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The beyond economy Podcast

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Courage. Responsibility. Transformation.

On the beyond economy Podcast, Michael Schwienbacher talks with people who rethink the economy – and actively reshape it. Investors, entrepreneurs, social innovators, and thought leaders share their stories, perspectives, and solutions for a future-fit, regenerative, and just economy.

Hier geht es nicht um Imagepflege, sondern um echte Verantwortung. Gemeinsam mit seinen Gästen beleuchtet Michael, wie wirtschaftlicher Wandel gelingen kann – jenseits von kurzfristigem Profit, hin zu echter Wirkung für People, Planet & Profit.

Hands-on solutions with Osman Vatansever from SocialBee.

It’s not about image polishing here, but real responsibility. Together with his guests, Michael explores how economic change can succeed – beyond short-term profit, toward real impact for People, Planet & Profit.

The latest episode on Spotify

In this episode, Michael Schwienbacher, together with founders Leon Pichotka and Dyke Wilke, sheds light on the challenges and opportunities in energy management. It’s about transformation in the energy industry, the need for responsible business, and the influence of innovative technologies on a future-fit future. The vision of the beyond economy Movement connects with concrete solutions for a sustainable energy future.

Responsibility in business: how nature and community become partners

In this episode, Michael Schwienbacher speaks with Nils Koerber about the decisive importance of responsible business succession in Germany. The conversation shows how deep values, clear responsibility, and innovative approaches shape the economic tomorrow – very much in the spirit of the beyond economy Movement.

The path to a future-fit economy

In this episode, Michael Schwienbacher speaks with Thomas Sattelberger about the challenges and opportunities of a sustainable transformation of our economy and society. The focus is on responsible capitalism, regenerative approaches, and the shaping of a future-fit political landscape – central topics in the beyond economy Movement.

Sustainability beyond norms: shaping new paths in regenerative urban development

In this episode, Michael Schwienbacher speaks with Melanie Hammer about her path into the real-estate industry, her visions for sustainable, regenerative building, and her role in a responsible capitalism. Together they reflect on the challenges, opportunities, and the responsibility of anchoring transformative strategies in the economy – very much in the spirit of the beyond economy Movement.

From brand promise to real responsibility: business in transition

In this episode, Michael Schwienbacher speaks with Udo Böhr, a veteran of the communication industry who shares his experiences and deep insights into the challenges of our time. Together they explore how responsibility capitalism, brand culture, and technological progress shape societal change – all in the context of the beyond economy Movement.

Financing responsibility, the common good, and a sustainable economy

In this episode, Michael Schwienbacher dives deep with Zoran von Waldenfels into the core of our economy’s transformation. He shares his diverse experiences and thoughts on responsibility capitalism, regenerative business, and the new stance needed for a sustainable future. Together they shed light on how individual stance and collective action can drive societal change, and why it is essential to not only demand responsibility but to live it.

Making the future possible with positive stories

Stories are the tool for a better future. Theresa shows that the power of storytelling decisively influences how we think, feel, and act. To create a sustainable, just, and livable world, we need more positive, realistic, and communal narratives. Her message is clear: each of us can actively shape the future with stories – privately, in companies, or in society. Instead of merely complaining about problems, we should focus on solutions, hope, and shared engagement.

Why economic success no longer works without ethics

On this beyond economy Podcast, Michael Schwienbacher welcomes Thomas Schiffelmann. Thomas is known for his engagement in the social scene and his work with Handicap International. In this conversation, he shares his inspiring journey from the banking world to a life serving the common good.

From the farm into the future: how entrepreneurial stance emerges

On the beyond economy Podcast, Michael Schwienbacher welcomes inspiring personalities who actively shape the transition from the old to the new economy. In this episode, he speaks with Johanna Gollnhofer, a Professor of Marketing, about her journey and the challenges she has experienced on the way to advancing sustainable business models.

Narratives that change the future: how stories redefine our prosperity

For Saskia, “beyond economy” means thinking beyond pure economic performance and considering the social and ecological impact of a business model. She advocates for a holistic view that also includes external costs and assesses value creation beyond purely economic benefit.

Core business, climate protection, circular economy, culture, and cooperation

Michael Schwienbacher and Tina Teucher offer valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of the future in this episode of the beyond economy Podcast. They encourage listeners to actively participate in shaping a sustainable and responsible economy. The episode ends with a call to think in generations and to make the world a better place for the generations after us.

How Critical Friends helps companies live real transformation

The podcast with Anna Goldhofer offers valuable insights into the world of sustainable transformation and the role that “CRITICAL FRIENDS” play in it. Michael Schwienbacher and Anna inspire listeners to look beyond their own horizons and actively work for a better future.

Building bridges between generations: with experience into the future

The beyond economy Podcast impressively shows how important it is to take new paths courageously and to learn from setbacks. Samuel inspires with his story and his commitment to a responsible economy that combines innovation and tradition. His start-up Senior Connect is an example of how social responsibility and economic success can go hand in hand.

Steward-ownership: the quiet shift to a new economy

In the closing discussion, it becomes clear how relevant the topic of steward-ownership and purpose economy is today. Michael and Laura reflect on past challenges and future prospects of such models. The conversation ends with a look at the beyond economy Festival, which serves as a platform for connecting like-minded people and deepening the topics of steward-ownership and sustainable corporate leadership.

Financial power meets value awareness: the role of the financial sector in change

The podcast offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of economic transformation. It shows how important it is to take responsibility and actively help shape a sustainable future. The discussion between Michael Schwienbacher and Kristina Jeromin inspires listeners to take new paths and use the potentials of the economy.

Creativity for future-fit business – Hans von Brockhausen – What the Film

In this episode of the beyond economy Podcast, Michael Schwienbacher speaks with Hans von Brockhausen, co-founder of the film production agency What The Film. The origin of What The Film: Hans tells of his roots in northern Germany and his career path up to the founding of What The Film. After stations in Cologne and Munich, all the way to a position at Sky, he discovered his passion for film production. Together with his partners Max and Matze, What The Film has developed over the past five years into a recognized brand in the film industry, producing both image films and creative social-media content.

Transparency through data – how the digital product passport changes business

On the beyond economy Podcast, Michael Schwienbacher talks with people who take responsibility and actively shape the transformation of the economy. In this episode: Wolfgang Steiner, expert for eco-design and sustainable transformation. The topic: the digital product passport – and why it’s more than just a bureaucratic EU project.

Future Mittelstand: how companies are enabled to become effective themselves

In the latest episode of the beyond economy Podcast, Michael Schwienbacher speaks with Rui Duarte about steward-ownership, circular economy, and the transformation of mid-sized industry. Rui shows how elobau, with deep manufacturing capabilities, clear values, and a strong culture, is a role model – and how elocompanion brings this knowledge as a partner into other companies.

When entrepreneurship becomes a societal lever

The beyond economy Podcast with Tino Schmutzler offers valuable insights into the world of sustainable founding and the challenges that come with it. Tino’s commitment and his vision for a responsible economy are inspiring, showing that change is possible when one is ready to take new paths.

Technology, automation, and AI need critical thinking

The podcast offers valuable insights into the world of cooperatives and shows how they can serve as an engine for social change. Michael Schwienbacher and Johanna invite listeners to become part of this movement and explore the possibilities cooperatives offer.

Women in leadership – opportunities, change, and the future of the economy

In this episode of the beyond economy Podcast, Michael Schwienbacher speaks with entrepreneur and founder Leonie about the challenges and opportunities of women in the founder scene. At the start, Michael notes that there is a need to discuss gender equality in leading economic positions and in founding.

Shaping transformation – Simon Berkler’s view of the future of the economy

In this episode of the beyond economy Podcast, Simon Berkler, co-founder of TheDive, is the guest. Michael and Simon comprehensively examine the concept of responsibility capitalism and discuss how organizations can transform in a fast-paced economy.

Daring responsibility – how education and business can shape the future together

In this episode, Michael Schwienbacher welcomes Dr. Dr. Anna Katharina Meyer, founder of Finding Sustainia and active member of the Club of Rome. Together they discuss the exciting topic of sustainable transformation in the economy and the challenges that come with it.

Uncomfortable questions, real resonance – why change has no patent solution

In the current episode, Michael Schwienbacher welcomes Stephan Hankammer, Professor of Sustainable Corporate Leadership, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship at Alanus University. The conversation begins with an exploration of Stefan’s roots, his academic career, and the motivations for his work in Alfter, a small place between Cologne and Bonn. Stefan shares his experiences from school days through to his doctorate in technology and innovation management with an ecological perspective.

The world in change – what to do when crises are the new normal?

In this episode of the beyond economy Podcast, Michael Schwienbacher speaks with Frank Panser, an experienced media designer and marketing professional from Erfurt, about the challenges and opportunities of sustainable business. As part of the beyond economy Movement, both are firmly convinced that a responsible economy is the heart of a just future.

Where ecology meets economy – tree sponsorships for an economy with a future

In this episode of the beyond economy Podcast, Michael Schwienbacher speaks with Curtis Schüßler, an engaged entrepreneur passionate about preserving and reforesting native forests. Curtis is co-founder of Baumpaten Deutschland, an initiative that not only enables tree sponsorships seamlessly but also creates direct ecological impact on the ground.

Intercultural. Sustainable. Successful. – hands-on solutions with SocialBee

This episode of the beyond economy Podcast is an invitation to actively take part in the transformation toward a just, sustainable, and resilient economy. Michael and Georg offer valuable insights into personal and societal developments that inspire entrepreneurs and interested listeners to find and shape their own paths. The conversation prompts reflection on one’s own actions and the courage to embrace change.

In  dieser Episode des beyond economy Podcasts spricht Michael Schwienbacher mit  Carsten und Samuel Waldeck, zwei engagierten Unternehmern, die wichtige  Themen rund um verantwortungsbewusste Wirtschaft und gesellschaftliche  Transformation ansprechen. Sie tauchen ein in ihre Motivation, die Welt durch  ihr Unternehmen Shift positiv zu beeinflussen, und erörtern den Wert von  Verantwortung, Ehrlichkeit und ökologischer Nachhaltigkeit in der  Unternehmensführung.

In this episode of the beyond economy Podcast, Michael Schwienbacher speaks with Carsten and Samuel Waldeck, two engaged entrepreneurs addressing important topics around responsible business and societal transformation. They dive into their motivation to positively influence the world through their company Shift, and discuss the value of responsibility, honesty, and ecological sustainability in business leadership.

About the host
Michael Schwienbacher is an entrepreneur, thought leader – and initiator of the beyond economy Movement and the beyond economy Festival.
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From turbo-capitalist to co-shaper of a new economic system: Michael knows both sides – the rapid rise and the deep fall. His earlier idea of success was shaped by growth, market power, and personal ego. After the failure of his companies during the financial crisis, a radical change began. Today, he stands for a new form of doing business in which economic, ecological, and social responsibility are central. From this stance, he founded Sym – a company that builds a cooperative business ecosystem for small and mid-sized companies. Sym connects regional SMEs through the digital Symsuite platform, where they can share resources, knowledge, and entrepreneurial services. The aim is a viable alternative to the global “winner takes it all” system – based on cooperation, resilience, and sustainable business in service of society and the environment. Michael sees the podcast as a platform for building bridges – between people, ideas, and perspectives. Because real transformation emerges where dialogue, collaboration, and joint action become possible.

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What awaits you in the podcast

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Inspiring conversations with entrepreneurs, investors, founders, scientists, and political voices

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Unvarnished insights into personal and entrepreneurial turning points

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Ideas for economic action in harmony with people and nature

Perspectives on responsibility, change, resilience, and meaning in the economy of tomorrow

Du bist Unternehmer:in, Changemaker oder Teil
eines Projekts, das zur Transformation der Wirtschaft
beiträgt?