Riveo Impact Lab

Send us Fan MailWhat does it really look like to adopt AI in a way that puts people first? In this episode, we sit down with Dee C. Marshall, CEO and Managing Partner of AI Training Plus, to talk about workforce transformation, human-first AI adoption, and the future of work in an increasingly AI-powered world.With a background spanning leadership development, workplace culture, and equity, Dee brings a grounded and thoughtful perspective to one of the biggest shifts businesses are facing today. She shares why AI adoption is not just about technology, but about people, policy, trust, and long-term business impact.In this episode, you’ll hear about:-What “human-first AI adoption” really means-Why businesses need an AI ethics policy now-How AI can support—not replace—human creativity and critical thinking-Common concerns leaders have around AI implementation-Why small businesses need to start their AI journey sooner rather than laterTune in as we explore how businesses can approach AI responsibly, prepare their teams for change, and build a future where innovation and human value go hand in hand.The Riveo Impact Lab is produced for you by Riveo Creative. For more Riveo Impact Lab content, including the video versions of all our episodes, please visit https://riveocreative.com/riveo-impact-lab/.

Send us Fan MailWhat does it really mean for a business to live its values—and why does sustainability matter even more now?In this episode of the Riveo Impact Lab, Elin sits down with Mary Fehlig, Founder and President of The Fehlig Group, to explore how sustainability, ethical business practices, and commercial success are far more connected than many people realize. With more than 30 years of experience helping organizations navigate responsible business practices, Mary brings both a long-view perspective and a deeply practical approach to what it means to build a business that benefits people, planet, and profit.From her early work helping companies understand corporate responsibility before it was part of the mainstream conversation, to guiding businesses through today’s shifting political and cultural landscape, Mary shares why sustainability isn’t just a trend or compliance exercise—it’s a business imperative.In this conversation, we explore:Why sustainability must benefit the business in order to endureHow responsible business practices have evolved over the last three decadesWhy small businesses have more power and impact than they may thinkThe role of values in shaping business decisions and long-term successHow supply chains, consumer expectations, and purchasing power are driving changeWhy language like ESG and DEI can become complicated—and how to bring the conversation back to what really mattersIf you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or leader trying to make sense of sustainability in a changing world, this episode offers both encouragement and clarity.Because building a better business doesn’t mean doing everything at once—it starts with recognizing the impact you’re already making, and choosing to build from there.🎧 Listen now and discover how values-driven business can create meaningful impact—for your company, your community, and the future.The Riveo Impact Lab is produced for you by Riveo Creative. For more Riveo Impact Lab content, including the video versions of all our episodes, please visit https://riveocreative.com/riveo-impact-lab/.

Send us Fan MailWhat if the world’s “impossible” problems aren’t impossible at all—just waiting for someone to refuse to accept them?In this episode of the Riveo Impact Lab, Emily sits down with Mick Ebeling, Founder and CEO of Not Impossible Labs—an innovation studio dedicated to solving society’s “absurdities” through technology and storytelling. A three-time recipient of TIME Magazine’s Best Inventions of the Year, Mick has built a career around one core belief: if something feels unacceptable, do something about it.From creating a $100 eye-tracking device that allowed a paralyzed artist to create again, to launching the world’s first 3D-printing prosthetics lab in a refugee camp, to addressing food insecurity through their groundbreaking platform Bento, Mick shares how bold ideas begin with helping one person—and grow from there.In this conversation, we explore:What Mick means by identifying “absurdities” in societyWhy being a doer matters more than being a commentatorThe philosophy of “help one, help many”How storytelling amplifies impactWhat “frictionless innovation” looks like in actionWhy impact isn’t just what you do for others—but what it does for youIf you’re a small business owner, entrepreneur, or simply someone who feels overwhelmed by the scale of the world’s problems, this episode will leave you inspired—and equipped—to start where you are.Because sometimes, making an impact begins with refusing to walk past what doesn’t make sense.🎧 Listen now and take one small step toward making the impossible… not impossible.The Riveo Impact Lab is produced for you by Riveo Creative. For more Riveo Impact Lab content, including the video versions of all our episodes, please visit https://riveocreative.com/riveo-impact-lab/.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we sit down with Chandra Chea for a candid and thoughtful conversation about leadership, lived experience, and the weight of decision-making. Chandra shares her personal journey, the moments that shaped her perspective, and how navigating complex systems has influenced the way she leads, listens, and advocates for others.Together, we explore what it means to lead with empathy while still making hard calls, how identity and experience inform leadership styles, and why representation and accountability matter—especially when decisions have real human impact. This episode invites listeners to reflect on power, responsibility, and the kind of leaders we need moving forward.Whether you’re a leader, changemaker, or someone thinking deeply about impact and equity, this conversation offers insight, honesty, and practical wisdom.The Riveo Impact Lab is produced for you by Riveo Creative. For more Riveo Impact Lab content, including the video versions of all our episodes, please visit https://riveocreative.com/riveo-impact-lab/.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Riveo Impact Lab, Elin sits down with Beth Bengtson, founder of Working for Women, to explore what it truly means for small businesses to become a force for social good. Beth shares her journey—from the high-powered world of 1990s Wall Street to discovering a deeper purpose in elevating women’s economic mobility. Together, they unpack the roots of her passion for purpose-driven business, the global experiences that shaped her worldview, and the pivotal moments that fueled her commitment to gender equity.Beth explains how Working for Women is changing lives by creating economic pathways, building supportive communities, and reshaping the narrative around financial independence for women—especially those from marginalized backgrounds. She and Elin also dive into the practical side of social impact: how even the smallest businesses can integrate purpose into their operations, why community matters more than ever, and the cultural shift happening around women, money, and empowerment.Filled with inspiring stories, strategic insights, and a powerful call to action, this episode reminds us that impact begins with intention—and that small businesses can be catalysts for big change.The Riveo Impact Lab is produced for you by Riveo Creative. For more Riveo Impact Lab content, including the video versions of all our episodes, please visit https://riveocreative.com/riveo-impact-lab/.

Send us Fan MailWhat does it really mean when corporations talk about diversity, equity, and inclusion? Are companies backing away from these commitments—or doubling down? In this episode of Riveo Impact Lab, host Elin Barton sits down with journalist and author Nancy Levine Stearns to uncover the truth behind corporate DEI in 2025. From Costco’s bold stand against anti-DEI proposals to shareholder votes at Apple, Merck, and Target, Nancy shares her front-row insights into why boards and investors are overwhelmingly backing inclusion. Together, they explore: The myths and misinformation fueling the “DEI is dead” narrativeWhy shareholder votes show the opposite storyHow diversity strengthens business outcomes for companies of all sizesWhat small businesses can learn from multinational corporationsThe role of journalism in holding companies accountable—and offering hopeNancy also reflects on her own journey—from corporate HR to authoring The Dao of Pug to documenting today’s high-stakes debates in business. Her message is clear: courage is contagious, and impact happens when values meet action. 👉 Tune in to discover how corporations, consumers, and communities are shaping the future of belonging—and why every voice matters.The Riveo Impact Lab is produced for you by Riveo Creative. For more Riveo Impact Lab content, including the video versions of all our episodes, please visit https://riveocreative.com/riveo-impact-lab/.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Riveo Impact Lab, Elin and Emily sit down with Monica Mockus, founder, CEO, and Executive Creative Director of mock5 design, a creative agency specializing in healthcare and wellness. With more than 20 years of experience as a designer and art director, Monica brings a unique perspective on building a purpose-driven business rooted in empathy, compassion, and a human-centered approach.Monica shares her journey of launching and leading mock5, the lessons she’s learned in fostering creativity while running a company, and how design can create meaningful impact in industries that touch people’s lives most directly. The conversation dives into sustainability, leadership, and the balance of creativity with business strategy—offering valuable insights for entrepreneurs, creatives, and leaders alike.Tune in to hear Monica’s inspiring story, and discover how purpose-driven design can transform not just brands, but communities.The Riveo Impact Lab is produced for you by Riveo Creative. For more Riveo Impact Lab content, including the video versions of all our episodes, please visit https://riveocreative.com/riveo-impact-lab/.

Send us Fan MailHow can small businesses take real climate action without massive budgets or in-house experts? In this episode, we sit down with Mike Smith, founder and CEO of Aclymate—a platform designed to simplify carbon tracking and sustainability for everyday business owners. From serving as a Navy commander to leading major reforestation efforts, Mike’s path to climate tech wasn’t typical—but it’s one filled with purpose. In this episode, you’ll hear about:What Aclymate does to make carbon tracking easy for small businessesWhy sustainability is a smart move for business growth and resilienceTips for getting started with emissions tracking—even if you’re busyThe surprising impact small businesses can have on climate progressTune in as we explore how Aclymate is making sustainability practical, why it matters for your business, and how even small steps can lead to big impact.The Riveo Impact Lab is produced for you by Riveo Creative. For more Riveo Impact Lab content, including the video versions of all our episodes, please visit https://riveocreative.com/riveo-impact-lab/.

Send us Fan MailWhat does it look like to lead with authenticity—and build power by embracing what makes you different?In this episode of Riveo Impact Lab, co-hosts Elin Barton and Emily Adams sit down with Ashley Brundage, author, speaker, and the first transgender person to win any election in Florida. From navigating homelessness to founding a leadership company and running for state office, Ashley shares her powerful story of resilience and impact.Tune in as we discuss:How Ashley built her four-step empowerment modelThe data behind her DEI work—and why tracking outcomes mattersWhat it means to go beyond allyship and practice active sponsorshipHer groundbreaking political run and what it taught her about leadershipHow visibility can shift culture in every room where power is builtThis episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about inclusion, equity, and leading meaningful change from wherever you are.The Riveo Impact Lab is produced for you by Riveo Creative. For more Riveo Impact Lab content, including the video versions of all our episodes, please visit https://riveocreative.com/riveo-impact-lab/.

Send us Fan MailHow can businesses take small, meaningful steps toward inclusivity — and why is accessibility not just ethical, but strategic?In this episode of Riveo Impact Lab, co-hosts Elin Barton and Emily Adams welcome Amy Graves, California Chapter President of NAWBO, founder and CEO of Hidden Consumer Consulting, and author of The Hidden Consumer. Amy shares her personal and professional journey as a disabled entrepreneur and industry consultant, and explores how accessibility and inclusive practices drive both human and business impact.Tune in as we discuss:The real-life challenges that inspired Amy’s mission-driven workHow accessible practices lead to broader market reach and brand loyaltyWhy accessibility should be embedded in company culture — not bolted onEasy first steps any leader can take to make their workplace more inclusiveWhether you're just starting out or seeking to deepen your understanding, this conversation offers powerful insights into building a business that includes everyone.The Riveo Impact Lab is produced for you by Riveo Creative. For more Riveo Impact Lab content, including the video versions of all our episodes, please visit https://riveocreative.com/riveo-impact-lab/.

Send us Fan MailHow can small businesses foster truly inclusive environments?In this episode of Riveo Impact Lab, we dive into the vital conversation around inclusion, respect, and belonging in the workplace and beyond.Join us for an insightful discussion with Fiona Dawson, Emmy-nominated filmmaker, bestselling author, and expert in LGBTQIA+ inclusion. Fiona’s work, including Transgender, at War and in Love and Transmilitary, has challenged perceptions and sparked critical conversations on representation and equity. She is also the author of Are Bisexuals Just Greedy? and What Does That LGBTQIA Label Mean?, books that unpack gender and sexuality with humor and clarity.Together, we’ll explore what it means to create truly inclusive spaces—whether in business, media, or everyday interactions. Fiona shares powerful stories, lessons from her advocacy, and actionable strategies for fostering an environment where all individuals feel seen, valued, and respected.Tune in to Riveo Impact Lab and be part of the conversation on making inclusion more than just a buzzword—it’s time for real, meaningful change.The Riveo Impact Lab is produced for you by Riveo Creative. For more Riveo Impact Lab content, including the video versions of all our episodes, please visit https://riveocreative.com/riveo-impact-lab/.

Send us Fan MailChocolate is a treat we all love—but what if we told you that most of it comes at a cost? In this episode of Riveo Impact Lab, we sit down with Noel, U.S. Communications Specialist for Tony’s Chocolonely, to uncover the harsh realities of the chocolate industry and how one company is fighting for change.Noel shares Tony’s Chocolonely’s bold mission to end exploitation in cocoa farming, the company’s unconventional origins, and how they’re using storytelling, branding, and transparency to reshape the industry. We also discuss how consumers can make more ethical purchasing decisions—without feeling overwhelmed.From unequally divided chocolate bars to partnerships with major retailers, Tony’s Chocolonely is proving that business can be a force for good—one chocolate bar at a time.Tune in to learn how your choices can create sweet change.The Riveo Impact Lab is produced for you by Riveo Creative. For more Riveo Impact Lab content, including the video versions of all our episodes, please visit https://riveocreative.com/riveo-impact-lab/.

Send us Fan MailJoin us for this episode of Riveo Impact Lab as we explore resilience and well-being with Nicole Van Valen, CEO of Keane Insights. Nicole shares her journey from professional dancer to licensed therapist and business leader, as well as insights from her Three Stages Along Your Resilience Journey™. Discover how leaders can foster team resilience, manage stress, and create cultures of joy and inclusion, all while improving performance and well-being. Gain actionable tips for cultivating resilience and bringing more joy into your leadership and life. Tune in for a conversation full of inspiration and practical advice!The Riveo Impact Lab is produced for you by Riveo Creative. For more Riveo Impact Lab content, including the video versions of all our episodes, please visit https://riveocreative.com/riveo-impact-lab/.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Riveo Impact Lab, we tackle the crucial topic of human solidarity in a fractured world. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with actor and activist Hank Azaria, and Berwick Mahdi Davenport, co-founder of the Human Solidarity Project.Hank Azaria shares his personal journey of understanding and confronting bias, offering valuable insights into how we can all do better. Berwick Mahdi Davenport brings his expertise on fostering empathy and building bridges across differences, providing practical strategies for cultivating a more inclusive and connected society.Tune in as we explore the power of human connection and discover how we can move towards a more unified future.The Riveo Impact Lab is produced for you by Riveo Creative. For more Riveo Impact Lab content, including the video versions of all our episodes, please visit https://riveocreative.com/riveo-impact-lab/.

Send us Fan MailJoin us for the inaugural episode of Riveo Impact Lab, a podcast where we delve into the intersection of small businesses, sustainability, diversity, and ethical decision-making in today's ever-changing world.    In this episode, we sit down with Sergio Rapu, a filmmaker and the creative force behind Mara Films. Sergio's work, including the award-winning documentary "Eating Up Easter," has been featured on prominent platforms such as the History Channel, Discovery, National Geographic, and PBS.    Throughout our conversation, we'll explore Sergio's journey into filmmaking, the profound impact of his work, and the crucial role of storytelling in fostering positive change. Discover the lessons Sergio has learned about community engagement, ethical film production, and the power of documentaries to inspire action.    Tune in to Riveo Impact Lab and join the conversation on how small businesses can make a real difference in the world.The Riveo Impact Lab is produced for you by Riveo Creative. For more Riveo Impact Lab content, including the video versions of all our episodes, please visit https://riveocreative.com/riveo-impact-lab/.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to the Riveo Impact Lab, the podcast in which we explore what it means for small businesses to have real impact in an evolving world. In this podcast, we engage our curiosity on topics like sustainability, diversity and inclusion and the ethical outcomes of our decisions, all from a small business perspective. Subscribe wherever you listen so you don't miss out on any of our incredible upcoming guests. We'll see you soon at the Riveo Impact Lab!The Riveo Impact Lab is produced for you by Riveo Creative. For more Riveo Impact Lab content, including the video versions of all our episodes, please visit https://riveocreative.com/riveo-impact-lab/.