The Plucky Bamboo Podcast

Climate action without measurement is guesswork.In this episode, Gilad Regev explains how Kora is building real-time carbon tracking tools to turn employee behavior into measurable decarbonization.We explore the gap between intention and action - and why most companies still treat sustainability as a reporting function instead of a strategic lever.We discuss:Why carbon data must be real-time to drive changeWhy many CSOs lack the budget to executeHow CFOs respond when climate ties to cost savingsThe limits of regulation and top-down policyHow to engage entire organizations on Scope 3 emissionsGilad’s perspective is clear: sustainability cannot sit in one department. It must create financial value and organizational engagement - or it won’t scale.If you’re operating in enterprise climate tech or building tools for corporate decarbonization, this episode offers both strategic and tactical insight.

Sustainability isn’t sustainable without revenue.In this episode, Helen Zhang shares how she’s building Coffee Elf -a company transforming commercial coffee waste into bio-based materials and cosmetic ingredients.What started as a kitchen experiment is now evolving into a circular system spanning industrial sourcing, processing, and downstream partnerships.We discuss:Why climate founders must commercialize earlyHow to navigate small buyers vs. enterprise procurement teamsThe complexity of building physical infrastructure in climate techThe overlooked strategic framework climate startups needWhy profit and purpose must coexistHelen’s perspective is clear: you’re not building a charity. You’re building a business and profitability is what allows impact to scale and last.

What does real scale look like in a sustainability business?For Mallika Reddy, founder of Cancelled Plans, it doesn’t mean producing more.It means producing differently.Mallika’s studio transforms industrial waste, from pharmaceutical packaging to billboard misprints, into high-value design pieces. But along the way, she’s had to confront some uncomfortable truths about growth, marketing, and what actually drives adoption.In this episode, we explore:Why “saving the planet” isn’t a strong enough sales messageThe tension between profitability and purposeHow to pivot without losing your core philosophyWhy performance marketing failed and what worked insteadHow founder-led storytelling builds credibility in a world of greenwashingThis is an honest conversation about redefining scale, resisting overproduction, and building a sustainability business that can stand commercially, not just morally.

Clean heat is one of the biggest pieces of the climate puzzle - but it won’t scale unless it makes financial sense.In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, I sat down with Jane Melia, Co-Founder and Chief Revenue Officer of Harvest Thermal, to explore what it really takes to bring climate hardware into the mainstream.Harvest combines heat pumps with thermal storage to deliver low-carbon heating and hot water that cuts emissions by around 90% - while lowering bills and supporting grid flexibility.But this conversation goes far beyond the technology.Jane shares:Why economics - not emissions - determine whether climate solutions scaleThe reality of product-market fit in climate techWhy go-to-market is often harder than building the productWhat founders underestimate about selling into utilities and infrastructureThe mindset shift required when transitioning from CEO to CROWhy hiring the right team is one of the most important decisions a founder makesThis episode is a practical look at scaling sustainability in the real world - where incentives, timing, and trust matter just as much as innovation.

Turning climate concern into meaningful action is one of the biggest challenges facing the sustainability movement today.In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, I sat down with Brett Walter, founder & CEO of Climate Action Now, to explore how technology can mobilise individuals to drive systemic climate impact.After a career building scalable software in Silicon Valley, Brett launched the Climate Action Now app on Earth Day 2021 with a clear goal: make it easy for people to influence legislation, corporate behaviour, and public policy directly from their phones.But creating the platform was only the beginning.Sustaining engagement, motivating action, and scaling participation required deep thinking around behavioural psychology, product design, and advocacy strategy.In this conversation, we explore:• Why systemic action scales faster than lifestyle change• How software can amplify individual climate impact• The psychology behind sustained user engagement• Why fear-based messaging often limits participation• The role of hope in driving climate action• Monetisation strategies for impact platforms• The challenges of scaling civic advocacy technology• Advice for founders building mission-driven startupsIf you’re building at the intersection of climate, technology, and systems change - this episode offers a thoughtful look at how digital platforms can turn awareness into action at scale.

Commercialising sustainable materials is one of the hardest and most misunderstood challenges in climate tech.In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, I sat down with Marc McConnaughey, CEO of Biobond Adhesives, to unpack what it really takes to bring bio-based industrial products to market.Biobond is on a mission to replace petroleum-based chemicals in adhesives and coatings with plant-based alternatives - removing microplastics, VOCs, and harmful toxins from global supply chains.But as Marc explains, breakthrough technology alone isn’t enough.Success depends on execution, market timing, customer adoption, and the ability to sell into industries that are often slow to change.In this conversation, we explore:• Why the #1 startup failure is building something the market doesn’t need• Why execution accounts for the majority of startup success• How to identify early adopter “rabbit customers”• The psychological and commercial barriers to industry change• The role of sales capacity in driving growth• How regulation and labour pressures influence adoption• Lessons from failed sustainability scale-ups• What the future holds for bio-based materialsIf you’re a founder, operator, or commercial leader scaling innovation in sustainability, manufacturing, or materials - this episode offers a grounded look at the realities behind impact.

