Most organizations—whether corporations, governments, or communities—are built on assumptions that lock us into systems destined for failure. But what if we could reimagine the very foundations of how we organize, create, and govern?

In this episode, Jerry Davis, a leading scholar of organizations and society, shares a compelling vision for a future where innovation is aligned with the common good—and where the mistakes of the past become lessons, not destiny.

You’ll discover how current corporate models often prioritize short-term profits over societal well-being, fueling social harm from vaping to opioids. Jerry breaks down the illusions of markets as the ultimate coordinators, revealing how financial logic can distort innovations meant to serve humanity.

We explore concrete examples—from the rise of software replicators turning into post-scarcity tools, to Detroit’s thriving community initiatives—showing how local self-reliance and democratic ownership could reshape societies.

This episode pushes you to question whether the current path is inevitable or if a radical design shift is possible. We discuss the potential for new organizational grammars rooted in community, authority, and shared ownership to replace the decaying institutions of the past.

Jerry’s optimism isn’t naive—it’s grounded in evidence that human ingenuity, collective action, and intentional design can lead us toward a more flourishing, resilient future. Perfect for entrepreneurs, students, policymakers, or anyone who believes that a better world is not only imaginable but within reach—and that it starts with the way we organize ourselves.

If you’re ready to see chaos as a crucible for innovation and to challenge the dominant narratives shaping our society, this episode is essential listening.

Jerry Davis is a renowned scholar at the University of Michigan, known for his work on the evolution of corporations and alternative models of organization. His insights challenge the status quo and point us toward a future where we build institutions that serve everyone, not just the few.

Get inspired to reimagine what’s possible—because the future is a fabric we can weave differently.

The Executive Wins Podcast features inspiring Executives who share their biggest wins.

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Most business leaders are stuck in a mechanistic worldview—seeing ecosystems as machines they can control. But what if that perspective is holding us back from real change?

Merijn Dols, former Global Head of Innovation at Danone, reveals how shifting from a Newtonian, dualistic mindset to a complex adaptive systems approach unlocks regenerative, symbiotic opportunities for businesses, communities, and the planet.In this eye-opening conversation, Merijn shares his journey from traditional corporate innovation to embracing paradigms rooted in systems thinking, bio-regionalism, and relational worldview shifts. You’ll discover how real transformation begins with reimagining the purpose of business—asking not just how to profit, but how to co-evolve with ecological and social systems. We break down practical examples like Natura’s regenerative business model, the future-proofing of major corporations through scenario planning, and luxury brands influencing societal values with their “heartprint.”

These stories prove that a paradigm shift isn’t just conceptual— it’s happening on the ground, in organizations that are redefining success.You’ll learn specific strategies to identify and leverage “acupuncture points” for change, from language shifts in meetings to systemic engagement with local bio-regions.

Merijn emphasizes that anyone, anywhere can start this transformation by changing their questions: How are my actions building resilience? Could this be more symbiotic? How do I connect with and amplify these new stories? These small shifts have the power to ripple across industries and societies.This episode is vital for entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, and change-makers ready to shed outdated models and embrace a future where profit, social well-being, and ecological health are mutually reinforcing. If you’re committed to making a meaningful impact—both on your organization and the world—this conversation will inspire you to see paradigm shifts not as distant goals, but as actionable opportunities right now.

Merijn Dols is a systems thinker and bio-regionalist dedicated to transforming regions and organizations towards regenerative pathways. His work spans across cultivating connective tissue between diverse initiatives, nurturing new narratives, and pioneering regenerative business models grounded in deep paradigmatic change. Prepare to challenge your assumptions and co-create the resilient, collaborative future we all want to see. Start with a question, a new language, a small act—because the future is already emerging, and it’s waiting for you to be part of it.

The Executive Wins Podcast features inspiring Executives who share their biggest wins.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

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Most companies focus on doing 'good'—but real change demands transforming business models rooted in human dignity.

Professor Dorothee Baumann-Pauly reveals how rethinking corporate responsibility from the ground up can unlock scalable, impactful solutions in global supply chains, climate, and social justice. This episode challenges the myth that compliance is enough—she shares whether small pilot projects can inspire a ripple effect, how to bridge academia and practice, and the role of future leaders in creating a sustainable, just economy.

Explore concrete examples—from a Brazilian sneaker company halting deforestation to innovative cobalt sourcing in Africa—that show how aligning profit with principles drives both business success and human rights. Dorothee discusses her work traveling to the frontlines in Ivory Coast, China, and beyond, exposing systemic issues like child labor and environmental destruction, and highlights the critical importance of seeing with your own eyes to understand the truth behind corporate narratives.You'll discover: how business schools can embed human rights into core curricula to shape responsible leaders, why the future belongs to management with a moral compass, and what it takes to build lasting alliances across industries and borders. With a focus on practical transformation and an optimistic view of current shifts, this episode is essential listening for anyone committed to turning possibility into reality.

Dorothee Baumann-Pauly is a pioneer at the intersection of business, ethics, and human rights, leading initiatives at NYU Stern and the Geneva Center for Business and Human Rights. Her work spans critical research, advocacy, and innovative models designed to inspire systemic change in companies worldwide.Perfect for aspiring changemakers, academics, and leaders across sectors—this conversation offers a blueprint for leveraging higher education, policy, and business practices to forge an economy that truly serves society.

The Executive Wins Podcast features inspiring Executives who share their biggest wins.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

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