The Sustainable Business Spotlight

Hosted by Amy Auble

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Dec 2025

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About the show

Sustainable brand owner? Sustainable brand lover? Either way, you’ve come to the right place! Welcome to the ‘Sustainable Business Spotlight’ with Amy Auble. Amy’s passion for sustainability and desire to market sustainable brands is showcased in each episode. Each week, she will provide you with tangible tips, strategies, and a variety of connections within the sustainable business world. This podcast is perfect for sustainable business owners and consumers alike! Some episodes will be curated specifically for sustainable business owners; you will learn how to scale your sustainable business using the success and guidance of other owners, hear tips by people who truly understand what you’re experiencing, and understand how to grow your network and market your brand with sustainability at the forefront. Some episodes directed more towards the consumers; understanding what makes a brand or business sustainable, learning about the importance of products made to last, and emphasizing why buying local matters! Regardless of what audience you are part of, this podcast packs a punch and encourages you to evaluate how sustainability can become a more prominent aspect in your business and in life. Tune in on Tuesdays, where Amy passionately connects strategy and sustainability through solo and guest episodes. Time to shine a spotlight on sustainable businesses!

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33 recent

December 16, 2025Episode 3322 min

Turning Plastic Waste Into Schools: How Sustainable Classrooms is Reimagining Education Access & Opportunity in Togo

Send a textOn this episode of The Sustainable Business Spotlight, I sit down with Jestine, founder of Sustainable Classrooms, a Montana-based nonprofit, turning plastic waste into building blocks for education in Togo, West Africa. We talk about tackling plastic pollution, working across cultures, and building classrooms with locally sourced materials, all while creating jobs and improving student access to food and healthcare.Jestine shares how a post-college trip turned into a mission to build more than just infrastructure. With a small but mighty team on the ground and a growing community of supporters, she’s proving that one idea, and one brick at a time, can make a global impact.Whether you're working on your own eco-startup or looking for inspiration to take action, this episode highlights how grassroots solutions can drive sustainable change.In this episode: 01:33 – How a trip to Southeast Asia and Africa sparked the idea 03:54 – Living in Togo and building trust with the local community 06:34 – Turning shredded plastic into bricks for classrooms 09:05 – Connecting with students through language and shared experience 13:50 – How power outages are shaping their shift to solar energy 16:57 – Supporting students with school lunches and health programs 19:36 – Ways to support Sustainable Classrooms and follow their journeyIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend who cares about sustainability!Links:Website: https://www.sustainableclassrooms.eco/Instagram: @sustainable_classroomsFacebook: Sustainable Classrooms LinkedIn: Sustainable ClassroomsTikTok: @sustainable_classroomsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClIUFEMKEkIa5C5kHKyK-pQAmy's Links:• Website• Alpine Start Media's Instagram• LinkedIn• Jelt's Instagram

December 2, 202529 min

Upcycling and Designing Products That Outlast Fast Fashion with Taylor Dubose of SUS

Send a textOn this episode of The Sustainable Business Spotlight, I sit down with Taylor Dubose, founder of SUS, a Massachusetts-based gear company making backpacks, hats, and accessories from recycled plastic and repurposed gear. We talk about rejecting fast fashion, designing for repairability, and the logistics behind collecting waste and turning it into durable products, all without selling on Amazon.Taylor shares how his background in product development shaped the way he approaches sustainability. From old tents and climbing rope, to water bottles that never got recycled, he’s closing the loop through local sourcing, smart design, and full transparency on material use.Whether you're building your own eco-friendly small business or trying to improve your sustainable supply chain, this episode offers practical insight into making products that truly last.In this episode:01:40 – How the pandemic sparked Taylor’s idea for SUS06:49 – The Reality Collection: bags made from used tarps and tents09:12 – Logistics of local collection and manufacturing11:13 – Why SUS lists the number of plastic bottles in each product14:47 – New product line made from retired climbing rope19:53 – What consumers should really know about recyclingIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend who cares about sustainability.Links:https://susmade.com/https://www.instagram.com/sus_made/Amy's Links:• Website• Alpine Start Media's Instagram• LinkedIn• Jelt's Instagram

September 16, 2025Episode 3130 min

Turning Ocean-Bound Plastic Into Durable Products with Deirdre H. Bird of Dri Umbrellas

Send a textWelcome back to The Sustainable Business Spotlight! In this episode, I’m joined by Deirdre Bird, founder of Dry Umbrellas, a company reimagining a frustrating everyday product with sustainability in mind. After one too many cheap umbrellas flipped inside out on the streets of Boston, Deirdre decided to take action. The result? A line of high-quality, ocean-bound plastic umbrellas that are as durable as they are impactful.We talk through her unexpected journey into entrepreneurship, the realities of building a sustainable supply chain, and how one product can shift the way people think about consumption. If you’ve ever been frustrated with a broken umbrella or questioned the long-term impact of single-use materials, tune in! Deirdre’s passion for the planet is contagious and her umbrellas are making waves (pun intended!)In this episode, you’ll hear:02:33 – The “aha” moment that turned Deirdre from commuter to founder of Dry Umbrellas.05:52 – What makes building a sustainable supply chain difficult, but worth it.07:40 – The keys to launching a successful Kickstarter campaign (and what Deirdre wishes she’d done).13:41 – Why ocean-bound plastic matters and why bamboo and steel were deliberate choices.19:17 – How Dry Umbrellas made it onto shelves at REI (and why in-person product feel matters).22:35 – Exciting news: compact umbrellas are coming, just in time for the holidays!If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share it with someone who values planet-first products!Links:Enter the Giveaway here! https://jeltbelt.com/pages/sustainable-giveawayWebsite: https://www.dri.earth/Instagram: @dri_umbrellasAmy's Links:• Website• Alpine Start Media's Instagram• LinkedIn• Jelt's Instagram

May 6, 2025Episode 3027 min

The Power of Local Action: How Compost Crowd is Changing Waste Culture with Kathleen Ventura

Send a textWelcome back to The Sustainable Business Spotlight! In this episode, I’m joined by Kathleen Ventura, co-founder of Compost Crowd, a compost collection service transforming how residents and businesses in Northern Arizona manage their food waste.Kathleen shares how Compost Crowd started, the environmental importance of composting, and how small lifestyle changes can create massive collective impact. Whether you're a sustainability advocate or a curious beginner, this conversation will leave you inspired to take action.In this episode, you’ll hear:01:18 – The unexpected inspiration behind starting Compost Crowd.03:04 – How the business expanded from farmers markets to city-wide collection.06:14 – Why throwing food scraps in the trash creates methane and how composting helps.09:02 – The vineyard partnership turning compost into a soil-regenerating solution.13:51 – What to do if you don’t have a composting service in your area.19:04 – Kathleen’s personal low-waste lifestyle and intentional living practices.This episode is full of actionable insights, real talk about sustainable living, and powerful reminders that individual actions do add up. Tune in and discover simple ways you can make a difference, starting today. If you enjoy this episode, don’t forget to rate, share, and leave your thoughts—we’d love to hear from you!For Flagstaff or Sedona residents, use the code PODCAST at www.compostcrowd.com to get one free month of compost pick up!Links:Website: https://www.compostcrowd.comInstagram: @compostcrowdAmy's Links:• Website• Alpine Start Media's Instagram• LinkedIn• Jelt's Instagram

April 1, 2025Episode 2930 min

Growing Food Yourself with Marjory Wildcraft

Send a textWelcome to The Sustainable Business Spotlight! Today, I’m joined by Marjory Wildcraft, founder of The Grow Network, a global movement helping people grow their own food and live sustainably. What started as a backyard experiment has become a thriving community empowering self-sufficiency and resilience.In this episode, Marjory shares how anyone can start growing food—no matter their space or experience. We dive into the power of food sovereignty, debunk common gardening myths, and explore why homegrown food is key to financial and environmental sustainability.In this episode, you will hear:00:59 Marjory journey to self-sufficiency.04:59 The importance of growing your own food.07:03 Getting started with gardening.12:04 Community and local resources.14:59 Soil health and composting.19:55 Business insights and lessons learned.This conversation is packed with inspiration and practical steps to take control of your food, health, and future. Tune in now and start your journey toward sustainability! Don’t forget to subscribe, review, and share.Links: Website: https://thegrownetwork.com/Webinar: https://thegrownetwork.com/i-can-grow-food-webinar/?oid=117&affid=419Amy's Links:• Website• Alpine Start Media's Instagram• LinkedIn• Jelt's Instagram

February 25, 2025Episode 2827 min

Keeping ‘Made in the USA’ Alive: Sustainable Fashion Insights from Youer’s CEO

Send a textWelcome to another episode of the Sustainable Business Spotlight! I’m excited to be joined by Mallory Ottariano, the founder and CEO of Youer, a sustainable clothing brand that’s been empowering women with eco-conscious fashion since 2012. What began with just a $100 sewing machine has now blossomed into a beloved brand that champions sustainability in every stitch. Known for its women-led team, domestic manufacturing, and commitment to using responsible materials, Youer is raising the bar in the fashion industry. In this episode, Mallory shares the inspiring journey behind Youer, the challenges of being a USA-based manufacturer, and the heart-driven mission that fuels the brand's success.In this episode you will hear: 1:30 – The accidental beginning of Youer and how it all started.4:45 – Navigating business challenges and the journey of manufacturing in the USA.13:15 – The impact of new tariffs on local businesses.17:35 – Why Mallory chooses to release new products monthly and the strategy behind it.20:25 – Pricing and marketing strategies that shape consumer behavior.23:57 – Mallory’s top advice for shopping sustainably.I hope this episode leaves you feeling encouraged and inspired by the incredible work being done at Youer! If you enjoyed the conversation, don't forget to rate, share, and leave your thoughts—we'd love to hear from you. Thanks so much for tuning in!Mallory's Links: Your Website: YouerYouer Instagram: Youer ®️Outside ArticleAmy's Links:• Website• Alpine Start Media's Instagram• LinkedIn• Jelt's Instagram

December 17, 2024Episode 2729 min

Gear for Good: How Cotopaxi Leads Sustainability with Annie Agle

Send a textWelcome to another inspiring episode of the Sustainable Business Spotlight! This week, I’m thrilled to be joined by Annie Agle, VP of Sustainability at Cotopaxi, a brand known for its mission-driven approach to creating responsibly made outdoor gear that brings color, joy, and performance to adventurers everywhere. Guided by their slogan, “Gear for Good,” Cotopaxi is not just about making products—it’s about building a global movement to support communities and protect our planet.Annie shares her passion for sustainability and her work leading Cotopaxi’s efforts in climate action, corporate social responsibility, human rights, and ethical giving. From responsibly made gear to impactful initiatives, Cotopaxi is setting the bar for what it means to be a purpose-driven brand.In this episode, we’ll explore: 1:45 – Annie’s journey into sustainability: what drives her passion and has shaped her career.5:30 – How Cotopaxi prioritizes human rights in their responsibly made gear.12:30 – Insights into how Cotopaxi tackles policy in ways other brands might not.16:45 – Addressing gaps in the auditing process by focusing on human rights and governance.22:00 – Practical advice for consumers aiming to make more sustainable purchasing decisions.25:45 – The impact of Cotopaxi’s innovative trade-in program.Join us for a deep dive into how Cotopaxi is redefining outdoor gear and paving the way for a more sustainable future. If you enjoy this episode, don’t forget to rate, share, and leave your thoughts—we’d love to hear from you! Thanks for tuning in!Links:Website- https://www.cotopaxi.comTrade In program- https://masvida.cotopaxi.com/pages/trade-in-editorialAmy's Links:• Website• Alpine Start Media's Instagram• LinkedIn• Jelt's Instagram

December 3, 2024Episode 2623 min

Sustainable Holiday Gifting

Send a textWelcome to a festive episode of the Sustainable Business Spotlight with Amy Auble! As the holiday season approaches, many of us are excited to find the perfect gifts for our loved ones (and maybe a little something for ourselves, too!). While gift-giving is a beautiful tradition, it’s important to consider how we can make our choices more sustainable. This holiday season, you don’t have to settle for the latest trend or sale item. Join me as I share creative ways to gift more sustainably and highlight companies that are making it easier than ever to embrace sustainable gifting. Let’s dive in!In this episode you will hear: 1:29 – Holiday shopping statistics, including how many people are shopping, the most popular items, and how much is spent on Black Friday.2:25 – Creative gift ideas that don’t involve buying new items, offering ways to give meaningful presents without relying on physical goods.5:50 – Key criteria for choosing sustainable brands, such as certifications, longevity, and local sourcing. Sharing personal experiences with eco-friendly brands.9:39 – Recommendations for sustainable brands that make great gifts, perfect for an eco-conscious holiday season.I hope this episode has inspired you to make more sustainable gift choices, not just for the holidays, but for all gifts to come! Let’s keep spreading the joy while caring for our planet. If you enjoyed this episode, I’d love for you to rate, share, and let me know your thoughts. Thanks so much for tuning in — I truly appreciate your support!Episode Specific Links: Proof: Proof RazorsTerra Seed:Terra SeedDew Mighty: Dew MightyPlaine Products: Plaine ProductsJelt: Jelt BeltWear-Arc: Wear-ArcVoormi: VOORMIEat Purposefully: Eat PurposefullyScented Designs: Scented DesignsUnblur: Unblur | ShopLive Heal Travel: Live Heal TravelOrigin: Origin USAMontana Knife Company: Montana Knife CompanyCotopaxi: CotopaxiAmy's Links:• Website• Alpine Start Media's Instagram• LinkedIn• Jelt's Instagram

