The Business Elevation Show Where Good Matters

About this epsiode: What if compassion wasn't just a moral ideal—but a measurable driver of performance, innovation, and long-term success? In today's fast-moving and often high-pressure world, many organisations still operate from models built on stress and scarcity, leaving people disengaged and depleted. Yet a growing body of science points to a different path—one where care, trust, and psychological safety are central to sustainable high performance. In this insightful conversation, Chris Cooper is joined by organisational strategist Carson Kelly, Founder of Compassion 2.0, to explore the concept of the ROI of Care—and why the organisations that truly flourish are those that place human wellbeing at the heart of how they operate. Drawing on neuroscience and real-world experience, Carson shares how care-based cultures can unlock creativity, strengthen relationships, and improve both engagement and results. Together, Chris and Carson explore what it takes to move from fear-based, extractive environments to more generative, human-centred organisations, and why, in an age shaped by AI, our most human qualities may become our greatest advantage. If you care about building organisations that succeed and do good, this conversation offers both inspiration and practical insight into leading with care in today's world. More about Carson Kelly: Carson Kelly is an organizational strategist and leadership advisor who helps organizations transform culture and performance by integrating organizational leadership, employee engagement, and the neuroscience of care into measurable business strategies. His work centres on building care-based workplace cultures that strengthen team cohesion, psychological safety, trust, and sustainable high performance—supported by quantifiable outcomes through the ROI of Care framework. Carson's work is grounded in a broader mission of scaling compassion. He has founded and led three organizations at the intersection of prosocial science and commerce, directed a 4,000-member progressive civic engagement and resistance group, and serves as a board member at Mount Madonna School. As Founder of Compassion 2.0 and Flourishingly, Carson partners with executives, Chief People Officers, HR leaders, Chief Wellness Officers, CEOs, COOs, and senior organizational leaders to design and implement science-backed leadership development programs, culture transformation initiatives, and AI-informed organisational diagnostics. His platforms and frameworks enable organizations to measure and enhance employee well-being, leadership effectiveness, organisational resonance, and cross-team collaboration. Through his work with Karuna Ventures, Carson provides strategic consulting to mission-driven founders, executives, and investors seeking to align capital deployment with human flourishing and systemic impact. He bridges organisational design, leadership development, and impact measurement—supporting ventures from inception through scale. His advisory work includes business model alignment, stakeholder engagement, and applying the ROI of Care as a decision-making framework to ensure growth is both profitable and regenerative. With over 15 years of experience across enterprise SaaS, digital health, and nonprofit governance, Carson has delivered meaningful results in culture transformation, employee retention, and human-centred organisational design. He collaborates with behavioural scientists, neuroscientists, and organisational psychologists to develop and deliver evidence-based practices—from somatic regulation to purpose and values alignment—that strengthen both people and performance. He is a dedicated husband and father of three daughters.

About This Episode: To truly make a positive difference in the world, we need exceptional relationships. The real question is — how do we create connections that are meaningful, authentic, and built to last? In this episode, I'm joined by internationally recognised relationship expert Andy Lopata to explore how professional relationships, when built with intention and integrity, can drive not only commercial success but also lasting, positive impact. Because in today's world, if we want to achieve anything meaningful… relationships really matter. Andy brings over 25 years of experience helping leaders and organisations unlock the true value of connection. From working with global brands like Google, PayPal and the BBC, to contributing to Harvard Business Re-view and Psychology Today, he has become one of the leading voices on networking, mentoring, and relation-ship-driven leadership. In this conversation, we explore Andy's journey since he was last on the show — how his thinking has evolved, what it really takes to build a global reputation, and the realities of turning thought leadership into something commercially sustainable. At the heart of the discussion is Andy's Relationship Matrix — a powerful and practical framework designed to help individuals and organisations map, measure, and strengthen the relationships that truly matter. We also take an honest look at a challenge many face: how do you monetise relationships and ideas in a way that feels authentic, ethical, and aligned with doing good? If you're building a business, leading a team, or simply want to create more meaningful connections in your life — this conversation will both inspire and challenge you. Because ultimately, if we want to make a difference… relationships are where it all begins. More about Andy Lopata: Andy Lopata is an internationally recognised authority on professional relation-ships, with more than 25 years of experience helping organisations and individu-als unlock the commercial and cultural value of connection. An accomplished keynote speaker, author of six books, and co-host of The Connected Leadership Podcast, he is also a regular contributor to Psychology Today and has written for Harvard Business Review. Andy has built a global reputation for his expertise in networking, mentoring, and relationship-driven leadership, and was shortlisted for the 2025 Thinkers50 Coaching and Mentoring Award. His work focuses on helping leaders and teams strengthen collaboration, build trust, and improve retention through more strategic and authentic professional relationships. He is the creator of The Relationship Matrix, a practical framework designed to help organisations map, measure, and develop the relationships that drive long-term success. His clients have included leading organisations such as PayPal, Google, the BBC, and Saïd Business School, as well as government bodies worldwide. A Fellow of both the Professional Speaking Association and the Learning and Performance Institute, Andy is also a member of the Association of Business Mentors, the Society of Authors, and the Meetings Industry Association. Known for combining research-based insight with engaging storytelling, he delivers practical, actionable strategies that make complex relationship dynamics accessible and immediately applicable.

