Episode 10: Gina Tesla - Social Impact & Sustainability Expert

In this episode of the Four Fs podcast, host Jeff Cluff interviews Gina Tesla, a tech executive and global citizen, who shares her journey from upstate New York to a successful career in corporate social responsibility. Gina discusses her experiences growing up in diverse environments, her educational path, and her impactful time in the Peace Corps. She emphasizes the importance of soft skills, mentorship, and learning from failure, while also highlighting her work on initiatives addressing air quality and environmental inequality. The conversation explores the intersection of corporate responsibility and business goals, and the value of building supportive relationships throughout one's career.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Gina Tesla

02:34 Navigating Different Worlds: Urban vs. Rural Life

05:28 The Value of Education and Community College

09:45 From Community College to the Peace Corps

13:08 Career Transitions: From Advertising to Corporate Citizenship

15:32 The Importance of Reinvention in a Changing World

18:19 Soft Skills: The Key to Effective Leadership

18:49 The Essence of Effective Leadership

20:04 Learning from Failure

22:32 Cultural Insights from the Peace Corps

28:06 Navigating Challenges in the Peace Corps

32:19 Transitioning to Corporate Social Responsibility

36:04 Building a Career in Corporate Responsibility

39:47 Global Impact Through Micro Projects

42:42 The Role of Nonprofits in Community Engagement

45:06 The Benefits of Volunteerism

46:54 Board Service and Career Progression

49:32 Transitioning to Microsoft

52:06 Navigating Corporate Social Responsibility During COVID

54:07 Building ESG Initiatives at Coupa

58:20 Driving Change Through the Equal Air Initiative

59:19 Air Quality Disparities and Community Impact

01:01:13 Collaborative Solutions for Air Inequality

01:02:39 Corporate Responsibility and Shareholder Interests

01:05:01 Risk Mitigation and Climate Strategies

01:07:51 The Importance of Mentorship

01:10:16 Finding and Cultivating Mentors

01:12:14 The Power of Vulnerability in Professional Relationships

01:15:10 Reflecting on Small Moments and Their Impact