Sustainability Transformations

Sustainability Transformations

Welcome to "Sustainability Transformations," the podcast exploring sustainability through weekly conversations with leading experts. We discuss the economic, social, and environmental impacts of business practices, providing practical insights and real-world solutions. Each episode features in-depth interviews and dynamic discussions on the latest trends, tips, and strategies for sustainable transformation. Join us to learn from those making a difference and be inspired to drive positive change in your organization and community. Subscribe now!

  1. Escaping the Tyranny of Targets: From Performative Metrics to Real Sustainability Impact

    22 NOV

    Escaping the Tyranny of Targets: From Performative Metrics to Real Sustainability Impact

    In this conversation, Radhika Dutt discusses thecomplexities of achieving sustainability goals, particularly the concept of old is nuanced and often involves gaining buy-in for initiatives that lead to larger goals. Dutt likens the process to solving puzzles, where each solved puzzle unlocks the nextchallenge, highlighting the importance of long-term thinking and outcomes over mere outputs.   Ready to put these ideas into action? Go to SustainabilityTransformations.com for the sustainability strategic briefs, frameworks, and audit tools to help you drive real transformation. ► Visit the Hub: sustainabilitytransformations.com Guest speaker Radhika Dutt – Author of Radical ProductThinking, Advisor to Monetary Authority of Singapore Contact: www.linkedin.com/in/radhika-dutt/, her book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Radical-Product-Thinking-Mindset-Innovating/dp/1523093315   Takeaways  Progress might actually mean I finally now have buy-in fromthis initiative. It's sort of this long haul. It's not a sprint. Thinking about output versus outcomes isn't alwayseffective. Constantly thinking about what exactly is this next puzzleis crucial. I think of it more in terms of like gaming. Each time you solve the puzzle, you go on to the biggerpuzzle. Unlock the next puzzle to get to net zero. Achieving net zero has so much more nuance to it. This is a long-term journey, not a quick fix. Sustainability is a constant marathon.   Chapters  00:00 Introduction to Sustainability Transformations 01:40 The Tyranny of Targets 05:32 Examples of Performative Results 09:56 Alternatives to Target Setting 16:00 Puzzle Setting and Solving Framework 20:03 OHLs: Objectives, Hypotheses, and Learnings 22:30 Outputs vs. Outcomes in Sustainability 25:52 Redesigning Executive Metrics 29:43 Defining a Clear Vision for Sustainability 31:41 The Journey of Writing a Book

    34 min
  2. Building the Infrastructure of Equity: How Fintech, AI & Human-Centered Design Can Deliver ESG at Scale

    21 NOV

    Building the Infrastructure of Equity: How Fintech, AI & Human-Centered Design Can Deliver ESG at Scale

    In this conversation, Tamara Laine discusses the criticalimportance of financial inclusion as a fundamental human right. She emphasizes that without financial fluency and access to capital, individuals struggle to thrive, impacting their housing and mobility. Throughout her career, she hassought to address these issues, highlighting the need for systemic change to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to build better lives.   Ready to put these ideas into action? Go to SustainabilityTransformations.com for the sustainability strategic briefs, frameworks, and audit tools to help you drive real transformation. ► Visit the Hub: sustainabilitytransformations.com   Guest speaker: Tamara Laine Founder at MPWR, Tamara has led eight-figureventures, investigated systemic issues like human trafficking in her journalism career, and today is building financial tools that combine AI, alternative data, and human-centered design to unlock opportunity for millions excludedfrom traditional credit systems. Contact: www.linkedin.com/in/tamaralaine   Takeaways The right to thrive is a human right. Financial inclusion is essential for survival. Access to capital is a major barrier for many. Financial fluency is crucial for building better lives. Housing and mobility are tied to financial inclusion. Tamara has a passion for solving financial issues. Her career has focused on highlighting these stories. She has served on a foundation board addressing financialfluency. There are scattered problems in financial access. Systemic navigation is needed for better access to capital.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Financial Inclusion and Sustainability 03:12 The Journey from Journalism to FinTech 04:51 The Importance of Financial Inclusion inSustainability 07:22 Understanding the Financial System's Challenges 09:51 Empower's Role in the Gig Economy 11:34 Innovations in Credit Access and AI 14:04 Rethinking Risk in Financial Systems 15:50 Measuring Social Impact in Financial Inclusion 18:11 Lessons for Sustainability Leaders 20:30 The Power of Storytelling in Advocacy 22:19 Future Innovations in Financial Inclusion 23:59 Empower's Upcoming Goals and Final Thoughts

