Podcasts about systems change

In this episode of "Parenting, Leading, and Teaching with Emotional Intelligence and Love," host Shawn Edwards welcomes Dr. Ann Ishimaru and Dr. Decoteau Irby to discuss their groundbreaking work on equity leadership in education. Drawing from their book "Doing the Work of Equity Leadership for Justice and Systems Change," the conversation explores the challenges and opportunities of transforming school systems to better serve all students, especially those from marginalized backgrounds. The guests share insights from nearly a decade of research, highlighting the importance of diverse leadership, culturally responsive curricula, and the perseverance required to create lasting, systemic change. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how educators and communities can work together to foster justice, inclusion, and meaningful progress in schools.

In Doing the Work of Equity Leadership for Justice and Systems Change, scholars and practitioners who have worked together in various capacities across different school systems examine systemic equity leadership in U.S. public schools over the course of nearly a decade and across a time of profound racial and historical change. This volume weaves together real-world insights, research-based strategies, and practical tools for transforming P–12 education systems into more equitable and just learning spaces. Contributors explore the early days of district equity leadership sparked by the Obama administration's focus on civil rights in education; Black Lives Matter (beginning with the Million Hoodies Movement for Justice); the proliferation of formal equity director roles, policies, and priorities; and the recent politically driven anti-DEI backlash. In doing so, it reveals the complex and crucial work of sustaining justice-focused educational systems change in the face of subtle resistance and outright attacks. This book is important reading for school leaders, district personnel, policymakers, and everyone who cares about a public education that works for all students. Our guest is: Dr. Decoteau J. Irby, who is professor of educational policy studies at the University of Illinois Chicago, codirector of the Center for Urban Education Leadership, and coeditor of Dignity-Affirming Education. He co-edited Doing the Work of Equity Leadership for Justice and Systems Change with Dr. Ann M. Ishimaru. Our host is: Dr. Christina Gessler, who produces the Academic Life podcast. She is a dissertation and grad student coach, and a developmental editor for humanities scholars at all stages of their careers. She writes the Academic Life Newsletter at her Substack. Playlist for listeners: Teacher By Teacher Leading Toward Liberation Leading from the Margins Book Banning How Schools Make Race The Social Constructions of Race That Librarian We Are Not Dreamers We Refuse The Fight to Remove Monuments on Campus Sin Padres Ni Papeles Welcome to Academic Life, the podcast for your academic journey—and beyond! Join us again to learn from more experts inside and outside the academy, and around the world. Missed any of the 275+ Academic Life episodes? Find them here. And get bonus content HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

In Doing the Work of Equity Leadership for Justice and Systems Change, scholars and practitioners who have worked together in various capacities across different school systems examine systemic equity leadership in U.S. public schools over the course of nearly a decade and across a time of profound racial and historical change. This volume weaves together real-world insights, research-based strategies, and practical tools for transforming P–12 education systems into more equitable and just learning spaces. Contributors explore the early days of district equity leadership sparked by the Obama administration's focus on civil rights in education; Black Lives Matter (beginning with the Million Hoodies Movement for Justice); the proliferation of formal equity director roles, policies, and priorities; and the recent politically driven anti-DEI backlash. In doing so, it reveals the complex and crucial work of sustaining justice-focused educational systems change in the face of subtle resistance and outright attacks. This book is important reading for school leaders, district personnel, policymakers, and everyone who cares about a public education that works for all students. Our guest is: Dr. Decoteau J. Irby, who is professor of educational policy studies at the University of Illinois Chicago, codirector of the Center for Urban Education Leadership, and coeditor of Dignity-Affirming Education. He co-edited Doing the Work of Equity Leadership for Justice and Systems Change with Dr. Ann M. Ishimaru. Our host is: Dr. Christina Gessler, who produces the Academic Life podcast. She is a dissertation and grad student coach, and a developmental editor for humanities scholars at all stages of their careers. She writes the Academic Life Newsletter at her Substack. Playlist for listeners: Teacher By Teacher Leading Toward Liberation Leading from the Margins Book Banning How Schools Make Race The Social Constructions of Race That Librarian We Are Not Dreamers We Refuse The Fight to Remove Monuments on Campus Sin Padres Ni Papeles Welcome to Academic Life, the podcast for your academic journey—and beyond! Join us again to learn from more experts inside and outside the academy, and around the world. Missed any of the 275+ Academic Life episodes? Find them here. And get bonus content HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/academic-life

In Doing the Work of Equity Leadership for Justice and Systems Change, scholars and practitioners who have worked together in various capacities across different school systems examine systemic equity leadership in U.S. public schools over the course of nearly a decade and across a time of profound racial and historical change. This volume weaves together real-world insights, research-based strategies, and practical tools for transforming P–12 education systems into more equitable and just learning spaces. Contributors explore the early days of district equity leadership sparked by the Obama administration's focus on civil rights in education; Black Lives Matter (beginning with the Million Hoodies Movement for Justice); the proliferation of formal equity director roles, policies, and priorities; and the recent politically driven anti-DEI backlash. In doing so, it reveals the complex and crucial work of sustaining justice-focused educational systems change in the face of subtle resistance and outright attacks. This book is important reading for school leaders, district personnel, policymakers, and everyone who cares about a public education that works for all students. Our guest is: Dr. Decoteau J. Irby, who is professor of educational policy studies at the University of Illinois Chicago, codirector of the Center for Urban Education Leadership, and coeditor of Dignity-Affirming Education. He co-edited Doing the Work of Equity Leadership for Justice and Systems Change with Dr. Ann M. Ishimaru. Our host is: Dr. Christina Gessler, who produces the Academic Life podcast. She is a dissertation and grad student coach, and a developmental editor for humanities scholars at all stages of their careers. She writes the Academic Life Newsletter at her Substack. Playlist for listeners: Teacher By Teacher Leading Toward Liberation Leading from the Margins Book Banning How Schools Make Race The Social Constructions of Race That Librarian We Are Not Dreamers We Refuse The Fight to Remove Monuments on Campus Sin Padres Ni Papeles Welcome to Academic Life, the podcast for your academic journey—and beyond! Join us again to learn from more experts inside and outside the academy, and around the world. Missed any of the 275+ Academic Life episodes? Find them here. And get bonus content HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/public-policy

In Doing the Work of Equity Leadership for Justice and Systems Change, scholars and practitioners who have worked together in various capacities across different school systems examine systemic equity leadership in U.S. public schools over the course of nearly a decade and across a time of profound racial and historical change. This volume weaves together real-world insights, research-based strategies, and practical tools for transforming P–12 education systems into more equitable and just learning spaces. Contributors explore the early days of district equity leadership sparked by the Obama administration's focus on civil rights in education; Black Lives Matter (beginning with the Million Hoodies Movement for Justice); the proliferation of formal equity director roles, policies, and priorities; and the recent politically driven anti-DEI backlash. In doing so, it reveals the complex and crucial work of sustaining justice-focused educational systems change in the face of subtle resistance and outright attacks. This book is important reading for school leaders, district personnel, policymakers, and everyone who cares about a public education that works for all students. Our guest is: Dr. Decoteau J. Irby, who is professor of educational policy studies at the University of Illinois Chicago, codirector of the Center for Urban Education Leadership, and coeditor of Dignity-Affirming Education. He co-edited Doing the Work of Equity Leadership for Justice and Systems Change with Dr. Ann M. Ishimaru. Our host is: Dr. Christina Gessler, who produces the Academic Life podcast. She is a dissertation and grad student coach, and a developmental editor for humanities scholars at all stages of their careers. She writes the Academic Life Newsletter at her Substack. Playlist for listeners: Teacher By Teacher Leading Toward Liberation Leading from the Margins Book Banning How Schools Make Race The Social Constructions of Race That Librarian We Are Not Dreamers We Refuse The Fight to Remove Monuments on Campus Sin Padres Ni Papeles Welcome to Academic Life, the podcast for your academic journey—and beyond! Join us again to learn from more experts inside and outside the academy, and around the world. Missed any of the 275+ Academic Life episodes? Find them here. And get bonus content HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/education

Decoteau J. Irby, University of Illinois Chicago professor and co-editor and co-author of “Doing the Work of Equity Leadership for Justice and Systems Change”, looks at the impact of the DEI pushback on school administrators, teachers, and our children.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.

Community listening sessions are essential for effective nonprofit work, yet too often they become a box-checking exercise rather than a chance to uncover blind spots and foster true collaboration. In today's episode, Josh Gryniewicz interviews Dana Perlman to explore practical strategies for meaningful, co-creative listening. Tune in for a fresh perspective on systems change, community listening, and narrative strategy. Want to suggest a topic, guest, or nonprofit organization for an upcoming episode? Send an email with the subject "NPFX suggestion" to contact@ipmadvancement.com. Additional Resources Dana Pearlman's Systems Change toolkits (free download) https://danapearlman.com/toolkits [NPFX] From Micro-Stories to Meta-Narratives: How to Influence Perception and Drive Change https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/from-micro-stories-to-meta-narratives-how-to-influence-perception-and-drive-change-narrative-strategy [NPFX] Authentic, Ethical, and Effective Messaging — From Theory to Practice https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/authentic-ethical-and-effective-messaging-from-theory-to-practice [NPFX] Flipping the Script: Using Narrative Strategy to Improve Messaging and Prevent Donor Attrition https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/flipping-the-script-using-narrative-strategy-to-improve-messaging-and-prevent-donor-attrition [NPFX] When Your Nonprofit's Case for Support Just Isn't Working https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/when-your-nonprofit-s-case-for-support-just-isn-t-working [NPFX] How to Find Authentic Voices That Inspire Action https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/narrative-strategy-how-to-find-authentic-voices-that-inspire-action Guests Josh Gryniewicz is the founder and Chief Narrative Strategist at Odd Duck, a storytelling-for-social-change creative consultancy focused on impact-driven organizations. Josh is the co-author of the award-winning national bestseller, Interrupting Violence. For over a decade, he has worked in nonprofit communication. In 2018, he founded Odd Duck to combine his passions for storytelling and social change. The agency's Navigating Misinformation for Community Health framework has been shared with over a thousand community health organizations. Odd Duck has worked with nearly a hundred change-making organizations and advised hundreds more, including the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, the Harvard School of Public Health, and the White House. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jgryniewicz/ https://oddduck.io/ https://www.interruptingviolence.com/ Dana Pearlman is the founder of ChangeLeaders Network. As a systems change designer, facilitator, and catalyst, she helps individuals, teams, and organizations innovate and thrive. Her work spans one-on-one mentoring, multi-stakeholder workshops, and large-scale transformation efforts. She equips groups with practical skills in dialogue, systems thinking, complexity navigation, and creative problem solving while fostering inclusive environments that honor diverse perspectives. Drawing on a versatile toolkit of frameworks and methodologies, Dana collaborates across sectors to co-create pathways toward shared goals. She also speaks on co-creation and leadership development and designs education programs and change labs, bringing a holistic and experiential approach grounded in her multidisciplinary academic background. https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-pearlman-27134312/ https://danapearlman.com/ Hosts Russ Phaneuf, a co-founder of IPM Advancement, has a background in higher education development, with positions at the University of Hartford, Northern Arizona University, and Thunderbird School of Global Management. As IPM's managing director & chief strategist, Russ serves as lead fundraising strategist, award-winning content creator, and program analyst specializing in applied system dynamics. https://www.linkedin.com/in/russphaneuf/ https://www.ipmadvancement.com/ Rich Frazier has worked in the nonprofit sector for over 35 years. In his roles as senior consultant with IPM Advancement and founder of VisionConnect LLC, Rich offers extensive understanding and knowledge in capital campaigns, fund development, strategic planning, and board of directors development. https://www.linkedin.com/in/richfrazier/ https://www.visionconnectllc.com/

In today's episode, we sit down with Jason Fan — owner of one of the fastest-growing European specialty shops in his region — to talk about the real work behind scaling a shop, elevating team performance, and building a business that changes lives.Jason shares what transformed his operation over the past 18 months: daily meetings that actually work, leadership built on encouragement instead of pressure, and the shift from working in the business to working on the business. He breaks down why he moved from general repair to European, how he created a high-end customer experience, and why the environment of your shop silently influences trust and ticket averages.We also dig into:• How to run daily meetings without them becoming repetitive• The mindset shift that allowed his team members to grow financially and personally• Why shop appearance and customer experience matter more than most owners think• The transition from technician to true business leader• The systems and coaching that helped him scale• The importance of building a shop that empowers employees to build real wealth• The book that completely changed his approach (The E-Myth)Whether you're a general repair shop, a European specialist, or an owner trying to grow your second or third location, Jason's story gives a clear blueprint for how to upgrade culture, process, and leadership — and why doing so transforms the entire business.If you want to reach out to Jason, you can connect with him on Facebook at Jason Fan.

What if your nonprofit could fight poverty at the systems level? Learn how Rob Hanson reimagines philanthropy, leverages 501(c)(4)s, and moves beyond charity to lasting change—backed by $65M in social investments and a powerful personal journey. Episode Highlights 01:15 Meet Rob Hansen: A Journey of Social Change 03:52 Understanding Nonprofit Structures: 501(c)(3) vs 501(c)(4) 07:26 The Impact of Systems Change 11:17 Navigating Legal and Financial Complexities 17:13 Addressing Policy Changes and Their Impact 23:07 The Importance of Flexibility and Listening Meet the Guest My guest for this episode is Rob Hansen. Rob Hansen is a nonprofit leader with over two decades of experience driving social change. His personal journey out of poverty has fueled his passion for empowering others to shape their own destinies. As the Founder and President of Goodnation since 2018, Rob has orchestrated the deployment of over $65 million towards ambitious social initiatives. In 2024, Rob spearheaded Goodnation's Prosperity Project, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at eradicating poverty in America. His expertise extends beyond Goodnation, having previously led fundraising efforts for renowned organizations focused on health, youth development, and veteran support. A highlight of Rob's career includes his tenure at the Robin Hood Foundation, where he managed corporate and foundation fundraising. During a significant economic downturn in New York City, he played a pivotal role in conceptualizing and executing the $100 million Robin Responds campaign. Rob is a vocal advocate for transformative change in America, frequently addressing donor and nonprofit audiences. His thought leadership will be showcased in the Stanford Social Innovation Review in May 2025, with his article "Breaking Out of the c3 Box," which advocates for a more expansive utilization of available tools to effect change. Connect with Rob: Website: https://www.goodnation.io/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-hansen-b455803/ Sponsored Resource Join the Inspired Nonprofit Leadership Newsletter for weekly tips and inspiration for leading your nonprofit! Access it here >> Be sure to subscribe to Inspired Nonprofit Leadership so that you don't miss a single episode, and while you're at it, won't you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! Let us know the topics or questions you would like to hear about in a future episode. You can do that and follow us on LinkedIn.

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Rebecca Midles sits down with Pam Moran, Ira David Socol, and Liz Calvert to explore how educational leaders are transforming traditional teaching and assessment into meaningful, student-centered learning experiences. Drawing from their new book, Real Learning, Real Accomplishment, the conversation dives into the power of mastery learning, systemic change, and fostering student and teacher agency. With insights from innovative schools across Kentucky, Virginia, Illinois, and Nevada, this episode highlights the strategies and belief shifts necessary to create lasting, impactful educational transformation. Tune in to learn how educators and leaders can embrace risk, reimagine grading systems, and prioritize real-world learning to empower every student to succeed. Outline (00:00) Introduction: The Journey to Real Learning (01:52) Shifting from Achievement to Accomplishment (08:37) Systems Change and Misconceptions About Leadership (14:35) Building Teacher Agency Through Vulnerability (21:52) Embracing Mistakes as Learning Opportunities (28:48) The Moral Obligation: Transforming Grades and Assessment Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here LinkedIn | Liz Calvert LinkedIn | Ira David Socol LinkedIn | Pamela Moran Real Learning, Real Accomplishment  

If you've sensed a shift in Untangled of late, you're not wrong. I'm writing a lot more about ‘complex systems.' To name a few:* What even is a ‘complex system' and how do you know if you're in one.* How to act interdependently and do the next right thing in a complex system.* Why if/then theories of change that assume causality are bonkers — and how to map backward from the future.* How do you act amidst uncertainty — if you truly don't know how your system will respond to your intervention, what do you do?* How should we think about goals in an uncertain world?* Here's a fun diagnostic tool I developed to help you assess how your organization thinks, acts, and learns under complexity.I am obsessed with complex systems because the world is uncertain and unpredictable — and yet all of our strategies pretend otherwise. We crave certainty, so we build plans that presume causality, control, and predictability. We know in our gut that the systems we're trying to change won't sit still for our long-term plans, yet our instinct to cling to control amid uncertainty is too strong to resist.And honestly, in 2025, this shouldn't be a hard sell. Politics, climate change, and AI are laughing at your five-year strategy decks.Complexity thinking helps us see this clearly — that systems are dynamic, nonlinear, and adaptive — but it, too, has blind spots. First, it lacks a theory of technology. The closest we get is Brian Arthur's brilliant book, The Nature of Technology: What It Is and How It Evolves, which explains how technologies co-evolve with economic systems. (Give it a read, or check out write-up in Technically Social). But Arthur was focused on markets, not on social systems — not on how technology is entangled with people and power.That's where my course comes in. I'm trying to offer frameworks and practices for creating change across difference, amid uncertainty, in tech-mediated environments — approaches that honor both complexity and the mutual shaping of people, power, and technology. (And yes, Cohort 5 of Systems Change for Tech & Society Leaders starts November 19.)Second, complexity is hard to talk about simply and make practical (that's why my Playbook turned into a 200 page monstrosity!) Every time I use the words “complex” or “system,” I can feel the distance between me and whoever I'm talking to widen. I've been searching for thinkers who bridge that gap — who write about systems with both clarity and depth — and recently came across the brilliant work of Aarn Wennekers, who writes the great newsletter Super Cool & Hyper Critical (Subscribe if you haven't yet!)After reading his essay, Systems Thinking Isn't Enough Anymore, I reached out and invited him onto the podcast. I'm thrilled to share that conversation — one that digs into the mindsets and muscles leaders need to navigate uncertainty and constant change, the need to collapse old distinctions between strategy and operations, and what it really means to act when the ground beneath us keeps shifting. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit untangled.substack.com/subscribe

In the West, resilience often means “bouncing back” - by yourself. An entire industry has been built around this. In Africa, it means “standing together.”This episode brings together two inspiring women, each offering a unique perspective on how we build both individual and collective resilience - and what it means to move from self-care to shared care.In this conversation:How African communities embody resilience as a shared, collective process - where challenges are faced and overcome together.What we can learn from cultures where there is no single word for “resilience,” yet where it is deeply lived through connection, care, and community.How this contrasts with Western approaches that often frame resilience as individual wellbeing or the ability to “bounce back.”The role of inner development in bridging these perspectives and fostering deeper forms of collective strength.Why rethinking resilience may hold the key to more sustainable and compassionate responses to global challenges.With:Ruth Dawn Achillah is the Global Lead for Learning and Development at One Acre Fund, an organization supporting millions of smallholder farmers across Africa with the tools, knowledge, and innovations they need to thrive.Katie Hodgetts FRSA is a British changemaker and author who founded The Resilience Project to provide psychological and inner-led support for young people experiencing burnout and climate anxiety. Her forthcoming book, Act, Rest, Reset, Repeat, explores how to navigate cycles of action and renewal in times of crisis.With thanks to the The Robert H. N. Ho Family Foundation for their support of the Inner Green Deal podcast which is hosted and produced by Tamsin Walker. Executive producer is IGD co-founder Jeroen Janss. For more information, visit  innergreendeal.com or write to info@innergreendeal.com.This episode was recorded at the Inner Development Goals Summit where we hosted a full day track on strengthening social and environmental impact.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Send us a text[Podcast Sponsor] Kind Cotton: Soft, sustainable apparel, where every purchase provides a book to a child.In this powerful episode, Becca sits down with Dr. Anne Ishimaru and Dr. Dakota Irby, authors of Doing the Work of Equity Leadership for Justice and Systems Change, to unpack what it really means to lead for equity in today's schools.Together, they trace the evolution of equity leadership through four distinct phases: morning (where new roles and policies first take root), midday (when equity becomes embedded in systems), evening (as communities and intentional connections deepen), and night (when resistance and federal mandates challenge the work).The conversation gets real about what it takes to sustain momentum through each phase, using data with purpose, centering student and parent voices, and investing in professional learning that drives genuine change.Listeners will walk away with actionable strategies like applying targeted universalism, navigating relationships with challenging stakeholders, and creating school environments where adults learn and grow just as much as students do.Check out The Principals Exchange Virtual Conference [January 28-29, 2026]! 

This week, I spoke with Harry Law, Editorial Lead at the Cosmos Institute and a researcher at the University of Cambridge, about AI and autonomy. Harry wrote a terrific essay on how generative AI might serve human autonomy rather than the empires Big Tech is intent on building.In our conversation, we explore:* What the Cosmos Institute is — and how it's challenging the binary, deterministic thinking that dominates tech.* The difference between “democratic” and “authoritarian” technologies — and why it depends less on the tools themselves than on the political, cultural, and economic systems they're embedded in.* The gap between agency (Silicon Valley's favorite word) and autonomy, and why that difference matters.* How generative AI can collapse curiosity — closing the reflective space between question and answer — and what it might mean to design it instead for wonder, inquiry, and self-understanding.* Why removing friction and optimizing for efficiency often strips away learning, growth, and self-actualization.* The need for more “philosophy builders” — technologists designing systems that expand our capacity to think, choose, and act for ourselves.* Harry's provocative idea of personalized AIs grounded in our own values and second-order preferences — a radically different vision from today's “personalization” built for engagement.The conversation around generative AI has gone stale. Everyone is interpreting it through their own frames of meaning — their own logics, values, incentives, and worldviews — yet we still talk about “AI” as if it's a single, coherent, inevitable thing. It's not.My conversation with Harry is an attempt to move beyond the binary — to imagine alternative pathways for technology that place human autonomy, curiosity, and moral imagination at the center.If you're fed up with imagining alternative futures and want to do the hard, strategic work of changing the system you're in, and set it — and you! — on a fundamentally new path, sign up for Cohort 5 of my course, Systems Change for Tech & Society Leaders. It kicks off in three weeks and there are still a few spots available.https://www.charley-johnson.com/sociotechnicalsystemschangeBefore you go: 3 ways I can help* Systems Change for Tech & Society Leaders - Everything you need to cut through the tech-hype and implement strategies that catalyze true systems change.* Need 1:1 help aligning technology with your vision of the future. Apply for advising & executive coaching here.* Organizational Support: Your organizational playbook for navigating uncertainty and making sense of AI — what's real, what's noise, and how it should (or shouldn't) shape your system.P.S. If you have a question about this post (or anything related to tech & systems change), reply to this email and let me know! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit untangled.substack.com/subscribe

What does it look like for a collaborative to shift from nearly sunsetting to achieving a vibrant renewal?We tackle this challenging question in the 100th episode of our podcast, where we dive into the realities of what it means to rebuild collective work from the ground up.To explore this topic, we talk with Annie Burke, the executive director of Together Bay Area, a regional coalition focused on climate resilience and equity in the Bay Area of California. Annie details the difficulties the coalition faced when experiencing a near collapse in 2018, the reckoning that followed, and what it looked like to rebuild. This included extensive partner and community engagement, improving governance, rebuilding trust, and developing a sustainable business model for the coalition to move forward.From those challenges, a vibrant collective was reborn, and has since been championing the social and environmental changes needed for healthy lands, people, and communities.If you have wondered what it can look like to rebuild a collective through challenging times and to come together for a renewed purpose, this is a great conversation to listen to.Resources and FootnotesTogether Bay AreaThe Water of Systems ChangeMore on Collective ImpactInfographic: What is Collective Impact?Resource List: Getting Started in Collective ImpactThe Intro music, entitled “Running,” was composed by Rafael Krux, and can be found here and is licensed under CC: By 4.0. The outro music, entitled “Deliberate Thought,” was composed by Kevin Macleod. Licensed under CC: By.Have a question related to collaborative work that you'd like to have discussed on the podcast? Contact us at: https://www.collectiveimpactforum.org/contact-us/

Stephanie interviews Kaite Burkholder Harris, Executive Director at the Alliance to End Homelessness Ottawa and co-chair of the Ontario Alliance to End Homelessness. They discuss building a values-driven career, leading with purpose in burnout-heavy sectors, and balancing meaningful work with personal well-being as a parent of young children.Kaite shares her path from frontline social work to systems-level change, explains why homelessness in Canada is solvable, and highlights the need to shift from emergency responses to Housing First and coordinated systems. She offers tangible ways to help—from saying hello to someone experiencing homelessness to supporting policies that make housing accessible—and reminds listeners that wellness is rooted in community, not just self-care.Resources mentioned include the Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness, the National Alliance to End Homelessness, and the Community Observatory on Homelessness.Kaite Burkholder Harris is the Executive Director at the Alliance to End Homelessness Ottawa, and Co-Chair of the Ontario Alliance to End Homelessness.Graduating with a Master's of Public Health from the University of Toronto, Kaite went on to work at the Canadian Observatory on Homelessness with communities across the country as a System Planner in housing and homelessness. Kaite also served as a Policy Analyst with Reaching Home, the federal government's Homelessness Partnering Strategy in 2019. In her role as the Executive Director at the Alliance to End homelessness Ottawa, Kaite advocates with every level of government and has become a leading voice in urging governments and communities for housing-focused solutions to ending homelessness.Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/womendontdothatRecommend guests: https://www.womendontdothat.com/How to find WOMENdontDOthat:Patreonhttps://www.patreon.com/womendontdothatInstagram - http://www.instagram.com/womendontdothat/TikTok- http://www.tiktok.com/@womendontdothatBlog- https://www.womendontdothat.com/blogPodcast- https://www.womendontdothat.com/podcastNewsletter- https://www.beaconnorthstrategies.com/contactwww.womendontdothat.comYouTube - http://www.youtube.com/@WOMENdontDOthatHow to find Stephanie Mitton:Twitter/X- https://twitter.com/StephanieMittonLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniemitton/beaconnorthstrategies.comTikTok- https://www.tiktok.com/@stephmittonInstagram- https://www.instagram.com/stephaniemitton/Interested in sponsorship? Contact us at hello@womendontdothat.comOur Latest Blog: https://www.womendontdothat.com/post/the-purple-suit-and-the-power-of-showing-up-as-yourselfProduced by Duke & Castle Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today, I'm sharing the 15-minute diagnostic framework I use to assess an organization's capacity to navigate uncertainty and complexity. Fill out this short survey to get access.The diagnostic is just one tool of 30+ included in the Playbook that will help you put the frameworks from my course immediately into practice. This one helps participants see how their current assumptions, decision structures, and learning practices align (or clash) with the realities of complex systems — and identify immediate interventions they can try to build adaptive capacity across their teams and organizations. Fun, huh? Cohorts 4 & 5 are open but enrollment is limited. Sign up today!Okay, let's get to my conversation with Lee Vinsel, Assistant Professor of Science, Technology, and Society at Virginia Tech and the creator of the great newsletter and podcast People & Things.I try (and fail often!) to live by the line from an incredible Ted Lasso scene, “Be curious, not judgmental.” I was reminded of that phrase while reading Lee Vinsel's essay Against Narcissistic-Sociopathic Technology Studies, or Why Do People USE Technologies. Lee encourages scholars and critics of generative AI — and tech more broadly — to go beyond their own value judgments and actually study how and why people use technologies. He points to a perceived tension we don't have to resolve: that “you can hold any ethical principle you want and still do the interpretive work of trying to understand other people who are not yourself.”I feel that tension! There are so many reasons to be critical of the inherently anti-democratic, scale-at-all-costs approach to generative AI. You know the one that anthropomorphizes fancy math and strips us of what it means to be human — all while carrying forward historical biases, stealing from creators, and contributing to climate change and water scarcity? (Deep breath.) But Lee's point is that we can hold these truths and still choose curiosity. Choosing curiosity over judgment is also strategic. Often, judgment centers the technology, inflating its power, and reducing our own agency. This gestures at another one of Lee's ideas, “criti-hype,” or critiques that are “parasitic upon and even inflates hype.” As Vinsel writes, these critics, “invert boosters' messages — they retain the picture of extraordinary change but focus instead on negative problems and risks.” Judgment and critique focuses our attention on the technology itself and centers it as the driver of big problems, not the social and cultural systems it is entangled with. What we need instead is research and analysis that focuses on how and why people use generative AI, and the systems it often hides. In our conversation, Lee and I talk about:* How, in a world where tech discourse is all hype and increasingly political, curiosity can feel like ceding ground to ‘the other side.'* Where narcissistic/sociopathic tech studies comes from — and what it would look like to center curiosity in how we talk about and research generative AI.* How centering the technology itself overplays its role in social problems and obscures the systems that actually need to change.* The limits of critique, and what would shift if experts and scholars centered description and translation instead of judgment.* Whether we're in a bubble — and what might happen next.This conversation is a wonky one, but its implications are quite practical. If we don't understand how and why organizations use generative AI, we can't anticipate how work will change — or see that much of the adoption is actually performative. If we don't understand how and why students use it, we'll miss shifts in identity formation and learning. If we don't understand how and why people choose it for companionship, we'll miss big shifts in the nature of relationships. I could go on — but the point is this: in a rush to critique generative AI, we often forget to notice how people are using it in the present — the small, weird, human ways people are already making it part of their lives. To see around the corner, we have to get over ourselves. We have to replace assumption with observation, and judgment with curiosity.Before you go: 3 ways I can help* Systems Change for Tech & Society Leaders - Everything you need to cut through the tech-hype and implement strategies that catalyze true systems change.* Need 1:1 help aligning technology with your vision of the future. Apply for advising & executive coaching here.* Organizational Support: Your organizational playbook for navigating uncertainty and making sense of AI — what's real, what's noise, and how it should (or shouldn't) shape your system.P.S. If you have a question about this post (or anything related to tech & systems change), reply to this email and let me know! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit untangled.substack.com/subscribe

