1,000 episodes

We host changemakers who are using regulated investment crowdfunding for social impact--impact crowdfunding--as impact investors or social entrepreneurs, catalyzing change with leadership skills we call superpowers.

www.superpowers4good.com

Superpowers for Good: Empowering Changemakers for Social Impact via Regulated Investment Crowdfunding from the SuperCrowd‪.‬ Devin Thorpe

    • Business

We host changemakers who are using regulated investment crowdfunding for social impact--impact crowdfunding--as impact investors or social entrepreneurs, catalyzing change with leadership skills we call superpowers.

www.superpowers4good.com

    Transforming Recycling: A Mission of Empowerment and Environmental Stewardship

    Transforming Recycling: A Mission of Empowerment and Environmental Stewardship

    Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.
    When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or invest after clicking a link here, we may earn a commission. Engage to support our work.
    Devin: What is your superpower?
    Michael: I would say it's the ability to recognize hope.

    In today's episode of "Superpowers for Good," I had the pleasure of sitting down with Michael Maggio, President and Founder of iWrc, an individual whose story and mission captivate the essence of positive change. Michael's journey from a corporate executive at Johnson & Johnson to spearheading a global recycling initiative is nothing short of remarkable. His vision extends beyond environmental stewardship, delving deep into social justice and poverty alleviation.
    Michael vividly recounted his eye-opening experience in Brazil, which laid the foundation for his transformative work. "I remember one woman distinctly eating from the conveyor belt as she was sorting through the trash, trying to get the recyclables out. I thought, Johnson & Johnson can't use this material. But now that I've seen it, I don't feel like I can walk away." This poignant moment underscores the stark realities faced by those at the frontline of the informal recycling sector, a community often overlooked yet integral to our global ecosystem.
    Under Michael's guidance, iWrc champions a unique approach, emphasizing the importance of integrating and uplifting these informal recyclers. By offering training and creating viable supply chains, iWrc not only enhances the livelihoods of these individuals but also propels the corporate world towards more sustainable and responsible practices.
    The essence of Michael's work transcends the conventional boundaries of recycling; it's about recognizing the inherent value in every individual and their contribution to our planet. His initiative is a testament to the power of compassionate leadership and the potential for corporate responsibility to foster genuine, widespread impact.
    As I reflect on our conversation, I'm reminded of the profound interconnectedness of our actions and their ripple effects on both humanity and the environment. Michael's story is a beacon of hope and a call to action, urging us all to rethink our approach to sustainability and social equity. Through collective effort and empathy, we can transform the very fabric of our global community, paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future.
    AI Episode Summary
    1. Michael Maggio is the CEO and founder of iWrc (Informal Waste Recycling Consortium), a company focusing on recycling and poverty alleviation.
    2. Michael’s journey with iWrc began during his tenure at Johnson & Johnson, where, tasked with sustainability goals, he aimed to use recycled material in packaging.
    3. On a trip to Brazil, after proposing the use of recycled material, Michael was taken to a local recycling co-op, where he was confronted with poor working conditions for those sorting recyclables.
    4. The conditions prompted the creation of Project Phoenix to train and certify recycling cooperatives to become part of Johnson & Johnson’s supply chain.
    5. When Michael decided to leave J&J and pursue this full-time, J&J supported him and became iWrc's first client on the condition he involved other companies.
    6. iWrc operates by forming a consortium of corporations aiming to use recycled materials responsibly, addressing the entire supply chain for both social and environmental impact.
    7. iWrc's model ensures that current workers in recycling co-ops are trained and integrated into improved processing streams rather than replaced.
    8. Michael highlights the critical role that seeing hope plays in his leadership and approach to business, using hope to transform perspectives and inspire changemaking efforts.
    9. Through storytelling, Michael and his team sustain morale by highlighting "People First" moments that celebrate su

    • 25 min
    Unbreakable Spirit: Minda Dentler's Journey from Polio Survivor to Ironman Finisher

    Unbreakable Spirit: Minda Dentler's Journey from Polio Survivor to Ironman Finisher

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    Devin: What is your superpower?
    Minda: I think my superpower is overcoming challenges. Especially as a person with a disability, at the beginning, people didn't have high expectations of me. But I think with my parents’ encouragement, their belief, and my internal desire to succeed, I have been able to overcome a number of obstacles in order to achieve the goals that I set out for myself.

    In today's episode, I had the profound pleasure of speaking with Minda Dentler, a beacon of resilience and a testament to the human spirit's capability to triumph over adversity. Minda's story is not just about an Ironman champion; it's a narrative that interweaves the threads of hardship, determination, and unparalleled achievement, making it a perfect centerpiece for an article.
    Born in India, Minda's life took a dramatic turn when she contracted polio at just six months old, leading to paralysis in her legs. Her journey from an orphanage in India to becoming the first female wheelchair athlete to complete the Ironman World Championship is nothing short of remarkable. She shared, "I was a late bloomer when it came to athletics... I participated from the sidelines growing up, but I never thought that I could be an athlete myself." This quote encapsulates the essence of her journey—transitioning from a spectator to a participant on the world's most challenging athletic stages.
    Minda's story is a powerful reminder that our beginnings do not dictate our endings. Her transition from feeling isolated and different as a child with a disability in Spokane, Washington, to standing on the global stage as an Ironman champion and advocate for polio awareness is a narrative that resonates with everyone facing their battles.
    This episode is not just about the physical endurance required to complete an Ironman but about the mental and emotional resilience needed to face life's challenges head-on. Minda's ability to redefine her limitations and achieve what seemed impossible serves as an inspiration to us all. Her journey teaches us that with determination, support, and a relentless spirit, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve our dreams, no matter how insurmountable they may seem.
    Minda wrote a memoir for children called The Girl Who Figured It Out. Children are already responding enthusiastically to her story. Get your copy today.
    AI Episode Summary
    1. Devin Thorpe hosts the "Superpowers for Good" show and introduces his guest Minda Dentler, an author, triathlete, Ironman competitor, and polio survivor.
    2. Minda shares her origin story. Born in India and paralyzed by polio at six months old, which led to being adopted and growing up in Spokane, Washington, where she overcame challenges with her parents' support.
    3. She reflects on her athletic journey, starting hand cycling at 28 and triathlons at 30, leading to her competing and eventually completing the Kona Ironman World Championship after failing on her first attempt.
    4. Minda discusses how her parents raised her with high expectations, which led her to internalize the belief that her disability shouldn't hold her back.
    5. She touches upon her motivation for maintaining rigorous athletic training alongside her full-time job and the importance of setting goals and having a supportive community.
    6. Minda became involved in polio awareness, partially inspired by vaccinating her daughter and witnessing firsthand the impact of vaccine accessibility in India.
    7. Through her speaking engagements, including a TED talk, she raises awareness for polio eradication and shares her story to inspire others.
    8. Minda has written a children's book titled The Girl Who Figured It Out inspired by her own experience growing up with a disab

    • 25 min
    Mastering Mindset: The Key to Unlocking Your Superpowers for Good

    Mastering Mindset: The Key to Unlocking Your Superpowers for Good

    Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.
    When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or invest after clicking a link here, we may earn a commission. Engage to support our work.
    Devin: What is your superpower?
    Dre: My superpower is insight, and the way I describe insight is my ability to take things apart and put them back together. Insight and taking those things apart can be a simple process. It also can be complex depending on who and what you're working with and why.

    In this episode of "Superpowers for Good," I had the pleasure of conversing with Dre Baldwin, the innovative mind behind Work On Your Game Inc. As a former professional basketball player turned entrepreneur, Dre shared insights that resonated deeply with our discussions on harnessing personal strengths for societal benefit.
    One idea that struck me was the importance of mental conditioning in achieving success. Dre explained, "Mental conditioning is all about conditioning your mind to think a certain way on a consistent basis rather than just thinking about something on a surface level." This concept is crucial not only for athletes but for anyone striving to make a significant impact in their field, especially social entrepreneurs and change-makers facing daunting challenges.
    Dre's journey from a barely-noticed high school player to a professional athlete and subsequently to a sought-after motivational speaker and author underscores the power of perseverance and the strategic application of one's innate abilities. His transformation was propelled not just by physical training but by a relentless focus on cultivating the right mindset.
    His approach to mental conditioning involves the intentional repetition of positive affirmations and a conscious effort to alter subconscious thought patterns. This method, Dre asserts, is the foundation for overcoming obstacles and achieving long-term success. It's a strategy that can be applied beyond the basketball court, extending to the realms of business, social impact, and personal development.
    As we delved into Dre's four-part framework for success, his emphasis on mindset as the cornerstone of achievement became evident. This perspective is particularly relevant for those in the impact space, where the magnitude of societal issues can sometimes feel overwhelming. By adopting Dre's approach to mental conditioning, social entrepreneurs and change-makers can fortify their resolve and enhance their effectiveness in driving positive change.
    Dre's insights offer a valuable lesson on the significance of mental strength and discipline. As we navigate the challenges of making a meaningful impact, his advice serves as a reminder that the foundation of any significant achievement lies within the power of our minds.
    AI Episode Summary
    1. Devin Thorpe introduces Dre Baldwin, a former professional basketball player who is now a thought leader and mentor in discipline and success.
    2. Dre shares his background, starting from sitting on the bench in high school, playing Division III college ball, to a nearly decade-long international professional basketball career.
    3. Dre explains how he built his name not on the court but through posting videos on YouTube, eventually leading to the creation of his 'Work On Your Game' framework.
    4. Dre discusses his four-part framework: mindset, strategy, system, and accountability, emphasizing the importance of each in both sports and business.
    5. Mindset is highlighted as the foundation, focusing on mental conditioning to instill repetitive and emotionally powerful thoughts.
    6. Strategy revolves around creating a plan of action and a "Reverse Roadmap" to identify the steps to reach desired outcomes.
    7. System entails creating processes that are consistent, duplicable, and predictable, such as Starbucks and McDonald's consistency in their products.
    8. Accountability is about both holding people responsib

    • 25 min
    Uniting Communities for Sustainable Change: The Community Alliance Project

    Uniting Communities for Sustainable Change: The Community Alliance Project

    I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.
    Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.
    When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or invest after clicking a link here, we may earn a commission. Engage to support our work.
    Devin: What do you see as your superpower?
    Steve: One of the nice things about getting older is you have a little more wisdom, or you hope you have a little more wisdom to kind of reflect on how you got to where you're at now. I began to realize after the housing crisis blew up, after spending 20 or 30 years in a certain career, I had three or four different kinds of careers. Also, I knew a lot of people. So, I think of myself as a connector. 

