The Corporate Activist

Hosted by Siri Khalsa

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May 2024

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About the show

The Corporate Activist is a new podcast that explores the role of the business sector in today’s complex social and political landscape. On the Corporate Activist we will look at the role of the business sector from all angles, examine the benefits of engagement, as well as the risks. I talk with a broad range of experts to get their perspectives, take an in depth look at some case studies, as well as answer your questions on how you can best navigate these issues in your own business. We discuss how Corporate Activism works in different countries, and the decision making process needed to determine when and how best to take a stance. I’m doing this podcast because I believe the time is now for business to be a driving force for good in the world. I’ve spent decades working across the business, public and non-profit sectors, both in the US and internationally. I have always believed business can do more to be a force for positive change in the world and I hope that this podcast will help galvanize more of us around the concept of Corporate Activism. If you are interested in the point where business, politics and social impact meet, and how business can lead positive change on our most pressing issues, please join the conversation on The Corporate Activist.

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25 recent

May 16, 202448 min

Saudi Arabia Through the Lens of Design with Guest Nawaf Al Nassar

Welcome to the final episode of Season 2 of The Corporate Activist. For this episode we are having a little bit of a different conversation than our usual topics with a fascinating discussion about the intersection of culture and design in Saudi Arabia. My guest is renowned Saudi designer Nawaf Al-Nassar, who shares his unique insights on blending traditional Saudi Arabian aesthetics with contemporary design trends. Nawaf has extensive experience working with local artisans and a deep respect for his heritage and we discuss how Saudi Arabia's rich traditions and ambitious modernization efforts are shaping its future.Here are the highlights: (4:46) Preserving Saudi Arabia's cultural heritage(16:59) Saudi Arabian design, culture, and education(22:57) Designing spaces that make people feel at home(27:44) Opportunities for young people in Saudi Arabia(34:17) Design community in Saudi Arabia(39:10) Saudi architecture and sustainability Guest BioNawaf Al-Nassar obtained a bachelor’s degree in interior design from the American College of London in 1990, and has worked in the interior design industry since then. His main interest focuses on developing personalized interior design concepts. Al-Nassar is a member of the Saudi Art Council and the Barakat Trust, and serves on the educational committee of www.21-39.com. He was also head coordinator of the Tasmeem Fair, and contributes to www.designksa.com. Thanks for joining us for Season Two. We will be on a short hiatus, but please stay tuned for new episodes in the Fall of 2024.The Corporate Activist is brought to you by Stance Advocacy Services. Please contact us at stance@stanceadvocacy.comConnect with NawafInstagram - LinkedIn - YouTube -https://dartantora.co/https://www.neom.comhttps://talents.edu.sa/tariq-abdul-hakim-museum/Connect with me:Website: https://www.stanceadvocacy.com/Twitter: @CorpActivistInstagram: @corpactivist, @stanceadvocacyThis podcast is proudly produced by The Podcast Boutique

May 2, 202447 min

Corporate Profiteers with Guest Dr Christopher Marquis

Welcome to this episode of The Corporate Activist.Today, we're joined by Dr. Christopher Marquis, a leading voice in business sustainability and social entrepreneurship. We explore the provocative insights from his latest book, The Profiteers, which sheds light on how companies privatize profits while socializing costs, often leaving the public to foot the bill. Join us as we unravel the complexities of corporate social impact and discuss actionable steps businesses can take to foster a more equitable and sustainable future.Here are the highlights:(2:21) How companies externalize costs to society while profiting(7:43) Corporate social responsibility and sustainability(13:39) Reversing short-termism in business through policy changes and collective action(19:33) Corporate sustainability, regenerative business models, and accountability(25:21) Businesses' impact on society and the environment(35:38) Cultural shifts towards prioritizing people over profits(40:18) Sustainable business practices and social impactGuest BioChristopher Marquis is the Sinyi Professor of Chinese Management at the University of Cambridge and author of The Profiteers: How Business Privatizes Profits and Socializes Costs. His research examines business sustainability and social entrepreneurship, and he has written two prior award-winning books, including Better Business: How the B Corp Movement Is Remaking Capitalism and Mao and Markets: The Communist Roots of Chinese Enterprise. Marquis is passionate about how academic research can help people around the world address some of the biggest crises of our day — including climate change, inequality, and racism. Before Cambridge Marquis worked at Cornell for 6 years, and Harvard for 11 years. He has a PhD in sociology from the University of Michigan and previously worked for six years in the financial services industry, most recently as a Vice President at JP Morgan Chase.Linkshttps://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/press-room/20240419IPR20585/due-diligence-meps-adopt-rules-for-firms-on-human-rights-and-environmenthttps://www.grove.co/https://shop.greyston.org/https://tonyschocolonely.com/int/enChristopher Marquis (he/him)Books:The ProfiteersBetter Business Mao and MarketsForbes Articles | <a...

