In this latest episode of the More Elephant podcast, we engage in an inspiring conversation with Evan Leaphart, Founder of Kredit Academy, and Mike Gross, COO and Head of Education, who join the latest More Elephant podcast to discuss the team’s journey from Kiddie Kredit, a mobile app designed to educate children on the credit system by completing chores, to Kredit Academy, a solution and approach dedicated to equipping teens and young adults with the knowledge and tools for optimal credit health.In 2023, the team was awarded a $1 million investment from the 43North startup competition to continue the movement toward a financially literate future, creating an opportunity for the next generation to embrace credit management with confidence and wisdom.From their personal journey of friendship and entrepreneurship over many years to relocating to Buffalo after winning the 43 North investment, Evan and Mike share how Kredit Academy aims to make financial education accessible and engaging. Focusing on education, behavioral change, and community engagement, they discuss the broader implications of their work on generational wealth and financial well-being. As we listen, learn, live, better on More Elephant, Evan and Mike are great examples of how an idea can change lives and build pathways to durable financial health.Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Evan and Mike share their origin story, meeting early in life and how they have been focused together for many years on changing how teens and young adults think about and understand moneyWe discuss their approach to financial empowerment and educating Gen Alpha on credit through a gamified approach and a solution that allows members to earn rewards both by responsible spending and by engaging in activities and learning modulesWe hear about their founder’s story, how they learned to build a company, the resilience and willingness to be flexible as investment opportunity arises, and the power of community in doing work that mattersand more..

In our most recent podcast, we delve into a conversation with Byron Slosar, the CEO and Founder of hellohive. Byron shares his vision of revolutionizing the traditional talent employment landscape.hellohive, a virtual recruiting platform that secured $3.4 million in Series A funding earlier this year, is committed to connecting next-gen talent to companies with a significant diversity and inclusivity lens, making everyone feel valued and integral to the recruitment process.Byron shares how the platform facilitates self-identification and self-expression for students and recent graduates. hellohive allows corporations to find talent and understand them better, enabling a more humanized interaction throughout the recruiting process. Byron talks about his founder story, how it’s a full circle moment that connects many of the talents he had built throughout his life journey and includes a stop-off at the circus. As with many founders, he talks about the challenges building a business brings while raising a son and how he has learned to embrace his perceived weaknesses and turn them into a source of strength and grit.More Elephant Moments in this Episode:Byron shares his journey of becoming an entrepreneur, his challenges, and how he turned perceived weaknesses into strengths.Byron outlines what traditional recruiting processes are missing in their standardized approach.Built for equity and powered by inclusion, we discuss the vital role of technology in providing equity and access to students who lack the resources or knowledge to confront traditional recruiting processes.and more..

Each quarter, we highlight non-profit change agents leading from the front and changing lives.On this podcast, we talk with Troy Reinhart, SVP of Community and Ambassador Development for Smile Train. Smile Train is a nonprofit organization that has provided cleft lip and palate surgeries to children in need worldwide for the past twenty-five years. The Smile Train team is approaching its two millionth surgery.Troy shares his origin story and his journey to Smile Train. We discuss the challenges and stigma associated with cleft, Smile Train’s unique and comprehensive approach to treatment, and the impact of Smile Train's work across continents. Troy also highlights the importance of awareness and invites listeners to support Smile Train's mission.Smile Train’s powerful tagline is ‘changing the world one smile at a time’. This conversation is sure to leave a smile on your face and inspire you to become an agent for change.Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Troy shares his personal journey and what led him to Smile Train, which has grown to become a global leader in cleft treatment. Troy illuminates the challenges and stigma associated with cleft and the comprehensive approach to treatment that Smile Train provides that is focused on localized delivery and community engagement.Troy shares powerful anecdotes to illustrate the significant impact of Smile Train’s work in different regions, including India, Ghana, and Mexico. and more..

Have you ever wondered what drives someone to leave the perceived security of a blue-chip career for the often unpredictable waters of FinTech entrepreneurship and how one pivotal moment on a Peloton sparked an idea that could impact people for generations?As we continue to explore conversations with change agents rethinking paths to financial health, we are in conversation with Mical Jeanlys-White, Founder and CEO of Wealthmore, an inclusive investment and advice platform.WealthMore’s belief is that “everyone’s wealth deserves the benefit and respect of financial advice.” Join us as we listen to Mical's journey as a first-generation immigrant, from trying to get her grandmother to invest in CDs to defining a solution to help democratize wealth advice. Mical shares her lived experiences, challenges, and real conversations we need to have about closing the racial and gender wealth gaps if we are to create a path to lasting generational wealth.Discover Wealthmore's unique approach to investing, planning, and creating a diverse and inclusive community of wealth advisors. Explore the impact of community-led financial empowerment and Wealthmore's innovative 'advice on demand' model as part of an ecosystem that stands for financial inclusion and leveling the playing field.

Financial health as a pathway to creating lasting generational wealth for all continues to be elusive in the United States, where we explore revolutionary ideas for transforming financial well-being.In this episode of the More Elephant podcast, we talk with Charles Phillips, the Co-Founder and CEO of Sawa Money. Sawa, in Swahili, means it's all good, and we are in conversation with Charles to discuss the groundbreaking work the Sawa team is doing to improve the financial well-being of their members and solve the wealth gap problem, one manageable financial decision at a time.Join us as we dive deep into the unique challenges underrepresented communities face regarding financial health and how Sawa Money is leveraging time-honored, community-based traditions to create a platform that aims to redefine how people approach their financial life, build generational wealth and achieve better financial stability. We learn about the 'Savings Wheel,’ a trust-based, communal approach to help people begin their journey to long-term financial health by providing actionable strategies primarily focused on helping alleviate the vulnerabilities those living paycheck-to-paycheck face.Listen to this captivating conversation as we explore the power of empathy and community-driven initiatives in revolutionizing financial stability. Discover how Sawa Money is paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future for all. Key More Elephant Moments in this Episode:We discuss the formative years of Charles’ origin story, from Bangkok to Mississippi, and how that experience informed his desire to explore beyond those borders and “try to be a little bit different and color outside the lines a little bit more.”Charles outlines the motivation for building Sawa Money and the creation of the communal ‘Savings Wheel’ as a way to put people on a path to a greater understanding of the compounding effect of sound financial decisions.We discuss the importance of trust in financial institutions, the challenges for many in figuring out a path to homeownership, and the aim of Sawa Money to alleviate financial vulnerability to providing an easy-to-understand path to owning and living in a home.And more…

Have you ever wondered about the origin story of a company that initially focused on trash enclosures and outdoor storage solutions but evolved into a beacon of innovation and urban beautification?In this latest episode of More Elephant Podcast, we are in conversation with Liz Picarazzi, Founder and CEO of CITIBIN, a company that designs, manufactures, and distributes trash enclosures and other outdoor storage solutions. Liz started CITIBIN because she couldn’t find a durable and attractive enclosure for her own trash.Our conversation delves into her evolution as an entrepreneur, the pivotal role of customer insights in her product development journey, and CITIBIN's innovative solutions to unique challenges, such as space constraints in cities and package theft. Liz also shares her insights on the pivot from a knowledge worker to a creator and the value of adapting in business to maximize one’s strengths.Talking Points in this Episode:Liz discusses the importance of listening to customers’ needs to build a business and create innovative solutions that solve real problemsLiz discusses the versatility of CITIBIN's design foundation and how it has extended to a more pressing issue – package theft.How CITIBIN is addressing the existential rat problem in New York City. and more.

