In episode 211 of the Disruptors for Good podcast, I have the pleasure of speaking with Samantha Rudolph, the visionary Co-founder of Babyation. Samantha shares her inspiring journey of building a modern breast pump that is revolutionizing the breastfeeding experience for mothers everywhere.In the revolving world of parenting technology, Babyation stands out with its groundbreaking solutions designed to make the breastfeeding experience more comfortable, efficient, and discreet.Founded by wife and husband Samantha and Jared, Babyation aims to redefine how mothers perceive and interact with breast pumps. Here's a closer look at the company, its flagship product, and the unique features that set it apart.About BabyationBabyation was founded with a mission to provide mothers with a breast pump that truly understands and meets their needs. Samantha and Jared were inspired to create a product that not only functions effectively but also integrates seamlessly into a mother's life.With a strong focus on user experience and design, Babyation has quickly become a notable name in the parenting tech industry.The Product: Babyation Breast PumpThe core product offered by Babyation is a sophisticated breast pump that promises to address common issues faced by breastfeeding mothers. Here are the key features that make this pump a game-changer:Quiet Operation: One of the standout features of the Babyation breast pump is its remarkably quiet operation. Traditional breast pumps can be noisy, which can be inconvenient and disruptive, especially in public or work environments. Babyation’s design ensures a discreet and comfortable experience.Smart Technology: Babyation’s pump is equipped with advanced technology that allows for personalized pumping sessions. The smart control system lets mothers customize suction strength and rhythm to mimic their baby’s natural nursing patterns, enhancing comfort and efficiency.Discreet and Portable: Understanding the need for discretion and portability, Babyation has designed its pump to be compact and easily portable. The pump fits neatly into a bag, making it easy for mothers to pump on the go without drawing attention.App Integration: The Babyation breast pump is integrated with a user-friendly app that tracks pumping sessions, monitors milk volume, and offers personalized tips and reminders. This feature is particularly beneficial for busy mothers who need to manage their time efficiently.Closed System: Hygiene is a critical concern for breastfeeding mothers. Babyation’s pump features a closed system that prevents milk from entering the tubing and motor, reducing the risk of contamination and making the pump easier to clean and maintain.Comfort-Focused Design: Babyation has prioritized comfort in its design, with soft, flexible breast shields that adapt to different breast shapes and sizes. The gentle suction mechanism minimizes discomfort, making the pumping process more pleasant.Ease of Use: The pump is designed to be intuitive and easy to assemble, use, and clean. This user-friendly approach ensures that mothers can spend more time with their babies and less time figuring out complex equipment.Giving BackWe know not everyone has access to new breast pump technologies. Our Giving Back program was designed to make our pump available to moms in need.Every mom deserves a chance to pump on their terms. Please fill out the application to be considered to receive a free pump.Applications will be reviewed on a quarterly basis, and decisions will be made based on need.

In episode 210 of the Disruptors for Good podcast, I speak with Navjot Sawhney, Founder of The Washing Machine Project, on creating the world's first flat-packable, manual washing machine that empowers women and girls to reclaim lost hours, pursue education, and generate income.Imagine a world where laundry isn't a chore, but a chance. A chance for women and girls to reclaim lost hours, pursue education, and generate income. This is the reality The Washing Machine Project is striving to create.For millions in developing countries, particularly women and girls, laundry is a relentless burden. Handwashing clothes consumes a staggering 20 hours a week, stealing precious time for education, work, and leisure.This backbreaking task not only limits opportunities but also contributes to health problems.The Washing Machine Project is a beacon of hope, offering a revolutionary solution: the Divya, the world's first flat-packable, manual washing machine.Soundbites"I'll come back and I'll give you a washing machine.""We have studied about 3,500 families across 15 countries washing habits.""We really want to become the whirlpool of the humanitarian world."The Divya: A Washing Machine Built for ImpactThe Divya is more than just a machine; it's a lifeline. Designed specifically for the realities of remote and displaced communities, the Divya boasts several key features:Portable and Easy to Assemble: Unlike bulky, electric washing machines, the Divya arrives flat-packed, making it easy to transport and assemble even in challenging environments. This ensures accessibility for those who need it most.Durable and Long-Lasting: Built with high-quality components and a robust stainless steel construction, the Divya is built to withstand the test of time. Its simple design minimizes the need for repairs, and local tools and skills can often be used for fixes if needed. This empowers communities to maintain their machines for long-term use.Eco-Friendly Champion: Water scarcity is a critical issue in many developing regions. The Divya tackles this challenge head-on by using up to 50% less water compared to handwashing. Additionally, its commercial-grade components enhance its recyclability, minimizing environmental impact.Time-Saving Efficiency: The Divya boasts a 30-minute wash cycle requiring minimal manual effort. This translates to up to 75% less laundry time for users. These reclaimed hours open doors to education, income generation, and much-needed leisure time.

In episode 209 of the Disruptors for Good podcast, I speak with Brett Hagler, CEO and Co-founder, of New Story Homes, on using philanthropy and market-based solutions to solve the global housing crisis.The global housing crisis is a staggering issue, affecting 1.6 billion people who live without adequate housing. This crisis stifles the potential of millions of families, particularly women and children, across the globe.New Story Homes, a nonprofit organization, has set out to tackle this problem through a unique blend of philanthropy and market-based solutions.By integrating innovative technology with community-focused strategies, New Story Homes is revolutionizing the path to homeownership for vulnerable families.TakeawaysNew Story's journey began with a mission to help vulnerable families access life-changing housing, leading to a decade-long evolution of its strategy and model.The transition to a market-based solution involved challenges, resistance, and a two-year metamorphosis, resulting in a hybrid model that combines philanthropy with profitable financing and lending.The future of New Story involves executing its model to attract large pools of capital, focusing on creating a product that customers love, and building a track record for accessing significant funding.The conversation highlights the potential of market-based solutions in the nonprofit sector and the importance of addressing important social problems through innovative approaches.Sound Bites"I think you learn by doing.""I would love to try to help as many people as possible have life-changing housing."Empowering Through Land OwnershipAt the heart of New Story Homes' mission is the concept of land ownership. In many parts of Latin America, securing land is the first critical step towards economic stability and homeownership. New Story Homes helps families purchase land, build creditworthiness, and unlock home financing. This approach shifts families from being mere beneficiaries of charity to active participants in their journey out of poverty.By developing and selling land equipped with essential municipal utilities—water, sewage, electricity, and roads—at affordable monthly rates, New Story Homes ensures that these properties are not only accessible but also sustainable and integrated into the local urban context.Innovative Housing SolutionsOne of the standout innovations of New Story Homes is the use of 3D printing technology to build homes quickly and cost-effectively.This method significantly reduces construction time and expenses compared to traditional building techniques, making it possible to provide immediate relief to families in need.Beyond construction, New Story Homes focuses on the entire community-building process, developing housing products that meet the unique demands of local regions.Families can use their land as collateral to secure first-time home financing, allowing them to either purchase one of New Story's housing prototypes or self-build the home that best suits their needs.The Role of Philanthropy and Impact InvestmentsNew Story Homes recognizes that addressing the housing crisis requires a multifaceted approach. Philanthropy plays a crucial role in funding the initial stages of projects, allowing the organization to acquire land and develop infrastructure.However, to achieve scalable impact, New Story Homes pairs philanthropic funds with impact investments.This blend enables the organization to extend its reach further down the market, serving families who are often excluded from traditional housing solutions.By focusing on sustainable, market-based solutions, New Story Homes ensures that its initiatives not only provide immediate relief but also foster long-term economic growth and stability in the communities it serves.Success and Future InnovationsThe success of New Story Homes can be seen in the thousands of families who now live in safe, affordable homes in countries like Haiti, El Salvador, Mexico, and Bolivia. Each project is a testament to the power of innovation and community collaboration in solving one of the world's most pressing social issues.Looking ahead, New Story Homes continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in affordable housing, exploring new technologies and strategies to further reduce costs and increase the speed of home construction.

In episode 208 of the Disruptors for Good podcast, we speak with Julie Colombino-Billingham, founder of Deux Mains, on transforming lives in Haiti through business and employment.In the aftermath of the devastating 2010 earthquake in Haiti, a country torn apart by natural disaster found a beacon of hope and renewal in Deux Mains. Founded by Julie Colombino-Billingham, Deux Mains isn’t just a fashion brand; it’s a testament to resilience, empowerment, and sustainable innovation.Julie’s journey began in the chaos and heartbreak of post-earthquake Haiti, where she witnessed first-hand the dire need for dignified employment. This profound experience laid the foundation for Deux Mains, driven by the desire to provide more than just aid—Julie sought to offer sustainable opportunities that empower the local community.Crafting Fashion with PurposeAt Deux Mains, every piece of fashion carries a deeper meaning. The brand is rooted in the belief that thoughtful design and ethical practices can transform the fashion industry. By choosing Deux Mains, consumers support a business model that ensures safe working conditions, livable wages, health insurance, and educational opportunities for Haitian workers.The brand’s operations are based in a solar-powered, women-owned factory, emphasizing a commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility. From sandals to handbags, each item is a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern design, made from responsibly sourced materials and created with an artisanal touch.Sustainability at Its Core“Deux Mains” translates to “two hands” in French, symbolizing the handcrafted nature of their products. The brand champions a circular economy, utilizing found or made materials to minimize waste and environmental impact. Their products are not only designed to last but also to merge seamlessly as staple pieces in any wardrobe, embodying timeless elegance and durability.A Vision of Sustainable LuxuryJulie Colombino-Billingham, the visionary behind Deux Mains, brings a diverse background from her experiences as a professional dancer and aerialist to her academic pursuits in international disaster management. Her unique perspective has shaped the brand into a luxury fashion house that stands for more than just aesthetics—it stands for change.Under her leadership, Deux Mains has evolved into a hub for job creation, where artisans are not only employed but celebrated for their skills. The brand extends beyond the borders of Haiti, sharing the island’s exceptional craftsmanship with the global market.Joining Hands with Deux MainsDeux Mains invites consumers to be part of a movement that values fair trade, ethical practices, and community engagement. Each purchase not only enhances a wardrobe but also contributes to the ongoing story of resilience and empowerment in Haiti.As Julie often reflects on her initial encounters in Haiti, where a woman told her, “I don’t need water, I need a job,” it’s clear that Deux Mains is more than just a brand—it’s a lifeline, a form of support, and a step towards a brighter future for the Haitian community.CauseartistOur mission is to empower and inspire social entrepreneurs, impact investors, impact professionals, and conscious consumers, who are dedicated to creating a more sustainable and regenerative world.⏺ Weekly Podcasts⏺ Weekly Newsletter⏺ Deep Dive Interviews⏺ Community(coming soon)To learn more, please visit causeartist.com.

In episode 207 of the Disruptors for Good podcast, I speak with Hardika Shah, Founder and CEO of Kinara Capital, on transforming lives and local economies, by providing access to capital for small business entrepreneurs.Armed with a mission to empower the 70 million small business entrepreneurs in the country, Kinara has embarked on a journey to provide fast and flexible collateral-free business loans. Leveraging cutting-edge technology and a dedication to customer service, Kinara Capital revolutionized the lending landscape with its digital processes and doorstep assistance.Over the years, the company has disbursed more than $300 million to over 40,000 small business entrepreneurs, ushering thousands into the realm of financial inclusion. This transformative journey has not only created jobs and spurred economic growth but has also generated over $100 million in incremental income for MSMEs across India.Before embarking on her entrepreneurial journey, Hardika honed her skills as a management consultant, working on projects for global companies across the USA, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. Her passion for social impact led her to devote nearly a decade to mentoring emerging social entrepreneurs.At Kinara Capital, the mission is clear: to transform lives, livelihoods, and local economies by providing access to capital for every entrepreneur. With a vision of a financially inclusive world, Hardika and her team continue to pave the way for a brighter future for small business entrepreneurs across India.I hope you enjoy the conversation, until next time, stay humble and stay creative.Welcome to Causeartist.Social Entrepreneurs Interviews.Impact Investor Interviews.Impact Startup News.Our mission is to empower and inspire social entrepreneurs, impact investors, impact professionals, and conscious consumers, who are dedicated to creating a more sustainable and regenerative world.⏺ Weekly Podcasts⏺ Weekly Newsletter⏺ Deep Dive Interviews⏺ Community(coming soon)To learn more, please visit causeartist.com.