    In this episode of the Superpowers for Good show, I had the privilege of hosting Stephen Shaff, the visionary founder of Community-Vision Solutions, Benefit LLC. Stephen shared insights into his groundbreaking initiative, the Community Alliance Project, aimed at revitalizing underserved communities in a sustainable and inclusive manner. His approach, rooted in decades of social enterprise and activism, offers a fresh perspective on community development that leverages the strengths of diverse sectors for collective progress.
    Stephen's journey began with a realization that conventional community revitalization efforts were often fragmented and under-resourced, unable to effectively counteract market forces or address deep-seated inequalities. "The community revitalization paradigm is dysfunctional and grossly under-resourced," Stephen observed. This acknowledgment led him to explore a more holistic and cooperative model, one that could harness the potential of social enterprise and the broader community for meaningful impact.
    The essence of the Community Alliance Project lies in its collaborative framework, bringing together faith-based organizations, nonprofits, local businesses, activists, and other stakeholders to work towards common goals. By integrating various sectors, including housing, arts, education, and civic engagement, the project aims to build vibrant, self-sustaining communities where everyone has a stake in the outcome. Stephen's approach underscores the importance of inclusivity and shared value, principles that are critical in countering the forces of gentrification and displacement.
    One particularly compelling aspect of Stephen's strategy is the emphasis on utilizing existing assets within communities, such as underutilized land owned by faith-based organizations. By forming strategic partnerships, these assets can be transformed into mixed-use developments that provide affordable housing, community services, and commercial spaces, all while preserving the community's cultural and social fabric.
    As I reflect on my conversation with Stephen, I am struck by the potential of his model to effect transformative change. The Community Alliance Project represents a beacon of hope for underserved communities, offering a path to empowerment and prosperity through collaboration and innovation. Stephen's dedication to this cause is not only inspiring but a testament to the power of unity in overcoming the challenges that face our society today.
    In embracing this model, we can all play a part in building a more equitable and vibrant world, one community at a time.
    Stephen will speak at SuperCrowdBaltimore at the B&O Railroad Museum on Thursday. This event addresses directly how we can support community builders like Stephen with impact investments via crowdfunding. Register today with the discount code SUPERCROWD to save 30 percent.
    AI Episode Summary
    1. Stephen Shaff is the CEO and founder of Community-Vision Solutions, which focuses on rebuilding underserved communities with authentic, community-oriented approaches.
    2. Community-Vision Solutions is a culmination o

    • 24 min
    Sowing Seeds of Change: The Marigold Effect in Entrepreneurship

    Sowing Seeds of Change: The Marigold Effect in Entrepreneurship

    I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.
    Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.
    When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or invest after clicking a link here, we may earn a commission. Engage to support our work.
    Devin: What do you see as your superpower?
    Pooja: That's such a hard question. Two things come to mind. One, I feel like I'm a bit of a generalist. Another one is that I have had my fair share of mistakes running businesses and making investments, and I feel very comfortable at this stage in my life to really be upfront about it.
    As the host of the Superpowers for Good show, I've had the privilege of meeting many changemakers who are dedicated to making a positive impact on the world. One such inspiring individual is Pooja Mehta, the founder of The Marigold Effect and Vice-President/Co-Owner of AMPM Enterprises. In our conversation, Pooja shared the profound influence of marigolds in her approach to business and philanthropy, offering a refreshing perspective on growth and community support.
    Pooja described The Marigold Effect as inspired by the flower's role in a garden, where it supports the flourishing of surrounding plants. "Marigolds, when they are planted in a garden, really help other vegetables flourish," she explained, highlighting her mission to help businesses thrive through a similar symbiotic relationship. This concept resonates deeply with me, as it encapsulates the essence of what we aim to explore on the show: the power of individual actions to foster collective prosperity.
    Under Pooja's guidance, The Marigold Effect has taken a novel approach to philanthropy and business support, emphasizing simplicity and accessibility in its microgrant program. By cutting through the red tape typically associated with grant applications, Pooja's initiative allows small businesses and nonprofits to focus on their core missions without being bogged down by onerous requirements. This approach not only aids the recipients directly but also sparks a broader conversation about the nature of support and investment in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
    Pooja's insights into investment crowdfunding were particularly enlightening. She revealed how this approach democratizes access to capital, allowing community members to invest in local businesses they believe in. This model of mutual benefit and support is a cornerstone of The Marigold Effect, fostering a sense of ownership and connection among investors and entrepreneurs alike.
    Reflecting on our conversation, it's clear that Pooja Mehta's work with The Marigold Effect and AMPM Enterprises exemplifies the kind of innovative thinking and community-oriented action that can drive real change. Her approach to business and investment not only nurtures individual enterprises but also contributes to a healthier, more vibrant community ecosystem. As we continue to share stories of impact on Superpowers for Good, Pooja's vision serves as a powerful reminder of the potential within each of us to be agents of positive change.
    Pooja will be speaking at SuperCrowdBaltimore and SuperCrowd24. Join us for those events. The discount code SuperCrowd will save you 30 percent in Baltimore and 50 percent for SuperCrowd24.
    AI Episode Summary
    1. Devin Thorpe, the show host, introduced his guest Pooja Mehta, the founder of Marigold Effect, which is named for marigolds' property of helping other plants thrive – an analogy for how her business helps other businesses flourish.
    2. Marigold Effect focuses on three main areas: business advising, legal consulting, and impact investing, with the goal of reducing gender and racial wealth gaps.
    3. Pooja discussed their micro-grant initiative, which aims to simplify the grant application process for non-profits, matching the level of effort with the size

    • 23 min
    Transforming Communities Through Art: The Meow Wolf Impact - s11 ep61

    Transforming Communities Through Art: The Meow Wolf Impact - s11 ep61

    Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.
    When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or invest after clicking a link here, we may earn a commission. Engage to support our work.
    Devin: What do you see as your superpower?
    Julie: This might seem a little bit unconventional, but for me, I think it's really an embrace of a beginner mindset.

    In the realm of immersive art and entertainment, Meow Wolf stands out not just for its kaleidoscopic, mind-bending exhibitions, but for its profound commitment to using art as a vehicle for social impact and community development. Founded as an artist collective in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Meow Wolf has evolved into a significant force in the experience economy, redefining what it means to engage with art. Under the leadership of Julie Heinrich, Chief Impact Officer, Meow Wolf's mission transcends the conventional, weaving together creativity, inclusivity, and societal change.
    At its core, Meow Wolf is about immersive experiences that invite participants of all ages to step inside the mind of an artist. The exhibitions, spread across locations in Denver, Las Vegas, and soon in the Houston area, offer a unique blend of art and storytelling, where every narrative is interlinked, creating a vast, interconnected story universe. This innovative approach to art is not just about spectacle; it's about creating a space where art becomes a shared, tactile experience, fostering a deep connection between the audience, the artists, and the narratives they explore.
    Julie Heinrich's journey with Meow Wolf underscores a narrative of creativity and community. The organization's inception as an artist collective was a response to the restrictive nature of the traditional art scene, aiming instead to build a community grounded in generosity and inclusivity. This ethos has carried through to Meow Wolf's operations today, with a significant emphasis on hiring local artists and creating art that is accessible and engaging for diverse audiences.
    The Meow Wolf Foundation, led by Julie, embodies the organization's commitment to leveraging art for societal benefit. The foundation's initiatives focus on art access, healing, and transformation, particularly targeting grassroots projects, BIPOC-led or serving organizations, and youth-focused initiatives. This strategic focus not only amplifies underrepresented voices in the art world but also demonstrates a belief in art's power to catalyze positive change within communities.
    One of the foundation's notable strategies is its emphasis on supporting projects that make art accessible to broader segments of the population, including those in rural or underserved areas. By funding programs that, for example, facilitate school trips to cultural spaces or promote cultural sharing in indigenous communities, the foundation ensures that the transformative power of art reaches beyond urban centers, touching lives across diverse social and geographical landscapes.
    The story of Meow Wolf, from its humble beginnings to its current status as a cultural powerhouse, is a testament to the potential of art to bridge divides, inspire change, and build community. The involvement of notable figures like George R.R. Martin, who provided early support for the venture, adds a layer of intrigue, illustrating the unexpected intersections between popular culture and the art world.
    As Meow Wolf continues to expand, both physically and into digital realms, the question of how art impacts society becomes even more pertinent. With Julie at the helm of impact initiatives, Meow Wolf is not just creating art; it's crafting experiences that challenge, delight, and, most importantly, bring people together in a shared journey of discovery and transformation.
    “We've always been, as I mentioned, very community-minded since those early days of art making in the warehouse space,” Julie says. “Our artists were e

    • 25 min

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