More Elephant

In this episode of the More Elephant podcast, we sit down with Don Graves, former U.S. Deputy Secretary of Commerce and founder of Highland Creek Advisors, to talk about leadership, economic policy, and what it takes to create real impact at scale.Don’s path into public service was shaped by a deep-rooted commitment to community, influenced by generations of educators and mentors who challenged him to think critically and stay open to new perspectives. From early experiences in law school and civil rights work to advising two U.S. presidents, his career reflects a consistent focus on expanding opportunity and removing barriers.We explore his role in helping stabilize Detroit during one of its most challenging periods, where listening to communities became the foundation for meaningful change. Don shares how real impact happens when policy aligns with the lived experiences of the people it’s meant to support, and why empowering teams at every level of government is key to execution.The conversation also dives into the realities of innovation, including the growing influence of AI and its potential to reshape the workforce. Don offers a thoughtful perspective on how technological progress can create opportunity while also increasing inequality in the short term, and what leaders need to consider moving forward.From workforce investment to global partnerships, Don highlights the importance of building an economy that works for more people. At its core, this episode is about trust, collaboration, and the responsibility leaders carry to create systems that support long-term growth and shared success for all.Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Effective policy and leadership begin by understanding the needs of communities. Don emphasizes that the most successful initiatives are shaped by those directly affected, not just by top-down decision-making.Big ideas only work when the right people are empowered to carry them out.Aligning teams, supporting decision-makers, and focusing on implementation are what turn plans into results.Advances like AI can drive economic growth, but they can also widen gaps before new opportunities emerge. From government to business to global partnerships, trust shapes outcomes. Without it, collaboration breaks down and progress becomes harder to sustain.and more…

In this episode of More Elephant, we sit down with Andrew Watterson, founder of Blue CSR Strategies, an ESG consulting firm dedicated to helping businesses, governments, and nonprofits accelerate their impact on their environmental and sustainability strategies.Andrew’s journey began with early inspiration from his grandmother and sixth-grade science teacher, both passionate about environmental stewardship and social justice. From there, he led sustainability efforts at KeyBank and GOJO Industries, navigating the unique challenges of driving change within large organizations.We explore the real-world impact of ESG in business, from the importance of shifting mindsets to the critical role of producer responsibility in tackling plastic waste. Andrew shares insights on how companies can reduce, reuse, and recycle with a closed-loop approach, and how sustainability can drive innovation, attract talent, and strengthen brands.Despite the current political climate, Andrew remains hopeful, pointing to continued investment in renewable energy, carbon reduction, and innovative solutions by major companies. He reminds us that sustainability is not just about the planet—it’s about our health, our communities, and our future.We dive deep into the power of business leadership to drive progress, the strategic importance of learning networks and collaboration, and the promise of making sustainability a core part of every organization’s mission.Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Sustainability is about more than just the environment—it’s also about social impact and strong governance, all of which can drive business value.​The most successful ESG programs see sustainability as a strategic advantage, unlocking innovation and differentiation.​Producer responsibility is crucial for tackling plastic waste; businesses must focus on reducing, reusing, and recycling in a closed-loop system.​Connecting sustainability to health and basic needs helps make these issues more relatable and urgent.and more…

Heather Tuason didn't set out to be an entrepreneur—she hustled through a tough childhood in Southern Virginia, working full-time at Domino's Pizza from age 15 to support her family after her parents' divorce, all while raising her younger sister and powering through college.That grit forged her "doer" mantra, propelling her from bank teller to Capital One exec, where she spotted a glaring gap: 50% of small businesses fail by year five, mostly due to cash flow woes with the vast majority lacking any financial plan. Frustrated by corporate red tape blocking her fintech fixes, she launched Arena in 2019—a 2025 Inc 5000 honoree (#409)—pivoting boldly from a failed cashflow platform (Arena Pay) to matchmaking elite fractional CFOs for growing companies needing bookkeeping, payroll, forecasting, and strategic firepower without full-time costs.This episode dives into Heather's raw resilience against VC bias (like demands for a "male CTO"), her remote team's core values of trust, confidence, and competence, and how rigorous case studies vet only 2.5% of CFO talent to fit real-world needs like construction or tech firms. She shares triumphs, like saving a school IT client through PPP forgiveness, pivots to Zoom-era growth, and now exit prep.Forward-thinking, we discuss AI's game-changer: automating tactical reports (forecast vs. actuals, KPIs) to free CFOs for high-impact strategy on expansions and scaling. Drawing from Teddy Roosevelt's "Man in the Arena," she aims to slash that 50% failure rate, empowering operators to thrive beyond year five.A must-listen for the More Elephant podcast—pure tenacity meets actionable finance wisdom.Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Arena matches fractional CFOs via human "matchmaking" plus case studies, bridging the gap for 6M U.S. employer businesses against just 275K available CFOs.82% of failed businesses blame cash flow; Arena uncovers hidden levers like client collections and capital access to boost longevity past year five.Ditch solo hustling—fractional experts deliver 24/7 finance focus, from payroll to performance tracking, unlocking leverage for hires and campaigns.AI revolutionizes finance by automating monthly reviews and KPIs, letting CFOs strategize expansions over grunt work.Founder resilience shines: Pivot boldly (like killing your own tech), embrace "doer" execution, and own your arena despite biases.No VC? No problem—Arena's bootstrapped path proves incremental growth beats dilution, prioritizing family and freedom.and more…

In this conversation with Andy Ellwood, founder of Stretch, we explore what happens when childhood frugality, serial entrepreneurship, and AI-powered innovation collide around one persistent problem: how to know you are paying the best price for groceries.Stretch is building the first true shopping intelligence platform, empowering everyday families to compare full basket prices across nearby stores before they shop—saving families over $1,000 a year amid relentless inflation in early results.Andy takes us from a Texas homeschool experience where grocery runs taught math and ingenuity, through startups acquired by Facebook, Google, and private equity, to the tragedy of losing a key investor days before funding and COVID shuttering his prior venture Basket.com.Now a new Dad, he reveals how AI supercharges data from 1 million products, personalizes lists for gluten-free needs, and envisions agentic commerce where AI agents negotiate deals for your family while balancing growth with the demands of nurturing a newborn.We unpack shocking shopper surveys—17% skipping meals, middle-class families adapting hardest—and Andy's "rule of three": automate any task done three times weekly with AI.This is a story of curiosity asking "what else is possible?", resilience through loss, and tech flipping grocers' info advantage to families. If you battle weekly grocery math, care about AI's practical edge in business and life, or wonder how founders rebound stronger, this is a must-listen on the More Elephant podcast.Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Stretch uses AI to deliver real-time basket pricing across thousands of stores, turning mental price comparisons into actionable savings without store-hopping.Grocery inflation exposes inequities: low-income families already maxed out trade-offs, while 24% of Americans used buy-now-pay-later for food last year.From crowdsourcing prices at Basket.com to AI querying millions of sku’s, Andy's 12-year obsession solves what Expedia did for travel—now for the unchanged grocery world.Fatherhood and coaching honed efficiency; AI acts as "smarter interns" for tasks like webpage builds or list tweaks, accelerating Stretch's nationwide rollout.Agentic AI promises "agentic commerce": your digital rep shops your profile, unlocking demand-based deals from chains competing for baskets.and more…

In this conversation with Dr. Ella Fung and Dr. Nancy Schoenbrunner, co-founders of Rosalind Dx, we explore what happens when scientific rigor, lived experience, and a bold entrepreneurial leap collide around one simple but powerful idea: access.Rosalind Dx is reimagining prenatal testing by moving it from complex, centralized genome sequencing to a faster, more affordable PCR-based approach. The result? A potential step-change in how non-invasive prenatal testing is delivered, who can access it, and how quickly families receive answers.Ella takes us from Hong Kong to Cambridge to Oxford and into the deeply personal moment of navigating her own pregnancies, where she experienced firsthand how insurance coverage can determine access to critical information. Nancy shares the origin story that begins not in a boardroom, but with a dream, a whiteboard sketch, and decades of experience working alongside the inventors of PCR at Roche.We talk about the leap from industry to startup life, the realities of fundraising as female founders, and why decentralizing advanced diagnostics could be one of the most important shifts in global women’s health.This is a conversation about science, yes. It is also about equity, courage, and the willingness to build something new when the system doesn’t serve everyone equally. If you are interested in and care about the future of healthcare, about designing for access instead of exclusivity, and what it really takes to move from breakthrough idea to commercial reality, this is a must listen.Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Rosalind Dx is leveraging PCR technology to replace expensive, centralized genome sequencing with a faster, lower-cost, and more scalable approach to non-invasive prenatal testing.Access to prenatal diagnostics is not just a medical issue. It is an equity issue. Insurance coverage and geography currently determine who receives the most accurate information during pregnancy.Decentralizing testing from a handful of global sequencing hubs to regional labs can dramatically reduce cost, turnaround time, and systemic inefficiency.Female-led innovation in women’s health is gaining momentum, particularly in ecosystems that intentionally address historic funding bias.and more…

In this second part of the conversation with Anita Ghosh, founder and CEO of Bridjr, we go deeper into what is really missing from most transformation efforts. We talk about why organizations keep failing at digital transformation, why technology alone is not enough, and why human adoption is the real driver of return on investment.Anita brings a powerful, practical framework that connects strategy, systems, and soul to the work. We discuss how organizations are building compound debt when they ignore the human experience and Anita offers insights from her own journey that provide leaders with a blueprint for what they need to do differently.We explore how to communicate during change and why the future of business depends on designing for human adoption to deliver compound value. If you are leading change in your organization, this episode is a must listen. It is one of those conversations that forces you to rethink what success really looks like.Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Anita shares the need to ensure human adoption is at the heart of transformation efforts and very often, most strategy frameworks are missing the customer voice.Failure to build human-centered systems creates debt across technical systems, operations, culture, brand, and experience. This debt grows over time and reduces the value of every investment.Approaches anchored in strategy, systems and soul will drive business value and help solve for the messy middle of change management.and more…

In this episode of More Elephant, I sit down with Anita Ghosh, Founder and CEO of Bridjr, for a deeply human conversation about leadership, listening, and what it really takes to build organizations that work for people, not just systems.Anita’s work sits at the intersection of empathy, technology, and business transformation. However, this conversation goes further than frameworks and models - so much further that we are holding space over two episodes for the conversation.We talk about the quiet moments that shape careers, the cost of external validation, and what happens when leaders stop trusting themselves. Deeply personal, Anita shares her path from large organizations to founding Bridjr including the moments that forced her to slow down, listen, and choose bravery without a safety net.We also unpack why so many organizations struggle with change, how internal transformation thinking and impact often lags behind external ambition, and why human adoption is the real driver of ROI in technology. At its core, this episode is about remembering that progress starts with listening and that being human is not a liability in business. It is the advantage.Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Anita explains why organizations often struggle when the inside doesn’t change as quickly as the outside, emphasizing that real business value comes from human adoption and continued use, not just implementation.We discuss how systems that reward performance over alignment can quietly erode a leader’s inner compass.Anita shares how listening opened up new choices for her life and expanded how she saw herself and her purpose.We talk through how leaders grow when they give themselves permission to step off the expected route and create their own story.and more…

In this episode of the podcast, we kick off 2026 with Brooke Dukes — author, executive coach, and founder of BMD Consulting and Success by Design Club. Her book, ‘Burn On, Not Out’, is her personal narrative that led to the creation of her business focused on empowering high-achieving leaders to conquer burnout through human design and purpose alignment.The realization that Brooke, as a corporate high-flyer, was risking it all, including flying at eight months pregnant for the sake of large bonus led to a More Elephant epiphany and has evolved into a mission blending behavioral science, neuroscience, and ancient wisdom to foster fulfillment over frenzy.​Success by Design Club is more than a community; it's a lifeline for leaders who feel they are on the hamster wheel. The ‘Club’ offers monthly coaching, resources, and tools such as the GRACe communication framework, to intersect personal purpose with professional wins.In the episode, Brooke recounts her pivot from Fortune 100 burnout to network marketing to insurance sales to consulting for giants like Quicken Loans to now channeling myriad lessons into small business leaders craving conscious culture.​We explore human design's blueprint for deconditioning trauma-driven hustle, balancing masculine-feminine energies, and how Brooke’s Culture Compass assessments guide company transformation. Brooke's path highlights resilience, intuition trust, and slowing down to ignite genius.​ She is continuing to Burn On by helping others identify the signs and prevent Burn Out.Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Brooke reveals her "More Elephant moment" — preterm labor on a corporate jet exposing value misalignments from childhood trauma, fueling her exit to entrepreneurship.​Brooke demystifies human design as a DNA blueprint from neutrinos and ancients, revealing purpose, genius, and deconditioning for flow over grind.​Brooke details Success by Design Club for coaching, GRACe rapport-building, and Culture Compass to craft inner-outer success.​and more…

In this episode of More Elephant, we sit down with Jorge Perez — the Venezuelan-American designer and entrepreneur behind Betsy Moss, a women’s ready-to-wear brand celebrated for its effortlessly sexy yet chic resort wear. What began as a childhood game of dressing up with his sister has evolved into a thriving fashion house that blends Miami’s vibrant energy with the elegance of Venezuelan culture.Betsy Moss is more than just a clothing line; it’s a lifestyle brand that empowers women to feel glamorous and beautiful, whether they’re relaxing or entertaining. Jorge shares the story of his hands-on apprenticeship in the fashion industry, the challenges of scaling a brand in a competitive market, and the pivotal moments that shaped Betsy Moss’s journey.We dive deep into the entrepreneurial spirit that drives Jorge, the importance of authenticity in design, and the vision for expanding Betsy Moss into new markets and product lines. We explore the impact of global supply chain issues, the evolution of production strategies, and the role of social media in amplifying the brand’s reach.From navigating the complexities of international manufacturing to embracing the power of organic content, Jorge’s journey is a testament to passion, resilience, and flair.Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Jorge discusses how his Venezuelan heritage and upbringing in Miami influenced the aesthetic of his collections, blending resort wear, lifestyle, and vacation vibes.Jorge shares his path from marketing intern to hands-on apprenticeship in the fashion industry, emphasizing passion and drive as the keys to his success.The conversation covers the challenges of launching and scaling a fashion brand, including navigating production, quality control, and distribution networks.…and more

In this episode of More Elephant, we sit down with Riley Gibson and Nader Akhnoukh, the founders of Wildly Virgin — a small-batch Portuguese olive oil producer and recent Gold Medal Winner at the prestigious New York International Olive Oil Competition [NYIOOC] world olive oil competition.Beloved by customers, top chefs, and olive oil experts, Wildly Virgin was born from burnout, curiosity, and a desire to do work that feels real again. What started as two tech founders craving something tangible led them deep into Portugal’s ancient groves and into relationships with families who still make olive oil the traditional way.We talk about how they each fell down the olive oil rabbit hole and uncovered one of the world’s best-kept secrets: Portugal produces extraordinary olive oil that most Americans have never tasted. Riley and Nader walk our audience through the reality behind the industry, what it takes to import something handmade into the U.S., and the challenge of honoring the farmers, the craft, and the land while building a brand from scratch.At its core, their journey is about starting small, following curiosity, and choosing work that brings joy. Nader and Riley source directly from Portugal’s top small-batch producers—farmers they know personally, who obsess over soil health, harvest timing, and varietal character. These makers don’t just produce olive oil—they live it. No middlemen. No mass production. Just authentic relationships and exceptional oils.If you’ve ever wondered what a real, purpose-led pivot looks like — one rooted in craft, connection, and a little bit of magic — this episode is exactly that.Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Discover how Wildly Virgin prioritizes quality, transparency, and storytelling—offering olive oil that’s not only delicious but also rich in health benefits, thanks to early harvests and careful production.Why most olive oil isn’t what you think it is — and how Portugal protects the real thingThe founders explain their leap from building software to importing and bottling olive oil, highlighting the challenges and joys of sourcing directly from small Portuguese farmers with centuries-old traditions.…and more

In this episode of More Elephant, we sit down with Narda Malakzad and Andrea Laderman — the founders of Goldi, a food-tech platform revolutionizing how hotels and restaurants personalize menus for every guest without making a single change in the kitchen.What began as two Moms struggling to navigate dinner with dietary needs has grown into an innovative company using data to transform how the world eats.Goldi empowers diners with menus tailored precisely to their dietary requirements, unlocking dishes that kitchens already know how to make while reducing food waste and enhancing operational clarity and efficiency for hospitality businesses. We navigate the compelling story of a bold idea that didn’t quite scale, the strategic pivot that unlocked Goldi’s potential, and the triumphs and hard truths of fundraising as female founders.We dive deep into the power of data to transform food service, the entrepreneurial mindset shift from “Why me?” to “Why not me?”, and the promise of making dining joyful, safe, and personalized for all. Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Narda and Andrea created Goldi because feeding their own families with dietary needs was nearly impossible. The mission hasn’t changed: bring clarity, dignity, and joy back to eating — anywhere.They learned the hard way that the last mile in delivery was a dead end. Hotels, however, had everything they needed: ingredients, staff, and a captive guest base. Goldi simply ties it all together.They open up about the challenges women founders face in funding within the food tech space and how overcoming obstacles has made their vision stronger.…and more.

In this episode, we have the pleasure of welcoming Brian Polen, the founder and CEO of Brooklyn Kura, an innovative American craft sake company based in Brooklyn, New York. Brian shares his journey from a successful career at American Express to embracing entrepreneurship and building a business rooted in more than a thousand years of Japanese brewing tradition. Our conversation explores how Brooklyn Kura aims to demystify sake and make it accessible and relevant to a wide audience beyond traditional contexts.Brian takes us through the powerful inspiration sparked by a trip to Japan, where he and his co-founder first encountered the craftsmanship behind sake. We discuss the early stages of their venture, from home brewing experiments to navigating the complex regulatory and manufacturing environment of New York City. The importance of creating a taproom experience emerges as a key factor for engaging customers directly and educating them about sake culture.We also delve into the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and how Brooklyn Kura adapted through thoughtful financial management and a pivot to direct-to-consumer sales and subscription services. A highlight of our conversation is the long-term partnership with Hakkaisan, one of Japan’s most respected breweries, which has enabled Brooklyn Kura to scale production and expand into global markets.This episode offers valuable insights into entrepreneurial resilience, the power of community, and the delicate balance between honoring tradition while innovating in a modern marketplace. Whether you’re deeply involved in food and beverage or simply curious about entrepreneurial journeys, Brian’s story delivers compelling lessons and authentic inspiration.Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Brian shares how Brooklyn Kura is creating a new tradition of American craft sake, building on a thousand years of Japanese brewing and making it accessible in the U.S.Brian emphasizes the importance of planning and a calculated approach to risk management in building and scaling a businessBrian shares how Brooklyn Kura survived the pandemic’s disruption by quickly pivoting—relying on cash reserves, launching direct-to-consumer sales, introducing a subscription service, and deepening their community connections…and more.

In this episode, we sit down with Rodrigo Vargas, founder of American Vinegar Works. Rodrigo’s story goes beyond vinegar as just an acid — it’s about rediscovering and revitalizing a craft deeply rooted in history and tradition. He shares how his passion for craft fermentation, dating back to the 1800s, inspired him to create a company that elevates vinegar as an essential and sophisticated ingredient.We explore Rodrigo’s transition from his corporate career to entrepreneurship, the hands-on challenges of starting at farmers markets, and the uphill battle of scaling a craft food business amid a pandemic. Rodrigo’s journey is a testament to patience, persistence, and the power of honoring craftsmanship in today’s fast-paced food scene.This conversation offers insights into building a business grounded in authenticity and quality, showing that real craft and commitment can carve a unique path in a crowded market. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or a food enthusiast, Rodrigo’s story delivers valuable lessons on resilience, innovation, and the simple joy found in great ingredients.Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Craftsmanship and patience are critical to creating quality food products.Entrepreneurship demands balancing passion with real-world business challenges.Authenticity and community-building support sustainable business growth.Quality and purpose differentiate a brand in competitive markets.…and more.

In this episode, we sit down with Noel Kinder, former Chief Sustainability Officer at Nike, to explore what it really means to lead change inside a global brand.Noel’s path from operations into sustainability gave him a front-row seat to and, later in his career, explicit accountability for how decisions in one part of the business ripple across supply chains, factories, and communities worldwide.He explains how sustainability becomes meaningful when it’s integrated into everyday business decisions — not treated as a side project. By aligning goals with innovation, efficiency, and profitability, companies can create real impact while also strengthening the business itself.Noel also shares lessons on leadership—that change requires learning and practicing patience to focusing on what can truly be influenced as a way to deliver systemic solutions. He emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships and trust, which prove critical not only in moments of crisis but also in sustaining progress over time.This conversation highlights how values come to life inside an organization. It’s a candid look at the balance between vision and pragmatism, and a reminder that employees’ energy and passion are among the most powerful drivers of change.Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:True sustainability sparks both innovation and profitability.Patience is key when driving change — not everything will be within your control.The most effective strategies come from focusing on fewer, high-impact priorities.In times of crisis, relationships and trust are what matter most and the passion and energy of the team are often the most powerful forces for progress.…and more.

In this episode of The More Elephant Podcast, I sit down with Jamal Sims. Jamal’s story begins in Southern California, where he taught himself to dance by recording MTV videos on old-school VHS tapes and studying Soul Train on Saturday mornings.What started as a kid emulating moves in his living room turned into a remarkable career that includes performing with Michael Jackson, choreographing for Usher and Madonna, going on tour with Miley Cyrus, shaping films like Aladdin and Encanto, and building a creative family with RuPaul.We dig into how manifestation has guided his path. From childhood dreams to Emmy nominations, Jamal talks about what it meant to have a father who supported him without hesitation, even when he was dancing with RuPaul in Las Vegas at a time when that kind of acceptance was far from guaranteed. He explains why soul is at the heart of everything he creates and why authenticity matters more than flashy moves.Jamal also shares the joy and challenges of transitioning from dancer to choreographer to director, and how loyalty, resilience, and vision have fueled his success. Whether he is creating choreography for Miley in front of a stadium crowd, reimagining classics for Disney at the Hollywood Bowl, or directing for television, Jamal continues to lead with passion and purpose.This conversation is about much more than dance and choreography. It is about courage, identity, purposefulness and the power of staying true to yourself while creating art that moves people on every level.Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Jamal’s choreography stands out not just for technical precision, but for the groove, feeling, and storytelling that bring movement to life.From dancer to choreographer to director, Jamal shows that growth comes from curiosity, patience, and being willing to bet on yourself.His father’s simple words — “Is he paying you? Then I’ll see you in Vegas” — gave Jamal the confidence to step fully into who he is.Jamal built his foundation by learning choreography off MTV and Soul Train, proving that resourcefulness and consistency can take you far.and more…

In this episode, I sit down with Brian Hurtak—Fortune 100 executive, community leader, dad, and author of The Play Sheet.Brian brings forward a grounded, honest conversation on what it means to carry the weight of work, family, ambition, and expectations—and still show up with intention.Inspired by the structure of football, and how coaches coach, The Play Sheet isn't a sports book. It's a life book. A practical, clear-eyed framework designed to help overloaded professionals cut through noise and make the right call—whether at work, at home, or in the sometimes precious minutes we get with our kids at the end of a long day.We talk attitude, adjustments, and those sand-in-the-gears moments when what used to work doesn’t anymore—and how to respond. Brian shares real-life plays he runs in his parenting, marriage, and leadership, and why he keeps his play sheets visible in the most ordinary parts of his day.This one’s for anyone wanting to live more intentionally, not just drift through the day running out the clock.Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Brian outlines the importance of stating with your ethos—have a clear sense of what you are trying to achieve—and how to emulate a football coach’s play sheet to organise and maximise the outcomes We discuss how leadership so often happens in the ordinary moments and growth is by making adjustments.Brian shares the intentionality around balance across life’s quadrants and how planning and aligning outcomes drives peak performance and connection.and more…

In the opening episode of the second season of More Elephant, we are in conversation with Reverend Nontombi Naomi Tutu, an activist deeply influenced by her upbringing in South Africa, in the era of apartheid, and by her late father, Reverend Desmond Tutu.Rev. Tutu shares her journey from rejecting the idea of priesthood to embracing her call to ministry in her 50s. Our conversation delves into her personal and professional evolution, highlighting the impacts of apartheid, racial, economic, and gender inequities, and her continued dedication to advocating for marginalized communities. We touch on Rev. Tutu's reflections on political and intimate violence, the significance of systemic access, and the resurgence of oppressive forces juxtaposed with signs of hopeful activism.Our conversation also navigates the powerful role of faith in societal change while remaining critical of religious nationalism. Rev. Tutu’s shared wisdom illustrates the profound effect of historical struggles and the potential for collective progress led by younger generations, offering an inspiring lens on how we can live better by truly listening and learning.Bold, thoughtful, inspiring—there is no better way to open the new season of the More Elephant podcast.Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Rev. Tutu shares that while “I have my father’s nose, I do not want his job” was her early-life credo, life had other plans.Rev. Tutu highlights the link between political instability and the rise of gender-based violence.Rev. Tutu discusses her work focused on racial, economic, and gender empowerment, highlighting the power of inclusivity and diversity in building a fairer society.and more…

Season One was a chance to sit down with people doing real, meaningful work. Founders, leaders, creators, friends. People figuring things out in the middle of it all, not after the fact.This episode is a look back at some of the moments that stayed with me. The quiet pivots. The bold moves. The stories that made me think a little deeper about how we show up in our work and in our lives.From building coaching programs for early-career professionals, to reshaping how we think about inclusion, to conversations about money, leadership, family, and purpose. These are voices that offered something honest. Something unexpected.Looking back helped me remember what this show is really about. Small shifts. Brave questions. The work that actually matters.Thanks for being here. I hope these moments move you the way they moved me.

In this episode of the More Elephant podcast, we engage in an insightful conversation with Alan Stein, the founder and CEO of Kadima Careers. Kadima is on a mission to level the playing field for underestimated talent by accelerating one million careers by 2040 by offering a framework, support, and practical advice for navigating corporate careers, developing relationships, and defining strategies for negotiating your worth.Alan shares his extensive journey in the corporate world, his expertise in getting jobs and larger paychecks, and what he has learned from the highs and lows of a nearly thirty-year corporate career, which fuels his mission to change the game. Alan’s anecdotes of his career highs and lows offer valuable lessons on aspiring for better outcomes and embracing setbacks to fuel future success.Listen in to discover insights on personal branding, career advancement, and earning your worth, as well as practical tips for leveraging LinkedIn, bypassing automated job filters, and mastering job negotiation strategies. You’ll hear about many facets of the Kadima experience, including K-Jam—the Kadima Job Acquisition Method—and the various coaching and support programs offered by Kadima Careers.Kadima translates as forward in Hebrew. This conversation focuses on helping anyone keen on moving their career forward confidently. Listen. Learn. Live. Better. 

In this episode of the More Elephant Podcast, Lorna Kapusta, Head of Women and Engagement at Fidelity Investments, discusses the importance of financial planning and investing for women. The conversation discusses how often we leave behind the teaching of financial literacy and underappreciate the need for tailored solutions to meet women’s unique needs.Lorna candidly shares her journey, including anxiety and stress related to her lack of financial well-being earlier in life and the pivotal More Elephant moments that led her to her current role. We discuss the Women Talk Money program and the power of women supporting women in financial conversations, which has elevated in importance as a post-pandemic response to rethinking how we approach financial health. We align on the importance of financial education and empowerment for women. Lorna emphasizes the need for women to start somewhere and engage in myriad resources beyond Fidelity to begin saving, investing, and planning for the future. The conversation showcases Fidelity's commitment to supporting women. Listen, learn, live, better indeed! Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Lorna talks about her all-to-common journey of not understanding financial planning and health armed with a college degree and working for a blue-chip financial services company in NYCHow the pandemic heightened the anxiety about money and Fidelity’s initial response to provide resources and information for a few months turned into a still-standing community working as one to shape the futureWe discuss the evolving needs of women and families in an ever-changing financial landscape and Fidelity's commitment to supporting diverse family structures with tailored financial solutions.and more..

In this episode of the More Elephant podcast, we celebrate Pride month in the United States and continue our feature of highlighted great work by non-profit leaders and their teams. We talk with Jaymes Black, CEO of Family Equality, the leading non-profit focused on fighting to protect and support LGBTQ+ families.Jaymes shares her journey from corporate America to leading Family Equality and being at the forefront of efforts to elevate the stories of LGBTQ+ families while continuing to give voice and challenge discriminatory efforts to delegitimize the community.Despite facing significant personal and professional challenges, Jaymes discusses her pivotal More Elephant moments and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on her vision for what she wants to do to change the world for the better. The episode touches on the hundreds of anti-LGBTQ bills introduced in state legislatures in 2023, focusing on the specific threats to LGBTQ youth and families. The conversation also highlights the issue of government interference in parental decisions and the need to prioritize joy in work. Jaymes highlights the importance of storytelling, community collaboration, and the role of joy and hope in advocacy work while stressing the increasing importance of collaboration and partnership within the LGBTQ+ community to address discrimination and inequality.Tune in to gain insight into the transformative efforts of Family Equality, a beacon of hope in the ongoing fight for equal rights and representation for all LGBTQ+ families.Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Jaymes shares her personal journey and the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ families in building their families.She discusses the importance of representation and inclusion in the work of Family Equality and the transformation the organization is undergoing to be a catalyst for change.The conversation also highlights the issue of government interference in parental decisions and the need to prioritize joy in the work.and more…

In this edition of the More Elephant podcast, we are in conversation with GRAMMY® Award-winning bassoonist, music faculty, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Monica Ellis, a founding member, co-artistic, and Executive Director of the acclaimed Imani Winds Quintet.Monica's journey, from her childhood in Pittsburgh to her time at Oberlin and Julliard, is a testament to the transformative power of music. Through these experiences, she helped pave the way for the globally recognized Imani Winds, a quintet that has revolutionized wind music and how Black chamber music is seen and heard and became a beacon of change in the classical music scene. This includes a permanent presence in the classical music section of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, DC.This episode discusses the inception and profound impact of Imani Winds, including their 2024 GRAMMY® win for 'Passion for Bach and Coltrane'. Notably, it highlights their educational initiatives through the Imani Winds Chamber Music Festival and the Imani Winds Foundation, which have been instrumental in shaping the future of classical music. Monica's story is a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and the transformative impact of music on both the individual and collective levels.Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Discover Imani Winds’ evolution through chamber music, education concerts, and foundation building, as well as their evolution and revolution over twenty-seven (27) years in the industry.We discuss the resurgence and cultural importance of Black Classical Music and biases in chamber music. Monica highlights the power of great teachers and investing in talent to create opportunity.And more…

In the latest episode of the More Elephant podcast, we dive into the world of venture capital funding for Latinx entrepreneurs. Our guest, Veronica Juarez, Founder of Dahlia VC, shares her journey from a political career to her mission of addressing the underrepresentation of Latino entrepreneurs in the venture space. Veronica's early-stage venture capital fund focuses on supporting seed-stage tech companies that specialize in B2B enterprise software, marketplaces, and FinTech solutions for the Latinx market. The discussion sheds light on the impact of inherent biases in capital allocation, the importance of creating wealth and opportunities for Latinx communities, and the role of specialized venture funds in driving social change and economic justice. Join us as we explore the challenges and opportunities in the venture capital industry and how we can work towards a more equitable and inclusive future.Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Veronica shares her journey from politics to venture capital, highlighting the need to support Latinx founders in the tech industry. We discuss the persistent challenges faced by underrepresented founders and her mission to provide support and opportunities for them to succeed by utilizing her ‘presence’ in the room and understanding of how capital allocation works to create access.We emphasize the importance of collaboration and access to capital in driving social change and creating generational wealth.…and more.

In this latest episode of the More Elephant podcast, we engage in an inspiring conversation with Evan Leaphart, Founder of Kredit Academy, and Mike Gross, COO and Head of Education, who join the latest More Elephant podcast to discuss the team’s journey from Kiddie Kredit, a mobile app designed to educate children on the credit system by completing chores, to Kredit Academy, a solution and approach dedicated to equipping teens and young adults with the knowledge and tools for optimal credit health.In 2023, the team was awarded a $1 million investment from the 43North startup competition to continue the movement toward a financially literate future, creating an opportunity for the next generation to embrace credit management with confidence and wisdom.From their personal journey of friendship and entrepreneurship over many years to relocating to Buffalo after winning the 43 North investment, Evan and Mike share how Kredit Academy aims to make financial education accessible and engaging. Focusing on education, behavioral change, and community engagement, they discuss the broader implications of their work on generational wealth and financial well-being. As we listen, learn, live, better on More Elephant, Evan and Mike are great examples of how an idea can change lives and build pathways to durable financial health.Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Evan and Mike share their origin story, meeting early in life and how they have been focused together for many years on changing how teens and young adults think about and understand moneyWe discuss their approach to financial empowerment and educating Gen Alpha on credit through a gamified approach and a solution that allows members to earn rewards both by responsible spending and by engaging in activities and learning modulesWe hear about their founder’s story, how they learned to build a company, the resilience and willingness to be flexible as investment opportunity arises, and the power of community in doing work that mattersand more..

In our most recent podcast, we delve into a conversation with Byron Slosar, the CEO and Founder of hellohive. Byron shares his vision of revolutionizing the traditional talent employment landscape.hellohive, a virtual recruiting platform that secured $3.4 million in Series A funding earlier this year, is committed to connecting next-gen talent to companies with a significant diversity and inclusivity lens, making everyone feel valued and integral to the recruitment process.Byron shares how the platform facilitates self-identification and self-expression for students and recent graduates. hellohive allows corporations to find talent and understand them better, enabling a more humanized interaction throughout the recruiting process. Byron talks about his founder story, how it’s a full circle moment that connects many of the talents he had built throughout his life journey and includes a stop-off at the circus. As with many founders, he talks about the challenges building a business brings while raising a son and how he has learned to embrace his perceived weaknesses and turn them into a source of strength and grit.More Elephant Moments in this Episode:Byron shares his journey of becoming an entrepreneur, his challenges, and how he turned perceived weaknesses into strengths.Byron outlines what traditional recruiting processes are missing in their standardized approach.Built for equity and powered by inclusion, we discuss the vital role of technology in providing equity and access to students who lack the resources or knowledge to confront traditional recruiting processes.and more..

Each quarter, we highlight non-profit change agents leading from the front and changing lives.On this podcast, we talk with Troy Reinhart, SVP of Community and Ambassador Development for Smile Train. Smile Train is a nonprofit organization that has provided cleft lip and palate surgeries to children in need worldwide for the past twenty-five years. The Smile Train team is approaching its two millionth surgery.Troy shares his origin story and his journey to Smile Train. We discuss the challenges and stigma associated with cleft, Smile Train’s unique and comprehensive approach to treatment, and the impact of Smile Train's work across continents. Troy also highlights the importance of awareness and invites listeners to support Smile Train's mission.Smile Train’s powerful tagline is ‘changing the world one smile at a time’. This conversation is sure to leave a smile on your face and inspire you to become an agent for change.Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Troy shares his personal journey and what led him to Smile Train, which has grown to become a global leader in cleft treatment. Troy illuminates the challenges and stigma associated with cleft and the comprehensive approach to treatment that Smile Train provides that is focused on localized delivery and community engagement.Troy shares powerful anecdotes to illustrate the significant impact of Smile Train’s work in different regions, including India, Ghana, and Mexico. and more..

Have you ever wondered what drives someone to leave the perceived security of a blue-chip career for the often unpredictable waters of FinTech entrepreneurship and how one pivotal moment on a Peloton sparked an idea that could impact people for generations?As we continue to explore conversations with change agents rethinking paths to financial health, we are in conversation with Mical Jeanlys-White, Founder and CEO of Wealthmore, an inclusive investment and advice platform.WealthMore’s belief is that “everyone’s wealth deserves the benefit and respect of financial advice.” Join us as we listen to Mical's journey as a first-generation immigrant, from trying to get her grandmother to invest in CDs to defining a solution to help democratize wealth advice. Mical shares her lived experiences, challenges, and real conversations we need to have about closing the racial and gender wealth gaps if we are to create a path to lasting generational wealth.Discover Wealthmore's unique approach to investing, planning, and creating a diverse and inclusive community of wealth advisors. Explore the impact of community-led financial empowerment and Wealthmore's innovative 'advice on demand' model as part of an ecosystem that stands for financial inclusion and leveling the playing field.

Financial health as a pathway to creating lasting generational wealth for all continues to be elusive in the United States, where we explore revolutionary ideas for transforming financial well-being.In this episode of the More Elephant podcast, we talk with Charles Phillips, the Co-Founder and CEO of Sawa Money. Sawa, in Swahili, means it's all good, and we are in conversation with Charles to discuss the groundbreaking work the Sawa team is doing to improve the financial well-being of their members and solve the wealth gap problem, one manageable financial decision at a time.Join us as we dive deep into the unique challenges underrepresented communities face regarding financial health and how Sawa Money is leveraging time-honored, community-based traditions to create a platform that aims to redefine how people approach their financial life, build generational wealth and achieve better financial stability. We learn about the 'Savings Wheel,’ a trust-based, communal approach to help people begin their journey to long-term financial health by providing actionable strategies primarily focused on helping alleviate the vulnerabilities those living paycheck-to-paycheck face.Listen to this captivating conversation as we explore the power of empathy and community-driven initiatives in revolutionizing financial stability. Discover how Sawa Money is paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future for all. Key More Elephant Moments in this Episode:We discuss the formative years of Charles’ origin story, from Bangkok to Mississippi, and how that experience informed his desire to explore beyond those borders and “try to be a little bit different and color outside the lines a little bit more.”Charles outlines the motivation for building Sawa Money and the creation of the communal ‘Savings Wheel’ as a way to put people on a path to a greater understanding of the compounding effect of sound financial decisions.We discuss the importance of trust in financial institutions, the challenges for many in figuring out a path to homeownership, and the aim of Sawa Money to alleviate financial vulnerability to providing an easy-to-understand path to owning and living in a home.And more…

Have you ever wondered about the origin story of a company that initially focused on trash enclosures and outdoor storage solutions but evolved into a beacon of innovation and urban beautification?In this latest episode of More Elephant Podcast, we are in conversation with Liz Picarazzi, Founder and CEO of CITIBIN, a company that designs, manufactures, and distributes trash enclosures and other outdoor storage solutions. Liz started CITIBIN because she couldn’t find a durable and attractive enclosure for her own trash.Our conversation delves into her evolution as an entrepreneur, the pivotal role of customer insights in her product development journey, and CITIBIN's innovative solutions to unique challenges, such as space constraints in cities and package theft. Liz also shares her insights on the pivot from a knowledge worker to a creator and the value of adapting in business to maximize one’s strengths.Talking Points in this Episode:Liz discusses the importance of listening to customers’ needs to build a business and create innovative solutions that solve real problemsLiz discusses the versatility of CITIBIN's design foundation and how it has extended to a more pressing issue – package theft.How CITIBIN is addressing the existential rat problem in New York City. and more.

The media is the fourth estate, and although we vehemently argue about its influence on society and its part in determining our thoughts and beliefs, there is still room for discussion on how the media may contribute to positive change and what media companies are doing to leave a lasting impression.We talk with Dennis Williams, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) at Warner Brothers Discovery, in this interesting episode. During our conversation, Dennis takes us on a tour of his incredible journey, from his modest beginnings and lessons gained to his current position of influence and effect. He shares his passion for working with his team and resources to drive positive and long-lasting change. Dennis articulates the profound impact of media and corporate philanthropy in reshaping perceptions and attitudes, highlighting the pivotal role of CSR at Warner Brothers Discovery in seeking to uplift marginalized communities, foster avenues for artistic and technological pursuits, and advocate for ecological stewardship.Dennis also emphasizes the importance of family, community, and being in service of others as a path to realizing dreams, having an impact, and creating pathways for the next generation of leaders to help change the world, one idea at a time. Key More Elephant Takeaways from the conversation:Dennis shares his journey to becoming a figure in corporate social responsibility, and his passion for bringing the power media of philanthropy to foster lasting social impact.Dennis also discusses how his life, career, and his strategic approach to social responsibility have been influenced by his family, especially his grandmother. Dennis discusses the importance of maintaining humanity and empathy in a world increasingly influenced by technology.and more…

As we continue our 2024 journey of listening to and learning from idea agents and change-makers, we will be joined over the following few conversations by cultural ‘activists’ who have used their insights and platforms to change neighborhoods, communities, and the lived experience for many through investment, art, and philanthropy.In this episode, we engage in a deeply personal and inspirational conversation with Derek Fleming, a Senior Advisor at HR&A Advisors. Derek shares his journey from studying economics and real estate management to working on urban renewal efforts in complex, diverse, and economically challenged communities throughout the United States. We also hear from Derek as he charts the experience as one of the driving forces behind Red Rooster, one of the nation’s most critically acclaimed restaurants and cultural spaces. Derek connects the personal to the professional from growing up in Compton to present-day New York City and all the spaces and places in between, coloring the pivotal role of culture and lived experience in edifying and building ‘belonging’ spaces through real estate, emphasizing the importance of hard work, authenticity, and faith in the pursuit of passion and living out his dreams.Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Derek connects the personal richness of his formative years in Los Angeles and Oakland to the manifestation of how he uses real estate to edify the culture in economically challenged communities.Derek’s reflections on Black culture and its value in building a more representative experience for America, as demonstrated through myriad revitalization efforts across the country.Derek highlights the importance of being passionate and authentic in your work and the power that has to change lives. and more…

How can we create a life that aligns with our passions and allows us to thrive?New Year, New You! As we begin a new year, resolutions are made to start fresh and make positive changes that enrich and enliven our lives. With 2024 less than two weeks old, many of us are challenging ourselves to be More Elephant.It is fitting then that the first conversation of the year is with Aneta Kuzma, host of the Live the Width of Your Life podcast, author of "Live the Width of Your Life: 365 Daily Meditations on Living with Purpose, Passion, and Peace." and a contributor to Brainz Magazine and Thrive Global. Aneta is dedicated to guiding individuals toward making a meaningful impact. Her passion lies in helping clients break free from stagnation, awaken to their full potential and purpose, dream big, and take aligned action to embrace the WIDTH of their lives. Recognizing the everyday struggles of individuals in pursuing healthier and more fulfilling lives, Aneta empowers her clients to redefine success, mitigate stress, conquer limiting beliefs, and design lives imbued with purpose, passion, and peace.In our conversation, Aneta discusses her journey to becoming an entrepreneur, author, and podcaster. She shares her experiences dealing with corporate stress and burnout and the importance of body-mind wellness practices and modalities like yoga, meditation, and breathwork to help individuals, corporations, and nonprofits improve their overall well-being. Key More Elephant Takeaways from the conversation:Aneta shares how she transitioned from a corporate role following someone else’s rules to owning and living the width of her life.Aneta shares the importance of starting at a place, asking the right questions as part of self-reflection, and how yoga and meditation helped create clarity of vision.Aneta discusses the impact of masculine and feminine energy, stress on the nervous system, and the impact of burnout and anxiety on our psyche and how we operate to survive, not thrive.

How can one man's vision help turn a non-profit into a global force for change, and what lessons can we learn from his journey?In this episode, we talk with Brian Gallagher, former CEO of United Way Worldwide and current CEO of the Leargas Group. The Leargas Group is a strategy consulting firm focused on developing solutions that have meaningful and lasting social impact.His career, one marked by transformative leadership, has left an indelible impact on non-profits and social change. As we explore his experiences and insights, Brian presents his view that everyone's success is essential for collective success. The conversation also includes the impact of institutionalized racism, the necessity of supportive structures for marginalized communities, and the importance of uncomfortable conversations in initiating change.Talking points in this Episode:Brian shares his journey from social work major to CEO of the United Way Worldwide.Brian highlights the importance of reframing success and creating mechanisms to lift marginalized communities.We discuss the need for change in economic policy, corporate culture, and governance.and more…

How can we reimagine equity and drive systemic change?In this edition, we are joined by Alphonso David, an advocate for social and economic justice, who sheds light on the transformative potential of the Global Black Economic Forum (GBEF), whose mission is to challenge ingrained biases within institutional systems, paving the way for true innovation, equitable returns, and transformation worldwide.Discover the personal experiences that shape Alphonso’s unwavering commitment to fostering a more equitable, just world. From healthcare to employment and education, Alphonso uncovers the interconnectedness of societal inequities, highlighting the dire need for diversity and inclusion to address systemic economic disparities. As the President & CEO of the GBEF, he focuses on reshaping diversity, equity, and inclusion in corporate settings while striving for economic justice for the global Black community. The Forum engages global stakeholders, including executives, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and activists, through consulting, conferences, a non-profit foundation, and technology initiatives to promote social and economic justice. Alphonso outlines the three-pronged approach that GBEF is deploying to move from conversation to action, the need to pursue meaningful debate even when the ‘sides’ don’t agree, and the imperative of active civic engagement in propelling societal change.Talking Points in this Episode:We discuss the role of the Global Black Economic Forum in advancing equity and targeting the structures and systems that stand in the way of economic justice for underrepresented and underserved communities.We discuss the three-pronged approach that GBEF is deploying to move from conversation to action, the need to pursue meaningful debate even when the ‘sides’ don’t agree, and the imperative of active civic engagement in propelling societal change.Alphonso shares the Importance of self-reflection and learning from history and how key moments in his life have become frequent reference anchors as he seeks to grow the influence of GBEF and move from conversation to impact. and more..

Ever wondered how life experiences shaped the creation of a powerful platform advocating for black queer men? In this episode of the More Elephant podcast, we are in conversation with Emil Wilbekin, journalist, human rights activist, and founder of Native Son, a platform and non-profit organisation advocating for black queer men.We explore Emil's journey and discuss the pivotal moments that led to the creation of Native Son, highlighting the importance of representation of black queer men, the power of corporate partnership to elevate the narrative, and the need to continue to focus on intersectionality in our understanding, respect, and support of various communities.Talking points in this Episode:We chart Emil’s life journey, from his upbringing to the pivotal experiences surrounding his identity as a gay man that fuelled his belief and confidence to create the Native Son platform.We discuss the power of and need for greater representation and how the Native Son platform addresses, particularly through programming and initiatives like the Native Son Awards.We discuss the significance of respecting and acknowledging diverse experiences within the black queer community, shedding light on the importance of inclusive advocacy.…and much more.

According to a recent report by the Center for the Study of Women in Television and Film, only 9% of directors are women and 38% of films employed 0 or 1 woman in the roles considered. Representation by women both behind and in front of the camera remains an opportunity to ensure a more equitable presentation of stories by women for women.In the latest podcast episode, we talk with two filmmakers, Michal Sinnott and Alexandra Clayton, who made 'Unpacking,' a film that explores the radical transformation and the reality of life.Michal and Alexandra discuss the making of the film, leveraging a cooperative approach to funding and production, and reflect on their experiences navigating a male-dominated industry. Both voice important issues such as lack of diversity and representation, inherent industry obstacles, and the potential for change. They also share insights from their experiences in filmmaking and life, discussing the importance of courage, resilience, invincibility, and authenticity in the creative process.Talking Points in this Episode:Michal and Alexandra discuss the Importance of authentic representation in film and how stories written and produced for women by women can challenge stereotypes and represent women in ways they are often captured on screen.Lessons learned from filmmaking that fuel personal growth, including the power of a collective set-up to support and nurture the creative process.The making of 'Unpacking’ and the importance of representation in all roles to enhance storytelling.And more…

