From Farm to Furniture: Megan Draper’s Journey to Sustainability

Ever wondered how a farm girl from New Hampshire ends up leading a sustainability revolution in sunny California? Or how surplus furniture can change lives across the globe? In this episode of Carlsbad: People, Purpose, and Impact, I sit down with Megan Draper, President and CEO of Furniture Reuse Solutions (FRS), to uncover her incredible journey and the impactful mission of her company.Megan shares her fascinating transition from managing logistics in New England to spearheading environmental consulting in San Diego. We dive into her early inspirations from her father's trucking company, her pivotal role at the Recycling Network, and the bold decision to start FRS amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.Discover how FRS bridges the gap between excess furniture and charitable needs, ensuring that every chair, desk, and table finds a new home rather than a landfill. Megan’s life-changing trip to Nicaragua and her commitment to sustainability will tug at your heartstrings and inspire you to think differently about the furniture around you.We also explore the logistics, economic factors, and vetting processes involved in decommissioning furniture, and how FRS operates both nationally and internationally. Plus, get a glimpse into Megan’s active lifestyle in Southern California, including her love for travel, motorcycles, and camping.Tune in to hear how Megan and FRS are making a tangible difference, one piece of furniture at a time. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation!Megan Draper's Bio:My name is Megan Draper, and I am President and Chief Operating Officer for Furniture Reuse Solutions, Incorporated, headquartered in Carlsbad, California. My specialty is logistics management, and our consulting firm specializes in designing custom operations for our client's furniture decommission projects. My passions stem from wanting to make a difference in the lives of others.I am originally from New England but moved to California in 2016 and now relocating to San Diego in 2019.My interests include traveling, motorcycle riding, dressage, fly fishing, camping, writing, and hiking. I am up for being spontaneous and trying new things, especially when they present an opportunity to step outside my comfort zone and learn. I advocate for all animals, big and small, and the joy they bring, even ensuring our office space is dog-friendly for our staff.Megan's achievements have significantly contributed to our company's reputation. I am a winner of the 2024 Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce 40 Under 40 award, Female Furniture Sustainability CEO of the Year 2023, 2024 Enterprising Women of the Year, Acquisitions International Most Influential Furniture Circular Economy Businesswoman 2023, and our corporation was just awarded Furniture Circular Economy Organization of the Year 2023/24.Contact Information:- Furniture Reuse Solutions Website: http://www.furniture-rs.com- Facebook Page- LinkedIn Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted youCarlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTubeSponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting