The Green Collar Pod

Sandra is the co-founder of Good On You, the platform helping millions of shoppers instantly understand the sustainability of fashion and beauty brands. Since 2015, her team has rated over 7,000 brands, making it easier for us and many others to shop with our values.We chat about her journey from banking to building a global sustainability startup, the realities of fast (and ultra-fast) fashion, and how consumer choices can drive meaningful industry change. Sandra also shares insights on navigating overwhelm in sustainability, the power of thoughtful decision-making, and why communication is key to creating impact. We hope you enjoy! Resources and terms mentioned: Good On YouThredUpPoshmarkUltra-fast fashion Fast fashionFashion Sleuth InfluencerBuyerarchyAs podcasting goes, we had a few tech hiccups towards the end of the episode. Good thing we take notes while recording! Here are some resources Sandra mentioned that were not included on the final episode: The True Cost - film Elizabeth Cline - investigative journalist Over Dressed - Elizabeth Cline - bookThe Conscious Closet - Elizabeth Cline - bookSarah Kent - Business of Fashion Send us Fan Mail

To celebrate the upcoming Earth day and more than a year of podcasting, Green Collar presents a special episode! In this special role-reversal, the hosts become the hosted when a dear friend, Max Kriegsfeld, takes over the mic to interview us. What follows? A candid, occasionally chaotic, fun (and funny?) chat. The vibe is joining three pals for coffee to chat about a passion project.We span from childhood recycling squads (global edition 🌍), career considerations that almost included actuarial science and culinary school, to our hottest takes on the public transit, reusable water bottle hierarchies, and a few greenwashing myths that deserve to be thrown out (composted!) immediately.Resources Mentioned:🌱 Organizations, Professional Groups, & FrameworksCarbon Leadership Forum (CLF) U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) American Institute of Architects (AIA) Architecture 2030American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) 🎓 Certifications & CredentialsLEED Green AssociateCertified Energy ManagerLEED CertificationWELL CertificationTRUE Certification📱 Other things to Check OutClimate Action NowWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)'s iconic social media Plant-based plastic from Japan that dissolves in saltwater   Legislation to standardize “sell by / use by” labels to reduce food wasteSend us Fan Mail

Happy episode 30, Pod People! We hope you enjoy this conversation with Dr Maria Juenger. Dr Juenger studied and teaches about the materials that literally hold our built environment together, with an emphasis on chemical issues in cement-based materials. She's a professor at UT Austin (hook 'em!) and also the current present of the American Concrete Institute, where she helps to guide how industry uses the most common building material at a global scale. We chat about her work, how she infuses sustainability into coursework, and the importance of mentorship and organic connections. Resources and organizations mentioned: American Concrete Institute Check this out for webinars, certifications (Fundamentals of Concrete), and technical documents (like ACI 323 Low Carbon Concrete code)Students - membership is free! American Cement Association Check this out for free and reliable educational content. This is the best starting point for beginners! ACI 323 - Low Carbon Concrete Code Carbon Leadership ForumCheck this out for free and reliable technical content. There are local chapters in most regions who host events and webinars, so see if you have a hub nearby adn get invovled here. Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, we’re joined by Michael — a sustainability leader working at the intersection of construction, materials, and the built environment. Michael shares how his career evolved from an early interest in sustainable design to leading efforts that tackle one of the industry’s biggest challenges: reducing embodied carbon in buildings.We talk about why the materials we use in construction matter, how the industry is beginning to rethink waste and circularity, and where real progress is happening today. From certifications and policy to emerging tools and technologies, this conversation explores how sustainability professionals can drive meaningful change in the built environment.Connect with Michael on LinkedIn. Resources mentioned: MIT Energy Efficiency NewsletterCarbon Leadership Forum case studies USGBC and associated certifications LEED GALEED AP TRUEWELLOrganizations mentioned: Carbon Leadership Forum Built Environment Plus Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, we’re joined by Olivia Amyette, founder and CEO of Infinite Energy Advisors and the Solar Knowledge Institute. Olivia shares her remarkable journey: from launching a solar company at just 20 years old, to building Georgia’s only DOL-approved registered apprenticeship for solar construction and expanding access to affordable energy across the Southeast.We talk workforce development, navigating solar in rural communities, mentorship, and why energy needn’t be political — it is practical. Whether you’re sustainability-curious, considering entrepreneurship, or passionate about expanding opportunity, this conversation is full of heart, honesty, and tangible ways to create impact.Connect with Olivia on LinkedIn. Books: Freeing Energy: How Innovators Are Using Local-scale Solar and Batteries to Disrupt the Global Energy Industry from the Outside In by Bill NusseyClean Economy Now: Stories from the Frontlines of an American Business Revolution by Bob KeefeResources & Companies Mentioned:Young Urban Builders (YUB) program part of Athens Land TrustBob Keefe's episodeInfinite Energy AdvisorsSolar Knowledge InstituteHabitat for HumanityE2UGA Small Business Development CenterSend us Fan Mail

In this episode, we’re joined by Christy Cannon, an energy industry expert with 25 years of experience navigating electric markets, energy management, and building technology. Christy shares her career journey: from helping guide Texas through electric deregulation to building energy programs from the ground up and now working on energy automation at Yardi.We also talk mentorship, career pivots, and why sustainability isn’t a niche role, it’s a mindset that can show up in any job. Whether you’re deep in energy or just sustainability-curious, this conversation is full of practical insights and encouragement for building a long, meaningful career.Connect with Christy on LinkedIn. Resources mentioned: Natural Capitalism by Amory LovinsReinventing Fire by Amory LovinsMother Earth NewsTerms/certifications mentioned: Certified Energy Manager (CEM) from AEEThe Council on Women in Energy & Environmental Leadership (CWEEL) from AEESend us Fan Mail

In this episode, we’re joined by Lindsey Machamer, Division Manager for Park Development at the Austin Parks and Recreation Department, to explore how sustainability, resilience, and equity show up in the design and delivery of public spaces. Lindsey shares her career journey from civil engineering to municipal leadership, offering an inside look at how cities like Austin use tools such as LEED, SITES, and Envision to shape parks, trails, and infrastructure. We discuss green stormwater infrastructure, nature-based play, circular economy practices like deconstruction and materials reuse, and the critical role cities can play as first adopters of sustainable practices. Lindsey also reflects on mentorship, change management, and why she firmly believes every job can be a green job—making this episode both practical and inspiring for anyone working to shift the status quo. BooksA Natural History of Empty Lots by Christopher BrownCertificationsLEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) SITES - a rating system for sustainable landscapes Envision - a rating system for infrastructure projectsSend us Fan Mail

In this episode, we’re joined by Annise Maguire, an environmental attorney turned sustainability and ESG strategist, to explore a career shaped by environmental justice, global impact, and bold pivots. Annise walks us through her journey from environmental litigation and transactional law to ESG advisory roles across NGOs, Fortune 500 companies, and global law firms, and ultimately to founding GLISS—the Global Incubator for Sustainability Services—after relocating to Paris. We discuss how ESG evolved from a niche concept to a politicized flashpoint, the role of private capital in driving environmental solutions, and why Annise believes connection, community, and well-being are critical to sustaining impact in today’s climate. This conversation is both a candid career roadmap and a thoughtful reflection on resilience, leadership, and creating meaningful change in an increasingly complex world. Connect with Annise on LinkedIn. Resources:We couldn't find the reel about impact of being vegan for 1 day of the week but here is an article about the original research.Annise's recipe recommendationSend us Fan Mail

In this episode, we’re joined by renowned entomologist, ecologist, and author Doug Tallamy to explore how everyday landscapes—from backyards to balconies—can become powerful tools for conservation. Doug shares his career journey, explains why native plants are essential to healthy ecosystems, and introduces the concept of Homegrown National Park, a grassroots effort to restore biodiversity on private land. We discuss the critical role insects play in supporting food webs, practical actions anyone can take to help reverse biodiversity loss, and why empowering individuals is key to the future of conservation. The conversation leaves listeners with both urgency and optimism, showing that meaningful environmental impact can begin right at home. BooksCaterpillars of Western North America by David WagnerPrinceton Field Guide Moths of Western North America by Seabrooke LeckieBooks by Doug TallamyBringing Nature HomeThe Living LandscapeNature’s Best Hope The Nature of Oaks How Can I Help?Organizations & WebsitesHomegrown National Park  - Including the Biodiversity Map / Firefly Map and Ecoregion finder and Native plant resourcesMount Cuba Center in Hockessin, Delaware - Referenced as a premier example of native plant landscapingThe Caterpillar Lab in Keene, New Hampshire - Run by Sam JaffeDocumentariesThe Incredible Caterpillar Concepts & CampaignsLeave the Leaves campaignMiyawaki Forests Keystone PlantsSend us Fan Mail

In this special year-in-review episode of The Green Collar Pod, co-hosts Aparna and Kiersten reflect on their first full year of podcasting with no guest, just honest conversation, data, and highlights from 22 episodes. They share listener stats, favorite moments, memorable job titles, and the guest insights that challenged how they think about sustainability, careers, and balance. The episode also spotlights good sustainability news from 2025, from record-setting solar growth and methane reductions to wildlife conservation wins and cleaner city air.Books: Nature’s Best Hope - Doug TallamyReports, articles, resources: IEA 2025 Renewables ReportWRI Clean Energy Insights'Lost' gecko species thought to be extinct rediscovered in South AfricaScientists say North Atlantic right whale population slowly increasingLondon meets legal NO2 limit nearly 200 years earlyGreen Jobs Good NewsRight to RepairTerracycle Recycling ProgramsSend us Fan Mail

Greg Ross is a senior climate analyst at Cheniere Energy, where he focuses on greenhouse gas measurement, mitigation, and verification across the North American natural gas supply chain. A Houston native now based in Washington, DC, Greg brings a rare combination of deep technical expertise and genuine climate motivation to his work—shaped in part by his background in chemical engineering and liberal arts at the University of Texas at Austin. With experience in electricity modeling, supply-chain emissions analysis, and industry-leading methane measurement initiatives, Greg offers an insider’s perspective on how the oil and gas sector is evolving to meet modern climate challenges. Connect with Greg on LinkedIn. BooksOne Thousand Vines by Pascaline LepeltierOther Energy Concepts & DefinitionsOGMP 2.0 (Oil and Gas Methane Partnership 2.0) EEMDL – Energy Emissions Modeling & Data Lab Fugitive Methane Emissions Emission Factors Interconnection Queue Mercaptan QMRV (Quantification, Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification)Send us Fan Mail

Today we’re joined by Jillian Hansen, Market Intelligence Lead at US Solar, who shares her journey from aspiring political campaigner to renewable energy expert and distributed generation advocate. Jillian walks listeners through her evolving roles in community solar development, subscriber origination, and now market expansion, while breaking down key industry concepts like distributed generation, non-wires alternatives, and the growing role of battery energy storage. She reflects on the mentors and peers who shaped her path, how graduate school unlocked her passion for energy markets, and how she brings sustainability into her community through St. Paul’s Climate Action Advisory Board. Packed with technical insights, career advice, and a clear-eyed view of where solar is headed, the episode shines a light on the rapidly changing energy landscape—and the people helping shape its future. Connect with Jillian on LinkedIn. Podcasts VoltsCatalystCurrents (Norton Rose Fulbright)The Energy GangNews & Analysis ResourcesUtility DiveConstellation Energy weekly market updatesRTO Insider (subscription-based but frequently referenced)Conferences & Industry EventsNew Project Media DG ConferenceWood Mackenzie Distributed Generation ConferenceVERGE (broader climate & sustainability conference, part of Trellis)Energy & Policy Concepts MentionedFERC Order 2222PJM ERCOT market structureEnergy Markets ExplainerNon-Wires Alternatives 101Distributed Generation (DG) overviewLocal SustainabilitySt. Paul, MN Climate ActionSend us Fan Mail

Today we’re joined by Laurent Canneva, co-founder and CEO of Spare It. Trained as a pharmacist with a business background, he spent 17 years at Sanofi leading commercial operations across France, Belgium, and the U.S. Five years ago, he made the leap from human health to planetary health, founding Spare-it, a company using data and technology to help organizations cut waste, lower carbon emissions, and drive real sustainability impact.Connect with Laurent on LinkedIn. Concepts, Terms, & Certifications mentioned: TRUE Zero Waste Advisor CertificationEPA Waste StatsMaterials Recovery Facility (MRF)Send us Fan Mail

Today we’re joined by Peyton Ridland, Business Development Lead for FuelCell Energy across the western U.S. Peyton has dedicated his career to driving decarbonization through clean energy technologies like fuel cells, hydrogen production, and carbon capture. His work bridges technical innovation and commercial strategy—all with a focus on helping both people and the planet thrive.Connect with Peyton on LinkedIn. Books mentioned: The Hydrogen Revolution - Marco AlveràThe Story of CO2 - Geoffrey Ozin, Mireille Ghoussoub Drawdown - Paul HawkenTerms mentioned: Fuel cells Electrolyzers Carbon captureIndividuals mentioned: Mark Feasel Alan LeongJim McNernySend us Fan Mail

Welcome back to the Green Color Pod! Today we’re joined by Mahesh Ramanujam, co-founder, president, and CEO of the Global Network for Zero, and former CEO of the U.S. Green Building Council—an internationally recognized leader driving health, equity, and decarbonization in the built environment and beyond.Connect with Mahesh on LinkedIn. Books mentioned: Start With Why by Simon SinekInitiatives/Organizations mentioned: Global Network for Zero USGBCGBCIArcLEEDGRESBTerms mentioned:  Scopes 1, 2, 3Net Zero Individuals mentioned: Rick FedrizziSarah Merricks Send us Fan Mail

Forester, author, and social media educator Ethan Tapper joins the podcast to share his unconventional journey into forestry, from wilderness expeditions done for love to becoming a leading voice on ecosystem stewardship. He reflects on the dualities of forestry—how cutting trees or using tools like chainsaws can be acts of regeneration and love—while stressing the importance of communication, responsibility, and hope in caring for forests. Listeners will walk away with a deeper understanding of how to build more meaningful relationships with nature and how to embrace both nuance and action in environmentalismConnect with Ethan on Instagram and his website.Resources: Books & AuthorsHow to Love a Forest — Ethan TapperNature’s Best Hope — Doug TallamyEager and Crossings — Ben GoldfarbThe Hidden Forest: Biography of an Ecosystem — Jon LuomaRunes of the North — Sigurd OlsonA Sand County Almanac — Aldo LeopoldBraiding Sweetgrass and Gathering Moss — Robin Wall KimmererThe Sixth Extinction — Elizabeth KolbertWorks by E.O. Wilson AppsMerlin Bird ID from Cornell Lab of OrnithologySeek (Android or Apple) from iNaturalist OrganizationsAudubon VermontVermont Land TrustVermont Woodlands AssociationThe Nature ConservancyTerms mentioned: Consulting Forester — A forester who works with private landowners to manage their forests sustainably.Service Forester / County Forester — A publicly funded forester who provides guidance and resources to landowners, conservation groups, and loggers (in Vermont, called county foresters).Production Forestry — A forestry approach focused on maximizing timber yield efficiently, often contrasted with ecological or conservation-focused forestry.Ecosystem Stewardship — The practice of managing forests (or other ecosystems) with a holistic focus on health, biodiversity, and long-term sustainability.Deep Environmentalism — A term Ethan coined to describe an evolved form of environmentalism that goes beyond preventing harm to actively healing and regenerating ecosystems.Introduced Invasive Plants — Non-native plants that spread aggressively, displacing native species and disrupting ecosystems.Send us Fan Mail

Norwegian economist Ingrid Eileen Stevens joins us to share her journey from oil & gas to sustainable waste and water management, exploring biogas, circular economy innovations, and how Norway balances oil wealth with climate leadership.Connect with Ingrid on LinkedIn and learn more about IVAR. Resources: In Good Company - podcastMinistry for the Future by Kim Stanley Robinson - bookVenomous Lumpsucker by Ned Beauman - bookRead up about how folks set a max price on electricity by looking at a recent case study from the PJM capacity market. Terms mentioned: BiogasVATBiocharSend us Fan Mail

 Featuring Scott Tew, founder of Trane Technologies’ Center for Energy Efficiency and Sustainability, we talk about growing up on a small farm, translating science into action, embedding sustainability into business strategy, and leading the company’s bold Gigaton Challenge. Connect with Scott on LinkedIn. Learn more about Trane Technologies.Resources:Books:Make Work Matter: How to Create Positive Change in Your Company and Meaning in Your Career by Nancy McGawNet Positive by Paul PolmanNavigating Sustainable Growth: A Roadmap for Boards and Corporate Leaders Perfect by Gib HedstromOthers:Gigaton ChallengeESG NavigatorTerms Mentioned:RefrigerantMateriality AssessmentPareto PrincipleElectric Arc Furniture vs Traditional FurnacesSend us Fan Mail

Featuring Stacy Savage, the "Texas Trash Talker," we talk about the journey from slinging margaritas to lobbying for landmark e-waste legislation, starting her own business, and diving deep into circularity. Connect with Stacy on LinkedIn.Stacy's website: Zero Waste StrategiesResources:Books:Cradle to Cradle by William McDonough & Michael BraungartCertifications: TRUE Zero Waste LEED WELL SITESOrganizations:Zero Waste International Alliance Ellen MacArthur FoundationThe Story of Stuff ProjectSend us Fan Mail

A conversation with Debi Rednik, Senior Director of Legal and Compliance at Solstice! Connect with Debi on LinkedIn. Terms mentioned: Community solarPPAIndividuals mentioned and resources: Career coach Beth OffenbackerTerraCycle snack & candy wrapper boxSend us Fan Mail

Featuring Bob Keefe, the Executive Director of E2! We talk the economic impact of IRA, depoliticizing climate action, and advice to future sustainability leaders!Connect with Bob on LinkedIn. Resources:BooksClean Economy Now: Stories from the Frontlines of an American Business Revolution by Bob KeefeClimatenomics: Washington, Wall Street, and the Economic Battle to Save our Planet by Bob KeefeFreeing Energy: How Innovators Are Using Local-scale Solar and Batteries to Disrupt the Global Energy Industry from the Outside In by Bill NusseyCreating Climate Wealth by Jigar ShahDavid and Goliath: Underdogs, Misfits, and the Art of Battling Giants by Malcolm GladwellFollowing the Equator by Mark TwainThe War Below: Lithium, Copper, and the Global Battle to Power Our Lives by Ernest Scheyder The Heat Will Kill You First: Life and Death on a Scorched Planet by Jeff GoodellDigital Tools E2’s Clean Energy Projects Tracker  Send us Fan Mail

Sarah Fisher from ICF joins us to talk EV charging, fleet electrification, and making clean transportation more accessible. From career advice to range anxiety myths, this episode is packed with real talk and practical insights.Resources: Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC)EV News Daily - podcastVolts - podcast and newsletterGreen Tech MediaEV owners group/local meetups City and state government programs around EVsFacts checked: DC's Circulator bus is indeed electric!  But sadly for public transit lovers, this service was discontinued at the end of 2024. Send us Fan Mail

Featuring Justin Den Herder, who is not only a structural engineer from TY Lin, but also a professor of Structural Poetics, and a poet! Connect with Justin on LinkedIn. Terms mentioned:Adaptive reuse - "In architecture, adaptive reuse (also called building reuse) refers to the repurposing of an existing structure for new use." Mass timber - "Mass timber is a new category of wood product that can revolutionize how America builds. It is comprised of multiple solid wood panels nailed or glued together, which provide exceptional strength and stability."Circularity - "Circularity is the economic concept of reusing or regenerating products and resources throughout the value chain to reduce waste. It is the foundational idea behind the circular economy."Resources:Finding the Mother Tree: Discovering the Wisdom of the Forest by Suzanne SimardDesigning the Forest and Other Mass Timber Futures by Lindsey Wikstrom Migration: New & Selected Poems by W.S. Merwin Pilot ProjectsCities4ForestsDesign for Freedom by Grace FarmsFact Checks:Justin mentions that 66% of the of the world's population will live in urban centers by 2050 but wasn't sure - he was pretty close! According to the UN, "55% of the world’s population lives in urban areas, a proportion that is expected to increase to 68% by 2050." Send us Fan Mail

There's so much buzz around Episode 9 of Green Collar! We have a fun conversation with Natalie here about the importance of pollinators, recognition days like Bee Day and No Mow May, and even get some insight on how Natalie BEE-came an expert in her field! (Hint: it might be from watching a classic movie about bees). Connect with Natalie on LinkedIn. Resources:The Bee Movie - available on Apple TV, YouTube TV, Google Play, and Amazon VideoNational Bee DayNo Mow MaySend us Fan Mail

Featuring Dr. Kiran Mohanraj, a serendipitous sustainability pal made by chance on a flight.He is a pavement engineer who breaks down myths about zero-emission vehicles, pavement-vehicle interaction, and what true sustainability really means—plus drops some solid dad jokes along the way. Connect with Kiran on LinkedIn.Terms mentioned:Heat Island EffectResources:Energy and Civilization: A History by Vaclav SmilAPLCA and the LCA Certified ProfessionalSend us Fan Mail

Please note there was an edit made to the audio in April, 2026. Featuring Veni Mittal, a dear friend and proud volunteer for Etna Community Organization. We'll talk about how to revitalize vacant parking lots, how to create community centers from scratch, and how to empower yourself and others to make grassroots change.  Terms mentioned: Energy burdenResources mentioned:Environmental Welfare Society Rebuilding Together PittsburghBPI Certification ProgramEtna Community Organization Evolve EA's website with EcoDistrictsEcoDistricts (Just Communities) certification Individuals mentioned: Megan TuñónRobert TuñónMary Ellen RamageSend us Fan Mail

Featuring Fulya Kocak, one of the first ever LEED accredited professionals a sustainability educator, author, and entrepreneur.Join us as we chat about ESG, mentorship, navigating periods where "green jobs" aren't plentiful, and anticipating industry trends.Terms mentioned: Green premiumsResources mentioned:Fulya's LinkedIn Learning Courses - Note: not all courses on the LinkedIn learning platform are available for free. If you are a student, check with your university, many offer access to the full LinkedIn learning catalogue. Professionals, be sure to ask your employer as they also offer this benefit.Companies and Projects:Case study on the EPA Headquarters project mentionedNAREITSend us Fan Mail

Featuring Gretchen Carey from Republic ServicesJoin us as we chat about all things community engagement, education, and recycling! Terms mentioned: Right sizing your waste collection/containersResources mentioned:Mass Recycle - podcastMass Recycle - handbookTRUE Waste Advisor - certification via USGBCSend us Fan Mail

Featuring Christina Cuellar Nelson from CxAlloy.  Join us as we chat about all things commissioning, conferences, and smart buildings! Terms mentioned: Base loadIslandingResources mentioned:Kiss the Ground - movieStart with Why by Simon Sinek - book Last Energy's Small Modular Reactors Data Center Dynamics - newsletterUptime Institute - newsletterSend us Fan Mail

 Featuring Sophie Martin from Page.  Join us as we chat about all things building science, from the LEED rating system to how to design a sustainable building from its inception. Resources mentioned:The Building Science Podcast - podcast Cowspiracy - documentary Seaspiracy - documentary (on Netflix, need subscription)Dark Waters - filmAll We Can Save edited by Ayana Elizabeth Johnson and Katharine K. Wilkinson - book of essays and poetrySend us Fan Mail

Featuring Alejandra Menchaca  from AIRLIT studio.  Join us as we chat about mentorship, entrepreneurship, and how to be "sneakily" sustainable in the workplace.   Resources mentioned:1. Healthy Buildings by Joe Allen and John D Macomber - bookSend us Fan Mail

Featuring Betsy Brunner from Idaho National Labs. Join us as we chat about environmental activism, the power of volunteering, and how to juggle making systematic change at a large lab while also being an adjunct professor. Resources mentioned: 1. Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer - book2. The Serviceberry by Robin Wall Kimmerer - book3. Kiss the Ground - movieSend us Fan Mail

Green Collar Pod will officially begin releasing episodes in Jan of 2025. For now, we will keep working and you can work on getting excited to go green!Send us Fan Mail