Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world!

In this episode, we delve into the seemingly shiny world of digital technology, only to discover that it may just be a facade on top of a more troubling reality. Tom Greenwood, co-founder of Wholegrain Digital, shares his insights on digital sustainability—a critical aspect of our modern life that's often overlooked. From his early disillusionment with eco-design to spearheading innovations in digital impact assessment, Tom's journey is not just about technological advancement but also a moral quest to reshape the digital landscape.

Episode Highlights

Unveiling Digital Impact: Tom discusses the lack of awareness in the digital industry about its environmental impact, comparable to the aviation industry, and the journey that led him to pioneer the first carbon calculator for websites.

Infrastructure Behind the Internet: The real structure of the internet is explained, breaking down the physical infrastructure from data centers to undersea cables that power our everyday digital interactions.

Challenges of Digital Poverty: Discussion shifts to digital poverty, addressing access issues, and the social and economic barriers that affect people globally, from the infrastructure to the skills necessary to navigate the digital world.

Myths of Digital Transactions: Tom tackles the myths and realities of digital transactions and their environmental impact compared to traditional methods, like physical cash versus digital currencies.

Systemic Changes for Sustainable Tech: The conversation turns to systemic changes needed within the digital and global economic framework to ensure technology serves humanity sustainably and ethically.

A final thank you to our wonderful sponsors Triodos Bank UK for making this podcast happen.

Mentions and Resources

• Wholegrain Digital
• About B Corp
• Digital Poverty.
• Website Carbon Calculator
• Apple TV Ad

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Slow down. Make some space. Today's discussion focuses on cultural resilience, the power of reclaiming identity, and the shared human experiences that connect us all, regardless of geography. Join me as I delve into these themes with Matua Marc Peard; an influential voice in both broadcasting and Maori cultural advocacy.

Episode Highlights:

Cultural Reclamation and Everyday Life:

Marc shares insights into how Maori cultural practices and language have been interwoven into everyday life in Aotearoa New Zealand, celebrating the everyday acts of resistance and survival that define cultural resilience.

Impact of Colonisation:

A candid discussion on the effects of colonisation on indigenous people, highlighting the strength of the Maori in preserving their culture and the contemporary relevance of these traditional practices.

Reclaiming Language and Culture:

Exploring the significance of the Maori language and cultural practices as acts of sovereignty and self-determination, and how these efforts contribute to a broader understanding of decolonisation.

Personal Journey and Media Influence:

Marc talks about his personal journey of cultural rediscovery and the role of media in shaping perceptions of Maori culture, both within Aotearoa New Zealand and globally.

System Change Through Indigenous Perspectives:

Discussion on how indigenous knowledge systems and perspectives can lead to a more equitable and sustainable world, challenging listeners to rethink their own views on power and system change.

Follow the show:

You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice.

A final thank you to our wonderful sponsors Triodos Bank UK for making this podcast happen.

Connect with our guest:

• Marc Peard

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Website

Mentions & Resources

 NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡
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They say money makes the world go round… let’s find out how! Welcome back to "If I Ruled the World," the podcast where we delve into the minds of those who dare to imagine a better future. Today, we're joined by Bevis Watts, the UK's first environmentalist banker and CEO of Triodos Bank UK (Our wonderful sponsors). Inspired by the pioneering nature writer Richard Jefferies, Bevis discusses his unique journey from conservation to the being at the forefront of banking system reform.

Episode Highlights:

• Richard Jefferies' Legacy: We start with the poignant history behind Bevis' name and explore how Jeffries' work resonates in today’s environmental discourse, providing a backdrop to Bevis' career trajectory.
• Banking on Change: Bevis shares his insights on how the banking sector can transform to support both people and the planet. His dual expertise in ecology and finance offers a unique perspective on sustainable banking practices.
• Nature and Nurture: Delving into personal reflections, Bevis discusses the intrinsic connection humans share with nature and how it has shaped his professional ethos and personal values.
• Systemic Shifts: From his unique position at Triodos Bank, Bevis discusses the potential for systemic change within the banking sector to support sustainable practices and contribute to a just society.

Follow the show:

You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice.

Follow Gillian

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gillians_voice/

Website: https://www.gillianburkevoice.com/

Mentions & Resources

• Richard Jefferies
• Bevis’s Great Beaver Discovery
• Bevis’s Book: River Journey: Searching For Wild Beavers And Finding Freedom
• Kate Raworth / Doughnut Economics

 NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡
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Welcome to another episode of If I Ruled the World, where I ask my guests what they would do if they ruled the world! In today’s episode, we delve into the heart of personal and planetary transformation with George Thompson. A system change practitioner, filmmaker, Tai Chi teacher, and a communicator of Daoist philosophy, George shares his profound journey from the Wudang mountains of China back to the heart of modern civilisation, exploring how ancient wisdom can guide us through today’s challenges.

Episode Highlights:

The Interconnection of All Beings:

George begins by reflecting on the interconnected intelligence of all beings—how nature's quiet wisdom reminds us of our deep ties to the world around us and within us.

System Change Through Personal Transformation:

Detailing his path through personal crises to finding resilience in Taoist practices, George explains how individual transformation is inseparably linked to broader societal change.

Insight, Practice, Community:

The mantra that has shaped George’s approach—gaining insights through deep reflection, maintaining growth through consistent practice, and building resilience within a supportive community.

Economic Reflections:

A surprise revelation from George about his background in economics leads to a deep dive into the flaws of our current economic system and the potential for a new paradigm based on real growth—emotional, community, and ecological rather than mere GDP.

A big thank you to our wonderful sponsors Triodos Bank UK for making this podcast happen, and to The Wildlife Trusts for their continued support.

Follow the show:

You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice.

Connect with our guest:

• George Thompson

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Website

Mentions & Resources

• Loosing Yourself (George’s new film)

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Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world!

“All you have when the shit hits the fan is each other... Often that is enough.” Welcome to another thought-provoking episode of "If I Ruled the World." Today, I sit down with Joe Glenton, a former British soldier turned journalist and anti-war activist. Joe shares his transformation from a ‘good’ military operative to a voice for peace, dissecting the complexities of military ethics and the true cost of war.

Episode Highlights:

• Military Lessons: Joe opens up about the valuable and harsh lessons he learned during his service, emphasising the importance of solidarity amongst peers when facing dire situations. He reflects on how this lesson of mutual dependence and team ethic, though squandered in the military, is crucial for societal progress.
• Critique of Military Use: Joe critically assesses how military solidarity is often exploited and misused, pointing out the need for a system that genuinely fosters community and support rather than conflict.
• The Role of Media and Public Perception: The conversation takes a deep dive into how media representations can distort public perceptions of war and military actions. Joe and Gillian discuss the role of media in shaping narratives that justify war and overlook its devastating impacts.
• The Importance of Dialogue and Community: Throughout the episode, the emphasis remains on the power of dialogue and community building. Joe advocates for open conversations and collective actions as the pathways towards meaningful system changes and a more peaceful world.

Follow the show:

You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice.

Connect with our guest:

• Joe Glenton - ForcesWatch

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Website

Mentions & Resources

• Veteranhood - Joe Gle

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Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world!

Since recording this episode, Kamala Harris has been nominated as the US Democratic Party’s presidential candidate. So strap yourselves in for a seriously timely conversation about leadership challenges for women of colour! Today, I’m joined by Majora Carter, an urban revitalisation strategy consultant and real estate developer, who is famously known for her pioneering work in green urban planning in the South Bronx.

Episode Highlights:

Majora's Early Influence:

• Growing up in South Bronx, Majora shares her personal evolution amidst the neighbourhood's challenges and the stark realities of urban decline and systemic racism. Her journey from witnessing the destructive fires of the 70s to becoming a beacon of hope and change lays the foundation for this conversation.

Greening the Ghetto:

• Majora recounts her pioneering TED Talk and the inception of sustainable projects like the South Bronx Greenway. She discusses the complexities of introducing green spaces in urban areas and the resistance that sometimes follows from within the community.

The Backlash and Public Perception:

• A profound segment where Majora reflects on the public backlash she faced after gaining national attention, encapsulated by her portrayal in the media as a hero turned betrayer of her own community.

Environmental Justice and Economic Development:

• Majora outlines her strategies for combining environmental sustainability with economic development, emphasising green job training and community empowerment. She delves into the intricate balance of enhancing neighbourhood conditions while fostering local employment.

Vision for Urban Communities:

• If she ruled the world, Majora shares her broader vision for urban communities globally — from policy changes to grassroots initiatives that prioritise both environmental sustainability and social equity.

Follow the show:

You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice.

Connect with our guest:

• Majora Carter

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Brace yourselves, this one is a little different…My guest this week, Stella Marie, shares her explorations into animism and her personal & ancestral connections to the land. A heavy lean into discussions about the sacredness of all life, indigenous wisdom, and the potential transformative power of reconnecting with traditional knowledge systems is at the heart of this conversation. This episode delves into Stella's personal story of spiritual awakening and recovery from loss & addiction through reconnecting with nature, the potential of therapeutic psychedelics, and the broader implications for ecological and collective healing.

Key Points Discussed:

The Power of Animism: Stella explains animism as seeing the world where every entity, human or non-human, is a sovereign being.

Cultural Roots and Indigenous Wisdom: Insights into how reconnecting with her Celtic roots transformed Stella’s view of the world and her place within it.

Psychedelics and Healing: Stella shares her personal experiences with psychedelics and how they aided her mental health and spiritual growth.

Ecological Justice and Social Change: How ancient practices and modern struggles intersect in the fight for a more just and sustainable world.

Reconnecting with Nature: Stella emphasises the importance of community, seasonal living, and the inherent wisdom of natural cycles in fostering a deeper connection to the earth.

Stella’s powerful story and insights offer a compelling look at the intersections of personal healing, cultural identity, and ecological awareness. This episode invites listeners to consider how embracing ancient wisdom and fostering deeper connections with all forms of life can help address modern challenges and transform our world for the better.

Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world!

Follow the show:

You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice.

