Shows
SolPods StudioFrom Ugly Fruit to Beautiful Snacks: A Conversation with Ben Moore, Founder of The Ugly CompanyIn this episode of SolPods Studio, host Katie Lockwood sits down with Ben Moore, a Central Valley farmer and founder of The Ugly Company, to talk about food waste, farming, and what sustainability looks like in practice. Ben shares how years spent hauling and dumping unmarketable fruit led him to start a company that transforms imperfect fruit into clean, simple snacks while preventing millions of pounds of food from going to waste.The conversation explores why perfectly good fruit gets thrown out, how consumer expectations shape food systems, and the contradictions built into modern agriculture. Ben also...
2025-12-1925 minSolPods StudioA Twist on Textiles: A Small Company’s Big ImpactIn this episode of SolPod Studios, host Mia Rubiera sits down with sisters Rachna and Ruchika Kumar, co-founders of Ichcha, a sustainable textile brand dedicated to preserving India’s ancient crafts and promoting conscious consumerism. They share their journey from tech and design into entrepreneurship, how they collaborate with artisans across generations, and their initiatives that empower women through education. From natural dyes to zero-waste practices, the Kumar sisters reveal how Ichcha weaves artistry, sustainability, and social impact into every piece.Visit the Ichcha website or follow Ichcha on Instagram to learn more. Check out the...
2025-10-1030 minSolPods StudioRevolutionizing School Meals for Healthier People and Planet: A Conversation with Natalie LindenIn this inspiring episode, host Mia Rubiera chatted with Natalie Linden from Friends of the Earth’s Climate-Friendly School Food Program about why rethinking what’s on our school menus is such a big deal for climate action. Natalie breaks down how schools are moving toward healthier, plant-forward, and more sustainable meals—and what it really takes to make those changes happen. Perfect if you’re into food systems, public health, or want to learn how students can help push for climate-friendly food policies on campus!Check out the Eat Real website to learn more.Follow E...
2025-03-1424 minSolPods StudioEmpowering Individuals to Invest in Climate: A Conversation with Will WisemanIn this episode, we talk with Will Wiseman, Co-Founder and CEO of Climatize, about making climate investing accessible to everyone—even students and young people just getting started. Will shares how Climatize is breaking down barriers to funding renewable energy projects and offers insights on how individuals can take real financial action for the planet. This is a must-listen if you’re curious about sustainable investing, want to put your money where your values are, or are thinking about careers in climate finance and impact entrepreneurship.Check out the Climatize website to learn more....
2024-09-2529 minSolPods StudioInvesting for Positive Impact: A Conversation with Jennifer LeonardIn this episode, we hear from Jennifer Leonard, Head of Impact at Ethic, about what it really means to invest with purpose. She explains how financial systems can support positive change and why impact investing is more than just a buzzword. Jennifer also offers advice for students who are new to the world of finance but want to align their money with their values. If you’re curious about ethical investing, sustainable business, or just figuring out how to make your future career count for good—this one’s for you.To learn more about microfinance, check out Ac...
2024-09-1215 minSolPods StudioTips for Food Waste Prevention: A Conversation with Joelle CiriacyIn our latest podcast episode, Joelle Ciriacy, Environmental Scientist at the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, shares tips for preventing food waste. From being proactive with meal planning and shopping lists, to leveraging the pantry and freezer, Joelle makes practical suggestions for easy ways to eliminate food waste in the household.Learn more about National Food Waste Prevention Week in the U.S. hereDiscover Food Smart Tennessee Resources such as the meal planning sheet here Check out the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation's websiteFollow on Instagram fo...
2024-04-0217 minSolPods StudioVenture Capital Driving Impact: A Conversation with Alexandra Clunies-RossIn this episode, we chat with Alexandra Clunies-Ross, Partner at Katapult VC, about how venture capital can actually drive real, measurable impact. Alexandra explains how investors choose and support startups tackling climate change and social challenges, and what makes an “impact business” stand out. She also shares insights for students interested in sustainable business, startups, or careers at the intersection of entrepreneurship and climate solutions. If you're curious about how money can fuel change, you’ll want to tune in.Learn more about sustainable and impact investing at ArtesianCheck out B Lab and B Corp...
2024-03-1636 minSolPods StudioEmpowering Women By Giving Them Wings to Fly: A Conversation with Hailey JohnstonIn our latest podcast episode, Hailey Johnston, Founder and CEO of Project Free 2 Fly, discusses the nonprofit she founded over a decade ago to empower women who have come out of crisis situations. She shares her background story and describes how the project equips women with sewing skills, mentorship and life enrichment to gain resources they need to find jobs and take control of their futures. Learn more and shop handmade goods at: Project Free 2 Fly Save the date for the Project Fee 2 Fly annual fund-raiser, Bird & BarnFollow Project Free 2 Fly and sha...
2024-03-0835 minSolPods StudioThe Power of Storytelling: A Conversation with Austin MeyerIn our latest podcast episode, we hear from Austin Meyer, a documentary filmmaker, National Geographic Explorer, cinematographer, and photographer. Austin's works have been featured by National Geographic, HBO, Apple TV, Hulu, and The New York Times. During the podcast, Austin shares his background and the drivers that led him to his film-making career, his transition to becoming a vegan and his passion for animals and animal rights. Austin encourages us to rethink our choices for a kinder, more sustainable world.Discover Austin Meyer's documentary filmsFollow Austin on Instagram and YouTubeLearn from the world's be...
2024-02-0545 minSolPods StudioHidden Health Hazards: How U.S. Animal Industries Could Spark the Next Pandemic - A Conversation with Ann LinderIn our latest podcast episode, Ann Linder, animal law expert, discusses our relationships with animals, including captive wildlife, livestock, and exotic pets. She details the risks of future pandemics due to poorly regulated animal industries in the U.S. and finds that the epicenter might not be a distant market but could be much closer to home - at a pet shop, a livestock auction or at your kitchen table!Ann is a co-author of a groundbreaking report that delves deep into 36 different animal industries. Shockingly, all of these industries are far less regulated than believed, leaving w...
2024-01-2041 minSolPods StudioSip, Savor, and Appreciate: A Mindful Approach to Coffee from Farm to Cup - A Conversation with Madeleine Longoria GarciaHost Lucy Callender sits down with Madeleine Longoria Garcia, a coffee expert whose journey began as a barista during college and has since spanned across various roles in the coffee supply chain. She has worked in Hawai'i, Australia, Southeast Asia, Mexico and Central America gaining experience in cafes as well as in the agricultural aspects of coffee. Madeleine's passion for education led her to Pacific Coffee Research on the Big Island of Hawai'i, a women-owned business that offers educational opportunities in the coffee industry for various audiences, aiming to increase appreciation for coffee through understanding its journey from farm t...
2023-12-1532 minSolPods StudioInvesting in Impact: Lessons from the World Bank to Start-Ups - A Conversation with Monika KumarHost Amy Farrell speaks with Monika Kumar, a specialist in impact investing and sustainability reporting. Monika has dedicated her career to driving sustainability and ESG (environmental, social and governance) into strategy at a range of organizations from start-ups to businesses in New York City to the World Bank Group. She shares her journey which led her to her role today where she advises private wealth and institutional investors on defining their sustainable investment goals and portfolio reporting. Throughout the episode, Amy and Monika explore planetary limitations, impact reporting and Monika's entrepreneurial experience with block-printing artisans in India. Monika provides sugg...
2023-12-1532 minSolPods StudioBeyond Jaws: A Deep Dive into Marine Conservation - A Conversation with Andrew LewinHost Amy Farrell speaks with Andrew Lewin, a marine conservationist and self-proclaimed “ocean-preneur.” Andrew, the CEO and President of Speak Up for Blue, dives into his background as a marine biologist and his transition to becoming a passionate science communicator through blogging, YouTube videos, and eventually podcasting. Throughout the episode, Amy and Andrew explore everything from plastic pollution and marine protection to the impacts of climate change on the ocean. Andrew provides practical advice on consuming seafood sustainably and shares valuable insights into the process of finding jobs in marine biology and conservation. Speak up for B...
2023-12-0629 minSolPods StudioFrom Bees to Brew: Skeptic Meadery Masters an Ancient Craft with Local Flare - A Conversation with Matt LochSolPods Co-Founder Cassie Freyeisen sits down with Matt Loch, owner of Skeptic Meadery, to chat about the unique process of making mead, an alcoholic beverage made from honey, water and yeast. Skeptic Meadery sources honey in East Tennessee, helping to promote local biodiversity. They avert food waste by accepting and utilizing fruits and herbs which would have been wasted otherwise. Not to mention, they collaborate with a local orchard to provide delicious beverages for community events. Mead is the bees knees - listen to learn what the buzz is all about! Learn more about Skeptic Meadery: https...
2023-11-2129 minSolPods StudioThe Smell of Money: Perspectives from the Writer/Producer - A Conversation with Jamie BergerSolPods' Lucy Callender sits down with Jamie Berger, writer and producer of The Smell of Money, to discuss the motivating factors that led Jamie to create this powerful documentary. Jamie shares her journey and her goal to make people aware of the injustices of industrial animal agriculture and the adverse impact on communities and the environment. Her activism for a better world, better environment, for people and for animals is infectious. One listen to this podcast, and you will want to see her film. Watch the official trailer for The Smell of MoneyVisit The Smell o...
2023-11-1040 minSolPods StudioThe Climate Career Kit Story: Inspiring Eco-Minded Youth - A Conversation with Aishani GargHost Amy Farrell sits down with Aishani Garg, a high school student and founder of the "Climate Career Kit" podcast. Aishani passionately discusses her commitment to the environment and the driving force behind her podcast which is dedicated to helping young environmental enthusiasts like her enter the world of climate careers. This episode explores Aishani's inspiring journey and provides valuable insights into the realm of environmental advocacy and green professions, making it a must-listen for anyone seeking to be part of a sustainable future.Listen to the Climate Career Kit on Spotify Visit the Climate Career...
2023-10-1818 minSolPods StudioTurning Trash into Treasure: Repurposing and Crafting to Keep Scraps out of Landfill - A Conversation with Kathy BonteAmy Sabik sits down with Kathy Bonte, Board Chair of FabMo, a Sunnyvale, California-based nonprofit that promotes and encourages good stewardship of the earth by diverting discontinued designer fabrics, tiles, wallpapers and other similar materials from landfills, making them available to all interested persons and inspiring creative reuse.Check out FabMo's website. and Follow FabMo on InstagramFor other up-cycling organizations in the U.S., see New York City-based FABSCRAP, Oakland, California-based East Bay Depot for Creative Reuse, RAFT Store in San Jose, California, and San Francisco-based SCRAP.Kathy Bonte's Yellow Rose Designs...
2023-09-2930 minSolPods StudioBreaking Boundaries to Build the Future - A Conversation with Jessica MaderosSolPods' Amy Farrell sits down with Jessica Maderos, a trailblazing chemical engineer who's not only reshaping industries but also paving the way for other aspiring women in this dynamic field. Jessica stands as a beacon of innovation and sustainability at Blue Planet, a company committed to rewriting the environmental narrative of the construction industry. Jessica’s podcast is a perfect introduction to the importance of the “Built Economy.” Buildings account for almost 40% of greenhouse gas emissions and a third of the world's energy consumption. At Blue Planet, Jessica spearheads efforts to create carbon-negative concrete aggregate, a groundbreaking innovatio...
2023-09-2029 minSolPods StudioSupporting the Sustainable Blue Economy: Propelling Change through Finance - A Conversation with Dennis FritschSolPods’ Cassie Freyeisen sits down with Dennis Fritsch, Associate Nature Lead in Nature for the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI), to talk about the imperative of ocean health, blue finance, and the sustainable Blue Economy. Diving into the delicate balance between economic progress and environmental preservation, Dennis emphasizes the need for collaboration and transformative action to ensure the well-being of our oceans and the entire planet. He discusses UNEPFI's initiatives, including developing guidance for financial institutions to navigate ocean-related risks and opportunities, collaborative investor engagement, and setting science-based targets for ocean sectors. From fostering curiosity and ap...
2023-08-2147 minSolPods StudioThe Bee Whisperer: Inspiration from a Honey Bee Advocate - A Conversation with Aidan WingSolPods Amy Farrell sits down with Aidan Wing, founder of Wings of Nature Bees, a regenerative apiculture company focused on natural practices and approaches to beekeeping and honey production. Aidan describes how bees called him to beekeeping and inspired him to launch his own business. Learn about the amazing community of the hive, the benefits of bees and honey, and what you can do to help protect bees.Check out Wings of Nature Bees' website: https://www.wingsofnaturebees.com/Follow Wings of Nature Bees on Instagram: @wingsofnaturebeesLearn more about the Master Beekeeper Program: https://the...
2023-08-1830 minSolPods StudioCommunity Composting: A Start Up Story in South Dakota - A Conversation with Deirdre AppelSolPods Cassie Freyeisen sits down with Deirdre Appel, founder of SoDak Compost, the first non-profit community composting center of its kind in South Dakota. Deirdre's journey from New Jersey to Brooklyn, and eventually settling in Sioux Falls in 2021 amid the pandemic, drove her to create SoDak Compost, addressing the lack of food scraps recycling options for urban apartment residents. Learn more about Deirdre's inspiring journey, innovative solutions, and the community impact of SoDak, highlighting the potential for transformative sustainable practices in other new environments. Check out SoDak's website here.Follow SoDak on Instagram: @sodak_compost Un...
2023-08-0852 minSolPods StudioOvercoming Adversity: How an Entrepreneur Transformed her Challenges into Sustainable Businesses - A Conversation with Farah AsemiSolPods' Lucy Callender speaks with Farah Asemi, founder of ecofleet, a zero emissions, last mile, cargo bike delivery company, and Diagnostics 360, an environmentally-minded medical laboratory company. Farah explains how her personal experiences drove her to launch her businesses in a quest to find more sustainable solutions for her community and beyond. She highlights the challenges of being an entrepreneur and what she sees as one of her biggest wins - achieving B-Corp certification, a designation awarded to companies that demonstrate high social and environmental performance. Check out the ecofleet websiteFollow Ecofleet on Instagram: @theecofleet Che...
2023-07-2235 minSolPods StudioClean Beauty Startup: Words of Wisdom from a Female Founder - A Conversation with Natalia MonnardSolPods Cassie Freyeisen sits down with Natalia Monnard, founder of SQIN Ø, an all-natural, artisanal, sustainable cosmetic products company exclusively made in Switzerland. Natalia describes what inspired her to launch a clean beauty company during the Pandemic, the challenges she has faced and her success today. She is an advocate for natural skin care and good health and explains why staying informed and educated on the products you put on your skin is so important. For more information on SQIN Ø: https://www.sqinzero.ch/Follow Natalia on Instagram @sqinzero_naturalcosmeticsLearn more about Formula Botan...
2023-07-1242 minSolPods StudioTips from the Zero Waste Chef: Reducing Food and Plastic Waste at Home - A Conversation with Anne-Marie BonneauSolPods Amy Sabik sits down with Anne-Marie Bonneau, author of The Zero Waste Chef: Plant-Forward Recipes and Tips for a Sustainable Kitchen and the Planet. Anne-Marie describes how she went plastic free starting in 2011 and her journey to zero-waste in the kitchen. Anne-Marie's tips include making up-cycled cloth produce bags which have inspired individuals from Seattle, to Scotland and beyond, to start their own produce bag making groups. Anne-Marie also reminds us its going to take time, be patient and remember that every step you take no matter the size helps our planet. Teaser tips from Anne-Marie:"Sh...
2023-06-2629 minSolPods StudioMobilizing Support for Ukrainian Refugees - A Conversation with Lesia NünlistSolPods Cassie Freyeisen sits down with Lesia Nünlist, co-founder of Zurich Helps Ukraine, a charitable organization focused on supporting refugees from Ukraine. Lesia describes how she sprang into action just days after the start of the war to help collect basic necessities from people in Zurich and distribute them to Ukrainian refugees. Leveraging social media and pop-up distribution locations in and around Zurich, Lesia has impacted over 6,000 Ukrainian refugees. For more information on Zurich Helps Ukraine visit: https://zurichhelpsukraine.ch/ or https://www.facebook.com/ZHhelpsUkraine/Follow Zurich Helps Ukraine on: Instagram: @zh_helps_ukrai...
2023-06-1932 minSolPods StudioEncouraging Conservation in US States & Territories and Tribal Communities - A Conversation with Kate BurgessSolPods Cassie Freyeisen sits down with Kate Burgess, a Conservation Program Manager with the National Caucus of Environmental Legislators where they discuss the importance of environmental conservation in the US and ways in which we all can help get involved. Learn more about the National Caucus of Environmental Legislators (NCEL) and their efforts of empowering a nonpartisan network of state legislative champions: https://www.ncelenviro.org/Learn more about Native Americans in Philanthropy at https://nativephilanthropy.orgPursue the Tribal Engagement Training for Conservation Practitioners in North America at https://www.nature.org/e...
2023-05-1530 minSolPods StudioPassionate About Protecting Our Oceans - A Conversation with Madison FrazierSolPods' Lucy Callender sits down with Madison ("Madi") Frazier, a naturalist and educator at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Madi tells us about her personal passion for ocean conservation and shares tips for anyone interested in entering the field. Madi shows us what a day in the life of a Monterey Bay Aquarium employee looks like, from feeding baby manta rays to learning about previously undiscovered species.Check out the Monterey Bay Aquarium websiteFollow Monterey Bay Aquarium on Instagram: @montereybayaquarium Check out Seafood Watch: seafoodwatch.orgMonterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute: mbari.orgC...
2023-05-1335 minSolPods StudioFood Waste: What Companies and Individuals Can Do for a More Sustainable Food System - A Conversation with Daisy NichollsAmy Farrell sits down with Daisy Nicholls who shares her experiences addressing food waste. She discusses what she learned working with a global supermarket chain, a London-based food redistribution charity and an impact investing advisory firm. Daisy provides suggestions for how we can each do our part to help eliminate food waste. Check out The Felix Project's website: https://www.thefelixproject.org/ Follow The Felix Project on https://www.instagram.com/thefelixproject/Learn what you can do to help address food waste: https://www.toogoodtogo.com/Follow Too Good To Go: https://www.instagram.co...
2023-04-1219 minSolPods StudioRecycling: Turning Passion into Purpose - A Conversation with Karen NorykoAmy Farrell sits down with Karen Noryko, who tells us about her job as a community launcher for Ridwell, an innovative recycling company that specializes in hard-to-recycle items. She discusses how her passion for the earth led her to switch career paths and get her Bay Area community involved in a major recycling challenge. Karen shares tips on making connections with other sustainable advocates, holding big brands accountable and getting educated about what really gets recycled on trash pickup day. Check out Ridwell's website: https://www.ridwell.com/ Follow Ridwell on InstagramRead Ridwell's Blog: h...
2023-03-1624 minSolPods StudioGoing Green in Tennessee - A Conversation with Kelsey DavisSolPods Co-Founder, Cassie Freyeisen, sits down with Kelsey Davis, an Environmental Consultant with the Office of Sustainable Practices at the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC). Hear about Kelsey's journey and her work with the Tennessee state parks and local community. Check out the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC): https://www.tn.gov/environment.html and explore possible career opportunities: https://www.tn.gov/environment/about-tdec/employment-and-internships.htmlGet involved in Zero Waste Day: https://www.tn.gov/environment/program-areas/opsp-policy-and-sustainable-practices/community-programs-and-services/zero-waste-tn/zero-waste-day-challenge.htmlDiscover more about the Zero Was...
2023-02-2816 minSolPods StudioSolPods: Why we Built a New Sustainability Community - A Conversation with the FoundersJoin our inaugural SolPods Studio episode and meet the SolPods team: Amy Farrell, Cassie Freyeisen, Lucy Callender and Amy Sabik. Listen in to hear the history of SolPods and how we have designed the platform to help our members connect with like-minded individuals, learn about different sustainability topics and get inspired by our Earth Heroes.Check out the SolPods Website: www.solpods.orgFollow us on Instagram: @solpods.earth Follow us on LinkedinFollow us on YouTubeFor questions, email us at: hello@solpods.org
2023-02-2018 minSolPods StudioGetting Started with Zero Waste - A Conversation with Laura PorterAmy Farrell sits down with Laura Porter, founder of Byrd’s Filling Station, a zero waste grocery store in San Mateo, CA. Learn about Laura’s journey as a sustainable business owner and get inspired by her tips for zero-waste beginners. Check out Byrd's Filling Station: https://byrdsfillingstation.com/Follow Byrd's on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/byrdsfillingstation/Check out the SolPods Website: www.solpods.orgFollow us on Instagram: @solpods.earth Follow us on LinkedinFollow us on YouTubeFor questions, email us at: hello@solpods...
2023-01-3120 min