Straight Talking Sustainability

This week, I’m speaking with Briony Pete - leadership coach and engagement specialist - about why change doesn’t start with strategy; it starts with people. 

We explored how traditional sustainability roles often miss the mark by not equipping professionals with the mindset or leadership tools needed to influence real transformation.

Briony shared that the biggest blocker isn’t a lack of knowledge, but often mindset - imposter feelings, overwhelm, and not knowing how to engage others beyond surface-level support. 

Her work focuses on building internal confidence, creating space for reflection, and developing trust, all crucial for driving meaningful change.

If you’re trying to lead sustainability from within, this one’s for you.

Here are the highlights:

Briony's Background and Shift to Sustainability (1:59)

Challenges in Sustainability Leadership (5:00)

Building Trust and Relationships (9:42)

Mindset and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome (13:47)

The Role of Emotions and Discomfort (24:04)

Building a Network of Allies (33:12)

Top Action for Listeners (37:35)

Connect with Briony:

Briony Pete | LinkedIn

https://www.circularlife.co.uk/flex_access

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Not Sustainable

In today’s episode, I share what happened when someone told me, “You need better evidence if you want to convince us.” It made me realise - we’re not here to convince, we’re here to connect.

I explore why trying to prove the case for sustainability can create more resistance, and how shifting to curiosity, listening, and meeting people where they are is a far more effective approach.

If you’ve ever felt stuck trying to get people on board, this one’s for you. Let’s stop convincing - and start connecting.

Here are the highlights:

The Importance of Meeting People Where They are (5:06)

The Role of Leadership in Sustainability (10:25)

Reframing the Approach to Sustainability Communication (13:47)

Overcoming Barriers to Effective Communication (14:10)

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Emma Burlow | LinkedIn

Not Sustainable

This week on Straight Talking Sustainability, I’m diving into one of the biggest shake-ups in the sustainability world - the B Corp standards reset. 

I’m joined by the brilliant Ellie Austin and Jessica Farrow from 12, who work hands-on with purpose-led consumer brands navigating B Corp certification.

We talk about what’s changed in the new standards, why the old point-scoring system is out, and how the new approach raises the bar with clear minimum requirements. We also get into the challenges, myths, and real opportunities this creates for brands wanting to walk the talk when it comes to sustainability. 

If you've been curious (or skeptical) about B Corp, this one’s for you.

Here are the highlights:

Changes in B Corp Standards (2:28)

Growth and Challenges of the B Corp Movement (4:24)

Impact of New Standards on Businesses (9:01)

Perception and Adoption of the New Standards (23:50)

Support and Resources for B Corp Certification (31:15)

Connect with Ellie and Jessica:

https://www.bcorporation.net/en-us/standards/performance-requirements/

Jessica: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-ferrow

Ellie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellie-austin

Twelve’s B Corp insights newsletter: https://twelve-futures.kit.com/b-corp

Twelve’s website: www.twelvefutures.com

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Not Sustainable

We’ve officially done it - Lighthouse is now a certified B Corp!  

This episode is a bit of a behind-the-scenes on what that really means, why I decided to go for it, and what the journey’s been like as a small business.

I’m sharing what helped us get over the line, what surprised me along the way, and the parts that were way more challenging than I expected. It’s been nearly four years in the making - and not always a straight line - but it’s been totally worth it.

If you’re a fellow founder who’s B Corp curious, wondering if it’s “worth it” or how the process even works, I hope this gives you some clarity and encouragement.

Here are the highlights:

Challenges and Benefits of B Corp Certification (2:03)

Impact of B Corp on Business Practices (4:19)

Administrative Challenges and Scoring (6:14)

Tips for Aspiring B Corps (8:50)

Resources and Support for B Corp Journey (12:33)

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Emma Burlow | LinkedIn

Not Sustainable

In this inspiring conversation, Emma welcomes global communications coach Caroline Harvey to explore why so many women - especially in STEM and sustainability - struggle to be heard.

From imposter syndrome to the myth of “not being expert enough,” they dig into the common barriers women face in sharing their expertise with confidence.

Caroline shares practical tips for owning your voice, simplifying complex messages, and using storytelling to create connection and influence.

Whether you’re a quiet introvert or navigating a noisy room, this episode offers empowering strategies to help you speak up with impact.

Here are the highlights:

Imposter Syndrome and Coaching (3:45)

Overcoming Barriers and Finding Confidence (7:36)

Storytelling and Communication Techniques (13:04)

Balancing Positivity and Reality in Communication (19:10)

Global Communication and Cultural Sensitivity (35:03)

Practical Tips for Overcoming Communication Challenges (37:13)

Connect with Caroline:

www.carolineharvey.me

es.linkedin.com/in/caroharvey/

My podcast, Postcards with Presence:

https://postcards-with-presence.captivate.fm/

The interview on the On Being podcast with journalist David Bornstein:

https://onbeing.org/programs/david-bornstein-on-our-lives-with-the-news/

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Emma Burlow | LinkedIn

Not Sustainable

In this solo episode, I’m talking about something I know so many of us in the sustainability space are feeling right now - things feel loud, divisive, and at times, completely disheartening.

I share why sustainability doesn’t disappear with bad politics, and how progress often works in cycles - not a neat upward line. 

You’ll hear why I believe chaos creates opportunity, why we need to accept resistance as part of the process, and how finding unlikely allies can move us forward in unexpected ways. I also talk about consistency - not shouting louder, but simply showing up again and again. 

If you’ve been feeling knocked back or unsure of your place, this is your reminder that the long game matters - and you are absolutely part of it.

Here are the highlights:

The Impact of Political Changes on Sustainability (3:23)

Forming Alliances and Finding Consistency (6:44)

Accepting Resistance (7:08)

Playing the Long Game (15:33)

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Emma Burlow | LinkedIn

Not Sustainable

In this episode, I sit down with the brilliantly bold Jarvis Smith - founder of My Green Pod and the PEA Awards - to talk about what it really means to fuse business with spiritual purpose. 

From shamanic training and sacred plants to launching the world’s biggest ethical lifestyle magazine, Jarvis shares how a transformative experience on a landfill (yes, really) shaped his life’s work. 

We explore the power of conscious consumerism, how to reach mainstream audiences without preaching, and why true change begins by tuning into the quiet voice within. 

Expect inspiration, honesty, and a challenge to rethink what your legacy could look like.

Here are the highlights:

Jarvis' Background and Training (1:37)

Professional Journey and Impactful Moments (3:54)

Transition to Independent Publishing (12:02)

Reaching a Broader Audience (13:50)

The Role of Activism and Personal Responsibility (30:35)

Connect with Jarvis:

(7) Jarvis Smith FRSA | LinkedIn

www.jarvissmith.com

www.mygreenpod.com

www.ommmpresents.com

www.peaawards.com

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Not Sustainable

Feeling totally swamped by sustainability? 

You're not alone. 

In this episode, I’m getting straight to the point about why so many of us are stuck in a cycle of burnout, blank stares from the boardroom, and to-do lists that never shrink. 

It’s not you - it’s the impossible expectations. 

I’m breaking down the real reasons behind sustainability overwhelm and sharing a practical way to start regaining control, one small permanent shift at a time.

Highlights: 

(00:46) Sustainability overwhelm is real

(01:55) ESG isn’t a side hustle

(03:30) You’re not supposed to know everything

(06:28) The pressure’s ridiculous and the expectations are off the charts

(07:35) That to-do list? It’s not ever getting “done”- and that’s OK

(10:06) Chunk it down and start with one small change

(12:22) People matter: rally your crew

(15:30) Don’t waste energy on things that look good but do nothing

Find out more:

www.lighthouse-sustainability.co.uk 

Sign up to our newsletter ‘The Beacon’ here 

Upcoming course dates

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Not Sustainable

AI is everywhere right now, but what does it really mean for sustainability?

In this episode, Emma sits down with Rebecca Allen, a business strategist and AI mentor, to untangle the tricky relationship between AI, energy use, and corporate responsibility.

They break down the good, the bad, and the slightly alarming when it comes to AI's environmental impact, with plenty of real-world examples and a few reality checks along the way. If you want to stay ahead without losing your sanity (or your values), this chat will give you a fresh, practical perspective.

Here are the Highlights:

AI and Sustainability: Complexities and Challenges (4:31)

Examples of AI in Corporate Sustainability (8:48)

Implementation and Governance of AI (12:53)

Positive Impact of AI on Sustainability (22:44)

Challenges and Future Trends (24:52)

Further resources:

AI for Good 

Climate Change AI

World Economic Forum - Roadmap for Business and Governments 

AI Terminology Starter Glossary - https://bit.ly/3EqIgv3 

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Not Sustainable

In this episode, I’m digging into the idea that sustainability is always “someone else’s problem” - the government, big business, China, consumers, take your pick. 

Inspired by a Douglas Adams quote and a lot of workplace reality, we’re exploring the psychological blind spots that keep teams stuck and sustainability sitting out in the metaphorical corridor.

I share why this mindset is so persistent, how to meet people where they are, and the power of tiny permanent wins in creating real traction. Plus, I offer practical ways to embed sustainability into every corner of your business - without waiting for permission or trying to convince people who “just don’t get it.” 

If you’ve ever felt frustrated by inaction or unsure how to get others on board, this episode is for you.

Here are the highlights:

Navigating the Blind Spot (3:52)

The Role of People in the Climate Movement (6:13)

Encouraging Non-Experts to Act (9:14)

Tips for Moving People Towards Sustainability (11:51)

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Emma Burlow | LinkedIn

Not Sustainable