    27 min
  3. Social Resilience Meets Planetary Resilience: Lessons from Refugee Artisans

    20 NOV

    Social Resilience Meets Planetary Resilience: Lessons from Refugee Artisans

    In this conversation, Shahd discusses the implications ofconsumerism in a capitalist society, emphasizing the detrimental effects on both the environment and the workforce. She argues that true sustainability cannot be achieved without considering the welfare of the people involved in production, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to resilience that encompasses both social and environmental factors.   Ready to put these ideas into action? Go to SustainabilityTransformations.com for the sustainabilitystrategic briefs, frameworks, and audit tools to help you drive realtransformation. ► Visit the Hub: sustainabilitytransformations.com   Guest speaker: Shahd Alasaly Today on Sustainability Transformations, we’re joined by Shahd Alasaly — author, designer, and founder of Blue Meets Blue. Shahd’s work blends fashion, social impact, and sustainability by partnering with refugee artisans to createheritage textiles that honor culture while protecting the planet. Her designs don’t just tell a story — they embody resilience, dignity, and environmentalresponsibility. Contact: www.bluemeetsblue.com,www.linkedin.com/in/shahd-a-0747b647/   Takeaways We live in a consumer-driven capitalist world. The push to buy more and cheaper has a true cost. Fast production is harmful to the planet. Working conditions in sweatshops are dire. Sustainability cannot exist without social resilience. Environmental and social resilience go hand in hand. Profit-driven motives hinder sustainable practices. True sustainability requires ethical production. We must consider the welfare of workers in production. A holistic approach to resilience is essential.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Blue Meets Blue and Its Mission 02:19 The Journey of Empowering Refugee Artisans 05:24 Learning Sustainability from Refugee Women 08:49 The Interconnection of Social and EnvironmentalResilience 10:56 Building a Sustainable Supply Chain 14:58 Understanding Artisan-Led Production 16:52 Navigating Customer Willingness to Pay 19:07 The Power of Storytelling in Sustainability 20:51 Balancing People and Planet in Business Models 22:36 Measuring Social Impact and Success 24:01 The Future of Fashion and Handmade Craft 25:55 Final Thoughts on Human Connection and Sustainability

    27 min
  4. From Mission Statement to Material Impact: KAIZEN for Sustainability

    19 NOV

    From Mission Statement to Material Impact: KAIZEN for Sustainability

    The conversation explores the significance of Kaizen eventsin celebrating new processes and the importance of data in measuring the success of these changes within an organization.   Ready to put these ideas into action? Go to SustainabilityTransformations.com for the sustainabilitystrategic briefs, frameworks, and audit tools to help you drive realtransformation. ► Visit the Hub: sustainabilitytransformations.com   Guest Intro: Hanna Bauer “Today I’m joined by Hanna Bauer, Founder andCEO of HEARTnomics Enterprises. Hanna is a leadership coach and systemsstrategist who helps organizations align vision, values, and culture withmeasurable impact. Her work combines continuous improvement with values-drivenleadership — guiding teams to bring their mission statements to life in daily operations.” Contact: www.linkedin.com/in/bauerhanna,heartnomics.com   Takeaways Celebrating the birth of new software or processes iscrucial. Kaizen events provide a clear starting point forimprovements. Data is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of changes. Understanding the impact on internal customers is vital. Changes should benefit employees and teams involved. A Kaizen event marks a significant moment for reflection. Gathering data helps in assessing the success of newimplementations. Embracing change requires clear communication acrossdepartments. Continuous improvement is a collective effort. Success is measured not just by implementation but byresults.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sustainability Transformations 03:14 Understanding Kaizen for Sustainability 05:41 Cultural Pitfalls in Sustainability 08:20 Prioritizing Sustainability Initiatives 10:49 Short-term vs Long-term Sustainability Goals 13:26 Continuous Improvement and Sustainability Wins 15:59 Environmental and Community Impact 18:27 The Role of Leadership in Sustainability 21:03 Engaging Employees in Sustainability 23:40 Measuring and Portraying Purpose 25:30 Practical Steps for Immediate Improvement 28:02 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

