PODCAST · business
Better Than We Found It
by GS2 Partnership
At GS2, we believe in leaving the world better than we found it. Our purpose is to connect individuals who share this belief and strive to make a positive impact. We are excited to introduce our new podcast, Better Than We Found It, where we engage with purpose-focused executive leaders and aspiring future leaders to explore the concepts of sustainability and improving the world for future generations.
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From Balance Sheet to Boardroom: The CFO to CEO Evolution with Olga Shevorenkova
Welcome to Season 5, Episode 1 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.Today we're joined by Olga Shevorenkova, CEO of Loop Global, a top-five EV charging network in the United States. Olga's career path is remarkable: from a degree in Applied Mathematics in Moscow, through investment banking in clean tech across Europe and New York, to joining the EV space as CFO and helping take a company public through a SPAC during COVID raising close to $600 million in the process. Now she's taken the CEO seat at Loop Global, applying her financial rigour and obsession with talent to build a lean, high-performing team in an industry where many competitors are going bust.In this episode, we explore:How a mathematician from Moscow found her way into clean tech investment bankingThe realities of switching from advisor to operator and what nobody tells you about that jumpTaking a company public through a SPAC in four months, in the middle of a global pandemicMoving from CFO to CEO: the skills that transfer, and the weight that doesn'tHow Olga restructured Loop Global from the ground up replacing most of the team within 12 monthsWhy talent, not process, is always the first thing to fixThe EV industry's most overlooked problem: reliability over innovationWhat it will take to become a top-three EV charging provider in the USIf you're a finance professional curious about making the leap into an operating role, a CFO considering the step up, or a leader navigating a restructure, this episode is packed with real, hard-won insight.Connect with Josh on LinkedIn Connect with Olga on LinkedInThis podcast is brought to you by GS2 Partnership, the recruitment partner for ambitious, impact-led teams across energy, finance, and the built environment.Find out more about GS2 here
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From Engineer to Storyteller: A Leadership Masterclass with Irfan Bharde
Welcome to Season 4, Episode 8 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.Today's guest is a leader who proves that the most powerful skill in the technical world isn't engineering, it's storytelling. Irfan Bharde is the SVP and Chief Commercial Officer at NovaSource Power, one of the world's largest O&M service providers for solar and storage assets. His journey is a masterclass in cross-industry leadership, with a career spanning traditional power at GE, industrial automation at Honeywell, and robotics and AI at Domatic.Irfan was brought into NovaSource as part of a new leadership team with a clear mission: to transform the company and bring a mature, process-driven playbook to the rapidly growing renewables industry.In this episode, we explore:- The multicultural advantage how speaking multiple languages and understanding different cultures shapes leadership effectiveness- His pivotal career transformation from engineer to executive storyteller working directly with a CEO- The outsider's advantage of bringing lessons from software, robotics, and traditional power into the solar industry- Why the best leaders listen more and speak less and how to make that shift- Navigating the current challenges in renewables and building resilient business models- His vision for total asset optimization and the future of sustainable energy- The role of AI in education and personalized learning- What it means to leave a legacy by empowering the next generationIf you're in energy, sustainability, or any technical field looking to scale your leadership impact, this episode is packed with actionable insights.Connect with Josh on LinkedIn Connect with Irfan on LinkedInThis podcast is brought to you by GS2 Partnership, the recruitment partner for ambitious, impact-led teams across energy, finance, and the built environment.Find out more about GS2 here
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Simple as Sunshine: A CEO's Playbook for Disrupting the Energy Market with Michael Chanin
Welcome to Season 4, Episode 7 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.Today, we're joined by Michael Chanin, founder and CEO of Cherry Street Energy, the largest non-utility renewable energy provider in Georgia.Michael's journey is one of conviction, meeting opportunities from studying human rights at the University of Cambridge to high-stakes finance at Goldman Sachs during the financial crisis, his path took an unexpected turn during a casual Friday lunch.A conversation about a change in state law opened his eyes to a market opportunity, and he went home that same day to start a power company.In this episode, we explore:- How a single moment of insight during "Fried Chicken Friday" led to founding Cherry Street Energy.- The audacity required to challenge a century-old energy monopoly.- Building a business at the intersection of purpose and profit—not doing good as a byproduct, but as the core.- The power of making complex solutions "simple as sunshine" for customers.- Why behavioral traits trump technical skills when building a high-performing team.- Navigating political headwinds while staying true to a mission.- Creating a 100-year business focused on enduring value.Michael shares invaluable lessons on leveraging privilege responsibly, the importance of asking for what you want, and why the best leaders are storytellers who can take complexity and make it accessible.If you're an entrepreneur, energy professional, or anyone interested in building purpose-driven businesses that create lasting impact, this episode is essential listening.Connect with Josh on LinkedIn Connect with Michael on LinkedInThis podcast is brought to you by GS2 Partnership, the recruitment partner for ambitious, impact-led teams across energy, finance, and the built environment.Find out more about GS2 here
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From Boom & Bust to Building a Renewable Future with Jody Snodgrass
Welcome to Season 4, Episode 6 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.Today, we're joined by Jody Snodgrass, CEO of TruGrid, a turnkey EPC for utility-scale solar and energy storage.Jody's career is anything but linear. He's been a founder who built and sold multiple companies, a top-tier consultant at Deloitte, and a C-suite executive for some of the largest energy companies in the world.He's seen the industry from every possible angle: as the owner, the contractor and the consultant.In this episode, we dive into the brutal truths of that journey, the personal sacrifices required for a global career, the hard lessons learned from failure, and the relentless drive for continuous improvement that defines his leadership style.From starting his first business at 20 and selling it for a 13.5x multiple, to losing everything in the 2008 financial crisis, to navigating the rigid structures of corporate giants like Jacobs and Deloitte, Jody shares it all.We explore how he's built resilience in organisations, why he values loyalty over competency, his philosophy of "embrace the red," and how he's leading TruGrid through one of the most challenging times in renewable energy.If you're looking for honest, battle-tested insights on leadership, career growth, and the energy transition, this episode delivers.Connect with Josh on LinkedIn Connect with Jody on LinkedInThis podcast is brought to you by GS2 Partnership, the recruitment partner for ambitious, impact-led teams across energy, finance, and the built environment.Find out more about GS2 here
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From Barcelona to Brooklyn: Building Circular Mobility with Marta Anadon
Welcome to Season 4, Episode 5 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.Today, we're joined by Marta Anadon, Head of US at Upway, a fast-growing circular economy startup making light electric mobility accessible through refurbished e-bikes.Marta's career journey spans civil engineering in Barcelona, power trading at EDF in Europe, scaling Uber and UberEats across multiple continents, and now building Upway's US business from the ground up.In this episode, we explore:- How switching industries with intention builds transferable leadership skills- The art of launching a business in a new market with just an incorporation and a vision- Building talent-dense teams where feedback is a gift, not a threat- Why urban mobility is one of the most powerful levers for sustainable cities- Balancing mission-driven impact with commercial growth in the circular economy- The future of refurbished electric vehicles and battery innovationWhether you're navigating career transitions, scaling a purpose-driven business, or passionate about sustainable urban design, this episode offers practical wisdom from someone who's done it all.Connect with Josh on LinkedIn Connect with Marta on LinkedInThis podcast is brought to you by GS2 Partnership, the recruitment partner for ambitious, impact-led teams across energy, finance, and the built environment.Find out more about GS2 here
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Building a Purpose-Driven Engineering Powerhouse with Sohan Das
Welcome to Season 4, Episode 4 of Better Than We Found It - the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.Today, we're joined by Sohan Das, Vice President of Renewable Energy at EVS, Inc. a consulting engineering firm specializing in utility-scale solar, battery storage, and transmission infrastructure. Sohan's journey is one of purpose, resilience, and serendipity - from growing up in India watching his father's environmental initiatives, to navigating the 2009 recession, to building a renewable energy division from the ground up that now supports 230 families.In this episode, we explore:How early environmental awareness in India shaped Sohan's career trajectoryThe reality of joining start ups during a recession and what it takes to thriveBuilding a renewable energy division from scratch at EVS, Inc. over 11 yearsThe critical transition from individual contributor to leader of leadersNavigating industry uncertainty while staying mission-drivenWhy consulting engineering firms are the best place for engineers to truly learn their craftThe importance of diversification strategy in a rapidly changing energy landscapeSohan shares invaluable lessons on risk-taking, the art of listening, and how to balance technical excellence with people-first leadership. Whether you're an engineer, entrepreneur, or sustainability professional, this episode offers practical wisdom on building with purpose while weathering industry storms.Connect with Josh on LinkedInConnect with Sohan on LinkedInThis podcast is brought to you by GS2 Partnership, the recruitment partner for ambitious, impact-led teams across energy, finance, and the built environment.Find out more about GS2 here