About this episode: What if the way we respond in just a few seconds could strengthen—or damage—our relationships, our leadership, and our impact on the world? In this deeply insightful conversation, Chris Cooper speaks with Louise Evans, creator of The 5 Chairs, a powerful yet beautifully simple model that helps people recognise their behaviour in the moment and choose a more conscious, constructive response. Drawing on decades of global experience—and a personal journey shaped by inner work and transformation—Louise shares how we can move from reaction, self-doubt and conflict towards curiosity, authenticity, empathy and meaningful connection. Her work has already transformed organisations, schools, families and lives, with millions engaging in her widely viewed TED Talk and many describing the model as life-changing. But this conversation goes beyond communication skills. It explores something bigger: how becoming more self-aware in the way we think, speak and relate can help us build healthier relationships, stronger communities, and ultimately contribute to doing more good in the world. If you've ever struggled with a difficult conversation, wished you'd handled something differently, or want to lead and live with greater awareness and impact—this is a conversation you won't want to miss. More about Louise Evans: Louise is a humanist motivated by a profound desire to help people reach their fullest potential in environments permeated by mutual respect. Her passion is to work with the human side of organisations and to do this she has developed her own powerful and transformative model for successful living and leading called 'The 5 Chairs', often described as 'life-changing' or 'self-awareness on steroids!' At the heart of The 5 Chairs experience is Behavioral Agility, Conscious communication and Relationship Mastery and it is designed as a tool for every man, every woman & every child on the planet. The 5 Chairs is also being adopted by schools, especially between the ages of 4 – 16, where it helps children become aware of the difference between their productive and unproductive behaviors. It helps them face rising tensions in their daily encounters with others in order to maintain harmonious and happy relationships. Having travelled to seventy-five countries and lived in three different cultures, Louise brings multiple perspectives to help people connect across their differences. She believes deeply in people's ability to grow and transform and loves working with people who want to evolve, who have the courage to look at themselves in the mirror and change, and who want the best possible life for themselves and others both at work and at home. Louise's mission is to divulge the message of The 5 Chairs to individuals, teams, organizations, families and communities across the world to re-awaken the fundamental Human Skills which are common to us all and are vital for our happiness, success and survival. Louise is an entrepreneur and a qualified trainer and facilitator of Behavioural Intelligence, Intercultural Management, Global Leadership, and International Communication Skills. Certified as Global Executive coach and NLP Practitioner, she works with all levels from Top Talents to the Board in Corporations, such as Valentino, Gucci, Enel, Glaxo, Unicredit Bank, Barilla, Enel, Luxottica, Honeywell, British Gas, Phillips, Honeywell, Tods, Hogan, Duracell, Diesel and many more. Her Training Topics include; Emotional & Behavioural Intelligence, Intercultural sensitization and management, Communication and Interpersonal skills, Diversity (thought, cultural, gender, generational, functional), Global Leadership, Unconscious Bias, Non-Violent Communication, Executive coaching, Team Excellence, Digital Intelligence & Conflict Resolution. Louise is the author of : '5 Chairs 5 Choices – Own your behaviours, master your communication, determine your success '– Amazon 2016 'The Magnificient 5 -Heroic Journeys'...

About this episode: In every area of life and leadership, the ability to persuade with integrity is essential. Whether inspiring a team, influencing change, or sharing an idea that matters, persuasion done well can be a force for good. If we are seeking to deliver more good initiatives, we need to master the art of persuasion — as it can make all the difference between success and failure. My guest, Paul du Toit, is one of Africa's most respected professional speakers, coaches, and authors, and the author of the new book The Book of Persuasion. Paul was the first speaker on the African continent this cen-tury to be awarded the Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) designation from the National Speakers Asso-ciation (USA) in 2008. He later became Southern Africa's CSP Liaison Officer, helping others achieve the same recognition. A founder member and past president of the Professional Speakers Association of Southern Africa, Paul was inducted into the Southern African Speakers Hall of Fame in 2017. Having inspired tens of thousands glob-ally with his signature blend of humour, insight, and humanity, Paul brings a deep understanding of what it takes to influence with authenticity and purpose. Join us for this special encore show as we explore The Book of Persuasion and discover how persuasion, when rooted in authenticity and goodwill, becomes a powerful catalyst for elevation — in business, relationships, and the way we show up in the world. More about Paul du Toit: Paul du Toit is the first speaker on the African continent this century to be awarded the Certified Speaking Professional designation from the National Speakers Association (USA) in 2008, thereafter serving as Southern Africa's CSP Liaison Officer, helping and encouraging over a dozen other Southern African speakers to achieve their CSPs. In 2013 he became a Global Speaking Fellow along with 21 other inaugural recipients at the Global Speakers Summit in Vancouver, Canada. Born in Cape Town in 1958, his grounding in theatre and entertainment provided an ideal springboard for a career in facilitation, coaching and professional speaking. He founded Johannesburg based Congruence Training in 1995 which he runs to this day. He is a founder member and Past President of the Professional Speakers Association of Southern Africa receiving their Founders award at the Global Speakers Summit in Cape Town in April 2009 for exceptional service to the speaking industry. He has since served as Secretary and Treasurer of the Global Speakers Federation. In 2017 he was inducted in to the Southern African Speakers Hall of Fame. He has spoken to tens of thousands of people at conferences and corporate events globally. He is a business speaker, coach and authority on customer experience and business presentations, and author of two books including "You Can Present with Confidence" released internationally in 2011. Paul continues to blog on speaking, presenting and customer experience and sends a regular email newsletter on presenting to thousands of opt-in subscribers. His content-rich and often humorous interviews related to remote presentation during lockdown have been well received by the business and speaking community. He runs several marathons (and at least one ultra-marathon) a year to keep in trim and whilst in training frequents the hills of Sandton in the mornings with his dog Samuel. He knows a fine wine when he smells it – his favourite reds finding temporary resting in his cellar, and appreciated a good single malt. He keeps an eye open for suppliers of excellent coffee beans and establishments that can match his home brew, which he enjoys with a block of dark chocolate. He plays guitar and hums a tune for relaxation, a pastime that once earned him a living, and occasionally posts a tune online. He has 2 grown up daughters, Chanel and Jenna and lives in Sandton with his wife Trudi.

About this episode: In a world where visibility and positioning matter more than ever, many highly capable leaders find themselves brilliantly representing their organisations, yet struggling to articulate their own value. This conversation explores why that happens and, more importantly, what to do about it. Chris Cooper is joined by Danielle Ellis, a career strategist who has helped over 2,000 executives position themselves more powerfully in the market, earning more than 2,000 five-star reviews for her work. Danielle specialises in helping high-performing leaders translate their impact into clear, compelling personal narratives that attract the right opportunities. Together, they explore how LinkedIn can be used as a powerful platform to elevate your good, increase your visibility, and open doors to meaningful opportunities. The discussion brings clarity to how the LinkedIn algorithm works, the differences between personal and business pages, and how to show up authentically while still being strategic. With a practical and structured approach, Danielle also explains how to build a strong presence, create content that resonates, and position yourself in a way that reflects your true value in an increasingly competitive and AI-influenced landscape. This is a conversation for anyone who wants to be seen, understood, and valued for the difference they make—and to use LinkedIn more intentionally to support that journey. More about Danielle Ellis: Danielle Ellis is the founder of Prime Personal Branding, a boutique executive branding practice built around the fundamental truth that first impressions don't happen in the room, they happen in print. Résumés, LinkedIn profiles, and executive bios shape opinions and determine whether further conversations happen at all. Danielle's work is about making sure those impressions are accurate, compelling, and working for her clients rather than against them. Over more than a decade and 2,000+ client transformations, she has partnered with Fortune 100 executives, founders, and thought leaders worldwide who are doing serious work and need the world to see it clearly. She brings to every engagement the same conviction she brings to this conversation: that leaders doing meaningful work deserve to be seen, but it's up to them to tell the right story.

About this episode: Why do some people turn setbacks into extraordinary success while others remain stuck? And what does it really take to create freedom, impact and opportunity in today's uncertain world? On this episode of The Business Elevation Show, Chris Cooper speaks with Daniel Wood, CEO and co-founder of the Swedish Wealth Institute, about the principles and experiences that help people transform their lives and create meaningful success. Daniel leads a global movement focused on democratising success by giving everyday people direct access to world-class mentors such as Robert and Kim Kiyosaki, Les Brown, Jack Canfield, Nick Vujicic, John Assaraf and Brian Tracy. Through large-scale summits, workshops and the Swedish Wealth Institute Podcast, he shares practical strategies that help entrepreneurs and investors create genuine freedom and long-term opportunity. But Daniel's journey has not been without challenge. His own experiences of both significant wins and difficult setbacks helped shape a mission centred on empowerment through connection and impact through generosity. In this conversation Chris and Daniel explore Daniel's journey, the vision behind the Swedish Wealth Institute, and the mindset and strategies that enable people to grow beyond adversity and step into their potential. They also discuss why access to the right mentors, networks and ideas can dramatically change what is possible for individuals and communities. If you are interested in personal growth, entrepreneurship and how success can be used as a force for good, this is a thoughtful and inspiring conversation you will not want to miss. More about Daniel Wood: Daniel Wood is the CEO and co-founder of the Swedish Wealth Institute, leading a global movement to democratize success by giving everyday people direct access to world-class mentors like Robert and Kim Kiyosaki, Les Brown, Jack Canfield, Nick Vujicic, John Assaraf, and Brian Tracy. Through large-scale summits, workshops, and the Swedish Wealth Institute Podcast, he delivers practical, proven strategies that help entrepreneurs and investors create real freedom. His own wins and failures have shaped a mission built on empowerment through connection and impact through generosity. Today, he is committed to making wealth-building tools, knowledge, and opportunities accessible to all—regardless of their starting point.

