LEAD WITH WE reveals how brands survive in a crisis, thrive in a fast changing market, and accelerate growth in a challenging future.
Discover how the world’s top companies and entrepreneurs are driving growth and impact that employees and customers now demand. What worked, what didn’t and what you need to do to get everyone to build your business.
Your host, Simon Mainwaring, CEO of We First and New York Times bestselling author, dives deep with CEOs and CMOs to reveal the mindset and actions that put them ahead of the competition.
Whether you’re a start-up, high growth company or large corporation, you’ll learn how to build your reputation, increase employee productivity, and inspire customers to promote your brand. Engaging, entertaining and actionable, this is your chance to listen in and learn a lot about how business does well and does good.
LATEST EPISODES
Engineering Cloud-Based Solutions to Climate-Based Challenges: Monica Batchelder, Chief Sustainability Officer at Hewlett Packard Enterprise
November 21, 2023
Technology has the power to transform our future. And that is more true today of IT, the cloud and AI than ever before. But how do you balance the power of technology with its environmental impact? And how do you leverage IT to move climate solutions further, faster? Better yet, how do you achieve that at scale and speed, given the timelines we’re working against? Monica Batchelder is Chief Sustainability Officer at Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), a global edge-to-cloud company sharing passion and purpose through technology and innovation. In this episode, she explains how HPE leverages the power of IT, the cloud, and AI to not only become a sustainability leader, but also to empower companies of all sizes to do the same– and how you leverage sustainability commitments to be a growth, innovation, and impact driver at the same time. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
Linda Boff, Global Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at General Electric
November 7, 2023
Change is always a challenge, and for long-established corporations, the stakes are often incredibly high. Staying true to one’s values while navigating a constantly-changing business landscape requires adaptability, but also a concrete sense of your company’s authenticity and “true north”. Linda Boff is Global Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at General Electric, a world energy, aerospace, and healthcare leader.. In this episode, she explains how a global leader reimagines itself as three separate public companies, while still being an authentic expression of its long standing purpose and impact. And how from a communications point of view, you navigate such dynamic transformation in ways that infuse the company with new life and growth. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
Solving for the Future of Work: Kim Dabbs, Global Vice President of ESG + Social Innovation at Steelcase
October 10, 2023
How we work could not be more important to the success of our companies. And more than ever, with the rising return to the office, the work environment is being reimagined to that end. So how can we redesign the spaces we work in to foster productivity, community, and growth? And how can we do that in a way that’s more responsible to our planet that’s suffering under the impact of the climate emergency? Kim Dabbs is Global Vice President of ESG and Social Innovation at Steelcase, a design and thought leader manufacturing innovative furnishings and solutions to help people do their best work in the many places where work happens. In this episode, she explains how we can all reimagine what and how we make to better serve the people in our companies and the planet we share, and how to join and accelerate a transformative movement that’s turning business into a force for good. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
Global Infrastructure for a Sustainable Future: Faith Taylor, Global Sustainability & ESG Officer at Kyndryl
September 26, 2023
In this unique moment in human history, the climate emergency is increasingly defining our lives. While artificial intelligence is unlocking potential positive impact on a scale never seen before. So what does the future hold for us and our children? How will technology help us show up more responsibly to people and the planet? And what does that look like in practical terms– so that our individual efforts compound in ways that will course correct our future? Faith Taylor is the Global Sustainability and ESG Officer at Kyndryl, the world’s largest provider of IT infrastructure services, with a goal of powering human progress through strong, purpose-driven practices that deliver value to employees, customers, stakeholders, and communities. In this episode, she explains how IT infrastructure and AI can address your sustainability ambitions in ways that will serve your business, and how the power of collaboration and its ripple effect can ensure we address the climate crisis for all of our futures. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
A Sea Change for Industry-Wide Sustainability Goals: Adam Brennan, Group Director, Sustainability at Thai Union Group
August 1, 2023
Not every industry is contributing equally to the climate crisis we face. But all can share an equal responsibility in crafting a better tomorrow. One company that is making big strides to transform its industry– and encouraging others to join them– is Thai Union Group, a global seafood leader with ambitious growth goals and a dedication to scalable green policies and innovation. In this episode, Group Director of Sustainability Adam Brennan discusses concrete actions that are being taken to better protect our oceans and the food sources they make possible. And how together we can transform the seafood industry to ensure a sustainable future for its workers, the industry, and our future. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
Purpose-Driven Business by the Numbers: Kate Williams, CEO of 1% for the Planet
July 25, 2023
By now, almost everyone has realized that business is responsible for creating many of the challenges we face today, but also that business is uniquely positioned to solve them. The question is– How can business make a meaningful difference, but also in a sustained manner? How can you ensure the integrity of those actions and the impact they create? And how do you make sure that you do it in a way that is not only accelerated, but also scales to meet the challenges we face with equal force? Kate Williams is CEO of 1% for the Planet, a global movement, inspiring businesses and individuals to support environmental nonprofit solutions through annual membership and everyday actions. In this episode, she shares how companies can build their reputations, strengthen their culture, and drive sales by supporting the future of our planet– and how you can become part of a fast growing movement of companies that together are a force multiplier for positive impact. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
The Role of Business in “Conscious Capitalism”: Dr. Raj Sisodia, Author & distinguished professor at Tecnológico de Monterrey
July 18, 2023
Rethinking and re-engineering business is a constantly evolving process. Companies have been talking about and acting on the concept of business transformation for many years, but many have yet to achieve the full benefits. Dr. Raj Sisodia is Co-Founder of the global phenomenon “Conscious Capitalism”– an economic and political philosophy that believes businesses should operate ethically while they pursue profits. In this “Point of View” episode, he reveals what that process looks like, what progress we’re making, and how we can move even faster to generate the key critical business impact we need. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
Fashioning a Better Future: Stacey Boyd, Founder & CEO of Olivela
July 11, 2023
It’s hard to live in today’s world without seeing the tension between lives of luxury and so many people going without even basic human needs. It provokes questions of what is fair, right, and conscionable– and the role of business in creating this problem. It would be naive to assume that this tension could be simply resolved. But what if one could serve the other, so that luxury items provide for the basic needs of others, creating a halo effect for the things people want, and critical support for those going without. Stacey Boyd is the Founder & CEO of Olivela, an online luxury retail platform with a philanthropic business model that makes giving back part of every transaction. In this episode, she explains how what consumers want for themselves can drive impact at scale for others, and how today’s top luxury brands are showing up to answer new stakeholder expectations and drive business success through positive impact. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
The Imperfectionists: Strategic Mindsets for Uncertain Times
June 28, 2023
In today’s business climate, authenticity and purpose take center stage. Few companies have so wholeheartedly embraced this concept – and set new standards for business responsibility in the process – as Patagonia. As one of the world’s leading environmentally-friendly clothing brands committed to teaching and training the next generation of environmental activists, the company is deeply committed to using business to activate solutions to the climate crisis. In this episode, Board Chair Charles Conn tells us how to find balance between being uncompromising in terms of your principles – while also not allowing perfection to get in the way of progress. He’ll explain why businesses should adopt an “imperfectionist” mindset to deliver on the promise of improving lives and nurturing our planet– while building thriving companies in the process. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
The Science of Scalable Sustainability Solutions: Catherine Roggero-Lovisi, CEO of Modern Meadow
June 21, 2023
Whether you’re on the front lines of the corporate world or behind the scenes in a lab, companies and organizations of all sizes have a role to play during a time of challenges and transition for business. For companies like Modern Meadow– that means solving for the most pressing enterprise challenges with new, innovative and sustainable solutions– and bringing them to market through expansive and meaningful partnerships. In this episode, Chief Executive Officer Catherine Roggero-Lovisi tells us how “biofabrication” can create materials and ingredients to transform industries and better serve the planet, and how biotechnology more broadly will unlock enormous marketplace opportunities through rapidly evolving and widely applicable innovation. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
The Business of Healing Trauma: Dr. James Gordon – Director of the Center for Mind-Body Medicine
June 13, 2023
The challenge of addressing and healing trauma is no longer just contained to the medical world. Perhaps more so than ever before, we can now see the effects of trauma in every aspect of our daily lives. For businesses and the people who lead them, there is now a greater responsibility to step forward and help employees live more full and productive lives, by providing tools to help cope with obstacles big and small. Dr. James Gordon is a psychiatrist and director of the nonprofit Center for Mind-Body Medicine, as well as director of mind-body studies at Georgetown Medical School and Georgetown University, and world-renowned expert in using mind-body medicine to heal depression, anxiety, and psychological trauma. In this episode, he shares how each of us can emotionally navigate these very traumatic times and share that with our employees and across our companies so that businesses at large can foster healthy cultures and best serve our companies by best serving our people. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
Leveling the Playing Field: Ilze Melngailis – Senior Director for Global Partnerships at United Nations Foundation
June 6, 2023
Uniting all nations on Earth around a common cause is a daunting task– and with a hotly-debated issue like the global climate emergency, it can lead to questions about the best path forward for all people. Ilze Melngailis is Senior Director for Global Partnerships at the United Nations Foundation, an independent charitable organization created to work closely with the United Nations to drive global progress and tackle urgent problems. In this episode, she reveals the progress business is making to address those pressing challenges – and how we can work together in new ways to accelerate and scale those efforts to course-correct our future. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
“Ecopreneurship” At Scale: Tim Christophersen – Vice President of Climate Action at Salesforce
May 30, 2023
IA passion for nature-based solutions is what drives Tim Christophersen– Vice President of Climate Action at Salesforce, an industry-leading cloud-based software company providing software and applications for customer relationship management across companies of all sizes around the world. In this episode, he shares how to leverage new strategies and tools to track and control your carbon footprint to better serve your business and our future. And how we as companies across the private sector and with public sector partners, can address the climate emergency at ever increasing scale to meet the moment and realize a brighter future for all. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
“Philanthro-activism” for the Planet: Justin Winters – Co-Founder & Executive Director of One Earth
May 23, 2023
Imagine an online marketplace that puts you in the driver’s seat of real worldwide change– allowing you to take direct control and make an impact on the causes you care about most– simply with the click of a mouse. That’s what Co-Founder & Executive Director Justin Winters and her team are building at One Earth, a global organization working to galvanize science, advocacy, and philanthropy to drive collective action on climate change. In this episode, she shares how science has revealed a solution to the climate crisis and how each of us can take action to course correct our future in our own lifetimes. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
Wearing Your Brand Values: Gavin Thompson, Senior Vice President of Corporate Citizenship at Canada Goose
May 16, 2023
Sometimes the best way to stay true to your brand values is, counter-intuitively, to make some changes. That’s why one company is forging ahead on a mission to keep the planet cool– while keeping the people on it warm. Gavin Thompson is the Senior Vice President of Corporate Citizenship at Canada Goose, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of extreme weather outerwear dedicated to purpose-driven innovation and values-driven, sustainable growth. In this episode, he shares how to level up your sustainability credentials in ways that build brand reputation, trust, and sales, and how to engage suppliers, employees, and consumers to inspire your whole industry to raise its game. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
The Price of “Living Nature”: Ralph Chami, Assistant Director of the International Monetary Fund
March 14, 2023
How do you put a price tag on a blue whale? According to Ralph Chami, Assistant Director for the International Monetary Fund, it’s worth around $2 million if not more. But how does that translate to real-world economics, with wide-reaching implications for business success? In this episode, he explains how an unusual encounter motivated him to explore the nexus of sustainability and profit in the hopes of creating a “nature-based” economy. He tells us how businesses can spearhead the creation of markets that serve nature and its restoration in ways that solve for the climate crisis. And what the future of business can look like so humanity and nature work together to reward investors and stewards of the planet alike. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
A Compass for Sustainable Business Development: Nicole Sparshott, CEO of Unilever Australia & New Zealand
February 28, 2023
It’s not easy to take an enterprise and reconfigure its purpose and values. But doing so can open new opportunities at the nexus of purpose and profit. Nicole Sparshott is the CEO of Unilever Australia & New Zealand, one of the world’s leading suppliers of beauty, personal care, home care, and food and refreshment products, with the goal of making sustainable living commonplace and accessible for everyone. In this episode, she shares how a complex enterprise with a wide portfolio of brands balances purpose and profit to drive growth and impact, and how all stakeholders can collaborate to make a positive impact through what we buy and how we live to better our shared future. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
No Borders for Purpose-Led Businesses: Josué Delgado, CEO of INCmty
February 21, 2023
We’re at the apex of a monumental shift not only in how successful businesses are run, but also where innovation and transformation are coming from. Right now, Latin America is the fastest-growing region for startups in the world. But that comes as no surprise to those who are already working in that region to foster the next generation of purpose-led leaders. Josué Delgado is the CEO for INCmty, a intercontinental technology, entrepreneurship, and business platform promoting international networking and partnerships, and providing inspiration and action for new businesses building value in Mexico and around the world. In this episode, he shares how to foster the critical entrepreneurship, innovation, and impact needed to solve today’s pressing social and environmental challenges and how to leverage collaboration to drive extraordinary returns and much needed sustainable solutions. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
Making Modern Slavery History: Joanna Ewart-James, Co-founder & Executive Director of Freedom United
February 14, 2023
It’s a crisis many of us never imagined could exist in our lifetimes: modern slavery. But the unconscionable issue of forced labor is something that everyone can help tackle head-on. Joanna Ewert-James is executive director and co-founder for Freedom United, the world’s largest community dedicated to ending human trafficking and slavery. In this episode she shines a light on the unseen facets of modern slavery in business, what we can do to address it, and how together we can make progress to expose and end modern slavery through the company and industry-wide collaboration. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
Climate Solutions out of Thin Air: Gregory Constantine, CEO of Air Company
February 7, 2023
Turning the air we breathe– and the carbon dioxide we produce– into products that enhance our daily lives. It’s not only possible but happening right before our eyes. Gregory Constantine is co-founder and CEO of Air Company, a technology, engineering, and design company that has developed a new process to turn carbon dioxide into value-added products, with a goal of demonstrating to the world that there is limitless potential in technology, and that it should be accessible to all. In this episode, he shares how to launch and scale a truly disruptive and purposeful company with multiple product lines and how to leverage that purpose to win investors, employees, and customers, and a brighter future. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
Finding Your Way to Flourish: Dr. Katia Sol, Assistant Director of the Stanford Flourishing Project
January 31, 2023
The way we think about leadership is changing, both on a personal level and in the context of business growth and development. For a business to succeed, especially in the digital era, the conversations around what it means to lead must evolve with the changing societal landscapes. But when you are seeking reinvention, it’s easy to get stymied by the simple question: where do we start? Dr. Katia Sol is a lecturer at Stanford University as well as Assistant Director of the Stanford Flourishing Project, a weekly lecture series designed to enhance one’s own leadership toolkit and change-making capacity, as well as one’s ability to enhance collective prosperity and flourishing. In this episode, she shares how we can regenerate ourselves to show up most effectively for others and the planet, and how we foster a culture of purpose and service to navigate challenging times and course-correct our future. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
Meeting the Moment for Mental Wellness: Taryn Bird, Senior Director of Social Impact, Kate Spade New York
January 24, 2023
Mental health and wellness has never been more top of mind. The global toll of the Covid-19 pandemic peeled back the layers on long-held stoicism, unearthing a growing crisis not only on a personal level, but one that permeates business and brands worldwide. Now, employers are asking themselves: What can we do to help? Taryn Bird is Senior Director of Social Impact at Kate Spade New York, a global fashion design company known for its colorful, playful designs and its commitment to creating high-quality products with personal style statements for each customer. In this episode, she shares how a company of any size can address a sensitive issue like mental health in ways that are deeply meaningful to employees and customers, while also delivering real value to a business at a time when it’s needed most. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
Sustaining a Healthier Future: Alison Writenour, CEO of Seventh Generation
January 17, 2023
Alison Writenour is CEO of Seventh Generation, a homecare products company that became a household name selling eco-friendly cleaning, paper, and personal care items with a focus on sustainability and the conservation of natural resources in both product development and marketing practices. In this episode, she shares how an industry leader reimagines its role to unlock new innovations, products, and growth, and how a purpose-led company of any size can accelerate and scale impact in ways that inspire everyone to build its business. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
Why Sustainability Is Getting Better For Business: Koann Skrzyniarz, Founder And Ceo Of Sustainable Life Media
December 13, 2022
KoAnn is the Founder and CEO of Sustainable Life Media, producers and conveners of the internationally respected Sustainable Brands community. Through Sustainable Brands, she and her team lead the global conversation about how 21st-century brands can, and are delivering new business value through innovation for environmental and social purpose. In this episode, we discuss the evolution of sustainability efforts around the world and the positive progress we’re making, as well as exciting and disruptive new companies, technologies, and collaborations that are unlocking huge marketplace opportunities in the future. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
Making Climate Change A Human Rights Issue: David Clark, Founder and CEO of The Right Here, Right Now – Global Climate Alliance
December 6, 2022
David Clark is the Founder and CEO of The Right Here, Right Now Global Climate Alliance, an international initiative ensuring climate change is recognized as the human rights crisis that leading scientists and human rights advocates, including the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, have declared it to be. In this episode, he reveals the state of the climate movement and how companies large and small can participate in meaningful ways that support much-needed business growth while also course-correcting our future. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
Paul Hawken & Regeneration: Ending the Climate Crisis in One Generation
November 29, 2022
It’s hard to overstate Paul Hawken’s contribution to transforming the relationship between humanity, business and the natural world. His books and leadership have built the foundation and laid out the roadmap for how we work together to address the climate crisis. It was a privilege to speak with him about his new book: Regeneration: Ending the Climate Crisis in One Generation.
In this episode of Lead With We, Paul and I talk about what “regeneration” means, the actions business and humanity must take to end the climate crisis in one generation, and where we stand as a business community when it comes to authentically embracing the practices that will regenerate and nurture life on earth. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
Changing The Future Of The Face: Pascal Houdayer, Co-founder & CEO of Orveon
November 22, 2022
The beauty industry is undergoing massive transformation. Pascal Houdayer is CEO of Orveon, a new and disruptive enterprise at the forefront of this reinvention. As a purpose-driven leader with 30+ years of experience in Beauty & Personal Care, he’s committed to exposing the dirty secrets about “clean” beauty and realizing his vision of “pure beauty” as part of holistic health and wellness. In this episode, he shares how to plan, launch, and disrupt a powerful and pervasive industry, and how to maintain your integrity, grow your business, and increase your impact even in these turbulent times. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
Making Sure Waste Management Isn’t A Wasted Opportunity: Tom Szaky, CEO Of Terracycle
November 15, 2022
Waste is one of the most dire and distressing issues we face today both for our own lives and for the planet. Tom Szaky is the founder and CEO of TerraCycle, a global leader in the collection and repurposing of complex waste streams polluting our planet. The company operates in 21 countries, working with the world’s largest brands and companies to recycle products and packaging that currently go to landfill or incineration. In this episode, he shares why it has become such a growing and seemingly intractable problem, and how we can fix it together to better serve our communities and future. Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
How The Mindset Of The Future Can Help Improve Your Business: Dr. Tom Hunsaker, Thunderbird School of Global Management
November 8, 2022
Dr. Tom Hunsaker is an international bestselling author and thought leader who previously served as Associate Dean of Innovation for the Thunderbird School of Global Management. He also helped to pioneer the Global Challenge Lab, a cutting-edge capstone course that engages students with global organizations to solve challenges related to growth and impact. In this episode, he shares what leadership can and must look like to ensure your company thrives in turbulent times while also scaling its impact. And how to find balance in your personal and professional lives to best serve business and our shared future.
Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
Investing in a Better Future: Nelson Switzer, Managing Partner, Climate Innovation Capital
November 1, 2022
Nelson Switzer is Managing Partner at Climate Innovation Capital, Nelson’s career has included advising and leading the sustainability, environmental and corporate responsibility offices of some of the world’s most influential companies, including Nestlé, PwC, Centrica, and the Royal Bank of Canada. He is recognized as a pioneer in the fields of sustainability strategy, sustainable finance, and ESG, and as an expert in climate change, water, and pollution. In this episode, he shares how the investor class and capital markets unlock huge opportunities that course correct our future, and how all stakeholders in business make a contribution with the integrity that the current crisis demand.
Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
How To Have Massive Impact With The Click Of A Button: James Citron, Co-founder & CEO of Pledge
October 25, 2022
James Citron is the CEO of Pledge, the world’s first software platform to empower brands to find their purpose and integrate impact into their core to create better businesses and achieve sustainable social impact. In this episode, he shares how to leverage technology most effectively to ensure that every donation dollar does the greatest good, and how companies, nonprofits, and donors can combine their efforts to provide much-needed support through these very turbulent times.
Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
Leading By Listening: Starbucks’ Chief Social Impact Officer, Virginia Tenpenny
October 18, 2022
When it comes to social impact, Starbucks has been leading the pack for decades. In fact, it’s hard to keep track of all their initiatives, from local community grants to groundbreaking standards it created to source ingredients like coffee beans and cocoa.
