bringing emotion & feeling to BaxterStorey’s inclusion journey

Mindboost support BaxterStorey with their ambition to set the standard for having the most inclusive culture in hospitality

BaxterStorey’s mission is “to set the standard and be recognised for having the most inclusive culture in hospitality.” Their vision for equity, diversity and inclusion (EDII) training goes far beyond ticking boxes. The goal is to inspire meaningful cultural change within their workforce, a change that radiates outward into the communities they serve.

the challenge

After launching two introductory DE&I modules, BaxterStorey partnered with Mindboost to create a comprehensive suite of subject-specific digital learning experiences. These covered eight key areas, from religion and belief to gender inclusion.

The challenge was to develop training that genuinely resonates. It had to reach people at different stages of awareness, those with deep knowledge and those with misconceptions. More than just informing, it needed to engage hearts as well as minds, encouraging learners to become curious, empathetic and motivated to foster an inclusive culture.

content creation
content creation

the solution

Mindboost’s approach is rooted in creating “learning with feeling.” We design emotionally engaging content to spark interest, enhance memory, and influence behaviour. For this project, that meant using real voices, relatable imagery, and bespoke examples that reflect the realities of BaxterStorey’s people.

Mindboost Magic
real voices for real impact

Without emotion in training, learners may “see” the content but not feel its relevance, so they can mentally check out. Emotionally compelling stories, especially those rooted in lived experience, help information stick. A story about someone facing bias, for instance, will be remembered far longer than a list of definitions.

To that end, BaxterStorey’s digital modules feature authentic stories from within the organisation. These narratives bring abstract concepts to life, encourage empathy, and foster a sense of authenticity. Quotes and photos from team members further personalise the learning, reinforcing that inclusion isn’t just an idea, it’s a lived experience.

creating personal meaning

In a world full of information, people remember what feels personally meaningful. That’s why we used emotion in the wording, imagery, and videos to help learners connect abstract concepts to their own experiences. For this project, our goal was to evoke positive emotions, such as joy and empathy, rather than fear or anxiety. While fear can sometimes drive behaviour change, positive emotions are more effective at helping people relate to others’ experiences, deepening understanding and shifting attitudes. This approach aligns with BaxterStorey’s mission: they want people to take action because it feels right, not just because it’s required by law or company policy.

motivated to change

According to the COM-B model (Capability, Opportunity, Motivation – Behaviour), motivation is a key driver of behaviour. And emotion is at the heart of intrinsic motivation, especially when learners feel inspired, moved or personally responsible.

To activate this, Mindboost designed activities that encourage reflection and autonomy. We used open-ended questions, subtle animations, and space for contemplation to build curiosity and prompt learners to think about their own experiences. Rather than prescribing what to believe or say, we created a space for discovery, inviting people to explore inclusion in a way that feels authentic to them.

the impact

The result is a powerful suite of digital DE&I modules that speak to learners on a deeper level. Emotion acts as the bridge between knowledge and action, transforming passive participation into active engagement. This emotional connection is helping BaxterStorey move beyond compliance, toward real and lasting cultural change.

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