About this episode: Why do some people turn setbacks into extraordinary success while others remain stuck? And what does it really take to create freedom, impact and opportunity in today's uncertain world? On this episode of The Business Elevation Show, Chris Cooper speaks with Daniel Wood, CEO and co-founder of the Swedish Wealth Institute, about the principles and experiences that help people transform their lives and create meaningful success. Daniel leads a global movement focused on democratising success by giving everyday people direct access to world-class mentors such as Robert and Kim Kiyosaki, Les Brown, Jack Canfield, Nick Vujicic, John Assaraf and Brian Tracy. Through large-scale summits, workshops and the Swedish Wealth Institute Podcast, he shares practical strategies that help entrepreneurs and investors create genuine freedom and long-term opportunity. But Daniel's journey has not been without challenge. His own experiences of both significant wins and difficult setbacks helped shape a mission centred on empowerment through connection and impact through generosity. In this conversation Chris and Daniel explore Daniel's journey, the vision behind the Swedish Wealth Institute, and the mindset and strategies that enable people to grow beyond adversity and step into their potential. They also discuss why access to the right mentors, networks and ideas can dramatically change what is possible for individuals and communities. If you are interested in personal growth, entrepreneurship and how success can be used as a force for good, this is a thoughtful and inspiring conversation you will not want to miss. More about Daniel Wood: Daniel Wood is the CEO and co-founder of the Swedish Wealth Institute, leading a global movement to democratize success by giving everyday people direct access to world-class mentors like Robert and Kim Kiyosaki, Les Brown, Jack Canfield, Nick Vujicic, John Assaraf, and Brian Tracy. Through large-scale summits, workshops, and the Swedish Wealth Institute Podcast, he delivers practical, proven strategies that help entrepreneurs and investors create real freedom. His own wins and failures have shaped a mission built on empowerment through connection and impact through generosity. Today, he is committed to making wealth-building tools, knowledge, and opportunities accessible to all—regardless of their starting point.

About This Epsiode: What happens when the work you care about most begins to drain the very life from you? Over thirty years ago, Dr Michael Brant DeMaria was working as a child protection psychologist, witnessing thousands of cases of severe abuse and neglect. The emotional toll led to compassion fatigue, burnout and even suicidal thoughts. For someone devoted to helping others, it became a defining question: how do you stay open-hearted, purposeful and resilient in the face of profound human suffering? What followed was a life-changing vision quest in the wilderness, guided by a Native teacher. Alone and without food or water, Michael entered what he now calls "the way of twilight" — the space between breakdown and breakthrough, ego and soul, despair and renewal. It was there that he rediscovered meaning, creativity and a deeper reverence for life. In this powerful conversation, we explore the hidden cost of leadership and caring roles, why burnout is often a signal rather than a failure, and how nature, creativity and authentic connection can restore clarity and purpose. We also discuss what keeps us "off the bridge of dispair" when life feels overwhelming, and why community and creative expression are not luxuries, but essential to sustained impact. Michael's music has been streamed over 250 million times and earned four Grammy® nominations, yet what emerges most strongly here is his grounded wisdom and commitment to helping others move from exhaustion to wholeness. If you are a leader, entrepreneur or changemaker navigating pressure and responsibility, this episode offers both depth and practical hope. More about Michael Brant DeMaria: Over thirty years ago, Dr. Michael Brant DeMaria's life changed forever. Working as a child protection team psychologist, he witnessed over 2,000 cases of severe abuse and neglect—an experience that left him with compassion fatigue, burnout, and even suicidal thoughts. Searching for healing, he embarked on a life-changing vision quest guided by a Native teacher—alone in the wilderness without food or water. This journey ignited a deep heart-opening and reawakened his first loves: nature and creativity, while instilling in him a reverence for the profound mystery of living and dying—far beyond what modern culture teaches. Since then, Michael has devoted his life to what he calls the way of twilight—embracing life's paradoxes in a way that opens, rather than closes, the heart. Through music, writing, film, and mentorship, he helps others walk this path toward wholeness. He is the author of four books and the creator of the Peace Within program and book (Peace Within: Clear Your Mind, Open Your Heart, Embrace Your Soul, and Heal Your Life). His music—streamed over 250 million times—has earned four Grammy® nominations, eight ZMR Awards, six #1 albums, and a Native American Music Award. His work appears on the Grammy®-winning All About Bullies Big and Small and in collaborations with Eckhart Tolle, Mark Nepo, Peter Kater, and Noah Levine. As a storyteller and filmmaker, Michael has written, directed, and scored four award-winning films and three award-winning plays, including his latest, The Twilight Café. Learn more at http://www.michaeldemaria.com