In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, I sat down with Emilio Sassine, Founder & CEO of Cedrus, to talk about what it really takes to commercialise AI in the built environment.Cedrus is building a platform that helps real estate owners reduce emissions across building portfolios - using AI to replace static energy audits with dynamic, data-driven retrofit planning.But as Emilio shared, the technology is only part of the story.A big part of the challenge is trust.When you’re selling innovation - especially AI - to engineers, asset managers, and technical experts, you’re asking people to rethink how they’ve worked for decades.And that creates friction.In our conversation, we explore:• What early sales look like when your product is still being built• The challenge of selling AI to technical stakeholders• How Cedrus uses data to reduce building emissions at scale• Why founders need to challenge their own value proposition first• Balancing customer feedback with product vision• Lessons from moving from MVP to a market-ready platformOne insight that stuck with me was Emilio’s view that before convincing anyone else, founders need to be fully convinced themselves - stress-testing their product, positioning, and differentiation.If you’re building in climate tech, proptech, or energy, especially with an AI layer, this episode offers a grounded look at the commercial realities behind bringing innovation to market.

In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, I sat down with Josh Knauer, Co-Founder & CEO of ReSeed, to explore how environmental markets can work better for the farmers at the centre of them.Josh has spent his career building businesses at the intersection of technology, sustainability, and economic inclusion. Through ReSeed, he’s focused on a simple but powerful idea:If we want farmers to deliver climate impact, they need to share in the financial value it creates.The conversation unpacks how carbon and ecosystem markets function today - and why many have historically been inaccessible to smallholder farmers due to cost, complexity, and delayed revenue.Josh shares how ReSeed is helping farmers generate income from environmental data, connect to global carbon markets, and participate in new financial systems that reward land stewardship.Together, we discuss:• Why ecosystem service markets have struggled to scale• The importance of early revenue in farmer adoption• Turning farm data into a new income stream• Building trust through partnership, not prescription• What founders must understand about emerging climate markets• The commercial realities behind nature-based solutionsThis episode offers a grounded look at what it really takes to align climate impact, farmer livelihoods, and scalable business models.

Building a sustainability business isn’t just about good intentions.It’s about the trade-offs you make when values, margins, and growth collide.In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, I’m joined by Sara Baxter, Co-Founder and CEO of Paperclip.Sara shares what it’s really like to build a consumer sustainability brand under real commercial pressure - from absorbing higher material costs to competing with cheaper alternatives and navigating growth without losing trust.We talk about:Why sustainable materials often come with a “green premium”How founders decide when to protect margins vs valuesThe reality of DTC and wholesale growth for early-stage brandsWhy influencer marketing and agencies often disappointHow trust, education, and transparency shape long-term demandThe hard lessons Sara learned as a founder - and what she’d do differentlyThis episode is for sustainability founders and operators who want an honest look at what it takes to grow a values-led business without shortcuts.

In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, Chris Jones sits down with Brad Stutzman, Founder and CEO of o3 Energy, to talk about what actually drives adoption in commercial renewable energy.Brad shares lessons from building o3 Energy across residential, commercial, and small utility-scale markets - including when to pivot, how to evaluate new offerings, and why many sustainability messages fail to resonate with business decision-makers.Rather than leading with ideology, Brad explains why successful renewable energy companies focus on outcomes that can be measured: energy costs, risk reduction, grid reliability, and operational impact.The conversation also covers how o3 Energy works with real estate owners and developers, why relationships and trust still matter in B2B sales, and how founders can make clearer decisions in fast-changing markets.This episode is for sustainability founders, operators, and commercial leaders who want a grounded, practical view of how renewable energy gets adopted in the real world.

Growth in traditional industries doesn’t fail loudly. It slows quietly - when leaders stop building forward and start protecting what already exists.In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, Chris Jones sits down with Titan Immel, Founder of Ag Hub Midwest, to talk about what scaling, sustainability, and leadership actually look like in agriculture - one of the most risk-sensitive industries there is.Titan shares how rapid early growth led to complexity, stalled momentum, and leadership blind spots - and how stepping back to rebuild systems, refocus on value, and redefine sustainability helped the business move forward again.This conversation explores:Why growth often plateaus after early success - and how founders lose sight of the futureHow systems matter more than headcount once complexity sets inWhat sustainability looks like when customers’ livelihoods are on the lineHow to introduce change in traditional industries without breaking trustThe leadership shifts required to move from “holding steady” back into growthAg Hub Midwest serves growers across the Midwest by focusing on efficiency, operational fit, and long-term value - not hype or short-term wins.If you’re building a sustainability business under real constraints - margins, people, operations, and trust - this episode offers a grounded, practical perspective on what it actually takes to scale.

