30: I would DISMANTLE MONOPOLIES: Cory Doctorow

If I Ruled the World by Gillian Burke

Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world!

28:24

In our second installment of the Small Business Starter Kit series - we’re tackling a topic that’s sometimes tricky, sometimes confusing, but ever-present: taxes. Hosts Austin and Jannese have an insightful conversation with entrepreneur Isabella Rosal who started 7th Sky Ventures , an exporter and distributor of craft spirits, beer, and wine. Having lived and worked in two different countries and started a company in a heavily-regulated field, Isabella is no stranger to navigating the paperwork-laden and jargon-infused maze of properly understanding taxes for a newly formed small business. Join us as she shares her story and provides valuable insight into how to tackle your business’ taxes - so they don’t tackle you. Learn more about how QuickBooks can help you grow your business: QuickBooks.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

год назад 1:06:57

MP3•Главная эпизода

Send us a text

Brace yourselves! In this episode, we delve into the dynamics behind runaway consumption and throwaway culture with Cory Doctorow, writer, journalist, and a fervent advocate for digital rights and freedoms. From examining monopolies in the tech industry to exploring the mechanisms of corporate influence over our digital lives, Cory shares his insights on how we might rebalance power and stop everything getting worse for the greater good of society

Episode Highlights

Monopolies and Corporate Power: Cory discusses the pervasive nature of monopolies in the tech industry and their impact on innovation and consumer freedom.
Antitrust and Regulation: Analysis of the current state of antitrust laws and the urgent need for robust regulatory frameworks to dismantle corporate monopolies.
The Concept of "Enshittification": Cory introduces and explains the term "enshittification," which he coined to describe the degradation of services and erosion of user rights in monopolistic ecosystems.
The Fight for Digital Rights: The conversation shifts to the necessity for a collective push towards preserving digital rights and privacy in an increasingly surveilled and controlled digital landscape.
Empowering Technological Alternatives: Discussing potential systemic changes that could support sustainable and ethical technological development.

A final thank you to our wonderful sponsors Triodos Bank UK for making this podcast happen.

Follow the show:

You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice.

Connect with our guest:

Cory Doctorow

Follow Gillian

Instagram

Website

Mentions & Resources

NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡
📆 8 Nov - Fri 14 Nov 2025
🛏️ Book at www.grantarmshotel.com

Hope to see you there!

✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com

🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com

💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening

35 эпизодов

#Science #Society #Environment #Gillian Burke #Social Sciences #Rule The World

If I Ruled the World by Gillian Burke

30: I would DISMANTLE MONOPOLIES: Cory Doctorow

If I Ruled the World by Gillian Burke

published год назад

MP3•Главная эпизода

Send us a text

Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world!

Episode Highlights

Monopolies and Corporate Power: Cory discusses the pervasive nature of monopolies in the tech industry and their impact on innovation and consumer freedom.
Antitrust and Regulation: Analysis of the current state of antitrust laws and the urgent need for robust regulatory frameworks to dismantle corporate monopolies.
The Concept of "Enshittification": Cory introduces and explains the term "enshittification," which he coined to describe the degradation of services and erosion of user rights in monopolistic ecosystems.
The Fight for Digital Rights: The conversation shifts to the necessity for a collective push towards preserving digital rights and privacy in an increasingly surveilled and controlled digital landscape.
Empowering Technological Alternatives: Discussing potential systemic changes that could support sustainable and ethical technological development.

A final thank you to our wonderful sponsors Triodos Bank UK for making this podcast happen.

Follow the show:

You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice.

Connect with our guest:

Cory Doctorow

Follow Gillian

Instagram

Website

Mentions & Resources

NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡
📆 8 Nov - Fri 14 Nov 2025
🛏️ Book at www.grantarmshotel.com

Hope to see you there!

✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com

🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com

💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening

35 эпизодов

#Science #Society #Environment #Gillian Burke #Social Sciences #Rule The World

Все серии

If I Ruled the World by Gillian Burke

1
35: I would DECOLONISE CONSERVATION with Sophie Grig (Survival International) 59:48

6 дней назад59:48

59:48

Send us a text In this episode of 'If I Ruled the World', host Gillian Burke explores the human cost of conservation with Survival International's Asia Campaigns Director, Sophie Grig. Conventional 'fortress conservation' models, rooted in colonial ideals of wilderness areas emptied of people, fenced off and defended, with brute force if necessary. Systemic human rights abuses, mass displacements of tribal peoples, and land grabs are the result. Links & mentions Survival International: For tribes, for nature, for all humanity Black2Nature: Helping inner-city VME children connect with nature WWF accused of deceit, cover-ups and dishonesty, 2021 Protecting Human Rights in International Conservation, US Congressional Hearing, 2021 WWF Funds Guards Who Have Tortured And Killed People, Buzzfeed News 2019 Conservation Refugees: When conservation means kicking people out How Conservation Contributes to the Displacement of Indigenous People https://worldostats.com/protected-land-areas-by-country-global-comparison-2025/ NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡 📆 8 Nov - Fri 14 Nov 2025 🛏️ Book at www.grantarmshotel.com Hope to see you there! ✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening…

If I Ruled the World by Gillian Burke

1
34: I would PROTECT THE PEOPLE not profits 1:16:20

25 дней назад1:16:20

1:16:20

Send us a text Today’s episode is a little bit different... where Gillian gets to the guest on a podcast swap with The Starlit Stories podcast. Artist and podcaster, Stella Marie for holds space for Gillian to rediscover her voice as she transitions towards quiet quitting the system (see previous episode). In this episode, the tone and direction is set for the coming year on If I Ruled the World. A huge thank you to Stella for permission to use this interview. Do check out The Starlit Stories podcast (see links below). Keywords: system change, social justice, environmental justice, decolonisation, empathy, nature Mentions: Starlit Stories Podcast with host Stella Marie Stella Marie on Instagram The Man Engine in Cornwall "Three companies responsible for more carbon emmissions than all UK households" from 2021 Tortoise Responsibility 100 Index: https://www.tortoisemedia.com/2021/04/22/sensemaker-210422 Kwame Toure quote: From "Radical Discipleship: The Pitfalls of Liberalism" "When [the liberal] seeks to talk about change, he always confronts the oppressed rather than the oppressor. He does not seek to influence the oppressor, he seeks to influence the oppressed. He says to the oppressed, time and time again, “You don’t need guns, you are moving too fast, you are too radical, you are too extreme.” He never says to the oppressor, “You are too extreme in your treatment of the oppressed,” because he is powerless among the oppressors, even if he is part of that group; but he has influence, or, at least, he is more powerful than the oppressed, and he enjoys this power by always cautioning, condemning, or certainly trying to direct and lead the movements of the oppressed." NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡 📆 8 Nov - Fri 14 Nov 2025 🛏️ Book at www.grantarmshotel.com Hope to see you there! ✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening…

If I Ruled the World by Gillian Burke

1
33: I am QUIET QUITTING CAPITALISM (I think) 25:11

6 weeks назад25:11

25:11

Send us a text In this episode of 'If I Ruled the World', Gillian Burke reflects on her journey as a podcaster, the challenges of navigating current events, and the importance of storytelling. She discusses the upcoming guests, indigenous rights, and social justice. Gillian also shares her personal experiences stepping away from the BBC and her commitment to fostering change through her podcast. The episode emphasizes the need for understanding extremism, the true cost of development, and the power of diversity in recognizing our shared humanity. Takeaways · Storytelling is an intimate act, akin to confiding in a friend. · The podcast aims to explore how to make the world fairer. · Current events create chaos that can overwhelm our understanding. · Upcoming guests will bring diverse perspectives on important issues. · Indigenous voices are vital in the fight for conservation. · The rights of nature are becoming increasingly recognized. · Personal journeys can lead to significant professional changes. · Understanding extremism requires deep reflection on our values. · Diversity allows us to see our shared humanity and learn from each other. Keywords storytelling, system change, extremism, diversity, conservation, indigenous voices, personal journey, social justice, current events Mentions The Ezra Klein Show: Don’t Believe Him Thousand Year Trust (Merlin Hanbury-Tennyson) Survival International (Sophie Grig) Dr Anjana Khatwa Such Stuff by Michael Morpurgo Katie Tregidden – Making Design Circular Gary’s Econonics (Gary Stevenson) Philippe Sands Brené Brown **CORRECTION: Brene has spent past 20/30 years studying** Dr. Gabor Maté The Myth of Willie “Whoopass” Johnson NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡 📆 8 Nov - Fri 14 Nov 2025 🛏️ Book at www.grantarmshotel.com Hope to see you there! ✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening…

If I Ruled the World by Gillian Burke

1
32: I would reestablish the RULE OF INTERNATIONAL LAW: Gillian Burke (Xmas 2024) 1:30:21

13 weeks назад1:30:21

1:30:21

Send us a text Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world! As 2024 draws to a close, If I Ruled the World flips the script. Producer Sam takes the reins, interviewing Gillian! Together, they reflect on a groundbreaking year of system-change conversations. From capitalism’s unraveling to the wisdom of nature and indigenous perspectives, Gillian shares her biggest takeaways, lessons learned, and hopes for the future. And the moment you’ve all been waiting for… Gillian reveals what she would do if she ruled the world and why she believes re-establishing the global rule of law and rethinking efficiency are key to building a more just and sustainable future. Key Moments: The Year in Review Gillian shares her top highlights, including insights from Simeon Rose ( Faith in Nature ), Leah Penniman ( Soul Fire Farm ), and Cory Doctorow Penny Drop Moments Lessons from our range of guests this year on centering nature in decision-making, challenging late-stage capitalism, and understanding indigenous perspectives. System Change & the Rule of Law Gillian’s manifesto for re-establishing the rule of international law, inspired by Jojo Mehta ( Stop Ecocide International ) and lessons from Gaza and the global stage. Efficiency vs. Resilience Why inefficiency, modelled by nature’s beaver dams, could hold the key to a more sustainable and adaptable future. A Vision for 2025 Gillian’s plans for the future of the podcast, the global system, and her reflections on why truth and equity must lead the charge. Follow the show: You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts , Spotify or your preferred platform of choice. Follow Gillian Instagram Website Mentions & Resources Carbon Dividends Seth Godin - This is Strategy The Shock Doctrine - Naomi Klein NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡 📆 8 Nov - Fri 14 Nov 2025 🛏️ Book at www.grantarmshotel.com Hope to see you there! ✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening…

If I Ruled the World by Gillian Burke

1
31: I would put NATURE on the BOARD: Simeon Rose (Faith in Nature) 1:14:04

15 weeks назад1:14:04

1:14:04

Send us a text What would the world look like if nature really had a voice? Welcome back to 'If I Ruled the World' featuring a unique perspective on leadership and decision-making from Simeon Rose, the Creative Director at Faith in Nature. In this episode, we explore how this pioneering company became the first globally to make nature the boss, setting a groundbreaking precedent in corporate governance. Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world! Key Points Discussed: Journey of Faith in Nature: Delve into the company’s evolution from a natural beauty product brand to an environmental advocate within the corporate sector. Influence of Rights of Nature: Insight into how global movements and legal recognitions, like New Zealand’s Whanganui River, shaped their innovative approach. Implementation and Challenges: Learn about the practical aspects and the transformative impacts of incorporating nature into the company’s board. Broader Implications: Consider the potential ripple effects of this model across various industries and global policies. Follow the show: You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts , Spotify or your preferred platform of choice. Connect with our guest: Simeon Rose - Nature on the Board Follow Gillian Instagram Website Mentions & Resources Faith in Nature Rights for Rivers Rights of Nature Earth Law Center Earth Species Project House of Hackney NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡 📆 8 Nov - Fri 14 Nov 2025 🛏️ Book at www.grantarmshotel.com Hope to see you there! ✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening…

If I Ruled the World by Gillian Burke

1
30: I would use MUSIC to PROTECT NATURE: Sam Lee 1:00:15

17 weeks назад1:00:15

1:00:15

Send us a text Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world! If you don’t know what ‘Artivism’ means and why it matters, you’re about to! Today, we explore the intricate melodies of change through the perspective of Sam Lee, a Mercury Prize-nominated musician and passionate nature activist. Sam shares his unique journey from the bustling streets of London to the tranquil wilderness, harmonising folk traditions with urgent environmental advocacy. Hear how Sam is advocating for systemic change and a deeper connection to our natural roots. Episode Highlights: Musical Innovation Meets Nature : Sam Lee discusses how his music, interwoven with the sounds of nature, invites listeners to reconnect with the environment in profound ways. The Role of Folklore in Environmental Activism : Sam emphasises the importance of folklore and traditional songs in shaping cultural identity and environmental consciousness. Advocating for the Right to Roam : Sam details his efforts to expand public access to private lands in England, promoting a deeper engagement with the natural world. Vision for a Sustainable Future : From intensive farming reforms to educational transformations, Sam outlines his vision for integrating nature more deeply into our lives and policies. Follow the show: You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts , Spotify or your preferred platform of choice. Connect with our guest: Sam Lee Follow Gillian Instagram Website Mentions & Resources Right to Roam - Advocacy group promoting public access to private land. Earth Percent - An initiative by Brian Eno aiming to address climate change through the music industry. Julia's Bicycle - A charity focusing on environmental sustainability in the arts. NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡 📆 8 Nov - Fri 14 Nov 2025 🛏️ Book at www.grantarmshotel.com Hope to see you there! ✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening…

If I Ruled the World by Gillian Burke

1
30: I would DISMANTLE MONOPOLIES: Cory Doctorow 1:06:57

19 weeks назад1:06:57

1:06:57

Send us a text Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world! Brace yourselves! In this episode, we delve into the dynamics behind runaway consumption and throwaway culture with Cory Doctorow, writer, journalist, and a fervent advocate for digital rights and freedoms. From examining monopolies in the tech industry to exploring the mechanisms of corporate influence over our digital lives, Cory shares his insights on how we might rebalance power and stop everything getting worse for the greater good of society Episode Highlights Monopolies and Corporate Power : Cory discusses the pervasive nature of monopolies in the tech industry and their impact on innovation and consumer freedom. Antitrust and Regulation : Analysis of the current state of antitrust laws and the urgent need for robust regulatory frameworks to dismantle corporate monopolies. The Concept of " Enshittification " : Cory introduces and explains the term "enshittification," which he coined to describe the degradation of services and erosion of user rights in monopolistic ecosystems. The Fight for Digital Rights : The conversation shifts to the necessity for a collective push towards preserving digital rights and privacy in an increasingly surveilled and controlled digital landscape. Empowering Technological Alternatives : Discussing potential systemic changes that could support sustainable and ethical technological development. A final thank you to our wonderful sponsors Triodos Bank UK for making this podcast happen. Follow the show: You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts , Spotify or your preferred platform of choice. Connect with our guest: Cory Doctorow Follow Gillian Instagram Website Mentions & Resources NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡 📆 8 Nov - Fri 14 Nov 2025 🛏️ Book at www.grantarmshotel.com Hope to see you there! ✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening…

If I Ruled the World by Gillian Burke

1
29: I would DISCONNECT to RECONNECT: Tom Greenwood (Wholegrain Digital) 1:24:14

