Explore every episode of the podcast Essential Ingredients Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 026: Gut Feelings: Exploring the Profound Influence of Digestive Health on Mood and Cognition with Dr. Edison de Mello Part 2 | 23 Jan 2025 | 00:22:30 | |
Gut, Food, & Health series “The food that you eat affects everything, including your mental health.” —Dr. Edison de Mello
What if the key to better mental health was as simple as the food on your plate? Emerging research reveals the profound influence of gut health on cognitive function, mood, and emotional resilience. By nourishing the body, we may unlock the path to nourishing the mind. Dr. Edison de Mello is an integrative medicine specialist and the founder of the Akasha Center for Integrative Medicine. As a physician and psychologist, he has dedicated his career to exploring the intricate connections between physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Tune in as Dr. de Mello shares his insights on leveraging the power of nutrition to support brain health, combat depression, and optimize cognitive performance.
Meet Dr. de Mello: Dr. Edison de Mello, MD, PhD is the founder and Chief Medical Officer of the Akasha Center for Integrative Medicine. He is a board-certified integrative physician and a licensed psychotherapist. Dr. de Mello completed his residency at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City, where he trained in a biopsychosocial model and integrated complementary medicine into Family Medicine. Inspired by his grandmother, Nana, who practiced natural healing, Dr. de Mello's approach combines Western and Eastern medicine, focusing on treating the mind, body, and spirit. He has written several articles and contributed to Dr. Andrew Weil's upcoming book on the microbiome and food addiction. Dr. de Mello is also on the advisory board of several organizations and a member of various professional associations.
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Episode Highlights: 02:16 the Impact of Diet on Mental Health 05:35 Dietary Reboot 08:46 How IV Therapy Works 14:22 Addressing Memory Issues and Depression 19:53 Gut and Mental Health Connection
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| 025: The Busy Parents’ Partner: Wholesome Alternatives to Kids’ Midday Meals with Lisette Howard and Katy Tucker | 21 Jan 2025 | 00:27:34 | |
The Busy Parents’ Partner: Wholesome Alternatives to Kids’ Midday Meals with Lisette Howard and Katy Tucker
“There are a lot of no's… you just keep knocking, and you will eventually find the people that believe in what you're doing and not where you are in that exact moment.” —Lisette Howard
“There's a lot of flash-in-the-pan products out there that hit the market fast as all they're gone… It’s really important to know your end game right when you start.” —Katy Tucker
Feeding our little ones can be a constant battle— between picky palates, busy schedules, and the overwhelming options on grocery shelves. But what if we could provide our kids with snacks that not only satisfy their cravings, but also nourish their growing bodies? The future of kids' food is clean, simple, and deliciously nostalgic. Sunnie is a mission-driven snack brand dedicated to upgrading snack time for busy families. Co-founders Katy Tucker and Lisette Howard are on a mission to provide better-for-you options that never compromise on taste or convenience. Tune in as Justine sits down with Katy and Lisette to discuss their journey in revolutionizing the snack industry, the importance of clean ingredients, and their plans to bring more wholesome choices to families nationwide.
Meet Katy: With a background in fashion, Katy Tucker brings a unique perspective to the food industry, focusing on creating products that are not only nutritious but also nostalgic and appealing. As a mother of three, Katy is passionate about empowering parents to make better choices for their children's snacking needs. Through Sunnie, Katy aims to redefine the snack landscape and inspire a healthier future for families.
Meet Lisette: With a background in online marketing, Lisette brings a strategic and innovative approach to building Sunnie’s brand and reaching health-conscious consumers. As a mother of three, Lisette understands the challenges of finding snacks that both nourish and delight children. Through Sunnie, Lisette is on a mission to provide families with better-for-you options that never compromise on taste or convenience.
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Episode Highlights: 01:44 Bridging the Market Gap in Kids’ Lunch 06:51 Navigating the Business Landscape During COVID 10:31 Pitching and Fundraising Challenges 14:46 Target Partnership 18:56 Distribution and Expansion Plans 24:21 Future Plans for Feel Sunnie | |||
| 016: Fabric of Change: Conscious Gifting Meets Sustainable Wrapping with Monica O’Neil and Cindy Estes | 26 Nov 2024 | 00:25:00 | |
“It is challenging to stand out there and pitch your idea to total strangers. But as you do it, you realize you can do it, and you get better at it the longer you do it.” —Monica O’Neil
“Not only in the business, it's extended to our life. I'm now driving an electric car, and we're now both composting, which we weren't before. The little, tiny bits we're doing with this are starting to eat into our lives.” —Cindy Estes
The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it also generates an overwhelming amount of waste from single-use gift wrapping. This staggering issue highlights the urgent need for sustainable alternatives to reduce our holiday footprint. Monica O'Neil and Cindy Estes, the co-founders of Rapt GiftWrap, have answered this call with their innovative and eco-friendly solutions. Monica and Cindy have combined their expertise to create a reusable fabric gift wrap that not only reduces waste but also offers a stylish and practical alternative to traditional wrapping paper. Tune in as Monica and Cindy share their inspiring journey, covering key insights on sustainability, thoughtful product development, embracing sustainable lifestyles, educating and building a market, leveraging entrepreneurial experience, adaptability and customer-centricity, overcoming marketing challenges, and their collaborative strengths.
Meet Monica and Cindy: Monica O’Neil is a New England transplant with a youth spent in Chile, Venezuela, and Morocco. Fluent in 3 languages with a Master’s in French Literature, Monica spent a decade teaching at several area high schools. Becoming a mother was a natural evolution - there is a lot of overlap in the skill set. Monica is still trying to educate but the subject is a little more straightforward - reducing waste with fabric gift wrap - and there’s a lot less homework. A California native who married New England, Cindy Estes started Seam, a children’s clothing line, with 4 children in tow. As a young graduate, Cindy became the first in-house graphic designer at The Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles and worked with various artists and curators to create a consistent brand strategy. With a background in design and experience in clothing manufacturing, she brings her sense of style, design, and implementation to Rapt gift wrap.
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Episode Highlights: 00:50 The Birth of Rapt 04:02 Developing the Product Concept 06:52 Sustainability and Business Practices 09:45 Cultural Context 13:02 Marketing and Customer Feedback 15:16 Entrepreneurship and Collaboration 18:28 Navigating Challenges 23:07 Community Engagement
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| 015: How Functional Food Breakthrough Is Revolutionizing Menopause Management Gita Vellanki | 21 Nov 2024 | 00:38:44 | |
Cha Cha Cha Changes Mini Series
Episode Description: Part of the success of an entrepreneur is owning your story and taking control of that journey. So you have to put yourself out there.” —Gita Vellanki
Menopause can be a challenging transition for many women, marked by a range of uncomfortable symptoms that can significantly impact daily life. While often overlooked, finding natural solutions to manage these changes is crucial for maintaining overall health and wellbeing. Functional nutrition offers a promising approach to addressing menopause woes, empowering women to take control of their hormonal balance. Gita Vellanki is the Founder of Neeshi, a CPG company dedicated to creating innovative functional food products that support women's health. With a background in corporate operations and a lifelong passion for holistic wellness, Gita is committed to destigmatizing conversations around women's health issues and providing natural solutions. This week, Justine and Gita discuss Gita's holistic approach to women's health, her mission to destigmatize conversations around menopause, the invaluable support of her entrepreneurial community, her meticulous research and development process, and the strategic vision driving Neeshi's growth. Tune in.
Meet Gita: Gita Vellanki is the Founder of Neeshi, a CPG company that creates functional food products to support women's health. After struggling with her own and her daughter's painful period symptoms, Gita was inspired to develop a natural solution using high-quality, nutrient-dense ingredients. With a background in corporate operations and a lifelong passion for holistic health, Gita has leveraged her expertise to build Neeshi from the ground up. She is committed to destigmatizing conversations around women's health and empowering others to take a proactive approach to their well-being. Under Gita's leadership, Neeshi has developed a loyal customer base and received validation from healthcare professionals. As the company continues to grow, Gita remains dedicated to creating innovative products that seamlessly integrate functional nutrition into everyday life.
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Episode Highlights: 03:15 Unique Challenges and Mindset Required in Entrepreneurship 08:26 Support Needed 14:08 Bootstrapping and Marketing Strategies 19:31 Family Involvement and Product Development 23:36 Product Line and Market Positioning 29:13 Research and Development Process 33:39 Expanding Retail
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| 014: Saucy Sustainability: A Chic Approach to Eco-Friendly Linens with Nikki Reed and Staci Inspektor | 19 Nov 2024 | 00:21:41 | |
Holiday Gifting Series
Episode Description: “If you're passionate about something, go for it. It's just lots of ups and downs, and you just gotta ride that wave.” —Staci Inspektor
“We want to give back to the community that inspires us and has allowed us to do what we do.” —Nikki Reed
Elevating the every day with sustainable style - that's the new frontier of eco-conscious living. Thoughtfully designed textiles are proving that being kind to the planet doesn't have to sacrifice an ounce of sophistication. It's a delicate balance that's both beautiful and responsible. Atelier Saucier is a design house committed to breathing new life into fashion industry waste, reimagining discarded textiles into luxurious table linens and home accents. Founded by Nikki Reed and Staci Inspektor, the brand is rooted in sustainability without sacrificing style. Learn more about Atelier Saucier's multifaceted approach to sourcing deadstock and upcycled textiles, its seasonal collection model that balances core essentials with limited-edition pieces, and its design process inspired by fashion, architecture, and current trends. Discover how the co-founders' complementary skills and collaborative company culture drive product development and community engagement. Tune in to uncover Atelier Saucier's inspiring story of marrying eco-consciousness and covetable design.
Meet Nikki and Staci: Nikki Reed and Staci Inspektor are the co-founders of Atelier Saucier, a modern table linen and tabletop decor brand based in Los Angeles. With a background in the restaurant and hospitality industry, Nikki was inspired to create sustainable and stylish linens after struggling to find the right options for her own restaurant. As the operational and organizational force behind Atelier Saucier, Nikki brings her problem-solving skills and attention to detail to help grow the business. Staci Inspektor: With a creative background in fashion design and interior design, Staci's innovative spirit and design expertise are the driving force behind Atelier Saucier's unique product offerings. Staci is responsible for the brand's seasonal collections and collaborations, constantly finding new ways to reimagine textiles into modern, eco-friendly home goods.
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Episode Highlights: 01:38 Challenges and Solutions in Sustainable Sourcing 06:02 The Importance of Shared Strengths in Business 13:11 Empowering Employees 17:49 Holiday Collections and Unique Offerings 20:34 Future Collaborations
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| 013: Seaweed: The Secret to Menopausal Symptom Relief with Sachi Singh | 14 Nov 2024 | 00:32:19 | |
Cha Cha Cha Changes Mini Series
Episode Description: “Seaweed is an essential ingredient.” —Sachi Singh
Seaweed may be one of the most overlooked superfoods on the planet. This nutrient-dense aquatic plant is a true powerhouse, packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds that can work wonders for our health. Yet, many of us relegate seaweed to the occasional sushi roll or salad garnish, failing to recognize its full potential. Led by its Founder, Sachi Singh, Rootless is on a mission to mainstream the health and sustainability benefits of seaweed. With a background in climate and ocean solutions, Sachi is passionate about using seaweed to help women navigate menopausal symptoms while creating a more regenerative food system. Elevate your wellness routine and the planet's future as Justine and Sachi share why eating seaweed is beneficial for thyroid health, how seaweed can alleviate menopausal symptoms, tips for building a strong brand and product development team, how we can invest in a greener future, and Sachi’s advice for new founders.
Connect with Sachi: Sachi Singh is the Founder and CEO of Rootless, a mission-driven food company on a mission to make seaweed an essential part of the American diet. With over a decade of experience in the climate and ocean space, Sachi is passionate about developing sustainable, nutrient-dense solutions that benefit both human and planetary health. As a first-time founder, Sachi has built Rootless from the ground up, leveraging her background in environmental management and her family's roots in the "food as medicine" philosophy. Under her leadership, Rootless has developed a line of seaweed-based snacks that are helping women navigate the hormonal changes of menopause through the power of this ancient superfood. Sachi is committed to creating a more equitable and regenerative food system, and she continues to be a vocal advocate for increasing access to sustainable, bioavailable nutrition. With Rootless, she is on a mission to change the way people think about and consume seaweed.
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Episode Highlights: 00:28 Seaweed Essential Ingredient 06:24 A Regenerative Food Crop for Climate Solution 13:28 Seaweeds as Medicine 19:51 Founder Things 26:07 Put Your Money Where Your Values Are
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| 012: Rethinking the Foundations: Sustainable Alternatives to Traditional Building Products with Gregory Wilson | 12 Nov 2024 | 00:34:14 | |
“People want to know where your food comes from. Why shouldn't people know where your building materials come from?” —Gregory Wilson
Many of the building materials we use in our homes and workplaces can pose serious health risks. From toxic chemicals like formaldehyde to hazardous plastics, these materials can negatively impact indoor air quality and overall well-being. Therefore, it's time to rethink the foundations of construction and seek out sustainable, plant-based alternatives that prioritize human health. Gregory Wilson is a serial entrepreneur and the founder of HempWood®, a company revolutionizing the building industry with its eco-friendly, carbon-negative flooring solutions. With over 28 years of experience in the field, Wilson is on a mission to provide healthier, more sustainable materials for residential and commercial spaces. In this episode, Wilson discusses his entrepreneurial journey, the environmental and health benefits of Hempwood, the challenges of competing with cheaper but less sustainable options, and his plans for global expansion.
Meet Gregory: Gregory Wilson is the founder of HempWood®, a company that produces sustainable building materials made from hemp fiber and soy protein. He has a background in business strategy, financial modeling, and product development, with experience in setting up operations in the USA and China. Gregory is also involved in other ventures such as SmartOAK Pty Ltd and QPC Partners, focusing on innovative and eco-friendly solutions in the real estate and manufacturing industries. He holds an MBA from Frostburg State University and has completed executive education at Harvard Business School.
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Episode Highlights: 01:47 Loving the Outdoors 05:40 The Only Carbon-Negative Flooring Company 14:00 Overcoming Challenges in Sales 18:49 Do Not Be a Minority Owner in Your Own Company 23:59 Expanding Global Reach 27:43 What People Care About Most 31:06 It's Not Easy to Do What's Right
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| 011: Midlife Transitions: An Integrative Approach to Navigating Menopause Naturally with Dr. Anjali Dsouza | 07 Nov 2024 | 00:29:24 | |
Cha Cha Cha Changes Mini Series
Episode Description: “We need to know what we're doing so that we can support women to feel their best and live long lives.” —Dr. Anjali Dsouza
Welcome to the Cha Cha Cha Changes Mini Series, a special limited exploration of menopause and the essential ingredients for navigating this transformative life stage! Menopause and perimenopause are significant life transitions that impact women's health in profound ways. From changes in mood and cognition to increased risks of chronic conditions, this natural hormonal shift can bring a host of challenges. Yet, with the right knowledge and support, women can navigate this transformative period with greater ease and vitality. District Center for Integrative Medicine (DCIM) Founder, Dr. Anjali Dsouza, is a leading expert in integrative medicine and a certified specialist in menopause care. Drawing on her extensive training and passion for holistic wellness, she provides comprehensive guidance to help women optimize their health during this pivotal stage of life. In this insightful conversation, Justine and Anjali delve into the physiological changes of menopause, the importance of food as medicine in navigating the challenges of menopause and perimenopause, practical tips for symptom management, and a wealth of resources to support women on their journey.
Meet Anjali: Dr. Anjali Dsouza is the Founder of District Center for Integrative Medicine (DCIM). She is a board-certified physician specializing in Integrative Medicine, Palliative Care, and Psychiatry. Her areas of particular interest are women’s health optimization, autoimmunity, digestive dysfunction, lifestyle medicine, nutritional medicine, preventative care, and metabolic health.
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Episode Highlights: 00:17 The Cha Cha Cha Changes Mini-Series 03:10 Meet Anjali 08:33 Understanding Menopause and Perimenopause 12:28 Menopause: Common Symptoms and Health Risks 16:51 Food as Medicine for Menopause 20:03 Tips for Managing Menopause Symptoms 26:44 Resources and Support for Menopause
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| 010: Rebel & Revolutionize: Tech-Driven Solutions to Affordable Plant-Based Meat Alternatives with Christie Lagally | 05 Nov 2024 | 00:42:42 | |
“What a lot of people don't quite understand about plant-based meat is that you have to understand the industry that you are replacing.” —Christie Lagally
The plant-based meat industry is at a pivotal moment, with innovative companies harnessing the power of technology to transform the way we think about sustainable protein. By seamlessly combining cutting-edge manufacturing processes and high-quality products, these visionaries are paving the way for a future where plant-based alternatives are not just viable, but the preferred choice for consumers, institutions, and the planet. At the forefront of this revolution is Christie Lagally, the CEO and Founder of Rebellyous Foods. A mechanical engineer by trade, Lagally has leveraged her expertise to develop game-changing technology that makes plant-based meat production faster, better, and more affordable than ever before. In this episode, Justine and Christie dive into the challenges of building a business around plant-based alternatives, developing the technology and market strategy to succeed, the impact of the hype cycle, funding challenges, addressing health concerns, and more.
Meet Christie: Christie Lagally is the CEO and Founder of Rebellyous Foods, a manufacturing technology company working to make plant-based meat available and affordable for everyone. With a background as a mechanical engineer in the aerospace industry, Lagally transitioned to founding Rebellyous in 2017 to combine her personal values and professional expertise to address the negative impacts of industrial animal agriculture. Under her leadership, Rebellyous has developed innovative processing equipment to produce high-quality, price-competitive plant-based meat products, with a focus on serving large-scale customers like school lunch programs. Lagally is committed to creating a sustainable path forward for the meat industry to transition to plant-based production, driving positive change for the environment, human health, and animal welfare.
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Episode Highlights: 05:01 Rebellyous Foods: Challenges and Early Development 13:05 The Hype Cycle and Its Impact 23:55 Health Concerns and Future Plans 35:06 Collaborations, Partnerships, and Exit Strategies 40:00 Future Opportunities
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| 009: Granola Redefined: The Tasty, Nutrient-Dense Twist on a Classic with Adrienne Lufkin | 29 Oct 2024 | 00:27:11 | |
“For something that you eat every day or consume every day, shouldn't it be the best quality ingredients that you can possibly have?” —Adrienne Lufkin For something we consume on a daily basis, the food we choose should be of the highest quality possible. Granola has long been a breakfast staple, but many store-bought varieties are packed with added sugars and artificial ingredients. It’s time to shift to a granola that’s good for us.
Adrienne Lufkin, the Founder of Struesli, brings a unique perspective to the granola game. As a former private chef, she learned firsthand the power of using food as medicine to support her clients' health needs. Now, she's on a mission to share her better-for-you granola with the world.
In this episode, Adrienne takes us through her entrepreneurial journey - from ideation to securing investors, building a talented team, and expanding Struesli's distribution. Tune in to learn how she's revolutionizing the granola category and providing a healthier breakfast option for all.
Meet Adrienne Lufkin: Adrienne Lufkin, seasoned private chef and founder of Struesli, combines her love for food, health, and human connection through her recipes. With a background in crafting clean and nutrient-dense meals for clients and her personal struggles with Crohn's Disease and Migraines, Adrienne is passionate about supporting people along their health journeys.
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Episode Highlights: 01:04 Adrienne’s Personal Health Challenges 04:43 From Chef to CPG Founder 09:51 Funding and Team Building 15:38 Balancing Roles and Responsibilities 20:54 Product Expansion and Distribution 24:15 What’s Next?
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| 008: Rethinking the Grain: Regenerative Approach to Sustainable Rice with Caryl Levine and Ken Lee | 22 Oct 2024 | 00:35:37 | |
“If your soil is nutritious, all those micronutrients are now being born into your food.”—Caryl Levine
“There's no standing still. You're moving forward or you're moving backwards. To regenerate is to actually restore or bring to health, or bring to life, the living systems that sustain us.” —Ken Lee
Rice is the staple food for over half the world's population, providing essential nutrients and sustaining livelihoods. Yet, the true potential of this ancient grain remains largely untapped. From heirloom varieties to regenerative farming practices, the story of rice is one of resilience, innovation, and global impact. As the co-founders of Lotus Foods, Caryl Levine and Ken Lee have dedicated over three decades to promoting rice biodiversity, empowering smallholder farmers, and championing sustainable agriculture. Their unwavering commitment to transforming the rice industry has positioned them as trailblazers in the realm of conscious consumerism and regenerative food systems. Tune in to this captivating conversation as Caryl and Ken share their journey, from uncovering hidden rice treasures to spearheading the regenerative organic certification movement. Discover how Lotus Foods is addressing misconceptions, educating stakeholders, and navigating challenges to drive innovation and create a more nourishing and equitable future for rice.
Meet Caryl and Ken: Caryl Levine and Ken Lee are the co-founders of Lotus Foods, an organic heirloom rice company they started in 1995. With a shared passion for promoting rice biodiversity and supporting smallholder farmers, Caryl and Ken have dedicated over 30 years to building a purpose-driven business that creates positive social and environmental impact. As pioneers in the organic and regenerative food movement, Caryl and Ken have led Lotus Foods to become the first rice company to achieve Regenerative Organic Certification. They have championed innovative farming practices like the System of Rice Intensification, which reduces water usage and labor-intensive work, particularly for women farmers. Through their commitment to education and advocacy, Caryl and Ken have worked tirelessly to address misconceptions about rice cultivation and elevate the voices of smallholder farmers in the global food system. Their vision for a more sustainable and equitable food future continues to inspire and guide the evolution of Lotus Foods.
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Episode Highlights: 03:59 The Road to Entrepreneurship 09:32 Smallholder Farmers 20:53 Education and Consumer Perception 29:35 The Importance of Maintaining Company Culture 33:32 Staying True to Company Values
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| 007: Safeguarding Agricultural Legacy for Generations to Come with Lily Verdone | 15 Oct 2024 | 00:30:10 | |
Series: World Food Day
Episode Description: “If you have healthy soil then you have a healthy system.” —Lily Verdone
Our agricultural lands are the beating heart of our communities, tended to by the hardworking hands of farmers and ranchers. Safeguarding these vital landscapes is not just an environmental imperative, but a moral obligation— a promise we make to those who came before us, and a gift we must pass on to generations yet to come.
As Lily Verdone settles into her third year as CEO of the Marin Agricultural Land Trust (MALT), her focus has shifted towards reinvesting in the lands the organization has worked tirelessly to protect. By channeling resources into innovative stewardship programs, MALT aims to not only safeguard the land but also empower the farmers and ranchers who are the backbone of Marin's agricultural community. Lily believes that this reinvestment will unlock the full potential of the land, benefiting both the environment and the people who depend on it.
In this episode, Justine and Lily explore the critical role that land trusts and conservation organizations play in addressing pressing environmental and agricultural challenges. Join in as they discuss innovative programs that support farmers and drive holistic, systems-based approaches to land management, the value of partnerships, and the trend of younger, diverse leaders bringing fresh perspectives to traditional conservation organizations.
Connect with Lily: Lily Verdone is the CEO of Marin Agricultural Land Trust (MALT), a leading land trust focused on protecting farmland in Marin County, California. Lily has over 20 years of experience in environmental conservation, having previously worked with organizations like The Nature Conservancy on climate change and land management initiatives.
As CEO of MALT, Lily is responsible for leading the organization's efforts to preserve over 60,000 acres of agricultural land through conservation easements and sustainable stewardship practices. She is passionate about finding innovative solutions to support the viability of local farming and ranching communities.
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Episode Highlights: 00:49 What is MALT? 07:44 Protect the Land 10:16 The Water Conservation Issue 15:30 Shifting the Quality of Life 18:17 The 5 Pillars of MALT 23:17 Building Partnerships 26:23 The Land Trust Movement
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| 024: Gut-Brain Axis Explained: How Food Impacts Mental and Physical Health with Dr. Edison de Mello Part 1 | 16 Jan 2025 | 00:22:58 | |
Gut, Food, & Health series
Episode Description: “Your taste buds have a different agenda than your mind and your gut. They're not connected in congruence all the time. So what tastes good in your mouth, is not necessarily what your gut or your brain needs.” —Dr. Edison de Mello
Your gut is the gateway to your overall health and well-being. Did you know that the gut-brain connection can significantly influence your mood, cognitive function, and immune system? Maintaining a balanced gut microbiome is crucial for optimizing both physical and mental wellness. Dr. Edison de Mello MD, PhD, is a renowned expert in the field of integrative medicine. As the Founder and Chief Medical Officer of the Akasha Center for Integrative Medicine, he seamlessly blends cutting-edge Western medical practices with the wisdom of Eastern holistic approaches to provide personalized, comprehensive care to his patients. Discover the profound impact of food on gut health, the challenges of implementing dietary changes, and the importance of tailored solutions as Dr. de Mello and Justine Reichman dive deep into the gut health revolution.
Meet Dr. de Mello: Dr. Edison de Mello, MD, PhD is the founder and Chief Medical Officer of the Akasha Center for Integrative Medicine. He is a board-certified integrative physician and a licensed psychotherapist. Dr. de Mello completed his residency at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City, where he trained in a biopsychosocial model and integrated complementary medicine into Family Medicine. Inspired by his grandmother, Nana, who practiced natural healing, Dr. de Mello's approach combines Western and Eastern medicine, focusing on treating the mind, body, and spirit. He has written several articles and contributed to Dr. Andrew Weil's upcoming book on the microbiome and food addiction. Dr. de Mello is also on the advisory board of several organizations and a member of various professional associations.
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Episode Highlights: 01:13 Food and Gut Health 04:46 Mindfulness and Food Insensitivity 07:33 Allergy and Intolerance Test 13:59 Tailoring Dietary Advice and Personal Needs 16:45 The Role of Medical Education in Nutrition 20:50 Navigating Global Health
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| 006: Taste of Learning: Bridging the Gap Between Food and Academics with Laura La Vacca | 08 Oct 2024 | 00:26:41 | |
“They know they're going to get taken care of when they come to school. That's one of the most important things that we can do, and then they're ready to learn.” —Laura La Vacca
Food and nutrition are often overlooked as the most important part of a child's day, despite their crucial role in fueling young minds and bodies. Yet, while schools play a vital part in ensuring students have access to healthy, nourishing meals, the integration of food education into the curriculum remains a challenge.
Laura La Vacca is the Food Service Director of Burlington School District in Vermont. Her primary role is to oversee the district's federally funded meal programs and spearhead initiatives to incorporate local, fresh produce into school cafeterias.
From the importance of building trust with students to the transformative power of hands-on food education, this conversation offers valuable insights into the future of school nutrition and its potential to shape the next generation's relationship with food.
Tune in as Justine and Laura discuss the importance of building trust and relationships with students to encourage them to try new, healthy foods, the transformative impact of hands-on food education, the challenges of balancing federal nutrition guidelines with student preferences and limited resources, he vital role of school nutrition programs in providing nourishing meals and a sense of community for all students, plus much more.
Connect with Laura: Laura La Vacca is the nutritionist for the Burlington School District in Vermont, bringing over two decades of experience in school nutrition to her role. Responsible for overseeing the district's federally funded meal programs, Laura is dedicated to integrating local, fresh produce into school cafeterias and empowering students to develop a lifelong love of nutritious foods through hands-on education and community-based partnerships.
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Episode Highlights: 00:49 USDA Guidelines and Requirements for Meal Planning 04:24 The Impact of Peer Influence and Hands-On Experiences 07:23 Healthy Meals for the Community 11:17 The Number of Food-Insecure Students 15:02 Integrating Food and Nutrition Into Education 22:01 Mission: Sustainable School Nutrition Programs 25:06 The Need for Continued Advocacy
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| 005: Raising Kids to be Food-Literate Adults Through Hands-On Education with Charlotte Steele | 01 Oct 2024 | 00:30:56 | |
Series: Edible SchoolYards
Episode Description: “It's harder for adults to try new things. So when we build those habits with kids, they can disseminate that and spread that joy to their family members— it's really, really powerful.” —Charlotte Steele
Food education is a powerful tool for supporting kids' holistic development. By providing access to fresh ingredients, teaching cooking skills, and connecting food to culture, we can empower the next generation to make informed, nourishing choices that benefit their health and communities.
The Edible Schoolyard Project is an innovative food education initiative that integrates garden and kitchen classrooms into the school day, empowering students to explore the connections between food, health, and community. By cultivating hands-on learning experiences that foster food literacy, agency, and appreciation for local food systems, Edible Schoolyard aims to equip the next generation with the knowledge and skills to become conscious, confident consumers.
In this episode, Edible Schoolyard New Orleans Director, Charlotte Steele joins Justine to discuss the transformative power of food education programs that go beyond just teaching nutrition facts, the challenges of implementing these kinds of programs, the broader implications of these programs for global food education and the role of cafeterias in promoting healthy food choices.
Connect with Charlotte: Charlotte Steele is the Director of Edible Schoolyard New Orleans, a pioneering food education program that empowers students to build a positive relationship with food through hands-on learning in gardens and kitchens. With a background in human development and social relations, Charlotte is deeply passionate about using food as a vehicle to support the holistic growth and well-being of young people.
Under Charlotte's leadership, Edible Schoolyard New Orleans has become a model for integrating food-based education into the school day, providing over 4,000 student experiences annually across four public charter schools. Through her work, Charlotte is committed to increasing food access, fostering agency, and cultivating food-literate individuals who will carry these essential life skills into adulthood.
An engaging public speaker, Charlotte has shared her expertise on leveraging food to drive personal and community transformation at events throughout the region. Her vision is to see food education become a standard part of every child's learning experience, empowering the next generation to make informed, nourishing choices that benefit both their own health and the health of the planet.
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Episode Highlights: 01:08 Access and Agency 07:16 Understanding Food Access 11:57 Food and Community 15:30 Equipping Students with Essential Food Knowledge 20:25 3 Ways To Help Kids Build A Positive Food Relationship 24:56 Tradition and Mindfulness 30:01 An Important Life Skill
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| 004: Bye Bye Bland Bites: How to Make Lunch Time the Highlight of the School Day with Betsy Rosenbluth | 24 Sep 2024 | 00:29:45 | |
Series: Edible Schoolyards
Episode Description: “School meals are part of the education day.” —Betsy Rosenbluth
For far too long, the school lunchroom has been the butt of jokes and the source of dread for students and parents alike. Mention the words "cafeteria food" and visions of limp, gray mystery meat and rock-hard tater tots immediately come to mind. This pervasive stigma has reduced the lunchroom to a place where kids simply have to get through the meal as quickly as possible before rushing off to their next class.
By changing the culture and elevating the dining experience, we can empower students to see the cafeteria as an extension of the classroom, where they can learn about nutrition, explore new flavors, and take pride in the food that fuels their growing bodies and minds.
This week, we hear how we can transform the lunch room into a place of nourishment, community, and joy with Betsy Rosenbluth. Betsy is the Farm to School Director at Shelburne Farms, a nonprofit organization on a 1400-acre working farm in Vermont. For the past 10 years, Betsy has been spearheading efforts to expand farm-to-school programming across Vermont and support a national movement to transform the school food system.
Stay tuned as Justine and Betsy talk about the importance of tailoring programs to local needs, overcoming supply chain challenges, empowering students to make informed choices about their food, the benefits of building partnerships, and how farm-to-school programs are inspiring long-term impacts.
Connect with Betsy: Betsy is Co-Director of Vermont FEED, a nationally recognized farm-to-school partnership program of the Northeast Organic Farming Association of Vermont and Shelburne Farms. Betsy also coordinates the Vermont Farm to School & Early Childhood Network and the Northeast Farm to School Collaborative and serves on the Advisory Board of the National Farm to School Network.
Prior to joining Shelburne Farms, Betsy helped establish the Burlington School Food Project and Education for Sustainability programs in Burlington schools. She also helped Vermont FEED draft and pass Vermont’s first Farm to School bill and grant program. She led the effort to create a Lake Champlain museum on Burlington’s waterfront with a nationally recognized youth employment program. Most recently, Betsy was Director of Projects and Interim Director at the Orton Family Foundation with a focus on community planning, development, and engagement in small cities and towns.
Connect with NextGen Purpose:
Episode Highlights: 01:06 Mission: Educate and Cultivate 06:38 Tailoring Programs to Communities 11:30 Getting Schools’ Attention 15:34 Getting Funding and the Importance of Partnerships 18:31 Incorporating Values 22:45 Celebrating Food Through Cooking Competitions 26:37 Empowering Kids to Try New Things
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| 003: Voices from the Field: Grassroots Strategies to Empower Farmers and Ensure Food Security with Rosalinda Guillen | 17 Sep 2024 | 00:33:16 | |
Series: Labor Day Special Episode 2
Episode Description: “If we were smart as a country, we would look at all of these immigrants that are new citizens of the United States, and look at all of these food production methods and skills that they bring. We would have better food security by including the immigrant farmers in the decision-making on how food production is going to be developed for the future is hitting us really hard with climate change.” —Rosalinda Guillen
Farming is the backbone of our communities, yet too often, the hard-working men and women who toil in the fields are overlooked and undervalued.
But a growing movement is changing that narrative, empowering farmers to take the reins and shape a more sustainable, equitable food system. Community to Community (C2C), founded by Rosalinda Guillen, is a pioneering organization that empowers farm workers and immigrant communities to lead the charge in building a more sustainable, equitable, and community-driven food system.
In this episode, Justine and Rosalinda discuss the challenges and barriers in organizing farm workers, the integration of immigrant farmers' practices, the vision for community farms and food security, the role of regenerative agriculture in addressing climate change, and Rosalinda’s hopes for the future of empowering farmers and transforming the food system.
Connect with Rosalinda: Rosalinda Guillen (she/hers) is the founder of Community to Community and a lead strategist and visionary within the non-hierarchical ecofeminist leadership of C2C. Her perspective is fundamentally influenced by her introduction to the multi-racial, working-class community organizing model of the Rainbow Coalition, the Cesar Chavez house meeting model, The World Social Forum, the Landless Workers Movement (MST) of Brazil and growing up a farmworker in La Conner, WA. Rosalinda has organized farmworkers in WA State and the strawberry fields of Salinas CA. She has represented farmworkers in the Legislatures of California and Washington State and in ongoing policy and Movement dialogues on immigration issues, climate change, labor rights, trade agreements, ecofeminism, and strengthening the food sovereignty movement towards a Solidarity Economy.
Connect with NextGen Purpose:
Episode Highlights: 01:30 What is C2C? 09:18 Learning How to Organize a Community 11:54 Creating a New Narrative 18:09 Getting Into Consensus 21:49 Agricultural Lessons From Immigrant Farmers 26:50 The Answer is in Collaboration 30:45 The Role of Regenerative Agriculture
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| 002: The Price of Produce: Exposing the Harsh Realities of Agricultural Labor with Gerardo Reyes Chávez | 10 Sep 2024 | 00:26:34 | |
Series: Labor Day Special Episode
Episode Description: “Suffering doesn't have to be part of the food we eat. Workers feed every family in this country, and it is only fair that everyone, everywhere should do something to make sure that farm workers have the same ability to feed their families with dignity and respect. And it doesn't take much. It takes for us to have these conversations.” —Gerardo Reyes Chávez
The food we consume is often built upon the backs of a vulnerable workforce struggling to maintain their dignity and basic rights. While we enjoy the convenience and affordability of our food, we must reckon with the unseen sacrifices made by the men, women, and children who toil in the fields, a sobering reality that challenges us to consider the true price we pay for the food we consume.
Gerardo Reyes Chávez is a seasoned farm worker and community organizer who has dedicated over 25 years to advocating for the rights of agricultural laborers. As a long-time member of the Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW), Gerardo has been instrumental in the development and implementation of the groundbreaking Fair Food Program, which has dramatically improved working conditions and wages for tens of thousands of farm workers across the United States.
Tune in as Justine and Gerardo relate the stark contrasts between farm workers' cultural expectations and the harsh realities they face in the agricultural industry, the systemic nature of the abuses and exploitation they endure, the outsized power of major food brands driving industry consolidation and wage stagnation, the innovative and persistent approach of the Coalition of Immokalee Workers in targeting this systemic change, the potential for replicating successful models like the Fair Food Program, and the critical importance of building solidarity and collective action between consumers, advocates, and the farm worker community to address the deep-rooted challenges in the food system.
Connect with Gerardo: Gerardo Reyes Chávez is a distinguished farmworker advocate and a key leader of the Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW). With a background in farm labor that began at the age of 11 in Zacatecas, Mexico, Gerardo has dedicated his life to improving the conditions and rights of farmworkers. He has worked in the fields of Florida, picking a variety of crops including oranges, tomatoes, blueberries, and watermelon. As a leader in the CIW, Gerardo has played a pivotal role in the development and implementation of the Fair Food Program, which aims to protect workers from exploitation and improve labor conditions. His efforts include facilitating community meetings, educating workers about their rights, and attracting new buyers to support the program. Gerardo is also actively involved in addressing issues such as wage theft and modern-day slavery, ensuring that farmworkers’ voices are heard and their rights are upheld. Gerardo’s work has been recognized nationally and internationally, and he frequently speaks at events to raise awareness about the challenges faced by farmworkers and the importance of ethical labor practices.
Connect with NextGen Purpose:
Episode Highlights: 00:50 Farmer vs Farm Worker 08:02 Overcoming Challenges and Abuse 15:41 The Role of the Coalition 20:32 Change the Farming Community 23:25 Suffering Should Not Be A Part of Our Food
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| 001: Cultivating Change: A Look Into the Biggest and Best Season Yet | 03 Sep 2024 | 00:10:41 | |
“I wanted to share a look at what's to come in the biggest and the best season of essential ingredients yet!” —Justine Reichman
The wait is over! Season 9 of Essential Ingredients is finally here, and it's the most impactful and eye-opening season yet, and we can't wait to share it with you!
This season, we're pulling out all the stops to bring you the most captivating, thought-provoking, and downright inspiring stories from the frontlines of the food revolution.
Get ready to meet the visionary entrepreneurs, passionate activists, and pioneering innovators who are transforming our food systems in remarkable ways. But it's not just about the latest breakthroughs— we're also diving deep into the critical issues that are transforming our food systems, from the fight for food access and worker dignity to the quest for true environmental sustainability, and more.
Prepare to be informed, inspired, and galvanized into action as we explore these vital topics through the lens of real people creating real change.
The future of food has never looked brighter! Tune in.
Connect with NextGen Purpose:
Episode Highlights: 00:23 The Biggest and Best Season Yet! 02:03 Sneak Peek: Biodiversity and Organic Farming Practices 03:58 Sneak Peek: Carbon-Negative Flooring 05:13 Sneak Peek: Edible School Yard 06:15 Sneak Peek: Rice Intensification Impact 08:52 Sneak Peek: Community Building and Personal Groth 10:17 Sneak Peek: Agriculture
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| 035: Season 8 Highlights: Pioneering Pathways to a Better, More Nourishing World | 27 Aug 2024 | 00:15:53 | |
“It's been a journey. Our conversations this season have been incredibly inspiring, and they've left me hopeful for the future of food… Thank you for a great season!” —Justine Reichman
What an incredible ride this season has been!
To our devoted listeners, your unwavering support and engagement have fueled our mission from the very start. And to our esteemed guests, your willingness to share your personal journeys, innovative ideas, and visionary perspectives has been truly inspiring.
Together, we've embarked on a transformative exploration of the food landscape— uncovering challenges, celebrating triumphs, and catching glimpses of a future where nourishment, sustainability, and community converge.
Join our host, Justine Reichman, for a look back at the most inspiring moments from the past few months. Hear from founders, experts, and visionaries who are redefining the future of food— from startups tackling health and wellness, to the conscious drinking movement, to moms building better choices for their families.
As we close the curtain on Season 8, we are overflowing with gratitude for the privilege of walking this path alongside all of you. The road ahead is paved with promise, and we can't wait to embark on the next leg of this remarkable journey.
Onward to Season 9!
Connect with NextGen Purpose:
Episode Highlights: 00:17 The Importance of Start Ups 05:20 Stories for Inspiration 08:12 Conscious Drinking Series 10:21 Making the World a Sweeter Place 13:43 Upcycling 15:17 It’s Been a Journey
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| 034: Flour Power: Preserving the Flavor of Tradition to Nourish Local Communities with Jennifer Lapidus | 20 Aug 2024 | 00:21:12 | |
“The flavor and the taste of our regions, as soon as you start industrializing it… it strips the flavor of the grain. It might be good as a crop that will bring in money, but it's not going to have that same soulful value that the type of flour that is stone-milled.” —Jennifer Lapidus
From the farmers who nurture the grains, to the millers who coax out their complex flavors, to the bakers who transform these flours into loaves that nourish the soul, these artisans play a crucial role in preserving the unique tastes of their regions.
Jennifer Lapidus founded Carolina Ground, a small flour mill that aims to revive traditional milling practices and strengthen the connection between farmers, millers, and bakers. With a passion for history and a deep appreciation for the art of sourdough bread-making, Jennifer has spent over 30 years championing the use of locally sourced, stone-milled flour to create exceptional baked goods that nourish both body and soul.
Join the conversation as Justine and Jennifer talk about the importance of following your passions even if the path is not straightforward, how collaboration and support help the baking community thrive, the power of preserving tradition in the age of rapid industrialization, the benefits of focusing on the quality over quantity, and the value of finding the right balance for a mission-driven business.
Meet Jennifer: Jennifer (she/her) is a baker, a miller, an author, a wife, a mother and stepmom, a sister, a fan of beagle mutts, bitter foods, long walks, and Belgian road bikes. She’s forklift certified and her favorite musical is A Chorus Line (though Hamilton is a close second).
Connect with NextGen Purpose:
Episode Highlights: 00:40 Baking as a Mark in History 05:21 Making Sourdough More Nutritious and Flavorful 09:16 The Farmers-Millers-Bakers Community 13:16 The Benefits of Growing Laterally 16:39 More than Just Sugar and Egg
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| 033: The Natural Pharmacy: How Holistic Wellness is Redefining Healing and Prevention with Shizu Okusa | 13 Aug 2024 | 00:31:47 | |
“I traded my life in WallStreet for the world of WellStreet, and I became an entrepreneur.” —Shizu Okusa
The wellness industry has experienced a remarkable transformation in recent years, as consumers increasingly seek natural, holistic solutions to address their health and well-being. This shift reflects a broader societal trend towards a more integrative understanding of health, one that recognizes the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and environment. As this intersection continues to evolve, innovative companies are poised to capitalize on this growing market, offering consumers a new generation of wellness products and services that prioritize prevention, personalization, and overall well-being.
Founded by serial entrepreneur Shizu Okusa, Apothekary offers a range of herbal remedies, functional foods, and educational resources to empower people to take a more proactive approach to their health. As a respected voice in the wellness industry, Shizu continues to develop innovative products and experiences that help people live healthier, more balanced lives.
Listen in as Shizu shares her inspiring entrepreneurial journey, from her time on Wall Street to her passion for herbal medicine and holistic healing. Justine and Shizu also discuss the growing intersection of wellness, healthcare, and food as medicine, the importance of using your gifts to create solutions that benefit others, their personal morning routines for better skin and mental health, and the importance of knowing your numbers, having a clear business plan, and being strategic about fundraising.
Meet Shizu: Shizu Okusa, is a Wall Street alum-turned-wellness entrepreneur. After leaving an intense finance career, she became inspired to live a more balanced lifestyle and revisit her Japanese roots and passion for herbal medicine. Shizu set out to help others regain their holistic health using traditions she grew up with and ones she learned along the way. Now, she proudly leads Apothékary in our mission to deliver natural herbal remedies that get to the root cause of health issues rather than masking the symptoms.
Connect with NextGen Purpose:
Episode Highlights: 01:10 From WallStreet to WellStreet 08:27 Empowering Consumers with Natural Healing Solutions 12:42 Morning Routine for Skin and Mental Health 16:55 Managing Workload 21:28 Fundraising Challenges and Tips 26:42 The Founder’s Role | |||
| 032: Eat Adventurously: Embrace the Unexpected Flavors of Overlooked Local Ingredients with Becky Selengut | 06 Aug 2024 | 00:34:29 | |
“The individual decision is the difference maker.” —Becky Selengut
Our local markets and farms are brimming with a diverse array of ingredients. Yet, many of us pass them by because of their peculiar appearance or because we may be unsure of how to incorporate them into our cooking. But, by moving past our assumptions of how food should look like and embracing the unique qualities of these “ugly” and “misunderstood” vegetables, we can unlock a world of delicious, nutritious possibilities and transform our palates and perspectives while forging a deeper connection to the land.
Becky Selengut is an author, chef, and educator who has dedicated her career to inspiring home cooks to embrace overlooked, locally-sourced ingredients. Through her books, cooking classes, and advocacy work, Becky encourages people to look beyond the familiar and explore the diverse array of produce available in their own communities.
Join the conversation as Justine and Chef Becky highlight specific examples of overlooked local ingredients, the reasons these ingredients are often misunderstood, the importance of curiosity, experimentation, and a willingness to try new things when it comes to expanding our culinary repertoire, the impact of individual food choices, the divide between eating organically versus domestically, and how eating locally contribute to sustainability and improved local food systems.
Meet Becky: Becky Selengut is an author, instructor, podcaster, and chef based in Seattle. Her books include: Misunderstood Vegetables, How to Taste, Shroom, Good Fish, and Not One Shrine. Selengut is the co-host of the local foods podcast Field to Fork. When Selengut is not the chef aboard the M/V Thea Foss, she forages, makes a mean Manhattan, and shares her life with her wife April Pogue, their lovably loony pointer mix Izzy and their semi-feral gray floof Jinx.
Connect with NextGen Purpose:
Episode Highlights: 00:34 Misunderstood Vegetables 07:29 “Ugly Vegetables” for Global Problems 13:14 Eating Locally and Sustainably 19:38 Organic vs Local 23:00 Individual vs Systemic Change 28:55 Reduce Plastic
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| 023: Customized Carbonation: Popping the Lid on Personalized Hydration with John Thorp & Buzz Wiggins | 14 Jan 2025 | 00:39:36 | |
“There are ups and downs through all of that. You have to be prepared for those days when things don't feel like they're moving ahead. And you have to bring the same type of passion, the same drive on either type of day.” —John Thorp
“You're never trying to get a yes out of anyone you're talking to when you are an early founder; you are trying to get a not, no… If it's getting bad feedback, fix it immediately and go right back. You have the ability to change someone's mind after they've made an opinion.” —Buzz Wiggins
Sparkling water has become a beloved beverage for its refreshing fizz and health-conscious appeal. Yet, the environmental impact of single-use containers and the lack of customization options have left many consumers seeking a more sustainable and personalized solution. How can we rethink the way we enjoy carbonated drinks? John Thorp and Buzz Wiggins, the co-founders of Aerflo, have dedicated themselves to revolutionizing the sparkling water experience. With their innovative portable carbonation system, they are empowering consumers to take control of their hydration while minimizing waste. Tune in as Justine Reichman sits down with John and Buzz to discuss their entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of building a sustainable product, the far-reaching benefits of their approach to sparkling water, the benefits of having the right co-founder, the lie we were all made to believe about recycling, and more!
Meet John: With over a decade of experience as an alternative investment professional, John Thorp brings a strong business acumen and strategic mindset to Aerflo. John is passionate about designing sustainable products that improve the lives of consumers while also reducing environmental impact. Under his leadership, Aerflo has developed innovative carbonation technology and established a unique refill model to move beyond single-use waste. John is committed to building a company that creates positive change through thoughtful, consumer-centric design.
Meet Buzz: As a skilled designer and problem-solver, Buzz Wiggins has been instrumental in the development of Aerflo's innovative product design and packaging. Leveraging his expertise in product design and optimization, Buzz has led the team in creating a seamless user experience while also ensuring the environmental sustainability of the Aerflo system. Buzz's creative approach and attention to detail have been crucial in bringing Aerflo's vision to life.
Connect with Aerflo:
Connect with NextGen Purpose:
Episode Highlights: 02:07 The Inspiration Behind Aerflo 16:33 Challenges and Prototyping 22:10 Business Building Lessons 31:50 Focus on Environmental Impact 34:30 The Lie We Were Made to Believe | |||
| 031: The Daily Grind: How Coffee Powers Minds and Markets Around the Globe with Wade Johnson | 30 Jul 2024 | 00:31:00 | |
“Everything in the world is about how you're connecting to other people.” —Wade Johnson
From the women farmers cultivating coffee beans in remote regions to the baristas crafting specialty drinks in bustling cafes, coffee brings people together. But more than an everyday beverage, coffee also offers cultural and economic significance. It provides livelihoods for millions while fueling creative and business endeavors. However, coffee production faces growing threats from climate change and fluctuating prices.
Exploradora Coffee is a socially conscious coffee roaster co-founded by Wade Johnson, her mother Alison, and her sister, Hollis. By exclusively sourcing from women farmers and reinvesting in programs for coffee growers, Exploradora Coffee promotes food security as well as economic and social empowerment. The family-run business strives to uplift women coffee producers while securing a sustainable future for this culturally and economically significant crop.
Listen in as Justine and Wade open up about their experiences in navigating family business dynamics and growth strategies, the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and creating efficient tools and processes, the impact of regenerative agriculture practices and building long-term relationships with coffee farms, Exploradora’s future growth plans, and more.
Meet Wade: Wade Johnson is the co-founder of Exploradora Coffee, a coffee roastery that sources exclusively from women farmers around the world. With a background in politics, executive recruiting, and coffee, Wade brings diverse experience to building Exploradora Coffee. Wade is passionate about empowering women in coffee-producing countries and donates company proceeds to support mothers through the Springboard to Opportunities nonprofit. Under Wade's leadership, Exploradora Coffee has expanded its restaurant and cafe partnerships while committing to long-term relationships with coffee farms. When not running the day-to-day operations of Exploradora Coffee, Wade enjoys mentoring other entrepreneurs and advocating for sustainable agricultural practices like regenerative farming.
Connect with NextGen Purpose:
Episode Highlights: 01:35 Building a Family-Owned Roastery 09:08 Empowering Women in Coffee Production 15:46 Evolving Leadership Roles 19:31 Giving Back as Entrepreneurs 26:16 How Regen Ag Impacts Coffee Production
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| 030: Beyond the Symptom— Treating and Preventing Food Sensitivities with Functional Medicine with Dr. Heather Stone | 23 Jul 2024 | 00:31:07 | |
“The industry responds to the consumer. If we would stop buying all of the processed foods, they would change. We have the ability to change the industry by where we put our dollars.” —Dr. Heather Stone
For many people, certain foods can trigger uncomfortable and sometimes debilitating symptoms. However, identifying the culprit foods isn't always straightforward. Through traditional trial-and-error elimination diets, it's possible to pinpoint sensitivities over time. But, by taking a holistic view of the body's systems and how they interact with diet and lifestyle, it is possible to uncover and address underlying imbalances that may be exacerbating sensitivity reactions. Dr. Heather Stone is a functional medicine practitioner who helps clients overcome food sensitivities and autoimmune conditions by identifying and correcting imbalances in a holistic manner. By focusing on nutrition, lifestyle factors, and reducing inflammation, she empowers people to take control of their health and minimize symptoms naturally. Listen in as Justine and Dr. Stone dive into the importance of addressing the root causes of health issues rather than just treating symptoms, how traditional and functional medicine can work together comprehensively for optimal patient care and health outcomes, how to clean up diet to manage blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation, and insulin resistance, what a balanced approach to moderation means, and the role of cultural competence and community in making lifestyle changes.
Meet Heather: Dr. Heather Stone, DC is one of the top functional medicine practitioners in the world. She has over twenty years of clinical experience in private practice. During that time she has successfully helped thousands of women overcome the symptoms of hypothyroidism & Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis.
In addition, her Thyroid Transformation Blueprint has been used by hundreds of doctors, and thus has helped countless women return to happy, healthy, & lean. Her mission is to change the face of healthcare through her private practice, books, masterclasses, webinars, educational programs, and retreats.
Dr. Heather believes the body was born to heal and works tirelessly to remind her patients that the power to heal always comes from within. When she is not working to help her patients achieve their goals she is spending time with her family, friends, and a menagerie of animals on her ranch. She is passionate about great food, cooking, regenerative farming, gardening, raising animals in a healthy and humane environment, and her quest to live to 120 years old. She currently resides in Texas where she runs Born To Heal Ranch, which is a retreat center for women dealing with hypothyroidism & Hashimoto’s.
Connect with NextGen Purpose:
Episode Highlights: 01:27 More Than Just Symptoms 07:47 Integrating Traditional and Functional Medicine for Optimal Health 13:40 Continous Glucose Monitors for Improved Patient Care 18:25 Managing Food Sensitivities 24:51 Personal and Cultural Competence
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| 029: Transforming Underutilized Superfoods to Revolutionize Diet with Joni Kindwall-Moore | 16 Jul 2024 | 00:26:43 | |
“When you're an entrepreneur, there's opportunities everywhere. And part of the art is the discernment of the opportunity that is not only going to be achievable but has the highest, long-term return. That comes with experience, but if you understand your tools better, you get there faster.” —Joni Kindwall-Moore Our modern food system has become disconnected from nature's inherent wisdom. Agriculture prioritizes yield over nutrition, flooding our bodies with empty calories that lack phytonutrients and fiber. This imbalance is having disastrous health consequences, amplifying the rising rates of preventable diseases. Reconnecting agriculture with its original purpose of nourishment is key to reversing these trends. Snacktivist Foods is a food innovation company that is transforming underutilized crops into healthier comfort foods using ancient grains and ingredients. Founded by former nurse Joni Kindwall-Moore, Snacktivist's mission is to elevate nutrition and sustainability through innovative plant-based products. This week’s conversation aims to reestablish the linkage between agriculture, food, and human health by creating products from nutrient-dense crops that provide medicinal benefits. Listen in as Justine and Joni discuss why modern highly processed foods are leading to overeating, how creating better-for-you alternatives can help address diet-related diseases, how embracing imperfection and continuous improvement leads to more sustainable behavioral changes and success in wellness goals, and how lifestyle interventions can impact health outcomes.
Meet Joni: Joni Kindwall-Moore is the founder and CEO of Snacktivist Foods, a food innovation company focused on elevating underutilized crops. She has over 15 years of experience as a registered nurse, where she worked in critical care units and saw firsthand the human suffering caused by diet-related diseases. This inspired her to leave healthcare and launch Snacktivist to create healthier comfort foods using ancient grains and ingredients with medicinal properties. Under Joni's leadership, Snacktivist has raised over $3 million in grants to further its mission of connecting agriculture to better health outcomes. When she's not running her company, Joni enjoys advocating for more responsive and sustainable food systems.
Connect with NextGen Purpose:
Episode Highlights: 03:48 Nutrition and Microbiome Health 09:19 The Importance of Balance in Food Choices 12:44 Food Innovation for Health 17:21 Meeting the Challenges of Fundraising 20:58 How Diet Impacts Life Expectancy
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| 028: Cooking Up Innovation: Turning Outdoor Passions into Sustainable Culinary Creations with Jamie Poe | 09 Jul 2024 | 00:33:38 | |
“The food system is broken. There's no way around it… But can you make the best choice you can make with what's in front of you?” —Jamie Poe
The traditional camping aisle has long been due for an overhaul. Growing consciousness now allows us to see outdoor adventure not just as an escape, but as an extension of our values. We seek harmony with nature through mindful gear, sustainable practices, and nutrition in tune with the landscape.
Into this space have stepped innovators who understand the modern outdoors person. Poe&Co. is a catering and food products company founded by chefs and partners Jamie Poe and Jayson Poe. Driven by their passions for local, seasonal cuisine and the outdoors, they have established a thriving catering business while launching a line of plant-based camping meals.
Listen in Justine and Jamie also talk about how bootstrapping allows creative control over the business, how strong partnerships require balancing visionary and operational roles, why new ventures require flexibility, the challenges of choosing sustainable packaging, and the importance of supporting local economies and small businesses, as well as consulting with experts to improve products.
Meet Jamie: Originally from Los Angeles, Jamie Poe attended The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York. After graduating in 2005, she moved to New York City and cooked at Danny Meyer's Union Square Cafe and Michelin-starred Gramercy Tavern. Since then, Poe has worked as a Private Chef in New York City, The Hamptons, Los Angeles, Silicon Valley, and Santa Barbara. Jamie also managed a boutique olive oil company in Napa Valley and has contributed to multiple cookbooks and online publications.
Connect with NextGen Purpose:
Episode Highlights: 04:38 Challenges of Building a Catering Company 08:21 Partnership and Division of Responsibilities 14:23 Making It Healthy and Accessible 18:33 Lessons in Launching a New Food Product 22:39 Packaging Focused on Sustainability 26:47 Catering with Plant-Based Options
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| 027: When Mushroom Magic Meets Chocolate Bliss with Maria Paula Garces | 02 Jul 2024 | 00:25:50 | |
“If you always knew, you may think twice. But then you approach it with audacity.” —Maria Paula Garces
Mushrooms are nature's secret superfoods, quietly working behind the scenes to nourish both humans and Earth's ecosystems alike. Combined with the indulging flavor of cacao, these mushroom morsels form the newest way to nourish both taste buds and total wellness.
Founded by Maria Paula Garces, Fungible Chocolates creates chocolate bars infused with single strains of functional mushrooms to provide targeted health benefits like focus, immunity, and relaxation. They aim to educate consumers on the untapped wellness potential of mushrooms through clean, simple products.
Listen in as Justine and Maria share the benefits of using single-mushroom extracts versus blends in functional mushroom chocolates, the challenges of starting a business related to fungi, the importance of finding a product that aligns with one's values and enjoying the process of creating something material from an idea, and the value of building a strong foundation for a successful business through diverse advisory boards and consistent networking events.
Meet Maria: Maria Paula Garces is the founder and CEO of Fungible Chocolates, a functional mushroom chocolate company based in California. She has over 10 years of experience as an entrepreneur, having launched 10 startups in various industries including health foods and organic clothing. Prior to founding Fungible Chocolates, Maria worked as a marketing manager in the biotech industry. Maria takes a lean, self-funded approach to building her businesses and has raised a small round of investment. She is focused on researching new mushroom extracts and expanding Fungible Chocolate's product line while maintaining simplicity and accessibility. When she's not running her company, Maria enjoys networking in the startup community to build her knowledge and advisory network.
Connect with NextGen Purpose:
Episode Highlights: 03:32 A Dive Into Functional Mushrooms and Chocolate 10:12 Mushroom Benefits and Their Role in Agriculture 16:46 Funding and Growth with a Lean Perspective 21:07 Building a Strong Advisory Board
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| 026: Nourishing the Body and Soul Through Mindful Cooking with Aishwarya Iyer | 25 Jun 2024 | 00:32:20 | |
“The things that you run away from, you end up going back to as you get older.” —Aishwarya Iyer Because of our busy schedules, it's all too easy to rush through meal preparation on autopilot. But cooking with presence and awareness has profound benefits for both body and soul. With each conscious action in the kitchen, whether stirring a pot of soup or mixing a salad, we nourish our mind and spirit, as well as our physical needs. The mindfulness we cultivate over the stove can spread throughout our day, improving mood and relationships toward more conscious living. Aishwarya Iyer’s passion for conscious cooking inspired her to create Brightland, where she strives to elevate people's connection to their food through products that encourage mindfulness. By sharing the stories of the farmers and flavors behind each product, she aims to help customers more present and aware during mealtimes, allowing them to reap the mental and physical benefits of living in the moment while nourishing themselves and their loved ones. In this episode, Justine and Aishwarya talked about overcoming self-doubt, the importance of surrounding oneself with knowledgeable people, Brightland's organic and regenerative products, Ash’s strategic approach to growing the company, and the value of mindful cooking and making thoughtful choices to nourish both body and soul.
Meet Aishwarya: Aishwarya Iyer is the founder and CEO of Brightland, an olive oil, vinegar, and honey company based in California. She launched Brightland in 2017 after becoming passionate about food and cooking oils. Under her leadership, Brightland has grown to produce a variety of high-quality, organic, and regenerative olive oils, vinegar, and honey. Brightland partners directly with small farms to source ingredients and tell the story of sustainable agriculture. Prior to founding Brightland, Aishwarya worked in the beauty industry and tech startups. She credits her experiences in consumer products and the startup world with giving her the skills to successfully launch and scale her own company. Aishwarya is committed to building Brightland through a strategic and calm approach while delighting customers.
Connect with NextGen Purpose:
Episode Highlights: 00:55 Walking the Path of Entrepreneur 05:19 Overcoming Barriers to Success 10:30 Mindful Cooking 15:06 Partnering with Local Farmers 18:57 The Value of Advisors 23:51 Emphasis on Quality and Uniqueness 31:02 AVoiding Rancidity
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| 025: Reinventing Regenerative Systems Through Bio-Regional Approach in Education with Dr. Laird Christensen | 18 Jun 2024 | 00:26:55 | |
“You can't leave the question of justice out of sustainability. Because if large numbers of people feel disempowered, or left out of the process, there's nothing sustainable about that.” —Dr. Laird Christensen
Building a sustainable and regenerative future requires innovative education and community engagement. When educational programs empower people with practical knowledge of their local ecosystems and economies, they gain the tools to strengthen food systems, land use, and social networks where they live. Dr. Laird Christensen is an award-winning instructor and administrator at Prescott College, where he directs innovative graduate programs focused on sustainability and resilience. Through story-based and project-centered learning, his curricula empower professionals to create just and sustainable communities. Tune in as Justine and Dr. Christensen cover critical issues on empowering students to address challenges in their regions through bio-regional and solutions-based approaches, the need for inclusive solutions that benefit all people as energy systems transition away from fossil fuels, overcoming climate anxiety, and reinventing systems in a more regenerative and equitable manner.
Meet Laird: Laird Christensen is an award-winning instructor, writer, and administrator. As the director of the Master of Science in Resilient and Sustainable Communities program at Prescott College, he has developed innovative project-based curricula and interdisciplinary programs focused on how stories shape the interaction of human communities and their environments. With over 10 years of experience directing online graduate programs, Laird is passionate about empowering working professionals to build more sustainable and just communities through place-based and solutions-oriented learning.
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Episode Highlights: 04:35 A Focus on Solutions-Based Learning 08:38 Student Innovation Builds Sustainable Food System 14:51 Creating Systemic Resiliency Through Education and Community Engagement 19:31 Understanding Different Perspectives to Address Social and Environmental Issues 23:33 Communication Strategies for Creating a Regenerative Future | |||
| 024: Regenerative Ranches: How Sustainable Livestock Farming Can Help Solve Climate Change with Marshall Bartlett | 11 Jun 2024 | 00:41:28 | |
“This isn't just a purchasing decision. This has huge and sweeping ramifications. As consumers, we dictate the food system; our choices pull a lever that directly dictates how all this works.” —Marshall Bartlett
Sustainable meat production is about more than just the end product— it's also about supporting a holistic farming system that nourishes both people and the land. When consumers make the conscientious choice to purchase meat from farms practicing this kind of care, it solidifies a food system that will continue nourishing communities for many years to come.
This week, Justine sits down with Marshall Bartlett, the co-founder and CEO of Home Place Pastures, a fifth-generation family farm in Mississippi that has transformed over the past decade to practice regenerative agriculture through rotational grazing of grass-fed beef and pastured pork. Marshall aims to improve soil health, support ethical animal welfare, and make locally grown, sustainable meat accessible in his community.
Tune in as Justine and Marshall talk about the challenges of conventional agriculture, how regenerative practices like rotational grazing can improve soil health and sequester carbon long-term, and the importance of education and storytelling to help consumers understand labels and make informed choices that support small, local producers.
Meet Marshall: Marshall grew up in the Home Place and fell in love with the farm and his hometown throughout his childhood. After graduating from the Mississippi School of Math and Science, Marshall left the South to attend Dartmouth College for undergrad. After college, he spent time in Montana, completed an AmeriCorps term in New Orleans rebuilding houses destroyed in Katrina, and eventually ran operations for a small business specializing in sourcing local meat for New Orleans chefs.
In 2014, at the age of 24, Marshall returned to the Home Place with a new vision for the family farm and has worked for the last 10 years to bring this vision to reality. You can usually find him on the Home Place Monday through Saturday somewhere between the meat plant, the farming operation, and the Farm Store. He often gives farm tours and butcher classes at the Home Place. He spends his off-farm time with his wife Katie and daughter Joan or traveling to help learn from other farmers and meat processors.
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Episode Highlights: 02:33 Farming Challenges and Opportunities for Sustainable Practices 12:44 Financial Viability Concern 16:13 Connecting Food with Health and Planet 21:56 Manipulated Label Claim in the Meat Industry 25:17 Local and Sustainable Meat Production 28:44 Local Foods and Consumer Impact 34:05 Animal Welfare and Regenerative Agriculture 36:46 Supporting Local Agriculture
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| 023: Sips to Lips— Get Gruvi in Your Next Night Out With Award-Winning Non-Alcoholic Options with Anika Sawni | 04 Jun 2024 | 00:34:35 | |
“Choosing a non-alcoholic option isn't a less than choice.” —Anika Sawni The lines between drinkers and non-drinkers are beginning to blur as new options emerge. Where social events were once defined by their alcohol consumption, people now gather for deeper connections unbound by beverage choices. Gruvi co-founder, Anika Sawni’s vision celebrates the joy of community while empowering individuals to make choices that align with their health, values, and mood. Their growing range of sophisticated yet accessible zero-proof options ensures no one ever feels left out or like a third wheel due to their drinking habits alone.
Listen in as Anika shares her journey launching Gruvi, and their focus on taste, variety, and accessibility when crafting their award-winning non-alcoholic bevies. Justine and Anika also discuss the growing interest in reducing alcohol consumption, what mindful drinking means, and how we can help build an inclusive drinking culture.
Meet Anika:
Anika Sawni is the co-founder and Director of Marketing at Grüvi, a company that produces alcohol-free beverages. She studied neuroscience at McGill University before teaming up with her brother, Niki Sawni, to launch Grüvi.
Anika’s journey with Grüvi began when she noticed the lack of non-alcoholic options at social gatherings. This observation led her to create a healthier alternative that could complement social experiences without adding inebriation.
Grüvi started with a focus on the cannabis community in Denver, and it quickly gained popularity. Today, Grüvi’s products, which include alcohol-free wine and beer, are sold across more than 1,500 stores, including Whole Foods, Total Wine, Target, and the Canadian grocery chain, Sobeys.
In addition to her work with Grüvi, Anika has also served as the VP of Events for McGill Students for DueNORTH from 2016 to 2019. She was named to Forbes’s 30 Under 30 list in its food and beverage category in 2021. Anika’s future aspirations include founding a company focused on brain-based interventions.
Anika Sawni’s work with Grüvi exemplifies her commitment to promoting healthier lifestyle choices and her innovative approach to addressing gaps in the beverage market.
Connect with NextGen Purpose:
Episode Highlights: 01:42 Building a Non-Alcoholic Brand 08:49 Working with Family 11:58 Addressing Consumer Barriers 18:45 Shifting Societal Attitude Toward Drinking 22:36 Mindful Drinking Habits 28:02 Focusing on Taste and Accessibility
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| 022: Adaptogenic Spirits— Ancient Herbal Wisdom for Modern Health Restoration with Connor Godfrey | 28 May 2024 | 00:22:53 | |
“I try to remove ego from as many of these decisions as I can as that's one of the greatest inhibitors to future success.” —Connor Godfrey When external pressures or internal imbalances knock us from our center, discomfort and disease can take root. However, balance is not found by force but through nurturing what needs nurturing within. Therefore, by supporting our body's innate wisdom with natural remedies, mindfulness, and self-care, we allow its equilibrium to renew. Founded by Connor Godfrey, Rasāsvāda is a spirit restorative company that creates herbal spirits using traditional Chinese medicinal plants and ingredients. Rasāsvāda aims to help consumers on their lifelong wellness journeys through plant-based remedies without preservatives that promote healing and restore balance.
Listen in as Justine and Connor dive deep into nature-inspired wellness solutions, including traditional Chinese medicine and adaptogenic ingredients. They also share the importance of treating business obstacles as a game, balancing ego and growth, regularly assessing and pivoting the business strategy, including education in crafting marketing strategy, and more.
Meet Connor: Connor Godfrey is the founder and CEO of Rasāsvāda, a spirit restorative company based in New York City. Rasāsvāda creates spirits made from 100% plants and traditional Chinese medicinal herbs. Connor was inspired to start the company after turning to Eastern medicine to help heal from personal struggles.
Connor has a background in private equity and comes from a family with experience in herbalism and tea. As the sixth generation entrepreneur in his family, he leverages his knowledge of Eastern wellness practices to formulate Rasāsvāda’s adaptogenic products. Under Connor's leadership, Rasāsvāda focuses on education and innovation, with a mission to help customers on their wellness journeys through plant-based remedies and restorative rituals.
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Episode Highlights: 01:06 Eastern Medicine and Spirit Restoration 04:50 Business Partnerships and Navigating Challenges 11:47 A Focus on Adaptogenic Ingredients 17:47 Wellness, Education, and Education
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| 022 : Perimenopause and Protein: Nourishing Your Body Right Through Hormonal Changes with Meredith Mann | 07 Jan 2025 | 00:27:37 | |
Episode Description: “You can't live out your best life and fulfill your passions… if you don't feel good.”—Meredith Mann
Perimenopause can be a time of profound hormonal shifts, often accompanied by challenges like fatigue, mood swings, and weight fluctuations. What if the key to navigating this transition lies in the power of protein? Meredith Mann, the founder and CEO of The Peachie Spoon, is a holistic nutrition expert and former personal trainer who has dedicated her career to empowering women to achieve optimal health and balance through simple, nourishing recipes and lifestyle strategies. Tune in as Meredith shares her personal journey with insulin resistance, the importance of blood sugar management, her experience and lessons learned from turning her hobby into a business, her insights on supporting perimenopausal women's health and wellness, plus much more
Meet Meredith: Meredith Mann is a CPT, holistic nutrition coach, and founder of The Peachie Spoon. Married for 19 years with three teenagers, she loves creating simple, wholesome recipes in her kitchen. She has written two cookbooks, runs the Well Made Academy online course, and has now launched The Peachie Spoon Nutrition Products.
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Episode Highlights: 02:11 Struggling with insulin Resistance and Hypoglycemia 04:40 From Hobby to Business 10:05 Developing and Launching a Product 16:42 Meredith’s Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 22:47 Writing and Publishing a Book 26:11 Find the Ideal Recipe for Your Dietary Needs at The Peachie Spoon
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| 021: The Buzz Without the Bite: Clean Cocktails for Conscious Drinkers with Jennifer Roman-Matito Part 2 (EPISODE 200) | 21 May 2024 | 00:21:47 | |
“We want to get people to recognize that there are better-for-you options in the alcohol world.” —Jennifer Roman-Matito
While a night of fun and frivolity is part of the social experience, the unpleasant physical effects of a hangover can leave us longing for a better way— a way to continue the party without the painful playoff. In this episode, Justine sits down with Jennifer Roman-Matito, the co-founder of Mother's Milk, a coconut water cocktail company that offers a healthier alternative to alcoholic drinks. She created Mother's Milk to provide hangover-free beverage options made with natural ingredients for conscious drinkers. Jennifer shares how her interest in healthier alternatives was sparked by unwanted physical reactions to alcohol and how this led her to create a line of coconut water-based RTD cocktails designed for hydration without hangovers. Tune in to hear the challenges of launching and growing a female-founded business from the ground up, what conscious drinking means, plus, advice on choosing the right ingredients, building strategic partnerships, and fundraising as a small business.
Meet Jennifer: Jennifer Roman-Matito is a dynamic entrepreneur and co-founder of Mother's Milk, a pioneering coconut water-based cocktail brand aimed at health-conscious individuals with a penchant for revelry. Armed with a degree in Communications and Media Studies from CUNY-Hunter College, Jennifer combines her passion for innovative products with her rich island heritage to craft beverages that resonate with a diverse and adventurous audience.
As a self-funded and female-founded initiative, Mother's Milk stands as a testament to Jennifer's entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to creating distinctive offerings in the beverage industry. Leveraging her expertise in hospitality, marketing communications, and event management, Jennifer spearheads the brand's distribution efforts, forges strategic partnerships, and orchestrates impactful marketing campaigns to propel Mother's Milk into the spotlight.
Through Mother's Milk, she not only offers refreshing libations but also cultivates a community of like-minded individuals who embrace wellness without compromising on enjoyment. With Jennifer at the helm, Mother's Milk continues to captivate taste buds, spark conversations, and carve its niche as a trailblazer in the beverage industry.
Connect with NextGen Purpose:
Episode Highlights: 00:29 Alt Drinks for Hangovers 05:05 Building a Lifestyle Brand 09:17 Challenges and Solutions for Female-FOunded 13:38 Finding Strategic Partners 18:09 Conscious Drinking | |||
| 020: The Buzz Without the Bite: Clean Cocktails for Conscious Drinkers with Jennifer Roman-Matito Part 1 | 14 May 2024 | 00:26:48 | |
“When one person makes the decision to be more mindful, more conscious, it starts to have a little bit more of a ripple effect.” —Jennifer Roman-Matito Conscious drinking is gaining popularity as people recognize that alcohol consumption is a choice where informed decisions matter. Younger generations especially are looking for drinking experiences to satisfy their desire to socialize without sacrificing how they feel. This trend speaks much about the mainstreaming of preventative health habits and considering ingredients in all areas of life, including how we enjoy social beverages. Jennifer Roman-Matito is the co-founder of Mother's Milk, a groundbreaking coconut water-based cocktail brand designed for health-conscious individuals who enjoy vibrant experiences. With a passion for creating unique products that reflect her island heritage, Jennifer utilizes her expertise in hospitality, marketing communications, and event management to distribute the brand, foster partnerships, and generate excitement within a diverse and adventurous audience. The conversation explores the growing trend of conscious drinking. Tune in as Justine and Jennifer define conscious drinking and discuss how conscious drinking is impacting the food and beverage industry, social gatherings, and the overall health and wellness of consumers. They also talk about the rise of ready-to-drink cocktails and non-alcoholic options, as well as collaborating on future events and partnerships to further the conversation around mindful alcohol consumption.
Meet Jennifer: Jennifer Roman-Matito is a dynamic entrepreneur and co-founder of Mother's Milk, a pioneering coconut water-based cocktail brand aimed at health-conscious individuals with a penchant for revelry. Armed with a degree in Communications and Media Studies from CUNY-Hunter College, Jennifer combines her passion for innovative products with her rich island heritage to craft beverages that resonate with a diverse and adventurous audience.
As a self-funded and female-founded initiative, Mother's Milk stands as a testament to Jennifer's entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to creating distinctive offerings in the beverage industry. Leveraging her expertise in hospitality, marketing communications, and event management, Jennifer spearheads the brand's distribution efforts, forges strategic partnerships, and orchestrates impactful marketing campaigns to propel Mother's Milk into the spotlight.
Through Mother's Milk, she not only offers refreshing libations but also cultivates a community of like-minded individuals who embrace wellness without compromising on enjoyment. With Jennifer at the helm, Mother's Milk continues to captivate taste buds, spark conversations, and carve its niche as a trailblazer in the beverage industry.
Connect with NextGen Purpose:
Episode Highlights: 00:46 What is Conscious Drinking 04:28 Conscious Drinking and Its Growing Popularity 11:06 Conscious Drinking and Its Impact on Social Gathering 19:45 Conscious Drinking and Collaboration with Brands 24:15 Conscious Drinking and Mindfulness
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| 019: Mothers Know Best— Honoring Motherhood in Business with Hoda Mohajerani | 07 May 2024 | 00:24:56 | |
“Without our mothers, we wouldn't be here. We need to put mothers and nurturing maternal relationships at the forefront of our families, of our communities, and also how we lead businesses as well.” —Hoda Mohajerani Motherhood is at the heart of many businesses today. Where some see constraints, these mompreneurs find freedom in following passions with impacts that nourish families and the future. Their brands reflect the love, care, and vision that sustain communities, just as motherhood sustains families. Chakra Chai founder Hoda Mohajerani returns to share her journey as a mom and business leader. Listen in as Justine and Hoda discuss more about the intersection of motherhood and entrepreneurship, Chakra Chai's latest products that aim to nourish both physical and spiritual well-being, the importance of collaboration and community in business success, nurturing communities through sustainable practices, and more.
Meet Hoda: Following the loss of her newborn son, Arta, Hoda’s body, mind, and soul were in a state of disarray. Her heart was shattered, her energy depleted, and she suffered from chronic gut and colon problems. Hoda’s being was in turmoil while she struggled to find solace in her physical and emotional state. However, her sheer power will keep her going through the toughest of times.
While meditating at home, Hoda heard a whisper from her dear Arta: “Chakra Chai”. At first, she was not sure what it meant or what her little one was trying to tell her. Over time, though, she began to understand the profound message, delivered with the utmost tenderness and love.
Hoda received a download of information that she knew was sacred and powerful. She sat with her thoughts and quieted her mind, allowing for the message to sink in and take root. She knew that this was an incredible gift, one that she had to honor and pursue with all her being.
CHAKRA CHAI is the product of her loss and grief, but it has become Hoda’s mission in life to offer a drink that brings wholeness, balance, and strength to those who need it. It is a privilege to serve others, and she hopes that each sip of CHAKRA CHAI offers solace and healing to all those who come across it.
Connect with NextGen Purpose:
Episode Highlights: 02:37 Building a Conscious Brand that Supports Mothers 05:16 Love Truffles 08:04 Finding the Right Team 13:27 The Importance of Collaboration and Community 19:03 Honoring Motherhood in Business
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| 018: Purposeful Packaging: Plant-Based Packaging Solutions for a Sustainable Supply Chain with Jared Damman | 30 Apr 2024 | 00:26:39 | |
“We believe that small businesses change the game. They'll be the future of everything and they are more adaptable. So if we can support small businesses, that's going to lead to a better economy, a better future for everyone.” —Jared Damman Traditional plastic and petroleum-based packaging have severe environmental consequences, filling landfills and releasing greenhouse gases. Hence, sustainable packaging is becoming increasingly important as consumers demand environmentally-friendly options. However, compostable packaging also faces challenges in terms of availability, cost, and processing infrastructure. Innovation is key to developing sustainable solutions that are viable for both businesses and the planet. Led by Jared Damman, WildKind Packaging, a sustainable packaging manufacturer, utilizes innovative digital printing technology to make compostable packaging more accessible and cost-effective. With over 15 years of experience in product development and manufacturing, Jared was inspired to launch WildKind to create a meaningful environmental impact. Tune in as Justine and Jared look inside the efforts to develop financially viable and truly sustainable packaging solutions through empowering employee ownership models. They also talk about the challenges of measuring environmental impact and educating consumers, how digital printing and E-beam curing allow for customized, small-batch production using plant-based materials, navigating partnerships within a parent company to launch a new initiative, and the importance of considering future generations through business decisions.
Meet Jared: Jared Damman is the Founder and CEO of WildKind Packaging, a sustainable packaging manufacturer focused on plant-based flexible packaging. With over 15 years of experience in product development and digital printing technologies, Jared was inspired to launch WildKind after wanting to create a tangible environmental impact. Under his leadership, WildKind utilizes innovative digital printing and E-beam technology to make compostable packaging accessible and affordable for small businesses.
Prior to founding WildKind, Jared helped develop new business lines and digital applications as part of an employee-owned manufacturing company. Jared is passionate about empowering employees and future generations through sustainable business practices.
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Episode Highlights: 03:18 Plant-Based Materials Innovative Packaging Solutions 08:45 Leveraging Digital Printing Technology 13:49 Educating Consumers About Packaging Alternatives 15:45 Employee Ownership Model 20:55 Business Decisions and the Future Generations
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| 017: How to Leverage Data to Reveal Hidden Market Opportunities with Kate Burns and Andreas Duess | 23 Apr 2024 | 00:36:01 | |
“Wi-Fi and the Internet have now become a utility. But food is not. It should be! Good food should be as available and accessible as Wi-Fi.” —Kate Burns
“Hit the market where the market is not where you wish it would be.” —Andreas Duess
Leveraging data and insights provides businesses with a strategic edge. Rather than relying solely on assumptions or untested ideas, a data-driven approach empowers companies to design products and strategies that deliver impactful solutions that meet customers’ needs.
6Seeds is a company that provides data-backed insights to guide businesses toward sustainable growth. Their analysis helps founders move past assumptions to make fact-based choices. By acting on insights from real consumer behavior and preferences, entrepreneurs can create relevant offerings and navigate the path to success.
Listen in as Justine interviews 6Seeds co-founders, Kate Burns and Andreas Duess to discuss how understanding real customer behaviors through data empowers entrepreneurs to expand their brand beyond initial expectations.
They also talk about the key questions founders should ask themselves upfront, how hard data can help reframe business models, how a data-first approach can set the stage for long-term wins, and much more!
Meet Kate Burns: After running Google Europe, and then launching Buzzfeed Tasty during her tenure as CEO of Buzzfeed, Kate has now co-founded 6 Seeds to support brands that build a sustainable future for food.
Meet Andreas Duess: Andreas started his career at Ogilvy in London, focusing on tech with Sony, Canon, and Cisco. He moved to Toronto and co-founded one of North America’s leading marketing agencies focusing on food, drink, and ag. He is now utilizing his deep CPG knowledge to support the brands that are building the future of food.
Connect with 6Seeds
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Episode Highlights: 01:16 Leveraging Tech for Food 04:19 Food and Beverage Industry: Challenges and Solutions 13:14 Utilizing Data for Product Development 18:01 Determining Potential Target Audience 25:03 Identifying the Core Opportunity for Businesses 30:48 Building a Successful Business Through Data-Driven Insights
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| 016: Beyond the Seder Plate— Springing into Season with Matzo Recipes with Ashley Albert and Jeremy Nelson | 16 Apr 2024 | 00:09:34 | |
“I love matzo! I eat matzah year-round as a snack.” —Ashley Albert
“The goal is to do something out of the box that people wouldn't normally do to give matzo a rebrand.” —Jeremy Nelson Passover is a joyous springtime holiday that celebrates freedom and renewal. At the heart of the Passover seder meal and ritual is matzo, an unleavened flatbread that represents the hurried departure of the Israelites from ancient Egypt. Made simply of flour and water, matzo takes center stage during the week-long celebration as a symbol of the oppression the Jews endured. However, modern chefs and food entrepreneurs are putting a fresh spin on matzo, rebranding it as a versatile ingredient for light and healthful spring recipes. Companies like The Matzo Project are keeping matzo traditions alive while introducing new ways for people to celebrate Passover with healthful, innovative recipes.
The Matzo Project Founder, Ashley Alberts returns to the Essential Ingredients Kitchen along with Floura’s Chief Product Officer, Jeremy Nelson to share new recipes and partnerships that are continuing to push the boundaries of what's possible with Matzo.
Tune in as Justine, Ashley, and Jeremy share the beginnings of The Matzo Project, Jeremy’s journey as a plant-based chef, a recipe for Mexican Matzo Ball soup from Chef Fany Gerson, exciting new potential products from Ashley and Jeremy’s collaboration, and more.
Meet Ashley: Ashley Albert is an accomplished American voice actress, singer, and entrepreneur, born in 1973 in Miami Shores, Florida. With a multifaceted career spanning various industries, Ashley has left an indelible mark on each endeavor she undertakes.
However, Ashley's entrepreneurial journey took an unexpected turn when she revisited a long-dormant idea from her past. In collaboration with her old friend Kevin Rodriguez, Ashley resurrected her concept of artisanal matzo, inspired by a childhood encounter with her neighbor's pizza shop. What began as a nostalgic reminiscence evolved into "The Matzo Project," a thriving enterprise that revolutionized the traditional Jewish cracker.
With unwavering determination and a commitment to quality, Ashley and Kevin embarked on a journey to redefine matzo, infusing it with innovation and culinary excellence. Their meticulous attention to detail, coupled with a bold and unconventional approach to branding, propelled The Matzo Project to unprecedented success. From humble beginnings in a small bakery in Coney Island to securing coveted placements in prestigious establishments like Zingerman's and earning recognition from cultural icons like Oprah Winfrey, The Matzo Project has become a testament to Ashley's entrepreneurial vision and Kevin's dedication.
While Kevin oversees the day-to-day operations of The Matzo Project, Ashley remains actively involved, infusing her unique perspective and creative flair into every aspect of the business. As she reflects on the remarkable journey they've embarked upon, Ashley's pride in their accomplishments is palpable, serving as a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and the enduring bond of friendship.
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Meet Jeremy: Jeremy Nelson is a Michelin-starred chef from San Francisco and the Chief Product Officer at Floura. He has over 15 years of experience in the culinary industry with a background in plant-based and health-supportive cooking. At Floura, he applies his culinary expertise to develop delicious, nutritious products using upcycled fruits and vegetables. Jeremy is passionate about connecting with others through food and creating options that are good for both humans and the planet. In his role, he oversees product development and ensures Floura's recipes deliver on taste, nutrition, and sustainability.
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Episode Highlights: 00:59 Beginnings: The Matzo Project 04:17 Meet Chef Jeremy 06:12 Matzo and Ricotta Dumpling Recipe 07:45 Mexican Matzo Ball Soup Recipe 08:38 Matzo All Year Round
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| 015: Regenerative Baking for Healthy Land and People with Molly Carney | 09 Apr 2024 | 00:20:24 | |
“That's the lesson of baking bread that you think you're in control and you're not. You're just a guide in the process. You're on the bread’s timeline.” —Molly Carney
Bread is a simple yet profound food that has sustained cultures for millennia. More than just a vehicle for nutrients, bread represents community, tradition, and comfort. Today, artisans continue this living tradition, honoring ancestral practices while innovating with modern techniques and heirloom ingredients, providing nourishment for both body and soul while keeping alive the memories and meanings embedded in this most humble of foods.
This week, Justine interviews Molly Carney to discuss the time-honored craft of artisanal bread baking and its impact on community health and sustainability. Molly Carney is the founder of Dirt Lady Bread, a small bakery in Tucson, Arizona that makes organic, sourdough, and fermented breads using locally grown ingredients. She started the bakery to connect people to high-quality, nutritious food through her artisanal breads. Listen in as Justine and Molly talk about the importance of regenerative farming partnerships and efforts to educate customers about intuitive eating, how the quality of soil affects the quality of food, the challenges and rewards of running a values-aligned food business with a long-distance partner, and insights into the nutritional benefits of traditional fermentation methods as well as cultivating a culture that values artisanal food producers.
Meet Molly: Baker Molly Carney has been trained in naturally-leavened bread from James-Beard semi-finalist chef, Taylor Petrehn. Under Petrehn and Executive Chef Jake Dodd-Sloan, Carney learned the trade at “Kansas’ Top Bakery” (Food and Wine 2022) 1900 Barker Bakery and Cafe where she served as head baker.
In her recent move to Tucson, Carney noticed that local support is present and the demand is high; the market is nowhere near saturated. In this niche market, the demand is not being fully met. Carney created Dirt Lady Bread as a response to her community - clean-ingredient yummy bread for everybody!
Prior to baking, Carney was an organic farmer, growing heritage varieties that best benefited environmental and human health. Carney incorporated her deep understanding of place and farming practices with her MA in Sustainable Communities to develop a healthy and earth-conscious sourdough bread.
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Episode Highlights: 02:26 Artisanal Bread-Making 07:09 Gluten-Free Bread and Gut Health 09:43 Integrating Regenerative Farming Practices 14:21 Seeking Partnerships for Business Growth 17:22 Involving the Community
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| 014: Chocolate and Mushrooms: A Sweet Combination for Better Sleep, Focus and Beyond with Charlotte Cruze | 02 Apr 2024 | 00:26:28 | |
“For functional mushrooms, you need to take a medicinal dose daily for about three weeks to feel something. They do not work instantly. That's a big gap in the market that people don't understand.” —Charlotte Cruze
When it comes to wellness, some pairings just make perfect sense. Mushrooms and chocolate may seem an unlikely match made in hedonistic heaven, but their union holds untapped potential.
Mushrooms have long been prized for their healing properties across cultures. Science now shows their ability to boost brain health, energy levels, and more. Chocolate, too, has benefits, with flavonoids that uplift mood and antioxidants aplenty. By melding mushrooms' functional powers with chocolate's feel-good compounds, a new generation of treats could emerge. This episode explores the exciting world of functional mushroom chocolate with Charlotte Cruze, the Co-Founder and COO of Alice Mushrooms, a company pioneering the use of functional mushrooms in delicious chocolate formulations. With a master's degree in Food Studies from NYU and over 10 years in the consumer food industry, she is dedicated to educating people about evidence-backed natural wellness solutions. Through her leadership of Alice, Charlotte is helping more individuals harness the profound benefits of functional foods like mushrooms in an enjoyable and effective way. Listen in as Charlotte provides an overview of Alice's three flagship mushroom chocolate products, their thoughtful formulation process to deliver both instant and long-term benefits, and tips for taking the chocolates throughout the day. Justine and Charlotte also discuss partner dynamics in business and the importance of complementing each other's skills, the role of education in spreading awareness of functional mushrooms' profound effects, as well as real customer success stories demonstrating the life-changing impacts of mushrooms.
Meet Charlotte: Charlotte Cruze is the co-founder and COO of Alice Mushrooms, a pioneering company crafting functional mushroom chocolates. She holds a master's degree in Food Studies from NYU and has over 10 years of experience in the consumer food industry. Prior to founding Alice, Charlotte worked on early-stage food brands and developed a passion for food's role in wellness. She is an advocate for natural, whole-food solutions and believes in food's power to profoundly impact lives. Under Charlotte's leadership, Alice has launched three flagship mushroom chocolate SKUs focused on energy, sleep, and arousal. She oversees formulation, operations, and education initiatives. Charlotte is dedicated to spreading awareness of functional mushrooms' benefits through delicious products and informative content. When not running Alice, Charlotte enjoys yoga, long-distance cycling, and learning about new functional foods. She finds fulfillment in empowering others to feel their best through high-quality nutrition.
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Episode Highlights: 03:14 Mushroom-Infused Chocolate 08:26 Different Chocolates for Different Feelings 13:23 Chocolate as a Functional Food 17:17 Formulating Functional Mushroom Products 21:13 The Benefits of Functional Mushroom
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| 013: Upcycling for Health— Transforming Produce Trimmings Into Nutritional Gold with Jeni Britton and Jeremy Nelson | 26 Mar 2024 | 00:32:59 | |
“We're not doing a marketing campaign to try to convince you that we're doing good stuff. It doesn't work. What works is creating beautiful products as a team who's devoted because we believe in the mission.” —Jeni Britton
“When you can put your ego aside and focus on the larger vision, you can achieve so much more than you can alone.” —Jeremy Nelson
Upcycling in the kitchen isn't just about saving money— it's about redefining what "waste" truly means and unlocking a hidden world of culinary creativity. It empowers us to break the cycle of consumption and injects valuable nutrients back into our diets, promoting a more mindful and resourceful approach to cooking and eating. This week, Justine sits down with James Beard Award-winning ice cream maker and founder of Jeni's IceCreams, Jeni Britton and Michelin-starred chef, Jeremy Nelson, to discuss their new venture, Floura, a company creating high-fiber, prebiotic snacks and ingredients from upcycled produce trimmings. Listen in as Jeni and Jeremy delve into their personal wellness journeys and how it inspired Floura’s mission and innovative processes. They also explain the importance of fiber and prebiotics for microbiome health, the importance of upcycling, the power of building a company alongside customers, farmers, and investors, and the role of research in moving toward sustainability and planetary wellness.
Meet Jeni: Jeni Britton is a James Beard Award-winning ice cream maker and the founder of Jeni's IceCreams. She has over 25 years of experience in the food industry, constantly developing direct relationships with farmers and using fresh, local ingredients in her products. More recently, she has focused her efforts on gut health and microbiome research. As the co-founder of Floura, Jeni is leading the company's mission to upcycle fresh produce trimmings into high-fiber, prebiotic ingredients, and snacks to support overall wellness. She enjoys spending time in nature, where she finds inspiration for her creative work.
Meet Jeremy: Jeremy Nelson is a Michelin-starred chef from San Francisco and the Chief Product Officer at Floura. He has over 15 years of experience in the culinary industry with a background in plant-based and health-supportive cooking. At Floura, he applies his culinary expertise to develop delicious, nutritious products using upcycled fruits and vegetables. Jeremy is passionate about connecting with others through food and creating options that are good for both humans and the planet. In his role, he oversees product development and ensures Floura's recipes deliver on taste, nutrition, and sustainability.
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Episode Highlights: 02:04 The Floura Mission 05:30 Nutrition on a Personal Level 09:03 The Bridge Between Health and Entrepreneurship 12:52 Prebiotics and Fiber for Gut Health 16:56 Upcycling For Health and the Environment 20:46 Working Remotely 28:05 What’s Next?
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| 012: Nature's Nutraceuticals: How Medicinal Mushrooms Are Transforming Natural Medicine with Aaron Hodgins Davis | 19 Mar 2024 | 00:21:21 | |
“In the case of a business, pick a few ideas, do them well, and scale them up instead of doing a whole bunch of things at a very small scale.” —Aaron Hodgins Davi The medicinal mushroom industry is primed for exponential growth as research continues to uncover the vast health benefits of fungal powerhouses. Research found that mushrooms support brain, immune, cardiovascular, and digestive health in ways no other food or supplement can match. As public interest in preventative healthcare rises, medicinal mushrooms are emerging as highly effective and easily accessible wellness all-stars. Hence, many forward-thinking farmers are now helping to bring these adaptive allies from the forest to the forefront by making high-quality mushroom products available nationwide. One of them is Aaron Hodgins Davis. Aaron is the founder and operator of Hodgins Harvest, a certified organic mushroom farm in Hudson Valley. Through Hodgins Harvest, Aaron cultivates medicinal mushrooms organically and sustainably while educating communities about their health benefits. This interview offers fascinating insights into the past, present, and promising future of the medicinal mushroom industry. Listen in as Justine and Aaron talk about the wide-ranging health benefits of mushrooms supported by research, their adaptogenic properties and healing applications, and their potential in the preventive wellness industry. They also offer valuable advice for balancing a side hustle with a day job, maintaining focus, keeping realistic expectations, and overcoming challenges as an entrepreneur.
Meet Aaron: Aaron Hodgins Davis is the founder and operator of Hodgins Harvest, a certified organic mushroom farm based in the Hudson Valley region of New York. As the chief fungi enthusiast at Hodgins Harvest, Aaron oversees all aspects of growing and producing medicinal mushrooms such as Lion's Mane, Reishi, Turkey Tail, and Shiitake. With over five years of experience in the mushroom farming industry, Aaron is passionate about cultivating mushrooms using organic and sustainable practices. He is also dedicated to educating communities about the health benefits of medicinal mushrooms through growing kits, extracts, and community outreach. Prior to starting Hodgins Harvest, Aaron worked in the documentary film industry for 15 years. He founded Hodgins Harvest as a side hobby that has now grown into a full-time career focused on the future of medicinal mushroom farming. When not working on the farm, Aaron enjoys foraging for wild mushrooms, cooking with culinary varieties, and staying up to date on the latest mushroom research. He aims to continue expanding Hodgins Harvest's organic mushroom operations in the years to come.
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Episode Highlights: 01:30 Hobby Turned Full-Time Business 02:49 Balancing Side Hustle and Career 07:25 Overcoming Challenges 12:07 Medicinal Properties of Mushrooms 16:40 Scaling Up Operations
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| 021: From Classrooms to Communities to Perpetuity with Stephen Ritz Part 2 (Re-release) | 31 Dec 2024 | 00:14:43 | |
"The secret to success is the art and science of growing vegetables online to high-performing academic standards. So we are transforming both the lens of public education and personal eating outcomes." —Stephen Ritz
Imagine a classroom where students don't just read about science but experience it firsthand by growing their own food. This isn't some futuristic fantasy— it's the reality created by the Green Bronx Machine, a pioneering program that is transforming public education one school at a time. Stephen Ritz is the visionary behind this game-changing initiative. As an educator, social entrepreneur, and passionate advocate for community empowerment, he has dedicated his life to unlocking the potential of underserved students through the power of hands-on, food-based learning. Listen in as we revisit this classic episode and discover how Stephen's innovative approach is yielding remarkable results, from improved academic performance to greater environmental stewardship and a renewed sense of purpose.
Connect with Stephen: Stephen Ritz is a South Bronx educator who believes that students should not have to leave their community to live, learn, and earn in a better one. An internationally acclaimed award-winning educator, Stephen is the author of the best-selling book, The Power Of A Plant, and founder of Green Bronx Machine. Known as “America’s Favorite Teacher,” Stephen is responsible for creating the first edible classroom in the world, which he has evolved into the National Health, Wellness, and Learning Center. He and his students have grown more than 100,000 pounds of vegetables in the South Bronx. He was a Top Ten Finalist for the Global Teacher Prize, named Global Humanitarian, Food Tank Hero, TEDx Prize Winner, and a Global Food Educator, and has presented at the Obama White House three times. Stephen believes that together, via collaboration, and coalition and get to yes solutions, we can all prosper!
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Episode Highlights: 02:15 Steve’s Documentary 04:52 Steve’s Impact on Schools 06:29 Green Bronx Machine Curriculum and Accessibility 09:49 The Impact of Green Bronx Machine Programs 10:07 How to Donate to Green Bronx Machine 12:24 Student Success Despite Economic Challenges
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| 011: Making Fruits and Veggies a Delicious Habit with Colorful Concoctions on the Go with Amber Benson | 12 Mar 2024 | 00:26:03 | |
“You're not going to heal unless you're creating that environment in your body. We should understand that fruits and vegetables help you every single day.” —Amber Benson
While we're often told the importance of "eating the rainbow" each day, many struggle to fit those colorful servings of produce into their busy routines. Without sufficient intake of these nutrient-dense whole foods, we miss out on essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, and plant compounds shown to support longevity and decrease the probability of chronic illnesses. Hence, this widespread deficiency has become a major public health issue that demands innovative solutions. This week, Justine is joined by Amber Benson, the co-founder of Ruvi, a company that uses freeze-dried technology to preserve the nutrients in fruits and vegetables while making them easy to enjoy anytime in a convenient powder form. Listen in as Amber discusses how their clean label approach and use of freeze-dried technology help more people increase their fruit and vegetable consumption. Justine and Amber also explore the importance of balancing fruit, vegetable, and fiber intake for wellness, strategies for educating consumers, making healthy eating easier through convenient fruit and veggie delivery, and more!
Meet Amber: Amber has a passion for healthy eating and a disdain for waste. The co-founder of Ruvi, she is on a mission to crush nutritional deficiency with the planet’s purest source of nutrition: fruits and veggies. Amber worked in food and supplements for 20 years and loves the challenge of starting a new business. She received an MBA from Brigham Young University. She’s married with three children and feels accomplished when she gets a healthy meal at her family’s dinner table at night. Her favorite fruit is papaya with a squeeze of lime.
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Episode Highlights: 01:16 Leveraging Freeze-Dried Technology 04:25 The Benefits of Delivery Service 09:02 How Fruits and Vegetables Impact Health and Wellness 13:25 Product Development foe Healthy Eating 17:57 The Power of Easy and Readable Labels 22:01 Go Ruvi, Get Ruvi
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| 010: Natural Optimizers: Discovering Non-Synthetic Solutions for Enhancing Wellness Without Compromising Health with Dustin Baker | 05 Mar 2024 | 00:31:29 | |
“Realistically, as we age, we just physiologically are not the same as we used to be. And that has not just a physical effect on us; it has a mental, cognitive, and emotional effect on us as well.” —Dustin Baker While modern medicine has achieved incredible feats, dependence on synthetic prescription drugs is not without its downsides. By their very nature, these medications are designed as "selective poisons" that incur side effects for many users. From minor issues like drowsiness or nausea to more serious long-term health impacts, taking synthetic drugs always involves trading one's well-being for another. As more people seek to proactively manage their health and optimize wellness without compromising on risks, the demand has grown for natural alternatives that can provide prescription-level benefits without the potential dangers. Led by Dustin Baker, BioProtein Technology develops natural, non-synthetic supplements that provide the same benefits as prescription drugs without any side effects. Through innovative research and clinically-backed products, BioProtein Technology aims to help individuals enhance their health, performance, and quality of life in a safe and natural way. Listen in as Justine and Dustin share a behind-the-scenes look at product research and development processes, scaling a company, developing gender-specific products to meet more customer needs, and innovating revolutionary products for a healthier future without dependence on synthetic medications.
Meet Dustin: Dustin Baker is the Founding President of BioProtein Technology and BioPro+, the first non-synthetic alternative to HGH - Human Growth Hormone and Peptide Treatments that works FASTER, EASIER, and SAFER. With over 15 years of experience in the fitness, health, and wellness industries, Dustin brings a passion for human optimization and performance to his role. Under Dustin's leadership, BioProtein Technology is focused on developing innovative, gender-specific products and continuing clinical research to support its mission of providing prescription-level benefits without side effects. When not in his office, Dustin enjoys spending time with his family and staying active in the community.
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Episode Highlights: 01:52 Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy 06:59 From a Small Company to a Global Organization 11:05 Business Growth Strategies 15:57 Developing Gender-Specific Products 21:03 Optimizing Wellness with NO Side Effects 26:03 Natural Supplements for Brain Health
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| 009: Unlocking Supply Chain Efficiencies with Data Standards with Liz Sertl | 27 Feb 2024 | 00:19:21 | |
“It's a big undertaking when you start thinking about data and how you want it to move. But that foundational layer of data and getting that right internally is the first step whether you're a small business, or whether you're a large business.” —Liz Sertl Supply chain visibility refers to the ability to access accurate and real-time data across all processes within the supply chain, from raw material sourcing to the final delivery to the consumer. This allows them to proactively address issues and inefficiencies, better manage risks and disruptions, and meet evolving customer demands. When implemented effectively, visibility can help reduce costs, improve on-time delivery rates, strengthen customer relationships, and boost overall supply chain resiliency. This week, we hear from Liz Sertl, a seasoned supply chain leader passionate about enabling efficient and sustainable commerce through global standards. As Senior Director of Supply Chain Visibility at GS1 US, she's helping businesses of all sizes streamline operations and future-proof for compliance using foundational data standards. Listen in as Liz pulls back the curtain on the real-world impact of clean, shared supply chain data. Justine and Liz also discuss how even the smallest operations can start reaping rewards today, tips for getting supply chain-savvy without breaking the bank, food safety regulations every business needs to address, the simplest path to competitive advantage, and much more.
Meet Liz: Liz Sertl is the Senior Director of Supply Chain Visibility at GS1 US. She has over 15 years of experience in supply chain management and data quality in the consumer packaged goods industry, having previously worked at Anheuser-Busch and Coca-Cola. Liz is passionate about enabling efficient and interoperable supply chains through the use of global standards. At GS1 US, she leads initiatives to promote supply chain visibility and data sharing across industries. Liz enjoys educating others on how foundational standards can drive impactful results for businesses of all sizes. In her role, she aims to increase awareness of key issues like food safety compliance and sustainability in the supply chain.
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Episode Highlights: 01:42 Supply Chain Efficiency and Data Quality 06:22 The GS1 Standard for Small Businesses 10:43 Supply Chain Tech and Its Impact on Businesses 14:47 Food Safety and Visibility
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| 008: How Soil Stewardship Provides Solid Solutions for Climate Change and Food Security with Sarah Wentzel Fisher | 20 Feb 2024 | 00:19:22 | |
“Soil health can be complicated but it's also super simple and something that everybody can participate in.” —Sarah Wentzel Fisher Soil health is the foundation of our food systems and ecosystems. Yet many are disconnected from the living soil that sustains us. The soil is a complex web of microbial and ecological activity below our feet, working constantly to cycle nutrients, sequester carbon, and support plant life above and below ground. When soil health declines, it impacts water quality, biodiversity, our ability to grow nutritious food, and ultimately all living beings. In this episode, Justine interviews Sarah Wentzel Fisher about the transformative potential of getting more people involved in agriculture and stewarding soil health. Sarah is the Executive Director of the Quivira Coalition and a regenerative farmer. Through her work with the Carbon Ranch Initiative, she aims to improve soil health on rangelands and educate farmers and ranchers on the importance of soil stewardship. Listen in as Justine and Sarah discuss the importance of soil health for functioning ecosystems and its central role in mitigating climate change, the impact of research in providing practical solutions, ways to inspire conversation around soil health, and more.
Meet Sarah: Sarah has worked in food and agriculture planning for over a decade with a focus on supporting young and beginning farmers and ranchers. She was the editor of Edible Santa Fe from 2011 to 2017. From 2013 to 2015 she worked for the National Young Farmers Coalition as an organizer and is currently on the board of the Southwest Grassfed Livestock Alliance and the Rocky Mountain Farmers Union. She is a committed champion of the local food movement and of resilient and regenerative agriculture. In her free time, you can find her feeding pigs, turkeys, and cows, checking the compost pile, or possibly weeding a patch of beans at Polk’s Folly Farm where she lives.
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Episode Highlights: 02:21 Creative Conveing and Food Systems 06:27 Soil Health and Its Impact on Ecosystems 10:40 The Importance of Understanding Soil Health 15:03 How Soil Health Impacts Climate
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