In this time of global change, growing economic inequality, climate unrest, and war, it is crucial to realize the power each one of us has to affect what matters. There is a beautiful Chinese proverb that says, "If there is light in the soul, there will be beauty in the person. If there is beauty in the person, there will be harmony in the house. If there is harmony in the house, there will be order in the nation. If there is order in the nation, there will be peace in the world." It’s interesting to reflect that the world we are experiencing today is the result of our collective consciousness. We have a vital and important conversation about all this with our guests – two visionary leaders who have each devoted their lives to personal transformation as a catalyst for social change. You'll hear about

- the journeys that led Jones and O'Dea to the important work they're doing now

- what steps guarantee an economic win-win for creating "green collar jobs," reducing economic inequality

- ways our prison system creates post-traumatic stress similar to that experienced in war

- why personal consciousness and social healing are necessary for true global change

Van Jones is co-host of CNN's Crossfire, and has founded and led several not-for-profit organizations engaged in social and environmental justice, including The Ella Baker Center for Human Rights, Dream Corps Unlimited, and Color of Change. A Yale-educated attorney, Van has written two New York Times Best Sellers: "The Green Collar Economy" - the definitive book on green jobs, and "Rebuild the Dream" - a roadmap for progressives. In 2009, Van worked as the green jobs advisor to the Obama White House, and in 2007 co-founded Green For All, a national organization working to offer green jobs to many disadvantaged communities. VanJones.net RebuildTheDream.com

James O'Dea is the lead faculty for the ongoing Shift Network's Peace Ambassador Training. He is the author of "Creative Stress," a book endorsed by Marianne Williamson as "Medicine for our Times." James is a well-known figure in international social healing and has conducted reconciliation dialogues for 15 years, and also leads Breakthrough Intensives for emerging leaders. He is on the extended faculty of the Institute of Noetic Sciences and was its former President. O'Dea has served as the Washington Office Director of Amnesty International and CEO of the Seva Foundation. He is a member of the esteemed Evolutionary Leaders Group. JamesOdea.com TheShiftNetwork.com