TIE Unearthed
By Philippa White
This is the show where we unearth new ways of looking at ever evolving life around the world. Seen from a number of different industries, cultures, and backgrounds. And there’s one thing that unites everyone I speak to.
They all want to do their part to make the world better in their own unique ways. It’s a uniting passion.
Whether they’re from the commercial world, third sector, or public sector. From the Global North or the Global South.
If you’re looking for inspiration that will get you thinking in new ways, then come on this journey with me.
TIE UnearthedJul 18, 2021
Ep:#79 Dr Amanda Potter on setting people and companies up for success
What does it mean to create an environment for success at a company?
How do companies often get it wrong?
What happens and what does that look like?
Psychological safety is a key ingredient for businesses and teams to be able to improve, innovate and progress.
People need to feel free to speak honestly and feel supported enough to come up with new ideas; without that freedom, new innovative solutions and problem solving is less likely to happen.
And that is exactly what we’re going to be talking about today.
Dr Amanda Potter is an award-winning Chartered Psychologist, Leadership/ Executive Coach and a Certified Principal Business Psychologist with over 25 years' experience.
She has been working with C-suite and senior executives to enable them to drive strategic success – and today she shares her stories and knowledge of working in the area of talent strategy. We hear about her experience which is rooted in leadership in crisis, resilience, Psychological Safety and belonging.
Amanda will tell us about the neuroscience of resilience and positivity and how that impacts cultures at organisations.
She'll let us in on some tips on how we can all just simply feel better.
And she tells us about the contributors to low psych safety, the watch outs, and what different types of organisations need to look out for.
I ask her for insights on the difference in the various cultures that her company works with, but also the difference between sectors. Amanda’s reflection on psych safety in a culture like the police force is really interesting.
She then leaves us with some top tips on what to do to create more connection between team members - and you'll even get a great exercise that you can use for future team events.
Many of us know the importance of creating connection, trust and safe spaces to work - but knowing this is one thing. Being able to do it is another.
If you’re keen to dig deeper on all of this, please join me for this fascinating conversation with Amanda. So grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and here is Dr Amanda Potter.
Please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
If you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here.
If you would like to pre-order my book Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that here.
If you would like to listen to the Chief Psychology Officer Podcast by Dr Amanda Potter, you can listen here.
Ep:#78 Nazia Du Bois on holding onto the senior talent from marginalised backgrounds
There is a problem in the communications and creative industries that few people are doing anything about.
It has to do with a senior ceiling that marginalised communities face when it comes to senior roles. There is a drain of really talented people that are leaving because they just don’t see a path for their progression in these companies.
It not only doesn’t have to be that way, but business is worse off if this is allowed to happen.
Today, Nazia Du Bois, former Global Head of Rare with Google, is going to bring all of this to life for us.
Nazia is a multiple award-winning agency founder, creative strategy leader, and industry DEI champion. She most recently led Google's global DEI program, Rare with Google, aimed at raising diversity in the creative industries. Before that, she was Global Brand Strategy Director at Netflix, working on representation and global brand equity.
Prior to going in-house, Nazia founded Ricebowl Strategy, which developed award-winning global brand positioning platforms for Spotify, Harry's and Popeyes amongst others. She was the founding global CSO of DAVID in Sao Paulo, Buenos Aires and Miami, as well as founding Ogilvy's Islamic Branding practice.
Nazia has been named one of the top 5 most awarded planning directors in the world.
She is from Bangladesh and holds two degrees from Oxford.
Today you’ll hear stories from her time at Netflix and how being in LA when the social justice movement kicked off in the wake of the tragic murder of George Floyd then paved the way to the next stage of her career.
We hear about the strategies that Google used to create more creative diversity at senior leavels of the company, with a view to change the culture of the organisation.
Nazia shares some profound thinking from top thought leaders driving the inclusion revolution and what needs to happen to hold onto the senior talent from marginalised cultures.
And then tells us what she learned about diversity and inclusion from being part of the mass layoffs at Google in 2023.
Nazia then leaves us with an important piece of advice that all of us can take to heart.
This episode will leave you with lots to ponder on, so throw on those running shoes or grab that favourite beverage, and here is Nazia.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
If you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here.
If you would like to pre-order Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that here.
Ep:#77 Chris Norman from GOOD on making a difference by changing the system
Can you do good and still be successful?
What is the true value of purpose?
How are huge UK companies in the financial services sector currently struggling from a talent retention and recruitment perspective and what is the answer?
After a bit of a break, TIE Unearthed is back, and today I’m speaking with the first person that hired me when I moved to London in 2001, Chris Norman.
Chris is the Founder and CEO of GOOD Agency, a pioneer of brand Purpose and has worked for the last 28 years across the commercial, government and charity sectors helping them create value from the positive impact they have on the world. Chris was included in the 2019 Progress 1000 as one of the 25 most influential people in London in media and is a regular judge and panellist.
Chris’s breadth of experience is with the largest commercial and charity brands, and today we talk about how behaviours are the essence of any company, what it means to be human, and what happens when a company isn’t authentic.
We talk about GOOD being a B-corp, but why they haven’t been champions of the initiative until recently.
Chris tells us why they have become employee owned.
What a better world looks like and how we get there.
And we end with valuable learnings from Chris’ challenging journey.
I have found Chris’ story and that of GOOD fascinating, so much so I have captured it in my book, Return on Humanity, coming out in April of 2024. Here you get a sneak peek!
So throw on those running shoes or grab that favourite beverage, and here is Chris.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
If you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here.
If you would like to pre-order Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that here.
Ep:#76 Octopus Group’s Simon Rogerson on “outbehaving” the competition
What does it look like to build a company that not only outlives you, but also makes you feel good in the process?
Can you make money and create a significantly positive impact on the planet at the same time?
What is the return on being more human?
Today I got to speak with Simon Rogerson, co-Founder and CEO of Octopus Group, a company that has invested $20 billion into many different companies in the last 23 years. He’s not only one of the sharpest and quickest minds I’ve had the pleasure to meet, but he’s also a really good guy.
His mission is simple: to invest in the people, the ideas and the industries that will change the world.
Today he brings how he does this to life.
Simon explains why Octopus Group will never be publicly owned.
He tells us the biggest lesson that he’s learned in 23 years of running Octopus.
Let’s us in on the key interview question he asks to reveal who people really are.
And we get to hear two stories that bring to life the main two aspects of Octopus’ culture that make it possible for them to be an industry disruptor.
I have always believed that business can be a force for good, although many companies aren’t built to make it that right now. Simon brings to life how this is possible through his approach to business, and the inspiring work they are doing.
I adored this conversation – I think you’ll catch that from the energy. There is so much here.
So throw on those running shoes, or grab that favourite beverage, and here is Simon.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
Ep:#75 The secret ingredient to law firm Mishcon de Reya's success
How is the law firm that took on the UK government with Article 50 and took on the Royal Family as Princess Diana’s divorce attorneys so successful?
Is it because of their high-profile cases or is there another secret ingredient?
I was keen to find out.
So today, Elliot Moss, Partner and Chief Brand Officer at Mishcon, and Patrick Connolly, Director of the Mischon de Reya Academy, let us in on their secret.
I wanted to understand what sets the law firm apart from their competitors.
How do they attract and retain such incredible talent?
And what makes them top of their class?
We talk about the key progressive values of the company and why they are so important.
We hear about the type of person that chooses to work there.
And a few of their impressive initiatives that have become an important part of the company.
Elliot and Patrick’s responses say a lot about the firm, and there is one thing that connects all of their answers: It’s their human centric strategy.
Today we bring this to life.
So throw on those running shoes, or grab that favourite beverage, and here is Patrick and Elliot.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
Ep:#74 Jon Duschinsky on making more money by doing more good
Can you have purpose driven organizations without purpose driven leaders?
What does it feel like to be in service of something bigger than us?
And should it really come down to tax status to decide if people, or companies, are going to make a difference in the world?
These are just some of the questions that get answered in today’s episode with Jon Duschinsky.
Jon is a global thought leader, social innovator and champion of Business for Good.
He inspires future-thinking leaders to Make More Money by Doing More Good, accelerating their innovation, social and environmental impact and talent retention. He has advised clients in over 60 countries, including companies like Airbus, NASCAR, and Prudential as well as the Governments of Germany, the US, France and the UAE. And he's coached hundreds of leaders and future leaders, written two books and lectures regularly at universities around the world.
We talk about why unlocking your personal purpose and your corporate purpose is so important.
Jon talks about our conditioned behavior patterns, and how they don’t serve us.
And the return on leaning into purpose - both as a company and as an individual.
There is so much here.
So grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and enjoy this conversation with Jon.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
If you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
And you can also reach Jon on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonduschinsky/
Ep:#73 Sam Theobald on putting people first before profit
Is it possible to be a profitable and rapidly growing business and still put people first?
What makes a company an incredible place to work?
And what is the return on being a human centric company and a human centric leader?
As many of you know, I’m in the final stages of writing my book Return on Humanity: The unexpected benefits of being more human in life and business.
I’ve been speaking with people from various sectors and businesses around the world to confirm my hypothesis. And I’m happy to say, until now, it hasn’t been challenged.
But this conversation with Sam Theobald doesn’t just confirm the hypothesis. Her entire career has been focused on it. And this podcast brings the real quantifiable benefits and examples to life. It is such an incredible conversation.
Sam is an HR professional with over 20 years’ experience working with entrepreneurial leaders, bringing a strong commercial edge to the HR function, and championing a “people first” approach to business.
Sam’s current role at Next 15 spans multi-markets and provides strategic guidance to HR teams within subsidiaries across the group, as well as working closely to counsel businesses so they understand the value of great people practices and human centric leadership in high growth organisations.
She explains how it’s possible to have a commercial focus and still put people first.
She talks about the power of self-awareness. And what it means in the context of her work.
And the details of what it actually means to have a human centric approach to business.
Essentially, if you want to be able to attract great people and get the best out of them, you can’t miss this podcast.
This conversation was electric. I promise you’ll enjoy the energy! We were both buzzing afterwards.
So grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and enjoy this conversation with Sam.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
Ep:#72 Erik Fernholm on how fulfilment can build a more sustainable future
What is success?
Really, if you stop to think about it. What does it mean in the whole scheme of things?
We all know how easy it is to get sidetracked in life to what we think a successful life is.
But what happens if you reflect on when you feel fulfilled? What does that look like? Is it the same as what you imagined the definition of success to be?
Today I am speaking with Erik Fernholm, co founder of The Inner Development Goals, a global framework defining the skills needed for us to reach the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. And 29k.org, the world's first free platform for practicing self-leadership, mental health, and inner development through evidence-based programs which has measurably transformed the lives of tens of thousands of people.
Today we ask some big questions.
What is the root of unsustainability?
When do we feel happiness and connection?
And what needs to happen to build a more sustainable society?
We talk about the power of shared experience and common humanity.
Corporate metrics.
And we end on the Nordic Secret. If you haven’t heard about it already, you need to. It’s the future, and how I end my up-and-coming book.
I could have talked to Erik for hours. And when you listen in, you’ll understand why. There is so much overlap with what we are both doing.
So grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and enjoy this conversation with Erik.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
Ep:#71 John Sills on the Human Experience
Progress. Surely a sign of progress is that you make things cheaper, faster, and more efficient, while keeping the level of quality at least the same. If not better. But I think we can all agree things don’t seem to be heading in that direction when it comes to life as a customer.
Would you say that the customer experience over the last 20 years has gotten better? I think we all agree the answer is no.
But is that acceptable? If things aren’t working for customers, and not working for colleagues, perhaps it’s important to find another way? And that’s exactly what John Sills, Managing Partner at the customer-led growth company, The Foundation, talks to us about today.
25 years ago, he started his career on a market stall in Essex, and since then has worked in and with companies around the world to make things better for customers.
He’s been in front-line teams delivering the experience, innovation teams designing the propositions, and global HQ teams creating the strategy. He's been a bank manager during the financial crisis (not fun), launched a mobile app to millions of people (very fun), and regularly visits strangers’ houses to ask very personal questions (incredible fun).
He now works with companies across industries and around the world, and before joining The Foundation spent twelve years at HSBC, latterly as Head of Customer Innovation.
And he’s just published a book on the topic - The Human Experience. We talk about the importance of human-centric behaviours to create more efficient companies. The power of an outside-in perspective. And in short, how to make life better for customers. Which then creates a better business - on all fronts. This is a super fun, funny, human, and incredibly important conversation.
So grab that favourite beverage, or throw on those running shoes, and here is John.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
Ep:#70 Jan Levy on social insights, the digital void and human connection
What are the logistical financial challenges that a bereaved spouse faces when their loved one passes away?
Is it possible for a bank to help someone who has dementia feel safe?
What are the worries that people who are living with cancer have when it comes to their life-insurance policy?
These are just a handful of the human concerns that people around the UK have voiced when it comes to their finances. And concerns that can be answered when companies are willing to listen.
Jan and his team at Three Hands makes that listening and human interaction possible.
Jan Levy is the MD of Three Hands, a small socially minded business that sets out to create business value and social value, hand in hand.
Sitting in the space between businesses and non-profits, Three Hands develops leaders through projects in communities, helps businesses create and run high impact social impact activities and, increasingly, brings the voice of charities, and the ‘lived experts’ they support, into businesses.
As companies move closer to the digital world and become more disconnected from society, Three Hands is helping to fill the void through social insights.
Working with companies to create more connection with the services they need to offer. And the desire that customers have, to deal with humans.
We talk about the power of opening channels of curiosity and understanding different parts of society.
Jan explains what it means for business to be a part of society.
And what happens when you create empathy between two sets of people or two organisations.
Today Jan will bring all of this to life.
So grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and enjoy this conversation with Jan.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
Ep:#69 Paul Skinner on shifting the stories that we live and work by
What value do we lose when economics reduces communities to markets?
How can investors not just be seen as check books?
And if suppliers are not just simply seen as delivering to a contract, what else could that relationship look like?
Today Paul answers some big questions. All rooted in shifting the stories that we live and work by.
Paul Skinner is the author of The Purpose Upgrade: Change your Business to Save the World. Change the World to Save your Business. He’s also the author of Collaborative Advantage: How Collaboration Beats Competition as a Strategy for Success. Through his consulting practice The Agency of the Future, Paul helps clients to drive purpose-led change and better mobilise stakeholders for lasting success. And he also founded MarketingKind, a non-profit professional membership community that brings business leaders, marketers and change-makers together to address our most pressing problems.
Today Paul explains how collaborative advantage is a radical alternative to competitive advantage.
We talk about what a purpose upgrade is and why we need to elevate purpose now more than ever.
And Paul gives us a beautifully articulated solution to substantially increasing the ceiling for success for any enterprise. And it’s easier than you think.
We talk about economics.
Why only focusing on profit isn’t good for business.
And how purpose can be our most adaptive capacity as humans.
Paul then finishes by explaining how we can avoid being puppets of our prior intentionality and instead the true authors of our own future change.
You don’t want to miss this conversation.
So, grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and enjoy this conversation with Paul.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
You can also grab a copy of his book, The Purpose Upgrade, here.
Ep:#68 Life after spinal cord injury in Africa with Faustina Urassa
Imagine waking up in hospital discovering you have not only broken your spine and will never walk again.
But then learning that you are also pregnant.
When Faustina was about to start university in Tanzania in the year 2000, this was what she was facing.
And today you will hear her story.
Faustina Urassa is a spinal cord injury thriver, and founder and Executive Director at Songambele Initiative Organisation.
Being a woman in Africa isn’t easy.
And Faustina saw being a disabled woman in Africa as a death sentence.
This is a story of a woman who not only came from a challenging experience, but one who refused to accept the status quo on all fronts and thrived as a result.
Today we hear about the challenges she faced in the early years. No one in her family, including her, knew what a spinal cord injury was, let alone what it meant for her life moving forward.
There wasn’t clear information on how someone with a spinal cord injury could safely deliver a baby. Would her disability compromise the health of her child?
Was it even possible for her to ever be independent again?
Faustina takes us on a journey from a spinal cord injury victim to a spinal cord injury thriver.
We hear about how her life changed when she met others going through similar situations as her.
She tells us about the power of self-awareness and self-acceptance.
And the power and importance of community.
Which all lead to why she founded Songambele.
We hear about what life looks like for people once they have come into contact with Songambele and the power that is Faustina.
This is one inspirational story. So, grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and enjoy this conversation.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
And if you want to support Songambele, you can reach them here https://www.songambele.org/) and donation here (https://www.songambele.org/donate-1)
Ep:#67 Finding your laser beam of genius with Sarah Watson
Phenomenal A list talent causing a wave of destruction at a company.
We’ve all seen that person.
We may even be, or have been, that person.
But what is the reason for it?
Sarah tells us it’s when Talent has “misplaced genius”.
And she is essentially the red telephone for capital T talent.
Sarah Watson is an Executive Coach that helps bring leaders to their greatness.
She used to run the Global Strategy department for the global ad agency BBH, and whilst doing that, and being the chairman of the New York agency, she unearthed her calling. Having worked on brands for years and helping them find their soul, she realised that’s what she needs to do – but for people.
Today Sarah is going to talk to us about why monasteries exist.
Her love of language and poetry and how this finds its way into her work.
Sarah tells us how she helps people drop into a different presence and a different part of themselves that is deeper than the one they thought they had constructed.
And what happens when they do that.
She talks about the emergent journey.
And how people are conditioned out of their power.
And she ends on God’s Grandeur by Gerard Manley Hopkins. And her articulation of how this relates to her work is simply gorgeous.
This is such an inspirational episode. So, grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and enjoy this conversation with Sarah.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
Follow Sarah on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-watson-aa49181/
Ep:#66 How to stop men taking their own lives with Ben Akers
How are you out of 10?
These 6 words have saved lives.
And today you’re going to hear how.
Did you know that the biggest killer of boys and men from 9 – 50 is suicide?
That’s one man every 90 minutes in the UK.
Why is that?
In 2014 my friend Ben Aker’s life was turned upside down with the suicide of his childhood best friend Steve Yates.
After years of trying to come to terms with this tragedy, he decided to use his power to stop the next Steve. And today you’re going to hear Ben talk about how to stop men taking their own lives. Ben is the co-CEO and co-Founder of Talk Club, a talking and listening charity for men.
Ben is also a film maker, problem solver and mental health campaigner.
He began his career as an advertising copywriter and grew to a multi award winning Creative Director at some of the world’s most creative ad agencies in London and Sydney.
We talk about the creation of his changementary “Steve”.
We talk about how Talk Club was born and the major ingredients to its success.
Ben gives advice to anyone out there that’s listening that may be having a hard time.
And as a special treat, Ben then lets us in on his genius solution when it comes to funding his charity. “Not everyone has to be there with their hands out”.
This is a tough subject, but one that needs to be talked about, and today you’re going to learn some simple ways to help those people closest to you.
So grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and here is Ben.
Please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
Check out: Talk Club: TalkClub.org “Steve”
Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XEp5ck-DYzI
Full film: stevedocumentary.com TED talk: https://youtu.be/Y9FEQYp1imc
OurKidsOurLives: https://www.gofundme.com/f/ourkidsourlives
Instagram: @STEVEDOCUMENTARY
@Madewithltd @TalkClubUK @ourkidsourlives
Twitter: @SteveDoco + @benakers @Madewith_ @TalkClubUK @ourkidsourlives
Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-akers-39873729
Ep:#65 Prison Radio and it’s power with Phil Maguire
Prison, by definition, removes someone’s liberty as punishment for the crime committed.
But there are two ways to spend that time inside, and therefore, two ways to see prison.
Prison can be a horrible place to suffer for the crimes that have been committed.
Or it can be a place to reflect, to learn, to gain skills, and to be better.
Today I talk to Phil Maguire who became the founding Chief Executive of the Prison Radio Association (PRA) in 2006, and has been running the award-winning charity that uses radio to support prisoner rehabilitation ever since.
We talk about what prisons looked like in London in the 90s: Riots, racial tension, deaths in custody and lots of incidents of self-harm. A sad and desperate place.
And then how things have evolved from there.
We talk about what happens when you create a conversation between the people living in prison and the people running a prison.
And what happens when you empower people in the most difficult of situations.
Phil talks about how their award-winning model has people who live in prisons at the heart of everything they do – including being the award-winning hosts and producers of their programmes.
You’ll hear about what happens when people leave prison and how they continue to engage people “beyond the gate”.
And how they are building a global movement of people using audio in criminal justice systems for social good.
Talk about the power of humanity!
This is a movement you will love to know more about. So grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and enjoy this conversation with Phil.
Please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
And definitely check out:
The Life After Prison Podcast: https://lifeafterprisonpod.com/
More on Prison Radio: https://www.prisonradio.org/
And connect with Phil here: phil@prison.radio
Ep:#64 Human emotion and architecture with Heatherwick’s Eliot Postma
I was researching schools in Brazil for my 12-year-old a few months ago.
The schools on the short-list were the same when it came to teachers, distance from home, and their approach to education.
But the deal breaker for me was one thing: the architectural experience inside the school.
And until I had this conversation with Eliot, I hadn’t truly understood what that experience was and why it was so important to me.
Eliot Postma has been working with Heatherwick Studio since 2010 to deliver innovative designs on numerous high-profile projects that focus on the human experience through form, craft, materiality, and sustainability.
Heatherwick and Eliot are all about reconnecting the built environment with the human emotion – and today he’s going to help us understand why that is so important.
Eliot answers some pretty big questions in this episode.
What does it mean to make places and things more joyful and fundamentally more human?
And how can architecture create the necessary solutions for the climate and biodiversity crises our planet is facing?
He uses examples from his experience working on a large portfolio of projects that span Europe, North America and Asia to bring his thoughts to life.
We hear about what solutions the studio designed for a UK cancer research charity to create a home-like and calming environment for people that have just discovered they have cancer.
And he brings to life the story of how they created the award-winning Mountain View Google campus. Google's first ground-up campus that took 10-years to create, that spans 3-million square feet and had sustainability central to all aspects of the design.
We talk about re-earthing our cities.
The significant impact that construction has on the climate crisis and what the solutions are.
And where one of the world’s most famous design studios is looking for the next 20 years.
This is a super inspiring conversation and one that will get you thinking.
So grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and enjoy this conversation with Eliot.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
Ep:#63 How to be an activist in your life and work with Tessa Wernink
We start this conversation reflecting on the question “where are you from”?
If you are a global citizen, you will be able to relate to Tessa’s response.
Tessa Wernink was born in Hong Kong, moved to the Netherlands when she was 10, and has lived in various other Asian countries over the years. She is a social entrepreneur and business activist, facilitator and podcast maker who is addressing social and environmental issues in business.
We then go on to talk about how a phone can be built and made fairly. And what that means.
Tessa talks about Fairphone, the only European phone today, that she co-founded at the start of her activist journey.
After Fairphone Tessa then started to ask how businesses can be more humane and a force for good.
We talk about the Undercover Activist which she then founded.
How people can be more of an activist in the way they work. How they can accelerate projects around social and environmental issues.
And we learn how you can nurture more of an activist culture at a company, turning from theory and great ideas to action.
We reflect on culture, customs, and change.
And then talk about interesting social businesses around the world ranging from environmentally friendly cars, how to approach death undertaking from a more sustainable and ethical point of view, and then an entrepreneur in Hong Kong that is creating fish from a lab.
Tessa finishes on the concept of active hope. Which is such a great way to finish this episode, and this year’s series of the TIE Unearthed Podcast.
Let’s celebrate action. So grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and get inspired with Tessa.
Please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
If you want to find out more about Fairphone please click here https://www.fairphone.com/en/), about The Undercover Activist https://www.undercoveractivist.com and about Tessa’s What If We Get It Right podcast: https://www.whatifwegetitright.com
See you again in January of 2023 for more inspiring episodes of TIE Unearthed. Happy holidays!!
