In the latest episode of Culture Talks, hosts Lorne Rubis and Wayne Suiter Matamoros, Partner and Head of Empathy in NYC, dive into a thought-provoking conversation about human-centered design, empathetic leadership, and the role of purpose in solving complex challenges.

Why Empathy Matters in Leadership & Innovation. 

Empathy isn’t just a soft skill—it’s a strategic advantage. Lorne and Wayne explore how putting people at the center of design and decision-making leads to more impactful solutions, whether in business, social impact ventures, or organizational culture. They discuss:

• How empathy transforms leadership – moving beyond traditional top-down approaches to foster trust and collaboration.

• The challenges impact-driven founders face – staying true to purpose while navigating business realities.

• Practical strategies for embedding purpose in teams and company culture.

• Human-centered design isn’t just for products—it’s essential for shaping workplaces and communities.

• Empathy drives innovation by uncovering real needs and creating meaningful solutions.

Key Takeaways for Leaders & Changemakers

Purpose must be actionable—how to move from intention to implementation.