
Disruptors for GOOD | Social Entrepreneurs and Social Enterprises
Disruptors for GOOD is a podcast that showcases global social entrepreneurship and social enterprises committed to ethical fashion, impact investing, climate mitigation, sustainable travel, and businesses generating positive global impact. Through in-depth interviews, Grant Trahant, the founder of Causeartist, engages with innovative and impactful startups and brands worldwide.
Latest episodes

Jul 3, 2023 • 25min
Harnessing the Power of the Ocean to Create Sustainable Textiles - Tessa Callaghan and Aleks Gosiewski, Co-founders of Keel Labs
----------------------------------------Spotlighting impact startups, brands, and founders.We feature social impact startups, conscious brands, and visionary founders shaping the future of business. Join thousands—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, the latest funding rounds, digital tool reviews, and curated products fueling the impact economy.To learn more, please visit causeartist.comIn episode 194 of the Disruptors for GOOD podcast, I speak with Tessa Callaghan and Aleks Gosiewski, Co-founders of Keel Labs on harnessing the power of the ocean to create sustainable textiles.The fashion industry is one of the most polluting industries in the world. The production of textiles requires a significant amount of water, energy, and chemicals, and it releases harmful emissions into the environment.In recent years, there has been a growing movement to create more sustainable textiles. One company at the forefront of this movement is Keel Labs. Keel Labs is a company that develops and produces seaweed-based textiles. Their flagship product is Kelsun™, a yarn made from the biopolymers found in kelp.Kelp is one of the most abundant and renewable resources on the planet, and it grows rapidly. This makes it a sustainable alternative to traditional textile fibers, such as cotton and polyester.Keel Labs - Kelsun™ Advantages Over Traditional Textile FibersFirst, it is much more environmentally friendly. The production of Kelsun™ requires less water, energy, and chemicals than the production of traditional textiles.Second, Kelsun™ is biodegradable. This means that it will break down naturally in the environment, without leaving behind any harmful pollutants.Third, Kelsun™ has a number of unique properties that make it ideal for use in textiles. It is soft, strong, and moisture-wicking. It is also naturally UV-resistant.Keel Labs is committed to creating a more sustainable future for the fashion industry. They believe that Kelsun™ can help to reduce the environmental impact of textiles, and they are working to make Kelsun™ more widely available.How Kelsun™ is MadeKelsun™ is made from the biopolymers found in kelp. Kelp is a type of seaweed that grows rapidly in the ocean. It is a renewable resource, meaning that it can be replanted and harvested without depleting the ocean's ecosystem. To make Kelsun™, the kelp is first harvested from the ocean. It is then cleaned and processed to extract the biopolymers. The biopolymers are then spun into yarn, which can be used to make a variety of textiles.The Benefits of Kelsun™Kelsun™ has a number of benefits over traditional textile fibers.First, it is much more environmentally friendly. The production of Kelsun™ requires less water, energy, and chemicals than the production of traditional textiles.Second, Kelsun™ is biodegradable. This means that it will break down naturally in the environment, without leaving behind any harmful pollutants.Third, Kelsun™ has a number of unique properties that make it ideal for use in textiles. It is soft, strong, and moisture-wicking. It is also naturally UV-resistant.The Future of Kelsun™Keel Labs is committed to making Kelsun™ more widely available. They are working to scale up production and to develop new applications for Kelsun™. They believe that Kelsun™ has the potential to revolutionize the fashion industry and to help to create a more sustainable future.Final thoughts.Keel Labs is a company that is at the forefront of the sustainable textile movement. Their flagship product, Kelsun™, is a seaweed-based yarn that has a number of advantages over traditional textile fibers.Kelsun™ is more environmentally friendly, biodegradable, and has a number of unique properties that make it ideal for use in textiles.Keel Labs is committed to making Kelsun™ more widely available, and they believe that it has the potential to revolutionize the fashion industry.Learn More about Keel Labs and Kelsun™To learn more about Keel Labs and Kelsun™, please visit their website.You can also follow them on social media:Twitter: @keellabsInstagram: @keellabsLinkedIn: Keel Labs
---------------------------------------- Disruptors for GOOD is powered by PIF Advisory — a global services firm empowering startups and enterprises with expert guidance, tailored solutions, and measurable results. Whether you’re launching your first venture or scaling globally, PIF Advisory delivers full-cycle support across every core function of your business:Bookkeeping, Accounting & Tax Management – Organized, compliant, and transparent financials managed by licensed professionals (CPAs, CFAs, CMAs, and lawyers) to drive smarter decision-making.Growth & Marketing – Data-driven strategies across branding, web, advertising, CRM, and sales enablement—all optimized for measurable ROI.Outsourced CFO – Flexible financial leadership covering cash flow, forecasting, and strategic planning.Entity Management – Stay compliant and ready for scale with expert corporate governance and compliance support.Operations, HR & Admin – Streamlined infrastructure to boost team efficiency and keep your business running smoothly.IT & Security – Safeguard your data and operations with best-in-class infrastructure, compliance, and protection.Technology Consulting – Build the right tech stack with expert support across NetSuite, QuickBooks, Avalara, and more.Management Consulting – Unlock growth with industry-specific advisory services focused on metrics, operations, and scalability.As a sister company to PIF Capital Management, they also offer clients direct insights into venture capital and access to a global investor network—ranging from individuals to sovereign wealth funds.👉 Learn more or schedule a discovery call at pifadvisory.com

Jun 26, 2023 • 33min
A Nationwide Network of Sustainable Little Orchards - Erica Kratofil & Ashley Williamson / Co-Executive Directors of The Giving Grove
----------------------------------------Spotlighting impact startups, brands, and founders.We feature social impact startups, conscious brands, and visionary founders shaping the future of business. Join thousands—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, the latest funding rounds, digital tool reviews, and curated products fueling the impact economy.To learn more, please visit causeartist.comIn episode 193 of the Disruptors for GOOD podcast, I speak with Erica Kratofil & Ashley Williamson, Co-Executive Directors of The Giving Grove, on building out a nationwide network of orchards that provide immense impact to local communities.About AshleyAshley brings local and international experience in program development, community engagement, and research. She has a Master in Social Work Advocacy, Policy and Administration from the University of Kansas and is passionate about connecting people, ideas and policies. A dedicated Kansas City community member, Ashley is continuously involved in boards and leadership programs, currently serving as Secretary of Unified Government of Wyandotte Board of Parks Commission, Board Member of Community Capital Fund, Advisory Board Member for the Pride Fund Committee of Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce, and Advisory Committee Member for the Kansas City Young Farmers Coalition. Ashley is always looking forward to a good podcast, book, or the next time she can work in her ever-expanding vegetable garden.About EricaA social worker with 15 years’ experience in nonprofit fundraising and administration, Erica brings a background in food security, housing and homelessness, and education to The Giving Grove. She is passionate about community engagement and enjoys volunteering with her family. Erica is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame and has a Master in Social Work and Nonprofit Management from Washington University in St. Louis. She is a Board Member for The For Elysa Foundation and has served as a social work field instructor for the University of Kansas and the University of Missouri-Kansas City.About The Giving GroveThe Giving Grove began in 2013 as a grassroots effort to make free, fresh fruits, nuts, and berries available to Kansas City neighborhoods with high rates of food insecurity. The program was launched with the understanding that an orchard must be community-led and community-driven. At the neighborhood's request, The Giving Grove helps provide the trees, supplies, and training necessary to grow a fruitful orchard.Within a few years, The Giving Grove helped install more than 100 orchards in neighborhoods throughout Kansas City that had faced decades of environmental and health inequities, creating beautiful community spaces that each produced hundreds of pounds of free, fresh produce for the neighborhood. After finding success with The Giving Grove program in Kansas City, its founders began expanding the program across the nation in 2019.Today, more than 480 of these little orchards are managed and maintained by over 800 volunteer orchard stewards in fourteen cities across the U.S, with dozens of new orchards added each year.These neighborhood orchards have thousands of fruit trees that will produce more than 64.5 million servings of free, healthy food over their lifetimes (which can be up to 50 years or more), sequester 1,000 tons of carbon, absorb about 177,632 gallons of water per storm, reduce urban flooding and soil erosion, lower urban air temperatures during the summer, reducing risks of heat-related illness, and improve soil biology through holistic orcharding techniques that avoid artificial pesticides and fertilizers, which is healthier for the earth and the people eating the fruit.
---------------------------------------- Disruptors for GOOD is powered by PIF Advisory — a global services firm empowering startups and enterprises with expert guidance, tailored solutions, and measurable results. Whether you’re launching your first venture or scaling globally, PIF Advisory delivers full-cycle support across every core function of your business:Bookkeeping, Accounting & Tax Management – Organized, compliant, and transparent financials managed by licensed professionals (CPAs, CFAs, CMAs, and lawyers) to drive smarter decision-making.Growth & Marketing – Data-driven strategies across branding, web, advertising, CRM, and sales enablement—all optimized for measurable ROI.Outsourced CFO – Flexible financial leadership covering cash flow, forecasting, and strategic planning.Entity Management – Stay compliant and ready for scale with expert corporate governance and compliance support.Operations, HR & Admin – Streamlined infrastructure to boost team efficiency and keep your business running smoothly.IT & Security – Safeguard your data and operations with best-in-class infrastructure, compliance, and protection.Technology Consulting – Build the right tech stack with expert support across NetSuite, QuickBooks, Avalara, and more.Management Consulting – Unlock growth with industry-specific advisory services focused on metrics, operations, and scalability.As a sister company to PIF Capital Management, they also offer clients direct insights into venture capital and access to a global investor network—ranging from individuals to sovereign wealth funds.👉 Learn more or schedule a discovery call at pifadvisory.com

Jun 20, 2023 • 26min
Jake Wood - Founder of Groundswell and Team Rubicon
----------------------------------------Spotlighting impact startups, brands, and founders.We feature social impact startups, conscious brands, and visionary founders shaping the future of business. Join thousands—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, the latest funding rounds, digital tool reviews, and curated products fueling the impact economy.To learn more, please visit causeartist.comIn episode 192 of the Disruptors for GOOD podcast, I speak with Jake Wood, Founder and CEO of Groundswell, on disrupting corporate philanthropy and workplace giving through Donor Advised Funds.Jake Wood is a former U.S. Marine and the founder and CEO of Groundswell, a venture-backed software company focused on democratizing philanthropy by combining fintech, benefits tech, and charity. Prior to Groundswell, Wood was the founder and CEO of Team Rubicon, a renowned disaster response organization. Under his leadership, Team Rubicon grew to become one of America's leading nonprofits, recruiting over 150,000 volunteers and responded to nearly 1,000 disasters and humanitarian crisesWood also played a significant role in raising approximately $300 million for Team Rubicon through various means, including online donor acquisition, family foundations, and corporate partnerships. The organization scaled to 200 full-time employees across four offices and operated a $55 million P&L. Team Rubicon gained recognition for its corporate culture and technological innovation through collaborations with companies like Microsoft, Twilio, and Palantir.Furthermore, his memoir, "Once A Warrior," achieved best-seller status on Amazon and received praise from Tom Brokaw.About GroundswellWorkplace giving programs are an excellent way for companies to empower employees to make a positive impact on causes they care about. However, managing these programs efficiently can be time-consuming and challenging. That's where Groundswell comes in. With its user-friendly platform, Groundswell simplifies donation matching, gifting, and volunteering programs, allowing employees to effortlessly contribute to the causes that matter most to them.
---------------------------------------- Disruptors for GOOD is powered by PIF Advisory — a global services firm empowering startups and enterprises with expert guidance, tailored solutions, and measurable results. Whether you’re launching your first venture or scaling globally, PIF Advisory delivers full-cycle support across every core function of your business:Bookkeeping, Accounting & Tax Management – Organized, compliant, and transparent financials managed by licensed professionals (CPAs, CFAs, CMAs, and lawyers) to drive smarter decision-making.Growth & Marketing – Data-driven strategies across branding, web, advertising, CRM, and sales enablement—all optimized for measurable ROI.Outsourced CFO – Flexible financial leadership covering cash flow, forecasting, and strategic planning.Entity Management – Stay compliant and ready for scale with expert corporate governance and compliance support.Operations, HR & Admin – Streamlined infrastructure to boost team efficiency and keep your business running smoothly.IT & Security – Safeguard your data and operations with best-in-class infrastructure, compliance, and protection.Technology Consulting – Build the right tech stack with expert support across NetSuite, QuickBooks, Avalara, and more.Management Consulting – Unlock growth with industry-specific advisory services focused on metrics, operations, and scalability.As a sister company to PIF Capital Management, they also offer clients direct insights into venture capital and access to a global investor network—ranging from individuals to sovereign wealth funds.👉 Learn more or schedule a discovery call at pifadvisory.com

Jun 18, 2023 • 45min
Make Real Estate a Reality with Your Friends - Niles Lichtenstein, founder of Nestment
Niles Lichtenstein, founder of Nestment, discusses revolutionizing real estate investment with a co-buying model for families and friends. Topics include QR code resurgence, Nestment concept, testing entrepreneurial ideas, real estate market dynamics, and benefits of group real estate investments.

Jun 14, 2023 • 44min
JusticeTech, ClimateTech, and Bipartisanship - Nisha Anand, CEO of Dream.org
----------------------------------------Spotlighting impact startups, brands, and founders.We feature social impact startups, conscious brands, and visionary founders shaping the future of business. Join thousands—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, the latest funding rounds, digital tool reviews, and curated products fueling the impact economy.To learn more, please visit causeartist.comIn episode 190 of the Disruptors for GOOD podcast, we speak with Nisha Anand, CEO, of Dream.org, on bringing all sides together to solve problems through policy and entrepreneurship.Nisha Anand is a passionate Indian-American activist, dedicated mom of two teenagers, and a true leader . Nisha's remarkable journey began as a radical grassroots activist, fearlessly distributing pro-democracy leaflets in Burma, which unfortunately led to her arrest. However, this experience only fueled her commitment to organizing and ignited her belief in the transformative power of collaborating with unlikely partners to achieve genuine solutions.As the CEO of Dream.Org, Nisha guides a diverse group of individuals who, like her, have come to appreciate the immense value of forging unconventional relationships. Dream.Org is a nonprofit organization that unites people from different racial, social, and partisan backgrounds, empowering them to tackle our most complex challenges collectively.Prior to her current position, Nisha served as Chief of Staff to Van Jones, an esteemed CNN commentator and New York Times bestselling author. Drawing upon her extensive experience in nonprofit development and management, Nisha has been an influential figure in fundraising and consulting for several organizations.Nisha's unwavering commitment to social justice has garnered international attention, stemming from her arrest in Burma in 1998. This pivotal moment thrust her onto the global stage, leading to numerous speaking engagements at prestigious events and conferences. Nisha has also been sought after for interviews by various media outlets, including TV, radio, and print, where she shares her inspiring story.Nisha's incredible transformation from a punk-rock protester to a true champion of common ground is brilliantly captured in her captivating TED talk, "The Radical Act of Choosing Common Ground." This thought-provoking presentation has garnered views from around the world, offering audiences a profound perspective on the importance of bridging divides and finding shared solutions.About Dream.orgAt Dream.Org, they recognize that some of society's most pressing issues also hold immense potential for positive change. However, they understand that lasting transformations can only be achieved through the collaboration of a diverse and inclusive coalition.Whether it's addressing the problem of overcrowded prisons, combating the challenges of climate change, or fostering economic opportunities in marginalized communities, Dream.Org believes that sustainable solutions emerge when people from all walks of life come together. They actively seek common ground in unexpected places and are open to partnering with anyone who shares their commitment to finding solutions, even if they hold differing views on various matters. They firmly believe that their communities deserve nothing less.This approach has already yielded significant achievements, such as bipartisan criminal justice reform that resulted in the release of over 18,000 individuals from incarceration. Additionally, Dream.Org's efforts have led to starting salaries of $70,000 for graduates of their tech cohorts and have been instrumental in securing $78.5 billion in federal funding for green initiatives, including public transportation, electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and environmentally friendly school buses.Through their partnership with Village capital they are a driving force for innvative ways to solve probles throufgh entrepreneurship.Check out their ClimateTech and JusticeTech accelerators and cohorts.Dream.Org, previously known as the Dream Corps, was established by Van Jones, an activist and entrepreneur. Through their various programs, they strive to create a future where fewer individuals are imprisoned, pollution is reduced, and opportunities abound for the younger generation. Together, their vision is to build a nation characterized by freedom, dignity, and equal opportunities for all.
---------------------------------------- Disruptors for GOOD is powered by PIF Advisory — a global services firm empowering startups and enterprises with expert guidance, tailored solutions, and measurable results. Whether you’re launching your first venture or scaling globally, PIF Advisory delivers full-cycle support across every core function of your business:Bookkeeping, Accounting & Tax Management – Organized, compliant, and transparent financials managed by licensed professionals (CPAs, CFAs, CMAs, and lawyers) to drive smarter decision-making.Growth & Marketing – Data-driven strategies across branding, web, advertising, CRM, and sales enablement—all optimized for measurable ROI.Outsourced CFO – Flexible financial leadership covering cash flow, forecasting, and strategic planning.Entity Management – Stay compliant and ready for scale with expert corporate governance and compliance support.Operations, HR & Admin – Streamlined infrastructure to boost team efficiency and keep your business running smoothly.IT & Security – Safeguard your data and operations with best-in-class infrastructure, compliance, and protection.Technology Consulting – Build the right tech stack with expert support across NetSuite, QuickBooks, Avalara, and more.Management Consulting – Unlock growth with industry-specific advisory services focused on metrics, operations, and scalability.As a sister company to PIF Capital Management, they also offer clients direct insights into venture capital and access to a global investor network—ranging from individuals to sovereign wealth funds.👉 Learn more or schedule a discovery call at pifadvisory.com

Jun 6, 2023 • 40min
Combatting Addiction with a Global Active Community of 200,000 Strong - Scott Strode, Founder & Jacquelyn Hillios, Deputy Executive Director of The Phoenix
----------------------------------------Spotlighting impact startups, brands, and founders.We feature social impact startups, conscious brands, and visionary founders shaping the future of business. Join thousands—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, the latest funding rounds, digital tool reviews, and curated products fueling the impact economy.To learn more, please visit causeartist.comIn episode 189 of the Disruptors for GOOD podcast, we speak with Scott Strode, Founder & Jacquelyn Hillios, Deputy Executive Director of The Phoenix, on building a global sober community combating addiction together.In a world where addiction and substance abuse affect countless individuals and their families, The Phoenix shines as a beacon of hope. This non-profit organization has embarked on a mission to build a unique and vibrant community centered around sobriety and active living.The Mission of The PhoenixAt the core of The Phoenix's philosophy is a clear and powerful mission: to create a sober active community that fuels resilience and harnesses the transformational power of connection. By combining physical activities, emotional support, and shared experiences, The Phoenix fosters an environment where individuals in recovery can rebuild their lives, rediscover their passions, and connect with others who understand their journey.The Power of Active LivingPhysical activity has been proven to have numerous positive effects on mental health and overall well-being. The Phoenix recognizes this and integrates physical fitness into its programs as a key component of recovery. They offer a wide range of activities, including yoga, climbing, CrossFit, hiking, and more. These activities not only promote physical health but also provide a healthy outlet for stress and a sense of accomplishment. By engaging in these activities, individuals can experience the benefits of an active lifestyle while connecting with others who share similar goals.Embracing Connection and SupportRecovery can be a challenging and isolating journey, but The Phoenix believes that no one should have to face it alone. By cultivating a strong sense of community, the organization creates a safe and supportive space where individuals can build meaningful relationships based on shared experiences. Through group workouts, social events, and volunteer opportunities, The Phoenix encourages a network of support that goes beyond traditional recovery programs. The bonds formed within this community become an invaluable source of encouragement, accountability, and friendship.Inclusivity and AccessibilityThe Phoenix is committed to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background or financial means, has access to their programs. They offer free memberships to anyone with 48 hours of continuous sobriety and actively work to reduce barriers to participation. The organization collaborates with treatment centers, recovery programs, and community organizations to extend their reach and provide resources to those who need them most. This dedication to inclusivity ensures that all individuals, regardless of their circumstances, can find solace and support through The Phoenix.About ScottScott Strode, the Founder & National Executive Director of The Phoenix, has an incredible personal journey that led him to create this transformative non-profit organization. Born and raised in Pennsylvania, he spent 11 years in Boston before finding his true home in Colorado. It was on April 8, 1997, that Scott achieved sobriety, and he attributes his success to his involvement in boxing and climbing during that pivotal time. These activities became powerful catalysts for his recovery, instilling in him a deep appreciation for the transformative effects of a healthy and active lifestyle.Scott's passion for fitness has only grown over the years. From mountain biking to CrossFit, triathlons to running, and cycling to motorcycle touring, he embraces a wide range of activities that connect him with the great outdoors. Through his personal experiences, Scott came to realize the profound impact that a sober active community can have on individuals seeking recovery. With this belief firmly rooted in his heart, he launched The Phoenix in Colorado in 2006, driven by a mission to empower individuals to rise, recover, and truly live through the power of fitness and community.In addition to leading The Phoenix, Scott is deeply committed to pursuing his own fitness goals and maintaining a high level of expertise in outdoor activities. He holds certifications as a Certified Personal Trainer NASM, USA Triathlon Level II Certified Coach, AMGA Certified Single Pitch Instructor, Wilderness First Responder, and CPR. With over two decades of experience working, instructing, coaching, and guiding in the outdoors, Scott brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role.Scott's dedication and impact have not gone unnoticed. In 2012, he was named one of CNN's Top 10 Heroes, recognizing his remarkable work in substance use disorder recovery. The following year, Scott received the prestigious "Advocates for Action Award" from the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, further cementing his status as a leader and advocate in the field.About JackiJacki Hillios, Ph.D., serves as the Deputy Executive Director of The Phoenix, a highly successful addiction recovery program that embraces the power of peer-to-peer support and a physically active community. In her influential role, she provides valuable oversight and leadership in program design, implementation, evaluation, and expansion, driving the organization's mission to transform lives.With a background as a clinician working with youth and families grappling with mental illness and substance-use disorders, Jacki recognized the immense potential of The Phoenix's real-life solution to addiction. Since joining the organization in 2006, she has been instrumental in its growth and impact, working closely with teams in Colorado and Massachusetts. Through her dedication and expertise, Jacki has played a pivotal role in expanding The Phoenix's model to 22 states and over 40 communities nationwide, reaching and transforming the lives of countless individuals.Beyond her leadership within The Phoenix, Jacki is a passionate public speaker. Drawing from her extensive experience and insights, she shares her knowledge on the vital role of peer-to-peer engagement within a sober active community. In recognition of her expertise, Jacki had the privilege of delivering a thought-provoking TEDxBoulder presentation in 2013 titled "Transcending Addiction and Redefining Recovery." Her impactful talks serve to inspire, educate, and challenge perceptions surrounding addiction and recovery, offering a fresh perspective on finding hope and embracing a life of resilience.Jacki Hillios, Ph.D., stands as a driving force behind The Phoenix's transformative approach to addiction recovery. Through her leadership, dedication, and commitment to spreading awareness, she has played a key role in bringing the benefits of peer support and active community engagement to individuals across the country. Jacki's work continues to empower individuals on their journey to transcending addiction, redefining recovery, and embracing a future filled with purpose and well-being.
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Jun 1, 2023 • 43min
Bruvi is Disrupting Keurig with a Tastier and Sustainable Alternative to Coffee at Home - Mel Elias, Co-Founder of Bruvi
----------------------------------------Spotlighting impact startups, brands, and founders.We feature social impact startups, conscious brands, and visionary founders shaping the future of business. Join thousands—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, the latest funding rounds, digital tool reviews, and curated products fueling the impact economy.To learn more, please visit causeartist.comIn episode 188 of the Disruptors for GOOD podcast, we speak with Mel Elias, co-founder of Bruvi, on disrupting and innovating the in-home, single-serve coffee experience with a more tastier and sustainable alternative.Mel Elias is an accomplished investor and entrepreneur based in Los Angeles. With a strong background in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry, he has served as the President & CEO of The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, leading the brand to significant growth and international success.Mel is now the Co-founder of Bruvi, an innovative single-serve coffee brewer that presents a remarkable solution for those seeking a tastier and more convenient coffee experience. With a vision to reimagine the entire coffee brewing experience, Bruvi has revolutionized brewing and pod technology, curated a selection of high-quality coffees, and introduced the first Guilt Free Toss™ capsule. By engaging all the senses, Bruvi aims to completely transform the way people enjoy coffee in the comfort of their homes.Bruvi, the innovative single-serve coffee brewer, presents a remarkable solution for those seeking a tastier and more convenient coffee experience. Bruvi firmly believes in the possibility of combining supreme quality with enhanced convenience in the realm of single-serve coffee.With a vision to reimagine the entire coffee brewing experience, Bruvi has revolutionized brewing and pod technology, curated a selection of high-quality coffees, and introduced the first Guilt Free Toss™ capsule. By engaging all the senses, Bruvi aims to completely transform the way people enjoy coffee in the comfort of their homes.Sustainability Commitment: Bruvi recognizes the importance of sustainable practices in today's world. To minimize their environmental impact, the company has implemented several initiatives:Recyclable Coffee Pods: Bruvi® Fresh Cups are made from fully recyclable materials. They utilize a patented compostable mesh filter and a polypropylene body, both of which can be separated and recycled accordingly. This commitment to recyclability aligns Bruvi with eco-conscious consumers who seek sustainable alternatives.Carbon-Neutral Operations: Bruvi is committed to offsetting their carbon footprint by investing in renewable energy projects and initiatives that promote environmental conservation. By reducing their impact on the environment, Bruvi showcases their dedication to sustainability throughout their entire value chain.Local and Ethical Sourcing: Bruvi maintains ethical sourcing practices by partnering with coffee producers who adhere to fair trade principles. This ensures that farmers receive fair compensation for their hard work and that the coffee beans are grown in a socially responsible manner.
---------------------------------------- Disruptors for GOOD is powered by PIF Advisory — a global services firm empowering startups and enterprises with expert guidance, tailored solutions, and measurable results. Whether you’re launching your first venture or scaling globally, PIF Advisory delivers full-cycle support across every core function of your business:Bookkeeping, Accounting & Tax Management – Organized, compliant, and transparent financials managed by licensed professionals (CPAs, CFAs, CMAs, and lawyers) to drive smarter decision-making.Growth & Marketing – Data-driven strategies across branding, web, advertising, CRM, and sales enablement—all optimized for measurable ROI.Outsourced CFO – Flexible financial leadership covering cash flow, forecasting, and strategic planning.Entity Management – Stay compliant and ready for scale with expert corporate governance and compliance support.Operations, HR & Admin – Streamlined infrastructure to boost team efficiency and keep your business running smoothly.IT & Security – Safeguard your data and operations with best-in-class infrastructure, compliance, and protection.Technology Consulting – Build the right tech stack with expert support across NetSuite, QuickBooks, Avalara, and more.Management Consulting – Unlock growth with industry-specific advisory services focused on metrics, operations, and scalability.As a sister company to PIF Capital Management, they also offer clients direct insights into venture capital and access to a global investor network—ranging from individuals to sovereign wealth funds.👉 Learn more or schedule a discovery call at pifadvisory.com

May 30, 2023 • 29min
Scott Onder // Co-Founder and Senior Managing Director of Mercy Corps Ventures
----------------------------------------Spotlighting impact startups, brands, and founders.We feature social impact startups, conscious brands, and visionary founders shaping the future of business. Join thousands—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, the latest funding rounds, digital tool reviews, and curated products fueling the impact economy.To learn more, please visit causeartist.comIn this episode of the podcast, we speak with Scott Onder, Co-Founder and Senior Managing Director of Mercy Corps Ventures, on investing in and promoting venture-led solutions to enhance the resilience of underserved communities and individuals.Scott Onder is the Chief Investment Officer at Mercy Corps, where he oversees the agency's global strategy for impact investing, innovative finance, Web3 initiatives, and strategic partnerships with technology ventures.He is also a Co-Founder and Senior Managing Director of Mercy Corps Ventures, the venture capital arm of Mercy Corps. The firm focuses on investing in high-impact startups that develop inclusive fintech, climate resilience, and Web3 solutions in frontier markets.Under Scott's leadership, Mercy Corps Ventures has invested in 43 seed and early-stage ventures across Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia. Apart from providing capital, the firm offers strategic support, pilot programs, and partnership opportunities to help startups scale their businesses.As an early investor in Wasoko, Goldfinch, Pula, and Ejara, Scott serves on the boards of portfolio companies that drive financial and climate resilience. He is also an active advisor and angel investor in emerging crypto protocols. Scott is a magna cum laude graduate of Duke University and is based in the Pacific Northwest.About Mercy Corps VenturesMercy Corps Ventures is a venture capital firm that focuses on investing in and promoting venture-led solutions to enhance the resilience of underserved communities and individuals.Since its establishment in 2015 as the impact investing arm of Mercy Corps, the firm has facilitated the scaling up of 43 early-stage ventures, helping them raise over $396.7 million in follow-on capital.The firm's portfolio concentrates on solutions in adaptive agriculture and food systems, inclusive fintech services, and climate-smart systems and tech infrastructure.Its goal is to enable those living in frontier markets to withstand disruption and plan for the future by catalyzing the ecosystem towards smarter and more impactful investments.The firm's focus on supporting underserved groups to participate in the global economy has led to its promotion of emerging decentralized finance (DeFi) solutions that accelerate global financial inclusion. In partnership with companies, Mercy Corps Ventures responsibly pilots the use of cryptocurrencies and blockchain tools to provide reliable and direct access to financial services for un/underbanked populations.Mercy Corps Ventures plans to launch Fund II, the Resilient Future Fund, to invest in and support approximately 20 early-stage startups in frontier markets with solutions that build resilience to the accelerating shocks caused by climate change.Entrepreneurs worldwide are deploying disruptive business models and transformative technologies to address the most significant challenges of our time.These startups have the potential to reach 3.3 billion climate-vulnerable people, 1.4 billion unbanked people, and 162 million small businesses with innovative climate-focused and digital finance products that could drive their resilience. However, they often lack sufficient capital and access to resources to ensure their ventures survive and scale.
---------------------------------------- Disruptors for GOOD is powered by PIF Advisory — a global services firm empowering startups and enterprises with expert guidance, tailored solutions, and measurable results. Whether you’re launching your first venture or scaling globally, PIF Advisory delivers full-cycle support across every core function of your business:Bookkeeping, Accounting & Tax Management – Organized, compliant, and transparent financials managed by licensed professionals (CPAs, CFAs, CMAs, and lawyers) to drive smarter decision-making.Growth & Marketing – Data-driven strategies across branding, web, advertising, CRM, and sales enablement—all optimized for measurable ROI.Outsourced CFO – Flexible financial leadership covering cash flow, forecasting, and strategic planning.Entity Management – Stay compliant and ready for scale with expert corporate governance and compliance support.Operations, HR & Admin – Streamlined infrastructure to boost team efficiency and keep your business running smoothly.IT & Security – Safeguard your data and operations with best-in-class infrastructure, compliance, and protection.Technology Consulting – Build the right tech stack with expert support across NetSuite, QuickBooks, Avalara, and more.Management Consulting – Unlock growth with industry-specific advisory services focused on metrics, operations, and scalability.As a sister company to PIF Capital Management, they also offer clients direct insights into venture capital and access to a global investor network—ranging from individuals to sovereign wealth funds.👉 Learn more or schedule a discovery call at pifadvisory.com

May 23, 2023 • 32min
Esha Chhabra /// Journalist and Author On Her Journey and New Book - Working to Restore
----------------------------------------Spotlighting impact startups, brands, and founders.We feature social impact startups, conscious brands, and visionary founders shaping the future of business. Join thousands—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, the latest funding rounds, digital tool reviews, and curated products fueling the impact economy.To learn more, please visit causeartist.comIn episode 187 of the Disruptors for GOOD podcast, I speak with Journalist and Author, Esha Chhabra, on her new book, Working to Restore, and exploring the use cases of regenerative and restorative companies across nine industries.With over a decade of experience as a dedicated writer and journalist, Esha has been passionately immersed in the realms of global development, the environment, and business. Her insightful contributions have been featured in the New York Times, Economist, Guardian, Forbes, The Washington Post, Fast Company, Wired, and more.Beyond merely scratching the surface, Esha delves deep into the heart of the matter, untangling the web of greenwashing to determine whether companies are truly driving progress. Her invaluable work has garnered support from esteemed institutions like the UN Foundation and the Pulitzer Center in Washington, DC.Esha holds degrees from both Georgetown University and the London School of Economics and Political Science, reflecting her exceptional academic background. Although originally from Delhi, she now proudly calls Southern California her home.Working to Restore - BookStep into the world of regenerative landscapes, where visionary entrepreneurs wield their businesses as powerful tools for transformative change, transcending the boundaries of sustainability to address pressing social and environmental challenges.As the veil of capitalism is lifted, exposing the uncomfortable truth of its historical practices, characterized by the extraction of resources from distant corners of the world and ceaseless movement of people and cargo in pursuit of profit, a new breed of startups is reshaping the rules of business.They question how business is conducted, by whom, and, most importantly, for what purpose. Drawing upon her extensive journalistic experience, Esha Chhabra embarks on a compelling exploration that delves beyond the surface-level appeal of these transformative enterprises, uncovering the intricate realities and promising potential of regenerative business models.Working to Restore casts a discerning eye on pioneering approaches across nine key domains: agriculture, waste management, supply chain logistics, inclusive collective prosperity, women's empowerment in the workforce, travel, health, energy, and finance.Through captivating profiles, Chhabra showcases how these trailblazing companies tackle global issues by championing responsible production and consumption, fostering equal opportunities for all, driving climate action, and more. It becomes evident that their work transcends the superficial notions of "sustainability," propelling us into a new era of regeneration and restoration.
---------------------------------------- Disruptors for GOOD is powered by PIF Advisory — a global services firm empowering startups and enterprises with expert guidance, tailored solutions, and measurable results. Whether you’re launching your first venture or scaling globally, PIF Advisory delivers full-cycle support across every core function of your business:Bookkeeping, Accounting & Tax Management – Organized, compliant, and transparent financials managed by licensed professionals (CPAs, CFAs, CMAs, and lawyers) to drive smarter decision-making.Growth & Marketing – Data-driven strategies across branding, web, advertising, CRM, and sales enablement—all optimized for measurable ROI.Outsourced CFO – Flexible financial leadership covering cash flow, forecasting, and strategic planning.Entity Management – Stay compliant and ready for scale with expert corporate governance and compliance support.Operations, HR & Admin – Streamlined infrastructure to boost team efficiency and keep your business running smoothly.IT & Security – Safeguard your data and operations with best-in-class infrastructure, compliance, and protection.Technology Consulting – Build the right tech stack with expert support across NetSuite, QuickBooks, Avalara, and more.Management Consulting – Unlock growth with industry-specific advisory services focused on metrics, operations, and scalability.As a sister company to PIF Capital Management, they also offer clients direct insights into venture capital and access to a global investor network—ranging from individuals to sovereign wealth funds.👉 Learn more or schedule a discovery call at pifadvisory.com

May 18, 2023 • 29min
NDIA Secures $10 Million Grant from Google.org to Empower Rural & Tribal Communities - National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA) Executive Director Angela Siefer and Google.org Americas Director Justin Steele
----------------------------------------Spotlighting impact startups, brands, and founders.We feature social impact startups, conscious brands, and visionary founders shaping the future of business. Join thousands—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, the latest funding rounds, digital tool reviews, and curated products fueling the impact economy.To learn more, please visit causeartist.comIn episode 186 of the Disruptors for GOOD podcast, I speak with National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA) Executive Director Angela Siefer and Google.org Americas Director Justin Steele, on removing digital divide roadblocks and empowering communities through technology.Access to the internet and digital resources is increasingly becoming a fundamental requirement for education, work, healthcare, and overall well-being. However, many rural and tribal communities in the United States still face significant barriers to digital inclusion.The National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA) has recently announced a game-changing $10 million grant from Google.org. This generous funding will facilitate the creation of the National Digital Navigator Corps, a transformative initiative aimed at removing digital divide roadblocks and empowering communities through technology training and connectivity.About National Digital Inclusion Alliance: NDIA advances digital equity by supporting community programs and equipping policymakers to act. Working collaboratively with more than 600 digital inclusion practitioners, NDIA advocates for broadband access, tech devices, digital skills training, and tech support. About Google.org: Google.org, Google’s philanthropy, supports nonprofits that address humanitarian issues and apply scalable, data-driven innovation to solving the world’s biggest challenges. They accelerate their progress by connecting them with a unique blend of support that includes funding, products, and technical expertise from Google volunteers.
---------------------------------------- Disruptors for GOOD is powered by PIF Advisory — a global services firm empowering startups and enterprises with expert guidance, tailored solutions, and measurable results. Whether you’re launching your first venture or scaling globally, PIF Advisory delivers full-cycle support across every core function of your business:Bookkeeping, Accounting & Tax Management – Organized, compliant, and transparent financials managed by licensed professionals (CPAs, CFAs, CMAs, and lawyers) to drive smarter decision-making.Growth & Marketing – Data-driven strategies across branding, web, advertising, CRM, and sales enablement—all optimized for measurable ROI.Outsourced CFO – Flexible financial leadership covering cash flow, forecasting, and strategic planning.Entity Management – Stay compliant and ready for scale with expert corporate governance and compliance support.Operations, HR & Admin – Streamlined infrastructure to boost team efficiency and keep your business running smoothly.IT & Security – Safeguard your data and operations with best-in-class infrastructure, compliance, and protection.Technology Consulting – Build the right tech stack with expert support across NetSuite, QuickBooks, Avalara, and more.Management Consulting – Unlock growth with industry-specific advisory services focused on metrics, operations, and scalability.As a sister company to PIF Capital Management, they also offer clients direct insights into venture capital and access to a global investor network—ranging from individuals to sovereign wealth funds.👉 Learn more or schedule a discovery call at pifadvisory.com