Capitalism for Good - Between the Interviews

If you thought that perhaps I might not bring up women in leadership roles again throughout this project, unfortunately, you were sorely incorrect. As a woman myself, it’s something that I can’t unsee. I’ve been working on write ups, reflections, and social media posts for the interview with Veronica Hernandez, GM of the Modesto Nuts, a men’s minor league baseball team, and I can’t stop thinking about how less than 8% of the General Managers in minor league baseball are women. I found her name in a list of 14 women in leadership in minor league baseball in an article that was championing and celebrating these women. Don’t get me wrong, these women deserve to be recognized and celebrated. I’m so happy to here that there are a handful of them out there, but 8% is not enough. Even for a men’s baseball team. Sports operations are so much more than just the players, so I look forward to this evolving into greater representation of women in leadership in the future. I’m curious, what are your thoughts about why there is still such a comparatively low number of women in business leadership positions? And how can we change that? What have I been watching: Good Hang with Amy Poehler - I linked the YouTube channel for this podcast because I particularly love the video version of this one. There are so many more visual comedic elements to the show that come through the video version (and I admittedly have not listened to it any other way). If you’re looking for something that’s truly heartwarming and funny, I highly recommend it. I’m not trying to tell you what to do, but here’s where I’m putting my dollar: Peace of the Earth Refillery in Louisville, KY as well as all refillery and zero-waste stores (shout out to Emma Grose for this recommendation in her interview episode!). Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodAll the ways to find, follow, & support the Capitalism for Good universe: Apple Podcasts (Bittersweet Paradox) | Apple Podcasts (Capitalism for Good) | Apple Podcasts (Capitalism for Green) | Bittersweet Paradox Patreon | Bittersweet Paradox Writing Club | Bluesky (Bittersweet Paradox) | Bluesky (Capitalism for Good) | Capitalism for Good’s Between the Interviews Podcast | Capitalism for Good Patreon | Capitalism for Green Patreon | Capitalism for Green: The Blog | Company Mentions | Email Bittersweet Paradox | Email Capitalism for Good | Email Capitalism for Green | Facebook | Instagram (Andrea & her 2026 Goal = No New Things, Only New Experiences) | Instagram (Bittersweet Paradox) | Instagram (Capitalism for Good) | Instagram (Capitalism for Green) | Spotify (Bittersweet Paradox) | Spotify (Capitalism for Good) | Spotify (Capitalism for Green) | The Store, by CFG | TikTok (Capitalism for Good) | YouTube (Capitalism for Good)Apple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Veronica Hernandez (GM of the Modesto Nuts) said it best when she was talking about “non-needy” conversations. Even her decision to say yes to me interviewing her could be considered her agreeing to a “non-needy” conversation that was based around simply being curious, learning, and listening.  So often, we get sucked into this traditional structure relying on large companies occupying large sections of the advertising market that we may have come to expect all conversations involving companies being sales opportunities. And while, yes, I can honestly admit that these interviews are a platform for promotion, however, the core goal is more of spreading the mentality of these leaders in a way in which we can learn from them. Then, secondarily, if folks choose to give the respective company their business, Emma Grose (CEO & Co-founder of MABLE & HAY! Straws), talks about her management philosophy being focused on pointing out the wins and the things that are going well whenever possible. Leading from a place of encouragement instead of with an iron fist and fear that seems to only notice the things that could be better. Infinity Song’s Hater’s Anthem is a great song and an even better example of a satirical look at the Mean Girls culture that permeates our world. It’s also an example of the opposite of what I’d like to promote. If anything, I’m a hater of haters. What have I been watching: The Kentucky Derby - I currently live in Louisville, KY, so the Derby celebrations are difficult to avoid. Non-locals may be surprised to learn that the city turns this one race on one day into an almost month and a half long festival celebration all over the city. There’s an air show. There’s a fireworks show. There’s a gala. There are fashion shows. There are I’m not trying to tell you what to do, but here’s where I’m putting my dollar: The local tourist economy. Just like a stay-cation is a great way to escape without actually fully escaping, jumping into the fun of your local community event that draws tourists can also be fun for locals and a great way to give your money right back to your local industry workers. Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodApple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

So. Many. Themes. Already. It’s all about the people that surround you. Cheering them on. Learning from them. Trusting them to use their strengths to be successful.Continue to go back to your values, the mission, and what you want your legacy to be. Shannon talked about this when she said, “Find your lane. Get in it and feel good about it.” And Andrew Bolton talked about it when he said, “ If you are doing good work and you are doing good for somebody else, the money will follow.”There will always be highs and lows, but you just have to keep things moving. (Easter Egg: Emma Grose from MABLE & Hay! Straws has a similar outlook). When the store and office were shut down during COVID, they found a way to keep all of the employees on the payroll for 2 whole years. It’s clear that he prioritizes the people working for Charlie Hustle and made a conscious decision to find a way to keep them on board and working toward the common goal. Embrace the pivot (just like the Friends Episode)! Sometimes we start down a pathway and then decide to make a left turn. Pivots are ok and they’re even better when you take the skills and lessons learned from the path you’ve taken so far to the new pathway that you’re walking down. What have I been reading (and what have I been writing): The Book of Alchemy by Suleika Jaouad is a book of essays and writing prompts that combine a wide range of thought-provoking and unexpected writings by people of all kinds with each ending in a writing prompt giving the reader a chance to be involved in the creative process right alongside each of the authors. This book has been a great way for me to get out of my own head for a bit and look at life through a different lens. 10/10 highly recommend. I’m not trying to tell you what to do, but here’s where I’m putting my dollar: The Book of Alchemy by Suleika Jaouad (and really any book or piece of art she’s made)Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodAll the ways to find, follow, & support the Capitalism for Good universe: Apple Podcasts (Bittersweet Paradox) | Apple Podcasts (Capitalism for Good) | Apple Podcasts (Capitalism for Green) | Bittersweet Paradox Patreon | Bittersweet Paradox Writing Club | Bluesky (Bittersweet Paradox) | Bluesky (Capitalism for Good) | Capitalism for Good’s Between the Interviews Podcast | Capitalism for Good Patreon | Capitalism for Green Patreon | Capitalism for Green: The Blog | Company Mentions | Email Bittersweet Paradox | Email Capitalism for Good | Email Capitalism for Green | Facebook | Instagram (Andrea & her 2026 Goal = No New Things, Only New Experiences) | Instagram (Bittersweet Paradox) | Instagram (Capitalism for Good) | Instagram (Capitalism for Green) | Spotify (Bittersweet Paradox) | Spotify (Capitalism for Good) | Spotify (Capitalism for Green) | The Store, by CFG | TikTok (Capitalism for Good) | YouTube (Capitalism for Good)Apple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mistakes. We all make them. They almost always suck. We try not to, but they happen. The key is how we handle them. It’s tough to admit when we’ve made a mistake, but the impact on our reputation is difficult to outrun. The way we address mistakes tells our internal and external circles both about who we are as people and also what we expect from them. As a millennial woman from middle America, I struggle sometimes walking the line between being a self-reporter wanting to show that I’m taking accountability for my own missteps and unintentionally amplifying mistakes by shrinking behind them. In personal and professional life, I’ve found myself, often without even realizing it, inserting “my apologies” out of attempted curtesy and engrained “politeness” when an apology isn’t really warranted. I’ve been actively practicing catching myself before I say or type those things to consider if I’m truly sorry for actually making a mistake to be corrected or if I’m finding myself attempting to play the part of a polite and palatable woman. Can anyone else relate? What I’m reading: Shoe Dog by Phil Knight tells the story about the idea conception and start of Nike. If you’re into stories about how companies got their start, the motivation behind the inception, and hurdles faced along the way, I highly recommend this book. I’m not trying to tell you what to do, but here’s where I’m putting my dollar: Shopping local is a great way to support your community. Today, I specifically shout out both Quills Coffee and Chik’n & Mi in Louisville, KY for being great local businesses that I’ve recently been to. Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodAll the ways to find, follow, & support the Capitalism for Good universe: Apple Podcasts (Bittersweet Paradox) | Apple Podcasts (Capitalism for Good) | Apple Podcasts (Capitalism for Green) | Bittersweet Paradox Patreon | Bittersweet Paradox Writing Club | Bluesky (Bittersweet Paradox) | Bluesky (Capitalism for Good) | Capitalism for Good’s Between the Interviews Podcast | Capitalism for Good Patreon | Capitalism for Green Patreon | Capitalism for Green: The Blog | Company Mentions | Email Bittersweet Paradox | Email Capitalism for Good | Email Capitalism for Green | Facebook | Instagram (Andrea & her 2026 Goal = No New Things, Only New Experiences) | Instagram (Bittersweet Paradox) | Instagram (Capitalism for Good) | Instagram (Capitalism for Green) | Spotify (Bittersweet Paradox) | Spotify (Capitalism for Good) | Spotify (Capitalism for Green) | The Store, by CFG | TikTok (Capitalism for Good) | YouTube (Capitalism for Good)Apple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s my caveat to my thoughts & reflections for this week: remember, I’m new to this game. I’ve been thinking a lot about the way in which our society has set up channels to fund creative endeavors. The more I think about it, the weirder it seems to me that we have this large powerful revenue stream of creatives being paid by potentially unrelated advertisers gaining their revenue from customers. For anyone that’s been in the creative field for a while, this is likely speaking the obvious out loud here: why aren’t we, as consumers of creative projects, paying creators directly? Why is an unrelated 3rd party needed, and often, the flashy revenue stream? For any creators that have successfully built through direct from consumer sales without 3rd party advertisers, hit me up! I’d love to talk to you about your experience in doing that, lessons learned, unexpected hurdles, and advice to others. The dream would be to put all of our effort together to change the tide so that it’s easier and more accessible for creatives to be paid directly for their work whether we’re talking about a writer, actor, makeup artist, social media creative, painter, etc. What’s been your experience? And what are your thoughts about all of this? What I’m listening to: Speaking of creatives, I have refueled my love for NPR’s Tiny Desk Concerts, especially those that are new to me. I love discovering new musicians that I otherwise wouldn’t have heard of and being able to hear their personalities show through. I also recommend Sofar Sounds for a similar reason. They’re small pop up concerts in many different cities and have also been a great venue for discovering new (to me) artists. Check them out if they have shows near you!I’m not trying to tell you what to do, but here’s where I’m putting my dollar: Last week, I went to watch a live podcast with my sister and would highly recommend checking out these folks, especially the musicians! No Small Endeavor with guest Malcom Gladwell + musicians: Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors, Alicia Enstrom, Ruby AmanfuPurchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodAll the ways to find, follow, & support the Capitalism for Good universe: Apple Podcasts (Bittersweet Paradox) | Apple Podcasts (Capitalism for Good) | Apple Podcasts (Capitalism for Green) | Bittersweet Paradox Patreon | Bittersweet Paradox Writing Club | Bluesky (Bittersweet Paradox) | Bluesky (Capitalism for Good) | Capitalism for Good’s Between the Interviews Podcast | Capitalism for Good Patreon | Capitalism for Green Patreon | Capitalism for Green: The Blog | Company Mentions | Email Bittersweet Paradox | Email Capitalism for Good | Email Capitalism for Green | Facebook | Instagram (Andrea & her 2026 Goal = No New Things, Only New Experiences) | Instagram (Bittersweet Paradox) | Instagram (Capitalism for Good) | Instagram (Capitalism for Green) | Spotify (Bittersweet Paradox) | Spotify (Capitalism for Good) | Spotify (Capitalism for Green) | The Store, by CFG | TikTok (Capitalism for Good) | YouTube (Capitalism for Good)Apple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We all make decisions differently. I can be incredibly analytical and thrive when I’m in a position to look at the entire road map, assess the options by gathering as much information as is reasonable, identifying the destination as well as the potential risks & associated resources, and then handing over that plan for a champion executor. At the same time, part of that information assessment phase is that I listen to my gut & intuition. While so much of my information gathering is fact-based, that repeatedly tested attention to my physician gut reaction has proven to be a valuable source of information. That’s what works for me and is what makes me feel good about the lane I’m in (call back to the interview with Shannon Masterson where she advises to “Find your lane. Get in it and feel good about it.”While that’s what works for me in my personal and professional life, that’s not the way everyone operates best. The key is to understand and value the processes that others around us make to make decisions. By trusting that there’s value in the way others work best and allowing each of them to thrive in their own way and in their own lane, we’re recognizing and adding to the confidence behind their decisions. There’s value in everyone playing their own role aligned to their strengths. How do we continue to capitalize on everyone’s individual strengths in building better community to benefit the greater good (even just by 1% more). How do you go about making decisions? What have I been listening to: Not Gonna Lie podcast with Kylie Kelce - talk about a woman who values the choices and decisions of others. I imagine that she and I live very different lives with very different experiences, but her relatability is unmatched by any other podcast I’ve listened to. She’s a champion for women, individualized confidence, and reasonability through self-awareness. I’m a proud Real One. I'm not telling you what to do, but here's where I'm putting my dollar: Tickets to sports games, especially those that are in minor leagues! Major league teams in most sports get a lot of the hype and attention, but there’s so much to cheer for in the minor leagues. There’s talent and entertainment in smaller markets that is very cool to watch as they follow their passion and skill. Shout out to the Louisville Bats, Memphis Redbirds, Springfield Cardinals, Tacoma Rainiers, Toledo Mud Hens, and Quad Cities River Bandits. Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodAll the ways to find, follow, & support the Capitalism for Good universe: Apple Podcasts (Bittersweet Paradox) | Apple Podcasts (Capitalism for Good) | Apple Podcasts (Capitalism for Green) | Bittersweet Paradox Patreon | Bittersweet Paradox Writing Club | Bluesky (Bittersweet Paradox) | Bluesky (Capitalism for Good) | Capitalism for Good’s Between the Interviews Podcast | Capitalism for Good Patreon | Capitalism for Green Patreon | Capitalism for Green: The Blog | Company Mentions | Email Bittersweet Paradox | Email Capitalism for Good | Email Capitalism for Green | Facebook | Instagram (Andrea & her 2026 Goal = No New Things, Only New Experiences) | Instagram (Bittersweet Paradox) | Instagram (Capitalism for Good) | Instagram (Capitalism for Green) | Spotify (Bittersweet Paradox) | Spotify (Capitalism for Good) | Spotify (Capitalism for Green) | The Store, by CFG | TikTok (Capitalism for Good) | YouTube (Capitalism for Good)Apple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I was just visiting KCMO, which I called home many years ago, and found myself bursting with nostalgic pride while being there and showing my friends and loved ones around town. In this episode, I give examples of experiences I’ve had while shopping local and also how “shopping local” has expanded into online communities with proceeds still directly benefiting geographic localities. Whether it’s purchasing a t-shirt from your favorite local restaurant in your old town, wearing a baseball hat with your favorite basketball team on it, or buying a one-of-a-kind painting from a local artist, shopping local can really lift up your community members and can lead to connections with others. Even better, these connections with others are almost entirely unique to small businesses and are largely not common with larger chain businesses.  