In this compelling conversation, Dave speaks with Florian Irminger about his journey from high-visibility political leadership to behind-the-scenes human rights advocacy, and what he calls the "Global Realignment" we're all navigating. This episode explores how leaders can pivot from old ways of working to meet unprecedented challenges, why admitting "I don't know" is becoming essential leadership, and how human rights work is at the leading edge of what we all need to learn to thrive in this new world.
Guest Bio: Florian Irminger
Florian Irminger is the founder of Progress & Change Action Lab, an advisory group dedicated to supporting organizations and institutions navigating complex social and political transformations. Following his tenure as Secretary-General of the Swiss Green Party, Florian made the conscious decision to step back from high-visibility political leadership to work behind the scenes, supporting others in creating meaningful change.
Inspired by Robert F. Kennedy's words that "Progress is the nice word we like to use. But change is its motivator. And change has its enemies," Florian has dedicated his work to addressing what he calls the "Global Realignment"—fundamental shifts in our political, social, and human rights landscape.
Recently, Florian launched two significant initiatives: the Human Rights Compass, which brings together organizations beyond traditional branding to collaborate on key recommendations for addressing global challenges, and the Human Rights Index, launched in response to political and social media shifts.
Dave first met Florian when he was working at Human Rights House headquarters in Oslo, and later worked with him as he opened offices in Geneva and Brussels. They've maintained their connection as Florian's career and life have evolved.
Key Quotes
"I want to work with people that I like. So that is my new life journey - to value the family first, and value the people that I want to work with."
"Progress is the nice word we like to use. But change is its motivator. And change has its enemies." - RFK
"We need to stop thinking that we have answers and learn better how to ask questions... We need to start playing jazz, because then we're improvising and listening to each other."
"I think admitting the uncertainty is, to me, an indicator of readiness to change."
"We are really equipped to deal with all of this and to come together. I just don't know who will be the 'we' and where will it happen and when."
Resources Mentioned
Human Rights Compass: http://humanrightscompass.org
Human Rights Index: https://bsky.app/profile/humanrightsindex.bsky.social
Progress & Change Action Lab: https://progress-change-actionlab.org
Books mentioned (authors to be provided): Norwegian author Gardner, French author Kavin Tree, Jean Claude Gibo
Connect with Florian and resources mentioned
Progress & Change Action Lab: https://progress-change-actionlab.org
Human Rights Compass: http://humanrightscompass.org
Human Rights Index: https://bsky.app/profile/humanrightsindex.bsky.social
Progress & Change Action Lab: https://progress-change-actionlab.org
Books mentioned Norwegian author Gardner, French author Kavin Tree, Jean Claude Gibo
Key Takeaways
The Power of the Pivot: Sometimes stepping back from visibility creates more authentic impact
Admitting "I Don't Know": In times of uncertainty, vulnerability becomes a leadership strength
From Answers to Questions: Moving from classical music to jazz - improvising and listening rather than following old scripts
The Global Realignment: We're all navigating similar challenges across different sectors
Personal Navigation: Finding practices (like saxophone for breathing, classic literature for perspective) to maintain balance in chaos
Future Hope: Humanity has overcome difficult moments before and is equipped to do so again
This was a profound conversation about leadership, change, and hope in uncertain times. Perfect for anyone navigating their own pivot in work, leadership, or life.
My website: www.daveschoof.com
Original music: Phil Schoof
Production: Phil Schoof