Join Gayathri and Sarah Enaharo to explore the intricate intersection of sustainability and well-being. This conversation navigates through the nuances of environmental health, community well-being, and their interconnectedness. The conversation covers a range of topics from how sustainable choices impact communities, the significance of clean resources, and the role of individuals in shaping a greener world. 

This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about integrating sustainability into their daily lives and work, offering practical advice and inspiring stories from Sarah's extensive experience in the field. 

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Adaptive Sustainability: The evolving nature of sustainable practices and how flexibility is key in addressing global environmental challenges.
• Wellness & Environment: The significant role of clean air, water, and supportive communities in personal health.
• Community-Centric Sustainability: The varying impacts of environmental factors on different communities, and the role of equitable resource management in fostering a sustainable future.
• Sustainable Manufacturing Insights: Innovative practices in the manufacturing sector that are paving the way for a more sustainable industrial future.
• Personal Sustainability Strategies: Practical, everyday actions that individuals can take to contribute to a larger sustainable impact.

🌟 Guest Spotlight: Sarah Enaharo

Sarah Robinson Enaharo, a Greenbiz 30 under 30 awardee, is the Global Sustainability Director at Milliken & Company. With a decade of experience, she specializes in integrating sustainability into various sectors including industrial and manufacturing. Sarah's leadership extends to serving on boards like the Ohio Advisory Board for Trust for Public Lands and the ASID DEI Committee. A speaker at major industry events, she holds a Master's in Engineering & Technology Management and a Bachelor's in Biomedical Engineering. Sarah is passionate about gardening and outdoor family activities.

📚Resources:

• USGBC website 
• Blog and Transcript 

🔗Stay Connected:

Gayathri: LinkedIn 

Sarah Enaharo: LinkedIn

🤝Liveable:

At Liveable, we curate research-backed resources, share thoughtful podcasts, and curate insightful newsletters, nurturing a community of forward-thinking professionals. Together, we're advancing the needle towards a more sustainable and socially responsible building industry.

• Join us on LinkedIn
• Sign Up for The Spark (our weekly newsletter)

💌Empower More Change:

Pass this episode along to someone who might find it useful—it could be the inspiration they're looking for. And remember, your ratings and reviews keep our conversation going and growing. Thank you for tuning in! 🌟🎙

Join Gayathri in this episode of 'Changing Tomorrow', featuring biophilic design experts Bill Browning and Catie Ryan. Explore the concepts behind biophilic design, as they debunk common myths and share strategies on its practical application and benefits.

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Understanding Biophilic Design: It’s more than just aesthetics; it's about creating a meaningful connection with nature in our built environments.
• Cost and Application: Contrary to popular belief, biophilic design can be cost-effective and isn’t limited to high-end projects. It's accessible to a wide range of budgets and settings.
• Beyond the Checklist Approach: Successful biophilic design requires thoughtful integration, not just ticking boxes.
• The Distinction from Sustainability: While related, biophilic design and sustainability are distinct concepts but can work in synergy.
• Impact on Well-being and Performance: Evidence suggests significant benefits of biophilic design on human health, well-being, and productivity.

📚Resources Mentioned

• "The Economics of Biophilia" for an in-depth understanding of biophilic design principles and their economic benefits.
• Library of case studies and publications, demonstrating the application and impact of biophilic design elements in different settings.
• Nature Inside: A Biophilic Design Guide 
• Podcast Article and Transcript

🌳Project references:

• MIT Chapel
• Guggenheim Museum, NYC
• Paley Park, Manhattan

🌟 Guest Spotlight 

• Bill Browning: Known for his green building and biophilic design expertise, Bill Browning is a key figure in the real estate industry. Co-founder of Terrapin Bright Green, he has consulted for clients like Google and Marriott Westin, and has been honored with awards such as the ASID National Design for Humanity Award.
• Catie Ryan: As Director of Projects at Terrapin, Catie Ryan combines human health, nature, and architecture with 18 yea

🤝Liveable:

At Liveable, we curate research-backed resources, share thoughtful podcasts, and curate insightful newsletters, nurturing a community of forward-thinking professionals. Together, we're advancing the needle towards a more sustainable and socially responsible building industry.

