Impact Journey with Julia S

I have been writing The Money Reckoning blog, untangling money at work, following a groundbreaking team change how they pay themselves.I didn't expect that I'd be tested.I was recently asked to “value my time.” I've been questioning transactional vs gift nonviolent approaches.Before, I would have responded with a rate.Now, here's a chance to actually try something different. But what, and how?So I turned to a mentor, Roni Wiener, a brilliant nonviolent facilitator, who is walking the talk – moving from highly-paid consulting to offering their work as a gift – and sustaining much of their life through gifts.I was fascinated – how would that even work?So I asked Roni for a call, and we recorded our conversation. Follow The Money Reckoning blog series.Watch the video interview with Roni here.THE IMPACT. Roni Wiener teaches groups to make decisions that care for everyone, on transforming collaboration and in partnership with nonviolence organizations like NGL. THE JOURNEY. Roni has moved from highly-paid consulting in the traditional capitalist model to offering their work as a gift – and sustaining their life with gifts.  Here are the lessons I learned from Roni about the critical steps toward working in a gift economy:We're not in a gift economy – but we might be preparing“We cannot actually operate in a gift economy, it is not possible for us to have enough access to gifts to meet needs.”In an exchange culture, money is needed, but money is not a need“Technically, money is not a need. What I really need is food and housing. You could gift me food to care for me. Sadly, our culture is not set up that way.”Knowing my audience: where and who matters“Sometimes it just doesn't make sense. At the local grocery store, I'm not going to start a conversation with them about: are you willing to gift me the groceries?”Before talking to a client, I need to talk to myself “It really helps to have that clarity, because the conversation might already be uncomfortable because we're talking about money, or because we're talking about quite a change from the mainstream.”Getting to numbers – knowing my limits“Am I willing to receive zero? Is that an option? Hold clear limits. Otherwise, you may appear open to receiving nothing – that leads to friction and conflict.”Getting to numbers – not my value, but my needs“I'm not interested in ‘how much is my time worth'? I'm interested in ‘what would be sustainable for me to be able to offer this time as a gift to you?'”Getting to numbers – not yes or no, but getting creative“With one organization, their financial situation fluctuates. This didn't come from me, they proposed it: what if we just look at the end of every month, and we just send you what we have left? Let's try it and see. I don't even know how much money that's gonna be. It was a complete mystery.”Getting to numbers – my tolerance for risk“ These are real consequences if we are not able to pay for things we have committed to paying, like housing. Really think through and not overstretch.” Find the right amount of stretch“If you try to do too much too fast, and you end up not receiving enough money, you may get discouraged with the whole thing. And then you just stop trying.”De-linking giving and receiving“In a true gift economy, there is no link between gifting and receiving. I would gift you something, and receive from somewhere, not from you. That's not possible yet. I'm working to make that link less strong.”Connecting to my privilege and class status“Privilege in some ways makes it easier to have these experiments, because you have financial resources to lean on. And in some ways it's harder, because you're so used to leaning on money as a solution to all problems.”This shift is a lifelong project“ It's a big transition. This touches so many things: scarcity thinking; getting reconnected with generosity, with trust in life; increasing our risk tolerance; engaging with our addiction to comfort.”

THE IMPACT. Elspeth Jones: - Is a non-profit leader, advisor and coach at the intersection of law, leadership and environmental and social impact. - Was born and grew up Wales, is a Welsh speaker, and now lives in Wales with her family, where she enjoys going on adventures and exploring the outdoors. - Initially practiced as a barrister in London and in law firms in Ghana, Hong Kong and Shanghai. - Most recently, was Deputy CEO at the environmental law NGO, ClientEarth, using the power of the law to drive systemic change.  - Was Executive Director of the climate change and sustainable development charity Size of Wales. - Was a trustee for the Sumatran Orangutan Society, and is currently a trustee at the Esmee Fairbarn Foundation.  - Now has her own advisory called Wild Counsel, where she supports those working at the critical intersection of law and environmental and social change with thought partnership ---- THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore: - The evolution of what the law is for: From traditional commercial law to using law for environmental impact, from focus on clients' interests to representing the planet and ecosystems. - Organizational growth and leadership: The challenges of scaling a nonprofit like Client Earth, balancing freedom and creativity with coordination, governance, and risk management, and the leadership challenges in guiding a growing team of lawyers. - The complexities of measuring impact: How to assess success in systemic change when outcomes are often indirect or long-term, and the challenge of defining impact in a field where wins are not always immediately visible. - Lessons from failure and loss: How losing cases can still drive progress by sparking critical conversations and shifting mindsets around the law and environmental responsibility. - The mycelium in her new role: The importance of creating resilient networks and support structures within the legal and nonprofit ecosystems, and exploring the role of coaching, mentoring, and peer learning to amplify collective impact.

I recently completed a 3-day training with Al Gore's Climate Reality Project, where 1000 people came together to train and mobilize toward a net zero future. I didn't quite know what to expect, but two things stand out: 1) being faced with all the facts is intense and overwhelming, there's no shortage of data on the challenges or on the solutions; 2) to process the intense overwhelm, we need spaces and tools to make sense of the pain and the possibility. So I was thankful that the project leaders put me in touch with Liliane, a climate-aware consultant and trauma-informed facilitator. THE IMPACT. Liliane Mavridara: -is a Climate Reality Leader, a Climate Cafe Facilitators trainer with CPA-NA, a Climate For Health Ambassador -synthesizes an eclectic cultural, educational and interdisciplinary background with hands-on professional expertise in transpersonal psychology, personal and spiritual development, women's empowerment, mind-body health, and planetary health -consults and educates on the impact of the climate emergency on community holistic health and wellbeing, and leads peer support circles that nurture relational and social capacity for sense making and purposeful co-transformation of our complex polycrisis THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore: -Climate overwhelm: "We don't have a solution problem; we have a nervous system coregulation challenge" -Community connection: "Connecting back to our cultural roots, creating spaces where people can come together, is the most healing thing we can offer as a service to humanity" -Reconnecting to what matters: "We don't want to live on a miserable planet. We are here to enjoy life, our environment, our friends, our families."