The media is the fourth estate, and although we vehemently argue about its influence on society and its part in determining our thoughts and beliefs, there is still room for discussion on how the media may contribute to positive change and what media companies are doing to leave a lasting impression.We talk with Dennis Williams, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) at Warner Brothers Discovery, in this interesting episode. During our conversation, Dennis takes us on a tour of his incredible journey, from his modest beginnings and lessons gained to his current position of influence and effect. He shares his passion for working with his team and resources to drive positive and long-lasting change. Dennis articulates the profound impact of media and corporate philanthropy in reshaping perceptions and attitudes, highlighting the pivotal role of CSR at Warner Brothers Discovery in seeking to uplift marginalized communities, foster avenues for artistic and technological pursuits, and advocate for ecological stewardship.Dennis also emphasizes the importance of family, community, and being in service of others as a path to realizing dreams, having an impact, and creating pathways for the next generation of leaders to help change the world, one idea at a time. Key More Elephant Takeaways from the conversation:Dennis shares his journey to becoming a figure in corporate social responsibility, and his passion for bringing the power media of philanthropy to foster lasting social impact.Dennis also discusses how his life, career, and his strategic approach to social responsibility have been influenced by his family, especially his grandmother. Dennis discusses the importance of maintaining humanity and empathy in a world increasingly influenced by technology.and more…

As we continue our 2024 journey of listening to and learning from idea agents and change-makers, we will be joined over the following few conversations by cultural ‘activists’ who have used their insights and platforms to change neighborhoods, communities, and the lived experience for many through investment, art, and philanthropy.In this episode, we engage in a deeply personal and inspirational conversation with Derek Fleming, a Senior Advisor at HR&A Advisors. Derek shares his journey from studying economics and real estate management to working on urban renewal efforts in complex, diverse, and economically challenged communities throughout the United States. We also hear from Derek as he charts the experience as one of the driving forces behind Red Rooster, one of the nation’s most critically acclaimed restaurants and cultural spaces. Derek connects the personal to the professional from growing up in Compton to present-day New York City and all the spaces and places in between, coloring the pivotal role of culture and lived experience in edifying and building ‘belonging’ spaces through real estate, emphasizing the importance of hard work, authenticity, and faith in the pursuit of passion and living out his dreams.Key More Elephant Takeaways in this Episode:Derek connects the personal richness of his formative years in Los Angeles and Oakland to the manifestation of how he uses real estate to edify the culture in economically challenged communities.Derek’s reflections on Black culture and its value in building a more representative experience for America, as demonstrated through myriad revitalization efforts across the country.Derek highlights the importance of being passionate and authentic in your work and the power that has to change lives. and more…

How can we create a life that aligns with our passions and allows us to thrive?New Year, New You! As we begin a new year, resolutions are made to start fresh and make positive changes that enrich and enliven our lives. With 2024 less than two weeks old, many of us are challenging ourselves to be More Elephant.It is fitting then that the first conversation of the year is with Aneta Kuzma, host of the Live the Width of Your Life podcast, author of "Live the Width of Your Life: 365 Daily Meditations on Living with Purpose, Passion, and Peace." and a contributor to Brainz Magazine and Thrive Global. Aneta is dedicated to guiding individuals toward making a meaningful impact. Her passion lies in helping clients break free from stagnation, awaken to their full potential and purpose, dream big, and take aligned action to embrace the WIDTH of their lives. Recognizing the everyday struggles of individuals in pursuing healthier and more fulfilling lives, Aneta empowers her clients to redefine success, mitigate stress, conquer limiting beliefs, and design lives imbued with purpose, passion, and peace.In our conversation, Aneta discusses her journey to becoming an entrepreneur, author, and podcaster. She shares her experiences dealing with corporate stress and burnout and the importance of body-mind wellness practices and modalities like yoga, meditation, and breathwork to help individuals, corporations, and nonprofits improve their overall well-being. Key More Elephant Takeaways from the conversation:Aneta shares how she transitioned from a corporate role following someone else’s rules to owning and living the width of her life.Aneta shares the importance of starting at a place, asking the right questions as part of self-reflection, and how yoga and meditation helped create clarity of vision.Aneta discusses the impact of masculine and feminine energy, stress on the nervous system, and the impact of burnout and anxiety on our psyche and how we operate to survive, not thrive.

