In this episode, we dive into sustainability where the stakes—and the challenges—are at their highest: music festivals and live events. Our guest is Vivian Belzaguy Hunter, a trailblazer in festival sustainability who has transformed waste diversion, environmental protection, and behavioral change across massive, temporary “pop-up cities.” From the chaos behind the scenes to the drive toward zero waste, Vivian shares how small decisions lead to big change, why recycling and composting efforts so often fall short, and how proactive planning can turn festivals into immersive classrooms for sustainability. Hear what sets truly green festivals apart from the rest, how organizers, vendors, and even artists play a pivotal role, and the innovations transforming the industry here and abroad. Whether you run a business, lead a campus, or love live music, discover what our wildest events can teach us about going zero—where change is possible, and sometimes, preferred.

In this episode, we dive into sustainability where the stakes—and the challenges—are at their highest: music festivals and live events. Our guest is Vivian Belzaguy Hunter, a trailblazer in festival sustainability who has transformed waste diversion, environmental protection, and behavioral change across massive, temporary “pop-up cities.”From the chaos behind the scenes to the drive toward zero waste, Vivian shares how small decisions lead to big change, why recycling and composting efforts so often fall short, and how proactive planning can turn festivals into immersive classrooms for sustainability. Hear what sets truly green festivals apart from the rest, how organizers, vendors, and even artists play a pivotal role, and the innovations transforming the industry here and abroad. Whether you run a business, lead a campus, or love live music, discover what our wildest events can teach us about going zero—where change is possible, and sometimes, preferred.

Going Zero

Behind the Scenes: Sustainability at Music Festivals with Vivian Belzaguy Hunter

Welcome back to Going Zero, the sustainability podcast for leaders making a difference. In this episode, we sit down with two industry powerhouses leading the charge in corporate hospitality and sustainability: David Mesagno, Executive Director, Amenities Services Lead, and Peter D’Angelo, North American Head of Global Hospitality Services. Both guests bring decades of experience on both the client and vendor side of food services, sharing their journeys from the restaurant world to steering sustainability initiatives at two of the world’s largest financial institutions. This conversation dives into how sustainability has evolved from removing styrofoam cups to becoming a baked-in expectation at the corporate level, with clients now demanding innovative solutions from their partners rather than simply checking boxes. David and Peter explore topics like food waste management, single use reduction, the challenges of local sourcing, measuring real impact, and the pivotal role food and amenities play in shaping company culture and recruitment. You’ll also hear insights on partnering with disruptive vendors, piloting new technologies, and the importance of telling your sustainability story to employees. Stay tuned for an open, forward-thinking discussion packed with real-world strategies, lessons learned, and actionable advice for organizations looking to lead on sustainability and redefine the workplace experience.

Welcome back to Going Zero, the sustainability podcast for leaders making a difference. In this episode, we sit down with two industry powerhouses leading the charge in corporate hospitality and sustainability: David Mesagno, Executive Director, Amenities Services Lead, and Peter D’Angelo, North American Head of Global Hospitality Services. Both guests bring decades of experience on both the client and vendor side of food services, sharing their journeys from the restaurant world to steering sustainability initiatives at two of the world’s largest financial institutions.This conversation dives into how sustainability has evolved from removing styrofoam cups to becoming a baked-in expectation at the corporate level, with clients now demanding innovative solutions from their partners rather than simply checking boxes. David and Peter explore topics like food waste management, single use reduction, the challenges of local sourcing, measuring real impact, and the pivotal role food and amenities play in shaping company culture and recruitment. You’ll also hear insights on partnering with disruptive vendors, piloting new technologies, and the importance of telling your sustainability story to employees.Stay tuned for an open, forward-thinking discussion packed with real-world strategies, lessons learned, and actionable advice for organizations looking to lead on sustainability and redefine the workplace experience.

Redefining Food Service Sustainability in Corporate Dining - A Conversation with David Mesagno & Peter D'Angelo

Welcome to another episode of Going Zero, the podcast where we delve into the people, innovations, and big ideas shaping the journey to zero waste. Today, we’re getting into the nitty-gritty of trash—literally—with Joe Dinardi-Mack, co-founder and CEO of Sourgum. As a fourth-generation recycling professional whose family has spent more than a century in the industry, Joe is uniquely equipped to talk about both its storied past and its tech-driven future. Join hosts Seth Combs, and Eric Pasewalk as they unpack Joe’s journey: from growing up around trucks and transfer stations to launching a company that’s redefining how thousands of businesses handle waste and recycling. You’ll hear firsthand how Sourgum is tackling outdated practices, bringing much-needed transparency, efficiency, and sustainability to a notoriously fragmented industry—and what that really means for customers, the environment, and local haulers. Whether you’re curious about why less than 10% of recyclables actually get recycled, frustrated by price opacity and unreliable service, or wondering how new tech and policies are reshaping waste management, this episode offers a clear-eyed look at the real challenges and the transformative solutions in play. If you want to learn how data, empathy, and technology are driving the zero waste movement forward, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Welcome to another episode of Going Zero, the podcast where we delve into the people, innovations, and big ideas shaping the journey to zero waste. Today, we’re getting into the nitty-gritty of trash—literally—with Joe Dinardi-Mack, co-founder and CEO of Sourgum. As a fourth-generation recycling professional whose family has spent more than a century in the industry, Joe is uniquely equipped to talk about both its storied past and its tech-driven future.Join hosts Seth Combs, and Eric Pasewalk as they unpack Joe’s journey: from growing up around trucks and transfer stations to launching a company that’s redefining how thousands of businesses handle waste and recycling. You’ll hear firsthand how Sourgum is tackling outdated practices, bringing much-needed transparency, efficiency, and sustainability to a notoriously fragmented industry—and what that really means for customers, the environment, and local haulers.Whether you’re curious about why less than 10% of recyclables actually get recycled, frustrated by price opacity and unreliable service, or wondering how new tech and policies are reshaping waste management, this episode offers a clear-eyed look at the real challenges and the transformative solutions in play. If you want to learn how data, empathy, and technology are driving the zero waste movement forward, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Reinventing Waste: How Sourgum Brings Technology and Transparency to Recycling Across America with CEO, Joe Dinardi-Mack

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of composting and the circular economy with Tom Rohr, founder of Food Loops in northwest Arkansas. Listen in as Tom Rohr shares his journey from corporate America to sustainability entrepreneurship, reveals the challenges and rewards of tackling food waste at scale, and explains how strategic partnerships are helping to shift entire communities toward a zero-waste future. You'll hear firsthand stories from large-scale events, learn common misconceptions about composting, and get inspired to take action—whether you’re an individual or a multinational company. If you're passionate about closing the loop on waste and building a greener future, this episode delivers actionable insights and true stories of impact. Going Zero is proudly sponsored by Emerald Ecovations, the leader in sustainable solutions for foodservice, janitorial, packaging, and more. For more info, visit EmeraldEcovations.com.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of composting and the circular economy with Tom Rohr, founder of Food Loops in northwest Arkansas. Listen in as Tom Rohr shares his journey from corporate America to sustainability entrepreneurship, reveals the challenges and rewards of tackling food waste at scale, and explains how strategic partnerships are helping to shift entire communities toward a zero-waste future. You'll hear firsthand stories from large-scale events, learn common misconceptions about composting, and get inspired to take action—whether you’re an individual or a multinational company. If you're passionate about closing the loop on waste and building a greener future, this episode delivers actionable insights and true stories of impact.Going Zero is proudly sponsored by Emerald Ecovations, the leader in sustainable solutions for foodservice, janitorial, packaging, and more. For more info, visit EmeraldEcovations.com.

Tackling Food Waste: Food Loops' Zero Waste Mission with Tom Rohr

Welcome back to the Going Zero Sustainability podcast! This week, host Seth Combs is joined by industry veteran Jim Green, whose four-decade career has helped shape the modern food service ecosystem. In this episode, Jim Green shares his journey from falling into food service in the 1980s to becoming a key coordinator for change, leading initiatives like the Agora Sustainability Leadership Team and the Optimize Ecosystem Team. Together, they dive deep into the challenges and opportunities facing operators, manufacturers, and the crucial "middleman" network that defines today’s food service landscape. Whether it’s tackling sustainability, driving innovation in supply chains, or empowering community action, you’ll hear insights and stories from the front lines — plus practical advice for anyone looking to make a difference in their workplace or their local environment. Tune in to learn how on-premise food service operators are changing the narrative around sustainability, collaborating across industries, and proving that individual action can create sweeping impact. If you’re passionate about sustainable solutions and curious to hear from those driving real change in food service, this episode is for you!

Welcome back to the Going Zero Sustainability podcast! This week, host Seth Combs is joined by industry veteran Jim Green, whose four-decade career has helped shape the modern food service ecosystem. In this episode, Jim Green shares his journey from falling into food service in the 1980s to becoming a key coordinator for change, leading initiatives like the Agora Sustainability Leadership Team and the Optimize Ecosystem Team.Together, they dive deep into the challenges and opportunities facing operators, manufacturers, and the crucial "middleman" network that defines today’s food service landscape. Whether it’s tackling sustainability, driving innovation in supply chains, or empowering community action, you’ll hear insights and stories from the front lines — plus practical advice for anyone looking to make a difference in their workplace or their local environment.Tune in to learn how on-premise food service operators are changing the narrative around sustainability, collaborating across industries, and proving that individual action can create sweeping impact. If you’re passionate about sustainable solutions and curious to hear from those driving real change in food service, this episode is for you!

Navigating the Food Service Maze: Sustainability and the Power of Operator-Led Change with Jim Green

Welcome to another episode of Going Zero, the podcast where we dive into real-world solutions to today’s toughest sustainability challenges. Our hosts, Christy Cook, Eric Passwalk, and Seth are joined by Amielle Lake, CEO of Carbonet, a company pioneering innovative chemistry to help industries recover, reuse, and waste less water—while dramatically cutting down on fossil fuel-based chemicals. In this episode, Amielle shares her unique journey from digital marketing to sustainability entrepreneurship, and sheds light on the looming threat of global water scarcity. You’ll hear how Carbonet’s breakthrough technology is helping thousands of manufacturers, municipalities, and oil and gas operations treat wastewater more sustainably and cost-effectively—no environmental premium required. We’ll dig into why water remains an underappreciated resource, the barriers to widespread adoption of new water tech, and the challenges of shaking up a multi-billion dollar chemical “cartel.” Plus, Amielle highlights Carbonet’s real-world impact stories, talks about safety improvements for workers, and discusses her work advancing women's representation in clean tech and investing through the Women’s Equity Lab. Whether you’re a sustainability manager, a CEO, or just curious about how chemistry can help secure the future of our most vital resource, this episode will inspire you to rethink what’s possible—and the role every stakeholder can play in driving change.

Welcome to another episode of Going Zero, the podcast where we dive into real-world solutions to today’s toughest sustainability challenges. Our hosts, Christy Cook, Eric Passwalk, and Seth are joined by Amielle Lake, CEO of Carbonet, a company pioneering innovative chemistry to help industries recover, reuse, and waste less water—while dramatically cutting down on fossil fuel-based chemicals.In this episode, Amielle shares her unique journey from digital marketing to sustainability entrepreneurship, and sheds light on the looming threat of global water scarcity. You’ll hear how Carbonet’s breakthrough technology is helping thousands of manufacturers, municipalities, and oil and gas operations treat wastewater more sustainably and cost-effectively—no environmental premium required.We’ll dig into why water remains an underappreciated resource, the barriers to widespread adoption of new water tech, and the challenges of shaking up a multi-billion dollar chemical “cartel.” Plus, Amielle highlights Carbonet’s real-world impact stories, talks about safety improvements for workers, and discusses her work advancing women's representation in clean tech and investing through the Women’s Equity Lab.Whether you’re a sustainability manager, a CEO, or just curious about how chemistry can help secure the future of our most vital resource, this episode will inspire you to rethink what’s possible—and the role every stakeholder can play in driving change.

Smarter Chemistry, Cleaner Water: Carbonet's Solution to Petrochemicals in Wastewater Treatment with Amielle Lake

This week, we're sitting down with Stephen O'Brien, formerly of the NY Dept of Education, to discuss driving healthy choices and sustainable solutions to a massive audience - 1.1 million students. If you’re looking to drive real change—especially in education—Stephen O’Brien’s approach offers a playbook for creating measurable impact in even the biggest organizations. Here’s what you can learn from his experience leading sustainable food service transformation: 3 steps for successful, sustainable change: **Step 1: Start with pilots, not mandates.**  Stephen didn’t try to overhaul everything at once—he launched small experiments like “Trayless Tuesdays” and salad bar pilots. Success with these prototypes gave him proof of concept and protected him from big, costly failures. **Step 2: Build coalitions—especially with your end users.**  Lasting change came because he listened to students, staff, nonprofits, and policymakers, using their feedback to design solutions that actually worked for them. When students asked for better serviceware, he collaborated *with* them, not *for* them. **Step 3: Use scale as leverage, not just as a challenge.**  Stephen pooled buying power through the Urban School Food Alliance. By aggregating demand, he negotiated better contracts for compostable plates and locally sourced food, making sustainable options affordable even in a giant system. You may not be running the nation's largest school cafeteria, but you can always start smaller, test, scale, and invite others into the journey. Sustainable change is never solo work—and your allies may be waiting where you least expect them (including your youngest “customers”).

This week, we're sitting down with Stephen O'Brien, formerly of the NY Dept of Education, to discuss driving healthy choices and sustainable solutions to a massive audience - 1.1 million students. If you’re looking to drive real change—especially in education—Stephen O’Brien’s approach offers a playbook for creating measurable impact in even the biggest organizations. Here’s what you can learn from his experience leading sustainable food service transformation:3 steps for successful, sustainable change:**Step 1: Start with pilots, not mandates.**  Stephen didn’t try to overhaul everything at once—he launched small experiments like “Trayless Tuesdays” and salad bar pilots. Success with these prototypes gave him proof of concept and protected him from big, costly failures.**Step 2: Build coalitions—especially with your end users.**  Lasting change came because he listened to students, staff, nonprofits, and policymakers, using their feedback to design solutions that actually worked for them. When students asked for better serviceware, he collaborated *with* them, not *for* them.**Step 3: Use scale as leverage, not just as a challenge.**  Stephen pooled buying power through the Urban School Food Alliance. By aggregating demand, he negotiated better contracts for compostable plates and locally sourced food, making sustainable options affordable even in a giant system.You may not be running the nation's largest school cafeteria, but you can always start smaller, test, scale, and invite others into the journey. Sustainable change is never solo work—and your allies may be waiting where you least expect them (including your youngest “customers”).

How to Deliver Healthy Meals and and Implement Sustainable Change To 1.1 Millions Students Per Day - A Conversation with Stephen O'Brien, formerly of the NY Dept of Education

On the latest episode of Going Zero, hosts Christy Cook, Seth, and Eric sat down with Dominique Hadad, the founder of Green Scope Consulting. Unlike many established industry veterans, Dominique represents a powerful new generation in sustainability—young, bold, and determined to drive meaningful change from the ground up. Dominique’s story begins with her Caribbean roots, where first-hand exposure to climate change impacts in Trinidad and Tobago created a deep awareness and resolve. In college at The Ohio State University, Dominique studied industrial engineering and soon found herself immersed in systems thinking—not just from textbooks but through real-world experience. Some fun facts from the episode:<ol><li>Dominique Hadad started her business right out of college, supported by winning Ohio State’s President’s Prize and a pitch competition—even though she didn’t see herself as an entrepreneur at first.</li><li>Dominique helped a local Columbus restaurant achieve over 90% waste diversion, making it functionally a zero-waste restaurant (and she “had to” eat their food during the process!).</li><li>Dominique crocheted a robot while studying engineering, earning her “engineering star”—but she was always more interested in connecting people and systems than building things.</li></ol><h3> </h3>As the conversation turns to the broader future of sustainability, Dominique observes a growing movement towards transparency and authenticity—especially among young professionals. Where once degrees in sustainability were rare, now they are proliferating, creating a richly diverse talent pool. She notes, too, that diversity must include age and difference in thinking—because innovation often comes from those who see the world differently.

On the latest episode of Going Zero, hosts Christy Cook, Seth, and Eric sat down with Dominique Hadad, the founder of Green Scope Consulting. Unlike many established industry veterans, Dominique represents a powerful new generation in sustainability—young, bold, and determined to drive meaningful change from the ground up.Dominique’s story begins with her Caribbean roots, where first-hand exposure to climate change impacts in Trinidad and Tobago created a deep awareness and resolve. In college at The Ohio State University, Dominique studied industrial engineering and soon found herself immersed in systems thinking—not just from textbooks but through real-world experience.Some fun facts from the episode:Dominique Hadad started her business right out of college, supported by winning Ohio State’s President’s Prize and a pitch competition—even though she didn’t see herself as an entrepreneur at first.Dominique helped a local Columbus restaurant achieve over 90% waste diversion, making it functionally a zero-waste restaurant (and she “had to” eat their food during the process!).Dominique crocheted a robot while studying engineering, earning her “engineering star”—but she was always more interested in connecting people and systems than building things.As the conversation turns to the broader future of sustainability, Dominique observes a growing movement towards transparency and authenticity—especially among young professionals. Where once degrees in sustainability were rare, now they are proliferating, creating a richly diverse talent pool. She notes, too, that diversity must include age and difference in thinking—because innovation often comes from those who see the world differently.

The Next Generation of Sustainability: A Conversation with Dominique Hadad, Founder of Green Scope Consulting

Ever wondered how manufacturing efficiency tools like Lean Six Sigma can actually help save the planet? This episode of @GoingZero dives deep into this topic — and trust us, the ideas here are for ANY org trying to cut waste & boost impact. Meet Brion Hurley, Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt. His mission: use process improvement for good — social & environmental. Brion led a Six Sigma project to slash electricity use at a massive facility. By digging into utility data & piloting smart HVAC controls (with a clever override button!), they saved $200k+ AND cut emissions.

Ever wondered how manufacturing efficiency tools like Lean Six Sigma can actually help save the planet? This episode of @GoingZero dives deep into this topic — and trust us, the ideas here are for ANY org trying to cut waste & boost impact.Meet Brion Hurley, Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt. His mission: use process improvement for good — social & environmental. Brion led a Six Sigma project to slash electricity use at a massive facility. By digging into utility data & piloting smart HVAC controls (with a clever override button!), they saved $200k+ AND cut emissions.

How Lean Six Sigma Can Power Your Sustainability Goals with Brion Hurley

We’re back with a fresh episode, packed with real-world sustainability lessons straight from the source! This time, Christy, Seth, and Eric sit down with Brian Nash, Vice President of Corporate Sustainability at Ingredion—the Fortune 500 ingredient solutions powerhouse behind brands you know (and probably some you don’t). Brian shares his remarkable journey from environmental health and safety into leading sustainability at Ingredion. He opens up about the company’s evolution toward embedding sustainability into its core strategy, from measuring its impact through cost control, risk mitigation, and brand enhancement, to creating real value through transparency and systems thinking. Together, they unpack the complexities of global supply chains, the importance of transparent reporting, the realities of climate risk, and the ever-evolving landscape of sustainability education and careers. Brian even offers poignant advice for today’s business leaders and aspiring sustainability professionals on driving meaningful change—reminding us all that perfection shouldn’t stand in the way of progress.