Connect with Stella:

• Instagram
• TikTok

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Website

Mentions & Resources

 NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡
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“Indigeneity is ancient, but it’s also present and future.” Today, we explore the profound connection between humanity and the natural world. Gillian is joined by Leah Penniman, a dedicated farmer, soil enthusiast, mother, and co-founder of the Afro-Indigenous Centered Community Farm in New York State, known as Soul Fire Farm.

Key Takeaways

Revisiting Youthful Idealism:

• Hear a powerful recording from Leah’s high school graduation speech, questioning the motivations behind our life choices and our impact on the planet.

Reflections on Personal and Social Identity:

• Leah discusses her unique experiences as a black woman in science and nature, challenging the notion of being an outlier and emphasising the universal quest for belonging and purpose.

Farming as Activism:

• With over 30 years of farming experience, Leah intertwines social justice with agriculture, detailing her journey from a youth activist to founding Soul Fire Farm, which focuses on food justice and community empowerment.

Cultural and Ancestral Influence:

• Exploring the impact of her parents' activism, Leah highlights the importance of understanding and honouring our roots, both cultural and environmental.

Environmental Justice and Systemic Issues:

• Leah offers a comprehensive analysis of systemic injustices that exacerbate environmental degradation, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to address these intertwined crises.

Follow the show:

You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice.

Connect with Soul Fire Farm:

• https://www.soulfirefarm.org/

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gillians_voice/

Website: https://www.gillianburkevoice.com/

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Mentions & Resources

• LION (Land in Our Names)
• Lauret Savoy
• Global Grid Potential
• Schumacher Institute

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Work, wealth, people & planet…Welcome back! Today, we dive into the profound impact of work on our lives and society. Our guest, Polly Smythe, a journalist and labour movement correspondent, offers her perspective on the transformation of work, the erosion of worker protections, and the intersection of labour rights with broader social and environmental issues. What would you do, if you weren’t working all the time?…

Key Takeaways

Historical Context and the Modern Work Crisis:

• Polly provides a historical overview of the labour movement, connecting past struggles to current challenges in the workplace. She discusses how the labour movement's focus has shifted over time and its implications for workers today.

Impact of COVID-19 on Work Dynamics:

• The pandemic has intensified workplace exploitation, highlighting the vulnerability of 'essential workers'. Polly shares firsthand observations of increased workloads under the guise of pandemic protocols, setting a new, unsustainable standard for labour expectations.

Journalism and Labour Representation:

• The decline of industrial reporting has left a gap in accurate and empathetic coverage of labour issues. Polly stresses the importance of media in shaping public understanding and policy regarding labour rights.

Economic Inequality and Corporate Power:

• Discussion on the widening gap between the wealthy and the working class, exacerbated by corporate practices aimed at maximising profits at the expense of worker welfare. This segment ties in with a critique of current economic models that favour capital over labour.

Vision for a Redefined Work-Life Balance:

Proposals for systemic change include moving to a 4-day work week to improve quality of life and address environmental concerns. Polly advocates for rethinking work not just as a necessity but as a component of a fulfilling life, aligned with personal and societal well-being.

This episode challenges us to rethink our roles within the modern economy and the true cost of our current work practices on personal and environmental levels. It calls for a return to a more equitable system where work serves humanity, not just the interests of a wealthy few.

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You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice.

Connect with our guest:

• Polly Smythe - Novara Media

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In today's episode, we meet Tyrique Glasgow, a South Philadelphia native who transformed his life from a trajectory marked by gun violence and incarceration to one of community service and mentorship. Tyrique is the founder of the Young Chances Foundation, a community organisation that addresses the deeper systemic issues affecting urban communities, such as access to quality nutrition, generational trauma, and environmental pollution.

Key Takeaways

Community and Personal Transformation:

• Tyrique shares his personal journey from surviving multiple shootings and imprisonment to becoming a pivotal community figure. His transformation began with mentoring local youths, eventually leading to the creating of the Young Chances Foundation.

Environmental and Social Impact:

• Philadelphia's history of industrial pollution and its effect on public health, particularly respiratory conditions, is highlighted. Tyrique discusses how these conditions contribute to the broader context of violence and community despair.

Holistic Community Support:

• The foundation's approach goes beyond addressing immediate needs, focusing on systemic changes that provide sustainable support and empowerment. Initiatives include access to healthy food, mental health services, and youth mentorship programs.

Challenges and Barriers:

• Tyrique points out the obstacles faced by community members, from bureaucratic hurdles that prevent children from participating in recreation to the pervasive violence that impacts daily life.

Vision for the Future:

• A passionate discourse on what leadership and systemic change should look like, emphasising education, community engagement, and environmental justice.

This episode offers a profound look into how interconnected systems of disadvantage and environmental degradation contribute to cycles of violence and poverty. Tyrique Glasgow's story is one of hope and determination, showcasing how one individual's change can lead to community-wide transformation. His insights challenge us to think critically about the root causes of urban violence and the broader societal changes needed to foster true community resilience and growth.

Follow the show:

You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice.

Connect with our guest:

• Young Chances Foundation

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