EP 67: David Atlas, Founder of Marquet Fair Trade

One of the reasons I spend so much time talking about fair trade goods and ethical fashion is not just because I think they're nice products or pretty things or they're unique - sure - those things are all well and good… but the fact of the matter is… I care about the people and the stories behind the products I buy. Fair trade is not about charity. It's not about a hand out. It's not about having pity on someone. Fair trade is about empowerment, giving someone opportunity and a sustainable income and way of living. It's about treating people like HUMANS. It's understanding that fathers and mothers around the world want the same things for their kids that we do… they want to provide for their families. They want to support themselves. Men and women in developing nations don't want your charity. They want you to buy their stuff.  My guest this week is David Atlas the founder of Marquet Fair Trade - a fair trade brand working with artisan partners in Asia… I have shared this brand on my blog and social media before and I have absolutely fallen in love with their beautiful jewelry and accessories. But most of all, I've fallen in love with their mission! You are going to LOVE this conversation and hearing David's crazy story as to how Marquet got started! About David:  David Atlas graduated cum laude from the Rutgers University School of Engineering in 2004 before embarking on a backpacking, trekking and motorbike trip through Australia, New Zealand, and South East Asia.  It was here on this trip David first experienced the incredibly welcoming culture of rural South East Asia life and the breathtaking natural beauty of the region.  After a few years working as an engineer and math tutor in NY, David was determined to return to Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia to start a sustainable business that would also empower artisans in rural areas with access to the global market.  For David, the best part of running Marquet, is when he gets to spend time on the ground in Asia, working on product development with artisans, and he gets to hear their laughter and see their smiles.  Happiness is contagious! Connect with Marquet Fair Trade: https://marquetfairtrade.com/ https://twitter.com/Marquet_Fair https://www.facebook.com/marquetfairtrade/ https://www.instagram.com/marquetfairtrade/ TODAY'S BUSINESS WITH PURPOSE PODCAST EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY: CAUSEBOX - use code "MOLLY" for $15 off your first box! Join my Purchase with Purpose Facebook group and let's continue the conversation! https://www.facebook.com/groups/purchasewithpurpose/ Subscribe to the Business with Purpose podcast (and I'd love it if you left a review** on iTunes!) Subscribe on iTunes** Subscribe on Google Play Subscribe on Radio Public Subscribe via Podcast RSS Feed **Want to know how to leave a review of the Business with Purpose Podcast on iTunes from your iPhone or iPad? Launch Apple's Podcast app. Tap the Search tab. Enter "Business with Purpose" Tap the blue Search key at the bottom right. Tap the Blue album art for the podcast. Tap the Reviews tab. Tap Write a Review at the bottom. Enter your iTunes password to login. Tap the Stars to leave a rating. Enter title text and content to leave a review. Tap Send.