Green Shoots & Big Shifts

The US spends billions rebuilding the same communities after each disaster, and the money runs out before the risk does. Abby Ross, CEO of The Resiliency Company, walks through why that model breaks down as billion dollar disasters hit roughly every two weeks, with over $12 trillion in residential real estate exposed to severe risk. A lifelong entrepreneur who previously led the donor advised fund now called For Good, Abby explains how catalytic grants and low interest loans got Alabama to fortify close to 100,000 roofs, and how she is applying that playbook to fire risk in Los Angeles.

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome and introducing Abby Ross

00:52 Abby's path from ed tech to resilience

01:38 From For Good's disaster data to a new nonprofit

03:50 The scale: billion dollar disasters and $12 trillion exposed

06:05 Lessons from building The Resiliency Company

08:16 Strengthen Alabama Homes and the fortified roof model

11:08 How the Alabama grants got started

11:48 Resilient Los Angeles and the Resilient Delta Fund

13:12 Seed money, market forces, and how the programs work

16:14 Defining resilience: built environment and physical risk

17:40 Public infrastructure and the financing gap

19:49 Sustainable financing mechanisms and the Risk Reserve Tool

22:14 What a resilient future looks like

25:07 Green shoots and the ROI of resilience

27:21 Trends among developers and the commercial real estate playbook

29:31 Takeaways for individuals and homeowners

You can follow Abby Ross here:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/abigailross/

Learn more about The Resiliency Company:

Website - https://resiliency.com

Follow the Green Shoots & Big Shifts Podcast here:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/green-shoots-big-shifts/

Aid usually arrives from the top down, with outsiders naming the problem and the fix. Amit Varshneya, Executive Director of The Goonj Foundation, describes a model that flips that script. Goonj collects around fifteen million pounds of urban surplus each year in India, sorts it into family kits, and matches those kits to rural communities who first identify and solve their own infrastructure needs. Amit spent 26 years in marketing and startups across enterprise and the Bay Area before a one year sabbatical turned into six and a half years of this work. He connects circularity, human dignity, and climate adaptation in concrete terms.

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome to Green Shoots & Big Shifts

00:44 Meet Amit Varshneya

01:02 From Uttar Pradesh to a US marketing career

03:19 Startups journey

04:42 A sabbatical that became six and a half years

06:08 Meeting Goonj's founder and joining the mission

07:29 What Goonj is and how the model works

09:04 Urban waste, surplus textiles, and collection drives

11:14 Building and matching kits to rural communities

13:16 Activating community agency, never charity

15:26 Circularity and changing mindsets

17:34 Post-colonial aid and indigenous knowledge

20:20 Making alternative economic models work

21:10 The numbers: 28,000 projects, 20 million lives

22:55 The wrestling ring in Jammu and Kashmir

27:52 Climate disasters as a clear and present reality

30:33 Dignity in disaster response

33:03 Assam floods and ecological repair first

34:59 Different currencies and interconnectedness

35:36 Community and rethinking wealth

40:11 How to get involved with Goonj

42:49 A closing word: Responsibility

Learn more about The Goonj Foundation:

Website - https://goonjfoundation.org

Learn more about Goonj:

https://goonj.org/

Follow the Green Shoots & Big Shifts Podcast here:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/green-shoots-big-shifts/

Four years ago only 4% of US adults knew what regenerative agriculture meant. Kiss The Ground (https://kisstheground.com/) decided the fix was to stop talking over people and start meeting them where they are. Evan Harrison, CEO of Kiss The Ground walks through the strategy that moved that number to 13%, from mini documentaries, 5 with a Farmer series, and 25 shopping guides to a $500,000 grant program that put electric fences, cover crops and hogs on more than 200+ farms and set 73K acres on the path to transition to regenerative farming. Evan's background is music and digital media, and he brings a builder's eye to how consumer demand rewires supply chains.

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome to Green Shoots & Big Shifts

01:04 Meet Evan Harrison and Kiss The Ground

01:38 From a Venice nonprofit to the Netflix film

02:54 Only 4% understood regenerative agriculture

04:06 Simplifying the message and the tipping point strategy

06:16 Growing awareness from 4% to 7% to 13%

07:13 Content formats: mini docs, reels and shopping guides

10:55 The $500,000 farmer grant program

12:16 73,000 acres and stories from the field

12:50 Consumer demand versus policy and supply chains

13:24 Shopping guides, the farm map and certification

15:08 The milk carton moment and earning credibility

15:57 Helping partner companies avoid overstating claims

17:57 What farmers say about the real hurdles

20:40 Farmer Relations Board

23:04 Partner companies and how the partnerships work

27:24 What is next for Kiss The Ground

29:03 How listeners can help

31:25 A serial optimist on why change comes fast then slow

34:04 What keeps Evan going

35:39 One word for the audience: hope

You can follow Evan Harrison here:

LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/evanharrison

Learn more about Kiss The Ground:

Website - https://kisstheground.com

Follow the host, Reetu Gupta here:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/guptareetu/

Green Shoots & Big Shifts: https://thepod.fm/listen/green-shoots-big-shifts

Wildlife populations have dropped 70% over the last 50 years, and most organizations still can't say what nature exists on the land they manage. Dan White, CEO & Founder of Gentian, measures biodiversity using satellite imagery and AI that detects plant species and habitats from space, then hands that data to property developers, farmers, oil and gas firms, and First Nations communities so they can act on nature/ ecological risk. His path runs from childhood bird watching through behavioral economics work that cut aviation fuel use, and he connects both to the value we fail to count.

Chapters:

00:03 Welcome to Green Shoots and Big Shifts

00:55 Dan's early love of nature and bird watching

01:45 A career arc from music to CEO

02:32 Serendipity, doors, and following your values

04:25 What Gentian measures with satellites and AI

05:14 Why habitats matter and the extinction crisis

06:48 Who uses biodiversity data and why

08:20 Regulation, TNFD, and nature on the bottom line

11:19 Nature based solutions and climate resilience

12:56 Losing one drug every two years to plant extinction

14:32 Behavioral economics and changing decisions

15:24 District heating data and meeting Rob Metcalfe

17:45 The Virgin Atlantic fuel efficiency trial

18:31 Signal: feedback for pilots and ships captains

20:01 Why personalized goals beat leaderboards

23:08 Advice for people starting out in this work

25:18 What's next for Dan and Gentian

27:36 A word for the audience: chicken

Learn more about Gentian:

Website - https://gentian.team

Follow the host, Reetu Gupta here:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/guptareetu/

Less than 1% of philanthropic capital goes to ocean causes, and the funding gap for a healthy ocean runs at least $150 billion. Laura Francis, Founder of Sea Forward Fund, is closing that gap with a collaborative multi donor fund now invested in 12 ocean health funds that span roughly 200 companies across 53 countries. After 27 years at NOAA and a career as a kelp forest ecologist, she built a model where a $250 donation and a $2 million donation both matter, returns cycle back through a donor advised fund, and everyday people learn how ocean impact investing works.

Chapters:

00:03 Welcome to Green Shoots and Big Shifts

00:53 Falling in love with the ocean at 11 years olf

02:26 From UC Santa Barbara to 27 years at NOAA

03:53 Move into impact investing

06:12 The ocean funding gap and SDG 14

08:41 Inside Sea Forward Fund: 12 funds, 200 companies, 53 countries

09:26 Choosing science based fund managers and measuring impact

11:40 Why a $250 donation matters as much as $2 million

13:12 Impact Investing without a donor advised fund through CataCap

14:46 The living laboratory and the Ever Blue model

16:22 Ripple: community, webinars and newsletters

17:53 California Ocean Summit in Santa Barbara, December 2026

19:27 Lessons on mobilizing small donors for big impact

21:44 The ocean as a financial ecosystem

22:28 What's next: new platforms, field trips and growing to 15 funds

24:43 A science to finance pathway for students

25:35 Closing on resilience and hope

You can follow Laura Francis here:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauraannfrancis/

Learn more about Sea Forward Fund:

- Sea Forward Fund Website - https://seaforwardfund.org

- Sea Forward Fund on Catacap: https://catacap.org/investments/seaforward

- California Ocean Summit: https://calocean.org/

DAF Commons: https://www.dafcommons.com/

Follow the host, Reetu Gupta here:

- LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/guptareetu/

- https://www.linkedin.com/company/green-shoots-big-shifts/?viewAsMember=true

Coffee manufacturers pay millions to dispose of waste that still holds most of its value. Helen Zhang built a company on that gap. She is CEO and Founder of Coffee Elf Inc., which pulls oil from commercial coffee grounds to make a premium emollient for hair care and skincare, and presses grounds with cork and peanut shell into vegan leather for promotional merchandise. Helen traces the path from a kitchen project at Columbia that nearly set off her neighbors' smoke complaints to early commercial partners, and to donating profit back to nonprofits serving women coffee farmers in Kenya, Ethiopia and Colombia.

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome to Green Shoots and Big Shifts

00:54 Meet Helen Zhang and what Coffee Elf does

01:43 The kitchen project that nearly burned down an apartment

03:16 Discovering coffee's hidden chemical value

03:47 Coffee waste as a commercial problem

04:54 Growing up in an entrepreneurial family

07:16 The bigger vision: a waste to value engine

09:37 Inside the product line: emollient and vegan leather

12:08 Replacing palm oil with coffee oil

13:16 Giving back to women coffee farmers

17:00 Material innovation beyond plastic

18:38 Safety, silicones and clean beauty

20:35 Milestones ahead: hair care and the ASI supply chain

22:00 How to partner with Coffee Elf

24:24 Sustainability and profitability together

28:22 Advice for founders building in this field

30:46 One word to leave listeners with

Learn more about Coffee Elf Inc.:

Website - https://thecoffeeelf.com

Follow the host, Reetu Gupta here:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/guptareetu/

Weber State University set a carbon neutral target of 2040 and has spent 15 years working toward it with efficiency, electrification, and renewable sourcing. Justin Owen, Director of Utilities and Sustainability at Weber State University, walks through the specifics: half the campus electrified, two and a half megawatts of solar, ground source wells under parking lots, and a revolving loan fund now generating around $3 million in cost reduction. He is a Weber State alum who started as an hourly student worker, and he explains why housing sustainability inside facilities changed what the team could get done.

