The Mindful Marketplace with Joel Skene

Hosted by Joel Skene

Business Investing

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Episodes

101

Latest episode

Oct 2024

Language

EN-US

About the show

The Mindful Marketplace is where we share the stories of entrepreneurs, investors, economists, and business leaders who are not only making a profit, but who are creating more equitable, sustainable, and democratic business practices and communities along the way. It's where we learn how to connect our money and our time to our values, our community, and ourselves. Connect with Joel at: http://www.mindfulmarketplaceshow.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mindfulmarketplaceshow Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindfulmarketplaceshow/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelskene/

Listen to episodes

60 recent

October 1, 202422 min

Building Inclusive Futures Through Collaborative Community Projects - Part 2

Imagine transforming unused spaces into life-changing opportunities. In our latest episode, we sit down with Dr. Glennell M Lee Pruitt, president of Jarvis Christian University, to uncover groundbreaking solutions for community investment. Learn how the university is breathing new life into empty dormitories by offering housing to young adults aging out of the foster care system. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in innovative strategies for community development and higher education, as Dr. Pruitt emphasizes the power of "fishing differently" through non-traditional solutions and impactful community partnerships.We also explore the broader landscape of generating revenue for community initiatives without sacrificing social impact. From utilizing unused university acreage for housing to the inspiring story of a church building apartments above its sanctuary, this episode highlights the necessity of bold, outside-the-box thinking. Dr. Pruitt shares insights from the "Fishing Differently" conference, where leaders from various sectors come together to tackle community problems. With a focus on inclusivity, representation, and leveraging technology, this episode offers a fresh perspective on fostering a more equitable future through collaborative and innovative community engagement.jarvis.eduThis program is brought to you by:Arc Integrated Be sure to visit BizRadio.US to discover hundreds more engaging conversations, local events and more.

September 24, 202421 min

Innovative Strategies for Fair Wages and Economic Justice

Unlock the secrets of pioneering social change and transformative finance in our latest Mindful Marketplace episode. What if your community could own and manage its housing, bypassing traditional homeownership? We delve into cooperative housing models, neighborhood real estate investment trusts, and community capital funds that offer these groundbreaking possibilities. We also spotlight the ongoing battles of gig workers, with a particular focus on Uber and Lyft drivers in Minneapolis standing against corporate lobbying for fair wages. Additionally, we address the mounting credit card debt crisis among young people and its broader economic ramifications in an era of high inflation and steep borrowing costs.Our conversation with Dr. Glennell Lee Pruitt, President of Jarvis Christian University, sheds light on the unique hurdles smaller institutions face in gaining resources and recognition. Dr. Pruitt shares how Jarvis Christian University is creatively using its assets to tackle local social issues, underscoring the power of investing local dollars back into local communities. Learn about the importance of recognizing the unique strengths students bring to their education, and stay tuned for part two of our chat, where we explore more innovative approaches and discuss the impactful Fishing Differently conference. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in social innovation, community investment, and the future of education.jarvis.eduThis program is brought to you by:Arc Integrated Be sure to visit BizRadio.US to discover hundreds more engaging conversations, local events and more.

September 17, 202423 min

Influential Figures in the Fight for Social Justice w/ Damien Durr - Part 2

How did a former mayor of Berkeley become a beacon of social justice and community empowerment? Join us as we journey through the impactful life of Gus Newport with our special guest, Damien Durr from DCD Empowerment and the Gus Newport Project. Damien shares his unique personal connection with Gus, detailing their encounters through the Children's Defense Fund and the National Council of Elders. We'll explore Gus's transformative tenure as mayor, where he led Berkeley to become a pioneer in divesting from South Africa and implementing groundbreaking policies like domestic benefits and commercial rent control.Discover the often overlooked yet monumental contributions Gus made from lecturing at Harvard to leading the Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative in Boston. With insights from social documentary filmmaker Leah Mahan, we delve into the community land trust model that empowered residents through eminent domain and discuss the creation of a documentary capturing this significant journey. You'll also hear about Gus's interactions with notable figures such as Danny Glover and Bernie Sanders and the formation of a nonprofit organization dedicated to sustaining his visionary values.How does faith intersect with activism? This episode reveals Gus Newport’s enduring commitment to justice, influenced by faith leaders like Vincent Harding and Howard Thurman. We reflect on how a bottom-up theology and the teachings of Jesus shaped Gus’s approach to human dignity, anti-violence, and social issues like gentrification and homelessness. We'll challenge the misconceptions around the civil rights movement, shedding light on the critical roles played by women and unsung heroes. Tune in for a profound discussion on living a faith that promotes justice, mercy, and the well-being of all people, inspired by the unwavering spirit of Gus Newport.https://dcdempowerment.com/www.gusnewport.comThis program is brought to you by:Arc Integrated Be sure to visit BizRadio.US to discover hundreds more engaging conversations, local events and more.

September 10, 202422 min

Harnessing Social Enterprises for Economic Reforms & Community Equity - Part 1

What if social enterprises could reshape the global economy while prioritizing social and environmental value? This episode of the Mindful Marketplace features an enlightening conversation with Damien Durr, a leader of the Gus Newport Project and DCD Empowerment, as we unravel the transformative power of social ventures. Damien sheds light on how these enterprises generate trillions in revenue, create millions of jobs, and strengthen community resilience. We tackle the pressing issue of mega-banks overshadowing community banks and credit unions and the repercussions this has on local economies. Plus, we highlight the ambitious goals of the Community Equity Fund by the Eagle Market Streets Development Corporation, aimed at fostering equitable economic development in Asheville, North Carolina.In a thought-provoking chapter inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s philosophy of a beloved community, we focus on the intersection of faith, justice, and education. Damien discusses faith institutions' pivotal role in integrating moral values into policy decisions, challenging the conventional single-bottom-line approach. We delve into DCD Empowerment's mission to uplift marginalized youth by linking talent with opportunity and addressing critical issues like low self-esteem and trauma. This episode not only broadens our understanding of intelligence but also emphasizes the creation of learning environments where educators and students grow together, nurturing hope and resilience in marginalized communities. Join us for a powerful discussion on how economic reforms and community-driven change can pave the way for a more just and equitable society.https://dcdempowerment.com/www.gusnewport.comThis program is brought to you by:Arc Integrated Be sure to visit BizRadio.US to discover hundreds more engaging conversations, local events and more.

July 30, 202423 min

Innovative Financing Solutions for Employee Ownership Initiatives - Part 2

Ever wondered why more business owners are shifting towards employee ownership models? Get ready to uncover the secrets behind this rising trend in our latest episode featuring Alison Lingange, co-founder of Project Equity and the Ownership Capital Lab. Allison breaks down the benefits of partial employee ownership, from boosting employee engagement to enhancing overall business value. We also discuss the contrasting motivations behind such transitions, such as operational efficiency versus legacy building, and the distinct differences between the Silicon Valley approach and the community-focused ethos of small businesses.Tune in as we explore the critical role of employee ownership in sustaining local economies, especially those reliant on manufacturing and production. Alison emphasizes the urgency of succession planning amid the "silver tsunami" of business ownership transitions and explains various financing structures for employee ownership transactions, including seller notes and Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs). We also get a sneak peek into Alison's current and future projects, leaving you eager for more insights. Don't miss this enlightening discussion that could change how you think about business ownership and succession planning.https://project-equity.org/press-releases/project-equity-co-founder-alison-lingane-announces-transition/https://project-equity.org/This program is brought to you by:Arc Integrated Be sure to visit BizRadio.US to discover hundreds more engaging conversations, local events and more.

July 23, 202422 min

Financial Rewards in Worker-Owned Enterprises - Part 1

Discover how employee ownership can reshape the business landscape and drive social change! Join me, Joel Skeen on the Mindful Marketplace, as I sit down with Alison Lingange, the brilliant co-founder of Project Equity and the Ownership Capital Lab. Throughout our conversation, we'll uncover how democratic business models are making a difference for companies and employees alike. From the inspiring story of the Industrial Commons' role in the textile circular economy to the groundbreaking antitrust lawsuit against Apple, we cover a broad spectrum of topics that reflect the evolving dynamics of today's marketplace. Plus, get practical tips on managing personal and business debt amidst the growing credit card usage among Gen Z.Is employee ownership too complex or just a myth? Think again! In this episode, we debunk common misconceptions about Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) and illustrate their numerous benefits. Hear firsthand how New Belgium Brewery's transition led to financial rewards for its employees, and learn why employee-owned businesses often outperform their peers. We'll also break down the mechanics behind financing these transitions, showing that substantial personal savings aren't necessary for success. Don't miss out on this enlightening discussion about the future of employee ownership and its potential to transform the business world for the better.https://project-equity.org/press-releases/project-equity-co-founder-alison-lingane-announces-transition/https://project-equity.org/This program is brought to you by:Arc Integrated Be sure to visit BizRadio.US to discover hundreds more engaging conversations, local events and more.

July 9, 202421 min

Empowering Workers through Ownership Models and Democratic Practices - Part 2

Unlock the secrets to transforming your business into an employee-owned powerhouse as we sit down with experts Mark Hand and Jenny Everett from the Research Cluster on Employee Ownership and Workplace Democracy. Discover a new world of business models including employee stock options, ESOPs, and worker cooperatives, enriched with real-life examples like Brookshire's, Bob's Red Mill, and Black Star Co-op. We also shine a spotlight on the cutting-edge concept of purpose trust ownership, showcasing how companies like ACP International and Patagonia use these trusts to benefit both employees and the planet. Learn how Organically Grown Company successfully balances profit with stakeholder benefits through its purpose trust framework.In the latter half of our conversation, we explore how democratic practices in the workplace can revolutionize corporate governance and community organizations alike. With insights from Mark Hand’s teaching experiences at the University of Texas at Arlington, we draw compelling parallels between political democracy and corporate policy, emphasizing the power of transparency and employee involvement. From full worker-owned cooperatives to incremental democratic practices like employee representation on boards, we cover a spectrum of approaches to foster a more inclusive and participatory business environment. Don’t miss our discussion on the Kensington Corridor Trust and how perpetual purpose trusts can reshape community-focused real estate initiatives. This episode is a comprehensive guide to innovative ownership models that promise to leave a lasting legacy for businesses and communities.https://www.eowd.org/This program is brought to you by:Arc Integrated Be sure to visit BizRadio.US to discover hundreds more engaging conversations, local events and more.

July 2, 202422 min

Financial Strategies Empowering Local Communities and Workers

Unlock the secrets to transforming your business and community through the power of shared ownership. Join me, Joel Skeen, as I engage with Jenny Everett and Mark Hand from the Research Cluster on Employee Ownership and Workplace Democracy. We explore how private equity is driving new trends in employee ownership, spotlighting Blackstone's innovative equity-linked incentive program for 18,000 employees. Additionally, we delve into the overlooked financial pitfalls tech workers face due to fossil fuel investments and the White House’s recent move to cancel $7.7 billion in student debt. You'll also discover how real estate crowdfunding could be the key to unlocking new local investment opportunities, reshaping financial landscapes, and preserving individual legacies.We'll also unpack the success factors behind employee ownership and its profound ripple effects on businesses and communities. With insights from executive coach Drew McClure, Jenny, and Mark explore promising yet under-researched areas like profit-sharing and community reinvestment. Hear about the bipartisan support for these initiatives, with endorsements from figures like Ronald Reagan and Bernie Sanders. We tackle the urgent "silver tsunami" issue, where retiring business owners can consider employee ownership as a viable succession plan. This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in how investing in employees can help preserve legacies and create lasting community impact.https://www.eowd.org/This program is brought to you by:Arc Integrated Be sure to visit BizRadio.US to discover hundreds more engaging conversations, local events and more.

June 25, 202422 min

Community Support as a Catalyst for Personal Change - Part 2

What if investing in your community could transform not just neighborhoods, but lives? Join us as David shares his extraordinary journey from addiction to entrepreneurship, illustrating how community support can lead to personal and collective empowerment. Through candid conversations, David reveals how his real estate business became a beacon of hope, creating meaningful employment for those in recovery and fostering a culture of giving back. This episode captures the essence of how community investment can catalyze personal redemption and collective well-being.Together, we explore the complexities of transitioning a property preservation business into a social enterprise aimed at revitalizing marginalized neighborhoods. Inspired by works like "The Color of Law," "Race for Profit," and "Evicted," we dissect the systemic inequities these communities face. We also address the detrimental effects of property flipping and private equity, contrasting these with the benefits of shared ownership models. Discover how our cooperative approach not only stabilizes communities but also enhances worker productivity and economic empowerment, proving that sustainable, regenerative investment is not just possible, but essential.https://streetwell.co/https://www.wmar2news.com/local/an-employee-owned-cooperative-is-taking-on-baltimores-vacant-housing-crisisThis program is brought to you by:Arc Integrated Be sure to visit BizRadio.US to discover hundreds more engaging conversations, local events and more.

June 18, 202423 min

Transforming Economies with Human-Centered Investments

Discover the transformative power of investing in each other as we tackle market and social problems head-on. This episode kicks off with Elias Krim, who proposes a radical "third way" in economics through social co-ops emphasizing human-scale economies and community engagement. We’ll also uncover the environmental and social repercussions of PetroPeru's oil and gas activities in the Amazon, driven by financial instability, and explore Connecticut's innovative debt relief program designed to combat healthcare worker shortages and burnout. In a compelling discussion, we’ll also dissect the significance of divestment, particularly in light of student protests against university investments in major weapons manufacturers.Join us as David Lidz of Streetwell shares his remarkable journey from personal recovery to social enterprise and community revitalization. You'll learn how his struggle with addiction led to the creation of an employee-owned contracting company and an impactful real estate portfolio focused on historically neglected neighborhoods. We then shift gears to reveal how cooperative economics can transform businesses into genuine community assets. With insights from Paul Saginaw of Zingerman, we illustrate the real-world success of prioritizing fair wages, good benefits, and community reinvestment over profit maximization. Prepare to be inspired by stories of enhanced worker compensation, improved worksite conditions, and true community upliftment.https://streetwell.co/https://www.wmar2news.com/local/an-employee-owned-cooperative-is-taking-on-baltimores-vacant-housing-crisisThis program is brought to you by:Arc Integrated Be sure to visit BizRadio.US to discover hundreds more engaging conversations, local events and more.