I've noticed that activism is having a moment in places I was not used to seeing it - inside companies. Back in my corporate days, I kept your head down and did my activism at home. Serial rebel Tessa Wernink has been shaking things up since co-founding Fairphone. I met her in her new role at The Undercover Activist. We get deep into employee activism: the dissonance about staying in a job and staying true to values, the role of power, and activism as a spiritual practice. THE IMPACT. Tessa Wernink: -leads The Undercover Activist, an education and research platform that coaches and emboldens young professionals to take constructive action to change their organisations from within -was part of the founding team of Fairphone, turning a campaign for fairer electronics into an impact-driven business model -is co-founder and host of the podcast series, What If We Get It Right? -studied English Literature and International Development, Journalism, Deep Democracy, Non-Violent Resistance and Communications -grew up in Hong Kong, and now lives in Amsterdam with her partner and their three boys THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore: -Tessa's international upbringing: “there is more than one truth” -Starting Fairphone: a rebel questioning systems -Roots of The Undercover Activist: action research, a learning hub -Befriending conflict: “resistance is the energy, not the enemy” -The dissonance: “Should I stay in this job and try to kind of be that person I want to be” -A learning journey: knowing our rights, safe spaces to be uncomfortable, making it personal -Activism and power: the “power shadow” of leaders, “do we need power to have influence?” -Activism as a spiritual practice: “how we get there is where we'll arrive”

What do you get when you cross a bestselling novelist with a masters in regenerative economics and a healthy dose of shamanic practice? This fascinating conversation with the brilliant Manda Scott, creator of Accidental Gods and the Thrutopia Masterclass. THE IMPACT. Manda Scott: - Has been, variously, a veterinary surgeon, veterinary anaesthetist, acupuncturist (people and animals), crime writer, columnist, blogger, economist, and author - Teaches shamanic dreaming, creative writing and concept-based dog training - Is the bestselling author of many books, including the Boudica series, and most recently of the upcoming thrutopia novel Any Human Power, to be released in 2024 - Created Accidental Gods, a podcast and membership program for people and ideas at the edge of regenerative change - Teaches the Thrutopia Masterclass for writers to create inspiring stories that shape our futures - Holds a Masters in Regenerative Economics from Schumacher College THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore: - A different childhood. How a unique upbringing on a rehabilitation center for birds of prey in rural Scotland meant that “being normal was never an option” - A spiritual journey. As a young child, getting curious about pre-Roman shamanic cultures of her land - Listening. Asking “what do you want of me?” and following the answer, creating Accidental Gods  - Writing Thrutopia. Writing a future beyond capitalism and extraction, challenging the publishing world - What are we here for? Not to pay bills and die. What something new and different could look like

For any of us working in sustainability, land guardianship is crucial to climate action. Yet the ways to support stewards of the land - Indigenous peoples and local communities - are not obvious. I learned so much from Nonette Royo from the Tenure Facility: she grew up seeing violence and land grabs in her home in the Philippines, and became a human rights lawyer to protect the protectors of land. THE IMPACT. Nonette Royo: - Is a human rights and environment lawyer, committed to supporting the aspirations of Indigenous and local peoples and helping forest communities protect their people and land - Is currently Executive Director at The International Land and Forest Tenure Facility, an organization focused on securing land and forest rights for Indigenous Peoples and local communities - Gave a TED talk on why Indigenous forest guardianship is crucial to climate action - Has over 30 years experience advising funds dedicated to Indigenous Peoples and local communities in forest and climate programmes - Co-founded and led the Samdhana Institute and set up several NGOs focusing on advancing Indigenous Peoples and women's legal rights, helping design and implement funding portfolios for local communities and Indigenous Peoples in the global south THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore: - Origins of Nonette's life and work in the Philippines: a "land of promise" and broken promises - Becoming a lawyer and the challenge for Indigenous communities: traditions that don't believe in land ownership in a capitalist system that demands deeds and titles - Bringing alternative law solutions to bridge the two worlds: through basic human rights, ancestral domain law, and Indigenous People's Collective Titles - The hardest part of this work: bringing communities together to heal stories and land - The key to climate change: land rights in conversation with stewards of the land As always, send any feedback and ideas to impactjourneypodcast at gmail dot com.

What did it take to start a first-of-its-kind sustainable business section at The Guardian? And why leave the big city life to live in a monastic community? Journalist Jo Confino describes his journey from covering finance and business to the next frontier in this time of crisis: mindfulness, compassion, feeling our suffering. As the podcast Jo hosts says: the way out is in. THE IMPACT. Jo Confino: - Bridges many worlds: executive coach, facilitator, journalist, and sustainability expert. - Was Executive Editor of What's Working at HuffPo, executive editor of The Guardian and chairman and editorial director of Guardian Sustainable Business - Is a Partner at Leaders' Quest, partnered with UN Development Programme on a consciousness and systems change initiative, and sits on the Boards of various climate organizations. - Is a mindfulness advocate, has worked closely with Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh and his monastic community in France Plum Village, and now hosts their podcast The Way Out Is In. - Gained his MSc in Responsibility and Business Practice at the University of Bath. THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore: - Early influences: the desire to make sense of the world - Changing things at the edge: how he did that at Guardian Sustainable Business - The next edge for anyone working on the climate and social crises: consciousness - What does climate have to do with mindfulness: getting personal, feeling the feelings - The wisdom of Thich Nhat Hanh: connecting to our own suffering and the suffering of the world - The thousands of choices we can make every day

Since I've joined the board of Action Against Hunger, I've been on a learning journey. How big of a deal is the global food crisis? Why hasn't it been solved? What can we do about global hunger? Of course, my preferred way to learn is to call up experts and together explore tough questions on the podcast. THE IMPACT. - Cathryn Dhanatya, PhD, works at the intersection of health and research and advocacy, and sits on the Advisory Board of Action Against Hunger. She leads Growing Good, was the Chief Scientific Administrative Officer for Stand Up To Cancer, and held leadership research positions at UCLA and USC. - Michelle Brown has a career in advocacy and development. After many years as the UN representative for Refugees International, she is now the Associate Director of Advocacy for Action Against Hunger. - Get more information on the work of Action Against Hunger and support via my fundraising page. THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore: - Influences: what led both Cathryn and Michelle to work in international development and advocacy - Listening to communities: getting close means learning as much as helping - Hunger: there isn't a lack of food; there is a lack of distribution that's fair and equitable - Proximity: understanding hunger close to home and around the world, and how all of it affects us - Beyond hunger: not just about food, it's about access to health, clean water, education, livelihoods and income - The climate crisis: and how it is inextricably linked to the hunger crisis - Systemic change: transferring power to local communities

In my attempts to connect with people on some of our most important issues like climate change, I have been missing a huge pathway - faith. These issues need hard conversations, and hard conversations need us to tap into more than facts and fears. My conversation with Dekila opens the door to bringing the sacred back into science. THE IMPACT. Dekila Chungyalpa: - is the founder and director of the Loka Initiative, an interdisciplinary capacity building and outreach platform at the University of Wisconsin - Madison for faith leaders and culture keepers of Indigenous traditions who work on environmental and climate issues. Its mission is to support faith-led environmental and climate action efforts, locally and around the world, through collaborations on project design and management, capacity building, training, media and public outreach. Their vision: that inner, community, and planetary resilience are interdependent and that we cannot achieve any one of these goals without working on the other two. To sign up for their quarterly newsletter: https://go.wisc.edu/lokanewsletter - founded and led Sacred Earth, a faith-based conservation program at the World Wildlife Fund; at WWF-US she was also Director for the Greater Mekong Program - serves as the environmental adviser for His Holiness the 17th Karmapa, head of the Karma Kagyu School of Tibetan Buddhism. - received the prestigious Yale McCluskey Award in 2014 for conservation innovation - recently published in Psychology Today on how to cope with eco-anxiety THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore: - Her path to wholeness: bridging her spiritual heritage growing up in Sikkim in a Tibetan Buddhist community and her environmental conservation background, after being “an environmentalist by day and a person of faith by night” - Eco-anxiety amidst success: her own path through the urgency and panic while being externally “successful” at the World Wildlife Fund - People and planet: why faith leaders are uniquely positioned to lead us in spiritual truth-seeking on some of our toughest issues

THE IMPACT. Dr. Rita Sambruna: - Is an astrophysicist working on black holes in galaxies, and the Deputy Director of the Astrophysics Division at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Maryland. She was awarded the NASA Extraordinary Achievement Medal in 2019 for her work at NASA and service to the profession. - At Goddard, she Leads the DEIA (diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility) activities of her Division to improve diversity in astrophysics, connected to a broader new NASA program called Mission Equity - Previously was a professor of Physics and Astronomy at George Mason University, in Fairfax, Virginia - Is a certified yoga teacher, with specialization in Yoga for Cancer - Is trained in Applied Behavior Analysis and its applications to non-human animals, and lives with 5 parrots THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore: - Two merging inspirations from childhood: discovering the universe, and a humanitarian focus - A take on billionaires going into space when we have other problems on Earth - Planning in decades vs. bridging near-term needs - The biggest challenge: changing culture, not only policies and numbers - We are all made of star stuff: that is social justice

From the Brundtland Report in the 1980s to the Super Bowl in 2021, Norway has led on sustainability. How does this small country have such a big impact? Hege Barnes takes us behind the scenes at Innovation Norway and one country’s sustainable focus. THE IMPACT. Hege Barnes: - Is Regional Director Americas for Innovation Norway, the Norwegian government's entity for trade and industry, where she assists Norwegian companies and entrepreneurs enter and grow successfully in the Americas, and promotes Norway as a travel destination. - Sits on the board of Nordic Innovation House-New York and the Norwegian American Chamber of Commerce. - Has a Masters in International Business and a love for all aspects of creative development, innovative thinking and working with people and companies. THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore: - Growing up in Norway: wanting to leave yet wanting to take the pride and values - A holistic sustainability focus: in tourism, industry, and investment - Protecting nature: a good place to live is a good place to visit - The Super Bowl ad with Will Ferrell: a rivalry with Norway and reactions

In sustainability, we’re trying to make the world better... but a better world by whom and for whom? Heather Mak asks these uncomfortable yet instrumental questions with co-founding Diversity in Sustainability. THE IMPACT. Heather Mak: - Is co-founder of Diversity in Sustainability, a membership organization aimed at increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the field of sustainability. - Has spent almost 15 years consulting on sustainability issues and previously held sustainability roles at Deloitte, Tim Hortons, Retail Council of Canada, SustainAbility, and Canadian Business for Social Responsibility. - Has lectured at the MBA level at the Schulich School of Business, York University, and regularly mentors students and new immigrants who are interested in the field. - Holds a B.Com with Distinction in Marketing from McGill University, and an MBA with Honours in Sustainability from Schulich School of Business, York University. - Is a mom, wife, sister, and daughter to two Chinese immigrants to Canada. THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore: - Early influences: following environmental crises in school - Early barriers: not seeing people like herself in the field - The many needs for diversity in sustainability: supporting career paths, addressing historical social issues, gathering data and stories, creating better outcomes - Challenges and learnings in the last year: creating a network of networks, creating a tent across cultural and country differences

THE IMPACT. Jessica:Is the founder of Reconsidered, a boutique social impact consultancy that publishes a curated sustainable business newsletter and jobs boardLed content for the Fashion for Good Experience; managed corporate responsibility at PVHFounded a social enterprise selling artisan goods made in CambodiaWorked as a freelance consultant and travel writer across nearly 60 countriesHas a degree in History from Princeton and an MBA from NYU’s Stern School of BusinessTHE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:The origins of three paths that came together: media, fashion, sustainabilityLearning from media: the power of artful and vulnerable storytellingLearning from fashion: the potential for positive impact with small artisans and corporate scaleLearning from sustainability: making the business case AND the emotional caseCreating Reconsidered: filling gaps for people working in the impact space