About This Episode: Peace is not passive. It is not abstract. And it is not something reserved for governments, diplomats or global leaders. It is something we build — or undermine — every single day through how we communicate, how we lead, how we handle disagreement, and how we speak about those who see the world differently. In this thought provoking and deeply practical conversation, Chris Cooper is joined by Michael Macy — former U.S. diplomat, intercultural communications specialist, long-time student of Sufism, and co-founder of Enacting Peace. Drawing on nearly 30 years in the Foreign Service, with experience spanning the UK, Afghanistan, India, Haiti, Saudi Arabia and Tunisia, Michael shares what peace-building really looks like beyond headlines and politics. Together they explore why peace is the invisible foundation upon which business, communities and everyday life depend. They reflect on the difference between conflict and violence, and why that distinction matters profoundly in the workplace. They consider how inherited stories, fear and polarisation shape the culture around us — and what conscious individuals can do to interrupt that cycle. This is not a political discussion. It is a human one. It is about responsibility, agency and the small, deliberate choices that shape the environments we create at work and in our communities. Because peace doesn't simply happen. It is enacted — by each of us. More about Michael Macy: Michael Macy is a pilgrim who has spent a lifetime exploring communications and the boundaries of cultural conditioning. After time in a Catholic seminary, he spent a decade wondering around the United States and Canada. He went to five universities eventually obtaining degrees in American Culture and Communications Arts. Amidst dropping in and out of school he worked as a merchant seaman, in a railroad yard, with Greenpeace, dismantling buildings, and travelling with one of America's great holy fools. He then went to graduate school in law, which included moving to India to study community dispute resolution and wound up managing a development project in a disadvantaged community in Delhi. His professional trajectory followed his interest in communications and culture. He trained in interpersonal communication and worked as a therapist. He studied law to understand ritualistic communication and worked as a trial lawyer. He learned marketing when recruited as a public relations executive. He hosted a radio talk show. Eventually, he spent nearly 30 years as a U.S. diplomat involved in intercultural communication and left the State Department with the title of Counselor in the Senior Foreign Service. As a diplomat he focused on developing mutual understanding between the U.S. and the countries where he served, including the UK, Mali, Malta, Saudia Arabia, Afghanistan, India, Haiti and Tunisia and short stints in Egypt, France, Turkey and Ghana. In order to build those bridges, he worked with dancers, writers, artists, academics, journalists, religious community leaders and comedians. He also staffed a dozen White House international trips. Throughout his wanderings, explored spiritual experience. He was a murid (student) of Pir Vilayat Inayat Khan for 25 years, eventually being ordained as a Chirag (minister) in the Universal Worship and as a Healing Conductor in the Healing Order of the Inayati Order. He participated in the Kalachakra Initiation held by HH the Dali Lama, spent time with the Sufis of India, Afghanistan, Mali and Tunisia and meditated at the Hindu holy sites of Gangotri and Rishikesh. Along the way he developed an understanding of the Buddhist, Hindu, Jewish, Christian, and Native American traditions and a deep appreciation for the holy fools, madzubs, and lovers who exemplify the divine reality. He is currently a student of the Sufi Murshid David Shahabuddin Less. Michael is currently working on two peace initiatives. He is on the board of the...

About this episode: What if some of the most effective tools for feedback, performance management, and emotional intelligence had been refined for centuries? In this practical and thought-provoking conversation, Chris Cooper is joined by Dr Laura Lois Greenwood, a leadership and emotional intelligence specialist who has helped tens of thousands of people transform challenging emotions into clear, compassionate workplace responses. Drawing on decades of Buddhist practice and real-world organisational leadership, Laura translates ancient mind-training principles into fully secular, workplace-ready tools. Together, they explore why performance management so often fails, why feedback is the pivotal leadership skill, and how leaders can learn to motivate rather than deflate. The conversation covers emotional intelligence under pressure, common leadership traps, and Laura's use of frameworks such as "Friends, Enemies, and Strangers" and the Buddhist understanding of anger, grasping, and indifference — all grounded in everyday organisational behaviour. Listeners will leave with practical insights, a simple feedback structure, and a short mind-training exercise they can apply immediately at work. More about Dr Laura Lois Greenwood: Dr Laura Lois Greenwood is a leadership and emotional intelligence specialist who has supported tens of thousands of people in transforming challenging emotions into clear, compassionate responses that strengthen relationships and improve workplace effectiveness. Drawing on decades of Buddhist practice, she translates ancient mind-training methods into practical tools for communication, feedback, and emotionally balanced leadership. She has designed and delivered more than forty original training programmes across leadership, conflict resolution, mindfulness, cultural diversity, and organisational development. As the founding Director of the Workforce Training Centre at the University of Hawaii Maui College, Dr Greenwood led workforce initiatives for 22 years and certified hundreds of facilitators through Train-the-Trainer programmes. Her clients include leading hospitality, healthcare, and public-sector organisations in Hawaii and internationally. Dr Greenwood holds a BA with Phi Beta Kappa distinction, an MA in East Asian Studies, and a PhD from the University of California, Berkeley. A committed student of Buddhism since 1968, she has studied extensively in Asia and Nepal and helped found Vajrapani Retreat Centre in California. Her work integrates Eastern contemplative wisdom with Western leadership practice to foster resilience, emotional intelligence, and lasting organisational change.

About this episode: Chris Cooper is joined by bridge-builder and social entrepreneur Simon Greer for a powerful conversation about how to bridge divides in a world where people increasingly see those they disagree with as "the other." Simon shares his early life, his rise through progressive politics, and the turning point when he realised he had been contributing to the very demonisation he opposed. He came to see that real change had to begin with himself. That insight sparked a decade-long journey to better understand the people his own side had cast as enemies, immersing himself in perspectives he had once dismissed. Together, they explore why today's conflicts may be less political than spiritual — rooted more in identity and belonging than in policy. They discuss what it really means to "get inside" the issues that divide us, why listening is a superpower, and how to enter courageous conversations with honesty and humility. They also examine how we can honour the competing truths people carry from their own histories and traditions. The conversation dives into Simon's work on college campuses, in prisons, and in Israel–Palestine — places that serve as laboratories for dialogue and understanding. They consider why recovering a shared story of who we are may be essential if we are to solve our problems together. A timely and deeply human discussion about what each of us can do to foster understanding, rebuild trust, and bridge divides in our families, communities, and wider society. More about Simon Greer: Simon has spent the last decade seeking to bridge the gaps in our polarized nation, including conservatives and progressives, secular and evangelical college students, and corrections officers and the formerly incarcerated. Greer speaks regularly at The Nantucket Project, on campuses across the country, and at corporate events and retreats on topics including bridge-building, listening as a superpower, and building high-performing teams. He has hosted courageous conversations on stage with the likes of Sean Spicer, Valerie Jarrett, Karl Rove, Candace Owens, John Haidt, Juan Williams, Joe Kennedy, Andrew Yang and Glenn Beck. In 2025, he won a MidSouth Emmy® for his work as a producer on The North Carolina Listening Project, recognized in the Interview/Discussion category. Considered to be a serial entrepreneur in the nonprofit world, Simon has also founded and led a range of organizations including founding Bridging the Gap and serving as Senior Advisor to One Voice United and Managing Director of the Fund for New Leadership. Today, he works with organizations and institutions—colleges and universities, tech, media, healthcare and fashion companies, philanthropies and purpose-driven organizations—to cross lines of difference and solve pressing problems.

