In this powerful solo episode of Straight Talking Sustainability, Emma delves into the profound difference between passion and commitment in the world of sustainability.

We've all been called "passionate" about our work, but is that enough? Emma makes a compelling case that true, lasting impact comes not from fleeting enthusiasm, but from deep, unwavering commitment, especially when the outcomes are unknown.

Inspired by Solitaire Townsend’s recent reflections and personal conversations with leaders like Phil Korbel of the Carbon Literacy Project, Emma explores:

• Why being called "passionate" can feel reductive
• The emotional weight of working in sustainability without certainty
• What true commitment looks like and how it liberates you
• The “sea of apathy” and how to bridge the gap between interest and action
• Practical questions to ask yourself: Am I committed? What’s stopping me?

Whether you're new to the field or years into your sustainability journey, this episode is a call to check in, dig deep, and claim your place in the movement—not just as a participant, but as someone fully committed.

Highlights:

01:14 Are you committed?

05:12 Commitment over passion is a weight off your shoulders

08:01 The outcome is uncertain, the worth is in the doing

10:14 Get off the fence

Solitaire Townsend

It's All Going To Be Ok - by Solitaire Townsend

Dr Navjot Sawney

Dr Navjot Sawhney | LinkedIn

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Emma Burlow - LinkedIn

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https://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/20min

In this energising and honest conversation, Emma and Carbon Literacy Project co-founder Phil Korbel dive into what truly makes carbon literacy impactful. Spoiler: it’s not just about what you know, it’s about how you apply it, talk about it, and make it real in your organisation.

From training Nobel-adjacent scientists in Antarctica to working with major corporations facing internal resistance, Emma and Phil share practical insights, surprising lessons, and powerful encouragement for anyone looking to move climate action from the margins to the mainstream.

Whether you're a seasoned sustainability professional or just carbon-curious, this episode is a masterclass in meeting people where they are, and bringing them with you.

Here are the highlights:

0:00 Introduction to Phil and his Journey

06:00 The Birth of the Carbon Literacy Project

11:59 Challenges in sustainability Training

17:50 Balancing Climate Awareness with Mental Health

23:00 Empowering Others Through Peer Training

25:00 Curiosity and Learning in Climate Change

28:00 Building a Community of Trainers

29:00 Scaling Carbon Literacy Training

33:00 The Role of Governance in Sustainability Projects

36:00 Overcoming Resistance to Carbon Literacy

40:00 Trends and Future Directions in Carbon Literacy

Connect with Carbon Literacy Project & Phil:

Website

Phil Korbel - LinkedIn

Connect with Emma:

Website

Email

Emma Burlow - LinkedIn

Book an enquiry call with Emma

https://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/20min

Book Carbon Literacy Training for yourself or colleagues

Upcoming Courses | Lighthouse Sustainability

This week I’m sharing part of our summer series - 12 simple sustainability tips (numbers 27–38) that are easy to action even when you’re in holiday mode. From switching your search engine to Ecosia, to skipping the lawnmower, there are plenty of small changes that make a big difference.

We’re covering everything from flea treatments and sunscreen to eco-friendly ways to host a party and travel during summer. I also touch on why the “eco” setting on your washing machine isn’t just good - it’s legally required to be the most efficient.

Have a listen and let me know which one you’re going to try first. The full list and links are in the show notes - happy summer greening!

Here are the highlights:

Saving Water: Basic Tips and Workplace Practices (3:29)

Reducing Pesticide Use (8:23)

Marine Conservation (10:29)

Reducing Travel Impact (15:54)

Reducing Food Waste (17:50)

Carbon Literacy (21:46)

Defosseling Homes (25:01)

Connect with Emma:

Website

Email

Emma Burlow - LinkedIn

Book an enquiry call with Emma

https://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/20min

Book Carbon Literacy Training for yourself or colleagues

Upcoming Courses | Lighthouse Sustainability

Book a Power Hour with Emma

https://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/power-hour

Connect with Emma

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Emma Burlow | LinkedIn

This Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

This week, I’m speaking with Briony Pete - leadership coach and engagement specialist - about why change doesn’t start with strategy; it starts with people.

We explored how traditional sustainability roles often miss the mark by not equipping professionals with the mindset or leadership tools needed to influence real transformation.

Briony shared that the biggest blocker isn’t a lack of knowledge, but often mindset - imposter feelings, overwhelm, and not knowing how to engage others beyond surface-level support.

Her work focuses on building internal confidence, creating space for reflection, and developing trust, all crucial for driving meaningful change.

If you’re trying to lead sustainability from within, this one’s for you.

Here are the highlights:

Briony's Background and Shift to Sustainability (1:59)

Challenges in Sustainability Leadership (5:00)

Building Trust and Relationships (9:42)

Mindset and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome (13:47)

The Role of Emotions and Discomfort (24:04)

Building a Network of Allies (33:12)

Top Action for Listeners (37:35)

Connect with Briony:

Briony Pete | LinkedIn

https://www.circularlife.co.uk/flex_access

Book a Power Hour with Emma

https://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/power-hour

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Email

Emma Burlow | LinkedIn

This Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In today’s episode, I share what happened when someone told me, “You need better evidence if you want to convince us.” It made me realise - we’re not here to convince, we’re here to connect.

I explore why trying to prove the case for sustainability can create more resistance, and how shifting to curiosity, listening, and meeting people where they are is a far more effective approach.

If you’ve ever felt stuck trying to get people on board, this one’s for you. Let’s stop convincing - and start connecting.

Here are the highlights:

The Importance of Meeting People Where They are (5:06)

The Role of Leadership in Sustainability (10:25)

Reframing the Approach to Sustainability Communication (13:47)

Overcoming Barriers to Effective Communication (14:10)

Book a Power Hour with Emma

https://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/power-hour

Connect with Emma

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Email

Emma Burlow | LinkedIn

This Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

This week on Straight Talking Sustainability, I’m diving into one of the biggest shake-ups in the sustainability world - the B Corp standards reset.

I’m joined by the brilliant Ellie Austin and Jessica Farrow from 12, who work hands-on with purpose-led consumer brands navigating B Corp certification.

We talk about what’s changed in the new standards, why the old point-scoring system is out, and how the new approach raises the bar with clear minimum requirements. We also get into the challenges, myths, and real opportunities this creates for brands wanting to walk the talk when it comes to sustainability.

If you've been curious (or skeptical) about B Corp, this one’s for you.

Here are the highlights:

Changes in B Corp Standards (2:28)

Growth and Challenges of the B Corp Movement (4:24)

Impact of New Standards on Businesses (9:01)

Perception and Adoption of the New Standards (23:50)

Support and Resources for B Corp Certification (31:15)

Connect with Ellie and Jessica:

https://www.bcorporation.net/en-us/standards/performance-requirements/

Jessica: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-ferrow

Ellie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellie-austin

Twelve’s B Corp insights newsletter: https://twelve-futures.kit.com/b-corp

Twelve’s website: www.twelvefutures.com

Book a Power Hour with Emma

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Emma Burlow | LinkedIn

This Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

We’ve officially done it - Lighthouse is now a certified B Corp!

This episode is a bit of a behind-the-scenes on what that really means, why I decided to go for it, and what the journey’s been like as a small business.

I’m sharing what helped us get over the line, what surprised me along the way, and the parts that were way more challenging than I expected. It’s been nearly four years in the making - and not always a straight line - but it’s been totally worth it.

If you’re a fellow founder who’s B Corp curious, wondering if it’s “worth it” or how the process even works, I hope this gives you some clarity and encouragement.

Here are the highlights:

Challenges and Benefits of B Corp Certification (2:03)

Impact of B Corp on Business Practices (4:19)

Administrative Challenges and Scoring (6:14)

Tips for Aspiring B Corps (8:50)

Resources and Support for B Corp Journey (12:33)

Book a Power Hour with Emma

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Emma Burlow | LinkedIn

This Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In this inspiring conversation, Emma welcomes global communications coach Caroline Harvey to explore why so many women - especially in STEM and sustainability - struggle to be heard.

From imposter syndrome to the myth of “not being expert enough,” they dig into the common barriers women face in sharing their expertise with confidence.

Caroline shares practical tips for owning your voice, simplifying complex messages, and using storytelling to create connection and influence.

Whether you’re a quiet introvert or navigating a noisy room, this episode offers empowering strategies to help you speak up with impact.

Here are the highlights:

Imposter Syndrome and Coaching (3:45)

Overcoming Barriers and Finding Confidence (7:36)

Storytelling and Communication Techniques (13:04)

Balancing Positivity and Reality in Communication (19:10)

Global Communication and Cultural Sensitivity (35:03)

Practical Tips for Overcoming Communication Challenges (37:13)

Connect with Caroline:

www.carolineharvey.me

es.linkedin.com/in/caroharvey/

My podcast, Postcards with Presence:

https://postcards-with-presence.captivate.fm/

The interview on the On Being podcast with journalist David Bornstein:

https://onbeing.org/programs/david-bornstein-on-our-lives-with-the-news/

Book a Power Hour with Emma

https://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/power-hour

Connect with Emma

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Email

Emma Burlow | LinkedIn

This Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio