Conscious Capitalism: Have you heard of it?

Crissy Lintner

I’m fascinated by a movement happening in the business world right now. It’s called Conscious Capitalism. Ever heard of it? Many of you likely have heard of or read the book, “Conscious Capitalism,” by Whole Foods founder John Mackey and Raj Sisodia. The movement is gaining momentum in the corporate landscape with companies like The Container Store, Whole Foods, Southwest Airlines and Interstate Batteries at the forefront. 

I recently had the opportunity to meet with the culture ambassador from Interstate Batteries. Yes, that’s right – culture ambassador. Cool, huh? Jennifer Bowes’ career is focused on building a corporate culture centered around a purpose statement that is crystal clear: “To glorify God and enrich lives as we deliver the most trustworthy source of power to the world.” 

I’ll let that sink in because it is powerful. The complementing values are just as impressive – and the process by which Jennifer and her team gathered insight and developed this list of values made this PR nerd want to jump up and down in excitement. The focus groups, surveys and interviews gave such amazing insight into what employees thought about the brand; what customers thought or how they perceived the brand; and where they wanted to see the company go in the future. 

I’ve been spending my personal time reading “Conscious Capitalism.” I’ve attended an event hosted by the Conscious Capitalism Dallas Chapter and Social Venture Partners Dallas Chapter that discussed the movement. I’ve also been working with a nonprofit organization in planning our fall speaker series focused on – you guessed it – Conscious Capitalism! In Dallas, this movement seems to be digging its claws into my circles. People like Jennifer and Interstate Batteries CEO Scott Miller are taking the leap to unapologetically reinvent their culture to become one that is focused on a higher purpose, incorporates insight from their stakeholders (employees, customers) and that encourages conscious leadership and an overall conscious culture – the four pillars of Conscious Capitalism. 

If you haven’t read the book, I recommend it. I will likely write more on this topic in the coming year ahead, but for now, I just wanted to encourage you to dive in because this movement may just be the saving grace of American business and for our culture as a whole. 

You can learn more about the movement at www.consciouscapitalism.org and find a local chapter to get involved with in your city.