In episode 206 of the Disruptors for Good podcast, I speak with Michael Sheldrick, Co-Founder of Global Citizen, on dedicating his life to driving systemic policy changes to combat extreme poverty worldwide.As the Co-Founder of Global Citizen and an advocate for global social impact, Michael Sheldrick has dedicated his life to driving systemic policy changes to combat extreme poverty worldwide.In this podcast, he shares his insights into the work of Global Citizen, his experiences, and his new book, "From Ideas to Impact: A Playbook for Influencing and Implementing Change in a Divided World."Michael Sheldrick's journey began with the founding of Global Citizen, an international education and advocacy organization committed to ending extreme poverty. Over the past decade, Global Citizen has mobilized millions of individuals worldwide to take action on critical issues such as climate change, poverty, and inequality.Through collaborative efforts with governments, businesses, foundations, and the artist community, Global Citizen has distributed over $40 billion to anti-poverty initiatives, making significant strides towards achieving its mission.At the core of Global Citizen's work is the belief in the power of collective action.Sheldrick emphasized the importance of bridging divides and fostering cooperation to drive meaningful change.He highlighted the role of policy entrepreneurs—visionaries who prioritize impact over rhetoric and work tirelessly to implement tangible solutions. Through his new book, "From Ideas to Impact," Sheldrick offers a comprehensive playbook for individuals seeking to make a difference in our divided world."From Ideas to Impact" delves into the essential traits of successful policy entrepreneurs and provides practical tools for navigating challenges and driving policy change.Sheldrick draws from his experiences at Global Citizen and historical movements to illustrate the transformative potential of united voices and collective action. The book serves as a guide for changemakers across various sectors, from philanthropy and corporate social responsibility to policymaking and higher education.In our interview, Sheldrick expressed optimism about the future of global social impact. He emphasized the importance of storytelling and narrative building in inspiring change and empowering individuals to take action. With "From Ideas to Impact," Sheldrick hopes to equip readers with the tools and inspiration needed to drive meaningful change in their communities and beyond.Welcome to Causeartist.Social Entrepreneurs Interviews.Impact Investor Interviews.Impact Startup News.Our mission is to empower and inspire social entrepreneurs, impact investors, impact professionals, and conscious consumers, who are dedicated to creating a more sustainable and regenerative world.⏺ Weekly Podcasts⏺ Weekly Newsletter⏺ Deep Dive Interviews⏺ Community(coming soon)To learn more, please visit causeartist.com.

What’s up everybody, this is Grant at Causeartist. Welcome to the Disruptors for Good Brief, where we dive into the top stories of the day related to impact startups transforming the sustainable and regenerative economy.Turning our attention to climate startups, Sprih has raised a $3 million funding round headed by Leo Capital. The company specializes in carbon emission management and is aiming to expand its global reach. With a revenue target north of 6 million dollars, Sprih's innovative AI models and solutions are set to revolutionize how businesses measure, assess, and decrease their carbon footprint. Moove, an emerging mobility fintech, has successfully raised $100 million in a Series B funding round. This investment is co-led by Uber and Mubadala Investment Company, the sovereign wealth fund of Abu Dhabi. This latest financial endorsement underscores the confidence in Moove’s innovative revenue-based vehicle financing model, which caters to the mobility ecosystem. With a mission to democratize vehicle ownership in its current markets, Moove is dedicated to providing accessible financing options for gig economy drivers.On the frontlines of technology and ecology, NVIDIA steps into the limelight with a pretty big announcement. They've unveiled Earth-2, a climate digital twin cloud platform heralded for simulating and visualizing weather and climate dynamics. Imagine a world where we can see the ebb and flow of weather with great precision, thanks to AI models that push the boundaries of forecasting speed and clarity. Entities like The Weather Company and the Taiwan Weather Administration are already set to harness the potential of Earth-2, which promises to enhance our preparedness for future weather disasters.Let's head over to Latin America where Marco has raised a $12 million Series A funding round. Marco's vision is to revolutionize trade finance for SME exporters in the region. From providing financial solutions to enabling LLC formation and insurance services, Marco's mission is to bridge the daunting 350 billion dollar trade financing gap in Latin America and energize an entire industry. Lastly, but certainly not least, we have re-launched the Investing in Impact podcast. Our most recent episode is with Social Innovation Circle, a platform dedicated to coaching and nurturing the spirit of social entrepreneurship. We sat down with their cofounder, Anshul Magotra, to talk about her journey and the mission and vision of the company. Subscribe to the Investing in Impact podcast wherever you stream.Thank you for joining us today, remember to share this episode, rate us, and subscribe. Until next time, stay humble and stay creative.Connect with GrantConnect with Causeartist

Here are the top 5 stories impacting the sustainable and regenerative economies.Welcome to Causeartist.Social Entrepreneurs Interviews.Impact Investor Interviews.Impact Startup News.Our mission is to empower and inspire social entrepreneurs, impact investors, impact professionals, and conscious consumers, who are dedicated to creating a more sustainable and regenerative world.⏺ Weekly Podcasts⏺ Weekly Newsletter⏺ Deep Dive Interviews⏺ Community(coming soon)To learn more, please visit causeartist.com.

Here are the top 5 stories impacting the sustainable and regenerative economies.Welcome to Causeartist.Social Entrepreneurs Interviews.Impact Investor Interviews.Impact Startup News.Our mission is to empower and inspire social entrepreneurs, impact investors, impact professionals, and conscious consumers, who are dedicated to creating a more sustainable and regenerative world.⏺ Weekly Podcasts⏺ Weekly Newsletter⏺ Deep Dive Interviews⏺ Community(coming soon)To learn more, please visit causeartist.com.

In episode 205 of the Disruptors for Good podcast, I speak with Inna Braverman, the founder of Eco Wave Power, about her journey in the renewable energy industry and the potential of wave power.Nearly 2.4 billion people, about 40% of the global population, live within 100 kilometers of a coast.Inna shares her inspiration for starting Eco Wave Power, which stemmed from her personal experience with the Chernobyl nuclear disaster. She explains the concept of wave power and its advantages over other renewable energy sources. Inna also discusses the challenges of scaling wave power, including regulatory hurdles and funding limitations.She emphasizes the importance of policy support for the commercialization of wave energy. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the future goals and successes of Eco Wave Power.Welcome to Causeartist.Social Entrepreneurs Interviews.Impact Investor Interviews.Impact Startup News.Our mission is to empower and inspire social entrepreneurs, impact investors, impact professionals, and conscious consumers, who are dedicated to creating a more sustainable and regenerative world.⏺ Weekly Podcasts⏺ Weekly Newsletter⏺ Deep Dive Interviews⏺ Community(coming soon)To learn more, please visit causeartist.com.

Here are the top 5 stories impacting the sustainable and regenerative economies.Welcome to Causeartist.Social Entrepreneurs Interviews.Impact Investor Interviews.Impact Startup News.Our mission is to empower and inspire social entrepreneurs, impact investors, impact professionals, and conscious consumers, who are dedicated to creating a more sustainable and regenerative world.⏺ Weekly Podcasts⏺ Weekly Newsletter⏺ Deep Dive Interviews⏺ Community(coming soon)To learn more, please visit causeartist.com.

Here are the top 5 stories impacting the sustainable and regenerative economies.Welcome to Causeartist.Social Entrepreneurs Interviews.Impact Investor Interviews.Impact Startup News.Our mission is to empower and inspire social entrepreneurs, impact investors, impact professionals, and conscious consumers, who are dedicated to creating a more sustainable and regenerative world.⏺ Weekly Podcasts⏺ Weekly Newsletter⏺ Deep Dive Interviews⏺ Community(coming soon)To learn more, please visit causeartist.com.

Here are the top 5 stories impacting the sustainable and regenerative economies.Welcome to Causeartist.Social Entrepreneurs Interviews.Impact Investor Interviews.Impact Startup News.Our mission is to empower and inspire social entrepreneurs, impact investors, impact professionals, and conscious consumers, who are dedicated to creating a more sustainable and regenerative world.⏺ Weekly Podcasts⏺ Weekly Newsletter⏺ Deep Dive Interviews⏺ Community(coming soon)To learn more, please visit causeartist.com.

Here are the top 5 stories impacting the sustainable and regenerative economies.Welcome to Causeartist.Social Entrepreneurs Interviews.Impact Investor Interviews.Impact Startup News.Our mission is to empower and inspire social entrepreneurs, impact investors, impact professionals, and conscious consumers, who are dedicated to creating a more sustainable and regenerative world.⏺ Weekly Podcasts⏺ Weekly Newsletter⏺ Deep Dive Interviews⏺ Community(coming soon)To learn more, please visit causeartist.com.

In episode 204 of the Disruptors for Good podcast, I speak with Nina Rauch, Sr. Social Impact Lead at Lemonade, on leading social impact initiatives from startup to IPO.Nina discusses her journey into social impact, starting with the founding of Pink Week, an organization aimed at raising awareness of breast cancer among young people. She shares the lessons she learned from starting Pink Week and the importance of passion and putting oneself out there. Nina then talks about her transition into corporate roles and the preconceptions she had about corporate impact.She highlights the B Corp certification process and the importance of authenticity and transparency in social impact efforts. Nina also discusses Lemonade's give back model and the impact it has had on various causes.She emphasizes the need to think outside the box when looking for social impact opportunities in the corporate world and the importance of accessibility and diversity in the social impact space. Nina concludes by sharing her future goals and vision for spreading the word about corporate social impact.About LemonadeLemonade stands at the forefront of the insurtech industry, redefining insurance with a strong emphasis on digital convenience and social responsibility. With an innovative platform, Lemonade offers a seamless and user-friendly experience, allowing customers to secure insurance for personal belongings, homes, pets, families, and vehicles effortlessly through a single app.Beyond providing essential insurance services, Lemonade distinguishes itself through its commitment to social impact. The company's unique Giveback program transforms the traditional insurance model by donating unused premiums to charities selected by its customers.This initiative reflects Lemonade's dedication to community welfare and social good, contributing over $8 million to various non-profit organizations globally. Lemonade's approach to insurance is built on transparency, efficiency, and compassion, making it a trailblazer in leveraging technology for social change.

Going forward, I am going to do my best to deliver briefs three times a week on the Top 5 stories impacting the sustainable and regenerative economies. Below are the sources from each of the stories mentioned in this episode.StormFisher HydrogenZiplines EducationZusa becomes a B-CorpGap and Ambercycle30 Nonprofit Leaders Who Will Impact the World in 2024Thanks, please share and subscribe.

In episode 203 of the Disruptors for Good podcast, I speak with Frank Heidinger, Founder of HALEVAI, on the environmental benefits of electric boating and the future goals of the company.Frank shares his journey from a career in production and hospitality to his passion for environmental conservation.He discusses his involvement with Parley for the Oceans and the inspiration behind electrifying boats.Frank explains the challenges in the supply chain and manufacturing process and highlights the mission and vision of HALEVAI.He emphasizes the importance of creating an approachable user experience and targeting both the B2C and B2B markets.Takeaways:Frank's journey from production and hospitality to environmental conservation and electrifying boatsThe challenges in the supply chain and manufacturing process for electric boatsThe mission and vision of HALEVAI to create an approachable user experience and target both the B2C and B2B marketsThe environmental benefits of electric boating and the future goals of HALEVAIAbout HALEVAIMeet HALEVAI, a new American boat manufacturer, is focused on creating and building sustainable and high-performance electric boats.Founded in 2020, their mission is to create safer, cleaner, and more cost-effective boating experiences.At the heart of HALEVAI's mission is the ambition to revolutionize the marine industry by adopting and promoting renewable energy sources.The company has taken significant strides in reimagining the composite structure of recreational boats, emphasizing energy security and independence.By utilizing biodynamic materials, Halevai aims to reduce the environmental footprint of its products significantly.Despite the challenges posed by the current supply chain, the focus has primarily been on redesigning the powertrain to support renewable energy sources, setting a precedent for global manufacturing practices.

In episode 202 of the Disruptors for Good podcast, I speak with Emma Bukowski, founder of Noserider, on journey of becoming a surfer and starting her sustainable swimsuit brand in Bali.Emma talks about the challenges she faced and the passion that drove her to create her own designs. Emma also discusses the importance of sustainability in her business and her goals for future certifications and scaling around the world.She touches on the importance of community and brand focus, as well as the decision-making process behind choosing the brand name.Emma also emphasizes the significance of building a community around the brand and how it has shaped the direction of Noserider.TakeawaysFollow your passion and pursue your dreams, start small, keep your full-time job and side-hustle in the beginning.Seek out sustainable materials and practices to make a positive impact on the environment.Engage with your community and build relationships with other businesses to support and grow together.Building a community around a brand is essential for long-term success.Perseverance and passion are key to overcoming challenges and building a successful brand.ChaptersFollowing the editing process, there may be discrepancies in the timing of the chapters.00:00 Emma's Journey to Becoming a Surfer05:00 Starting Nose Rider in Bali08:55 Designing the First Products13:59 Switching to Sustainable Materials17:48 Growing Nose Rider and Opening a Store23:58 Tips for EntrepreneursAbout NoseriderNoserider Surf Club, founded by Emma in Bali in March 2022, embodies a sustainable and socially responsible approach to surfwear.Originating from Emma's long-held dream of being part of the surf community and living an active, beach-oriented lifestyle, the brand quickly evolved from a personal project into a vibrant community and brand.The brand's inception was marked by a surf retreat that not only celebrated the start of Emma's venture but also set the tone for the community-centric ethos Noserider would embody.The brand's surf suits, made from 78% ECONYL® regenerated nylon and 22% elastane, exemplify this commitment. This choice ensures durability, resistance to harmful elements like chlorine and sun creams/oils, and provides UV protection.Moreover, the production process, centered in Bali and carried out by a female-owned manufacturer, supports local craftsmanship and small batch production, reinforcing the brand's community-focused values.

In episode 201 of the Disruptors for Good podcast, I speak with Kendrick Nguyen, co-founder of Republic, on building the financial infrastructure to create equal access to assets for everyone.Kendrick Nguyen is the Co-founder and CEO of Republic, a pioneering platform dedicated to democratizing investing and making it universally accessible. Under his leadership, Republic has emerged as an innovative force in the investment sector, boasting a community of over 2.5 million members worldwide, supporting over 2,000 ventures and deployed over $2 billion in investments.Kendrick's entrepreneurial spirit has also led him to co-found two fintech startups and offer strategic advice to numerous investment funds, startups, and blockchain initiatives. His professional journey spans from business management and product strategy to investing, with significant roles in both New York City and Silicon Valley, notably at AngelList.Before embarking on his entrepreneurial path, Kendrick started his career as a litigator and served as a Stanford Law Fellow, experiences that laid the groundwork for his legal expertise. Today, he continues to leverage this expertise through a semi-active pro bono practice, demonstrating his commitment to giving back to the community.At the heart of Kendrick's work with Republic is a mission to enable everyone to invest in the future they envision, fostering a world that is diverse, sustainable, and interconnected. Through his dedication and innovative approach, Kendrick Nguyen is not just leading an investment platform; he is shaping the future of accessible investment opportunities for individuals around the globe.TakeawaysRepublic's mission is to provide equal access to financial opportunities for everyone.Equity crowdfunding allows individuals to invest in private securities and share in the success of companies.Expanding a startup globally comes with regulatory challenges that vary in each country.The rise of crypto has the potential to transform the financial industry and increase liquidity.Leadership requires a positive mindset, resilience, and gratitude for the opportunities ahead.Republic aims to become a global platform for ownership, allowing individuals to invest in companies they care about.ChaptersFollowing the editing process, there may be discrepancies in the timing of the chapters.00:00 Introduction and Mission of Republic03:01 The Catalyst for Starting Republic05:19 Understanding Equity Crowdfunding08:01 Expanding Republic Globally12:38 Explaining the Breadth of Republic's Offerings16:05 Challenges of Growing a Startup Globally19:43 The Rise of Crypto and its Impact on Republic24:59 Current Hurdles and Goals for Republic28:13 Leadership Advice for Founders32:29 Future Goals and Successes for RepublicDisclosure: This content is for informational purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.

In episode 200 of the Disruptors for Good podcast, I speak with Ben Christensen, co-founder of Cambium, on transforming trees into sustainable materials and the inefficiencies in the lumber industry.The business focuses on salvaging wood from urban areas and processing it locally, creating a more sustainable supply chain. The company's carbon-smart materials offer significant carbon savings compared to traditional forestry. Ben highlights the positive response from cities and architects and the potential for job creation.He also discusses the challenges of scaling the business and outlines the company's goals for the future.Key Takeaways:Cambium Carbon focuses on salvaging wood from urban areas and processing it locally to create a more sustainable supply chain.The company's carbon-smart materials made from salvaged urban wood offer significant carbon savings compared to traditional forestry.Cities and architects have responded positively to Cambium's sustainable materials.Amazing potential for local job creation.Cambium has clear goals and a timeline mapped out for the future as it continues to grow.Chapters:timing of chapters might be a bit off after editing.00:00 Introduction and Background03:15 Identifying Inefficiencies in the Lumber Industry08:35 Building a Sustainable Supply Chain13:22 The Carbon Savings of Cambium's Approach16:41 Positive Response from Cities and Architects18:43 The Potential for Job Creation20:58 Challenges in Scaling the Business23:58 Timeline and Goals for the FutureAbout CambiumCambium, a pioneering company in the field of sustainable wood utilization, is revolutionizing the way we think about urban wood waste and its potential impact on the environment. At the core of the company's mission is the transformation of fallen urban trees, which would otherwise be discarded, into high-value wood products.This innovative approach not only prevents wood waste but also contributes to new tree planting, creating a sustainable cycle that benefits both the environment and local communities. Founded with a deep understanding of sustainable wood use and climate action, Cambium's journey began with a focus on reimagining the urban wood supply chain.Carbon Smart WoodCambium Carbon's Carbon Smart Wood™ solution represents a revolutionary approach to sustainable wood utilization, playing a vital role in combating climate change and promoting sustainable practices.This innovative material is sourced from fallen trees, which would otherwise contribute to landfill waste. By salvaging these trees, Cambium prevents the release of carbon dioxide and methane that occurs when wood decomposes in landfills.A key feature of Carbon Smart Wood™ is its low environmental impact compared to traditional lumber production.The process of transforming fallen trees into this sustainable wood not only reduces carbon footprint but also keeps the carbon sequestered in the wood, instead of releasing it back into the atmosphere.This makes Carbon Smart Wood™ a strategic choice for mitigating climate impact, especially in construction and other industries where wood is heavily used. Beyond repurposing fallen trees, Cambium's approach also includes a commitment to urban reforestation. A portion of the profits from Carbon Smart Wood™ sales is allocated to planting new trees in urban areas.This not only supports the ecosystem but also contributes to the natural process of carbon sequestration, further aiding in the battle against climate change. The adoption of Carbon Smart Wood™ sets a new standard in the wood industry, encouraging other companies to shift towards more sustainable practices.This industry-wide change can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the construction and manufacturing sectors.For consumers, choosing Carbon Smart Wood™ is more than a product selection; it represents a commitment to a sustainable and climate-conscious approach. Each purchase supports a movement that prioritizes the health of the planet, making every consumer a part of the solution to climate change.