Now, Dr. Elizabeth Sawin has dedicated her career to the theory and practice of creating change in complex systems. In 2021, she founded and is currently the Director of the Multi-solving Institute. This interview discusses her book Multisolving: Creating Systems Change in a Fractured World (Island Press, 2024) After studying many successful efforts around the world, where people created systems-change by building connections across silos, she developed the Multi-Solving approach to more effectively address equity, climate change health, well-being, and economic vitality as integrated issues. Prior to her current position, Beth co-founded the think tank Climate Interactive to develop tools and project possible futures for grappling with the complexity of the climate system. In this regard, she led efforts to integrate measures of equity, health, and well-being into decision-support computer simulations. Beth writes and speaks about multi-solving and leadership in complex systems for both national and international audiences. She has over 40 publications, both in scientific journals, as well as more populous literature, such as: Non-Profit Quarterly, The Stanford Social Innovation Review, The Daily Climate, U. S. News, as well as… in the New York Times and the Washington Post. Beth graduated from Dartmouth College with majors in Biology and Chemistry and subsequently received her PhD in Neuro-Biology from the Massachusetts Institute for Technology Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Now, Dr. Elizabeth Sawin has dedicated her career to the theory and practice of creating change in complex systems. In 2021, she founded and is currently the Director of the Multi-solving Institute. This interview discusses her book Multisolving: Creating Systems Change in a Fractured World (Island Press, 2024) After studying many successful efforts around the world, where people created systems-change by building connections across silos, she developed the Multi-Solving approach to more effectively address equity, climate change health, well-being, and economic vitality as integrated issues. Prior to her current position, Beth co-founded the think tank Climate Interactive to develop tools and project possible futures for grappling with the complexity of the climate system. In this regard, she led efforts to integrate measures of equity, health, and well-being into decision-support computer simulations. Beth writes and speaks about multi-solving and leadership in complex systems for both national and international audiences. She has over 40 publications, both in scientific journals, as well as more populous literature, such as: Non-Profit Quarterly, The Stanford Social Innovation Review, The Daily Climate, U. S. News, as well as… in the New York Times and the Washington Post. Beth graduated from Dartmouth College with majors in Biology and Chemistry and subsequently received her PhD in Neuro-Biology from the Massachusetts Institute for Technology Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/environmental-studies

Now, Dr. Elizabeth Sawin has dedicated her career to the theory and practice of creating change in complex systems. In 2021, she founded and is currently the Director of the Multi-solving Institute. This interview discusses her book Multisolving: Creating Systems Change in a Fractured World (Island Press, 2024) After studying many successful efforts around the world, where people created systems-change by building connections across silos, she developed the Multi-Solving approach to more effectively address equity, climate change health, well-being, and economic vitality as integrated issues. Prior to her current position, Beth co-founded the think tank Climate Interactive to develop tools and project possible futures for grappling with the complexity of the climate system. In this regard, she led efforts to integrate measures of equity, health, and well-being into decision-support computer simulations. Beth writes and speaks about multi-solving and leadership in complex systems for both national and international audiences. She has over 40 publications, both in scientific journals, as well as more populous literature, such as: Non-Profit Quarterly, The Stanford Social Innovation Review, The Daily Climate, U. S. News, as well as… in the New York Times and the Washington Post. Beth graduated from Dartmouth College with majors in Biology and Chemistry and subsequently received her PhD in Neuro-Biology from the Massachusetts Institute for Technology Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/systems-and-cybernetics

  Why take a listen? If you're serious about building a high-impact career at the intersection of public-private partnerships, diplomacy, and sustainable development—or just curious about what it takes to make real change happen—this episode is for you. Dr. Craig Zelizer sits down with Marcela Ochoa Bernal, a global leader with deep experience in shaping policy, building international partnerships, and delivering impact that lasts. From playing “bankers” as a child in Colombia to influencing sustainable development strategies across borders, Marcela's story is both inspiring and practical for anyone considering their next steps in social impact. What you'll learn Systems Change in Action How Marcela has worked across government, NGOs, and the private sector to shape systems for good—leading programs that drive impact at both local and international levels. Funding Demystified Her insider's perspective on how development funding really works, from Geneva boardrooms to grassroots communities, and what it takes to make resources deliver results for people. Sustainable Impact & Real Challenges Candid reflections on keeping projects alive beyond funding cycles—and why resilience, education, and mindset are as important as money. Global Career Insights From Universidad Externado de Colombia to Seoul National University, Marcela's career path offers lessons in building bilateral and multilateral partnerships, winning competitive fellowships, and navigating international education. Building a Resilient Career (and Staying Sane) Marcela shares how she sustains hope and energy by staying connected to community, purpose, and the power of networks. About Marcela Ochoa Bernal Marcela Ochoa Bernal is a Colombian leader in diplomacy, development, and systems change. With a career spanning government service, nonprofit leadership, and multilateral cooperation, she has focused on designing and implementing programs that connect policy with people. She studied law at Universidad Externado de Colombia and completed graduate studies at Seoul National University, supported by prestigious international fellowships. Her work has included leadership roles with the British Embassy in Colombia, engagement with bilateral and multilateral partners, and advising on sustainable development, education, and inclusive growth. Marcela has also collaborated with initiatives such as Corporación Antioquia Presente, ProAntioquia, and has contributed to global policy through the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC). Her approach combines rigorous policy knowledge with grassroots understanding, making her a bridge-builder across systems and cultures. Resources & Links Mentioned Marcela Ochoa Bernal on LinkedIn PCDN.global Social Change Career Podcast — Nearly 200 Episodes British Embassy in Colombia Chevening Scholarships Fulbright Program Rhodes Scholarship DAAD – German Academic Exchange Service Knight-Hennessy Scholars at Stanford ProFellow KOICA (Korea International Cooperation Agency) JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) Universidad del Norte Corporación Antioquia Presente ProAntioquia OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC) PCDN Career Campus — Join for daily access to jobs, community, and learning English No Speak Pues Campaign (Medellín – via ProAntioquia collaboration)

Get the book, Doing the Work of Equity Leadership for Justice and Systems Change Visit Decoteau's website, www.DecoteauIrby.com About The Author Decoteau J. Irby's life work focuses on creating and sustaining organizations that contribute to Black people's self-determined well-being, development, and positive life outcomes. He is Professor at University of Illinois at Chicago in the Department of Educational Policy Studies. He is the author of Stuck Improving: Racial Equity and School Leadership. Dr. Ann M. Ishimaru is an award-winning scholar, writer, educator and the Killinger Endowed Chair and Professor of Educational Foundations, Leadership and Policy at the University of Washington College of Education. Through her work, she cultivates the leadership and solidarities of educators, organizational leaders and racially minoritized youth, families and communities to realize more transformative futures. In addition to many peer-reviewed articles in top-tier educational research journals, she is also the author of Just Schools: Building Equitable Collaborations with Families and Communities. They are the editors of the new volume Doing the Work of Equity Leadership for Justice and Systems Change.

Jaclyn Silbernagel sits down with Vinod Rajasekaran, CEO and Editor-in-Chief of Future of Good, to explore systems change and what it takes to unlock lasting impact. An award-winning innovator, Vinod leads Canada's leading digital publication dedicated to making sense of the social-impact world through stories, news, analysis, and commentary. Together, they explore how we move beyond band-aid solutions toward systems breakthroughs—how shifting systems, not just symptoms, can reduce poverty. They look at where the biggest opportunities lie for systems change in the future, and the role of possibility and reimagination.

Join us as we discuss Puerto Rico's sovereignty with author, writer, linguist, polyglot, artist, and entrepreneur Javier A. Hernandez. Born in Rio Piedras, Javier is a pro-sovereignty advocate for Puerto Rico who wrote PREXIT: Forging Puerto Rico's Path to Sovereignty and Puerto Rico: The Economic Case for Sovereignty. He is also a former Diplomatic Security Special Agent with the U.S. Department of State (2009–2017) and an experienced international security professional specializing in counterterrorism, diplomatic protection, crisis management, foreign security training, and global embassy security. Javier's education includes a B.A. in Political Science & International Relations, an M.A. in International Communications, and an M.S. in Education. He brings extensive experience in geopolitics, strategic communications, education, and nation-state development – oh, and he's fluent in or conversant with 10 languages… This episode explores: Why Javier believes that Puerto Rico deserves to be its own country. The complicated and harsh history of Puerto Rico. The curriculum that Puerto Rican students learn from the Department of Education. How U.S. tax breaks in Puerto Rico impact the local economy. Want to find out why Javier is so passionate about Puerto Rican sovereignty, independence, national security, agriculture, maritime policy, and economic development? Click play now! You can follow along with Javier on X @PRexitBook! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: http://apple.co/30PvU9

The new B Corp standards (v2.1) promise to push companies beyond checklists and into real systems change—but will they deliver? In this episode, we dig into purpose governance, human rights due diligence, lobbying and tax, and the EU rules reshaping what it means to be a B Corp. Join us as we explore whether these changes mark a true shift in business—or just a different badge.View the Show Notes: https://go.lifteconomy.com/blog/can-the-new-b-corp-standards-drive-systems-change-adam-garfunkel-mike-rowlandsUnlock your free B Corp Values Assessment—plus tips and insights to help your business grow. https://go.lifteconomy.com/b-corp-newsletter

How do you lead a national infrastructure organization in the process of building a new future? This episode for the Master Builders series, invites in one of the experts behind the curtain: Lisa Mitchell, the President and CEO of the Canadian Council for Public-Private Partnerships (CCPPP). In her deep-dive conversation with Riccardo and Shormila, she speaks to her journey from politics to the forefront of Canada's infrastructure evolution.Early experiences in Ottawa prepared Lisa for the fast pace and competing priorities of national infrastructure. She shares how she navigated imposter syndrome and career pivots, and why she sees this moment as a powerful opportunity to modernize P3s. The cross-cultural strengths of this modality, many of which are unique to Canada, create a strong foundation from which to build a groundbreaking tradition, especially today, when infrastructure finds itself front and centre in political discourse. From fostering industry-wide collaboration to advocating for programmatic delivery and inclusive stakeholder engagement, Lisa takes us on a candid, capable, and humble exploration of how we might build a better Canada—one conversation, one contract, and one conference at a time.Key Takeaways:Why redefining leadership means focusing on function, not the title;How infrastructure became a top political priority—and what comes next;The public and private discourse that makes Canada's P3 ecosystem uniques;What goes into organizing Canada's biggest infrastructure conference (aka P3 Prom);Why the next era of P3s must expand beyond traditional models and asset classes.Quote“It's ​naturally ​built ​on ​competition, ​but ​I ​had ​never ​met ​a ​group ​of ​private ​and ​public ​sector ​folks ​that ​were ​so ​willing ​and ​committed ​to ​sit ​at ​the ​table ​and ​figure ​out ​how ​to ​make ​things ​work ​and ​to ​do ​good ​things. If ​we've ​got ​a ​sticky ​policy ​thing, ​I ​can ​pull ​a ​group ​of ​people ​together ​to ​sit ​around ​a ​boardroom ​table  very ​easily. ​They're ​so ​committed ​and ​willing ​and ​they're ​able ​to put ​​the ​individual ​​needs on ​the ​back ​burner ​to ​have ​these ​conversations ​and ​really ​look ​at ​it as ​industry ​specific. ​And ​I've ​just ​been ​so ​fascinated ​by ​that.” - Lisa MitchellThe conversation doesn't stop here—connect and converse with our community via LinkedIn:Follow Navigating Major Programmes: https://www.linkedin.com/company/navigating-major-programmes/Follow Riccardo Cosentino: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cosentinoriccardo/Follow Shormila Chatterjee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shormilac/Read Riccardo's latest a: https://riccardocosentino.com/Follow Lisa Mitchell: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-mitchell/ Music: "A New Tomorrow" by Chordial Music. Licensed through PremiumBeat.

What does it look like for a collaborative to balance planned strategies with new and rising needs?In this new podcast discussion, we talk with Melissa Darnell, Heather Equinoss, and Luzette Jaimes from the organization CoCreative, and learn how they work with collaboratives to blend structured and emergent strategies when doing collective work.Listen in as we explore:How to navigate complex challenges by embracing uncertainty while maintaining clear purpose and shared goals.What methods can be used for co-designing solutions, fostering continuous learning, and adapting to shifting contexts.Why embracing the messy, unpredictable nature within collaboration is critical to progress.Resources and Footnotes:CoCreative and the organization's Creative Tools libraryCollaborative Innovation Roadmap6 Patterns in Collaborative Innovation4 Agendas in Collaborative InnovationCollaboration Advisor AI ToolMore on Collective ImpactInfographic: What is Collective Impact?Resource List: Getting Started in Collective ImpactThe Intro music, entitled “Running,” was composed by Rafael Krux, and can be found here and is licensed under CC: By 4.0. The outro music, entitled “Deliberate Thought,” was composed by Kevin Macleod. Licensed under CC: By.Have a question related to collaborative work that you'd like to have discussed on the podcast? Contact us at: https://www.collectiveimpactforum.org/contact-us/

Heather McDonald recently stepped into her role as president and CEO of the United Way Greater Toronto, an organization focused on growth impact and operational transformation. In this conversation with Douglas Nelson, she shares how she balances their work as a solutions finder and her task of implementing new systems to integrate her values-based leadership. Heather also discusses her major takeaways as a second-time CEO, the importance of showing up consistently, and how she leads United Way in becoming a greater force for good in the Greater Toronto Area.

Barbra is the founder and CEO of BuildingEase and Sustainable Performance Institute -- an industry leader whose innovative vision drives market transformation from public policy to professional practice. Her work focuses on the intersection of systems, processes and culture. With a diverse background of fine arts, social psychology and nearly 30 years in architecture and sustainability consulting, she brings a perspective that engages the human dynamics of decision-making and creative collaboration to technical work. Barbra has always been most interested in the how. Her advice for those who want to be effective working on sustainability in the built environment is to “develop enabling skills.” Because, she says, “Technical knowledge is necessary but insufficient. Any work in sustainability requires systems thinking, understanding of change dynamics and change management, communication, facilitation skills, and negotiation skills.”

The Future of Climate Action: Youth Leadership and Systems Change In this episode of Social Impact Pioneers, we explore how the next generation is reshaping climate action, social innovation and systems change—not by waiting their turn, but by leading from the front. Meet Social Impact Pioneers: Penelope Gregoriou and Muhammad Hassan Dajana. Penelope and Hassan are both World Economic Forum Global Shapers and join this conversation to share insights and experiences from Cyprus and Pakistan respectively. Penelope is a sustainability strategist and ESG expert with a sharp focus on climate finance, sustainability reporting and transformative systems change. An alumni of the UN SDG Innovator programme and a member of the World Benchmarking Alliance, she combines technical rigour with a deep commitment to centring humanity in climate policy. Hassan is a Fulbright Scholar and edtech entrepreneur scaling climate education across Pakistan. His projects—spotlighted by the UN and World Economic Forum—range from planting 10,000+ trees in urban heat zones to pioneering “green masjids” that embed environmental stewardship within religious teaching. His mission is bold: to empower 100 million learners to engage with climate justice. Together, they explore a grassroots leadership that is bold, collaborative and global in its reach. From rethinking how we measure impact to driving climate adaptation through community-led solutions, Penelope and Hassan share practical insights into how young innovators are disrupting silos, bridging sectors, and transforming moral urgency into policy reality. Listeners will discover: • How youth-led climate solutions are scaling from the ground up. • Why grassroots leadership is central to tackling systemic inaction. • How collaboration across business, civil society and government is shaping a more resilient future. If you're searching for fresh thinking on leadership, collaboration and systems change, this conversation is essential listening. Social Impact Pioneers—where the changemakers of today shape the world of tomorrow. Links: Muhammad Hassan Dajana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hassandajana/ Penelope Gregoriou on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/penelope-gregoriou/ The Global Shapers Community: globalshapers.org World Economic Forum: Leveraging green, blue and social infrastructure for disaster recovery and preparedness: https://www.weforum.org/stories/2025/06/leveraging-green-blue-and-social-infrastructure-for-disaster-recovery-and-preparedness/ World Benchmarking Alliance: https://www.worldbenchmarkingalliance.org Clima Synth: https://www.instagram.com/climasynth_/ For Upcoming Updates on Darakht: Sign up here https://darakht.beehiiv.com/ How today's youth are taking the lead in global climate action https://www.weforum.org/stories/2023/07/empowering-tomorrows-climate-leaders-how-youth-influence-climate-action/ Puff Recycles https://www.instagram.com/puffcycle.ch?igsh=dHh4YTIzYnk2eTlx Hamara Kachra Hamari Zimadari https://www.instagram.com/hkhk_shaperskhi?igsh=N3ZucGdlZmp0cGdq How collaborative action on smog could cast new light on India-Pakistan relations https://www.weforum.org/stories/2024/01/smog-india-pakistan-collaboration/ Plastic Free Pakistan https://www.instagram.com/plastic free pakistan?igsh=azJkamU4bGR4MTQ2 Our Green Blue Rawalpindi. https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1gmdGmUdsj2eXi_fdFqhvqyWu2pRGWBg1 And if you liked this episode, take a listen to: Business-NGO Partnerships for Social Impact, With Diageo and Care: https://businessfightspoverty.org/business-ngo-partnerships-for-social-impact-with-diageo-and-care/

Lucinda Rouse and Dami Adewale are joined by Emma Revie, co-chief executive of Trussell, and the strategy and change management specialist Martyn Drake.Emma explains why Trussell's mission statement has been altered to place the provision of food aid second to its aim of eliminating the need for food banks. She stresses the need to work with others to drive systems change and shares her belief that resources should never be taken away from long-term solutions in order to provide a temporary fix.Martyn shares examples of other charities that have recognised the need to change strategic direction to avoid being enablers of the problems they are trying to solve.He describes the importance of granting staff at all levels of an organisation the autonomy to work flexibly with other partners in order to achieve shared goals.Tell us what you think of the Third Sector Podcast! Please take five minutes to let us know how we can bring you the most relevant, useful content. To fill in the survey, click here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it take to lead when your story becomes the story, and the stakes are survival and justice?When you've experienced relational trauma or institutional betrayal, as Judith Herman wrote in Trauma and Recovery, “The ordinary response to atrocities is to banish them from consciousness.” But silence protects systems, not survivors.When we do speak up, at best we're often told to move on, and at worst we might face violent pushback. The stress and fear from the blowback can all too easily silence us and chip away at our integrity and adaptability if we don't do the important work to address the toll it takes.But when we give ourselves permission to feel the overwhelm, and still take one step forward, we shift from silence into action. Sometimes that step is public and loud. Sometimes it's private and steady. All of it counts. There is no one right way to advocate for change.My guest today did more than just share her story; she used it to create meaningful change in her home state of Texas. In this conversation, we discuss what it means to bear the weight of your trauma while advocating for others, the emotional toll of being a public face for change, and what it looks like to keep showing up, even when the system makes it difficult.Summer Willis is an endurance athlete, advocate, and mother of two who ran 29 marathons in a year to raise awareness for sexual assault survivors. She is the namesake of the Summer Willis Act, landmark consent legislation passed in Texas. Through storytelling, extreme challenges, and her nonprofit Strength Through Strides, she empowers others to turn pain into purpose.Content note: discussion of sexual assaultListen to the full episode to hear:The legal loophole in Texas law that ignited Summer's drive to turn her worst experience into tangible change for millions of survivorsHow sharing her story and raising awareness and support for the law connected Summer to a wide community of survivors and allies when she was feeling isolatedWhy she decided to run 29 marathons before her 30th birthday while sharing her story, and how that challenge evolved into legislative advocacyHow being an endurance athlete helped Summer through legislative challenges and setbacks to get the Summer Willis Act passedHow Summer is bringing in lightness to her life after sharing her story over and over while trying to pass the billWhy taking the first step and learning along the way are crucial to shaping changeLearn more about Summer Willis:WebsiteStrength Through StridesInstagram: @likesummerwillisLearn more about Rebecca:rebeccaching.comWork With RebeccaThe Unburdened Leader on SubstackSign up for the weekly Unburdened Leader EmailResources:Trauma and Recovery: The Aftermath of Violence–From Domestic Abuse to Political Terror, Judith Lewis Herman MDDr. Dan SiegelTruth and Repair: How Trauma Survivors Envision Justice, Judith Lewis Herman MDCarol GilliganEP 90: Engaged and Consistent Leadership: with Moms Demand Action Founder, Shannon WattsMoms Demand ActionRAINNNoMore.orgJoyful Heart FoundationHisko HulsingChanel MillerThe Wedding People, Alison EspachTaylor Swift - right where you left mePrime MinisterCobain: Montage of Heck

Too often, educational change is approached with a top-down, impersonal strategy—especially in virtual settings. Leaders are handed new tools, frameworks, and mandates but given little space for reflection, values alignment, or the flexibility needed to make change stick. The result? Burnout, survival mode, and disjointed systems that don't serve students or educators.In this episode, Dr. Tovah Sheldon—school design strategist at Michigan Virtual and leader of the Leadership Coaching for Innovation initiative—unpacks how true transformation begins with the adults in the system. With warmth, insight, and a deep coaching mindset, she guides us through what it really means to center leadership development around the human experience. From redefining change through “rugged flexibility” and allostasis, to bridging the gap between personal and organizational values, Dr. Sheldon makes the case for slower, deeper, more reflective innovation. She shares stories of golden moments, challenges us to pluralize transformation, and gives us a clear pathway toward leading with clarity, purpose, and empathy.If you're leading innovation—especially in virtual or hybrid environments—listen in for insight on:Why “rigid” systems fail in dynamic environments, and how to lead with adaptive stability.How to help leaders and teams surface their core values and use them to drive sustainable change.The habits and actions that define innovators—and how they play out differently in virtual spaces.Why going deep before wide is essential for lasting, scalable impact.How “small-i” innovations build momentum toward big transformation.Episode Links:Leadership Coaching for Innovation at Michigan VirtualBrad Stulberg on Rugged Flexibility and AllostasisHenry Ford Innovation Hub – Phil Grumm's WorkAdditional People and Concepts to Link:Brad Stulberg Referenced for the concepts of allostasis and rugged flexibility.

In a time when so many are grappling with division and polarization in their communities, where does one start to build connections to better understand when and why do you feel like you “belong” in your community? In this new podcast conversation, we talk with Anjum Rahman and Atarau Hamilton-Fuller from Inclusive Aotearoa Collective Tāhono, based in Aotearoa New Zealand. In the aftermath of the horrific Christchurch mosque attacks in 2019, their collective's work focused on visiting communities across the country to foster understanding, empathy, and a sense of belonging by encouraging participants to share personal experiences of inclusion and exclusion.Anjum and Atarau share about the unique, culturally grounded approach that they developed as their group hosted and facilitated “belonging conversations” across 46 cities and towns. These conversations, created with three simple yet revealing questions, helped create spaces where participants felt safe to be truly heard, learned the power of deep listening without judgement, and helped understand each other's shared humanity.As part of this discussion, we also demonstrate the conversation, exploring the three core questions to help understand why these discussions have been so powerful for participants.This discussion is essential listening for anyone seeking practical ideas for how to build understanding and foster genuine connection across different groups within the same community.Resources and Footnotes:Inclusive Aotearoa Collective TāhonoResource: What does belonging mean to you?Resource: How to Hold a Conversation on BelongingMore on Collective ImpactInfographic: What is Collective Impact?Resource List: Getting Started in Collective ImpactThe Intro music, entitled “Running,” was composed by Rafael Krux, and can be found here and is licensed under CC: By 4.0. The outro music, entitled “Deliberate Thought,” was composed by Kevin Macleod. Licensed under CC: By.Have a question related to collaborative work that you'd like to have discussed on the podcast? Contact us at: https://www.collectiveimpactforum.org/contact-us/

Too often, distance learning gets dismissed as fragmented or disjointed, seen as a patchwork of tech tools rather than a cohesive educational system. Teachers feel pulled in too many directions, and programs struggle to sustain impact beyond the novelty of going virtual.In this episode, Dr. Chris Harrington - leader of the EmpowerEd Research Institute, AccredVEd, and Digital Learning Works - shares how real transformation happens when virtual education is approached as a system. From curriculum to leadership to parent engagement, Chris lays out what it means to create a student-centered, coherent virtual learning ecosystem. He introduces specialized accreditation processes, discusses how to build systems around people - not tech - and shares inspiring stories from the field, including how one virtual program helped a struggling student graduate against the odds.If you're building - or rebuilding - a distance learning program, listen in for insights on:Why cohesion is the key to long-term success in virtual education.How to lead systems change with clarity, equity, and community buy-in.The power of specialized accreditation to elevate—not just evaluate—program quality.What it really means to put relationships at the center of digital learning.Episode Links:Digital Learning WORKSEmpowerEd Research InstituteAccredVEdHost Links:Discover more virtual learning opportunities and resources at CILC.org with Tami Moehring and Allyson Mitchell.Seth Fleischauer's Banyan Global Learning provides meaningful global learning experiences that prepare students across the globe for success in an interconnected world.