How can one man's vision help turn a non-profit into a global force for change, and what lessons can we learn from his journey?In this episode, we talk with Brian Gallagher, former CEO of United Way Worldwide and current CEO of the Leargas Group. The Leargas Group is a strategy consulting firm focused on developing solutions that have meaningful and lasting social impact.His career, one marked by transformative leadership, has left an indelible impact on non-profits and social change. As we explore his experiences and insights, Brian presents his view that everyone's success is essential for collective success. The conversation also includes the impact of institutionalized racism, the necessity of supportive structures for marginalized communities, and the importance of uncomfortable conversations in initiating change.Talking points in this Episode:Brian shares his journey from social work major to CEO of the United Way Worldwide.Brian highlights the importance of reframing success and creating mechanisms to lift marginalized communities.We discuss the need for change in economic policy, corporate culture, and governance.and more…

How can we reimagine equity and drive systemic change?In this edition, we are joined by Alphonso David, an advocate for social and economic justice, who sheds light on the transformative potential of the Global Black Economic Forum (GBEF), whose mission is to challenge ingrained biases within institutional systems, paving the way for true innovation, equitable returns, and transformation worldwide.Discover the personal experiences that shape Alphonso’s unwavering commitment to fostering a more equitable, just world. From healthcare to employment and education, Alphonso uncovers the interconnectedness of societal inequities, highlighting the dire need for diversity and inclusion to address systemic economic disparities. As the President & CEO of the GBEF, he focuses on reshaping diversity, equity, and inclusion in corporate settings while striving for economic justice for the global Black community. The Forum engages global stakeholders, including executives, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and activists, through consulting, conferences, a non-profit foundation, and technology initiatives to promote social and economic justice. Alphonso outlines the three-pronged approach that GBEF is deploying to move from conversation to action, the need to pursue meaningful debate even when the ‘sides’ don’t agree, and the imperative of active civic engagement in propelling societal change.Talking Points in this Episode:We discuss the role of the Global Black Economic Forum in advancing equity and targeting the structures and systems that stand in the way of economic justice for underrepresented and underserved communities.We discuss the three-pronged approach that GBEF is deploying to move from conversation to action, the need to pursue meaningful debate even when the ‘sides’ don’t agree, and the imperative of active civic engagement in propelling societal change.Alphonso shares the Importance of self-reflection and learning from history and how key moments in his life have become frequent reference anchors as he seeks to grow the influence of GBEF and move from conversation to impact. and more..

Ever wondered how life experiences shaped the creation of a powerful platform advocating for black queer men? In this episode of the More Elephant podcast, we are in conversation with Emil Wilbekin, journalist, human rights activist, and founder of Native Son, a platform and non-profit organisation advocating for black queer men.We explore Emil's journey and discuss the pivotal moments that led to the creation of Native Son, highlighting the importance of representation of black queer men, the power of corporate partnership to elevate the narrative, and the need to continue to focus on intersectionality in our understanding, respect, and support of various communities.Talking points in this Episode:We chart Emil’s life journey, from his upbringing to the pivotal experiences surrounding his identity as a gay man that fuelled his belief and confidence to create the Native Son platform.We discuss the power of and need for greater representation and how the Native Son platform addresses, particularly through programming and initiatives like the Native Son Awards.We discuss the significance of respecting and acknowledging diverse experiences within the black queer community, shedding light on the importance of inclusive advocacy.…and much more.

