When you think about gardening, plastic pollution probably isn't the first thing that springs to mind. In this episode, Heather Higinbotham, CEO and co-founder of Back Porch Pots, unpacks just how big a problem those little black plastic pots are for the world, and what her company is doing to eliminate them. Heather is an accidental entrepreneur, having founded Back Porch Pots while trying to grow her own tomatoes during Covid. In the absence of a reusable alternative to plastic plant pots, she...
May 29, 2024•49 min
Jenn Harper, founder and CEO of Cheekbone Beauty, literally dreamt about how her future company would impact her community, specifically young indigenous girls. Fast forward +8 years and she sat down with our host Amber Skinner-Jozefson to unpack the highs and lows, the real and the fake of starting a cosmetics brand. The very first indigenous owned and founded cosmetics company, Cheekbone Beauty is not only changing the face of sustainable and earth-friendly color cosmetics, it is helping fund ...
May 15, 2024•45 min
In this episode, we sit down with Kimberly Waldropt, the visionary founder, CEO, and creative director of Terra-Tory, a sustainable wellness brand redefining skincare. Delving into Terra-Tory's ethos, Kimberly shares how the brand is not just about offering an alternative, but about reconnecting with ancient skincare wisdom reengineered for the modern age. By eschewing synthetic ingredients and embracing nutrient-rich superfoods like tomatoes and avocados, Terra-Tory pioneers a holistic approach...
May 01, 2024•53 min
Join us in this episode as we delve into the entrepreneurial journey of Ali Kamenetsky, founder of Modern Picnic. We unpack her path from idea to category definer. Explore Ali's strategic maneuvers and resilient spirit as she navigates the intricacies of manufacturing, partnership building, and brand launch. Discover the ethos driving Modern Picnic's corporate journey, where calculated risk-taking meets commitment to quality and innovation. Gain exclusive insights into leveraging traditional pre...
Apr 17, 2024•38 min
In this episode, we sit down with Rebecca Morter, Founder and CEO of Lone Design Club, to explore her journey from designer to entrepreneur and her dedication to revolutionizing the retail industry and creating a space for sustainable businesses. We delve into the unique omnichannel approach of Lone Design Club, which challenges traditional retail models and equips brands and landlords with essential data and analytics for retail success. Join us as we uncover the groundbreaking work of Rebecca ...
Apr 10, 2024•49 min
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Becky Beloin, the founder of Boshi Botanicals, the first zero-waste refill store in Memphis, Tennessee. Becky's journey began in 2021 when she turned to natural soap making as a form of art therapy after her battle with breast cancer. What started as a personal passion soon transformed into a mission to create eco-conscious soaps and bath products using natural and organic ingredients, such as essential oils and herbs. In November 2023, Becky proudly o...
Apr 03, 2024•51 min
Join us for this episode where we chat with Natasha Tonic, the founder of NATASHA TONIĆ Hemp Swimwear. After her son's birth, Natasha set out to create healthier swimwear inspired by hemp fibers used by traditional fishermen. Natasha is leading the charge against microfiber pollution in fashion, advocating for sustainability and raising awareness about the impact of polyester. Don't miss this conversation with a visionary innovator shaping the future of swimwear and fashion. To learn more visit:...
Mar 27, 2024•50 min
Join us as we speak with SaVonne Anderson, the founder of Aya Paper Co., a sustainable stationery brand that celebrates special moments while prioritizing the well-being of the Earth. As an advocate for environmental justice, SaVonne ensures that Aya Paper Co. doesn't perpetuate issues like climate change and pollution that disproportionately impact communities of color. Learn how creativity, sustainability, and inclusivity intersect as we explore SaVonne's journey in the world of sustainable st...
Mar 20, 2024•58 min
In this episode, we sit down with Desiree Gaitan-Buchanan, the founder of Poplinen, a brand dedicated to bringing comfort and timeless style to women's wardrobes through earth-friendly, everyday essentials. She discusses the challenges she faced in finding sustainable, inclusive, and comfortable clothing without compromising on style, which ultimately led her to launch Poplinen in 2020 as a direct-to-consumer brand. Join us as we dive into Desiree's journey and delve into the mission and values ...
Mar 13, 2024•42 min
Welcome to our special edition episode where we embark on an exploration of conscious shopping and the values that drive consumer choices. Join us as we sit down with Jamie Vares, a dedicated mother of two from the vibrant island of O'ahu in Hawai'i. Jamie's strong Native Hawaiian roots have instilled in her a profound respect for mālama 'aina, the philosophy of caring for the land, which deeply influences her as a conscious consumer. Listen in as Jamie candidly shares her imperfect yet ever-evo...
Mar 06, 2024•27 min
Welcome to a special episode of our podcast where we have the privilege of sitting down with Tammie, a passionate environmental activist and conscious shopper. In this special mini-series, we embark on a deep exploration of the mindset of conscious consumers, and in this episode focus specifically on Gen Z shoppers. Our goal in this episode is to gain a comprehensive understanding of the shopping behavior of Gen Z and the values that drive their choices. Tammie, an inspiring young advocate for t...
Feb 28, 2024•26 min
We have the pleasure of diving deep into the world of personal style with Alex, an esteemed and award-winning Personal Stylist with an impressive 19-year career in the fashion industry. Alex's journey is a testament to her passion for sustainability, dopamine dressing, and the undeniable power of style to create positive impact. We explore her transition from a corporate fashion buyer to an eco-conscious entrepreneur. Alex shares her personal insights and experiences, shedding light on the chall...
Feb 21, 2024•44 min
Join us for an insightful podcast episode where we delve into the world of sustainable skincare and the importance of transparency in the industry. Our guest, Tiffany Buzzatto, founder of DEW MIGHTY, shares her expertise on toxic ingredients commonly found in skincare products, the significance of being transparent with customers regarding ingredient sourcing, and the rationale behind ingredient selection. Tune in to explore their innovative approach to clean beauty and eco-friendly packaging, a...
Feb 14, 2024•58 min
In this episode, we had the privilege of chatting with Yasemin, the founder of Daisy Lane, a NYC-based sustainable fashion brand specializing in handmade knitwear. Yasemin shared her inspiring journey of starting Daisy Lane, a brand that not only produces unique garments in small quantities using locally sourced yarns but also empowers victims of domestic violence through employment opportunities. Throughout our conversation, Yasemin emphasized the significance of effective time management as a ...
Feb 07, 2024•44 min
In this episode, we sat down with David Friedrichs, the co-founder of Cerqular, an e-commerce platform revolutionizing the way we buy and sell sustainable products. Together, they aim to be the driving force behind massive positive change. 💪 Discover how Cerqular aims to cater to everyone's needs and preferences. As David explains, sustainability means different things to different people, rooted in culture and individual choices. Cerqular is here to foster inclusivity and provide a judgement-f...
Jan 31, 2024•50 min
Tune in to our latest podcast episode featuring Nora Schaper, an eco-preneur and the co-founder of HiBAR. Nora's deep love for nature fuels her passion for reducing plastic waste and inspiring others to make simple swaps for a more beautiful planet. In this episode, we dive into the world of HiBAR, the world's first salon-quality, plastic-free hair care products. With no soap, sulfates, parabens, phthalates, or silicones involved, HiBAR offers a simple, effective, and sustainable solution for go...
Jan 24, 2024•46 min
In this episode of "I built a company that makes a difference", we sit down with Stine Smith & Kristy Hunter, the visionary co-founders behind The Good Change, a company that is revolutionizing the home cleaning industry with its plastic-free products. Discover the inspiration behind the creation of Good Change and how they are dedicated to empowering individuals and families to transition to a more sustainable lifestyle. The co-founders share their personal journey and the moment that spark...
Jan 17, 2024•1 hr
In this episode, we sat down with Deanna and Stewart, the co-founders of FiVO, a furniture company on a mission to make sustainable furniture accessible for everyone. Deanna and Stewart started Fivo with the goal of transforming the furniture industry. They developed an innovative hook and slot joinery system that allows their furniture to assemble without any tools, hardware or creating any waste. The result is durable, customizable furniture that is better for the environment. During our conve...
Jan 10, 2024•44 min
In this episode, we had a conversation with Maria, the founder and environmental visionary at Terraseed, a sustainable vegan supplement company. Our discussion centered around the effects of the Supplement Industry on animals and the environment, as well as the difficulties of establishing a mission-driven business. Maria is a serial entrepreneur and Forbes 1000 honoree, with 14 years of expertise in digital and wellness industry. Her second startup was purchased by Gaia, the largest conscious m...
Jan 03, 2024•52 min
Cayla O'Connell Davis is the Co-Founder and CEO of Subset, an essential innerwear brand focusing on making sustainable organic cotton the daily default. She has dedicated her career to creating earth-friendly products and changing the apparel industry for the better. Subset's goal is to make sustainability part of everyday life by creating high-frequency basics that impact people every single day. If consumers start their day sustainably, they are setting themselves up for success. About Subset ...
