Within People partners bring you in once a month on the conversations they're having about driving business performance through human potential, using culture as a main driver of growth, and a shared opportunity to lead the future of work. Guided by The Within Way®, you can meet them and hear about their journey to create lasting change here on our Reimagining Work From Within series. We believe purpose-led and values-driven companies thrive through challenge and uncertainty. Everyone can love who they are and what they do. Join us as we explore the future of work together.
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April 1, 202635 min
AI and the Evolution of Work: Machines Can Be the Machines
We've had two conversations about AI on this podcast: whether it could write your values, and whether it could write your strategy. This one is more personal than that.In this episode, Emily, Laurie, and Bev Attfield (joining the AI conversation for the first time) explore a question that's become impossible to avoid: what does the arrival of AI actually mean for the way we work, and for a company like Within?The conversation centres on Within's evolving belief that the evolution of work is superhuman. That AI, used well, might finally liberate us from doing robotic work so we can focus on the things that are irreducibly human. Empathy. Relationships. Creativity. The discomfort of making something that actually matters.It wouldn't be an honest conversation without the hard parts too. What does it mean for the people inside organizations who aren't ready? What do we lose when we make creativity too frictionless? These are questions we're genuinely sitting with, not ones we've figured out. If you're a leader navigating this right now, we think you'll find yourself in this conversation.HighlightsWhy Within sees AI as an existential question, and an exciting oneWhat machines can't do: love, dream, discern, and hold accountabilityWhy the journey to an outcome still matters more than the output itselfWhat's coming next: Within is writing an AI manifesto, and you're invited along
February 11, 202656 min
The Work Ahead: Leading Through AI Anxiety and the Evolution of Work
In this episode, Within People Partner Bev Attfield sits down with Kate Bravery, Senior Partner and Global Leader of Talent Advisory at Mercer, for a grounded conversation about what leaders are really navigating right now as work continues to evolve.Drawing on insights from Mercer’s 2026 Global Talent Trends Report, Bev and Kate explore the emotional realities shaping organizations today — from AI anxiety and rapid technological change to shifting expectations around leadership, culture, and human connection at work.Together, they unpack what’s underneath many of today’s workplace challenges, why leaders need to pay attention to how change feels — not just how it functions — and how organizations can move forward with intention, curiosity, and care.This conversation is for leaders who are asking:How do we support people through uncertainty and change?What does meaningful leadership look like in an AI-influenced world?And how do we stay human while work continues to evolve?If this episode resonates with what you’re seeing inside your organization, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to continue the conversation — we’re always curious about what leaders are navigating right now.
October 15, 202546 min
From words to wow: Turning values into action
How do values move from words on a wall to ways of working that truly shape a culture?In this conversation, Bev Attfield Partner at Within People sits down with Madeleine Drake Director of People and Culture at Stok and Sabrina Banadaga VP of Marketing at Shift, to explore how values come alive in real workplaces. Together, they talk about what it takes to turn shared ideals into everyday behaviors, and how leaders can nurture belonging and purpose by living their values out loud.From using technology thoughtfully to keep values relevant, to keeping things simple and human, this episode offers practical insights for anyone looking to bring more meaning into how their organization works and grows.Listen in to discover:How values act as a compass for decision-making and belongingWhy the most transformative values are the ones that feel lived, not writtenThe role leaders play in making values thrive day-to-dayWhy simplicity and creativity matter in bringing values to life
August 14, 202531 min
A Mirror, Not a Map: What AI Can’t Do for Your Strategy
Two years ago, we asked if AI could write your purpose and values. Our answer: It can mimic the words, but not the meaning.In this episode, Emily and Laurie pick up where they left off — this time looking at AI’s role in creating vision and strategy. With 71% of companies now using or exploring AI, it’s no longer niche. But can it really give you direction, or does it just reflect back what you already know?We talk about:How AI can act as a “mirror” for your existing thinkingThe risks of skipping human participation in strategy-makingWhy collective buy-in matters more than a perfect planPractical ways to use AI as a starting point, not the final wordCreative and collaborative approaches to building a vision your team ownsWe leave you with two questions to reflect on:Would your team recognize themselves in an AI-written strategy?Are you aligned in belief, or just in language?Don’t let a compelling plan distract you from the conversation that should have shaped it.