In this episode of Lead With We, I got the chance to chat with Virginia Tenpenny, Starbucks’ Chief Social Impact Officer, who shared how Starbucks brings purpose to life on a daily basis, the future of leadership, localizing large-scale impact, and the importance of treating your employees like partners.
Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
Creating A Waste-Free Future: Matt Bertulli CEO of Pela
October 11, 2022
Matt Bertulli serves as the CEO and co-founder of Pela, an international company leveraging sustainability to make “everyday products without everyday waste”. With products ranging from phone covers to sunglasses to Lomi composting machines, Pela sits at the forefront of how business reimagines and reengineers how we live while building a high-growth business. Inspiring and ingenious in equal parts, Pela reveals what a multistakeholder movement looks like to realize a sustainable future.
Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
POV How To Lead With Vulnerability: Kevin Edwards, General Manager, Real Leaders
October 4, 2022
Kevin Edwards is the General Manager and Host of the Real Leaders Podcast, a Top 100 Podcast for both US and Canada Business News. Since 2015 he’s recorded more than 500 interviews with impact CEOs to educate and inspire listeners about the future of leadership. In this episode, Simon and Kevin share how to combine your personal and professional lives to be the best leader you can be, and how business leaders can and must show up to thrive in these changing and challenging times.
Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
Lead With Respect: Rob Cameron, Nestlé’s Global Head of Public Affairs and ESG Engagement.
September 27, 2022
Kevin Edwards is the General Manager and Host of the Real Leaders Podcast a Top 100 Podcast for both US and Canada Business News. Since 2015 he’s recorded more interviews (500+) with impact CEOs than anyone else in the world to educate the mainstream about the growing impact movement and the future of leadership.
Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
A Formula For Success: Brenda Demers, Ceo At Smartypants: Brenda Demers, Ceo At Smartypants
September 20, 2022
“Brenda Demers is the CEO of SmartyPants Vitamins, where she most recently led SmartyPants’ integration into Unilever’s Health & Wellbeing collective — while propelling the business to a Top-10 share position in the multivitamin category through her focus on marketing and operational excellence. In this episode, she shares how to build and scale a company that not only wins over employees and consumers but also drives extraordinary growth while creating exceptional impact. She also explains why the company believes so strongly in giving back by making a matching nutrient grant donation to a child in need for every bottle they sell.
Lead With We is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
POV on the Business of Sustainability with GreenBiz’s Heather Clancy
September 13, 2022
We’re excited to launch this new POV format where, once a month, I go head-to-head with a featured guest. For our first POV episode, we welcome Heather Clancy, the Vice President and Editorial Director at GreenBiz.GreenBiz Group is a media and events, member-based company that recognizes the inextricable link between climate change and social change. Join Heather and I in a critical discussion around the climate and sustainability landscape, how business is showing up, and why we both believe there is strong cause for optimism. ‘Lead With We’ is Produced by Goal 17 Media – https://goal17media.com
Best of: Patagonia’s Rick Ridgeway: On A Mission to Save Our Home Planet
September 9, 2022
Patagonia is an outdoor apparel company based in Ventura, California with a mission to save our home planet. It was founded in 1976 by Yvon Chouinard and was the first B-Corporation in the state. Rick was Vice President of Environmental Initiatives and Special Media Projects for Patagonia for 15 years during which he founded the Sustainable Apparel Coalition. In addition to his accomplishments at Patagonia, Rick is recognized as one of the world’s foremost mountaineers. Along with Yvon and another friend, they were the first Americans to summit K2. He has done other significant climbs and explorations on all continents.
In this conversation, Rick discusses why and how Patagonia is fulfilling their mission to save our home planet. He also talks about how Patagonia walks the walk when it comes to sustainability and how it measures its financial performance with the overall health of the planet.
Rick is also the author of 6 books. His latest book, “”Life Lived Wild: Adventures at the Edge of the Map”” is a memoir that recounts some of his boldest expeditions. Rick estimates that he has spent over five years of his life sleeping in tents in distant locations around the globe, “”Life Lived Wild”” offers some insights to those adventures including his ascent of K2 to exploring a remote area of Tibet that no outsider had ever seen.
This episode of Lead With We was produced and edited by Goal 17 Media and is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible. You can also watch episodes on YouTube at WeFirstTV.
A Dose of Optimism: Tracey Franklin, Chief Human Resources Officer at Moderna
August 30, 2022
Tracey Franklin is the Chief Human Resources Officer at Moderna, a pharmaceutical and biotechnology company playing a critical role in addressing the Covid-19 pandemic. Its enduring mission is to deliver on the promise of mRNA science to create a new generation of transformative medicines for patients. Over the last two years, they were challenged to do so while facing extraordinary pressures, expectations, and conditions. In this episode, Tracy shares how Moderna works to solve this global health crisis in real-time, how they manage through hypergrowth, and what steps they took to nurture a culture that brought out the best in their people so they could protect and save countless lives.
The Lead With We podcast is produced by Goal17Media and is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible. You can also watch episodes on YouTube at WeFirstTV.
How To Balance Work, Play, And The Planet: Jessica Rolph, Co-founder & CEO of Lovevery
August 23, 2022
Jessica Rolph is the co-founder and CEO of Lovevery, a company best known for its award-winning subscription play kits, designed by child development experts and distilled to their spurest purpose to be exactly what children need at each stage of life. In this episode, she shares how to design, launch, and scale a high growth and high impact business that combines the best interest of its customers, the greatest potential for profit, and the deepest commitment to the planet and our future while also balancing a happy family life.
The Lead With We podcast is produced by Goal17Media and is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible. You can also watch episodes on YouTube at WeFirstTV.
Why Being Unreasonable Produces Great Results: Daniel Epstein, Founder & Ceo Of Unreasonable
August 19, 2022
Daniel Epstein is the founder and CEO of Unreasonable. They are dedicated to supporting growth equity entrepreneurs and positioned to bend history in the right direction. Part investment firm, part media house, and most importantly a global community. Unreasonable partners with multinational institutions and respected brands to align them with impactful growth stage entrepreneurs. In this episode, Daniel shares how to launch, build and scale a collaborative ecosystem that not only gives entrepreneurs an unfair advantage to succeed but also provides every tool they need to scale the impact they want to realize in the world.
The Lead With We podcast is produced by Goal17Media and is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible. You can also watch episodes on YouTube at WeFirstTV.
Aligning Climate Goals With Digital Transformation: Angela Baker, Chief Sustainability Officer at Qualcomm
August 11, 2022
Angela Baker is the Chief Sustainability Officer at Qualcomm, a leading global technology company enabling a world where everyone and everything can be intelligently connected. In this episode, Angela explains how 5G technology not only drives transformative innovation but also holds the key to myriad avenues of impact, from regenerative agriculture to education to health and safety. And how such technologies can accelerate and scale dramatic improvements in people’s lives at a time when it’s critically needed.
This episode of Lead With We was produced and edited by Goal 17 Media and is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible. You can also watch episodes on YouTube at WeFirstTV.
Living Your Values at Work: Carina Cortez, Chief People Officer at Glassdoor
AUGUST 2, 2022
Carina Cortez is the Chief People Officer at Glassdoor. Built on the foundation of increasing workplace transparency, Glassdoor offers insights into the employee experience powered by millions of company ratings and reviews, CEO approval ratings, salary reports, and more – all by the employees themselves. Carina is passionate about building the future of work and helping people find meaning in their work at a time when this is critical to every business. In this episode, she shares what she had to unlearn from her 20-plus-year history in HR during her first year at Glassdoor and how the company is leading with purpose, building a culture of transparency, and empowering organizations to rebuild their cultures to drive growth, productivity and impact. The Lead With We podcast is produced by Goal17Media.
This episode of Lead With We was produced and edited by Goal 17 Media and is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible. You can also watch episodes on YouTube at WeFirstTV.
Caryl Levine and Ken Lee, Co-Founders and Co-CEOs at Lotus Foods: A Grain of Hope
JULY 27, 2022
Over the past 25 years, Lotus Foods has imported over 25 million pounds of certified organic rice from a multi-country network of rice producers whose lives and communities have been transformed by access to markets and organic and fair trade premiums. In this episode, Co-Founders Caryl Levine and Ken Lee share how their commitment to organic and regenerative practices is generating more rice from less land, preserving valuable genetic biodiversity, saving hundreds of millions of gallons of water annually, and reducing methane gas generated by rice fields by over 40%.
This episode of Lead With We was produced and edited by Goal 17 Media and is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible. You can also watch episodes on YouTube at WeFirstTV.
Bryce Fluellen, Executive Director, Social Equity Franchise Everytable: Change Is Bigger Than You
MAY 10, 2022
Bryce Fluellen is the Executive Director of Social Equity Franchise at Everytable. They are redefining the fast-food landscape by selling nutritious, fresh, made-from-scratch food at fast-food prices in underserved communities. To that end, they’re reducing the meal prices to meet the minimum income of each community. Bryce is a master chef who has worked with nationwide restaurants to drive systemic change to benefit underserved populations and communities. In this conversation, he shares how his passion for education and healthy eating serves the company’s rapid growth and the democratization of healthy, affordable food where it’s needed most.
This episode of Lead With We was produced and edited by Goal 17 Media and is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible. You can also watch episodes on YouTube at WeFirstTV.
Adam Grogan, President at Greenleaf Foods: The Future of Protein Is Now
MAY 3, 2022
Adam Grogan is the President of Greenleaf Foods, a portfolio of leading plant-based protein brands including Lightlife Foods and Field Roast that are transforming the future of food. Greenleaf Foods, SPC is a wholly owned, independent subsidiary of Maple Leaf Foods Inc, a one hundred year old iconic brand headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Adam leads Greenleaf’s strategic direction, financial performance, innovation, customer development and distribution. In this episode, he shares how Greenleaf plans to become the world’s most sustainable plant-based protein company on earth, how and why consumer purchasing habits are changing, and how to anticipate and capture emerging marketplace opportunities to accelerate business growth and a regenerative future.
This episode of Lead With We was produced and edited by Goal 17 Media and is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible. You can also watch episodes on YouTube at WeFirstTV.
Stacey Tank, Chief Transformation Officer, Heineken: Serving A Regenerative Future
April 27, 2022
Stacey Tank is the Chief Transformation Officer at Heineken, the world’s most international brewer, where she oversees the company’s new growth strategy, ‘EverGreen’ and its latest sustainability and ESG vision, Brew a Better World 2030. She reveals how a complex, global enterprise reengineers its business and reimagines the role of its brands to not only serve moments of celebration that bring people together, but also a regenerative future that benefits all.
