Wow. What a day. My mind is full of stimulating ideas and inspiration. Here are some paraphrased tidbits from speakers throughout the day... (photo credits: Green America)
Bob Johansen, Author of Leaders Make the Future
Distinguished Fellow
Institute for the Future
On the future: In today's world of volatile-uncertain-complex-ambiguous global challenges "you should be confused. The most dangerous people are those who think they know what is going on."
"We need to learn from our kids through reverse mentoring."
"Fun can change behaviour for the better." Check out these initiatives spearheaded by Volkswagen to prove that fun can be a positive behavioural influence: The Fun Theory
Margot Fraser, Author of Dealing with the Tough Stuff
Founder & Former CEO, Birkenstock USA
"Running a business is hard. Running a socially responsible business is harder. Running a socially responsible business in a recession is as hard as it gets."
Joey Shepp
Founder & CEo, Earthsite LLC
On the power of social media tools like blogs, Facebook Twitter: "Sharing happens fast, so 'if you're not transparent, they'll see right through you.'"
Jerry Stifelman
Founder & Creative Director, The Change
His talk about authentic branding - making the most of yourself by understanding the relationship between thinking, feeling, doing - was amazing. For me, the highlight of the conference so far. It's really very simple, just be yourself and tell the truth. Precepts at the core of our business. His three rules for branding in an authentic way: "Don't be an asshole. Don't pretend to be an angel. Don't pretend you have no self-interest." And his final words of wisdom: "Be the opposite of bullshit." The words may sound profane and flippant, but if you think about them in the context of this era of greenwashing, they are actually profound and meaningful. OK, maybe you had to be there. At any rate, the message was: just be yourself and tell the truth.
Theresa Marquez
Chief Marketing Executive, Organic Valley Family of Farms
Our barriers are not technological. We have the technology and energy necessary. "We are just not cooperating enough."
Libby Reder
Head of Environmental Initiatives, eBay, Inc.
"The greenest product is often the one that already exists."
Be yourself. Be well.
Jay Sinha, Co-Owner
LifeWithoutPlastic.com
Comments