June 10, 202521 min
DEI backlash and the quiet crisis of complacent leadership
In This Episode:What does it look like to lead with courage in an era of backlash? Jeff Melnyk and Carol Kondo revisit past conversations that still resonate - from DEI and social justice to war, Pride, and legacy. This episode challenges leaders to stop sitting on the sidelines and start showing up.Podcasts Featured:The role of leadership in social justice: 3 actionable insightsPride was a riot: Creating social change from withinUkraine and social crises: How do business leaders respondReferenced Articles:Why Corporate America Is Running From DEI – Psychology TodayPride events face budget shortfalls – AP NewsPerformative Allyship: What It Is and Why It Hurts – Diversity CertificationUkraine Business Initiative – U.S. Chamber of CommerceTo learn more about Within People and the work we do click here
May 6, 202530 min
The power of presence: Rethinking mindfulness at work
In this episode, Within People co-founder Jeff Melnyk is joined by partner Carol Kondo for a grounded and honest conversation about what’s really getting in the way of high performance at work. It’s not strategy - it’s presence.Together, they unpack what mindfulness really means in a business context, how distraction is showing up in meetings, and why connection, intention and even phone-free boardrooms might just be the unlock for better collaboration and critical thinking.Tune in for practical tips, thoughtful reflection, and a few laughs as Jeff and Carol explore what it means to show up fully and lead with presence.Click here more information about Within People and the work we do
April 3, 202549 min
Lessons From A Decade In Business: In conversation with Rory Capern of Redbrick
In this episode, Laurie Bennett sits down with Rory Capern, COO of Redbrick, to reflect on a decade of building and evolving a thriving business. As Redbrick has grown from a single-brand tech company into a portfolio of digital businesses, Rory has seen firsthand what it takes to scale with purpose and lead through change.Together, they explore the lessons learned along the way—the leadership qualities that sustain long-term growth, the challenges of navigating uncertainty, and the role of culture in shaping a resilient, innovative company. Whether you’re a business leader, entrepreneur, or someone passionate about growth and transformation, this conversation offers valuable insights on what it takes to build a business that lasts.Learn more about Within People and the work we do here.For more information about Redbrick and the work they do, go to rdbrck.com
March 5, 202543 min
Lessons from a decade in business: In conversation with Dan Hegarty of Kuda
In this special episode celebrating Within People’s 10th anniversary, Jeff Melnyk sits down with Dan Hegarty, a seasoned entrepreneur and COO at Kuda, to reflect on a decade of building and growing businesses. Dan shares his journey, the pivotal lessons he’s learned along the way, and what it really takes to create a company that lasts. Together, they dive into the challenges of scaling a business, the importance of culture and leadership, and finding purpose in the world of Tech. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a leader, or someone passionate about business and innovation, this conversation offers real-world insights and inspiration on navigating the highs and lows of the entrepreneurial journey.
February 4, 202537 min
Letting Go, Leading Forward: 2025 Trends for Work & Leadership
Description:In this special annual trends episode of Reimagining Work from Within, Jeff Melnyk and Carol Kondo explore what it means to step into 2025 with intention. From Carol’s personal journey of starting over in a new country to Jeff reflecting on entering a new decade of life, they discuss the power of letting go as a form of growth. They dive into four key trends shaping leadership this year—bringing cultures together, redefining growth on your own terms, the ongoing evolution of flexible work, and the role of AI in human-centered leadership. Tune in for an insightful and thought-provoking conversation on how leaders can navigate change, embrace uncertainty, and create space for something new.Show Notes:[00:00] Carol’s journey of moving countries and what it means to start over[04:00] Why letting go—not just setting goals—can be the most powerful way to grow[09:15] Trend #1: Bringing cultures together—why DEI is shifting and what leaders need to let go of[16:30] Trend #2: Redefining growth—breaking away from outdated success metrics[21:00] Trend #3: Rethinking connection in hybrid and flexible work environments[26:07] Trend #4: AI and leadership—how embracing technology can make leadership more human[34:00] Key takeaways—how leaders can step into 2025 with intention and courage
November 15, 202453 min
Lessons from a decade in business: In conversation with Meriem Bouamrane of UNESCO