This episode of Lead With We was produced and edited by Goal 17 Media and is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible. You can also watch episodes on YouTube at WeFirstTV.
Seth Goldman, Co-Founder and Chief Change Agent at Eat the Change: Creating The Future of Food
April 19, 2022
Seth Goldman is the, Co – Founder and Chief Change Agent of Eat the Change which is a food company focusing on sustainable and plant-based ingredients to empower us to, “eat the change you wish to see in the world.”
Before co-founding, Eat The Change Seth was the Founder of Honest Tea the multi-million organic tea company that was acquired by Coca-Cola in 2011, and is Chair of the board of Beyond Meat the plant-based meat substitutes company. In this conversation, Seth talks about why he is passionate about the future of food, and his optimism about good and sustainable food. “
This episode of Lead With We was produced and edited by Goal 17 Media and is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible. You can also watch episodes on YouTube at WeFirstTV.
Michele Mosa, Dir. of Corporate Citizenship at Samsung Electronics America: Educating The Future
April 12, 2022
Michele Mosa is the Director of Corporate Citizenship at Samsung Electronics America. In her role, Michele guides their transformative initiatives, including Samsung’s annual ‘Solve For Tomorrow’ Contest. The contest is open to all public school students and encourages them to build solutions and address the most pressing issues impacting society. Michele reveals why it is so critical for her company to support public teachers, help mentor the innovators of tomorrow, and build a brighter future – together.
This episode of Lead With We was produced and edited by Goal 17 Media and is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible. You can also watch episodes on YouTube at WeFirstTV.
Saskia van Gendt, Head of Sustainability at Rothy’s: Why Circular is now in fashion
April 5, 2022
Saskia van Gendt is an environmental scientist and the first Head of Sustainability at Rothy’s, the San Francisco-based, direct-to-consumer fashion company. Rothy’s items are made from 100% recycled plastic water bottles and post-consumer recycled materials. Saskia oversees their initiatives to use more reusable materials, design products that eliminate waste, and advance their goal of making the brand – and fashion industry at large – ever more circular to better serve our planet and future.
This episode of Lead With We was produced and edited by Goal 17 Media and is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible. You can also watch episodes on YouTube at WeFirstTV.
Wes Carter, President, Atlantic Packaging: On Empowering Purposeful Packaging
Mar 29, 2022
Wes Carter is the President of Atlantic Packaging, the largest, private packaging company in the U.S. which has been operating for 75 years. As a third generation business owner, he is on a mission to make packaging smarter and sustainable. In this episode, we discuss the moral obligation he feels for packaging companies to care about environmental issues, inspire greater responsibility in customers, and innovate to better serve our future. He reveals the power of collaboration between competitors, partners, and policy makers to realize a new and transformative vision for sustainable packaging at a time it’s urgently needed.
This episode of Lead With We was produced and edited by Goal 17 Media and is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible. You can also watch episodes on YouTube at WeFirstTV.
Kathrin Belliveau, Chief Purpose Officer, Hasbro: Leading with Purpose and Play
Mar 22, 2022
“Since 1923 Hasbro has delighted generations with beloved toys, games and brands that are synonymous with childhood. Kathrin Belliveau is the first Executive Vice President and Chief Purpose Officer of the self-described ” “global play and entertainment company,” ” where she is charged with bringing their purpose to life in ways that make the world a better place for children, fans, and families. In this episode, Kathrin talks about why it’s critical for companies in all sectors to embrace sustainability and lead with purpose to drive growth, relevance and impact. From innovative packaging to building a purposeful culture, Kathrin explains the strategies Hasbro has used to be recognized as one of ” “the World’s Most Ethical Companies” “eleven years in a row.”
This episode of Lead With We was produced and edited by Goal 17 Media and is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible. You can also watch episodes on YouTube at WeFirstTV.
Daniella Foster, Global VP & Head of Public Affairs, Science & Sustainability, Bayer: Public Sector Experience Can Lead to Private Sector Success
Mar 18, 2022
Bayer is one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world – generating $48.90 billion in revenue in 2021. At the helm of Public Affairs, Science and Sustainability for Bayer’s Consumer Health Division is Daniella Foster. Daniella joined Bayer in 2019 with a powerful vision for how consumer engagement and cross-sector collaboration can transform millions of lives including those in underserved communities around the world. With aggressive but attainable goals to be climate neutral by 2030 and net-zero by 2050, Daniella reveals how Bayer meets these targets while solving for complex global challenges.
This episode of Lead With We was produced and edited by Goal 17 Media and is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible. You can also watch episodes on YouTube at WeFirstTV.
Damian Bradfield, Chief Creative Officer & Co-Founder, WeTransfer: Creating Simple Solutions with Artistic Principals
Mar 15, 2022
Damian Bradfield is the Co-Founder & Chief Creative Officer at WeTransfer, the leading cloud-based content-sharing platform that is in the business of making tools to shape and move ideas for creatives globally. While best known as a service to easily transfer large files to colleagues and loved ones, WeTransfer is a powerful storytelling company on a mission to make the internet more open and democratic. In my chat with Damian, we discuss how WeTransfer came to be, how it is creating impact through its editorial platform WePresent, and how a tech company builds and sustains critical trust at a time when others struggle.
This episode of Lead With We was produced and edited by Goal 17 Media and is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible. You can also watch episodes on YouTube at WeFirstTV.
Ryan Moor, CEO & Founder, Ryonet & Allmade Apparel: How Sustainable Apparel Becomes Good Business
Mar 7, 2022
It started with a punk-rock band in Seattle in the 90’s and a kid who had a knack for screen printing t-shirts from his bedroom. That entrepreneurial start led to the launch of ScreenPrinting.com in 2004 which generated $8 million in revenues in under three years. As his business grew so did Ryan, as a successful business owner and social change agent. Through Allmade he is now reimagining what eco-friendly, socially conscious apparel and printing looks like and challenging the biggest brands in the world to buy more responsibly, to make sure everyone in the supply chain is fairly paid fairly, and to ensure the clothing we wear each day gives back to those in greatest need.
This episode of Lead With We was produced and edited by Goal 17 Media and is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible. You can also watch episodes on YouTube at WeFirstTV.
Rick Ridgeway, Conservationist & Author, Life Live Wild: Adventures At The Edge of the Map
Feb 14, 2022
Patagonia is an outdoor apparel company based in Ventura, California with a mission to save our home planet. It was founded in 1976 by Yvon Chouinard and was the first B-Corporation in the state. Rick was Vice President of Environmental Initiatives and Special Media Projects for Patagonia for 15 years during which he founded the Sustainable Apparel Coalition. In addition to his accomplishments at Patagonia, Rick is recognized as one of the world’s foremost mountaineers. Along with Yvon and another friend, they were the first Americans to summit K2. He has done other significant climbs and explorations on all continents.
In this conversation, Rick discusses why and how Patagonia is fulfilling their mission to save our home planet. He also talks about how Patagonia walks the walk when it comes to sustainability and how it measures its financial performance with the overall health of the planet.
Rick is also the author of 6 books. His latest book, “Life Lived Wild: Adventures at the Edge of the Map” is a memoir that recounts some of his boldest expeditions. Rick estimates that he has spent over five years of his life sleeping in tents in distant locations around the globe, “Life Lived Wild” offers some insights to those adventures including his ascent of K2 to exploring a remote area of Tibet that no outsider had ever seen.
This episode of Lead With We was produced and edited by Goal 17 Media and is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible. You can also watch episodes on YouTube at WeFirstTV.
Jostein Solheim, Group CEO, Unilever Health & Wellbeing: Leading the Way in Diversity and Sustainability
Feb 14, 2022
Unilever is a purpose-led global company that owns over four hundred brands we use every day. Its purpose is to make sustainable living commonplace by empowering consumers to make responsible choices. In this episode, I have a great conversation with Unilever’s CEO of Health & Wellness, Jostein Solheim, about the new division he is leading for Unilever and his re-radicalizing of Ben & Jerry’s, the activist ice-cream brand he led for 8 years.
This episode of Lead With We was produced and edited by Goal 17 Media and is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible. You can also watch episodes on YouTube at WeFirstTV.
Jonathan Webb, Founder and CEO, App Harvest
Feb 8, 2022
AppHarvest is a high-tech controlled-environment agriculture company based in Morehead, Kentucky. AppHarvest is a B-Corp and is on a mission is to combine conventional agriculture techniques with today’s technology that will yield more crops with a fraction of the resources. Jonathan Webb is the Founder & CEO of AppHarvest. When he decided to build AppHarvest, he brought it to his hometown of Eastern Kentucky. In this episode, Jonathan shares why he decided to bring this project to his home state. He also shares why we need to act now on creating sustainable agriculture, and why this is the future of food.
This episode of Lead With We was produced and edited by Goal 17 Media and is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible. You can also watch episodes on YouTube at WeFirstTV.
Michel Doukeris, CEO, Anheuser-Busch InBev
Feb 2, 2022
Anheuser-Busch InBev is the world’s largest beer brewer by both volume and revenue, whose portfolio includes more than 500 beer brands sold in over 150 countries. Under the leadership of its new CEO, Michel Doukeris, the industry-leading enterprise is revitalizing its brand with a new purpose and sustainability goals to drive future growth and impact. In this episode, I speak with Michel about his leadership philosophy and his ambitious 10-year plan. This roadmap hinges on the company’s commitment to “Dream Big To Create A Future With More Cheers” and Michel shares his advice for business leaders and entrepreneurs about how to navigate an ever-changing and challenging future.
Kristen Elliott, VP of Marketing, Eddie Bauer
Nov 29, 2021
Eddie Bauer recently celebrated 100 years in business, and the iconic outdoor brand is focused on making the outdoors accessible to everyone. It’s a mission that deeply resonates with me as I believe that reconnecting to the natural world will help us repurpose business to restore the planet. In this episode, I speak with Eddie Bauer’s Vice President of Marketing, Kristen Elliot, about the many ways Eddie Bauer is bringing this mission to life, from their new outdoor gear rental program to working with underserved communities. Kristen also shared her advice for starting a sustainability journey which can seem daunting at first but should be viewed as a long term investment in brand equity.
Note: The team and I will be on a holiday break following this episode, but we’ll resume Season 3 with new episodes of Lead With We in the New Year. I hope you get some time to unplug and be with family and friends as well.