Chapters:

00:03 Welcome to Green Shoots and Big Shifts

00:54 Weber State's carbon neutral goal for 2040

01:40 Campus size and location in Ogden, Utah

01:55 Justin's path from pre med to sustainability

03:20 Early adopters: the 2007 climate commitment

04:31 The president signs on, facilities figures it out

05:14 Measuring the baseline and finding low hanging fruit

05:57 The central heating problem and electrification

07:26 How ground source fields work at Weber State

08:58 Life cycle, learning environment, and per room thermostats

11:15 Win wins: comfort, cost, and getting occupants on board

11:56 The internal revolving loan fund

13:27 Producing two thirds of campus electricity and avoiding easy undos

14:55 Efficiency first, then electrification, then renewables

16:29 Getting stakeholders and finance on board

17:53 Sustainability housed inside facilities management

21:24 Students and interns in sustainability work

23:31 Rescuing leftover food and campus engagement

24:15 What's next: onsite battery storage and a campus microgrid

25:36 Focus and avoiding distraction in sustainability programs

26:19 One word: hope

27:05 A investment problem, not a technology problem

You can follow Justin Owen here:

LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/justinrowen

Learn more about Weber State University:

Website - https://weber.edu

Follow the Green Shoots & Big Shifts Podcast here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/green-shoots-big-shifts/

Nisha Anand, CEO of Dream.org, ran the playbook to help pass a legislation, which has seen 60,000 people return from prison. She grew up as the daughter of Indian immigrant parents in Atlanta, learned to be the bridge early, and now builds tables wide enough to make change that lasts.

Nisha explains:

• Growing up a self-described misfit in Atlanta and turning bridge building into a career
• Why durable policy comes from including the most excluded voices, not checking a box
• How the First Step Act brought 60,000 people home from prison
• Green for All's origin: Van Jones training Oakland youth to install solar panels
• Solving poverty and pollution at the same time instead of one at a time
• The Green Reentry cohort, training people coming home from prison for green jobs
• Working with unlikely allies, from libertarians to military bases facing rising water
• Common values under criminal justice reform: second chances, dignity, shrinking a bloated system
• Making nuance cool again and practicing self-curiosity while doom scrolling
• Connecting siloed solutions from conferences into full city-wide plans
• What gives her hope: her kids, the next generation, and science that is bigger than us

00:00 Welcome to Green Shoots and Big Shifts

00:44 Introducing Nisha Anand, CEO of dream.org

01:21 From Atlanta misfit to activist and bridge builder

02:52 Justice at scale: legislation and the First Step Act

03:51 Building a big table and why it makes policy durable

04:41 Beyond tokenism: inviting the blind spots you cannot see

06:16 Green for All's origins with Van Jones and Oakland solar

07:47 Green infrastructure, reentry, and green jobs today

10:03 Equity as the door that opens for everyone

11:57 Practices and challenges of building broad coalitions

15:56 Common values behind unlikely allies

17:36 Making nuance cool again and modeling curiosity

19:00 Self-curiosity: asking why you react the way you do

21:33 What the podcast reveals: hope in science and startups

23:00 Connecting the dots across silos and conferences

25:28 What keeps Nisha going: her kids and the next generation

28:00 One word to leave with: perseverance

Learn more about dream.org:

Website - https://dreamcorps.us

Forty percent of the food produced in the United States gets thrown out, and the nutrition in a third of that waste is enough to end food insecurity. Robert Lee, founder of Rescuing Leftover Cuisine, left a finance job at JP Morgan to close that gap. He grew up as the second son of Korean American parents who struggled with food access, joined a student club at NYU that carried leftover dining hall food to shelters, and built that idea into an organization now rescuing food across all 50 states.

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome and show intro

01:00 Robert's journey and what inspired RLC

02:46 What Rescuing Leftover Cuisine does

03:33 Scaling carefully and sustainable growth

06:03 Where RLC operates today

07:00 The scale of food waste

08:33 A food rescue story that stuck

10:02 How to donate food and how pickup works

10:58 Partners, shelters, and a school program

12:33 Launching the Every Bite app in Boston

13:33 What's next and making food rescue the standard

15:35 Advice for starting small and taking action

17:53 How Robert thinks about impact

19:53 One word to leave listeners with

Learn more about Rescuing Leftover Cuisine:

