In this episode, Vesna is joined by Lars Strannegård, President of the Stockholm School of Economics, for a profound conversation on education, leadership, and the critical role of art and empathy in shaping the future of business and society. Lars shares his formative experiences living abroad, highlighting how cultural exposure and the lack of it shaped his perspective on inclusion and the importance of creative expression. He discusses the vision for SSE, emphasizing the need for students to leave with a broad, reflective mindset, ready to serve society and make a positive impact. In an era where artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the landscape, Lars argues that the development of human intelligence—skills like empathy, self-awareness, and critical thinking—becomes more vital than ever. He introduces the FREE framework guiding SSE: Fact-based, Reflective, Empathetic, and Entrepreneurial mindsets, which together foster responsible leadership. The conversation explores the transformative power of art as an “intellectual and emotional itching powder,” challenging individuals to reflect and grow. Lars also stresses the importance of inclusion, respect, and the need for everyone to feel heard and valued in organizations and society. The episode offers practical wisdom for leaders to widen their perspectives, embrace discomfort, and prioritize relationships as the foundation of meaningful leadership.

On today’s podcast:

● Why art and culture are essential for leadership in the age of AI

● The FREE framework: Fact-based, Reflective, Empathetic, Entrepreneurial

● How formative experiences shape empathy and inclusion

● The transformative power of art as a catalyst for self-reflection

● Why inclusion and respect are critical for responsible leadership

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In this episode, Vesna welcomes Dr. Peter Senge, renowned MIT Sloan lecturer and pioneer of systems thinking, to the Corporate Unplugged Podcast. Peter explores why true change requires a shift in how we see interdependence, not just in business but in society at large. Drawing from decades of work with organizations and indigenous communities, he explains how deep, sustainable transformation starts with cultural and institutional shifts—far beyond quick fixes or policy tweaks.

Peter shares practical ways leaders can catalyze systemic change, emphasizing the power of authentic partnerships and “pre-competitive collaboration”—even among rivals. He highlights the importance of leadership as a developmental journey rooted in purpose, service, and the ability to create generative social fields where trust and innovation can flourish. Peter also reflects on the wisdom of indigenous cultures and the critical need for hope and honest dialogue in times of uncertainty.

On today’s podcast:

• Why systems thinking is essential for real, lasting change
• How leaders can embody and catalyze transformation
• The value of partnerships and collective intelligence
• Lessons from indigenous cultures on resilience and memory
• Why hope, courage, and relational space matter now more than ever

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Robert Edward Grant, a modern polymath, inventor, author, and visionary entrepreneur, joins Vesna on Corporate Unplugged to explore the profound intersections of love, leadership, and multidimensional thinking. With over 80 patents and contributions spanning fields like cryptography, geometry, and healthcare, Robert shares his unique journey of bridging science, spirituality, and innovation.

In this episode, Robert reflects on how love drives his purpose and how self-awareness and judgment-free living are essential for personal and societal transformation. He discusses the importance of polymathy in addressing complex challenges and why humanity is on the cusp of a collective awakening. From sacred geometry to the power of synchronicity, Robert offers a thought-provoking lens for leaders seeking to create meaningful impact.

In this episode:

• Why love is the ultimate driver of purpose
• The role of polymathy in solving global challenges
• How judgment creates suffering and self-love heals it
• Humanity’s awakening and interconnectedness through synchronicity
• Sacred geometry as a meditative practice

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.