Green Shoots & Big Shifts

Nisha Anand, CEO of Dream.org, ran the playbook to help pass a legislation, which has seen 60,000 people return from prison. She grew up as the daughter of Indian immigrant parents in Atlanta, learned to be the bridge early, and now builds tables wide enough to make change that lasts. Nisha explains: Growing up a self-described misfit in Atlanta and turning bridge building into a career Why durable policy comes from including the most excluded voices, not checking a box How the First Step Act brought 60,000 people home from prison Green for All's origin: Van Jones training Oakland youth to install solar panels Solving poverty and pollution at the same time instead of one at a time The Green Reentry cohort, training people coming home from prison for green jobs Working with unlikely allies, from libertarians to military bases facing rising water Common values under criminal justice reform: second chances, dignity, shrinking a bloated system Making nuance cool again and practicing self-curiosity while doom scrolling Connecting siloed solutions from conferences into full city-wide plans What gives her hope: her kids, the next generation, and science that is bigger than us 00:00 Welcome to Green Shoots and Big Shifts 00:44 Introducing Nisha Anand, CEO of dream.org 01:21 From Atlanta misfit to activist and bridge builder 02:52 Justice at scale: legislation and the First Step Act 03:51 Building a big table and why it makes policy durable 04:41 Beyond tokenism: inviting the blind spots you cannot see 06:16 Green for All's origins with Van Jones and Oakland solar 07:47 Green infrastructure, reentry, and green jobs today 10:03 Equity as the door that opens for everyone 11:57 Practices and challenges of building broad coalitions 15:56 Common values behind unlikely allies 17:36 Making nuance cool again and modeling curiosity 19:00 Self-curiosity: asking why you react the way you do 21:33 What the podcast reveals: hope in science and startups 23:00 Connecting the dots across silos and conferences 25:28 What keeps Nisha going: her kids and the next generation 28:00 One word to leave with: perseverance Learn more about dream.org: Website - https://dreamcorps.us

Forty percent of the food produced in the United States gets thrown out, and the nutrition in a third of that waste is enough to end food insecurity. Robert Lee, founder of Rescuing Leftover Cuisine, left a finance job at JP Morgan to close that gap. He grew up as the second son of Korean American parents who struggled with food access, joined a student club at NYU that carried leftover dining hall food to shelters, and built that idea into an organization now rescuing food across all 50 states. Chapters: 00:00 Welcome and show intro 01:00 Robert's journey and what inspired RLC 02:46 What Rescuing Leftover Cuisine does 03:33 Scaling carefully and sustainable growth 06:03 Where RLC operates today 07:00 The scale of food waste 08:33 A food rescue story that stuck 10:02 How to donate food and how pickup works 10:58 Partners, shelters, and a school program 12:33 Launching the Every Bite app in Boston 13:33 What's next and making food rescue the standard 15:35 Advice for starting small and taking action 17:53 How Robert thinks about impact 19:53 One word to leave listeners with Learn more about Rescuing Leftover Cuisine: - Website - https://rescuingleftovercuisine.org - Download the Evrybite App: https://www.evrybite.com/download-evrybite

In this episode of *Green Shoots & Big Shifts*, host Reetu Gupta welcomes Nelli Garton, the founder of Tablecloth.io, to discuss the transformative power of data in driving sustainability efforts. Nelli shares her inspiring journey from the world of philanthropy and academia to launching a company dedicated to helping organizations effectively measure and understand their impact. With nearly a decade of experience, she highlights the evolution of her mission and the importance of making data-driven decisions in both non-profit and private equity sectors. The conversation delves into the challenges and surprises of pivoting from a philanthropic focus to working with private equity, emphasizing the need for organizations to integrate sustainability into their core values. Nelli also explores the role of Artificial Intelligence in sustainability and the critical importance of building trust within organizations as they navigate these changes. The episode wraps up with a powerful message about the collective responsibility we share in shaping a sustainable future, urging listeners to embrace the possibilities that lie ahead. (00:00) - - Intro to Green Shoots & Big Shifts (01:23) - - Welcome to Nelli Garton (02:45) - - Nelli's Journey in Sustainability (06:12) - - Transition to Private Equity Focus (10:15) - - Data-Driven Decision Making (14:40) - - Working with Clients and Projects (18:30) - - Connecting Data to Sustainability (24:05) - - Long-Term Client Relationships (28:40) - - The Role of AI in Sustainability (32:15) - - Challenges and Opportunities with AI (37:10) - - Exciting Future for Sustainability (41:30) - - Activating Change in Communities (45:00) - - Closing Thoughts on Possibility (46:15) - - Thank You and Farewell sustainability, data, impact investing, ESG, climate change, private equity, decision making, AI, community development, transformation