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Bridging Compliance, Leadership, and Renewables with Kellie Macpherson
Welcome to season 4, episode 3 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.In this episode, Josh is joined by Kellie Macpherson, Executive Vice President of Compliance and Security at Radian.With a career spanning grid reliability, renewables, and executive leadership, Kellie shares how her upbringing in a family deeply tied to the energy industry shaped her path and how she’s now helping to define the future of compliance and security in the renewable sector.We explore Kellie’s journey from the California ISO during the energy crisis, to pioneering compliance in solar and renewables, to leading teams at scale in a rapidly growing business. Along the way, she reflects on leadership lessons, the power of saying “yes,” the challenges of sustaining growth, and why battery storage gives her hope for the future of the grid.Key Takeaways:Growing up with grid reliability at the dinner table and how it shaped Kellie’s perspective on energy.Lessons from the California energy crisis and why reliability is personal.Transitioning into renewables and creating compliance frameworks for first-of-their-kind projects.The power of saying “yes” and how it accelerates careers.Building resilient teams, spotting burnout, and leading with kindness.Why battery storage is the future of reliable renewable energy.The role of LinkedIn and personal brand in creating opportunities.If you’re interested in leadership, grid reliability, or the future of renewables, this conversation is packed with insight.
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Building at Scale: From Navy to Solar Leadership with Chris Hodrick
Welcome to Season 4, Episode 2 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.Today, Josh sits down with Chris Hodrick, CEO of Qcells USA Corp. Chris’s story is anything but typical. He spent over two decades as a U.S. Navy Civil Engineer Corps officer before leading $35 billion of construction projects at Amazon, taking the helm of a 9,000-strong renewables workforce at Blattner, and now leading Qcells’ mission to create a fully American-made solar supply chain.In this conversation, Chris shares:- Lessons on leadership from growing up in coal country and serving in the Navy- How he translated military systems thinking into success at Amazon- The pivotal career shift to renewable energy and solar construction- Why building operating systems and empowering people is central to scaling- His advice for veterans and professionals transitioning into clean energy- His vision for Qcells USA and what it takes to deliver certainty in a volatile energy landscapeIf you’re curious about leadership at scale, career transitions, or the future of America’s solar industry, this episode is full of insights.
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Building the World's Largest Flow Battery Company with Jon Parrella
Welcome to season 4, episode 1 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.Today, we’re joined by Jon Parrella, Founder and CEO of TerraFlow Energy. In just one year, TerraFlow has become the world’s largest flow battery company, tackling one of the biggest challenges of our time: powering the colossal energy needs of data centers with American-made, long-duration battery storage.In this episode, Jon shares his entrepreneurial journey — from early ventures in energy and SaaS to founding TerraFlow Energy. We explore how his mindset, risk-taking approach, and ability to pivot have fueled rapid growth, and why flow batteries could be the breakthrough technology for the energy transition.We also dive into:Lessons from building and exiting multiple companiesWhy long-duration storage is key to AI-driven data centersHow to scale a startup from idea to gigafactories in under 18 monthsLeadership, hiring, and the importance of aligning interestsJon’s vision for leaving a lasting legacy in clean energyIf you’re interested in entrepreneurship, energy innovation, or building sustainable solutions at scale, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
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Building Sustainable Advantage in ESG Consulting with James Stander
Welcome to season 3, episode 14 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.Today, we’re joined by James Stander, founder of Sustainable Advantage, an ESG and sustainability consultancy supporting over 700 clients including 40 private equity firms across multiple sectors.James’s journey is anything but conventional. From a tough start at school to early entrepreneurial ventures, a career in accounting and M&A, and eventually building a facilities management business, his path has been defined by resilience and reinvention. A pivotal moment, losing a major tender on sustainability grounds pushed James to establish Sustainable Advantage in 2010. Today, the firm has nearly 100 consultants in the UK and Paris, and operates globally.In this fast-paced conversation, we dive into:James’s entrepreneurial highs and lows, from losing everything at 19 to scaling businesses to multi-million turnoverWhy sustainability is more than a tick-box exercise, it’s a driver of business valueHow private equity firms and their portfolio companies are navigating ESG pressuresThe role of data, metrics, and technology in making sustainability actionableLeadership lessons on growth, people, and the future of ESG consultingIf you’re an ambitious leader interested in sustainability, entrepreneurship, or the intersection of profit and purpose, this episode is packed with insights.
