Mission Forward with Carrie Fox

In a world grappling with declining trust in institutions, businesses face increasing pressure to become agents of societal change. This episode of Mission Forward explores this evolving dynamic with Sarah Schwimmer, co-lead executive at B Lab Global, the non-profit behind the B Corp movement. Host Carrie Fox cedes the interviewing chair to her colleague, Bridget Pooley, Mission Partners' chief operating officer, for a deep dive into the forces reshaping corporate responsibility.

They explore the Edelman Trust Barometer’s findings, revealing a fascinating dynamic: as trust in traditional institutions wanes, the pressure mounts on businesses to step up. Sarah highlights the B Corp movement's explosive growth as evidence of this trend, with thousands of companies seeking ways to balance purpose and profit. She shares compelling examples of B Corps actively engaging in their communities, like Legacy Vacation Resorts' efforts to empower employee voting.

The conversation also touches on the crucial issue of shareholder vs. stakeholder capitalism. Is simply declaring a commitment to all stakeholders enough? Sarah and Bridget discuss the importance of accountability and the role of B Lab's rigorous B Impact Assessment in driving real change.

Finally, they explore the age-old tension between mission and profit. Can businesses truly prioritize both? Sarah showcases Patagonia as a shining example of a company successfully integrating purpose and profitability, highlighting innovative ownership models that prioritize long-term mission. The landscape for businesses is complex, but there is always room to become true forces for good.

What is Mission Forward with Carrie Fox?

Mission Forward: An award-winning podcast for communicators on a mission.

Hosted by social impact expert and B Corp leader Carrie Fox, each episode of Mission Forward explores the power of communications. With just the right mix of practical and thought-provoking content, we take on the issues that matter to you, and that support your work as a communicator for change.

Together, we talk through topics that you’re likely experiencing right now: from how to tackle tough conversations; to how to best challenge stereotypes; to how we can build bridges across the issues that divide us. If you’re working to become a more inclusive and thoughtful communicator, there’s nothing holding you back—except you.

About Season 11

What does it mean to stand at the threshold of change? To face a door that is both closing and opening at the same time? In Season 11 of Mission Forward, Carrie Fox invites us into that liminal space—the sacred and often unsettling pause between hello and goodbye. It is here, in the transitions, where the most important work of leadership—and of life—often takes place.

This season, you’ll meet people who have walked away from stability in pursuit of something more true. You’ll hear from those who said yes before they were ready, and in doing so, discovered new strength. And you’ll learn from leaders who chose to stay rooted, practicing presence and commitment in a culture that prizes constant movement.

These are stories not just about change, but about how we communicate through it—about the clarity, courage, and care required when our words and actions mark turning points. Because goodbyes are never just endings. Hellos are never just beginnings. And the space between them? That’s where possibility lives.

Hello. Goodbye. And the Space Between.

* About the Host (https://www.missionforward.us/about-carrie)
* Listen to Past Episodes (https://www.missionforward.us/episodes)