From Struggle to Social Impact: Kelly Cobb’s Journey from Entrepreneurship to VP of Impact

In this episode, Kelly Cobb shares her deeply personal story of overcoming challenges in entrepreneurship and how it shaped her approach to purpose-driven business at Bombas. Her journey illustrates how organizations can lead with compassion, purpose, and profitability — proving social good can be essential to success.Main Topics:Kelly Cobb’s personal experience with eviction warning, depression, and debtChallenging myths about homelessness and povertyHow Bombas integrates social impact into its core businessBuilding trust and ongoing relationships with community partnersCorporate responsibility and authentic leadership in social goodThe importance of mindset shifts in creating sustainable changeThe impact of small moments on resilience and self-worthStrategies for organizations to embed social responsibility into their cultureThe significance of reframing challenges as opportunities for growthTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Kelly Cobb and her impactful story02:27 - The moment Kelly received her eviction notice and what led up to it04:11 - The creative process of starting her flower business as an act of liberation06:18 - The launch of her flower venture: vision, learning, and challenges08:01 - The importance — and pitfalls — of valuing time and self-care in entrepreneurship10:03 - Health crises, depression, and the toll of working in excess12:15 - The emotional weight of facing eviction and economic hardship15:00 - Reaching out for help: family support and debt relief journeys17:32 - Challenging societal misconceptions about homelessness20:00 - The societal impact of stigma, shame, and systemic gaps23:09 - Financial literacy gaps and how they influence resilience28:22 - Kelly’s transition from entrepreneur to impact leader at Bombas30:23 - The power of dignity and community in addressing homelessness36:22 - Living aligned with mission and integrating social good at Bombas37:01 - Leadership and organizational commitment to social responsibility40:03 - The importance of strong corporate impact and community trust44:01 - Reframing societal issues: myths, realities, and meaningful action45:26 - The role of continuous relationships and curiosity in social impact strategies47:55 - Evolving community engagement: beyond transactional interactions48:42 - Encouraging organizational reflection on social missions and responsibilities49:04 - Kelly’s closing thoughts on community, support, and collective actionConnect with Dr. Payal Beri & Reframing Perspectives:Instagram – Dr. Payal: https://www.instagram.com/dr.payalberiSubscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@payalberi?sub_confirmation=1LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/payalberiSpeaking & Media: https://www.drpayalberi.com