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.

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.

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.