GoodGeist

Send us a textJoin us for a brilliant conversation with Mark Funnell, a passionate environmental advocate and the Communications and Campaigns Director at the National Trust. Discover how his deep-rooted love for nature, cultivated from childhood, paved the way for a career dedicated to environmental stewardship. From navigating the National Trust through cultural debates to honouring Britain's natural heritage, Mark shares invaluable insights on staying true to core values and through h...

Send us a textRichard Smith, the Head of Climate and Sustainability at English Heritage, joins us to share his journey from BBC journalist to a passionate advocate for sustainability in heritage and conservation. We chat with Richard about the complex sustainability challenges English Heritage faces in their quest to achieve net zero by 2035 as Richard sets out the difficulties of balancing heritage preservation with climate resilience, such as retrofitting listed buildings or deal...

Send us a textWhat if the key to addressing global environmental issues lies not in isolated efforts but in reshaping our entire economic structure? Uygar Özesmi, the visionary founder of Good4Trust, joins us to challenge the status quo by introducing us to prosumerism, a concept that champions interdependence and ecological sustainability. Uygar urges us to rethink our roles in a world where every action impacts on the planet. By drawing parallels to the intricate harmony of the Am...

Send us a textDiscover the transformative journey of Mark Thomann, the director of WHY landscape workshop, WILDING X WHY. From his roots in Buffalo, New York, to his academic background in politics and conflict studies, Mark's path to becoming a leading landscape architect is nothing short of inspiring.Join us as we explore the intersection of natural beauty and urban environments. We delve into the creative solutions Mark and his team have devised to bring ecological benefits to citysc...

Send us a textIn this episode we follow the journey of Gudrun Cartwright, the Climate Action Director for Business in the Community, as she shares her unique path and insights. We explore how her experiences in the NHS motivated her shift to environmentalism and then joining the mission of Business in the Community, a responsible business network in the UK that aims to create a fairer and greener world. We talk about the increasing recognition among CEOs that climate action is a major is...

Send us a textImagine transforming your city's transport system into a beacon of sustainability – and beauty! Join us as we sit down with Jason Prince, the director of the UK's Urban Transport Group. We talk through Jason's journey from energy policy and climate change economics to becoming a leading advocate for urban transport. He offers an insider's perspective on the UK's Bus Services Act 2017, a pivotal moment for revitalising bus services, and shares the ambitious vision of deployi...

Send us a textIn this episode we talk to Andrei Polejack, the Research and Innovation Director at the National Institute for Ocean Research in Brazil, who joins us for a tide-shifting conversation about his pioneering work in ocean science diplomacy. We explore how he transitioned from a biologist to a key figure in international science diplomacy, and how scientific knowledge shapes global ocean governance and why understanding power dynamics in marine environments is crucial.We also talk ab...

Send us a textIn this episode we talk to Mahir Ilgaz, the Regional Programme Director at Oil Change International, who shares his transformative journey into climate and energy transition advocacy, driven by his experience at COP15 in Copenhagen. With Mahir we explore the global transition to renewable energy, specifically wind and solar power, and the critical missed opportunities due to the fossil fuel industry's and policymakers' delayed recognition of climate risks. Mahir sheds light...

Send us a textAt last - we're covering the life aquatic on GoodGeist! How are our oceans critical to our survival and what can we do to protect them? Join us on as we unravel these essential questions with Sigi Gruber, the former head of the Healthy Ocean and Seas Unit at the European Commission. Sigi brings to light some shocking statistics, like the staggering 12 million metric tons of plastic dumped into our oceans annually, and explains the extraordinary contributions of coral reefs,...

Send us a textIn this episode we talk to Effie Kanyua, a trailblazing communications professional and founder of We Are Warriors. Effie shares her journey from BBC journalist to the first female Black comms director at major broadcasters and publishers. Discover how Effie’s diverse experiences in sectors like FMCG, tech, media, fashion, luxury, and automotive have shaped her innovative approach to PR and technology. Also – how a reset moment post-pandemic led her to create Lila Assistant...