Kareem Gahed, CEO, John Hardy
Nov 22, 2021
John Hardy is an ethical jewelry brand whose production facilities are based in Bali. In fact, they’re the biggest employer on the island. In this episode of Lead With We, I spoke with their CEO, Kareem Gahed, about how John Hardy employs local Balinese artisans to hand craft their pieces and build communities and a culture of humanity and courage. We dig into the details of what ethical production truly means in the jewelry business and how the company’s vertical business model enables greater transparency. Plus, Kareem shares how he hopes to level up the entire industry by setting an example and encouraging others to take a stand on today’s pressing social and environmental issues.
Maddy Kulkarni, Global Marketing Director of Sustainability & Purpose, PepsiCo
Nov 15, 2021
As PepsiCo’s Global Marketing Director of Sustainability & Purpose, Maddy Kulkarni has been an integral part of charting a new course for one of the world’s largest enterprises. And now she’s passing on that knowledge to younger generations as a professor at the University of Texas. She even created her own textbook!
In this episode Maddy and I chatted about the importance of educating the next generation of business leaders on how to blend purpose and profit, the case studies she uses from PepsiCo, and some of the exciting details of pep+ (pep Positive), a strategic end-to-end transformation of PepsiCo that will drive growth by restoring the planet and inspiring positive behavior change.
Simon Mainwaring, NYT-Bestselling Author & CEO, We First
Nov 8, 2021
My new book, Lead With We, is officially out in stores and online, so in this episode we’re turning the tables and I’m in the hot seat for a change. In this episode Goal 17 CEO Greg Mollner, who has been our partner on this podcast from the beginning, interviews me about how my personal and professional journey led me to rethink business as usual and create the new business paradigm I lay out in the book to better serve humanity and the planet. Greg and I chatted about the collaborative strategies that every business leader can and should adopt to help solve today’s escalating challenges and unlock extraordinary growth.
Marc Goulston, Executive Coach & Co-Founder, Michelangelo Mindset
Nov 1, 2021
Dr. Mark Goulston has had a fascinating career as a psychiatrist. From helping those contemplating suicide to assisting the FBI with hostage negotiations to now coaching the world’s top executives at companies like IBM and Goldman Sachs, Mark helps people become better leaders through his company, Michaelangelo Mindset. Oh, and did I mention he’s written nine books?
In this episode I spoke with Mark about the type of leader the world needs now and in the future, and he shared with us some of the techniques he uses to draw out leadership qualities like humility and empathy. We also chatted about how business leaders can persevere through the enduring challenges of the pandemic by taking care of their own mental health and the rising power of women’s leadership.
Stacey Pool, Chief Marketing Officer, Noodles & Company
Oct 25, 2021
Stacey Pool became Chief Marketing Officer at the fast casual restaurant chain Noodles & Company at a pivotal time just before the COVID-19 pandemic started. In this episode Stacey shares how she’s leading this long-time purposeful company through these unprecedented times. We talked openly about how COVID-19 has taught us to be vulnerable as leaders, the balancing act of looking out for the wellbeing of employees while still providing opportunities for professional growth, and using transparency and innovation to stay ahead of rising consumer expectations around the environment in an industry that’s been hit hard by supply chain constraints.
Linda Boardman, Chief Executive Officer, Bragg
Oct 11, 2021
Bragg Live Foods has been in the natural foods space for over a century. Now the family owned original health food company is a movement for healthier and happier lives with CEO Linda Boardman at the helm. In this episode Linda and I spoke about how she’s leading the company at such a pivotal time in its history, especially given the explosion of clean food and her personal passion for health and wellness. Hear our deep dive conversation into how she’s capitalizing on today’s consumer trends and carrying forward the company values to drive a new era of growth.
Dan Widmaier, CEO and Founder, Bolt Threads
Oct 11, 2021
As we witness the acute effects of climate change and economic inequality, business needs radical reshaping. Andrew Winston has advised countless companies on how to create positive impact, and in his new book, Net Positive: How Courageous Companies Thrive by Giving More Than They Take, he charts a way forward for the future. In this episode Andrew and I talk about what it means to be net positive, how he co-authored his book with former Unilever CEO Paul Polman who shared his experience at the helm at one of the world’s largest companies, and net positive is the only path forward for business and humanity.
Andrew Winston, Advisor, Speaker, Writer, Net Positive
Oct 4, 2021
As we witness the acute effects of climate change and economic inequality, business needs radical reshaping. Andrew Winston has advised countless companies on how to create positive impact, and in his new book, Net Positive: How Courageous Companies Thrive by Giving More Than They Take, he charts a way forward for the future. In this episode Andrew and I talk about what it means to be net positive, how he co-authored his book with former Unilever CEO Paul Polman who shared his experience at the helm at one of the world’s largest companies, and net positive is the only path forward for business and humanity.
Wayne Suiter, Wayne Suiter Matamoros, Managing Director of Product & Experience
Sept 28, 2021
Business has the power to tackle the existential problems we face in today’s world, but first we must redirect market forces to support companies creating positive change. And that’s why I was so excited about my conversation with Wayne Suiter Matamoros, Managing Director of Product and Experience at Unreasonable Group, which runs a business accelerator called Unreasonable Impact focused on just that. Together with Barclays, Unreasonable Impact has invested over $6.5 billion in green economy companies that are disrupting some of the most harmful industries out there, while also creating jobs. In our chat we touch on how Wayne and his team think about creating big change on short timelines, how to repurpose capitalism, and what it really means to take an “unreasonable” approach to today’s biggest challenges.
Paul Hawken, Environmentalist, Entrepreneur and Author of Regeneration: Ending the Climate Crisis in One Generation
Sept 20, 2021
It’s hard to overstate Paul Hawken’s contribution to transforming the relationship between humanity, business and the natural world. His books and leadership have built the foundation and laid out the roadmap for how we work together to address the climate crisis. It was a privilege to speak with him about his new book: Regeneration: Ending the Climate Crisis in One Generation.
In this episode of Lead With We, Paul and I talk about what “regeneration” means, the actions business and humanity must take to end the climate crisis in one generation, and where we stand as a business community when it comes to authentically embracing the practices that will regenerate and nurture life on earth.
Rodney Foxworth, CEO, Common Future
Aug 3, 2021
Common Future is a mission-driven non-profit organization that has diverted nearly $300 million into marginalized communities through grants and low-barrier loans since 2001. And they just received a game-changing gift from philanthropist Mackenzie Scott.
It was a pleasure to chat with CEO Rodney Foxworth on the precipice of this new chapter for Common Future. We spoke about his plans for building up this BIPOC-led organization to close the racial wealth gap in America, how his own experiences with racism inform this work, and how he and his team are building a powerful network of “wealth-holders” and “wealth-builders” to create lasting change.
Deanna Bratter, Head of Sustainable Development, Danone North America
July 26, 2021
Deanna Bratter heads up sustainability at the world’s largest public benefit corporation: Danone North America. It’s a $6 billion food and beverage company with a massive portfolio of well-known brands.
It was so refreshing to get Deanna’s perspective on finding the intersections between purpose and profit when advocating for change within a behemoth organization like Danone. We also spoke about the responsibility of not only being a B Corp but also a Benefit Corporation and how that has helped Danone set benchmarks for progress across all parts of their business, and how COVID spurred optimism amongst sustainability practitioners.
Rachel Lincoln, Director of Sustainability & Product Ops, prAna
July 19, 2021
Rachel Lincoln loved fashion, but she didn’t love how she saw the industry treating workers and the planet. So she joined a small California-based activewear brand prAna and worked her way to Director of Sustainability where she is now transforming the entire industry through the Responsible Packaging Movement (RPM). RPM is a coalition of pre-competitive brands who share knowledge and practices that reduce packaging waste and promote the use of sustainable materials and a powerful example of leading with we.
In this episode Rachel and I chat about this unique collaboration in the sustainability space, the evolution of sustainability in consumer products, and how she, her team, and the 80+ brands who are a part of RPM are making a substantive effort to save the planet.
Martin Whittaker, Founding CEO, JUST Capital
July 12, 2021
Markets work better with information and JUST Capital is supplying the economy with critical knowledge that holds companies accountable based on how the American public believes they should behave.
In this episode, I had the privilege of speaking with JUST Capital’s CEO Martin Whittaker about how their public rankings help direct market forces to build a better future. In addition to his work with JUST, we talked about where we are in the journey towards stakeholder capitalism, why it’s absolutely necessary to create a more equitable economy, and what business leaders can do to bring about this change.
Jean Accius, SVP Global Thought Leadership, AARP
July 5, 2021
Diversity, equity and inclusion should be top of mind for any business leader, but we don’t often think about age when it comes to DEI.
In this episode of Lead With We I’m sharing a conversation with AARP’s Jean Accius, who shared some fascinating research about how businesses benefit from a multigenerational workforce. We talked about why age diversity is a competitive advantage, how businesses can be more inclusive of workers over 50, and what Jean thinks the private sector can learn from nonprofit leadership.
Paul Coletta, CEO, Urban Remedy
June 28, 2021
As CEO at Urban Remedy, Paul Coletta is pushing back against our industrialized food system by trying to bring fresh, plant-based meals to consumers at scale.
In this episode of Lead With We, Paul and I chatted about taking an omnichannel approach to brand-building, partnering with hospitals, and his vision for how technology could help reduce food waste and make healthy food more accessible.
Ryan Lupberger, Co-Founder & CEO, Cleancult
June 21, 2021
As a college student, Ryan Lupberger wanted cleaning products that were actually clean. But even non toxic brands used wasteful plastic packaging. So he decided to create the eco-friendly, zero-waste cleaning brand, Cleancult.
In this episode of Lead With We Ryan shares how focusing on product efficacy helped everything else fall into place, partnering with CarbonFund to ensure operational sustainability, and the surprising advice he got from his parents for weathering the long and winding journey to business success.
Rebecca Henderson, Author, Reimagining Capitalism
June 14, 2021
Rebecca Henderson teaches at the Harvard Business School, but she’’’s a vocal critic of “business as usual.” In fact, her scholarly research focuses on how we need to change capitalism in order to overcome the myriad of crises humanity is facing, and she recently published a book on the topic called “Reimagining Capitalism In A World On Fire.”
Rebecca and I have some things in common, so it was a pleasure to speak with her one-on-one about how we can shift our economic system to drive positive change in the world. It may sound daunting, but she gives some really actionable advice that any business leader or employee can put into practice.