In this episode of Green Shoots & Big Shifts, host Reetu Gupta sits down with Aaron Fitzgerald, the founder of Mars Materials, Inc. PBC, to discuss innovative approaches to sustainability and climate change. Mars Materials is pioneering a transformative method of producing carbon fiber and water treatment chemicals from waste materials (i.e. carbon dioxide), instead of traditional fossil fuels. This not only creates valuable materials but also serves as an effective means of carbon sequestration, addressing both environmental concerns and market demands.Aaron shares his inspiring journey from working on Capitol Hill to becoming a serial entrepreneur focused on carbon dioxide removal. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of building a startup in the climate tech space, emphasizing the importance of resilience, community, and the need for market-based solutions to combat climate change. The conversation highlights the growing demand for sustainable materials and how Mars Materials is positioned to meet that demand while making a significant impact on the environment.(00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast (01:30) - - Welcoming Aaron Fitzgerald (02:15) - - Overview of Mars Materials (04:45) - - Motivation Behind Mars Materials (07:30) - - Technology Insights: Carbon Fiber Production (10:15) - - The Role of Acrylonitrile in Production (12:00) - - Environmental Concerns with Traditional Processes (14:30) - - Rising Demand for Carbon Fiber (17:00) - - Aaron's Journey as a Founder (20:00) - - Lessons from Previous Startups (24:00) - - Impact of Personal History on Career (27:30) - - Key Pivotal Moments in Entrepreneurship (31:00) - - Exciting Future Projects for Mars Materials (35:15) - - Funding and Support for Mars Materials (38:00) - - Commercialization and Market Validation (41:00) - - Diverse Applications of Products (44:00) - - Collaboration Across Geographies (47:30) - - The Importance of Subsidies in Climate Tech (50:00) - - Final Thoughts: Optimism in the Climate Space (52:30) - - Closing Remarks and Thank You (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast (01:30) - - Welcoming Aaron Fitzgerald (02:15) - - Overview of Mars Materials (04:45) - - Motivation Behind Mars Materials (07:30) - - Technology Insights: Carbon Fiber Production (10:15) - - The Role of Acrylonitrile in Production (12:00) - - Environmental Concerns with Traditional Processes (14:30) - - Rising Demand for Carbon Fiber (17:00) - - Aaron's Journey as a Founder (20:00) - - Lessons from Previous Startups (24:00) - - Impact of Personal History on Career (27:30) - - Key Pivotal Moments in Entrepreneurship (31:00) - - Exciting Future Projects for Mars Materials (35:15) - - Funding and Support for Mars Materials (38:00) - - Commercialization and Market Validation (41:00) - - Diverse Applications of Products (44:00) - - Collaboration Across Geographies (47:30) - - The Importance of Subsidies in Climate Tech (50:00) - - Final Thoughts: Optimism in the Climate Space (52:30) - - Closing Remarks and Thank You sustainability, carbon fiber, innovation, climate change, entrepreneurship, waste-to-product, polyacrylamide, carbon dioxide removal, market demand, resilience

In this episode of *Green Shoots & Big Shifts*, host Reetu Gupta sits down with Jeremy McKane, the CEO of Ocean Currency Network (OCN.ai), a pioneering organization focused on marine conservation and the economic valuation of our oceans. Jeremy shares his inspiring journey from artist to entrepreneur, illustrating how his passion for the ocean evolved into a mission to protect 30% of the world's oceans by 2030. Through innovative approaches to ocean conservation, he emphasizes the need for a collective effort—what he calls a "Justice League"—to safeguard this vital ecosystem.The conversation delves into the alarming statistic that only about 2.7% of the oceans are fully protected, highlighting the disconnect between policy and enforcement. Jeremy discusses the importance of recognizing the ocean's inherent value, not just as a resource, but as a critical component of our planet's health and our survival. With fascinating anecdotes and actionable insights, this episode serves as a call to action for listeners to rethink their relationship with the ocean and embrace a more sustainable future.(00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast (01:30) - - Meet Jeremy McKane (02:45) - - Ocean Conservation Goals Explained (05:10) - - The Value of a Healthy Ocean (08:00) - - Jeremy’s Artistic Journey (10:15) - - Importance of Marine Protected Areas (12:30) - - Understanding "Paper Parks" (15:00) - - The Role of Collaboration in Conservation (17:45) - - The Financial Value of Nature (20:30) - - Nature on the Balance Sheet Concept (23:15) - - The Need for Ecosystem Health (26:00) - - The British Virgin Islands Project (28:45) - - Shifts in Financial Perspectives (32:00) - - Community Collaboration for Ocean Protection (35:15) - - The Vision for Future Initiatives (38:30) - - Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast (01:30) - - Meet Jeremy McKane (02:45) - - Ocean Conservation Goals Explained (05:10) - - The Value of a Healthy Ocean (08:00) - - Jeremy’s Artistic Journey (10:15) - - Importance of Marine Protected Areas (12:30) - - Understanding "Paper Parks" (15:00) - - The Role of Collaboration in Conservation (17:45) - - The Financial Value of Nature (20:30) - - Nature on the Balance Sheet Concept (23:15) - - The Need for Ecosystem Health (26:00) - - The British Virgin Islands Project (28:45) - - Shifts in Financial Perspectives (32:00) - - Community Collaboration for Ocean Protection (35:15) - - The Vision for Future Initiatives (38:30) - - Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks ocean, conservation, sustainability, collaboration, marine protection, Ocean Currency Network, nature valuation, biodiversity, ecosystem, change agents

In this episode of *Green Shoots & Big Shifts*, host Reetu Gupta welcomes Veena Jayadeva, the founder of Kareena's Closet, to discuss her inspiring journey from international development to pioneering a sustainable fashion platform. Veena's deep-rooted commitment to sustainability and women's empowerment shines through as she shares her experiences working with microfinance initiatives aimed at uplifting women across the globe. Her passion for social impact led her to create Kareena's Closet, which offers a peer-to-peer platform for renting and reselling South Asian formal wear, thus addressing the pressing issue of overconsumption in the fashion industry, particularly within the South Asian community.Veena elaborates on the cultural pressures surrounding traditional celebrations, where the expectation to wear something new for every occasion has contributed to wasteful consumption. By fostering a community-centered approach, Kareena's Closet not only provides affordable fashion alternatives but also supports local designers and small businesses, creating an ecosystem of sustainability. Throughout their conversation, Reetu and Veena emphasize the importance of redefining fashion choices as an opportunity for joy, creativity, and community connection, rather than mere consumerism.Learn more about Kareena's Closet here : https://www.kareenascloset.com/(00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast (01:15) - - Meet Veena Jayadeva (02:30) - - Veena's Journey in Sustainability (05:45) - - Transition to Entrepreneurship (08:00) - - Introduction to Kareena's Closet (10:00) - - Addressing Overconsumption in Fashion (12:30) - - The Role of Microfinance in Empowering Women (14:45) - - Ecosystem of Women Entrepreneurs (18:00) - - The Importance of Cultural Change (20:15) - - Stories of Joy and Transformation (23:30) - - The Art of Draping Saris (26:15) - - Expanding the Concept of Sustainability (29:00) - - Community Engagement and Education (32:30) - - Future Vision for Kareena's Closet (35:00) - - The Importance of Natural Fabrics (37:00) - - Addressing Textile Waste and Landfills (40:00) - - Final Thoughts on Authenticity and Joy (42:15) - - Closing Remarks and Takeaways (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast (01:15) - - Meet Veena Jayadeva (02:30) - - Veena's Journey in Sustainability (05:45) - - Transition to Entrepreneurship (08:00) - - Introduction to Kareena's Closet (10:00) - - Addressing Overconsumption in Fashion (12:30) - - The Role of Microfinance in Empowering Women (14:45) - - Ecosystem of Women Entrepreneurs (18:00) - - The Importance of Cultural Change (20:15) - - Stories of Joy and Transformation (23:30) - - The Art of Draping Saris (26:15) - - Expanding the Concept of Sustainability (29:00) - - Community Engagement and Education (32:30) - - Future Vision for Kareena's Closet (35:00) - - The Importance of Natural Fabrics (37:00) - - Addressing Textile Waste and Landfills (40:00) - - Final Thoughts on Authenticity and Joy (42:15) - - Closing Remarks and Takeaways sustainability, microfinance, entrepreneurship, community, fashion, South Asian, rental, resale, ecosystem, social impact

In this enlightening episode of *Green Shoots & Big Shifts*, host Reetu Gupta sits down with Sara Fuentes, the dynamic founder of Smart Waste, Inc. and chairwoman of Women in CleanTech and Sustainability. Sara shares her inspiring journey from an early childhood educator to a leader in sustainability, revealing how a serendipitous introduction to the waste management industry ignited her passion for environmental stewardship. Sara recounts her pivotal moments, including the impact of COVID-19 on her career trajectory, which ultimately propelled her to launch Smart Waste (https://www.smartwasteusa.com/) , a company dedicated to zero waste facilitation. With a focus on transforming waste into resources, Sara discusses the importance of shifting mindsets around waste management and how her organization helps businesses achieve sustainability goals while saving money. Tune in to discover how Sara’s work not only impacts the environment but also empowers communities and fosters gender parity in the clean tech sector. (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast (00:31) - - Welcome and Guest Introduction (01:45) - - Sara's Journey to Sustainability (04:20) - - Pivotal Moments in Starting Smart Waste (08:15) - - Importance of Women in Clean Tech (11:00) - - Overview of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability (14:05) - - Smart Waste's Zero Waste Strategy (18:30) - - Waste as Resource Management (22:00) - - Client Examples and Success Stories (26:00) - - Understanding R2V3 Certification (29:15) - - The Business of Waste Recovery (32:40) - - Challenges in the Waste Industry (35:15) - - Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs (40:00) - - The Importance of Partnerships (43:00) - - Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways (45:00) - - Closing Remarks and Contact Information (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast (00:31) - - Welcome and Guest Introduction (01:45) - - Sara's Journey to Sustainability (04:20) - - Pivotal Moments in Starting Smart Waste (08:15) - - Importance of Women in Clean Tech (11:00) - - Overview of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability (14:05) - - Smart Waste's Zero Waste Strategy (18:30) - - Waste as Resource Management (22:00) - - Client Examples and Success Stories (26:00) - - Understanding R2V3 Certification (29:15) - - The Business of Waste Recovery (32:40) - - Challenges in the Waste Industry (35:15) - - Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs (40:00) - - The Importance of Partnerships (43:00) - - Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways (45:00) - - Closing Remarks and Contact Information sustainability, Smart Waste, zero waste, recycling, innovation, women in cleantech, entrepreneurship, circular economy, environmental impact, leadership

In this enlightening episode of *Green Shoots & Big Shifts*, host Reetu Gupta welcomes Todd Thomas, the CEO and founder of Woodchuck.ai, an innovative company tackling the dual challenges of waste management and energy generation. Todd shares the fascinating journey that led him to establish Woodchuck, driven by the need to divert wood waste from landfills and transform it into a sustainable energy source. With a staggering 42 million tons of wood waste generated from construction sites in the U.S. each year, Todd's mission is not only to reduce waste but also to meet the growing demand for renewable energy in a rapidly changing world.Throughout the conversation, Todd provides insights into his approach to sustainability, particularly in the context of data centers and electric vehicle (EV) battery factories. He highlights the importance of engaging local communities in dialogues about energy consumption and resource management, advocating for a collaborative approach to ensure that new developments yield benefits for everyone involved. The episode also touches on Todd's ventures in storytelling through books and a TV show, which have helped raise awareness about biomass and renewable energy solutions.(00:00) - - Introduction to Green Shoots & Big Shifts (01:30) - - Guest Introduction: Todd Thomas (02:15) - - Todd's Journey to Founding Woodchuck (05:00) - - The Problem of Biomass and Waste (07:30) - - Wood Waste: A Hidden Resource (09:00) - - Working with Construction and Manufacturing (11:15) - - Addressing Community Concerns about Data Centers (14:45) - - Benefits of Well-Planned Data Centers (17:30) - - Successful Project with Ford (20:00) - - Circular Economy in Data Centers (23:30) - - Innovations in Wood Waste Utilization (26:00) - - The Role of Storytelling and Awareness (30:00) - - Upcoming Book: Starving for Innovation (32:45) - - Key Lessons Learned for Founders (35:30) - - Conclusion and Final Thoughts (36:15) - - Resources and Where to Find More (37:00) - - Thank You and Wrap-Up gWHlKrNGmSM4oTHjRQfL

In this episode of Green Shoots & Big Shifts, host Reetu Gupta sits down with Kristi Shaw, the CEO and founder of Mermaid Energy, to discuss her remarkable journey from a rural Maryland upbringing to the forefront of renewable energy development in the Caribbean. Kristi shares her unique perspective as a marine biologist and public health expert, detailing her transition from academia to entrepreneurship. Her experiences with environmental challenges, particularly following hurricanes, inspired her to seek innovative solutions for sustainable energy in vulnerable regions.Kristi introduces listeners to Mermaid Energy's mission to tackle the growing problem of invasive sargassum seaweed in the Caribbean. By intercepting this abundant resource at sea, her company aims to transform it into bio-stimulants, renewable diesel, and other valuable products, while also addressing public health and ecological concerns. This episode is a testament to how individuals can leverage their backgrounds and experiences to create meaningful change in their communities and beyond.(00:00) - - Introduction to Green Shoots & Big Shifts (00:28) - - Welcome Kristi Shaw from Mermaid Energy (01:12) - - Kristi's Journey: From Farm to Science (02:57) - - Transitioning to Renewable Energy Development (04:41) - - Challenges and Opportunities in Energy Projects (10:00) - - Insights from the Chicken Manure Company (16:35) - - Introduction to Mermaid Energy (18:53) - - Addressing the Sargassum Seaweed Crisis (20:09) - - Innovative Solutions for Seaweed Management (24:10) - - Current Status and Future Goals (27:21) - - Importance of Community Collaboration (29:27) - - Bringing Technical Jobs to the Caribbean (30:29) - - One Word: Execute (31:51) - - Closing Thoughts and Farewell

In this enlightening episode of **Green Shoots & Big Shifts**, host Reetu Gupta welcomes Abby Jordan, the Climate Education Program Manager at the National Wildlife Federation (NWF). Abby shares her inspiring journey from a volunteer in community climate initiatives to a leader in climate education, emphasizing the importance of hands-on experience in fostering a deeper understanding of environmental issues among youth. Through her work at NWF, Abby is not only educating students about climate resilience but also empowering them to take meaningful action in their communities.Abby discusses two pivotal programs she manages: the Climate and Resilience Education Task Force Youth Steering Committee, which engages high school students in climate education and civic engagement, and the Resilient Schools and Communities program, which provides a standardized curriculum for educators. Abby highlights the impactful Beach Grass Plantings project in New York City, where students participate in ecological restoration efforts, gaining firsthand experience in climate solutions. This episode not only sheds light on the significance of grassroots climate action but also emphasizes the role of education in nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards.ResourcesExplore the RISC Website for resources on how you and your community can get involved!Follow NWF on Instagram (@riscnyc1Access the standardized version of the RiSC Curriculum for a national audience focused on four climate impacts: coastal flooding, inland flooding, wildfires, and extreme heat, here: https://www.riscnyc.org/curriculum-1New York Amsterdam News highlighted the RISC program in their featured climate solutions front page editorial: “NYC High Schools Work to Protect Brooklyn’s Shoreline.” https://amsterdamnews.com/news/2025/05/22/nyc-high-schoolers-work-to-protect-brooklyns-shoreline/CBS News TV produced a piece about the RiSC beach grass plantings reaching millions of viewers, watch: "Students helping to restore sand dunes in Coney Island.” https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/video/students-helping-to-restore-sand-dunes-in-coney-island/To see NWF students and volunteers in action, watch and share our documentary: Where it Floods: Planting Hope in Coney Island  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KxNMYorttQQState of the Planet: Can Coney Island’s Dunes Protect Against Another Sandy? May 2026,