April 4, 202440 min

Video Gaming and Social Responsibility with Guest Sophie Vo

In today’s episode, we're diving into the gaming industry’s role and responsibility in corporate activism and social impact with Sophie Vo, a seasoned game executive and founder of Rise and Play. Sophie shares her journey and vision for a more inclusive, socially responsible gaming world. Through her work, she aims to create a balance between economic success and positive social change, advocating for a human-centric approach to game development. Join us for a compelling conversation on how the video game industry can overcome some of its inherit challenges and be a force for good.Here are the highlights: (1:35) Gaming industry leadership and social impact(11:10) Sexism and inclusion in the gaming industry(16:22) Ethics and responsibility in the gaming industry(21:53) Value-driven gaming startup and its approach to connecting people(34:51) Gamification and social impact with industry expert SophieFind out more: Connect with Sophie on LinkedIn HERE.https://www.riseandplay.io/https://www.riseandplay.io/podcasthttps://wingsfund.me/https://www.codecoven.co/Connect with me:Website: https://www.stanceadvocacy.com/Twitter: @CorpActivistInstagram: @corpactivist, @stanceadvocacyThis podcast is proudly produced by The Podcast BoutiqueThe Corporate Activist is brought to you by Stance Advocacy Services. https://www.stanceadvocacy.com/Follow us on Instagram @corpactivist

March 21, 202458 min

The Evolution of Corporate Activism with Guest Dr Philip Mirvis

Welcome to another episode of The Corporate Activist. In this episode I speak with organisational psychologist Dr. Philip Mirvis. Dr Mirvis was inspired by the social and labor activism of 60s and 70s which led him to advocating for employees and better treatment for workers within corporations. This evolved into later helping Ben & Jerry's develop their advocacy work, and led to a long career in teaching and advising on corporate activism. He also authored several books and articles on the topic, including his most recent book, Sustainability to Social Change, Lead Your Company From Managing Risk To Creating Social Value.We discuss how corporate activism is becoming more necessary, and more tricky, for both employees and corporations within today's contentious political and social environment. Join us for a great conversation through the practicalities and possibilities of corporate activism.Here are the highlights: (1:23) Social impact and corporate activism(15:31) Corporate social responsibility and leadership(24:04) Measuring social impact in business(35:59) Businesses making a positive impact on society (45:10) Prioritizing environmental impact alongside profit(50:36) Creating a safe space for employeesFind out more about Dr Philip Mirvis:https://ceo.usc.edu/bio/philip-mirvis/https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/3521365.Philip_Mirvishttps://ssir.org/articles/entry/in_a_war_on_woke_capitalism_whats_a_good_company_to_doLinks https://www.patagonia.com/activism/https://www.benjerry.com/valueshttps://sites.disney.com/lifeatdisney/culture-and-values/Connect with me:Website: https://www.stanceadvocacy.com/Twitter: @CorpActivistInstagram: @corpactivist, @stanceadvocacyThis podcast is proudly produced by The Podcast BoutiqueThe Corporate Activist podcast is brought to you by Stance Advocacy Serviceshttps://www.stanceadvocacy.com/Follow us on Instagram @corpactivist

February 29, 202443 min

Building the Social Impact Community with Guest Jeremy Brown.

In this episode I speak with Jeremy Brown about his efforts to bring together social impact practitioners through his platform, Social Impact World and his efforts to help companies be a force for social good. Jeremy has a rich background in social enterprise and he shares some practical steps that businesses can take to challenge the status quo and inspire a new wave of socially conscious businesses and leaders. Here are the highlights:(1:22) Social impact and volunteering in the tech industry(5:20) CSR vs. Social Impact in the business world(8:55) Social impact in business and leadership(13:19) Social impact leadership and company involvement(19:53) Corporate social responsibility and taking a stand on social issues(30:45) Corporate social responsibility and political neutrality(35:57) Social impact in business, including revenue generation(45:15) Social impact, podcasting, and remote workGuest BioJeremy Brown is the Founder of Social Impact World, a global community of social impact leaders focused on turning the corporate world into a force for good. He's also the Host of the Behind the Impact podcast where he explores how companies use their people, products, and capital for good. With a decade of experience in the tech industry and almost just as much time in social impact, Jeremy has spent most of his career helping startups grow while encouraging them to contribute meaningfully to society.Linkshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/socialjeremy/https://www.socialimpactworld.com/https://www.dronedeploy.com/https://podcasts.apple.com/fr/podcast/behind-the-impact/id1547672099?l=en-GBConnect with me:Website: https://www.stanceadvocacy.com/Twitter: @CorpActivistInstagram: @corpactivist, @stanceadvocacyThis podcast is proudly produced by The Podcast Boutique

February 8, 202438 min

The CEO as Activist with Guest Edward Sullivan

This week's episode is a re-visit to an episode from Season One , where I am joined by Edward Sullivan. Edward is the CEO and Managing Partner at Velocity Coaching. His 20-year career as an executive coach and political consultant has taken him around the globe coaching and advising start-up founders, fortune 500 CEOs and heads of state of foreign nations. His work has been featured in The New York Times, Washington Post, Forbes and more. In this episode from last year, we explore why corporate values should be a reflection of our personal values, how the role of the CEO is evolving and how living by our values can ultimately help the bottom line.Here are the highlights: (07:11) How more emotionally connected conversations can lead to living richer lives (14:26) Why it’s hard for an organisation to have a sense of purpose if the leader doesn’t(20:15) How the role of the CEO is evolving(28:12) Why corporate values should be a reflection of personal valuesTo contact Edward:https://www.linkedin.com/in/edwardlsullivan1/https://velocitycoaching.com/Book:  Daily Stoic. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36517689-the-daily-stoic-journalShout Out:  RM Williams https://www.rmwilliams.com.au/Connect with me:Website: https://www.stanceadvocacy.com/Twitter: @CorpActivistInstagram: @corpactivist, @stanceadvocacyThis podcast is proudly produced by The Podcast Boutique

January 25, 202450 min

Corporations in Times of War with Guest Dr Peter Stanbury

In today's episode, we're diving deep into the role and responsibility of corporations during times of war and conflict as tensions escalate in hotspots around the world.My guest is Dr Peter Stanbury, a sage in political economist and anthropologist, who brings nearly three decades of insights from the frontlines of economic development challenges across the globe. Join us as we explore the thin line businesses walk between profit and principle, and how they navigate the murky waters of international conflicts and their unforeseen impacts on their business and society. Please join us for a conversation that's as enlightening as it is urgent.Here are the highlights: (2:08) Corporate activism and its role in global development(4:47) The role of corporations in conflict and post-conflict reconstruction(7:16) Private sector role in conflict reconstruction(12:10) Understanding emerging economies and conflict management(17:10) Common mistakes companies make when entering new markets(25:40) Corporate social responsibility and ethical business practices(35:43) How companies can positively impact conflict-affected areas(39:59) Sustainable wine practices and standards(48:27) Corporate activism and social impact with industry expertsFind out more: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-peter-stanbury-0911bb18b/https://www.nestle.com/ask-nestle/human-rightshttps://swroundtable.org/Connect with me:Website: https://www.stanceadvocacy.com/Twitter: @CorpActivistInstagram: @corpactivist, @stanceadvocacyThis podcast is proudly produced by The Podcast Boutique

December 28, 20231 hr 5 min

Geopolitics and the Corporate Sector with Guest Jeppe Kofod

Welcome to a thought-provoking episode where we explore the intricate connections between geopolitics and the corporate world. Joining us is Jeppe Kofod, an experienced Danish politician with deep insights into international relations. We delve into how global events shape the corporate landscape and vice versa, discussing the role of businesses in navigating these complex dynamics. This episode offers a unique perspective on corporate strategy and political engagement in today's interconnected world.Here are the highlights: (2:18) Foreign policy and political career(5:54) Geopolitical risks and their impact on business(11:08) Corporate tax and societal responsibility(15:49) Green energy transition and regulation in the EU(36:00) Business and geopolitics overlapping for positive change(42:11) Geopolitical impact on business and society(53:48) Corporate activism and sustainability(1:01:22) Corporate activism and social impactMore about Jeppe:Member of the Danish Parliament (Folketinget) for the Social Democratic Party in Bornholms greater constituency (2007-2014) Member of the Danish Parliament (Folketinget) for the Social Democratic Party in Bornholms county constituency (March 11, 1998-2006)Parliamentary career Minister for Foreign Affairs from June 27, 2019 Member of the European Parliament, 2014-2019, vice-president for the S&D Group, 2016-2019 Spokesman on foreign affairs, 2000-2013 Chairman of the Foreign Policy Committee, 2011-2013, Vice Chairman 2001-2008 Vice-chairman of the parliamentary group of the Social Democratic Party 2003-2005Education Master of Public Administration, Harvard University, 2006-2007 Fulbright Fellow, 2006-2007 BA.scient.soc. from Roskilde University, 1996-2004 Student, Bornholms Amtsgymnasium, 1991-1994 Marshall Memorial Fellow 2004 Find out more:https://kofodglobal.com/https://gronbla.com/www.danfoss.com/en/Connect with me:Website: https://www.stanceadvocacy.com/Twitter: @CorpActivistInstagram: @corpactivist, @stanceadvocacyThis podcast is proudly produced by The Podcast Boutique

