Brand on Purpose

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   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, Anna Lamm and Mathew Passy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices