Someone Like You

Price. Convenience. Taste. Can your brand deliver? Annalea Krebs, founder of Social Nature, joins the show to unpack the brutal balancing act every sustainable CPG founder faces. In a world where consumers demand it all — low prices, easy access, great taste, and environmental impact — building a brand that scales isn't just hard, it's war. With insights from over 3 million product reviews and a decade leading shopper-driven marketing, Annalea shares data-backed strategies for thriving in a high-cost, low-margin, impact-driven industry. A must-listen for founders breaking the old retail rules to build something better.  

For Earth Month, we're spotlighting a browser turning everyday internet use into climate action. Marco sits down with Neil Henderson and Mahum Azeem from Shift to explore how they're reimagining the web browser as a tool for reducing digital emissions. From email and streaming to Slack and beyond, Shift is tackling the hidden climate cost of our online lives—without compromising performance. A must-listen for product builders, climate tech founders, and anyone curious about weaving sustainability into software at scale.  

The Capitalist Hippie (Formerly Someone Like You) Photon is building electric propulsion systems for commercial boats—and unlocking a $16B market in the process. In this episode, founders Marcelino Alvarez and Alana Kambury share how a focused go-to-market strategy, real-world use cases, and deep hardware-software integration are driving adoption in one of the most overlooked sectors in electrification. If you're building climate tech, rethinking product-market fit, or exploring niche markets with massive upside—this conversation delivers insight, clarity, and momentum.  

Lithium demand is skyrocketing, but traditional extraction methods are water-intensive, expensive, and slow. That's where Lithios comes in. In this episode, founder Mo Alkhadra reveals how his breakthrough technology is making lithium extraction faster, cleaner, and more cost-effective—unlocking new resources to power the EV revolution. Tune in to learn how innovation is reshaping the global supply chain and why investors are betting big on lithium's next frontier.   Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast

What happens when a Google engineer walks away from a high-paying career to fight the climate crisis? He discovers a massive, overlooked problem: there aren't nearly enough people working on climate solutions—yet millions want to be. In this episode, Eugene Kirpichov, co-founder and executive director of Work on Climate, shares how he's helping thousands transition into impactful climate careers and why this workforce shift is critical to solving the climate crisis. Whether you're looking to pivot your career, launch a climate-focused business, or invest in the green economy, this conversation is packed with insights on the biggest opportunities and how you can get involved today. Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast

In this episode, we explore the cutting-edge science helping farmers fight back against extreme weather. Marco sits down with Sue Abrams and Jerome Konecsni of ABAzyne Bioscience, the brilliant minds behind a revolutionary plant-based solution that helps vineyards and orchards withstand cold temperatures and drought. With climate change putting our global food supply at risk, this conversation dives into the science, the market potential, and what it takes for a sustainability-driven startup to succeed in an industry dominated by agricultural giants.   Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast

Stripe, Shopify, and Google are some of the world's most innovative companies that are working with Carbon Run. Why? Because temporary solutions to climate change, like tree-planting credits, aren't enough anymore. Carbon Run has stepped up with a revolutionary approach that delivers permanent carbon removal, restores ecosystems and improves biodiversity through enhanced rock weathering and river restoration. Join us as we speak with Luke Connell, Carbon Run's CEO and Co-Founder, and Colton Dirksen, their Chief Business Officer. Hear how they've gained the trust of global brands, overcome massive challenges, and scaled a model that blends ecological restoration with financial sustainability. Whether you want to be a sustainability-driven builder, an investor, or a climate-innovation enthusiast, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss. Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast

In this eye-opening episode of Someone Like You, Mitchell, founder of The Better Butchers, opens up about his extraordinary entrepreneurial journey. Learn how he helped scale The Very Good Butchers to a near-billion-dollar valuation, only to face the harsh realities of rapid growth, public markets, and eventual insolvency. Now focused on The Better Butchers, Mitchell reveals his lessons learned, innovative strategies for tackling the future of food, and his vision for sustainable business growth. This episode is packed with insights on resilience, innovation, and the evolving plant-based protein market—perfect for dreamers and doers alike. Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast

This week, we're re-airing one of our favourite episodes featuring Felix Böck, Founder & CEO of ChopValue, a certified B Corp based in Vancouver, Canada, that creates high-performance circular economy designs made entirely from recycled bamboo chopsticks. Hailing from South Germany, Felix came to Canada to complete a PhD at the University of British Columbia in Innovation on Composite Materials with bamboo as the main natural fibre resource. Since its founding, ChopValue has recycled and transformed over fifty million chopsticks, diverting them from landfills, and now operates microfactories globally with partners like Vancouver Airport and Cadillac Fairview. Excitingly, since this episode first aired, ChopValue announced a $15 million investment to launch its Microfactory Venture Platform, aiming to scale its unique microfactory model and further its impact worldwide. This milestone represents a significant step in the company's mission to combine sustainability with innovation, proving that waste can truly be turned into value. Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast

In this episode of Someone Like You, host Marco Pimentel sits down with Kristy O'Leary, the bold founder of Decade, a consultancy that's turning traditional business models on their head. From growing up in a social enterprise to challenging the idea that profit and purpose can't coexist, Kristy shares her bold vision for the future of business. Kristy doesn't shy away from controversy. She calls out companies that fail to measure or communicate their impact and questions whether businesses that create more harm than good even deserve to exist. With a proven track record of helping over 100 companies achieve B Corp certification, she argues that innovation and imagination are key to solving the world's toughest challenges and thriving in uncertain times. This conversation tackles the myths of greenwashing, the untapped power of impact audits, and the shocking reality that fewer than 10,000 of the world's 336 million companies follow rigorous frameworks for doing good. Our guest shares why businesses that align profit with regeneration will own the future—and why those that cling to outdated models risk being left behind. Tune in for a provocative discussion about resilience, bold leadership, and redefining success in today's economy. It's a must-listen for anyone who believes businesses can—and should—leave the world better than they found it. Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast

In this episode of Someone Like You, Anie Rouleau, Founder and CEO of The Unscented Company, shares her inspiring journey of building a purpose-driven business reshaping the cleaning and personal care industry. From starting her company at 43 to challenging entrenched norms, Anie opens up about the struggles and triumphs of creating a brand that prioritizes sustainability, innovation, and social impact. Anie discusses the uphill battle of competing with industry giants that prioritize artificial fragrances over environmental responsibility. She doesn't hold back in exposing the barriers faced by B Corp-certified businesses, especially when banks hesitate to support purpose-driven ventures. She also reveals her bold vision for the future: eliminating plastic and liquid packaging as water conservation becomes the next frontier in sustainability. Please tune in to hear how Anie disrupts the market, stays true to her values, and proves that a small, mission-focused business can thrive in a behemoth-dominated space. It's a conversation about resilience, innovation, and the power of authenticity. Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast

Food sustainability is a critical issue in our society, so is there a way to sustainably build businesses that combat this issue? Corwin Hibert, best-selling author, co-founder of multiple businesses, and host of the podcast Aisle 42 explores the principle of sustainability in the food sector on a daily basis. As VP of Strategic Partnerships for the Ethical Food Group in Vancouver, Hiebert helps brands establish themselves as changemakers in the food sector. In this conversation, we explore the nuance of how sustainability can be a complex problem with simple solutions, how he built his dream life, and his hopes for the future of the sustainable food industry. Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast

Every year, millions of tons of waste threaten our environment, but Marco Prayer, CTO and Co-Founder of RecycleSmart is leading a transformative journey. With over 15 years of software development experience, Marco infuses his leadership with a passion for sustainability. RecycleSmart has redefined recycling nationwide, using cutting-edge technology under Marco's guidance to streamline waste management and propel Australia toward a circular economy.  Marco shares his insights on waste management challenges, technological advancements driving RecycleSmart's mission, and his vision for a greener, more sustainable future. Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast

Cordell Jacks is a visionary leader with a career that spans founding and directing social enterprises focused on public health, cleantech, circular economies, and social purpose companies. For his impactful work, Cordell has been recognized with global industry awards, fellowships, and grants.    Today, he serves as CEO and Co-Founder of Regenerative Capital Group, a fund that trains and invests in entrepreneurial leaders to acquire and grow Canadian small businesses, emphasizing social purpose and regenerative business practices. Before this, Cordell held leadership roles that involved developing scalable market solutions for pressing global challenges. In this episode, we explore Cordell's journey, his approach to integrating profit with purpose, and how he's preparing the next generation of impact-driven entrepreneurs. This is an inspiring conversation on leadership, business transformation, and making a meaningful difference!  Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast

Did you know that the average person's daily spending habits can significantly impact the environment? Meet Sanchali Pal, the visionary founder of Commons, an app that empowers users to make eco-conscious choices in their everyday lives. Drawing from her experiences as a former consultant working directly with those affected by the climate crisis, Sanchali recognized the urgent need for a solution that bridges the gap between personal choices and collective environmental impact. Through Commons, users access a powerful tool that converts their everyday spending into a tangible measure of their carbon footprint. With a proprietary algorithm named "The Carbonizer," the app provides insights into the environmental impact of every purchase, empowering individuals to make informed decisions that align with their values. Join us as Sanchali delves into the genesis of Commons, her experience as a solo founder, and the transformative power of aligning financial decisions with environmental values. Get ready to be inspired to make a positive impact, one spending choice at a time. Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Michael Green, a visionary architect at the forefront of mass timber construction. His innovative books, "The Case for Tall Wood Buildings" and "Tall Wood Buildings: Design, Construction, and Performance," have reshaped urban architecture, promoting sustainable materials like cross-laminated timber and glulam beams. As founder of Michael Green Architecture, Michael leads a team recognized globally for their innovative designs that prioritize environmental responsibility. Michael's impact is profound from the iconic T3 building in Minneapolis, designed to retain carbon, to advocating for policy change in mass timber construction. Discover how Michael's firm integrates social and environmental values into every project, and learn about his pioneering initiatives like Design Build Research and Timber Online Education. From educational outreach to award-winning architecture, Michael Green is paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future in urban development. Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast

Every year, billions of pounds of perfectly good food go to waste in landfills. Today, we're exploring the profound issue of food waste with Jordan Schenck, the Chief Customer Officer at Flashfood. She offers insights into how we can transform this narrative, one meal at a time. At Flashfood, Jordan oversees various strategic initiatives to drive positive change. Her leadership is a testament to her unwavering commitment to revolutionizing the landscape of food sustainability. From leading commercial strategies to shaping marketing and product initiatives, Jordan's influence is evident and impactful. Before joining Flashfood, Jordan's journey was already making significant strides in her career. She propelled the Impossible Burger into the mainstream at Impossible Foods, showcasing her talent for impactful innovation. Her co-founding role at Sunwink further solidified her reputation for crafting brands that resonate deeply with consumers while prioritizing sustainability. Forbes recognized Jordan as one of the top 50 "Most Innovative Chief Marketing Officers," and her influence transcends corporate boundaries. Today, we're privileged to delve into her mind as she shares insights into Flashfood's mission to combat food waste and enhance accessibility. Join us as Jordan shares her journey, insights, and unwavering dedication to building a brighter, more sustainable future. Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast

Landfills receive millions of tons of wood waste every year. Most of the waste can be recycled and repurposed; however, the lack of infrastructure in this sector means that the useful material doesn't always reach the right people. Today, we're diving into the future of sustainable wood sourcing with a true innovator: Ben Christensen, CEO and Co-Founder of Cambium Carbon, who was recognized by Forbes 30 under 30 for his team's social impact.  Ben holds a Master's of Environmental Management from the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies. Growing up in a woodshop with a carpenter father, it wasn't until he was in grad school that he realized the massive problem of urban wood waste. He knew there was an opportunity to create change, leading him to start Cambium Carbon.  Cambium Carbon makes it easy for large companies to source materials locally and use waste-to-value materials, primarily focusing on wood. He established the company to combat climate change and revitalize communities.  In this episode, we'll explore Ben's journey, Cambium Carbon's mission, and the role of the circular economy in combating climate change. Prepare to be inspired by Ben's commitment to tackling urban wood waste! Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast

The home energy efficiency industry is undergoing a transformative shift towards sustainability. Today, we're excited to explore this dynamic landscape with Lauren Salz, Co-Founder and CEO of Sealed, a trailblazing climate tech company at the forefront of this revolution. Recognized for her remarkable leadership, Sealed was named one of the 10 most innovative energy companies of 2021 by Fast Company, and Lauren herself was honoured in Forbes' 30 Under 30 list for her contributions to the energy sector. Sealed is on a mission to stop home energy waste by enabling contractors to install more home weatherization and electrification projects and grow their businesses. Their software, data, and analytics enable market-leading products, including a one-stop rebate solution. Today, Sealed is a leader in the home energy efficiency space, offering innovative solutions to modernize homes and reduce carbon emissions. In our discussion with Lauren, we'll explore her journey as a founder, her vision for Sealed, and the lessons she's learned along the way. Join us as we gain insights into how Lauren's leadership is shaping the future of sustainable home energy solutions.  Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast

Every day, the urgency to address climate change grows more pressing. Yet, amidst the daunting challenges, there's a beacon of hope: a movement driven by countless ideas, companies, and individuals dedicated to effecting positive change. Today, we're sitting down with Kip Pastor, an award-winning filmmaker and the Founder & CEO of Pique Action, a Public Benefit Corporation at the forefront of this movement. Kip shares his journey from filmmaker to climate advocate, emphasizing the power of storytelling in shaping perceptions and driving action. With a track record of producing viral content and impactful documentaries, Kip understands the pivotal role of media in educating, inspiring, and mobilizing communities. Through Pique Action, he's harnessing this power to change the climate change conversation, focusing on solutions, positive stories, and tangible impact. Join us as Kip discusses Pique Action's mission, its commitment to carbon neutrality, and its innovative approach to connecting the dots between workers, investors, and policymakers in the fight against climate change. From social media outreach to public awareness campaigns, Pique Action is reshaping the narrative, one story at a time. Prepare to be inspired and empowered to join the movement for a sustainable future! Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast

Delve into the realm of renewable energy with John Witchel, the visionary CEO of King Energy. With a background in software and finance, John's journey back to the renewable energy sector is driven by a profound desire to make a meaningful impact. Join us as we explore how King Energy is revolutionizing the solar industry by addressing the "Split Incentive Problem" in solar energy for multi-tenant commercial properties. Discover the intricacies of their business model, which involves renting roofs from landlords and providing discounted solar energy to tenants, creating a win-win scenario for all parties involved. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant community of Durango, Colorado, John attributes the profound influence he gains from his surroundings and family. Through their unwavering support, John finds the drive to pursue his vision of a cleaner, greener future powered by solar energy. Discover how King Energy is reshaping the renewable energy landscape and empowering communities through innovative solar solutions in this enlightening conversation with John Witchel and embark on a journey toward a more sustainable tomorrow!  Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast 

Each year, millions of tons of waste find their way into landfills, harming our planet and ecosystems. Amidst the challenges of this crisis, there are companies lighting the way forward. In today's episode, we're thrilled to introduce Lindsey Hoell, the Founder & CEO of Dispatch Goods, a pioneering reverse logistics company committed to addressing the global waste crisis head-on.   Lindsey's entrepreneurial path began with her involvement in the Surfrider Foundation's Ocean Friendly Restaurants program and culminated in the founding of Dispatch Goods - all while pursuing her MBA at UC Berkeley. Through Dispatch Goods, Lindsey is on a mission to revolutionize waste reduction by providing businesses with streamlined reuse solutions, ultimately diverting millions of items from the waste stream.  Lindsey shares the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, demonstrating resilience and commitment to her vision of a sustainable future. Join us as we delve into Lindsey's journey, glean insights on building a successful startup, and explore her vision for a world where waste is minimized and sustainability reigns supreme. Get inspired and empowered to join the movement toward a brighter, cleaner future!     Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast. 

Mike Winterfield is Founder and of Active Impact, Canada's largest climate tech seed fund. As a seasoned entrepreneur and dedicated advocate for environmental sustainability, his career spans over two decades across software, professional recruitment, and venture capital where he has continually demonstrated his commitment to making a positive impact. Following his role as COO at Traction on Demand and President of Traction Rec, Mike founded Active Impact. Through Active Impact Investments, he channels his passion for the environment into profitable ventures, driving sustainable solutions while delivering returns. Prior to his groundbreaking venture with Active Impact, as President of Randstad Professionals, Mike oversaw $300M in revenue and placed thousands of individuals in pivotal roles. His expertise in enterprise sales and team building has positioned him as a leader in the field. Mike's commitment extends beyond business; he advises accelerators like CDL Vancouver Climate and Spring Activator, and serves on the boards of Flair, RailVision, Future, and Agrology driving strategic growth and impact.  Join us as we delve into Mike's journey, insights into environmental entrepreneurship, and his unwavering commitment to a greener future!  

How do we build solutions for a better planet? We educate new young leaders who can create those solutions.  Climate change is undeniably one of the most pressing issues facing humanity today, and the urgency to address it has never been greater. With the launch of Pearson College's Climate Action Leadership Diploma Program, a new wave of young leaders is emerging, ready to tackle this global challenge head-on. In this episode, we dive deep into the innovative CALD Program with our guests Valentina Constancio, Alicia Yang, and Emily Coolidge from Pearson College. We explore how this program is shaping the next generation of climate leaders. The program's curriculum empowers students with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to make a meaningful impact in the fight against climate change while offering students academic credits and real-world insights into climate leadership. Through direct place-based experiences, guest lectures, and project-based work, students develop essential leadership skills while connecting with Indigenous values and communities. Additionally, the CALD Program offers micro-credentials in facilitation, conflict transformation, climate modeling, and more. These certifications enhance students' abilities to drive meaningful change in the world. We uncover the inspiration behind the CALD Program, its curriculum highlights, and the transformative experiences of students and educators alike. Get ready to be inspired by the passion and dedication of those leading the charge for climate action! Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast. 

An enlightening conversation with Britt Wray, Author and Director of CIRCLE at Stanford Psychiatry, where we delve into her groundbreaking research and advocacy in the intersection of climate leadership, emotional well-being, and community resilience.  Using her expertise in science communication, Britt Wray ignites meaningful action in a world grappling with climate change. From acclaimed books like Generation Dread to her podcast Gen Dread, she empowers individuals to confront climate grief and cultivate courage.  Drawing from her multidisciplinary background, including a PhD in Science Communication, Britt illuminates innovative strategies to address the psychological toll of environmental degradation, such as the creation of CIRCLE at Stanford Psychiatry. As a distinguished speaker at TED and the World Economic Forum, she amplifies the urgency of climate action and advocates for inclusive, community-driven approaches.  Britt Wray inspires a new generation of climate changemakers, envisioning a world where emotional well-being and environmental sustainability align seamlessly. Get inspired by Britt Wray's passion and commitment to make positive change. Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast. 

  Every day, millions of people worldwide lack access to reliable electricity, forcing them to rely on dangerous and expensive alternatives. However, one entrepreneur, Sam Goldman, is on a mission to change that narrative. With degrees in Biology and Environmental Studies, an MBA, and a passion for social transformation, Sam has dedicated his career to making clean energy accessible and affordable to all.  As a Peace Corps volunteer in Benin, Africa, he was inspired to find safer and more sustainable ways to power homes and businesses in underserved regions. His passion for social impact and innovation laid the foundation for d. Light's transformative work. Under his leadership, d.light has positively impacted over 170 million lives in 70 countries, saving customers $5 billion in energy expenses. Unsurprisingly, Forbes recognized him as one of the world's top 30 social entrepreneurs, and he was named Social Entrepreneur of the Year by the Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship. Today, Sam leads a project within Innovative Breakthrough Energy Technologies (IBET), where he continues to drive impactful change by addressing lightning-induced forest fires, a significant contributor to global carbon emissions.  Join us as Sam shares the inspiring story behind d.light's inception, from its humble beginnings to its ambitious vision of reaching 1 billion people by 2030. Discover how Samuel's dedication to social impact, resilience, and innovation is lighting the way to a brighter, more sustainable future for all. Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast. 

Sustainable building solutions are critical in a world where construction consumes over 50% of all resources extracted globally annually, and less than 10% of plastic waste is recycled. That's where Dustin Bowers comes in. Founder and CEO/CTO at PLAEX Building Systems, he has a diverse background in carpentry, fine arts, and environmental passion, which led him to create innovative solutions for sustainable construction. PLAEX is committed to manufacturing environmentally responsible building materials from recycled waste streams, focusing on durability and sustainability. As this week's guest on Someone Like You, Dustin explores the unique challenges of the construction industry and how the company's Lego-style modular construction blocks are revolutionizing building practices. He also discusses the quantitative impacts expected from PLAEX's technology and their vision for a circular economy in construction, reducing carbon footprints while saving energy costs. To wrap up, he reflects on PLAEX's mission to raise the quality standards of buildings globally, emphasizing simplicity, innovation, and sustainability in every structure. You certainly don't want to miss this inspiring conversation! Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast. 

One garbage truck full of plastic enters the ocean every minute. Even though the material can seem like a facilitator and even an improvement in our daily lives, it is convenient to throw it away without a second thought – and the environment is suffering because of it. Estimations say that by 2050, there will be more plastic than fish in the ocean.  Today, we have an inspiring conversation with David Katz, a compassionate entrepreneur and the Founder and CEO of Plastic Bank. Recognized globally for his humanitarian work, David has pioneered Social Recycling, turning plastic waste into a currency that transcends poverty and safeguards the planet. Plastic Bank is a social enterprise that empowers a global network of over 500 collection communities, exchanging plastic waste as currency for income and life-improving benefits. Its proprietary blockchain-secured platform ensures traceable collection, secured income, and verified reporting, creating a remarkable structure that is changing the lives of hundreds of families worldwide. David tells us the amazing origin story of the company, how its unique exchange system works, and the pivotal role of blockchain technology in its mission. He also shares his knowledge on the innovative Social Plastic® feedstock, which transforms collected material into reusable products and packaging for the community. Get ready to be inspired!  Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast. 

Did you know that chemicals and fuel spills from traditional boats can harm our waters? Lack of maintenance, fuel type, and leaks can increase the pollution and the number of harmful bacteria in the marinas, affecting water health. Electrifying cards has provided a fossil free future on our roads, but what about our waterways?  This week, join us as Marco Pimentel, our host, sits down with Mitch Lee, a mechanical engineering graduate turned CEO of Arc. Mitch began his career as a Stress Analyst on the AH-64 Apache, transitioned into software development, and eventually co-founded Arc, a company at the forefront of revolutionizing watercraft with high-performance electric boats. Discover how Arc is leading the charge in designing, manufacturing, and distributing the next generation of watercraft and their innovative approach to integrating electric powertrains, starting with freshwater sport boats that redefine the possibilities for wakeboarding and waterskiing. Mitch explores the journey of choosing an electric system for boats, the challenges the company faced during the prototype development, and the unique approach of doing most of the work, including in-house software development. With Arc's mission to electrify all watercraft and reduce the environmental impact of traditional boats, Mitch shares insights into their dedication to sustainability and creating a new era for boating enthusiasts. Tune in to this electrifying conversation, where innovation meets the waves.  Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast. 

Globally, a new era of business strategy is emerging — one that is bold, proactive, and regenerative. Did you know that instead of holding steady, regenerative companies make courageous moves to reconnect with the social and environmental systems they're a part of?   This week, we delve into the heart of regenerative business practices with Jill Doucette, the visionary behind Synergy Enterprises, who founded the company in 2008 with a mission to impact the planet positively. As a leader in sustainable business practices, BCorp Certification, and carbon accounting, Jill has cultivated an incredible team and inspired clients around the globe.    On its own, Synergy Enterprises stands as a global leader in regenerative business. Rooted in the belief that businesses can contribute to restoring natural ecosystems and social equality, Synergy's environmental business experts provide tools and resources to achieve these goals sustainably. As a certified B Corp and the Best for Workers 2021 Honoree, Synergy collaborates with companies across sectors, helping them become award-winning businesses for environmental excellence and innovation.   Jill shares the journey of founding Synergy and its evolution into a leading force in regenerative business practices and the company's mission to accelerate action towards a regenerative future, envisioning an economy that restores natural ecosystems and promotes social equality while minimizing environmental impact.   Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast. 

Conventional fuel solutions, particularly the widely used "natural gas," conceal a myriad of environmental hazards. Methane, the primary component in this mix, is a potent greenhouse gas — 25 times more impactful per gram than carbon dioxide — accompanied by a cocktail of toxic air pollutants, including benzene, a known carcinogen. And in home climate control, a silent but critical battle wages against traditional fuel-based systems. In Canada, 51% of homes are heated during winter with forced air furnaces, mainly fuelled by natural gas. The quest for more efficient, sustainable solutions led Paul Lambert, former Director of Area 120 at Google, to envision a Silicon Valley-powered endeavour in the fight against climate change. Paul, now Founder and CEO of Quilt, a pioneering force in crafting the world's most advanced home heating and cooling system, speaks about changing how we keep our homes' temperature comfortable. His career narrative weaves through technology, product development, and sustainability, drawing mainly from his experience in Google's well-known product development sector.  Quilt embodies the mission to revolutionize home climate control by constructing an intelligent, ductless heat pump system — a fusion of sleek design and AI-driven efficiency that bids farewell to fossil fuels. Tune in as we delve into Quilt's audacious journey, poised at the precipice of redefining home climate systems, and explore how Paul and his team aim to usher humanity into a future free from the combustion habit, making an impact, as the company says, at a species level. Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast. 

Agriculture stands as one of the most pollutant practices known to man. In Canada alone, 10% of all greenhouse gas emissions come from crop and livestock production, excluding emissions from fossil fuels or fertilizer production. Not only that, but considering how we handle manure, transportation, chemical pesticides, and fertilizers, we are looking at a giant impact on the environment worldwide.     At the other side of that scale, we have Robby Sansom, Co-Founder & CEO of Force of Nature, a regeneratively sourced meat company in Austin, TX. Robby's journey intertwines deeply with the natural food community, having previously delved into similar practices during his tenure as CFO/COO at EPIC. His commitment to regenerative practices birthed Force of Nature, aiming to accelerate the creation of a global regenerative supply network.   Force of Nature operates on the principles of regenerative agriculture, facing head-on a market that, for decades, has been advertised as a great business opportunity without any regard for its environmental impact.   Considering the poisoning of soils and water streams by chemical agents so commonly used in agriculture and livestock production, alongside the needs and implications of each location and its natural species, Force of Nature looks to redefine its market while bringing nutrient-rich meats to consumers' tables.     In this week's episode, we'll explore Robby's and Force of Nature's story and question if producing more meat can be considered a solution in a century-old practice that's been slowly changing our planet.   Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast. 

Believe it or not, steam is still a big deal in industries. It stands for 8% of the global primary energy use, generating over 2 gigatonnes of greenhouse emissions per year. Facing that scenario, innovators like Addison Stark see this as an opportunity and need for change and emerge as sustainability champions.   Addison's journey fuels his passion for the decarbonizing industry, from spearheading energy innovation at the Bipartisan Policy Center to pioneering technology development at ARPA-E. In this episode, He unveils the transformative power of Boiler 2.0 — a pioneering steam generation tool harnessing air heat, boasting unmatched efficiency and zero carbon emissions.   He also speaks about founding his company, AtmosZero, aiming to redefine the traditional boiler room for a decarbonized future, and how the electrified Boiler 2.0, with its versatile applicability across industries and built environments, stands as a beacon of sustainable innovation in the steam-centric world.   Addison uncovers the mechanics behind the technology, from extracting heat from the air to converting it into heating energy, and how it presents a cost-effective, scalable solution, delivering consistent carbon-neutral steam at temperatures surpassing 200°C.   AtmosZero's Boiler 2.0 integrates seamlessly, accommodating variable, intermittent, or constant streams, enhancing plant efficiency and paving the way toward a sustainable, zero-carbon industry landscape.   Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast. 

Global energy-related CO2 emissions surged to a record high in 2022, marking a concerning milestone in our collective carbon footprint. In this episode, Robert Murphy, CEO of Othersphere, joins us to discuss the pressing need to accelerate sustainable infrastructure deployment amid these increasing emissions.  Robert's extensive background — from global organizations like the World Bank, Enbridge, and Chevron to tech startups such as Aclima — has positioned him as a visionary leader in this domain. He delves into Othersphere's mission, a spatial computation platform revolutionizing the identification of optimal sites for zero to low greenhouse gas infrastructure, with an initial focus on the pivotal role of hydrogen.  Drawing from his experience, Robert shares how Othersphere's spatial economics platform empowers project developers, operators, and financiers to expedite deploying more environmentally beneficial projects, streamlining team efforts, origination, and diligence while enhancing stakeholder alignment. In this conversation, Marco and Robert explore the innovative strides Othersphere is making to reshape our approach to sustainable infrastructure, mitigating carbon impact and propelling the world towards a more eco-friendly future. Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast. 

Did you know that over a billion people rely on our oceans as their primary food source? However, our sea life is in danger due to overfishing, pollution, and harmful fish farming practices. In this episode, Kirk Havercroft, the CEO of Sustainable Blue, sheds light on the critical challenges threatening our oceanic ecosystems and his company's groundbreaking solutions. Based in Nova Scotia, Sustainable Blue is on a mission to change the game in how we raise Atlantic salmon. Since 2007, they've been using a special fish farming system that doesn't harm the environment and ensures their salmon are raised without any escape, antibiotics, growth hormones, or waste. They have been supplying local restaurants and stores for over ten years. With his project management and accounting background, Kirk leads a team that's making a big difference. They've expanded their impact in Canada and are taking their eco-friendly farming practices to the United States. Join us as we chat with Kirk and explore how Sustainable Blue is not just about raising great salmon but also about leading the way in keeping our oceans healthy while providing sustainable and delicious food for everyone. Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast. 

The average person in Canada produces an equivalent of 14.2 tonnes of CO2 yearly. In the United States, the number goes up to 17.5 tonnes of carbon dioxide.   Most people have no idea about those numbers or even what they mean. And Michelle Li is trying to make sure people understand the impact of their daily lives on the environment. As a former Silicon Valley employee, she made it her mission to teach as many people as possible about carbon footprint in a fun and hip way.   Clever Carbon was founded with that vision, trying to close the gap on carbon illiteracy for a more transparent and accountable world. The company combines pop culture, fun colours and characters, and sustainability in an easy-to-digest way, making the topic more approachable and actionable.   Michelle speaks to Marco about what made her leave Silicon Valley to open her eco-company, why she chose education as her business model, and why she believes teaching people about their daily impacts on the environment will make the world more sustainable.   Clever Carbon helps achieve that goal by turning carbon footprint into a fun game that can engage teams, families, and schools to reduce some of the damages generating the climate crisis. Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast. 

The global population is expected to grow to 10 billion people by 2050, and one of the biggest challenges the next generation will face is feeding everyone.   Deeply concerned with those challenges, Marc St-Onge decided to look for solutions by creating a series of global platforms for the development of sustainable fermentation-based protein and food ingredients, decentralized healthcare, and clean technology.   As CEO of Smallfood, Marc solved the feeding crises by using an uncommon ingredient: microbes. By leveraging its potential to evolve, he and his team were able to facilitate nutritious, animal-free, vegan, and environmentally friendly food for various companies.   This week, Marc speaks about what made him choose this specific path for his company, the impact of biotechnology on the food industry, and how we should be paying closer attention to the environmental consequences of the food-production systems we have in place now.   With a decade's research and over 20,000 unique microorganisms discovered, Smallfood has produced food ingredients abundant in high-quality protein and omega-3 with lower environmental impacts, showcasing a way of doing things differently in the market.     Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast. 

Since the Industrial Revolution, human activities have raised the levels of atmospheric CO2 by 50% – meaning we now have over 150% more CO2 in the atmosphere than in 1750. These high levels are trapping heat and raising the temperature of the planet. There is a natural way to reverse this effect: giving our soil the power to re-absorb the CO2 released into the air.   That's Alexsandra Guerra's mission with the company she co-founded, Nori. As an entrepreneur and environmental engineer, she decided to make carbon removal her work and helped develop a technology that takes farming to a new and more sustainable level.   Growing up in Miami, she realized early on that climate change would have a major impact on her life and the lives of those around her. That created a sense of urgency that made her dedicate the past 18 years to researching solutions to reverse carbon emissions.   In this episode, Alexsandra talks about her motivation behind the business, what made her choose carbon soil as the focus of her business venture, and how she applied her engineering background and knowledge of blockchain to reverse carbon emissions and reinstate the soil's ability to absorb CO2.   With over 18 carbon removal projects under its belt and more than 125 thousand tonnes of carbon removed from the atmosphere, it's safe to say Nori has found a way to reverse the damage that's been done so far.   Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast.    Episode website page: https://unlessbrands.com/episode-41-alexsandra-guerra-nori 

Almost half the land that can support plant life on Earth has been converted to croplands or pastures. And, more surprisingly, that transformation took away between 50 and 70 percent of the soil's ability to store carbon, contributing to a quarter of all man-made global greenhouse gas emissions. Enter Chris Tolles. CEO and Co-Founder of Yard Stick PBC, he took global warming personally and believed soil offered an excellent solution to slow down the rapid increase of the planet's temperature.     A businessman always surrounded by scientists, he started his journey as an undergraduate in furniture making and turned entrepreneur by co-founding a company in the skincare and sun protection market before pivoting again.   In this episode, he talks to Marco about what made him choose soil as the focus of his work, the impact he hopes to make on agriculture, and his mission and motivation behind the business.   Yard Stick believes it's possible to increase climate-positive agriculture and change the ecosystem health while improving farmers' livelihoods in a win-win situation that brings a much-needed positive note to combating climate change.   Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast.    Episode website page: https://unlessbrands.com/episode-40-chris-tolles-yard-stick-pbc 

A study shows that 77% of people in the U.S. want to learn how to live more sustainably. Today's guest is Laura Wittig, CEO and founder of Brightly, a platform that combines content, community, and shopping to ignite change for the conscious consumer. Laura worked in tech for numerous years as a project manager. At Amazon, she hit a wall selling as many shoes and handbags as possible without concern for the environment. In this episode, Laura speaks with Marco about drowning in her never-ending micro-trend consumerism and getting off-gassing headaches from the plastic wrapping and pleather items in the Amazon office, her need to get to the bottom of what true eco-consumerism is, which led to the creation of her podcast, Good Together, and how she scaled Brightly quickly by thinking of content creation like an engineer would. With a reach of 3 million people every day across all their channels, 99% of which is attained organically, Brightly is leading the way to better and more sustainable consumerism for the planet by building trust via authentic and realistic eco-lifestyle media content.   Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast.  Episode website page: https://unlessbrands.com/episode-39-laura-wittig-brightly   

An estimated 70% of carbon emissions can be decreased by transitioning to a circular economy. Today's guest is Garry Cooper, CEO and co-founder of Rheaply, a service company specializing in enterprise asset management technology for the circular economy. Garry was doing a PhD in Neuroscience at Northwestern University in a well-resourced lab when he noticed a friend's lab with fewer resources that could benefit from certain items his lab had but didn't need. Garry speaks with Marco on how his DYI resource-sharing program at Northwestern led him to develop his idea for Rheaply, how Rheaply aims to create the experience of getting rid and finding items that look new but aren't just as exciting as shopping for new products, and that you don't need to be a climate scientist to get started with your sustainable business idea. With the mission of building circularity for every business, Rheaply is paving the way to making circularity accessible, trendy, and sustainable.  Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast. https://unlessbrands.com/episode-38-garry-cooper-rheaply

Transitioning to a circular economy could generate 25 trillion USD worth of additional economic output globally by 2050. Today's guest is Stuart Lilley, CEO and founder of ReFeed Farms, a Langley, BC facility that focuses on food waste recovery through a circular nutrition model. Stuart was raised in Wales around international cuisine, and his love of food continued as he worked in the hospitality industry and later as a food waste management consultant. Stuart speaks with Marco on how he disrupted the linear food waste management industry with a sustainable and traceable business model, his fundraising challenges and how he addressed them, and how not having "all his eggs in one basket" when it comes to manufacturing products is critical for initial business growth. With the desire to scale localized manufacturing facilities in Ontario and the United States, ReFeed Farms is demonstrating that repairing the food system by using 100% of the nutrition found in unused food and returning it to feed people, livestock, and the soil is attainable.    Follow us on Instagram @someonelikeyoupodcast.   https://unlessbrands.com/episode-37-stuart-lilley-refeed-farms

A third of the world's fish docks are overfished, with the remaining two-thirds fished at capacity. Today's guest is Tony Long, CEO of Global Fishing Watch, an international non-profit organization sharing open-source information to combat illegal fishing practices. Tony spent 27 years with the British Royal Navy, and his love of the high seas led him to join the non-profit sector. Tony speaks with Marco on the problems of commercial fishing we face today, the various tools Global Fishing Watch uses to track fishing activity globally, and why making the data they collect accessible to everyone is critical. By continuing to break down electronic barriers and making fishing data open-source, Global Fishing Watch is paving the way to protecting our oceans by 2030 with transparent and accessible practices.  Follow us on Instagram @someonelikeyoupodcast.   https://unlessbrands.com/episode-36-tony-long-global-fishing-watch

In 1993, eight hundred and fifty-seven people were arrested for civil disobedience in the Clayoquot protests, a series of blockades related to clearcutting in clayoquot sound, British Columbia. Today's guest, Tzeporah Berman, was one of the leading spokespersons and blockage coordinators at the time. Today, she is the co-founder of Stand.earth, a grassroots environmental organization, and chair of the fossil fuel non-proliferation treaty initiative, a proposed treaty to explicitly stop the expansion of fossil fuel exploitation and manage a transition from coal, oil, and gas to clean energy. Initially studying arts, fashion, and design, Tzeporah promptly switched to studying environmental studies at the University of Toronto after backpacking through Europe in the late 1980s, where she saw firsthand industrialization's impact on the Harz mountains in Germany. Tzeporah speaks with Marco about how she found herself in jail right after university supporting the Clayoquot protests, from which she learned that change is made through power. She also shares that we've invested more in clean, renewable energy in the last year but still need to continue declining emissions and production to combat climate change. The world is being re-invented, from how we heat our homes, to how we travel, and Tzeporah's work through stand earth and the fossil fuel non-proliferation treaty initiative shows us that now is an exciting and essential time to get involved and stand up for our earth.

The tourism industry contributes to approximately 8% of total carbon emissions.  Today's guest is Amanda Ho, co-founder of Regenerative Travel, a hospitality company that helps travellers, hotels, and the travel industry develop a regenerative mindset and foster positive change to create a more equitable future through education, advocacy and collaboration. On her journey as a travel journalist, Amanda met her co-founder, David Leventhal, and together they embarked on a mission to disrupt the travel industry. Amanda speaks with Marco on the regenerative models and principles Regenerative Travel stands by, how regenerative travel starts as a mindset, and the rigorous audit system hotels that join Regenerative Travel go through. With increased interest and higher demand in travel that goes above and beyond the concept of sustainability, Regenerative Travel is leading the way in creating an ecosystem of resorts and hotels that actively renew and restore and create a lasting impact on their local environment and community.    Follow us on Instagram @someonelikeyoupodcast.   https://unlessbrands.com/episode-34-amanda-ho-regenerative-travel

In Canada, we waste 60% of the food we grow, making us the worst country per capita for food waste in the world. Today's guest is Carissa Campeotto, Co-Founder of Trendi. Trendi uses robotics, upcycling, and social change to combat the excess and unnecessary waste of misfit food from farms, retailers, cuttings from processors, and waste we produce in our homes. When Carissa was running her own juice and smoothie bar, she noticed the business was not profitable because of its high product costs. She knew there had to be a better way. Upon recommendation, she started using misfit fruits and vegetables, transforming her end product into the same delicious juice and smoothies but at a 40% cost reduction. Carissa speaks with Marco on launching BioTrim, the fully autonomous mobile unit that stabilizes food at the farm level she designed with her co-founder, Craig McIntosh, the importance of working with agriculture superclusters, and how their smoothie machines have helped them connect with their consumers in a fun and educational way. With an increased global interest in Trendi's automation units, Trendi is setting the bar high in the « practice what you preach » department by actively getting to the core of our food waste issue.   Follow us on Instagram @someonelikeyoupodcast. https://unlessbrands.com/episode-33-carissa-campeotto-trendi  

Twenty-four percent of our total greenhouse gas emissions come from natural gas. Today's guest is Michael Sachse, CEO of Dandelion Energy, a geothermal heating company that has developed a scalable model for deploying residential geothermal heating and cooling to displace natural gas and heating oil and implement efficient cooling. Michael grew up in Washington, DC, and soon after working as a lawyer, he knew that he wanted to create an impact on the planet beyond the walls of his law firm. Michael speaks with Marco on the difference between hot rocks geothermal found in countries like Iceland and the geothermal energy Dandelion Energy provides, what setting up access to geothermal energy would look like in your home, and the tremendous government subsidies available for those who make the switch. With a growing customer base in the U.S. Northeast and an expansion to the Mountain West and beyond, Dandelion Energy is leading the way toward geothermal energy for all.  Follow us on Instagram @someonelikeyoupodcast. https://unlessbrands.com/episode-32-michael-sachse-dandelion-energy

Heatwaves in British Columbia deluges in Europe, pipes freezing in Texas. Our reality with climate change is collectively shifting and happening globally. Today's guest is Jean-Louis Warnholz, Co-Founder and CEO of Future, a fintech company that is encouraging carbon action as a smart economic choice by providing its members with incentives and five percent cashback for shopping secondhand, taking public transit, switching to EVs, and more. Jean-Louis knew he wanted to lower his household's carbon footprint when he saw firsthand the impact of climate change when he was working in Kenya and Ghana. Jean-Louis speaks with Marco on why planting trees is not what it's cut out to be, why climate action can start as an individual attainable shift using the FutureCard, and how a sustainable business can be built without relying on digital ads successfully. With over 20,000 users in the U.S. and counting, Future is showing us that the fintech industry can be disrupted one recycled plastic card at a time in favour of climate action.  Follow us on Instagram @someonelikeyoupodcast. https://unlessbrands.com/episode-31-jean-louis-warnholz-future

Truckloads of our unwanted clothing are shipped to continents like Africa, disrupting their local economy and causing massive waste. Today's guest is Negin Izad, owner of NOCTEX, a slow-fashion clothing company that prioritizes form, utility, and ethical design. Negin grew up loving clothes and started sewing in high school. At age 17, the experience of working at a rag yard had Negin decide that she would work in the fashion industry only if she could do so ethically and with as little waste as possible. Negin speaks with Marco about how deadstock textiles became the backbone of her company, NOCTEX, how she built a brand with a loyal following based on solid ethics and transparency since her humble beginnings selling on Etsy, and how microtrends and fast fashion are contributing to unconscious and wasteful consumerism disconnecting consumers to the products they buy. With a warehouse now based in Los Angeles with the hope to have all of her operations based there to reduce even more waste, and core values in ethical production that are spearheading the future of fashion, NOCTEX is proof that slow fashion can be successful all while keeping our planet in mind. Follow us on Instagram @someonelikeyoupodcast. https://unlessbrands.com/episode-30-negin-izad-noctex

Only five percent of plastic gets recycled in the United States, with a large majority of bioplastic and compostables that cannot be adequately composted. Today's guest is Jason Hawkins, co-founder of Reusables, a zero-waste packaging platform offering a subscription-based for unlimited use of reusable packaging. Jason spent five years in scalable businesses like Rooted Foods Co., a farm-to-table venture that delivers food to students, worked for SPUD, Canada's largest online grocer, and from this experience, started a company that licensed circular e-grocery software to large grocery retailers like Carrefour in Europe, and Wal-Mart Canada. Jason talks to Marco about how Reusables began at the height of the pandemic as a zero-waste food delivery solution in partnership with Uber Eats and DoorDash, how eliminating barriers that prevent Reusables from being accessible is key, such as getting more locations to get on board as pick-up and drop-off stations, and how he sees shareable vessels becoming the default through the implementation of regulations, business practices or consumer preferences. With over 50 participating locations in Vancouver, Reusables is setting the stage for a new packaging system revolutionizing how we package food on the go.  Follow us on Instagram @someonelikeyoupodcast. https://unlessbrands.com/episode-29-jason-hawkins-reusables

The system is built on oppression and keeps the wheels of exploitation turning, says today's guest, Colin Vernon, co-founder and CTO of Slow Factory, a New York-based environmental and social justice nonprofit organization. Colin has worn many hats over the years, from performer and musician to producer, community organizer, and self-taught coder, always with a key concern for social and environmental ethics.    Colin speaks with Marco on building community power through open source education led by the global majority, producing and backing regenerative designs that are better for the environment, and on Slow Factory being for the builders, dreamers, and people who give a shit and who would instead choose transparency over profit.    With over 400,000 followers on Instagram and hundreds of free and inclusive educational seminars, Slow Factory is showing us that leading structural change is possible, all while being economically and environmentally feasible. Follow us on Instagram @someonelikeyoupodcast. https://unlessbrands.com/episode-28-colin-vernon-slow-factory