S2E5: How to Create Human-Centered Systems + Policies
Episode Description
Policies aren’t just paperwork—they’re culture in action.
In this episode of Gather at the Well, Lindsey Fuller and Marisol Pineda Conde invite us to rethink how policies are created—and more importantly, who they’re really for.
Together, they pull back the curtain on their own journey from outdated handbooks to building intentional, people-first policies rooted in trust, care, and collaboration. With warmth, wisdom, and a whole lot of heart, they break down a five-step process that transforms policy-making from a check-the-box task into a powerful tool for psychological safety and team well-being.
You’ll hear stories, real talk, and tangible steps to design policies that reflect your values, center lived experience, and actually support the humans behind the work. Whether you're growing a startup, leading a nonprofit, or shaping culture in your school, this convo will leave you equipped—and inspired—to build better, together.
Here’s what you’ll walk away with:
A five-step process for policy creation
How to balance organizational needs with human needs
Actionable strategies for policy implementation
Listen to this Episode
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Critical Hope:
We can create policies that simultaneously protect the organization's interests while genuinely supporting and valuing employees, ensuring that organizational values are codified and lived out in practical, meaningful ways.
Affirmations:
I am an attuned listener and a responsive leader.
When we know better, we do better.
Even if I feel overwhelmed to tackle policy creation, I can take the first step by noticing what's needed and asking for help.
I'm not alone. I don't have to do this on my own.
I honor that feeling. I know it will pass.
I honor my overwhelm. This moment can pass.
I honor my self-doubt. This feeling will pass.
Powerful Quotes
Policies aren’t typically seen as sexy, fun, or joyful. They feel like a chore—or barely register at all.
– Lindsey Fuller
When we know better, we do better. We're building organizations we don't have to heal from.
– Lindsey Fuller
The right policies make our time inside the organization more expansive, joyful, sustainable, and healthy.
– Lindsey Fuller
We often focus on legal risk or financial impact. This invites us to pause and prioritize the human impact first.
– Marisol Pineda Conde
Human-centered means just that—putting people at the center of every decision.
– Marisol Pineda Conde
What we’re trying to do in our organization isn’t standard practice—and that’s exactly the point.
– Marisol Pineda Conde
We were toggling between doing the bare minimum and making intentional space to imagine what’s possible.
– Marisol Pineda Conde
Sometimes we draft policies that aren’t sustainable for others. That’s not a limitation—it’s a design consideration.
– Marisol Pineda Conde
Strong leaders hold up the mirror—offering high support, high accountability, and a clear commitment to integrity.
– Lindsey Fuller