An Interview With Monica Sanders
I wish I understood the importance of storytelling in conveying the urgency and relevance of sustainability issues. Sharing deeply personal stories and narratives about individuals affected by climate change or success stories of sustainable initiatives creates better human connection. People remember stories, and are more likely to engage and support a cause.
According to the University of Colorado, “Those who are most affected and have the fewest resources to adapt to climate change are also the least responsible for the greenhouse gas emissions — both globally and within the United States.” Promoting climate justice is an incredibly important environmental responsibility that is slowly becoming more and more recognized. In this interview series, we are talking to leaders who are helping to promote sustainability and climate justice. As part of this series, we had the pleasure of interviewing Lani Cooper.
Australian businesswoman, stand up comedian, and purpose driven entrepreneur, Lani Cooper, is the Founder and CEO at MOBOT, an innovative and growing company in the wellness and sustainability space, based in Venice, CA. Following a multi-faceted career which includes mining surveyor and flight attendant, as well as fitness instructor, sports therapist, yoga teacher, and raw-vegan chef — Lani began to see a common thread between her athlete’s and clients recovery programs and their performance- something most people need more access too, and that can help reduce single use plastics. Two of the most necessary practices for health and wellbeing, hydration and massage, are actually sometimes the most neglected (by everybody).
So, voila! The MOBOT was born, and she knew everyBODY, and the planet could benefit.
Visual Assets:
https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1JO_juvWcHzV4bZeVXOd3D6lTl3xdVOxx
Thank you so much for doing this with us! Before we dig in, our readers would like to get to know you a bit. Can you tell us a bit about how you grew up?
Growing up down under, I spent my early years strutting my stuff in the land of skippy the bush kangaroo and sun-soaked awe-inspiring landscapes surrounded by rough and tumble boys playing rugby. It’s fair to say my quintessential Aussie spirit and humor game is so sharp it could make Vegemite seem sweet!
Among literal red dirt and eucalyptus trees, I discovered my love for sports, and definitely competition and winning, in particular with rugby and water skiing. A passion that would later shape my life in many unexpected ways.
My upbringing in Australia definitely influenced my perspective on health and sustainability and led me to MOBOT. From rugby boots to fancy suits and boardrooms may seem like a leap, and it was at first! As one of the few girls on the rugby field, I’d use it as fuel to prove nay-sayers wrong, and with a deep desire to make a positive impact as my north star, I somehow always found my way back to center to keep going and growing, no matter how many times I was knocked down. I learned early on the values of resilience, teamwork, and the importance of giving it your all, and it proved instrumental in my international entrepreneurial ventures!
Everyone has a cataclysmic moment or marker in their life which propels them to take certain actions, a “why”. What is your why?
My ‘why’ is rooted in my love for people, nature and healing. Growing up in the country, organic was just a way of life. It is my commitment to personal well-being, my deep connection to the environment, and a desire to make a positive impact.
The cataclysmic moment, if you will, was when living in Asia working as a health and wellness therapist, witnessing first-hand not only the detrimental impact of single-use plastics on the planet and body — but what our ‘sick-care’ system is doing to our mind-body connection, creating dis-ease! Both profound awakenings that demanded action.
As a former athlete, my ‘why’ extends as much to the realm of personal wellness. MOBOT isn’t just an eco-friendly hydration tool; it’s a holistic approach to fitness, incorporating the benefits of foam rolling — a practice known for enhancing flexibility, recovery, and overall well-being. My mission is to empower individuals to prioritize their health while actively contributing to the well-being of the planet.
You are currently leading an organization that is making a difference for our planet. Can you tell us a bit about what you and your organization are trying to change?
We believe in the power of small, everyday choices to drive significant change, and our hero product, a reusable eco-friendly travel foam roller water bottle, embodies this ethos.
MOBOTs mission is a profound commitment to make a positive impact on the planet through health, self care, innovation and sustainability.
In essence, it is about transforming a simple, everyday act — hydration and self massage — into a powerful force for positive change. By choosing to reuse, they become part of a movement towards a more sustainable, wellness-focused, and environmentally conscious world.
Hydration is essential, but the environmental cost of traditional single-use bottles is too high. Reducing Single-Use Plastic waste is one of our primary objectives, with millions ending up in landfills and oceans every day. Our reusable travel foam roller water bottle isn’t just about hydration; it’s a statement — an embodiment of responsible and sustainable consumer behavior.
Beyond sustainability, we seek to help people integrate wellness seamlessly into daily life. The foam roller component of our water bottle encourages individuals to incorporate self-care and recovery into their routines. It’s about promoting holistic well-being and encouraging a lifestyle that prioritizes both personal health and environmental responsibility. We aspire to be a catalyst for a larger movement.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you began leading your company or organization?
I’d say the MOST interesting is my journey of healing from a major (TBI) traumatic brain injury during the early stages of growth with MOBOT.
In life, there’s a few chapters defined not by triumphs or accolades, but by an unexpected twist of fate — mine was a major traumatic brain injury. Little did I know that this life-altering event would become the catalyst for several profound transformations.
The incident reshaped my perspective, not only on business but on life itself. I was in the best shape of my life and it was several years before I could return to the helm of the company, only to return just in time to try to steer us through the uncharted waters of a pandemic. FUN!
As I navigated the challenging road to recovery, a newfound sense of vulnerability intertwined with resilience led to an even more heart-centered leadership style.
Even though I had often succumbed to the pressures of leadership, the experience of overcoming a near death experience and personal adversity instilled in me a deeper sense of empathy and resilience. I understood, on an intrinsic level, the importance of creating cultures that value each and our collective well-being, period!
My journey of healing opened my heart in ways that still feel surreal. Love and flexibility are the cornerstone of everything from operations to allowing team members to navigate their professional responsibilities alongside personal challenges. In the wake of personal adversity, I rediscovered the immense power of vulnerability and compassion within leadership.
Our global company, once navigating stormy seas, transformed into a vessel of support and growth. This unexpected journey, from trauma to triumph, shaped not only the trajectory of the company but also my own evolution as a leader — one driven by the heart, capable of turning challenges into catalysts for positive change.
None of us can be successful without some help along the way. Did you have mentors or cheerleaders who helped you to succeed? Can you tell us a story about their influence?
In the kaleidoscope of mentors who’ve shaped my journey, — Mr. Stasher, the former CEO of Hayman Island, the esteemed ‘Leading Hotel of The World’ stands out vividly as an early influence. This was not just an introduction to luxury hospitality but a pivotal moment in my life, where mentorship, high standards, and a commitment to personal and professional growth converged.
Arriving on Hayman Island as one of the youngest team members amidst a 1:1 staff-to-guest ratio, I was stepping into an environment that epitomized excellence. Little did the island know, I was emerging from a period of rehabilitation for both drugs and an eating disorder — a testament to the transformative power of mentorship.
Mr. Stasher’s influence was felt from the outset. His dedication to training and the well-being of the team set the stage for an unforgettable experience. Even as one of the most non-conforming individuals at the time, my rebellious spirit found redirection in the structure of the island, running like a well-oiled tropical fun machine under Mr Stasher’s leadership.
The CEO’s knack for spotting potential, even in the most unconventional of team members, was evident. For my ‘punishment,’ he orchestrated an immersive training experience, involving rotations through every department. What began as a disciplinary measure evolved into a profound lesson in understanding the intricacies of the entire island.
The crux of Mr. Stasher’s mentorship lay in the value he placed on relationships and treating individuals with utmost respect. This philosophy became the backbone of our cohesive team, where each member played a vital role in delivering unparalleled quality and exceptional service. Even in the midst of mischief, he saw something in me that others didn’t, encouraging me to channel my rebellious spirit into becoming the playful yet impactful ‘MISS Chief.’
The lessons learned under Mr. Stasher’s mentorship became the foundation of my subsequent successes. Equipped with a newfound appreciation for high standards, relationships, and teamwork, I went on to clinch several service excellence awards and secure promotions.
His impact extended beyond the professional realm, inspiring a transformation that echoed across my personal and entrepreneurial endeavors. Today, as I lead my own team, community, and projects, Mr. Stasher’s influence is embedded in the commitment to excellence, treating people like gold, and fostering a culture where mischief can be harnessed for positive outcomes.
In the tapestry of mentors, Mr. Stasher’s thread weaves a story of resilience, growth, and the profound impact a guiding hand can have on an individual’s journey. His legacy lives on, not just in the accolades and promotions but in the ethos of setting high standards and treating everyone with the golden touch he imparted during those transformative days on Hayman Island.
Let’s now move to the central part of our discussion. Let’s start with a basic definition of terms so that everyone is on the same page. What does climate justice mean to you? How do we operationalize it?
Inclusive decision making. The consequences of climate change disproportionately affect vulnerable communities and individuals who most often contribute the least to the problem. A holistic and equitable approach is necessary to address climate change and hold corporations accountable, encourage responsible business practices, implement policies, and initiatives that not only mitigate environmental impact, but also promote community involvement; social equity, inclusivity, and sustainable development. We need to be all onboard.
Science is telling us that we have 7–10 years to make critical decisions about climate change. What are three things you or your organization are doing to help?
We strive to contribute to critical climate decisions and inspire positive change in consumer behavior by prioritizing sustainability through a multi-faceted approach.
Firstly, from inception we committed to minimizing our environmental footprint by sourcing eco-friendly, non-toxic materials. This includes utilizing recycled and recyclable materials, reducing waste in our production processes, and promoting a circular economy model.
Secondly, we’re actively involved in initiatives to raise awareness about single-use plastics and promote a shift towards reusable alternatives. Through educational campaigns and partnerships, we aim to empower consumers to make informed choices that align with environmental sustainability, mental health and well-being. Additionally, we support local communities in adopting reusable practices, fostering a sense of collective responsibility for our planet.