We’re back with a fresh episode, packed with real-world sustainability lessons straight from the source! This time, Christy, Seth, and Eric sit down with Brian Nash, Vice President of Corporate Sustainability at Ingredion—the Fortune 500 ingredient solutions powerhouse behind brands you know (and probably some you don’t).Brian shares his remarkable journey from environmental health and safety into leading sustainability at Ingredion. He opens up about the company’s evolution toward embedding sustainability into its core strategy, from measuring its impact through cost control, risk mitigation, and brand enhancement, to creating real value through transparency and systems thinking.Together, they unpack the complexities of global supply chains, the importance of transparent reporting, the realities of climate risk, and the ever-evolving landscape of sustainability education and careers. Brian even offers poignant advice for today’s business leaders and aspiring sustainability professionals on driving meaningful change—reminding us all that perfection shouldn’t stand in the way of progress.

Integrating Sustainability into Business: Lessons from Ingredion’s Brian Nash

Welcome to another episode of the Going Zero podcast, where we dive into the real-world challenges and bold solutions shaping the future of sustainability. In today’s episode, host Christy Cook is joined by Mike Wrathall, an sustainability strategist who’s helped organizations across sectors—from social housing to defense—navigate complexity and accelerate their impact on the environment. Mike shares his journey from a childhood passion for recycling to leading sustainability and climate strategy efforts at major firms like Deloitte. We’ll uncover how agile methodologies, often associated with software development, are transforming traditional business models, enabling organizations to adapt, innovate, and make sustainability central to their mission. Mike brings us behind the scenes of organizations that have reinvented themselves, including a charity that spun out a for-profit enterprise and the Formula 1 powerhouse McLaren’s shift toward circularity. Whether you’re running a business, working in government, or simply passionate about driving positive change, this conversation is packed with actionable insights. Mike explains why seeing sustainability as an opportunity—not just a compliance hurdle—unlocks new avenues for growth, cost savings, and resilience. Plus, he offers real steps for anyone looking to integrate agile thinking into their sustainability journey.

Welcome to another episode of the Going Zero podcast, where we dive into the real-world challenges and bold solutions shaping the future of sustainability. In today’s episode, host Christy Cook is joined by Mike Wrathall, an sustainability strategist who’s helped organizations across sectors—from social housing to defense—navigate complexity and accelerate their impact on the environment.Mike shares his journey from a childhood passion for recycling to leading sustainability and climate strategy efforts at major firms like Deloitte. We’ll uncover how agile methodologies, often associated with software development, are transforming traditional business models, enabling organizations to adapt, innovate, and make sustainability central to their mission. Mike brings us behind the scenes of organizations that have reinvented themselves, including a charity that spun out a for-profit enterprise and the Formula 1 powerhouse McLaren’s shift toward circularity.Whether you’re running a business, working in government, or simply passionate about driving positive change, this conversation is packed with actionable insights. Mike explains why seeing sustainability as an opportunity—not just a compliance hurdle—unlocks new avenues for growth, cost savings, and resilience. Plus, he offers real steps for anyone looking to integrate agile thinking into their sustainability journey.

Using Agile for Sustainable Impact: Lessons from Housing to Formula 1 with Mike Wrathall

Welcome back to Going Zero, proudly sponsored by Emerald Ecovations! In today's episode, we're joined by Marjory Wildcraft—the dynamic founder of The Grow Network and a recognized leader in the survival and preparedness movement. Featured by National Geographic as an expert in off-grid living and known for inspiring hundreds of thousands to start backyard gardens, Marjory takes us on her remarkable journey from electrical engineer to passionate advocate for self-sufficiency and homegrown food. Listen in as Marjory reveals the wake-up call that changed her path, her firsthand experiences with the daunting realities of our food system, and the practical, empowering steps anyone can take—no matter where they live—to grow half of their own food in surprisingly small spaces. She dives deep into the importance of soil health, composting, raising backyard chickens and rabbits, and busts some of the biggest myths about gardening and self-reliance. Plus, Marjory shares her hopeful vision for a regenerative, community-driven food future, and her advice for individuals and businesses ready to join the movement. Whether you're a city dweller with only a balcony to spare or someone dreaming of a rural homestead, this episode is packed with inspiration, concrete action steps, and Marjory’s contagious passion. Stay tuned for a conversation that will motivate you to dig into self-sufficiency and rethink what’s possible in your own backyard!

Welcome back to Going Zero, proudly sponsored by Emerald Ecovations! In today's episode, we're joined by Marjory Wildcraft—the dynamic founder of The Grow Network and a recognized leader in the survival and preparedness movement. Featured by National Geographic as an expert in off-grid living and known for inspiring hundreds of thousands to start backyard gardens, Marjory takes us on her remarkable journey from electrical engineer to passionate advocate for self-sufficiency and homegrown food.Listen in as Marjory reveals the wake-up call that changed her path, her firsthand experiences with the daunting realities of our food system, and the practical, empowering steps anyone can take—no matter where they live—to grow half of their own food in surprisingly small spaces. She dives deep into the importance of soil health, composting, raising backyard chickens and rabbits, and busts some of the biggest myths about gardening and self-reliance. Plus, Marjory shares her hopeful vision for a regenerative, community-driven food future, and her advice for individuals and businesses ready to join the movement.Whether you're a city dweller with only a balcony to spare or someone dreaming of a rural homestead, this episode is packed with inspiration, concrete action steps, and Marjory’s contagious passion. Stay tuned for a conversation that will motivate you to dig into self-sufficiency and rethink what’s possible in your own backyard!

Breaking Self-Sufficiency Myths with Survival Movement Leader Marjory Wildcraft, Founder of the Grow Network

In this week’s conversation, we sit down with Kai Robertson, a leading sustainability expert with decades of experience working alongside food industry giants like Walmart, Unilever, and McDonald’s, as well as global organizations such as the World Resources Institute and WWF. *This episode is proudly sponsored by Emerald Ecovations, offering sustainable food service, facility, and packaging supplies for your business.* Kai unpacks the complex web of sustainability challenges facing our food system—from the concept of our “food print,” to the impact of food waste, water usage, and the mounting pressures of feeding a growing global population. You’ll hear honest insights into common misconceptions about food scarcity, the hidden environmental costs of what ends up on (and off) our plates, and simple actions businesses and individuals alike can take to push for meaningful change. With anecdotes from personal experience and industry analysis, Kai cuts through the noise and offers a practical framework: act, advocate, and ask. Whether you’re a consumer, a business leader, or just someone curious about the future of food, this episode will inspire you to think differently about the true impact of what we eat—and what we waste. So get ready for an eye-opening discussion on creating a more sustainable food future, one choice at a time.

In this week’s conversation, we sit down with Kai Robertson, a leading sustainability expert with decades of experience working alongside food industry giants like Walmart, Unilever, and McDonald’s, as well as global organizations such as the World Resources Institute and WWF. *This episode is proudly sponsored by Emerald Ecovations, offering sustainable food service, facility, and packaging supplies for your business.*Kai unpacks the complex web of sustainability challenges facing our food system—from the concept of our “food print,” to the impact of food waste, water usage, and the mounting pressures of feeding a growing global population. You’ll hear honest insights into common misconceptions about food scarcity, the hidden environmental costs of what ends up on (and off) our plates, and simple actions businesses and individuals alike can take to push for meaningful change.With anecdotes from personal experience and industry analysis, Kai cuts through the noise and offers a practical framework: act, advocate, and ask. Whether you’re a consumer, a business leader, or just someone curious about the future of food, this episode will inspire you to think differently about the true impact of what we eat—and what we waste. So get ready for an eye-opening discussion on creating a more sustainable food future, one choice at a time. 

Feeding 10 Billion Sustainably: Kai Robertson Unpacks Food Waste Solutions

This week, we're diving into the complex and often confusing world of food waste with our special guest, Rachael Jackson. Did you know that nearly 40% of food in the U.S. ends up as waste, much of it from our own kitchens? As part of Food Waste Prevention Week, we're talking with an expert. As always, we're proudly sponsored by Emerald Ecovations, bringing you sustainable solutions for your business, including tree-free, compostable coffee cups, cutlery, paper towels, and more. In this episode, you'll learn how misconceptions around expiration dates and uncertainties about food safety lead to perfectly good food being thrown out. Rachael, a journalist and food waste educator, is on a mission to change how we think about food waste. She's also the founding editor of eatortoss.com, an award-winning website that helps millions make informed decisions about whether food is safe to eat or should be discarded. We’ll play a game that challenges us to look beyond appearances and understand the science behind when to eat or toss food. Whether you're trying to save money or make more sustainable choices, this episode is packed with insights and practical advice. Join Seth and co-host Christy Cook as they navigate through common misconceptions and tips on reducing food waste. Let's get curious and make more conscious decisions in our kitchens!

This week, we're diving into the complex and often confusing world of food waste with our special guest, Rachael Jackson. Did you know that nearly 40% of food in the U.S. ends up as waste, much of it from our own kitchens? As part of Food Waste Prevention Week, we're talking with an expert. As always, we're proudly sponsored by Emerald Ecovations, bringing you sustainable solutions for your business, including tree-free, compostable coffee cups, cutlery, paper towels, and more. In this episode, you'll learn how misconceptions around expiration dates and uncertainties about food safety lead to perfectly good food being thrown out. Rachael, a journalist and food waste educator, is on a mission to change how we think about food waste. She's also the founding editor of eatortoss.com, an award-winning website that helps millions make informed decisions about whether food is safe to eat or should be discarded. We’ll play a game that challenges us to look beyond appearances and understand the science behind when to eat or toss food. Whether you're trying to save money or make more sustainable choices, this episode is packed with insights and practical advice. Join Seth and co-host Christy Cook as they navigate through common misconceptions and tips on reducing food waste. Let's get curious and make more conscious decisions in our kitchens!

Eat or Toss - Rachael Jackson on Combating Food Waste in Your Kitchen

Welcome to another episode of the Going Zero Podcast, where sustainability takes center stage. In this episode, titled "Food Waste Prevention Week 2025," we host an engaging discussion with two experts, Elaine Fiore and Elaine Blatt. Our guests bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to the table as they explore the staggering impact of food waste on our environment, economy, and society. Did you know that around 40% of the US food supply is wasted each year, contributing massively to greenhouse gas emissions and economic loss? Join us as Elaine and Elaine share inspiring solutions, strategies, and success stories aimed at reducing food waste. We dive deep into behavior change, the power of community collaboration, and practical actions that both individuals and businesses can take today. Whether you're interested in the environmental, financial, or social aspects of sustainability, this episode will equip you with valuable insights and motivate you to make a difference. Let's embark on this journey towards minimizing our food footprint together! Proudly sponsored by Emerald Ecovations.

Welcome to another episode of the Going Zero Podcast, where sustainability takes center stage. In this episode, titled "Food Waste Prevention Week 2025," we host an engaging discussion with two experts, Elaine Fiore and Elaine Blatt. Our guests bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to the table as they explore the staggering impact of food waste on our environment, economy, and society. Did you know that around 40% of the US food supply is wasted each year, contributing massively to greenhouse gas emissions and economic loss? Join us as Elaine and Elaine share inspiring solutions, strategies, and success stories aimed at reducing food waste. We dive deep into behavior change, the power of community collaboration, and practical actions that both individuals and businesses can take today. Whether you're interested in the environmental, financial, or social aspects of sustainability, this episode will equip you with valuable insights and motivate you to make a difference. Let's embark on this journey towards minimizing our food footprint together! Proudly sponsored by Emerald Ecovations. 

Food Waste Prevention Week: A Conversation with Elaine Fiore and Elaine Blatt

Every week, Seth Combs, and Eric Pasewalk help leaders navigate the sustainability maze in their workplace and interview leaders who are blazing the trail in sustainability and the quest for zero waste. Covering topics from ESG and Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions to the impact of deforestation, food waste, and plastic pollution on our environment, Going Zero is here to help you understand the everchanging world of sustainability.

Every week, Seth Combs, and Eric Pasewalk help leaders navigate the sustainability maze in their workplace and interview leaders who are blazing the trail in sustainability and the quest for zero waste. Covering topics from ESG and Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions to the impact of deforestation, food waste, and plastic pollution on our environment, Going Zero is here to help you understand the everchanging world of sustainability.

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Going Zero

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