The (In)visible Tensions of Change: What We’re Learning from This Decade’s Major Shifts | 013

About mines, memes, mindsets, and multilateralism

In this electrifying and deeply reflective conversation, we dive into the complex interplay between sustainability, geopolitics, and narratives. I speak with Maximiliano, whose unconventional path - from growing up in a mining region in Chile to shaping UN development programs - offers a rare perspective on global transformation.

We discuss why sustainability doesn't happen in a vacuum, how power struggles and security fears distort our collective action, and why memes might be as important as policy papers.

We unpack the hidden tensions in supply chains, EU carbon policies, and the role of language in shaping minds - and ultimately, the future.

Should we be diplomatic or disruptive? Strategic or stubborn? The answer might just be: all of the above.

💡 HIGHLIGHTS of this Episode
✨ Why sustainability and security are two sides of the same coin
✨ The political economy behind global resource extraction
✨ Maximiliano’s personal journey from Chile’s mining north to UN diplomacy
✨ How shifting narratives (and even emojis) shape sustainability training and strategies
✨ Why value-driven language—and compromise—can both drive change

👋 ABOUT Maximiliano Cortes Sotomayor (he/him)
Maximiliano is a passionate professional with extensive experience in sustainable development, international project management, and environmental policy. Over the past decade, he had the opportunity to design and lead impactful programs across Europe, Africa, Latin America, and beyond, collaborating with organizations like GIZ, UNSSC, and Mercedes-Benz’s beVisioneers Fellowship.

🔗 CONNECT & follow Maximiliano's work
👉 LinkedIn


💌 CONNECT & engage with Pia
Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn to follow and support each other’s work. 🤗

If you consider yourself an #impactjobseeker or aspiring #impactpreneur at the beginning of your journey, jump on my Newsletter “Impact Insights” where I regularly share tools and best practices from my work as a sustainability consultant and system change facilitator. 🤓

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Take care of yourself and others!

Pia 🤍

P.S. You can also watch this Episode on our YouTube Channel to see our faces 👋 🙂

#sustainability #geopolitics #climatejustice #regeneration #systemsthinking #carbonfootprint #security #supplychains #policychange #transformation