• Join us on LinkedIn
• Sign Up for The Spark (our weekly newsletter)

💌Empower More Change:

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In this episode of "Changing Tomorrow," host Gayathri has a profound conversation with Tu Rinsche, a prominent human rights advocate. They delve into the complex world of forced labor, exploring its facets and impacts across industries globally and its ripples locally. The episode is a rich blend of insights, practical strategies, and inspiring stories, aimed at shedding light on the global issue of forced labor and the various means to combat it.

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Global and Local Scope of Forced Labor: Tu provides an alarming overview of forced labor, affecting over 50 million people worldwide. While often perceived as a global issue, forced labor also has significant effects at the local community level.
• Forced Labor in Different Industries: Tu delves into forced labor in industries like construction, technology, apparel, food, and agriculture, highlighting unique issues within different sectors.
• The Importance of Imperfect Actions: Tu advocates for small, yet significant steps, stressing their cumulative impact in making a difference.
• Business Case for Human Rights: The discussion explores how addressing human rights issues can be beneficial for businesses, leading to long-term sustainability and brand value.
• Self-Care for Human Rights Workers: Acknowledging the challenges faced by those working in human rights, Tu discusses strategies for maintaining personal well-being while engaging in this demanding work.
• Tu Rinche’s Career Journey: Tu shares her personal journey from the Peace Corps to advising major global organizations building extensive experience in the human rights sector.

📚Resources Mentioned

• International Labor Organization
• Global Slavery Index from Walk Free Foundation
• Verite
• Supply Chain Traceability Matrix
• Forced Labor, US Department of Labor
• Design for Freedom from Grace Farms Foundation
• Principles for Dignity in the Built Environment 
• Laudes Foundation
• Podcast Article and Transcript

🌟 Guest Spotlight: Tu Rinsche

Tu Rinsche is an award-winning sustainability and social impact leader with two decades of global experience across iconic organizations and brands. A visionary strategist and innovator, she excels in corporate strategy, social impact, public policy, and forging strategic partnerships. Currently, she is the Founder and Principal at All Rights Advisors, a boutique management consulting fir

🤝Liveable:

At Liveable, we curate research-backed resources, share thoughtful podcasts, and curate insightful newsletters, nurturing a community of forward-thinking professionals. Together, we're advancing the needle towards a more sustainable and socially responsible building industry.

• Join us on LinkedIn
• Sign Up for The Spark (our weekly newsletter)

💌Empower More Change:

Pass this episode along to someone who might find it useful—it could be the inspiration they're looking for. And remember, your ratings and reviews keep our conversation going and growing. Thank you for tuning in! 🌟🎙

Are you interested in making a real impact in the fight against climate change? Dive into this must-listen episode where our host, Gayathri, talks to the dynamic Daniel Hill – a true trailblazer in the realm of environmental innovation and opportunities.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Fostering Community in Climate Action: Daniel emphasizes the crucial role of community-building in driving climate action and supporting career growth within the climate sector.
• Addressing Mental Health in Climate Advocacy: He delves into the importance of maintaining mental well-being while engaged in climate work.
• Championing Diversity for Sustainable Solutions: Daniel discusses the  need for diverse perspectives and experiences in crafting holistic and equitable climate solutions, drawing on insights from leaders.
• Innovating Beyond Technology in Climate Initiatives: He explores the necessity of embedding climate goals into the very fabric of business operations, moving beyond technological solutions to encompass broader strategic innovations.
• Redefining Roles: Every Job as a Climate Opportunity: Advocating for a paradigm shift where sustainability and climate action are integral to every job role, not confined to designated climate-focused positions.

📚Resources:

• Environmental Defense Fund's Climate Corps Fellowship
• Project Drawdown Resources
• Open Door Climate Initiative
• Brown Girl Green
• Degrees Podcast
• Podcast article and transcript

🔗Stay Connected:

Gayathri: LinkedIn 

Daniel Hill : LinkedIn

🌟 Guest Spotlight: Daniel Hill

Daniel Hill stands at the forefront of environmental change, directing Business and Innovation at the Environmental Defense Fund. His focus on accelerating climate solutions and nurturing changemakers has marked him as a pivotal figure in environmental innovation. As the steward of EDF’s Innovation Fund, he is instrumental in unleashing inventive solutions for environmental preservation. His initiatives, such as hosting the Degrees Podcast mini-series "The Year of the Climate Job" and founding the influential #OpenDoorClimate movement, have created significant pathways for those seeking to enter the climate space.

His contributions have been recognized through multiple fellowships and prestigious awards, underscoring his commitment and impact in the field of environmental sustainability

🤝Liveable:

At Liveable, we curate research-backed resources, share thoughtful podcasts, and curate insightful newsletters, nurturing a community of forward-thinking professionals. Together, we're advancing the needle towards a more sustainable and socially responsible building industry.

• Join us on LinkedIn
• Sign Up for The Spark (our weekly newsletter)

💌Empower More Change:

Pass this episode along to someone who might find it useful—it could be the inspiration they're looking for. And remember, your ratings and reviews keep our conversation going and growing. Thank you for tuning in! 🌟🎙

🔊 In this episode of "Changing Tomorrow," Gayathri, founder of Liveable, sits down with the visionary Yiselle Santos Rivera, a trailblazer in the realm of Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) within the architecture and design industry. She delves into the practicalities of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles and how they can be effectively operationalized within organizations and individual projects to foster sustainable, inclusive communities. As a minority in the industry, Yiselle also offers a candid look at her experiences and the systemic challenges she's navigated.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Embrace ESG as a holistic approach to design, going beyond sustainability to encompass social impact and governance.
• ESG is a journey, not just a destination, and should be integrated into the daily operations of organizations.
• Understand the critical role of JEDI in creating spaces that reflect diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• JEDI principles are essential in creating equitable and inclusive spaces within the architectural industry.
• Starting with small steps and being comfortable with imperfection can lead to significant change.
• Building a supportive community is crucial for fostering dialogue and action around social equity in design.

📚Resources:

• AIA Guides for Equitable Practice
• "Out in Architecture" book spotlighting LGBTQIA+ voices 
• Podcast Article and Transcript

🔗Stay Connected:

Gayathri: LinkedIn 

Yiselle Santos Rivera : LinkedIn

🤝Liveable:

At Liveable, we curate research-backed resources, share thoughtful podcasts, and curate insightful newsletters, nurturing a community of forward-thinking professionals. Together, we're advancing the needle towards a more sustainable and socially responsible building industry.

• Join us on LinkedIn
• Sign Up for The Spark (our weekly newsletter)

💌Empower More Change:

Pass this episode along to someone who might find it useful—it could be the inspiration they're looking for. And remember, your ratings and reviews keep our conversation going and growing. Thank you for tuning in! 🌟🎙

Dr. Esther Sternberg, a medical doctor, is a pioneer in blending medical science with architecture and design, paving the way for enhanced well-being and productivity in workspaces. 

She's the Research Director at Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine, and Founding Director at University of Arizona Institute on Place, Wellbeing & Performance. Her notable work with the U.S. General Services Administration on wearable devices informs post-COVID workspace design. She's advised several prestigious institutions on design and health. Author of "Healing Spaces" and the new "WELL at WORK," her work drives the design-health movement into the post-COVID era, showcasing how integrative health in workspaces can boost physical health, emotional wellbeing, and productivity.

In this episode, Gayathri and Dr. Sternberg discuss the elements of an effective workspace, both at home and in offices. 

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Holistic Health in Workspaces:  Beyond good ventilation and filtration, a holistic approach to workspace wellness extends to enhancing emotional and physical well-being.
• Intentionality in Workplace Relationships: Dr. Sternberg draws a parallel between the spirituality in the Japanese tea ceremony and the intentionality required in fostering nurturing workplace relationships and designing a workplace that helps design peoples health.
• Seven Domains of Integrative Health: Engaging in all seven domains of integrative health significantly impacts wellness and resilience, offering a robust foundation for workspace design.
• The Future of Office Spaces: The evolution towards creating inviting, well-being-centric spaces that foster community, social interactions, and support among employees in a hybrid work era.
• Open Office Spaces: The lesser known benefits of well designed open office designs including an increase in physical activity and reduction in stress levels. 

📚Resources:

Books:

• "Healing Spaces: The Science of Place and Well-Being" by Dr. Esther Sternberg
• "Well at Work, Creating Well-Being in Any Workspace" by Dr. Esther Sternberg
• Check out the blog post for the complete list of resources shared in this episode.

🤝Liveable:

At Liveable, we curate research-backed resources, share thoughtful podcasts, and curate insightful newsletters, nurturing a community of forward-thinking professionals. Together, we're advancing the needle towards a more sustainable and socially responsible building industry.

• Join us on LinkedIn
• Sign Up for The Spark (our weekly newsletter)

💌Empower More Change:

Pass this episode along to someone who might find it useful—it could be the inspiration they're looking for. And remember, your ratings and reviews keep our conversation going and growing. Thank you for tuning in! 🌟🎙

Join Gayathri as she engages in a critical conversation with Sarah Newman, addressing the global implications of the overlap between climate change and mental health. This episode is grounded by some startling stats- 40% of youth worldwide are hesitant to start families due to climate anxieties. Also, while 85% of people globally have endured climate change related extreme weather patterns, only nine out of 95 countries have recognized the mental toll and integrated mental health strategies into their national health and climate programs. 

Tune in to unearth actionable strategies and resources crafted to support both individuals and communities as we tackle climate change as a collective.

🎙About our guest:

Sarah Newman is the Executive Director of the Climate Mental Health Network. She started it after her own struggles with climate emotions. She previously worked in the film impact sector for many years and as the first Outreach Director at California Interfaith Power and Light, an interfaith climate organization. She also worked as a community organizer and union organizer.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• The Power of Self-compassion: Sarah underscores the universal need for self-compassion.
• Decoding Climate Mental Health: Exploring the connection between climate change and mental well-being.
• The Shared Emotional Toll: A look into how climate change brings collective emotional repercussions, with youth bearing a significant brunt.
• Unequal Burdens: Unpacking the uneven mental and physical challenges different communities face due to climate change.
• Supporting Teams Amidst Climate Crisis: How organizations can holistically support their members' mental health during these challenging times.
• The Emotional Rollercoaster: Understanding the oscillation between denial and despair in our daily responses to the climate crisis.
• Sarah's Inspirational Journey: From personal struggles to spearheading the Climate Mental Health Network.

📚Resources:

• Kim Nicholas’ Substack, "We Can Fix It"
• The Climate Emotions Wheel 
• Anya Kamenetz’s Substack, “The Golden Hour”
• Climate Mental Health Network's Resource Hub
• Taking Action is a Buffer to Climate Anxiety: Study | Tools
• Read the Episode Article

🤝 Connect with Liveable:

We're a hub dedicated to crafting impactful and innovative solutions that help organizations become forces for good.

• Join us

🤝Liveable:

At Liveable, we curate research-backed resources, share thoughtful podcasts, and curate insightful newsletters, nurturing a community of forward-thinking professionals. Together, we're advancing the needle towards a more sustainable and socially responsible building industry.

• Join us on LinkedIn
• Sign Up for The Spark (our weekly newsletter)

💌Empower More Change:

Pass this episode along to someone who might find it useful—it could be the inspiration they're looking for. And remember, your ratings and reviews keep our conversation going and growing. Thank you for tuning in! 🌟🎙

In this enlightening episode, Gayathri, founder of Liveable, sits down with Nancy Clanton, a pioneer in the lighting industry, to discuss a wide array of topics ranging from mental well-being to sustainable lighting. The conversation explores the intersection of human-centric design, sustainable lighting, and environmental responsibility. Through an intimate discussion, they touch upon everything from the role of daylight in architecture to the impact of light pollution on ecology.