    37 min
  5. From Extraction Culture to Regenerative Systems: Rethinking Metrics, Mindsets, and Natural Capital

    18 NOV

    From Extraction Culture to Regenerative Systems: Rethinking Metrics, Mindsets, and Natural Capital

    The conversation explores the need for organizations toshift their focus from short-term quarterly perspectives to long-term strategies that consider decades of planning, particularly in the context of global economic trends and practices. Ready to put these ideas into action? Go to SustainabilityTransformations.com for the sustainabilitystrategic briefs, frameworks, and audit tools to help you drive realtransformation. ► Visit the Hub: sustainabilitytransformations.com   Guest Speaker: Saji Madapat Today, we’re joined by Saji Madapat, a systems thinker and author whose work explores how organizations can move beyond extraction culture and embrace regenerative ways of working. Contact: www.linkedin.com/in/goodtogreat/ Book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Gods-Must-Crazy-Rooseveltian-Renaissance/dp/1964213320/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0    Takeaways Organizations traditionally optimize from a quarterlyperspective. Long-term planning is essential for sustainable growth. The focus should shift from transactional to strategicthinking. China's approach exemplifies long-term planning. Rethinking time horizons can lead to better decision-making. Quarterly capitalism limits organizational potential. A century perspective can inspire innovative strategies. Cultural differences influence business practices. Sustainable practices require a long-term view. The future of business lies in strategic foresight.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sustainability and RegenerativeSystems 01:56 The Shift from Extraction to Regeneration 05:47 Cultural Influences on Business Mindsets 09:19 The Impact of Climate Change on Business Decisions 13:14 Defining Regenerative Systems in Corporations 18:06 Understanding Natural Capital in Business 20:49 Water Scarcity and Resource Management 23:22 The Importance of Natural and Human Capital 24:04 Actionable Strategies for Organizations 29:32 Final Thoughts on Sustainability and Risk Management

    36 min
  6. Innovation with Impact: How AI, Storytelling, and Sustainability Can Build a Better Future

    18 NOV

    Innovation with Impact: How AI, Storytelling, and Sustainability Can Build a Better Future

    This conversation explores the complexities of drivingchange through collaboration, emphasizing the need for shared goals, trust, and effective measurement of success in collaborative initiatives. Ready to put these ideas into action? Go to SustainabilityTransformations.com for the sustainabilitystrategic briefs, frameworks, and audit tools to help you drive realtransformation. ► Visit the Hub: sustainabilitytransformations.com   Guest Speaker: Amir ElionToday’s guest has helped global giants like Amazon, Adobe, and Volvo think big, move fast, and innovate responsibly… but what makes Amir Elion truly unique is how he blendscutting-edge tech like Generative AI with timeless principles of customer value, learning, and even holistic well-being. Contact: ThinkBigLeaders.com, ww.linkedin.com/in/amirelion   Takeaways Driving change at scale requires collaboration. Collaboration extends beyond organizational borders. Establishing shared goals is crucial for success. Trust is a fundamental element in collaboration. Measuring success helps in evaluating collaborative efforts. Positive experiences can encourage further collaboration. Overcoming barriers is essential for effective teamwork. Communication plays a key role in collaboration. Engaging stakeholders is vital for driving change. Continuous improvement is necessary for successfulinitiatives.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sustainability and Innovation 02:32 Amir's Journey into Sustainability 04:54 Insights from the Nordics on Sustainability 07:05 Global Green Action Day Overview 09:30 Challenges in Sustainability and Co-Creation 11:55 Generative AI and Sustainability 15:29 Navigating AI Risks in Sustainability 20:45 Mindset Shifts for Sustainability Leaders 23:42 Future of Global Green Action Day

    29 min
  7. What’s On Your Back Is Hurting You: Toxic Fashion, Detox Protocols & Conscious Style

    17 NOV

    What’s On Your Back Is Hurting You: Toxic Fashion, Detox Protocols & Conscious Style