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Aligning Capital with Purpose: Sustainable Investing with Harlin Singh
Welcome to Season 3, Episode 13 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.In this episode we’re joined by Harlin Singh, Managing Director and Global Head of Sustainable Investing at Citi Wealth. Harlin’s career path spans FX trading, microfinance, public policy, and now, guiding ultra-high-net-worth clients toward long-term, impact-driven wealth strategies.In this episode, we explore:How Harlin pivoted from foreign exchange to sustainable financeThe evolving role of private wealth in driving systems changeBalancing philanthropy, investment, and operating businesses to maximize impactTurning complex topics like biodiversity and natural capital into investable strategiesWhy collaboration, not empire-building, is key to real sustainabilityWhether you're managing wealth, designing strategy, or exploring ESG from any angle this episode offers practical and profound insights into the future of investing.
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Building a Sustainability Consultancy from Scratch with Nicola Stopps
Welcome to Season 3, Episode 12 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.Today, we’re joined by Nicola Stopps, founder of Simply Sustainable, a leading sustainability and ESG consultancy. Nicola’s story is one of entrepreneurial grit, having built her firm from the ground up with just £1,500 and six months to make it work.In this episode, we dive into:The challenges and rewards of building a business from scratchHow to embed sustainability into corporate strategyThe importance of company culture and how to build a team that thrivesWhat it takes to secure private equity investment while maintaining your valuesNicola shares valuable lessons from her journey—from her activist roots in Wales to becoming a trusted sustainability advisor to some of the world’s largest companies.If you’re an entrepreneur, business leader, or sustainability professional, this episode is packed with insights to help you build with purpose.
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From Construction to Corporate: Edward Vaughan Dixon’s Sustainability Journey
Welcome to season 3, episode 11 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.Today, we’re joined by Edward Vaughan Dixon, Head of Sustainability for Private Markets at Aviva Investors. Ed’s career journey is nothing short of remarkable - starting in construction and carpentry before progressing to a leadership role in sustainability at one of the world’s most prominent financial institutions. In this episode, we delve into how Ed has methodically shaped his career, focusing not just on technical expertise but also on developing essential leadership and soft skills, including completing an MBA. We also explore his vision for the future of sustainability in financial services and share practical advice for anyone navigating their own career in this field. If you’re looking for insights on sustainability, leadership, or career growth, this episode is packed with value!
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From Research to Impact: Smart Stitching for a Greener Tomorrow
Welcome to season 3 episode 10 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.Today, we’re excited to welcome Rawaa Ammar, a pioneer in sustainable textiles and fashion. Originally from Lebanon and now based in Brussels, Rawaa is working to revolutionise an industry rooted in traditional practices by integrating circular technology and innovative business models. With a background that spans academia, including PhD research, and a commercial career with Baxter, Rawaa has brought her expertise to Resortecs, where she’s driving meaningful change in the fashion sector. In this episode, we explore her transition from academia to the business world, the groundbreaking technology at Resortecs that’s reducing carbon emissions and boosting sustainability, and what it will take to transform the textile industry as a whole. If you’re curious about innovation in fashion or the future of sustainable textiles, you won’t want to miss this conversation!
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Nature's Voice: Partnerships and Progress with Anand Punja
Welcome to season 3 episode 9 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.We’re thrilled to welcome Anand Punja to today’s episode. As Anand Punja, Chief Engagement and Partnerships Officer at Forest Stewardship Council, Anand has dedicated over a decade to advancing sustainable forest management. His work spans the intricate intersections of markets, ecosystems, community engagement, social dynamics, and business finance. In our conversation, we explore Anand’s fascinating career journey, including his transition from the NGO sector to corporate consultancy and back to his roots in forestry and sustainability. We also discuss the bold decision he made to take a career break as a full-time parent, and how that shaped his path moving forward. If you’re interested in sustainability, career pivots, or balancing personal and professional priorities, this episode has something for you.
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Building Better: The Intersection of Growth and Sustainability - Alexis Haass
Welcome to season 3 episode 8 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.On today’s show, I’m excited to welcome Alexis Haass, a seasoned expert with over 20 years of experience at the intersection of business and climate action. From her impactful work at Adidas, where she led sustainability efforts, to her role as the first Chief Sustainability Officer at Arcadis, Alexis has consistently been at the forefront of driving meaningful change. Now, she focuses on advising private equity portfolio companies and advancing green transition solutions through the Women Climate Leaders Network at the European Investment Bank. In this episode, we explore Alexis’ career journey, what inspired her passion for sustainability, and her vision for the future of sustainable business. We discuss the role of innovation in shaping consumer demand and, most importantly, why linking sustainability with growth and strategy is key to driving performance. If these topics resonate with you, stay tuned!
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Sustainability at Scale: Driving Impact through Partnerships with Andrew Griffiths
Welcome to season 3 episode 7 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.Today, we’re delighted to welcome Andrew Griffiths, Director of Policy & Corporate Development at PlanetMark, a leading sustainability certification body. Andrew has had a fascinating career journey, building a wealth of experience that ultimately led him to his role at PlanetMark.In this episode, we discuss how Andrew has strategically developed his personal brand to enhance his career, the collaborations and partnerships he’s fostered, and his vision for the future of the sustainability profession. Along the way, he shares valuable tips, insights, and a few entertaining stories that are sure to inspire.There’s a lot to take away from this conversation, so dive right in!
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From the Arctic to growing a sustainability brand with Elena Doms
We’re thrilled to be joined today by Elena Doms, CEO of Earth Plus. For those who aren’t LinkedIn regulars, Elena created the popular ‘What’s New in Sustainability in One Minute’ series, which became a sensation in the sustainability world. Since then, she’s co-founded Earth Plus, an organisation focused on transforming soil health, regenerative agriculture, and circular economy technology.In our conversation, we explore Elena's career journey from corporate roles at Mastercard to becoming a sustainability entrepreneur, as well as the unique perspective she gained from growing up in the Arctic and its influence on her connection to nature and sustainability.It’s a fascinating chat, and definitely not one to miss!Connecting the Dots by Dr Christian Busch, Link here to buy it from a B Corp Used Book Shop
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Driving Capital for a Greener Tomorrow with James Alexander
Welcome to season 3 episode 5 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.This week, we’re excited to be joined by James Alexander, Chief Executive Officer at UK Sustainable Investment and Finance Association (UKSIF). James has had an impressive career, leading efforts to channel capital into sustainable finance and shaping policies with politicians to strengthen regulation and enforcement. He’s also worked closely with city governments to implement transformative sustainability initiatives and address climate change.In this episode, we explore his journey from student politics to becoming a leader in sustainable finance, as well as his vision for the future of the industry. If you’re interested in how finance can drive sustainability and want to hear James' story, this episode is for you.
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Circular Innovation: Transforming Business for Good with Elin Bergman
Welcome to season 3 episode 4 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.Today, we’re excited to be joined by the "Circular Economy Queen of Sweden," Elin Bergman, Circular Impact Officer (Vice Chair) of Cradlenet and Co-founder & Managing Partner of Nordic Circular Hotspot. Elin is a well-known advocate for the circular economy, recognised as a LinkedIn Top Green Voice, with a growing audience who follow her insights and thought leadership.In this episode, we explore the core principles of the circular economy and why it’s crucial for the future. We also delve into Elin’s career, which has been anything but linear, and hear about the personal adventures she’s experienced along the way.If you’re keen to learn from someone who’s not only leading the conversation on circular economy but also has an inspiring life story, this episode is for you!You can purchase a copy of Cradle to Cradle here - https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/405817/cradle-to-cradle-by-michael-braungart-and-william-mcdonough/9780099535478
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Turning Waste into Opportunity with Adam Read MBE
Welcome to season 3 episode 3 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.This week, we’re excited to be joined by Adam Read, MBE, Chief Sustainability & External Affairs Officer at Suez UK, and a true leader in the waste management and innovation space. With over 20 years of experience across waste management, circular economy, government policy, and corporate strategy, Adam has witnessed the industry’s transformation firsthand. In this episode, we dive into his journey, from his childhood ambition to his role today, shaping the future of sustainability from both corporate and government perspectives.We discuss how to craft compelling stories to convey sustainability messages, explore innovative solutions in waste management, and touch on the green skills essential for the future.If you're curious about any of these topics, this episode is not one to miss.
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Sustainable Startup: From Tech to Taste with Julia Kessler
Welcome to season 3 episode 2 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.This week, we are delighted to be joined by Julia Kessler, CEO and co-founder of Nix & Kix, the healthy, alcohol-free drinks brand known for its signature zing - a spicy shot of cayenne pepper!In this episode, we explore Julia's journey from a career in corporate IT and technology to creating Nix & Kix and dive into how sustainability is woven into every aspect of the brand, from their B Corp certification to their engagement with supply chains and retailers. Julia also shares valuable lessons from her transition from the corporate world to entrepreneurship, and how she developed her own successful business.Don’t miss an episode with a zing!
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From the BBC, to leading IEMA with Sarah Mukherjee MBE
Welcome to season 3, episode 1 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.On today's episode, we're thrilled to welcome Sarah Mukherjee MBE, CEO of IEMA, for an insightful conversation. Sarah's journey is remarkable, from her determined path to Oxford University to a corporate career in journalism and broadcasting with the BBC, followed by leadership roles at Water UK and CropLife UK, before becoming the Chief Executive Officer of IEMA.In this episode, we explore Sarah's background, her career journey, and the pivotal role IEMA plays in the sustainability ecosystem. We also delve into her perspectives on leadership, policy, innovation, and sustainable transformation. Sarah shares how we can inspire and support the next wave of sustainability leaders, with a strong focus on diversity and inclusion.Stay tuned for an engaging discussion!
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Driving sustainable change through journalism with Heather Clancy
Welcome to season 2, episode 12 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.This week, we’re excited to be speaking to Heather Clancy, Editor At Large at GreenBiz Group.Heather shares her insights on writing for both business and non-business audiences, the importance of embedding sustainability into the younger generation, and the global policy she would implement.Want to know how Heather wants to leave the world better than she found it? Don’t miss this episode!
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Future Mobility with Isabel McAllister
Welcome to episode 11 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.On today's show, I'm delighted to be joined by Isabel McAllister, Chief Sustainability and Compliance Officer at First Bus. Isabel has dedicated her entire career to sustainability, starting with a degree in Environmental Science and European Environmental Regulation.Her career took shape at Mace Group, where she spent 10 years growing their sustainability function into a market leader in the built environment. Recently, she transitioned to the transport sector, joining First Bus.We discuss Isabel's career, her transition from the built environment to transport, and effective sustainability practices. Enjoy!
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How Green is your Money? with Dan Sherrard-Smith
Welcome to episode 10 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.We’re delighted to be joined by Dan Sherrard-Smith, founder of MotherTree, a business that helps organisations and individuals make greener choices by offering support, guidance, and consultation on transitioning banking, pensions, and energy to more sustainable options.As a serial entrepreneur, he co-founded Look After My Bills, securing the highest single investment in Dragons’ Den history. Despite some failures early in his career, his experiences in recruitment and sales have shaped him into the leader he is today.If you're looking to make better financial choices, interested in the entrepreneurial journey of leading with purpose, or curious about innovations in sustainable finance, this episode is for you!
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ESG Technology: Building a Sustainable Tomorrow with Julia Staunig
Welcome to season 2, episode 9 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.We’re delighted to be joined by Julia Staunig, Chief Strategy Officer & MD International at Position Green, a tech and advisory sustainability consultancy. Julia has been with Position Green for several years, bringing a wealth of experience from her diverse career journey. In this episode, Julia shares her insights on value-based leadership and how aligning these values with your stakeholders and innovative business ideas can create immense value, profitability, and mutual success. We also discuss IoT and the future of sustainability, what attracted Julia to Position Green, and of course, how she’d like to leave it better than we found it. If you're interested in how to lead with purpose, the impact of strong personal and professional values, and achieving a win-win in business, this episode is for you.
