#8 Sustainability in a Volatile World: What’s Next?

Leading in Chaos

Unprocessed trauma is a governance risk — especially intimes of sustained uncertainty. But there is a second, often unspoken dimension of leadership in complexity: the capacity to access deeper judgement, intuition, and purpose — the “hidden chamber” that sits beneath the surface of rational decision-making. In this segment, host Sandja Brügmann and Amy Elizabeth Fox explore how emotional maturity and trauma‑informed leadership shape executive decision logic, risk‑taking, alignment, and sustained execution in complex, high‑pressure environments. They frame trauma‑informed leadership not as a wellbeing initiative, but as a business imperative for coherent strategy and action in a BANI world — one that is Brittle, Anxious, Nonlinear, and Incomprehensible. Amy Elizabeth Fox discusses the urgent need for inner healing, systemic change, and mature sense‑making, emphasising how spiritual grounding and emotional regulation directly influence organisational performance and leadership effectiveness under sustained uncertainty. This conversation addresses one critical dimension of leadership capability. Vertical development is essential for the evolution of the mind towards a synthetic strategic level — a level of capability required to perceive and shape the transition to a clean economy within planetary and system constraints. This sits at the core of the New Global Mind inquiry. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Credibility 01:10 The Context of Leading in Chaos 02:07 The Two Secrets of Corporate Life 04:06 Trauma and Inner Healing for Leaders 05:32 New Leadership Competencies for Unpredictable Times 06:20 Sourcing Inner Groundedness and Emotional Safety 07:29 The Need for Exponential Imagination 08:12 Befriending the Mystery and Next Practices 08:52 The Evolution of Leadership Development 09:46 Business Case for Deep Inner Work 11:48 Impact of Trauma on Decision-Making 12:37 Interconnected Crises and Systemic Pressure 14:16 Reawakening and Reconnection in Business 15:06 Aligning Business with Life and Sustainability 16:11 The Power of Vulnerability and Authenticity 18:15 Creating Supportive Organizational Structures 20:01 Breaking Through Trauma Conditioning 23:14 Fostering Joy, Passion, and Inspiration 25:28 The Impact of Collective Trauma on Action 26:47 The Role of Tears and Emotional Release 27:21 Integrating Spiritual Wisdom into Business 28:00 Practical Strategies for Organizational Transformation 30:59 Reimagining Work as a Living System 32:20 Practices for Embodied Leadership 32:37 The Power of Movement and Art in Leadership 32:46 Closing Remarks and Inspirational Call to Action New Global Mind is a video podcast exploring leadership and strategic transition in complex systems. The series forms part of New Global Mind—a field of inquiry and strategic sense makinginto how societies, organisations, and economies evolve under conditions of complexity. Through cross disciplinary conversations with senior leaders and experts across systems science, economics, governance, and human behaviour, the podcast examines how leadership, cognition, communication, and decision making are changing. Hosted by Sandja Brügmann, Founder & CEO of The Passion Institute and a synthetic strategist, the series clarifies emerging leadership capabilities and practical pathways for shaping transition under complexity. Amy Elizabeth Fox is the co-founder and CEO of Mobius Executive Leadership, a global transformational leadership firm. For over twenty years, she has advised senior leaders in eminent professional services firms and Fortune 500 companies on leadership and culture change. In 2026, she co-authored Leading in Chaos with Nicholas Janni and is widely regarded as an expert in vertical development and trauma-informed work in organizations. https://www.ThePassionInstitute.com https://www.mobiusleadership.com

#8 Sustainability in a Volatile World: What’s Next?

What really changes when economics and geopolitics rewrite the rules? In this conversation, Michael Kobori and Sandja Brügmann explore how sustainability is evolving amid today’s macroeconomic and geopolitical pressures. Kobori highlights the growing need for sustainability leaders to align their work with core business and financial priorities, the power of collaboration across companies, and the role of innovation in driving systemic change. Drawing on his experience at Starbucks, he also underscores the importance of culture and leadership in embedding sustainability at scale. The discussion closes with a pragmatic yet hopeful outlook, calling for proactive leadership and stronger communities to shape the future of sustainability.    00:00 The Current State of Sustainability 03:49 Navigating Challenges in Sustainability Leadership 08:04 Corporate Responsibility and Systemic Change 11:59 Innovative Solutions and Collaborative Efforts 15:56 Case Studies in Sustainability Initiatives 24:07 The Future of Corporate Sustainability 33:00 Water Initiatives and Corporate Responsibility 35:59 Collaboration for Sustainability 39:07 Leadership and Culture in Sustainability 44:01 Systemic Change and Strategic Design 49:00 Hope and Action in Sustainability 00:00 The Current State of Sustainability 03:54 Navigating Challenges in Sustainability Leadership 07:26 Corporate Responsibility and Systemic Change 10:36 Innovative Solutions and Collaborative Efforts 13:43 Case Studies in Sustainability Initiatives 20:01 The Future of Corporate Sustainability 26:24 Water Initiatives and Corporate Responsibility 28:43 Collaboration for Sustainability 31:08 Leadership and Culture in Sustainability 34:30 Systemic Change and Strategic Design 38:35 Hope and Action    Links Marc Carney’s full speach at Davos 2026 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=btqHDhO4h10 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=btqHDhO4h10] The Culture Code https://danielcoyle.com/the-culture-code/ [https://danielcoyle.com/the-culture-code/] Michael Kobori on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-kobori-7a04b26/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-kobori-7a04b26/] Sandja Brügmann on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandja/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandja/]   New Global Mind:Leadership for Systems Transformation New Global Mind: A video podcast exploring brighter futures through leadership. A new series from The Passion Institute. Each episode explores innovative ideas, wisdom andstrategies with cross-disciplinary experts in systems science, strategic transformation, human behavior, consciousness, sustainability, psychology, economics, spirituality, and technology. About Host SandjaBrügmann, Founder & CEO of The Passion Institute—astrategic transformation institute—a global visionary in leadership and strategic transformation, engages thought leaders and practitioners to shape our collective future. Named one of the "World's Leadership Gurus" by Lederne and known as 'The Board Whisperer' among leaders, she is renowned forher expertise in systems awareness and strategic sustainable transformation. She and team empower forward-thinking organizations and leaders to cultivate the skills and strategies crucial for the systemic transition.   About Michael Kobori Michael Kobori is a global sustainability leader committed to building a more just and sustainable world. He has held senior roles including Chief Sustainability Officer at Starbucks, Vice President of Sustainability at Levi Strauss & Co., and board director at Bunge Global SA. He is currently a strategic advisor to Nationswell and an advisor to GaiaStar, a circular economy start-up. Michael is a Trustee of The Asia Foundation and a member of the U.S.–Japan Council, with prior service across leading industry, NGO, and UN initiatives. A frequent speaker at global forums, Michael has also taught sustainability at UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business. He holds a Master’s in Public Policy from UC Berkeley and has studied sustainable finance at Oxford University.

Parenting and leadership in the age of AI

In this conversation, Léa and Sandja explore the intricate relationship between parenting, leadership, and artificial intelligence (AI). They discuss how parenting experiences shape leadership qualities and the importance of self-leadership in both domains. The dialogue delves into the challenges andopportunities presented by AI in parenting, emphasizing the need for human connection and community in an increasingly digital world. They also reflect on the biological basis of parenting, the role of technology in shaping humanrelationships, and the importance of agency in both children and leaders. Ultimately, the conversation calls for a reimagining of the future of work and parenting, advocating for a human-centric approach to technology and leadership.   Chapters  00:00 Introduction to Parenting, Leadership, and AI 02:41 The Intersection of Parenting and Leadership 05:44 AI's Role in Leadership and Parenting 08:14 The Human Experience vs. AI 11:12 Parenting in the Age of AI 14:00 Biological Foundations of Parenting 16:51 The Impact of AI on Human Relationships 19:38 Attunement and Emotional Connection 22:31 The Role of Technology in Parenting 25:28 The Future of Parenting and Leadership 28:13 The Value of Human Connection 30:54 The Care Economy and Human Values 33:52 The Role of AI in Society 36:34 Raising Humanity vs. Raising AI 39:26 Conclusion: The Future of Parenting and AI 45:00 Reimagining AI's Role in Society 47:02 The Human Element in Technology 49:23 Augmented vs. Artificial Intelligence 50:53 The Value of Human Intelligence 52:57 Redefining Education and Parenting 55:34 The Collapse of Community 01:00:33 Building Trust and Relationships 01:04:47 The Impact of Technology on Human Evolution 01:07:46 Creating the Future Together   Links Connect with Léa Peersman on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lea-peersman/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lea-peersman/] Connect with Sandja Brügmann on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandja/ Global Peter Drucker Forum https://www.druckerforum.org The Passion Institute www.thepassioninstitute.com New Global Mind: A video podcast exploring brighter futures through leadership. A new series from The Passion Institute. Each episode explores innovative ideas, wisdom and strategies with cross-disciplinary experts in systems science, strategictransformation, human behavior, consciousness, sustainability, psychology, economics, spirituality, and technology. Host Sandja Brügmann, Founder & CEO of The Passion Institute—a strategic transformation institute—a global visionary in leadership and strategic transformation, engages thought leaders and practitioners to shape our collective future. Namedone of the "World's Leadership Gurus" by Lederne and known as 'The Board Whisperer' among leaders, she is renowned for her expertise in systems awareness and strategic sustainable transformation. She and team empower forward-thinking organizations and leaders to cultivate the skills and strategies crucial for the transition. About Léa Peersman is a visionary leader and innovator dedicated to unlocking human potential. With two decades of experience in education, leadership, and tech, she challenges the notion that AI's frontier lies in technology, instead focusing on empowering humans. A neurodiverse expert, Léa explores how parenting, culture, and AI literacy can foster creativity and resilience. She has worked with esteemed organizations and spoken at TEDx and Drucker Forum events, advocating for people-centric solutions in the AI era.

Exploring sindsro and the wisdom of elders

In this conversation, Sandja Brügmann and Tor Nørretranders discuss the Shifting Baseline Syndrome, which highlights how each generation perceives the present as the norm, often overlooking the changes that have occurred over time. They explore the vital role of elders in society, emphasizing their moral obligation to contribute and share their memories and experiences. The discussion also touches on the importance of community, the gift economy, and the need for conflict resolution skills. Tor introduces the concept of Sinnsro, a state of peace and acceptance, and highlights the significance of small interactions, or Chula Hop moments, in building social bonds. Overall, the conversation advocates for recognizing thevalue of elders and fostering meaningful connections within communities. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Shifting Baseline Syndrome 07:24 The Role of Elders in Society 13:30 The Importance of Historical Context 18:35 Sensing Gradual Changes in Society 25:29 Navigating Fear and Embracing Change 28:25 The Concept of Sinnsro and Community Dialogue 32:13 Conflict Resolution and Common Ground 32:53 Personal Responsibility in Experiences 35:57 The Role of Social Connections in Longevity 42:48 Community Dynamics and Shared Purpose 43:32 Market Economy vs. Gift Economy 54:32 The Importance of Interpersonal Skills 56:44 The Renaissance of Elders in Society 01:03:29 Exploring Sindsro: Serenity and Wisdom of Elders   About New Global Mind: A video podcast exploring brighter futures through leadership. A series from The Passion Institute. Each episode explores innovative ideas, wisdom and strategies with cross-disciplinary experts in systems science, strategictransformation, human behavior, consciousness, sustainability, psychology, economics, spirituality, and technology.   About Tor Nørretranders he is an independent author, thinker and speaker based in Denmark, serving an international audience.  A leading science communicator of Denmark, Torhas involved himself in numerous activities in the public arena and his lecture tours, gathering tens of thousands of people, have been major events on the Scandinavian scene.. Tor has published 30+ books spanning issues from the worldview of science and the role of science in society to environmental issues and the realm of human experience and consciousness.  "Mærk verden" from 1991 (English title: The User Illusion) became an international bestseller, even though it is a500-page treatise on the role of consciousness in human affairs. In 2025 Tor published “Alderdomsoprør” about the potential role of the elderly as spearheads of a new revolt against the monotony of life and nature stemming from modern life. The book advocates for serenity as the value needed for a new age.   About Host Sandja Brügmann, Founder & CEO of The Passion Institute—a strategic transformation institute—a global visionary in leadership and strategic transformation, engages thought leaders and practitioners to shape our collective future. Named one of the "World's Leadership Gurus" byLederne and known as 'The Board Whisperer' among leaders, she is renowned for her expertise in systems awareness and strategic sustainable transformation. She and team empower forward-thinking organizations and leaders to cultivate theskills and strategies crucial for the transition.   Links Tor's website https://www.tor.dk/ Sandja's company website www.ThePassionInstitute.com