December 14, 202344 min

Green Energy Transitions with Guest Angela Paulk

In this compelling episode, we dive deep into the world of sustainable business practices and climate change with Angela Paulk, CEO of The Climate Board.Angela, with her extensive background in global leadership, regulatory governance, and strategic consulting, sheds light on the intricate relationship between business operations, public policy and environmental stewardship.The conversation traverses her rich experiences, from her early days as a Peace Corps volunteer in Russia to her current role leading strategic initiatives in sustainability and climate change.This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding how businesses can actively contribute to tackling the climate crisis while remaining resilient and competitive in a rapidly changing worldHere are the highlights:(07:46) Sustainability strategies for companies in various industries.(15:44) Sustainability and communication in business.(22:48) Corporate sustainability efforts and greenwashing concerns.(32:11) Interconnected global issues and their impact on businesses.(35:23) Climate change and sustainability at COP28 in Dubai.(40:48) Corporate activism and its social impact.More information about Angela and her work:https://www.theclimateboard.com/https://uk.linkedin.com/in/angela-paulk-654b525https://www.skanska.cz/en-us/who-we-are/media/press-releases/273659/Skanska-and-Reborn-Design-Winner-Barbara-Rakovska-Transforms-Gypsum-boards-into-Acoustic-Art-PanelsConnect with me:Website: https://www.stanceadvocacy.com/Twitter: @CorpActivistInstagram: @corpactivist, @stanceadvocacyThis podcast is proudly produced by The Podcast Boutique

November 30, 202331 min

Living Your Social Mission With Guest Jeff Sheinbein

Welcome to this episode where we explore the intersection of business and social impact. Today, I'm joined by Jeff Sheinbein, CEO and co-founder of Social Imprints, a trailblazing social enterprise in San Francisco. We delve into how Jeff's company is redefining the corporate world by offering meaningful employment to at-risk populations. This episode is a deep dive into the essence of a social mission in business, providing insights on creating a socially responsible company that not only thrives financially but also makes a significant difference in people's lives. Join us for an inspiring conversation that sheds light on the power of incorporating social good into the core of business.Here are the highlights: (5:37) Social enterprise and job opportunities for underrepresented groups(10:13) Social enterprise and workforce development(14:58) Employing marginalized groups and overcoming challenges(20:47) Workforce development and social enterprise(26:11) Social enterprise and activism with Jeff Connect with me:Website: https://www.stanceadvocacy.com/Twitter: @CorpActivistInstagram: @corpactivist, @stanceadvocacyThis podcast is proudly produced by The Podcast BoutiqueFind out more: https://www.socialimprints.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffsheinbeinhttps://oraclefoundation.org/https://www.dropbox.foundation/More about Jeff:In 2011, Bloomberg Business Week named Jeff Sheinbein “America’s Most Promising Social Entrepreneur.” As a guest speaker, Jeff delivers a passionate message about the power of social business to change lives, transform society, and create healthy, expansive business cultures.Jeff serves on the Advisory Council of Meridian International Global Service Leaders. A two-time Investors Circle finalist, he has led three highly successful social enterprises in the US and abroad.Jeff started his career as managing director of AI, a non-profit screen printing and embroidery company in San Francisco that hires from an at-risk adult population. Under Jeff’s leadership, AI became one of the country's most successful nonprofit enterprises of its size, and one of the most profitable businesses in the US screen-printing industry.The Community Action Network (UK) hired Jeff to replicate his highly successful business model in London. While in the UK, Jeff also led social enterprise workshops for hundreds of aspiring young social entrepreneurs.Jeff has enjoyed a second career as an independent consultant helping nonprofits and social enterprises find their identity and grow. His clients include Golden Gate Community Inc., The Body Positive, ShareForward, East West Holistic Center, and the Borders Books Free Classes Program.Jeff received a B.A. in Economics from UC Berkeley with a minor in Business Administration.