Changing Tomorrow: Architecture, Equity, and Social Sustainability Wed, 08 Jul 2026 07:33:05 -0400 https://changingtomorrow.buzzsprout.com en-us © 2026 Copyright © 2023 Changing Tomorrow yes 362f1d96-1cfa-5766-9658-cd7fb4217dbc Liveable episodic false Changing Tomorrow is the podcast for real estate developers, architects, workplace strategists, and corporate leaders whose decisions shape the built environment.


Each season tackles a critical, unresolved challenge at the intersection of sustainable design, commercial real estate, corporate strategy, and human performance. We look closely at the friction points where ESG goals and business objectives collide faster than the industry can agree on a path forward.

Through candid conversations with global practitioners, researchers, and cross-industry leaders, we test a fundamental question: can buildings, interior spaces, and organizations be intentionally designed to measurably improve human health, equity, and well-being?


Changing Tomorrow is powered by Liveable, an independent research and advisory organization setting a clearer standard for social value in the built environment. We work with real estate, workplace, and built environment leaders to understand how buildings, products, policies, and business strategies shape people’s lives. Through research, reporting, and strategic advisory, Liveable helps organizations assess human impact, communicate it clearly, and use it to make better decisions.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Liveable https://storage.buzzsprout.com/zisj4ev1dpo2vphshp9ce8u3qhoj?.jpg Changing Tomorrow: Architecture, Equity, and Social Sustainability https://changingtomorrow.buzzsprout.com Filmmaker and Tech Founder: Cultivating Authentic Human Perspective in the Age of AI | Archita Mandal | People Positive AI Filmmaker and Tech Founder: Cultivating Authentic Human Perspective in the Age of AI | Archita Mandal | People Positive AI
Opening Episode Promise

What happens to human voice, brand authority, and strategic perspective when anyone can generate hundreds of versions of a creative concept in seconds? In this episode of Changing Tomorrow, we skip the sensationalist headlines about job replacement and dive into the practical reality of creative workflow optimization. Discover how senior leaders can leverage generative tools to slash time-to-market while building ironclad digital trust.


Guest Authority

Archita Mandal is an award-winning writer, director, producer, and tech executive. As the CEO and co-founder of Up and Now, she leads an AI platform that collapses raw concepts into production-ready blueprints without heavy prompting. With a deep corporate background in cloud security architecture for global enterprises alongside critical acclaim for her films Ominous and The Nair House (available on Amazon Prime), Archita bridges the gap between technical infrastructure and human emotional resonance.


Key Takeaways:

  • The AI-in-the-Loop Framework: Why the common industry narrative of "human-in-the-loop" gets the relationship backward, and how flipping this mindset keeps human intention in the driver's seat.
  • Tactical Workflow Optimization: How generative tools can strip the structural tediousness out of the creative process, allowing teams to deliver initial drafts and production blueprints dramatically faster.
  • Balancing Live Action with Automation: Practical insights from a 99% live-action festival film that strategically utilized machine-generated assets only where budget and time created gaps.
  • Why Storytelling Can’t Be Automated: How the subconscious mind detects generic "AI slop," and why real emotional resonance and cultural nuance still require a distinct human perspective.
  • The Power of No-Prompt Architectures: How the next generation of creative tools is removing complex prompt engineering by extracting user intent straight from existing brand parameters.
  • Protecting Content Integrity: The emerging role of digital provenance and open tracking standards, like the C2PA framework, in establishing trust and protecting original work.


Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction: What Does Creativity Mean in the Age of Automation?
  • 02:12 Moving Beyond Play: How Advanced Enterprise Users Approach Workflows
  • 05:14 Case Study: Balancing Live Production with Generative Asset Creation
  • 11:56 The Illusion of Replacement: Why Technology Cannot Automate Nuance
  • 13:16 Reversing the Framework: Shifting from Human-in-the-Loop to AI-in-the-Loop
  • 14:51 Eliminating Prompt Friction: Designing Purpose-Built Content Architectures
  • 20:32 Emotional Resonance: The Subconscious Markers of Authentic Human Storytelling
  • 31:36 Defining People-Positive AI: Guardrails, C2PA Compliance, and Digital Provenance


Resources & Links Mentioned: 


SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:

If you found this episode valuable, please subscribe to Changing Tomorrow on 

Leave us a five-star review to help other leaders find the show.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]>
Opening Episode Promise

What happens to human voice, brand authority, and strategic perspective when anyone can generate hundreds of versions of a creative concept in seconds? In this episode of Changing Tomorrow, we skip the sensationalist headlines about job replacement and dive into the practical reality of creative workflow optimization. Discover how senior leaders can leverage generative tools to slash time-to-market while building ironclad digital trust.


Guest Authority

Archita Mandal is an award-winning writer, director, producer, and tech executive. As the CEO and co-founder of Up and Now, she leads an AI platform that collapses raw concepts into production-ready blueprints without heavy prompting. With a deep corporate background in cloud security architecture for global enterprises alongside critical acclaim for her films Ominous and The Nair House (available on Amazon Prime), Archita bridges the gap between technical infrastructure and human emotional resonance.