ARE YOU RIDING THE REFERRAL ROLLER COASTER? Listen in to hear how Impact Collective Mastermind member Jennifer Hunter of Gensyn Design turned a stop-and-start project pipeline into a multi-year contract that stabilized the business. Her next step was to narrow here services menu to a focused Strategic Planning offer that fuels steady growth. IN THIS EPISODE I sit down with Jennifer to unpack: why word-of-mouth alone stopped moving the needle the negotiation moves that expanded one conversation into a multi-year partnership with a foundation she loves the clarity and breathing room that came from trimming a crowded service menu to one signature offer how the mastermind program accelerates each step with real-time feedback while increasing her business acumen You'll hear the mindset shifts, practical steps, and quick wins that followed. If you have been juggling multiple services and craving predictable revenue, Jennifer's story will spark ideas you can use right away. Press play to discover what happens when focused vision meets confident negotiation. Then tell me on LinkedIn—what will be your next move toward stability and scale?   Connect with Jennifer: LinkedIn Gensyn Design Website  

We discuss how multisolving is a way to address the multiple issues that are currently facing our democracy at the same time, ranging from pollution and sustainable energy to civil rights and collective governance.   Elizabeth's civic action toolkit recommendations are:  Learn about multisolving Learn together in a group   Elizabeth Sawin is the Director of the Multisolving Institute and the author of Multisolving: Creating Systems Change in a Fractured World.      Let's connect! Follow Future Hindsight on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/futurehindsightpod/   Discover new ways to #BetheSpark:  https://www.futurehindsight.com/spark    Follow Mila on X:  https://x.com/milaatmos    Follow Elizabeth on X:  https://x.com/bethsawin    Read Multisolving:  https://bookshop.org/shop/futurehindsight    Sponsor:  Thank you to Shopify! Sign up for a $1/month trial at shopify.com/hopeful.   Early episodes for Patreon supporters: https://patreon.com/futurehindsight  Credits:  Host: Mila Atmos  Guests: Elizabeth Sawin Executive Producer: Mila Atmos Producer: Zack Travis

If we start to pay attention to what we pay attention to then we start to naturally slow down. We disconnect from the urgency, the crisis, and we start to realize that care, and I don't just mean care for one another, although that's a piece of it, but care also for our surroundings, care for our time, care for those nearest to us. That is where it begins. That is valuable work that is not recognized. I think that is what we can do on a day-to-day basis. That over a long term becomes artistic practice and becomes culture.My conversation withknowledge producer, artist, facilitator and director of the Artists' Literacies Institute, Andrew Freiband. Our conversation was recorded, via Zoom, on April 18, 2025. My previous conversation with Andrew was on conscient podcast e13 in 2020 called weaving art into action, when we both participants in the Creative Climate Leadership course USA. Five years later, I was happy to discover that Andrew, informed by the work of British artists and writer  Alana Jelinek, continues to weave art into action, notably with through his Systems Thinking for Socially Engaged Artists project, a seminar and dialogic discussion activity that introduces artists to basic concepts of systems science so we fleshed this out and Andrew and also talked about how the arts can be more useful to the near term and long-term future of our species. Show notes generated by Whisper Transcribe AIAction pointsRecognize the value of artists' unique knowledge and perspectives beyond just their art.Understand artists as systems thinkers who can connect various systems, including economic and power systems.Challenge the notion that art should not be useful and embrace its potential for practical application.Pay attention to what you pay attention to, cultivating care for surroundings, time, and relationships.Consider the long-term cultural impact of artistic practices, which can outlast political and social structures.Story PreviewImagine a world grappling with mass grief during a pandemic, where traditional rituals are impossible. Discover how artists stepped up to create new ways to mourn and connect, revealing the profound value of art beyond aesthetics.Chapter Summary00:00 The Power of Attention01:01 Revisiting Conversations02:50 Art in Crisis: The COVID-19 Response05:15 Creating the Artist's Grief Deck07:16 Rethinking the Role of Artists10:07 Navigating Systems and Agency12:21 The Intersection of Art and Activism13:50 The Slow Work of CultureFeatured QuotesIf we start to pay attention to what we pay attention to, we start to naturally slow down.Artists are valuable not for the art, but valuable for what they know and how they know it.Artists attention is enormously valuable…maybe the key currency of being an artist that we pay attention.Behind the StoryDuring the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, disaster relief agencies faced a challenge they weren't equipped for: mass grief in isolation. Recognizing artists' historical role in creating rituals, they sought help in developing new tools for mourning. This led to the creation of the Artist's Grief Deck, a project highlighting the practical and connective power of art. *END NOTES FOR ALL EPISODESHey conscient listeners, I've been producing the conscient podcast as a learning and unlearning journey since May 2020 on un-ceded Anishinaabe Algonquin territory (Ottawa). It's my way to give back.In parallel with the production of the conscient podcast and its francophone counterpart, balado conscient, I I publish fee ‘a calm presence' Substack see https://acalmpresence.substack.com.Your feedback is always welcome at claude@conscient.ca and/or on social media: Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin, Threads, BlueSky, Mastodon, Tik Tok, YouTube and Substack.I am grateful and accountable to the earth and the human labour that provided me with the privilege of producing this podcast, including the toxic materials and extractive processes behind the computers, recorders, transportation systems and infrastructure that made this production possible. Claude SchryerLatest update on July 8, 2025

In this episode of The Green Podcast, Dylan Welch sits down with Keefe Harrison, CEO of The Recycling Partnership, to unpack one of the most urgent, and often misunderstood, environmental challenges facing the U.S. today: the broken recycling system. Keefe shares why fixing it requires a $17 billion investment, what myths still confuse the public (yes, you can recycle your pizza box), and how rebuilding trust in recycling is key to making real progress.We also explore the critical role businesses can play in creating scalable, systems-level change. If you're building a company focused on sustainability, circularity, or infrastructure, this conversation is full of valuable insights.Support the show

“Google the name of the disease my daughter has.” With that sentence, Gideon Lopes Cardozo shared about a deeply personal part of his life—his daughter's diagnosis with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, a lesser-known yet relatively common chromosomal condition. In this honest and wide-ranging conversation, Gideon shares how his path led from Earth sciences to executive coaching, team dynamics, and systems thinking. Over two decades, Gideon worked internationally as a geoscientist in academia and the energy industry before shifting toward organizational transformation. He now supports teams in the energy transition space using relational systems coaching and agile methods. Maurice and Gideon explore what it means to navigate complexity—whether in personal life or global systems—with humility, empathy, and curiosity. Listener Engagement Discover more about Gideon's work at Partner Strength. Follow Gideon via LinkedIn as well as his company on LinkedIn. Share your thoughts on this episode via walktalklisten. Your feedback is invaluable. Explore Gideon's song pick and others on our #walktalklisten playlist here. Follow Us Support the Walk Talk Listen podcast and Maurice by liking and following Maurice on Blue Sky, Facebook, and Instagram. Visit Walk Talk Listen for more episodes, news, and initiatives. Don't miss our special series “Enough for All,” featuring voices from Church World Service (CWS) and the Joint Learning Initiative (JLI).

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Nate McClennen and Rebecca Midles discuss the Getting Smart Learning Innovation Framework, designed to catalyze systems change in education. They explore how personalized, competency-based learning models integrated with AI can meet the diverse needs of students and overcome the systemic challenges currently facing education. The conversation highlights the framework's focus on community-driven visions, adaptive learning models, and innovative signaling methods to ensure meaningful credentialing and assessment. Join us as we uncover the potential of this framework to lead educational systems toward new horizons, addressing pressing issues such as equity and access while empowering learners and leaders alike. Outline (00:00) Introduction to the Framework (03:00) The Role of Leadership in Education (09:59) The Importance of R&D in Schools (19:39) Overview of the Framework (26:16) Learning from Implementation (29:50) Debates and Discussions (34:39) Next Steps and Conclusion Links Watch full video here Read the full blog The Getting Smart Learning Innovation Framework Building Systems That Serve: The Power of the Getting Smart Innovation Framework What is the Evolving Role of Future Educators?  How can we reimagine where learning happens? Designing schools as community hubs within a personalized ecosystem The Transcript Trap: Why Our Students Need Credentials, Not Just Grades

Send us a textShannon chats with Laura Stewart (from 95 Percent Group) about bold moves that literacy leaders can take to transform the literacy practices in their learning communities.    Laura provides stories and strategies relating to successfully implementing best practices informed by the Science of Reading into schools and classrooms, and Shannon shares some real-life examples of what she's learned to do and not to do as a literacy leader.   Listen and also download the recommended resources from the show notes to be empowered in your transformation efforts.RESOURCES MENTIONED DURING THE EPISODE:The Courage to Lead: 10 Bold Moves for Transformational Change by Laura Stewart ebook (download link from our Google Drive)bio for Laura Stewart, 95 Percent Group's Chief Academic OfficerBecoming a Literacy Leader by Jennifer Allen *Amazon affiliate link*Cox Campus Structured Literacy trainingThe Courage to Teach:   Exploring the Inner Landscape of a Teacher's life by Parker Palmer *Amazon affiliate linkScience of Reading 2.0 ebook from 95 Percent GroupUphill Climb article by Laura StewartNIRN HubEdWEb.net Recording with Laura Stewart and Ken Kirby regarding Professional Learning in 202595 Percent Group on IG95 Percent Group on Twitter/X95 Percent Group on FacebookMorpeheme MagicScience of Reading Defining Guide (The Reading League)Bonus Episodes access through your podcast appBonus episodes access through PatreonFree Rubrics Guide created by usFinding Good Books Guide created by usInformation about our Patreon membershipSupport the showGet Literacy Support through our Patreon

In 2021, Cuyahoga County sent four times more children to adult court - referred to as a "bindover" - than the next highest county, Hamilton, which includes Cincinnati. Racial disparities exist at every stage of our criminal legal system. Yet, as of September 2024, Black youth comprised 72% of Ohio's youth prison population.rnrnMembers of the Youth Justice Collaborative believe it is time for our public leaders, courts, and communities to prioritize effective interventions, rather than rely on "tough-on-crime" approaches that criminalize adolescence. Through the Collaborative, they have supported transformative grassroots efforts that placed community-led programs within the facilities of the Juvenile Detention Center. What lessons can the Collaborative share that will optimize impactful change?