How can organizations effectively balance the change of mindsets and behaviors while respecting individual journeys in the realm of DE&I, ultimately leading to a more inclusive workplace?In this episode of More Elephant podcast with Jarvis Sam, the CEO and founder of Rainbow Disruption, Jarvis shares his own journey in the DE&I space, including his role as the Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at Nike, to his teaching role at Brown, and his venture into entrepreneurship.Jarvis shares The Rainbow Disruption strategy in aiding companies to align DE&I with their corporate strategy, ultimately impacting product development and brand growth. We also delve into the challenges organizations face in the current environment regarding DE&I, the need for accountability, the importance of introducing empathy, humanity, and representation into the workplace, and the role effective DE&I policies play in a growth mindset. Talking points in this Episode:Jarvis discusses the inspiration behind stepping out as an entrepreneur, starting Rainbow Disruption and the writing of his new book, DEI C.R.E.D.E.N.T.I.A.LWe discuss the importance of changing mindsets and behaviors within organizations as a key component of DE&I initiatives and how to approach with a sense of inclusion for all.Jarvis also addresses the concept of "covering" and the impact it has on individuals in the workplace, advocating for creating conditions where employees feel comfortable being authentic.And more…

Have you ever wondered how a global bank like Citibank optimizes its brand across 95 countries worldwide? Or how it infuses diversity, equity, and inclusion into its marketing strategy and product experience to effectively represent marginalized communities?In the latest episode of the podcast, we are in conversation with Nikki Darden, whose most recent role was focused on bringing Citibank’s brand to life for their 200,000+ colleagues and driving diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout Citi’s marketing ecosystem.Nikki shares her journey of how the personal and the professional are inextricably connected as she delivers impact for underrepresented communities across a global organization while being a force for change by standing in her truth, bringing her full self to the workplace, and consistently asking of those around her, “what can we do?” Talking Points in this Episode:Nikki explains her role in optimizing Citi's brand and discusses the integration of diversity, equity, and inclusion into Citi's marketing efforts and its vital importance within the walls of Citi and on behalf of the millions of customers Citi serves across the globe.Nikki shares her journey to a fuller realization of what brings her joy, including entrepreneurial ‘enlightenment,’ that being an intrapreneur is what she does best, and finding and owning your ‘power’ can bring true satisfaction.She explains how “what can we do?” can be the ignition to spark change and innovation by focusing efforts on incremental improvement that can have a powerful and positive impact.And more…

Are you working to live or living to work?Finding true fulfillment in your career can seem like an elusive dream in a world of deadlines and demands. What if aligning your work with your passions held the key to unlocking unparalleled success?In the final conversation in our first series on the changing nature of work, join us as we dive into the remarkable journey of Rosa Sabater, a trailblazing executive who dared to reshape the rules and then created a company to help other women reshape their rules and live a more fulfilling life that celebrates their greatness and provides flexibility to live fully in more corners of their lives.Talking Points in this Episode:Rosa shares the “moment” when she decided to step away from a series of traditional corporate roles to reflect. create space and reimagine a more personalized way of working.We discuss the power of finding joy and fulfillment in work by aligning with personal passions and how Martellus, described by its Experts as “a platform that enables us, the 40 women, to work how we work best,” enables community, support, and balance.We hear about the practical solutions Martellus solves for - including staffing augmentation, brand strategy, customer acquisition, loyalty marketing, customer relationship management, and contact center excellence - with leaders from Fortune 500 companies chosen for their ability to accelerate time to market, share knowledge and help avoid pitfalls.Rosa outlines the very real challenges women have shared with her in articulating what they want and overcoming challenges in articulating one's true passion.And much more …

Can remote work truly foster deeper connections and exceptional leadership?There continues to be a significant shift in how workers view their relationship with work, while at the same time, companies are making deliberate choices about post-pandemic organizational norms and culture.As the role of remote work evolves, and we assess how to create more flexibility as our relationship with work changes, it is fitting that the next More Elephant conversation in the series on the changing nature of work is with Melissa Romo, author of "Your Resource Is Human: How Empathetic Leadership Can Help Remote Teams Rise Above." In our conversation, Melissa outlines unravels the secrets of empathetic leadership, unveiling a roadmap for building thriving cultures and forging genuine connections in today's remote and hybrid workplaces. Melissa’s book has been lauded by workplace and leadership experts as “the book 21st century leaders and followers have been pining for.”Talking points in this Episode:Melissa discusses her experience with remote work, the emotional challenges that it created for her and how finding a lack of resources to help, she decided to write the book.Melissa outlines “The "Remote Leadership Wheel TM," a practical solution to assessing five emotional pitfalls and five corresponding empathetic responses to help leaders and individuals rise above the challenges of remote work.We discuss the return to office movement, the need for remote work to be a valid option for some, the impact of “corporate trauma” and need for connection, meaning, and belonging.We highlight the importance of TRUST as a foundation for effective remote leadership, the Pygmalion effect on team performance and Melissa's call for reflective evaluation of individual readiness for remote work and its benefits.

Welcome to the first episode of the More Elephant podcast, where we dive deep into inspiring topics and explore thought leadership for today's world. As we embark on this journey of meaningful conversations, we chose to start with a focus on the changing nature of work, as we reckon with the what, how, where and why of work in a post-pandemic world.America is defined by workism,“the belief that work is not only necessary to economic production but also the centerpiece of one's identity and life's purpose.” However, what if work could be more than just a means to a paycheck? What if it could empower us to live better lives?In the first More Elephant podcast, we are joined by Ben Brooks, who is the founder & CEO of PILOT, an award-winning employee career development software platform. Inspired by his successful CEO & executive coaching practice, Ben saw an opportunity to take the entrepreneurial leap of faith and begin to democratize executive coaching and empower employees at scale. Ben invested his life savings into founding the company whose mission is to ensure everyone “feels powerful at work.” What does it mean to feel powerful at work? How can we advocate for ourselves, prioritize our development, and navigate the unwritten rules of the workplace? Join us for this inspiring conversation with Ben to kickstart the More Elephant podcast as he shares stories of experimentation, resilience, and the quest for impact, both in his career and in helping others achieve their goals.PILOT was named #1 HR Tech Startup to Watch in 2020, and HR Executive Magazine named him one of the Top 100 Influencers in HR & Technology for 4 straight years. PILOT was named a Top HR Product of 2020 and DIAGEO named PILOT their Supplier of the Year in Diversity Excellence. Talking points in this Episode:Ben Brooks shares his unique career journey, from climbing the corporate ladder to becoming an entrepreneur.Ben explains the mission of his company and falling in love with a problem: the fact that people are miserable at work and not managing their careers wellWe discuss the importance of advocating for oneself, seeking feedback, and building relationships in the context of the individualBen asserts that we can powerfully command our lives by balancing work and life while building an individual configuration of what satisfaction and success look like…and, if you’re always hearing yes, you’re probably not advocating enough!