Key Takeaways:

  • The AI-in-the-Loop Framework: Why the common industry narrative of "human-in-the-loop" gets the relationship backward, and how flipping this mindset keeps human intention in the driver's seat.
  • Tactical Workflow Optimization: How generative tools can strip the structural tediousness out of the creative process, allowing teams to deliver initial drafts and production blueprints dramatically faster.
  • Balancing Live Action with Automation: Practical insights from a 99% live-action festival film that strategically utilized machine-generated assets only where budget and time created gaps.
  • Why Storytelling Can’t Be Automated: How the subconscious mind detects generic "AI slop," and why real emotional resonance and cultural nuance still require a distinct human perspective.
  • The Power of No-Prompt Architectures: How the next generation of creative tools is removing complex prompt engineering by extracting user intent straight from existing brand parameters.
  • Protecting Content Integrity: The emerging role of digital provenance and open tracking standards, like the C2PA framework, in establishing trust and protecting original work.


Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction: What Does Creativity Mean in the Age of Automation?
  • 02:12 Moving Beyond Play: How Advanced Enterprise Users Approach Workflows
  • 05:14 Case Study: Balancing Live Production with Generative Asset Creation
  • 11:56 The Illusion of Replacement: Why Technology Cannot Automate Nuance
  • 13:16 Reversing the Framework: Shifting from Human-in-the-Loop to AI-in-the-Loop
  • 14:51 Eliminating Prompt Friction: Designing Purpose-Built Content Architectures
  • 20:32 Emotional Resonance: The Subconscious Markers of Authentic Human Storytelling
  • 31:36 Defining People-Positive AI: Guardrails, C2PA Compliance, and Digital Provenance


Resources & Links Mentioned: 


SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:

If you found this episode valuable, please subscribe to Changing Tomorrow on 

Leave us a five-star review to help other leaders find the show.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> Buzzsprout-19398988 Wed, 08 Jul 2026 04:00:00 -0700 2244 2 4 full false Stanford Scholar: Opting Out of AI Is Not Neutral | Zainab Garba-Sani | People Positive AI Stanford Scholar: Opting Out of AI Is Not Neutral | Zainab Garba-Sani | People Positive AI The Real Cost of Digital Disengagement

What if the most ethical stance you could take against biased technology actually made that technology twice as dangerous?

In this episode of Changing Tomorrow, host Gayathri welcomes Zainab Garba- Sani, founder of Access AI, Stanford-affiliated research scholar, and UK Commonwealth Fund Senior Harkness Fellow. Zainab sits at the high-stakes intersection of health policy, innovation, and community-centered practice, putting the people closest to problems at the centre of driving their solutions. 

She explains why passive disengagement from technological infrastructure drives suboptimal performance for marginalized populations. True systems change requires moving past surface-level public relations exercises and designing authentic, structural pathways for data stewardship.


Inside the Conversation:

  • Why "opting out" of artificial intelligence directly creates biased datasets that compromise human health and safety.
  • The example of bias within a widely-used clinical  algorithm, revealing how using financial expenditure as a proxy for human need distorts automated decision-making.
  • The historical landscape of institutional exploitation, from Henrietta Lacks to modern clinical trials, and why a trust deficit blocks technological scaling.
  • How individual data consent can inadvertently dismantle community data sovereignty agreements.
  • The practical mechanics of reducing the structural burden of engagement for busy, complex populations.
  • Why the modern tech race will inevitably stall at the implementation phase unless organizations view trust as a hard capital investment.


Chapters:

  • 00:00 – Introduction: Shifting past the empty rhetoric of "responsible innovation"
  • 01:52 – The Risk Vector: Why opting out of data creation is a systemic danger
  • 03:43 – Inherited Disparities: How historical institutional distrust compromises modern datasets
  • 06:08 – The Proxy Trap: Case studies in algorithmic miscalculation and human harm
  • 09:34 – Redefining Engagement: Moving past the corporate tick-box model
  • 13:59 – The Business Case for Trust: Why inclusive implementation determines commercial success
  • 18:15 – Lessons from Public Health: Specificity, intersectionality, and cultural compliance
  • 26:37 – The Policy Path: Building capability, feedback loops, and data stewardship
  • 41:53 – Defining People Positive AI: Operational equity for the modern enterprise


Resources & Links: 


Subscribe & Review:

If you found this episode valuable, please subscribe to Changing Tomorrow on 

Leave us a five-star review to help other leaders find the show.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> The Real Cost of Digital Disengagement

What if the most ethical stance you could take against biased technology actually made that technology twice as dangerous?

In this episode of Changing Tomorrow, host Gayathri welcomes Zainab Garba- Sani, founder of Access AI, Stanford-affiliated research scholar, and UK Commonwealth Fund Senior Harkness Fellow. Zainab sits at the high-stakes intersection of health policy, innovation, and community-centered practice, putting the people closest to problems at the centre of driving their solutions. 

She explains why passive disengagement from technological infrastructure drives suboptimal performance for marginalized populations. True systems change requires moving past surface-level public relations exercises and designing authentic, structural pathways for data stewardship.


Inside the Conversation:

  • Why "opting out" of artificial intelligence directly creates biased datasets that compromise human health and safety.
  • The example of bias within a widely-used clinical  algorithm, revealing how using financial expenditure as a proxy for human need distorts automated decision-making.
  • The historical landscape of institutional exploitation, from Henrietta Lacks to modern clinical trials, and why a trust deficit blocks technological scaling.
  • How individual data consent can inadvertently dismantle community data sovereignty agreements.
  • The practical mechanics of reducing the structural burden of engagement for busy, complex populations.
  • Why the modern tech race will inevitably stall at the implementation phase unless organizations view trust as a hard capital investment.


Chapters:

  • 00:00 – Introduction: Shifting past the empty rhetoric of "responsible innovation"
  • 01:52 – The Risk Vector: Why opting out of data creation is a systemic danger
  • 03:43 – Inherited Disparities: How historical institutional distrust compromises modern datasets
  • 06:08 – The Proxy Trap: Case studies in algorithmic miscalculation and human harm
  • 09:34 – Redefining Engagement: Moving past the corporate tick-box model
  • 13:59 – The Business Case for Trust: Why inclusive implementation determines commercial success
  • 18:15 – Lessons from Public Health: Specificity, intersectionality, and cultural compliance
  • 26:37 – The Policy Path: Building capability, feedback loops, and data stewardship
  • 41:53 – Defining People Positive AI: Operational equity for the modern enterprise


Resources & Links: 


Subscribe & Review:

If you found this episode valuable, please subscribe to Changing Tomorrow on 

Leave us a five-star review to help other leaders find the show.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> Liveable Buzzsprout-19393559 Wed, 01 Jul 2026 04:00:00 -0700 2594 2 3 full false Workplace Research Authority: Is AI Actually Making the Workplace More Human? | Janet Pogue McLaurin | People Positive AI Workplace Research Authority: Is AI Actually Making the Workplace More Human? | Janet Pogue McLaurin | People Positive AI What if the widespread adoption of AI actually makes our physical workplaces more human, not less? In this episode, we unpack ground-breaking global research that turns the AI isolation narrative on its head. 

We explore why AI power users are spending less time working alone, why traditional real estate efficiency metrics are failing, and how forward-thinking leaders can design physical environments that act as catalysts for shared learning, deep trust, and human breakthrough.


Expert 

Janet Pogue McLaurin is a Principal and the Global Director of Workplace Research at Gensler, the world's premier global architecture and design firm. For more than four decades, Janet has occupied a singular space at the intersection of business strategy, human data, and architectural design. She leads the Gensler Global Workplace Survey, which is now in its 23rd year and stands as the world’s most comprehensive, ongoing investigation into how people experience the built environment, analyzing over 120,000 respondents across its history.


Takeaways:

  • The surprising 2026 data revealing that AI power users spend more time socializing, learning, and building team networks than non-users.
  • The reality of the hybrid "sweet spot," where data shows employees globally need to be in the office around 65% of the week to maximize productivity.
  • Why the pre-pandemic office layout was already fundamentally broken by February 2020 due to an over-reliance on individual heads-down design.
  • An architectural blueprint that flips the standard layout by prioritizing open collaboration hubs and silent focus zones
  • How to build neuro-inclusive environments by "designing to the edges" through co-design and providing purposeful variety.
  • Why real estate must be viewed as an investment in building "weak ties" and corporate trust, rather than just an administrative overhead expense to minimize.


Chapters

  • 00:00 Episode Introduction: The AI Finding That Stopped Me
  • 01:48 Guest Welcome & The Scale of the Gensler Global Workplace Survey
  • 02:17 Debunking the Myth: The Counterintuitive Behavior of AI Power Users
  • 05:14 The Hybrid Sweet Spot: Redefining Where Work Needs to Happen
  • 07:43 February 2020: Remembering the Broken Pre-Pandemic Office
  • 13:57 Designing for Behavior: Moving from Space Efficiency to Human Experience
  • 17:03 Case Study: How Gensler San Francisco Flipped the Script on Spatial Layout
  • 20:14 Designing to the Edges: Co-Design, Neuro-Inclusivity, and Purposeful Abundance
  • 27:14 Turning Real Estate from an Expense into an Investment in Trust
  • 29:12 The Geography of Collaboration: Corridors, Coffee, and Cross-Functional Spaces
  • 35:21 Hacking the Office: Why 34% of Your Staff Are Making DIY Fixes
  • 42:55 Final Question: What Does People Positive AI Look Like?


Resources & Links Mentioned: 

SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:

If you found this episode valuable, please subscribe to Changing Tomorrow on 



This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> What if the widespread adoption of AI actually makes our physical workplaces more human, not less? In this episode, we unpack ground-breaking global research that turns the AI isolation narrative on its head. 

We explore why AI power users are spending less time working alone, why traditional real estate efficiency metrics are failing, and how forward-thinking leaders can design physical environments that act as catalysts for shared learning, deep trust, and human breakthrough.


Expert 

Janet Pogue McLaurin is a Principal and the Global Director of Workplace Research at Gensler, the world's premier global architecture and design firm. For more than four decades, Janet has occupied a singular space at the intersection of business strategy, human data, and architectural design. She leads the Gensler Global Workplace Survey, which is now in its 23rd year and stands as the world’s most comprehensive, ongoing investigation into how people experience the built environment, analyzing over 120,000 respondents across its history.


Takeaways:

  • The surprising 2026 data revealing that AI power users spend more time socializing, learning, and building team networks than non-users.
  • The reality of the hybrid "sweet spot," where data shows employees globally need to be in the office around 65% of the week to maximize productivity.
  • Why the pre-pandemic office layout was already fundamentally broken by February 2020 due to an over-reliance on individual heads-down design.
  • An architectural blueprint that flips the standard layout by prioritizing open collaboration hubs and silent focus zones
  • How to build neuro-inclusive environments by "designing to the edges" through co-design and providing purposeful variety.
  • Why real estate must be viewed as an investment in building "weak ties" and corporate trust, rather than just an administrative overhead expense to minimize.


Chapters

  • 00:00 Episode Introduction: The AI Finding That Stopped Me
  • 01:48 Guest Welcome & The Scale of the Gensler Global Workplace Survey
  • 02:17 Debunking the Myth: The Counterintuitive Behavior of AI Power Users
  • 05:14 The Hybrid Sweet Spot: Redefining Where Work Needs to Happen
  • 07:43 February 2020: Remembering the Broken Pre-Pandemic Office
  • 13:57 Designing for Behavior: Moving from Space Efficiency to Human Experience
  • 17:03 Case Study: How Gensler San Francisco Flipped the Script on Spatial Layout
  • 20:14 Designing to the Edges: Co-Design, Neuro-Inclusivity, and Purposeful Abundance
  • 27:14 Turning Real Estate from an Expense into an Investment in Trust
  • 29:12 The Geography of Collaboration: Corridors, Coffee, and Cross-Functional Spaces
  • 35:21 Hacking the Office: Why 34% of Your Staff Are Making DIY Fixes
  • 42:55 Final Question: What Does People Positive AI Look Like?


Resources & Links Mentioned: 

SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:

If you found this episode valuable, please subscribe to Changing Tomorrow on 



This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> Liveable Buzzsprout-19393398 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 04:00:00 -0700 2677 2 2 full false Why AI Optimization Can’t Replace Human Intuition | Gayathri Unnikrishnan | People Positive AI Why AI Optimization Can’t Replace Human Intuition | Gayathri Unnikrishnan | People Positive AI What happens when the software managing your property makes a decision that your team cannot explain, justify, or reverse? In this solo episode, host Gayathri marks the return of Changing Tomorrow by breaking down the hidden realities of the rapid AI transition inside the building industry. Moving far beyond automated thermostats, modern property systems now quietly dictate lease pricing, security access, and tenant screening. This episode reveals how unchecked automation turns historical societal data into a permanent digital wall, and introduces the essential governance framework leaders need to maintain human oversight.

Host Authority Gayathri is the founder of Liveable, an organization dedicated to measuring, communicating, and leading on social value, public health, and people-positive strategies within the built environment. With years of experience advising leaders across manufacturing, operations, and design, Gayathri bridges the gap between technical data systems and real-world human impact.

Key Themes Explained:

  • The New Smart Building: How automated software now controls access, dynamic rent pricing, security experiences, and facilities management without human intervention.
  • Algorithmic Redlining: The process by which predictive algorithms infer race, socioeconomic status, or identity through thousands of secondary data points.
  • The Illusion of Neutrality: Why large language models and predictive analytics inherit, memorize, and repackage our worst historical real estate mistakes.
  • The Petrified Wood Effect: How over-relying on backward-looking data sets calcifies modern real estate operations, making them brittle when unexpected crises hit.
  • The NIST Framework Adapted: Five crucial questions every real estate executive must ask immediately before deploying automated software.
  • Microseason Preview: A first look at upcoming conversations with global experts from Gensler, Stanford University, and the creative arts on navigating a synthetic world.


Episode Chapters

  • 00:00 The Shifting Political and Technological Landscape of 2026
  • 01:45 Introducing the Liveable Spring Brief: Social Value and AI
  • 03:15 The New Definition of a Smart Building
  • 05:00 Why Predictive Analytics are Not Neutral
  • 06:30 Global Cases: RealPage, European Valuation Models, and the Netherlands Deficit
  • 10:15 Understanding Algorithmic Redlining via Secondary Data
  • 11:40 The Petrified Wood Analogy: Calcifying Real Estate Operations
  • 14:00 Historical Context: The 1970 New York City Firehouse Data Error
  • 16:45 The NIST Framework: 5 Core Governance Questions for Leaders
  • 22:00 Microseason Preview: Upcoming Conversations on Workplace, Data, and Creativity

Links & Resources

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> What happens when the software managing your property makes a decision that your team cannot explain, justify, or reverse? In this solo episode, host Gayathri marks the return of Changing Tomorrow by breaking down the hidden realities of the rapid AI transition inside the building industry. Moving far beyond automated thermostats, modern property systems now quietly dictate lease pricing, security access, and tenant screening. This episode reveals how unchecked automation turns historical societal data into a permanent digital wall, and introduces the essential governance framework leaders need to maintain human oversight.