According to a recent report by the Center for the Study of Women in Television and Film, only 9% of directors are women and 38% of films employed 0 or 1 woman in the roles considered. Representation by women both behind and in front of the camera remains an opportunity to ensure a more equitable presentation of stories by women for women.In the latest podcast episode, we talk with two filmmakers, Michal Sinnott and Alexandra Clayton, who made 'Unpacking,' a film that explores the radical transformation and the reality of life.Michal and Alexandra discuss the making of the film, leveraging a cooperative approach to funding and production, and reflect on their experiences navigating a male-dominated industry. Both voice important issues such as lack of diversity and representation, inherent industry obstacles, and the potential for change. They also share insights from their experiences in filmmaking and life, discussing the importance of courage, resilience, invincibility, and authenticity in the creative process.Talking Points in this Episode:Michal and Alexandra discuss the Importance of authentic representation in film and how stories written and produced for women by women can challenge stereotypes and represent women in ways they are often captured on screen.Lessons learned from filmmaking that fuel personal growth, including the power of a collective set-up to support and nurture the creative process.The making of 'Unpacking’ and the importance of representation in all roles to enhance storytelling.And more…

How can organizations effectively balance the change of mindsets and behaviors while respecting individual journeys in the realm of DE&I, ultimately leading to a more inclusive workplace?In this episode of More Elephant podcast with Jarvis Sam, the CEO and founder of Rainbow Disruption, Jarvis shares his own journey in the DE&I space, including his role as the Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at Nike, to his teaching role at Brown, and his venture into entrepreneurship.Jarvis shares The Rainbow Disruption strategy in aiding companies to align DE&I with their corporate strategy, ultimately impacting product development and brand growth. We also delve into the challenges organizations face in the current environment regarding DE&I, the need for accountability, the importance of introducing empathy, humanity, and representation into the workplace, and the role effective DE&I policies play in a growth mindset. Talking points in this Episode:Jarvis discusses the inspiration behind stepping out as an entrepreneur, starting Rainbow Disruption and the writing of his new book, DEI C.R.E.D.E.N.T.I.A.LWe discuss the importance of changing mindsets and behaviors within organizations as a key component of DE&I initiatives and how to approach with a sense of inclusion for all.Jarvis also addresses the concept of "covering" and the impact it has on individuals in the workplace, advocating for creating conditions where employees feel comfortable being authentic.And more…

Have you ever wondered how a global bank like Citibank optimizes its brand across 95 countries worldwide? Or how it infuses diversity, equity, and inclusion into its marketing strategy and product experience to effectively represent marginalized communities?In the latest episode of the podcast, we are in conversation with Nikki Darden, whose most recent role was focused on bringing Citibank’s brand to life for their 200,000+ colleagues and driving diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout Citi’s marketing ecosystem.Nikki shares her journey of how the personal and the professional are inextricably connected as she delivers impact for underrepresented communities across a global organization while being a force for change by standing in her truth, bringing her full self to the workplace, and consistently asking of those around her, “what can we do?” Talking Points in this Episode:Nikki explains her role in optimizing Citi's brand and discusses the integration of diversity, equity, and inclusion into Citi's marketing efforts and its vital importance within the walls of Citi and on behalf of the millions of customers Citi serves across the globe.Nikki shares her journey to a fuller realization of what brings her joy, including entrepreneurial ‘enlightenment,’ that being an intrapreneur is what she does best, and finding and owning your ‘power’ can bring true satisfaction.She explains how “what can we do?” can be the ignition to spark change and innovation by focusing efforts on incremental improvement that can have a powerful and positive impact.And more…

Are you working to live or living to work?Finding true fulfillment in your career can seem like an elusive dream in a world of deadlines and demands. What if aligning your work with your passions held the key to unlocking unparalleled success?In the final conversation in our first series on the changing nature of work, join us as we dive into the remarkable journey of Rosa Sabater, a trailblazing executive who dared to reshape the rules and then created a company to help other women reshape their rules and live a more fulfilling life that celebrates their greatness and provides flexibility to live fully in more corners of their lives.Talking Points in this Episode:Rosa shares the “moment” when she decided to step away from a series of traditional corporate roles to reflect. create space and reimagine a more personalized way of working.We discuss the power of finding joy and fulfillment in work by aligning with personal passions and how Martellus, described by its Experts as “a platform that enables us, the 40 women, to work how we work best,” enables community, support, and balance.We hear about the practical solutions Martellus solves for - including staffing augmentation, brand strategy, customer acquisition, loyalty marketing, customer relationship management, and contact center excellence - with leaders from Fortune 500 companies chosen for their ability to accelerate time to market, share knowledge and help avoid pitfalls.Rosa outlines the very real challenges women have shared with her in articulating what they want and overcoming challenges in articulating one's true passion.And much more …

