Better Beings

Humanising Business with Adam Lowenstein

Aug 22, 2023

Journalist, author, and political commentator Adam Lowenstein discusses corporate power dynamics, inclusivity movements, and the practice of 'memento mori'. He shares insights on American politics, structural incentives, and the importance of imagining new systems. Adam emphasizes living purposefully, calling out corporations, and making meaningful choices in life.

01:09:42

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Episode guests

Adam Lowenstein

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Understanding power dynamics in business and politics is crucial for navigating societal structures.

Embracing 'memento mori' can offer clarity on life's impermanence and guide personal choices.

Finding hope in everyday interactions and personal growth journeys highlights the potential for transformative change.

Deep dives

Exploring the Intersection of Power and Influence

The discussion delves into the intricate relationship between power and influence, highlighting the impact of proximity to power and wealth on individuals within society.

Intro

2min

A Journey from Politics to Finding Home in Washington DC

4min

Reflections on Corporate Power and Influence

28min

Embracing the Concept of Memento Mori

7min

Exploring Death, Ego, and New Beginnings

8min

The Future of Democracy and Resilience

7min

Finding Hope and Embracing the Present Moment

11min

Exploring Life, Death, and Being Present with Adam Lowenstein

2min

Journalist, author and political commentator Adam Lowenstein discusses business systems and power dynamics.

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS EPISODE:

What it means to be in the world of corporate and political ‘power’
How to see the best in people and build bigger, more inclusive movements
How to live by the practice of ‘memento mori’
Adam's experiences of seeing first-hand how American politics operates behind closed doors
The small shifts needed to imagine a new system & step forward with true purpose

QUOTES & SNIPPETS:

“Corporations are claiming to be the solution to the problems they have created”

“It has nothing to do with bad people - it has everything to do with incentives and structures & the way human beings operate”

“When do you call someone out and when do you bring them into your movement?”

“There’s no secret formula for achieving power”

"If we’re going to die at some point, we might as well live”

"I’ve seen what's on the other side; and they're just people"

"At the end of the day, it's not going to be the emails I regret or the work I didn't do - it's going to be the walks in the park i didn't take"

REFERENCES:

The Parable of the Sower, Octavia Butler

The Persuaders, Anan Giridharadas

The Long Now Foundation