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Pathway to a Portfolio Sustainability Career with Christèle Delbé
Welcome to season 2, episode 8 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.We’re joined by Christèle Delbé, Non Executive Director at Southern Water and Portfolio Sustainability Leader. After 14 years in the telecoms industry, where she led sustainability initiatives at Orange and Vodafone, Christèle has transitioned to a diverse portfolio career. She now supports various organisations and holds a non-executive position at Southern Water.In this episode, Christèle shares her insights on engaging key stakeholders in sustainability, securing a NED position, and using sustainability as a strategic tool to elevate business.Whether you're curious about transitioning from a corporate role to a portfolio career, seeking insights on securing your first non-executive appointment, or passionate about sustainability and driving value creation within businesses, this episode is a must-listen.
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School Teacher to CSO with George Roffey
Welcome to season 2, episode 7 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.This week, we’re exploring the intriguing journey of George Roffey, Chief Sustainability Officer at Centrus. Having started as a teacher, we discuss how he has transferred these skills into his role as CSO, the importance of trust and collaboration, and the intersection of sustainability and your people.Listen to find out why the legacy he wants to leave is personal.
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Clarity, Empowerment and Trust with Jim Massey
Welcome to season 2 episode 6 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.This week Jim Massey, Chief Sustainability Officer joins us to discuss the role of clarity and empowerment, staying true to your values, how transformation starts within yourself and, of course, how he wants to leave it better than he found it.This is not an episode you’ll want to miss!
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Finding Purpose in Corporate Sustainability with Christine Uri
Welcome to season 2, episode 5 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.Christine Uri, Founder of ESG for In-house Counsel, shares her tips for entering the sustainability field, navigating sustainability in a corporate environment and her thoughts on finding meaning in business.Listen to this captivating episode and find out how Christine wants to leave it better than we found it. Christine Uri - LinkedIn ESG for In-House CounselGS2 PartnershipJosh Huggins - LinkedIn
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Leading Within: Cultivating Sustainability Excellence with Louise Scott
Welcome to season 2 episode 4 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.In this episode, we’re joined by Louise Scott, Chief Operating Officer, Sustainability at PwC. We discuss the importance of internal mobility and flexibility, the role of authenticity in leadership and how PwC have turned an unused fire station into a social enterprise hub, and how Lousie intends on leaving it better than we found it. Don’t miss this insightful episode!
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Navigating a Purpose Driven Career with Magali Anderson
Welcome to season 2, episode 3 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.This week, we are joined by Magali Anderson, Former Chief Sustainability and Innovation Officer and executive Committee member at Holcim. Magali shares her advice for aspiring sustainability leaders, how to make sustainability sexy, what legacy she would like to leave and, of course, how she wants to leave it better than we found it. Don’t miss this inspiring episode!
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Climate Matters: Ensuring a Positive Future with David Carlin
Welcome to episode 2 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.Joining us this week is David Carlin, Founder of Cambium Global Solutions (Head of Climate Risk and TCFD at UNEP-FI). He shares his thoughts on overcoming obstacles to climate change action, developing the skills to lead a purposeful career, building a new approach for measuring and managing climate risks, and of course, how he will leave it better than we found it. Stay tuned for these insights and plenty more.
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Why Nature Matters with Tony Goldner
Welcome to series 2 episode 1 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.We’re delighted to kick off series 2 with Tony Goldner, Executive Director at Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD).Tony shares his wealth of knowledge on scaling finance for nature-based investments, being agile and flexible, and enlightens us with how his career path shaped him into the executive leader he is today. We also find out how Tony would like to show the world he’s left it better than we found it. If you’re a business considering nature-related risks within your organisation, this is not an episode you’d want to miss!
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Episode 12 - Wilma Kelly
Welcome to episode 12 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.Joining us for this episode is Wilma Kelly, Director of Safety, Sustainability and Engineering at Certas Energy. In this episode, we find out Wilma’s thoughts on stepping up into an executive position, how to be a credible leader, how we can be more pragmatic when it comes to leadership in health and safety and, of course, how Wilma plans to leave the planet better than she found it.Stay tuned for these insights and plenty more.
