The Conscious Capitalists

• What Enron, Layoffs & Love Taught CEO of Improving, Curtis Hite

  What happens when you combine trust, tech, and a deep commitment to doing business the right way? You get Curtis Hite, CEO and Chairman of Improving, a software consulting company that’s turning heads—not just for their tech chops, but for how they treat people.In this episode of The Conscious Capitalists, Timothy Henry and Raj Sisodia chat with Curtis about his inspiring journey from the high-stakes world of Enron to becoming a champion of Conscious Capitalism. He shares how a few key moments—including a powerful Speed of Trust event and attending the Conscious Capitalism CEO Summit—changed the way he leads and lives.Curtis gets real about the need to change the game in tech, especially when it comes to creating more space for Hispanic, Black, and female professionals in an industry that desperately needs more diversity, equity, and inclusion. He talks about what it takes to build a business that people actually want to work for—think profit-sharing, transparency, and a big helping of trust.From surviving corporate chaos to learning how to lean into pain (yes, really), Curtis doesn’t hold back. He even shares his morning routine and the books that keep him grounded. This episode is packed with personal stories, powerful leadership lessons, and a refreshing dose of optimism for what capitalism can look like when it’s done consciously.**If you enjoy this podcast, would you consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It takes only a few seconds and greatly helps us get our podcast out to a wider audience.Please subscribe on Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.For transcripts and show notes, please go to: https://www.theconsciouscapitalists.comThis show is presented by Conscious Capitalism, Inc. (https://www.consciouscapitalism.org/) and is produced by Rainbow Creative (https://www.rainbowcreative.co/) with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Rithu Jagannath as Lead Producer, and Nathan Wheatley as Editor.Thank you for your support!- Timothy & RajTime Stamps00:00 Introduction to Improving's Mission00:50 Welcome to The Conscious Capitalists01:22 Introducing Curtis Hite02:49 Curtis Hite's Journey to Conscious Capitalism05:45 Implementing Conscious Capitalism at Improving09:21 Curtis Hite's Entrepreneurial Beginnings11:50 Using Negative Emotions for Growth16:20 Overcoming Business Challenges23:12 Trust and Leadership at Improving25:30 Stakeholder Philosophy and Community Engagement30:59 The Secret to Employee Engagement31:15 Balancing Freedom and Equality in Business32:15 Inspiration Over Obligation33:02 Spirituality in Leadership35:36 Celebrating and Elevating Capitalism39:35 The Role of Stakeholders43:08 Addressing Diversity and Inclusion46:15 Profit Sharing and Employee Ownership53:00 Preparing for Economic Uncertainty55:40 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Remarks

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• Why Customer Trust Is the New Currency with Sonya Gafsi-Oblisk

  For Sonya Gafsi-Oblisk, business has never just been about what's on the shelves—it’s about creating real connections, building trust, and staying true to a higher purpose. As Chief Merchandising and Marketing Officer at Whole Foods Market, Sonya brings a modern, customer-first perspective to one of the world’s most iconic conscious brands.In this episode, Sonya walks us through her career journey—from the high-energy environments of PepsiCo and Walmart to her leadership role at Whole Foods. She shares what it truly means to put customers—and the planet—at the center of every decision. From their unwavering commitment to quality standards to innovations like the Seafood Code of Conduct, Sonya offers an insider’s view into how purpose continues to guide the company's strategy and culture.We also explore how Whole Foods is evolving its digital experiences while staying rooted in its founding values, and what it takes to maintain a strong, authentic culture following the retirement of co-founder John Mackey. Throughout the conversation, Sonya reflects on Whole Foods’ larger mission: not just selling groceries, but nourishing people and the planet—and how that mission is more relevant than ever.If you’re curious about how a global brand can grow, innovate, and still lead with heart, Sonya’s story offers powerful lessons in what conscious leadership looks like in action.**If you enjoy this podcast, would you consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It takes only a few seconds and greatly helps us get our podcast out to a wider audience.Please subscribe on Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.For transcripts and show notes, please go to: https://www.theconsciouscapitalists.comThis show is presented by Conscious Capitalism, Inc. (https://www.consciouscapitalism.org/) and is produced by Rainbow Creative (https://www.rainbowcreative.co/) with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Rithu Jagannath as Lead Producer, and Nathan Wheatley as Editor.Thank you for your support!- Timothy & RajTime Stamps00:00 Introduction to Higher Purpose and Leadership Transition01:13 Meet Sonya: Whole Foods' Chief Merchandising and Marketing Officer02:48 Sonya's Journey and Marketing Philosophy05:33 Whole Foods' Commitment to Quality and Conscious Marketing33:41 Sustaining a Conscious Company34:30 Transition and Culture Nurturing36:41 Growing with Purpose Initiative39:54 Conscious Leadership Insights44:18 Whole Foods Foundation and Merchandising Strategy

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• Bob and Michelle Fish on Brewing a Purpose-Driven Future at Biggby Coffee

