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 key insights on why:

• “Soft” values are the most strategic and essential
• Business must serve humanity (not the other way around)
• Successful leadership starts from within
• Silence to political changes is not a neutral position 

Resources + Links:

• Paul Polman’s LinkedIn
• Paul Polman’s Website
• Net Positive
• IMAGINE
• Paul’s Reflection on the Passing of Pope Francis

• (00:00) - Welcome to Purpose 360
• (00:13) - Episode 200 with Paul Polman
• (02:40) - About Paul
• (05:03) - Personal Purpose
• (07:20) - POV on What’s Happening Today
• (10:15) - Optimistic Outlook
• (12:41) - Being Authentic to Values
• (14:19) - Pope Francis
• (17:15) - Leaders
• (21:21) - What to Do When Attacked on DEI or ESG
• (24:28) - Moving the Boundaries
• (27:23) - Role of Employees
• (28:36) - Conscious Quitting Results
• (30:04) - Role of Humanity
• (32:29) - Last Thoughts
• (34:46) - Wrap Up