Upcycling Beauty: Turning Waste Into Skincare That Works

Waste not want not. The things we throw away can hold extraordinary potential.In this latest episode of The Greaterverse, Anne-Marie Kruk is joined by Anna Brightman, co-founder of UpCircle Beauty, to explore how discarded coffee grounds became the foundation of a global skincare brand now stocked in over 55 countries.What began with one simple question in a local café “what happens to all the used coffee grounds?”,  evolved into a pioneering beauty company built on upcycling, circular economy principles and radical positivity. Alongside her brother and co-founder Will, Anna has transformed by-products from primarily the food and drinks industry, into high-performing, award-winning products.But this conversation goes far beyond sustainable ingredients. It’s about challenging an industry that often profits from insecurity, creating products that feel inclusive and empowering, and placing responsibility with brands, not consumers, when it comes to ethical and environmental impact.From Forbes recognition to breakthrough product launches and the realities of scaling without compromising values, Anna shares a refreshingly honest look at what it takes to build a mission-led brand that’s both genuinely effective and genuinely good for the world.You may never look at your morning coffee the same way again.New episodes every TuesdayIn this episode, you’ll learn:How one café conversation sparked the idea behind UpCircle BeautyHow UpCircle’s product development works, and what it takes to turn “waste ingredients” into skincare and haircare with real benefitsHow positivity became a deliberate part of their positioningWhat it’s like building a family-run business with your siblingEpisode resources:UpCircle Beauty - https://upcirclebeauty.com/, Instagram: @upcirclebeautyFollow, share and listen to more episodes here:https://linktr.ee/thegreaterverse