Host Authority Gayathri is the founder of Liveable, an organization dedicated to measuring, communicating, and leading on social value, public health, and people-positive strategies within the built environment. With years of experience advising leaders across manufacturing, operations, and design, Gayathri bridges the gap between technical data systems and real-world human impact.

Key Themes Explained:

  • The New Smart Building: How automated software now controls access, dynamic rent pricing, security experiences, and facilities management without human intervention.
  • Algorithmic Redlining: The process by which predictive algorithms infer race, socioeconomic status, or identity through thousands of secondary data points.
  • The Illusion of Neutrality: Why large language models and predictive analytics inherit, memorize, and repackage our worst historical real estate mistakes.
  • The Petrified Wood Effect: How over-relying on backward-looking data sets calcifies modern real estate operations, making them brittle when unexpected crises hit.
  • The NIST Framework Adapted: Five crucial questions every real estate executive must ask immediately before deploying automated software.
  • Microseason Preview: A first look at upcoming conversations with global experts from Gensler, Stanford University, and the creative arts on navigating a synthetic world.


Episode Chapters

  • 00:00 The Shifting Political and Technological Landscape of 2026
  • 01:45 Introducing the Liveable Spring Brief: Social Value and AI
  • 03:15 The New Definition of a Smart Building
  • 05:00 Why Predictive Analytics are Not Neutral
  • 06:30 Global Cases: RealPage, European Valuation Models, and the Netherlands Deficit
  • 10:15 Understanding Algorithmic Redlining via Secondary Data
  • 11:40 The Petrified Wood Analogy: Calcifying Real Estate Operations
  • 14:00 Historical Context: The 1970 New York City Firehouse Data Error
  • 16:45 The NIST Framework: 5 Core Governance Questions for Leaders
  • 22:00 Microseason Preview: Upcoming Conversations on Workplace, Data, and Creativity

Links & Resources

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> Buzzsprout-19391648 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 04:00:00 -0700 1404 2 1 full false Bridging Community Needs with Global Sustainability Goals: A Conversation with Sarah Enaharo Bridging Community Needs with Global Sustainability Goals: A Conversation with Sarah Enaharo 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:


🔗Stay Connected:

Gayathri: LinkedIn 

Sarah Enaharo: LinkedIn

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> 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:


🔗Stay Connected:

Gayathri: LinkedIn 

Sarah Enaharo: LinkedIn

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> Gayathri Unnikrishnan Buzzsprout-14363436 Wed, 24 Jan 2024 13:00:00 -0800 2960 12 full false Understanding Biophilia: Dispelling Myths with Bill Browning and Catie Ryan Understanding Biophilia: Dispelling Myths with Bill Browning and Catie Ryan 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

🌳Project references:

🌟 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 years of design experience. She's recognized for her strategic approach to design and her contributions to biophilic design publications.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> 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

🌳Project references:

🌟 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 years of design experience. She's recognized for her strategic approach to design and her contributions to biophilic design publications.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> Gayathri Unnikrishnan Buzzsprout-14249787 Thu, 04 Jan 2024 13:00:00 -0800 2981 11 full false From Awareness to Action: Tackling Forced Labor with Tu Rinsche From Awareness to Action: Tackling Forced Labor with Tu Rinsche 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

🌟 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 firm that advances environmental and social sustainability. 

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> 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

🌟 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 firm that advances environmental and social sustainability. 

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> Gayathri Unnikrishnan Buzzsprout-14101173 Wed, 06 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0800 2844 10 full false Climate Action in Every Job: Innovating for Change with Daniel Hill Climate Action in Every Job: Innovating for Change with Daniel Hill 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:


🔗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

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> 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:


🔗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

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> Gayathri Unnikrishnan Buzzsprout-14014806 Wed, 22 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0800 2336 9 full false JEDI & ESG in Architecture: Building an Equitable Future with Yiselle Santos Rivera JEDI & ESG in Architecture: Building an Equitable Future with Yiselle Santos Rivera 🔊 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:


🔗Stay Connected:

Gayathri: LinkedIn 

Yiselle Santos Rivera : LinkedIn

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> 🔊 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:


🔗Stay Connected:

Gayathri: LinkedIn 

Yiselle Santos Rivera : LinkedIn

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> Gayathri Unnikrishnan Buzzsprout-13929020 Wed, 08 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0800 2812 8 full false Well at Work: Redefining the Modern Workspace with Dr. Esther Sternberg Well at Work: Redefining the Modern Workspace with Dr. Esther Sternberg 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:

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> 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:

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> Gayathri Unnikrishnan Buzzsprout-13837742 Tue, 24 Oct 2023 23:00:00 -0700 3451 7 full false Mental Health in the Age of Climate Change: Insights from Sarah Newman Mental Health in the Age of Climate Change: Insights from Sarah Newman 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:


🤝 Connect with Liveable:

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


💌Call to Action:

If this episode resonated with you, please leave us a rating and review. Share this episode with friends and family to spread awareness of this important issue as we navigate climate change as a collective. Stay tuned for our next episode where we delve even deeper into ways to change tomorrow. 


🔗Stay Connected:

Gayathri: LinkedIn 

Sarah Newman: LinkedIn


This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> 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:


🤝 Connect with Liveable:

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


💌Call to Action:

If this episode resonated with you, please leave us a rating and review. Share this episode with friends and family to spread awareness of this important issue as we navigate climate change as a collective. Stay tuned for our next episode where we delve even deeper into ways to change tomorrow. 


🔗Stay Connected:

Gayathri: LinkedIn 

Sarah Newman: LinkedIn


This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> Gayathri Unnikrishnan Buzzsprout-13753349 Tue, 10 Oct 2023 23:00:00 -0700 2549 6 full false Designing for People and Planet: A Masterclass on Lighting with Nancy Clanton Designing for People and Planet: A Masterclass on Lighting with Nancy Clanton 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:

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> 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:

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> Gayathri Unnikrishnan Buzzsprout-13710887 Tue, 03 Oct 2023 21:00:00 -0700 3219 5 full false Belonging & Inclusion: Transforming Spaces and Lives with Kimberly Lewis Inkumsah and Angie Scott Belonging & Inclusion: Transforming Spaces and Lives with Kimberly Lewis Inkumsah and Angie Scott 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 Instagram



Dr. Angie Scott: 

Angelita Scott: LinkedIn and  Instagram 

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> 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 Instagram



Dr. Angie Scott: 

Angelita Scott: LinkedIn and  Instagram 

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> Gayathri Unnikrishnan Buzzsprout-13668449 Wed, 27 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0700 5093 4 full false Shaping a Healthier Future: Dr. Yele Aluko on Societal and Health Equity Shaping a Healthier Future: Dr. Yele Aluko on Societal and Health Equity 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:


Contact:

  • Dr. Aluko: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yelealuko/
  • Gayathri Unnikrishnan:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/gayathri-ukrishnan/

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> 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:


Contact:

  • Dr. Aluko: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yelealuko/
  • Gayathri Unnikrishnan:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/gayathri-ukrishnan/

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> Gayathri Unnikrishnan Buzzsprout-13622656 Tue, 19 Sep 2023 23:00:00 -0700 2972 3 full false From LEED to WELL: Rick Fedrizzi's Journey in Transforming Building Certifications From LEED to WELL: Rick Fedrizzi's Journey in Transforming Building Certifications In this episode, Gayathri sits down with Rick, an industry veteran in sustainability and leadership, to discuss the future of sustainable architecture, the role of certifications like LEED, and what gives us hope for the future. Listen in as they delve into the intricacies of prioritizing planetary and human sustainability while adapting to the ever-changing landscape.


About Our Guest:

Rick Fedrizzi has been a prominent figure in the sustainability and well-being industry for decades. He currently serves as the Executive Chairman of the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), where he has driven both growth and global adoption of the WELL Standard. A founding chair of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and former CEO of both USGBC and Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI), Fedrizzi played a pivotal role in making the LEED certification the world's most widely used green building rating system. With a career that spans over 25 years at UTC's Carrier Corporation and numerous advisory roles, he is an industry thought leader. His book, "Greenthink: How Profit Can Save the Planet," won an EPPY Award for Public Affairs in 2015.


Time Stamps:

00:46: Introduction to Rick and his work in sustainability

05:38: The challenges of LEED and certification systems

11:14: How LEED has evolved to become more adaptive

20:36: The role of technology in advancing sustainability

32:56: Rick's thoughts on "common sense" credits in certifications

35:06: Why the conversation around sustainability should never stop

36:08: Gayathri and Rick discuss the adaptability needed in certifications

36:33: What gives Rick hope for the future

39:11: Rick's closing thoughts on making incremental progress



Key Takeaways:

  • Flexibility in Certification: Both Gayathri and Rick emphasize the importance of flexible certification standards that cater to individual needs, fostering a culture of understanding and conversation rather than rigid pass/fail metrics.
  • Continuous Engagement: The certification process should be seen as a beginning, not an end, encouraging continuous engagement and learning to foster advancements in harmony with evolving technology, laws, and economics.
  • Individualized Approach: Every building and case is unique, requiring a personalized approach to discussions and solutions, highlighting the significance of understanding different contexts during standard development.
  • Hope and Positive Outlook: Rick shares his optimistic outlook towards the future, driven by the innocence and potential of the younger generation. He stresses the beauty of continuous efforts to improve, day by day.
  • Personal Fulfillment and Growth: Apart from professional achievements, Rick points towards the joy derived from personal spaces of growth, like spending time with grandchildren and gardening, indicating the multifaceted nature of fulfillment and joy.
  • Incremental Progress: The podcast echoes the sentiment of striving for a better tomorrow with small, incremental steps, highlighting the never-give-up spirit.


Contact Rick on X

@WELLcertified

@rickfedrizzi



Resources: 

Book Recommendations: Rick recommends "The Ecology of Commerce" by Paul Hawking for those interested in the how-to of sustainability, and "The Sand County Almanac" by Aldo Leopold for those looking to understand the why.

Podcast article and script


This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> In this episode, Gayathri sits down with Rick, an industry veteran in sustainability and leadership, to discuss the future of sustainable architecture, the role of certifications like LEED, and what gives us hope for the future. Listen in as they delve into the intricacies of prioritizing planetary and human sustainability while adapting to the ever-changing landscape.


About Our Guest:

Rick Fedrizzi has been a prominent figure in the sustainability and well-being industry for decades. He currently serves as the Executive Chairman of the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), where he has driven both growth and global adoption of the WELL Standard. A founding chair of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and former CEO of both USGBC and Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI), Fedrizzi played a pivotal role in making the LEED certification the world's most widely used green building rating system. With a career that spans over 25 years at UTC's Carrier Corporation and numerous advisory roles, he is an industry thought leader. His book, "Greenthink: How Profit Can Save the Planet," won an EPPY Award for Public Affairs in 2015.


Time Stamps:

00:46: Introduction to Rick and his work in sustainability

05:38: The challenges of LEED and certification systems

11:14: How LEED has evolved to become more adaptive

20:36: The role of technology in advancing sustainability

32:56: Rick's thoughts on "common sense" credits in certifications

35:06: Why the conversation around sustainability should never stop

36:08: Gayathri and Rick discuss the adaptability needed in certifications

36:33: What gives Rick hope for the future

39:11: Rick's closing thoughts on making incremental progress



Key Takeaways:

  • Flexibility in Certification: Both Gayathri and Rick emphasize the importance of flexible certification standards that cater to individual needs, fostering a culture of understanding and conversation rather than rigid pass/fail metrics.
  • Continuous Engagement: The certification process should be seen as a beginning, not an end, encouraging continuous engagement and learning to foster advancements in harmony with evolving technology, laws, and economics.
  • Individualized Approach: Every building and case is unique, requiring a personalized approach to discussions and solutions, highlighting the significance of understanding different contexts during standard development.
  • Hope and Positive Outlook: Rick shares his optimistic outlook towards the future, driven by the innocence and potential of the younger generation. He stresses the beauty of continuous efforts to improve, day by day.
  • Personal Fulfillment and Growth: Apart from professional achievements, Rick points towards the joy derived from personal spaces of growth, like spending time with grandchildren and gardening, indicating the multifaceted nature of fulfillment and joy.
  • Incremental Progress: The podcast echoes the sentiment of striving for a better tomorrow with small, incremental steps, highlighting the never-give-up spirit.


Contact Rick on X

@WELLcertified

@rickfedrizzi



Resources: 

Book Recommendations: Rick recommends "The Ecology of Commerce" by Paul Hawking for those interested in the how-to of sustainability, and "The Sand County Almanac" by Aldo Leopold for those looking to understand the why.

Podcast article and script


This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> Gayathri Unnikrishnan Buzzsprout-13578296 Wed, 13 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0700 2355 2 full false Designing Public Health: How Buildings Impact Our Well-being with Dr. Erika Eitland Designing Public Health: How Buildings Impact Our Well-being with Dr. Erika Eitland In this episode of Changing Tomorrow, Gayathri talks to Dr. Erika Eitland, a renowned expert in the intersection of public health and building design. With a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of how our environments shape us, Erika delves into the transformative power of well-designed spaces on our mental and physical well-being. She breaks down the science behind creating spaces that not only look good but feel good, serving as catalysts for organizational success and individual happiness. From the psychology of color to the importance of air quality, she provides actionable insights that you can implement right away. 



About Our Guest: Dr. Erika Eitland

Dr. Erika Eitland, MPH, ScD, is the Director of the Human Experience Lab at Perkins&Will. With a focus on the public health impact of K-12 schools, affordable housing, and urban planning, Dr. Eitland is a leading voice in the field. She holds a doctorate from the Harvard Chan School of Public Health and a Master of Public Health from Columbia University. She has presented her research globally and advises on national policy for the U.S. EPA.


Timestamps

[00:00] Introduction

[05:00] Dr. Erika Eitland's Journey

[10:00] The Role of Design in Public Health

[20:00] Case Study: The Carter School

[30:00] Proceed: A Public Health Data Tool

[40:00] Advice for Young Designers

[50:00] What Gives Dr. Eitland Hope

[53:00] Conclusion



Key Takeaways

  • The Importance of Health-Centric Design: Dr. Erika Eitland emphasizes the need for designers to incorporate public health data into their projects. She suggests tools that can help.
  • Championing Inclusive Spaces: Dr. Eitland discusses a case study that illustrates the power of design in catering to diverse health needs. She urges professionals to advocate for such inclusivity.
  • The Value of Community Input: According to Dr. Eitland, community engagement is crucial for understanding unique health challenges. She recommends this approach for anyone involved in urban planning or policy.
  • Investment in Research Pays Off: Dr. Eitland shares how initial investments in health-related research can yield long-term benefits, both socially and financially.
  • The Power of Collaboration: Dr. Eitland stresses the importance of finding like-minded individuals to collaborate with, stating that no one can make a significant impact alone.
  • Urgency for Action: Dr. Eitland encourages professionals to start making even small changes now, emphasizing that there's no time to waste when public health is at stake.



Podcast Article and Reading List can be found here


Connect with Dr. Erika Eitland

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikasitaeitland/

Inhabit podcast:https://inhabit.perkinswill.com/



Connect with Gayathri

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gayathri-ukrishnan/

Liveable website: https://makeitliveable.com/

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> In this episode of Changing Tomorrow, Gayathri talks to Dr. Erika Eitland, a renowned expert in the intersection of public health and building design. With a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of how our environments shape us, Erika delves into the transformative power of well-designed spaces on our mental and physical well-being. She breaks down the science behind creating spaces that not only look good but feel good, serving as catalysts for organizational success and individual happiness. From the psychology of color to the importance of air quality, she provides actionable insights that you can implement right away. 



About Our Guest: Dr. Erika Eitland

Dr. Erika Eitland, MPH, ScD, is the Director of the Human Experience Lab at Perkins&Will. With a focus on the public health impact of K-12 schools, affordable housing, and urban planning, Dr. Eitland is a leading voice in the field. She holds a doctorate from the Harvard Chan School of Public Health and a Master of Public Health from Columbia University. She has presented her research globally and advises on national policy for the U.S. EPA.


Timestamps

[00:00] Introduction

[05:00] Dr. Erika Eitland's Journey

[10:00] The Role of Design in Public Health

[20:00] Case Study: The Carter School

[30:00] Proceed: A Public Health Data Tool

[40:00] Advice for Young Designers

[50:00] What Gives Dr. Eitland Hope

[53:00] Conclusion



Key Takeaways

  • The Importance of Health-Centric Design: Dr. Erika Eitland emphasizes the need for designers to incorporate public health data into their projects. She suggests tools that can help.
  • Championing Inclusive Spaces: Dr. Eitland discusses a case study that illustrates the power of design in catering to diverse health needs. She urges professionals to advocate for such inclusivity.
  • The Value of Community Input: According to Dr. Eitland, community engagement is crucial for understanding unique health challenges. She recommends this approach for anyone involved in urban planning or policy.
  • Investment in Research Pays Off: Dr. Eitland shares how initial investments in health-related research can yield long-term benefits, both socially and financially.
  • The Power of Collaboration: Dr. Eitland stresses the importance of finding like-minded individuals to collaborate with, stating that no one can make a significant impact alone.
  • Urgency for Action: Dr. Eitland encourages professionals to start making even small changes now, emphasizing that there's no time to waste when public health is at stake.



Podcast Article and Reading List can be found here


Connect with Dr. Erika Eitland

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikasitaeitland/

Inhabit podcast:https://inhabit.perkinswill.com/



Connect with Gayathri

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gayathri-ukrishnan/

Liveable website: https://makeitliveable.com/

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> Gayathri Unnikrishnan Buzzsprout-13542524 Wed, 06 Sep 2023 10:00:00 -0700 3205 1 full false Changing Tomorrow Trailer Changing Tomorrow Trailer Join Gayathri as she engages in conversations with today's most impactful changemakers, uncovering how they are shaping a brighter future. In each episode, these innovators candidly share their unique perspectives, hard-earned lessons, and invaluable tools for others. "Changing Tomorrow" serves as a masterclass in crafting an impactful career, offering practical tools to navigate your work in ways that create ripples of positive change for the future.

This is Changing Tomorrow. The future we want is built today.

For more information, check out our website. 

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> Join Gayathri as she engages in conversations with today's most impactful changemakers, uncovering how they are shaping a brighter future. In each episode, these innovators candidly share their unique perspectives, hard-earned lessons, and invaluable tools for others. "Changing Tomorrow" serves as a masterclass in crafting an impactful career, offering practical tools to navigate your work in ways that create ripples of positive change for the future.

This is Changing Tomorrow. The future we want is built today.

For more information, check out our website. 

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Liveable, an independent social sustainability organization based in California.

  • Our Newsletter: If you like the podcast, you'll like the newsletter. Gayathri breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable, human-impact frameworks: https://liveable.substack.com/
  • Support Our Work: Sharing the show, subscribing, and leaving a review goes a long way and helps us keep these conversations going.
]]> Gayathri Unnikrishnan Buzzsprout-13508263 Thu, 31 Aug 2023 16:00:00 -0700 201 trailer false