The Mindful Marketplace with Joel Skene

Discover the untold stories of service workers fighting for better conditions as we sit down with Jen Hampton from Asheville Food and Beverage United. This episode peels back the layers of the food and beverage industry to reveal the strength found in unity and the importance of investing in people for sustainable change. Jen's insights offer an eye-opening perspective on the transformative power of collective campaigns aimed at securing living wages, fair scheduling, and paid time off for service workers. We embark on a journey through the organization's mission to not only uplift service industry professionals but also to bridge the gap across various labor sectors, fostering a more equitable workforce.As we unpack the effects of the pandemic on the service industry, it's clear that adversity has bred empowerment and solidarity. Hear about the organic emergence of a private Facebook group that transformed into a rallying point for workers and the resulting camaraderie that's driving a revolution in workplace dynamics. We weigh in on the pivotal moments that are reshaping the power balance between employees and employers, and how a small-town upbringing informed our approach to nurturing community within the labor force. Find out how you can be part of the movement and contribute to the cause, taking away not just an understanding of the issues at hand but also the knowledge of how collective action can create a tide of positive change.https://sites.google.com/view/avlfbu/homehttps://www.citizen-times.com/story/news/local/2023/11/15/asheville-food-beverage-united-becomes-labor-union-seeks-members/71583224007/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.

Discover what happens when strategic investments meet social transformation as we sit down with Jen Hampton from Asheville Food and Beverage United. We're taking a hard look at the post-pandemic surge in bicycle travel and why our cities need to catch up. But it's not all about the eco-friendly ride; we're also peeling back the layers on private equity's grab on single-family homes—how might this affect you and the housing market at large? From discussing global economic pressures to offering practical debt elimination strategies, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the balance between financial savvy and social conscience.Ever considered the true worth of a smile you receive from a waiter or the effort behind your barista's 'good morning'? This episode taps into the emotional labor and undervalued dignity within the service industry. We're talking about the reality behind the façade service workers maintain the unpredictability of tipping, and the stagnant wages that leave many counting coins rather than paychecks. With legislative waves beginning to recognize the importance of these roles, we're highlighting why it's high time to re-evaluate and redefine what it means to work in service—with real stories from the front lines.Change is brewing for service workers, and this pandemic has poured us a new cup of appreciation for these essential roles. We'll explore the transformation in societal views on tipping, tracing back to discriminatory roots and moving toward a world where the resilience and value of service staff are undisputed. With employers and patrons alike waking up to the worth of frontline service, the industry is reimagining its norms to prioritize dignity and efficiency. Make sure to join us again as we continue our conversation with Jen Hampton and take a closer look at the actions of Asheville Food and Beverage United in fostering these necessary changes.https://sites.google.com/view/avlfbu/homehttps://www.citizen-times.com/story/news/local/2023/11/15/asheville-food-beverage-united-becomes-labor-union-seeks-members/71583224007/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.

Embark on a transformative journey with us, Joel Skeen, as Courtney Shaughnessy of Alchemy Financial joins the Mindful Marketplace for a riveting exploration into the synthesis of financial acumen and unwavering ethical principles. Together, we navigate the complexities of fair compensation and conscientiously managing team growth, all while staying true to the heart of your business's mission. Our illuminating discussion unpacks the essence of budgets as moral compasses, guiding you towards socially responsible prosperity without sacrificing your values on the altar of expansion.Delving beyond numbers, this episode champions the humanity within the workplace, treating employees as valued individuals with aspirations that transcend a simple paycheck. We challenge traditional corporate hierarchies, advocating for collaborative business models that foster profit-sharing and democratic decision-making. As we engage with the Rad Planners community, we share how Alchemy Financial exemplifies ethical engagement, offering key insights on aligning your financial strategies with both personal and corporate ethics. Tune in for a compelling narrative that promises not just to enlighten but also to inspire actionable change in your fiscal journey.https://www.alchemyfinancial.co/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.

