The Heart of Sustainable Business with Paul Polman

In turbulent times marked by economic volatility, environmental breakdowns, and widespread

distrust, what we’re experiencing may feel unprecedented—but we’ve been here before. And

as Paul Polman reminds us in his milestone conversation with Carol Cone, we are not without a

compass. Paul, the former CEO of Unilever, is one of today’s most respected voices in

sustainable leadership. He joined the 200th episode of Purpose 360 not to sugarcoat the

challenges, but to ground us in enduring truths.

Paul’s insights are rooted both in strategy and humanity. He speaks of sustainability as the

“heart of business,” where values like dignity, compassion, and the Golden Rule are guiding

principles. He urges leaders to develop their own “inner core” to build resilient businesses but

also resilient selves—emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. And he reminds us that real

leadership today means moving from “human doings” back to human beings. Business, he says,

must be structured to serve—anchored in long-term purpose and in solidarity with both people

and planet.

At its core, Paul’s message to leaders and companies is both visionary and deeply grounded. He

challenges companies to stop whispering behind closed doors and instead step forward

together with clarity, courage, and moral conviction. The future, he believes, belongs to those

who act with heart. And in a world that often feels fractured, Paul’s voice is a steady reminder

that it’s our shared humanity—and our willingness to serve others—that will lead us through.

Listen for insights on why:

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