Ep:#62 The force of self-awareness in Iraq with Asmaa Ibrahim and Jiyan Foundation
How was the war with ISIS so different to the other wars over the years?
What is the reality on the ground for women in Iraq?
Today I speak with Asmaa Ibrahim, co-head of Trauma Care and Health at Jiyan Foundation for Human Rights and assistant lecturer at the Institute for Psychotherapy and Psychotraumatology at the University of Duhok in the Kurdistan Region of northern Iraq.
We start this conversation understanding the history and the background to the country.
Asmaa talks about the stories from when the war broke out in 2014. And what she has heard from the people that she helps.
Then she explains what she does to help start the healing process.
Asmaa tells us one of her favourite techniques that she uses to help people heal from trauma.
We hear about how children were militarised and educated under ISIS.
And then what she and the Jiyan Foundation are going to do to reintegrate these now young adults back into society.
During this conversation Asmaa gives us a brief window into the life in Iraq. We talk about the culture. And she finishes explaining her anguish but also her hope.
I was left so reflective after this. Talking to people in other places is so important. Perspective is such an incredible thing, and conversations like this bring us all closer together.
There is a lot here. So grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and enjoy this conversation with Asmaa.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. bit.ly/TIENewsletter
Ep:#61 Rick Wheatley on breaking out of the old ways of thinking to create the future we need
We start this conversation talking about South Korea in 1998.
This was Rick’s first posting when he was in the US army at 22 years of age.
He then found himself skiing and climbing in the alps and sailing in Norway. And afterwards, very quickly got immersed in leadership development.
Rick Wheatley now runs the advisory firm he started in Oslo called Systems7, where he helps leaders break out of the old ways of thinking and helps them see new possibilities that enhance commercial success, while creating the future we need.
We talk about how he got into this space and how he started his leadership development journey.
He talks about the power of taking people to the edge of their mental maps and nudging them off.
We talk about the way our brains are wired. About cognitive bias. And how the challenges we face today impact our ability to lead change.
I ask Rick how we can accelerate the sustainability strategies and performance of companies. And how ESG can be less about a paper drill, and more about action.
His insights in this area are fascinating.
Rick talks about the power of expanding the playing field.
He talks about what a CFO said to him once that was game changing for their teams.
And then we talk about the hot topic of net zero.
There is so much here. He even finishes with some really sound advice for the times we are currently living in.
So grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and enjoy this conversation with Rick.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
Ep:#60 Ali Alvarez on love, resilience and courage to challenge convention
Have you seen the monarch butterfly migration in Mexico?
300 million butterflies arriving in Mexico during day of the dead.
And this is where we start our story talking about my friend Ali Alvarez. Mexican-born, LA-raised, and London-molded.
She started as a professional horse jumper and then went on to build a creative career in advertising and filmmaking.
And while she was juggling work in advertising, and working on her butterfly film, something happened to her that changed everything.
A traumatic head injury from a horse-riding accident one Sunday afternoon where she lost her memory and the ability on her right side to move.
Ali tells us about what happened after that fateful day.
When she got her memory back.
And then what she did from there.
She talks about how she went back to finish the film and how it healed her.
We talk about love, her inspiring family, and the power of being able to be herself and create the life she wanted to create.
She tells us the three things that have kept her together in really challenging times.
And then we finish having a conversation about how we can all make a difference in our own unique way – whatever form that may take.
This is an inspiring story of what happens when someone lives their life with conviction, determination, and love.
So grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and enjoy this conversation with Ali.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
To find out more about Ali and her work you can click alialvarez.com.
And to check out the incredible stop frame animation film Ali, Cali Oliver, Bart Yates and Joseph Mann made for TIE in 2010, click here.
Ep:#59 Sarah Cohen on the force of personal connections
We see the world not as it is, but as we are.
We simply don’t all interact in the world the same way with the information around us. And we all process things differently.
What you see is going to be different to what I see. And that impacts everything.
Particularly when it comes to education and people management.
Today I speak with Sarah Cohen, a People & Culture professional and leader whose experiences in education, technology, and economics have shaped her pragmatic and innovative approaches to developing people and growing organizations.
We talk about her learning challenges growing up, and the fascinating insights that came from that time in her life.
We hear about the fundamental lesson her dad taught her in his last weeks of life. And how that then shaped how she chose to live and work.
She tells us about her time in education and helping other children transcend learning challenges.
And then how you set up the brain to be able to learn and thrive.
What is fascinating is she then took these learnings to the corporate world, where she now works in talent, and is focused on creating a culture of growing people where they thrive.
She talks of the challenges she sees in the corporate world from a talent point of view, but also how the creation of strong personal connections is the answer to a more sustainable business.
There is so much here. All rooted in people, math, and economics. Just the way Sarah likes it.
So grab your favourite beverage. Or throw on those running shoes and here is an inspiring chat with Sarah.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
Ep:#58 Laura Nice on the power of feminine energy in business
How about running a company and using your power to make business stand for more?
And what is the impact of feminine energy in business?
Today I’m speaking with Laura Nice, Co-CEO of OMD Australia.
We talk about why she and Sian Whitnall created the Co-CEO position.
We talk about what got her to where she is now.
And a key bit of advice about how to progress.
On this chat I wanted to understand why she became a Co-CEO and how that role came to be.
She talks about how she sees her role in helping to drive sustainability for their clients.
And what a human centric organization looks like in her mind.
We hear what purpose means for OMD and the part it plays in the business. And the power of vulnerability.
Laura then leaves us with an incredible insight to what they are doing at their company, which is a fantastic idea, and something every company should think about doing. Absolute genius.
So grab your favourite beverage. Or throw on those running shoes and here is an inspiring chat with Laura.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. bit.ly/TIENewsletter
Ep:#57 From Broadway to brain cancer, to proving the power of purpose with Catherine Wreford
Have you ever stopped to think of how powerful a challenge can be?
Or how purpose can literally save your life?
This is what we’re going to talk about today.
And we have Catherine Wreford, one of the strongest people I know, to tell us her incredible story.
From staring on Broadway, to running a mortgage company, to nursing school.
And then the unthinkable happened. A brain tumour, the size of her fist.
But, yet again, Catherine demonstrates just what can happen when you put your mind to something.
And that cancer is just a word, and not a sentence.
There is so much here.
I promise you’ll laugh, you’ll get goosebumps, and there may be tears from Cath and me.
But without question you’ll come out realizing just what is possible when you push through adverse situations, put your mind to something, and follow your heart.
And Catherine sums up our conversation perfectly, saying “You need to get out there and live life. If you want to be part of life, you need to do it yourself”.
Words to live by.
So grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and enjoy this conversation with Catherine.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
Ep:#56 Immersive TIE’s impact with Niall Quinn
A “Whoa” moment.
A reminder of what the reality of a different culture truly feels like.
And a chance to go off grid.
Yes, we are back with the Immersive TIE programme.
And Niall has returned from his experience in Mozambique to tell his tales.
This is a podcast you don’t want to miss.
As most of you know, this was our primary TIE programme for close to 14 years.
It changed people’s lives. It evolved companies. And impacted communities in 24 countries around the world.
But the pandemic had other plans for us, and this had to be put on hold.
Until recently!
Today Niall gives us a window into his experience.
Niall is a Portfolio Manager at Octopus Energy in London, one of the largest investors of renewable energy in Europe. And he holds a Masters in Applied Mathematics and a Doctorate in Quantum Physics.
Let's just say, when he realised there was data to get stuck into - he was SO excited. :-)
This conversation is super revealing.
We hear about how he sees himself differently on return.
And the feelings he knows he must hold onto.
We hear about his reflections on leadership.
Why he applied.
And what came out of the experience – both with regards to the impact on the Marine Megafauna Foundation. But also, on him.
There are incredible learnings here, and it’s fascinating to understand the solutions he came up with.
If you’re thinking of applying for TIE. Thinking of having a TIE programme at your company. Or just keen to better understand how the programme impacts people and companies – don’t miss this one.
And the quote Niall ends on by Anne Frank is a perfect way to sum up this chat - “Whoever is happy will make others happy too’.
So grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and enjoy this conversation with Niall.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
If you’re keen to see more of his experience, do check out his TIE Instagram at @Niall_and_the_whales.
Ep:#55 Brazilian politics and being the change with Ivan Moraes
It’s an election year in Brazil, and as many of you will know, it’s a big one.
Bolsonaro in power.
Brazil’s democracy on the rocks.
And a country extremely impacted by covid, where basic human rights are worse than we’ve ever seen them.
So I felt it was fitting to speak with my good friend, Ivan Moraes.
A father, journalist, dreamer, writer, defender of human rights and City councilor in Recife for the socialism and liberty party (PSOL). He’s currently in his second term in the Municipal Chamber of Recife, and will be the candidate for state deputy in the 2022 elections.
Ivan helps us understand what Brazil is facing right now in this election.
He explains why he went into politics.
He talks about the challenges. What his life looks like in the spot light. But also why it’s so important.
We hear about what gives him hope.
But also what keeps him up at night.
And he talks about how everyone can be the change.
As Siba says, “The world moves, every time you take a step”.
There are so many learnings and takeaways in this episode. And important insights to what is happening on the ground in Brazil. This is a must listen.
So grab your favourite beverage. Or throw on those running shoes and here is an inspiring chat with Ivan.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
Ep#54: Keeping the world alive with Iracambi’s Binka LeBreton
A mid-life crisis.
The Atlantic rainforest.
And discovering what sustainability means and looks like.
Today I talk with Binka, co-founder of Iracambi, a Brazilian organisation working to make the conservation of the Atlantic Rainforest more attractive than its destruction.
We talk about what it looks like to save forests and change lives.
We hear about the challenges of the last few years.
But also, how TIE helped to propel Iracambi into huge growth in 2021.
We talk about what’s next with TIE and Iracambi, and we get the inside scoop on Binka’s time at the summit of the Americas, where heads of state and global leaders talked about building a more sustainable future.
Binka also let's us in on what gives her hope. But also what keeps her up at night.
Lots here.
So throw on those running shoes, or grab that favourite beverage, and here is Binka.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
Ep:#53 Reclaiming infrastructure space for people with Public City
What is a monument? And what should it be?
What does it mean to invest in the value of metaphor in architecture and landscape architecture?
How is a Canadian architecture firm responding to the LGBT Purge, one of the longest and most harmful campaigns of discrimination conducted by the Canadian federal government against the LGBT community? Something few people know about today.
We cover off a lot in this episode. And my goodness it will get you thinking.
Today I speak with Liz Wreford and Peter Sampson, the co-founders of the Canadian architecture firm, Public City.
We talk about why architecture and landscape architecture should practice together as a family.
We hear what winning the Governor General’s Medal in Architecture proved to them both.
What it’s like working and living with your business partner – yes, Liz and Peter are also a couple.
And they talk to us about how authenticity, performance art and architecture came together as an award-winning combination.
The story, and the outcome, is incredible.
So throw on those running shoes, or grab that favourite beverage, and here are Liz and Peter.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
Ep:#52 David Joshua on presenting the best version of yourself to the world
What does it take to walk away from a successful career in the financial services industry?
What three things have the power to turn around a career?
And what is the key to positive change?
Today we talk with David Joshua, the founder of Resonance, a leadership development programme that helps people lead with more Impact, Empathy & Engagement and helps people understand how to apply the Principles of Persuasion and Communicate more effectively during moments that matter.
He talks to us about learning to be impactful with communication as a result of a traumatic failure he experienced.
We hear about focusing on the importance of connection.
And the power of breaking patterns.
David explains how gratitude shifts can fundamentally change how we live our lives every day. And he even gives us a simple tool as to how to do that – and it’s not what you would expect to happen on this podcast.
This is definitely a feel-good episode. You’ll enjoy this one.
So grab your favourite beverage. Or throw on those running shoes and here is an inspiring chat with David.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
If you’d like to get in touch with David on LinkedIn you can find him here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-joshua/
Ep:#51 Going from setback to comeback with Sara Tate
What do some of the world’s most famous artists and creators do to be at their best?
What can we learn from the way trees grow? And what does it have to do with stepping out of your comfort zone?
What does it mean to be led by the questions?
This is such a fantastic conversation – bursting with energy!
Today I chat with my old friend Sara Tate. She and her co-author Anna Vogt are launching their fantastic book The Rebuilders in June. And it’s all about going from setback to come back in business and beyond.
I know Sara from my BBH days (and before that as well I think). She’s an Organisational and Brand Strategist and formerly the CEO of the agency TBWA London. She was voted Best Leader in Marketing by Women in Marketing Awards and won Campaign's Female Frontier Award. She’s an accredited Executive Coach and she co-hosts The Rebuilders podcast.
We talk about the definition of failure. The beginners mind. And the power of space.
Sara talks through the tools and life skills that she and Anna have developed over the years. We talk about setbacks. And what Sara has learned from the process of writing the book and where she is now.
There are some incredible learning here.
So grab your favourite beverage. Or throw on those running shoes and here is an inspiring chat with Sara.
Please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
To check out The Rebuilders and ideally get yourself a copy check click here: https://tinyurl.com/2p9desyj
To check out The Rebuilders podcast click here: https://tinyurl.com/54bthj95
And you can find Sara Tate here on Twitter https://twitter.com/saraktate and here on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/saraktate/
Ep:#50 Future First on how to get more Kenyan children educated
How can we get more children engaging with learning?
We all know that education is the key to a better world.
But access to education, and the opportunity to succeed once at school, varies drastically around the world.
Today I’m speaking with, Pauline Wanja, the CEO of Future First Kenya. Future First inspires, connects and builds the capacity of public school alumni as relatable role models to provide mentorship, career guidance, scholarship and governance support to their former schools.
We hear about what happened to the education movement in Africa after Colonialism in the early 60s.
Pauline tells us about the reality on the ground for students in Kenya.
And why their model is so powerful.
We hear a story that keeps Pauline up at night. But we then hear about what gives her hope.
And then Pauline tells us who inspires her. Her answer providing such a fascinating insight to her life growing up.
There is so much here. If you’re keen to get a window into another world, understand about an incredible initiative in Kenya, and simply feel injected with hope and inspiration – this one is for you.
So throw on those running shoes, or grab that favourite beverage, and here is Pauline.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
Ep:#49 The future direction of Patagonia with Whitney Clapper
Yet, you’re a company that thrives on selling products, to then fund your activism. Can you have both? Can you save the planet whilst destroying it with selling product?
Big questions are asked in this episode.
Today I speak with my friend Whitney Clapper who is the Director of Community Relationships + Impact at Patagonia, where she’s worked since 2015.
With Patagonia being the first company people think of when it comes to sustainability and purpose, I was thrilled to have the chance to speak with Whitney today.
I ask her what direction Patagonia is going in now? What are they thinking? And what are they focusing on?
I was keen to understand how Patagonia has protected the integrity of their purpose, in a world where the bottom line is the base of success. And the answers are not what you would expect.
We hear about the hard conversations that Patagonia are having around what they’ve been doing and where they want to be going in the next 50 years.
And what does it mean to be human centered?
There is so much here.
So grab your favourite beverage. Or throw on those running shoes and here is an inspiring chat with Whitney.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. bit.ly/TIENewsletter
Ep:#48 Jim Carroll on discovering the amplified self
How can a scene from the ballet Swan Lake explain the importance of purpose?
How did Muhammad Ali manage to answer two of life’s biggest questions in his poem, known for being the shortest poem ever written?
And what really is wisdom?
Today I’m speaking with the legend that is Jim Carroll, and we will be talking about discovering the amplified self.
And why that is so important.
Jim is a long serving brand and communication strategist and we met when we both worked at the London-based communications agency BBH, where he worked as a planner for 24 years, for a long time ran the strategy function, and was UK Chairman from 2004 to 2015.
We talk about his time at BBH and the many incredible learnings he picked up.
We get an insight to his performance appraisal – and key learnings for all of us.
Then he tells us a story about a man he knew once, that didn’t blink.
There are loads of stories here. And Jim leaves us with some big questions that we should ask ourselves.
This is a must listen. And I promise you, you’ll leave this wanting more.
And I’m thrilled to say that is possible. You can get your weekly dose of Jim through his blog, Jim Carroll’s blog, which I highly recommend. https://www.jimcarrollsblog.com.
So throw on those running shoes, or grab that favourite beverage, and here is Jim.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter
Ep:#47 Sascha Mayer on how disruptive design can impact lives
How can design solve real world problems?
And how can you use the knowledge and skills you have, to create something brand new on your terms?
Today we’ll be talking with Sascha Mayer about how disruptive design can impact lives.
Sascha is the CEO and co-founder of Mamava, a company on a mission to create a healthier society through infrastructure and support for breastfeeding.
She is a mom to two, now, teenage children. But when she was breastfeeding her first and discovered the challenges mothers faced trying to breastfeed after returning to work, she realised she had to do something about it.
The story is fantastic. One of, as they call themselves, reluctant entrepreneurs.
We hear about how external factors can really push something into motion.
The complexity of selling something that no one knows what it is. But something that is literally needed – everywhere.
And about how breastfeeding is truly a complicated cultural conversation.
There are some fantastic learnings and take aways in this chat – so definitely get stuck in.
If you’re keen to find out more about Mamava, check them out here.
So grab that favourite beverage. Or throw on those running shoes. And here is an inspiring chat with Sascha.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
Ep:#46 Em Cena and providing a future for the children of Brazil through art
I’m sure you are aware of the power of art and dance.
But have you stopped to think of that power and how it can impact children that come from incredibly difficult backgrounds?
Today I’m speaking with Betania Gonçalves da Silva, the co-founder and Executive Coordinator of Em Cena Arte e Cidadania, (On Stage: Art and Citizenship) an NGO based in Recife Brazil.
Em Cena was founded in 1998 by a group of friends who were tired of complaining about the social problems in Brazil - so decided to make a difference. They work with children and teens from one of the poorest areas of the city – houses without running water, and a community that faces the challenges of drugs, violence and more. And their mission is to impact the lives of these young people through the arts.
But they were severely impacted by the pandemic. Unable to run in-person activities for the children meant that the relationship with the community and local partners weakened significantly. And the future of these children’s lives, in many cases, depends on Em Cena.
Today we talk about the reality on the ground in one of the poorest areas of Brazil.
What do these children face every day?
What are the gender issues in the favela?
And what happens when the children step out of the favela, for even just an afternoon or two a week?
We cover off a lot here. So grab your favourite beverage. Or throw on those running shoes and here is an inspiring chat with Betania.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
Ep:#45 David Webster on the power of human centric organisational culture design
Where are you from? Where are you based? Where is your company based?
And then the million dollar question - Does any of this this actually matter?
Today I'm speaking with David Webster, and this is exactly what we'll be talking about. What are people wanting? Where do people want to be? And does that have any impact on how we run a business or how people can do their job?
The power of human centric organisational culture design.
David was born in Milan, Italy, started his career in advertising in London in 2001, and he’s been living in Singapore since 2008 where he eventually led BBH as APAC MD, and worked with brands such as Nike, Netflix and Uber.
With a desire to change outdated working practices in the advertising industry and pioneer new, more sustainable ways of working, he co-founded The Carrot Collective in 2020, a global decentralised creative company that has been leading the development of new remote working practices focused on organisational culture and life-work balance.
We’ll be talking about reinventing a 40-year-old industry, across very different parameters.
How they built an organisational culture that is based around people and not places. We talk about the disciplines necessary to build a company that is human centric.
And then David get's us to reflect on something. As a business owner, who is your customer?
There is a lot here.
So throw on those running shoes or grab that favourite beverage, and here is David.
And if you want to check out David’s TED talk you can find it here.
Please don't forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
Ep:#44 Victoria Brooks on the power of truth as a force for change
How can we move the gender divide conversation on without anger and defensiveness?
What truths need to be unearthed for that to be possible?
And then, once the lid has been lifted on these issues, what solutions can truly make a difference?
Today my long time super close friend Victoria Brooks is with us. And she has a love for things that matter.
Victoria is a strategist specialising in the development of stories that inspire environmental and social impact.
She has been featured in the Guardian for their famous piece on sexual harassment in the advertising industry in 2019, was named a Pitch 100 Superwoman in 2019 and was honoured as one of 30 industry inclusivity champions in the IPA’s inaugural list in 2020.
Today we will be talking about the power of truth as a force for change.
We’ll talk about her move from working with strategy and the environment to equality and inclusion.
And we hear about her work focused on closing the gender divide, and the ground-breaking solutions that she’s not only designed, but also implemented with tremendous success.
There is a lot here. But you will be smiling and inspired throughout.
So, throw on those running shoes or grab that cup of tea or coffee, and here is the incredible Victoria.
And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
Ep:#43 Jon Alexander on why the private sector should treat people as citizens and not consumers
What does it mean to be a citizen?
What are we doing to ourselves when we tell ourselves we’re consumers over 3000 times a day?
How is the world changing? And what would the impact be on society if the private sector started to treat its people as citizens and not consumers?
Jon Alexander, Co-Founder of the New Citizenship Project, a strategy and innovation consultancy that aims to shift the dominant story of the individual in society from Consumer to Citizen, suggests in this chat that we are living at a time that presents a remarkable opportunity for change.
We talk about the power of language and how very quickly, due to how we talk about something, we can automatically limit what we believe people are capable of.
We learn about what participatory democracy looks like from a fascinating Taiwanese case study involving the world's first transgender government minister.
We talk about the power of creating community and the vital importance of building agency.
And we reflect on Jon’s book CITIZENS – and why the key to fixing everything is all of us. (You can pre-order a copy at jonalexander.net)
If you want to stretch your brain, and find tangible ways to change things today, tune into this one.
So throw on those running shoes, or grab that favourite beverage, and here is Jon.
And please don't forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
Ep:#42 Meet the brain behind TIE’s strategy - Ines Vogeler
There is a lot going on at the moment isn’t there?
As we settle into 2022, there is a lot of talk about purpose.
The great resignation is also still hitting headlines, and many companies are feeling it.
At TIE, due to the application process, and the type of experience we offer people, we really do have some interesting reflections on the current state of the workforce and what is happening out there.
Due to the very personal nature of our work, we gain a pretty good understanding of how people are feeling, what people are looking for, what’s missing, and how things in general are evolving.
In today’s podcast I chat with Ines Vogeler, the brain behind TIE’s strategy. And we reflect on all of this.
For over 30 years, Ines worked at Leo Burnett as a global Strategic Planner. She interviewed people in their natural habitats all over the world to uncover the provocative nuggets that allowed others to understand people from the inside-out.
A few years ago I was so lucky to have captured the attention of Ines, and since then, she has been helping us hone our messaging.
Where TIE was strategically, even a few years ago, is very different to where we are now.
And we cover a lot in this conversation.
We talk about the power of community. What that means. And what happens when you manage to create that.
Ines talks to us about the power of following your instinct and what happens when you push yourself to do something before you’re ready.
We hear about the power of thinking differently and human brands.
And then we dive into us working together and how Ines helped us evolve our strategy. We talk about what was originally blinding us and what is happening now.
She also tells you why she thought I would never talk to her again - which I’m still, to this day, mortified by.
Ines is an absolute force. You’ll enjoy this one. So throw on those running shoes, or grab that favourite beverage, and here is Ines.
And please don't forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
Ep:#41 Ben Ashton on the secret to realising your purpose
What goes into being a successful artist?
And what is fundamental when it comes to making a living in the art world?
Today I’m speaking with Ben Ashton, a master of subversion. His art is both beautiful and challenging; a clash of past and future that merges classic techniques with new ideas.
GQ style called him a modern master, and his work, inspired by old master techniques, has been embraced by the global pop surrealist movement.
We talk about the power of patience and resilience to realise your purpose.
How necessity truly was the mother of invention – and the main creative idea – when Ben executed the “Fall in Love Again” official video by Rag'n’Bone Man.
We talk about the power of flexibility and networks.
How to live out your purpose… and follow your heart.
And pursuing and maintaining a brand that is truly authentic.
Ben talks of fighting against the traditional London art scene. And what that means. And then his route to feeling content.
And we end on a glimpse to what his next show is going to be about. Which is super cool!
This is a must listen. I was totally buzzing at the end of this one. The energy is electric. And it was SUPER FUN to record.
So throw on those running shoes or grab your favourite beverage. And get inspired, with Ben.
You can follow Ben on Instagram: @benashtonart
Watch the Rag'n’Bone Man video here.
And check out Ben’s Youtube here Www.YouTube.com/benashtonart
Ep:#40 How capital markets can decarbonise the planet with iClima Earth
We have to cut emissions by half by 2030.
That’s what came out of the Cop26.
So, HOW are we going to do that? Where is that going to come from?
And more specifically, where is the tool to say we’re on track?
Who is monitoring this? And then the million dollar question – are the box ticking ESG strategies going to be enough?
In this podcast I talk with Gabriela Herculano and Shaila Leekha, co-founders of iClima Earth, an impact green FinTech with one sole focus – to use capital markets to decarbonise the planet.
Gabi and Shaila are both Wharton MBA graduates, with over 45 years of professional experience between them in the finance and energy sectors. After meeting at GE Capital in London, they decided to join forces, and use their power to decarbonise the planet.
Today they talk to us about the journey of getting to where they are now and what they are doing to make real impact.
Gabi tells us of her time in Glasgow when she presented at the Cop26. …and they talk of their hope.
Keen to hear how capital markets can decarbonise the planet? How you can also be a part of this movement? And what is in store for the next 10 years? Have a listen.
If you’d like to check out iClima.Earth click on the link. If you would like to reach out to Gabi and Shaila they would also love to hear from you. Please reach them on linkedIn on the links above.
We have opened entries for our next TIE Accelerator programme, kicking off January 31st. This project will fill up fast. If you're keen to broaden your horizons, break through boundaries and ultimately BE and DO more. Reach out to learn more philippa@theinternationalexchange.co.uk or check out the video at apply.tieaccelerator.com. We'd love to work with you.
And please don't forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
Ep:#39 Protecting the biggest Coral Reef system in the Atlantic
When there is a hurricane, the first line of defence are the reefs.
But after a hurricane, then what? The reefs will of course be damaged, but who repairs them to ensure they recover as fast as possible, so they can continue to be that line of defence?
This is something I never thought about before this conversation.
Reef systems around the world are under threat.
Hurricanes are one major one. But there are many others.
And the MAR system, the biggest Coral Reef system in the Atlantic, faces some very real challenges.
On today’s episode I talk to Maria Gonzalez, the executive Director of the Mar Fund, a regional environmental fund established to support conservation efforts specifically in the MAR Ecoregion. Its mission is to drive regional funding and partnerships for the conservation, restoration and sustainable use of resources in the region.
Maria has been with the MAR Fund since it’s inception.
And Maria has lived through a lot.
We hear about the challenges that reefs around the world are facing.
And what the Mar Fund is doing to respond to them.
We then talk about the exciting project that TIE will be working on with the MAR Fund in early 2022.
This conversation will get you thinking.
We’ll talk about the power of sustainable business to save the region.
And how you can be a part of this movement.
Maria brings all of this to life for us on this chat. So sit back relax, and here is Maria.
We have opened entries for our next TIE Accelerator programme, kicking off January 31st. This project will fill up fast. If you're keen to broaden your horizons, break through boundaries and ultimately BE and DO more. Reach out to learn more philippa@theinternationalexchange.co.uk or check out the video at apply.tieaccelerator.com. We'd love to work with you.
Ep:#38 The power of the reusable glass bottle with Caren McNamara
Did you know that 75% of glass bottles in the US end up in landfills?
Did you know we are facing a serious glass shortage?
Have you ever stopped to think about the carbon footprint of a glass bottle? And how easy it is to decrease it?
Today I’m chatting with Caren McNamara, Founder and CEO of Conscious Container, a benefit corporation bringing the refillable glass bottle marketplace back into the US economy.
Something that is desperately needed – from a supply chain, environmental and financial point of view.
We talk about how and why Caren went from working at IBM, to creating a start-up, and living out her life’s mission.
We hear about the surprising challenges she’s faced along the way.
And the next phase of this exciting adventure.
Caren has seen and experienced a lot on this journey, and she shares some beautiful insights on this episode. And leaves us with so many nuggets of incredible inspiration.
So grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and enjoy this chat with Caren.
We have opened entries for our next TIE Accelerator programme, kicking off mid-January. This project will fill up fast. If you're keen to broaden your horizons, break through boundaries and ultimately BE and DO more. Reach out to learn more philippa@theinternationalexchange.co.uk or check out the video at apply.tieaccelerator.com. We've love to work with you!
Ep:#37 Jo and Monique on finding their way of responding to this era of disruption
With the COP26 upon us, it’s making us all more acutely aware that we are living in a moment of profound disruption.
And I think it’s fair to say, we are all looking for our way to respond.
In today’s episode, Jo Higgins and Monique Barns talk about just this.
Monique is Brand Manager at Australia’s largest not-for-profit health insurer. And Jo is responsible for designing and building IAG’s future consent experience and bringing to life their purpose through her role as Customer Consent Strategy Lead.
They met through being on UN Women Australia's Sydney International Women's Day Committee, and since then have been on a mission to realise their purpose in a number different ways. These two have been busy!
We talk about how they are contributing to the global conversation around female empowerment.
We talk about how they helped the President of Malawi position the messaging for a high-profile UN meeting and the COP26 with TIE Accelerator.
And we hear about the types of growth experiences they are after and why they engaged with TIE.
There are some pretty great stories here.
So grab your favourite beverage. Or throw on those running shoes and enjoy this wonderful chat with Jo and Monique.
We have opened entries for our next TIE Accelerator programme, kicking off mid-January 2022. This project will fill up fast.
This one is all about how the future of climate change is in the hands of 12-year old girls. You'll be helping to ensure girl's education is a strategic development priority. When this happens it's proven to be one of the strongest solutions to tackling the climate crisis. Fascinating and SO important.
Keen to broaden your horizons, break through boundaries and ultimately BE and DO more?
Reach out to learn more philippa@theinternationalexchange.co.uk or check out the video at apply.tieaccelerator.com. We'd love to work with you!
Ep:#36 Andrea Marshall, the Queen of Mantas
You can’t breed a whale shark. Or a humpback whale.
When they are gone, they are gone.
And, what about borders when it comes to the ocean? Who is responsible for caring for these charismatic creatures when they go into other territories?
I had never thought of ocean conservation in those terms before.
Today I speak with Andrea Marshall, known as the Queen of Mantas, as coined by the BBC for their documentary on her in 2009.
She’s a pioneer for Manta Ray research.
Before she started researching Mantas, there was simply no data on them.
“How can we have people going to space, yet we don’t know anything about the biggest animals in our ocean. That’s crazy!”
She and her friend Simon Pierce decided they needed to study threatened charismatic marine megafauna. And to protect the marine habitats in Africa at the same time.
And so they did.
She moved to Mozambique. And they created the Marine Megafauna Foundation.
Today she tells us her story.
How she went from living in Australia, to selling everything, and building a hut in Mozambique, to start her life’s work.
We hear about the (many) challenges they face in Mozambique.
The impact of COVID on her personally, but also on the organisation. The challenges, but also the incredible silver linings.
Andrea talks us through what keeps her up at night (as an ocean conservationist, it’s not easy), but what also gives her hope.
Andrea is a true inspiration, her passion and dedication to marine conservation is thoroughly contagious, and this chat will inspire you.
So grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and here is Andrea.
We will shortly be kicking off our next TIE Accelerator programme. It will take place in January. If you are keen to know more, do get in touch at philippa@theinternationalexchange.co.uk or check out apply.tieaccelerator.com.