    Summary The conversation explores the intersection of sustainablefashion and cultural storytelling, emphasizing the environmental impact of the fashion industry and the importance of integrating safe fabrics into mainstreamculture. Courtney Barriger discusses her brand, Holding Court, and its mission to raise awareness about the toxins in fashion and promote a more informed consumer experience. Ready to put these ideas into action? Go to SustainabilityTransformations.com for the sustainability strategic briefs, frameworks, and audit tools to help you drive real transformation. ► Visit the Hub: sustainabilitytransformations.com Guest Speaker Today’s guest is Courtney Barriger — anaward-winning artist, sustainable fashion expert, and author of ReFashion Workshop: The Planet Healing Mindset. From leading fashion sustainability campaigns to launching toxin-free apparel, Courtney is a bold voice exposing the hidden harms of fast fashion while guiding us toward regenerative consumer habits.” Contact: www.holdingcourtinc.com, www.linkedin.com/in/courtney-barriger-4764402a/   Takeaways The project aims to address the environmental impact offashion. Toxins from fashion significantly pollute water sources. Storytelling is crucial for promoting sustainable fashion. Integrating sustainable practices into mainstream culture isessential. Safe fabrics should be a priority for consumers. The brand Holding Court embodies informed fashion choices. Cultural experiences can enhance awareness ofsustainability. Fashion can be a vehicle for environmental advocacy. Consumer education is key to changing industry standards. Sustainable fashion requires a collective effort from allstakeholders.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sustainable Fashion 01:30 The Awakening: Realizing Fashion's Toxicity 03:56 Understanding Harmful Chemicals in Fashion 08:39 The Global Impact of Fast Fashion 08:54 Consumer Awareness and Responsibility 13:13 The Role of Third Parties in Fashion Transparency 15:55 Artistry and Storytelling in Sustainability 18:52 Practical Tips for Detoxing Your Wardrobe 24:36 Balancing Hope and Urgency in Sustainability 25:49 Final Thoughts and Resources

    27 min
  8. Sustainability, Software, and the Nomadic Mindset

    14 NOV

    Sustainability, Software, and the Nomadic Mindset

    Summary In this episode of the Sustainability TransformationsPodcast, Enock interviews Christian Joecker, a full stack developer and UX designer with a rich cultural background. They discuss how Christian's experiences living in different countries have shaped his approach to software design and development. The conversation explores the intersection of culture, creativity, and technology, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in the tech landscape. Christian shares insights on user experience, the challenges ofremote work, and the role of sustainability in digital nomadism. He also provides valuable advice for aspiring tech professionals and reflects on the impact of AI in the development process. Ready to put these ideas into action? Go to SustainabilityTransformations.com for the board-level strategicbriefs, frameworks, and audit tools to help you drive real transformation. ► Visit the Hub: sustainabilitytransformations.com Guest Speaker : Christian Joecker Full-stack developer with 10+ years of experience helpingcompanies turn ideas into solid digital products. He likes to think beyond thecode, care about the whole picture, from UX to architecture to business impact. Contact: jocker.dev/, www.linkedin.com/in/christianjoecker/   Takeaways Adaptability is crucial in today's tech landscape. Cultural influences can enhance software design. User experience is key to creating sustainable systems. Remote work offers flexibility but can lead to isolation. Sustainability challenges exist for digital nomads. Tools and frameworks can promote sustainable development. Learning in tech is influenced by various factors. AI can augment but not replace human developers. Every small action in tech can have a large impact. Maintaining human connections is important in remote work.   Chapters 00:00 Cultural Influences on Software Design 02:45 The Journey of a Young Developer 05:13 Balancing UX and Development 07:11 The Impact of Culture on Communication 09:54 Perception vs. Reality in Tech 12:03 Remote Work and Sustainability Challenges 14:45 Tools and Frameworks for Sustainable Development 17:25 AI's Role in Development and Sustainability 19:21 Advice for Aspiring Tech Professionals 21:41 Final Thoughts on Sustainability and Tech 29:44 Outro.mp4

    30 min

About

Welcome to "Sustainability Transformations," the podcast exploring sustainability through weekly conversations with leading experts. We discuss the economic, social, and environmental impacts of business practices, providing practical insights and real-world solutions. Each episode features in-depth interviews and dynamic discussions on the latest trends, tips, and strategies for sustainable transformation. Join us to learn from those making a difference and be inspired to drive positive change in your organization and community. Subscribe now!