Unlock the potential of businesses with a conscience on Mindful Marketplace, where profitability meets purpose. Join me, Joel Skeen, and Courtney Shaughnessy of Alchemy Financial, as we navigate the crossroads of fiscal responsibility and social impact. Courtney brings her marketing smarts and financial acumen to the table, offering a unique perspective on nurturing businesses that care. Together, we celebrate the successes of worker-owned media like DeFactor and dissect Google's antitrust tumble to Epic Games, pinpointing lessons for entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts alike. Plus, we'll shed light on a local church's compassionate endeavor to wipe out medical debt, reflecting on the hurdles they face when up against the Goliaths of the healthcare industry.Hear how Courtney's financial prowess is empowering solopreneurs, especially single mothers, to achieve economic independence without sacrificing their values or well-being. Our conversation traverses from the personal motivations that fuel our guests to the strategies that sustain small businesses and their communities. With a keen eye on financial sustainability and responsible growth, this episode is a treasure trove for those committed to making their mark ethically and effectively. You'll leave with actionable insights on integrating social responsibility into your business model and a deeper appreciation for the financial guidance tailored to the nuanced needs of solo ventures. Tune in to transform your business ethos into enduring success.https://www.alchemyfinancial.co/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.

Discover the transformative power of integrating social justice with personal finance as Diana Yanez, financial planner, and All the Colors founder, joins us once again for a compelling conversation. We'll guide you through the inspiring efforts of RAD Planners, the trailblazing collective that's rewriting the playbook on financial collaboration and inclusivity. Imagine an investment landscape where local impact takes center stage, and traditional competition is replaced by shared prosperity. Prepare to be enthralled as we share personal narratives that confront the complexities of systemic injustices, and how forging deep connections within financial networks like RAD Planners can ignite hope and challenge the status quo.Strap in for a journey through the multifaceted world of non-profit financial stewardship, drawing lessons from my tenure as treasurer for Wisdom and Money. We'll unravel the nuances of embracing financial flux with trust and how that philosophy translates into a real-world strategy for growth. Then, we'll take a personal turn, examining an immigrant's quest to balance family obligations with financial autonomy through the innovative approach of a dedicated family fund. This episode is not just about understanding wealth—it's an invitation to recognize that our strongest assets are the relationships we build and the communities we nurture. Join us in reimagining the essence of security, wealth, and collaboration.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.

Experience the fusion of personal values and financial acumen as we traverse the landscape of impactful investing with Diana Yanez, an esteemed financial empowerment coach. Our discourse sails through the implications of aligning our investments with ethics, emphasizing how such strategic decisions foster community growth and personal prosperity. We celebrate the triumph of Mountain BizWorks, as their significant grant acquisition marks a milestone in uplifting underserved entrepreneurs. Yet, the dialogue also navigates the murky waters of ethical dilemmas, questioning the integrity of lawmakers' investments in defense stocks during military conflicts. Meanwhile, we dissect the administration's attempts to alleviate the burden of student loan debt and highlight Michael Schumann's transformative workshops that champion local investing over the allure of Wall Street.Embarking on a personal narrative, I share the transformative journey from a financial career to a calling in social services, revealing how encounters with diverse clients reshaped my understanding of the intricate dance between money and human empathy. This episode peels back the layers of the undervalued, yet essential roles traditionally occupied by women and minorities, particularly in caregiving and domestic work. We probe into the historical context of value and agency, contrasting market-driven labor with the heartbeat of the core economy. Join us as we blend a fascination with numbers and a deep-seated empathy in a unique approach to financial planning—a convergence where money not only grows but also heals and unifies.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.

Ever wondered how capitalism can evolve into a force for social good? Our latest episode features Lynier Richardson, a distinguished academic and entrepreneur with deep roots in community development and economic empowerment. Together, we dissect the complex tapestry of social enterprises, revealing how profitability and social impact aren't mutually exclusive but rather complementary facets of modern business. Lynier brings his wealth of knowledge from Rutgers Business School to the table, painting a picture of an economy where undervalued assets in marginalized communities are recognized and harnessed, inspiring a new generation of ethical investors and entrepreneurs.The conversation takes a turn as we scrutinize the traditional measures of business success, suggesting a paradigm shift where long-term gains for both community and environment are paramount. Lynier and I share our reservations about practices like payday lending and discuss the need to balance respect for capital with accountability for its broader implications. It's a discourse that bridges the gap between the academic and the practical, examining the ethical nuances that must be navigated to foster inclusive economic growth.Wrapping up our exploration, we celebrate the resilience and innovation of black entrepreneurship, focusing on the historical significance and potential revitalization of Black Wall Streets. We reflect on the transformative power of local economies and the role of conferences like the Neighborhood Economic Development Conference in connecting capital to community projects. As a professor, I share my encouragement for students to apply their business skills to societal challenges, making this episode not just a conversation, but a call to action for listeners to rethink success and engage in impactful economic practices.https://www.business.rutgers.edu/faculty/lyneir-richardsonThis program is brought to you by:Arc Integrated Be sure to visit BizRadio.US to discover hundreds more engaging conversations, local events and more.

Discover a future where wealth doesn't rule, but serves all of society. That's the world Marjorie Kelly, the insightful author of "Wealth Supremacy," envisions as she joins us to dissect the roots of economic inequality and the extractive economy. Through her transformation from a proponent of socially responsible business to a critic of wealth-centric systems, Kelly sheds light on how private equity and corporate greed fuel a destructive cycle of profit maximization, neglecting the welfare of our planet and its inhabitants.Embark on an intellectual odyssey as we navigate the perilous waters of wealth's impact on our natural resources, with a focus on the commodification of water rights by hedge funds. Kelly's compelling narrative, reinforced by mindfulness principles, challenges our acceptance of a 'hungrier-is-better' economy, drawing parallels to the Buddhist 'hungry ghost' as a metaphor for our endless craving for more. The discussion broadens to question the cultural and ideological underpinnings that sustain greed as an economic necessity, urging a critical reassessment of the myth that maximizing profit is the paramount goal of business.Uplifting in tone, the episode culminates with a foray into the realm of democratic and worker-owned business models that hold promise for a more equitable distribution of wealth. We celebrate entities like the Democracy Collaborative and Cooperative Home Care Associates, who are pioneering the charge toward an economy where democracy, equity, and sustainability are not just buzzwords, but the bedrock of business success. Listen in to grasp how these transformative models not only challenge the status quo but pave the path to a future where thriving economically is a reality for everyone.https://marjoriekelly.org/https://democracycollaborative.org/marjorie-kellyThis program is brought to you by:Arc Integrated Be sure to visit BizRadio.US to discover hundreds more engaging conversations, local events and more.

From punk rock activist to finance guru, Delilah Rothenberg's life is nothing short of a radical transition. Their unique path has led them to champion sustainable and impact investing, particularly in regions like Sub-Saharan Africa. Throughout our conversation, we unravel the intricacies of shifting one's perspective on capitalism and discover how private capital is being utilized as a powerful catalyst for social equity and economic growth. We delve into the evolution of ESG standards and the pioneering work of the Pre-Distribution Initiative, which aims to guide investors toward a more fair distribution of wealth, challenging the status quo of governance in the process.Imagine a world where the workers own the means of production. In this episode, we explore the promise of worker-owned models, economic pre-distribution, and their potential to forge long-term sustainability. Our guest illuminates the stark contrast between fleeting aid and substantial investment, advocating a cultural shift to uproot economic inequality. We also dissect the power of redefining risk, return, and value, democratizing the investment landscape, and ultimately reframing our approach to resource distribution. This extends to the importance of democratic governance in business and recognizing the collective threads that bind society together.As we wrap up our thought-provoking exchange, we venture into the idea of democratizing the financial system itself. We ponder over the transformative prospects of giving workers and communities a managing stake in investment funds, the potential implications of a U.S. sovereign wealth fund, and the innovative roles of blockchain and DAOs in democratizing finance. Beyond the technicalities, we stress the imperative for individuals to proactively engage with the financial system, armed with the knowledge necessary to combat inequality and enact systemic change. Our collaboration with Oxfam America serves as a testament to the impactful synergy between finance and social justice, a partnership that we hope to see flourish in the hands of our informed and motivated listeners.https://www.predistributioninitiative.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.

Discover the heartbeat of community transformation as Seth Kaplan, a seasoned veteran from pivotal international organizations like the UN and the World Bank, joins us to share the power of nurturing relationships for societal well-being. Unpacking themes from his latest book, Seth offers an invaluable perspective on revitalizing neighborhoods and the importance of fostering deep connections within local institutions. Our conversation journeys through the crucial role of local neighborhoods in stitching together the fabric of a healthy society, highlighting the potential for groundbreaking community progress.In today's episode, we wade into the essence of happiness found in the closeness of our local communities. As we reminisce about the charm of town squares and the camaraderie of main streets, we confront the isolation that modern suburbia often fosters. I draw from my own life story, contrasting my upbringing in a tight-knit town with the detached suburban experience and my eye-opening time in Eastern Europe. We explore how societal shifts have influenced our sense of belonging and community participation, advocating for a redesign of our physical and institutional spaces to rekindle organic interactions and a renewed sense of place.Wrapping up, we turn our focus to the engine driving neighborhood evolution: local networks. We delve into the concept of Neighbor Economics, where partnerships between entrepreneurs, social institutions, and socially-minded investors ignite wealth creation and foster trust within communities. I share strategies for the collaborative upliftment of neighborhoods, emphasizing the pivotal role of 'neighborhood quarterbacks' in orchestrating cross-sector efforts. From leveraging unique neighborhood identities to securing incremental victories, we reveal how small successes can snowball into profound, long-lasting change. Join us as we dissect these insights, all aimed at inspiring you to be a catalyst in the collective movement for community betterment.https://sethkaplan.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.

Explore the magnetic allure of Asheville, North Carolina with Joe Minicozzi, our esteemed guest who walks us through the city's phoenix-like rise from Depression-era economic despair to a beacon of urban innovation. Our engaging discussion not only celebrates the pioneering spirits like Julian Price and Pat Whalen, who bet on Asheville when traditional financial avenues retreated, but also serves as a blueprint for cities yearning to reignite their economic engines. Prepare to be inspired by tales of local investment and entrepreneurship that have painted Asheville as a vibrant tapestry of culture and community.As we navigate the transformation of Asheville's downtown, you'll discover how the city's careful cultivation of local businesses and mixed-use development has created an economic ripple effect, enriching the entire county. Uncover the surprising history of Asheville's liquor laws and how these regulations have shaped the local brewery scene, serving as a testament to the power of adaptive policy in fostering prosperity. Our conversation prompts a deeper reflection on the intricate dance between urban planning, transportation choices, and their societal impacts, offering a thought-provoking look at how our built environments influence the fabric of our communities.In our final musings, we confront the necessity of challenging established beliefs and embracing new paradigms in urban development and personal growth. Through our dialogue on mindfulness, meditation, and the pursuit of a more encompassing education, we underscore the importance of critical thinking and interconnectedness in our collective quest for a sustainable future. Join us for a compelling episode that promises not only to enlighten but also to galvanize action toward positive change in our cities and within ourselves.https://www.urbanthree.comhttps://www.pubintproj.com/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.

Stephanie's journey from the picturesque hills of Western North Carolina to the forefront of economic innovation is as remarkable as it is inspiring. Join us for a conversation that's as much about personal resilience as it is about the transformative power of community investment. Stephanie, a former journalist turned economic catalyst, opens up about the pivotal moments that led her from the world of finance to the heart of her local community, where she now pioneers change through initiatives like the Community Equity Fund. Her passion for inclusive growth shines a light on the often-unseen potential within our neighborhoods, proving that economic revitalization is not only possible but also essential.Our discussion with Stephanie takes a deep dive into the innovative Community Equity Fund, a beacon of hope for entrepreneurs who have historically faced barriers to funding. By offering equity instead of debt, this fund challenges the traditional business financing model and provides a lifeline to BIPOC, women, and LGBTQI+ business owners. The fund’s unique approach, which includes a grace period and capped return, highlights a commitment to equity and inclusion in the startup ecosystem. With insights from Stephanie's own experience and her role at Eagle Market Streets, we uncover how these community-focused strategies are creating ripples of positive impact across the region.Wrapping up, Stephanie gives us a preview of the upcoming Neighborhood Economics conference, an event that embodies the intersection of faith and finance and celebrates the power of local economies. It’s a gathering that promises to build bridges between diverse communities, fostering economic inclusion and uplifting businesses of color. Her story is a compelling reminder that by investing in people and the places they call home, we don't just change the narrative for individuals like Stephanie—we change the world. Join us for an episode that’s not only about the strategies for community revitalization but also about the stories of hope and endurance behind them.https://www.eaglemarketsts.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.

When Melissa stepped away from the corporate world and ventured into the transformative space of community development, she brought with her a wealth of knowledge and passion that's been reshaping neighborhoods for the better. Our latest conversation peels back the layers on how strategic partnerships and philanthropy converge to create spaces where equity and opportunity are more than buzzwords; they're the cornerstones of revitalized communities. Drawing from her experiences with Hands on Atlanta, the Georgia Justice Project, and the innovative Purpose Built Communities, Melissa illustrates the profound difference between mere charity and true justice.We take a close look at the four pillars that hold up the vision of communities thriving on their terms: quality mixed-income housing, comprehensive education, community wellness, and economic vitality. These aren't just abstract concepts—Melissa breaks down the tangible effects of the community quarterback model, demonstrating how dedicated nonprofits can orchestrate resources in tune with the residents' dreams. However, the journey isn't without its hurdles, as we tackle the complexities behind funding such endeavors and the unwavering commitment required to address racial equity and effect long-term change.Wrapping up, our discussion illuminates the joy of collaboration within neighborhood economics, where local leaders and residents are the catalysts for transformation. We share anecdotes from our visit to Jackson, where the lines that demarcate neighborhoods became a tapestry for focused community work. Melissa's insights are a testament to the power of local impact, and her stories offer a beacon of inspiration for anyone looking to weave their efforts into the broader tapestry of social change.https://purposebuiltcommunities.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.

Venture with us as we traverse the profound terrain where financial acumen meets spiritual fervor, guided by none other than Reverend Sidney Williams Jr. His transformation from the bustling trading floors of Wall Street to the sacred echo of the pulpit unfolds a narrative that binds the pursuit of wealth with ethical imperatives. Together, we grapple with the paradoxes of the Protestant work ethic and confront societal disparities, painting a picture of a theology that upholds human dignity against the backdrop of systemic injustice.Peel back the layers of community influence as we scrutinize the intersection of charity, justice, and the ethics of profit. Our conversation extends beyond simple acts of giving, prodding the responsibilities of financial custodians to foster equitable growth in marginalized communities. We dissect the FISH principles that Reverend Williams champions, revealing an ingenious blueprint for faith groups to harness wide-ranging capital forms in their quest for societal transformation—proving that the power of a united congregation can indeed move mountains.Our journey crescendos with personal revelations on leadership, emotional intelligence, and the healing that comes from self-forgiveness and shared stories. I recount the lessons imbued from exchanges with trailblazers like Kevin Rosalie and look forward to the promise of the upcoming Neighborhood Economics Conference. Prepare to reimagine the future of local economies, as we spotlight the potential that resides within every community, ready to be unlocked, one block at a time. Join us on this expedition that promises to reshape your perspective on wealth, worth, and the web of connections that bind them.https://www.bethelmorristown.org/about-ushttps://crossingcapitalgroup.com/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.

Unlock the secret to enriching your community and your portfolio simultaneously as Michael Shuman guides us through the untapped potential of local investing. Our enlightening conversation debunks the myths surrounding the necessity of big banks and shines a spotlight on the myriad of ways to invest right where you live. From supporting small businesses to funding community projects, we uncover the social and financial benefits that are often overlooked. Michael's insights, combined with inspiring success stories from the Main Street Journal, illuminate a path toward a more connected and resilient economy that begins at our very doorsteps.Venture with us beyond the familiar territory of Wall Street as we redefine what it means to diversify one's investments. We challenge the stock market's status as the ultimate financial haven, revealing how local endeavors like solar projects and property ownership can provide stability and impressive returns. With a candid analysis of historical data on the stock market's performance, our discussion encourages listeners to consider the broader implications of their investment choices, highlighting the often hidden costs of fees, inflation, and market volatility. This episode will inspire you to think creatively about your investment strategy and the impactful difference you can make within your community.As we wrap up, we focus on the future, where community-level initiatives and the notion of 'locopedia' lay the groundwork for a globally connected yet locally empowered world. The conversation at the Neighborhood Economics Conference in San Antonio exemplifies this spirit, bringing together a diverse group of investors, entrepreneurs, and community leaders, all united in the mission of fostering local economic growth. Join us on this journey to a more equitable and sustainable financial landscape, where your money does more than just grow—it strengthens the very fabric of our neighborhoods.https://mainstreetjournal.substack.com/https://www.cuttingedgecapital.com/https://leadthechange.bard.edu/blog/author/michael-h-shuman-faculty-bard-mba-in-sustainabilityThis program is brought to you by:Arc Integrated Be sure to visit BizRadio.US to discover hundreds more engaging conversations, local events and more.

Unlock the secrets to financial empowerment with Michael Shuman, a visionary in the local investment landscape, as we delve into the profound effects of channeling funds into community businesses. Imagine a world where your investment not only yields returns but also fosters job creation and economic growth right where you live. That's the reality we explore in our latest Mindful Marketplace episode, where we discuss the trail Michael has blazed with his pioneering books and how the JOBS Act has revolutionized investment opportunities for everyday citizens.Feel the pulse of local economies through the inspiring stories of Nova Scotia's neighborhood pension funds like Farmworks, which demonstrate the tangible benefits of investing in small businesses. We compare the substantial tax credits that bolster this regional approach to the hefty expenses incurred by cities vying for corporate behemoths. Our conversation with Michael is more than just an exploration; it's a call to action for listeners to consider the age-old practice of local investment as a means to enrich both their financial health and their communities. Join us for an episode that promises to challenge your perceptions and inspire a new way of thinking about where you put your money.https://mainstreetjournal.substack.com/https://www.cuttingedgecapital.com/https://leadthechange.bard.edu/blog/author/michael-h-shuman-faculty-bard-mba-in-sustainabilityThis program is brought to you by:Arc Integrated Be sure to visit BizRadio.US to discover hundreds more engaging conversations, local events and more.

Embark on an exploration of how heartfelt social change can intertwine with shrewd business strategies, as I, Joel Skene, with our partner Neighborhood Economics, host a series that promises to transform how you view community investment. Prepare to have your perceptions challenged by Michael Schuman, the luminary in local investing, who will unveil insights on the JOBS Act and its capacity to fuel community resilience. This episode is a treasure chest of innovative discussions, from the nitty-gritty of public banking to the creation of Diversified Community Investment Funds, aimed at democratizing local investment opportunities.During our special series, we engage with Sidney Williams Jr., whose profound knowledge of the nexus of spirituality and economic growth provides an unexpected roadmap for enriching communities. His unique perspective on risk, investment, and the healing power of stories in leadership is an invaluable asset to this dialogue. Join us as we journey through the insights of Melissa Devereaux and Stephanie Swepson-Twitty on creating holistic neighborhoods and empowering businesses of color, along with Joe Minicozzi's expertise in urban policy, and Seth Kaplan's comprehensive approach to community betterment. This series is not just a conversation, but a call to action for anyone looking to make a meaningful economic impact in their backyard.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.

Can businesses truly thrive while championing the planet and its people? Eric Henry of TS Designs joins us with a resounding "Yes!" as he shares how his company's unwavering commitment to the triple bottom line has not only been beneficial but also vital for success. We discuss the surprisingly robust advantages of fostering local connections and supply chains, with Eric's 17-year collaboration with a cotton farmer showcasing the stability and resilience that long-term partnerships can bring to a business, especially amidst the unpredictability of global markets.In the apparel industry, making the switch from synthetic fibers to water-based inks isn't just about being eco-friendly—it's a testament to a company's dedication to quality and longevity. Eric walks us through the challenges and successes of TS Designs' sustainable manufacturing process, emphasizing the economic sense of investing in durable goods. With a pair of long-lasting boots serving as a metaphor for the intrinsic value of sustainability, this episode is a treasure trove of insights for consumers and businesses alike who prioritize more than the price tag. Join us as we unravel the power of community-centric entrepreneurship, where the true measure of success is found in the strength of our connections and the collective well-being of our world.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.

Discover the transformative effects of social entrepreneurship and ethical investing as we traverse the innovative landscape of Appalachia, where worker ownership and circular economic models are revitalizing the region's economy. Join me, Joel Skeen, on this episode of the Mindful Marketplace, where we pay homage to the legendary Charlie Munger and his investment wisdom, and spotlight the remarkable debt relief initiative at Morehouse College in partnership with the Debt Collective. Delve into the story behind Blue Forest's forest resilience bond, an ingenious investment that merges financial savvy with ecological stewardship, proving that profit and the planet can thrive in tandem.Venture with us as we sit down with Eric Henry, president of TS Designs, unraveling the narrative of sustainable apparel and the dedication to the triple bottom line. Eric's tale is one of resilience and reimagining a business model that honors the local economy, high-quality craftsmanship, and environmental responsibility. We scrutinize the challenges and triumphs of being the first apparel B Corp and its implications for the industry, paving the way for an honest discussion about the necessity of transparency and a commitment to ethical practices. Tune in for a compelling journey through the intricacies of profit, people, and the planet, where every thread weaves a story of innovation and integrity.https://tsdesigns.com/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.

As we embrace the new year, let's not just make resolutions; let's revolutionize the way we engage with the world of business and community. With heartfelt gratitude, I welcome you to join us on a journey through The Mindful Marketplace, where we celebrate the transformative lessons gleaned from the trials of the pandemic and share our excitement for the content evolution that lies ahead. Aaron, my ever-insightful producer, pulls up a chair to unpack how our station's emphasis on community-centric programming is reshaping the landscape of Biz Radio US.This episode is a tapestry interwoven with threads of personal growth, technological leaps from audio to engaging video storytelling, and a website revamp that mirrors our commitment to a more seamless and vibrant listener experience. We open the doors to the solidarity economy, a concept that promises to recalibrate the scales of finance to weigh community impact alongside profit. Be prepared to be enveloped in discussions around local investing, financial cooperatives, and other collective endeavors that put your money to work for the greater good. It's all about connection and progress as we tease upcoming collaborations with Main Street Journal, Neighborhood Economics, and Impact Alpha—get ready to be at the forefront of a year marked by shared prosperity and innovation in 2024.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.