  Can a coffee company become a force for human dignity, equity, and global transformation?Bob and Michelle Fish of Biggby Coffee share how they turned a moment of internal reckoning into a bold reimagining of their entire business. What began as a thriving franchise built on smiles and slogans took a sharp turn when they realized that their “happy culture” lacked depth—and impact. That wake-up call led them to embrace conscious capitalism as a way of doing business with integrity. Bob and Michelle walk us through the evolution of their mission—from chasing growth to centering relationships, purpose, and long-term value for everyone in their ecosystem.They dive into the creation of their Farm Direct model, a powerful shift designed to eliminate exploitation in the coffee trade and connect more meaningfully with farmers on the ground. Along the way, they reflect on how their international perspectives helped shape a leadership style that honors both local communities and global interdependence.If you’re curious about what it truly means to lead with purpose, rewrite your company’s story, and stay accountable to every stakeholder along the way—this episode is for you.**If you enjoy this podcast, would you consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It takes only a few seconds and greatly helps us get our podcast out to a wider audience.Please subscribe on Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.For transcripts and show notes, please go to: https://www.theconsciouscapitalists.comThis show is presented by Conscious Capitalism, Inc. (https://www.consciouscapitalism.org/) and is produced by Rainbow Creative (https://www.rainbowcreative.co/) with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Rithu Jagannath as Lead Producer, and Nathan Wheatley as Editor.Thank you for your support!- Timothy & RajTime Stamps00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview01:51 The Journey to Conscious Capitalism04:27 Implementing Conscious Capitalism12:56 Challenges and Adaptations17:04 One Big Island in Space Initiative24:23 Big B's Coffee Journey25:46 Challenges in Coffee Production28:06 Connecting Consumers and Producers33:25 The Business Case for Ethical Coffee38:53 Personal Reflections and Rapid Fire Questions

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  45:58
• How Paul Rice Took Fair Trade USA from Idea to Global Movement

  For Paul Rice, ethical business isn’t just an ideal—it’s a movement that reshapes industries, empowers farmers, and transforms global supply chains. As the founder of Fair Trade USA, he has spent decades championing conscious consumerism, proving that profit and purpose can go hand in hand.In this episode, Paul takes us on a journey through the origins of Fair Trade USA, sharing his firsthand experiences in Nicaragua that shaped his vision. He explores the philosophy and certification process behind Fair Trade, the complexities of working with major corporations like Starbucks, and the crucial role of consumer awareness in driving sustainable change.The conversation highlights the importance of long-term thinking in responsible business, the challenges of scaling ethical sourcing, and how conscious capitalism can help businesses align with values-driven consumers. Paul’s insights offer a compelling case for why standards and certifications matter—and how they can create lasting impact in the world economy.**If you enjoy this podcast, would you consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It takes only a few seconds and greatly helps us get our podcast out to a wider audience.Please subscribe on Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.For transcripts and show notes, please go to: https://www.theconsciouscapitalists.comThis show is presented by Conscious Capitalism, Inc. (https://www.consciouscapitalism.org/) and is produced by Rainbow Creative (https://www.rainbowcreative.co/) with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Rithu Jagannath as Lead Producer, and Nathan Wheatley as Editor.Thank you for your support!- Timothy & RajTime Stamps00:00 Introduction to Conscious Capitalism00:32 Meet the Hosts and Special Guest02:21 Understanding Fair Trade04:18 The Rise of Conscious Consumerism18:58 Paul Rice's Journey and Fair Trade Impact31:01 Starbucks and Fair Trade: A Missed Opportunity32:44 The Evolution of Fair Trade USA35:04 Corporate America's Shift in Supply Chain Mentality37:57 Challenges and Solutions in Certification52:02 Personal Stories and the Impact of Fair Trade

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  1:02:17
• Why Elina Teboul Believes Great Leaders Balance Masculine and Feminine Energy

  For Elina Teboul, leadership isn’t just about strategy—it’s about embracing the full spectrum of human intelligence to drive innovation, build psychological safety, and foster inclusive workplaces. In her new book, Feminine Intelligence, she reveals how integrating both feminine and masculine traits can unlock creativity, enhance decision-making, and create more resilient business leaders.She dives into the resistance to feminine intelligence, the historical roots of gendered leadership styles, and why balancing these energies is crucial for navigating uncertainty in today’s fast-changing world. Teboul also explores the power of conscious leadership—leaders who can manage fear, inspire collaboration, and cultivate high-performing teams.Beyond leadership, she shares insights into how psychedelic-assisted therapies can deepen self-awareness and healing, leading to more authentic and effective leadership. **If you enjoy this podcast, would you consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It takes only a few seconds and greatly helps us get our podcast out to a wider audience.Please subscribe on Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.For transcripts and show notes, please go to: https://www.theconsciouscapitalists.comThis show is presented by Conscious Capitalism, Inc. (https://www.consciouscapitalism.org/) and is produced by Rainbow Creative (https://www.rainbowcreative.co/) with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Rithu Jagannath as Lead Producer, and Nathan Wheatley as Editor.Thank you for your support!- Timothy & RajTime Stamps00:00 Introduction to Psychological Safety00:41 Meet the Hosts: Timothy and Raj01:02 Introducing Special Guest: Elina Teboul02:31 Exploring Feminine Intelligence04:10 The Balance of Masculine and Feminine Traits07:06 Challenges and Pushbacks12:21 Feminine Intelligence vs. Feminism14:35 The Importance of Integrated Leadership20:20 Men and Feminine Intelligence28:59 Personal Stories and Mentorship29:54 Living Through Apartheid: A White Man's Perspective30:33 Empowering Black Entrepreneurs: The Birth of E Squared32:11 Conscious Capitalism in Action33:56 Navigating Uncertainty: The Role of Conscious Leadership35:27 The True Model of Leadership36:21 Balancing Profits and Purpose37:56 Creating Psychological Safety in Teams41:04 The Importance of Feminine Intelligence48:35 Healing Childhood Wounds for Better Leadership49:33 The Power of Psychedelic Therapy

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