Green Shoots & Big Shifts

Reetu Gupta
  • 5.0 (6)
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Green Shoots & Big Shifts is hosted by Reetu Gupta, who started the show to have open, hopeful conversations about what it really takes to make sustainability part of how we live, lead, and work. Each week, she talks with people doing innovative, meaningful work, turning ideas into action. From startup founders and corporate change-makers to community leaders - reimagining how business, society, and the planet can thrive together. These are stories about innovation, collaboration, possibility, and the everyday shifts that move us toward a more abundant and resilient future.

  1. 1d ago

    The Future of Carbon Fiber: Turning CO2 waste into Gold - Aaron Fitzgerald

    In this episode of Green Shoots & Big Shifts, host Reetu Gupta sits down with Aaron Fitzgerald, the founder of Mars Materials, Inc. PBC, to discuss innovative approaches to sustainability and climate change. Mars Materials is pioneering a transformative method of producing carbon fiber and water treatment chemicals from waste materials (i.e. carbon dioxide), instead of traditional fossil fuels. This not only creates valuable materials but also serves as an effective means of carbon sequestration, addressing both environmental concerns and market demands. Aaron shares his inspiring journey from working on Capitol Hill to becoming a serial entrepreneur focused on carbon dioxide removal. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of building a startup in the climate tech space, emphasizing the importance of resilience, community, and the need for market-based solutions to combat climate change. The conversation highlights the growing demand for sustainable materials and how Mars Materials is positioned to meet that demand while making a significant impact on the environment. (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast (01:30) - - Welcoming Aaron Fitzgerald (02:15) - - Overview of Mars Materials (04:45) - - Motivation Behind Mars Materials (07:30) - - Technology Insights: Carbon Fiber Production (10:15) - - The Role of Acrylonitrile in Production (12:00) - - Environmental Concerns with Traditional Processes (14:30) - - Rising Demand for Carbon Fiber (17:00) - - Aaron's Journey as a Founder (20:00) - - Lessons from Previous Startups (24:00) - - Impact of Personal History on Career (27:30) - - Key Pivotal Moments in Entrepreneurship (31:00) - - Exciting Future Projects for Mars Materials (35:15) - - Funding and Support for Mars Materials (38:00) - - Commercialization and Market Validation (41:00) - - Diverse Applications of Products (44:00) - - Collaboration Across Geographies (47:30) - - The Importance of Subsidies in Climate Tech (50:00) - - Final Thoughts: Optimism in the Climate Space (52:30) - - Closing Remarks and Thank You (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast (01:30) - - Welcoming Aaron Fitzgerald (02:15) - - Overview of Mars Materials (04:45) - - Motivation Behind Mars Materials (07:30) - - Technology Insights: Carbon Fiber Production (10:15) - - The Role of Acrylonitrile in Production (12:00) - - Environmental Concerns with Traditional Processes (14:30) - - Rising Demand for Carbon Fiber (17:00) - - Aaron's Journey as a Founder (20:00) - - Lessons from Previous Startups (24:00) - - Impact of Personal History on Career (27:30) - - Key Pivotal Moments in Entrepreneurship (31:00) - - Exciting Future Projects for Mars Materials (35:15) - - Funding and Support for Mars Materials (38:00) - - Commercialization and Market Validation (41:00) - - Diverse Applications of Products (44:00) - - Collaboration Across Geographies (47:30) - - The Importance of Subsidies in Climate Tech (50:00) - - Final Thoughts: Optimism in the Climate Space (52:30) - - Closing Remarks and Thank You sustainability, carbon fiber, innovation, climate change, entrepreneurship, waste-to-product, polyacrylamide, carbon dioxide removal, market demand, resilience

    The Future of Carbon Fiber: Turning CO2 waste into Gold - Aaron Fitzgerald

  2. Aug 12

    Nature as a Valued Asset Driving GDP? Insights from Jeremy McKane of OCN.ai

    In this episode of *Green Shoots & Big Shifts*, host Reetu Gupta sits down with Jeremy McKane, the CEO of Ocean Currency Network (OCN.ai), a pioneering organization focused on marine conservation and the economic valuation of our oceans. Jeremy shares his inspiring journey from artist to entrepreneur, illustrating how his passion for the ocean evolved into a mission to protect 30% of the world's oceans by 2030. Through innovative approaches to ocean conservation, he emphasizes the need for a collective effort—what he calls a "Justice League"—to safeguard this vital ecosystem. The conversation delves into the alarming statistic that only about 2.7% of the oceans are fully protected, highlighting the disconnect between policy and enforcement. Jeremy discusses the importance of recognizing the ocean's inherent value, not just as a resource, but as a critical component of our planet's health and our survival. With fascinating anecdotes and actionable insights, this episode serves as a call to action for listeners to rethink their relationship with the ocean and embrace a more sustainable future. (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast (01:30) - - Meet Jeremy McKane (02:45) - - Ocean Conservation Goals Explained (05:10) - - The Value of a Healthy Ocean (08:00) - - Jeremy’s Artistic Journey (10:15) - - Importance of Marine Protected Areas (12:30) - - Understanding "Paper Parks" (15:00) - - The Role of Collaboration in Conservation (17:45) - - The Financial Value of Nature (20:30) - - Nature on the Balance Sheet Concept (23:15) - - The Need for Ecosystem Health (26:00) - - The British Virgin Islands Project (28:45) - - Shifts in Financial Perspectives (32:00) - - Community Collaboration for Ocean Protection (35:15) - - The Vision for Future Initiatives (38:30) - - Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast (01:30) - - Meet Jeremy McKane (02:45) - - Ocean Conservation Goals Explained (05:10) - - The Value of a Healthy Ocean (08:00) - - Jeremy’s Artistic Journey (10:15) - - Importance of Marine Protected Areas (12:30) - - Understanding "Paper Parks" (15:00) - - The Role of Collaboration in Conservation (17:45) - - The Financial Value of Nature (20:30) - - Nature on the Balance Sheet Concept (23:15) - - The Need for Ecosystem Health (26:00) - - The British Virgin Islands Project (28:45) - - Shifts in Financial Perspectives (32:00) - - Community Collaboration for Ocean Protection (35:15) - - The Vision for Future Initiatives (38:30) - - Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks ocean, conservation, sustainability, collaboration, marine protection, Ocean Currency Network, nature valuation, biodiversity, ecosystem, change agents

    Nature as a Valued Asset Driving GDP? Insights from Jeremy McKane of OCN.ai

  3. Aug 5

    Bringing Joy to Sustainable Fashion: Veena Jayadeva, CEO, Kareena's Closet

    In this episode of *Green Shoots & Big Shifts*, host Reetu Gupta welcomes Veena Jayadeva, the founder of Kareena's Closet, to discuss her inspiring journey from international development to pioneering a sustainable fashion platform. Veena's deep-rooted commitment to sustainability and women's empowerment shines through as she shares her experiences working with microfinance initiatives aimed at uplifting women across the globe. Her passion for social impact led her to create Kareena's Closet, which offers a peer-to-peer platform for renting and reselling South Asian formal wear, thus addressing the pressing issue of overconsumption in the fashion industry, particularly within the South Asian community. Veena elaborates on the cultural pressures surrounding traditional celebrations, where the expectation to wear something new for every occasion has contributed to wasteful consumption. By fostering a community-centered approach, Kareena's Closet not only provides affordable fashion alternatives but also supports local designers and small businesses, creating an ecosystem of sustainability. Throughout their conversation, Reetu and Veena emphasize the importance of redefining fashion choices as an opportunity for joy, creativity, and community connection, rather than mere consumerism. Learn more about Kareena's Closet here : https://www.kareenascloset.com/ (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast (01:15) - - Meet Veena Jayadeva (02:30) - - Veena's Journey in Sustainability (05:45) - - Transition to Entrepreneurship (08:00) - - Introduction to Kareena's Closet (10:00) - - Addressing Overconsumption in Fashion (12:30) - - The Role of Microfinance in Empowering Women (14:45) - - Ecosystem of Women Entrepreneurs (18:00) - - The Importance of Cultural Change (20:15) - - Stories of Joy and Transformation (23:30) - - The Art of Draping Saris (26:15) - - Expanding the Concept of Sustainability (29:00) - - Community Engagement and Education (32:30) - - Future Vision for Kareena's Closet (35:00) - - The Importance of Natural Fabrics (37:00) - - Addressing Textile Waste and Landfills (40:00) - - Final Thoughts on Authenticity and Joy (42:15) - - Closing Remarks and Takeaways (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast (01:15) - - Meet Veena Jayadeva (02:30) - - Veena's Journey in Sustainability (05:45) - - Transition to Entrepreneurship (08:00) - - Introduction to Kareena's Closet (10:00) - - Addressing Overconsumption in Fashion (12:30) - - The Role of Microfinance in Empowering Women (14:45) - - Ecosystem of Women Entrepreneurs (18:00) - - The Importance of Cultural Change (20:15) - - Stories of Joy and Transformation (23:30) - - The Art of Draping Saris (26:15) - - Expanding the Concept of Sustainability (29:00) - - Community Engagement and Education (32:30) - - Future Vision for Kareena's Closet (35:00) - - The Importance of Natural Fabrics (37:00) - - Addressing Textile Waste and Landfills (40:00) - - Final Thoughts on Authenticity and Joy (42:15) - - Closing Remarks and Takeaways sustainability, microfinance, entrepreneurship, community, fashion, South Asian, rental, resale, ecosystem, social impact

    Bringing Joy to Sustainable Fashion: Veena Jayadeva, CEO, Kareena's Closet

  4. Jul 29

    Trash Innovator: Sara Fuentes Founder & CEO of Smart Waste

    In this enlightening episode of *Green Shoots & Big Shifts*, host Reetu Gupta sits down with Sara Fuentes, the dynamic founder of Smart Waste, Inc. and chairwoman of Women in CleanTech and Sustainability. Sara shares her inspiring journey from an early childhood educator to a leader in sustainability, revealing how a serendipitous introduction to the waste management industry ignited her passion for environmental stewardship.  Sara recounts her pivotal moments, including the impact of COVID-19 on her career trajectory, which ultimately propelled her to launch Smart Waste (https://www.smartwasteusa.com/) , a company dedicated to zero waste facilitation. With a focus on transforming waste into resources, Sara discusses the importance of shifting mindsets around waste management and how her organization helps businesses achieve sustainability goals while saving money. Tune in to discover how Sara’s work not only impacts the environment but also empowers communities and fosters gender parity in the clean tech sector.  (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast (00:31) - - Welcome and Guest Introduction (01:45) - - Sara's Journey to Sustainability (04:20) - - Pivotal Moments in Starting Smart Waste (08:15) - - Importance of Women in Clean Tech (11:00) - - Overview of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability (14:05) - - Smart Waste's Zero Waste Strategy (18:30) - - Waste as Resource Management (22:00) - - Client Examples and Success Stories (26:00) - - Understanding R2V3 Certification (29:15) - - The Business of Waste Recovery (32:40) - - Challenges in the Waste Industry (35:15) - - Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs (40:00) - - The Importance of Partnerships (43:00) - - Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways (45:00) - - Closing Remarks and Contact Information (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast (00:31) - - Welcome and Guest Introduction (01:45) - - Sara's Journey to Sustainability (04:20) - - Pivotal Moments in Starting Smart Waste (08:15) - - Importance of Women in Clean Tech (11:00) - - Overview of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability (14:05) - - Smart Waste's Zero Waste Strategy (18:30) - - Waste as Resource Management (22:00) - - Client Examples and Success Stories (26:00) - - Understanding R2V3 Certification (29:15) - - The Business of Waste Recovery (32:40) - - Challenges in the Waste Industry (35:15) - - Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs (40:00) - - The Importance of Partnerships (43:00) - - Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways (45:00) - - Closing Remarks and Contact Information sustainability, Smart Waste, zero waste, recycling, innovation, women in cleantech, entrepreneurship, circular economy, environmental impact, leadership

    Trash Innovator: Sara Fuentes Founder & CEO of Smart Waste

  5. Jul 15

    Woodchuck.ai is Transforming Construction Waste into Energy, talk with Todd Thomas

    In this enlightening episode of *Green Shoots & Big Shifts*, host Reetu Gupta welcomes Todd Thomas, the CEO and founder of Woodchuck.ai, an innovative company tackling the dual challenges of waste management and energy generation. Todd shares the fascinating journey that led him to establish Woodchuck, driven by the need to divert wood waste from landfills and transform it into a sustainable energy source. With a staggering 42 million tons of wood waste generated from construction sites in the U.S. each year, Todd's mission is not only to reduce waste but also to meet the growing demand for renewable energy in a rapidly changing world. Throughout the conversation, Todd provides insights into his approach to sustainability, particularly in the context of data centers and electric vehicle (EV) battery factories. He highlights the importance of engaging local communities in dialogues about energy consumption and resource management, advocating for a collaborative approach to ensure that new developments yield benefits for everyone involved. The episode also touches on Todd's ventures in storytelling through books and a TV show, which have helped raise awareness about biomass and renewable energy solutions. (00:00) - - Introduction to Green Shoots & Big Shifts (01:30) - - Guest Introduction: Todd Thomas (02:15) - - Todd's Journey to Founding Woodchuck (05:00) - - The Problem of Biomass and Waste (07:30) - - Wood Waste: A Hidden Resource (09:00) - - Working with Construction and Manufacturing (11:15) - - Addressing Community Concerns about Data Centers (14:45) - - Benefits of Well-Planned Data Centers (17:30) - - Successful Project with Ford (20:00) - - Circular Economy in Data Centers (23:30) - - Innovations in Wood Waste Utilization (26:00) - - The Role of Storytelling and Awareness (30:00) - - Upcoming Book: Starving for Innovation (32:45) - - Key Lessons Learned for Founders (35:30) - - Conclusion and Final Thoughts (36:15) - - Resources and Where to Find More (37:00) - - Thank You and Wrap-Up gWHlKrNGmSM4oTHjRQfL

    Woodchuck.ai is Transforming Construction Waste into Energy, talk with Todd Thomas

  6. Jul 8

    From Chicken Manure to Clean Energy: Kristi Shaw's Journey with Mermaid Energy

    In this episode of Green Shoots & Big Shifts, host Reetu Gupta sits down with Kristi Shaw, the CEO and founder of Mermaid Energy, to discuss her remarkable journey from a rural Maryland upbringing to the forefront of renewable energy development in the Caribbean. Kristi shares her unique perspective as a marine biologist and public health expert, detailing her transition from academia to entrepreneurship. Her experiences with environmental challenges, particularly following hurricanes, inspired her to seek innovative solutions for sustainable energy in vulnerable regions. Kristi introduces listeners to Mermaid Energy's mission to tackle the growing problem of invasive sargassum seaweed in the Caribbean. By intercepting this abundant resource at sea, her company aims to transform it into bio-stimulants, renewable diesel, and other valuable products, while also addressing public health and ecological concerns. This episode is a testament to how individuals can leverage their backgrounds and experiences to create meaningful change in their communities and beyond. (00:00) - - Introduction to Green Shoots & Big Shifts (00:28) - - Welcome Kristi Shaw from Mermaid Energy (01:12) - - Kristi's Journey: From Farm to Science (02:57) - - Transitioning to Renewable Energy Development (04:41) - - Challenges and Opportunities in Energy Projects (10:00) - - Insights from the Chicken Manure Company (16:35) - - Introduction to Mermaid Energy (18:53) - - Addressing the Sargassum Seaweed Crisis (20:09) - - Innovative Solutions for Seaweed Management (24:10) - - Current Status and Future Goals (27:21) - - Importance of Community Collaboration (29:27) - - Bringing Technical Jobs to the Caribbean (30:29) - - One Word: Execute (31:51) - - Closing Thoughts and Farewell