In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, I’m joined by Kyle C Grant-Talbot, founder of Oxwash (since acq. by Elis), to explore what it really takes to scale impact in an industrial sustainability business.Kyle shares the journey of building Oxwash from a PhD idea into a high-growth company decarbonizing one of the world’s most overlooked industries: industrial laundry. We talk openly about the operational, technological, and leadership challenges that emerge once sustainability businesses move beyond pilots and into real scale.This conversation goes beyond mission and intent, and into the practical realities leaders face as demand accelerates.We cover:Why industrial and deep-tech sustainability companies scale differently from SaaSThe trade-offs between speed, risk, and long-term impactHow AI and software accelerate progress while creating new operational constraintsThe leadership mindset shift required as teams, systems, and complexity growWhat scaling impact actually looks like when infrastructure is involvedIf you’re a founder or leader building a sustainability business - especially one rooted in physical systems - this episode offers a grounded look at what growth really demands.

Sustainability often comes down to what organisations decide to do with what they no longer need.In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, Chris Jones is joined by Michael Amos, Managing Director of Waste to Wonder, to explore why reuse is so often missed in corporate decision-making.Michael has spent more than 20 years helping businesses redistribute redundant furniture and equipment to schools and charities around the world. His work challenges a common assumption: that recycling is always the responsible option.In the conversation, we discuss:Why recycling should be the last step, not the firstHow usable assets quietly become labelled as “waste” inside organisationsThe awareness gap that stops companies from seeing reuse as a viable optionHow social enterprises connect commercial decisions with real social impactWhat leaders can change upstream to keep value in the system for longerThis episode is a practical, grounded look at sustainability, procurement, and responsibility - focused on how decisions actually get made inside real businesses.If you care about sustainability that works in the real world, this conversation will give you a new way to think about waste, value, and impact.

In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, Chris Jones sits down with Scott Case, founder of Zettawatts, to talk about what real climate action looks like inside large organizations.Scott brings decades of experience as a founder and operator, from technology and public health to clean energy. Today, his work focuses on helping companies decarbonize electricity in ways that actually move the grid forward.In this conversation, Scott shares what surprised him most while building Zettawatts, not policy or technology, but how difficult it is to separate real commitment from polished sustainability reporting.They discuss:Why scope 2 emissions are where many companies stallHow budget ownership and executive buy-in shape what’s possibleThe gap between published commitments and operational realityWhy meaningful sustainability progress is often slow, quiet, and complexThis episode is for sustainability leaders, founders, and operators who want a more realistic view of how climate goals turn into long-term decisions and why the hardest work rarely looks impressive at first.

Building a sustainability business means learning how to lead through uncertainty - not just when things are going well, but when policy, incentives, and markets are constantly shifting.In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, Chris sits down with Casey Cole, President of ARE Solar, to talk about what it really takes to build a resilient solar business over the long term.Casey shares his journey from starting out as a solar installer to leading the company through industry volatility, changing tax incentives, and the so-called “solar coaster.” Along the way, he reflects on the mindset shifts required to move from operator to leader - and why staying grounded in mission matters more than ever.In this conversation, we explore: How leadership changes as sustainability businesses scaleWhy the solar industry is inherently volatile - and how founders can prepareThe balance between short-term pressure and long-term impactWhy mission matters most when markets and policies shiftWhat sustainability leaders should prioritize to build businesses that lastIf you’re building in sustainability, clean energy, or climate tech - and trying to grow without losing focus - this episode offers a grounded, real-world perspective from someone who’s lived every stage of the journey.

Reducing food waste sounds simple. In reality, it’s one of the hardest problems to solve in modern supply chains.In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, Chris Jones sits down with Katherine Sizov, CEO and founder of Strella BioTech, to talk about what it really takes to build and scale a sustainability business in operational, risk-averse industries.Katherine shares how Strella uses sensor technology and data to predict produce shelf life, helping packers, ripeners, and retailers make better inventory decisions, reduce waste, and improve quality — without relying on climate guilt to drive adoption.They discuss why sustainability only scales when it makes clear financial sense, how to sell into long enterprise sales cycles, and why focusing on efficiency and ROI often creates the biggest environmental impact.This conversation is packed with practical insights for sustainability founders, operators, and leaders trying to turn impact into a durable, scalable business.

Clear measurement is one of the biggest missing pieces in sustainability.In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, Chris Jones sits down with Jeff Kirschner, founder of Litterati, to talk about what it really takes to create impact in complex, real-world systems like waste and plastic pollution.Jeff shares how Litterati evolved from a community clean-up idea into a data science company working with cities, brands, and institutions around the world. They explore why awareness alone doesn’t drive change, why many sustainability interventions fail without a baseline, and how data helps leaders make better decisions about policy, infrastructure, and investment.The conversation also dives into the realities of building a mission-driven business - from hiring the right people, to resisting the pressure to scale too fast, to staying focused on outcomes instead of optics.If you’re a sustainability founder, operator, or business leader trying to balance impact, growth, and long-term thinking, this episode offers grounded, practical insight.

Carbon accounting is quickly shifting from a sustainability initiative to a core operational requirement. Many companies genuinely care about climate, but urgency often appears only when a major customer requests emissions visibility or ties it to revenue, risk, or compliance.In this episode, William Loopesko, founder and CTO at Aclymate, explains how his team is building software that helps small and medium businesses measure and manage their emissions without becoming carbon experts. We explore the operational challenges behind messy customer data, why education matters when climate risk feels distant, and how AI-powered categorization and product design help reduce manual labor.We also dive into:How partnerships can unlock scalable one-to-many growthWhy customer success drives product and UX decisionsWhy climate risk assessments are becoming part of standard business softwareThe long-term vision for a connected carbon network across the economyAclymate’s approach shows that the future of carbon accounting is not guilt-driven or theoretical. It’s practical automation, clarity, and business urgency.Listen to learn how carbon visibility is becoming a strategic advantage for companies that want to scale responsibly and stay ahead of customer expectations.