Lastly, we’re investing in research and development to not only continuously improve the sustainability of our products, including exploring innovative materials, eco-friendly manufacturing technologies, and collaborating with like-minded organizations to advance sustainable practices in the industry and provide support and education that simultaneously shares information about a healthier you, for a healthier planet.
Are there three things the community, society, or politicians can do to help you in your mission?
- Policy support and advocacy, and engaging with lawmakers to prioritize sustainability initiatives to ensure a broader impact on the community and society, such as reducing single-use plastics like with our partnership with LAX (Los Angeles International Airport) and promoting and supporting businesses and communities committed to eco-friendly practices. Hefty impact on big corporations who don’t prioritize sustainability initiatives.
- Helping educate the community more about the environmental impact of single-use plastics and the benefits of reusable alternatives to foster a culture of conscious consumerism. Community-led initiatives, such as beach clean-ups and recycling programs, contribute to a shared commitment to environmental well-being.
- Supporting and advocating for improved recycling infrastructure and waste management systems. Accessible recycling facilities, and community-wide recycling education programs facilitate the transition to sustainable habits.
How would you articulate how a business can become more profitable by being more sustainable and more environmentally conscious? Can you share a story or example?
For our business, being sustainable and environmentally conscious is at the forefront of who we are and what we do. We will always stay at the forefront of innovation and continually improve in this area. We believe that this is important to humanity as a whole, and as public awareness is raised, more consumers will opt to put their money into companies and brands they align with. For companies that are not currently taking these measures, I suggest they find ways to become more sustainable over time or they will likely get left behind.
What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started promoting sustainability and climate justice” and why?
- I wish I understood the importance of storytelling in conveying the urgency and relevance of sustainability issues. Sharing deeply personal stories and narratives about individuals affected by climate change or success stories of sustainable initiatives creates better human connection. People remember stories, and are more likely to engage and support a cause.
- The power of small consistent actions daily, the ripple effect. Like health and everything meaningful that makes our lives work, it’s the little things daily. Early in my journey, I felt overwhelmed by the magnitude of environmental challenges. When a friend shared a story about a local initiative where a small community collectively reduced single-use plastic consumption, it showed impactful change starts with individual actions, when we focus on achievable, incremental steps. Whether it’s using a reusable water bottle or opting for eco-friendly packaging, small actions create a meaningful impact.
- I wish someone had prepared me for encountering resistance and skepticism and equipped me with strategies to navigate such challenges.
Introducing sustainability initiatives in a traditional business environment presented resistance. Instead of pushing harder, I learned the importance of empathy. By understanding concerns, addressing misconceptions, and highlighting the long-term benefits, I gradually shifted perspectives. The lesson was that change is often met with resistance, but approaching it with empathy and education can lead to meaningful transformations.
I wish I was reminded more often of the need for a long-term vision, many generations out, while navigating short-term obstacles.
Facing setbacks and encountering unforeseen challenges can be disheartening. I’ve seen sustainable businesses weather initial struggles due to higher costs that make people scared to continue, but when they emerge as a leader in their industry, it taught me that perseverance, coupled with a steadfast commitment to the overarching mission keeps the long-term vision alive for everyone.
- Be humble, sit down! Be patient, stand up! Good things take time and whispering longer works better than shouting once.
Is there a person in the world, or in the US with whom you would like to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why?
Public Figure: Founder and CEO of AirBNB, Brian Chesky. Known for his creative thinking and innovative approach, I love the way AirBnB disrupted and innovated the travel and hospitality industry. It has had a global positive impact on the way people travel and experience new places. What I know publicly of his leadership style and philosophy as a Founder, it would be a unique opportunity to gain insights from a visionary entrepreneur and his wealth of experiences, and perspective. I am also curious about the social aspects of the platform, including its community-building elements and social responsibility initiatives.
Private Figure: I am looking forward to having lunch with my Mum one day again!. I have been unable to travel back since COVID and am excited to make this happen soon!
How can our readers continue to follow your work online?
@lanicooper_ @ mobotnation mobot.com
This was very meaningful, thank you so much. We wish you only continued success on your great work!
About the Interviewer: Monica Sanders JD, LL.M, is the founder of “The Undivide Project”, an organization dedicated to creating climate resilience in underserved communities using good tech and the power of the Internet. She holds faculty roles at the Georgetown University Law Center and the Tulane University Disaster Resilience Leadership Academy. Professor Sanders also serves on several UN agency working groups. As an attorney, Monica has held senior roles in all three branches of government, private industry, and nonprofits. In her previous life, she was a journalist for seven years and the recipient of several awards, including an Emmy. Now the New Orleans native spends her time in solidarity with and championing change for those on the frontlines of climate change and digital divestment. Learn more about how to join her at: www.theundivideproject.org.
How Lani Cooper Of MOBOT Is Helping to Promote Sustainability and Climate Justice was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.