The Business Elevation Show With Chris Cooper - Be More. Achieve More

About this episode: Join us for this inspiring Special Encore episode of The Business Elevation Show, where Chris sits down with Dr. John Stahl-Wert, Founder of the Center for Serving Leadership. With three decades of experience in pioneering training solutions and working with organizations worldwide, John has helped businesses achieve outstanding results by investing in their people. In this interview, John shares insights from his international best-sellers, The Serving Leader and Ten Thousand Horses, and discusses his coaching experiences with top-tier companies like Progress Rail (a Caterpillar Company), Pan Pacific Hotel Group (Singapore), and Honda’s North American Lean Network. Learn about John's passion for leadership, his approach to fostering growth and excellence, and his personal journey of forty-two years of marriage with his business partner Milonica. Tune in for a conversation that promises to offer valuable lessons on serving leadership and creating thriving, people-focused organisations.  

About this episode: In this inspiring episode, Chris Cooper interviews Leilani Raashida Henry, leadership consultant, executive coach, and author of The Call of Antarctica: Exploring and Protecting Earth’s Coldest Continent. The book shares the powerful, little-known story of her father, George W. Gibbs Jr., the first person of African descent to set foot on Antarctica, and the lessons his historic journey offers for our lives and leadership today. Drawing on her pioneering work with whole-brain leadership, intuitive tools, and cross-functional team development, we will discuss how Antarctica’s extreme environment and her father’s resilience illuminate what it takes to lead in uncertain times. Together, we will explore how leaders can build resilient “inner ecosystems” that foster thriving cultures, environmental stewardship, and positive societal impact. Whether you are navigating personal change, leading teams in challenging environments, or passionate about protecting our planet, this conversation will

About this episode: In this deeply moving and inspiring Special Encore episode, Chris Cooper was joined by four extraordinary members of ‘The Elevation Collective’—Molly Bedingfield, Elisabet Vinberg Hearn, Tessa White, and Hilary Wilson—as they reflect on their recent journey to the Global Angels Tsavo Project in Kenya. Led by Global Angels founder Molly Bedingfield, the collective lived in remarkable clay eco-domes, learned about regenerative farming on a 26-acre permaculture farm, and witnessed both the challenges and hope within local communities. From carrying clean water to homes without plumbing, meeting children who rely on the charity for their only meals of the day, and seeing first-hand the transformative power of sustainable development—this was a journey that deeply touched the heart and stirred a strong call to action. Together, the group shared personal stories: of a child grasping a hand in trust, of water carried in broken buckets from dirty ponds, of resilience, ingenuity, and the joy of gi

About this episode: Join us for a powerful and deeply human conversation with Stevie Ward—keynote speaker, freedom coach, and former professional rugby league captain—who now dedicates his life to helping leaders and teams unlock extraordinary performance while experiencing deep, lasting wellbeing. Stevie’s journey is anything but ordinary. Once a rugby star and captain living his boyhood dream with the Leeds Rhinos, winning three Grand Finals, two Challenge Cups, and eventually captaining the side. But when a serious brain injury brought his playing career to an unexpected halt at just 27, he faced his toughest opponent yet—himself. Through that life-altering turning point, Stevie discovered a powerful truth: that real strength comes not just from physical prowess, but from presence, vulnerability, and radical self-awareness. During this interview we will discuss his hard-won insights that emerged from his personal reinvention and how to inspire outlandish team spirit, ignite purpose, and foster a freedom t

About this epsiode: In this powerful episode of the Business Elevation Show, Chris Cooper speaks with Brian Gallagher – former CEO of United Way Worldwide and current Founder of the Leargas Group – about one of today’s most pressing questions: Is capitalism good? Drawing on a life journey from humble beginnings in a steel town to leading one of the world’s most influential non-profits, they discuss insights on inequality, planetary health, and the urgent need to rebuild social capital in our digital age. With deep experience in systems thinking, impact investing, and philanthropy, Brian offers a rare, honest perspective on how we can realign economic models to serve both people and planet. This conversation isn’t just about business – it’s about humanity, purpose, and the kind of future we want to co-create. Essential listening for leaders, changemakers, and anyone committed to meaningful change.   More about Brian Gallagher:   Brian Gallagher is the Founder and CEO of the Leargas Group, an economic and soci

About this episode: In this uplifting episode of the Business Elevation Show, Chris Cooper is joined by Luke Ketterhagen—yoga teacher, wellness guide, blueberry farmer, and faculty member at the Himalayan Institute. From a childhood in rural Wisconsin to studying under a Himalayan master, Luke has spent over two decades teaching yoga, meditation, and breathing techniques around the world. Chris and Luke explore how simple daily practices can transform anxiety into purposeful action, and why now—more than ever—we must tap into our innate tools to regulate our nervous systems, expand awareness, and contribute to a better world. Expect practical wisdom, experiential breathing, and reflections on community, culture, and the joy of picking blueberries. A heartfelt conversation on human potential and amplifying good. More about Luke Ketterhagen: Luke was raised in rural WI by his parents - a couple of ex hippies – an educator and a nurse. Their home was imbued with a passion for spirituality and well

More about this episode: In this deeply moving and inspiring episode, Chris Cooper is joined by four extraordinary members of ‘The Elevation Collective’—Molly Bedingfield, Elisabet Vinberg Hearn, Tessa White, and Hilary Wilson—as they reflect on their recent journey to the Global Angels Tsavo Project in Kenya. Led by Global Angels founder Molly Bedingfield, the collective lived in remarkable earth and lime domes, learned about regenerative farming on a 26-acre permaculture farm, and witnessed both the challenges and hope within local communities. From carrying clean water to homes without plumbing, meeting children who rely on the charity for their only meals of the day, and seeing first-hand the transformative power of sustainable development—this was a journey that deeply touched the heart and stirred a strong call to action. Together, the group share personal stories: of a child grasping a hand in trust, of water carried in broken buckets from dirty ponds, of resilience, ingenuity, and the joy of givin

About this episode: In this episode, Chris Cooper sits down with Rory MacFadyen, co-founder of Reflo, a performance-wear brand on a mission to revolutionise the sportswear industry by becoming the most sustainable brand in the world. With over a decade of experience in sports and entertainment across the UK, UAE, and Saudi Arabia, Rory has built an impressive career specializing in marketing, branding, creative direction, partnerships, and sponsorship activation. He has worked with some of the biggest names in global sports, including Manchester United, Real Madrid, STC, and Red Bull. Before launching Reflo, Rory played a key role in developing the Icons Series, an innovative golf concept featuring some of the most legendary athletes on the planet. Beyond business, Rory is a passionate sports fan with a love for cricket, football, padel, and golf. A devoted supporter of Southampton FC and Sussex CCC, he finds his ultimate place of zen on the golf course. Join us as we dive into Rory’s journey, the inspiratio

About this episode: In this landmark 600th edition of The Business Elevation Show, celebrated author and reputation strategist Mike Mooney steps in as guest host to interview the show’s founder and long-time host Chris Cooper. Since launching the show in 2011, Chris has built The Business Elevation Show into one of the longest-running podcasts in the world, with a global audience in over 50 countries and a legacy of 600 purpose-driven conversations. Over 14 years, Chris has interviewed some of the world’s most inspiring business minds, social innovators, and changemakers—creating a unique archive of insight and transformation. In this special episode, Chris steps out from behind the mic to share: The most powerful lessons from 600 interviews with global leaders How the show has shaped his own views on leadership, energy, and purpose His journey from corporate boardrooms to becoming a strategic coach, speaker and connector The story behind The Elevation Collective, an exclusive community of wise, heart-led

About this episode: Join us for this Special Encore episoe, as we explore the heart of kindness as we discuss by stepping up and being an angel with Molly Bedingfield, Founder and CEO of the Global Angels Foundation. Molly exemplifies how leading with kindness can revolutionise our approach to personal growth, stakeholder engagement, and community support. With her extensive background in business management, leadership development and charitable contribution, we will discuss invaluable insights into practicing kindness and its ripple effect on creating transformative change. As a mother to four, talented singer/songwriters, including globally recognised talents Daniel and Natasha Bedingfield, Molly understands the importance of love and kindness. This episode will delve into Molly’s philosophy that fostering kindness within can extend outwards, enhancing relationships with stakeholders and fostering strong community change which all contribute to a better world where all can flourish. Join us for a conversa

More about this Special Encore episode: Join us for a dive into effective branding and marketing with Barnaby Wynter, author of Become the GO TO BRAND and renowned strategic brand expert. With over 457 brands under his belt and as the creator of the transformative Brand Bucket® Programme, Barnaby has dedicated his career to helping businesses stand out in crowded markets. From his swift rise to the youngest Managing Director of a top UK advertising agency in London to his international success with both corporates and SMEs, Barnaby’s journey is packed with insights for businesses aiming to solidify their market presence. In this Special Encore episode, Barnaby shares how his unique marketing methodology—fine-tuned since 2010—can help you create meaningful customer connections and build an impactful brand. We also discuss his journey from branding to social initiatives, including his Community Interest Company supporting Black entrepreneurs and a school project in Uganda. Get ready for actionable strateg

About this episode: In this insightful conversation, I sit down with Tracey Jones a highly respected Mind Management coach, keynote speaker, and leadership expert, to explore how we can better prepare young adults for the realities of adult life. With over 14 years of coaching experience and having empowered more than 4,500 individuals through her Language Alchemy™ methodology, Tracey brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. We will discuss Tracey’s PAL (Preparing For Adult Life) programme and why self-leadership, emotional intelligence, and personal development are critical foundations for success in today’s world. We will discuss prac strategies for helping young adults cultivate deeper self-awareness, enhance interpersonal skills, and build the resilience needed to thrive personally and professionally. Drawing on her extensive work with leaders in media, politics, sports, and business — as well as her contributions to government sectors — we dill explore how small, consistent changes can lead to tran

About this episode: In a world marked by growing complexity, division, and ecological tipping points, a new story is emerging — one that reclaims our deep interconnectedness with each other, with the Earth, and with the cosmos itself. Dr. Jude Currivan, cosmologist, planetary healer, and former international business leader, invites us into a radical shift in perception: from the illusion of separation to the embodied reality of unity. In this conversation, we will explore how her groundbreaking work in The Cosmic Hologram and The Story of Gaia offers not only a profound scientific narrative but a practical, ethical, and evolutionary framework for leadership and business in the 21st century. What does it mean to live — and lead — from the awareness that we are inseparable from the systems we shape? How do organizations evolve from extractive and competitive to regenerative and co-creative? And what becomes possible when we align our strategies not just with markets, but with meaning? This is a conversati

  About this episode: How do you best navigate your career or the complex relationship between individuals and the workplace, today? My guest for this Special Encore episode, Tessa White, known as the Job Doctor, exploded on social media with her expertise on careers and how to navigate the complicated relationship between individuals and the workplace in late 2020, after 20 years leading human resources functions within the Fortune 50 to fast growth start-ups. With more than one million followers on social media she was recognised on USA Today’s list as one of the top speakers to watch in 2022. Her book, The Unspoken Truths for Career Success, was released in February, and her podcast, The Job Doctor is In, is available on Spotify and Apple. Join us as we discuss how to navigate the Unspoken Truths for Career Success.   More about Tessa White: At a time when individuals are struggling with their job satisfaction, an unlikely ally was found in a former Fortune 50 executive turned employee advocate. Tessa W

More about this episode: In this conversation, we will explore with Pushpendra Mehta, author of the Wall Street Journal bestseller Observe to Unmask: 100 Small Things to Know People Better, the subtle yet powerful art of observation—and how truly seeing others (and ourselves) changes everything. Drawing from his acclaimed book and life experiences across India and the U.S., Pushpendra will share how quiet observation, sharpened perception, and intuitive listening can help us decode human behaviour, build stronger relationships, and lead with empathy and insight. Together, we will also discuss the karma behind human interactions - how our choices, thoughts, and even unnoticed behaviours can set karmic cycles in motion in both personal and professional life. How a lack of self-awareness and understanding of the karma creation process can lead to unintended consequences - and how we can course-correct through conscious living. Whether you're a leader, entrepreneur, seeker, or simply curious about what shape