Rachel and Andy Berliner, Co-Founders & CEO (Andy), Amy’s Kitchen
June 7, 2021
Rachel and Andy Berliner started Amy’s Kitchen based on their own need. Like many new parents, they needed some convenient meals after the birth of their daughter, Amy. But they couldn’t find high quality, frozen, organic vegetarian food in stores, so they decided to make it themselves!
In this episode of Lead With We I spoke with Rachel and Andy about how they helped bring about a major shift in the American food system, and how they built a business that aligns with their values.
Virginia Tenpenny, Chief Global Social Impact Officer, Starbucks
May 31, 2021
When it comes to social impact, Starbucks has been leading the pack for decades. In fact, it’s hard to keep track of all their initiatives, from local community grants to groundbreaking standards it created to source ingredients like coffee beans and cocoa.
In this episode of Lead With We I got the chance to chat with Virginia Tenpenny, Starbucks’ Chief Social Impact Officer, who shared how Starbucks brings purpose to life on a daily basis, the future of leadership, localizing large scale impact, and the importance of treating your employees like partners.
This podcast is part of the 2021 Social Innovation Summit series (www.socialinnovation.com), which highlights some of the world’s most impactful and forward thinking philanthropists, companies, foundations and entrepreneurs. This year’s gathering will be held virtually from June 8th to June 10th. The high-level event will feature free workshops, keynote speakers and breakout sessions with leaders like Shaquille O’Neal, Selena Gomez, Paris Hilton, Percy “Master P” Miller, our guest Virginia Tenpenny, and host Simon Mainwaring.
Michael Munoz, Global Marketing DE&I Lead, Google
Reggie Bulter, Founder/CEO, Performance Paradigm
May 24, 2021
Lots of companies are talking about diversity, equity and inclusion these days, but what does it mean to actually move the needle in those areas? As we mark the one year anniversary of George Floyd’s murder, there couldn’t be a more relevant topic. Each of us has a role to play in bringing about a better future, and business leaders are uniquely positioned to create lasting change.
In this episode of Lead With We, I had the privilege of speaking with Michael Muñoz, Global Marketing Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Lead at Google, and Performance Paradigm’s Reggie Butler about the lessons they’ve learned doing DE&I within today’s leading corporations. We spoke about re-centering our shared humanity in business, what needs to happen if we truly want things to be different, and more.
Tobias Peggs, CEO, Square Roots
May 17, 2021
Whether we like it or not, our current food system is unsustainable. Luckily people like Tobias Peggs are re-engineering how food is grown and distributed in ways that are better for people and the planet. Using real time data and machine learning to create the right climate conditions for growing produce, Tobias’ company, Square Roots, uses refurbished shipping containers situated near local retailers which drastically reduces waste and carbon emissions.
In this episode of Lead With We, Tobias and I chat about how his experience working within Walmart led to his idea for Square Roots, the incredible power of tech in agriculture, creating the next generation of farmers, his purpose-driven approach to business and more.
Erin Meezan, VP & Chief Sustainability Officer, Interface
May 10, 2021
The modular flooring company Interface has one of the most forward-thinking sustainability visions in the building industry and the private sector in general. Interface’s late founder, Ray Anderson, pivoted the company to an aggressive sustainability path over 20 years ago, and it’s up to Chief Sustainability Officer Erin Meezan to continue and build upon his legacy.
In this episode of Lead With We, Erin and I spoke about going beyond the “do-no-harm” approach to sustainability and actually reinvigorating the planet by building a regenerative business model through partnerships, biomimicry, shared industry tools and more. When it comes to climate, the timelines we’re working against can be daunting, but listen to this episode and learn how there really is a better way.
Sherry Turkle, MIT Professor, Author of The Empathy Diaries
May 3, 2021
I first met Sherry Turkle about ten years ago at a conference where we spent hours chatting about how rapidly advancing technology is changing our relationships to each other and ourselves, and how that affects all sectors of society. It’s something Sherry has spent her life studying as a psychologist and sociologist at MIT. In this episode of Lead With We, I got the chance to reconnect with Sherry, who recently published a memoir called “The Empathy Diaries.” We spoke about how vulnerability is key to everything from great leadership to moving forward a society post-COVID, practicing empathy as an action, and so much more.
Natasha Case, Co-Founder & CEO, Coolhaus
Apr 26, 2021
Natasha Case started in architecture and landed in ice cream after one of her professors compared a project of hers to a layer cake. So she took her creative energy and co-founded the premium ice cream brand Coolhaus with her wife Freya Estreller in 2009. Since then Natasha has used the brand as a platform to inspire other LGBTQ+ millennial entrepreneurs. I thoroughly enjoyed my conversation with Natasha, chatting about the importance of partnering with other brands that share your values, how business can be a vehicle for positive cultural change and some of her tips for succeeding in the early stages of building a brand. Pro-tip: Sometimes you just have to buy a broken down ice cream truck, tow it to a music festival and see where things go!
Matthew Wadiak, Founder & CEO, Cooks Venture
Apr 12, 2021
Matthew Wadiak went from being a chef to founding Blue Apron, the first meal kit company to go public, and now he’s disrupting the food industry yet again through Cooks Venture. In his newest endeavor, Matthew is pioneering regenerative systems that span the entire value chain of animal agriculture.
I learned so much during my conversation with Matthew. Listen to the episode to understand more about the flaws he’s addressing in our current food system, building brand awareness online to challenge the status quo, and so much more.
Wendy Hauteman, CMO, VSP Global
Apr 5, 2021
Following the company’s 65th anniversary, Wendy Hauteman, Chief Marketing Officer at VSP Global, decided it was time to craft a new purpose statement, not as a marketing initiative, but as a way to set the company up for future growth in an increasingly competitive industry.
Wendy and I worked together to bring purpose to life at VSP. Listen to our conversation to find out how she got buy-in from all levels of leadership and brought employees along during the process, how VSP has kept purpose alive through a network of internal ambassadors, and how purpose has come into play at VSP in terms of innovation, responding to COVID and more.
Lynne Twist, Co-Founder of The Pachamama Alliance and Founder of The Soul of Money Institute
Mar 29, 2021
Lynne Twist is one of the most incredible people I know. She became an activist after she was inspired by Buckminster Fuller’s vision of a global society in which no one was left behind, and since then she’s gone on to write her revolutionary book, ‘The Soul of Money’, examining our cultural attitudes towards wealth. Today, Lynne runs the Pachamama Alliance, an organization that connects leaders in business to indigenous leaders that protect the Amazon rainforest to support personal and collective transformation. She brings with her pure positivity and a powerful message so enjoy our conversation on how business needs to change in order to meet the social and environmental challenges we face.
Ashwin Cheriyan, Co-Founder & CEO, Thistle
Mar 22, 2021
Ashwin Cheriyan took the leap into entrepreneurship with his wife, Shiri Avnery, when he started the plant-based meal delivery service, Thistle, in 2013. He was a former corporate lawyer, and she was a climate-scientist frustrated by how little people were talking about the environmental impact of reducing demand for animal products, let alone the impact on human health. They knew that getting people to shift their eating habits meant making plant-based meals more delicious and convenient.
In this episode of Lead With We, Ashwin and I talk about how his personal connection to healthy food has sustained him through the inevitable ups and downs of entrepreneurship, motivating consumers to make better choices, and so much more.
Marc Washington, Founder & CEO, UR Labs
Mar 15, 2021
Have you heard of the gut microbiome? There’s been a lot of buzz about scientific research about how the bacteria in our gut influences our overall health. And in this episode of Lead With We, I talk with first-time entrepreneur Marc Washington about how he launched a consumer nutrition brand called Muniq that uses gut health science to help people who struggle with health issues to take back control. We discuss the personal tragedy that led Marc down this path, his ambitious decision to launch the brand during a pandemic, and whether business is truly meeting the call to be more inclusive.
Andrei Cherny, CEO, Aspiration
Mar 8, 2021
Andrei Cherny has had a fascinating career. He worked with Al Gore in the early days of raising awareness about climate change and helped start the Consumer Protection Bureau with Sen. Elizabeth Warren. Now, he’s taking on the exact same issues through his company, Aspiration. It’s a pay-what-you-want financial services model that allows customers to divest from things like gun manufacturing and fossil fuels. In this episode of Lead With We, Andrei chats with me about what led him down this path, some of the lessons learned, and how the role of money is changing.
Anthea Kelsick, Board Member, B Lab
Mar 1, 2021
The B Corp movement was started by a group of conscious entrepreneurs in the early 2000’s who believed business should be about more than maximizing profits. Today, there are over 3,500 B Corps across the world. In this episode of Lead With We, I speak with Anthea Kelsick, the CEO of B Lab U.S. & Canada, which is the non-profit that certifies B Corps. We talk about the value of the certification process and accountability, how these companies collaborate on critical issues like reducing carbon emissions, and the incredible momentum around purposeful business today as we face mounting crises.
Sally Uren, Chief Executive, Forum for the Future
Feb 23, 2021
Thanks for joining us for another season of Lead With We. I couldn’t think of a better guest to kick things off than my dear friend, futurist Sally Uren.
Sally runs a leading sustainability non-profit called Forum For The Future that works directly with big brands and business leaders to create global change. Together we discuss the future of humanity (literally), and how we’re seeing very different trajectories play out simultaneously in real time. And what I particularly love about this conversation is that Sally points to growing movements, such as regenerative agriculture and impact investing, as proof that we can build a positive future through our actions.
LEAD WITH WE IS BACK WITH NEW EPISODES!
Feb 15, 2021
Lead With We is back for Season 2 with new episodes every Tuesday! And to kick things off, I’m sharing my thoughts on 2021 so far. Things got off to a rocky start in January, but there are many reasons to be optimistic when it comes to the future of business, the planet and society. And that’s really what this show is about. I’m also sharing a bit about the amazing guests we have lined up for you this season. Together we’ll discover how to re-engineer business to be a force for positive change in 2021 and beyond.
Highlight 2020: From Climate Scientist To Entrepreneur: How Adam Lowry Disrupts Crowded Consumer Categories
Feb 1, 2021
Season 2 of Lead With We is launching soon! And I’m looking forward to sharing all-new conversations with purposeful business leaders as we move through 2021.
We’ll announce our launch date soon, but until then please enjoy my conversation with Adam Lowry, Co-Founder of Method & Executive Chairman of Ripple Foods. Adam is a prolific entrepreneur, and in this episode we talk about how he’s changed the world through disruptive startups like Method, which makes eco-friendly cleaning products, and Ripple Foods, which uses technology to make high-protein dairy replacements that actually taste good.Listen to this episode to hear how Adam has persevered in the face of industry attacks, how he approaches branding, and why he helped found the B-corp movement.
HIGHLIGHT 2020: BEN & JERRY’S JAY CURLEY ON WHY INNOVATIVE ICE CREAM AND SOCIAL JUSTICE GO HAND-IN-HAND
Jan 26, 2021
It’s a new year, but we continue grappling with the same big issues in 2021. For many, the events of last year made it impossible for business leaders to stand on the sidelines. But engaging with social justice issues is uncharted territory for most in the private sector. That’s why I’m re-sharing a conversation I had with Jay Curley, the Global Head of Integrated Marketing at Ben & Jerry’s.
Ben & Jerry’s has been instrumental in paving the way for business to be a force for progressive change in the world. The iconic ice cream brand has taken bold stances on key social justice issues, from marriage equality to ending mass incarceration and supporting the Black Lives Matter movement. So how does a company like Ben & Jerry’s manage to keep growing and earning loyal employees and customers while speaking out on such controversial issues? In this episode of Lead With We, Jay Curley gives me an insider perspective based on his twelve years inside one of the most socially conscious and beloved brands out there.
Enjoy the episode, and we’ll be back with new ones very soon!
Highlight 2020: Omaze’s Matthew Pohlson On His Near Death Experience And Disrupting Charity
Jan 18, 2021
Let’s face it, 2021 is off to a bit of a rocky start. And it can be easy to get bogged down in uncertainty and negativity, which is why I’m revisiting a conversation I had last year with Matthew Pohlson, the Co-Founder and CEO of Omaze.
Matthew inspired me because he’s a real-life example of how changing your mindset can unlock greater joy and success, especially if you’re an entrepreneur. In this episode of Lead With We, I talk with Matthew about disrupting charity, the personal reasons behind his work, and a near-death experience that transformed him and his company.
Enjoy and look out for new episodes coming soon!
Highlight 2020: BlackRock’s Frank Cooper On Retooling Capitalism & How Sustainability Will Drive Growth
Jan 11, 2021
Lead With We is currently on break, but we’ll be back soon with all new episodes featuring some of the most inspiring purposeful business leaders out there. In the meantime, I want to highlight one of my favorite conversations from 2020, with Frank Cooper, Senior Managing Director, Global Chief Marketing Officer of BlackRock.
It was fascinating to get Frank’s perspective on how the world’s largest hedge fund is rethinking capitalism, like the threat climate change poses to business and how sustainability is becoming an innovation driver. Frank also gave me his take on why we should be optimistic about what we can achieve together through business in the future.
Highlight 2020: Doug Palladini of Vans On Choosing Integrity Over Ubiquity
Jan 4, 2021
I think we could all use a little rest right now, so the team and I are taking a little break in preparation for the new year. We’ll have more episodes for you soon, but for now please enjoy one of my favorite conversations from 2020 with Doug Palladini, the Global Brand President of VANS.
What I love about Doug’s approach to purposeful branding, is that it’s all about supporting passionate, creative communities. Doug shared with me how he and his team have sustained the company’s legacy by really listening to their customers and staying authentic. We also discussed how their approach translated into a truly unique response to COVID 19.
Highlight 2020: Kara Goldin On Why Consumers Want Purposeful Products More Than Ever
Dec 28, 2020
When you look up ‘disrupter’, I’m pretty sure Kara Goldin’s name is the first one to pop up. That’s why I’m re-sharing the conversation I had with her in 2020.
Kara is the founder and CEO of Hint, Inc., and she turned the bottled water industry upside down with her best known product, Hint water. As she was about to welcome her fourth child, Kara’s idea to help her lead a more healthy life, along with her bold scrappy approach, led to the creation of top-selling flavored waters without artificial flavors in an incredibly crowded category. Kara also discusses her political activism around access to clean water in America and how she doesn’t let her own fear get the best of her, a core theme in her new book, Undaunted.
So enjoy this episode, and we’ll be back with new ones soon.
Highlight 2020: HOW ALLBIRDS’ TIM BROWN IS SOLVING FOR CLIMATE CHANGE
Dec 21, 2020
As we come to the end of 2020, the team and I are getting some much needed rest as we gear up for 2021. We’ll be back soon with new episodes of Lead With We, but in the meantime, I hope you’ll enjoy listening to my conversation with Tim Brown, the Co-Founder and CEO of Allbirds.
Allbirds quickly gained a cult following after launching a simple and sustainable sneaker in 2016. And I got the chance to learn how Tim and his team are working to reduce their carbon footprint and bringing the rest of the world along with them. From partnerships with “the competition,” to award-winning innovations and inventing a universal metric for carbon, Tim shared his many insights on how business can be a force for positive, rapid change.
Enjoy the episode, and we’ll be back with new ones very soon!
Simon Mainwaring, Founder & CEO, We First
Dec 14, 2020
How would you describe 2020? Wait, don’t answer that question. I think it’s safe to say that we could all use a bit of a break, as well as a chance to reflect. Personally, as we wrap up 2020 and head into a new year, I’ve been looking back and appreciating my conversations with purposeful business leaders in our first season. So with this episode, I’ll take you through some of my favorite moments from the show, key takeaways and give a little peek into my own story.
Sunny Vanderbeck, Co-Founder, Satori Capital
Dec 8, 2020
Sunny Vanderbeck launched his investment firm, Satori Capital, in the midst of the 2008 financial crisis. At the time, it was a difficult sell met with resistance within the institutional investment community: he wanted to invest in business as a force for good. In this episode, Sunny explains how he has put this philosophy into practice, from investing with longer time horizons to transforming the employee experience at the company-level, to going above and beyond minimum environmental standards. At this time of great uncertainty and instability, I’m excited to share Sunny’s refreshing take on how the world is moving toward a more sustainable version of capitalism.
Andras Forgacs, Co-Founder & CEO, Modern Meadow
Nov 30, 2020
Andras Forgacs went from venture investor to entrepreneur when he co-founded two biotech companies with his father, Organovo and Modern Meadow, in a quest to bring about a more sustainable world. In this episode, Andras takes me through his journey, from pioneering lab-grown human tissues technology at Organovo for pharmaceutical testing, to applying that same technology to consumer products at Modern Meadow. With Modern Meadow’s lab-grown leather about to hit the market, I couldn’t be more excited to share our fascinating conversation.
Dave Gilboa, Co-Founder & Co-CEO, Warby Parker
Nov 23, 2020
Warby Parker first disrupted the optical industry by offering direct-to-consumer glasses at an affordable price, but now the company is also shaking things up in the social arena. In this episode I speak with the company’s Founder and co-CEO, Dave Gilboa, about how the company has embraced access to voting in 2020 and partnered with other businesses to spread their message far and wide. We also discuss what’s next for this ten-year-old brand, the possibility of going public and choosing purpose-driven investors in the next stage of growth.
Tim Brown, Co-Founder & Co-CEO, Allbirds
Nov 16, 2020
Allbirds quickly gained a cult following after launching a simple and sustainable sneaker in 2016. In this episode of Lead With We, Allbirds CEO Tim Brown talks about how he and his team are working to reduce their carbon footprint and bringing the rest of the world along with them. From partnerships with “the competition,” to award-winning innovations and inventing a universal metric for carbon, Tim shares his many insights on how business can be a force for positive, rapid change.
Oliver Pabst, CEO, Mammut
Nov 9, 2020
Founded in 1862, Mammut built its reputation amongst outdoor enthusiasts by creating the strongest mountaineering ropes out there. Now, as they look to the future, CEO Oliver Pabst is leading the company with a new purpose: to create a world moved by mountains. Listen to my conversation with Oliver to learn how the company is leaning on their purpose to reach a diverse set of global consumers, how they partner with other companies on sustainability, and more.
Scott Harrison, Founder & CEO, Charity Water
Nov 2, 2020
My friend Scott Harrison has had quite the personal journey. Scott was a nightclub promoter in New York City living the late night life, before he turned a 180 with an intent to make an impact. After spending two years volunteering as a photojournalist in West Africa, he founded charity: water, which builds clean water sources for people in developing countries. Learn how Scott built one of the fastest growing non-profits in America. We discuss everything from how he views relationships with those who give to his organization, to how he set up a radically transparent model for tracking donations, to how he marries emotional storytelling with the latest technology to grow his global community.
Christopher Gavigan, Founder & CEO, Prima
Oct 26, 2020
Christopher Gavigan, is a scientist-turned-entreprenuer who once co-founded The Honest Company with actress Jessica Alba leading and disrupting the industry with health conscious, eco-friendly products. Since then he has moved on to start one of the leading CBD brands, Prima, offering wellbeing essentials. In each venture, he laid the foundation for success through education and sharing his knowledge of how chemicals in everyday products affect our health. In this episode, Christopher and I have a great conversation around purposeful business, his passion for building deep trust with consumers, and creating a better future through business.
Jay Curley, Global Head of Integrated Marketing, Ben & Jerrys
Oct 19, 2020
Before becoming the Global Head of Integrated Marketing for Ben & Jerry’s, Jay Curley dreamt of working for the famous ice cream brand that has taken bold stances on key social justice issues, from marriage equality to ending mass incarceration and supporting the Black Lives Matter movement. So how does a company like Ben & Jerry’s manage to keep growing and earning loyal employees and customers while speaking out on such controversial issues? In this episode of Lead With We, Jay Curley gives me an insider perspective based on his twelve years inside one of the most socially conscious and beloved brands out there.
Kara Goldin, Founder & CEO, Hint Water
Oct 12, 2020
When you look up ‘disrupter’, I’m pretty sure Kara Goldin’s name is listed. Kara is the founder and CEO of Hint, Inc., and she completely disrupted the bottled water industry with her best known product, Hint water. As she was about to welcome her fourth child, Kara’s idea to help her lead a more healthy life, along with her bold scrappy approach, led to the creation of top-selling flavored waters without artificial flavors in an incredibly crowded category. Kara also discusses her political activism around access to clean water in America and how she doesn’t let her own fear get the best of her, a core theme in her new book, Undaunted.
Adam Lowry, Co-Founder, Ripple Foods
Oct 5, 2020
Adam Lowry thought he would make a difference as a climate scientist, but instead, he’s changed the world through disruptive startups like Method, which makes eco-friendly cleaning products, and Ripple Foods, which uses technology to make high-protein dairy replacements that actually taste good. And he’s got another killer product on the way. Listen to this episode to hear how Adam has persevered in the face of industry attacks, how he approaches branding, and why he helped found the B-corp movement.
David Heath, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Bombas
Sep 28, 2020
Like many of the leading direct to consumer brands in today’s marketplace, David Heath built a cult following around a high-quality product with a powerful social mission when he started Bombas. Bombas donates a pair of high quality, high performance socks to the homeless community for every pair they sell. In this episode, I speak with David about building a business with purpose, passion and empathy touching on how he bootstrapped his company for two years and why every Bombas employee is required to give out ten pairs of socks when they start at the company.
Mike Mannina, Co-Founder & CEO, ThriveWorx
Sep 21, 2020
Have you ever wondered how to get all your stakeholders on board when it comes to building a business model that benefits everyone? ThriveWorx has figured it out. Joining us this week is Mike Mannina the Co-Founder and CEO of ThriveWorx, a philanthropic arm of Thrive Farmers that helps the communities in which the company sources coffee. Mike and I have a great discussion on why business is the most effective tool for community development, in addition to learning how purposefully channeling philanthropic dollars to the people in your supply chain actually reduces business risk by strengthening relationships.
Arne Arens, Global Brand President, The North Face
Sep 14, 2020
The North Face is known for its outdoor apparel, but in July 2020 the company became known for being the first major brand to speak out about against hate speech on Facebook as part of the #StopHateforProfit campaign. Join me in conversation with Global Brand President Arne Arens as he takes us inside that bold decision, and how it connects directly to the mission of The North Face brand, and how ultimately making long-lasting clothing that’s meant to be recycled makes for great business.
Matt Pohlson, Co-Founder & CEO, Omaze
Sep 7, 2020
If you are looking to be inspired by how a change of mindset can unlock joy and success in the entrepreneur journey, listen to this episode. Matthew Pohlson, Co-founder and CEO of Omaze joins me for an in-depth conversation about how his for-profit model is disrupting the non-profit space, the personal reasons behind his work, and a near death experience that forever changed his life, and his company.
Doug Palladini, Global Brand President, Vans
Aug 31, 2020
In this episode, I have a great conversation with Doug Palladini, Global Brand President of Vans on how to build a purposeful brand by really listening to your customers and being truly authentic. Doug discusses how the company’s approach translated into their unique response to COVID 19 and more.
Frank Cooper, Global Chief Marketing Officer, BlackRock
Aug 24, 2020
In this episode, I have a fascinating conversation with Frank Cooper, Senior Managing Director, Global Chief Marketing Officer of BlackRock, the world’s largest hedge fund. Frank gets candid about the challenge climate change poses to business, what needs to change about capitalism, and how sustainability and purpose have become driving forces behind innovation. Frank also tells me why we should be optimistic about what we can achieve together through business in the future.
Blair Kellison, CEO, Traditional Medicinals
Aug 17, 2020
This week it was a pleasure to welcome Blair Kellison to the podcast, the President of herbal medicine company Traditional Medicinals. Blair offers insights on how his company has thrived since 1974 through long term decision-making, a holistic understanding of sustainability, and a carefully crafted company culture. He also shares his belief that the highest purpose of business is to address climate change and income inequality.
Joey Bergstein, CEO of Seventh Generation, On Building Products for People and Planet
Aug 10, 2020
Thrilled to have Joey Bergstein, CEO of Seventh Generation join me on the podcast this week. We talk about the Iroquois philosophy which inspired the formation of this eco-friendly home products company over 30 years ago, and how it has grown into one of the most profitable and purpose-driven pieces of Unilever’s portfolio. Joey shares information that any brand can learn from around building a virtuous cycle between creating products with integrity, advocacy and the bottom line.
VF Corporation’s Steve Rendle on “Balancing Purpose and Performance”
Aug 3, 2020
In this episode, I have a great conversation with Steve Rendle, the Chairman, President, and CEO of VF Corporation, who shares how a global enterprise pivots to purpose with a portfolio of twelve leading activity-based brands. Steve discusses how he mobilized that portfolio and its employees around issues like COVID-19 and what the future of leadership looks like to the benefit of all stakeholders in our future.
How Harry’s leverages its capital and culture to address men’s mental health
July 27, 2020
In this episode, I have a great conversation with Maggie Hureau, Head of Social Impact at Harry’s. She talks about how Harry’s aims to get more men access to mental health care through its philanthropic efforts and partnerships with nonprofits. Its partners offer mental health resources to men across a number of demographics, including those who identify as LGBTQ, veterans, those facing homelessness and more.
Jeni’s Ice Cream’s 20-year journey to becoming a community-centered, impact-focused business leader.
July 20, 2020
This week I welcomed Jeni Britton, founder of Jeni’s Ice Cream to the podcast. If you don’t know Jeni’s – you should. We had a great discussion about their ingrained sense of community with a team of 800+ employees, her journey to becoming a true impact leader, and how critical it is to have business show up in social discussions. Jeni’s Ice Cream is a purpose-driven leader, a trailblazer in the industry and a company businesses can learn from. Enjoy!
Thrive Farmers mission to stabilize coffee pricing to support small farmers in Central America
July 13, 2020
Michael Jones talks about how Thrive Farmers has designed a revolutionary new business model that for the first time in history decouples coffee from the toxic connection to volatile commodities markets, thereby aligning the interests of farmers with those who are buying and consuming their coffee. Thrive’s revenue sharing model creates stable and predictable long-term pricing for farmers, providing true economic sustainability, and transforming families and communities that produce coffee.
Greenbar Distillery’s Unexpected Journey To Become A Sustainability and Impact Leader
July 6, 2020
This is a fascinating episode with Melkon Khosrovian, the Co-Founder and Spiritsmaker at Greenbar Distillery. Melkon reveals the obstacles he had to overcome to be a truly impact-focused business, how they partnered with growers to launch some of the most carbon negative products and how they adapted to the COVID-19 crisis. Greenbar Distillery is a shining example of how business can be a force for good and drive growth by solving the pressing problems of today.
HOW SANMAR DELIVERED HIGH GROWTH, SUSTAINABILITY AND PPE EQUIPMENT FOR COVID-19
June 29, 2020
In this episode, I have a great chat with Jeremy Lott, Owner and President of Seattle based SanMar. Family-owned since 1971, SanMar is an award-winning supplier of retail and private brands of printable apparel and accessories. Jeremy and I discuss taking the family T-shirt business to one of the largest apparel business in the United States while transforming into a sustainability leader that played an instrumental role in providing PPE equipment as the COVID-19 crisis took hold across the country and around the world. Don’t miss his insights into how you balance growing your business while making a meaningful impact on people and planet.
Toms on Transforming Lives, Scaling Impact and Redefining Business
June 14, 2020
In this episode, I had a great conversation with Amy Smith, Chief Strategy and Impact Officer at TOMS. We talked about how TOMS is evolving how it turns business into a force for good and she gave great insights into the strategies and tactics they use to engage consumers so they can grow their business and its impact at the same time. This is something every brand must do to meet the new demands of their employees and customers, and there’s no better leader to learn from than Amy.
How IBM, Call For Code and Developers Worldwide are Tackling COVID-19
June 14, 2020
In this episode, Bob Lord, Senior Vice-President of Cognitive Applications and Developer Ecosystems at IBM, inspires us with breakthrough innovations created by IBM, developers worldwide and its partners. He shares the strategies and tactics of true entrepreneurship that not only solve for today’s greatest challenges like the climate crisis and COVID-19, but also unlocks new and expansive opportunities for business. This is the power of technology, collaboration and impact at its best!
Meet Your Host
Simon Mainwaring is the founder and CEO of We First, a strategic consultancy that accelerates growth and impact for purpose-driven brands. He is a member of the Advisory Council of Conscious Capitalism LA, the Advisory Board of Sustainable Brands, The Forbes Business Council, and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts in London.
Simon was a finalist for Global Australian of the Year in 2015 and interim CMO at TOMS, received the MAKE CHANGE, ‘Conscious Leadership’ Award for 2016, a finalist for the Conscious Company Leadership Awards in 2017, and a Real Leaders Top 100 Visionary Leader in 2018. His company We First was included in Real Leaders list for the Top 100 Impact Companies in the United States for 2018 and a We First was a B Corps ‘Best for The World’ Honoree in 2019. He is a Jury Member of PRWeek’s ‘Purpose Awards’ in 2020 and a Jury Member at the Cannes Lions Festival for the Sustainable Development Goals in 2021.
Simon’s book, We First: How brands and consumers use social media to build a better world is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and Amazon bestseller. It was named an Amazon Top Ten Business Book, 800CEORead Top Five Marketing Book, strategy+business named it the Best Business Marketing Book of the Year, and Sustainable Brands listed We First as one of their Top Sustainability Books of the decade. It has been translated into Russian, Chinese, Taiwanese and Korean. Simon also writes of the popular ‘Purpose At Work’ blog in Forbes.
Simon is a sought after international speaker with engagements including the Cannes International Advertising Festival, Royal Society of Arts, SXSW, TEDxSF, NAB, Promaxbda, Conscious Capitalism, Necker Island with Sir Richard Branson, Aspen Institute, Sustainable Brands, SOCAP, 3BL, Social Good Summit, National Speakers Association, 1440 Multiversity, National Press Club, Harvard, USC, UCLA and the United Nations Foundation. He has delivered keynotes at Google, Coca-Cola, General Motors, VF, Samsung, VSP Global, Toyota, SAP, Gucci, JP Morgan Chase, Timberland, VW Group, the NHL, and Patagonia. He has presented at the Harvard Business School Association, UCLA, USC, University of Oregon and University of Chicago. He was interim CMO at TOMS, voted a Top 5 Marketing Speaker by speaking.com for 5 years in a row and featured on the cover of the National Speaker’s Magazine.
Prior to starting We First Simon spent 15 years as an award-winning writer, Creative Director, and Worldwide Creative Director at many of the world’s top creative advertising agencies including Saatchi & Saatchi, Wieden & Kennedy, and Ogilvy working on brands such a Nike, Coca-Cola, Toyota, and Motorola, as well as consulting on dozens of F500 brands for leading advertising, production, and digital companies. He was the writer on the U.S. launch of the first three generations of the Toyota Prius, the largest national service campaign for the Entertainment Industry Foundation that brought together all four major TV networks for the first time in U.S. television history, and multiple award-winning campaigns for Nike. He has received over 60 awards at major advertising festivals including the Cannes Advertising Festival (Europe), the One Show (U.S.), the Clio’s (U.S.), the Kelly Awards (U.S), British Design & Art Direction Awards (U.K.), and AWARD (Australia), among others.
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