Good Together: Ethical, Eco-Friendly, Sustainable Living

Conscious consumerism and personal wellness go hand in hand. This week, we're joined by Sadie Lincoln, the visionary CEO and founder of Barre3, to explore the symbiotic relationship between sustainability and physical well-being, and how Barre3 studios nationwide are paving the way for a healthier planet and populace. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever wondered what happens to your donations once you drop them off at Goodwill? Us too! This week, we're joined by George Burt, COO of ShopGoodwill.com—an ecommerce platform that is owned and operated by the non-profit. We explore what happens to donations, how Goodwill gives back to the community, and how to change your shopping habits for good. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Warmer weather is here, meaning that there's no better time to get outside and reconnect with our planet. In this solo episode, Laura discusses how spending time in nature can be good for your health and your mind. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you're team traditional or eco-friendly cleaning products, you might be wondering how effective these eco-friendly cleaners actually are. This week Jason Tetro—AKA "The Germ Guy"— is back to talk about these cleaning products, including their effectiveness and some rules you should always follow. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you live in an area that doesn't accept glass recycling, tossing a single bottle in your bin can wreak havoc on the planet. Franziska Trautmann, co-founder of Glass Half Full, is challenging the current system by turning glass "waste" into a resource. In honor of Earth Month, we're resharing an important past episode where she discusses all things glass recycling and waste management, the benefits of turning glass into sand, and more. For show notes, visit https://brightly.eco/glass-recycling. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In terms of mindfulness, conscious consumerism and practicing yoga go hand in hand. This week, we're joined by Pamela Levine and Christian Regester to discuss the sustainability of yoga and how their company, Manduka, is working on solutions that are better for your practice and the planet. For show notes, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/how-manduka-is-making-sustainable-strides-in-the-yoga-industry/. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Climate change doesn't just impact wildlife and the weather. It also impacts human life—and that includes parenting. This week, we're resharing an important past episode with Sara Mauskopf, CEO and co-founder of Winnie, that discusses the intersection between climate and childcare—and how younger generations are directly impacted. For show notes, visit https://brightly.eco/how-climate-change-affects-childcare-and-education/. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Spring is here, aka the season of deep-cleaning and decluttering. But there's no need to sweep the planet under the rug in the process. Though this time of year finds many Americans sorting through their belongings, the practice can result in undue waste when undertaken mindlessly. This week, we're resharing an important past episode with tips and tricks from journalist and recycling expert Adam Minter, who's nothing short of a sustainable spring cleaning pro. For a full guide, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/sustainable-spring-cleaning-guide. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We know eating more plant-based dishes is a healthy and sustainable choice, but the assumption is that it's also an expensive one. This week, we're resharing an important past episode where we bust that myth with Toni Okamoto, founder of Plant-Based on a Budget. For show notes, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/is-plant-based-diet-more-expensive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Plastic-free living may seem overwhelming, especially when it feels like plastic is everywhere! In this week's episode, Arielle Crawford, sustainability educator and professor of sustainable manufacturing, chats all things plastic and zero-waste living, including how you can start reducing your plastic consumption. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this month's news roundup, Laura discusses some sustainable headlines you may have missed during February. From Thrive Market accepting SNAP EBT to how your hotel stay might become more eco-friendly, here are some news stories from the sustainability realm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jacques Cousteau was a legendary researcher, explorer, filmmaker, and pioneer in ocean conservation. Now, his grandson Philippe Cousteau—an oceanographer, environmental activist, producer, and author—is following in his footsteps. This week, we're resharing an important past episode where Philippe and his wife, journalist and environmentalist Ashlan Cousteau, share how they've combined entertainment with activism and research to inspire the next generation to change the world for the better. For show notes, visit https://brightly.eco/ashlan-and-philippe-cousteau-interview. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As we know climate change has major implications, including natural disasters and infrastructure damage. However, have you ever considered how it impacts microbes? This week Jason Tetro—AKA "The Germ Guy"—educates us on how climate change affects microbes and germ spread. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With spring cleaning around the corner, you're probably wondering if there's a sustainable way to get rid of unwanted clothing. This week, Amelia Trumble, co-founder and CEO of Retold Recycling, talks all things clothing recycling and how you can keep your clothing out of the landfill. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this new series, Laura is discussing news stories she's seen in the sustainability realm. From Kroger's initiative that prioritizes pollinators in the supply chain to the world's largest cruise ship setting sail, here are some headlines you may have missed this month. For show notes, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/january-sustainability-news. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In an era where planet Earth could use a little extra TLC, many parents are setting out to raise their little ones with a side of sustainability. The good news? You don't have to be an eco-warrior to make a difference. This week, Jen Panaro, the founder and editor-in-chief of Honestly Modern, shares small changes in your daily routine that can wield a super-sized impact on shrinking your family's carbon footprint. For show notes, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/sustainable-parenting-habits. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We talk a lot about greenhouse gas emissions and what they're doing to our atmosphere. But what about our oceans? That's a question best posed to Dr. Jessica Cross, a research oceanographer with the National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in Seattle, WA. This week, we're resharing an important past episode where you'll learn everything there is to know about ocean acidification and the effect it has on the planet. For show notes, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/ocean-acidification. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Imagine a farming method where fish and vegetables engage in a mutually beneficial tango, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem. This week, Cody Parker, founder of Drop the Beet Farms, is diving into the world of aquaponics—something that's not only transforming the way we grow food, but also holds the promise of a more sustainable and interconnected future for our planet. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Current economic circumstances are putting a lot of pressure on everyone right now. As we enter 2024, our mission is to equip you with all the tools you'll need to balance your sustainability goals with financial realities—from cost-cutting grocery shopping tips to ways to utilize your community before buying new. For show notes, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/sustainability-goals-vs-financial-realities. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Crafting is fun—there's no doubt about that. Unfortunately, it isn't always the most sustainable hobby. One quick walk through any craft store will leave you looking at shelves brimming with an endless array of glittering possibilities, but it's hard to ignore the environmental impact that often lurks behind the sparkle. This week, Tiffanie Anne Westgor, a sustainable crafting expert, is sharing how making small changes during our crafting and DIY adventures can make a big impact on the world around us. For show notes, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/sustainable-crafting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The notion of wrapping up a pre-owned item as a gift was traditionally met with raised eyebrows. However, in recent times, the narrative surrounding secondhand gifting has undergone a notable transformation as more and more people embrace the idea of sustainable and eco-friendly gift-giving. This week, Bre Eggert, the founder of Average But Inspired, is sharing all the tips and tricks you need to ensure your thrifting endeavors result in thoughtful and memorable presents. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Between the gift shopping, endless rolls of wrapping paper, and glittery decor, staying sustainable over the holidays can be a challenge. This week, Sarah Robertson-Barnes, a low-waste living expert and the founder of Sustainable in the Suburbs, is back to discuss everything you need to know to make your holiday season more eco-friendly, no matter how you're celebrating. For show notes, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/how-to-have-an-eco-friendly-christmas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At Good Together, a huge part of what we do involves connecting the dots between conscious consumerism and climate change, and we recognize that daily actions CAN make a difference. But what if you're looking to get involved in a bigger way and even want to dedicate your career to the climate? Someone who's full of great advice is this week's guest, Dr. Lisa Allyn Dale, who teaches at Columbia Climate School in New York City. For more information, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/jobs-in-sustainability. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thanksgiving gives us an opportunity to celebrate everything we're thankful for. What you may not realize, though, is between the food waste and holiday travel emissions, it's one of the least sustainable holidays. The good news is you don't have to sacrifice your holiday fun. This week, Sarah Robertson-Barnes, a low-waste living expert and the founder of Sustainable in the Suburbs, is here to help make your Thanksgiving more eco-friendly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In search of a new recipe that's not only delicious but also has the planet in mind? Look no further than Good Together's new series, Everyday Lower-Waste Recipes, where Laura shares which meal has been on repeat in her home. This week, she's joined by Grace Elkus, a food writer and editor, recipe developer, and content creator, to chat about her latest food obsession and ways to cut down on waste. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You're probably well aware of your carbon footprint and the impact it has on the environment. It's why we make such conscious efforts to reduce things like our energy consumption, water usage, and waste on a daily basis. However, what we often overlook is our *digital* carbon footprint. This week, Laura shares how everything from social media to streaming to our inbox impacts the planet—and how we can make positive changes toward a brighter future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When it comes to being ultra-sustainable, Robin Greenfield definitely knows what he's doing. The activist and humanitarian has been working on making the world a more sustainable space for years now, oftentimes with attention-grabbing projects that highlight important issues. This week, he discusses his journey to green living and how we can all be the change we wish to see in the world. For show notes, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/rob-greenfield-interview. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever wondered what harmful substances might be lurking in your everyday routine? One such example is endocrine disruptors, and they're making their way into our lives in the most unexpected ways, not only harming our health but also the environment. This week, award-winning journalist Alden Wicker joins Laura to discuss the growing problem and what conscious consumers can do to stay safe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kellie Brown of "And I Get Dressed" and "Deeply Madly Modern" is known for her incredible taste in style and interior design. But you won't always find her buying new—she prefers being thrifty and is a pro at scoring secondhand home finds that belong in your favorite magazines. In this week's episode, we're stealing all her secrets. For show notes, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/secondhand-shopping-tips-that-elevate-your-home. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When it comes to environmental footprints, our water use warrants a serious conversation—and Jonah Schein, the national program manager for Homes & Buildings at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's WaterSense Program, agrees. This week, Jonah settles the dishwasher vs hand washing debate (once and for all!), as well as shares other ways we can increase our efficiency around usage. For show notes, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/dishwasher-vs-hand-washing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scientists say climate change is already affecting every region across the globe. And, animals are responding quicker than humans. This week, we're resharing a past episode with Thor Hanson, a biologist and the author of Hurricane Lizards and Plastic Squid. In it, he discusses how animals are adapting to climate change right before our eyes. For show notes, visit https://brightly.eco/animals-adapting-climate-change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Plant-forward, sustainable eating and scrappy cooking are on the rise as ways to mitigate climate change and better the planet. This week, we're resharing a past episode with Max La Manna, a sustainable chef and award-winning author. In it, he shares simple ways to reduce food waste, how to incorporate more plant-based foods into your routine, and more. For show notes, visit https://brightly.eco/max-la-manna-interview. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Climate change hasn't always been part of the curriculum at schools across the nation, but that's changing. In 2020, New Jersey became the first state to require that climate change is taught across all subjects. Then in 2022, Connecticut passed a law that required that lessons on human-caused climate change be incorporated into the science curriculum. Now, New York City has officially rolled out a climate-based curriculum, too. In this week's episode, Vicki Sando, a Green STEM teacher at PS 41 in Manhattan, touches on the future of climate-based education, the green roof revolution, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We get energy from wind and the sun, but have you ever looked toward the vast, untapped energy potential of our oceans? Yep, that's right—with more than 70% of the earth's surface covered by water, wave energy has the potential to become a key contributor to our global energy needs. The topic is something this week's guest, Jan Skjoldhammer, the founder and CEO of the wave energy developer Novige AB, definitely knows a thing or two about. So could wave energy be the next big thing in sustainable energy? For more information, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/wave-energy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we're diving into “mindful consumption”—a concept that allows us to make more intentional choices in our daily lives. By being more mindful about what we're buying, we can foster a more sustainable lifestyle, benefitting both our bank accounts and the planet. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As we witness the mounting challenges posed by climate change, soil degradation, and biodiversity loss, regenerative agriculture emerges as a beacon of hope, offering a paradigm shift from conventional farming practices. This week, we're diving into the ins and outs of the innovative approach to farming with Evan Harrison, the CEO at Kiss the Ground. For more information, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/regenerative-agriculture. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura Wittig recently sat down with Nick Huzar, the co-founder of OfferUp, to talk about the impact that all of the stuff we accumulate has on the planet. (Spoiler: It's not good!) This week, you can listen in from the other side: We're sharing Nick's interview with Laura on his own podcast, StuffTV. For more episodes, visit stufftv.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bee species are being threatened by multiple factors, from pesticide use to habitat loss. That's why we all need to do our part to help save them. This week, we're resharing an important past episode with Jonathan Powell, a trustee at Natural Beekeeping Trust and a natural beekeeper himself. In it, you'll learn about the vital role bees play in the environment, what a "natural beekeeper" actually is, and how we can play an important role in their survival. For more information, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/how-to-save-the-bees. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We all love the feeling of accomplishment that comes with making small upgrades around the home. Unfortunately, these changes can come at a cost to the planet—be it in the form of excess waste, buying decor or furniture that's cheaply made and doesn't last, or using non-renewable resources that have a hefty environmental footprint. This week, Laura is sharing eco-upgrades she's made around her own home—and how you, too, can make home improvements sustainably. For show notes, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/sustainable-home-improvement-tips. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you haven't jumped on the meal prepping bandwagon yet, you'll want to change that ASAP. It's a secret weapon that can transform your life into a sustainable, money-saving, waste-reducing adventure. This week, Dini Klein, the founder of Prep + Rally, is sharing everything you'll need to know to get started on your journey. For more tips and tricks, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/how-to-make-homemade-salad-dressing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Laura is chatting about an interesting new report from the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication that will leave you feeling hopeful for the future of our planet. Plus, a Stasher rant you won't want to miss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We have a major “stuff” problem. With everything we want just a click away, we bring new things into our homes every day… just to toss them out. This excessive consumption has led to an alarming statistic: The average American produces 4.5 pounds of trash each day. For a family of four, that's 6,570 pounds of trash generated per year. This week, we dive into the issue with Nick Huzar, the co-founder and board director at OfferUp and the founder of StuffTV. For more information, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/americas-stuff-problem. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We all want to put our money toward saving the environment, and luckily, there are many organizations to choose from that are doing just that. The unfortunate reality is that it can be really hard to tell where your donations are actually going—and whether or not they're making an impact. This week, Chris Vargas, a Silicon Valley-based tech entrepreneur and the founder of ReWorld, is sharing the surprising truth about what goes on behind the scenes at some of these environmental organizations and how to ensure your dollars are being well-spent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It feels impossible to scroll through social media without stumbling upon a fast fashion haul. And it's no wonder why fast fashion is so popular—it's cheap, easily accessible, and trendy. But there are much better ways to shop for both your wallet and the planet. This week, we're resharing a past episode that dives into how to break up with fast fashion for good and finally build a sustainable wardrobe you love. For more information, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/how-to-break-up-with-fast-fashion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

PVC or polyvinyl chloride, one of the most widely used plastics in the world, has a unique combination of properties, making it versatile and useful in the fashion industry and beyond. However, it's also a controversial material due to its environmental impact and potential health risks. This week, Laura dives into the topic with Alden Wicker, an award-winning journalist and the author of ‘To Dye For: How Toxic Fashion Is Making Us Sick.' For more information, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/pvc-health-environment-concerns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you've ever wished there was a thrift store for crafters filled with paint, fabrics, scrapbooking supplies, stickers, beads, and essentially everything else your creative heart desires, you're in luck. Creative reuse centers are on the rise, and they're giving these odds and ends a new destiny—one that doesn't involve the landfill. This week, Toban Nichols, the director of education and development at REMAINDERS Creative Reuse in Pasadena, California, discusses how creative reuse centers are benefiting the planet—and why you'll want to plan a visit to one ASAP. For more information, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/creative-reuse-centers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clean beauty is a complicated topic. This week, Laura shares what "clean beauty" really means, the benefits of switching to cleaner products, how to make the transition, and the tried-and-true products she can't live without. For more information, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/how-to-successfully-transition-into-a-clean-beauty-routine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hydropower is one of the world's oldest renewable energy sources. But what is it, how does it work, and how does it benefit the planet? In this week's episode, Dr. Melissa Lott, the Director of Research at Columbia University's Center on Global Energy Policy, is diving into all of the above. For more information, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/hydropower-guide. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are many reasons why it's hard to get a good night's sleep—stress, too much scrolling on your phone, too much caffeine, and beyond. But did you know that the materials your mattress is made of could be impacting the quality of your sleep, too? To discuss this important topic is Arin Schultz, the vice president of sales and marketing at Naturepedic. For more information, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/sustainable-sleep. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are so many benefits to going outside and getting your hands dirty. This week, Dominique Charles, the CEO and creator of Plots & Pans, talks gardening with purpose—from growing produce that inspires creative cooking to deepening your connection with nature. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gone are the days of solely relying on grocery stores to provide fresh produce, eggs, and other meal essentials. Now, an increasing number of individuals are reconnecting with their agricultural roots and discovering the advantages of urban farming. Two people who are very familiar with this trend are this week's guests—Stephanie Thurow and Michelle Bruhn, the co-authors of the new book ‘Small-Scale Homesteading.' Learn how to start growing your own food from anywhere, whether you're working with a small apartment balcony or a big backyard. For more information, visit https://brightly.eco/blog/urban-farming. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices