Brand on Purpose

Building Digital Accessibility and Breaking Down Cultural Barriers for Disabled Individuals with Ablr Co-Founder & CEO John Samuel (S9E09)

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Aaron is joined by John Samuel, Co-Founder and CEO of Ablr, a digital accessibility and inclusion company supporting disabled individuals and the organizations that employ them. John walks Aaron through his own experience losing his vision from a degenerative eye condition and learning how few digital resources existed for people with vision impairments and other disabilities. He started Ablr with the goals of furthering digital accessibility, improving disability inclusion for companies and organizations, and creating employment pathways for individuals with disabilities. They discuss systematic barriers as well as technologies that have created change and improvement for the disabled community throughout the past few years, including rideshare apps and autonomous vehicles. Hear how proximity builds empathy by tuning into the episode and visit www.albr360.com to learn more.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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Turning Stadiums and Graffiti into Jewelry and Opportunities for Women with Amy Peterson, CEO and Co-Founder of Rebel Nell (S9E08)

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Aaron is joined by Amy Peterson, CEO and Founder of Rebel Nell, to talk about what inspired her to launch the Detroit-based jewelry company focused on providing employment, equitable opportunity, and wraparound support for women with barriers to employment. Amy takes us through her career path, which began as a lawyer for the Detroit Tigers, as well as how getting the chance to meet with women staying at a local homeless shelter shifted her perspective on life. She also explains Rebel Nell’s process of creating art and jewelry out of things like graffiti, old sports stadiums and more. Tune in to hear about a truly inspiring company and learn more at www.rebelnell.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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CEO of CentralReach Chris Sullens on Using Technology to Expand Job Opportunities for Neurodiverse Individuals (S9E07)

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Aaron sits down with CEO of CentralReach Chris Sullens to discuss CentralReach’s mission of leveraging technology to support individuals with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities. Chris explains that 85% of adults with autism are unemployed and CentralReach is working to fix this through innovative digital assistive software. Aaron and Chris discuss how companies can develop more inclusive processes throughout their organization, why it’s difficult to get more companies to adopt the technology available to better serve this community, and how more resources should be put in place so that families and caretakers know what options are out there. Tune in for the full conversation and head to www.centralreach.com to learn more.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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Normalizing Mental Healthcare through Humor with Erin Pash, Co-Founder & CEO of Ellie Mental Health (S9E06)

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Aaron is joined by Erin Pash, Co-Founder and CEO of Ellie Mental Health, to talk about the importance of mental health services and how the company strives to make each session as comfortable and fun as possible. The mental health industry is full of barriers, and Ellie Mental Health has made it their goal to fill the gap and find innovative ways to break down these barriers for the communities they serve. The two also discuss Erin’s experience as a therapist in both clinical settings and how she helps people in her personal life. Tune in and visit www.elliementalhealth.com to learn more.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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How CEO & Co-Founder of August Nadya Okamoto Built a Brand Focused on Destigmatizing Periods (S9E05)

Tue, 27 Dec 2022 09:00:00 -0000

This week on Brand on Purpose, Aaron talks to Nadya Okamoto, the CEO and Co-Founder of lifestyle period brand August. Nadya shares what made her passionate about the period care space and what she has learned from building a brand that is dedicated to making high-quality period care more accessible. Tune in to hear Nadya and Aaron discuss marketing in the attention economy, why social media can be a double-edged sword, and how purpose-led brands can create change throughout an entire industry. Head to www.itsaugust.co to learn more about August.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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How DJing for JLo Led to Empowering Young Investors with Acorns CEO Noah Kerner (S9E04)

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 09:00:00 -0000

We all hear how important it is to start saving young and consistently put money away for later in our lives. In this episode, Noah Kerner, CEO of Acorns, joins the show to talk about the company’s mission to look after the financial interests of the up-and-coming, beginning with the step of micro-investing. Noah and Aaron talk about the idea behind a feature of the app that rounds up every purchase you make to the nearest dollar and adds the difference to your portfolio, and why it makes investing more accessible. The two also discuss Noah’s background as underground DJ in New York’s East Village, even performing with Jennifer Lopez, and why his experiences led him to become a serial entrepreneur whose purpose is to “level the playing field.” Tune in to hear more about Noah and sign up to start investing at www.acorns.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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We Need to Feed More People with Less Resources ASAP, But How? Featuring Jonathan Webb, Founder and CEO of AppHarvest (S9E3)

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Jonathan Webb, Founder and CEO of AppHarvest, joins the show to talk about the sustainable food company that is designed to grow non-GMO, chemical pesticide-free produce, using only recycled rainwater at some of the world’s largest indoor farms. Aaron and Jonathan discuss the major challenges we are facing when it comes to food shortages and why it’s so important to reduce the amount of water used in agriculture as quickly as possible. Jonathan also identifies Controlled Environment Agriculture as the third wave of sustainable infrastructure following renewable energies and electric vehicles, noting that the convergence of technologies like LED lighting, AI and robotics allows AppHarvest to optimize nature. Tune in to hear the full conversation and learn more about AppHarvest at www.appharvest.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Danny Ziolkowski, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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Being Naked is the Most Sustainable Option When it Comes to Fashion, but Chief Executive Officer of Reformation Hali Borenstein Says Reformation is Second (S9E02)

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Chief Executive Officer at Reformation, Hali Borenstein, takes Aaron through her background in business, what she’s learned from being a leader in times of transition, and what being sustainable means in the fashion space. Hali explains how Reformation was created to be a catalyst for change in the fashion industry. The company constantly tries to improve its business practices, from having a D2C model that is responsive to consumer demand to emphasizing transparency by releasing quarterly sustainability reports. Hali and Aaron discuss what it takes to be a climate positive company and how they see the industry prioritizing sustainability going forward.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Danny Ziolkowski, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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Living Your Life’s Purpose and Finding Joy with Patrice Tanaka, Chief Joy Officer of Joyful Planet (S9E01)

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 08:00:00 -0000

It’s our most joyful episode yet! Aaron is joined by Patrice Tanaka, Chief Joy Officer and founder of Joyful Planet, a business and life consultancy that helps individuals and organizations find and actively live their purpose. Patrice inspires us with her entrepreneurial spirit and looks back on her experience cofounding three award-winning PR and marketing agencies before starting Joyful Planet in 2016. The two discuss their shared passion for encouraging people to do what they love, as well as how Patrice first found her purpose of choosing joy in every single day during the wake of 9/11 and her husband’s fight with cancer. Tune in to hear more about our happiest guest yet and learn more about Joyful Planet at joyfulplanet.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Danny Ziolkowski, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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CEO of Lovesac Shawn Nelson on Why All Products Should be Designed for Life and Getting “Wantrepreneurs” off the Couch (S8E21)

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Shawn Nelson, CEO of Lovesac, started his furniture company by “getting off of the couch” and acting on a business idea he had just after graduating high school. In this episode, Shawn walks us through the ups and downs that turned Lovesac into one of the most popular furniture companies in the U.S. Aaron and Shawn talk about some of the unfortunate realities of our global economy and why companies must start creating products that are designed to last a lifetime to truly be sustainable. Tune in to hear the full conversation and learn more about Lovesac at https://www.lovesac.com/.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Danny Ziolkowski, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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Stand Up Against Violence and For Gun Reform! How You Can Make an Impact with Moms Demand Action Founder Shannon Watts (S8E20)

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 08:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Aaron is joined by Shannon Watts, founder of Moms Demand Action, to talk about how the powerful grassroots network of mothers is fighting for greater public safety measures to protect people from gun violence. The two discuss the impact of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act passed by Congress, and why it’s just one step in the right direction of a much longer journey to address gun violence in America. Shannon also recalls the outrage she felt after the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in 2012 and how Mothers Against Drunk Driving became an inspiration to build an “army of badass women” to drive real change. Tune in to hear more about Shannon’s story and learn more about Mom’s Demand Action at momsdemandaction.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Danny Ziolkowski, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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Responsibly Bringing the Flavors of South America to the U.S. with Just Made Co-founders Walter and Norka Nimocks (S8E19)

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Co-founders Walter and Norka Nimocks sit down with Aaron to talk about the founding and growth of Just Made, a tropical juice brand that is bringing the “secrets of the tropics” to the Unites States. The two share stories about what led them to launch Jude Made in 2016 after living and traveling around Latin America and being amazed by the flavors and superior health benefits of the unique fruits. Walter and Norka also discuss why they’ve made it a priority to be “just” with their farmers and donate 5¢ per bottle sold to support local schools, teachers and students in rural Latin America and the Caribbean. Tune in to hear more about their story and learn more at justmade.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Danny Ziolkowski, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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Running a Tight Ship through Purposeful Leadership with President & CEO of Celebrity Cruises Lisa Lutoff-Perlo (S2E18)

Tue, 06 Sep 2022 08:00:00 -0000

President and CEO of Celebrity Cruises Lisa Lutoff-Perlo talks about her path in the cruising industry and Celebrity Cruises’ commitment to social justice, sustainability, and inclusivity. Lisa shares how running a cruise ship is like running a micro-city, with people from all around the world coming together to enjoy the experience. Because of this, she finds it extremely important to emphasize the company’s values across everything from sustainable business practices, prioritizing women in leadership, and working with partners that she respects. Tune in to hear Aaron and Lisa talk through how Celebrity Cruises has changed throughout Lisa’s career and her efforts to stop people from saying that cruising isn’t for them. Learn more and book a cruise at celebritycruises.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Danny Ziolkowski, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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Your Toilet is a Privilege, Do Your Duty! Building Lasting Sanitation Market Systems with Robin Cho, Who Gives a Crap’s Head of Impact, and iDE’s VP of Communications and Marketing, Katherine Koch (S8E17)

Tue, 23 Aug 2022 08:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Aaron is joined by Who Gives a Crap’s Head of Impact, Robin Cho, and International Development Enterprise’s (iDE) VP of Communications and Marketing, Katherine Koch. Who Gives a Crap makes eco-friendly toilet paper and paper towels, donating 50% of all profits toward efforts to see a world where everyone has access to the basic rights of water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH). IDE is a global non-profit organization that empowers entrepreneurs to end poverty by engaging with businesses that help build communities. Robin, KC and Aaron discuss the partnership the two organizations have made to improve WASH across the globe, why access to toilets are so critical to public health and safety, and what it means to build long term market systems that support sanitation. Listen in and learn more by visiting us.whogivesacrap.org and www.ideglobal.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Danny Ziolkowski, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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Responsible Marketing In the Alcohol and Spirits Industry with Pernod Ricard SVP and Chief Marketing Officer Pam Forbus (S8E16)

Tue, 09 Aug 2022 08:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Pernod Ricard SVP and Chief Marketing Officer, Pam Forbus, sits down with Aaron to talk about responsible marketing within the alcohol and spirits industry, as well as engaging with important topics like hate speech, consent and voting in brand messaging. As a worldwide wine and spirits manufacturer creating Absolute Vodka, Avion Tequila, Jameson and more, Pernod Ricard considers themselves an ‘unlocker of human connection’ and understands the role marketing plays in creating safe drinking environments for everyone. The two also talk about Pam’s time at the Walt Disney Studio and Pepsi Co., sharing insights about employee engagement and the process of utilizing data to become a consumer-centric company. Tune in to hear Pam’s favorite spirits and learn more at www.pernod-ricard.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Danny Ziolkowski, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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Need a hand? Reimagining the American trades economy with Fixer Founder and former GrubHub Co-Founder Mike Evans (S8E15)

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Fixer Founder and former GrubHub Co-Founder Mike Evans takes us through his goal of rejuvenating the trade education system in America, building his business as a lever for social change by empowering employees and what he learned about purpose in his time at GrubHub. Mike talks about the issues of the ‘gig economy’ and why Fixer is committed to training employees to be full-time handy people. Fixer started as a few of Mike’s friends getting paid to do jobs for other friends and has grown into an online network for home repair across five major U.S. markets. To close out, Aaron and Mike have a valuable conversation about the people he met and the diners he stopped in along his 2014 cross-country bike trip from Virginia to Oregon. Tune in to hear about why rebuilding the trades economy has become Mike’s passion and learn more at fixer.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Danny Ziolkowski, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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Recycling the Unrecyclable with TerraCycle Founder & CEO Tom Szaky (S8E14)

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 08:00:00 -0000

TerraCycle Founder & CEO Tom Szaky shares the misconceptions around recycling, how he started innovative recycling company TerraCycle, and what lead to the creation of the Loop platform. For Tom, entrepreneurship was a passion from the beginning and he was committed to creating a business that sits at the intersection of profit and purpose. In the episode, Aaron and Tom discuss the anomalies in the recycling industry, the major turning point for TerraCycle, and how the company turns non-recyclable pre-consumer and post-consumer waste into raw materials that can be used in new products. Tune in to hear why Tom loves garbage so much and learn more at terracycle.com and exploreloop.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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Dairy That’s Wicked Good and Good For You with Vermont Creamery President Adeline Druart (S8E13)

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Vermont Creamery President Adeline Druart talks about her experience growing up in France, her love for dairy products and how she worked her way up the professional ladder at Vermont Creamery. Growing up with dairy farmers as grandparents, Adeline was a cheese expert from the beginning. With the help of a good friend to translate English for Adeline, she moved from France to Vermont to intern at Vermont Creamery as a cheesemaker. In the episode, Aaron and Adeline discuss the company’s commitment to sustainability, some key business learnings stemming from the pandemic, and how Vermont Creamery paved the way as a pioneer of the artisan cheese movement. Tune in to hear Adeline’s favorite type of cheese and learn more at vermontcreamery.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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Keeping the Planet Cold & the People On It Warm with Canada Goose Chief Marketing & Experience Officer Penny Brook (S8E12)

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 08:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Canada Goose Chief Marketing & Experience Officer, Penny Brook, discusses the core brand ethos for Canada Goose, the brand’s commitment to supporting underrepresented communities, and how Canada Goose is making a difference in sustainable fashion. Helping customers find the warmth they seek since 1957, Canada Goose has grown from a single warehouse in Toronto into a global company and leader in performance luxury apparel. Aaron and Penny talk about the brand’s commitment to carbon neutrality, their association with pop culture, and the company’s plans to go fur-free by the end of 2022. Tune in to hear Penny reveal her favorite Canada Goose products and learn more at canadagoose.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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Turning Miles into Money for Charity with Charity Miles Founder Gene Gurkoff (S8E11)

Tue, 24 May 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Charity Miles Founder Gene Gurkoff discusses his career as an attorney, the inspiration behind the Charity Miles app and the importance of staying active. To honor his grandfather who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, Gene began running marathons to raise money for Parkinson’s Disease Foundation. From there, Gene was inspired to create a platform that enabled people to turn their physical activity into money for charity. In the episode, Aaron and Gene discuss the app that was created before Charity Miles, how Gene chooses the charities that they work with, and how mental health plays a large role in his life. Listen in to hear a sneak peek of Gene’s new app and learn more at charitymiles.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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Building a Safer & More-Inclusive World For LGBTQ Young People with The Trevor Project CEO & Executive Director Amit Paley (S8E10)

Tue, 10 May 2022 08:00:00 -0000

The Trevor Project CEO & Executive Director, Amit Paley, discusses his career trajectory at The Trevor Project, the impetus for the organization, and how it became the world’s largest suicide prevention and mental health organization for LGBTQ young people. Inspired by the Academy Award-winning short film, “Trevor,” The Trevor Project was established after discovering there was no organization that provided resources for LGBTQ young people in the United States. Since launching its 24/7 phone lifeline in 1998, the organization has connected over 400,000 young people across more than 100 countries and six continents. In the episode, Aaron and Amit discuss the importance of raising public awareness and increasing support for LGBTQ individuals, how The Trevor Project is challenging current anti-LGBTQ legislation, and how the organization navigated the pandemic. Tune in to hear about Amit’s experience as a former foreign correspondent for The Washington Post and learn more about The Trevor Project at thetrevorproject.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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Building a Sustainable Marketplace with Hive Brands Co-Founders Thomas Ellis and Katie Tyson (S8EP09)

Tue, 26 Apr 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Hive Brands Co-Founders Thomas Ellis and Katie Tyson discuss their experience building a startup company, the challenges they’ve faced and how their backgrounds individually led them to co-create Hive Brands. Prior to Hive Brands, Thomas and Katie were exposed to the startup world early-on and noticed the extreme challenges that came with building a scalable business model. With a combined desire to create positive impact, Thomas and Katie were driven to create a marketplace that directly aligned with consumer values. In the episode, Aaron, Thomas and Katie discuss the curated brands on the Hive Brand platform, the process of vetting these brands, and how the company’s “Hive Five” criteria was developed. Tune in to learn more about the Hive Brand business model and visit hivebrands.com for more information.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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Creating a Waste Free Future with Founder of Pela Jeremy Lang (S8E08)

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Pela Founder Jeremy Lang dives into his experience growing up on the Canadian prairies, shares the innovation behind Pela’s signature Flaxstic material, and discusses how his upbringing inspired the creation of Pela. Every year, more than 1.5 billion plastic phone cases are sold, and most of them end up in landfills. To combat this never-ending disposal problem, Jeremy spent years learning about plastic and experimenting with new materials to try to find an alternative to plastic that could be used in everyday products. In the episode, Aaron and Jeremy discuss the lack of infrastructure for compostable products, and how Pela is successfully democratizing waste management with its at-home composting machine. Tune in to hear how Pela is moving toward a more sustainable circular economy, and learn more at pelacase.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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Investing for Good with Co-founder and Executive Director of Fast Forward Shannon Farley (S8E07)

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Shannon Farley, Co-founder and Executive Director of Fast Forward, shares the inception and growth of the organization and the importance of investing in technology that accelerates social impact. Before the company’s founding in 2014, Shannon came to the realization that the technology industry kept solving problems for the market and neglected solving for issues that impact basic human rights. Aaron and Shannon discuss the first organization to go through the accelerator program, why Fast Forward decided to focus on the nonprofit model, and how technology failed society during the pandemic. Tune in to hear how Shannon’s experience at Georgetown impacted her perception of the nonprofit world and learn more at www.ffwd.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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An App That Fights Global Food Waste with Co-founder & Chief Expansion Officer of Too Good To Go Lucie Basch (S8E06)

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 08:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Co-founder & Chief Expansion Officer of Too Good To Go Lucie Basch dives into her career within the food industry, discusses the creation of the Too Good To Go digital platform, and reveals how vital fighting food waste is for the environment. When Lucie began working in the food industry, she quickly realized the immensity of food waste and that this issue wasn’t talked about enough in society. With 40% of the planet’s food ending up in the trash, Lucie’s vision of a better food system was clear. Aaron and Lucie discuss the business model behind Too Good To Go, the receptivity of the company per market, and how Too Good To Go gives back to its charity partners. Tune in to hear how consumers can join the food waste fighting movement, and learn more at toogoodtogo.com

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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From Farm to Cup with CEO & Founder of Sustainable Harvest David Griswold (S8E05)

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 09:00:00 -0000

CEO & Founder of Sustainable Harvest Coffee Importers David Griswold discusses his experience working in the coffee business for 25+ years and how Sustainable Harvest has helped change how farmers and buyers interact. Ever since David was approached by a coffee bean farmer in Mexico, he was on a mission to learn the coffee importing business from the inside out. Although David faced many challenges in the beginning of his journey, he was able to construct a business model that was unique and that catered to farmers that were utilizing his coffee beans. Aaron and David talk how Sustainable Harvest pioneered the relationship-coffee model, how the company fosters sustainability and why it’s so important to pay attention to coffee labels. Listen in to hear about David’s connection to Ben & Jerry’s and learn more at sustainableharvest.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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How For Them is Challenging Heteronormativity and Redefining Wellness Products for Queer Individuals with For Them Founder Chloe Freeman (S2E04)

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 09:00:00 -0000

For Them Founder Chloe Freeman dives into their acting career, the inspiration behind For Them, and how they are challenging heteronormativity. While working in the media production industry, Chloe realized that there was a severe lack of gender diversity. With a mission to shed light upon those that are underrepresented, Chloe was determined to help the underlying needs of the gender-diverse community by creating a whole new category of holistic wellness. Aaron and Chloe discuss For Them’s nine dimensions of wellness, their experience within the media industry as a non-binary individual, and how the company is redefining wellness products + services for queer individuals. Tune in to hear Chloe’s advice for people dealing with gender dysphoria, and learn more at forthem.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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Empowering People to Discover the Reward (and hard work) of Philanthropy with Author and Certified Fund Raising Executive Diane Lebson (S8E03)

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Author and Certified Fund Raising Executive Diane Lebson discusses her experience working in the philanthropic world and offers her expertise on what it truly means to volunteer. Author of “For A Good Cause: A Practical Guide to Giving Joyfully”, Diane has dedicated herself to giving back and mentoring others who are looking to dive into the nonprofit realm. Diane and Aaron discuss the skills and experiences she cultivated over more than twenty-five years as a nonprofit executive, the foundation behind her book, and how to navigate the day-to-day activities associated with doing good through philanthropy. Tune in to hear Diane’s advice on how to ask others to donate, and grab a copy of her book on Amazon.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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Elevating Ghanaian Culture and Women of Color in the Beauty Industry with Hanahana Beauty Founder and CEO Abena Boamah-Acheampong (S8E02)

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Hanahana Beauty Founder and CEO Abena Boamah-Acheampong delves into the challenges that she’s faced within the beauty industry and shares how Hanahana Beauty became a consciously clean skincare, beauty, and wellness brand. As a creative entrepreneur and mental health advocate, Abena wanted to focus on showcasing black women on a global scale. With the help of shea butter and the Katariga Women's Shea Cooperative in Ghana, her dreams became reality. Abena and Aaron dive into the misconceptions that lie within the beauty industry, talk about why shea butter is an integral part of Ghanaian culture, and how Hanahana Beauty uplifts women of color. Tune in to hear how Abena is bringing realism into the conversation around sustainability and learn more at hanahanabeauty.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Haley Sacotte, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy

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How Pop Culture Influences Social Equity and Equality with Pop Culture Collaborative CEO Bridgit Antoinette Evans (S8EP1)

Tue, 04 Jan 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Pop Culture Collaborative CEO Bridgit Antoinette Evans unearths the intersection of pop culture storytelling and social change and discusses the basis of why the organization was created. Having launched in 2017, the Pop Culture Collaborative is an established network of philanthropic leaders, primarily women of color, who invest in the infrastructure of the pop culture world for social change. Aaron and Bridgit discuss the evolution of public sentiment and how it affects the social change field, the challenge to navigate pop culture and it’s progression and the importance of being actively curious and critical of pop culture content. Tune in to hear why Bridgit has dedicated her life to drive cultural change in society and learn more at popcollab.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Dara Cothran, Haley Sacotte, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy

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Breaking Down the Barriers in Prison Communication with Ameelio Co-Founder & CEO Uzoma “Zo” Orchingwa (S7EP18)

Tue, 28 Dec 2021 09:00:00 -0000

Ameelio Co-Founder & CEO Uzoma “Zo” Orchingwa uncovers the prison-industrial complex within the United States, how the company connects incarcerated people with their loved ones for free, and why it’s so important for this group to have access to free communication and education. Growing up in Hartford, Connecticut, Zo witnessed the patterns that were exhibited in the American correctional system, which led him to delve into mass incarceration and target the problems that challenged the U.S. prison system. Zo and Aaron discuss the financial exploitation that exists within the U.S. prison system, how the company used the pandemic to its advantage, and the steps Ameelio is taking to help incarcerated individuals re-enter society. Tune in to hear how communication is the foundation of transforming the American correctional system and learn more at ameelio.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Dara Cothran, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy

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Preserving the Amazon Rainforest One Juice At A Time with AMARUMAYU Chief Sustainability Officer Jorge Lopez-Doriga (S7EP.17)

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 09:00:00 -0000

AMARUMAYU Chief Sustainability Officer Jorge Lopez-Doriga shines a light on the purpose behind the organization, why climate change should be brought into the conversation more, and the importance of conserving the Amazon jungle. With 25% of our drinking water stemming from the Amazon jungle, preserving the planet begins in the heart of the Amazon. Jorge and Aaron discuss the company’s regenerative approaches to mitigate climate change, how to successfully build trust with indigenous communities, and why the company began with immunity-boosting superfruit juices, Buriti and Camu Camu. Listen in to hear about how Jorge’s background as a Zen teacher impacted his career path and learn more at amarumayu.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Dara Cothran, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy

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This Early “BIRD” Caught a $4 Billion Worm: Transforming the Future of Sustainable Fashion with Allbirds Co-CEO & Co-Founder Joey Zwillinger (S7EP16)

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 09:00:00 -0000

Allbirds Co-CEO & Co-Founder Joey Zwillinger discusses the company’s mission to incorporate natural materials and eco-friendly sourcing into sneakers and how he’s made profit and purpose symbiotic through the creation of Allbirds. Since 2015, Allbirds has worked to build a distribution channel that relies on natural innovations and carbon-negative materials that reduce the company’s environmental impact. Joey and Aaron talk about how Allbirds is shifting consumer behavior when it comes to climate change, how the brand became an iconic staple in both fashion and eco-friendly design, and the steps Allbirds is taking to reduce its carbon footprint to near zero by 2030. Tune in to hear about the meaning behind the “Allbirds” name and learn more at allbirds.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Dara Cothran, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy

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Shifting the Balance of Power with Marguerite Casey Foundation President & CEO Dr. Carmen Rojas (S7EP15)

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 09:00:00 -0000

Marguerite Casey Foundation (MCF) president & CEO Dr. Carmen Rojas shines a light on the transformative nonprofit that provides grants to those on the ground that are fighting for a more just and equitable democracy and economy. For 20 years, MCF has supported leaders who have the ability to shift the balance of power both in their communities and in society toward working people and their families. Carmen and Aaron talk about MCF’s unique philanthropic model and approach to grants, optimism about the activism and passion of the youth of today, and how to take a data-driven approach to impact. Listen in to hear about how Carmen’s educational background in city planning impacted her career path, and learn more at caseygrants.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Dara Cothran, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy

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Bringing Eye Care Everywhere with Orbis International Global Communications & Marketing Chief Louise Harris Salazar (S7EP14)

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Orbis International Global Communications & Marketing Chief Louise Harris Salazar discusses her experience working in healthcare marketing and how Orbis is helping educate the world on blindness. Founded in 1973, Orbis International has since developed an extensive set of partners, supporters, and volunteers to empower local communities all around the globe with the skills and resources to fight blindness. Louise and Aaron talk about the innovation behind the Orbis Flying Eye Hospital, how the company successfully blended together healthcare, aviation, and technology, and the importance of building the knowledge set of quality eye care. Tune in to hear Louise talk about the unknown misconceptions of blindness and the impact that sight-saving can have on the world. Learn more at orbis.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Dara Cothran, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy

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Leading the Organic Food Movement with Amy’s Kitchen Co-Founder Andy Berliner and Vice President Amy Ricafrente (S7E13)

Tue, 19 Oct 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Amy’s Kitchen Co-Founder Andy Berliner and Vice President Amy Ricafrente, aka the namesake of the company, share their experience building a multi-million-dollar business of high-quality and organic foods and discuss the steps they are taking to reduce their carbon footprint. Regarded as titans of the natural foods industry, Andy and his wife Rachel Berliner founded Amy’s Kitchen in 1987 with the incentive to bring convenience to organic and healthy foods. Andy, Amy, and Aaron talk about the company’s intersectionality between profit and purpose, the difficulties behind building a sustainable company, and how Amy’s Kitchen has redefined the meaning of fast food. Listen in to hear why the company has remained family-owned and learn more at amys.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Dara Cothran, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy

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Helping Companies Drive Change with the “OG” CECP Managing Director Kari Niedfeldt-Thomas (S7E12)

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Chief Executives for Corporate Purpose (CECP) Managing Director Kari Niedfeldt-Thomas - serving concurrently as mayor of the City of New Brighton, MN - discusses how the Paul Newman-founded organization’s corporate purpose work has continued to evolve, particularly throughout the events of 2020. Kari and Aaron talk about the importance of companies increasing transparency when it comes to tracking, measuring and reporting progress, leading on ESG research and connecting more directly with investors, and supporting companies in their ongoing DE&I work. Tune in to hear why Kari decided to run for mayor in 2020, and learn more at cecp.co.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Dara Cothran, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy

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Fostering a Culture of Smart Drinking with AB InBev Chief Legal & Corporate Affairs Officer and Company Secretary John Blood and Georgetown University McDonough School of Business Professor Bill Novelli (S7EP11)

Tue, 21 Sep 2021 08:00:00 -0000

AB InBev Chief Legal & Corporate Affairs Officer and Company Secretary John Blood and Georgetown University McDonough School of Business Professor Bill Novelli discuss the journey in developing InBev’s ten-year Global Smart Drinking Goals initiative, how this partnership came to fruition and the steps AB InBev is taking to reduce the harmful uses of alcohol. In response to the World Health Organization’s call to action on confronting harmful alcohol use, AB InBev knew that they had to make a change. Partnering with the Business for Impact program at Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business, John and Bill talk about how the company has been successful in bringing together the public health community and corporate officials, how AB InBev is looking into additional ways to execute their social norms marketing, and the importance of making sure these results are sustainable in the long run. Tune in to hear how the company is shifting social norms and consumer behaviors when it comes to alcohol and learn more at ab-inbev.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Dara Cothran, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy

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“Slanted” -- Taking the Fight for AAPI Civil Rights to the Supreme Court with Author, Activist & Musician Simon Tam (7EP10)

Tue, 07 Sep 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Author, Activist and Musician Simon Tam opens up about his experience pursuing the landmark 2017 case that helped expand civil liberties for minorities and artistic expression at the Supreme Court of the United States - which started from a simple band name. Author of “Slanted: How an Asian American Troublemaker Took on the Supreme Court,” founder and bassist of The Slants, and leader of The Slants Foundation, Simon has dedicated himself to both creating impactful art and mentoring and supporting others who incorporate activism into their art. Simon and Aaron discuss the lengthy process of taking a case to the Supreme Court, Simon’s work since March 2020 in light of a rise in anti-Asian hate, and the importance of questioning why things make us uncomfortable. Tune in to hear about Simon’s additional work as a restaurateur, and learn more at simontam.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy

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“Cleaning” Up the Pharma Industry with Genexa Co-Founder David Johnson (S7EP09)

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Genexa co-founder David Johnson discusses how fatherhood inspired him and his co-founder, Max Spielberg, to find the clean medicine company. With David’s background in food chemistry and Max’s in FDA law, the two friends set out to clean up one of the few industries that had yet to be approached with the ‘clean’ mindset. Genexa is now only five years old, and David shines a light on how their passion helped to drive a two-year development and FDA approval process - with products today available everywhere, from Amazon to Target to Walgreens. David and Aaron discuss the lengthy and in-depth B Corp certification process, what it’s like to co-run a business built on friendship, and how David’s experience as a paratrooper in the Israeli Defense Force has impacted his approach to entrepreneurship. Tune in to hear why the company is called Genexa, and learn more at genexa.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy

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If the Shoe Fits: Making a Difference with the Gift of Shoes with Samaritan’s Feet President & CEO Manny Ohonme (S7EP08)

Tue, 10 Aug 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Samaritan’s Feet President & CEO Manny Ohonme shares the company’s dedication to deliver shoes to the children who need it most and how receiving his first pair of sneakers became the inspiration for Samaritan’s Feet. After being gifted his first pair of shoes over 30 years ago, Manny has made it his life’s mission to give others the same opportunity of change and impact. Through the gift of shoes, the act of washing feet, and encouragement to those who need it most, Samaritan’s Feet has been able to distribute over 8 million pairs of shoes in 108 countries and over 440 U.S. cities. Tune in to hear about Manny’s journey from Nigeria to the United States, his determination to make a difference and learn more at samaritansfeet.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy

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Transforming the Future of Cleaning Products with Blueland CEO & Co-Founder Sarah Paiji Yoo (S7EP07)

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Blueland CEO & Co-Founder Sarah Paiji Yoo dives into the impetus behind the company, how her maternal intuition inspired the creation of Blueland and the steps she’s taking to educate society around plastic usage. Sarah’s journey to use less single-use plastic began when she became a new mom and learned about the microplastics that live within our drinking water. As a self-made entrepreneur, Sarah became motivated to create innovative products that were both eco-friendly and affordable to the common consumer. Since 2019, Blueland’s cleaning and soap tablets have become the ultimate substitute for cleaning products and have helped to eliminate over 1 billion single-use plastic bottles from landfills and oceans. Sarah and Aaron discuss the company’s innovative mission, how Sarah’s background in business and finance led her to establish her fourth company, and the importance of cutting down plastic consumption. Listen in to hear about Sarah’s Shark Tank experience and learn more about the company’s commitment to the planet at blueland.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy

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Making Healthcare Accessible Around the World with Americares Global Head of Strategic Partnerships Stephanie Kauffman (S7EP06)

Tue, 13 Jul 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Americares Global Head of Strategic Partnerships Stephanie Kauffman talks about how the global health and humanitarian nonprofit provides quality medical aid, disaster relief and recovery around the world in the face of natural disasters, poverty, disease and civil war. Currently reaching 90 countries, Americares has been on the front line of the international COVID-19 crisis, delivering over 14 million supplies (including PPE and medication) to regions in need. Stephanie and Aaron talk about the organization’s 40 year history of bridging the gaps in equitable access to quality healthcare, working with the CDC as a trusted source of information during the pandemic, and how they work with their 200+ partners around the world to make a true impact. Listen in to hear about Stephanie’s experience joining the organization at the height of the pandemic, and learn more at americares.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy

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Even Luggage Can Be Carbon Neutral with Paravel Co-Founder Indré Rockefeller (S7EP05)

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Paravel co-founder Indré Rockefeller opens up about the journey to found the sustainable travel company alongside co-founder Andy Krantz, which has included bringing the first-ever carbon neutral suitcase to market. Paravel has focused on sustainability, functionality, quality and look, to date upcycling over 2 million plastic water bottles and offsetting 8,150 tons of CO2. Indré and Aaron talk about how a trip to Antarctica with Nature Conservancy inspired her initial interest in sustainability, how the duo approached changing the narrative around sustainable travel, and how the company’s packing cubes grew in popularity during COVID-19 and helped them survive the period of limited travel. Listen in to hear about how Indré’s past as a professional ballet dancer continues to impact her life every day, and learn more at tourparavel.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy

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Reducing Incarceration Rates and Building a More Equitable and Just America with JustLeadershipUSA President DeAnna Hoskins (S7EP04)

Tue, 15 Jun 2021 08:00:00 -0000

JustLeadershipUSA President DeAnna Hoskins dives into the company’s dedication to decarceration in the United States through policy reform and how her experience as a nationally recognized leader and public speaker influenced her career path. Having been directly impacted by the system of incarceration and the war on drugs, DeAnna’s life experiences have been the driving force to elevate awareness around the racial and social injustices that take place within marginalized communities. In the episode, Aaron and DeAnna discuss racial and social division in American society, how JustLeadershipUSA is tackling systemic change through their Leading with Conviction initiative and the barriers that she faced as a previously incarcerated individual. Tune in to hear how DeAnna’s past continues to impact her everyday life, and learn more at jlusa.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy

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Battling Cancer from “Home” with Christopher’s Haven Executive Director Joyce Duvall (S7EP03)

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Christopher’s Haven Executive Director Joyce Duvall discusses leading the Boston- and Atlanta-based nonprofit’s apartment communities that provide a home-like environment for pediatric cancer patients and their families. With years of experience in nonprofit and developmental work, Joyce was devoted to Christopher’s Haven’s mission from day one and has brought a new perspective to the organization. Joyce and Aaron talk about the hardships that cancer patients and their families face, how the organization maintained their business during the pandemic and has plans to expand, and the steps that Christopher’s Haven takes to create a safe environment for pediatric cancer patients. Tune in to hear about how actor Chris Evans became the organization’s #1 contributor, and learn more at christophershaven.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy

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Sustainable Salmon Farming in Miami with Atlantic Sapphire Co-Founder Johan Andreassen (S7EP02)

Tue, 18 May 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Atlantic Sapphire Co-Founder Johan Andreassen shines a light on how the company has incorporated strict sustainability efforts and pioneered Bluehouse salmon farming. Growing up on a salmon farm in Norway, Johan was familiar with the lifestyle of salmon farming, but envisioned a more eco-friendly system using cleaner fish. This knowledge of aquaculture led him to establish the first ever Bluehouse (a “greenhouse” for salmon) in the United States. In the episode, Johan and Aaron discuss the company’s mission to innovate fish farming locally, the advantages of eating Bluehouse salmon and how Atlantic Sapphire is innovating ways to become carbon neutral. Listen in to hear about the steps Atlantic Sapphire takes to deliver sustainable, ocean-safe salmon across North America and Europe, and learn more at atlanticsapphire.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy

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Using Humanity to Pivot and Rebuild a Business with Former Best Buy CEO Hubert Joly (S7EP01)

Tue, 04 May 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Former Best Buy CEO Hubert Joly discusses the inner workings of a good business, how he’s successfully managed large corporations throughout his career and why it’s important to lead with purpose. In 2012, Hubert was given the task of a lifetime: to rebuild Best Buy. He focused on rebuilding with humanity and putting employees and customers at the center, ultimately transforming the company’s outlook and growing revenue. In the episode, Hubert and Aaron talk about the ideology behind this business transformation, the importance of transparency and positivity as a leader and advice for pursuing a noble purpose, as explained in his new book “The Heart of Business.” Listen in to learn about Hubert’s personal philosophy for becoming a purpose-driven leader and grab his new book now at hubertjoly.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy

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Creating Representation in Tech with Slack Head of Slack for Good & Public Affairs Deepti Rohatgi (S6E14)

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 09:30:00 -0000

Slack’s Head of Slack for Good and Public Affairs Deepti Rohatgi shines a light on the Slack for Good program that’s working to increase the prevalence of underrepresented groups in the tech sector. Joining Slack only two years after founding, Deepti has leveraged her experience at tech companies like Yahoo and as a diplomat with the U.S. State Department to help grow Slack and develop its impact program, including the Next Chapter initiative inspired by Bryan Stevenson’s book Just Mercy that has established a pipeline for formerly incarcerated individuals to join companies like Slack. Deepti and Aaron discuss both of their experiences visiting prisons in California and New York, how Deepti’s focus on policy complements her social impact work, and why it’s important to build tech products with everyone’s perspective included. Tune in to hear where Deepti thinks the biggest opportunity for good lies within the tech sector for the coming years, and learn more at slack.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy

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Cultivating Sustainable Animal Farming with DSM Animal Nutrition and Health Vice President Christie Chavis (S6EP13)

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 09:30:00 -0000

DSM Animal Nutrition and Health Vice President Christie Chavis discusses the company’s groundbreaking work cultivating a more sustainable animal farming industry and how her experience growing up on a farm in Indiana inspired her to pursue a career in animal production. From her upbringing, Christie was familiar with the cultivation lifestyle of farm animals, but knew there was more to it than meets the eye. Her interest in animal science and technology led her to DSM – a company that is committed to fostering an industry that can meet the nutritional needs of the world’s growing human population. In the episode, Christie and Aaron talk about the company’s scientific foundation to make sustainable animal production possible and how DSM’s #WeMakeItPossible initiative is innovating ways to make more efficient use of natural resources. Listen in to learn about Europe’s different connection to sustainability from the U.S., and learn more at dsm.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy

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Baked On Purpose Since 1790 with King Arthur Baking co-CEOs Karen Colberg & Ralph Carlton (S6EP12)

Tue, 23 Mar 2021 09:30:00 -0000

King Arthur Baking Company co-CEOs Karen Colberg and Ralph Carlton discuss the employee-owned company’s unique structure and the benefits and challenges of leading together, which starts with a commitment to partnership. At 231 years old, the baking products company is constantly evolving, recently undergoing a full rebrand alongside a dramatic surge in demand during COVID-19 as thousands of novice bakers turned to the kitchen during lockdowns and social distancing. Karen and Ralph talk about the company’s massive growth over the past year, how B Corp goals align with King Arthur’s business goals, and the future of baking post-pandemic. Listen in to find out what their favorite King Arthur products are, and learn more at kingarthurbaking.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy

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Making Inclusive Skincare a Reality with UnSun Founder Katonya Breaux (S6EP11)

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 09:30:00 -0000

UnSun Founder Katonya Breaux opens up about creating an inclusive skincare and sunscreen brand that works for all skin colors, and the challenges of combating misconceptions in the Black community about sun damage. Spending the first 20 years of her career in the construction business, Katonya played a big role in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina – and never thought she’d end up in the cosmetics business. After a dermatologist visit and difficulty finding sunscreen that worked for her, Katonya met with a chemist to create a product just for herself; but after seeing how well it also worked on the varied skin tones of her sisters and cousins, she set out to build a business. Katonya and Aaron talk about her entrepreneurial journey, the importance of partnerships for a growing company, and what she would have done differently if she knew at founding what she knows now. Listen in to hear Katonya’s self-care routine and how she stays balanced, and learn more at unsuncosmetics.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy

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How Open Hiring is Key to Breaking the Cycle of Poverty with Greyston President & CEO Joe Kenner (S6EP10)

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 10:30:00 -0000

Greyston President & CEO Joe Kenner talks about the Yonkers, New York-based bakery’s unique Open Hiring model and incredible track record supporting and employing the underserved and unemployed local population. The first B Corp in New York State, Greyston uses a hiring model with no background checks and only a few basic questions, and the company’s Pathfinders help support Greyston employees and ensure their success – all of which has led the bakery to become one of Ben & Jerry’s top sellers. Joe and Aaron also discuss the importance of constantly asking how you can do better as a company, how the protests last June inspired Joe to double down on spreading the word about Greyston’s work, and how diversity and inclusion are built into the company. Tune in to hear about Joe’s first months in leadership after being appointed to his roles in April 2020 right after the onset of COVID-19, and learn more at greyston.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy

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Understanding, Embracing and Integrating LGBTQIA+ Identities Into Our Lives with Thank You For Coming Out Founder & Producer Dubbs Weinblatt (S6E09)

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 10:30:00 -0000

Thank You For Coming Out Founder and Executive Producer Dubbs Weinblatt talks about how their experience growing up in a reform synagogue impacted their identity and how their dedication to educating people on the nuances of LGBTQ identity inspired the founding of their improv group and podcast. Founded in 2015, Thank You For Coming Out offers a safe space for LGBTQIA+ storytellers and improvisers to share their vulnerable and heartfelt coming out stories. In today’s society, representation and visibility are so important for individuals who are discovering their sexual identities and orientations, and Dubbs offers their thoughts on how different life would’ve been if they had the right mentorship and guidance earlier in life. Tune in to hear more about Dubbs’ commitment to educating people on LGBTQ+ identities, why there must be a willingness to listen and learn, and how society plays a large role in coming out experiences. Learn more at thankyouforcomingout.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy

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The OG E-Commerce Company With a Conscience with Uncommon Goods Founder & CEO Dave Bolotsky (S6E08)

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 10:30:00 -0000

Uncommon Goods Founder & CEO Dave Bolotsky offers an inside look at the groundbreaking e-commerce company – one of the very first in the space at its founding in 1999, and one of the original purpose-driven companies. Now a certified B-Corp headquartered in Brooklyn, Uncommon Goods is an online marketplace to connect creators and their products with shoppers looking for truly unique goods. Through the longstanding Better to Give program, the company donates $1 for every purchase to select nonprofit partners, donating over $2 million to date. Dave and Aaron discuss this and more, including Dave’s childhood dream of becoming an entrepreneur, how today’s younger generations want to engage with companies that have a conscience, and why his people-first philosophy – including always paying above the minimum wage – is so important. Tune in to hear about the positive influences of being a fourth-generation resident of Manhattan’s diverse Lower East Side, and learn more at uncommongoods.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, Mathew Passy, and Michael Grubbs

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Toilet Paper for a Better World with Reel Co-Founder & CMO Derin Oyekan (S6E07)

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 10:30:00 -0000

Reel Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer Derin Oyekan talks about how his experience growing up in Nigeria and seeing firsthand the effects of the lack of access to sanitation inspired the founding of his eco-friendly toilet paper startup. Launched in March 2019 and available on Amazon, Reel Paper is made of 100% bamboo and helps to reduce waste, encourage conscious consumerism, and help improve the quality of life for disadvantaged people around the world. Derin and Aaron discuss where the idea for the company came from, the biggest challenges with getting a purpose-driven business off the ground, and how even small changes in consumers’ daily lives can add up to a significant impact. Tune in to hear Derin’s thoughts on how the social justice wave is spreading from the U.S. across the world, and learn more at reelpaper.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, and Mathew Passy

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Addressing Inequities for Black & Latinx Businesses with digitalundivided Founder Kathryn Finney (S6EP06)

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 10:30:00 -0000

digitalundivided (DID) founder and former CEO Kathryn Finney talks about how the social enterprise supports Black and Latinx female entrepreneurs through data and resources. An Echoing Green fellow and Obama administration White House Champion of Change, Kathryn leverages her background in political science and epidemiology to spearhead innovative, systemic change in the business world. After the onset of COVID-19, Kathryn founded The Doonie Fund with a $10,000 personal donation, ultimately working with DID to provide over $150,000 worth of micro-investments to more than 1,500 Black women-owned businesses. Kathryn and Aaron also discuss what diversity and inclusion hires need in order for their roles to actually have an impact, the hope that Gen Z inspires for the future of leadership, and why we all have to get comfortable having uncomfortable conversations. Learn more at digitalundivided.com and kathrynfinney.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, and Mathew Passy

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Helping Female Entrepreneurs Break the Glass Ceiling with IFundWomen Director of Marketing Julia Steele (S6E05)

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 10:30:00 -0000

IFundWomen’s Director of Marketing Julia Steele discusses the barriers that women face within the entrepreneurial community and how the organization helps women overcome those barriers to ultimately launch and fund their own businesses. Julia delves into how her background in media and startups influenced her career path and explains the steps the that IFundWomen has taken to help break through the glass ceiling that still exists for many women entrepreneurs today. Aaron and Julia also talk about addressing the gender inequalities in the business community and shed light on the reasons women are continuously shut out of entrepreneurial spaces – and what we can do to change that. Tune in to hear more about the resources offered to women entrepreneurs through IFundWomen, and learn more at ifundwomen.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, and Mathew Passy

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Drink More Vodka, Save Our Planet with Belvedere CEO and President Rodney Williams (S6E04)

Tue, 26 Jan 2021 10:30:00 -0000

Belvedere Vodka CEO and President Rodney Williams discusses the company’s commitment to nature, supported by a mission to nourish and protect the planet – with a goal to generate 100% renewable energy for the distillery and surrounding businesses by 2025. As leader of the world’s first luxury vodka, Rodney shares his thoughts on how vodka can be a muse for craftsmanship, the unique natural and organic properties that define Belvedere’s product, and the importance of having vulnerable conversations at work. Tune in to hear more about Belvedere’s approach to sustainability and how refined vodka has become a canvas for artisanal quality, and learn more at belvederevodka.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, and Mathew Passy

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Change Comes in Waves with United By Blue Founder & CEO Brian Linton (S6EP03)

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 10:30:00 -0000

United By Blue Founder & CEO Brian Linton talks about how the organic and eco-friendly clothing and accessories retailer is leading the charge when it comes to sustainability innovation. A certified B Corp since 2011, Philadelphia-based United By Blue makes its products out of recycled and organic materials, removing one pound of trash from oceans and waterways for every product purchased – leading to over three million pounds of trash removed to date. Brian discusses the ways growing up in Asia influenced him as an entrepreneur, creating jobs during COVID-19 by setting up a grocery delivery program for seniors in the company’s home city, and his philosophy that ‘change comes in waves.’ Listen in to hear about United By Blue’s role in coordinating the Mission Brand Alliance to support similar mission-driven companies, and learn more at unitedbyblue.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, and Mathew Passy

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Redesigning Sexual Assault Advocacy with Margo Founder Antya Waegemann (S6E02)

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 10:30:00 -0000

Margo founder Antya Waegemann discusses the trauma of sexual assault, the stigma attached to victims and the importance of conducting a rape kit – and how these points led her to becoming a sexual assault advocate. After discovering that thousands of rape kits are left untested, Antya took a stand to address the issue by redesigning a rape kit that aims to empower assault survivors by offering them the help and care that they deserve. Antya sheds light on the importance of having empathy for survivors and the ongoing demand for justice. Tune in to hear more about Antya’s role as a sexual assault advocate and the plans she has to bridge the gap between survivors and healthcare providers. Learn more at margokit.com.

This episode contains discussions of sexual assault and survivor trauma, listener discretion is advised.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, Andrew Hutchings, and Mathew Passy

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Seeing a Brighter Future with Warby Parker CEO Neil Blumenthal & VisionSpring CEO Ella Gudwin (S6E01)

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 10:30:00 -0000

Warby Parker co-founder and co-CEO Neil Blumenthal and VisionSpring CEO Ella Gudwin discuss the “buy a pair, give a pair” partnership that transformed the glasses industry and the widespread impact the organizations have had around the world. Diving into how the organizations work together, the duo pull back the curtain on how Warby’s glasses sales support VisionSpring’s efforts to bring glasses and vision education to emerging regions. Coming up with the idea for Warby Parker with some friends while at Wharton, Neil discusses how social impact is baked into the fabric of the company and why being a digital-native company allowed for a seamless pivot following the onset of COVID-19. Coming from a public health background, Ella offers her perspective on fighting misconceptions about glasses around the world and shares insight on how VisionSpring pivoted to providing PPE during the pandemic, thanks to the consistent support of partners like Warby. Listen in to hear their thoughts on leading during times of crisis, and learn more at warbyparker.com and visionspring.org.

Note: Due to technical difficulties, this episode was recorded in multiple parts in November and December 2020.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, and Mathew Passy

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Eat, Donate, Repeat with Rescuing Leftover Cuisine CEO and Co-Founder Robert Lee

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 10:30:00 -0000

Rescuing Leftover Cuisine CEO and Co-Founder Robert Lee discusses how he followed a gut feeling to leave his financial services job and pursue a fulltime career donating otherwise unused food to those in need. Born with a food-saver mentality, Robert has taken the nonprofit to new heights, partnering with restaurants, grocery stores and other food businesses to donate over 5 million pounds of food to homeless shelters and pantries. Aaron and Robert discuss how 40 percent of food produced in the U.S. is wasted, COVID-19’s impact on the business, and how individuals can make an impact themselves, daily. Listen in to learn why Robert believes there is a food distribution, not just waste, issue in the world, and learn more about the company + ways to volunteer at rescuingleftovercuisine.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Julie Strickland, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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A Quick Update from Aaron

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 17:23:54 -0000

Brand on Purpose will return in January 2021.

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152 Years of Purpose with Tata Consultancy Services Chief Social Responsibility Officer Balaji Ganapathy (S5E16)

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 09:30:00 -0000

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) Chief Social Responsibility Officer & Global Head of CSR Balaji Ganapathy talks about the IT services, digital and business solutions company’s purpose journey and its mission to connect youth, women and marginalized groups to opportunities in the digital economy. Part of the 152-year old Tata Group of companies, TCS recently became the world’s most valuable information tech company, leveraging its extensive history to quickly adapt to an ever-changing world and meet new challenges head-on. Balaji also touches on the focus of TCS leadership on reskilling its workforce as new technologies arise, the Group’s $200M pledge for COVID19 relief, the importance of working as one organization and team during times of crisis, and dealing with widespread misunderstanding of AI. Tune in to hear why Balaji refers to TCS as the world’s oldest purpose-driven company, and learn more at tcs.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Julie Strickland, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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A New Digital Front Door for Healthcare with Hims & Hers Founder and CEO Andrew Dudum (S5E15)

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 09:30:00 -0000

Hims & Hers Founder and CEO Andrew Dudum highlights how the digital health platform is leading the charge in virtual health, of which has drastically risen in popularity - and necessity - during the pandemic. Launched just three years ago, Hims & Hers serves with the mission to be “the front door” in today’s current healthcare system, as nearly 80% of U.S. rural counties don’t have a doctor close by. In conversation, Andrew and Aaron discuss how Hims encourages men to take care of themselves and seek treatment for often stigmatized health concerns, the company’s recent IPO, and the launch of a full mental health category where users can seek free online therapy. The two also talk about how Hims & Hers seeks to be more gender inclusive and the potential company changes that could come to fruition as a result. Tune in to hear more about how the pandemic is permanently shifting the healthcare system and learn more at forhims.com and forhers.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Julie Strickland, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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“What Makes America Great?” With Raising Our Hands Author Jenna Arnold (S5E14)

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 09:30:00 -0000

Raising Our Hands author Jenna Arnold discusses equality, vulnerability, and the importance of finding and using your voice during this challenging, polarizing and politicized time. Exploring the themes covered in the book, Jenna offers her unique perspective on privilege and shares insights from her years of conversations with white women across America about their identity and role in the country. Raising Our Hands is a call to white women – but relevant beyond that demographic – to stop avoiding hard conversations and to step up, mobilize, and listen to the marginalized voices that have been ignored for too long. Tune in to hear more about Jenna’s other roles as a Women’s March National organizer and Chief Impact Officer at Rethink, and learn more at jennaarnold.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Clean Energy for Emerging Markets with BioLite CEO Jonathan Cedar (S5E13)

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 09:30:00 -0000

BioLite CEO Jonathan Cedar shines a light on how many people around the world lack clean, affordable household energy, which leads to meals cooked on smoky open fires and little or no electricity in homes. After learning about these issues, Jonathan founded BioLite, which offers products designed to cook, charge, and light off-grid households by harnessing surrounding energy. Through the company’s unique Parallel Innovation model, BioLite targets both off-grid households in emerging markets and outdoor recreation users seeking no-fuel cooking and charging. Jonathan and Aaron discuss how this model provides an anchor revenue stream from the outdoor recreation users that allows the company the time and space needed to determine an economically sustainable business model to effectively serve the emerging market customers that most need these products. Tune in to hear why Jonathan thinks we need to change how we think and talk about purpose and sustainability when it comes to business, and learn more at bioliteenergy.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Housing is a Human Right with Esusu Co-Founder Abbey Wemimo (S5E12)

Tue, 29 Sep 2020 09:30:00 -0000

Abbey Wemimo co-founder of Esusu, a financial technology platform that helps disenfranchised and financially excluded individuals seek a better, more fiscally prosperous future, believes where you come from shouldn’t determine where you’ll go. Abbey and Aaron explore housing as a basic human right, discuss how Esusu helps individuals build money and credit that is deemed essential to securing housing and wealth in the U.S., and why companies like Esusu are essential to leveling out the playing field especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. He also discusses why Esusu’s mission is so important to him personally, and the incredible, collective sacrifices his mother made to get him to where he is today. Tune in to hear the meaning behind the company name Esusu, and learn more at esususavings.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Hygiene & Justice with The Honey Pot Founder and CEO Bea Dixon (S5E11)

Tue, 22 Sep 2020 09:30:00 -0000

The Honey Pot Founder and CEO Bea Dixon touches on the founding of her plant-powered hygiene product company and how she’s leveraged her platform to discuss racial, gender and economic justice. Bea began creating The Honey Pot products from her own kitchen sink, and now the company is in nearly every major retailer. In conversation, Bea discusses the recent Target advertisement that received backlash and how Target has had such a strong impact on the company’s success, how The Honey Pot works to normalize previously-thought taboo conversations around period talk, and how the company – and Bea’s own personal healing – came to fruition following a dream where her passed grandmother visited her. Tune in to hear about Bea’s journey and learn more about the company at thehoneypot.co.

DISCLAIMER: In the course of Aaron and Bea’s engaging conversation, there is some more explicit language than usual in this episode. It’s still a fascinating discussion, and we hope you enjoy listening.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Changing Socks, Changing Lives with Bombas Co-Founders David Heath (CEO) and Randy Goldberg (Chief Branding Officer) (S5E10)

Tue, 15 Sep 2020 09:30:00 -0000

Bombas Co-Founders David Heath (CEO) and Randy Goldberg (Chief Branding Officer) discuss how a Facebook post that mentioned socks are the number one most requested item in homeless shelters led to the creation of the brand that supports those communities by way of a one-for-one premium sock donation model. David and Randy also discuss how Toms and Warby Parker served as inspiration, the importance of having a pristine product for a mission-driven organization, their successful Shark Tank experience, and the positive impacts of keeping company culture centerfold. The two further highlight “The Black Hive,” a community of diverse Bombas employees, and what they’ve done to support individuals and organizations during the Black Lives Matter movement resurgence. Tune in to hear how David and Randy’s lack of expertise in the retail industry actually served as an advantage, and learn more about Bombas at Bombas.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Reusable Cups for a Sustainable Future with Vessel Co-Founder Dagny Tucker (S5E09)

Tue, 08 Sep 2020 09:30:00 -0000

Vessel co-founder Dagny Tucker talks about why she helped start the tech-enabled stainless steel reusable cup service. Having worked in global peace and conflict for over 20 years, Dagny was struck by how often tensions would rise in areas over resources, and began considering ways she could make a difference when it came to conservation and more sustainable solutions in everyday life. This deep interest in looking at unseen environmental and social impacts of consumption led to the creation of Vessel, and she and Aaron discuss how the library-like process empowers consumers to reduce their negative environmental impact. Tune in to hear why Dagny believes sustainability is as much a social question as it is an environmental one, and learn more at vesselworks.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Digital Letters From Prison with Photo Patch Foundation Founder and Executive Director Antoine Patton (S5E08)

Tue, 01 Sep 2020 09:30:00 -0000

Photo Patch Foundation Founder and Executive Director Antoine Patton talks about how his own incarceration led to the creation of the brand that helps to increase communication for the 2.7 million children in the United States that have a parent in prison. Through a digital platform and mobile app - created by Antoine’s then 12-year-old daughter - children can write letters and send photos to their incarcerated parents, strengthening communication between youth and their family members. In conversation, Antoine highlights how a 2010 USA Today article on the mobile app explosion sparked his initial curiosity, how his daughter “Jay Jay” serves as his biggest motivation and is the future of the company, and the necessity of Photo Patch in today’s society. Antoine also discusses the lack of conversation around COVID-19’s presence in prison systems today and what Photo Patch and his own family are doing to help. Tune in to hear how Antoine gained solitude while in prison and how he turns “pain into purpose,” and learn more about Photo Patch Foundation at photopatch.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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A New Way to Summer School with Practice Makes Perfect’s Karim Abouelnaga (S5E07)

Tue, 25 Aug 2020 09:30:00 -0000

Practice Makes Perfect CEO and founder Karim Abouelnaga talks about how the B Corp works with low-income schools to help narrow the achievement gap and reframe learning over the summer as a way to get ahead. Karim, a TED Fellow and Echoing Green Fellow, offers insight into his own background growing up in a community with a low high school graduation rate and limited expectations, and how he went on to become an Ivy League graduate. He and Aaron discuss the critical role of mentorship for low-income students, the importance of asking for help even when society teaches you otherwise, and ensuring parity when it comes to giving underserved kids access to the resources to achieve success. The conversation also covers how COVID-19 is impacting education and the challenges of making sure underserved students have access to the tech necessary for learning virtually. Tune in to learn why Karim thinks education is still society’s largest lever for changing socioeconomic status, and learn more at practicemakesperfect.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Addressing Gender Parity in the Restaurant Industry with Tender Greens' Denyelle Bruno (S5E06)

Tue, 18 Aug 2020 09:30:00 -0000

Tender Greens CEO Denyelle Bruno talks about why the chef-led kitchen company shifted its focus to grocery delivery during COVID-19. The conversation also addresses the codependency of retail and service businesses, the machismo nature of the restaurant industry, and the importance of implementing gender parity across business infrastructures to ensure a long-lasting and prosperous economic future. Tune in to learn more about how Denyelle's extensive background in social and gender psychology has guided her on the path she's on today, and learn more at tendergreens.com.

Production credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Protecting and Empowering Trans Communities with Transgender District's Aria Sa'id (S5E5)

Tue, 11 Aug 2020 09:30:00 -0000

Transgender District Executive Director Aria Sa'id discusses why she co-founded the world’s first legally recognized transgender district in San Francisco. Aria speaks to her own experiences with her identity, her direct support of legislation providing medial protection to intersex people, and why she is dedicated to creating a space to empower and uplift transgender communities. Tune in to this powerful episode covering everything from the unchecked privileges of white queer communities to the importance of transgender representation in media, and learn more at transgenderdistrictsf.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Returnships for Caregivers with Path Forward’s Tami Forman (S5E04)

Tue, 04 Aug 2020 09:30:00 -0000

Path Forward Executive Director Tami Forman discusses why we need to remove barriers and provide better support for caregivers returning to the workforce, which Path Forward aims to do by partnering with companies like Amazon, Apple, Walmart and more for paid, 16-week ”returnships” that help talented individuals re-enter the workforce. Tami also touches on the immense and unparalleled transferable skills gained through parenting, the long continued gender gap in the workforce, and the need for companies to remain focused on their commitments to hiring a diverse employee body. Tune-in to hear how Tami thinks the current recruitment landscape has shifted – and will continue to shift – amid the current pandemic and learn more about the nonprofit at pathforward.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Clean Eating & Healthy Investing with HumanCo CEO Jason Karp (S5E3)

Tue, 28 Jul 2020 09:30:00 -0000

HumanCo CEO Jason Karp discusses why he thinks investing in and growing health-focused businesses at scale is the best way to address global health and food crises. He founded HumanCo, a clean and accessible food and lifestyle company, because of his firsthand experience in the way food can affect health. Diagnosed with a degenerative corneal disease and told he would be blind by the age of 30, Jason discovered the literal life-saving answer of clean eating and turned his life around for the better. Tune in to learn why Jason wants to invest in a people first future and learn more at humanco.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Becoming a Low-Carbon World with Climate Neutral’s Austin Whitman (S5E02)

Tue, 21 Jul 2020 09:30:00 -0000

Climate Neutral CEO Austin Whitman walks us through how the nonprofit collaborates with brands to be more climate-centered and showcase that it’s time to take carbon emissions seriously. Focused on redirecting funds to low carbon assets and helping consumers make better decisions, the three-step carbon neutralizing process is achievable and affordable, setting brands – and the climate – up for success. Austin also talks about simple ways individuals can decrease their carbon impact, consumers’ increasing preference for sustainable companies, and how social distancing has had positive environmental effects. Tune in to hear about Austin’s dedication to speeding up the shift to a low-carbon world, and learn more at climateneutral.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Pink Tax & PPE with Aunt Flow’s Claire Coder (S5E01)

Tue, 14 Jul 2020 09:30:00 -0000

Aunt Flow CEO and founder Claire Coder speaks about why she started the first full-solution company that helps businesses and schools stock bathrooms with free tampons and pads. Committed to "changing the world one cycle at a time," Claire discusses how the company's origins started when she was stranded in a public bathroom, her dedicated partnership with nonprofit organization PERIOD and how she's pivoted since the start of COVID-19. Aunt Flow's sister company, Work Flow, has manufactured over 8 million 3-ply masks and has since rolled out additional PPE products with a mission to provide everyone with basic necessities. Tune in to learn about Claire's inspiring entrepreneurial spirit, and learn more at goauntflow.com and ppestory.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Running on Equal Ground: A Conversation with Brooks Running CEO Jim Weber (S4E17)

Tue, 23 Jun 2020 09:30:00 -0000

Brooks Running CEO Jim Weber joins Aaron to speak about the brand’s ethos that respect, safety and freedom should be shared and ensured for all. The two discuss the work Brooks Running has done during the midst of three crises—the COVID-19 pandemic, a challenging economy, and the systemic racism Black Americans continue to face. The running shoes company has provided 45,000 pairs of shoes to frontline workers during COVID-19, donated $100,000 to the Equal Justice Initiative and has continued to advocate for social and environmental justice as a fundamental part of the company’s values. Tune in to hear about the importance of being true and human during times of unrest, and learn more at brooksrunning.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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You Gotta Make the Road by Walking: A Conversation with Echoing Green President Cheryl Dorsey (S4E16)

Tue, 16 Jun 2020 09:30:00 -0000

President of Echoing Green Cheryl Dorsey joins Aaron in a conversation about social entrepreneurship and the Black Lives Matter Movement. The two discuss the importance of uplifting leaders who directly help their communities, how social impact and change is rooted in activism, and the power of vulnerability as a tool to dismantle systemic racism. The episode highlights Echoing Green’s mission to build a dynamic community of business leaders, social innovators, institutions and investors committed to solving global issues through providing fellowships and resources they need to flourish. Tune in to hear about how humility acts as an articulation of grace and empathy, and learn more about this organization's incredible work at echoinggreen.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Proving Anything, Anywhere, Is Possible: An IRONAID Panel with IRONMAN Foundation, Good360, and Framebridge (S4E15)

Tue, 02 Jun 2020 09:30:00 -0000

Aaron is joined by IRONMAN Foundation Executive Director Sarah Hartmann, Good360 CMO and CDO Shari Rudolph, and Framebridge Senior VP of Operations and Supply Chain Mike Kane to discuss how the organizations came together to develop and support the IRONAID program – a relief effort working to repurpose new race shirts into non-sterile facemasks. The panel talks about how the unique organizations teamed up, their idea to bring communities together with upcycled products rather than with events during COVID-19, and the need to bring and discover joy where you can, whenever you can. Tune in to listen to this inspiring episode and learn more at ironmanfoundation.org/ironaid, good360.org, and framebridge.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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A Quest For Better Rest and to End Bed-lessness Along the Way: A Conversation with Leesa Sleep Co-Founder and Board Chair David Wolfe (S4E14)

Tue, 26 May 2020 09:30:00 -0000

Aaron is joined by Leesa Sleep co-founder and board chair David Wolfe to discuss the direct-to-consumer online mattress company’s purpose-driven approach and commitment to donating one mattress for every ten sold. David and Aaron discuss the inception of the certified B Corporation with co-founder Jamie Diamonstein, the importance of purpose initiatives being led by the C-suite, why being values-driven is just as important as being purpose-driven, and how the company baked purpose into its DNA from the start – before becoming profitable or successful. Tune in to learn how Leesa Sleep’s distinctive values-driven business model helped to inspire the creation of this podcast, and about other companies that David continues to draw inspiration from (spoiler alert: the list includes former guest ABLE). Don’t sleep on this episode, and learn more at leesa.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Showcasing Artistry & Expanding Entrepreneurial Opportunities for POC: A Conversation with The Village Market Atlanta Founder and CEO Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon (S4E12)

Tue, 19 May 2020 09:30:00 -0000

Founder and CEO of The Village Market Atlanta Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon, known as Dr. Key, joins Aaron to discuss the evolution of her passion project to highlight black artists and entrepreneurs into a quarterly marketplace event showcasing over 80 black-owned businesses. Aaron and Dr. Key talk about the importance of supporting black-owned businesses and black communities, the need to create proactive and collaborative spaces during times of tumult, and how an engaged community fosters a self-sustained community. Since the onset of COVID-19, The Village Market has gone digital, and pivoted its support of local businesses to their website which had over 7,000 views the date of its launch. Learn more about all the great work The Village Market does at thevillagemarketatl.com and support its vendors at vmdigital.shop.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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This Bud’s For Everyone: A Conversation with Anheuser-Busch VP of Corporate Social Responsibility Adam Warrington (S4E11)

Tue, 12 May 2020 09:30:00 -0000

Anheuser-Busch Vice President of CSR Adam Warrington joins Aaron to discuss how the 165-year-old beer company – home to brands like Budweiser, Stella Artois, and Bud Light – has continued to evolve and grow while leaning on its heritage. Aaron and Adam talk about the company's commitment to running completely on renewable energy by 2025 and the difference between companies that view corporate responsibility as a temporary campaign and those that view it as a foundational framework. They also discuss how Anheuser-Busch has pivoted to support their communities during COVID-19, including donating $1 million to the United States Bartenders Guild, producing and donating hand sanitizer and canned water to foundations like American Red Cross, and partnering with Meals on Wheels to provide food to people in need. Tune in to hear about how this long-standing beer company aims to serve everybudy, and learn more at anheuser-busch.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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The Story Behind Stonyfield’s Moo-vement: A Conversation with Stonyfield Chairman and Co-Founder Gary Hirshberg (S4E10)

Thu, 07 May 2020 09:30:00 -0000

Stonyfield Chairman and Co-Founder Gary Hirshberg joins Aaron to discuss the organic yogurt company he helped build in 1983 and the company’s role as a pioneer in planet-friendly business practices. Aaron and Gary explore how Gary was inspired to enact positive change amidst an era of geographical, environmental and industrial shifts, the false myth that earth is a subsidiary, the importance of accessible organic foods for everyone, and how the now-infamous yogurt from Lily Bell the Cow started it all. Tune into this episode to learn how this company pioneered the organic foods moo-vement, and learn more at stonyfield.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Moving From Service Leadership to Servant Leadership During A Pandemic: A Conversation with Sodexo North America Chair Sarosh Mistry (S4E9)

Tue, 05 May 2020 09:30:00 -0000

Sarosh Mistry, Chair of Sodexo North America and CEO of Homecare, joins Aaron to discuss how COVID-19 has fundamentally changed the company’s business and how they’ve adapted and leaned on their values to support their employees and their communities. Sarosh and Aaron talk about the importance of servant leadership and how Sodexo has established a $30 million global relief fund for hourly workers who have been impacted by venue shutdowns. They also discuss what the company has learned from their global employees who witnessed the spread of COVID-19 before it reached the US, and what it did with those learnings. Tune in to hear how Sodexo acts as an outstanding example of how businesses can best serve their communities, and learn more at us.sodexo.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Saving Thousands of Lives, One “Gently Used” Soap at a Time: A Conversation with Eco-Soap Bank Founder and CEO Samir Lakhani (S4E8)

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 09:30:00 -0000

Eco-Soap Bank founder and CEO Samir Lakhani joins Aaron to discuss his humanitarian and environmental nonprofit organization that recycles and sanitizes used hotel soap for distribution to people in need in the developing world. Samir discusses how a trip to Cambodia—involving a rickety bicycle, a Hawaiian shirt, and a lot of hope—served as his inspiration and his mission to support livelihoods and provide free education to disadvantaged women. Eco-Soap Bank is doubling down on its commitment to providing soap to organizations in developing countries during COVID-19 to mitigate the spread of the virus and promote public health. Tune in to learn more about Eco-Soap Bank’s work, and learn more at ecosoapbank.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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How Getting Stranded in the Gobi Desert Led to a New York Cashmere Company: A Conversation with NAADAM CEO and Co-Founder Matt Scanlan (S4E7)

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 09:30:00 -0000

NAADAM CEO and Co-Founder Matt Scanlan joins Aaron in studio to talk about his unconventional path into the fashion and textile industries. Spoiler alert: it involves driving 20 miles into the Gobi Desert, goats, and a lot of luck. The two discuss how Matt's formative trip to Mongolia inspired him and co-founder Diederik Rijsemus to disrupt the cashmere industry and make the products more affordable, profitable and sustainable for everyone. From partnering with nomadic goat herders to styling 20-something New Yorkers, NAADAM is proving once and for all that they really are the GOAT. Learn more about the sweater company at naadam.co.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Manufacturing a Better Future for Women Thru Fashion: A Conversation with ABLE Founder and CEO Barrett Ward (S4E6)

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 09:30:00 -0000

ABLE Founder and CEO Barrett Ward joins Aaron to discuss how the ethical lifestyle brand works to end generational poverty by providing jobs for women. Together they discuss the 2008 trip to Ethiopia that inspired the creation of the company, the famous celebrity-loved leather bag, the importance of supporting brand authenticity and not taglines, and COVID-19’s impact on the business. Tune in to learn more about ABLE’s radical transparency and reporting system and shop at www.livefashionable.com. Brand on Purpose listeners can use the code “BOP25” on the ABLE website for 25% off a purchase to support a purpose-driven small business during this challenging time.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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The Purpose Pivot: A lively, open and honest discussion with four brand leaders supporting the community amidst the pandemic

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 16:30:00 -0000

In this special panel episode, Aaron is joined by Vita Coco CMO Jane Prior, TentCraft CEO and founder Matt Bulloch, Tattersall Distilling co-founder and Chief Officer Jon Kreidler, and Lemontree Head of Community Kasumi Quinlan. The panelists discuss how their companies and organizations have pivoted their traditional business functions to support their communities and relief efforts during COVID-19 including making hand sanitizer in a distillery, matching volunteers with local food pantries, providing tents for drive-thru medical screening, and donating $1 million to charities in under 48 hours. Tune in to hear about the ways these resilient brands are stepping up during this time, and visit their websites to learn more: tattersalldistilling.com, vitacoco.com, lemontreefoods.org, tentcraft.com.

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Challenging Classism in Silicon Valley, One Bouquet at a Time: A Conversation with Farmgirl Flowers CEO and Founder Christina Stembel (S4E4)

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 09:30:00 -0000

Farmgirl Flowers CEO and founder Christina Stembel joins Aaron in-studio to talk about how she built the world's largest e-commerce flower arrangement business. Aaron and Christina discuss the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated industry, the importance of supporting farms who pay living wages, and how to trust your instincts in a leadership position. Tune in to learn how this floral business flourished, and learn more at farmgirlflowers.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Lions, Tigers, Unbiased Journalism, Oh My: A Conversation with National Geographic Partners Chairman Gary Knell (S4E3)

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 09:30:00 -0000

This conversation with Gary Knell, Chairman of National Geographic Partners, is way better than Tiger King, really. Gary joins Aaron to discuss how the company is continuing to live up to its standard of excellence through strong and unbiased journalism, the balance of giving people what they want versus need, and the incredible photographers that make National Geographic what it is. Gary and Aaron also highlight how readers look to National Geographic for context, rather than just breaking news, and why that’s so important in today’s news environment. To that end, National Geographic launched NatGeo@Home, a free digital hub that includes educational resources and offerings for future explorers to fill their time and minds during the coronavirus pandemic. Tune in to learn about how the creative and talented people of National Geographic inspire Gary daily, and learn more at nationalgeographicpartners.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Getting Zero-Wasted: A Conversation with New Belgium Brewing CEO Steve Fechheimer (S4E2)

Tue, 07 Apr 2020 09:30:00 -0000

New Belgium Brewing CEO Steve Fechheimer joins Aaron to discuss how the beer company acts as a force for good. Founded in 1991, this B Corp Certified, Colorado-bred brewing company was built on the core beliefs of environmental stewardship, making world class beer, and having fun. Listen in to the pre-outbreak conversation to hear Aaron and Steve discuss the importance of beer culture and brand community, what it means to be a platinum certified zero-waste company, and how to bring craft beer to a more diverse audience. Aaron kicks the episode off highlighting New Belgium’s authentic and thoughtful approach to supporting the communities it serves during the COVID-19 outbreak, the Bar and Restaurant Relief fund, which will support food and beverage companies in the brewery’s manufacturing homes of Fort Collins and Asheville. Discover the buzz about this company and find where you can taste their beer at newbelgium.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Introducing The World’s First Carbon-Negative Vodka and a Last Minute Pivot Towards Making Hand Sanitizers: A Conversation In Studio with Air Co. CEO and Co-Founder Gregory Constantine (S4E1)

Thu, 02 Apr 2020 09:30:00 -0000

Air Co. CEO and Co-Founder Gregory Constantine joins Aaron in studio to talk about bringing the first carbon-negative vodka onto the market. Developed through technology that uses carbon as an ingredient rather than an emission, Gregory and Aaron discuss Air Co.’s mission to help, not hurt, communities and the environment. Air Co. is currently living up to that mission as it has pivoted all production to creating carbon-negative hand sanitizer (and donating it for free to in-need New York locations) during the COVID-19 outbreak. Tune in to learn about this unique and sustainable company, and learn more about Air Co. at aircompany.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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To B Corp or Not To B Corp: Reflecting on the Benefits and Realities of Becoming a Certified B Corp (S3E12)

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 09:30:00 -0000

In this special Season Three finale, Aaron looks back at some of the interviews he's had with B Corp Certified brands like Ben & Jerry’s and Intrepid Group. Designed to hold businesses to legal standards of ethical, social and environmental responsibility, acquiring the B Corp Certification allows companies to express to the world that being a force for good acts as the foundation of their business. Tune into this clips episode to learn about how becoming a Certified B Corp affects change at a global scale – and hear a sneak peak of our upcoming episode with New Belgium Brewing. Discover more about the certification process at bcorporation.net.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Communicating During COVID-19: Expert Advice for Brands and Non-Profits With Host Aaron Kwittken (S3E11)

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 17:35:00 -0000

On a special episode of Brand on Purpose, associate producer Meg Ruocco turns the tables on creator and host Aaron Kwittken and interviews him. They discuss his thoughts on the vitality of communications during the COVID-19 outbreak from the importance of honesty amongst industry leaders to the need to support non-profit organizations, and the broader implications of how this pandemic will affect everyone on an individual and global scale. An expert in crisis and issues communications, Aaron leverages his years of experience to share best practices for communicating with employees, stakeholders and customers during this unprecedented moment in history.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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International Women's Day Special: A Conversation with FINCA Impact Finance, CARE USA and the National Democratic Institute (S3E10)

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 09:30:00 -0000

In celebration of International Women's Day on March 8, Aaron is joined from Washington, DC by FINCA Impact Finance VP & Regional Director for the Middle East & South Asia, Zar Wardak, CARE USA Director of Gender Advocacy, Gayatri Patel, and National Democratic Institute Senior Advisor for Gender, Women and Democracy, Caroline Hubbard. Aaron, Zar, Gayatri and Caroline discuss the ways access to finance empowers women around the world, how financial inclusion leads to women's political participation, and the role corporations should play in the fight for gender parity. Tune in to hear what International Women's Day means to each of these incredible leaders on the 25th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration. Learn more and get involved at fincaimpact.com, care.org, and ndi.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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How to B a Force for Good: A Conversation with B Lab CMO Anthea Kelsick (S3E9)

Tue, 03 Mar 2020 10:30:00 -0000

B Lab CMO Anthea Kelsick joins Aaron in studio to talk about the nonprofit organization behind the B Corporation Certification. Aaron and Anthea demystify the certification by discussing just how businesses become a B Corp and how B Lab acts as an advocate for actionable change in the marketplace. The two discuss how industry stories are helping to shape our global culture and how B Lab ensures its certified companies are doing real, authentic good in an age of “purpose-washing.” Tune in to this un-B-lievable episode to kick off B Corp Month, and learn more about B Lab at bcorporation.net.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Like Father Like Son and The Power of “Tikun Olam:” A Conversation with Percent Pledge Founder and CEO Joel Pollick and The Giving Back Fund President and CEO Marc Pollick (S3E8)

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 10:30:00 -0000

Father and son duo Marc and Joel Pollick join Aaron in studio to discuss their shared passion for social good. Driven by the work of Jewish author and Nobel laureate Elie Wiesel, Marc has been a leader in purpose for decades, now leading national non-profit The Giving Back Fund, which encourages and facilitates charitable giving by successful public figures. Inspired by his father, Joel founded Percent Pledge, a nonprofit organization management company dedicated to making workplace giving and volunteering easy for companies and engaging for employees. Tune in to learn about this inspiring family's work (and what a family dinner is like with so much achievement in one room!), and discover more at percentpledge.org and givingback.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Change You Can Count On: A Conversation with Coin Up Co-Founder Leena Patidar (S3E7)

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 10:30:00 -0000

Coin Up Co-Founder and CEO Leena Patidar joins Aaron to discuss how she brought Coin Up – the charity app that makes it easy to support a cause you love through every day purchases – to life in just under a year. Aaron and Leena talk about the modernization of spare change campaigns, the relationship between social media and nonprofit visibility, and what the inner workings of developing a successful and thriving app are. Listen in to hear how Leena and her team overcame an initial rejection from Apple when they launched the app, and learn more about how you can be the change you wish to see in the world at coinupapp.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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A Hundred Years Old and Just Getting Started: A Conversation with American Red Cross CMO Neal Litvack (S3E6)

Tue, 11 Feb 2020 10:30:00 -0000

American Red Cross CMO Neal Litvack joins Aaron to talk about one of the most historically-renowned and globally-recognized non-profits. Aaron and Neal discuss the Red Cross mission to help those in need through providing international humanitarian aid and teaching skills that save lives, as well as the Red Cross' new Give Blood to Give Time Campaign—a partnership with the American Cancer Society launched this week to boost blood donations and awareness. Tune in to this info-packed episode to find out how last year’s SXSW Game of Thrones-themed blood drive #BleedForTheThrone came to be. Learn more about American Red Cross and get involved at redcross.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Making Sustainability Fruitful: A Conversation with OddBox Co-Founders Deepak Ravindran and Emilie Vanpoperinghe (S3E5)

Tue, 04 Feb 2020 10:30:00 -0000

OddBox co-founders Deepak Ravindran and Emilie Vanpoperinghe join Aaron to talk about their subscription box service providing 'wonky' fruits and vegetables in the UK, aimed at reducing the global food waste problem. Deepak, Emilie and Aaron discuss the current state of food over-production, the benefits of buying in-season fruits and veg and how when it comes to produce, it really is what's on the inside that counts. Tune in to hear what inspired their quest to rescue weirdly shaped produce and learn more at oddbox.co.uk.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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You’ll Go Nuts Over This Episode: A Conversation with Pip and Nut Founder Pippa Murray (S3E4)

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0000

Pip and Nut Founder Pippa Murray joins Aaron to talk about how she went from selling nut butter at a street market to becoming a nationwide store-brand in the UK in just five years. Aaron and Pippa discuss the beautiful and harsh realities of starting your own business, the pros of becoming a B Corp sooner rather than later, and what being a crowd-funded business actually means. Tune in to this nutty episode and learn more at pipandnut.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Getting Veg-ucated: A Conversation with Mark Cuddigan, CEO of Ella's Kitchen and Head of Sustainability for Hain Celestial (S3E3)

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 10:30:00 -0000

Ella's Kitchen CEO and Head of Sustainability for Hain Celestial Mark Cuddigan joins Aaron to talk about how his company has made feeding your kids fruits and vegetables easier by providing organic food in sustainable packaging to families. Mark and Aaron discuss the benefits of becoming a B Corp, the difference between empty promises and actionable change, the ethical responsibility companies and consumers have to live sustainably, and why few companies are doing good even though doing good is good for business. Listen in to learn how this company is going above and beyond the kale of duty, and find out more at ellaskitchen.co.uk.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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A Novel Way to Serve Healthcare to Underserved Kids: A Conversation with Hazel Health Founder and CEO Josh Golomb (S3E2)

Tue, 14 Jan 2020 10:30:00 -0000

Hazel Health's founder and CEO Josh Golomb joins Aaron to discuss his company's approach to providing free, accessible healthcare to students. Founded in Silicon Valley, this telehealth company requires no appointments, insurance, or immigration checks to bridge the gap between health and access. Inspired by his work in AmeriCorps and his grandparents' own immigration journey, Josh shines a light on the complexities of our nation's healthcare system while providing insights as to how his company is making changes for the better and transforming student healthcare. To learn more, visit hazel.co.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Adventure Travel in a Sustainable Style: A Conversation with Intrepid Group's CCO Leigh Barnes (S3E1)

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 10:30:00 -0000

Intrepid Group's Chief Customer Officer Leigh Barnes joins Aaron to talk about the purpose behind the world's largest adventure travel company. Leigh and Aaron leave no stone unturned as they discuss the corporate realities of being carbon positive in the travel industry, the importance of the B Corp certification, and the responsibility that travel companies have to do good for the people and places they do business in. Covering topics from modern slavery to the unethical practices of elephant ride programs, you won't want to miss this thought-provoking, wanderlust-inducing episode. Say Aloha to ethical, fun travel, and learn more about Intrepid Group at intrepidgroup.travel.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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Let's Taco 'bout Youth Education: A Conversation with Taco Bell Foundation Executive Director Tina Nguyen (S2E15)

Tue, 31 Dec 2019 10:30:00 -0000

Taco Bell Foundation Executive Director Tina Nguyen joins Aaron to spill the beans about the youth-oriented organization established in 1992. Aaron and Tina discuss the intention behind the Taco Bell Foundation's Live Más Scholarship, the role of brand authenticity in successful purpose-driven initiatives, and how passionate young people deserve the chance (and the resources) to change the world. Tune in to hear how your favorite fast food joint, from executives to restaurant staff, lives up to their "Live Más" slogan. To learn more about the Taco Bell Foundation's work visit tacobellfoundation.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Katrina Waelchli, Meg Ruocco, Julia Brougher, Parker Jenkins, and Mathew Passy

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A Corporate Centenarian’s Quest To Be Carbon Positive: A lively conversation with Stanley Black & Decker’s VP of CSR, Deb Geyer and CCO, Shannon Lapierre (S2E14)

Tue, 17 Dec 2019 10:30:00 -0000

Stanley Black & Decker’s Deb Geyer, VP of Corporate Social Responsibility, and Shannon Lapierre, Chief Communications Officer, join Aaron at the 2019 PRWeek PR Decoded conference in Chicago to talk about the 100-year-old Fortune 500 manufacturer’s recent shift to purpose. Aaron, Deb and Shannon discuss the reason behind the company’s purpose-driven transformation, how their roles complement one another when it comes to purpose initiatives, and the importance of being transparent about sustainability metrics. They also explore how the company is focusing on upskilling the workforce, planning for future generations and why 1 million manufacturing jobs are unfilled. Listen in to learn how the business plans on meeting its ambitious goal to be carbon positive by 2030 and how the manufacturing company almost made toys instead. Learn more about Stanley Black & Decker at stanleyblackanddecker.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Lindsay Hand, Ashley McGarry, Katrina Waelchli, and Mathew Passy

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Putting People First, Again. A conversation with Clinton Foundation CMO Craig Minassian (S2E13)

Tue, 10 Dec 2019 10:30:00 -0000

Craig Minassian, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at the Clinton Foundation, joins Aaron in-studio to discuss the mission and work of the Clinton Foundation and Craig’s longstanding relationship with the Clintons from his time as assistant press secretary in the Clinton White House and with the 2008 presidential campaign. Craig and Aaron explore how Craig helped the Foundation navigate unprecedented false attacks during the 2016 election and perfected storytelling in a thunderstorm, President Clinton’s unique ability to reach across the aisle and bring diverse groups of people together to solve the world’s problems, the organization’s incredible variety of global initiatives and programs, and how the Foundation has pioneered a new way for corporations to change and do good. Tune in to hear why Craig is optimistic that the polarization of today will eventually fade away and return to civil discourse. Learn more and get involved at clintonfoundation.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Lindsay Hand, Ashley McGarry, Katrina Waelchli, and Mathew Passy

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Sweet Justice. A conversation with Ben & Jerry’s Social Mission Special Projects Director Rob Michalak (S2E12)

Tue, 03 Dec 2019 10:30:00 -0000

I scream, you scream we all scream for a more just world. Rob Michalak, Social Mission Special Projects Director and self-proclaimed “Village Elder” at Ben & Jerry’s, joins Aaron to explore the concept of linked prosperity and how business can create justice in the world. Rob and Aaron discuss how Ben & Jerry’s became the pioneer in putting purpose alongside product and mission and how the company’s 1997 progressive values statement about advancing new models of economic justice is more true today than when it was written. Listen in to learn the value of standing for something whether or not everyone likes it and how you can raise the bar on business decisions. Rob also shares his favorite flavor. Learn more about Ben & Jerry’s at benjerry.com and on Instagram at @benandjerrys.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Lindsay Hand, Ashley McGarry, Katrina Waelchli, and Mathew Passy

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How Sprint is closing the homework gap by bridging the broadband divide. A conversation with Sprint 1Million Project President Doug Michelman (S2E11)

Tue, 26 Nov 2019 10:30:00 -0000

Doug Michelman, president of the 1Million Project Foundation and chairman of the Sprint Foundation, joins Aaron to discuss the tech company’s mission to help one million high school students who lack unreliable internet access reach their full potential by providing free devices and wifi. Aaron and Doug talk about what Doug learned working with values-led Levi Strauss early in his career, his experience spearheading Visa’s CSR initiative right before the company’s 2008 IPO, and launching the 1Million Project with President Obama in 2016 with only a PowerPoint presentation to back it up. Tune in to find out the most important piece of advice Doug received from former Sprint CEO and current SoftBank CEO, Marcelo Claure, and why it’s hard to give things away for free – even to those who need them. Learn more about the 1Million Project at 1millionproject.org and on Twitter at @1MillionProject.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Lindsay Hand, Ashley McGarry, Katrina Waelchli, and Mathew Passy

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Being Thrifty Was Always Nifty For OG Thrift Shop Savers. A Conversation With Savers VP of Recycling & Reuse Tony Shumpert (S2E10)

Tue, 19 Nov 2019 10:30:00 -0000

Tony Shumpert, vice president of recycling & reuse at Savers, joins Aaron in the studio to discuss the thrift chain’s over 60-year dedication to sustainable retail – before it was mainstream. Tony and Aaron talk about how Savers keeps the average cost of an item at $4, the importance of stakeholder collaboration to tackle big issues, both of their feelings about “green-washing” and the rise of the conscious consumer, and where all the unsold clothing goes (spoiler alert: not in a landfill). Listen in to hear what made Tony pass on job opportunities at Starbucks and Target to join Savers. Learn more about Savers at savers.com and valuevillage.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Lindsay Hand, Ashley McGarry, Katrina Waelchli, and Mathew Passy

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Learn About Smoothie King’s One-Question Filter-Test. A conversation with Smoothie King CEO Wan Kim (S2E9)

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 10:30:00 -0000

Wan Kim, Global CEO of Smoothie King, joins Aaron to discuss how the international smoothie chain works to inspire others to #RuleTheDay by living a healthy and active lifestyle. Wan talks about how the company has grown since he purchased it from the founders in 2012, the importance of the One-Question Filter-Test initiative, why aligning everything with the company mission is imperative for success, and how Smoothie King’s authenticity separates itself in the industry. Listen in to hear how Wan’s unhealthy college lifestyle led to a lifetime love for smoothies. Learn more about Smoothie King one its website at smoothieking.com and on social at @SmoothieKing.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Lindsay Hand, Ashley McGarry, Katrina Waelchli, Parker Jenkins and Mathew Passy

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Can an industrial company actually be good for the world? A conversation with Orbia CEO Daniel Martinez-Valle (S2E8)

Tue, 05 Nov 2019 10:30:00 -0000

Daniel Martinez-Valle, CEO of Orbia (formerly Mexichem), joins Aaron to discuss the company’s recent transformation and commitment to a purpose of advancing life around the world. Daniel and Aaron dive into Daniel’s economic background and experience during the 1994 Mexico tequila crisis, the importance of “nested purpose,” and why the transformation included a new living logo (ImpactMark) that changes as the company evolves. Listen closely to learn about how Daniel and his team came up with the name “Orbia.” Learn more about Orbia at orbia.com, on Twitter and LinkedIn @orbia, and on Instagram @weareorbia.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Lindsay Hand, Ashley McGarry, Katrina Waelchli, and Mathew Passy

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Sleep like three US Presidents and also help change lives. A conversation with Boll & Branch CEO and founder Scott Tannen (S2E7)

Tue, 29 Oct 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Scott Tannen, CEO and founder of Boll & Branch, joins Aaron to talk about the world’s first Fair Trade-certified luxury bedding company. Aaron and Scott discuss the “ah-ha” moment that led to the creation of the company, how Boll & Branch enhances the lives of cotton farmers in India, and the ways the company stays relevant and authentic in a crowded market. Listen in to hear how the name “Boll & Branch” came to be – and how to build a brand that even presidents love. Learn more about Boll & Branch at bollandbranch.com and on Instagram at @bollandbranch, and connect with Scott on LinkedIn at @Scott Tannen and Twitter at @ScottTannen.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Lindsay Hand, Ashley McGarry, Katrina Waelchli and Mathew Passy.

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How Putting Puppies in Prison Saves Lives. A Conversation with Puppies Behind Bars President Gloria Gilbert Stoga (S2E6)

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Gloria Gilbert Stoga, president of Puppies Behind Bars, joins Aaron to talk about the nonprofit that trains prison inmates to raise service dogs for wounded veterans and first responders. Aaron and Gloria discuss the People Magazine article that inspired Gloria to quit her job and start a nonprofit, the challenges of working with prisons and raising over 1,200 dogs, and how dogs can bring people from such different backgrounds and life experiences together. Listen in to hear about how Gloria’s view of inmates has shifted over the past 20+ years. Learn more about Puppies Behind Bars at puppiesbehindbars.com and on social at @puppiesbehindbarsorganization (Instagram/Facebook) and @pbborganization (Twitter).

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Lindsay Hand, Ashley McGarry, Katrina Waelchli, and Mathew Passy

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How an interaction with a gorilla led to gift baskets for babies and givebacks to the environment. A Conversation With Our Green House Founders Pam and Mike Davis (S2E5)

Tue, 15 Oct 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Pam and Mike Davis, founders of Our Green House, join Aaron to talk about how the eco-friendly baby basket company works to both provide a gift for new parents and save the environment, elephants, gorillas and turtles all at the same time. Pam and Mike discuss the parenting fears that led to the creation of the company when their kids were young, how they prioritize being a family-first brand, and how the rising popularity of sustainability and environmentally-friendly products impacted the company. Listen in to hear about Pam’s close encounter with a gorilla on a trip to Africa that ultimately inspired the creation of the brand. Learn more about Our Green House on its website at www.ourgreenhouse.com and on social at @ourgreenhouse.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Lindsay Hand, Ashley McGarry, Katrina Waelchli, and Mathew Passy

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It’s More Than Just Shoes. A Conversation with Deckers Brands’ Dave Powers (S2E4)

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Dave Powers, President & CEO of Deckers Brands, joins Aaron to talk about how the multi-billion-dollar global footwear and lifestyle company comprised of UGG, Koolaburra by UGG, HOKA ONE ONE, Teva and Sanuk, gives back to the community, the environment and its employees. From his prior experiences at Timberland and Converse, Dave learned the importance of creating an emotional connection through storytelling and how prioritizing the consumer and environment during all decision making creates a successful company. Listen closely to find out what Dave’s favorite shoe is and whether or not he has a favorite brand. Learn more about Deckers on its website at www.deckers.com, and each of the brands on Instagram at @UGG, @koolaburra, @hokaoneone, @teva and @Sanuk.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Lindsay Hand, Ashley McGarry, Katrina Waelchli, and Mathew Passy

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Learn how Fracture is literally re-framing sustainability through art. A conversation with Fracture’s Abhi Lokesh (S2E3)

Tue, 01 Oct 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Abhi Lokesh, co-founder and CEO of Fracture, joins Aaron to discuss how the photo-printing service is revolutionizing photo framing and motivating people to take their iPhone masterpieces to the wall. Abhi talks about how a trip to Swaziland inspired the creation of Fracture, why sustainability remains centerfold in Fracture’s business strategy, and the importance of being vulnerable and transparent with employees. Tune in to hear about the outcome of Abhi’s very first investor pitch – to his dad. Learn more about Fracture at Fractureme.com and on Instagram @fractureme, Twitter @FractureMe and Facebook @Fractureme.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Lindsay Hand, Ashley McGarry, Katrina Waelchli and Mathew Passy.

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How sandwiches support first responders. A conversation with Firehouse Subs’ Don Fox (S2E2)

Tue, 24 Sep 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Don Fox, CEO of Firehouse Subs, joins Aaron to talk about how the sandwich restaurant gives back to first responders. Aaron and Don discuss how Don’s firing from Burger King was the best thing that could have happened to him, how franchisees perform better with increased focus on philanthropic pursuits, and the importance of making an authentic connection with charity, including which companies do it well (and which don’t). Stay tuned to find out which sub is Don’s favorite. Learn more about Firehouse Subs and the Public Safety Foundation at firehousesubs.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Lindsay Hand, Ashley McGarry, Katrina Waelchli, and Mathew Passy

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Can dogs be vegan? A conversation with Wild Earth’s Ryan Bethencourt (S2E1)

Tue, 17 Sep 2019 09:30:00 -0000

To kick off Season 2, Wild Earth CEO and Founder Ryan Bethencourt joins Aaron to talk about the plant-based pet food taking the industry by storm. Aaron and Ryan talk about what it was like to pitch on Shark Tank with no sales (and secure Mark Cuban’s investment), Ryan’s quest to make the world a better and more sustainable place for both people and animals, and whether or not pet food can be Kosher. Listen closely to find out what Ryan thinks about “judgey” vegans and his go-to Chipotle order. Learn more about Wild Earth at wildearth.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Lindsay Hand, Ashley McGarry, Katrina Waelchli, and Mathew Passy

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How one couple’s apparel is cleaning the oceans, treating arthritis, helping veterans, and curing cancer. A conversation with Gells’ Richard Perkin (EP.11)

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Richard Perkin, Co-Founder of apparel company Gells, sits down with Aaron to discuss starting a business with his spouse, learning on the fly and their first “Oh s***” moments as entrepreneurs. Richard also shares key advice from his experiences developing authentic relationships with Gells’ partner charities. Listen closely to learn Richard’s secret to maintaining a healthy balance between Gells, family life, and a full-time job. Read more about Gells and their partner charities at https://gells.org/.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Lindsay Hand, Ashley McGarry, Giovanna Pineda, Katrina Waelchli, Jake Honig, and Mathew Passy

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People first, creativity second, technology third. A conversation with WeTransfer’s Damian Bradfield (EP.10)

Wed, 21 Aug 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Damian Bradfield, President and Chief Marketing Officer of WeTransfer, joins Aaron to talk about WeTransfer’s growth from a file transfer service into a purpose-driven digital media company. Aaron and Damian discuss the social causes that WeTransfer promotes, cultural differences between the Netherlands and the U.S., and Damian’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Listen in to hear why Damian wants WeTransfer’s users to take a break from the internet – including WeTransfer. Follow Damian on Twitter @djbradfield, follow WeTransfer on Instagram @wetransfer, and read WeTransfer’s editorial page at wepresent.com.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Lindsay Hand, Ashley McGarry, Giovanna Pineda, Katrina Waelchli, Jake Honig, and Mathew Passy

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Learn how to swim to save a life. This charity raised nearly $100 million to directly fund therapies to defeat cancer. A conversation with Swim Across America’s Rob Butcher and Pam Ryan from Goldman Sachs (EP.09)

Wed, 14 Aug 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Rob Butcher, Swim Across America CEO, and Pam Ryan, Swim Across America board chair and Goldman Sachs managing director, join Aaron to talk about how the organization wants to change the vernacular from “you have cancer” to “there is hope." They share stories about the organization’s very first swim and their most memorable event experiences, including Aaron’s impressive 10K swim this July across the Long Island Sound, and why corporate donations are worth more than just money. Find out how you can get involved, even if you don’t know how to swim, at www.swimacrossamerica.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Lindsay Hand, Ashley McGarry, Giovanna Pineda, Katrina Waelchli, Jake Honig, and Mathew Passy

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What do Tesla, Lululemon, and waste management have in common? A conversation with Swell Investing’s Teresa Orsolini (EP.08)

Wed, 07 Aug 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Teresa Orsolini, Chief Marketing Officer of Swell Investing, joins Aaron to talk about the journey to build Swell Investing to be part of the growing $30 trillion impact investing industry…shortly before the company announced it would be ceasing operations on August 31, 2019. Aaron and Teresa discuss why she pivoted from a successful marketing career, how companies got included in (and booted from) Swell’s portfolios, and how she worked to bridge the gap between consumers and their investments. Tune in to find out which centenarian company you’ve never heard of was one of Teresa’s favorites on the platform and why Aaron felt this episode was still important to share, despite the recent news.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Lindsay Hand, Ashley McGarry, Giovanna Pineda, Katrina Waelchli, Jake Honig, and Mathew Passy

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Keeping arts programs alive with used instruments. A conversation with Reverb’s David Kalt (EP.07)

Wed, 31 Jul 2019 09:30:00 -0000

David Kalt, CEO and founder of online instrument and music gear marketplace Reverb, joins Aaron to discuss the philanthropic venture Reverb Gives, separating the music from an artist when scandal hits, and turning a passion for music into a successful, profitable company that was recently acquired by Etsy for $275 million. Tune in to find out both David’s and Aaron’s walk-on songs and what artist David draws inspiration from daily. Check out the marketplace at reverb.com and in the Reverb app.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Andrew Kameka, Lindsay Hand, Ashley McGarry, Giovanna Pineda, Matt Szatkowski, Jake Honig, and Mathew Passy

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Why eBay is enabling $1 billion in donations by 2020 w/ eBay’s Steve Wymer (EP.06)

Wed, 24 Jul 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Steve Wymer, Senior VP and Chief Communications Officer of eBay and chairman of the eBay Foundation, joins Aaron to discuss eBay’s worldwide impact. From empowering local business owners on a global scale to giving sellers the option to donate a portion of their profits, Steve explains how eBay is setting an example that all brands can follow. Tune in to hear how Steve feels about eBay garnering less public attention (and criticism) than some other big tech companies. Follow Steve on Twitter @stevewymer and on LinkedIn at https://linkedin.com/in/stevewymer.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Andrew Kameka, Lindsay Hand, Ashley McGarry, Giovanna Pineda, Matt Szatkowski, Jake Honig, and Mathew Passy

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The Bank that Cares About Its Customers w/ Aspiration’s Andrei Cherny (EP.05)

Wed, 17 Jul 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Andrei Cherny, Co-Founder and CEO of Aspiration, joins Aaron to discuss the socially responsible banking company that constantly has people asking, “What’s the catch?” (Spoiler: there isn’t one.) Aaron and Andrei talk about everything from entrepreneurship and the 2016 election to Andrei’s favorite breakfast and Aspiration’s customer-friendly programs, including the “Pay What Is Fair” program. Listen in to find out why a majority of Aspiration customers pay for these services, despite no required fees. Follow @AndreiCherny on Twitter and @Aspiration on Twitter and Facebook. Sign up for Aspiration on their website https://www.aspiration.com or through the Aspiration app.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Andrew Kameka, Lindsay Hand, Ashley McGarry, Giovanna Pineda, Matt Szatkowski, Jake Honig, and Mathew Passy

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How Care/of Makes Taking Your Vitamins Good For You and Our World w/ Care/of’s Co-Founder and CEO, Craig Elbert (EP.04)

Wed, 10 Jul 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Craig Elbert, Co-Founder and CEO of direct-to-consumer company Care/of, joins Aaron to discuss the personalized vitamin subscription service. Aaron and Craig talk about the best and worst parts of entrepreneurship, the improbable journey of making compostable packaging, and having a kid and starting a company at the same time. Hear what Craig has to say about the future of vitamins and why CBD vitamins are more likely to hit the market before a catch-all super-pill. Sign up for Care/of at takecareof.com and follow on Instagram @careof.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Andrew Kameka, Lindsay Hand, Ashley McGarry, Giovanna Pineda, Matt Szatkowski, Jake Honig, and Mathew Passy

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Coastal Co - From Surfer to Subscription Boxes w/ Coastal Co.’s Kevin Tighe (EP.03)

Wed, 03 Jul 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Kevin Tighe, Co-Founder and CEO of beach and surf apparel subscription box service Coastal Co., joins Aaron to discuss his life-changing trip to Hawaii, Coastal Co.’s partnership with Heal the Bay, and a mutual understanding of the dangers of sharks. Don’t miss Aaron’s marketing advice for how you can reuse the Coastal Co. boxes! Follow Coastal Co. on Instagram @coastalcobox and read more about Heal the Bay at https://www.healthebay.org/ Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Andrew Kameka, Lindsay Hand, Ashley McGarry, Giovanna Pineda, Matt Szatkowski, Jake Honig, and Mathew Passy

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IRONMAN – Racing to Help w/ IRONMAN’s Sarah Hartmann (EP.02)

Wed, 26 Jun 2019 09:30:00 -0000

Sarah Hartmann, Executive Director of the IRONMAN Foundation, joins Aaron to talk about the IRONMAN community’s responsiveness to emergencies and how her theater background helps her to thrive under pressure. Tune in to learn how new homes for hurricane victims can be built in just four days through the organization’s incredible programs. Learn more about the IRONMAN Foundation at https://ironmanfoundation.org. Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Andrew Kameka, Lindsay Hand, Ashley McGarry, Giovanna Pineda, Matt Szatkowski, Jake Honig, and Mathew Passy

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Lyft – Ride Sharing for a Reason w/ Lyft’s Mike Masserman (EP.01)

Wed, 19 Jun 2019 14:37:02 -0000

Mike Masserman, the head of global policy and first-ever head of social impact at Lyft, joins Aaron to discuss his experience in the Obama Administration, the impacts of their immigrant backgrounds, and the remarkable work Lyft is doing using transportation to make a meaningful impact in communities across the country. Listen in to find out how an autonomous electric car army is just one part of Lyft’s fight against climate change.

Follow @mikemasserman on Instagram and @Lyft on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Andrew Kameka, Lindsay Hand, Ashley McGarry, Giovanna Pineda, Matt Szatkowski, Jake Honig, and Mathew Passy

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