THE IMPACT. Cecile:Is Head of Impact and Sustainability at Pitango Venture Capital, Israel’s largest VC fund, where she merges technology, profit and social impactCo-founded GITA, the Global Impact Tech Alliance, a new organization to empower tech innovations to achieve the SDGsPreviously founded Impact First Investments, Israel’s first impact investing company; managed the Noaber Foundation’s Israeli investments for over 14 years, and held executive positions at several companies THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:Early influences - martial arts, entrepreneurship, rebalancing capital and valuesImpact investing, from 20 years ago to now - from its own asset class to a mindset shiftFalse tradeoffs in impact investing - profit vs. impact, people vs. planet, incremental vs. systemicTwo types of companies - impact natives and impact migrantsA surprise on the people side - you don’t need to convince companies or investors

THE IMPACT. Tim Leberecht:Is co-founder and co-CEO of the House of Beautiful Business, a global think tank and community bringing together leaders and changemakers to make humans more human and business more beautifulWas chief marketing officer of NBBJ, a global design and architecture firm; and chief marketing officer of product design and innovation consultancy Frog DesignHas several popular TED Talks, including “3 Ways to (Usefully) Lose Control of Your Brand” and most recently “4 Ways to Build a Human Company in the Age of Machines”Is the author of the book The Business Romantic, and most recently, The End of WinningTHE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:Early influences - art, creativity, curation, creating spaces and experiencesCreating the House - a secret society, an experiment to put beauty at the center of businessA challenge to bridge - words / ideas and action / specificityThinking about our role - a thought leader vs. a critic and challengerAdapting - creating experiences and intimacy from a physical space to a metaphorical space

THE IMPACT. Femke Bartels:Is Managing Director of THNK School for Creative Leadership, a purpose-driven social enterprise with transformative programs to develop leaders to solve the world’s greatest challengesWorked for Greenpeace for 17 years in many roles, including Campaign Director, Global Forest Network Director, Global Director of Strategy and Planning, and Executive Director of Greenpeace MexicoServed as a policy advisor to the European Parliament and the Dutch Ministry of EnvironmentStudied Political Sciences and International Relations at the University of Amsterdam, and has a Master of Public Administration at the University of TwenteTHE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:Origins as a changemaker: “chicken is chicken?”Joining Greenpeace as a campaigner: “they were looking for me”Societal change: “what are your motivators?”Collective leadership: “ordinary people doing extraordinary things”, “connection over polarization”Complex leadership: “comfortable not knowing”, “courage is not the absence of fear”

THE IMPACT. Tarlin:Leads Global Programs and Experiences at Synergos for the Global Philanthropists Circle (GPC), a network of leading philanthropic families committed to becoming more effective social investorsHas led Synergos’ series on Dismantling Systemic Racism (first and second sessions, and videos one two and three)Spearheaded leadership roles in youth organizations on issues like income inequality, racial divides, and societal stigmas against the homeless and/or terminally illHas spent time on 6 continents, exposed to many cultural backgrounds and schools of thoughtHolds a B.A. in Theology from the University of St. ThomasTHE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:Early influences - storytelling and travel, from theology to events to philanthropyRacial equity - creating a space to challenge assumptions and share storiesHow to hold a strong space - allowing for discomfort while bringing in positive touchstonesA long-term view on systemic racism - making a commitment and acknowledging privilege

THE IMPACT. Swati:Is Managing Director of Synergos Advisory, where she advises foundations, philanthropists, and companies around the world. Synergos is a global non-profit that brings people together to solve complex problems of poverty.Was a Manager at PwC Advisory, where she advised clients on topics like payments and banking, financial inclusion, and anti-corruptionWorked with the UN Global Compact on developing Compass, a guide for companies to align their strategies with the Sustainable Development Goals and assess their contributionsBrings experience in investing from Acumen Fund, and growth equity at General AtlanticReceive a BA from Franklin and Marshall College, and a Master of International Affairs from Columbia UniversityTHE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:Early influences - a story of ancestors in Bihar, IndiaSeeing injustice - in childhood, in being an immigrant, in the private sector, in COVID Listening to the most vulnerable - a key ingredient for moral leadership and systemic changeInvesting in people - the radical potential for philanthropy to create a more just world

THE IMPACT. Duncan:Is a cleantech and sustainability entrepreneur and venture investorIs founder and CEO of Clim8, a digital platform for sustainable investment, focused on themes including clean energy, clean technology, electric mobility, sustainable food and clean waterAs Founder CEO raised over $100m as he built cleantech companies in biofuels, plastics recycling, batteries, smart composites Started in venture capital with top tier venture fund TCVC in London, Silicon Valley and ParisHas a Master of Laws degree from Cambridge University, and an MBA from INSEAD THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:Bringing two lives together -- investing and sustainable cleantechGood business sense -- investing in sustainability and starting environmental businessesPutting our savings to work -- how we can all make a difference on climate with our moneyThe awareness challenge -- starting with savings and pensions to influence trillions

THE IMPACT. Veronica:Is co-founder of Dinner Confidential, a brave space in over 25 cities worldwide, from NYC to Berlin to Tokyo, for women to talk confidentially about topics like fear and control. They recently launched their approach as a course on confident and compassionate conversations.Is a Certified Professional Coach with Guided and with her own practice, Neuro-Linguistics Programming (NLP) Practitioner, and Reiki Practitioner.Has traveled the world as a researcher at ?What If! Innovation, Flamingo, and The Wellbeing Project.Is from Venezuela, has a BS in business from Universidad Metropolitana, and a MA from Emerson College.THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:Curiosity about people - growing up in Venezuela, seeing different religions and culturesSeeking intimacy and belonging - creating Dinner Confidential in a moment of seeking connectionIngredients for connection - a safe structured space, stories not opinions, no judgment or adviceThe duality of what we need now - harder conversations and lighter joy, expressing and listening, confident and compassionate conversations

THE IMPACT. Christopher Marquis:Is SC Johnson Professor in Sustainable Global Enterprise at Cornell University; has a PhD in sociology and business administration from the University of Michigan, and a background in financial services, including as VP and technology manager at J.P. Morgan ChaseIs author of the new book, Better Business: How the B Corp Movement is Remaking CapitalismRecently published the cover story of the Stanford Social Innovation Review article called “The B Corp Movement Goes Big”THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:A circuitous path - from history to financial services to academia, focused on social impactTwo advantages of B Corps - solving the measurement challenge and the legal challenge Going mainstream - the B Corp model expanding to big companies, impact investing, consumers Better business - long-term orientation, easier hiring, working together on our toughest challengesA big thanks to Chris. You can follow his recent writings on business and society on Forbes and Medium.

THE IMPACT. Nora Wilhelm:Co-founded collaboratio helvetica, an initiative that catalyses systemic change towards the societal renewal of SwitzerlandHas a background in youth engagement and active citizenship, including with the European Youth Parliament as president for Switzerland, with the World Economic Forum as a Global Shaper, and with UNESCO as a Youth CatalyzerWas recognised for her outstanding achievements by various awards, the Swiss government, and spoke at events such as the Conference of Swiss Development Cooperation and TEDxWas the youngest participant of Presencing Institute Advanced Program on Ecosystem LeadershipIs pursuing a Master’s degree in Political Science at the University of Bern, and holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Affairs at the University of St. GallenSpeaks English, French, German, and SpanishTHE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:From anger to action: being useful by starting close to homeWorking at different levels: local, national, internationalInner work and outer work: asking the hard questions of the self, the organization, the systemSeeing blind spots to see results: applying the inner work to listen better in the Gender Lab

THE IMPACT. Virginia:Is CEO of Dopper, the Dutch B Corp the mission to reduce plastic pollution in our oceans and bring clean drinking water where it's needed. Their initiatives include Dopper Wave, a pledge against single-use plastic, and working on access to clean water in Nepal.Was CMO at Fresh & Rebel and SitecomStarted her career as a journalist and editor at Caras magazine in ArgentinaHas a degree in Communication Science from Universidad de Ciencias Empresariales y SocialesSpeaks Dutch, Spanish, along with EnglishTHE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:Growing up in Argentina: bringing supplies to at-need regions and telling the storiesCombining passion and career: coming back to a childhood interest after 17 years in marketingThe multi-part mission of Dopper: reducing plastic and providing access to clean drinking waterHow all Dopper efforts are interlinked: from Cradle2Cradle certification to “best place to work”The challenge of behavior change and what we’ve learned from solidarity in the coronavirus crisisPositioning a big challenge: communicating both what you’re “for” and what you’re “against”

THE IMPACT. Pim:At Corporate Rebels, he and his cofounder Joost quit their frustrating corporate jobs and set out to travel the globe to visit the world’s most inspiring organizations. Is checking off a Bucket List of pioneers and sharing learnings through their blog, talks, and consultancy work around the world. Is the author of a new book called Corporate Rebels: Make Work More Fun.THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:The origins of Corporate Rebels: both a frustration with work and a possibility to make it better. Observers and storytellers: Corporate Rebels’ dual role in exploring pioneering companies.Eight trends in better working: including Purpose, Network of Teams, Freedom & Trust.How to get there from here: experimentation, internal reflection, authenticity in not being perfect. 

THE IMPACT. Eva Gouwens is:CEO of Fairphone, which is leading a movement for fairer electronics, and making a positive impact across the value chain in mining, design, manufacturing and life cycle, while expanding the market for products that put ethical values firstWas First Lady of Chocolate at Tony’s Chocolonely, the iconic chocolate brand on a mission to make 100% slave-free chocolateIs a veteran of the food industry in marketing at brands like Sara Lee and MarsHas a degree in Economics from Wageningen University in the NetherlandsTHE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:A career theme: working to create tangible products, from food to electronicsBridging worlds: bringing multinational business experience to a social enterpriseChallenging the electronics industry step by step: how it’s made, who makes it, how we use itThe metrics of success for a movement: phones sold, as well as with industry followers Leadership: from the front by example, and from the back empowering a team

THE IMPACT. Mette:Is CEO of Social Impact Company Too Good To Go, leading a team of 600 Waste Warriors in the fight against food waste, and an app with over 22M users in Europe, saving 36+M meals to dateWas co-founder of the fitness community and app Endomondo, with the mission of making fitness fun again, which was sold to American sportswear brand Under Armour in 2015Previously worked at McKinsey & CoHas a master's degree in political science from Aarhus UniversityTHE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:Early influences: entrepreneurship and being open to unlikely opportunitiesThe right combo for Too Good To Go: a real problem to solve plus a viable business modelTwo types of impact: direct with the app and marketplace, indirect with a movement to create awarenessManaging tradeoffs in a growing impact business: a win-win business model, finding mission-aligned investors, hiring mission-aligned peopleHow coronavirus has changed food: rocked food supply chains, yet increased respect for food

THE IMPACT. Lauren Sorkin:Is Acting Executive Director of the Global Resilient Cities Network, supporting cities and their Chief Resilience Officers in the face of complex challenges, where she has built upon the legacy of the 100 Resilient Cities ProgramLeads a speaker series, Cities on the Frontlines, sharing knowledge for city responses to the COVID-19 crisisWorked with the Asian Development Bank to develop its first climate change investment planLed knowledge management for two USAID programs: the Eco-Asia Clean Devt and Climate, and the Initiative for Conservation in the Andean AmazonWorked with the Worldwatch Institute on their State of the World series and published work on biofuels, climate change, infant mortality and HIV/AIDSHolds a BA in International Relations from Tufts, and a MS in Environment and Development from the London School of EconomicsIs a trained yoga instructor and health counselorTHE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:Integrating early influences: a family focus on community and a passion for the environmentThe challenge of building coalitions to solve complex challenges: there’s no such thing as the smartest person in the roomChief resilience officers: investing in people who see holistic strengths and weaknessesThe value of resilience in a city: a cross-functional view, a senior ability to convene, and a medium term view removed from politics

THE IMPACT. Regina:Is co-founder of Black Women Talk Tech, a collective of black women tech founders focused on building billion dollar startups, which has now hosted four Roadmap to Billions conferences to give voice and provide strategy and opportunities.Is CEO and founder of TresseNoire, the first beauty booking platform designed for time-starved multicultural professionals, also called the “Uber of black natural hair”Spent about a decade in retail merchandising and marketing at Macy’s and The Apparel Group, and was a consultant at MonitorHas an MBA in marketing and entrepreneurship from Kellogg School of ManagementTHE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:Early influences: entrepreneurship, fashion & beauty, and Jem & the HologramsMaking the leap to start a business: making money for others vs. yourselfSeizing a systemic opportunity in the market: creating a community, network, and safe spaceThe opportunity in investing in black women entrepreneurs: a big market, solving deep-rooted problems, better innovationThe strengths of a community during this crisis: resources and funding, plus support and self-care

THE IMPACT. Katrin Muff:Is Director of the Institute for Business Sustainability, Partner at the Int’l Center for Corporate Governance, President of the Association at Positive Impact RatingIs Professor of Practice of sustainability and leadership at LUISS Business SchoolAuthor of books including the Five Superpowers of Co-CreatorsWas Dean of Business School Lausanne, and led research in sustainability and responsibilityHas two decades of international strategy and management experience at ALCOA, Procter & Gamble, Schindler Lifts and Yupango THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:Redefining the MBA: the role of business school and responsible leadershipThe secret of success to co-creating a vision: collaborative global stakeholder engagementThe SDGs for companies: both an opportunity for innovation and a risk of greenwashingLearning from the superpowers of co-creators: our tensions and conflicts are actually overstretched strengths

THE IMPACT. Sandrine and Aaron are co-leads of the Wellbeing Project, a global initiative co-created with Ashoka, Esalen, Impact Hub, Porticus, the Skoll Foundation and Synergos, catalysing a culture of inner wellbeing for all changemakers.Aaron Pereira is an Ashoka Fellow, a Skoll Scholar, and a WEF Young Global Leader. He has been involved in social change for over 20 years spanning work from engaging people in their communities, to social finance, to urban development.  He loves living between France and India.Sandrine Woitrin worked for over ten years in the retail and restaurant business. She was part of the opening team of Starbucks in Spain and France, then helped create the CSR department of Grupo Vips and Starbucks Spain and France. She studied Naturopathy and is passionate about alternative therapies. THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:Backgrounds in volunteering and community orientation leading to social entrepreneurshipAaron’s personal story of burnout, and the connection between inner and outer workCreating a culture of wellbeing - individually and collectivelyOne outcome is awareness - choosing what wave to catch instead of taking every waveA big thanks to Aaron and Sandrine. You can follow The Wellbeing Project on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn.

THE IMPACT. Kely:Was born in Brazil and raised in NYC, as the oldest daughter of soccer legend PeléAttended the Parsons School of Design and has worked as an editorial, portrait and social commentary photographer, creative director and producer of multi-media and art projectsIs President and Founder of the Nascimento Foundation, the family foundation with the mission to harness the potential of sports and the arts to build and promote sustainable peaceIs director of Warriors of a Beautiful Game, a documentary film and collaborative project in support of the global movement of women in football Is a proud Ambassador for the Global Goals World Cup, the women’s activist tournament turning the 17 UN SDGs into a sport THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:Growing up seeing the impact of both sports and arts as an emotional connector to people’s livesOne story of one girl trying to play soccer that led to the making of a documentary filmShifting public opinion through bottom-up and top-down influence toward transparencyAdvocating for equal treatment to grow an entire sport globallyA big thanks to Kely. You can follow her work in the links and on Twitter @CasaKely.

THE IMPACT. James Weinberg:Is CEO of FUSE Corps, a US nonprofit placing professionals into local governments to address the biggest challenges facing urban communitiesWas co-founder of AchieveMission, a consulting firm increasing impact by improving leadership developmentServed as the national development director at BELL, a tutoring and mentoring programWas the founding executive director of the Homeless Children’s Education Fund, working to ensure that children who are homeless have increased access to educational opportunitiesHas an M.S. in public policy and management from Carnegie Mellon, and a bachelor’s in psychology and classics from TuftsTHE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:A multi-generational view to big societal challenges: we may not solve them in our lifetimeA human-centered theory of change: the right person in the right place at the right timeThe birth of Fuse Corps: tearing down silos and supporting local communitiesInnovating in local government: finding humble adaptable leaders and giving them room to maneuver

THE IMPACT. Ryan Gellert:Is General Manager EMEA at Patagonia, overseeing sales, marketing, sustainability and operations through the regionPreviously spent 15 years at Black Diamond Equipment, in roles including Brand President, VP of Supply Chain Management and Managing Director of Black Diamond AsiaHolds a J.D. from the University of Utah; an M.B.A. from Florida Institute of Technology; and a B.S.B.A. in Finance from the University of North Carolina CharlotteTHE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:Ryan’s early influences of sports and social justiceAdapting global issues to local markets in EuropeThe story of Patagonia from reducing impact to becoming an activist companyThe challenge for other companies wanting to follow Patagonia’s lead: figure out what you believe, and what you’re willing to doPractical ways Patagonia engages and empowers employees to be part of the changeYou can follow Patagonia’s work of Patagonia online, Action Works, Worn Wear, and 1% for the Planet.

