The Wisdom & Action Podcast

How do we create the world we want to see? On this episode of Wisdom & Action, Ariel Burger shares his journey from a curious teenager to a mentee of Nobel laureate Elie Wiesel. Ariel reflects on Wiesel's transformative influence, the power of questions, and the intersection of spirituality, art, and social change. As an author, educator, and founder of the Witness Institute, Ariel takes us through what it means to be a regulated human, how stories have the power to transform the world, and why joy is so important to hold in our pursuit for a better future. Books: Witness: Lessons from Elie Wiesel's Classroom by Ariel BurgerWant to turn this wisdom into action?Small Giants Academy - Impact SafariSmall Giants Academy - The Mastery of Business and Empathy Small Giants Academy - Interconnected Leader  And finally if you want information delivered straight into your inbox, follow the Small Giants Academy newsletter here.Berry xProduced by AudiocraftTheme Music: Acquila by Monique DiMattina Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jenny Gray is the Chief Executive Officer to Zoos Victoria and a global champion for conservation efforts. In her time at Zoos Victoria, she has spearheaded efforts into saving Victoria’s endangered species, and educated people on how we can all play a part in the conservation of our natural environment. We chat about conservation, leading with empathy and why there is still hope for our native world’s future. With thanks to Zoos Victoria for the recording of the Christmas Island pipistrelle bats. Want to turn this wisdom into action?Small Giants Academy - Impact SafariSmall Giants Academy - The Mastery of Business and Empathy Small Giants Academy - Interconnected Leader  And finally if you want information delivered straight into your inbox, follow the Small Giants Academy newsletter here.Berry xProduced by AudiocraftTheme Music: Acquila by Monique DiMattina Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Wisdom in Action, I speak with Alexander Beiner, cultural thinker and author of The Bigger Picture, about the urgent need for new frameworks to navigate our complex world. We delve into Alexander's journey—from his early fascination with psychedelics and consciousness to founding the influential platform Rebel Wisdom, and explore the role of culture in shaping society– and why real change begins with a shift in collective values and beliefs. Want to turn this wisdom into action?Small Giants Academy - Impact SafariSmall Giants Academy - The Mastery of Business and Empathy Small Giants Academy - Interconnected Leader  And finally if you want information delivered straight into your inbox, follow the Small Giants Academy newsletter here.Berry xProduced by AudiocraftTheme Music: Acquila by Monique DiMattina Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Katrine Kielos (previously Katrine Marçal) is the bestselling author of Who Cooked Adam Smith’s Dinner? In this episode Katrine unpacks feminist economics, illuminating the unpaid, often invisible labor women perform in supporting the traditional workforce. We explore the concept of the "economic man" and question why our economic systems undervalue relational work and care. It’s a thought-provoking conversation that invites listeners to reimagine the next economy, one that truly values humanity's collective efforts.Want to turn this wisdom into action?Small Giants Academy - Impact SafariSmall Giants Academy - The Mastery of Business and Empathy Small Giants Academy - Interconnected Leader  And finally if you want information delivered straight into your inbox, follow the Small Giants Academy newsletter here.Berry xProduced by AudiocraftTheme Music: Acquila by Monique DiMattina Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

My friend Doug Abrams is a multiple New York Times-bestselling author as well as an editor, literary agent, film producer, and life adventurer. Doug shares his inspiring story, from overcoming a tough childhood to collaborating with creative legends like Nelson Mandela and Jane Goodall. We dive into the power of storytelling, why it matters so much right now, and how it shapes how we see ourselves and the world. Plus, Doug explains the difference between having knowledge and actually living with wisdom. This is a deep, fun, and uplifting chat that will nurture your soul.Books:The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World with the Dalai Lama, Desmond Tutu and Douglas AbramsWant to turn this wisdom into action?Small Giants Academy - Impact SafariSmall Giants Academy - The Mastery of Business and Empathy Small Giants Academy - Interconnected Leader  And finally if you want information delivered straight into your inbox, follow the Small Giants Academy newsletter here.Berry xProduced by AudiocraftTheme Music: Acquila by Monique DiMattina Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rachel Lowry is the CEO of Bush Heritage Australia and a dear friend. In this episode we dive into Australia's ecological challenges, conservation strategies, and explore what a critical triage phase of saving threatened species and ecosystems with limited budgets looks like. Rachel’s heartfelt advocacy and grounded counsel offer a compelling vision for a sustainable, reforested Australia, and I am thrilled to share this episode with you. With thanks to Zoos Victoria for the recording of the Christmas Island pipistrelle bats. Want to turn this wisdom into action?Small Giants Academy - Impact SafariSmall Giants Academy - The Mastery of Business and Empathy Small Giants Academy - Interconnected Leader  And finally if you want information delivered straight into your inbox, follow the Small Giants Academy newsletter here.Berry xProduced by AudiocraftTheme Music: Acquila by Monique DiMattina Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Roman Krznaric is a phenomenal thinker, writer, social philosopher with a PhD in political science who has written books I cherish, such as The Good Ancestor, How to Think Long Term in a Short Term World, Empathy, The Wonder Box and his latest book, History for Tomorrow, Inspiration from the Past for the Future of Humanity. In this conversation we chat about how history can inform future planning, explore the concept of cathedral thinking and dive into what hope means in the current state of the world.Three-horizon framework: Where the horizon meets the stars Want to turn this wisdom into action?Small Giants Academy - Impact SafariSmall Giants Academy - The Mastery of Business and EmpathySmall Giants Academy - Interconnected Leader  And finally if you want information delivered straight into your inbox, follow the Small Giants Academy newsletter here.Berry xProduced by AudiocraftTheme Music: Acquila by Monique DiMattina Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Christiana Figueres is one of my heroes. A globally recognised leader in climate change advocacy and diplomacy, Christiana is an author and speaker who played a pivotal role in facilitating the historic Paris Agreement in 2015. We speak about finding hope and forging resilience in the face of climate catastrophe, and dive into what it means to transform pain and grief so that we can keep showing up to fight the good fight.Want to turn this wisdom into action?Small Giants Academy - Impact SafariSmall Giants Academy - The Mastery of Business and Empathy Small Giants Academy - Interconnected Leader  And finally if you want information delivered straight into your inbox, follow the Small Giants Academy newsletter here.Berry xProduced by AudiocraftTheme Music: Acquila by Monique DiMattina Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I sit down with the legendary Seth Godin—author, entrepreneur, marketing guru, and teacher. We delve into the power of tribes and storytelling, the role of community in making the world a better place, and the impact of technology on our lives. Seth shares his journey from endless travel to shifting his focus to climate activism with the Carbon Almanac, and we discuss the challenges of navigating modern life, the importance of sense-making, and the crucial role of curation in fostering meaningful connections. It’s a big one folks. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that explores how we can all contribute to a more resilient and hopeful future.Want to turn this wisdom into action?Small Giants Academy - Impact SafariSmall Giants Academy - The Mastery of Business and Empathy Small Giants Academy - Interconnected Leader  And finally if you want information delivered straight into your inbox, follow the Small Giants Academy newsletter here.Berry xProduced by AudiocraftTheme Music: Acquila by Monique DiMattina Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we have Jacqueline Novogratz , entrepreneur, author and trailblazer who is the founder and CEO of Acumen, a nonprofit global venture capital fund whose goal is to use entrepreneurial approaches to address global poverty. Jacqueline shares her transformative journey from the world of banking to the forefront of reimagining finance's role for societal change, and reflects on the irony of capitalism's tools: often wielded for wealth accumulation, yet overlooked when it comes to fostering real, tangible evolution. Want to turn this wisdom into action?Small Giants Academy - Impact SafariSmall Giants Academy - The Mastery of Business and Empathy Small Giants Academy - Interconnected Leader  And finally if you want information delivered straight into your inbox, follow the Small Giants Academy newsletter here.Berry xProduced by AudiocraftTheme Music is Acquila by Monique DiMattina Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's episode, Rasmus Nørgaard shares his unique perspective on the connection between property development and systems thinking. You might wonder how these two converge, but as Rasmus’ journey unfolds, it becomes evident that the built environment plays a pivotal role in the larger systems we navigate. What sets Rasmus apart is not just his heart, it’s commitment to a triple bottom line and incorporating economic, social, and planetary considerations into his builds. Join us for a fascinating exploration that looks to redefine success and sustainability in property development and the housing economy. Links mentioned:The Doughnut for Urban DevelopmentThe Overview EffectBerry’s work in property development:The Commons The Sociable WeaverThe Cape - Sustainable Living Cape PatersonWant to turn this wisdom into action?Small Giants Academy - Impact SafariSmall Giants Academy - The Mastery of Business and Empathy Small Giants Academy - Interconnected Leader  And finally if you want information delivered straight into your inbox, follow the Small Giants Academy newsletter here.Berry xProduced by AudiocraftTheme Music: Acquila by Monique DiMattina Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join me in this eye-opening conversation with Dr. Riane Eisler, a distinguished social systems scientist and cultural historian. Riane’s personal journey– fleeing the Nazi regime as a child– deeply informs her dedication to understanding and addressing the roots of violence and oppression in human societies.Together, we explore Riane’s groundbreaking concepts such as partnership societies and dominator societies, and dive into what the caring economy means within our current system, and how we can forge a new path forward. At the age of 93, Riane embodies invaluable wisdom crucial for our era, and I can’t wait for you to listen. Books Mentioned:The Chalice and the Blade by Dr. Riane EislerThe Real Wealth of Nations by Dr. Riane EislerNurturing Our Humanity by Dr. Riane EislerResources: The Partnership Technology Toolkit: An Essential Resource for a Better FutureWant to turn this wisdom into action?Visit https://www.smallgiants.com.au/wisdomandaction to find out more, or email us at podcast@smallgiants.com.au.Small Giants Academy - Impact SafariSmall Giants Academy - The Mastery of Business and Empathy Small Giants Academy - Interconnected Leader  And finally if you want information delivered straight into your inbox, follow the Small Giants Academy newsletter here.Berry xProduced by AudiocraftTheme Music: Acquila by Monique DiMattina Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I speak with historian of religion Rune Rasmussen and we delve into the fascinating realm of Nordic animism and shamanism. We discuss the power of lore, the profound lessons embedded in mythology and how these stories can help us understand humanity. Rune’s insights shed light on why embracing animistic worldviews can offer profound pathways to understanding, healing and connection. While animism might sound fantastical, there are some great nuggets of wisdom in this episode that can help us reflect on our past, so that we can create a brighter future. Want to turn this wisdom into action? Visit https://www.smallgiants.com.au/wisdomandaction to find out more, or email us at podcast@smallgiants.com.au.You can find Rune at: Nordic AnimismNordic Animism YoutubeWant to turn this wisdom into action?Small Giants Academy - Impact SafariSmall Giants Academy - The Mastery of Business and EmpathySmall Giants Academy - Interconnected LeaderAnd finally if you want information delivered straight into your inbox, follow the Small Giants Academy newsletter here.Berry xProduced by AudiocraftMusic: Acquila by Monique DiMattina Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join me as we dive into the transformative world of biomimicry with renowned biologist and author, Janine Benyus. Drawing inspiration from nature's 3.8 billion years of evolution, biomimicry offers a profound new perspective on innovation, and Janine's groundbreaking work weaves solutions found in the natural world with human creativity, challenging us to rethink our approach to design and decision-making. Want to turn this wisdom into action? Visit https://www.smallgiants.com.au/wisdomandaction to find out more, or email us at podcast@smallgiants.com.au, or look at our Impact Safari: Rewilding The British Isles.Books mentioned: Biomimicry: Innovation Inspired by Nature by Janine BenyusSilent Spring by Rachel CarsonInitiatives mentioned:Biomimicry 3.8 Project Positive HOK - U.S. Coast Guard HeadquartersGreen Pod LabsAccommodateAnd if you want information deliver straight into your inbox, follow our newsletter Wisdom and Action Newsletter.Love,BerryProduced by AudiocraftMusic: Acquila by Monique DiMattina Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us for this thought-provoking episode with Arielle Gamble, CEO of Groundswell, where she reflects on her transformative journey from art and human rights advocacy to leading a climate action platform. Arielle talks about her recent TED talk on legacies, navigating the intricate web of climate change, and her artistic approach to sense-making. We delve into the role of art, magic, and love in addressing global challenges and creating emergent solutions in the metacrisis. Books mentioned:All We Can’t See: Illustrating the Nauru Files God is an Octopus by Ben GoldsmithWilding by Isabella TreeListening mentioned:On Being with Krista TippettWant to turn this wisdom into action?Small Giants Academy - Climate Leadership Accelerator: Into the ArenaSmall Giants Academy - Impact SafariSmall Giants Academy - The Mastery of Business and Empathy Small Giants Academy - Interconnected Leader  And finally if you want information delivered straight into your inbox, follow the Small Giants Academy newsletter here.Berry xProduced by AudiocraftMusic: Acquila by Monique DiMattina Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join me as we delve into a transformative conversation with Isabella Tree, renowned author and rewilding innovator. Isabella shares her profound journey from inheriting a struggling farm in Sussex to pioneering a rewilding project that has sparked global attention.From the liberating decision to cease conventional farming practices to the introduction of free-roaming herbivores, Isabella's story embodies resilience, innovation, and deep respect for the natural world. Want to turn this wisdom into action? Visit https://www.smallgiants.com.au/wisdomandaction to find out more, or email us at podcast@smallgiants.com.au, or look at our Impact Safari: Rewilding The British Isles.You can also check out our friends at: KneppThe RegeneratorsOdonata Foundation World Wide Fund for NatureFor investors, check out these exciting biodiversity and nature funds: BCF fund from Sentient NattergalAnd finally if you want information deliver straight into your inbox, follow these newsletters: Wisdom and Action NewsletterBush HeritageRewilding BritainBig love, Berry xProduced by Audiocraft Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re back with another amazing episode! Our guest this week is Anna Funder, an incredible Australian writer whose books Stasiland and All That I Am are prize winning international best sellers. Her most recent work, Wifedom, is an exploration of Eileen O'Shaughnessy, George Orwell's first wife who was almost successfully erased from history - until now. Anna shares her inspiration for the book, reflecting on her own experiences within a seemingly egalitarian marriage as she unravels the intricacies of patriarchy, a system deeply embedded in language and societal norms. We explore the complexities of gender dynamics, the invisible labor of women, and the need for accurate language to dismantle patriarchal structures so that we can foster a deeper understanding for envisioning new possibilities and emergent futures.Books mentioned:Wifedom by Anna FunderStasiland by Anna FunderAll That I Am by Anna FunderStravinsky's Lunch by Drusilla ModjeskaThe Complete Works of George Orwell by Peter DavidsonAnimal Farm by George Orwell1984 by George OrwellWant to turn this wisdom into action? Visit:Small Giants Academy - Impact SafariSmall Giants Academy - The Mastery of Business and EmpathySmall Giants Academy - Interconnected LeaderAnd finally if you want information delivered straight into your inbox, follow the Small Giants Academy newsletter here.Berry xProduced by Audiocraft Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are so thrilled to introduce you to the legendary Nora Bateson! Nora is a celebrated filmmaker, writer, and president of the International Bateson Institute in Sweden. Her interdisciplinary work combines biology, cognition, art, anthropology, and psychology where she delves into ecological patterns in living systems. Nora introduces us to the concept of “warm logic” and “double binds” and challenges traditional ways of thinking that are rooted in linear causality. We also explore the difference between the "Situation Room" approach, driven by immediate problem-solving, and the holistic perspective of the "Meadow," which emphasises ongoing mutual learning, adaptability and context. It sounds like a lot, but we promise it's worth it. There's even a saucy poem in the mix! We are so excited for you to listen - let us know what you think by leaving a rating and review on your podcast app, or email us at podcast@smallgiants.com.au and visit us at https://www.smallgiants.com.au/wisdomandaction.Books mentioned:Small Arcs of Larger Circles: Framing Through Other Patterns by Nora Bateson Combining by Nora Bateson Wilding: The Return of Nature to a British Farm by Isabella TreeWebsites to explore:Warm Data LabBateson Institute Nora’s blogKneppWant to turn this wisdom into action?Small Giants Academy - Impact SafariSmall Giants Academy - The Mastery of Business and Empathy Small Giants Academy - Interconnected Leader And finally if you want information delivered straight into your inbox, follow the Small Giants Academy newsletter here.Berry xProduced by Audiocraft Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the first episode of the Wisdom and Action podcast, brought to you by the Small Giants Academy. Join host Berry Liberman as she chats with Ben Goldsmith, a leading figure in green investment and the rewilding movement in the UK and Europe. The conversation navigates the complexities of valuing nature, rewilding, and the financial markets in the restoration process. As Berry and Ben explore the mysteries of our connection with nature, they touch on the profound impact of grief and loss, and Ben shares his personal journey about how nature became a source of solace and joy in the aftermath of losing his daughter Iris. Drawing from Ben's book, "God is an Octopus," and his podcast, " Rewilding the World with Ben Goldsmith," we’re introduced to systems thinking, biodiversity and how we can reweave ourselves back into the miracle of life on this planet. Want to turn this wisdom into action? Visit https://www.smallgiants.com.au/wisdomandaction to find out more, email us at podcast@smallgiants.com.au or look at our Impact Safari: Rewilding The British Isles.You can also check out our friends at: KneppThe RegeneratorsOdonata Foundation World Wide Fund for NatureFor investors, check out these exciting biodiversity and nature funds: BCF fund from Sentient NattergalAnd finally if you want information deliver straight into your inbox, follow these newsletters: Wisdom and Action NewsletterBush HeritageRewilding BritainBig love, BerryProduced by Audiocraft Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we’re sharing a wonderful archival conversation with Helena Norberg-Hodge. Helena is a linguist, author and filmmaker, and the founder and director of the international non-profit organisation Local Futures. Helena is leading the way to the new economy and a return to the local and by doing so, she is contributing to the revitalisation of cultural and biological diversity. If you’re interested in joining our webinar mailing list, or want more information delivered straight into your inbox, follow the Small Giants Academy newsletter here.Want to turn this wisdom into action?Small Giants Academy - Impact SafariSmall Giants Academy - Climate Leadership Accelerator Small Giants Academy - The Mastery of Business and Empathy Small Giants Academy - Interconnected Leader  Berry xProduced by AudiocraftTheme Music: Acquila by Monique DiMattina Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.