Developing Leaders and Entrepreneurs for the “Next Economy”

The world is facing unprecedented economic, environmental and social challenges that require innovative solutions and bold leadership. Yet some of our premier training grounds for future leaders – such as MBA programs – remain permanently focused on short-term and outdated campuses that only further our global social and environmental woes.

The Next Economy MBA seeks to change this by offering a curriculum that emphasizes sustainability, equity and social responsibility. It was great talking to Ryan Heinemann about the curriculum that he and his colleagues developed over the past 10 years working with more than 250 social enterprises and organizations.

He has recently released a book based on this program Next Economy MBA It covers not only business strategy, finance, marketing, recruiting and other traditional MBA content from a socially equitable and environmentally regenerative perspective but also topics such as cooperatives, self-managing organizations, strategies to reverse climate change, racial justice, and more. Also examines cutting edge topics. even more.

Read below for more from my discussion with Ryan, and I encourage you to pick up this important new book as well!

Christopher Marquis: Why did you write this book?

Ryan Honeyman : She wrote Next Economy MBA For two reasons. First, we believe that it is ecological and suicidal not to convert to business as usual economy. We want a livable future for our families, our communities and all life. And we see the hidden potential all around us. Humanity has not scratched the surface of the abundance, happiness, connection, peace and reliable prosperity that is possible for all beings.

We have seen this potential and potential in the 500+ alumni of our course The Next Economy MBA. This book was born out of the courageous conversations, case stories, and principles of that book and is designed for those who are feeling and exploring those tensions and possibilities in their own lives, organizations, and communities. Are.

Marquis: Can you explain what you mean by “the next economy”?

Firstnight of marriage: The “next economy” is the name for an economic system that works for people and the planet. We envision the next economy as a bioregional, locally self-sufficient and racially just economy that works for the benefit of all life – one that supports all people everywhere while regenerating planetary ecosystems. Meets basic needs for.

The next economy is an aspirational vision and something that only partially exists today. We’ve seen this in our work with over 300 social enterprises over the past decade. This includes our work with smaller, more radical companies like Winona’s Hemp & Heritage Farm and the East Bay Permanent Real Estate Cooperative, as well as larger social enterprises like Patagonia and Ben & Jerry’s.

Marquis: How do you transition from what you call a “business as usual” economy to the next economy?

Firstnight of marriage: We often refer to the Barkana Institute’s Two Loops model to understand the transition from the dominant, old system (BAU economy) to an emergent one (next economy) and how to partner with the natural force of growth to transition to the new and greater . adaptive system.

The model itself is a simple drawing of two curves or loops. The “hospice” curve descends, representing the gradual “death” of the existing system (in our case, the BAU economy). The “Dai” curve starts below the Dharamshala curve and moves up, representing the birth or emergence of a new system. Together they represent the journey from now to the full realization of the next economy.

An important insight is to view the efforts of hospice and midwifery as complementary rather than separate. For example, hospice efforts can sometimes access funding and resources for midwifery efforts. Dharamshala’s efforts can bring visibility to emerging, next economy projects. Dai’s efforts can sometimes inspire organizations that were only interested in incremental change to make radical changes. If we can increase appreciation for both approaches the next economy will be achieved more quickly.

Marquis: What is the most important takeaway for companies from your book?

Firstnight of marriage: We believe that each company should examine where they fall in the Two Loops Model and understand that most organizations include both hospice and midwifery elements. Furthermore, neither hospice work nor midwifery is “better” or “more important” or “more effective”.

Knowing the role your organization can play in the next economy through a hospice/midwifery lens, or elements of both, will help you understand the next steps you can take to create a world that belongs to all. works for life.

The Facilitated Next Economy MBA course is an excellent way for organizational leaders interested in these principles to explore them more deeply in a supportive learning community.

Marquis: What is the most important takeaway for individuals from your book?

Firstnight of marriageAlthough companies bear significant responsibility for the transition to the next economy, we must not neglect our role and responsibility as consumers, citizens and voters.

Aligning our consumption habits with our vision of the next economy, holding businesses accountable for their commitments to the environment and racial justice, and building movements and power are all important steps to building the next economy.

Those interested in staying involved in this work can listen to our podcast or subscribe to our newsletter for resources and case stories that may be helpful on their way.