21 weeks назад1:24:14

1:24:14

Send us a text Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world! In this episode, we delve into the seemingly shiny world of digital technology, only to discover that it may just be a facade on top of a more troubling reality. Tom Greenwood, co-founder of Wholegrain Digital, shares his insights on digital sustainability—a critical aspect of our modern life that's often overlooked. From his early disillusionment with eco-design to spearheading innovations in digital impact assessment, Tom's journey is not just about technological advancement but also a moral quest to reshape the digital landscape. Episode Highlights Unveiling Digital Impact : Tom discusses the lack of awareness in the digital industry about its environmental impact, comparable to the aviation industry, and the journey that led him to pioneer the first carbon calculator for websites. Infrastructure Behind the Internet : The real structure of the internet is explained, breaking down the physical infrastructure from data centers to undersea cables that power our everyday digital interactions. Challenges of Digital Poverty : Discussion shifts to digital poverty, addressing access issues, and the social and economic barriers that affect people globally, from the infrastructure to the skills necessary to navigate the digital world. Myths of Digital Transactions : Tom tackles the myths and realities of digital transactions and their environmental impact compared to traditional methods, like physical cash versus digital currencies. Systemic Changes for Sustainable Tech : The conversation turns to systemic changes needed within the digital and global economic framework to ensure technology serves humanity sustainably and ethically. A final thank you to our wonderful sponsors Triodos Bank UK for making this podcast happen. Mentions and Resources Wholegrain Digital About B Corp Digital Poverty . Website Carbon Calculator Apple TV Ad Follow the show: You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts , NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡 📆 8 Nov - Fri 14 Nov 2025 🛏️ Book at www.grantarmshotel.com Hope to see you there! ✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening…

If I Ruled the World by Gillian Burke

1
27: I would put FUTURE GENERATIONS FIRST: Matua Marc Peard 1:24:22

23 weeks назад1:24:22

1:24:22

Send us a text Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world! Slow down. Make some space. Today's discussion focuses on cultural resilience, the power of reclaiming identity, and the shared human experiences that connect us all, regardless of geography. Join me as I delve into these themes with Matua Marc Peard; an influential voice in both broadcasting and Maori cultural advocacy. Episode Highlights: Cultural Reclamation and Everyday Life: Marc shares insights into how Maori cultural practices and language have been interwoven into everyday life in Aotearoa New Zealand, celebrating the everyday acts of resistance and survival that define cultural resilience. Impact of Colonisation: A candid discussion on the effects of colonisation on indigenous people, highlighting the strength of the Maori in preserving their culture and the contemporary relevance of these traditional practices. Reclaiming Language and Culture: Exploring the significance of the Maori language and cultural practices as acts of sovereignty and self-determination, and how these efforts contribute to a broader understanding of decolonisation. Personal Journey and Media Influence: Marc talks about his personal journey of cultural rediscovery and the role of media in shaping perceptions of Maori culture, both within Aotearoa New Zealand and globally. System Change Through Indigenous Perspectives: Discussion on how indigenous knowledge systems and perspectives can lead to a more equitable and sustainable world, challenging listeners to rethink their own views on power and system change. Follow the show: You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts , Spotify or your preferred platform of choice. A final thank you to our wonderful sponsors Triodos Bank UK for making this podcast happen. Connect with our guest: Marc Peard Follow Gillian Instagram Website Mentions & NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡 📆 8 Nov - Fri 14 Nov 2025 🛏️ Book at www.grantarmshotel.com Hope to see you there! ✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening…

If I Ruled the World by Gillian Burke

1
26: I would make MONEY WORK FOR POSITIVE CHANGE: Bevis Watts (CEO, Triodos Bank) 57:00

25 weeks назад57:00

57:00

Send us a text They say money makes the world go round… let’s find out how! Welcome back to "If I Ruled the World," the podcast where we delve into the minds of those who dare to imagine a better future. Today, we're joined by Bevis Watts, the UK's first environmentalist banker and CEO of Triodos Bank UK (Our wonderful sponsors). Inspired by the pioneering nature writer Richard Jefferies, Bevis discusses his unique journey from conservation to the being at the forefront of banking system reform. Episode Highlights: Richard Jefferies' Legacy : We start with the poignant history behind Bevis' name and explore how Jeffries' work resonates in today’s environmental discourse, providing a backdrop to Bevis' career trajectory. Banking on Change : Bevis shares his insights on how the banking sector can transform to support both people and the planet. His dual expertise in ecology and finance offers a unique perspective on sustainable banking practices. Nature and Nurture : Delving into personal reflections, Bevis discusses the intrinsic connection humans share with nature and how it has shaped his professional ethos and personal values. Systemic Shifts : From his unique position at Triodos Bank, Bevis discusses the potential for systemic change within the banking sector to support sustainable practices and contribute to a just society. Follow the show: You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts , Spotify or your preferred platform of choice. Follow Gillian Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gillians_voice/ Website: https://www.gillianburkevoice.com/ Mentions & Resources Richard Jefferies Bevis’s Great Beaver Discovery Bevis’s Book: River Journey: Searching For Wild Beavers And Finding Freedom NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡 📆 8 Nov - Fri 14 Nov 2025 🛏️ Book at www.grantarmshotel.com Hope to see you there! ✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening…

If I Ruled the World by Gillian Burke

1
25: I would bring ANCIENT WISDOM to present day problems: George Thompson 1:24:18

27 weeks назад1:24:18

1:24:18

Send us a text Welcome to another episode of If I Ruled the World, where I ask my guests what they would do if they ruled the world! In today’s episode, we delve into the heart of personal and planetary transformation with George Thompson. A system change practitioner, filmmaker, Tai Chi teacher, and a communicator of Daoist philosophy, George shares his profound journey from the Wudang mountains of China back to the heart of modern civilisation, exploring how ancient wisdom can guide us through today’s challenges. Episode Highlights: The Interconnection of All Beings: George begins by reflecting on the interconnected intelligence of all beings—how nature's quiet wisdom reminds us of our deep ties to the world around us and within us. System Change Through Personal Transformation: Detailing his path through personal crises to finding resilience in Taoist practices, George explains how individual transformation is inseparably linked to broader societal change. Insight, Practice, Community: The mantra that has shaped George’s approach—gaining insights through deep reflection, maintaining growth through consistent practice, and building resilience within a supportive community. Economic Reflections: A surprise revelation from George about his background in economics leads to a deep dive into the flaws of our current economic system and the potential for a new paradigm based on real growth—emotional, community, and ecological rather than mere GDP. A big thank you to our wonderful sponsors Triodos Bank UK for making this podcast happen, and to The Wildlife Trusts for their continued support. Follow the show: You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts , Spotify or your preferred platform of choice. Connect with our guest: George Thompson Follow Gillian: Instagram Website Mentions & Resources Loosin NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡 📆 8 Nov - Fri 14 Nov 2025 🛏️ Book at www.grantarmshotel.com Hope to see you there! ✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening…

If I Ruled the World by Gillian Burke

1
24: I would ABOLISH THE MILITARY: Joe Glenton 1:38:50

29 weeks назад1:38:50

1:38:50

Send us a text Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world! “All you have when the shit hits the fan is each other... Often that is enough.” Welcome to another thought-provoking episode of "If I Ruled the World." Today, I sit down with Joe Glenton, a former British soldier turned journalist and anti-war activist. Joe shares his transformation from a ‘good’ military operative to a voice for peace, dissecting the complexities of military ethics and the true cost of war. Episode Highlights: Military Lessons: Joe opens up about the valuable and harsh lessons he learned during his service, emphasising the importance of solidarity amongst peers when facing dire situations. He reflects on how this lesson of mutual dependence and team ethic, though squandered in the military, is crucial for societal progress. Critique of Military Use: Joe critically assesses how military solidarity is often exploited and misused, pointing out the need for a system that genuinely fosters community and support rather than conflict. The Role of Media and Public Perception: The conversation takes a deep dive into how media representations can distort public perceptions of war and military actions. Joe and Gillian discuss the role of media in shaping narratives that justify war and overlook its devastating impacts. The Importance of Dialogue and Community: Throughout the episode, the emphasis remains on the power of dialogue and community building. Joe advocates for open conversations and collective actions as the pathways towards meaningful system changes and a more peaceful world. Follow the show: You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts , Spotify or your preferred platform of choice. Connect with our guest: Joe Glenton - ForcesWatch Follow Gillian: Instagram Website Mentions & Resources ✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening…

If I Ruled the World by Gillian Burke

1
23: I would GREEN THE GHETTO: Majora Carter 1:10:43

31 weeks назад1:10:43

1:10:43

Send us a text Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world! Since recording this episode, Kamala Harris has been nominated as the US Democratic Party’s presidential candidate. So strap yourselves in for a seriously timely conversation about leadership challenges for women of colour! Today, I’m joined by Majora Carter, an urban revitalisation strategy consultant and real estate developer, who is famously known for her pioneering work in green urban planning in the South Bronx. Episode Highlights: Majora's Early Influence: Growing up in South Bronx, Majora shares her personal evolution amidst the neighbourhood's challenges and the stark realities of urban decline and systemic racism. Her journey from witnessing the destructive fires of the 70s to becoming a beacon of hope and change lays the foundation for this conversation. Greening the Ghetto: Majora recounts her pioneering TED Talk and the inception of sustainable projects like the South Bronx Greenway. She discusses the complexities of introducing green spaces in urban areas and the resistance that sometimes follows from within the community. The Backlash and Public Perception: A profound segment where Majora reflects on the public backlash she faced after gaining national attention, encapsulated by her portrayal in the media as a hero turned betrayer of her own community. Environmental Justice and Economic Development: Majora outlines her strategies for combining environmental sustainability with economic development, emphasising green job training and community empowerment. She delves into the intricate balance of enhancing neighbourhood conditions while fostering local employment. Vision for Urban Communities: If she ruled the world, Majora shares her broader vision for urban communities globally — from policy changes to grassroots initiatives that prioritise both environmental sustainability and social equity. Follow the show: You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts , Spotify or your preferred platform of choice. Connect with our guest: Majora Carter Follow Gillian NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡 📆 8 Nov - Fri 14 Nov 2025 🛏️ Book at www.grantarmshotel.com Hope to see you there! ✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening…

If I Ruled the World by Gillian Burke

1
22: I would restore the SACREDNESS of ALL LIFE: Stella Marie 1:03:41

33 weeks назад1:03:41

1:03:41

Send us a text Brace yourselves, this one is a little different…My guest this week, Stella Marie, shares her explorations into animism and her personal & ancestral connections to the land. A heavy lean into discussions about the sacredness of all life, indigenous wisdom, and the potential transformative power of reconnecting with traditional knowledge systems is at the heart of this conversation. This episode delves into Stella's personal story of spiritual awakening and recovery from loss & addiction through reconnecting with nature, the potential of therapeutic psychedelics, and the broader implications for ecological and collective healing. Key Points Discussed: The Power of Animism: Stella explains animism as seeing the world where every entity, human or non-human, is a sovereign being. Cultural Roots and Indigenous Wisdom: Insights into how reconnecting with her Celtic roots transformed Stella’s view of the world and her place within it. Psychedelics and Healing: Stella shares her personal experiences with psychedelics and how they aided her mental health and spiritual growth. Ecological Justice and Social Change: How ancient practices and modern struggles intersect in the fight for a more just and sustainable world. Reconnecting with Nature: Stella emphasises the importance of community, seasonal living, and the inherent wisdom of natural cycles in fostering a deeper connection to the earth. Stella’s powerful story and insights offer a compelling look at the intersections of personal healing, cultural identity, and ecological awareness. This episode invites listeners to consider how embracing ancient wisdom and fostering deeper connections with all forms of life can help address modern challenges and transform our world for the better. Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world! Follow the show: You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts , Spotify or your preferred platform of choice. Connect with Stella: Instagram TikTok Follow Gillian Instagram NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡 📆 8 Nov - Fri 14 Nov 2025 🛏️ Book at www.grantarmshotel.com Hope to see you there! ✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening…

If I Ruled the World by Gillian Burke

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21: I would give INDIGENOUS nations a voice: Leah Penniman (Soul Fire Farm) 1:22:01

35 weeks назад1:22:01