00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:37 Yana Weller's Journey to Kraft Full

02:31 The Birth and Evolution of Kraft Full

06:01 Product Hunt Success and Fundraising

12:39 Navigating Acquisition Offers

21:49 The Acquisition Process

24:18 Post-Acquisition Reflections

35:59 Lightning Round and Closing Thoughts

Links & Resources

• Check out the products Yana built at Kraftful & Amplitude
• Kraftful's Acquisition Announcement
• Follow Yana on LinkedIn and X
• Yana's insights on getting into Y Combinator

In this episode, she traces the purposeful thread from her mom’s early entrepreneurial success, to launching the Nile List during a pandemic from Nigeria, to navigating an unexpected acquisition. Today, that same thread shows up in her roles as GP at Fictive Ventures, leader of the LIFT Incubator, and community architect behind The Pit in Atlanta.

For founders across industries and backgrounds, Khadijah offers something rare: a blueprint for building rooted in identity, community, and clarity — not hype.

Show Notes:
In this episode:

• The childhood lessons that shaped how she sees community, beauty, and entrepreneurship
• Why her mom’s early business success quietly set the stage for her own founder journey
• How the Nile List began as a spreadsheet for stress relief during a painful clerkship
• Launching March 1, 2020 — and why that timing unexpectedly accelerated growth
• Bootstrapping, burning personal savings, and learning she had a real business
• Subscription boxes, early customers, and community pulling the product forward
• Navigating valuation, negotiation, and leadership through her legal lens
• The realities of being a Black woman founder leading inside a larger org
• What she brought forward into investing — and what she refuses to repeat
• How she now supports founders through Fictive, LIFT, and The Pit

Links & resources mentioned:

• Khadijah Robinson on LinkedIn  –  https://www.linkedin.com/in/khadijahrobinson/ 
• Fictive Ventures – fictiveventures.com
• The Pit Atlanta – thepitatlanta.com
• Center for Black Entrepreneurship + LIFT Incubator – cbecenter.org

In this episode of Founded On Purpose, Kt McBratney talks with Kel Rakowski, artist, strategist, writer, and founder of Lex, the beloved queer social app acquired by 9Count in 2024. Kel opens up about the origins of Lex in vintage lesbian personal ads, the early explosive growth, and the challenges of scaling a community-centered product inside a venture-backed structure.

Kel also shares the deeply personal side of stepping back as CEO, navigating burnout, building with love, and finding the courage — and clarity — to start a new chapter after the acquisition.

We talk about:

• The moment Kel knew Lex was bigger than a side project
• How the community shaped the app’s evolution
• Burnout, identity, and the stigma around stepping back
• What it really means to hand your company to someone else
• Why love — in all forms — has always been Kel’s purpose
• The return to creativity through writing, Herstory, and storytelling
• Redefining success after an exit

This conversation is honest, tender, and expansive — perfect for founders navigating identity, impact, burnout, and reinvention.

Resources & Links

• Lex – https://www.lex.lgbt/ 
• Herstory (Kel's Instagram project) – https://www.instagram.com/h_e_r_s_t_o_r_y/
• Kel’s Substack: Work Unseen – https://rakowwwski.substack.com/ 
• NTS Radio – https://www.nts.live/

Amelia shares the real story behind Honeycomb’s journey — from building safe AI image generation for kids before it was mainstream, to going viral on TikTok, to scaling through millions of family photos across the world. She opens up about the parts of M&A founders rarely talk about: preparing (or not preparing) for an exit, culture fit with an acquiring team, and the identity shift that happens when you go from founder to employee again.

We also dig into:

• Her family’s powerful story of education as opportunity
• Why she believes founders should learn about exit paths far earlier
• How viral growth is never as overnight as it seems
• What changed in her day-to-day once the deal became public
• Why she sees VC Backed Moms as a lifelong purpose, not a side project

This episode pulls back the curtain on what “after the exit” really looks like — human, honest and deeply useful for any founder mapping their own journey.

Resources & Links Mentioned

• Honeycomb – https://medium.com/joinhoneycomb/introducing-honeycomb-94395b5950f8 
• Ello (AI reading coach) – https://www.ello.com/ 
• VC Backed Moms – https://vcbackedmoms.com

• Follow Amelia on LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/amelialin/ 
• Renew Venture Capital – https://renewvc.com

Episode Summary:
Kesha Stickland, CEO and co-founder of The Mushroom Meat Co., shares her journey from software engineering and consulting to food innovation. Following a severe health crisis and personal journey to recovery, Kesha discovered the healing power of mushrooms. Her commitment to health drove her to develop award-winning beef and pork alternatives using functional mushrooms as the star ingredient.

In this episode, Kesha breaks down the science behind mushrooms, their nutritional power, and why they outperform many meat alternatives in both health benefits and sustainability. She also explores how she's working with farmers to grow mushrooms as a profitable alternative to traditional livestock, unlocking new economic opportunities and utilizing existing supply chains. Throughout the conversation, Kesha opens up about her leadership journey, her role as a visible role model, and how she embraces every learning as a powerful tool for innovation and growth.

Listen in to hear how Kesha's dedication to health is driving impactful change in the food industry and what we put in the center of our plates.

Key Themes:

• How Kesha Stickland's health journey inspired her to build The Mushroom Meat Co.
• The powerful nutritional benefits of mushrooms and their role in overall health
• Why reducing friction is key for changing consumer behavior, even when health is the motivating factor
• Why Kesha doesn't believe in failure and sees everything as a learning moment
• How a successful career in software, engineering, and consulting translates to her role and strengths as a founder
• Why celebrating wins and finding moments of laughter are key to her success

Links & Resources

• Connect with Kesha Stickland and our host Kt McBratney
• Learn more about Kesha's work with The Mushroom Meat Co.
• Follow The Mushroom Meat Co. on Instagram for chef-driven recipes and more
• Want more founder stories? Subscribe to Founded on Purpose
• Learn more about Renew VC, and follow on LinkedIn to stay in the know

Episode Summary:
Jilea Hemmings, co-founder & CEO of Nourish + Bloom, has spent her career pioneering solutions before the market even realizes it needs them. In this conversation, she shares how her early adoption of trends — from plant-based nutrition to AI-driven retail — has positioned her at the forefront of innovation.

Jilea discusses the power of asking questions and learning from customers, highlighting how initial skepticism can shift when people experience the benefits of new technology firsthand. She breaks down how AI enables Nourish + Bloom to serve communities that big box retailers often ignore, proving that automation can be a force for social good.

Beyond business, Jilea opens up about the role of joy and play in entrepreneurship. She and her husband, Jamie, have built not only a thriving company but also a resilient partnership, grounded in humor and shared purpose. Whether it’s navigating setbacks or celebrating wins (something she admits she needs to do more), Jilea emphasizes the importance of perspective, patience, and asking the right questions.  Listen in to learn how Nourish + Bloom is redefining retail, reshaping perspectives, and proving that impact-driven businesses can also be highly profitable.

Key Themes: 

• The market and impact opportunity at the intersection of food, retail, and innovation
• Overcoming resistance to change and shifting consumer behavior 
• What it means to dare to fail up
• The realities of building a company by community, for community
• The power of laughter and celebrating milestones in business 
• Why asking the right questions is an essential leadership and life skill

Resources & Mentions: 

• Connect with Jilea Hemmings and Kt McBratney
• Learn more about Nourish + Bloom Market and Technologies, including their Purpose Round
• More information about food access, including terminology and USDA food access data
• Follow Nourish + Bloom on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook
• Subscribe to Founded on Purpose
• Explore other initiatives from Renew VC and follow on LinkedIn for more

Episode Summary:
Walter Ley didn’t follow a prewritten script — he built his own playbook for success with his company, Branch. In this episode, we dive into his journey as a founder, the pivotal moments that shaped his career, and how he navigates the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship. From embracing uncertainty to making bold decisions, Walter shares insights that can help any entrepreneur carve their own path. 

Walter and host Kt McBratney discuss bootstrapping and VC funding, the joy and challenges in growing a team, learning from failures, and the different ways we can define success for ourselves. His approach to building a company without a fixed framework provides valuable lessons for anyone looking to break conventional molds and build something truly unique and impactful. 

Key Themes & Takeaways: 

• How Walter developed his own entrepreneurial framework 
• The power of adaptability and trusting your instincts 
• Lessons from building a company without a set playbook 
• Strategies for navigating uncertainty and making tough decisions 
• What hills would Walter and Kt die on? (Hint: they involve alternative milks and punctuation)

Links & Resources Mentioned: 

• Learn more about Branch, including upcoming elections near you
• Connect with Walter Ley and follow Branch on LinkedIn
• Connect with Kt McBratney on LinkedIn and Bluesky
• Subscribe to Founded on Purpose
• Explore other initiatives from Renew VC

Episode Summary: In this episode of Founded on Purpose, host Kt McBratney sits down with Laurie Lane-Zucker, founder and CEO of Impact Entrepreneur, a pioneering force in the impact economy. Laurie shares his journey from environmental NGO leadership to spearheading a global community of systems-minded entrepreneurs, investors, and scholars. He discusses the significance of shifting from a single bottom line to a triple bottom line framework, the evolution of the term "impact entrepreneur," and how branding can shape movements. Laurie also reflects on the importance of wisdom traditions in business, the role of community in effecting real change, and why the concept of "healing" is at the core of his purpose. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or purpose-driven leader, Laurie’s insights will inspire you to rethink success and embrace business as a tool for real impact.

Key Themes & Takeaways: 

• Defining the Impact Economy: The shift from profit-only models to sustainable, socially responsible business practices. 
• Building a Movement: How the term "impact entrepreneur" became a global identity for change-makers. 
• Ancient Wisdom & Modern Impact: The unexpected role of historical and esoteric wisdom traditions in shaping the future of impact-driven entrepreneurship. 
• The Power of Community: Why networks, mentorship, and shared knowledge are critical to systemic change. 
• Rethinking Success: Beyond Profits to Purpose: Laurie’s perspective on success beyond profits, including long-term systemic transformation. 

Mentioned Resources & Links:
• Impact Entrepreneur
• Laurie Lane Zucker’s 2023 Textbook: Sustainability, Business, and Investment Implications
• Orion Magazine
• Wendell Berry’s Works

Connect with Us:  

• Connect with Laurie and Impact Entrepreneur on LinkedIn
• Connect with Kt and Renew VC
• Subscribe to Founded on Purpose
• Explore other initiatives from Renew VC

Episode Summary: In this episode of Founded on Purpose, Kt McBratney sits down with Gayle Jennings-O'Byrne, a trailblazing investor, founder, and ecosystem builder, to explore what it really takes to fund and support diverse founders. Gayle dives into the importance of owning mistakes, having hard conversations, and trusting your instincts. She shares her philosophy on "fessing up to your f*** ups," why ghosting is never the answer, and how scaling impact in venture capital remains one of her biggest challenges. From discussing how she plays—through cooking, cycling, and jigsaw puzzles—to navigating advice as both a mentor and mentee, Gayle offers invaluable insights on balancing the serious nature of venture capital with creativity and joy. She also reveals her deep belief in storytelling as a tool for systemic change and how it shapes her approach to investing, founder education, and media.

Key Takeaways: 

• Fess Up to Your Mistakes: Mistakes aren’t fatal—acknowledge them, learn from them, and move forward. 
• Difficult Conversations Matter: Avoiding hard discussions only prolongs discomfort. Addressing issues head-on leads to clarity and resolution. 
• No More Ghosting: Whether in investing, partnerships, or leadership, communication is key—just say yes, no, or that you need more time.
• Scaling Impact is Hard But Necessary: The real challenge is not just funding great founders but changing the entire system that supports them.
• Play is Essential: From cooking gourmet meals to solving puzzles, making space for joy fuels better decision-making and leadership. 
• Advice is a Practice: Taking advice is a skill—be selective, consider the source, and be intentional about seeking mentorship. 
• Storytelling Drives Change: Media and narratives have the power to reshape perceptions, unlock opportunities, and foster human connection. 

Mentioned Links and Resources 

• Connect with Gayle Jennings-O'Byrne and Kt McBratney on LinkedIn
• Learn more about Wocstar
• Building and/or investing with purpose? Sign the Pledge!  
• Subscribe to Founded on Purpose
• Explore other initiatives from Renew VC

Episode Summary
In this episode of Founded on Purpose, we sit down with Merav Goldman, founder of the award-winning company All Better Co. Merav shares her entrepreneurial journey, focusing on two powerful themes: how slingshot moments can transform obstacles into opportunities and the art of innovative product design. From navigating parenting challenges to crafting solutions that resonate deeply with her customers, Merav offers invaluable lessons on resilience, creativity, and problem-solving. Tune in to discover how she turned personal experiences into a purpose-driven business that’s making life easier for parents everywhere.  

Key Themes and Takeaways 

• Slingshot Moments: Learn how Merav reframes setbacks as opportunities to gain momentum, offering actionable advice for turning challenges into growth. 
• Innovative Product Design: Hear the story behind "Don’t Scratch That" pen and other innovative first aid products by All Better Co., and how Merav’s unique approach to design addresses real-world problems. 
• Purpose-Driven Entrepreneurship: Explore how Merav’s personal experiences fueled her mission to create products that solve meaningful problems. 
• Lessons from Parenthood: Discover how being a parent informed Merav’s entrepreneurial perspective and her commitment to supporting other parents. 

Mentioned Links and Resources 

• Connect with Merav Goldman on LinkedIn and Instagram
• Learn more about All Better Co. including their award-winning Don’t Scratch That Pen
• Listen to our interview with Merav's co-founder Stacy Bernstein
• Follow All Better Co. on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok
• Join the journey and invest in moms making it better
• Connect with Kt McBratney on LinkedIn and Bluesky
• Building and/or investing with purpose? Sign the Pledge!  
• Subscribe to Founded on Purpose
• Explore other initiatives from Renew VC

Episode Summary
Ashwath Narayanan joins host Kt McBratney to talk about his work in the evolving media landscape and how investing in people (creators) rather than platforms (TikTok, Instagram, etc) is a winning strategy for change. He shares the challenges faced by nonprofits in adopting new strategies, and the significance of creativity in impact storytelling. They also touch on the complexities of content strategies and tactics, and the realities of being a content creator. Ashwath shares insights on learning from mistakes, trusting one's instincts as a founder, and the significance of building infrastructure to support the impact ecosystem.

Key Themes:

• Media consumption is a key factor in changing societal behaviors.
• Investing in people is crucial for the impact space and leads to more authentic storytelling.
• Nonprofits are beginning to recognize the value of content creators.
• Building capacity within organizations is crucial for success. Building infrastructure is key to supporting impact organizations.
• The disconnect between decision-makers and media consumers is significant.
• Finding joy in work is essential for sustaining energy. Rest and recovery is essential for sustainable work.
• Trusting your instincts is vital as a founder.

Sound Bites

• "Consumption is how we change the world."
• "Invest in people, not platforms."
• "It's all about connecting with people."
• "Long form never died."
• "You can't do everything all the time."
• "Being a content creator is a real job."
• "The algorithm doesn't listen to you."

Links & Resources

• Learn more about Social Currant
• Connect with Ashwath and Kt on LinkedIn 
• Read and subscribe to Keeping it Currant, the newsletter sharing insights on how to navigate the intersection of the creator economy and the political and social impact space.
• Building and/or investing with purpose? Sign the Pledge!  
• Subscribe to Founded on Purpose

Episode Summary 
In this celebratory live recording at The Better Spot’s UnCorporate Party, host Kt McBratney sits down with Paul Armstrong (General Partner at Renew VC) to discuss his journey as a designer, communicator, and advocate for purpose-driven leadership. Paul shares how his role as a conduit between ideas and people has shaped his career and influenced his approach to impact and innovation.

But this episode goes beyond one conversation. We chat with Madilynn Beck (Founder & CEO of The Better Spot) about her purpose for the new year, and she shares her thought process distilling her professional and personal intentions into a single word. Featuring a diverse array of other voices — including founders, dreamers, and changemakers from the UnCorporate Party — listeners will hear perspectives on purpose that range from helping others and overcoming fear to building legacies and fostering motivation. This collective exploration of purpose offers a thought-provoking close to the year and a hopeful look toward the future.

Key Themes

• Purpose as a guiding force in work and life
• Helping others: from personal values to professional missions
• The evolving role of design and communication in leadership
• Insights from a live, dynamic community of founders and changemakers
• Building legacy and overcoming fear in entrepreneurship
• How purpose connects people and drives impact

Links & Resources Mentioned

• Connect with Kt, Renew VC and featured guests from the episode:
  • Paul Armstrong
  • Madilynn A. Beck
  • Caelyn Phillips
  • Kristin Slink
  • Reiko Jordan Brown
  • Whitney Ward
  • Tanisha Yorick-Allen
  • Nichole Healy
• Building and/or investing with purpose? Sign the Pledge!  
• Subscribe to Founded on Purpose

In this conversation, Mallory discusses her evolving purpose centered around lifting others, her recent wins in treating her passion project as a business, and the importance of community and human connection. She reflects on missed opportunities in her field, shares insights on learning from mistakes, and digs into why surrounding yourself with the right people matters. This conversation is packed with personal stories and reflections that highlight the interplay between personal growth, community building, and professional development.

Key Themes & Takeaways

1. The Power of Supportive Relationships
   Mallory reflects on the importance of choosing the right life partner and community, explaining how the people you keep close can influence your mindset, motivation, and career trajectory.
2. Advice vs. Input
   Mallory explains her approach to advice—viewing it more as "input" or "perspective." She emphasizes the value of contextualizing others' feedback within her own goals and experiences.
3. Balancing Play and Rest
   Whether spending time with her fiancé in New York or retreating to her parents' home in Connecticut, Mallory believes in balancing play with moments of quiet solitude.
4. Being Open to Growth and Change
   Her journey from COO to founder, product roles to community leader, shows a willingness to take risks, reframe personal limits, and stay open to life’s unexpected directions.

Resources & Links

• Learn more about Old Girls Club, a community for women and non-binary people in male-dominated fields
• Connect with Mallory Contois on LinkedIn and her personal website
• Connect with Kt and Renew VC on LinkedIn
• Building and/or investing with purpose? Sign the Purpose Pledge!  
• Subscribe to Founded on Purpose

Episode Summary  

In this episode, Marianna Sachse, founder of Jackalo, dives into the world of sustainable fashion, focusing on durability and responsible production. A lifelong environmentalist who believes humans have the power to do better, Marianna shares her background as a social worker and how her passion for environmental impact led to creating Jackalo, the first circular children's clothing company in the US. From sourcing sustainable materials to designing clothing that withstands the wear and tear of childhood, Marianna discusses Jackalo’s mission to disrupt the fast fashion cycle and make one part of parenting easier. This conversation reveals how one founder blends her values of sustainability and social responsibility to inspire change across the apparel industry. 

Key Themes & Takeaways

• Sustainable Fashion: Marianna shares what sustainability means for Jackalo and how they operates differently from sourcing to production through to retail and disposal.
• Circular Economy: Jackalo’s innovative model, including a buyback program, extends the life cycle of its products while also supporting continuous learning and product development in service of sustainability. 
• Building Community: Through Jackalo, Marianna has cultivated a customer community that values sustainable products, slow fashion, and brand loyalty
• Resilience in Entrepreneurship: The conversation also touches on the challenges of being an impact-driven founder, including navigating economic hurdles and scaling a purpose-centered brand.

Links & Resources

• Connect with Marianna on LinkedIn 
• Browse Jackalo for the kids (and adults!) in your life
• Learn more about Jackalo's sustainability & circular model 
• Check out their innovative TradeUp program and Mend It Guide
• Connect with Kt and Renew VC on LinkedIn
• Building and/or investing with purpose? Sign the Purpose Pledge!  
• Subscribe to Founded on Purpose

Episode Summary

In this candid and deeply personal conversation, Jason Cavnar, executive director of the Founder Mental Health Pledge, discusses how founders can transform their mental health from an afterthought to a cornerstone of their success. Drawing from his own journey as well as well-documented systemic challenges in the startup ecosystem, Jason highlights why proactive mental health practices are essential for sustaining high performance in entrepreneurship.

The episode explores the interplay between mental well-being and peak leadership, why founders often feel trapped in survival mode, and how small daily rituals can lead to big changes. Jason shares stories about reimagining leadership through consciousness, embracing vulnerability, and using tools like travel and play to foster creativity and innovation. I Whether you’re a founder, an investor, or simply interested in building better systems, this episode offers actionable wisdom and a call to join the movement.

Key Themes

• Shifting from a break-fix model to proactive mental health practices.
• How wellbeing and performance are deeply interconnected.
• The Founder Mental Health Pledge: what it is and how it’s making a difference.
• Reframing "wrongness" in leadership as an opportunity for growth.
• The power of play, travel, and consciousness in sustainable entrepreneurship.

Links & Resources

• Learn more about the Founder Mental Health Pledge
• Connect with Jason Cavnar on X (Twitter), LinkedIn, Instagram
• Connect with Kt on LinkedIn and Bluesky
• Learn more about the Integratron
• Explore the work of Renew VC
• Sign the Purpose Pledge
• Subscribe to Founded on Purpose

Episode Summary:
What does it mean to create true belonging in an increasingly disconnected world? Kay Rodriguez, CEO of Outerly, joins us to discuss her mission is to foster authentic interactions. She shares insights on building a human-centered company, embracing failure as part of the startup journey, and the importance of staying grounded in a mission-driven purpose. 

Kay tackles the tension between social media’s potential to connect and its reality of isolating people, and she and host Kt McBratney reflect on the role of nature, human interaction, and vulnerability in building a deeper sense of community. In this candid conversation, Kay also explores her own growth as a founder, including the importance of learning new skills and being comfortable as a beginner. 

Key Takeaways & Themes:

• Creating Belonging Through Nature: How connecting strangers through outdoor experiences offers participants a third place for belonging.
• The Problem with Social Media: While social media began as a way to connect, Kay talks about how its evolution into a space that isolates and fosters comparison, driving people away from genuine connection.
• Human-Centered Companies: Kay shares the value of building human-powered tech and fostering vulnerability in business relationships, even when it comes to investors.
• The Value of Being a Beginner: How embracing learning, new skills, and being a beginner is a powerful way to remain humble, creative, and adaptable.
• Growth vs. Individual Impact: While Outerly has ambitious goals for expansion, Kay remains focused on the individual impact each walk has on participants, emphasizing the importance of genuine human connection in a scalable business model.

Links & Resources

• Connect with Kay on LinkedIn 
• Explore Outerly and sign up for an outing near you
• Follow Outerly on Instagram and TikTok.
• Connect with Kt on LinkedIn
• Learn more about Renew VC
• Sign the Purpose Pledge
• Subscribe to Founded on Purpose

Julian Walker explores the evolution of PushBlack, a media platform dedicated to Black news, history, and issues. He shares how PushBlack has successfully tapped into the power of storytelling to build a connected, engaged community and drive social impact including voter registration and turnout. Julian also digs into the influence growing up in Little Rock has on him to this day, his journey from film school to leading PushBlack, and his broader vision for changing the narrative and amplifying Black voices for liberation. 

Key Themes & Takeaways  

• Building a Media Platform for Social Impact: Julian shares how PushBlack's focus on Black history, news, and awareness has fostered a dedicated following and supported its goal of social change.
• The Role of Storytelling in Community Building: PushBlack leverages stories to educate, inform, and inspire, creating a deeply engaged audience in the process.
• Challenges in Media Entrepreneurship:** From funding hurdles to content challenges, Julian offers insights into what it takes to sustain and grow a purpose-driven media platform.
• The Power of Community: Julian talks about how PushBlack has cultivated a strong sense of community, mobilizing millions for advocacy and positive change.

Links & Resources

• Learn more about PushBlack's work at PushBlack.org
• Interact with stories and podcasts centering Black history and experiences 
• Connect with Julian on LinkedIn
• Connect with Kt on LinkedIn and follow Renew VC
• Join our Community of Purpose

Episode Summary: In this inspiring episode, Kt McBratney talks with Emily Best, founder and CEO of Film Forward and Seed&Spark, a platform empowering creators with the resources and community they need to tell impactful stories. Emily dives deep into her personal and entrepreneurial journey, sharing wisdom on the importance of agency, the unexpected joys and challenges of leadership, and the power of creative autonomy. From her favorite part of the job—teaching workshops to creators—to her least favorite—fundraising—Emily offers invaluable advice for entrepreneurs and creators navigating uncertain terrain. Tune in for insights on how to trust your gut, when to seek advice, and why maintaining a clear vision is critical in the face of doubt.

Key Topics: 

• Emily’s journey founding and growing Seed&Spark 
• The importance of agency in creative and entrepreneurial ventures 
• Navigating advice and knowing which to follow 
• Emily’s daily grounding practice to stay connected with her inner voice in a Zoom-focused world 
• Why teaching creators is the most fulfilling part of her role 
• The intersection of creativity and purpose in the entrepreneurial space 

Notable Quotes: 

• “Your gut is only as good as the sum of your experiences up until that point.” 
• “Advice is only helpful if you have a clear vision of what you want and are trying to manifest.” 
• "I get to actually be there for the moment of impact, witnessing creators assume their agency. It’s the best part of what I do." 

Links & Resources:

• Explore Seed&Spark for creative funding and education and the Distribution Playbook for resources for building successful distribution strategies.
• Visit Film Forward for experiential learning with the world’s best short films.
• Learn about the Equal Rights Amendment and get info on screenings and events for the film Ratified 
• Share your personal stories about technology, starting with the mobile phone, at People's History of Tech. 
• Connect with Emily and Kt on Linkedin 
• Learn more about Renew VC
• Sign the Purpose Pledge
• Subscribe to Founded on Purpose

Episode Summary: In this episode, Melinda Villareal (CEO of Fashion Conservatory) dives deep into the vintage fashion world, sharing insights into the preservation versus personalization debate within the vintage community and the biggest missed opportunity in her industry.

Melinda also discusses the challenges of being taken seriously in both the fashion and startup worlds, how her team keeps vintage clothing alive for future generations, and the excitement she finds in restoring garments to their former glory. Whether you're a fashion enthusiast or curious about the business side of vintage fashion, this episode is packed with insights, history, and inspiration.

Key Moments:

• [00:04:30] Melinda's journey from a vintage enthusiast to CEO, and her mission to preserve history through fashion.
• [00:13:00] Exploring the tension between altering vintage garments and maintaining historical integrity.
• [00:22:00] Melinda's "hill to die on" about preserving vintage pieces and how her work ensures future generations can experience these unique garments.
• [00:27:00] How vintage fashion, often seen as "women's work," is undervalued in the business world and the challenges of running a vintage business in the startup ecosystem.
• [00:34:00] The opportunity Melinda sees in uniting fragmented vintage sellers and creating a stronger marketplace for one-of-a-kind pieces.
• [00:36:30] The joy and play Melinda finds in her work, from sourcing vintage clothes to overseeing garment restoration.
• [00:39:00] How to get started with vintage fashion and explore the vast archives on Fashion Conservatory’s website.

Top Quotes:

• "There aren't making 1950s dresses anymore. We need to preserve what we have." 
• "Play for me is unpacking boxes, washing something filthy, and seeing it get clean again." 
• "Fashion Conservatory is about preserving not just the glamorous pieces, but also the everyday wear that tells the story of people from the past." – 
• "The problem is the opportunity. And the problem of fragmentation in vintage fashion is exactly what we're solving." 

Links & Resources

• Connect with Melinda on LinkedIn 
• Visit Fashion Conservatory to explore vintage fashion. 
• Learn about fashion history in the Label Archive and their blog. 
• Follow Fashion Conservatory on Instagram and TikTok.
• Connect with Kt on LinkedIn
• Learn more about Renew VC
• Sign the Purpose Pledge
• Subscribe to Founded on Purpose

Episode Summary:
In this episode, Kt McBratney sits down with Mina Raver, founder of BetterCEO, to explore the intersection of accessibility, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Mina shares her unique perspective on how societal systems have historically limited accessibility and what needs to change for more inclusive environments. She also delves into her personal experiences of being a lifelong tinkerer, her journey as a solo founder, and the importance of play in her life. From discussing her neurodivergence and how it shapes her decision-making to revealing the challenges of being a tech founder limited by capital, Mina provides a thought-provoking and inspiring look at her work, leadership, and vision for a more accessible world.

Key Takeaways:
• Accessibility and Social Hierarchies: Mina explains how systemic societal structures have historically limited accessibility, from people with disabilities to mothers with strollers, reinforcing outdated hierarchies that don’t serve the majority.
• Cognitive Differences and Innovation: The conversation touches on the importance of understanding cognitive diversity and how rigid labels can stifle innovation. Mina emphasizes the need to build systems with everyone in mind.
• The Role of Play in Creativity: Mina shares how play with her family, whether through video games or imaginative activities with her children, helps keep her mentally fit and fuels her creativity.
• Entrepreneurial Challenges: One of Mina’s biggest challenges as a tech founder is navigating capital limitations, which often slow down progress. She also reflects on the transformative experience of building a team and seeing their collective contributions create something greater than she could have envisioned.
•  Navigating Advice as a Founder: Mina discusses how her synesthesia helps her visualize and categorize advice, allowing her to determine what resonates and what to reserve for later consideration. Trusting her gut is essential in her decision-making process.

Themes:
• Accessibility & Inclusion: The conversation underscores the importance of building systems that prioritize inclusivity and accessibility for all.
• Cognitive Diversity: Highlighting the value of cognitive differences, Mina encourages a broader understanding of how people think and process information.
• Entrepreneurial Grit: Mina’s journey from a 10-year-old entrepreneur to a tech founder reveals her deep passion for problem-solving and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
• The Power of Play: Play is a key element in both Mina’s personal and professional life, offering mental stimulation and creative energy.
• Building with Purpose: Throughout her career, Mina has focused on creating with purpose—whether it's her early ventures or founding BetterCEO, everything she does aims to make a meaningful impact.

Links & Resources

• Learn more about BetterCEO & download the free app
• Watch Mina's free coaching videos and more every Tuesday on the BetterCEO YouTube channel.
• Connect with Mina on LinkedIn and Instagram
• Learn more about Renew VC
• Sign the Purpose Pledge
• Connect with Kt on LinkedIn
• Subscribe to Founded on Purpose

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Episode Summary:
In this engaging conversation, host Kt McBratney sits down with Devin Thorpe, a champion of social impact, crowdfunding expert and creator of Superpowers for Good. They explore the powerful role persistence and optimism play in making an impact, even when the road seems tough. Devin reflects on key moments in his life, from his early career lessons to his personal experiences raising a son who embodies the belief that we can do hard things. He also discusses the barriers to making social change, lessons learned from mistakes, and the critical importance of play and balance in a purpose-driven life.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, an advocate, or someone looking to make a difference in the world, Devin’s insights will leave you inspired to face challenges with confidence, knowing that together we can accomplish the impossible.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Power of Persistence: Devin emphasizes that persistence is his superpower, a trait that's crucial when tackling long-term goals like addressing climate change. Success, he explains, requires ongoing effort, even in the face of mistakes and challenges.
2. We Can Do Hard Things: Drawing from personal stories, including his son’s decision to pursue a PhD in physics and Rotary International’s efforts to eradicate polio, Devin passionately argues that both individuals and society can achieve incredibly difficult goals if they commit to the challenge.
3. Optimism in the Face of Global Problems: While acknowledging the complexity of issues like poverty and climate change, Devin remains optimistic. He believes that with enough collective effort and innovative thinking, society can rise to the challenge and make a difference in even the most daunting areas.
4. Crowdfunding with Purpose: Devin shares his insights on crowdfunding, including the mindset shift needed when asking for money — it's not about weakness, but rather offering people an opportunity to be part of something bigger.
5. The Importance of Play and Rest: Despite focusing much of his energy on solving major global issues, Devin admits the need for balance. He reflects on how appreciating nature and moments of joy — like watching wildlife near his home — help him maintain perspective and stay grounded.
6. Lessons from Failure: In his honest and humorous way, Devin talks about making mistakes, especially when it comes to his weekly investment picks in his newsletter. He openly shares how embracing failure has helped him grow and learn over the years.

Themes:

• Persistence and overcoming barriers
• The intersection of social impact and entrepreneurship
• Collective action and optimism in solving global issues
• Balancing hard work with play and rest
• The evolving role of crowdfunding in the impact space

Links & Resources:

• Superpowers for Good Newsletter
• Superpowers for Good podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts
• Learn more about impact crowdfunding, including regular events from The Super Crowd
• Books by Devin Thorpe
• Learn more about Renew VC
• Sign the Purpose Pledge
• Subscribe to Founded on Purpose

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If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe to Founded on Purpose for more inspiring conversations with change-makers like Devin. Leave us a review and share the episode with someone who could use a dose of optimism and practical advice for tackling big challenges.

In this episode, Chrystal talks with host Kt McBratney about the driving forces behind her entrepreneurial journey. She shares her insights on maintaining alignment with her "why," balancing visualization with action, and the importance of self-determination. We dive into how Chrystal blends personal practices with professional strategies, including her approach to manifesting success as a parent and founder, and the unique ways she finds joy and play in her life.

Key Takeaways:

• Alignment with Purpose: Chrystal emphasizes the importance of understanding the purpose behind every decision in business and aligning actions with core values. Her approach centers on a strong sense of purpose and the belief in self-determination as a key to success.
• Visualization and Action: Chrystal reveals her practice of combining visualization with action to manifest her goals. She highlights how this practice has shaped her approach to leadership and goal-setting, while maintaining a realistic outlook on challenges and failures.
• Navigating Advice: Chrystal shares her strategy for filtering advice in the tech startup world, emphasizing the importance of understanding the source and waiting 72 hours before making impactful decisions.
• Finding Joy: Discover how Chrystal reconnects with her inner child through activities like art and dance, and how these practices fuel her creativity and passion.
• The Best Parts of the Job: From the relatable tasks of managing emails and calendars to her favorite aspect of engaging with salon owners and providing impactful solutions, Chrystal offers a candid look into her day-to-day experiences.

Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Learn more about Liquid at getliquid.ai
• Connect with Chrystal on Instagram and LinkedIn
• Listen to Chrystal's playlist 
• Learn more about Renew VC
• Sign the Purpose Pledge
• Subscribe to Founded on Purpose

Quotes:

• “Understanding what we’re doing, why we’re doing it, and who we’re doing it for will always keep that alignment.”
• “I visualize, I write it down, I manifest it, I talk about it every day, and I talk about it as if it’s done.”

Key Takeaways:

• Purpose at the Core: Jessica shares how her purpose of taking care of others is deeply tied to her work in healthcare, where she finds meaning by supporting others through complex systems. She reflects on her background in public health and how her early experiences shaped her career focus on mission-driven organizations.
• Proactive Care in Fertility: Jessica highlights Frame Fertility’s unique approach of focusing on early identification of fertility risks. She emphasizes the need for fertility screening at routine health checkups, not just when individuals are actively trying to conceive, and discusses how Frame is building a new standard for proactive fertility care for both men and women.
• Personal Wins: Jessica reflects on a special moment when her daughter watched her speak on stage, a moment that brought together her roles as both a mother and a business leader. She shares how important it is to her that her daughter grows up seeing women in leadership roles, especially in spaces where they can make meaningful change.
• Entrepreneurial Lessons: As a founder, Jessica talks about the inevitability of making mistakes and how embracing those mistakes creates a culture of transparency and learning. She believes that the ability to pivot and adjust quickly is key to success in entrepreneurship.

Links & Resources:

• Learn more about Frame Fertility and its personalized approach to fertility care.
• Follow Jessica Bell van der Wal on LinkedIn.
• Discover the VC Backed Moms community.
• Learn more about Renew Venture Capital. 
• Sign the Purpose Pledge.

Quotes from the Episode:

• “At my core, my purpose is to take care of others. I feel most at home when I’m aligned with that mission.”
• “We should be screening for fertility-related risk factors much earlier, so people aren’t reacting to challenges after the fact.”
• “The best thing you can do as a founder is to encourage openness about mistakes — because they will happen. It’s all about how you learn and move forward.”

Milly shares how leaning into her diverse passions—whether it's cooking, playing guitar, or building a community-driven business—has been the key to her success. From navigating big decisions as a first-time founder to embracing creativity in everyday life, she offers insights for anyone who’s ever wondered, “Do I have to choose just one path?” Spoiler: You don’t!

Key Takeaways:

• Embracing the Creative Play of Life
  Milly and Kt discuss how creativity and play weave through their daily lives, whether through cooking, music, or some time time off screens. They highlight how exploring various creative outlets helps them disconnect from the demands of work while staying connected to personal joy.
• Navigating Advice as a Founder
  Milly breaks down her approach to seeking advice as a first-time founder: listening to those with direct experience, seeking out diverse perspectives, and ultimately trusting her own intuition. She emphasizes that the answer is often already within us, waiting to be uncovered.
• The Power of a Values-Aligned Team
  One of the best parts of Milly’s work is the deeply values-driven community she’s built within Generalist World. Milly shares the joy of working with a team that feels like family, underscoring the importance of shared values in long-term collaboration.
• Overcoming Challenges as a Visionary
  While Milly loves bringing energy and strategy to her work, she admits that operational details and processes aren’t her biggest strength. Thankfully, her first hire, Ece, excels in these areas, balancing Milly’s visionary mindset with grounded execution.
• Celebrating International Generalist Day on September 18
  Milly shares how the Generalist World team and community took a half-joking comment and turned it into an international celebration with meetups planned for generalists in 30 cities across the globe.

Resources & Links Mentioned:

• Take the Generalist Quiz (www.generalistquiz.com) and share your results with Kt and Milly on LinkedIn!
• Learn more about Generalist World, including International Generalist Day events at generalist.world
• Connect with Milly Tamati on LinkedIn
• Learn more about Renew Venture Capital 
• Sign the Purpose Pledge

Episode Summary:
In this episode, we dive deep with Anastasia Simon, a force in the venture capital space, about her refreshing perspective on mental health, play, and what success really means. Anastasia candidly shares how she navigates the complexities of taking advice, embracing challenges, and learning to play again in a world that often prioritizes productivity over well-being. She reveals her strategies for maintaining mental health in a demanding industry, the importance of intergenerational relationships, and why it's crucial to discern which advice to take and which to leave behind. Whether you’re a founder, creative, or just someone trying to make sense of the noise, this episode is packed with wisdom on how to rethink success and find joy in the process.

Key Themes:

• Navigating Advice: How to determine what advice to take and what to leave.
• Mental Health & Self-Care: Strategies for maintaining well-being in a high-pressure environment.
• Rethinking Success: Challenging conventional ideas of success and finding your own path.
• Relearning Play: The importance of play and imagination in adult life.
• Intergenerational Wisdom: The value of learning from both younger and older generations.
• Being Right & Wrong: The importance of introspection and humility in decision-making.

Key Takeaways:

1. Beyond the Basics of Branding: Stacy explains that branding is more than just logos and colors; it’s about creating a holistic experience for the consumer. She uses the example of their innovative product design, which considers practicality and user experience, as a crucial aspect of their brand story.
2. The Challenge of Being Wrong: Stacy candidly discusses a pivotal moment early in her company’s journey when she had to end a partnership with a creative agency, despite significant investment. This experience taught her the importance of making tough decisions to stay true to the brand's vision.
3. Teamwork and Collaboration: Stacy highlights the importance of collaboration in her life, both personally and professionally. She attributes much of her success to the teamwork and support from her co-founder and other colleagues, illustrating that entrepreneurship doesn’t have to be a solo journey.
4. Advocacy for Women’s Rights: Stacy is passionate about women's rights, particularly reproductive rights, and how these issues intersect with business. She discusses the importance of women growing their wealth to influence policy and create meaningful change.
5. Finding Joy in Play: Despite her busy schedule, Stacy makes time for play, particularly through her love of soccer. She shares how this activity brings her joy and balance, which are crucial for sustaining the energy needed to run a business.

Memorable Quotes:

• "Branding isn’t just about a logo; it’s about how a product makes people feel and how every aspect of that product has been thoughtfully designed for actual use."
• "We are only as strong as the team around us, and that’s why I always use 'we' instead of 'I.' Collaboration is key to success."
• "Policy change comes down to money, and when women can grow their wealth, real change can happen."
• "I find more joy in playing soccer now than I did during my college career. It’s my way of choosing joy and staying balanced."

Connect with Us:

• Learn more about All Better Co.
• Connect with Stacy on LinkedIn and All Better Co. on Instagram
• Follow Renew VC on LinkedIn
• Sign the Purpose Pledge
• Subscribe to our newsletter for more 

Episode Description: In this episode, Kt connects with Navroze Mehta, a seasoned entrepreneur and founder of Mela Artisans. With over 14 years at the helm of Mela and a rich history of building successful businesses, Navroze shares his insights on leadership, integrity, and the importance of empathy in the workplace.

Navroze discusses the lessons he's learned from his journey, including the importance of acknowledging mistakes, maintaining integrity, and leading with empathy. He also reflects on the challenges of entrepreneurship, the role of optimism, and how play and cultural exploration fuel creativity and resilience.

Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on:

• The critical role of empathy in leadership and decision-making.
• How maintaining high integrity impacts business success and personal well-being.
• The importance of optimism and adaptability, even in the face of challenges like the global pandemic.
• Strategies for balancing work and play to sustain long-term creativity and productivity.

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned leader, this episode offers actionable insights into building a purpose-driven business while staying true to your core values.

Key Takeaways:

1. Embrace Mistakes: Learning from missteps is crucial; the key is to acknowledge them, learn, and move forward.
2. Pathological Optimism: Optimism is vital for entrepreneurship, helping to navigate challenges and energize your team.
3. Empathy in Leadership: Empathy should be at the core of all leadership decisions, fostering a positive, supportive work environment.
4. Integrity as a Non-Negotiable: Maintaining integrity is essential for both business success and personal peace of mind.
5. Work-Life Balance: Engage in activities outside work, such as sports and travel, to recharge and stay creative.

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Mela Artisans: Website
• Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS): A framework that Navroze recommends for managing and scaling businesses.
• Renew Venture Capital: Website

Connect with Us:

• Follow us on LinkedIn
• Sign the Purpose Pledge
• Subscribe to our newsletter for more 

About Our Guest: Navroze Mehta is the founder of Mela Artisans, a company dedicated to bringing artisanal and affordable home goods to a global market while supporting the livelihoods of artisans in India. With decades of experience in building successful businesses, Navroze is passionate about integrating purpose with profit and leading with integrity.