Sustainability in Business: How to Build a Future-Proof Strategy With Lee Stewart

By: Heneka Watkis-Porter
On July 15, 2025

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In this episode of The Entrepreneurial You, host Heneka Watkis-Porter sits down with Lee Stewart, a globally recognised sustainability strategist, educator, and author of How to Build Sustainability into Your Business Strategy. Lee shares how sustainability has evolved from a buzzword into a core business imperative—one that directly impacts profitability, brand value, and long-term growth. Drawing from two decades of hands-on experience, Lee offers actionable insights on embedding sustainability into company culture and strategy.

Demystifying Sustainability and Driving Real Impact
Heneka and Lee unpack the misconceptions surrounding sustainability—like the idea that a single policy or small team is enough. Lee challenges this notion by stressing that sustainability must be woven into the fabric of an organisation, not treated as a side initiative. He defines sustainability simply: leaving the world better than you found it. Businesses, he says, must stop harmful practices, reduce waste, and create more resilient, value-driven operations.

Aligning with Bigger Players and Building Smarter Supply Chains
Lee explains how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can align their sustainability goals with the climate targets of larger partners and customers. He urges founders to begin with a basic sustainability roadmap and a materiality assessment to identify key areas of impact. Heneka and Lee explore how collaboration between suppliers and buyers can lead to shared progress—and even open new business opportunities.

Learning Resources and Continuous Growth
Beyond strategy, Lee is passionate about education. He highlights free courses like Carbon 101 from the Greenhouse Gas Protocol and sustainability leadership programmes from Cambridge. He also recommends resources from the Ellen MacArthur Foundation and the importance of staying informed through documentaries like David Attenborough’s Life on Our Planet. These tools, Lee says, are vital for founders and leaders seeking to stay ahead of global sustainability trends.

The Power of Consistent, Curious Leadership
Heneka and Lee discuss how consistent leadership is the cornerstone of sustainable transformation. Lee urges business leaders to stay curious, keep asking questions, and never stop learning about future technologies and global challenges. His advice? Don’t wait for perfection—start small, commit fully, and remain consistent. These principles are the backbone of his best-selling book, which Lee proudly shares is now available in eBook and audiobook formats.

Empowering Change Through Strategy and Community
Heneka highlights ongoing leadership events focused on values-driven entrepreneurship, and encourages listeners to embrace sustainability not just as a goal—but as a way of thinking. As the episode closes, Lee invites business owners to subscribe to his newsletter and enter a giveaway for a signed copy of his book. He reminds us that sustainability isn’t a destination, but a journey that strengthens business, people, and the planet.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
• Why sustainability is a long-term business advantage, not just a trend
• How to identify and overcome common sustainability misconceptions
• How SMEs can align with the sustainability goals of larger customers
• Where to find high-quality, free sustainability education
• Why leadership consistency matters in sustainability strategy
• How to build momentum through small wins and clear goals
• Why curiosity and adaptability are key to future-proofing your business

COMMUNITY CONNECTION:

Don’t forget about the upcoming LeadHerShip Cruise, where leaders like YOU can network and grow aboard Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas! This four-day event blends empowerment with transformative learning against the stunning backdrop of the Bahamas. For more details, contact heneka@henekawatkisporter.com or WhatsApp 876-849-2571.

CONTACT LEE STEWART:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leestewart/

GIVE AWAY:

One signed copy of my book to the first listener to email heneka@henekawatkisporter.com and say you’ve listened to this episode of The Entrepreneurial You.

TRENDING NOW:

Companies that adopt sustainable practices see a 20% increase in revenue growth compared to those that don’t. Additionally, 88% of consumers say they are more loyal to brands that support environmental or social causes. Sustainability isn’t just good for the planet—it’s good for business.

If you enjoyed this episode of The Entrepreneurial You, subscribe on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, leave a rating, and share it with your friends. Visit henekawatkisporter.com to download a free eBook on how to conduct podcast interviews like a pro!

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AFFIRM WITH ME:

I am creating success that aligns with my values and brings me true fulfillment.

Dive into the latest episode of The Entrepreneurial You podcast, where we uncover the transformative power of mentorship and coaching with our esteemed guest, a seasoned entrepreneur whose early setbacks paved the way for enduring success.

Learning from Setbacks: The Mentorship Advantage

– Early Struggles: Our guest reflects on the initial challenges faced when starting alone and the realization that solo efforts led to regression rather than progression.

– The Mentorship Turning Point: Discover the pivotal moment when our guest embraced the need for guidance and how this decision became a cornerstone strategy throughout their entrepreneurial journey.

– Navigating Transitions: Learn how seeking out mentors and coaches with each new venture or career shift can safeguard against significant pitfalls and foster triumphs.

– The Role of Mentorship in Success: Gain insights into how the right mentor or coach can accelerate your path to success and help you avoid the missteps that can hold you back.

Connect with today’s guest and find a mentor who can help steer your entrepreneurial ship towards success.

Closing Thoughts:
Thanks to our guest for sharing their journey and mentorship’s invaluable role in their achievements. To our listeners, remember that you don’t have to go it alone; mentors can be your compass to success.

Stay tuned for more episodes of The Entrepreneurial You and embrace the collective wisdom that can drive your business forward.

Affirmation:
I seek wisdom and guidance, harnessing the collective experience to fuel my entrepreneurial ascent.

For more information and resources from today’s episode, visit our website at henekawatkisporter.com. Engage with us on social media; we’re active on Heneka Watkis-Porter.

Remember: Stay engaged, stay entrepreneurial!

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Author: Heneka Watkis-Porter

When I'm not podcasting, speaking, coaching or hosting first-class conferences (think Leadercast & She Leads co-founded with the Jamaica Stock Exchange), I'm passionate about helping women thrive and walk in their God-given purpose through Grace to Grow Mentorship and Training.