And please don't forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
Ep:#35 Nick Dutton and the power of African surf
There are millions of people surfing in Africa and yet, there was no African surf brand out there.
And you’ve had generations of Africans growing up with a narrative of blond-haired, blue-eyed surfers, presented by surf brands.
It just didn’t feel right.
And, what about the brands in Africa, telling the positive stories?
Today we are going to be talking about the power of African surf – and what my good friend Nick Dutton is doing to change the story of Africa.
Nick is the co-founder and CEO of Mami Wata, which is a global African surf lifestyle brand.
Having travelled extensively around the world during his career in advertising, Nick was able to identify the global opportunity for a premium African surf brand. So he moved his family to Cape Town, and with his co-founders, they launched Mami Wata due to their love of Africa, design and surfing, as well as a belief that the world needs a different lens to view and understand Africa.
We talk about why what they are doing matters.
How Mami Wata came about
Their journey of building a business and a challenger brand.
The curve ball of COVID and where this all has taken them.
The story is incredible. And super inspiring.
Please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.
And if you’re keen to understand more about TIE and how you can get involved, just shoot me an email at philippa@theinternationalexchange.co.uk. I’d love to hear from you.
Ep:#34 Michael Jager on designing brands people actually love
What does it mean for a brand to be a living idea? Why is the humanisation of brands so important? And why do ideas with substance really matter?
Today I chat with Michael Jager, Chief Creative Officer of Solidarity of Unbridled Labour, a studio that conceptualizes and realizes ideas that help guide and create culture and positive change within it.
It’s his vision that has shaped some of the biggest brands of our time like Nike, Lululemon, Burton Snowboards, Seventh Generation, MTV, Virgin, Patagonia and Masterclass.
We talk about why he hates the word brand.
We talk about empathy. And learning.
We talk about the power of asking questions. And where you can find insights and inspiration.
And he tells us how The Clash changed his life.
Whenever I meet with Michael, I come out of the conversation with quotes and a list of suggestions of shows to watch, books to read or artists to look into. So, I of course finish the chat with inspirational references to share with all of you.
To say you will feel inspired after this episode is an understatement. You may even want to have a pen and paper nearby to write things down.
Enjoy this one. Here is Michael.
Please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review, rating and subscribe.
And if you're keen to understand more about TIE and what we're up to these days, just shoot me an email philippa@theinternationalexchange.co.uk. I'd love to hear from you.
Ep:#33 Juliana Xavier on responsibly feeding the world and protecting the planet
I know that climate change is on most of your minds right now in one form or another.
The IPCC report came out, and it has got us thinking about so many aspects of life as we know it. And what needs to change in order to decrease emissions.
Today we will be talking about responsibly feeding the world and protecting the planet.
My guest is Juliana Xavier, Director of Brand Management at Yara International, a global crop nutrition company.
We cover a lot.
But, the crux of the conversation is how are we going to feed 9.8 billion people in the world by 2050?
And how will we do this in an environmentally sound way, especially if we know that growing food contributes to 20% of the greenhouse gas emissions in the world.
Keeping in mind that to produce enough food for 9.8 billion people…. will mean doubling food production from where we are today.
This is not easy.
But as Juliana says. Agriculture is part of the climate change problem. And it’s also part of the solution.
We talk about all of this.
Listen to the podcast and better understand the challenges. But also her hope.
Please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review, rating and subscribe.
Ep:#32 Luca Zerbini on unearthing the solution to an unknown climate challenge
Imagine being given the opportunity to make a positive difference to 3 billion people around the world.
Then imagine being told you had 6 weeks to help Malawi present at the High-Level Dialogue for Energy meeting hosted by the UN in New York and bring a voice to these 3 billion people - helping save their lives and work towards decreasing climate change.
Involving the president of the country.
Sounds crazy and a little bit intense, right?
Well, Luca Zerbini was one of the ambitious people that joined the last TIE Accelerator team to help crack this challenge.
He’s the co-founder and Managing Partner of Peak Point Partners, a Venture Capital Fund at the crossroads of Technology, Digitalization, Sustainability and Social Responsibility.
Before this, he was an accomplished consultant at Bain & Company and a C-Suite Executive. He’s an Engineer, and also holds an MBA from Wharton. And is a Fellow of The Marketing Academy and of the Institute for Real Growth – which are both focused on human growth and on purpose-driven leadership, specifically around Sustainability and Social Responsibility.
So it felt fitting to chat with Luca today about his TIE Accelerator experience.
We talk about the UN High Level dialogue for energy meeting, and why it is convening again now after 40 years.
What Malawi’s role is and how the team will be contributing to the success of the discussions.
How, as an investor in this space, he learned things he was shocked he didn’t know about before.
And then tells us the most eye-opening information he learned on this project.
If you are interested in sustainability, climate change, the environment and human rights, then this is a chat you don’t want to miss.
If you would like to register for the panel discussion talked about on this podcast on the 7th of September, you can register here. You’ll get to listen to an impressive panel of political, financial, non-profit and business experts and hear their views in preparation to the UN HLDE in New York and COP26 in Glasgow.
So sit back. Relax. And grab that favourite beverage. Or throw on those running shoes. And enjoy this episode.
Please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review, rating and subscribe.
And if you’re looking for inspired personal development with social impact that broadens horizons and helps transform professionals, then TIE could be for you. Find out more at tieaccelerator.com or get in touch with me at philippa@theinternationalexchange.co.uk. Our next project kicks off on the 20th of September and we have a couple of spots left. We’d love to work with you.
It's time. Let's change things!
Ep:#31 Vanessa Barboni Hallik on designing a sustainable fashion future
What does it take to walk away from a successful career in Investment banking?
Today I’m speaking with Vanessa Barboni Hallik, founder and CEO of Another Tomorrow, a woman’s sustainable fashion startup and what New York Times described as a ‘Brand as Ethically Minded as It Is Refined’.
When Vanessa suddenly became aware of the reality on the ground in the clothing industry, there was no turning back. She needed to challenge the system.
So, she created a clothing brand committed from the outset to sourcing responsibly grown, ethically manufactured materials, blending classic design with technology-enabled transparency, while building a platform for education, and advocacy and contributing to the circular economy.
In this episode, we talk about her early life and how it shaped where she’s at now.
We talk about the significant impact that the clothing industry has on the environment, on humans and on animals.
And then we talk about what Vanessa has done to respond to all of this.
So sit back. Relax. And grab that favourite beverage. Or throw on those running shoes. And enjoy this episode.
Please don’t forget to let us know what you think, leave a review, rating and subscribe.
Do check out Another Tomorrow here. And to sign the petition Vanessa talks about in the episode, you can find it here.
And if you’re looking for inspired personal development with social impact that broadens horizons and helps transform leaders, then TIE could be for you. Find out more at tieaccelerator.com or get in touch with me at philippa@theinternationalexchange.co.uk. We’d love to work with you.
Ep:#30 A second chance at life in Malawi
Being one of the poorest countries in the world, Malawi presents so many challenges to the people from there.
Challenges that those of us who have grown up in the Global North probably couldn’t even fathom.
And to add to the challenges that the country faces because of the poverty, the pandemic has pushed the children’s rights movement back by at least 30 years. If not more.
Life is not easy.
But there is hope. And that hope comes in the form of Chance4Change. Who we have worked with a few times over the years.
Chance4Change was established in 2011 and the organisation believes that all young people have the right to be active citizens and equal members of society.
Today I speak with Grace who has been with Chance4Change since 2013 in many capacities, before taking up her post as Country Director.
Today she talks to us about the many challenges the country faces, what they are doing to support the young people, and how TIE will play an important part in providing even more hope.
And you can be a part of it.
So grab your favourite beverage. Or throw on those running shoes and here is a window to Malawi. And how women and girls are getting a second chance at life.
And if you’re keen to get involved with TIE. To broaden your horizons, transform your life, skillsets and networks, while changing the world, find out more at the TIE Accelerator info session apply.tieaccelerator.com. Or simply get in touch and we can jump on a call.