Welcome! I’m Lisa Polloni, ambassador for the Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE) at Stanford University, author of the book O poder da compaixão no ambiente de trabalho (translated as The Power of Compassion in the Workplace), mentor, and passionate about cats and Iyengar Yoga.
Compassion is the heart of my journey. For more than 25 years, I led the areas of corporate communication, crisis management, image and reputation building in companies such as Microsoft, P&G, Avon, Kraft Foods/Philip Morris and Mondelez.
Over the past few years, I have faced several personal and professional challenges, witnessed discomfort and suffering within organizations, and felt the need to seek tools to alleviate both my own suffering and that of others. I have dedicated myself deeply to the study of compassion, neuroscience, and altruism.
This turning point led me to specialize at CCARE, at Stanford University, in the United States, and in Positive Psychology at the Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), in Brazil. I have found that compassion is not just an emotion, but a skill that can be cultivated, with transformative impacts on our lives and work environments.
My journey has also led me to the daily practice of meditation and Iyengar Yoga. Through these practices, I found balance and a deeper connection with myself. In addition, I have been dedicated to studies on mindfulness, common humanity, and equanimity, exploring how these disciplines can enrich different aspects of life.
Believing in the transformative power of compassion, I began to integrate it into my leadership style and professional routine. The results were significant improvements in organizational climate survey scores. I was able to create a healthier work environment, with more collaboration — where people feel heard, supported and empowered, more engaged and fully capable of making confident decisions. Facing the challenges of the corporate world, I seek to promote lightness, dialogue and, as a result, greater productivity and a stronger sense of belonging, awakening the best in each one and significantly reducing turnover.
My book O poder da compaixão no ambiente de trabalho (translated as The Power of Compassion in the Workplace) was born from the desire to take this discussion to new spaces, sharing knowledge and practical tools for everyday life. I also take part in talks, podcasts, and events focused on leadership and the development of managerial skills. As a mentor, I guide professionals to lead with purpose and impact.
I am fluent in English, Portuguese and Spanish and I have been living in the United States for over 20 years with my husband, Rodolfo, and our three cats, Nina, Love and Tampinha — my greatest passions. The daily practice of meditation and Yoga continue to be a source of balance and inspiration in my life.
Illustrations by Fabiana Shizue