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Episode 11 - Sean MacHale
Welcome to episode 11 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.In this week's episode Josh is joined by Sean MacHale, Head of FSO Climate Change & Sustainability Services at EY.We discuss Sean's upbringing in rural Ireland, how he progressed his career in the financial services industry, future sustainability focus areas, the evolution of sustainable finance and how he will leave it better than he found it.Sean MacHale - LinkedInGS2 PartnershipJosh Huggins - LinkedIn
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Episode 10 - Chris Hines
Welcome to episode 10 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.Joining us this week is Chris Hines, the Owner of A grain of sand. Chris was also one of the founders of Surfers Against Sewage, an organisation that many listeners will have heard of.In this episode, we discuss what communication was like in the 1990s, the power of collaboration, intelligence activism, how Chris affected share prices to deliver environmental change, and of course, how Chris will leave it better than he found it.Chris Hines - LinkedIn GS2 PartnershipJosh Huggins - LinkedIn
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Episode 9 - Shelley Copsey
Welcome to episode 9 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.In this episode, we’re joined by Shelley Copsey, CEO at FYLD. Join us as we find out what Shelley learnt from the early days of AI, what the future looks like for FYLD, how they are reimagining safety, how they use OKRs to drive team performance and, of course, how Shelley plans to leave the planet better than she found it.Tune in for a fascinating episode.
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Episode 8 - Cornelia Andersson
Welcome to episode 8 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.Joining us for the first episode of 2024 is Cornelia Andersson, Head of Sustainable Finance & Investment, (Data & Analytics) at London Stock Exchange Group. In this episode, we find out why Cornelia sees change as an opportunity, how she navigated the transition to a technical role, her advice for future leaders and of course, how she’ll leave it better than she found it.Enjoy an episode packed full of insights.
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Episode 7 - Dan Wells
Welcome to episode 7 of Better Than We Found It - the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.Joining us this week is Dan Wells, Partner at The Foresight Group. In this episode, we dive into the three layers of sustainability, the innovative areas The Foresight Group is going to be expanding into, the exciting areas of sustainability Dan is seeing outside of energy, and of course, how Dan is going to leave the planet better than he found it.Enjoy another fascinating episode.
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Episode 6 - Linda Freiner
Welcome to episode six of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.Joining us this week is Linda Freiner, Group Head of Sustainability at Zurich Insurance Group. In this episode, we delve into how embracing sustainability is everyone’s responsibility, how businesses can equip employees to have sustainability conversations and of course, how Linda is going to leave the planet better than she found it.Enjoy another episode packed with insights.
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Episode 5 - Darren Anstee
Welcome to the fifth episode of Better Than We Found It the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.Joining us this week is Darren Anstee, Global Head of Occupational Safety & Health at TK Elevator.In this episode, we discuss the importance of having a ‘why’, Darren's tips for people stepping into a larger remit, why Darren chooses to hire on behaviours and values over where someone comes from and lots more.Enjoy another episode of Better Than We Found It.
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Episode 4 - Ruth Handcock
Welcome to the fourth episode of Better Than We Found It the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.Joining us this week is Ruth Handcock, CEO at Octopus Money.In this episode we find out exactly who is Octopus Money, what it takes to launch a bank, driving consumer trust through collaboration and of course how Ruth would like to leave the planet better than we found it.
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Episode 3 - Farah Cohen
Welcome to the third installment of 'Better Than We Found It' the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices. Join us for an insightful conversation with Farah Cohen Chief Operations Officer at Ocean Bottle. In this episode, we uncover Farah's remarkable journey so far. We find out how Ocean Bottle works, how the business has opened up new business streams and of course how Farah plans to leave the planet better than we found it.
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Episode 2- Lena Patel
Welcome to the second installment of 'Better Than We Found It' the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices. Join us for an insightful conversation with Lena Patel, Deputy CEO of the Responsible Business Initiative for Justice (RBIJ). In this episode, we uncover Lena's remarkable career journey. Gain insight into her profound passion and determination that fueled her to leave the world better than she found it.
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Episode 1- Sarah Ratcliffe
Welcome to the first episode of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices. Join us as we delve into the journey of Sarah Ratcliffe, CEO of Better Building Partnerships, a non-profit collaboration of leading property owners in the UK.In this episode, we explore Sarah's career trajectory, unveiling the defining moments that shaped her into the leader she is today. Discover the passion and drive behind her mission to leave the world better than she found it.
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
At GS2, we believe in leaving the world better than we found it. Our purpose is to connect individuals who share this belief and strive to make a positive impact. We are excited to introduce our new podcast, Better Than We Found It, where we engage with purpose-focused executive leaders and aspiring future leaders to explore the concepts of sustainability and improving the world for future generations.
HOSTED BY
GS2 Partnership
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