Episodios

  • 067: What Makes Comfort Foods Comforting? Mac & Cheese Made Right with Myles Powell
    Sep 30 2025

    "We always say our mac and cheese is like a break from the chaos. When things are crazy in your life, you just need a break. You don’t have to go off the deep end and eat a bowl of some boxed XYZ... I want to eliminate that ‘Oh my God, what have I done?’ part after you eat." —Myles Powell

    Comfort food isn’t just about taste—it’s about trust, memories, and feeling good from the inside out. Too often, the foods we love come with a side of guilt or mystery ingredients, but there’s a better way to enjoy the classics without compromise.

    Myles Powell grew up cherishing family meals, only to find that most store-bought comfort foods fell short of those memories. Driven by a passion for real ingredients and honest business, he set out to reinvent mac and cheese and more, building a brand that puts people and purpose first.

    Listen in for a no-nonsense look at building a clean-label food business, the real hurdles of funding and scaling, and how comfort food can be both nostalgic and nourishing. You’ll walk away with practical insights, inspiration, and a fresh perspective on what’s possible in your kitchen and beyond.

    Meet Myles:

    Myles Powell is the founder of Myles Comfort Foods, a purpose-driven comfort food brand dedicated to clean-label, better-for-you classics. Inspired by family meals and a passion for real ingredients, Myles turned his love for authentic food into a business that puts transparency, quality, and emotional connection first. With experience in both self-funding and raising capital, he leads with resilience and a commitment to making comfort food that’s as honest as it is delicious.

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    Episode Highlights:

    00:47 Better-For-You Mac&Cheese

    05:31 Real Ingredients, Real Impact

    08:27 The Challenges of Shipping Perishable Goods

    10:35 Emotional Eating vs Food That Feels Good

    13:26 Brand Values Over Product Hype

    17:38 Funding the Dream, Learning to Pitch, and Handling Rejection

    26:45 New Products on the Horizon

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    28 m
  • 066: Milking Innovation: The Future of Dairy-Free Milk With Thomas Bowman
    Sep 23 2025

    "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.

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    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

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    Podcast

    Creating Cow-less, Plant-Based Ice Cream that Truly Tastes Like the Real Deal with Aylon Steinhart

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    29 m
  • 065: Local Food, Big Impact— The Farmers Market Advantage with Andy Naja-Riese and Tanner Keys
    Sep 16 2025
    "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
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    37 m
  • 064: The Custom Gut Fix: The Missing Link to Finally Heal Your Chronic Digestive Problems with Dane Johnson
    Sep 9 2025

    "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!

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    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

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    32 m
  • 063:Transforming Agriculture: The Living Water Solution with Mark Spoone
    Sep 2 2025

    “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.

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    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

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    26 m
  • 062: Profits with Purpose: How Giving Back Grows Your Impact with Alex Amouyel
    Aug 26 2025

    "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.

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    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

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    Join the 100% for Purpose Club

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    33 m
  • 061: Bright Ideas: Smarter Energy for Your Home with Cole Ashman
    Aug 19 2025

    “In the entire decade of the 2000s, we had about a third of the billion-dollar weather disasters that we've had in the last three years. So in the last three years, we've surpassed threefold that entire previous decade. And it's not only fires in California and the West Coast— it's floods, it's storms, it's winter storms, wind storms. Most states are contending with this in some form or another.” —Cole Ashman

    Tired of outdated power systems leaving you in the lurch? Discover how cutting-edge technology is putting the power back in your hands, offering a smarter, more reliable way to keep your home energized.

    Inspired by the chaos of Hurricane Katrina, Cole Ashman has dedicated his career to transforming the energy landscape. With a background at Tesla and a passion for innovation, Cole founded Pila Energy to create affordable, smart home batteries that empower individuals and communities. His journey offers fresh insights into the democratization of energy technology.

    Tune in as Justine and Cole tackle the challenges of outdated power grids, the development of Pila Energy's smart backup battery, and the importance of making sustainable, affordable energy solutions accessible to all.

    Meet Cole:

    Cole Ashman is the innovative founder of Pila Energy, a company dedicated to making smart home battery solutions accessible to all. With a background in engineering and experience at Tesla, Cole has been instrumental in developing Pila's modular home batteries, which offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional backup power systems. Inspired by his experiences during Hurricane Katrina, Cole is passionate about providing reliable energy solutions that empower individuals and communities. His work at Pila Energy reflects a commitment to sustainability, innovation, and making advanced technology available to a broader audience.

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    Episode Highlights:

    02:51 A Wake Up Call From Hurricane Katrina

    05:10 Market Gap in the Energy Space

    08:12 Pre-Market Product and Customer Response

    10:29 The Impact of Power Outages and Market Trends

    17:44 Community Support and Future Innovations

    20:00 Consumer Decisions and Environmental Impacts

    25:23 Innovation for Evolving Consumer Needs

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    29 m
  • 060: Capture Summer: A Beginner’s Guide to Pickling Everything with Sam Paone Part 2
    Aug 12 2025

    "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.

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    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!

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    37 m