Scaling nature restoration sounds simple until you try to do it at the level the planet actually needs.In this episode, Simón Torras, co-founder of Ponterra, breaks down how they design, finance, and operate large-scale ecosystem restoration projects on degraded agricultural land. From securing one of the largest carbon credit pre-sales in the space to coordinating 120+ people on the ground, Simón explains what it really takes to build climate projects that investors trust and ecosystems depend on.We explore why capital isn’t the real bottleneck in the carbon market, why so many early restoration projects fail to scale, and how full vertical integration became essential to delivering high-quality, long-term results. Simón also shares the mindset shifts founders need when moving from small pilots to industrial-scale operations and why chasing “perfect” measurements stops real climate progress.If you’re building in climate, nature restoration, carbon markets, or any sustainability field that requires trust, operations, and long time horizons, this episode gives you a grounded look at how large-scale impact actually gets built.

When it comes to sustainability, good intentions are not enough. You need a business model that works.That’s what Jack Duffy Protentis, founder and CEO of eSki, discovered while building electric jet skis that are clean, quiet, and profitable.In this episode, Jack shares how eSki is decarbonizing the water sports industry by focusing on what truly drives adoption - better economics, not just better ethics. From convincing traditional rental operators to rethinking investor expectations, his story is a masterclass in combining purpose with performance.We talk about: Why “it’s green” no longer sells investors or customers How showing ROI can make sustainability irresistible The power of deep customer research before building What founders can learn from sticking with an idea through the tough yearsIf you’re building a planet-first company and want to make it scale commercially, this conversation is for you.

Most climate messaging tells people the planet is warming but not what it means for their lives.In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, Melody Serafino, co-founder of The Number 29 Communications, explores why climate and sustainability have a communications problem — and what businesses can do to fix it.Drawing from her work with impact-driven brands, Melody shares how honesty, transparency, and human connection can build more trust than fear or perfection ever could.Together, we explore: • Why “sustainability” has lost its meaning (and how to bring it back) • How to make climate feel personal, not paralyzing • The difference between transparency and performative marketing • Why the best sustainability stories focus on people, not perfection • What founders can learn from brands like VEJAIf you’re a sustainability leader or communicator looking to build credibility and connection, this episode will reshape how you think about storytelling.

Most companies didn’t build their supply chains for sustainability.They didn’t even build them for resilience.Espen Sivertsen, founder and CEO of Ivaldi Group, is changing that by turning complex, global logistics into local, on-demand manufacturing networks.Instead of shipping parts, Ivaldi sends files.Instead of waiting weeks for components, they’re produced on-site, often in hours.And in the process, they’re cutting downtime, costs, and carbon emissions all at once.But selling this kind of innovation into slow-moving, risk-averse industries isn’t easy - especially when no one gets paid to try new things.In this episode, we explore:Why most supply chains are allergic to innovationHow to scale a sustainability solution without complexity creepWhy climate guilt doesn’t sell - and what actually moves a CFOThe rise of file-based supply chains and digital inventoryHow to make sustainability make business sense - not just moral senseIvaldi is proving that the future of manufacturing isn’t big - it’s everywhere.Connect with Espen:LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/espensivertsenIvaldi: ⁠https://www.ivaldi.com⁠Connect with me:LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisg-jones/⁠Plucky Bamboo: ⁠https://pluckybamboo.com⁠

Sustainability companies face a hard truth: customers say they care about the planet, but that's rarely why they buy.The gap between what people claim to value and what actually drives their purchasing decisions can make or break your growth strategy.That's the challenge Allie Reeves, CEO and co-founder of Baro, had to navigate head-on.Baro is a peer-to-peer fashion rental marketplace built to make circular fashion accessible. But when Allie and her team leaned hard into sustainability messaging, conversion stalled. It wasn't until they repositioned around financial value - saving and earning money - that growth took off.In this episode, we explore:Why customers don't buy based on sustainability alone (and what actually converts them)How to reframe your value proposition without abandoning your missionThe biggest growth mistake sustainability founders make with messagingWhy building authentic community beats paying influencers every timeWhat it really takes to shift from founder-led chaos to scalable systemsBaro is proving that you don't have to choose between profit and planet - you just need to speak to what your customers actually need.Connect with Allie:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reevesalexandraBaro: https://www.trybaro.comConnect with me:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisg-jones/Plucky Bamboo: https://pluckybamboo.com

What if the way we scale sustainability businesses is all wrong?In this episode, I speak with Alejandro Crawford - co-founder of RebelBase and co-author of One Size Fits None - about how founders can build regenerative systems that actually work in the real world.We explore why traditional ideas of scale fall short, how to protect your flexibility as a leader, and why the best solutions often come from the people closest to the problem - not the top of the hierarchy.Alejandro shares lessons from global communities, universities, and founders who are building change from the ground up - and what it takes to design a business that lasts.We cover:• Why “one-size-fits-all” systems keep breaking• How to rethink scale in your growth strategy• What most founders get wrong about selling into institutions• And how to build solutions that are truly responsive to your usersIf you care about scaling impact without losing your way - this episode is for you.

Home upgrades shouldn’t be this hard - and yet for millions of homeowners trying to electrify, save money, or improve comfort, the process is confusing, time-consuming, and painfully outdated.Grant Gunnison, Founder of Zero Homes, knows this firsthand - and he’s on a mission to fix it by combining deep construction know-how with smart technology that removes friction for homeowners and contractors.In this episode, Grant shares:✅ Why the home improvement experience is broken, and what it costs homeowners✅ Why no one has solved this problem (until now)✅ How Zero Homes is tackling the impossible scale of electrification in America✅ The hidden operational traps founders face in legacy industries✅ The resilience it really takes to build something betterIf you’re a sustainability founder, operator, or anyone trying to solve big practical challenges in housing or climate, you’ll find Grant’s approach both honest and inspiring.Listen now and learn how fixing frustrating systems at scale can unlock real climate impact - one home at a time.

When it comes to cleantech, good ideas aren’t enough - if you want real impact, the economics have to work first.Grizz Deal, co-founder of IXWater, has built nine companies by taking unused government lab tech and turning it into real businesses that solve huge industrial problems - like turning toxic wastewater into usable water for a fraction of the cost.In this episode, Grizz shares what most sustainability founders get backwards about scaling:💡 Why industries won’t adopt your green solution unless there’s a clear financial upside⚙️ How to survive the messy early phase of custom projects and unlock repeatable sales📈 Why selling your IP can be smarter than clinging to the CEO seat🌍 What it really takes to turn waste into a resource - and a business that lastsIf you’re building a sustainability company and want to make sure it actually works in the real world, this one’s for you.

What if the most valuable part of your product... isn’t what you built first?In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, Chris speaks with Cory Vanderpool, founder of Sprk - a company on a mission to give energy upgrades like solar panels real value in real estate transactions.With over a decade in the solar industry, Cory saw deals collapsing, value being lost, and no one bridging the gap between home energy systems and the people buying and selling those homes. So he built a new kind of company - one that’s creating the back-end infrastructure the clean energy market desperately needs.Together, we explore:🔹 Why most sustainability products struggle with messaging and market adoption🔹 The painful lesson of building the “wrong” feature - and what finally unlocked traction🔹 How Sprk chose one clear audience and stopped trying to solve every stakeholder’s problem🔹 What founders must understand about awareness stages and “meeting people where they’re at”🔹 Why building something great isn’t enough - you have to make sure people want itIf you’re a founder trying to scale in a complex or low-awareness market, this episode will hit home.

“Sustainable” isn’t enough, not if we’re still poisoning the planet.In this episode, I’m joined by Jonathan Appel, co-founder and CEO of Eden, a company developing regeneration tech that turns pollution into clean fuel, water, and fertiliser - with zero waste.But this conversation goes far beyond the tech.We dig into the real challenges sustainability founders face when trying to scale something meaningful, including:💡 Why “sustainability” is broken - and what should replace it📉 What stops climate tech from scaling, even when the product works🧠 How to lead through pressure, setbacks, and burnout⚡ Why mission-aligned capital matters more than fast capitalIf you’re building a purpose-led business and trying to grow without compromise, this one’s for you.🎙 Hosted by Chris JonesThe Plucky Bamboo Podcast - real stories and strategies behind scaling sustainability-focused businesses.📩 Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisg-jones/

In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, I sit down with Joe Phoenix, founder and CEO of Givinga — a fintech company powering corporate giving strategies from the inside out.We talk about the stuff most leaders don’t admit publicly:Why ESG can’t be a box-ticking exercise anymoreHow to delegate without dropping the ballWhat really builds trust at scale (hint: it’s not just messaging)And why growing a purpose-led business always takes 5x longer than you expectIf you’re a sustainability founder stuck between vision and execution, this episode is packed with grounded insight, strategic advice, and hard-earned lessons on building something that lasts.

Most sustainability founders are trying to balance two conflicting truths: the pressure to grow and the responsibility to stay true to their values. In this episode, Daniel Walton, founder of OLPRO, shares his hard-earned lessons from building one of the UK’s most recognisable sustainable outdoor brands.From navigating greenwashing fears to earning B Corp certification and adapting to fast-changing customer expectations, Daniel opens up about what’s worked, what’s failed, and why sustainability is now core to both product and brand strategy.You’ll learn why their early “loan a tent” initiative didn’t stick, how they’re using recycled materials without compromising quality, and what surprised him most about the B Corp process. If you’re a purpose-driven founder trying to build something that lasts — without losing your edge — this episode is packed with real-world insight.