DESCRIPTION:In the latest episode in our series celebrating a decade of business at Within People, Jeff Melnyk reconnects with Meriem Bouamrane, an environmental economist and Senior Advisor for Nature-Based Solutions Partnerships at UNESCO. Together, they discuss her transformative work with UNESCO's Man and Biosphere Program and her personal journey as a leader in sustainability. From their shared experiences in the field to stories of resilience, connection, and shared purpose, Meriem shares powerful insights on vulnerability, the importance of community, and the value of leading with authenticity. Tune in to learn about the power of storytelling in environmental work, the evolution of sustainability, and Meriem's hopes for the next generation of leaders.SHOW NOTES:Fostering Global Sustainability Through Storytelling and LeadershipIn this podcast episode, host Jeff interviews Meriam, an expert in environmental economics and a long-time advocate for the UNESCO Man and Biosphere Program (MAB). They discuss their initial meeting in Sweden, collaborations around the world, and the transformational impact of the MAB program on promoting sustainable development. Meriam shares her career journey, starting from her field research in agroforestry in Indonesia, to her significant contributions within UNESCO. She emphasizes the importance of storytelling and communication in engaging stakeholders and highlights the evolving awareness and actions towards sustainability. The conversation also explores our 8 Essential qualities for 21 century leadership, the significance of vulnerability and authenticity, and the shift in global consciousness regarding environmental issues. Meriam reflects on her future aspirations, focusing on personal growth and continuing her commitment to sustainability through local actions like permaculture.KEYWORDS:UNESCO, Man and Biosphere Program, sustainability leadership, biodiversity, environmental advocacy, ecosystem preservation, global community, storytelling, purpose-driven leadership, human connection, cross-cultural collaboration, hope, resilience, vulnerability, authenticity, empowerment, sustainability evolution, climate action, positive impact, legacy, shared purposeWHAT TO EXPECTInsights on how vulnerability and authenticity shape impactful leadershipThe evolution of the UNESCO Man and Biosphere Program and its role in global sustainabilityHow storytelling bridges scientific data with public engagement to drive environmental changeShifting narratives in sustainability to bring a broader audience into the conversationLeadership lessons on staying hopeful and resilient amid challengesMeriem’s reflections on cultivating purpose-driven connections within communities worldwideInspiring future leaders to make positive contributions to the planet through shared valuesTAKEAWAYSVulnerability as Strength: Meriem emphasizes that showing vulnerability as a leader can build trust, foster connection, and encourage a culture of openness and authenticity.Storytelling as a Tool for Change: Meriem and Jeff reflect on the importance of translating scientific knowledge into relatable stories that engage and empower communities to take action on biodiversity and sustainability.Sustainability’s Expanding Reach: Over her career, Meriem has seen sustainability discussions move from scientists and activists to include business leaders, finance professionals, and a global audience—creating a wider commitment to environmental action.Creating Global Connection through Shared Values: The Man and Biosphere Program unites diverse ecosystems and cultures under a shared purpose of protecting the planet, showing that common values can bridge differences and foster collaboration.Hope and Positivity as Drivers of Action: Rather than focusing solely on the urgency of environmental crises, Meriem advocates for an approach that highlights positive solutions and models for change, inspiring a hopeful outlook.Embracing a Non-Hierarchical Leadership Approach: By stepping away from conventional power dynamics, Meriem has fostered a collaborative and respectful atmosphere, empowering communities to share their knowledge and experiences freely.A Vision for Lasting Change: Meriem believes that true leadership comes from empowering individuals to make choices that align with their values, contributing to a legacy of kindness, respect, and care for each other and the earth.Meriem Bouamrane Bio:Meriem Bouamrane is an environmental economist and Senior Advisor for Nature-Based Solutions Partnerships at UNESCO, where she focuses on developing cross-sectoral partnerships to advance climate action and biodiversity conservation. She manages relationships with key partners, including LVMH. Previously, she served as Chief of Section for research and policy on biodiversity within UNESCO's Division of Ecological and Earth Sciences, as part of the MAB Programme, where she worked since 2001. She also coordinated the EuroMAB Network, the oldest and largest network in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves, and led research and training programs on biodiversity access and use, participatory approaches, and collaboration, using biosphere reserves as research and demonstration sites. She has organized numerous workshops applying various participatory techniques and tools and was involved in research programs focused on socio-ecological system resilience. She served as UNESCO's focal point for IPBES and biodiversity and was a member of the International Association for the Study of the Commons (IASC).
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