Roots of Sustainable Impact

Eloisa Marquez-Gonzalez
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Welcome to "Roots of Sustainable Impact," the weekly show where leaders of Greentech and organizations in the climate-critical space gain practical strategies and insights to build thriving, adaptable businesses from the inside out.  Join us every week for in-depth 1-on-1 interviews as we go behind the scenes to uncover how organizations with a positive impact operate and scale. We explore how to set the stage for sustainable growth by implementing the right systems, staff, processes, and partners.   Whether you're a founder or a leader, this podcast equips you with the knowledge to grow your enterprise and amplify your impact.

  1. JUN 18

    AI Won’t Fix What’s Broken

    In today’s episode, I want to tackle something I’m hearing a lot: “We should be doing something with AI… right?” And while that instinct isn’t wrong, here’s the truth—AI is not a magic wand. If your internal processes are unclear, messy, or simply broken, AI is only going to make that mess move faster. So, before you jump into pilots, tools, or strategies, let’s talk about your delivery model. What is it? Why does it matter? And how do you know if your process is actually broken, or just strained from growth? I walk you through practical ways to diagnose what’s going on in your organization using questions and a simple but powerful framework: the Five Whys. We’ll dig into how to spot red flags, where friction is showing up, and what to do about it before layering in technology. I also share one action you can take today to start cleaning up your processes so that AI can actually help you scale, without scaling the chaos. And if you're ready for more support, I talk about our AI Strategy Activation program.  A 3-week engagement to help you build an AI roadmap grounded in your people and your processes. This one’s all about foundations, clarity, and scaling with intention. Let’s get into it! Send us a text Thank you for listening to this episode of Roots of Sustainable Impact! Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review—it helps others who are passionate about creating positive change find the podcast and benefit from these conversations. Visit www.walkingtree.green for more resources, and follow me on LinkedIn to stay connected. © 2024 Walking Tree. All rights reserved.

    20 min

  2. MAY 29

    Ep 13. Hesitant or Confused About AI? Let’s Talk About What’s Right for Your Team

    Hello, it’s Eloisa!   I am back with new solo episodes, and I am really excited to kick things off with a topic that keeps coming up in so many conversations lately: AI. After a recent keynote, I was flooded with the same question over and over: Should I even jump on the AI bandwagon? Everywhere we turn, someone is talking about AI. Some folks are diving in headfirst, while others are more hesitant and unsure about how, or even if, it fits into their organization. In this episode, I’m breaking down what AI actually is (in plain language!) and helping you figure out if and how it fits into your business. We’ll talk about how to assess your readiness, from your systems to your culture, and I’ll walk you through the key areas to explore before making any big moves. And yes, I’ll clear up some major AI misconceptions I keep hearing that could really trip you up if you’re not careful. Whether you’re excited, cautious, or just plain overwhelmed by AI, this episode will help you cut through the noise and lead with strategy, not fear. You don’t need to become a tech expert; you just need a solid foundation to make smart, intentional decisions. Send us a text Thank you for listening to this episode of Roots of Sustainable Impact! Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review—it helps others who are passionate about creating positive change find the podcast and benefit from these conversations. Visit www.walkingtree.green for more resources, and follow me on LinkedIn to stay connected. © 2024 Walking Tree. All rights reserved.

    16 min

  3. APR 2

    Educating for Impact: Critical Thinking, Climate Action, and the Future of STEM — with Eric Magers

    Hey there! In this episode of Roots of Sustainable Impact, I had the pleasure of speaking with Eric Magers — an educator, entrepreneur, and environmental champion who’s been on a mission to connect STEM education with real-world sustainability solutions. We dive deep into how he’s doing just that through his two organizations: Seaside Sustainability and the National STEM Honor Society.  Eric shared how he got his start (including a sweet Earth Day story involving his mom!), and how his path led him from teaching to founding organizations that are now shaping sustainability education across the U.S. and beyond.  We talk about why STEM is the most effective way to integrate sustainability into schools, how students are naturally gravitating toward solving environmental problems, and what it really takes to prepare the next generation for the world they’re inheriting — especially with fast-moving tech like AI in the mix.  He also drops some major insights on: Why critical thinking is the skill of the futureHow his internship program is building real-world changemakersWhat organizations can do today to better engage with students in the climate and clean tech space It’s a conversation full of insight, optimism, and tangible action — and one that reminds us how education and innovation go hand in hand when we talk about building a better future. Thanks for tuning in, and as always, I’d love to hear what resonates with you! Connect with Eric: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-magers/ www.seasidesustainability.org https://www.nstem.org/ Eric's bio Eric Magers is an award-winning educator and experiential education trainer with over 30 years of experience engaging youth in STEM and sustainability. He’s passionate about inspiring others through project-based learning and fostering responsible action in schools and communities. When we create environments in our schools and communities that promote and value responsible action, youth are encouraged to become leaders in this work.  Eric is the founder and director of Seaside Sustainability and the National STEM Honor Society, both dedicated to embedding sustainability and STEM education worldwide. He developed the nationally recognized Green Scholars curriculum and has been honored by the White House and nominated as Science Educator of the Year.  He holds two Master’s degrees in education, along with certifications in project-based learning and sustainable innovation. A New England native born the year of the first Earth Day, Eric grew up with a deep appreciation for nature and now encourages others to “never underestimate your power; be an informed consumer; think globally and act locally.” Send us a text Thank you for listening to this episode of Roots of Sustainable Impact! Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review—it helps others who are passionate about creating positive change find the podcast and benefit from these conversations. Visit www.walkingtree.green for more resources, and follow me on LinkedIn to stay connected. © 2024 Walking Tree. All rights reserved.

    31 min

  4. MAR 18

    Leading with Relevance: How to Stay Engaged and Effective with Rob Carr

    In this episode, I sit down with my friend and fellow industrial engineer, Rob Carr, to dive into a concept that’s more important than ever: Relevant Leadership.  Rob has spent his career helping overwhelmed executives navigate change, and through his work, he’s developed a powerful framework for staying attuned to the evolving needs of organizations, employees, and the world around us. Here’s what we explore in this episode: ✅ What is Relevant Leadership? And why does it matter now more than ever? ✅ The balance between leadership and personal identity – how being a steward of your role can shift the way you lead. ✅ How leaders can foster engagement and alignment to drive meaningful impact in their organizations. ✅ Making tough choices in times of change – the secret to avoiding burnout while staying focused on long-term success. ✅ How to know if you’re falling out of relevance and what to do about it.   One of my biggest takeaways? We are not just leaders – we are stewards of our roles. The title we hold may change, but our ability to lead with purpose and clarity determines the kind of impact we leave behind.   Resources & Connect with Rob Carr: 🔹 LinkedIn: Rob Carr 🔹 Website: Ayngis Consulting Send us a text Thank you for listening to this episode of Roots of Sustainable Impact! Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review—it helps others who are passionate about creating positive change find the podcast and benefit from these conversations. Visit www.walkingtree.green for more resources, and follow me on LinkedIn to stay connected. © 2024 Walking Tree. All rights reserved.

    32 min

  5. MAR 4

    Community as a Superpower: How Ecosystems Drive Impact with Leroy Brown

    Hey there, it's Eloisa!  Welcome back to Roots of Sustainable Impact.   This episode is packed with energy, insight, and community-driven innovation. I had the pleasure of chatting with Leroy Brown from Opportunity Hub (OHUB) in New Orleans. We dive deep into why community is a superpower and how building an ecosystem with culture at its core creates a real, lasting impact. Leroy shares how OHUB supports Black and Brown founders, incubating over 100 businesses and funding multiple projects—all while staying deeply connected to the local culture. We also explore: ✅ How collaboration fuels innovation—connecting artists, storytellers, and tech founders to drive climate solutions. ✅ The power of circularity—how New Orleans bars are competing in “Bar Wars” to recycle glass bottles into sand, which then becomes art and construction material. ✅ Making sustainability fun—integrating eco-friendly practices into events like Super Bowl parties and Mardi Gras. ✅ Breaking down silos—a step-by-step approach to building a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. Oh, and we couldn’t help but talk football—because it was Super Bowl season! 🏈 (Spoiler: We both have a soft spot for the Eagles.) Leroy’s passion for community, sustainability, and economic empowerment is contagious. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a community builder, or just looking for inspiration, this episode has something for you! So grab a coffee (or a recycled glass bottle beer 🍻) and tune in! 🎧 Listen now and learn how to build impact—one connection at a time. Connect with Leroy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leroy-brown-2b21bb34/ Links and Resources: OHub  https://opportunityhub.co/OHub Podcast  https://ohub.piksel.plus/OHUB Climate Tech Bootcamp https://opportunityhub.typeform.com/cohort3 Leroy's bio: Leroy Brown is a proud Louisiana native and graduate of Tulane University. Hailing from Longwood, a small town just outside of Shreveport, he embodies a unique blend of small-town values and big-city aspirations. Over the years, Leroy has cultivated a diverse career in sales, navigating various industries including pharmaceuticals, media, and construction. Currently, he is Opportunity Hub’s (OHUB) Ecosystem Development Lead. Leroy's professional ethos revolves around the power of connection. He views the entire community as a dynamic ecosystem that adapts and thrives. He excels at building alliances and fostering collaboration, firmly believing that intentional networking is essential for project success. He is passionately committed to the economic development of Louisiana. He is also committed to empowering individuals and businesses, inspiring them to engage, believe, and move forward with their dreams. Send us a text Thank you for listening to this episode of Roots of Sustainable Impact! Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review—it helps others who are passionate about creating positive change find the podcast and benefit from these conversations. Visit www.walkingtree.green for more resources, and follow me on LinkedIn to stay connected. © 2024 Walking Tree. All rights reserved.

    43 min

  6. FEB 25

    Reimagining Healthcare: Sustainability, Waste Reduction & Resilience with Dr. Cassandra Thiel

    In this episode, we’re diving into an issue that’s often overlooked but has a massive impact—sustainability in healthcare. I’m joined by Dr. Cassandra Thiel, an assistant professor at NYU Langone Health and founder of Clinically Sustainable Consulting. Cassie brings a fascinating perspective to this conversation, blending her background in engineering with her research on the environmental footprint of healthcare systems. We get into the nitty-gritty of why hospitals generate so much waste, what’s driving those inefficiencies, and—most importantly—how we can change that. What We Cover in This Episode: 🌿 The environmental impact of healthcare: Why are hospitals so wasteful? 💰 The financial and operational benefits of sustainable healthcare practices ♻️ How life cycle assessments (LCAs) can help hospitals make data-driven sustainability decisions 🏥 Breaking through the “we’ve always done it this way” mindset in healthcare 🔬 The role of manufacturers in creating more sustainable medical devices and supplies 💡 Practical steps healthcare leaders and clinicians can take to reduce waste and emissions   One of the biggest takeaways? Sustainability in healthcare isn’t just about being “green.”  It’s about efficiency, cost savings, patient safety, and resilience—especially in a world where supply chain disruptions can put lives at risk. Cassie shares incredible insights from her work, including how hospitals can move beyond greenwashing, the surprising resistance to change in the industry, and why we need to rethink our approach to disposable medical supplies. If you’re in healthcare, sustainability, or just curious about the intersection of the two, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!   🎧 Listen now, and let’s reimagine a healthcare system that’s healthier for both people and the planet.   📌 Links & Resources: 🔗 Connect with Dr. Cassie Thiel: LinkedIn Profile  🔗 Learn more about Cassie’s work: Clinically Sustainable 🔗 Check out iSustain for sustainable ophthalmology practices: EyeSustain.org 🔗 Explore healthcare sustainability research: Healthcare LCA 🔗 Listen in to Cassie's podcast:  So Climatic   💬 Let’s keep the conversation going! What’s one thing that stood out to you in this episode?  Drop me a message—I’d love to hear your thoughts! Send us a text Thank you for listening to this episode of Roots of Sustainable Impact! Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review—it helps others who are passionate about creating positive change find the podcast and benefit from these conversations. Visit www.walkingtree.green for more resources, and follow me on LinkedIn to stay connected. © 2024 Walking Tree. All rights reserved.

    58 min

  7. FEB 11

    Leading with Intentionality: Staying Committed to Impact in Uncertain Times

    Hey everyone, welcome back to Roots of Sustainable Impact. Today’s episode is a little different. I just wanted to take a moment to acknowledge the changes happening in the U.S. right now. With a new administration comes shifts in policies—some of which directly impact the work we do in sustainability and social equity. I know that for many of us, these changes can feel discouraging. It’s easy to feel anxious or even powerless. But I want to remind you: you are doing important work. The impact you and your team are making matters. Take a moment to acknowledge that, and give yourself grace. At the same time, we still have control over our actions—both personally and within our organizations. We can continue leading with intentionality, making choices that align with our values, and ensuring that our businesses operate in ways that are just, sustainable, and community-centered. So in this episode, I encourage you to reflect: ✅ How are we designing our businesses and operations with intention? ✅ How can we minimize harm and maximize positive impact? ✅ How do we support our employees, vendors, and communities—especially in challenging times? Even if we’re not directly involved in policy-making or advocacy, we are making a difference. Every decision, every system we design, every effort to build a more sustainable and equitable world—it all counts. So, thank you. Thank you for the work you’re doing, for staying committed to impact, and for holding onto hope. We can create change, and we’re in this together. Let’s keep moving forward. 💚 Send us a text Thank you for listening to this episode of Roots of Sustainable Impact! Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review—it helps others who are passionate about creating positive change find the podcast and benefit from these conversations. Visit www.walkingtree.green for more resources, and follow me on LinkedIn to stay connected. © 2024 Walking Tree. All rights reserved.

    10 min

  8. JAN 21

    The Secret to Sustainable Growth: Building Clarity

    Hi friends, Eloisa here!  In today’s episode of Roots of Sustainable Impact, we’re tackling a topic that’s both exciting and challenging: scaling without chaos. Growth is thrilling, especially when your demand is skyrocketing, but let’s be honest—it can quickly spiral into chaos if your foundation isn’t solid. In this episode, I share: Why growth often feels chaotic and what to do about it.The essential role of mission, vision, and values in scaling sustainably.How to identify your “non-negotiables” to build a strong foundation for growth. Plus, I’ll give you two actionable steps to start bringing clarity into your organization today. Scaling doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or chaotic—it can be intentional and impactful. Tune in to learn how to set your business up for sustainable success. I’ll see you next week!   Send us a text Thank you for listening to this episode of Roots of Sustainable Impact! Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review—it helps others who are passionate about creating positive change find the podcast and benefit from these conversations. Visit www.walkingtree.green for more resources, and follow me on LinkedIn to stay connected. © 2024 Walking Tree. All rights reserved.

    16 min
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About

Welcome to "Roots of Sustainable Impact," the weekly show where leaders of Greentech and organizations in the climate-critical space gain practical strategies and insights to build thriving, adaptable businesses from the inside out.  Join us every week for in-depth 1-on-1 interviews as we go behind the scenes to uncover how organizations with a positive impact operate and scale. We explore how to set the stage for sustainable growth by implementing the right systems, staff, processes, and partners.   Whether you're a founder or a leader, this podcast equips you with the knowledge to grow your enterprise and amplify your impact.

Information

  • Creator
    Eloisa Marquez-Gonzalez
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Roots of Sustainable Impact
  • Show Website
    Roots of Sustainable Impact