Send us a textIn this episode we're in conversation with Isabel Nepstad, who takes us on a journey from her beginnings in the Amazon region of Brazil to her current influential role as a senior advisor to both Governments and the agricultural sector. She discusses the founding of Bella Terra Consulting in Shanghai and shares the impactful work her team is doing to promote better environmental standards from field to fork. She also explores the critical role China plays in the globa...

Send us a textHow can the media industry balance its significant ecological footprint with its powerful cultural influence? Join us as we sit down with Steve Smith, a BAFTA award-winning television director turned sustainable production consultant, who shares his compelling journey from the fast-paced world of entertainment to becoming a fervent advocate for sustainability. Steve recounts his early career experiences through to his seminal role in BAFTA's Albert initiative, which is dedi...

Send us a textEver wondered how your food choices impact not just your health, but the planet too? This episode of GoodGeist features Suzy Sumner, the dynamic head of the Brussels office for Foodwatch International. Suzy is a passionate advocate for safe, healthy, and affordable food across Europe. From being called the "food police" as a child to leading impactful campaigns, Susie’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. We discuss the hidden realities behind common EU crops like wheat ...

Send us a textWhat happens when art meets climate activism? Join us for a compelling conversation with Alice Sharp, the innovative founder of Invisible Dust, as she takes us through her unique journey. From a transformative event in Berlin organized by the British Council to her inspiring encounters with climate scientists, Alice talks to us about the evolving role of art in highlighting environmental issues. We also explore striking examples of climate art from around the globe, like Ol...

Send us a textIn this episode we talk to our amazing colleague from the DNS network, Nicolas Perdrix from Sidiese. Discover how their innovative strategies have not only accelerated sustainable practices among their clients but also led to a fruitful partnership with EPSA consultancy, expanding their influence across Europe and beyond.We tackle the concept of regenerative communications (best avoided?) and look at the role of communications in driving ecological transitions and shaping corpor...

Send us a textIn this episode we're talking to Thomas Colster, the visionary behind 'Goodvertising', who shifted from traditional advertising to fervently advocating for sustainability and published a genre-defining book of the same name in 2012.Thomas recounts the frustration leading up to that first book, ignited by the inertia surrounding the 2010 Copenhagen climate summit. Discover his perspective on the value of human-centric leadership and empowering individuals to effect change - the t...

Send us a textDiscover the power of public engagement in shaping climate policy with our special guest, Rebecca Willis from the University of Lancaster. In this episode, Becky introduces us to the Climate Citizens Project, an innovative initiative that brings citizens and the government together to discuss climate and energy issues. From the effectiveness of citizens' juries and assemblies to the role of creative communication in addressing greenwashing, Rebecca shares valuable insights ...

Send us a textWhat if the future of our planet depends on our political choices today? Join us as we sit down with Christophe Koninckx to dissect the recent EU, UK, and global elections, revealing their profound impact on climate policies. We'll uncover the critical state of the EU's Green Deal, discuss Labour's ambitious climate vision for the UK, and offer a unique Turkish perspective from Damla. Follow GoodGeist for more episodes on sustainability, communications and how creativity c...

Send us a textWhat happens when a passionate advocate for localization and women's empowerment takes on the challenge of social entrepreneurship? Join us as we sit down with Olga Blasco, who was born in Barcelona and in her own words ia a nomad at heart. Olga operates in Dublin and İstanbul at the moment. She was a Board member of The Rosetta Foundation and led the merger with Translators without Borders. Now a board member of Clear Tech, the tech hub of Clear Global, she brings over 20 ...

Send us a textHow can documentaries shape societal change and inspire justice? Join us for a great conversation with Amelia Hapsari, a trailblazer in Southeast Asian and Indonesian documentary filmmaking. Amelia shares with us her dedication to creating documentaries that not only expose truths but also deeply engage and entertain viewers. Discover how her work aims to see more films produced that foster inclusivity and justice, promoting meaningful societal change, including on climate ...

Send us a textWhat would it take to turn our cities into champions of climate action? We talk to Mark Watts, the Executive Director of C40 Cities, to uncover his remarkable journey from advising the Mayor of London on climate issues to leading a global network of over 100 cities committed to cutting emissions by half by 2030. Mark takes us through the role of cities in combating the climate crisis, how urban areas are uniquely positioned to drive significant change. He dives into t...

Send us a textIn this episode we talk to Maria Adebowale-Schwarte, the founding director of the Living Space Project, about her passion for sustainable placemaking. Our conversation covered the huge landscapes of environmental law, social justice, and the creation of shared spaces that knit communities together. Maria shared with us her insights on the essential ingredients for successful placemaking – including respect, resources, and unwavering support – illuminating the pa...

Send us a textWhen Nuri Özbağdatlı switched gears from mechanical engineering to the intricate dance of ecosystems and human prosperity, it wasn't just a career change—it was a calling. We sit down with this UNDP Climate Change Specialist, to be reminded that every passion has its purpose, with Nuri's love for birdwatching evolving into a powerful tool for conservation and community mobilisation. In this episode we talk about environmental stewardship across Europe and Central Asia...

Send us a textThis week we go deep into the heart of green energy, with Amer Gaffar, the visionary director of Manchester's Fuel Cell Innovation Centre, as he recounts his two-decade love affair with hydrogen technology and tells us about starting out as a sustainability consultant trying to decarbonise a university, before becoming a standout advocate for hydrogen.In this episode, Amer opens a window to the world of fuel cells, electrolyzers, and the myriad use cases of hydrogen. We also wor...

Send us a textHave you ever paused to consider how the words we use can shape the battle against climate change? Michael Adler, CEO of Tipping Points, joins us in this episode to talk about his extraordinary journey from anti-nuclear advocate to leading a sustainability-focused communication agency, a long-standing member of the Do Not Smile Network.Michael talks about the power of language, advocating for a change in discourse from 'climate protection' to 'human protection' – a r...

Send us a textIn this episode we explore the blueprint of future cities, that embrace sustainability at their core, with Erik Frijters of FABRICations, a visionary in architecture and urban design, who joins us to share his groundbreaking ideas. Erik's journey intertwines philosophy with innovative design, challenging the traditional boundaries of our urban environment. Erik advocates for a symbiotic relationship between production methods and neighbourhood vitality, and how a deep...

Send us a textIn this episode we talk to Serdar Paktin, the driving force behind Pakt consultancy, as he shares his expertise in semiotics and sustainability narratives. From frightening forecasts to hopeful horizons, we look at how stories shape our collective action towards a more sustainable future. Pakt is a cross-cultural strategic consultancy firm based in London. Serdar helps businesses, brands, and organizations create meaningful strategies and solutions across cultures. He...

Send us a textIn this episode we talk to Haru Lev, an artist and activist from Korea who has just released the film 'Planet A'. Once a wanderer and now a warrior for our planet, he shares his profound transformation and the rhythmic rebellion he's orchestrating against global sustainability issues. From being held in a London detention center to experiencing the plight of refugees in Greece, Haru's stories are not just tales of travel but powerful catalysts for change. His firsthan...

Send us a textIn this episode we talk to Ana Gascón, Coca-Cola Europe’s Sustainability Manager for Packaging and the President of Spain’s association of ESG professionals. With her roots in the banking sector and then her leap into consumer brands, Ana's perspective offers a unique blend of insider knowledge and strategic foresight, particularly in understanding the nuances of European ESG legislation and its ripple effects on global markets.This episode also looks at the phenomenon of '...

Send us a textIn this episode we explore the complex world of climate communication with Paul Risley, whose communications work spans American political arenas to the global stage with the UNDP. We start our conversation touching upon Paul's early work alongside Al Gore's climate advocacy and then move onto the challenge of matching political will with economic interests to fight the climate crisis. Paul candidly reflects on the juxtaposition of oil-enriched cities like Dubai and Baku p...

Send us a textThis week we are in conversation with Alexander Deliyannis from DNS Network partner, Team Sympraxis, who brings a wealth of knowledge on sustainability, communications and European institutions. We cover energy transitions and energy pnsitive Neighborhoods, stretching across Belgium, Estonia, and Spain in more than a technological leap—it's a social revolution, where community engagement reigns supreme. We take a closer look at how these neighborhoods are not only gene...

Send us a textIn this episode we're treated to the insights of Helle Søholt, founding partner and CEO of Gehl Architects. Our latest conversation covers Helle's collaboration with Professor Jan Gehl, breathing life into sustainable, equitable, and healthy urban environments. Through her passion and expertise, learn how Gehl Architects is transforming the fabric of urban living, ensuring that cities not only rise to the climate challenge but become bastions of human-centric design.#urbanism #s...

Send us a textAs the founder of done!, a B Corp certified creative agency that's pushing the envelope in Buenos Aires, Marian Ventura joins us to share her transformative journey. Her story is one of change, from crafting narratives for a tobacco company to now leading a team that's deeply invested in projects that have a substantial impact on sustainability and social progress. Throughout this episode, we follow Mariam’s captivating story, tracing the responsibility of storytelling in m...

Send us a textThis week we talk to the writer, broadcaster and campaigner Jonathon Porritt. For over 30 years, Jonathon has provided strategic advice to governments, NGOs and companies on sustainability.He founded Forum for the Future, was co-chair of the Green Party and Director of Friends of the earth. He was Chair of the UK Sustainable Development Commission until 2009. His latest book, Hope in Hell is a powerful ‘call to action’ on the Climate Emergency.In this episode we talk to Jo...

Send us a textIn this episode, we talk to the Project Manager of one of our Network's greatest agencies, Silverback from Rome. Nicola Moscheni has a PhD sustainable urban development and runs loads of Silverback campaigns. He is also the President of the Green Influencer Club and a Project developer for Green Heroes.We talk to Nico about Silverback's methodology, their groundbreaking Ciclo Appenia Campaign that brings cycling and trees together, their combining of data, activism and great com...

Send us a textIn this episode we talk to Neil Milliken who is Global Head of Accessibility & Digital Inclusion at the global software company, Atos. Neil is Head of Accessibility & Digital Inclusion at Atos Group and a member of the Scientific Community. He is a member of the Board of Directors for the World Institute on Disability, Non Exec Chair of the Board at Genius Within and co-founder of AXSChat Europe’s largest twitter chat with a focus on Accessibility & Inclusion.Ne...

Send us a textJoin us for a thought-provoking session that could redefine your view on creativity's place in the fight for our planet's future.Discover the power of creativity for a greener future as we sit down with Duncan Meisel, the visionary behind Clean Creatives. Prepare to be inspired by his journey to become a driving force in climate activism and the creative mind countering the fossil fuel industry's obstructive PR efforts. Our candid conversation with Duncan sheds light ...

Send us a textIn this episode we talk to Sandrine Dixson-Declève, President of the Club of Rome. Sandrine is an international climate change, sustainable development, sustainable finance and thought leader on complex systems. She is a veteran of TED talks, and was a driving force behind both the Planetary Emergency Plan 1:0 and 2:0. She’s also driven the work on the recently published Earth4All book from the Club of Rome. In this episode we talk with Sandrine about Earth4All - an am...

Send us a textFeaturing Carly McLachlan, Director, Tyndall Centre for Climate Research.Carly is the Director of the Tyndall Centre in Manchester and leads an interdisciplinary team working on policy relevant research on climate change. She is based within the School of Engineering at the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom. In this episode we talk to Carly about her reflections on COP28, the Tyndall Centre’s research programme, and its disruptive work around music with Massive...

Send us a textIn our opening episode we introduce the Do Not Smile Network, our GoodGeist podcast and speak to our network's key founder, Christophe Koninckx from Springtime in Brussels. Christophe explores creativity and the climate crisis, the building of the global DNS network and also the role that could be played by the Inner Development Goals in helping to deliver a more sustainable future.Follow GoodGeist for more episodes on sustainability, communications and how creativity can h...