What have I been reading: Small Ball BIg Dreams by Joel Goldberg (shout out to him & KC Slugerrr being so friendly and fun when I lucked out to find the author signing books when I was on the hunt to buy that book from a local KCMO bookstore!)I'm not telling you what to do, but here's where I'm putting my dollar: Made in KC & The Bunker - I could go on & on about my favorite places in Kansas City, but these two are both places that I just purchased items from when I was visiting last. Highly recommend clothes, jewelry, books, shoes, planters, etc. Bonus shout outs to: Tony Packo’s in Toledo, OH, Beer Kitchen in Kansas City, MO (Westport), Harpo’s in Kansas City, MO (Westport)Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodApple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What started as something in the zeitgeist of my childhood became a frequent topic of discussion and then I tool that I’ve since used many times to understand other people in a different way. On the surface, the recycle bin analogy distinguishes between those who don’t believe that all recycling is truly recycled so they they choose to always throw away their trash and those who always choose the recycle bin in hopes that there’s at least a chance that it will end up being recycled. When we dig a little deeper, we can find so many more options and so many more complexities in the “why” behind that decision. What’s your stance? What have I am reading: Wirecutter - it’s another tool in the toolbox when making purchase decisions.I'm not telling you what to do, but here's where I'm putting my dollar: Local boutiques - I just went shopping for a dress to wear for a wedding I’m going to this weekend. A few that I lucked out with this weekend are Mamili, Peplum, and Magnolia & Fig in Louisville, KY. Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodApple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the words of Kacey Musgraves, “I’m alright with a slow burn.” I moved at turbo speed for so much of my life figuratively and literally running as fast as I could. For many years of my late teens and early twenties, I lived with the goal of “never saying no to anything unless I could think of 3 good reasons to not do it.” Let me tell you, I lived a full life during that time. I also didn’t sleep much and thrived being fueled by caffeine, anxiety, and forward motion. I don’t regret a moment of it, but my goals and mantras have since evolved into finding ways to simplify, slow down, and to find enjoyment from saying no. What I learned was that there is so much value in not getting caught up in the whirlwind of life when it’s not necessary. There’s value in doing without manufactured stress and arbitrary deadlines that aren’t always necessary. Life’s stressful enough; why create more stress? What I found was by making small decisions and making small changes, I ended up saving myself money, time, and stress. I carried that over to my work life and learned to prioritize thoughtful analysis and strategic planning over just checking the box. It turns out that strategic planning can actually help check the boxes when it’s done right.What am I reading: The Joy of Missing Out by Tanya Dalton - The FOMO vs. JOMO comparison was a frequent topic at a recent trip to watch the Ohio Valley Conference Men’s Basketball Tournament Weekend in Evansville, IN - Go SIUE and Go Jayhawks! (really channeling my love for Ted Lasso here with Coach Barone being the real life Ted Lasso & the real life Jason Sudekis being a fellow big Kansas fan here) - in comparing introverts with extroverts and finding ways that we’re all different or similar. We’re all different and we all have different ways that we feel fulfilled. In the last decade, I’ve really leaned into the JOMO part of myself and it’s served me well. I'm not telling you what to do, but here's where I'm putting my dollar: I’m not. By that I mean that, I’m relatively frugal. I don’t often buy single use things or even things that don’t need purchasing. I’m talking about reusing glass jars and bottles as storage containers and vases. I’m talking using old towels and t-shirts with holes in them instead of paper towels. It’s probably been more than a decade since I’ve spent money on paper towels or napkins. If there’s not a real need or desire for it, generally I’m not buying it.Now, again. I’m not over the top. I try to keep my life pretty simple and 10-15 years later, I’m happy to report that while life can get stressful and can get to be a lot, I don’t feel it the way I used to. I credit that a lot to purposely simplifying as I’ve aged. It didn’t happen overnight. It happened slowly over more than a decade. I have a strong desire to not stress over things that don’t absolutely need to be stressed over because I’ve learned that there’s so much in life that is unexpected and deserves the stress. The last thing I want to do is manufacture more stress. Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodAll the ways to find, follow, & support the Capitalism for Good universe: Apple Podcasts (Bittersweet Paradox) | Apple Podcasts (Capitalism for Good) | Apple Podcasts (Capitalism for Green) | Bittersweet Paradox Patreon | Bluesky (Capitalism for Good) | Capitalism for Good Patreon | Capitalism for Green Patreon | Capitalism for Green: The Blog | Company Mentions | Email Bittersweet Paradox | Email Capitalism for Good | Email Capitalism for Green | Instagram (Andrea & her 2026 Goal = No New Things, Only New Experiences) | Instagram (Bittersweet Paradox) | Instagram (Capitalism for Good) | Instagram (Capitalism for Green) | Spotify (Bittersweet Paradox) | Spotify (Capitalism for Good) | Spotify (Capitalism for Green) | The Store, by CFG | TikTok (Capitalism for Good) | YouTube (Capitalism for Good)Apple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, I do some back of the napkin math to examine the cost of turnover vs. investing into employees and when it might make sense to choose one over the other. We use the lens of different financial business models and how they may be guided by flashy buzzwords and arbitrary deadlines expedited by manufactured urgency. Ultimately, is chasing the flashy thing really worth it in the end or would a differently focused investment give way to longevity and stability fueling better results? How do you calculate the return on investment? What have I have been listening to: The Dollop (both a regular listen and attending live podcast recording shows) - It’s well researched, hilarious, entertaining, thought provoking, and I never fail to learn something new from it. The host, Dave Anthony, reads a true historical story to his friend, Garreth Reynolds. The relatability of the co-host reacting to the outrageous twists in turn at the same time the listener is reacting is genius. I'm not telling you what to do, but here's where I'm putting my dollar: RareformPurchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodAll the ways to find, follow, & support the Capitalism for Good universe: Apple Podcasts (Bittersweet Paradox) | Apple Podcasts (Capitalism for Good) | Apple Podcasts (Capitalism for Green) | Bittersweet Paradox Patreon | Bittersweet Paradox Writing Club | Bluesky (Bittersweet Paradox) | Bluesky (Capitalism for Good) | Capitalism for Good’s Between the Interviews Podcast | Capitalism for Good Patreon | Capitalism for Green Patreon | Capitalism for Green: The Blog | Company Mentions | Email Bittersweet Paradox | Email Capitalism for Good | Email Capitalism for Green | Facebook | Instagram (Andrea & her 2026 Goal = No New Things, Only New Experiences) | Instagram (Bittersweet Paradox) | Instagram (Capitalism for Good) | Instagram (Capitalism for Green) | Spotify (Bittersweet Paradox) | Spotify (Capitalism for Good) | Spotify (Capitalism for Green) | The Store, by CFG | TikTok (Capitalism for Good) | YouTube (Capitalism for Good)Apple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Business Karma. This idea that if we choose the greater good or we choose to prioritize people when making business decisions, that it will often be a benefit back to us. It may take some time. It may be a delayed benefit, but sometimes that benefit might even come back multiplied. While the focus of the Capitalism for Good project is through the lens of discussions with business leaders, I would argue that we all, regardless of our positions or titles, have the opportunity to be leaders through our actions. No matter who we are working for. No matter what our field is. No matter if we aren’t even working for the company. We can all conduct ourselves as leaders in a given situation. You never know when that good business karma may come back around later. It could increase your return on investment many times over. There’s also a chance that it might not, but how much does it hurt to try?What have I read: Mantras/quotes/affirmations. Sometimes I just need to give myself a quick pep talk and having a handful of options at my fingertips to help keep me going forward is so valuable to me. One of my recent favorites is, “you have been here before and you can do it again.” What are your pep talks that you give yourself? I'm not telling you what to do, but here's where I'm putting my dollar: Trader Joe’s! Seriously, I’ve been to Trader Joe’s all over the United States and I’m so impressed that regardless of where I am geographically, the culture is still the same. There’s always a friendly and helpful team of staff with some reliably great produce and products. More times than not, I’m choosing a Trader Joe’s if that’s an option. Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodAll the ways to find, follow, & support the Capitalism for Good universe: Apple Podcasts (Bittersweet Paradox) | Apple Podcasts (Capitalism for Good) | Apple Podcasts (Capitalism for Green) | Bittersweet Paradox Patreon | Bittersweet Paradox Writing Club | Bluesky (Bittersweet Paradox) | Bluesky (Capitalism for Good) | Capitalism for Good’s Between the Interviews Podcast | Capitalism for Good Patreon | Capitalism for Green Patreon | Capitalism for Green: The Blog | Company Mentions | Email Bittersweet Paradox | Email Capitalism for Good | Email Capitalism for Green | Facebook | Instagram (Andrea & her 2026 Goal = No New Things, Only New Experiences) | Instagram (Bittersweet Paradox) | Instagram (Capitalism for Good) | Instagram (Capitalism for Green) | Spotify (Bittersweet Paradox) | Spotify (Capitalism for Good) | Spotify (Capitalism for Green) | The Store, by CFG | TikTok (Capitalism for Good) | YouTube (Capitalism for Good)Apple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One thing that I’m cognizant of is that by putting the word “good” in the name of this project, it may seem to imply that there’s either a “good” or a “bad” way to make and spend money. It could seem like there’s a judgement of a right vs. a wrong way. Especially as a woman with some strong views of the world, I wholeheartedly believe that there are lines to be drawn in the sand and a time to speak up when they are crossed. I also wholeheartedly believe that much of life is more of a spectrum of gray than a simple either/or choice of black or white. I never intend to make someone feel like they’re being judged by me for any of the decisions they make. We all have to make decisions. We all have to weigh the pros and cons. Sometimes we choose not to weigh the pros and cons because it makes more sense to us to not think too long about a decision. After all, the saying “time is money” exists for a reason. The point is, life is complicated. While in this project I focus on making good choices in how we make and spend our dollars, that “good choice” is complex. This is not intended to be a judgement of choices, but rather a dig into the intentionality of the choices we make and the impact of those choices on the world around us. Perhaps an encouragement to think even just a beat more about the choices we make. Perhaps an encouragement to just strive for 1% better, whatever that means to each of us at a given time. What have I read: Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano is a beautiful story of the complexities of the lives of each of the women in a family. It’s messy, heartfelt, dramatic (but not overly so), heavy while being light, and very well written. I'm not telling you what to do, but here's where I'm putting my dollar: Physical books purchased at a local bookstore. Two of my favorites are Carmichael’s Bookstore in Louisville, KY and KD’s Books in Lee’s Summit, MO. Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodAll the ways to find, follow, & support the Capitalism for Good universe: Apple Podcasts (Bittersweet Paradox) | Apple Podcasts (Capitalism for Good) | Apple Podcasts (Capitalism for Green) | Bittersweet Paradox Patreon | Bittersweet Paradox Writing Club | Bluesky (Bittersweet Paradox) | Bluesky (Capitalism for Good) | Capitalism for Good’s Between the Interviews Podcast | Capitalism for Good Patreon | Capitalism for Green Patreon | Capitalism for Green: The Blog | Company Mentions | Email Bittersweet Paradox | Email Capitalism for Good | Email Capitalism for Green | Facebook | Instagram (Andrea & her 2026 Goal = No New Things, Only New Experiences) | Instagram (Bittersweet Paradox) | Instagram (Capitalism for Good) | Instagram (Capitalism for Green) | Spotify (Bittersweet Paradox) | Spotify (Capitalism for Good) | Spotify (Capitalism for Green) | The Store, by CFG | TikTok (Capitalism for Good) | YouTube (Capitalism for Good)Apple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Using one of my favorite analogies about choosing which bin to put your trash in might seem like you just have two choices in front of you - trash vs. recycling bin - but perhaps the world is less black & white and really you have many more options than just the two right in front of you. Further, maybe the truly the option with the most value to you in the long run is the one that takes a couple more moments to consider and a little more time and energy on the front end. What have I read: Atomic Habits by James Clear where he presents many examples of how the compound interest of just striving for 1% better regularly has an exponentially positive impact (and also what can happen when you don’t). Sometimes a decision about something seemingly small can have much larger impacts than they appear on the surface. I'm not telling you what to do, but here's where I'm putting my dollar: directly to the creator! Specifically, tipping the live music at the bar/restaurant, buying artwork from the artist at the market, following Andrew Hickey’s A History of Rock Music in 500 Songs on PatreonPurchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodApple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When talking about the Capitalism for Good project, I often get recommendations for nonprofit organizations, companies with give-back programs & associated foundations, and community-based companies focused on serving a specific underserved population. These are great! I’ll be highlighting some of these in future interviews with business leaders because I truly want to promote those that are focused on the greater good. These organizations aren’t the only ones that have the ability to do so though. In this episode, I focus on clearing up some misconceptions around these organizations, bring in government organizations to the conversation, and explain how the context, functionality, and details of how organizations operate are key to achieving higher rates of effectiveness and efficiency. Specifically focusing on the desire to use both donations and taxpayer dollars to “directly serve clients” and when this phrase all too often does the exact opposite watering down the ROI of that donation or taxpayer dollar. This is a lesson in overhead rates and indirect cost rates as well as how nonprofits can increase the ROI on clients served by looking beyond commonly thought of “direct costs.”References:  NOT-OD-25-068: Supplemental Guidance to the 2024 NIH Grants Policy Statement; NIH = National Institutes of Health; CFR = Code of Federal Regulations; Indirect Cost Rates; IDC = Indirect Costs; ROI = Return on Investment; KY IEP Advocate’s All Things Special About Education podcastWhat I'm reading: Revenge of the Tipping Point by Malcom Gladwell because its (and The Tipping Point) examination of examples of when a tipping point was reached to make a change in our world, both positively and not-so-positively. I'm not telling you what to do, but here's where I'm putting my dollar: travel is a priority to budget my time and money because it fills my cup.Using one of my favorite analogies about choosing which bin to put your trash in might seem like you just have two choices in front of you - trash vs. recycling bin - but perhaps the world is less black & white and really you have many more options than just the two right in front of you. Further, maybe the truly the option with the most value to you in the long run is the one that takes a couple more moments to consider and a little more time and energy on the front end. What have I read: Atomic Habits by James Clear where he presents many examples of how the compound interest of just striving for 1% better regularly has an exponentially positive impact (and also what can happen when you don’t). Sometimes a decision about something seemingly small can have much larger impacts than they appear on the surface. I'm not telling you what to do, but here's where I'm putting my dollar: directly to the creator! Specifically, tipping the live music at the bar/restaurant, buying artwork from the artist at the market, following Andrew Hickey’s A History of Rock Music in 500 Songs on PatreonAll the ways to find, follow, & support the Capitalism for Good universe: Apple Podcasts (Bittersweet Paradox) | Apple Podcasts (Capitalism for Good) | Apple Podcasts (Capitalism for Green) | Bittersweet Paradox Patreon | Bittersweet Paradox Writing Club | Bluesky (Bittersweet Paradox) | Bluesky (Capitalism for Good) | Capitalism for Good’s Between the Interviews Podcast | Capitalism for Good Patreon | Capitalism for Green Patreon | Capitalism for Green: The Blog | Company Mentions | Email Bittersweet Paradox | Email Capitalism for Good | Email Capitalism for Green | Facebook | Instagram (Andrea & her 2026 Goal = No New Things, Only New Experiences) | Instagram (Bittersweet Paradox) | Instagram (Capitalism for Good) | Instagram (Capitalism for Green) | Spotify (Bittersweet Paradox) | Spotify (Capitalism for Good) | Spotify (Capitalism for Green) | The Store, by CFG | TikTok (Capitalism for Good) | YouTube (Capitalism for Good)Apple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In an effort to continue to set the foundation for the Capitalism for Good project, this is who I am: I’m a millennial woman acknowledging that many generations of people prior to and up to my lifetime have successfully fought to change the landscape of the world in which I live. Today, I call out a few key pieces of government actions that have shaped the lens in which I view the world: The 19th Amendment to the Constitution in 1920, the Equal Pay Act of 1963, the 1974 Equal Credit Opportunity Act, and the Women’s Business Ownership Act in 1988. Regardless of whether these and other similar pieces of legislation legally protect the basic human rights of all people in the United States continue to exist into our future, we must act as if they do. Regardless of what the government does or does not mandate, we must act with civility. One of the key themes of this podcast is focused on using how we make and spend our dollars to support the greater good and how we promote “better business karma” by prioritizing people and the greater good. What I'm watching: NPR & KCUR - fact-based and unbiased information news sources are key to understanding the world around us. Local and national public radio are committed to this through transparency and are free to all. I'm not telling you what to do, but here's where I'm putting my dollar: NPR & KCUR - National Public Radio exists on the donations of its listeners and supporters to keep this access to reliable and accurate information available to all. This is a two-for-one answer with both what I’m listening to and reading as well as where I’m spending my dollars. Using one of my favorite analogies about choosing which bin to put your trash in might seem like you just have two choices in front of you - trash vs. recycling bin - but perhaps the world is less black & white and really you have many more options than just the two right in front of you. Further, maybe the truly the option with the most value to you in the long run is the one that takes a couple more moments to consider and a little more time and energy on the front end. What have I read: Atomic Habits by James Clear where he presents many examples of how the compound interest of just striving for 1% better regularly has an exponentially positive impact (and also what can happen when you don’t). Sometimes a decision about something seemingly small can have much larger impacts than they appear on the surface. I'm not telling you what to do, but here's where I'm putting my dollar: directly to the creator! Specifically, tipping the live music at the bar/restaurant, buying artwork from the artist at the market, following Andrew Hickey’s A History of Rock Music in 500 Songs on PatreonPurchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodApple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stick with me here as I connect the way we use our dollar to how we make our dollar with government and politics. I know politics is a hot topic here in the United States after the transition of presidential power, so take us through an adjacent path exploring how choosing where to spend our money can potentially impact our lives in other ways (ex: implications of government & politics). This is meant to be less of an endorsement of a specific candidate or political party, but more of an encouragement to use our dollars, when feasible, to promote what’s important to us. Money is power, but not just in that when we make more money, we have more power. It’s also the power of the control over where we spend our dollar. It’s also meant to be an explanation of the way in which I view the world. I am deeply interested in the way our inherent motivations guide our actions as well as how we evolve with additional experiences and information. In my experience, talking about tough topics, especially those that may superficially seem different from my own stance, often gives way to greater understanding, empathy, and respect. I understand that this is not the lens through which everyone else views the world, but in this episode, I present my rather rosy-colored lens of people, politics, power, and players. And I’d love to better understand the lens through which you view the world. What I'm watching: Kansas City ChiefsI'm not telling you what to do, but here's where I'm putting my dollar: Charlie HustlePurchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodApple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The culture of a company is important. There's a popular saying that "people don't leave companies, they leave bad bosses." This has been true for me at several points in my career. I've even dropped clients in my own business because of the way they behaved. I've also experienced the opposite where I've followed a great boss to a new job and I've had employees in one job join me again later (and with the new skills and experienced they picked up the last time they were with me).The folks I shout out in this episode are examples of strong contributors to a solid and appealing culture that keeps me as a returning customer whose dollar can be counted on by each of their respective establishments. I'll also strongly recommend each of them to anyone that I hear of looking for a new service provider. That word of mouth recommendation is FREE advertising. The more free advertising that's done for you, the more that leaders can reinvest in their companies and employees perpetuating this cycle of positivity.In the two examples of negative experiences I had with former employers and bosses, I ultimately left. More specifically, I left willingly, loudly, and without an ounce of regret.Culture matters. People matter. Values matter.What I'm reading: Give Her Credit by Grace L. WilliamsI'm not telling you what to do, but here's where I'm putting my dollar: Small business experts with hearts of gold. In the first Capitalism for Good interview with Shannon Masterson, we shout out two talented hairstylists that we are repeat customers of: Jen at Hello Gorgeous Hair Design and Madi at Helm Salon in Kansas City, MO. In this Between the Interviews episode, I also add a shout out to Demi at Lumi Skin Bar + Aesthetics. As my friend, Melanie, often says "let experts be experts." These skin & beauty experts combine inclusion and building others up in a such a positive way. AND they're good at their jobs.Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodApple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"Let's leave this place better than we found it."Welcome to the Between the Interviews of the Capitalism for Good Podcast project! This first Patreon episode will outline the future of these behind the scenes...Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodApple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 41 - Video version first aired on 11/03/25The interview series can be found on all major podcast platforms by searching "Capitalism for Good" or through the links below. Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodApple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 36 - Video version first aired on 09/29/25The interview series can be found on all major podcast platforms by searching "Capitalism for Good" or through the links below. Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodApple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 23 - Video version first aired on 06/16/25The interview series can be found on all major podcast platforms by searching "Capitalism for Good" or through the links below. Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodApple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 19 - Video version first aired on 05/19/25The interview series can be found on all major podcast platforms by searching "Capitalism for Good" or through the links below. Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodApple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 19 - Video version first aired on 05/19/25The interview series can be found on all major podcast platforms by searching "Capitalism for Good" or through the links below. Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodApple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 16 - Video version first aired on 04/28/25The interview series can be found on all major podcast platforms by searching "Capitalism for Good" or through the links below. Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodApple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 15 - Video version first aired on 04/20/25The interview series can be found on all major podcast platforms by searching "Capitalism for Good" or through the links below. Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodApple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodApple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 10 - Video version first aired on 03/16/25The interview series can be found on all major podcast platforms by searching "Capitalism for Good" or through the links below. Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodApple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 9 - Video version first aired on 03/18/25The interview series can be found on all major podcast platforms by searching "Capitalism for Good" or through the links below.Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodApple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 8 - Video version first aired on 03/02/25The interview series can be found on all major podcast platforms by searching "Capitalism for Good" or through the links below. Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodApple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 4 - Video version first aired on 02/02/25The interview series can be found on all major podcast platforms by searching "Capitalism for Good" or through the links below. Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodApple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 7 - Video version first aired on 02/24/25The interview series can be found on all major podcast platforms by searching "Capitalism for Good" or through the links below. Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodApple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 6 - Video version first aired on 02/16/25The interview series can be found on all major podcast platforms by searching "Capitalism for Good" or through the links below. Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodApple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 5 - Video version first aired on 02/10/25The interview series can be found on all major podcast platforms by searching "Capitalism for Good" or through the links below. Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodApple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 2 - Video version first aired on 01/20/25The interview series can be found on all major podcast platforms by searching "Capitalism for Good" or through the links below. Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodApple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 1 - Video version first aired on 01/12/25The interview series can be found on all major podcast platforms by searching "Capitalism for Good" or through the links below. Purchase the full Collection of Between the Interviews episodes (includes video option) here or at Patreon.com/CapitalismForGoodApple | Patreon | Email | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.