In this episode of New Humans for New Earth, Queenie sits down with Earl Meininger, one of the new owners of Portland’s iconic New Renaissance Bookshop, to talk about leadership, community, and what it means to build a different kind of future. Together, they explore the power of physical spaces that bring people together, the importance of human connection in an increasingly digital world, and why community may be one of the most important resources we have. They also dive into the costs of endless growth, corporate culture, AI, environmental limits, and the question so many of us are asking: How much is enough? Ultimately, this conversation is an invitation to imagine a world where heart, connection, sustainability, and community help define what success looks like. Timestamps: 00:00 Introducing…Earl! (And the history of New Renaissance) 09:01 Leaving the corporate world 17:50 A different leadership style 22:04 The state of corporate America 27:29 The role of a metaphysical store 30:34 There’s lots of ways to awaken 33:08 The downfalls of Gmail 36:17 Taking the next step to find community 49:40 The difference between small business and corporations 1:05:17 There’s such a thing as too much growth Connect with Earl and the New Renaissance Bookshop: After 20 years in corporate human resources, Earl Meininger made the leap into small business ownership, becoming the new owner of New Renaissance Bookshop, along with his wife. Earl brings with him a philosophy rooted in servant leadership, trust, and genuine care for people. Find the shop on Instagram @newrenbooks and www.newrenbooks.com. Opt in: To end-to-end encrypted email with Proton Mail. Get your account for $1 for the first month or for $3 per month with an annual plan. Intro & Outro Music: Take off (feat. Emily Dukes) (Instrumental) by Pastek Stay connected: @newhumansfornewearth on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok & Facebook. newhumansfornewearth.com. New episodes Wednesdays! By accessing this Podcast, I acknowledge that the entire contents are the property of New Humans for New Earth, or used by New Humans for New Earth with permission, and are protected under U.S. and international copyright and trademark laws. Except as otherwise provided herein, users of this Podcast may save and use information contained in the Podcast only for personal or other non-commercial, educational purposes. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission or editing, of this Podcast may be made without the prior written permission of New Humans for New Earth, which may be requested by contacting hello@newhumansfornewearth.com. This podcast is for educational purposes only. The host claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein.