About this episode: Biodiversity loss isn't just an environmental issue—it's a financial, social and business risk that affects us all. In this episode of The Business Elevation Show, Chris is joined by Helen Avery, Director of Nature Programmes at the Green Finance Institute (GFI), to explore how private sector investment is being mobi-lised to restore nature and why this matters for leaders, organisations and communities worldwide. Helen leads the team overseeing GFI's work on supporting the UK Government's investment readiness funds, the UK's National Consultation Group for the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD), and an international nature investment programme with UNEP FI and UNDP Biofin. She shares how finance, gov-ernment and business are working together to turn ambitious nature goals into real-world action. Together, they discuss why biodiversity is rising rapidly up the global agenda, how nature risk shows up in sup-ply chains and communities, and what "high-integrity" nature investment really means. They also explore how we can make nature inclusive and relevant for everyone—not just policymakers, investors and NGOs—and how systems change actually happens on the ground. This is a conversation about hope, system change and the role we can all play in creating a nature-positive fu-ture—because good matters. More about Helen Avery: Helen Avery is Director of Nature Programmes at the Green Finance Insti-tute (GFI) where she focuses on unlocking private sector investment into nature-based solutions and nature restoration. Helen leads the team that oversees GFI's work on supporting the UK Gov-ernment's investment readiness funds, as well as the UK's National Consul-tation Group for the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures. The team also oversees an international nature investment programme with UNEP FI and UNDP Biofin.

About this episode: Words shape lives. If you want your communication to build trust, inspire action and change—or even save—lives, this episode is for you. In this episode, Chris Cooper is joined by Elevation Collective member Rhonda Curry, a global communications and marketing leader who has spent decades shaping the narratives behind health and cancer research, prevention, treatment and care. From UCLA Health to the University of Miami Health System, Rhonda has been at the forefront of telling stories that build trust, inspire hope, accelerate philanthropic support and help breakthrough science reach the people who need it most. Rhonda's work spans local, national and global audiences, including initiatives across Latin America, Africa and Asia. Together, Chris and Rhonda explore how "communications for good" works in practice, and why simple, human relatability is often the key to translating complex science without losing accuracy or integrity. This conversation is designed to be genuinely useful. Rhonda shares six principles for writing compelling marketing communications, with real-world examples of powerful storytelling — from patients telling their own stories, to the craft of "transcreation" across cultures and languages, to how leaders can embrace generative AI without sacrificing authenticity, ethics or trust. A hopeful, practical and deeply human conversation about storytelling with integrity, leadership with purpose, and how great communication can create meaningful global impact. More about Rhonda Curry: A seasoned communications executive, Rhonda has decades of experience leading strategic marketing and communications for academic medical centers with an emphasis in cancer research, prevention, treatment and care. She leads communication and marketing at the University of Miami Health System for its NCI-designated cancer center. She previously served as chief of communications and interim chief of marketing at UCLA Health in Los Angeles, California. Prior experience also includes leading communications and marketing for the renowned Fred Hutch Cancer Center in Seattle, Washington, home to three Nobel Laureates. The throughline of Rhonda's career reflects her deep commitment to telling the story of health care research and advances in urban and rural settings, from coast to coast across the United States. In addition, she leads marketing and communications for global cancer research – focus areas have included China, Uganda, South Africa, and Latin America. An innovative MarComm leader, she designs teams around digital content hubs to earn top-tier media placement, industry awards, increased philanthropic giving and new patient acquisition. At the University of Miami Health System since 2022, she has created and leads a specialized MarComm team focused on cancer research and prevention, clinical care and community engagement. The geographic endowment of Miami as the gateway to Latin America is a unique opportunity for cancer research that will benefit human health in the US and across the globe. Rhonda earned her Bachelor of Science degree in health care administration from St. Joseph's College of Maine, and her Master of Arts in communication and leadership studies from Gonzaga University. Her proudest accomplishment is being Nonna (Italian grandmother) to twelve beautiful children to whom she dedicates her work.

About this episode: Life and business rarely move in straight lines. There are ladders that elevate us faster than expected—and snakes that can suddenly knock us back. In this insightful and timely conversation, Chris Cooper is joined by Paul Davis, renowned business growth consultant, intuitive advisor, and three-time best-selling author, to explore the wisdom at the heart of his latest book, Winning the Snakes and Ladders Game of Life. Together, they explore how to navigate both the highs and the setbacks with clarity, resilience, and purpose. Paul draws on decades of entrepreneurial experience and his unique intuitive approach—one that has helped transform struggling businesses into multi-million-euro success stories. As the creator of The Genius Code™, Paul is passionate about helping people uncover their unique genius, reconnect with what truly matters, and build success that is not only financially rewarding, but deeply meaningful and sustainable. This episode will be a brilliant way to start the year, offering reflection, perspective, and practical wisdom for anyone rethinking their direction, their leadership, or the game they're choosing to play. If you're ready to move forward with greater alignment, intention, and impact, this is a conversation not to be missed. More about Paul Davis: Paul Davis is a renowned business growth consultant, sought-after speaker, and intuitive personal advisor, with a passion for empowering professionals worldwide to unearth their unique genius and lead their field. As the creator of The Genius Code™ for personal mastery and a three-time best-selling author, Paul is dedicated to helping individuals discover their true purpose, tap into unparalleled fulfilment, and make a profound impact through their business. Often hailed as a "life-saver" by his clients, with his remarkable intuitive approach, combined with decades of entrepreneurial experience, he has transformed countless struggling businesses into multi-million-euro success stories. With a client list that spans industry leaders, celebrities, and innovative entrepreneurs, Paul's expertise transcends borders and sectors. As an award-winning consultant and visionary thought leader, Paul Davis is committed to guiding you on a transformative journey of self-discovery, purpose-driven growth, and lasting prosperity.

About this episode: In this thought-provoking episode of The Business Elevation Show – Where Good Matters, Chris Cooper is joined by Robin Dreeke, retired FBI Special Agent and former Chief of the Counterintelligence Behavioural Analysis Program. Robin's career took him into some of the highest-stakes environments imaginable — recruiting spies, working in counterintelligence, and navigating extreme human complexity. Yet, as this conversation reveals, his work has never been about manipulation or persuasion. Instead, it has always been about trust, psychological safety, and understanding human behaviour at its deepest level. Together, Chris and Robin explore what it truly means to build unbreakable alliances — in leadership, business, families, communities, and even across ideological divides. They discuss why influence is the wrong goal, how calm and context help us navigate chaos, and why creating environments where people feel safe is the foundation for innovation, collaboration, and progress. This is an episode for leaders, changemakers, and anyone seeking to communicate more authentically, lead more consciously, and contribute more meaningfully in a complex world. More about Robin Dreeke: Robin Dreeke is a retired FBI Special Agent and behavioural expert who served as Chief of the Counterintelligence Behavioural Analysis Program, where he honed his skills in building unbreakable alliances with spies, terrorists, and everyday professionals. A sought-after keynote speaker, trainer, and author of bestsellers like *It's Not All About "Me"* and *Sizing People Up*, Robin equips leaders with actionable strategies to master communication, foster trust, and drive team success. His unique blend of high-stakes intelligence insights and practical tools transforms relationships and elevates business performance worldwide.

About this episode: In a world marked by growing complexity, division, and ecological tipping points, a new story is emerging — one that reclaims our deep interconnectedness with each other, with the Earth, and with the cosmos itself. Dr. Jude Currivan, cosmologist, planetary healer, and former international business leader, invites us into a radical shift in perception: from the illusion of separation to the embodied reality of unity. In this Special Encore conversation, we explore how her groundbreaking work in The Cosmic Hologram and The Story of Gaia offers not only a profound scientific narrative but a practical, ethical, and evolutionary framework for leadership and business in the 21st century. What does it mean to live — and lead — from the awareness that we are inseparable from the systems we shape? How do organizations evolve from extractive and competitive to regenerative and co-creative? And what becomes possible when we align our strategies not just with markets, but with meaning? This is a conversation for visionary leaders, changemakers, and anyone ready to explore what it really means to take a whole-world view — and lead from it. More about Dr Jude Currivan: Dr Jude Currivan is a cosmologist, planetary healer, award-winning author latterly of The Cosmic Hologram (2017) and The Story of Gaia (2022), educator and previously a senior UK-based international business woman. In 2017 she co-founded WholeWorld-View (www.wholeworld-view.org) to serve the understanding, experiencing and embodying of unitive awareness, healing and conscious evolution.

About this episode: As the year draws to a close, Chris Cooper steps behind the microphone for a special solo episode to reflect, distil, and share what truly matters now. Drawing on over 14 years od conversations with inspiring leaders and changemakers on The Business Elevation Show, alongside the lived wisdom of The Elevation Collective community, Chris shares 10 Elevations for Thriving and Doing Good in the World Today. These Elevations are not trends or theories. They are grounded insights shaped by real leadership journeys, meaningful conversations, and lived experience, exploring how we can thrive personally and professionally while contributing positively to the world around us. In this reflective end-of-year episode, Chris speaks directly to listeners, weaving together stories, insights, and gratitude for the many remarkable people who make up the Business Elevation and Elevation Collective communities. It is both a moment to pause and reflect, and an invitation to step into the year ahead with greater intention, humanity, and purpose. Chris Cooper is the founder of The Elevation Collective, an international community of heart-led leaders and changemakers committed to amplifying good in the world. He is also the host of The Business Elevation Show, one of the longest-running business podcasts in the world, broadcasting weekly since 2011 to listeners in over 50 countries. Listeners can also look out for a new free ebook, 10 Elevations for Thriving and Doing Good in the World Today, available for download in early 2026 via the Chris Cooper website. This episode offers a thoughtful and hopeful close to the year and a powerful opening into what's possible next. More about Chris Cooper: Chris Cooper is the founder of The Elevation Collective, an exclusive international community of wise, heart-led leaders and changemakers dedicated to amplifying good in the world. The Collective incubates and accelerates projects that create meaningful, positive, and lasting impact. He is also the host of The Business Elevation Show—one of the longest-running business podcasts in the world—broadcast weekly since 2011 to loyal audiences in over 50 countries. Through his brand Chris Cooper Business Elevation, Chris is a highly respected people consultant, behavioural strategist, mentor, coach, and speaker—developing leaders, empowering teams, and creating highly engaged business cultures. He has worked with leading brands including Mars and United Biscuits, and as a consultant with many organisations such as Diageo, Carlsberg, Barclays, KP Foods, and over 20 insurance and financial services businesses. He is also co-author of The Power to Get Things Done (Whether You Feel Like It or Not), published by Penguin Random House (New York). For more information www.chriscooper.co.uk

About this episode: As the year draws to a close, Chris Cooper steps behind the microphone for a special solo episode to reflect, distil, and share what truly matters now. Drawing on over 14 years of conversations with inspiring leaders and changemakers on The Business Elevation Show, alongside the lived wisdom of The Elevation Collective community, Chris shares 10 Elevations for Thriving and Doing Good in the World Today. These Elevations are not trends or theories. They are grounded insights shaped by real leadership journeys, meaningful conversations, and lived experience, exploring how we can thrive personally and professionally while contributing positively to the world around us. In this reflective end-of-year episode, Chris speaks directly to listeners, weaving together stories, insights, and gratitude for the many remarkable people who make up the Business Elevation and Elevation Collective communities. It is both a moment to pause and reflect, and an invitation to step into the year ahead with greater intention, humanity, and purpose. Chris Cooper is the founder of The Elevation Collective, an international community of heart-led leaders and changemakers committed to amplifying good in the world. He is also the host of The Business Elevation Show, one of the longest-running business podcasts in the world, broadcasting weekly since 2011 to listeners in over 50 countries. Listeners can also look out for a new free eBook, 10 Elevations for Thriving and Doing Good in the World Today, available for download in early 2026 via the Chris Cooper website. This episode offers a thoughtful and hopeful close to the year and a powerful opening into what's possible next. For more information, visit www.chriscooper.co.uk. More about Chris Cooper: Chris Cooper is the founder of The Elevation Collective, an exclusive international community of wise, heart-led leaders and changemakers dedicated to amplifying good in the world. The Collective incubates and accelerates projects that create meaningful, positive, and lasting impact. He is also the host of The Business Elevation Show—one of the longest-running business podcasts in the world—broadcast weekly since 2011 to loyal audiences in over 50 countries. Through his brand Chris Cooper Business Elevation, Chris is a highly respected people consultant, behavioural strategist, mentor, coach, and speaker—developing leaders, empowering teams, and creating highly engaged business cultures. He has worked with leading brands including Mars and United Biscuits, and as a consultant with many organisations such as Diageo, Carlsberg, Barclays, KP Foods, and over 20 insurance and financial services businesses. He is also co-author of The Power to Get Things Done (Whether You Feel Like It or Not), published by Penguin Random House (New York). For more information www.chriscooper.co.uk

About this episode: How do we best cope with our current volatile, disruptive and extremely polarised world situation? How can you adapt your approach when you meet others with a very different view to you? On this Special Encore episode, we welcome Joe Weston who brings over 30 years of experience in conflict prevention, leadership, stress management, and communication. We explore the principles outlined in his Amazon bestselling book, Fierce Civility: Transforming our Global Culture from Polarisation to Lasting Peace. Including what is fierce civility and how can it help us to bridge divides and foster personal and professional peace and collaboration. As the founder and owner of Weston Network and the non-profit Fierce Civility Project, Joe has worked with a diverse array of clients, including NASA, the World Bank, Oxfam, Booz Allen Hamilton, PBS, The National Cancer Institute, The United Nations, and Mitsubishi Motors. His groundbreaking work and methodologies have made a significant impact on corporations, government agencies, and non-profits around the world. Joe's expertise is further highlighted by his experience as an adjunct professor at Georgetown University's Department of Government, Program of Conflict Resolution, and his dedication to working with veterans and in-mates in the areas of integration, healing, and leadership. Listen for an enlightening and thought-provoking discussion that will elevate your understanding of the power of fierce civility, and how you can use to increase your effectiveness whilst contributing to a more peaceful world. More about Joe Weston: Joe Weston's career spans 30+ years in the fields of conflict prevention, leadership, stress management, and communication; he is a highly sought after facilitator and coach for individuals, corporations, government agencies, and non-profits around the world. As founder and owner of Weston Network and the non-profit, the Fierce Civility Project, his clients include NASA, World Bank, Oxfam, Booz Allen Hamilton, PBS, The National Cancer Institute, The United Nations, and Mitsubishi Motors. His first book, Mastering Respectful Confrontation (2011), has been sold worldwide, and his second book, Fierce Civility: Transforming our Global Culture from Polarization to Lasting Peace, was released in early March of 2023 and is an Amazon bestseller in 14 categories. Joe served as an adjunct professor at Georgetown University's Department of Government, Program of Conflict Resolution. He has also worked with various Veterans' organisations in processes of integration and healing, as well as teaching mediation and leadership to inmates.