About this episode: In this episode, I am delighted to welcome Elizabeth Lotardo - consultant, writer, and LinkedIn Learning instructor - to talk with me about her new book Leading Yourself. Known for her fresh and practical take on leadership, Elizabeth will share insights on how to create a work experience worth loving, no matter your title or role. This is despite imperfect bosses, weird economies, lethargic coworkers, annoying systems and too many deliverables. We will explore managing your mindset, how to show up as your best self and working with difficult people.  With experience working with companies like Salesforce, Hilton, and Berkshire Hathaway, Elizabeth brings both credibility and heart to the conversation. Whether you're a senior leader, a new manager, or someone looking to find more meaning in your day-to-day, this episode is full of actionable wisdom to help you lead yourself—and inspire others to do the same.   About Elizabeth Lotardo: Elizabeth Lotardo is a consultant, writer, and o

About this episode: In this special encore episode, we learn about the metaverse and its transformative potential, with guest Noleen Mariappen, a dynamic impact entrepreneur and trailblazer in ESG, sustainability, and digital innovation.  As the founder of Impactoverse & Saffa Global, co-founder of Think Ocean CIC and a multi-faceted Director and Expert Advisor to global organizations, Noleen’s mission is to bridge the digital divide and create purpose-driven, inclusive, and impactful ecosystems. With expertise spanning conscious capitalism, tech for good, sustainability, and inclusion, Noleen discusses with Chris Cooper how the metaverse can serve as a catalyst for empowerment and positive change. Join us as we explore the intersection of technology, inclusion, and sustainability, and discover how the metaverse can shape a more equitable and purposeful future.   More about Noleen Mariappen: Noleen Mariappen is an Impact Entrepreneur as well as an ESG & SDG Advisor & Consultant. Her focus is on

About this episode: Are you working on or about to embark upon a grand challenge? In this interview you will hear from Seth Ka-han, a pioneer in large-scale change and a leading expert in designing and leading Grand Challenges. With dec-ades of experience—including 13 years at the World Bank—Seth has worked at the highest levels to mobilize diverse stakeholders in tackling society’s most pressing issues. In this interview, we’ll explore Seth’s groundbreaking work, from facilitating global knowledge-sharing initia-tives to spearheading national movements like Stop Stigma Together, which aims to eliminate the stigma sur-rounding mental health and substance use disorders. We'll also discuss his collaboration with the American As-sociation of Physicists in Medicine as they define the biggest scientific breakthroughs of the next decade. As the author of four influential books—including the business bestseller Getting Change Right—and the host of the podcast Seth Kahan on Grand Challenges, Seth brings insight into

About this episode: What if sharing a meal could change the world? Leon Aarts believes it can. From his earliest memories of family gatherings around the table to feeding millions through large-scale humanitarian efforts, Leon’s journey is a testament to the power of food to connect, nourish, and transform lives. Starting as a chef and entrepreneur, he built a thriving food business, only to walk away in search of deeper meaning. That search led him to refugee camps, where he began cooking thousands of meals a day for those in desperate need. When the pandemic struck, Leon launched a London-based kitchen that fed millions, proving that where there is surplus, there is a solution. Now, through Ample, he is tackling food waste at its root, turning excess into opportunity. In this conversation, Leon will share his insights on food insecurity, the strength of human spirit, and why radical compassion is the most powerful ingredient for change. No one should go to bed hungry—because there is always eno

About this episode In this inspiring conversation, Chris Cooper is joined by Zoe Holland MBE, Group Chief Commercial Officer at Fletchers Group, legal entrepreneur, and passionate advocate for heart-led leadership. With a leadership mantra of “there is no room for ego,” Zoe champions authenticity, inclusivity, and purpose-driven leadership, empowering leaders to create meaningful change. Together, Zoe and Chris will explore the power of self-leadership, invitational communication, and leading with care. They also discuss Zoe’s journey, her commitment to using ‘law for good’, and her mission to uplift underrepresented groups. From neurodiversity coaching to fostering a culture of authentic leadership, this conversation is packed with insights for leaders who want to lead with both heart and impact. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on leadership that truly makes a difference.   More about Zoe Holland MBE: Zoe Holland MBE is an entrepreneurial, C-Suite leader (Fletchers Group Chief Commercial Officer