Last week, we had the privilege of hosting Vanessa Rueber from Patagonia for an eye-opening GoSimple Talk on Harnessing Corporate Activism. It was a truly inspiring session that left us all with a renewed sense of purpose and action. Vanessa shared Patagonia's approach to using corporate activism as a tool for creating meaningful change, and it’s clear that they are leading the way in aligning business success with social responsibility.
Vanessa explained how Patagonia consistently uses its platform to champion causes that align with its core values—whether it's protecting the environment, advocating for social justice, or promoting ethical business practices.
Here are a few key takeaways from the session:
1️⃣ Activism Comes in Many Forms
One of the biggest lessons I took away was how activism can show up in so many different ways. Corporate activism isn’t just about one grand gesture. It can be seen in everyday actions—like pushing for more sustainable practices within your company, supporting social causes, or launching campaigns that raise awareness about issues like climate change. The important part is staying true to your company’s values. Whether it’s a small change or a large initiative, every step counts when it’s done with purpose.
2️⃣ Storytelling Makes the Difference
Another gem from the session was the power of storytelling. Vanessa explained how Patagonia has used real, emotional stories to drive their activism forward. It's one thing to say you care about the environment, but when you tell a story about a community impacted by pollution, or a product’s journey from creation to the customer, it hits differently. People connect with stories—they resonate on an emotional level, and when companies share authentic stories, it can inspire others to take action, too.
3️⃣ Protect What You Love
One theme that really stuck with us was the idea of "protecting what you love." For Patagonia, this isn’t just a slogan; it’s a way of life. Whether it’s the planet, human rights, or a local community, Vanessa talked about how Patagonia’s activism is rooted in a deep love and respect for the things that matter most. And it’s not just about making noise—it’s about making a real impact. When your actions come from a place of genuine care and passion, it builds trust with your customers and helps you create a more meaningful connection with them.
Want to Watch the Full Session?
If you missed the live webinar or just want to revisit all of the great advice Vanessa shared, you can watch the full recording here:
It’s safe to say that corporate activism is no longer optional—it’s essential. Companies have the power to make a difference, and as we saw with Patagonia, staying true to your values and taking action on what matters can create real, lasting change. Let’s all take a page out of Patagonia’s book and think about how we can use our platforms for good.
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