals driving culture change with neuroscience-backed methods
✅ Individuals – Those seeking to upskill in EDI, sustainability, and personal growth
✅ Eco/Social-Conscious Communities – Groups passionate about inclusion and systemic change

Whether you're an HR leader, business executive, or EDI practitioner, the BARDO Model provides the tools, community, and evidence-based strategies to create meaningful, sustainable inclusion.

What can you expect at each level?

Compliance - Baseline

Time to Contact Us

Foundation - Level 1: DELTA

Level 1 - What to expect?

Expanding - Level 2: Delta

Level 2 - What to expect?

Mastery - Level 3 - Gamma

Level 3 - What to expect?

UK University

"Working with BARDO was truly transformational. Georgina shifted the narrative around EDI, moving beyond compliance to meaningful, neuroscience-backed change. Her approach fostered open, progressive conversations across the organisation, creating a culture where inclusion became everyone’s responsibility. Her impact was immediate, and her presence was in demand at every level of the institution."

How the BARDO Model Transforms Your Organisation

✅ Leadership & Culture: Leaders are equipped with neuroscience-backed techniques to foster inclusion through behaviour, not just words.

✅ Talent & Progression: Bias is mitigated not through training, but by redesigning systems and culture to drive fairer outcomes.

✅ Performance & Innovation: Inclusive environments, built on psychological safety and cognitive diversity, boost collaboration, problem-solving, and agility.

Ready to Move from Good Intentions to Lasting Impact?

The BARDO Neuro-Inclusion Maturity Model isn’t just another framework—it’s a scientifically grounded roadmap for creating workplaces where inclusion is automatic, effective, and deeply embedded.

Let’s talk about how we can help your organisation reach the transformative stage. Contact us today to start your journey.

BARDO's Neuro-Inclusion Maturity Model TM