Episode 08: Systemic Renewal with Heather Cetrangolo
In this insightful episode of Culture Shapers, I sit down with Heather Cetrangolo, an action researcher and the Founder & CEO of the Academy of Systemic Renewal. Heather has developed Systemic Renewal, a transformative approach that helps leaders rebuild struggling organisations and communities by focusing on identity and purpose before strategy.
Holding degrees in Law, Theology, Education, and Leadership Studies, Heather integrates scientific research with holistic principles to create lasting change. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a system that resists progress, this episode will show you how to break through and lead transformation from within. But what does it really take to shift deeply ingrained structures? Heather shares powerful insights on the biggest barriers to systemic change—and how to overcome them.
She identifies leadership resistance and institutional inertia as major roadblocks and introduces four essential principles to navigate them:
The Mountain – Understanding individual experiences before driving change.
The Table – Building a committed team, even if small, to influence the system.
The Green Room – Crafting a compelling narrative that inspires action.
The Stage – Demonstrating change before seeking approval or policy shifts.
One of the most compelling moments in our conversation is Heather’s story of an international student who overcame personal struggles through the support of a renewed community. It’s a real-world example of how small shifts in leadership and mindset can create powerful ripple effects, transforming cultures from within.
This conversation is packed with key takeaways for anyone looking to drive meaningful cultural transformation. You’ll learn why:
Starting with identity before change ensures authenticity and sustainability.
Building a small but dedicated team can create momentum, even in the most resistant environments.
Demonstrating change in action is more effective than waiting for approval.
What’s one leadership insight that has shaped how you approach transformation? Feel free to share your thoughts in email or in the comments.
For the latest updates and resources, stay connected with Heather Cetrangolo through her website.
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Disclaimer: Resort images courtesy of Yangaro Resort and Rose Grace Studios. The images used are representative of the facilities available at the resort.
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About the Author
Lidia Lae, Ph.D., is a writer, psychologist, and speaker, committed to empowering individuals and organisations to build healthier cultures for meaningful contribution.