Essential Ingredients Podcast

"We're looking at the molecular composition of milk, all of its proteins and components, how they function together, and what makes it magical. Our technology is around how do we get those to come together and function in a way that looks, tastes, and functions like dairy." —Thomas Bowman Can a plant-based milk truly replicate the creamy goodness of dairy? Dive into a world where innovation meets taste, as we explore the potential of non-dairy alternatives that can seamlessly fit into our lifestyle. Thomas Bowman, CEO of Eclipse Foods, leverages his background as a fine dining chef and food scientist to bring fresh insights into the world of plant-based dairy. His transition from the kitchen to the boardroom provides a unique perspective on crafting products that taste and function like traditional dairy, while also being kinder to the planet. Press play to hear Justine and Thomas' discussion about the science behind non-dairy milk, the importance of incorporating sustainable practices in business and personal life, the challenges and triumphs of pioneering a new era in dairy alternatives, how Eclipse is breaking new ground with partnerships, upcycling initiatives, and a commitment to creating products that deliver on both flavor and sustainability, plus much more. Meet Thomas: Thomas Bowman is the CEO of Eclipse Foods, a pioneering company in the plant-based dairy industry. With a rich background as a fine dining chef, Thomas honed his culinary skills in some of the world's most prestigious kitchens before transitioning into food science. This unique combination of expertise allows him to lead Eclipse Foods with a focus on creating plant-based products that not only taste like traditional dairy but also meet the highest standards of sustainability. Under his leadership, Eclipse has successfully expanded into international markets, including Japan, by forming strategic partnerships and embracing cultural insights. Thomas's commitment to innovation is evident in the company's use of upcycling and sustainable sourcing, setting new benchmarks in the industry. His journey from CTO to CEO reflects his dedication to driving change and inspiring a new era of food production. Through his work, Thomas continues to challenge the status quo, offering consumers delicious alternatives that align with modern values. Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook X Connect with NextGen Purpose: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Episode Highlights: 02:24 The Science Behind A Non-Dairy Dairy 06:40 Launching in Japan 10:25 Cultural Surprises and Business Lessons from Japan 16:07 Is It Over-Processed? 19:50 Exciting Partnerships in the US 22:07 Debunking Plant-Based Dairy Myths 24:26 Sustainability and Upcycling in Eclipse's Process Resources: Podcast Creating Cow-less, Plant-Based Ice Cream that Truly Tastes Like the Real Deal with Aylon Steinhart

"Every community has different values, and every community should have different choices. And that's why local food is so important so that local communities and local farmers can decide what's most important to them and how they want to connect the people who grow our food with the people who are seeking nourishment." —Andy Naja-Riese "The health of our Farmers Market is really dependent upon the health of our farmers." —Tanner Keys Wonder why local food sometimes costs more, or if it's really worth the effort to shop there? The real story behind farmers' markets is more complicated—and more important—than you might think. Andy Naja-Riese, CEO of the Agricultural Institute of Marin, and Tanner Keys, Cooperative Agreement Manager for the Islands of Remote Areas Regional Food Business Center, have spent years on the front lines of food access. Their work in California and Hawaii gives them a unique view on what it takes to make local food affordable, how certification and regulations shape what you see at the market, and why these markets matter for everyone. Listen in for honest talk about food prices, local farming, organic rules, food as medicine, and how farmers' markets are working to make healthy food available to all. You'll get practical insights, real solutions, and a fresh look at what's possible in your own community. Meet Andy: Andy Naja-Riese brings 17 years of experience in community food systems, public health, and food equity programs & policy. As Chief Executive Officer, he leads AIM's major programs, partnerships, strategic planning, advocacy, and fundraising, including a capital campaign for AIM's Center for Food and Agriculture in collaboration with AIM's Board of Directors. Andy joined AIM in 2018 after spending 10 years working for the Federal government, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Service. Andy is currently the Co-Chair of the Marin County Healthy Eating Active Living (HEAL) Collaborative, serves on the Steering Committees of the Marin Carbon Project and Marin Community Health Improvement Plan, sits on the National Farm to School Network's Advisory Board, and represents AIM on the California Food and Farming Network & Food and Farm Resilience Coalition. He received the 2022 CVNL Heart of Marin Award for Excellence in Leadership and the 2023 Farmers Market Champion of the Year award from CAFF. He earned his master's degree from the T.H. Chan Harvard School of Public Health and his bachelor's degree from Cornell University's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. He lives with his husband and dog in Sonoma, where he enjoys backyard gardening, cooking farmers market hauls, eating bagels, and enjoying Northern California's natural beauty Website Facebook X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Meet Tanner: Tanner Keys grew up in an agricultural community & lifestyle that has instilled a passion for food & land. He has served in various roles with the Hawaiʻi Good Food Alliance (HGFA) beginning in 2022, helping the organization in its beginning years and later leading a project of HGFA, the Hawaiʻi Farmers Market Association. Before that, he served as the Team Leader to the FoodCorps Inc., an AmeriCorps program, from 2019 to 2021. Tanner has a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of Oregon, and it was his service in the Peace Corps (Timor-Leste ʻ16-ʻ18) that led him back to the path of supporting agriculture & food security. LinkedIn Connect with Hawai'i Good Food Alliance Website Instagram Facebook Connect with NextGen Purpose: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Episode Highlights: 01:16 Geography and Food Access: How Location Changes Everything 06:13 Comparing Coasts: East vs West Market Experiences 10:38 Organic vs Certified— What "Certified" Really Means 16:53 Hawaii and California's Diversity 23:40 Making Markets Accessible 27:55 Permanent Market Dreams: Building for the Future 33:57 Are Farmers' Markets Expensive? The Real Price of Local Food Resources: Podcast S5 Ep 27: AIM— Preserving the Farmer's Market for Everyone with Andy Naja-Riese Part 2S7 Ep1: Boosting a Healthy, Accessible Local Farm-to-Table Revolution with Andy Naja-Riese Part 2

"The cure for disease is not to eradicate disease, it is the ability to respond…The more self-empowered you get, the more you can respond." —Dane Johnson You're eating "perfectly" but still dealing with bloating, pain, and fatigue. What if the problem isn't just the food you're eating, but your body's ability to handle the world we live in? It's a frustrating truth that requires a completely new approach. After being told his Crohn's and colitis were incurable, Dane Johnson took his health into his own hands and discovered the life-changing power of customized healing. He now helps others move from a place of fear to one of empowered action, cutting through the confusion with real-world strategies. Tune in to hear Dane's uncomplicated take on drainage pathways, toxic buildup, biofilm breakdown, and the critical mindset shift from defensive to offensive health. Justine and Dane also cover everything from seed oils and spiritual health to parasite cleanses and why your detox might be failing—all wrapped in an actionable plan to finally start healing. Meet Dane: Dane Johnson is the founder of CrohnsColitisLifestyle, inspired by his life-threatening battle with Crohn's/Colitis, which he reversed using natural practices. As a Board Certified Nutritionist and one of the most successful Crohn's/Colitis coaches in the world, he has helped thousands around the world find their unique answer to IBD while building a community of supporters, doctors, and healers! Website Instagram Facebook X YouTube Connect with NextGen Purpose: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Episode Highlights: 00:50 Meet Dane— From Patient to Advocate 07:02 Relapse, Temptation, and the Cycle of Bad Habits 09:24 Customizing Health 13:57 Food Industry Realities and the "Appeal" Controversy 18:39 The Mind-Body Connection— Stress and Health 21:56 Playing Defense vs Offense in Health 28:30 Wellness Key: Take Control of Your Health

"One of the things I learned through the course of my career is that people don't have any trust, confidence, or faith in you until they feel like you care about them and learn what they need." —Mark Spoone What if the key to a healthier planet and better food lies right beneath our feet? The way we treat our soil today could transform our future, making it richer and more sustainable for generations to come. With a career spanning multiple industries, Mark Spoone has founded over ten companies and taken three public, all while maintaining a focus on sustainable practices. His latest venture, Living Water, aims to transform agriculture by revitalizing soil health, offering a fresh perspective on how we can nourish both our bodies and the earth. Join Justine and Mark as they explore fresh insights into creating a positive environmental impact through innovative agricultural solutions, restoring soil health with beneficial microbes, enhancing crop health and nutrient density, the rapid improvements possible with regenerative farming, the growing recognition of sustainable practices, the link between soil health and food quality, the importance of teamwork in entrepreneurship, the cost-effectiveness of the Living Water system, the health benefits of nutrient-dense food, and addressing water conservation challenges in agriculture. Meet Mark: Mark Spoone is a seasoned entrepreneur with a diverse career spanning financial services, technology, strategic management, real estate, printing, beverage, hemp, artificial intelligence (AI), and agriculture. Known for his innovative approach to sustainable farming, he has founded over ten companies and led many others as CEO, General Manager, Director, or Board Member, successfully taking three companies public. His latest venture, Living Water, focuses on revitalizing soil health through biological fertilizers, aiming to reduce reliance on synthetic inputs and enhance nutrient density in crops. Mark's broad industry experience has provided him with invaluable learning opportunities and the chance to collaborate with some of the industry's finest experts. Driven by a passion for environmental sustainability and a commitment to positively impacting global food systems, he enjoys investing himself in challenges that align with his values. Website LinkedIn X YouTube Connect with NextGen Purpose: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Episode Highlights: 01:13 What is the Living Water? 05:41 Technology and Implementation 11:01 Impact on Soil and Food Quality 18:09 The Challenges Faced by Farmers and Their Need for Financial Support 21:55 Improving the Agronomic Landscape

"The core difference is, instead of, once you've paid your employees and your expenses, what's left, instead of it just enriching the investors, it's given away to good causes." —Alex Amouyel What if doing good didn't mean giving up your paycheck or your dreams? Maybe you're tired of hearing that business and kindness can't mix, or you wonder if your small actions really matter. Here's a fresh look at how purpose and profit can work together—and why your impact might be bigger than you think. Alex Amouyel has spent her career making a difference, from global nonprofits to leading Newman's Own Foundation. Her journey proves you don't have to choose between success and giving back. She brings bold, practical ideas for anyone who wants to build a business—or a life—that does real good. Hit play to get inspired and get real. You'll hear about profit-for-purpose models, honest truths about salaries and growth, the power of small actions, and how anyone can join the movement to make business a force for good. Meet Alex: Alex Amouyel is the President and CEO of Newman's Own Foundation, a private grantmaking foundation whose mission is to nourish and transform the lives of children who face adversity. She leads the Foundation's efforts to utilize 100% of the profits and royalties from the sale of Newman's Own products in service of this mission. Under Alex's leadership, Newman's Own Foundation co-founded the 100% for Purpose Club, a community of impact-driven business leaders and companies working to support and inspire the next generation of organizations to donate 100% of their profits for purpose. Her recent TED Talk, Can Salad Dressing Transform Capitalism?, explores the "100% for Purpose" movement and what it can teach us about doing business, philanthropy, and capitalism differently. Prior to her role at Newman's Own Foundation, Alex led MIT Solve as its Founding Executive Director with a mission to drive innovation to solve world challenges. She steered MIT Solve's growth to support over 268 Solver teams and Indigenous Communities Fellows, catalyzed over $60 million in commitments, and brokered more than 600 transformational partnerships. She also navigated the organization's response to the global pandemic, launched a Health Security & Pandemics Challenge, and expanded Solve's work on racial equity in the United States, including launching Solve's Indigenous Communities Fellowship and the Black & Brown Innovators Program. Over the course of her career, Alex has also served as the Director of Program for the Clinton Global Initiative and held roles at Save the Children International and the Boston Consulting Group. Alex earned a dual master's degree in International Affairs from Sciences Po, Paris, and the London School of Economics, along with a bachelor's degree in Biochemistry and Natural Sciences from Trinity College, Cambridge, UK. Alex is the author of The Answer Is You: A Guidebook to Creating a Life Full of Impact. Website LinkedIn YouTube Connect with NextGen Purpose: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Episode Highlights: 02:07 How Giving Back Became a Business Model 07:37 Can You Really Do Good and Pay the Bills? 10:21 Profit, Growth, and Giving— The Real Balancing Act 17:11 Myths About Purpose-Driven Business 22:17 The Consumer's Role: Choices and Challenges 28:51 How to Join the 100% for Purpose Movement 31:02 Finding Your Own Way to Make a Difference Resources Organizations Join the 100% for Purpose Club

Cole Ashman, founder of Pila Energy and former Tesla engineer, shares his journey in revolutionizing home energy solutions. Inspired by Hurricane Katrina, he emphasizes the urgent need for reliable power amid climate chaos. The conversation dives into Pila's innovative smart batteries designed for accessibility and sustainability. Cole reveals insights on overcoming energy accessibility barriers and the importance of partnerships in fostering change. Listeners will gain a fresh perspective on making energy resilient and affordable for all.

"At the end of this little tiny workshop, I hope everybody just comes away with the fact that they know they can do whatever they want with anything they want." —Sam Paone Got more summer veggies than you know what to do with? Instead of letting them go to waste, why not turn them into delicious pickles that capture the season's flavors? Pickling is a fun and easy way to preserve your garden's bounty, ensuring you enjoy those fresh tastes long after summer fades. Sam Paone, the mastermind behind Golden State Pickle Works, knows a thing or two about turning fresh produce into mouthwatering pickles. With her extensive experience and passion for preservation, Sam shares her tips and tricks for making pickling a breeze. Her insights will inspire you to see your garden's abundance in a whole new light. Dive into this episode with Justine and Sam and discover how to pickle your way through summer's harvest— from sanitizing jars to crafting the perfect brine. You'll learn practical techniques, creative flavor combinations, and tips for both fermented and vinegar pickles. Tune in and start your pickling journey today—your taste buds will thank you! Meet Sam: Sam Paone is the founder of Golden State Pickle Works, a California-based artisan fermentation company. With a background in restaurant cooking, she transitioned to entrepreneurship, creating organic, hyper-seasonal pickled vegetables, condiments, and salad dressings. Sam is passionate about preserving local produce, supporting organic farmers, and introducing innovative fermented food products. She has developed a unique line of pickles and fermented goods that celebrate seasonal ingredients, and is currently working on a preservation-focused television series. Her culinary approach emphasizes flavor, sustainability, and community connection. Website Instagram Facebook Connect with NextGen Purpose: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Episode Highlights: 01:31 Sanitizing and Preparing Jars 04:56 Fermented Pickle Preparation 08:53 Making the Brine 13:23 Adding Surface Protector and Finalizing the Jar 18:42 Vinegar Pickle Preparation 33:37 Pouring the Pickling Liquid 36:42 Have Fun Pickling!

"I think one of the biggest things to convey to anybody who wants to start a business is know what you're good at, know what you like, and know what you're not good at, and then outsource that. Because that's going to help get the business to where you wanna go." —Arielle Moody Ever wonder if you're settling for "good enough" when you could be living—and choosing—so much better? If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the choices you make for your body, your business, or your family, this episode is your permission slip to trust your gut, question the status quo, and demand more from what you put on your skin and into your life. Arielle Moody, a seasoned beauty industry expert and co-founder of Mama Sol, turned her personal quest for safe, effective products into a thriving business that puts wellness and integrity first. Her journey from industry insider to innovative entrepreneur brings a fresh, no-nonsense perspective on why what's inside—both products and people—matters most. Hit play for a candid look at how intentional living, ingredient transparency, self-belief, and values-driven choices shape everything from entrepreneurship and family business to work-life balance, clinical testing, and creating wellness products that truly multitask. Meet Arielle: While pregnant with her first child, shocked by how many toxic ingredients were lurking in everyday products, and after trying dozens of natural mineral sunscreens, Arielle was determined to create one that 1) didn't make her immediately want to wash her face, and 2) didn't leave a white cast on her skin. Oh, and it needed to be something she looked forward to using daily. No biggie. As Mama Sol's product development whisperer, Arielle has been immersed in the beauty industry her entire adult life. Starting as a beauty sales trainer for Smashbox, Dr. Perricone, and Bite Beauty, then rising to become the head of product development for Skinn Cosmetics and, most recently, the head of sales for a leading cosmetics packaging and formulation company, she's always known one thing—that she would one day create her own product, something truly different that had never been seen before. Website Instagram Facebook TikTok Connect with NextGen Purpose: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Episode Highlights: 03:19 Fulfilling a Long-Time Dream 06:16 Inclusive Formulations and Non-Nano Zinc Oxide 13:41 Bootstrapping and Business Growth 18:30 Work-Life Balance 21:20 Ingredient Philosophy and Product Development 28:11 Family Dynamics and Business Challenges 31:20 The Mamasol Expert Series Podcast Resources: Book Infinite Possibilities: The Art of Living Your Dreams: https://a.co/d/3wGFDX0 Discount Get a special discount when you shop at: https://www.shopmamasol.com/ Use code: EssentialMama15

"It's all about labels, it's all about claims, and it's all about certifications. Regenerative is a mess. It's a hot mess. ... I can understand, articulate, and define it really easily, but the average consumer, I don't think, can for a myriad of reasons.... The entire reason regenerative agriculture was created is the beauty of it being a transition tool to improve conventional agriculture. The challenge is it's super easy to greenwash if it's not legit, and it's really easy to lower the bar as low as possible." —Anthony Corsaro Ever picked up a carton of "regenerative" eggs or a bag of "regenerative" chips and thought, "Is this actually better—or just clever marketing?" With so many labels, certifications, and claims crowding the shelves, it's no wonder shoppers feel lost, second-guessing every choice and wondering if they're being duped by hype. After overcoming personal health struggles and witnessing the gaps in our food system firsthand, ReGen Brands co-founder Anthony Corsaro shifted his focus from his family's produce business to championing regenerative agriculture. His journey from industry insider to nonprofit leader gives him a unique lens to cut through the noise and spotlight what truly matters in the regenerative movement. Tune in for a clear-eyed look into the meaning (and misuse) of the term "regenerative," the maze of certifications, the evolution of food business models, supply chain realities, personal health impacts of eating and living regenerative, how to spot the difference between real change and empty claims, and practical tips for making smarter choices. Meet Anthony: Anthony is the co-founder of ReGen Brands, an ecosystem supporting regenerative agriculture and CPG brands. With a background in family produce distribution and personal experience overcoming an autoimmune disease through nutrition, he transitioned from business operations to advocating for regenerative agriculture. He co-hosts the Regen Brands podcast and leads three key initiatives: the Regen Brands Institute (research), Regen Brands Coalition (brand collaboration), and Regen Brands Capital (funding). Anthony is passionate about improving food systems, supporting regenerative brands, and creating systemic solutions to help these businesses scale and succeed. Website LinkedIn Instagram YouTube Connect with NextGen Purpose: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Episode Highlights: 01:12 ReGen BRands: From Podcast to Ecosystem 04:16 The Three Pillars of ReGen Brands and Non Profit Decision 08:30 Family Roots and Industry Heritage 11:25 Defining Regenerative 13:47 Making Regenerative Accesible: Consumer Clarity and Shelf Tags 17:24 Regenerative Diets and Personal Health 21:42 Tips for Aspiring Regenerative Brands

"Life is so crazy, and you just want to be able to live it to the fullest and the best you can." —Elissa Goodman Everyone's selling the next big wellness fix—but what if the real answers are simpler than you think? We're bombarded with superfoods, supplements, and miracle diets, but the truth is, most of us are still searching for what really works. If you're tired of chasing trends and want to feel genuinely good in your body, you're in the right place. Returning guest, Elissa Goodman's journey from chronic illness to vibrant health is proof that real change isn't about the latest craze—it's about tuning in to what your body truly needs. Her honest and practical approach helps her customers cut through the clutter and discover simple habits that actually make a difference. Join Justine and Elissa as they bust wellness myths and share real-life stories, and dive into practical tips on food, gut health, energy, blood work, and simple habits for a longer, healthier life. Meet Elissa: Elissa Goodman is a holistic nutritionist and lifestyle cleanse expert who believes that proper nourishment and a daily renewal practice are essential for optimal living. Elissa's mission is to educate and encourage healthy, mindful living, helping others embrace the concept that we are a product of what we eat and how we treat ourselves. Creator of "Cleanse Your Body, Cleanse Your Life" and "S.O.U.P." Cleanse, her approach to cleansing is gentle and accessible for those looking to renew, recharge, rejuvenate, and maintain their healthy lifestyle. She is based in Los Angeles and works privately with professionals and celebrity clients to develop personalized wellness programs that encourage true health from the inside out. Elissa collaborates with health and wellness partners throughout Los Angeles and is the creator of M Cafés macrobiotic RESET Cleanse, Earth Bar food at LAX, and signature juice blends at Erewhon Market. Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Connect with NextGen Purpose: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Episode Highlights: 02:29 A Move for a Healthier Lifestyle 06:38 The Journey to Physical and Emotional Healing 08:30 Balancing Health and Enjoyment 14:05 Functional Medicine and Bloodwork 18:14 The Impact of Supplements and Hormone Testing 24:03 Tips for Maintaining Health and Energy 28:09 Aging Hacks 33:10 Informed Choices Impact Longevity Resources: Book Cancer Hacks: A Holistic Guide to Overcoming your Fears and Healing Cancer by Elissa Goodman Aging Hacks (Coming Soon) Podcast Healing the Root Cause of Why We Get Sick with Elissa Goodman