Can remote work truly foster deeper connections and exceptional leadership?There continues to be a significant shift in how workers view their relationship with work, while at the same time, companies are making deliberate choices about post-pandemic organizational norms and culture.As the role of remote work evolves, and we assess how to create more flexibility as our relationship with work changes, it is fitting that the next More Elephant conversation in the series on the changing nature of work is with Melissa Romo, author of "Your Resource Is Human: How Empathetic Leadership Can Help Remote Teams Rise Above." In our conversation, Melissa outlines unravels the secrets of empathetic leadership, unveiling a roadmap for building thriving cultures and forging genuine connections in today's remote and hybrid workplaces. Melissa’s book has been lauded by workplace and leadership experts as “the book 21st century leaders and followers have been pining for.”Talking points in this Episode:Melissa discusses her experience with remote work, the emotional challenges that it created for her and how finding a lack of resources to help, she decided to write the book.Melissa outlines “The "Remote Leadership Wheel TM," a practical solution to assessing five emotional pitfalls and five corresponding empathetic responses to help leaders and individuals rise above the challenges of remote work.We discuss the return to office movement, the need for remote work to be a valid option for some, the impact of “corporate trauma” and need for connection, meaning, and belonging.We highlight the importance of TRUST as a foundation for effective remote leadership, the Pygmalion effect on team performance and Melissa's call for reflective evaluation of individual readiness for remote work and its benefits.

Welcome to the first episode of the More Elephant podcast, where we dive deep into inspiring topics and explore thought leadership for today's world. As we embark on this journey of meaningful conversations, we chose to start with a focus on the changing nature of work, as we reckon with the what, how, where and why of work in a post-pandemic world.America is defined by workism,“the belief that work is not only necessary to economic production but also the centerpiece of one's identity and life's purpose.” However, what if work could be more than just a means to a paycheck? What if it could empower us to live better lives?In the first More Elephant podcast, we are joined by Ben Brooks, who is the founder & CEO of PILOT, an award-winning employee career development software platform. Inspired by his successful CEO & executive coaching practice, Ben saw an opportunity to take the entrepreneurial leap of faith and begin to democratize executive coaching and empower employees at scale. Ben invested his life savings into founding the company whose mission is to ensure everyone “feels powerful at work.” What does it mean to feel powerful at work? How can we advocate for ourselves, prioritize our development, and navigate the unwritten rules of the workplace? Join us for this inspiring conversation with Ben to kickstart the More Elephant podcast as he shares stories of experimentation, resilience, and the quest for impact, both in his career and in helping others achieve their goals.PILOT was named #1 HR Tech Startup to Watch in 2020, and HR Executive Magazine named him one of the Top 100 Influencers in HR & Technology for 4 straight years. PILOT was named a Top HR Product of 2020 and DIAGEO named PILOT their Supplier of the Year in Diversity Excellence. Talking points in this Episode:Ben Brooks shares his unique career journey, from climbing the corporate ladder to becoming an entrepreneur.Ben explains the mission of his company and falling in love with a problem: the fact that people are miserable at work and not managing their careers wellWe discuss the importance of advocating for oneself, seeking feedback, and building relationships in the context of the individualBen asserts that we can powerfully command our lives by balancing work and life while building an individual configuration of what satisfaction and success look like…and, if you’re always hearing yes, you’re probably not advocating enough!