This CEO Turns Plastic into Profit: Streetside Confession...

What this episode covers

We welcome James Merrill, the visionary founder of StokedPlastics and the inventor of the award-winning StokedPlastic® blend. He is also the driving force behind Opolis, a mission-driven eyewear brand that builds premium frames using upcycled water bottles pulled directly from the ocean. Recorded live while walking on the street, this candid conversation pulls back the curtain on the "sweat and tears" reality of building a sustainable business from the ground up. Together, Seb and James explore the intersection of innovation and entrepreneurship, highlighting the challenges of raising capital, navigating long sales cycles with major retailers like Burton and REI, and the vital importance of mental resilience for conscious leaders.Topics Discussed:The Reality of Startup LifeFundraising and CriticismThe Opolis MissionScaling SustainabilityMental Health and Letting GoAvoiding BurnoutThe Microplastics CrisisFighting GreenwashingPurpose vs. ProfitInnovating for the MainstreamQuantifiable ImpactConnect with James on InstagramConnect with Opolis on InstagramConnect with Stoked Plastic on InstagramConnect with Sebastian on InstagramSebastianNaum.com

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Aware with Seb?

This episode is 21 minutes long.

When was this Aware with Seb episode published?

This episode was published on February 25, 2026.

What is this episode about?

We welcome James Merrill, the visionary founder of StokedPlastics and the inventor of the award-winning StokedPlastic® blend. He is also the driving force behind Opolis, a mission-driven eyewear brand that builds premium frames using upcycled water...

Can I download this Aware with Seb episode?

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