In this enlightening episode of *Green Shoots & Big Shifts*, host Reetu Gupta welcomes Stacy Cline, the Senior Director of Sustainability at GitLab, to discuss the intersection of sustainability and corporate responsibility within the tech industry. Stacy shares her inspiring journey from the nonprofit sector to her pivotal role in shaping GitLab's sustainability initiatives. With a focus on environmental, social, and governance regulations, Stacy elaborates on how GitLab is not only ensuring compliance but also helping its customers meet their own sustainability goals.Stacy highlights the crucial role of intentionality in integrating sustainability into business practices. She discusses GitLab's Green DevOps Committee, which focuses on sustainable software development and innovative practices that address customer needs for lower emissions. The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities of balancing AI innovation with sustainable practices, emphasizing that sustainability should be woven into the fabric of business objectives rather than treated as a separate initiative. This episode is packed with practical insights for organizations looking to embrace sustainability as a core component of their operations. You can access Gitlab's library here: AI catalog: https://gitlab.com/explore/ai-catalog/agents/.  This link will pull up the 'green' agents and flows.  (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast (01:20) - - Guest Introduction: Stacy Cline (02:10) - - Stacy's Career Journey (05:00) - - Overview of GitLab's Sustainability Goals (07:45) - - Customer Expectations on Sustainability (10:30) - - Connecting Sustainability to Business Goals (13:20) - - Sustainability in a Software Company (16:50) - - GitLab's Green DevOps Committee (19:40) - - Balancing AI Innovation and Sustainability (23:10) - - Responsible Use of AI at GitLab (26:30) - - Vendor Collaboration on Sustainability (29:15) - - Best Practices for Smaller Companies (32:00) - - Importance of Cross-Functional Support (34:20) - - GitLab's Open Source Community Engagement (37:00) - - Conclusion and Final Thoughts (38:40) - - Closing Word: Intentionality in Actions

In this episode, host Reetu Gupta welcomes Zach Plopper, Senior Environmental Director at the Surfrider Foundation, who shares his inspiring journey of merging a passion for surfing with environmental activism. Growing up near the ocean in Solana Beach, California, Zach has dedicated his life to protecting the coastlines and ocean ecosystems that he cherishes. His experiences, from competitive surfing to his extensive work with various conservation organizations, highlight the profound connection between personal passion and professional purpose.Zach elaborates on the mission of the Surfrider Foundation, which aims to protect the world’s oceans, waves, and beaches through grassroots activism. He discusses the organization's initiatives focused on reducing plastic pollution, combating climate change, and ensuring clean water for beachgoers. Through local chapters and community engagement, Surfrider empowers individuals to advocate for their coastal environments, showcasing how local stewardship can lead to systemic changes. This episode is a call to action for all ocean lovers to engage in conservation efforts, emphasizing that every individual can make a difference in protecting our natural resources.(00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast (00:40) - - Guest Introduction: Zach Plopper (01:10) - - Zach's Background and Early Life (05:00) - - Journey into Environmental Work (10:15) - - Overview of Surfrider Foundation (12:45) - - Surfrider's Mission and Goals (15:30) - - Importance of Local Stewardship (20:00) - - Notable Projects in Conservation (25:00) - - Effective Conservation Strategies (30:15) - - Community Engagement in Conservation (35:00) - - Stakeholder Involvement and Challenges (40:30) - - Keeping Teams Motivated (45:00) - - Hopeful Future for Coastal Conservation (50:00) - - Final Thoughts on Engagement (52:30) - - Closing Remarks and Goodbye

In this episode of Green Shoots & Big Shifts, host Reetu Gupta sits down with Thomas Twist, a sustainability innovator from Bates College. Thomas shares his unique journey into the field of sustainability, which includes an unexpected detour through a Buddhist monastery. He emphasizes the importance of resilience and mindfulness in tackling the often overwhelming challenges posed by climate change. Through his roles at the Chewonki Foundation and Bates College, Tom has pioneered hands-on, project-based learning experiences that empower students to engage meaningfully in sustainability efforts.The conversation dives deep into several pivotal projects that Tom has spearheaded, illustrating how experiential learning can bridge the gap between theory and practice in education. Tom discusses the transformative power of involving students in real-world sustainability projects, such as transitioning Bates College to a carbon-neutral campus and implementing large-scale renewable energy solutions. He shares key insights on building trust with students, the importance of quick wins in sustainability initiatives, and how to foster a culture of sustainability on college campuses.Listeners will walk away with practical strategies for implementing sustainability practices in their own organizations, as well as inspiration from the optimism and initiative of the next generation of leaders.(00:03) - - Introduction to Green Shoots & Big Shifts (00:28) - - Welcome and Introduction of Guest (00:56) - - Thomas Twist's Background in Sustainability (01:57) - - Journey to Sustainability Role (02:58) - - Insights from Monastery Experience (04:47) - - Pivotal Projects in Sustainability (05:31) - - Hands-On Learning in Renewable Projects (08:00) - - Transitioning Projects from Foundation to Bates (09:43) - - Learning from Project Failures (10:26) - - Large Scale Solar Project at Bates (12:14) - - Establishing Trust with Students (13:40) - - Eco Reps Program at Bates College (15:29) - - Collaboration Among Colleges in Sustainability (15:44) - - Unique Challenges on College Campuses (17:29) - - Incentives for Student Engagement (18:39) - - Strategies for Decarbonization and Sustainability (20:48) - - Motivation and Inspiration in Sustainability Work (22:35) - - Final Thoughts on Trust in Sustainability (24:03) - - Closing Remarks and Thanks

In this enlightening episode of *Green Shoots & Big Shifts*, host Reetu Gupta welcomes Alka Bhide, the head of climate research at Glass Lewis & Co. Alka shares her extensive background in sustainable finance and climate research, shedding light on the vital intersection of business performance and environmental responsibility. She discusses how companies can effectively integrate sustainability into their operations, moving beyond the pitfalls of greenwashing to achieve genuine progress. Alka emphasizes that sustainability should not be viewed as a separate initiative but rather as an integral component of business strategy. She explains how aligning climate strategies with financial performance can unlock significant value, allowing companies to thrive in a changing regulatory landscape. The conversation explores the importance of transparency, data-driven decision-making, and the role of leadership in driving successful climate initiatives. Listeners will walk away with actionable insights and a renewed sense of optimism about the future of sustainable business practices.(00:03) - - Introduction to Green Shoots & Big Shifts (00:41) - - Welcoming Alka Bhide (01:06) - - Alka's Background and Current Work (02:18) - - Overview of Glass Lewis (03:27) - - Climate Research and Financial Viability (05:28) - - Financial Materiality and Sustainability (07:58) - - The Risks of Greenwashing (08:44) - - Typical Clients of Glass Lewis (10:24) - - Good and Bad Investment Models (14:19) - - Integration of Climate Strategies (16:42) - - The Importance of Executive Buy-In (18:58) - - Regulatory Trends in ESG (22:20) - - Simplifying Reporting Requirements (25:05) - - Importance of Data Collection (27:39) - - Championing Sustainability Strategies (29:46) - - Innovations in Climate Solutions (32:54) - - Positive Externalities of Sustainable Practices (34:59) - - Final Thoughts: The Importance of Integration

In this enlightening episode of *Green Shoots & Big Shifts*, host Reetu Gupta engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Rodney Rowland, the Director of Environmental Sustainability at the Strawbery Banke Museum. With over three decades of experience at the museum, Rodney shares his journey and the museum's evolution in addressing the pressing challenges posed by climate change, particularly sea level rise. Through a combination of historical preservation and innovative sustainability practices, Strawbery Banke is pioneering efforts to adapt to rising water levels while maintaining its rich heritage.Rodney discusses the Sea Level Rise Initiative, a comprehensive project aimed at mitigating the impacts of groundwater and stormwater flooding on the museum's historic buildings. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration, community engagement, and public outreach as critical elements of their strategy. Listeners will gain insight into the lessons learned from the initiative, the significance of partnerships with local universities and organizations, and the hope that emerges from collective action in the face of climate challenges.(00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast (01:30) - - Welcoming Guest Rodney Rowland (02:15) - - Rodney's Journey at Strawbery Banke (04:50) - - Current Role: Director of Environmental Sustainability (07:20) - - Challenges of Climate Resilience (09:00) - - The Sea Level Rise Initiative Explained (12:45) - - Investigating Groundwater Issues (15:30) - - The Impact of Climate Change on Historic Buildings (17:00) - - Examples of Current Projects at Strawbery Banke (21:00) - - Importance of Public Outreach and Education (24:15) - - Key Learnings for Other Institutions (27:30) - - Partnerships with Local Universities (30:00) - - Balancing Community Needs and Resilience Work (34:00) - - Visitor Response to the Sea Level Rise Exhibit (37:15) - - Connections Between History and Climate Resilience (40:00) - - The Role of Hope in Advocacy (43:00) - - Upcoming Projects at Strawbery Banke (47:00) - - Final Thoughts: Awareness as a Key Takeaway (49:00) - - Closing Remarks and Thank You

In this episode of **Green Shoots & Big Shifts**, host Reetu Gupta sits down with Emily Wagner, an equity research analyst specializing in industrials and materials at Calvert Research and Management. Together, they delve into the complexities of the circular economy and its implications for sustainable investing. Emily shares insights from Calvert's recent report on the circular economy, which explores the risks and opportunities inherent in shifting from a linear to a circular model of production and consumption.Emily articulates how the circular economy goes beyond recycling, emphasizing the significance of design and raw materials in minimizing waste and maximizing resource reuse. The conversation also touches on real-world examples of companies implementing circular practices, such as waste management firms investing in recycling technologies. By drawing connections between financial materiality and sustainability, Emily highlights how corporations can manage risks while simultaneously improving their bottom lines through circularity. This thought-provoking discussion is essential for anyone interested in understanding the intersection of investment strategies and sustainable practices.(00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast (00:49) - - Guest Introduction: Emily Wagner (01:41) - - Overview of Calvert Research and Management (03:12) - - Understanding Circular Economy (05:23) - - Key Takeaways from Circular Economy Report (07:45) - - Sustainable Materials and Demand Management (10:30) - - Real-World Examples of Circular Economy (12:55) - - Waste Management and Recycling Innovations (15:20) - - Extended Producer Responsibility Explained (18:00) - - Impact of Packaging Regulations (20:30) - - Right to Repair Concept (23:10) - - Balancing Financial Materiality and Sustainability (25:35) - - Defining Financial Materiality (28:20) - - Circular Economy's Role in Climate Investing (30:45) - - Closing Thoughts and Key Takeaway (31:30) - - Thank You and Episode Wrap-Up

In this episode of Green Shoots & Big Shifts, host Reetu Gupta speaks with Caroline Missen, the Chief Growth and Sustainability Officer at Cultivo. Caroline shares her journey from growing up on a farm in Australia to becoming a leader in sustainable land regeneration. Cultivo focuses on unlocking capital for nature-based solutions by building partnerships with landowners, investors, and corporations to meet their sustainability goals. Caroline highlights the importance of balancing various outcomes such as biodiversity, water retention, and social impact while implementing data-driven solutions to enhance land management practices. The conversation dives deep into the practicalities of land regeneration, especially in grasslands, which often receive less attention than forest ecosystems. Caroline elaborates on innovative techniques like virtual fencing and sustainable grazing practices that support both ecological health and the livelihoods of local farmers. The episode also touches on the financial sustainability of nature-based interventions, the importance of purpose-driven work within organizations, and the inspiring role of youth and not-for-profit organizations in driving change. Caroline's relentless optimism serves as a beacon of hope amidst the challenges of sustainability, reminding listeners of the collective responsibility we all share in preserving our planet.(00:00) - - Introduction to Green Shoots & Big Shifts (01:05) - - Guest Introduction: Caroline Missen (02:15) - - Overview of Cultivo's Mission (04:00) - - Balancing Biodiversity and Sustainability Goals (06:10) - - The Importance of Ground Truth Data (07:50) - - Understanding Land Regeneration Projects (09:30) - - Focus on Grasslands and Rangelands (11:00) - - Sustainable Grazing Practices (13:15) - - Financial Viability of Nature-Based Solutions (15:50) - - Cultivo's Projects in North America and Beyond (18:30) - - Learning from Global Projects (20:00) - - The Role of Technology in Land Management (22:10) - - Common Themes Across Different Work Environments (25:00) - - The Importance of Legal Structure in Purpose-Driven Work (27:45) - - The Role of People in Organizations (30:00) - - Speed and Adaptability in Startups (32:20) - - Sustainability Teams in Corporations (34:50) - - The Need for Sustainable Products (37:15) - - Optimism in Sustainability Efforts (39:00) - - Inspirational Figures in Climate Action (41:30) - - The Importance of Volunteering (43:00) - - Final Thoughts and Words of Wisdom (44:30) - - Closing Remarks and Thank You

Green Shoots & Big Shifts is hosted by Reetu Gupta, who started the show to have open, hopeful conversations about what it really takes to make sustainability part of how we live, lead, and work.