What happens when your sustainability solution works - but the market isn’t ready?In this episode, Eyal Harel, CEO of BlueGreen Water Technologies, shares how their proven water remediation tech saw explosive success in Israel… and nearly took the company under when they tried to scale too fast into global markets.We talk about:How a single algal bloom caused $2.7B in economic damageWhy climate founders must learn to sell into conservative, hyper-regulated systemsThe painful lessons of scaling without validationPivoting into carbon credits to unlock growthAnd why 70% success should be “good enough” in environmental innovationThis isn’t a feel-good impact story - it’s a brutally honest breakdown of what it takes to grow when science, regulation, and public perception are all working against you.If you’re building in climate tech, water, or any mission-driven sector, this one’s for you.

Most sustainability companies talk about circularity — but few actually build systems that make it happen at scale.In this episode, Mikey Pasciuto, Co-Founder of Scrap, shares how his team turned a dorm-room idea into a fast-growing waste data company working with municipalities, brands, and stadiums to reduce landfill, improve packaging, and cut waste at the source.We discuss:✅ The real reason Smart Bins failed — and what worked instead✅ Why most businesses are “waste blind” (and losing money because of it)✅ How to sell into sustainability functions across wildly different orgs✅ The truth about SaaS in sustainability — and why white-glove wins✅ What to prioritize if you’re trying to scale impact and revenueWhether you’re an ops-minded founder or a systems-savvy sustainability leader, this one’s packed with practical takeaways to help you grow your business and your impact.

What happens when a sustainability company stops selling the mission—and starts selling real results?Thomas Grinnan, CEO of Data Company One, shares how his team transformed their business by connecting purpose to profit.In this episode, we dive into:✅ Why apps alone don’t change behavior—and what does✅ How to build a value proposition that actually leads to ROI✅ The real reason many sustainability sales fall flat✅ Fast feedback loops, lean product pivots, and CEO lessons in the trenches✅ How to qualify the right customers and stop chasing the wrong onesWhether you’re building a climate tech startup, scaling a purpose-driven business, or trying to sell sustainability in a tough market—this one’s full of lessons you can use right away.🎧 Follow The Plucky Bamboo Podcast for more conversations with the leaders shaping the future of sustainable business.

Scaling a purpose-driven business is hard — but it shouldn’t feel like a constant uphill battle.In this episode of the Plucky Bamboo Podcast, Chris speaks with Danielle Heward, founder of Optimo and expert in operational strategy for sustainability and social impact businesses.They dive into what really holds back mission-led companies as they grow - and spoiler alert: it’s not a lack of purpose or passion. It’s the systems, communication breakdowns, and poor processes that slowly drain your team’s energy and stall your impact.Expect a grounded, practical conversation covering:- Why passionate teams still get stuck- How to balance your mission with real operational excellence- The danger of chasing tech solutions before fixing the foundations- What sustainable scaling actually looks like - and how to get there- How B Corp certification shaped Optimo’s journey (and what Danielle learned from it)- The real cost of ignoring wellbeing as a founderWhether you’re running a 5-person startup or scaling a national sustainability brand, this episode is packed with insight to help you grow with clarity, structure, and impact.🎧 Tune in if you’re ready to build a business that runs as good as it does good.

What do you do when your buyers don’t care about carbon, but you’re running a sustainability business?In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, Chris speaks with Stuart Pearce, Founder and Managing Director of SmarTech Energy - a company that helps manufacturers and commercial businesses cut energy use, reduce costs, and meet compliance.But Stuart’s not just another energy consultant. Over the last decade, he’s built a high-trust, results-driven business in an industry where sustainability is often seen as a “nice to have”.Together, we explore:Why most clients don’t care about carbon (and why that’s OK)How Stuart wins and retains large B2B contracts with guaranteed savingsThe painful lesson he learned hiring a marketing agency to drive growthWhy many sustainability strategies fail without the right implementation partnerHow SmarTech’s shared savings model helps scale revenue without chasing new clients constantlyWhether you're a sustainability founder trying to sell into tough sectors - or a growth leader looking for better ways to scale your impact - this episode is packed with actionable insight.🎧 Subscribe for more interviews with founders, strategists, and leaders growing sustainability businesses that actually work.

Most sustainability businesses don’t fail because of their mission—they fail because they struggle with client acquisition, scaling, and navigating complex sales cycles.Too often, leaders assume sustainability sells itself, when in reality, companies that win don’t just “do good”—they make it easier for customers to choose them.That’s exactly what Kathleen Egan, CEO of EcoMedes, has spent her career solving.Through her work in sustainability tech, enterprise SaaS, and data-driven sales strategies, she’s proving that the real key to growth isn’t just being greener—it’s being smarter, faster, and more customer-centric.In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, we dive into:💡 Why sustainability alone won’t sell your product (and what actually does)🚀 The biggest mistake green businesses make in sales & marketing⚡ How data & automation are shaping the future of sustainability sales📢 Why businesses that lead with product & customer experience win more deals🔑 What sustainability founders must do to stay ahead of the competitionEcoMedes is helping companies remove friction from sustainable purchasing, making compliance and procurement faster, easier, and more profitable.Watch now to learn how to build a sustainability business that actually wins—without getting stuck in the “early adopter” trap.🔗 Connect with Kathleen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/egankathleen🔗 Learn more about Ecomedes: https://www.ecomedes.com/📩 Or connect with me: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisg-jones/

Most sustainability businesses don’t struggle because they lack purpose. They struggle because sustainability isn’t always an urgent priority for their customers.If your clients don’t feel the pain, they won’t take action.That’s exactly what Ian Ormerod, CEO & Founder of Switch to Zero, has learned while helping businesses measure, reduce, and act on their carbon footprint.Through his experience leading digital transformation at major banks and building a sustainability business from the ground up, he’s proving that the key to success isn’t just purpose - it’s strategy, positioning, and commercial value.In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, we dive into:💡 Why most businesses DON’T prioritize sustainability (and how to change that)🚀 The biggest mistakes companies make when selling sustainability⚡ How to position sustainability as a business advantage - not just a moral play📢 Why paid ads failed & what actually works for customer acquisition🔑 The mindset shift sustainability leaders MUST adopt to grow fasterSwitch to Zero has helped businesses across industries take meaningful, measurable action toward net zero.Watch now to learn how to sell sustainability effectively, scale your impact, and build a profitable, mission-driven business.🔗 Connect with Ian Ormerod: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-ormerod-switch2zero🔗 Learn more about Switch to Zero: https://www.switch2zero.com/📩 Or connect with me: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisg-jones/

Most sustainability businesses aren’t failing because of their mission. They’re failing because of the way they hire, build systems, and scale.Too often, leaders focus on short-term wins instead of designing a business that’s profitable, inclusive, and truly sustainable in the long run.That’s exactly what Lisa Baker, Head of Experience Design & Sustainability at Mima, helps companies get right. Through her work across sustainable business strategy, inclusive design, and impact-driven growth, she’s proving that the key to real success isn’t working harder - it’s working smarter.In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, we dive into:💡 Why most sustainability initiatives fail (and how to fix them)🚀 How to scale without sacrificing sustainability or profitability⚡ The biggest mistakes leaders make when balancing impact & growth📢 The business case for inclusivity & why diverse teams drive better results🔑 What sustainability founders MUST prioritize to future-proof their businessMima has helped businesses to make spaces, services and products accessible and inclusive to all.Watch now to learn how to build a sustainability business that thrives - without burning out or plateauing!🔗 Connect with Lisa Baker: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-baker-ab035615🔗 Learn more about Mima: https://mimagroup.com/📩 Or connect with me: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisg-jones/

Most mission-driven businesses struggle with a tough balance: making an impact while staying financially sustainable. But what if you could do both, without compromising on either?That’s exactly what Lucy Brophy Fernandez, Managing Director of Raleigh International, has done. After the organization went into voluntary liquidation, Lucy led its rebirth - building it from the ground up while staying true to its mission of empowering young people through meaningful, impact-driven expeditions.That’s how Raleigh International has continued to create transformative experiences, inspire future leaders, and make sustainability something people don’t just talk about - they live it.In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, we dive into:✅ The secret to balancing impact, cost, and experience in a purpose-driven business✅ Why trust and delegation are non-negotiables for scaling a sustainable organization✅ How to build a strong, mission-driven team culture that keeps people engaged✅ The biggest mistakes sustainability businesses make—and how to avoid themRaleigh’s model has helped thousands of young people step outside their comfort zones and take meaningful action for sustainability - while also building critical leadership skills for the future.🎥 Watch now to learn how purpose-driven businesses can scale, stay financially sustainable, and create a lasting impact!🔗 Connect with Lucy Brophy Fernandez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucy-constable🔗 Learn more about Raleigh International: https://raleighinternational.org/📩 Or connect with me: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisg-jones/

Most sustainability messaging either preaches to the choir or alienates the people who need to hear it most. But what if we could reframe the conversation so sustainability is a shared priority?That’s exactly what Lewis Jamieson, co-founder of Music Declares Emergency, is working to change. Through his work with artists, labels, and the wider music industry, he’s proving that collaboration and better communication are the real levers for driving sustainability forward.And the lessons apply far beyond music.In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, we dive into:🎸 Why businesses need to collaborate - not compete - —on sustainability📢 The real reason sustainability messaging fails (and how to fix it)💡 How to get skeptical stakeholders on board without greenwashing🚀 What the music industry can teach other sectors about driving change⚡ Why the best sustainability strategy is one that makes business senseMusic Declares Emergency has helped brands, artists, and industry leaders turn sustainability into action - not just a corporate talking point.Watch now to learn how businesses can communicate, collaborate, and create sustainability strategies that actually work.🔗 Connect with Lewis Jamieson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lewis-jamieson🔗 Learn more about Music Declares Emergency: https://www.musicdeclares.net/📩 Or connect with me: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisg-jones/

Most sustainability strategies look great on paper - until they meet the real world of corporate decision-making. What does it really take to build a business that’s profitable, resilient, and aligned with deep, unwavering values?That’s exactly what Mac Macartney has spent decades exploring. As a leadership expert and founder of Embercombe, Mac has worked with major corporations to embed sustainability into their DNA - and has seen first-hand the challenges leaders face when balancing purpose and profit.That’s why some of the most courageous sustainability-driven CEOs lost their jobs - not because they failed, but because they put values before what's more important to shareholders: short-term gains.In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, we dive into:- Why embedding sustainability in a business isn’t just about policies - it’s about radical honesty.- The hard truth about corporate sustainability efforts and why some leaders pay the price for prioritizing purpose.- How businesses can create a culture that drives sustainable growth instead of just ticking ESG boxes.- Why authentic leadership matters more than ever in today’s business world.- The biggest barriers to long-term sustainability and how companies can overcome them.- Mac’s insights cut through the noise and reveal what it really takes to lead a sustainability-driven business that thrives - without selling out its mission.Watch now to learn how to build a business that lasts, inspires, and makes an impact.🔗 Connect with Mac Macartney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/macmacartney🔗 Learn more about Embercombe: https://www.embercombe.org/📩 Or connect with me: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisg-jones/

Most sustainability efforts live in spreadsheets, reports, and boardroom discussions. But what if sustainability was something people could feel, experience, and connect with?That’s exactly what Jim Holland, co-founder of Carma, is doing. Instead of just tracking impact, Carma helps businesses make sustainability tangible by integrating tree-planting and nature-based solutions directly into their operations.That's how their clients end up with more engaged employees, stronger client relationships, and sustainability initiatives that actually stick.In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, we dive into:- How Carma turns sustainability into a hands-on experience for businesses- Why employee engagement is the missing link in corporate sustainability- How companies can make ESG feel real for clients and stakeholders- The challenges of scaling an impact-driven business—and how to overcome them- Why sustainability efforts fail when they stay trapped in data and reportsCarma’s model has helped businesses across industries make real, measurable impact while also strengthening their culture and brand.Watch now to learn how businesses can go beyond the numbers and turn sustainability into an experience that drives engagement, retention, and real change.🔗 Connect with Jim Holland: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-holland-carma🔗 Learn more about Carma: https://www.carma.earth/📩 Or connect with me: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisg-jones/

Making Sustainability the Default: How Wild VC is Changing the GameMost businesses still see sustainability as a “nice to have”. But what if it was the only option they were given?That’s exactly how John Bayly, founder of Wild, transformed how brands approach sustainability. Instead of waiting for clients to choose the greener option, his team made it the default. The results? Better impact, more adoption, and a business model that proves sustainability and profitability don’t have to be at odds.In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Podcast, we dive into:✅ How Wild VC makes sustainability seamless for big brands✅ The reality of balancing impact with profit in a competitive market✅ Why sustainability became easier to sell after COVID-19✅ Lessons from scaling a B Corp-certified company in a traditionally wasteful industryWild VC has worked with brands like British Fashion Council, AllSaints, and Selfridges, proving that businesses can go green without sacrificing performance.Watch now to learn how strategic thinking and bold leadership can make sustainability the standard, not the exception.

We fail fast here." In this episode of The Plucky Bamboo Growth Podcast, Amanda Spicer, COO and Co-founder of Your Eco, shares the leadership and business strategies that have driven their rapid growth in the renewables sector. She explains why hiring people "10 times better" than you is key to scaling, how fostering a "fail fast, but safely" culture builds trust, and why profit is essential for driving real sustainability impact.Amanda also discusses how Your Eco embeds a culture of continuous improvement through Kaizen principles, the power of accreditations like B Corp for credibility and talent attraction, and the importance of clear, structured leadership in high-growth businesses. If you’re a sustainability leader looking to scale while staying true to your mission, this episode is packed with insights you can apply today.

Welcome to the Plucky Bamboo Podcast!In this episode, I sit down with Rob Malin, founder of When In Rome Wine, to uncover how sustainability and profitability can work hand-in-hand. Rob shares his journey of disrupting the wine industry with innovative, eco-friendly packaging and a commitment to decarbonization.Key takeaways include:- Using verifiable climate impact data to gain a competitive edge with retailers.- Rethinking traditional packaging with new, eco-friendly formats like cans and paper bottles.- The importance of collaboration in driving industry-wide sustainability.Whether you’re a founder, CEO, or business leader in sustainability, Rob’s insights offer practical strategies and inspiring ideas to help you succeed.👉 Subscribe for more conversations with sustainability leaders!💡 What’s your biggest takeaway from Rob’s approach to combining impact and profit? Share your thoughts in the comments below!#Sustainability #BusinessGrowth

Welcome to the Plucky Bamboo Podcast!In this (very first!) episode, I sit down with Simon Lusby, Managing Director of City Science, to explore the innovative ways sustainability leaders tackle growth challenges. From building data-driven solutions for decarbonization to scaling impact as a small business, Simon shares practical strategies and actionable insights that any sustainability business leader can apply.Key takeaways include:Overcoming recruitment and retention hurdles in the sustainability sector.Leveraging partnerships within sustainability ecosystems for mutual growth.Using technology and data to streamline decision-making and accelerate decarbonization goals.Whether you're a founder, CEO, or changemaker in sustainability, this conversation offers valuable lessons to help you scale your impact and navigate the unique challenges of this sector.