November 26, 2024Episode 2528 min

Sustainable Investing: Danielle Lemon on Aligning Financial Goals with Personal Values

Send a textWelcome to this episode of The Sustainable Business Spotlight with Amy Auble! I’m excited to introduce you to today’s guest Danielle Lemon, the founder of Aligned Living Financial. After spending 8 years in real estate, Danielle made a transformative shift in 2020 when she recognized the need to make financial literacy and resources more accessible to everyone. This insight led her to become a financial planner, dedicating herself to helping Canadians navigate their personal finance journeys. Through her business, Aligned Living Financial, Danielle helps individuals, specifically queer and female entrepreneurs, take control of their financial future with a focus on sustainable investing and mindfulness practices. She’s committed to continuously expanding her expertise to empower her clients to make informed financial decisions and build secure, aligned futures.Money is something we all deal with every day, and when it comes to sustainable living, we often overlook its impact. Luckily, people like Danielle are showing us how we can better use our money for a more sustainable lifestyle. Join Danielle and I, as we dive into budgeting, mindfulness, investing, and how these all play a role in creating a more sustainable future. Let’s dive in! In this episode you will hear: 1:30 – Danielle’s path into financial planning, beginning as a real estate investor and discovering the inequities in access to high-level financial services.3:15 – The concept of sustainable investing and how Danielle recommends approaching it by aligning investments with personal goals, values, and the ESG (environment, social, and governance) lens.10:55 – How budgeting can support a more sustainable lifestyle, with a focus on how clarifying values influences spending decisions.15:00 – The role of meditation and journaling in helping shape both business practices and mindful spending.20:15 – The idea that living sustainably can also save money, with examples around diet, purchases, and travel.23:50 – The issue of greenwashing in sustainable investing, and why less sustainable companies are sometimes chosen over more sustainable alternatives.I love how financial planning can support sustainability! If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, share, and let me know your thoughts. Thanks for tuning in!Episode Specific Links: Danielle’s Instagram: Danielle LemonAligned Living Financial: Aligned LivingFun Xperience: Fun XperienceAmy's Links:• Website• Alpine Start Media's Instagram• LinkedIn• Jelt's Instagram

November 19, 2024Episode 2429 min

The Power of Eco-Retreats: Sustainable Travel and Self-Awareness with Rosalyn Acosta

Send a textfounder of Live Heal Travel, a reiki master, shamanic energy medicine practitioner, and mindfulness facilitator passionate about empowering individuals to unlock their fullest potential. I had the privilege of meeting Rosalyn at a conference, where we quickly connected over our shared passion for sustainability. Her expertise in sustainable travel and wellness comes together beautifully in the family eco-wellness retreats she leads. Beyond her retreats, Rosalyn has made significant contributions through collaborations with organizations like the San Francisco Human Rights Commission, CREST at Stanford University, the World Wildlife Fund, The Nature Conservancy, and the United Nations World Tourism Organization. Travel offers incredible experiences that many of us, myself included, cherish. However, it’s easy to overlook the environmental impacts that come with it. Thankfully, companies like Live Heal Travel are working to preserve the joys of travel while minimizing its negative effects on the planet. Join Rosalyn and me as we explore eco-retreats, the importance of self-sustainability, and how they’re interconnected. Let’s dive in!1:30 – Rosalyn’s journey into sustainable travel, including the launch of her eco-wellness retreats.3:00 – Early experiences in sustainable travel and the valuable lessons she’s learned along the way.6:26 – Practical tips for traveling more sustainably: planning ahead, maintaining quality without compromise, and offsetting the environmental impact of flights.12:41 – The inspiration behind Rosalyn’s eco-retreats: creating family-friendly experiences that combine cultural authenticity with affordability.20:00 – How mindfulness and healing intersect with sustainability, exploring self-sustainability, spiritual connections in different cultures, and advice for fostering deeper self-awareness.I don’t know about you, but I’m definitely interested in booking one of Rosalyn’s eco-retreats! If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, share, and let me know your thoughts. Thanks for tuning in!Episode Specific Links:Live Heal Travel Website: Live Heal TravelLive Heal Travel Instagram: Rosalyn AcostaRosalyn’s LinkedIn: Rosalyn AcostaAmy's Links:• Website• Alpine Start Media's Instagram• LinkedIn• Jelt's Instagram