AND is the Future

What is the recipe for an effective and successful partnership? Jean Oelwang, the CEO of Virgin Unite, and one of the foremost experts on partnerships, explains! She and Ilham have a lively discussion about celebrating friction in partnerships, embracing the disruptive detours in one's career, why we need dyslexic thinking in business, how Virgin Unite is making a big impact in the world, and so much more. Timestamps1:35 - Inspiration from her dad4:23 - Disruptive detours8:30 - The impact of Virgin Unite10:06 - Partnering14:49 - Dyslexic thinking18:40 - Planetary Gardens22:47 - The B Team27:35 - What leaders inspire her30:40 - Advice to young leadersJean Oelwang is the President and founding CEO of Virgin Unite, which houses all the philanthropies of the Virgin company, and has incubated some of the most effective partnerships, such as The Elders, The BTeam, The Branson Centre for Entrepreneurship, and many more. Jean is probably the foremost expert on partnerships. And after spending three decades helping companies put the wellbeing of the people and the planet at their core, she is the perfect person to discuss how we can create sustainable AND profitable businesses. She is the author of Partnering: Forge the Deep Connections That Make Great Things Happen. For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.syensqo.com/en/podcast

How can we use the tools of the marketplace and business to solve the problems that lead to poverty? That's where patient capital comes in. Jacqueline Novogratz, the CEO of Acumen, explains how her venture capital fund's long term investments, which prioritize social progress along with financial returns, have positively impacted 650 million people across the globe. She and Ilham discuss the most inspiring companies Acumen has invested in; the importance of kindness and patience in business; achieving audacity AND humility when working towards one's goals; how storytelling is key to success, and so much more. Timestamps1:42 - Inspiration for solving the problems of poverty3:39 - Becoming a banker6:18 - Founding Acumen and the emergence of patient capital8:59 - How to build sustainable and profitable companies12:47- Most inspiring companies Acumen invests in16:23 - The beauty of Acumen's manifesto20:05 - The importance of storytelling25:37 - Pushing back against the naysayers29:46 - Embracing the beautyJacqueline Novogratz is an entrepreneur, an author and quite frankly a beacon of light in the world. She is the founder and CEO of Acumen, a nonprofit global venture capital fund that uses entrepreneurial approaches to address global poverty by investing in companies with the purpose. She is the author of Manifesto for a Moral Revolution: Practices to Build a Better World and The Blue Sweater: Bridging the Gap Between Rich and Poor in an Interconnected World. For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.syensqo.com/en/podcast

How can space launches become sustainable? Orbex is making it possible! Phil Chambers, CEO of Orbex sits down with Ilham to talk about how his company is building the most advanced, low carbon, micro launch vehicles in the world. They discuss the Orbex Prime rocket which will launch later this year; their creation of the first bio-friendly fuel launch system that slashes emissions more than 90%; how to build a company culture; his advice to young entrepreneurs, and more. Timestamps1:24 - The spark for his entrepreneurial spirit3:15 - Interest in space4:42 - The first vertical launch space rocket from British soil7:41 - Building the most advanced, low carbon micro launch vehicles in the world!10:50 - How the Prime rocket will change satellite launches13:01 - When will it launch?13:54 - Managing risks15:39 - Building the core values of your company19:00 - Advice to young entrepreneurs20:55 - An avid birdwatcher!Phil Chambers is a leading entrepreneur who has played pivotal roles in some of Europe's most successful startups. He is now the CEO of Orbex, which is a UK based launch services company in the small satellite industry. Orbex has developed one of the most advanced, low carbon, high performance, micro launch vehicles in the world, and at Syensqo we are proud to partner with Orbex to provide the advanced materials for their Prime rocket. For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.syensqo.com/en/podcast

You may know Eric Goens for his many hit shows in Belgium such as Conclave, but did you know his passion is Antarctica? In this episode, Eric talks about his masterpiece, a documentary called 2050 that takes us on an expedition to Princess Elizabeth Station. Ilham and Eric have a fascinating discussion about experiencing the beauty of Antarctica, seeing the effects of climate change there, and how businesses can play a big role. As Eric puts it “We are the very first generation that knows the problem and has the solution.” Watch for the film in theaters near you in March 2025!Timestamps1:31 - Where his love of filming came from2:42 - The inspiration for 20507:50 - Experiencing the beauty of Antarctica10:50 - Antarctica as the barometer of the planet14:19 - Film as an answer to the state of the climate19:46 - How businesses can be more effective in fighting climate change21:50 - Antarctica and its special connection to Belgium26:24 - Filming in an unforgiving landscape 30:15 - Following his passion32:32 - How to watch the 2050 documentaryEric Goens is a Belgian journalist, reporter, filmmaker and entrepreneur. He is the owner of Bargoens, a production company, and known for many hit television programs in Belgium such as Het huis and Het conclave to name just a few. Eric Goens is about to release a masterpiece called 2050, a documentary that follows renowned scientists as they explore and conduct experiments from Princess Elizabeth Station. Syensqo is proud to be the only sponsor of this incredible film.  For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.syensqo.com/en/podcast

According to top business leader and philanthropist Dr. Mo Ibrahim, “You have to be profitable in your business, but you also have to try to do good as well.” Dr. Ibrahim implemented this belief by making all his employees business partners or shareholders within the companies he ran. As he would say, “Either we succeed together or we fail together!” Ilham sits down with Dr. Ibrahim for a fascinating discussion about what it means to be sustainable AND profitable in business, the importance of inclusive capitalism, the fight against climate change and the role Africa plays, the important work of the Mo Ibrahim Foundation and so much more. Timestamps1:37 - Upbringing and the making of a leader3:59 - An accidental businessman6:08 - The important work of the Mo Ibrahim Foundation10:47 - Africa and the fight against climate change13:31 - Sustainability AND profitability19:21 - The importance of inclusive capitalism29:05 - Leadership advice30:35 - Recharging the batteriesDr. Mo Ibrahim is a great businessman, philanthropist, and climate justice advocate. He is the founder and chair of the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, which improves lives by advocating for good governance and exceptional leadership in Africa. He founded two major companies, Mobile Systems International, a world leading cellular consulting and software provider, and CellTel International, one of Africa's leading mobile telephone companies. As a business leader, who does so much good in the world, he is a perfect example of the power of AND. For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.syensqo.com/en/podcast

We appreciate the fabulous response to AND is the future and wanted to re-share one of our favorite episodes from Season One, especially for our new listeners. This episode features Paul Polman, one of the foremost sustainable businesses leaders. Is the world better off because your business is in it? Paul Polman speaks with Ilham about what it takes to build a Net Positive company; how leaders can unlock a company's soul; why empathetic leadership is the key to success; the power of partnerships; the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion, and so much more. Paul Polman is the former CEO of Unilever and one of the foremost leaders in the effort to create sustainable and profitable businesses. While at Unilever he increased his shareholders' returns by 300% while ensuring the company ranked #1 in the world for sustainability for eleven years running. He now runs an organization called Imagine, which advocates for businesses becoming a true force for good. Paul is also the author of Net Positive How Courageous Companies Thrive by Giving More Than They Take.This episode was released as part of Season One in October 2022. Timestamps 1:22 - Background and passion for sustainable business5:10 - How to be a Net Positive company8:42 - Purpose: unlocking a company's soul13:36 - Power of partnerships19:07 - Empathetic leadership25:30 - Leaving a better world for the next generation27:32 - What can business learn from the arts?

Nadir Godrej syas that to make a difference in the world, you “have to make a good case for the mind AND heart” – and poetry is a great way to do this! As both a sustainable business leader AND a poet, he believes in the power of words to move people. Ilham and Nadir have a great discussion about his interest in poetry, what it takes to create a sustainable business, empathy and kindness in leadership, and much more. Nadir Godrej is the chairman of Godrej Industries, one of India's biggest and most well known businesses, and the Chairman of Godrej Agrovet. He is a chemical engineer, a sustainable business leader and a published poet. Mr. Godrej is deeply committed to the GOOD and GREEN strategies and achievement of set targets for the Godrej Group. He is also a member of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) which the host, Ilham Kadri, chairs. Timestamps1:19 - Childhood and great influences in his life5:51 - 127 years of Godrej Industries11:42 - Good and green sustainable initiative 14:25 - Green chemistry17:49 - How poetry heightens the emotion18:59 - Job training program at Godrej Industries20:40 - Advice for leaders to become more sustainable22:46 - Empathy and kindness in business25:31 - Favorite poets For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.syensqo.com/en/podcast

According to Nobel Prize laureate Jean-Marie Lehn, chemistry isn't just part of the solution to humanity's biggest challenges: it is the solution! That's because chemistry can create solutions that do not yet exist. Ilham and Professor Lehn have a fascinating conversation about chemistry and creativity, failure and serendipity in science, and how companies play a crucial role in bringing scientific solutions into the world.Professor Jean-Marie Lehn is a French chemist known for his groundbreaking synthesis of cryptands, which led to an entirely new field of supramolecular chemistry. In 1987 he won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry with Donald Cram and Charles Pedersen for the “development and use of molecules with structure‐specific interactions of high selectivity”. He is a Professor at the University of Strasbourg Institute of Advanced Study and the Chair of Chemistry of Complex Systems. He is also the Director, Chemistry Laboratory of Molecular Interactions, at the Collège de France.Timestamps2:03 - Inspiration from school science teacher5:40 - Supramolecular chemistry7:29 - Chemistry: part of the solution12:03 - A creative science14:17 - Science, failure and serendipity17:38 - Companies play an important role23:40 - Diversity, equity and inclusion in science26:38 - Love of classical music - and the connection to science29:11 - Winning the Nobel Prize30:40 - Chemistry and architectureSyensqo is proud to partner with the Jean-Marie Lehn Foundation. Through this strategic collaboration, we are working together to achieve breakthroughs in the design of sustainable and ecological materials, and the synthesis of renewable and polyfunctional building blocks. For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.syensqo.com/en/podcast

Imagine. Be the change. Inspire - these are the words that Anousheh Ansari had made into a badge for her spacesuit as she became the first Iranian woman to fly into space! They are also the principles that led her to become a successful, sustainable CEO. Anousheh and Ilham have a fascinating conversation about the importance of having big dreams and reaching for the stars, why we need more women in STEM, and what it takes to become a sustainable entrepreneur and leader, and much more. Timstamps1:29 - Childhood, love of stars and inspiration for going to space6:06 - The importance of education - leading to engineering degree9:45 - First Iranian Muslim woman to fly to space!14:46 - Why we need to democratize space travel20:13 - CEO of XPRIZE23:52 - Advice for entrepreneurs27:14 - The importance of having more women in STEM30:51 - Imagine, be the change, inspireAnousheh Ansari is an engineer, a highly successful entrepreneur, and the first Iranian and Muslim woman and the first private explorer to travel to space. She is the CEO of the XPRIZE, which aims to accelerate technological breakthroughs that will benefit humanity through the power of large scale public competitions. Ansari and her family sponsored XPRIZE's first venture in 1994: the $10 million Ansari XPRIZE that ignited a new era for commercial spaceflight. She began serving on its Board of Directors and became CEO of XPRIZE in 2018, leading and scaling the foundation to its highest impact period in its history. To date, XPRIZE has launched 30 prizes offering over $500 million in prize purses, hosting over 35,000 innovators from around the world to participate in its competitions.She is a global presence in future-positive tech markets and a resonant voice for women within STEM, business, and the entrepreneurial industries.  For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.syensqo.com/en/podcast

Send us a Text Message.So how does it feel to be part of one of the most sustainable sports? Great, according to Formula E champion, Stoffel Vandoorne! As he explains, Formula E, the driving competition for electric cars, is “really a championship that is on the rise, that is pushing sustainability, electrification and bringing that racing to the cities as well.” Stoffel gives an inspiring account of how he prepares physically and mentally for a race, what makes a Formula E car different to drive, what business leaders can learn from his champion mindset, the importance of dreaming big and never giving up, and much more! 1:16 - Upbringing and inspiration for racing3:34 - Preparing physically and mentally for a race7:30 - Formula E: One of the most sustainable sports!9:26 - The Formula E car - what's different?12:12 - Career in racing: focus on the journey17:03 - What businesses can learn from racing20:18 - Favorite race track21:40 - Next big goal23:06 - Life outside of racingStoffel Vandoorne is a Belgian professional racing driver in Formula E, the championship for electric cars. Until July 2024 he was a pilot for the DS Penske team, which Syensqo is proud to sponsor. Vandoorne's racing career started at the age of six, competing in kart championships – and this led him all the way to becoming the champion of the 2015 GP2 Series and winning the 2021–22 Formula E World Championship.***This podcast was recorded in June 2024, when Stoffel was still with the DS Penske team. We wish him the best in his next adventure!  For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.syensqo.com/en/podcast

According to Siddharth Chatterjee, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in China, "the world needs to unite" to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, "and this is where the role of the private sector becomes absolutely mission critical." Ilham speaks with Siddharth about his incredible work with the United Nations to improve the lives of children, ensure equality for women and girls, promote health and well being, drive progress on all the SDGs….and how businesses can play a key role.. Siddharth has worked tirelessly with the United Nations to protect the most vulnerable. One of his greatest professional achievements was the demobilization of more than 3, 500 children from the conflicts in South Sudan. He is also a health and wellness enthusiast and shares some tips from his own routines!  Timestamps1:35 - Childhood and inspiration for humanitarian causes6:10 - The Sustainable Development Goals: how are we doing?12:35 - SDG 13 and the climate agenda18:10 - Fighting for gender equality - SDG 522:01 - Demobilization of over 3,500 child soldiers in South Sudan29:52 - Focus on health and wellness37:34 - Love of literature For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.syensqo.com/en/podcast

It all started when Helen Sharman heard a radio advertisement that said they were looking for an astronaut, no experience required. She applied, beat out 13,000 applicants, and became the first British person to travel to space! Ilham speaks with Helen about her incredible journey from a young chemist to becoming an astronaut; how she had to believe not only in herself but also her team; her love of chemistry and science; and the discipline it took to make her dreams a reality.In May 1991, Helen traveled to the Mir Space Station and spent eight days orbiting the Earth. The mission, called Project Juno, was a cooperative arrangement and would enable the UK to send one of its people into space for the first time. During her time at the Mir space station, she conducted a variety of experiments including medical and agricultural tests, protein crystal growth and how new materials perform in the environment outside the space station. Since her return from space, Helen has been heavily involved in communicating science and its benefits.Timestamps01:40 - Upbringing and love of chemistry05:24 - Becoming an astronaut08:23 - Focus on the journey10:13 - Flying into space13:58 - Looking down at earth16:46 - Reliance on her team19:55 - Not being defined by gender24:46 - Sustainability in space31:03 - When will humans get to Mars?33:56 - Advice for next generation of scientists and explorers37:40 -  What can businesses learn from space exploration40:40 - Interest in music43:17 - Love of nature  For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.syensqo.com/en/podcast

According to Andrew Liveris, effective leaders can't ignore the disruptive era we're living in; they have got to embrace it. Ilham and Andrew have a fascinating conversation about disruption AND sustainable leadership, exploring the threat of short-termism, the need for inclusive capitalism, and the importance of purposeful leaders.Timestamps02:03 - Growing up in an ethnic family unit08:19 - Chemistry is part of the everyday12:42 - Explaining the mindset of the 5Ds19:00 - Recreating yourself as a leader25:49 - The epidemic of short-termism28:58 - The need for inclusive capitalism34:00 - The importance of human revolution40:11 - Hopes for future leaders For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.syensqo.com/en/podcast

When you educate students you can transform the world! Top economist and educator Bruno Van Pottelsberghe speaks with Ilham about the importance of a sustainable business education to inspire true sustainable leadership. They discuss the Solvay Business School's Executive Masters in Sustainability, his advice for young leaders, how we can reimagine business, and much more! Timestamps01:58 - Upbringing and start of career04:53 - Solvay Business School and legacy of its founder Ernest Solvay08:36 - Top Business School projects11:58 - The Executive Masters in Sustainability17:10 - What does it mean to be a sustainable leader?24:16 - Advice for young leaders28:24 - Hobbies and interestsBruno Van Pottelsberghe is the Dean of the Solvay Brussels School of Economics and Management at the Université Libre de Bruxelles in Belgium. He is a Professor, a top Belgian economist, a Senior Fellow at the Bruegel think-tank in Brussels, AND an expert on how we can create businesses that are both sustainable and profitable. For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.syensqo.com/en/podcast

In this episode, Ilham sits down with the winner of Syensqo's 2024 Ernest Solvay Prize, Omar Yaghi.  Omar has used his passion for Science to change the course of the future with his discovery of reticular chemistry. His pioneering work is making a positive impact on our planet, purifying our water, air and fuel for generations to come. HIs research has inspired further development of new materials and sparked discoveries that can help solve major problems such as CO2 capture, hydrogen storage, water harvesting and gas purification. Omar shares Syensqo's passion for exploration and innovation, always pushing the boundaries of science to advance humanity.  During our conversation you will hear how Omar believes in the power of questions and curiosity over a focus on the end results, and how this approach has led him to become the award-winning inspiration he is today.  Timestamps02:21 - Becoming one of the most renowned scientists of today09:50 - Pioneering a new field of chemistry15: 40 - Applying groundbreaking science to real-world scenarios19:28 - Taking risks and embracing failure 22:44 - The power of peer recognition 24:15 - Looking toward the future 16:22 - Democratization of technology 30:02 - The importance of curiosity in STEM education  For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.syensqo.com/en/podcast

The purpose of L'Oréal is to create beauty that moves the world. According to CEO, Nicolas Hieronimus, ‘to move' can have two meanings: “One is to change things, such as using green sciences and reducing package as a way to move the world. But moving is also about emotion. Beauty is about emotions; it's about bringing people self-confidence.” Ilham and Nicolas have a fascinating conversation about science AND beauty, discussing topics such as beauty and tech, how to be sustainable and profitable, and the importance of promoting diversity in the beauty industry.Nicolas Hieronimus has spent the majority of his career at L'Oréal, one of the world's largest cosmetic companies. He started his career at the company as a Product Manager for the Garnier branch in 1987 and was named CEO of L'Oréal in 2021. Describing himself as a ‘beauty junkie', Nicolas has reinforced L'Oréal's commitment to sustainability, inclusivity, transparency, and cutting-edge technology, solidifying L'Oréal's position as a beacon of innovation and ethical responsibility in the beauty industry.Timestamps01:30- Introduction to the beauty industry04:03 - Taking professional risks that pay off08:29 - Being a purpose-led company11:45 - Being sustainable AND profitable15:45 - Tech for beauty20:23 - The importance of psychological safety in the workplace23:46 - Introducing Warm Up Mondays25:05 -  Promoting diversity in science and beauty30:39  - Favorite music and movies For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.syensqo.com/en/podcast

Did you know that there's a strong connection between music and science? Ilham speaks with award winning chemist and pianist Nuno Maulide about the science behind the classical music of the greatest composers. He talks about the musical talent of brilliant scientists such as Albert Einstein and Max Planck, what scientists and business leaders can learn from music, and beautifully plays pieces by Bach, Mozart, Schubert, Chopin, Rachmoninoff and Debussey. Listen and be inspired! Nuno Maulide is a professor and head of the Institute for Organic Chemistry at the University of Vienna. Nuno studied piano and chemistry in his hometown in Lisbon and then went on to earn his PhD at the University of Louvain in Belgium. He has studied at universities in Louvain-la-Neuve, Paris and at Stanford University, and started his independent work as a Group leader at Germany's Max Planck Institute for Carbon Research. He has received numerous prestigious awards in both chemistry and music throughout his career. Timestamps1:59 - Albert Einstein and Max Planck's love for Bach and Mozart7:09 - Nuno plays Bach's Jesus bleibet meine Freude10:38 - Introduction to music in primary school13:11 - Switch to focus on organic chemistry19:43 - Nuno plays excerpts from Mozart's Sonata in G Major 1st Movement20:48 - Connection between science and music23:21 - Schubert and the connection to nature27:51 - Nuno plays Schubert's Impromptu in G Flat Major33:00 - Chopin and the connection to water35:07 - Nuno plays Chopin's Etude Opus 25 No. 137:23 - What can businesses learn from music?40:31 - Rachmaninoff and pattern recognition41:27 - Nuno plays Rachmaninoff's Prelude in G Sharp Major44:32 - Emotion vs rationality?46:02 - Nuno plays Debussey's Clair de lune For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.syensqo.com/en/podcast

Have you ever wondered how the Dutch masters were able to use such vibrant colors? They come from plant-based dyes! Ilham sits down with internationally acclaimed artist Claudy Jongstra to discuss her incredible art, which is made from plant based dyes and wool that comes from a rare, indigenous breed of sheep raised on her farm in The Netherlands. They discuss her fascinating artistic process, the costumes she created for the Jedi in Star Wars, what businesses can learn from art and much more. Claudy's work truly brings art AND sustainability together! Claudy Jongstra is a world renowned artist and designer known worldwide for her monumental artworks and architectural installations, whose organic surfaces and nuanced tones reflect her masterful innovations in the ancient technique of making wool felt. Her  fabrics have been used by some of the most well known designers such as Christian Lacroix and Donna Karan, and they were even worn by the Jedi in Star Wars Episode 1. Her work has been included in collections at major museums like the Rijksmuseum, the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Museum of Modern Art, and more.Timestamps1:50 - Upbringing in the Netherlands and early love for color, nature and art6:16 - Creating sustainable art from materials on a farm9:08 - Making beautiful plant-based dyes/colors15:14 - Creating the Jedi costumes for Star Wars17:53 - Art and circularity20:53 - What can businesses learn from art24:26 - Connecting art and education27:31 - Secret to success29:47 - Artist role models and favorite work of art For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.solvay.com/podcast

According to leadership expert Bill George, “Your true north is the essence of who you are, and before you can go on an outer leadership journey, you have to go on an inner journey.” Ilham has a fascinating discussion with Bill about how you can find your True North, his new book on leadership, the shift from “I” to “we”, advice to emerging leaders and much more. Bill George is one of the most renowned experts on leadership. He's the former chairman and CEO of Medtronic, and currently an executive fellow at Harvard Business School. You may know Bill as the author of the groundbreaking book, True North, as well as many other books on leadership. He has just published this newest book called True North Emerging Leaders Edition, which he co-authored with the Millennial entrepreneur, Zach Clayton.Timestamps2:16 - Youth and early lessons in leadership5:10 - What is True North10:50 - About his new book: True North Emerging Leader Edition13: 09 - Becoming an authentic leader17:24 - Crucibles that test your leadership20:58 - Shift from I to We23:18 - True North and North Star - what's the difference? 27:33 - Political issues - when to become involved30:36 - Giving back: the George Family Foundation32:52 - Advice to young leaders For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.solvay.com/podcast

