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.

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.

How can vision and leadership help a non-profit become 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.

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.

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.