Ep 93 Purpose in Action: Hilary McAllister on Climate Justice at Ben & Jerry's
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Show Notes
Episode Overview
What does it look like when a global brand doesn’t just talk about values — but organises around them?
In this episode of For Love & Money, I’m joined by Hilary McAllister, Activism Manager at Ben & Jerry’s Australia.
Hilary’s path into activism has been anything but linear. Beginning her career in events, she followed a growing concern for climate and environmental justice into grassroots campaigning, co-founding the not-for-profit For Wild Places before stepping into one of the most unusual roles in Australian business — leading activism from inside a global brand.
In our conversation, Hilary shares what drew her into purpose-led work, why serendipity and shared values matter more than rigid career plans, and how Ben & Jerry’s approaches climate justice as an always-on commitment rather than a one-off campaign.
We explore how activism operates inside the business, what it takes to earn the right to speak on social issues, and why progress is rarely linear — especially when you’re working for long-term systemic change.
Hilary also takes us behind the scenes of a major Australian climate campaign, unpacks Ben & Jerry’s mission-lock structure, and reflects on the balance between urgency, hope and personal sustainability when working at the frontlines of climate action.
At its heart, this episode is about purpose in action — and what becomes possible when business chooses courage over convenience.
In this episode, we explore
- Hilary’s non-linear journey into activism and purpose-led work
- Why love does have a role to play in business — depending on how you define success
- How Ben & Jerry’s embeds climate justice into its Australian strategy
- What “always-on activism” looks like inside a global brand
- Why progress in social and environmental change is rarely neat or predictable
- The importance of community, partnerships and earning the right to speak
- How individuals can connect everyday climate observations with meaningful action
About Hilary McAllister
Hilary is based in Gadigal, Sydney, and is the Activism Manager at Ben & Jerry’s Australia. In her role, Hilary leads the strategic development and execution of climate justice campaigns, supporting grassroots campaigners across the country. A dedicated environmentalist, Hilary is also the CEO and co-founder of For Wild Places, a not-for-profit dedicated to protecting wild places under threat. Hilary’s path to activism has been anything but ordinary - shaped by curiosity, conviction, and a deep desire to contribute to lasting, planet-saving change.
Links & Resources
Ben & Jerry's Australia website
Ben & Jerry's Double Dip book - how to run a values-led business and make money too
Connect with Carolyn/Learn more about her work
Consulting, Leadership Development & Coaching