Dec 27, 2023•43 min
Listen to this week's episode of Ladybird Essentials! Ladybird Soaps is a family-owned small business nestled in the heart of Arizona. The two founders--mom and daughter--believe that what you put on your body should be as safe and pure as what you put inside. Tune in to learn how Ladybird soap was created, the challenges faced in their first year of being in business, thoughts on old-school sustainability methods and how bad palm oils are for our planet. Ladybird essential Discover the pure ele...
Dec 20, 2023•36 min
The Canvas NYC is a retail innovation platform that helps emerging brands find their way onto the high street. We discussed how important a physical space is for small businesses and how reinventing the retail models can offer a space for sustainable brands. Jumping on new opportunities while staying true to who you are and understanding the core business. The Canvas NYC The Canvas is a global network of forward-thinkers, built at the intersection of fashion, art, technology and sustainability. ...
Dec 13, 2023•51 min
Tune in to hear Tanya Fletcher-Scott talk about her journey from corporate engineering to starting a reusable period underwear company, Femdacity. During her MBA in 2018, she stumbled upon the critical issues of period poverty and the environmental impact of disposable period products. It touched her heart and she knew she had to be part of the solution by designing comfortable underwear for heavy/overnight use. Now she's on a mission to help educate girls and women about reusable feminine hygie...
Dec 06, 2023•57 min
Listen to our episode with Hadley Pollet, creator of the contemporary American clothing brand Hadley Pollet. We talked about how businesses can stay fluid to pivot when necessary, and how to pick manufacturers who are sustainable and responsible. We also discussed intuition and its importance for entrepreneurs. About Hadley Pollet Hadley Pollet is a contemporary American designer from the New York City area known for creating classic, timeless designs that inspire kind, powerful women to shine s...
Nov 29, 2023•55 min
In this engaging episode, we sit down with Madlen Gubernick, the visionary force behind 'The Butterfly Club,' a sustainable fashion marketplace. Join us as we unravel Madlen's remarkable journey of creating a marketplace from scratch, filled with determination, passion, and the grit that every entrepreneur can relate to. From humble beginnings to navigating the challenges of building a sustainable fashion platform, her story is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring business owners. About The Butt...
Nov 22, 2023•51 min
In this episode, we talk to Maria Burgos, founder of Trendy Seconds, an online marketplace for secondhand clothing. Maria inspires and educates consumers to embrace sustainable fashion and maximize their positive impact through their closets. We discuss the circular economy and its opportunities for sustainable clothing brands. About Trendy Seconds: Trendy Seconds is a curated online marketplace for secondhand clothing, where you can find stylish, new sustainable styles from multiple brands in o...
Nov 15, 2023•55 min•Season 2Ep. 16
In this episode, we dive deep with Crystal Wiebe, the innovative mind behind the dog beer sensation, "Beer Paws". Chart her inspiring journey from the initial sparks of her business idea to her audacious move to the Hawaiian islands. Tackling challenges, embracing island life, and combining passion with purpose, Crystal shares invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs. Join us as we discuss not only the unique concept of dog beer but also the importance of thoughtful choices for both humans...
Nov 08, 2023•49 min•Season 2Ep. 15
We spoke with Jenn Broadwick, co-founder and vice president of marketing and sales at Brixy, a company that makes bar soaps that are an alternative to plastic hair care products. She shared how they secured their first partner: Whole Foods. She also gave us some tips on how small businesses can come into wholesale and manage the expectations of both retailers and distributors. About Brixy: BRIXY shampoo, conditioner and body wash bars were created to provide an alternative to plastic bottles. BR...
Nov 01, 2023•1 hr 3 min•Season 2Ep. 15
This week we speak to Chenlin Feng from Doviana, a sustainable, luxury jewellery brand. Listen in as we touch on leaning on a friend’s knowledge, the importance of a brick-and-mortar store, and how your current field doesn’t have to stop you from jumping into another- feet first! About Doviana: Doviana is a new-generation jewelry brand launched in New York City. We make affordable everyday fine jewelry for good vibes and redefine personal jewelry decisions. Doviana is part of a growing trend o...
Oct 25, 2023•58 min•Season 2Ep. 14
This week we spoke to Jackie Faye from One January, a sports activewear brand and She Can Tri an organisation that helps empower women through sport. As an athlete, she believes more women will become leaders when more women have opportunities to play sports. Jackie took on her own challenge and became the first woman in the world to complete six IRONMAN triathlons on six continents within one year to promote her other business. She Can Tri She Can Tri is a nonprofit organization that supports f...
Oct 18, 2023•51 min•Season 2Ep. 13