Beyond the Chair: Trauma-Informed Care in Dentistry Show Notes - Disrupting Dentistry Podcast Episode Description This isn't just about patient experience — it's about humanity, dignity, and creating safer, more responsive dental environments for everyone who walks through our door. In this powerful episode, Tabitha and Melissa delve into trauma-informed care, exploring why every dental professional needs to understand its impact on both patients and providers. What You'll Learn The real definition of trauma (it's not what you think) Why dental visits are perfect storms for trauma activation The five pillars of trauma-informed care and how to implement them How to recognize trauma responses in the dental chair The difference between PTSD and Complex PTSD Why trauma-informed care matters for your team, too Actionable steps to start practicing differently TODAY Episode Timestamps 0:00-3:00 - Introduction & Host Catch-Up 3:00-8:00 - What Is Trauma? Why It Matters in Dentistry Redefining trauma beyond "big events" Types of trauma our patients carry Why dental visits trigger trauma responses 8:00-18:00 - The 5 Pillars of Trauma-Informed Care Safety (physical and emotional) Trustworthiness and transparency Peer support and collaboration Choice, voice, and empowerment Cultural, historical, and gender considerations 18:00-25:00 - Recognizing Trauma in the Chair Signs to watch for during appointments Understanding PTSD vs Complex PTSD Real-world examples and case studies 25:00-30:00 - Trauma-Informed Care for Dental Teams Addressing vicarious trauma Creating psychologically safe workplaces Self-care strategies for providers 30:00-35:00 - Systems Change in Dental Education What dental schools need to teach Moving away from shame-based learning Policy and clinic transformations 35:00-40:00 - Where to Start: Practical Implementation The magic questions to ask patients Small changes with big impact Shifting from "what's wrong" to "what's needed" Key Takeaways

Join us as we discuss Puerto Rico's sovereignty with author, writer, linguist, polyglot, artist, and entrepreneur Javier A. Hernandez. Born in Rio Piedras, Javier is a pro-sovereignty advocate for Puerto Rico who wrote PREXIT: Forging Puerto Rico's Path to Sovereignty and Puerto Rico: The Economic Case for Sovereignty. He is also a former Diplomatic Security Special Agent with the U.S. Department of State (2009–2017) and an experienced international security professional specializing in counterterrorism, diplomatic protection, crisis management, foreign security training, and global embassy security. Javier's education includes a B.A. in Political Science & International Relations, an M.A. in International Communications, and an M.S. in Education. He brings extensive experience in geopolitics, strategic communications, education, and nation-state development – oh, and he's fluent in or conversant with 10 languages… This episode explores: Why Javier believes that Puerto Rico deserves to be its own country. The complicated and harsh history of Puerto Rico. The curriculum that Puerto Rican students learn from the Department of Education. How U.S. tax breaks in Puerto Rico impact the local economy. Want to find out why Javier is so passionate about Puerto Rican sovereignty, independence, national security, agriculture, maritime policy, and economic development? Click play now! You can follow along with Javier on X @PRexitBook! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: http://apple.co/30PvU9

Join us as we explore Puerto Rico's fight for sovereignty with Javier A. Hernandez — an author, writer, linguist, polyglot, and strong proponent of Puerto Rican independence. Javier is the author of PREXIT: Forging Puerto Rico's Path to Sovereignty and Puerto Rico: The Economic Case for Sovereignty, and a former Diplomatic Security Special Agent with the U.S. Department of State. His background in international security, counterterrorism, and crisis management provides a unique lens on Puerto Rico's independence movement. This episode delves into: Javier's perspective on Puerto Rico's right to become an independent nation. The complex and often painful history of Puerto Rico's political status. The educational curriculum Puerto Rican students learn and its influence on their future. The impact of U.S. tax incentives on Puerto Rico's economy and local businesses. Javier's passion for national security, agriculture, maritime policies, and economic development. Tune in to understand why Javier is a leading voice in Puerto Rico's quest for sovereignty. Don't miss this powerful conversation on Puerto Rico's path to independence. Follow Javier on X @PRexitBook for more insights and updates on the sovereignty movement. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr

Fabio Segura, Co-CEO of the Jacobs Foundation, offers a deep dive into the foundation's bold and evidence-driven approach to improving learning outcomes in low- and high-resource environments alike. At the heart of the discussion is a new $120 million co-funding initiative in Ghana—an ambitious, multi-stakeholder collaboration bringing together the country's Ministry of Education, the World Bank, the Global Partnership for Education, and an expanding consortium of private sector actors. What emerges is a compelling framework for what true impact entails. Success is no longer measured solely by the number of schools built or children enrolled, but by the cultivation of resilient education systems that are capable of continuous learning, self-correction, and scale. This means embedding a “culture of rigor” while retaining the humility to revise assumptions as conditions change. Segura is candid about the complexities of building trust across sectors—philanthropy, government, business, and academia—each of which brings different priorities and expectations to the table. He highlights the importance of clearly defined success metrics, transparent governance structures, and a willingness among partners to surrender individual control for the sake of shared objectives. Notably, he underscores how corporate partners are being asked to expand their lens beyond traditional CSR and consider educational reform as a long-term investment in system-wide human capital development. Ultimately, Segura offers a persuasive argument for rethinking philanthropic and developmental practice. In a world where challenges outpace resources, the path forward is not to pursue impact in silos, but to build shared, data-informed architectures for change—anchored in realism, yet animated by the conviction that systems can evolve. Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

Here is a narration of my latest ‘a calm presence', inspired by this quote from Indy Johar's May 12th, 2025 Substack posting, The Stickiness of Want  - And the Systemic Amnesia Behind It :We—you, me, everyone in this room—are the last generation with viable agency before degenerative volatility locks us into conflict and collapse. The window is painfully small but gloriously open.'This posting was written while traveling in India and Japan in April and May of 2025.The narrated version was recorded in one take on May 21, 2025 on the streets of Hakone-Yumoto, Japan with the Haya River and lively birdsong in the background.See the Transcript of this episode for the complete posting.  *END NOTES FOR ALL EPISODESHey conscient listeners, I've been producing the conscient podcast as a learning and unlearning journey since May 2020 on un-ceded Anishinaabe Algonquin territory (Ottawa). It's my way to give back.In parallel with the production of the conscient podcast and its francophone counterpart, balado conscient, I publish a Substack newsletter called ‘a calm presence' see https://acalmpresence.substack.com. Your feedback is always welcome at claude@conscient.ca and/or on social media: Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin, Threads or BlueSky.I am grateful and accountable to the earth and the human labour that provided me with the privilege of producing this podcast, including the toxic materials and extractive processes behind the computers, recorders, transportation systems and infrastructure that made this production possible. Claude SchryerLatest update on March 26, 2025

A backbone's role in a collective is often to facilitate collaboration among partners and help the group make progress toward a shared goal. This can be a complex challenge, as the backbone doesn't hold formal authority or decision-making power. Instead, it must rely on its central coordinating position to influence, build alignment, and advocate for the collaborative's mission.In this new podcast episode, we explore how a backbone can influence partners to take action, without holding a position of authority. We talk with Susan Dawson, the founder and former CEO of E3 Alliance, and author of the new book, Changing Education Systems: Wisdom Gained by E3 Alliance in Driving Effective Change Using Data and Collaboration.Through her years at E3 Alliance, Susan learned many ways a backbone can influence change. In this conversation, she shares the necessary “best-ats” or core competencies a backbone team needs to activate multiple layers of influence, including:- Delivering results- Building relationships of trust- Having the best data- Facilitating stakeholders with diverse missions and perspectives- Being doggedly persistentThe discussion also dives into powerful examples of E3's work, showcasing their own dogged persistence to deliver meaningful results in education for children and families in Central Texas.Resources and FootnotesBook: Changing Education Systems: Wisdom Gained by E3 Alliance in Driving Effective Change Using Data and Collaboration by Susan DawsonE3 AllianceE3 Alliance Data and Trends PortalThe University of Texas at Austin College of EducationThe University of Texas at Austin Education Research CenterMore on Collective ImpactInfographic: What is Collective Impact?Resource List: Getting Started in Collective ImpactThe Intro music, entitled “Running,” was composed by Rafael Krux, and can be found here and is licensed under CC: By 4.0. The outro music, entitled “Deliberate Thought,” was composed by Kevin Macleod. Licensed under CC: By.Have a question related to collaborative work that you'd like to have discussed on the podcast? Contact us at: https://www.collectiveimpactforum.org/contact-us/

Jason Bloomfield didn't learn change in an MBA program—he learned it through real life. As a teenager, he became the de facto head of household. Now, as Global Head of People Change and Experience Design at Ericsson, he leads transformation across 180 countries. In this episode, Jason shares how active listening, design thinking, and human-first systems have helped him move organizations from dysfunction to alignment. From M&A integrations to HR tech failures, from -83 NPS scores to user-designed wins, his work proves one thing: change only sticks when it's built with—not for—the people it's meant to serve. For Gen Xers who've lived through chaos and are now leading through it, this episode is a blueprint in action.>>From Family Collapse to First Acquisition“I was the only one with income. So I had to figure it out.”Jason opens up about his early years, navigating a broken home while building stability from scratch—and how that experience shaped his instincts in business.>>Career by Constraint“They asked if I'd move to 1 Madison Avenue. I said yes—and just kept saying yes.”From wiring cables to managing a global acquisition across 13 countries, Jason shares how constraints—and curiosity—turned into growth and global opportunity.>>Change Starts with Listening“Active listening sends a signal: you care.”Jason breaks down why empathy is not a soft skill—it's the hardest one. Especially when leading transformation across 100,000 employees and 180 countries.>>Turning a -83 NPS into a Shared Win“The tool was hated. But people started feeling heard.”He recounts how a globally despised HR tool became usable—through co-creation, honesty, and building feedback loops that actually changed things.>>From Paper to Trust“They didn't hate digital. They didn't trust institutions.”Jason explains how assumptions kill adoption—and how design thinking and diverse input helped his teams shift deeply entrenched behaviors.______________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Jason Bloomfield  --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.12 Million+ All-Time Downloads.Reaching 80+ Countries Daily.Global Top 3% Podcast.Top 10 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>140,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.