THE IMPACT. Nick Grossman:Is partner at Union Square Ventures, the venture capital firm, where he invests in internet applications and infrastructureLed an incubator for startups at the intersection of cities and data at OpenPlans, with a focus on cultivating open source communities, building open data platforms, and supporting open standards effortsWas a project manager at the Project for Public Spaces, a nonprofit to create public spaces and stronger communitiesCo-founded Streetsblog, NYC’s hub for transportation, which helped catalyze the movement to reform policies to make the city more walkable, bikeable and transit-friendlyHas a degree in Urban Studies from Stanford, and was a visiting scholar at the MIT Media Lab THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:The parallels between the physical and the digital worlds we move inThe tradeoff between top-down and bottom-up planning, aka the Robert Moses vs. the Jane Jacobs approach in cities and onlineThe opportunity to use the internet to make life better in education and healthcareThe challenge of mission-driven companies executing in a for-profit contextThe hope and energy in supporting startup foundersYou can follow Nick on twitter @nickgrossman and on his personal website and blog.

THE IMPACT. Dr. Mairi-Jane Fox:Is Professor at Regis College, where she is Director of SEED Sustainable Economic and Enterprise Development InstituteHas a Ph.D. in Natural Resources and Environment from the University of Vermont and a M.S. in Ecological Economics from the University of EdinburghResearched sustainable impact investing, regenerative business and entrepreneurship, and ecological economicsPresented a new perspective on the economy in her TedX talk called “the answer is more car accidents and cancers”Has worked as a sustainability consultant for the extractive and finance industry and mentored entrepreneursTaught at K-12 Colorado charter schools, Colorado State University and Champlain CollegeTHE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:The advantages of being an outsider and not belonging to have a new perspectiveWhat is ecological economics, and how it’s different to the neoclassical economics we knowThe nature of the economy and GDP - we designed it, we can redesign itOur role in this moment: “hospicing” the old way and “midwifing” the new

THE IMPACT. Chad:Is on a mission to make sustainable investing mainstreamFounder and CEO of Third Economy, a sustainable investment advisoryHelped establish BlackRock’s Investment Stewardship and Sustainable Investing teams, as a Managing Director at the world’s largest asset managerTHE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:How an environmentalist went into investingThe difference between ESG and impact investing, and a framework to analyze sustainable investmentsThe responsibility of large asset managers like BlackRock, and the origins of the CEO letterThe challenge of disclosure to understand the impact of big vs. small companiesA big thanks to Chad. You can follow his work on @eco4ces.

THE IMPACT. Julia:Is Professor of Practice at Stanford University and Executive Director of Stanford's Change Leadership for Sustainability Program.Is Founder and CEO of Resilience in Action, where she helps 21st century leaders cultivate resilience in their lives, organizations and sectors, leading resilience journeys to dynamic natural environments like the Peruvian Amazon.Was Executive Director of the Lemelson Foundation, a nonprofit guiding investment in technology, inventors and social enterprises in the U.S and developing countries.At World Wildlife Fund, collaborated with Unilever and WWF to develop and launch the Marine Stewardship Council, a global partnership for certification of fisheries and sustainable seafood.Holds a B.A. in Human Biology and a minor in African Studies from Stanford, and a Masters from the University of Sussex in International Development Studies Was a Fulbright and Marshall Scholar, and speaks French, Spanish and Kiswahili.THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:Where it began - growing up in nature and a challenging family historyA breadth and depth of interests - from environment and ecology to social science and businessThe CAN framework for resilience - Connect, Adapt, Innovate - learning from ecology, psychology, and the militaryManaging complexity in a world tuned to simple solutions

THE IMPACT. Andrea is:Head of creative strategy at Arkage, a “post-digital agency” and B Corp in Italy, which creates innovative campaigns for companies like Fiat and BNL bankHost of the Bernoccolo podcast, and frequent philosopher on trends in digital and beyondA graduate in Political Science of Rome’s La Sapienza UniversityTHE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:How political science and communication are two sides of the same coinResponsibilities of communication to reflect and also elevate societyBridging and bringing trends from abroad to ItalyYou can follow his work on Twitter @andrea_ciulu.

THE IMPACT. Simon:Is Coordinator of the Global Alliance for Climate Smart Agriculture at the UN Food and Agriculture Organization in Rome, a multi-stakeholder platform to improve food security, nutrition and resilience in the face of climate change.Worked in Australia for local and federal government on sustainability in water and natural resources.Has a Masters in Environmental Science at the University of Sydney, and a Bachelors degree in Mathematics and Statistics from the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile.THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:How he got from Chile to Australia to ItalyWorking in the private sector to the federal government to the local council to now for an inter-governmental agencyBeing yourself in a serious organization to create trust and find champions

Coming from the annual gathering of sustainability leaders at BSR19, this bonus episode brings highlights of the state of sustainable business and words of inspiration from the most compelling hidden heroes.

THE IMPACT. Kitty:Is a physicist, artist, maker, fashion designer and musicianManages the Bay Area Microsoft Garage, a program that drives a culture of innovationHas a Ph.D. in Applied Physics from Harvard University and a M.Sci., B.A. and M.A. in Natural Sciences from the University of Cambridge where she worked at the famous Cavendish LabHas worked on quantum computing, AI and machine learning, wearable technology, silicon photonics, quantum mechanics, open-source hardware, 3D printingPursues the arts like painting, music, graphic novels, and fashion design (she even presented her collection at San Francisco Fashion Week and recently launched her fashion brand Art by Physicist)THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:Her why: Pursuing both science and art to understand the world and create a more beautiful worldHer growth: Balancing breadth and depth as a multidisciplinary professionalHer proudest moments: Bringing people together to solve problems in the world's largest private hackathon, open-sourcing innovations to make fashion more sustainable

THE IMPACT. Heike:Is Head of Investor Relations and New Products at the World Bank, which she joined in 2000Most recently celebrated the 10-year anniversary event of the green bond market that the World Bank started, with the theme: ‘from evolution to revolution’ to highlight the pace of changePreviously worked at the German development agency Kreditanstalt fuer Wiederaufbau (KfW)THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:The unique role of the World Bank, an international development organization owned by 189 countries, bridging capital markets and global needsThe human side of investor relations, how talking to investors is talking to peopleObserving change over the long term, from evolution to revolutionFinding champions in different organizations to create tipping pointsA big thanks to Heike. You can follow her work at worldbank.org and find the projects referenced here:Bonds for Sustainable Development - newsletter and websiteBeyond Green: Building Sustainable Capital Markets10-year green bond anniversaryVideos, including project videos

THE IMPACT. Bruno is:- North America CEO at CDP, a nonprofit that runs the global environmental disclosure system for investors, companies, cities, states and regions to manage their environmental impacts- Previously was Chief Sustainability Officer for NRG Energy, and director of sustainability and social responsibility at Dell- Professor and senior sustainability scholar at Arizona StateTHE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:- Developing an appreciation for balance in nature and in organizations- How the 90’s disruption of the internet is similar to the current disruption of sustainability- Going from a reactive change management role to proactively intentionally guiding change- Having a longitudinal lens that shows what’s possible in every sector and geographyA big thanks to Bruno! You can follow his work at cdp.net and on Twitter @bruno68.

THE IMPACT. Aron is:- Recognized globally as an authority on sustainable business- CEO of BSR, or Business for Social Responsibility, the long-running sustainability network and consultancy, where he advises senior executives on social and environmental issues- On advisory boards at Marks & Spencer and SAP, and previously also at AXA, Shell, and Nike- Director of the Natural Capital Coalition, the International Integrated Reporting Council, and We Mean BusinessTHE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:- How sustainability in business has evolved in the last 25 years- A shift in business, from sitting on the sidelines to taking a stand on global challenges- Balancing urgency and patience- Transforming the individual vs. the organization- Leading from the head vs. from the heart- Overcoming fear with faith in the futureA big thanks to Aron. You can follow his work on BSR.org and on Twitter @aroncramer.

THE IMPACT. Joanne Sprague has a deep background in social impact, from the Peace Corps to international development to LGBT-ally-ship at Friendfactor. She now manages social impact partnerships with Facebook, where her work includes initiatives from making the platform more effective for nonprofits to leveraging VR as a medium for empathy and connection.THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:The link between business and social changeChanging minds and hearts online and offlineBeing a big fish in a small pool vs. a small fish in a big poolThe importance of staying uncomfortable

THE IMPACT. Margot:Is founder of My Strong Home, a benefit corporation that uses insurance-based financing to fund climate resilienceIs a former Senior Associate Director at The Rockefeller Foundation, where she focused on economic development program initiatives, and literally wrote the book on impact investingReceived her Masters in Public Affairs from the Woodrow Wilson School at Princeton, and her BA in International Relations from Stanford UniversityTHE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:Becoming an activist in middle school after watching the movie Dirty DancingToggling between the 40,000-foot and the 3-inch view of impactFinding satisfaction in playing the “inside-outside” game simultaneouslyHow two activists raise kids in this urgent time

THE IMPACT. Dr. Megan Jones Bell:Is Chief Science Officer at Headspace, the meditation app now used by almost 60 million peopleWas previously chief science officer and founding team member at LanternFocuses on making mental healthcare more effective, more affordable, and more accessible while changing the culture around mental health and wellnessIs consulting assistant professor at Stanford University Has a master’s degree and doctorate in clinical psychology from PGSP-Stanford UniversityTHE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:Integrating both positive and challenging forces of childhood into a careerBalancing the certainty of knowing the direction and the uncertainty of not having a paved pathThe freedom of letting go of expectations and being yourselfHow we could create more mindful organizations and societies

THE IMPACT. Jennifer Splansky Juster:Is Executive Director of FSG’s Collective Impact Forum, an initiative of FSG and the Aspen Institute Forum for Community SolutionsAdvises foundations, NGOs, and partnerships on collective impact initiativesTHE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore:Being a generalist: going from human biology to consulting to field-buildingFinding joy and satisfaction in small victories on multi-generational changeReferences from our conversation:The Stanford article about Collective ImpactThe research study When Collective Impact Has An ImpactCollective Impact case studies

THE IMPACT. Jennifer:Is President and CEO of Calvert Impact Capital, a nonprofit investment firm moving money into communities, where she is an advocate for making impact investing more accessible to retail investors like you and me. Started off in the Peace Corps in Africa, where she was exposed to the frustrating limited flows of capital to lower income communities. Worked for major banks in New York and London before focusing on investing in a socially responsible way supporting under-served communities. THE JOURNEY. In our conversation:We zoom in quite a bit on what impact investing is, and specifically how an investment at Calvert Impact Capital works. We zoom back out on the importance of the very unsexy business of what we call plumbing - connecting money in our economy from the people who have it to the people who need it.We hear about how Jennifer’s experiences, including biomedical engineering and the Public Theater, prepared her for this role.

THE IMPACT. Pamela is: -Founder of Migrants of the Mediterranean, a humanitarian storytelling organization working to document and humanize today’s migration crisis -A journalist and copywriter, with a M.A. in Cinema Studies from New York University and B.A.s in History and English from the University of Colorado THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore: -How a trip to Lampedusa island changed Pamela’s life and career -The simple power of a conversation with another human, especially when that human is a migrant at the margins of society -How telling the stories of others helped her connect to and write her own story Listen to her conversations with migrants on her podcast Open Encounters.

THE IMPACT. Tara: -Leads the global supply chain sustainability practice at BSR, the global nonprofit sustainability network and consultancy -Directed supply chain work at 2degrees, the sustainability collaboration platform -Was general manager of Sedex, the world's largest nonprofit sustainable supply chain membership organization and database THE JOURNEY. In our conversation, we explore: -Growing up in consumerism yet becoming curious where things come from -The head, heart, hands - awareness doesn’t mean people will care; you have to build the process -Managing knowns and unknowns… and could blockchain be the bridge? -Raising the next generation of sustainability leaders LINKS: Tara’s blog posts on supply chains as connections between people, knowns and unknowns The books Tara referenced: No Logo by Naomi Klein, Children’s book Where did my clothes come from