- Website - https://rescuingleftovercuisine.org

- Download the Evrybite App: https://www.evrybite.com/download-evrybite

In this episode of *Green Shoots & Big Shifts*, host Reetu Gupta welcomes Nelli Garton, the founder of Tablecloth.io, to discuss the transformative power of data in driving sustainability efforts. Nelli shares her inspiring journey from the world of philanthropy and academia to launching a company dedicated to helping organizations effectively measure and understand their impact. With nearly a decade of experience, she highlights the evolution of her mission and the importance of making data-driven decisions in both non-profit and private equity sectors. The conversation delves into the challenges and surprises of pivoting from a philanthropic focus to working with private equity, emphasizing the need for organizations to integrate sustainability into their core values. Nelli also explores the role of Artificial Intelligence in sustainability and the critical importance of building trust within organizations as they navigate these changes. The episode wraps up with a powerful message about the collective responsibility we share in shaping a sustainable future, urging listeners to embrace the possibilities that lie ahead.

• (00:00) - - Intro to Green Shoots & Big Shifts
• (01:23) - - Welcome to Nelli Garton
• (02:45) - - Nelli's Journey in Sustainability
• (06:12) - - Transition to Private Equity Focus
• (10:15) - - Data-Driven Decision Making
• (14:40) - - Working with Clients and Projects
• (18:30) - - Connecting Data to Sustainability
• (24:05) - - Long-Term Client Relationships
• (28:40) - - The Role of AI in Sustainability
• (32:15) - - Challenges and Opportunities with AI
• (37:10) - - Exciting Future for Sustainability
• (41:30) - - Activating Change in Communities
• (45:00) - - Closing Thoughts on Possibility
• (46:15) - - Thank You and Farewell

sustainability, data, impact investing, ESG, climate change, private equity, decision making, AI, community development, transformation

In this episode of Green Shoots & Big Shifts, host Reetu Gupta sits down with Aaron Fitzgerald, the founder of Mars Materials, Inc. PBC, to discuss innovative approaches to sustainability and climate change. Mars Materials is pioneering a transformative method of producing carbon fiber and water treatment chemicals from waste materials (i.e. carbon dioxide), instead of traditional fossil fuels. This not only creates valuable materials but also serves as an effective means of carbon sequestration, addressing both environmental concerns and market demands.

Aaron shares his inspiring journey from working on Capitol Hill to becoming a serial entrepreneur focused on carbon dioxide removal. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of building a startup in the climate tech space, emphasizing the importance of resilience, community, and the need for market-based solutions to combat climate change. The conversation highlights the growing demand for sustainable materials and how Mars Materials is positioned to meet that demand while making a significant impact on the environment.

• (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast
• (01:30) - - Welcoming Aaron Fitzgerald
• (02:15) - - Overview of Mars Materials
• (04:45) - - Motivation Behind Mars Materials
• (07:30) - - Technology Insights: Carbon Fiber Production
• (10:15) - - The Role of Acrylonitrile in Production
• (12:00) - - Environmental Concerns with Traditional Processes
• (14:30) - - Rising Demand for Carbon Fiber
• (17:00) - - Aaron's Journey as a Founder
• (20:00) - - Lessons from Previous Startups
• (24:00) - - Impact of Personal History on Career
• (27:30) - - Key Pivotal Moments in Entrepreneurship
• (31:00) - - Exciting Future Projects for Mars Materials
• (35:15) - - Funding and Support for Mars Materials
• (38:00) - - Commercialization and Market Validation
• (41:00) - - Diverse Applications of Products
• (44:00) - - Collaboration Across Geographies
• (47:30) - - The Importance of Subsidies in Climate Tech
• (50:00) - - Final Thoughts: Optimism in the Climate Space
• (52:30) - - Closing Remarks and Thank You

• (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast
• (01:30) - - Welcoming Aaron Fitzgerald
• (02:15) - - Overview of Mars Materials
• (04:45) - - Motivation Behind Mars Materials
• (07:30) - - Technology Insights: Carbon Fiber Production
• (10:15) - - The Role of Acrylonitrile in Production
• (12:00) - - Environmental Concerns with Traditional Processes
• (14:30) - - Rising Demand for Carbon Fiber
• (17:00) - - Aaron's Journey as a Founder
• (20:00) - - Lessons from Previous Startups
• (24:00) - - Impact of Personal History on Career
• (27:30) - - Key Pivotal Moments in Entrepreneurship
• (31:00) - - Exciting Future Projects for Mars Materials
• (35:15) - - Funding and Support for Mars Materials
• (38:00) - - Commercialization and Market Validation
• (41:00) - - Diverse Applications of Products
• (44:00) - - Collaboration Across Geographies
• (47:30) - - The Importance of Subsidies in Climate Tech
• (50:00) - - Final Thoughts: Optimism in the Climate Space
• (52:30) - - Closing Remarks and Thank You

sustainability, carbon fiber, innovation, climate change, entrepreneurship, waste-to-product, polyacrylamide, carbon dioxide removal, market demand, resilience

In this episode of *Green Shoots & Big Shifts*, host Reetu Gupta sits down with Jeremy McKane, the CEO of Ocean Currency Network (OCN.ai), a pioneering organization focused on marine conservation and the economic valuation of our oceans. Jeremy shares his inspiring journey from artist to entrepreneur, illustrating how his passion for the ocean evolved into a mission to protect 30% of the world's oceans by 2030. Through innovative approaches to ocean conservation, he emphasizes the need for a collective effort—what he calls a "Justice League"—to safeguard this vital ecosystem.

The conversation delves into the alarming statistic that only about 2.7% of the oceans are fully protected, highlighting the disconnect between policy and enforcement. Jeremy discusses the importance of recognizing the ocean's inherent value, not just as a resource, but as a critical component of our planet's health and our survival. With fascinating anecdotes and actionable insights, this episode serves as a call to action for listeners to rethink their relationship with the ocean and embrace a more sustainable future.

• (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast
• (01:30) - - Meet Jeremy McKane
• (02:45) - - Ocean Conservation Goals Explained
• (05:10) - - The Value of a Healthy Ocean
• (08:00) - - Jeremy’s Artistic Journey
• (10:15) - - Importance of Marine Protected Areas
• (12:30) - - Understanding "Paper Parks"
• (15:00) - - The Role of Collaboration in Conservation
• (17:45) - - The Financial Value of Nature
• (20:30) - - Nature on the Balance Sheet Concept
• (23:15) - - The Need for Ecosystem Health
• (26:00) - - The British Virgin Islands Project
• (28:45) - - Shifts in Financial Perspectives
• (32:00) - - Community Collaboration for Ocean Protection
• (35:15) - - The Vision for Future Initiatives
• (38:30) - - Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

• (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast
• (01:30) - - Meet Jeremy McKane
• (02:45) - - Ocean Conservation Goals Explained
• (05:10) - - The Value of a Healthy Ocean
• (08:00) - - Jeremy’s Artistic Journey
• (10:15) - - Importance of Marine Protected Areas
• (12:30) - - Understanding "Paper Parks"
• (15:00) - - The Role of Collaboration in Conservation
• (17:45) - - The Financial Value of Nature
• (20:30) - - Nature on the Balance Sheet Concept
• (23:15) - - The Need for Ecosystem Health
• (26:00) - - The British Virgin Islands Project
• (28:45) - - Shifts in Financial Perspectives
• (32:00) - - Community Collaboration for Ocean Protection
• (35:15) - - The Vision for Future Initiatives
• (38:30) - - Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

ocean, conservation, sustainability, collaboration, marine protection, Ocean Currency Network, nature valuation, biodiversity, ecosystem, change agents

In this episode of *Green Shoots & Big Shifts*, host Reetu Gupta welcomes Veena Jayadeva, the founder of Kareena's Closet, to discuss her inspiring journey from international development to pioneering a sustainable fashion platform. Veena's deep-rooted commitment to sustainability and women's empowerment shines through as she shares her experiences working with microfinance initiatives aimed at uplifting women across the globe. Her passion for social impact led her to create Kareena's Closet, which offers a peer-to-peer platform for renting and reselling South Asian formal wear, thus addressing the pressing issue of overconsumption in the fashion industry, particularly within the South Asian community.

Veena elaborates on the cultural pressures surrounding traditional celebrations, where the expectation to wear something new for every occasion has contributed to wasteful consumption. By fostering a community-centered approach, Kareena's Closet not only provides affordable fashion alternatives but also supports local designers and small businesses, creating an ecosystem of sustainability. Throughout their conversation, Reetu and Veena emphasize the importance of redefining fashion choices as an opportunity for joy, creativity, and community connection, rather than mere consumerism.

Learn more about Kareena's Closet here : https://www.kareenascloset.com/

• (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast
• (01:15) - - Meet Veena Jayadeva
• (02:30) - - Veena's Journey in Sustainability
• (05:45) - - Transition to Entrepreneurship
• (08:00) - - Introduction to Kareena's Closet
• (10:00) - - Addressing Overconsumption in Fashion
• (12:30) - - The Role of Microfinance in Empowering Women
• (14:45) - - Ecosystem of Women Entrepreneurs
• (18:00) - - The Importance of Cultural Change
• (20:15) - - Stories of Joy and Transformation
• (23:30) - - The Art of Draping Saris
• (26:15) - - Expanding the Concept of Sustainability
• (29:00) - - Community Engagement and Education
• (32:30) - - Future Vision for Kareena's Closet
• (35:00) - - The Importance of Natural Fabrics
• (37:00) - - Addressing Textile Waste and Landfills
• (40:00) - - Final Thoughts on Authenticity and Joy
• (42:15) - - Closing Remarks and Takeaways

• (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast
• (01:15) - - Meet Veena Jayadeva
• (02:30) - - Veena's Journey in Sustainability
• (05:45) - - Transition to Entrepreneurship
• (08:00) - - Introduction to Kareena's Closet
• (10:00) - - Addressing Overconsumption in Fashion
• (12:30) - - The Role of Microfinance in Empowering Women
• (14:45) - - Ecosystem of Women Entrepreneurs
• (18:00) - - The Importance of Cultural Change
• (20:15) - - Stories of Joy and Transformation
• (23:30) - - The Art of Draping Saris
• (26:15) - - Expanding the Concept of Sustainability
• (29:00) - - Community Engagement and Education
• (32:30) - - Future Vision for Kareena's Closet
• (35:00) - - The Importance of Natural Fabrics
• (37:00) - - Addressing Textile Waste and Landfills
• (40:00) - - Final Thoughts on Authenticity and Joy
• (42:15) - - Closing Remarks and Takeaways

sustainability, microfinance, entrepreneurship, community, fashion, South Asian, rental, resale, ecosystem, social impact

In this enlightening episode of *Green Shoots & Big Shifts*, host Reetu Gupta sits down with Sara Fuentes, the dynamic founder of Smart Waste, Inc. and chairwoman of Women in CleanTech and Sustainability. Sara shares her inspiring journey from an early childhood educator to a leader in sustainability, revealing how a serendipitous introduction to the waste management industry ignited her passion for environmental stewardship.

Sara recounts her pivotal moments, including the impact of COVID-19 on her career trajectory, which ultimately propelled her to launch Smart Waste (https://www.smartwasteusa.com/) , a company dedicated to zero waste facilitation. With a focus on transforming waste into resources, Sara discusses the importance of shifting mindsets around waste management and how her organization helps businesses achieve sustainability goals while saving money. Tune in to discover how Sara’s work not only impacts the environment but also empowers communities and fosters gender parity in the clean tech sector.

• (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast
• (00:31) - - Welcome and Guest Introduction
• (01:45) - - Sara's Journey to Sustainability
• (04:20) - - Pivotal Moments in Starting Smart Waste
• (08:15) - - Importance of Women in Clean Tech
• (11:00) - - Overview of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability
• (14:05) - - Smart Waste's Zero Waste Strategy
• (18:30) - - Waste as Resource Management
• (22:00) - - Client Examples and Success Stories
• (26:00) - - Understanding R2V3 Certification
• (29:15) - - The Business of Waste Recovery
• (32:40) - - Challenges in the Waste Industry
• (35:15) - - Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
• (40:00) - - The Importance of Partnerships
• (43:00) - - Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways
• (45:00) - - Closing Remarks and Contact Information

• (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast
• (00:31) - - Welcome and Guest Introduction
• (01:45) - - Sara's Journey to Sustainability
• (04:20) - - Pivotal Moments in Starting Smart Waste
• (08:15) - - Importance of Women in Clean Tech
• (11:00) - - Overview of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability
• (14:05) - - Smart Waste's Zero Waste Strategy
• (18:30) - - Waste as Resource Management
• (22:00) - - Client Examples and Success Stories
• (26:00) - - Understanding R2V3 Certification
• (29:15) - - The Business of Waste Recovery
• (32:40) - - Challenges in the Waste Industry
• (35:15) - - Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
• (40:00) - - The Importance of Partnerships
• (43:00) - - Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways
• (45:00) - - Closing Remarks and Contact Information

sustainability, Smart Waste, zero waste, recycling, innovation, women in cleantech, entrepreneurship, circular economy, environmental impact, leadership

In this enlightening episode of *Green Shoots & Big Shifts*, host Reetu Gupta welcomes Todd Thomas, the CEO and founder of Woodchuck.ai, an innovative company tackling the dual challenges of waste management and energy generation. Todd shares the fascinating journey that led him to establish Woodchuck, driven by the need to divert wood waste from landfills and transform it into a sustainable energy source. With a staggering 42 million tons of wood waste generated from construction sites in the U.S. each year, Todd's mission is not only to reduce waste but also to meet the growing demand for renewable energy in a rapidly changing world.

Throughout the conversation, Todd provides insights into his approach to sustainability, particularly in the context of data centers and electric vehicle (EV) battery factories. He highlights the importance of engaging local communities in dialogues about energy consumption and resource management, advocating for a collaborative approach to ensure that new developments yield benefits for everyone involved. The episode also touches on Todd's ventures in storytelling through books and a TV show, which have helped raise awareness about biomass and renewable energy solutions.

• (00:00) - - Introduction to Green Shoots & Big Shifts
• (01:30) - - Guest Introduction: Todd Thomas
• (02:15) - - Todd's Journey to Founding Woodchuck
• (05:00) - - The Problem of Biomass and Waste
• (07:30) - - Wood Waste: A Hidden Resource
• (09:00) - - Working with Construction and Manufacturing
• (11:15) - - Addressing Community Concerns about Data Centers
• (14:45) - - Benefits of Well-Planned Data Centers
• (17:30) - - Successful Project with Ford
• (20:00) - - Circular Economy in Data Centers
• (23:30) - - Innovations in Wood Waste Utilization
• (26:00) - - The Role of Storytelling and Awareness
• (30:00) - - Upcoming Book: Starving for Innovation
• (32:45) - - Key Lessons Learned for Founders
• (35:30) - - Conclusion and Final Thoughts
• (36:15) - - Resources and Where to Find More
• (37:00) - - Thank You and Wrap-Up

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In this episode of Green Shoots & Big Shifts, host Reetu Gupta sits down with Kristi Shaw, the CEO and founder of Mermaid Energy, to discuss her remarkable journey from a rural Maryland upbringing to the forefront of renewable energy development in the Caribbean. Kristi shares her unique perspective as a marine biologist and public health expert, detailing her transition from academia to entrepreneurship. Her experiences with environmental challenges, particularly following hurricanes, inspired her to seek innovative solutions for sustainable energy in vulnerable regions.

Kristi introduces listeners to Mermaid Energy's mission to tackle the growing problem of invasive sargassum seaweed in the Caribbean. By intercepting this abundant resource at sea, her company aims to transform it into bio-stimulants, renewable diesel, and other valuable products, while also addressing public health and ecological concerns. This episode is a testament to how individuals can leverage their backgrounds and experiences to create meaningful change in their communities and beyond.

• (00:00) - - Introduction to Green Shoots & Big Shifts
• (00:28) - - Welcome Kristi Shaw from Mermaid Energy
• (01:12) - - Kristi's Journey: From Farm to Science
• (02:57) - - Transitioning to Renewable Energy Development
• (04:41) - - Challenges and Opportunities in Energy Projects
• (10:00) - - Insights from the Chicken Manure Company
• (16:35) - - Introduction to Mermaid Energy
• (18:53) - - Addressing the Sargassum Seaweed Crisis
• (20:09) - - Innovative Solutions for Seaweed Management
• (24:10) - - Current Status and Future Goals
• (27:21) - - Importance of Community Collaboration
• (29:27) - - Bringing Technical Jobs to the Caribbean
• (30:29) - - One Word: Execute
• (31:51) - - Closing Thoughts and Farewell

In this enlightening episode of **Green Shoots & Big Shifts**, host Reetu Gupta welcomes Abby Jordan, the Climate Education Program Manager at the National Wildlife Federation (NWF). Abby shares her inspiring journey from a volunteer in community climate initiatives to a leader in climate education, emphasizing the importance of hands-on experience in fostering a deeper understanding of environmental issues among youth. Through her work at NWF, Abby is not only educating students about climate resilience but also empowering them to take meaningful action in their communities.

Abby discusses two pivotal programs she manages: the Climate and Resilience Education Task Force Youth Steering Committee, which engages high school students in climate education and civic engagement, and the Resilient Schools and Communities program, which provides a standardized curriculum for educators. Abby highlights the impactful Beach Grass Plantings project in New York City, where students participate in ecological restoration efforts, gaining firsthand experience in climate solutions. This episode not only sheds light on the significance of grassroots climate action but also emphasizes the role of education in nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards.

Resources

• Explore the RISC Website for resources on how you and your community can get involved!
• Follow NWF on Instagram(@riscnyc1
• Access the standardized version of the RiSC Curriculum for a national audience focused on four climate impacts: coastal flooding, inland flooding, wildfires, and extreme heat, here: https://www.riscnyc.org/curriculum-1
• New York Amsterdam News highlighted the RISC program in their featured climate solutions front page editorial: “NYC High Schools Work to Protect Brooklyn’s Shoreline.” https://amsterdamnews.com/news/2025/05/22/nyc-high-schoolers-work-to-protect-brooklyns-shoreline/
• CBS News TV produced a piece about the RiSC beach grass plantings reaching millions of viewers, watch: "Students helping to restore sand dunes in Coney Island.” https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/video/students-helping-to-restore-sand-dunes-in-coney-island/
• To see NWF students and volunteers in action, watch and share our documentary: Where it Floods: Planting Hope in Coney Island https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KxNMYorttQQ
• State of the Planet: Can Coney Island’s Dunes Protect Against Another Sandy? May 2026,https://news.climate.columbia.edu/2026/05/21/can-coney-islands-dunes-protect-against-another-sandy...

In this enlightening episode of *Green Shoots & Big Shifts*, host Reetu Gupta welcomes Stacy Cline, the Senior Director of Sustainability at GitLab, to discuss the intersection of sustainability and corporate responsibility within the tech industry. Stacy shares her inspiring journey from the nonprofit sector to her pivotal role in shaping GitLab's sustainability initiatives. With a focus on environmental, social, and governance regulations, Stacy elaborates on how GitLab is not only ensuring compliance but also helping its customers meet their own sustainability goals.

Stacy highlights the crucial role of intentionality in integrating sustainability into business practices. She discusses GitLab's Green DevOps Committee, which focuses on sustainable software development and innovative practices that address customer needs for lower emissions. The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities of balancing AI innovation with sustainable practices, emphasizing that sustainability should be woven into the fabric of business objectives rather than treated as a separate initiative. This episode is packed with practical insights for organizations looking to embrace sustainability as a core component of their operations.

You can access Gitlab's library here: AI catalog: https://gitlab.com/explore/ai-catalog/agents/. This linkwill pull up the 'green' agents and flows.

• (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast
• (01:20) - - Guest Introduction: Stacy Cline
• (02:10) - - Stacy's Career Journey
• (05:00) - - Overview of GitLab's Sustainability Goals
• (07:45) - - Customer Expectations on Sustainability
• (10:30) - - Connecting Sustainability to Business Goals
• (13:20) - - Sustainability in a Software Company
• (16:50) - - GitLab's Green DevOps Committee
• (19:40) - - Balancing AI Innovation and Sustainability
• (23:10) - - Responsible Use of AI at GitLab
• (26:30) - - Vendor Collaboration on Sustainability
• (29:15) - - Best Practices for Smaller Companies
• (32:00) - - Importance of Cross-Functional Support
• (34:20) - - GitLab's Open Source Community Engagement
• (37:00) - - Conclusion and Final Thoughts
• (38:40) - - Closing Word: Intentionality in Actions

In this episode, host Reetu Gupta welcomes Zach Plopper, Senior Environmental Director at the Surfrider Foundation, who shares his inspiring journey of merging a passion for surfing with environmental activism. Growing up near the ocean in Solana Beach, California, Zach has dedicated his life to protecting the coastlines and ocean ecosystems that he cherishes. His experiences, from competitive surfing to his extensive work with various conservation organizations, highlight the profound connection between personal passion and professional purpose.

Zach elaborates on the mission of the Surfrider Foundation, which aims to protect the world’s oceans, waves, and beaches through grassroots activism. He discusses the organization's initiatives focused on reducing plastic pollution, combating climate change, and ensuring clean water for beachgoers. Through local chapters and community engagement, Surfrider empowers individuals to advocate for their coastal environments, showcasing how local stewardship can lead to systemic changes. This episode is a call to action for all ocean lovers to engage in conservation efforts, emphasizing that every individual can make a difference in protecting our natural resources.

• (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast
• (00:40) - - Guest Introduction: Zach Plopper
• (01:10) - - Zach's Background and Early Life
• (05:00) - - Journey into Environmental Work
• (10:15) - - Overview of Surfrider Foundation
• (12:45) - - Surfrider's Mission and Goals
• (15:30) - - Importance of Local Stewardship
• (20:00) - - Notable Projects in Conservation
• (25:00) - - Effective Conservation Strategies
• (30:15) - - Community Engagement in Conservation
• (35:00) - - Stakeholder Involvement and Challenges
• (40:30) - - Keeping Teams Motivated
• (45:00) - - Hopeful Future for Coastal Conservation
• (50:00) - - Final Thoughts on Engagement
• (52:30) - - Closing Remarks and Goodbye

In this episode of Green Shoots & Big Shifts, host Reetu Gupta sits down with Thomas Twist, a sustainability innovator from Bates College. Thomas shares his unique journey into the field of sustainability, which includes an unexpected detour through a Buddhist monastery. He emphasizes the importance of resilience and mindfulness in tackling the often overwhelming challenges posed by climate change. Through his roles at the Chewonki Foundation and Bates College, Tom has pioneered hands-on, project-based learning experiences that empower students to engage meaningfully in sustainability efforts.

The conversation dives deep into several pivotal projects that Tom has spearheaded, illustrating how experiential learning can bridge the gap between theory and practice in education. Tom discusses the transformative power of involving students in real-world sustainability projects, such as transitioning Bates College to a carbon-neutral campus and implementing large-scale renewable energy solutions. He shares key insights on building trust with students, the importance of quick wins in sustainability initiatives, and how to foster a culture of sustainability on college campuses.

Listeners will walk away with practical strategies for implementing sustainability practices in their own organizations, as well as inspiration from the optimism and initiative of the next generation of leaders.

• (00:03) - - Introduction to Green Shoots & Big Shifts
• (00:28) - - Welcome and Introduction of Guest
• (00:56) - - Thomas Twist's Background in Sustainability
• (01:57) - - Journey to Sustainability Role
• (02:58) - - Insights from Monastery Experience
• (04:47) - - Pivotal Projects in Sustainability
• (05:31) - - Hands-On Learning in Renewable Projects
• (08:00) - - Transitioning Projects from Foundation to Bates
• (09:43) - - Learning from Project Failures
• (10:26) - - Large Scale Solar Project at Bates
• (12:14) - - Establishing Trust with Students
• (13:40) - - Eco Reps Program at Bates College
• (15:29) - - Collaboration Among Colleges in Sustainability
• (15:44) - - Unique Challenges on College Campuses
• (17:29) - - Incentives for Student Engagement
• (18:39) - - Strategies for Decarbonization and Sustainability
• (20:48) - - Motivation and Inspiration in Sustainability Work
• (22:35) - - Final Thoughts on Trust in Sustainability
• (24:03) - - Closing Remarks and Thanks