Rethinking Strategy in Radical Uncertainty: Lessons from Patagonia

What happens when a global brand famous for saving the planet from itself decides to challenge the very DNA of corporate leadership? In this first episode of The Conscious Capitalists’ Summer Series, hosts Timothy Henry and Kate Adams speak with Charles Conn, Chair of Patagonia, co-founder of Monograph, and former senior partner at McKinsey. Together, they explore how conscious enterprises can thrive in a world of radical uncertainty — from geopolitical shocks to disruptive technologies — by rethinking the way leadership works. Charles takes us inside Patagonia’s approach to leading with purpose, agility, and trust, showing why the old top-down, control-heavy playbook is no longer fit for a future that demands resilience, innovation, and courage. From breaking hierarchies to empowering frontline teams, he reveals how to build organizations that adapt fast and stay true to their values. This is more than a conversation about business — it’s a blueprint for a new era of leadership. Charles shares stories and strategies from the boardroom to the trailhead, illustrating how authenticity, curiosity, and conscious capitalism can create lasting impact in both business and society. Listeners will gain insights into:Why traditional leadership models are collapsing — and what’s replacing themPatagonia’s trust-first culture and how it fuels innovationHow conscious capitalism drives agility in uncertain marketsThe role of curiosity in making better decisionsPractical ways to shift from hierarchical control to empowered teamsBalancing purpose with performance without losing momentumHow leaders can thrive — not just survive — in disruptive times Whether you’re a CEO looking to future-proof your organization, a startup founder hungry for agile growth, or a leader seeking to balance profit with purpose, this episode offers a rare inside look at what it takes to lead consciously in the face of unprecedented change. ** If you enjoy this podcast, would you consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It takes only a few seconds and greatly helps us get our podcast out to a wider audience. Please subscribe on Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts. For transcripts and show notes, please go to: https://www.theconsciouscapitalists.com This show is presented by Conscious Capitalism, Inc. (https://www.consciouscapitalism.org/) and is produced by Rainbow Creative (https://www.rainbowcreative.co/) with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Rithu Jagannath as Lead Producer, and Nathan Wheatley as Editor. Thank you for your support! - Timothy & Kate Time Stamps 02:02 Introduction to Summer Series 00:45 Understanding Radical Uncertainty 01:40 Introduction of Kate Adams 02:34 The Future of Conscious Enterprise 03:57 Introduction of Charles Conn 06:17 Rethinking Business Strategy 09:17 Organizational and Leadership Changes 13:19 Patagonia's Approach to Purpose and Strategy 21:08 Leading Through Disruption 27:57 Decision Making and Purpose 34:48 Leadership for the Future