According to sustainable leadership expert Marga Hoek, implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in business can lead to incredible business opportunities - in fact it's a $12 trillion business case! Ilham has a fascinating discussion with Marga about how business for good is good for business, the attributes that make a good sustainable CEO, the importance of mentoring and much more. Marga Hoek, one of the top leaders on sustainable business, is a three-time CEO and the author of a best selling book called The Trillion Dollar Shift, which highlights the incredible business opportunities for companies that work to achieve the United Nations sustainable development goals. Marga is considered one of the most influential thought leaders in the transition towards a more sustainable world.Timestamps1:22 - Upbringing and what ballet taught her about leadership7:00 - The $12 trillion dollar business case for implementing the SDGs12:16 - Business for good is good for business15:08 - What attributes make a sustainable CEO?19:35 - Tech for good25:32 - Great examples of businesses doing good31:33 - Lessons learned as CEO35:53 - The importance of mentoring40:54 - Motherhood and entrepreneurship For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.solvay.com/podcast

According CEO of Norges Bank Investment Management Nicolai Tangen, ESG and investing go hand in hand. Ilham sits down with Nicolai to discuss the importance of achieving the power of AND for investors, the journey of Norges Bank Investment Management under his leadership, his leadership lessons and advice for young leaders and investors, as well as his favorite books, paintings and more! Nicolai Tangen is the CEO of Norges Bank Investment Management (NBIM). In that role he is responsible for managing the Norwegian Sovereign Wealth Fund, which owns approximately 1.4% of the world's listed companies. On top of running one of the largest sovereign wealth funds in the world, he is also a podcast host, a lifelong learner, an avid reader, and an art and cooking enthusiast. He holds masters degrees in Art History and Social Psychology. Timestamps1:25 - Upbringing in Kristiansand, Norway2:43 - Commitment to philanthropy5:16 - Journey of NBIM under his leadership9:12 - Sustainable AND profitable investing12:43 - Criteria NBIM investments14:08 - Importance of transparency15:41 - Podcast: In Good Company17:28 - Leadership lessons23:26 - Diversity, equity and inclusion26:16 - Favorite books27:34 - Favorite artists and paintings29:00 - Advice to young leaders31:29 - Favorite things to cook For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.solvay.com/podcast

Chemistry is everywhere and cooking is no exception! In this podcast, Ilham joins Christophe Lavelle  –  one of the foremost experts on molecular gastronomy  – in the kitchen to learn about the chemistry of cooking, molecular gastronomy, how cooking is both an art and a science, and even how to make caramel foam with bicarbonate of soda and liquid nitrogen! Christophe Lavelle is a biophysicist, an epigeneticist and one of the foremost experts on the chemistry of cooking, or molecular gastronomy. His research focuses on the regulation of gene expression and the biophysical properties of macromolecules… including the ones you eat! He is a researcher at the Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS), co-founder of the Food 2.0 LAB and runs a lab at the National Museum of Natural History in Paris.  He also teaches in many universities and establishments throughout Paris including the famous Le Cordon Bleu.Timestamps2:43 - Why chemistry AND cooking?4:09 - What is molecular gastronomy?7:30 - Inspiration to start cooking and role models8:58 - Teaching10:13 - Demo: making caramel with bicarbonate of soda and liquid nitrogen22:14 - Favorite recipes and foods25:05 - Advice to young scientists and chefs26:46 - Love of music For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.solvay.com/podcast

According to leadership expert Clarke Murphy, great leaders must be moonshotters, possess empathy and have a high LQ (not just IQ)! What does that mean? Clarke explains everything in his fascinating discussion with Ilham. They talk about what it takes to be a sustainable leader, his new book on the topic, advice for young leaders and so much more. Timestamps1:49 - Upbringing and interest in sustainable leadership5:50 - CEO of Russell Reynolds Associates11:25 - Leadership and humility13:37 - Book on Sustainable Leadership21:24 - The LQ versus the IQ or even EQ25:44 - 100 percenters versus moonshotters28:52 - Passing the dinner table test30:38 - Discovering the empathy gene33:02 - Advice for young leaders34:19 - Love of the ballet and the artsClarke Murphy, the former CEO of Russell Reynolds Associates is a leadership expert who advises the world's top companies on leadership strategies that fuel profitable growth and value for all stakeholders. He has also just published a bestselling book called Sustainable Leadership: Lessons of vision, courage, and grit from the CEOs who dare to build a better world, which is essentially a handbook on how to become a true, sustainable leader. For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.solvay.com/podcast

Trenten Merrill speaks with Ilham about his incredible journey to become one of the world's top paralympic track and field athletes. After overcoming many challenges, he has gone on to break the American record for long jump, not just once but three times! In this episode, he explains his passion for sports, how he stays disciplined, his advice for business leaders and young athletes, and so much more. 1:20 - Upbringing and passion for sports3:03 - Accident that changed his life7:31 - First competition in Rio10:41 - What can businesses learn from athletes?12:18 - Passion for journaling15:51 - Focus on the journey not the destination18:05 - Career in modeling20:34 - Entrepreneurial side23:16 - Working with children with prosthetics27:04 - What's next?28:17 - Hobbies outside of sports29:20 - Diversity, equity and inclusion in the world of sportTrenten Merrill is one of the world's top paralympic track and field athletes. At the age of 14 Trenten and his best friend were struck by a car and Trenten's foot had to be amputated, but that did not stop him from fulfilling his childhood dream of being a professional athlete. Trenten learned about Paralympics and set his eyes on competing at the Paralympic Games. In 2016 Trenten made his first Paralympic team and broke the American Record in Long Jump. He went on to break the record again in 2018 and 2021.  For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.solvay.com/podcast