Key Takeaways

Mental Well-Being & Workspace Design

• Mind Wandering: Nancy introduces the concept and highlights its significance in reducing anxiety and boosting creativity.
• Avoiding Straight Lines: Nancy advocates for avoiding rigid lines in architectural designs, underlining the importance of biomimicry.
• Movement in Nature: Nancy and Gayathri discuss how incorporating natural movements into spaces enhances serenity.
• Forest Bathing: Nancy speaks on the benefits of the Japanese practice of "forest bathing" for mental well-being.
• Equitable Design: A call to action from Nancy for more inclusive and people-focused architectural designs.

Views, Daylight, and Health

• Daylight Over Artificial Light: Prioritizing natural light in architectural design for better well-being.
• Design for People, Not Profit: They touch on the tendency of modern architecture to overlook human-centric designs.
• Views Matter: Emphasis on equitable access to views, irrespective of one's position in a company.
• User Feedback: Importance of post-occupancy evaluations to ensure people-focused designs.

Sustainable Lighting & Environmental Responsibility

• Sustainable Lighting: The need for eco-friendly lighting solutions.
• Ecological Impact: How artificial lighting affects wildlife and the natural environment.
• Standards: What industry standards say about responsible outdoor lighting.
• Overestimation of Lighting: Addressing common overestimations in lighting requirements.
• Health Impact: The detrimental effects of excessive artificial lighting on human health.

   Resources and Links:

• Nancy Clanton on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancy-clanton/
• Visibility innovations: www.visibilityinnovations.com
• Gayathri on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gayathri-ukrishnan/
• The podcast article, reading list and the specially designed workbook to apply the concepts discussed in this episode can be found here
• Research paper on mind wandering: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15502724.2022.2055428

🤝Liveable:

At Liveable, we curate research-backed resources, share thoughtful podcasts, and curate insightful newsletters, nurturing a community of forward-thinking professionals. Together, we're advancing the needle towards a more sustainable and socially responsible building industry.

• Join us on LinkedIn
• Sign Up for The Spark (our weekly newsletter)

💌Empower More Change:

Pass this episode along to someone who might find it useful—it could be the inspiration they're looking for. And remember, your ratings and reviews keep our conversation going and growing. Thank you for tuning in! 🌟🎙

In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of belonging and equity with our esteemed guests, Kimberly Inkumsah and Angie Scott. We explore the multifaceted nature of belonging, the role of equity in fostering a sense of community, and the importance of self-care in the journey towards a more inclusive future. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact in their organization and community.

About Our Guests

Kimberly Inkumsah

Kimberly is a changemaker and executive leader in the global green building movement. She champions the critical issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion as the center of the sustainability and climate agenda worldwide. Kimberly serves as the Head of Equity and Engagment at the International WELL Building Institute and focuses on building community power. She has been recognized with numerous awards, including the GB&D magazine 2018 Women in Sustainability Leadership Award (WSLA).

Angie Scott, Ph.D.

Angie is a Director at the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), where she serves as Community Concept and Health Equity Lead. With over 20 years of experience in the interior design profession, her research focuses on the intersection of design and well-being, with a particular emphasis on cultural well-being mediated by the built environment. Dr. Scott holds a Ph.D. in interior design with a concentration in evidence-based design from the University of Minnesota and was named an inaugural American Society of Interior Design (ASID) Ones To Watch Award Winner and Scholar.

Time Stamps

00:00 - 05:00: Introduction and Welcome

05:01 - 15:00: Kimberly's Journey and Views on Belonging

15:01 - 25:00: Angie's Academic Background and Passion for Equity

25:01 - 35:00: The Interplay Between Belonging and Equity

35:01 - 45:00: Self-Care as an Integral Part of the Journey

45:01 - 55:00: Honoring the Legacy of Pioneers in the Field

55:01 - 60:00: Key Takeaways and Conclusion

Key Takeaways

• The Multifaceted Nature of Belonging: Belonging is not just about being present; it's about making a meaningful impact and feeling valued.
• Equity as a Pillar of Belonging: An equitable environment is crucial for fostering a sense of belonging. The new generation is bold in demanding both.
• The Importance of Self-Care: The journey towards equity and belonging should not come at the cost of personal well-being. Self-care is a form of resilience.
• The Legacy of Pioneers: It's crucial to recognize and honor those who have been doing the work in the fields of equity and belonging long before it became a mainstream conversation.

Resources: 

- Podcast article and transcript

Connect with us:

Kimberly Lewis: LinkedIn and

🤝Liveable:

At Liveable, we curate research-backed resources, share thoughtful podcasts, and curate insightful newsletters, nurturing a community of forward-thinking professionals. Together, we're advancing the needle towards a more sustainable and socially responsible building industry.

• Join us on LinkedIn
• Sign Up for The Spark (our weekly newsletter)

💌Empower More Change:

Pass this episode along to someone who might find it useful—it could be the inspiration they're looking for. And remember, your ratings and reviews keep our conversation going and growing. Thank you for tuning in! 🌟🎙

In this insightful episode, Gayathri sits down  with Dr. Yele Aluko,  a seasoned physician executive and the Chief Medical Officer in EY Americas Health Advisory practice. With a background in both the healthcare sector and corporate leadership, Dr. Aluko shares invaluable insights drawn from his experience in fostering health equity.

From his educational beginnings at the University of Ibadan in Nigeria to a distinguished career at Novant Health, Dr. Yele Aluko has long been a force in the healthcare sector. His 25-year journey in cardiovascular medicine has been marked by a commitment to innovation and leadership. Now at the helm of EY Americas Health Advisory practice as the Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Aluko leverages his deep industry knowledge to forge pathways toward health equity. 

The conversation explores systemic racism, the essence of being an "impact maker," and the eye-opening narratives from the book "Medical Apartheid" by Harriet Washington. It's a call to deepen your understanding of the urgent need for equity and inclusivity in the systems and structures that exist today. This episode is not just a discussion but an invitation to witness the transformative potential of equity in fostering communities that are not only healthier but also more inclusive.

Join us as we explore pressing issues of today through the lens of history, equity, and accountability, guided by Dr. Aluko's deep understanding and forward-thinking approach.

Key Takeaways:

• (00:24.822) Impact as a Superpower: Dr. Aluko talks about his dream superpower, one that goes beyond individual efforts to foster collaborative networks aimed at uplifting society. 
• (12:11.022) The Tale of Two Paths: Dr. Aluko dives into a vivid narrative illustrating how different upbringing environments can shape individual life trajectories. 
• (23:39.794) A Deep Dive into Systemic Racism: The conversation gets serious as Dr Aluko and Gayathri explore a report that offers a piercing look into systemic racism, revealing the harsh realities and the urgent need for change. 
• (33:49.546) Unveiling the EY Health Equity Report: Dr. Aluko highlights a crucial report that sheds light on the pressing need for strategy and accountability in mitigating disparities.
• (36:09.494) Learning from the Dark History of Medical Apartheid: The conversation takes a deeper turn as Dr. Aluko recommends a must-read book. 
• (42:59.686) Dr. Aluko's Inspirational Journey: From a cardiologist to EY's Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Aluko shares the pivotal moments of his career. 
• (52:02.454) Closing with Hope and Optimism: As the discussion comes to a close, Dr. Aluko leaves the listeners with a message of hope, encouraging a forward-looking approach to overcome societal hurdles. 

Resources:

• EY Health Equity Report: https://www.ey.com/en_us/health/america-s-health-equity-investment-marginal-return
• Podcast Article and Transcript

🤝Liveable:

At Liveable, we curate research-backed resources, share thoughtful podcasts, and curate insightful newsletters, nurturing a community of forward-thinking professionals. Together, we're advancing the needle towards a more sustainable and socially responsible building industry.

• Join us on LinkedIn
• Sign Up for The Spark (our weekly newsletter)

💌Empower More Change:

Pass this episode along to someone who might find it useful—it could be the inspiration they're looking for. And remember, your ratings and reviews keep our conversation going and growing. Thank you for tuning in! 🌟🎙