A bold reimagining of economics and finance in service to life

In this conversation, John Fullerton and Sandja Brügmannexplore the urgent need for a reimagined economic and financial system that serves life. They discuss the concept of the polycrisis, which encompasses interconnected crises such as climate change and inequality, and emphasize the importance of shifting worldviews from separation to unity. The dialogue highlights the necessity of effective communication, the role of consciousness in systemic change, and the potential for regenerative economics to align purpose with investment. They also address the challenges of navigating chaos and the importance of finding joy in the transformative work ahead. New Global Mind: A video podcast exploring brighter futures through leadership. A new series from The Passion Institute. Each episode explores innovative ideas, wisdom and strategies with cross-disciplinary experts in systems science, strategictransformation, human behavior, consciousness, sustainability, psychology, economics, spirituality, and technology. Takeaways The economy is a living system, not a machine The polycrisis encompasses interconnected crises like climate change and inequality A worldview shift is necessary to address root causes of crises Dialogue is essential for generative conversations and understanding We must work on consciousness to change the systems we inhabit Islands of coherence can shift entire system Regenerative economics is about aligning purpose with investment First principles of living systems guide sustainable practices Potential exists in all systems, but must be nurtured Collective rising consciousness can lead to systemic change   Chapters 00:00 A Bold Reimagination of Economics 03:10 Understanding the Polycrisis 05:04 The Myth of Separation 07:24 Worldview Shifts and Integral Age Thinking 09:59 The Challenge of Communication 12:19 Navigating Emotional Immaturity 14:29 Paradigm Shifts in Economics 17:05 Living Systems and Economic Health 19:29 Experiential Learning and Regenerative Economics 21:44 Potential and Darkness in Living Systems 30:48 The Dark Side of Algorithms 32:58 First Principles and Business Models 36:42 The State of the Global Economy 40:51 Paradigm Shifts and Collective Consciousness 43:20 Strategies for Change 47:16 Finding Joy in the Work   Links: www.CapitalInstitute.org [http://www.CapitalInstitute.org] Places to Intervene in a System https://donellameadows.org/archives/leverage-points-places-to-intervene-in-a-system/ [https://donellameadows.org/archives/leverage-points-places-to-intervene-in-a-system/] Savory Institute https://savory.global/ [https://savory.global/] Mondragon Corporation https://www.mondragon-corporation.com/en/ [https://www.mondragon-corporation.com/en/] The Passion Institute www.ThePassionInstitute.com [http://www.ThePassionInstitute.com]  About John B. Fullerton is an American economist, investor, with a previous international career at JP Morgan, and author of the 2015 booklet, Regenerative Capitalism: How Universal Patterns and Principles Will Shape the New Economy. Fullerton began his financial career with JPMorgan managing numerous capital markets and derivaties businesses around the globe, and was JPMorgan’s Oversight Committee Representative that managed the rescue of Long Term Capital Management in 1998. Following his retirement from JP Morgan, in 2010, he created the Capital Institute, a think-tank on regenerative economic theory, an attempt to imagine economics and finance in service to life. About Host Sandja Brügmann, Founder & CEO of The Passion Institute—a strategic transformation institute—a global visionary in leadership and strategic transformation, engages thought leaders and practitioners to shape our collective future. Named one of the "World's Leadership Gurus" byLederne and known as 'The Board Whisperer' among leaders, she is renowned for her expertise in systems awareness and strategic sustainable transformation. She and team empower forward-thinking organizations and leaders to cultivate theskills and strategies crucial for the transition.