In this latest episode, Ambra Sabatini explains her incredible journey to become the fastest Paralympic sprinter in the world. She speaks to Ilham about her passion for sports, an accident that changed her life, her stunning victory at the 2020 Paralympic games, what business leaders can learn from athletes, her advice for young people and more! 2:13 - Upbringing and passion for sports3:38 - Accident that changed her life 5:17 - Victory at the 2020 Paralympic games8:33 - Toughest challenges10:51 - What companies can learn from athletes12:12 - Perfectly imperfect tattoo13:34 - Diversity, equity and inclusion in sport15:14 - Advice for young people16:22 - What's next?17:55 - Interests outside of sport20:39 - Strong support of familyAmbra Sabatini is the fastest Paralympic sprinter in the world. When she was only 19 years old she broke the world record, running 100 meters in just 14.11 seconds at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics. And this is after she had already broken the world record a few months before in the Grand Prix in Dubai. In Tokyo, she also led Italy to a historic clean sweep in the women's 100m as her Italian teammates also won silver and bronze medals. Ambra was born in Livorno Italy in 2002. On June 5th, 2019 she was involved in a car accident on her way to training and she had to undergo an amputation of her left leg above the knee…but she never gave up on her love for sport.  For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.solvay.com/podcast

KG Montjane overcame many challenges to become one of the world's top wheelchair tennis players and the first black South African woman to compete at Wimbledon. Ilham and KG talk about her incredible journey including her introduction to wheelchair tennis at the age of 19, her desire to help others, the importance of inclusion in sport, business and life, her advice to young people and much more. What a fantastic story of determination and resilience! 3:01- Introduction to tennis6:48 - First black African woman to play at Wimbledon9:44 - Toughest challenges in tennis12:56 - Responsibility to help others14:31 - Challenges off the court16:36 - Diversity, equity and inclusion in the world of sport18:07 - Advice to young people19:35 - Starting the Multi Sports Development Foundation to help underprivileged kids21:24 - Importance of inclusion25:24 - Hobbies outside of tennisKG Montjane is one of the world's top wheelchair tennis players. In fact, she is number 1 in Africa and number 4 in the World! In 2018, she became the first black South African woman to compete at Wimbledon. She was born in Polokwane, Limpopo. Due to a congenital birth defect, she went through a single amputation below the knee at the age of 12. She began her tennis career when she was 19, after receiving the equipment necessary for her to play wheelchair tennis. For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.solvay.com/podcast

Ilham has a conversation with five incredible Solvay women – Daniela Manique, Bijal Mathkar, Natalia Baran, Seung-eun Lee, and Cheryl Staton – who will all be featured in a book soon to be published called Adèle and the Women of Solvay. They talk about the importance of saying yes to opportunities, their passion for education, achieving a good balance between work and their personal lives (including motherhood), their recipe for success and much more. Adèle and the Women of Solvay, which will be published later this month, is about the women whose contributions and achievements, largely unrecognized until now, have shaped Solvay throughout its history. But importantly, it's also about the amazing women at Solvay today who are paving the way to make the company more inclusive, diverse and prosperous. The proceeds from book sales will go to girls' education in less privileged locations around the world.2:36 - Early childhood experiences and saying yes to opportunities13:56 - Passion for education30:57 - Work life balance / imbalance and becoming mothers48:53 - Personal questions from their individual stories59:45 - Recipe for success The women featured in this podcast are all top leaders at Solvay. Daniela Manique is the President of the Global Business Unit Coatis and Head of Latin America. Bijal Mathkar, is the Research & Innovation Director in Vadodara in India. Natalia Baran is a Production Manager/Chemical Engineer at our site in Eindhoven, in the Netherlands. Seung-eun Lee is the Director of the Research and Innovation Center in Seoul in Korea. Cheryl Staton is the Rewards Partner in Princeton, New Jersey, in the United States of America.  For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.solvay.com/podcast

Ilham speaks with Belgian explorers Gilles Denis and Nathan Goffart about their amazing Nanok Expedition, a unique six month triathlon across Greenland consisting of 3 disciplines: ski crossing along the Arctic Circle, kayaking at sea and vertical climbing. But their mission went beyond just exploration: they also collaborated with well-known institutions and universities in Belgium to provide in situ measurements and samples never before collected in such conditions that will further our understanding of climate research. Timestamps1:40 - What is the Nanok expedition8:19 - Scientific aspect of the expedition10:43 - Adapting to the challenges of the journey13:11 - Opening a new path on a 550 meter cliff17:28 - Incredible natural sights20:14 - The power of the AND24:41 - What can businesses learn from exploration?30:00 - Advice to young adventurers and entrepreneurs32:44 - What's next?Gilles Denis is a scientist and a tour guide for expeditions in high latitudes, especially in Greenland where he has been working since 2016. Nathan Goffart is an entrepreneur, an athlete and the managing director of his natural food supplement company. Between April and September 2022, Gilles and Nathan embarked together on a 5 month expedition through the icy and deserted expanses of the ice sheet, along the wild and jagged coast of the south-east of the Land of the Polar Bears ("nanok" or "nanoq" in Inuit language) and among the granite oceans of South Greenland.In preparation for their expedition, they asked themselves two questions: “what is exploring today when there is no land left to discover but rather land to preserve?” and “how can our project contribute to the preservation of the planet?” This led to their decision to join forces with scientists on climate and environmental research, turning their adventure into something more than a sporting challenge. For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.solvay.com/podcast

Did you know that sustainable consumption and production (SDG 12) can bring a lot of growth and economic benefits? Ilham sits down with Jorge Laguna-Celis who leads the One Planet Network, part of the UN Environment Programme, to talk about the importance of SDG 12; the One Planet Network's global strategy for sustainable consumption and production; how businesses can grow and thrive by achieving SDG 12, and much more! Timestamps 1:22 - Upbringing and passion for sustainable development2:36 - Focus on SDG 12 and the 10 year framework of programs on sustainable consumption and production5:14 - What has been achieved and still left to achieve since Rio 20?8:43 - Release of One Planet Network's Global Strategy for Sustainable Consumption and Production13:51 - Circularity and business mindshifts, and reducing inequality20:25 - Harmonizing frameworks15:46 - What was achieved at COP 27?29:59 - What about COP 15 on biodiversity?33:12 - Love of music and playing the guitarJorge Laguna-Celis is a diplomat, an author and internationally renowned expert on global sustainable development policies. Jorge leads the One Planet Network, part of the UN Environment Programme. In this role, he's responsible for driving exciting new actions for achieving SDG 12 to enable sustainable consumption and production. He is the author of numerous columns and publications on issues related to international affairs and sustainable development. His latest book entitled "From Rio+20 to a New Development Agenda: Building a Bridge to a Sustainable Future", was published in 2014 by Routledge. For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.solvay.com/podcast

Did you watch the Netflix documentary Return to Space? Then you will remember one of the stars of the show, former NASA astronaut Doug Hurley! Ilham sits down with Doug to discuss his amazing flight in the SpaceX Dragon rocket, what sparked his passion for flight, the launch of Artemis I, when we'll see humans on Mars, and, most importantly, what businesses can learn from space exploration.While at NASA Doug went to space three times: In 2009, Doug piloted the NASA Space Shuttle Endeavour, and in 2011 he piloted the Space Shuttle Atlantis, which was the final flight of NASA's Space Shuttle program. But that wasn't Doug's final flight: in 2020, he returned to space aboard the SpaceX Dragon rocket. After clocking more than 92 days in space, Doug retired from NASA and now works for Northrop Grumman, which built the two towering motors that powered NASA's Artemis rocket to the moon. In January 2023, Doug was awarded the Congressional Space Medal of Honor by Vice President Kamala Harris for his significant contributions to American space programs.Time stamps1: 46 - Spark for passion for flight3:24 - Experience going to space4: 59 - The SpaceX Dragon mission9: 32 - Focus on safety12:50 - Friendship with fellow astronaut Bob Behnken16:38 - SpaceX ascent and re-entry/splash down19:46 - Bringing hope during covid-1923:05 - Launch of Artemis I27:32 - When will we put humans on Mars?31:26 - Work at Northrop Grumman36:27 - Diversity, equity and inclusion in space exploration39:25 - What can businesses learn from space exploration?41:56 - Devotion to family For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.solvay.com/podcast

When Michelle Brown started her first teaching job at a low income school in Mississippi, she was confronted by the deep inequities in the system and decided to do something about it. Michelle went on to found CommonLit, a non-profit technology company with a mission to close the opportunity gap in education through literacy. Ilham sits down with Michelle to discuss her journey from teacher to tech entrepreneur, and the impact of CommonLit, which is doing so much to improve literacy for students, especially those in low income schools. Time stamps1:32 - Upbringing and inspiration to pursue education3: 32 - First teaching job5:53 - From teacher to tech entrepreneur10:10 - What is CommonLit?14:03 - Impact of CommonLit20:00 - Growth of the program23:33 - Diversity, equity and inclusion 25:48 - What's next? 27:08 - Advice for young entrepreneurs28:13 - Hobbies About Michelle BrownMichelle Brown is the founder and CEO of CommonLit, an innovative and free online educational program that reinvents the way students learn to read. Under Michelle's leadership, CommonLit has grown to over 20 million users and it's having a profound impact on improving literacy across the United States, particularly in low income schools. She is an experienced classroom teacher who has taught in urban and rural environments, and at the university level as a professor of Spanish. For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.solvay.com/podcast

Famed explorer Bertrand Piccard reminds us that if everyone tells you that something is possible, that means your dreams are not big enough! Bertrand made history by flying around the world, first non-stop in a balloon, and more recently in a solar-powered airplane without burning a single drop of fuel. In this podcast, Ilham sits down with Bertrand to discuss his upbringing and what sparked his passion for exploring the unknown, his flight around the world in a solar powered plane, the future of emissions free flight, solutions that are sustainable AND profitable, his advice for you young explorers and entrepreneurs, and most importantly, how to make the impossible possible! Time stamps: 1:26 - Rapid fire questions5:24 - Upbringing and passion for exploring8:10 - Inspiration from his grandfather Auguste Piccard11:16 - Flight in a solar plane around the world17:39 - The future of flight21:32 - Next adventures23:13 - Solar Impulse solutions that are sustainable AND profitable26:11 - Bertrand's latest book: logical AND ecological29:02 - Pret a voter: making legislation and regulation work for sustainable and profitable solutions32:43 - Experience as a psychologist34:04 - Advice for young explorers and entrepreneurs36:28 - Love of kitesurfing For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.solvay.com/podcast

Is the world better off because your business is in it? Paul Polman, one of the top leaders advocating for sustainable businesses, speaks with Ilham about what it takes to build a Net Positive company; how leaders can unlock a company's soul; why empathetic leadership is the key to success; the power of partnerships; the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion, and so much more.  Timestamps 1:22 - Background and passion for sustainable business5:10 - How to be a Net Positive company8:42 - Purpose: unlocking a company's soul13:36 - Power of partnerships19:07 - Empathetic leadership25:30 - Leaving a better world for the next generation27:32 - What can business learn from the arts?Paul Polman is the former CEO of Unilever and one of the foremost leaders in the effort to create sustainable and profitable businesses. While at Unilever he increased his shareholders' returns by 300% while ensuring the company ranked #1 in the world for sustainability for eleven years running. He now runs an organization called Imagine, which advocates for businesses becoming a true force for good. Paul is also the author of Net Positive How Courageous Companies Thrive by Giving More Than They Take. For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.solvay.com/podcast

Professor Katalin Karikó's research led to the creation of the messenger RNA Covid-19 vaccine, which has saved so many lives and helped curb the impact of the pandemic. She has quite literally changed the world! Ilham sits down with Professor Karikó to talk about her invaluable research; her passion for science; her upbringing in Hungary; women in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers; her advice for young scientists, and much more1:42 - Upbringing in Hungary5:26 - Move to the United States7:43 - Development of the Covid-19 vaccine11:23 - mRNA technology as a potential solution for other diseases13:49 - Receiving the covid-19 vaccine - the results of her work15:19 - Story of resilience and determination amid challenges21:15 - Adjusting to almost overnight fame22:50 - Educating the public24:06 - Championing women scientists24:44 - Role models28:28 - Advice to young scientistsProfessor Katalin Karikó is an adjunct professor at the University of Pennsylvania, where she worked for 24 years before joining BioNTech SE in 2013 as a senior VP. She is also professor at University of Szeged, Hungary from where she received her PhD in biochemistry in 1982. For decades, her research has focused on RNA-mediated mechanisms with the ultimate goal of developing mRNA for protein therapy. She investigated RNA-mediated immune activation and together with Drew Weissman discovered that nucleoside modifications suppress the immunogenicity of RNA, which widened the therapeutic potentials of mRNA. Her patent, co-invented with Drew Weissman, was used to create the FDA-approved covid-19 mRNA vaccines by BioNTech/Pfizer and Moderna. Her groundbreaking contribution was to use chemistry to modify the mRNA so that it wouldn't be rejected by the immune system. In the future, her research could be applied to many other diseases such as cancer, influenza, malaria, tuberculosis, and so much more. Professor Karikó has won numerous awards for her incredible work, including the Solvay Prize.  For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.solvay.com/podcast

When Feike Sijbesma became the CEO of Royal DSM, he said that he wanted to run a successful company AND improve the state of the world - and he achieved both! Ilham sat down with Feike to talk about his recipe for success in building a sustainable AND profitable company; his incredible work to reduce hunger and improve food security in Africa and Bangladesh; how to find a company's purpose; his work on climate adaptation; his commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion and more! Feike Sijbesma is the former CEO of DSM. During his time as a CEO, Feike transformed DSM into a company focused on health, nutrition, and materials, and it has been considered a frontrunner in sustainability ever since. And he did all this while tripling DSM's value. He also become a leader in fighting hunger. When he was CEO of DSM, he founded Africa Improved Foods, which is a public-private partnership that provides a scalable and sustainable solution to malnutrition via local production of highly nutritious foods. He was awarded the Humanitarian of the Year Award (United Nations) for this work.  For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.solvay.com/podcast

What does reinvention, resilience and regeneration mean for business? Peter Bakker, the CEO of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), explains! He and Ilham discuss how we can create a more inclusive, more sustainable capitalism; the WBCSD's call to action on climate, equity and nature; the power of partnerships; how chemistry is the key to a more sustainable future; his passion for sustainable business, and much more.  It's time to transform! *note: this podcast was recorded in December 2021 just after COP26 Peter Bakker is the President and CEO of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development, which is a global CEO-led community of the world's leading sustainable businesses. Peter's work has been recognized widely: he has been the recipient of the Clinton Global Citizen Award (2009), the Sustainability Leadership Award (2010), and has even received the Royal Order from the King of the Netherlands for his incredible commitment to helping businesses become more sustainable. For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.solvay.com/podcast

Ilham sits down with Dame Ellen MacArthur - one of the foremost leaders in the effort to enable the circular economy - to discuss her amazing life on the sea, what led her to turn her efforts to the circular economy, how we can change mindsets in corporations, the power of partnerships, and of course - how the circular economy and business growth go hand in hand.At the age of 24, Ellen MacArthur became the youngest person to sail around the world solo, coming in second in the Vendée Globe race. And in 2005, she broke the world record for the fastest solo sailing around the world. For her incredible achievement, she was named a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire. After breaking the world record, she retired from professional sailing to begin an even bigger race: she is now leading the charge to accelerate the transition to a circular economy through the Ellen MacArthur Foundation. For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.solvay.com/podcast

Ilham sits down with the president of the Wildlife Habitat Council Margaret O'Gorman to discuss how protecting biodiversity is good for the planet AND profitability. They talk about her passion for nature; how we can best build a culture of conservation; COP15 on biodiversity; the importance of partnerships and measuring progress; her favorite nature movies and much more! Margaret O'Gorman is the president of the Wildlife Habitat Council. In that role, she works closely with multinational corporations to develop and implement conservation projects that are good for biodiversity AND business alike. She is the author of Strategic Corporate Conservation Planning: A Guide to Meaningful Engagement, which helps companies create a culture of conservation.   For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.solvay.com/podcast

In this episode, Ilham sits down with Stephen Fitzpatrick, CEO of Vertical Aerospace, to discuss some of the latest innovations in urban air mobility, how electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) air taxis will revolutionize the way we travel, what future long-haul emissions-free flight could look like, his tips for great leadership and much more!  For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.solvay.com/podcast

In this episode, Ilham sits down with top climatologist Jean-Pascal van Ypersele to discuss the important role businesses can play in the fight against climate change, the latest IPCC science, how businesses can best adopt the SDG goals, the risk of greenwashing, his passion for science, and much more!Jean-Pascal is a professor of Climate and Environmental Sciences, and Co-Director of the Specialized Master in Science and Management of the Environment at the Université Catholique de Louvain. He is also the former Vice-Chair of the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://www.solvay.com/podcast

Ilham sits down with Nobel prize-winning scientists Professor Steven Chu and Professor Ben Feringa to discuss some of the most exciting innovations in energy, clean mobility, and healthcare; the importance of ensuring that scientific innovation is at the service of humanity; the winner of the 2022 Solvay prize; and how science and chemistry are key to enabling a more sustainable future.Steven Chu is a professor of Molecular and Cellular Physiology at Stanford University and the former US Secretary of Energy. In 1997, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for developing methods to cool and trap atoms with laser lights. Ben Feringa is a Professor at the University of Groningen, and the winner of the 2015 Solvay prize. In 2016, he won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his groundbreaking research on the design and synthesis of molecular machines. They are both part of the jury that chose the winner for the 2022 Solvay prize, Katalin Karikó. For additional details about the podcast, show notes, and access to resources mentioned during the show, please visit https://solvay.com/

"AND is the Future" brings together great minds to address the opportunities and challenges of making businesses both sustainable AND profitable. Hosted by Ilham Kadri, CEO of Solvay.