    From Chicken Manure to Clean Energy: Kristi Shaw's Journey with Mermaid Energy

  7. Jul 1

    Can Climate Education Transform Communities? Insights from Abby Jordan

    In this enlightening episode of **Green Shoots & Big Shifts**, host Reetu Gupta welcomes Abby Jordan, the Climate Education Program Manager at the National Wildlife Federation (NWF). Abby shares her inspiring journey from a volunteer in community climate initiatives to a leader in climate education, emphasizing the importance of hands-on experience in fostering a deeper understanding of environmental issues among youth. Through her work at NWF, Abby is not only educating students about climate resilience but also empowering them to take meaningful action in their communities. Abby discusses two pivotal programs she manages: the Climate and Resilience Education Task Force Youth Steering Committee, which engages high school students in climate education and civic engagement, and the Resilient Schools and Communities program, which provides a standardized curriculum for educators. Abby highlights the impactful Beach Grass Plantings project in New York City, where students participate in ecological restoration efforts, gaining firsthand experience in climate solutions. This episode not only sheds light on the significance of grassroots climate action but also emphasizes the role of education in nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards. Resources Explore the RISC Website for resources on how you and your community can get involved!Follow NWF on Instagram (@riscnyc1Access the standardized version of the RiSC Curriculum for a national audience focused on four climate impacts: coastal flooding, inland flooding, wildfires, and extreme heat, here: https://www.riscnyc.org/curriculum-1New York Amsterdam News highlighted the RISC program in their featured climate solutions front page editorial: “NYC High Schools Work to Protect Brooklyn’s Shoreline.” https://amsterdamnews.com/news/2025/05/22/nyc-high-schoolers-work-to-protect-brooklyns-shoreline/CBS News TV produced a piece about the RiSC beach grass plantings reaching millions of viewers, watch: "Students helping to restore sand dunes in Coney Island.” https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/video/students-helping-to-restore-sand-dunes-in-coney-island/To see NWF students and volunteers in action, watch and share our documentary: Where it Floods: Planting Hope in Coney Island  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KxNMYorttQQState of the Planet: Can Coney Island’s Dunes Protect Against Another Sandy? May 2026,

    Can Climate Education Transform Communities? Insights from Abby Jordan

  8. Jun 24

    Is Sustainability the New Business Imperative in the age of AI? ft. Stacy Cline

    In this enlightening episode of *Green Shoots & Big Shifts*, host Reetu Gupta welcomes Stacy Cline, the Senior Director of Sustainability at GitLab, to discuss the intersection of sustainability and corporate responsibility within the tech industry. Stacy shares her inspiring journey from the nonprofit sector to her pivotal role in shaping GitLab's sustainability initiatives. With a focus on environmental, social, and governance regulations, Stacy elaborates on how GitLab is not only ensuring compliance but also helping its customers meet their own sustainability goals. Stacy highlights the crucial role of intentionality in integrating sustainability into business practices. She discusses GitLab's Green DevOps Committee, which focuses on sustainable software development and innovative practices that address customer needs for lower emissions. The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities of balancing AI innovation with sustainable practices, emphasizing that sustainability should be woven into the fabric of business objectives rather than treated as a separate initiative. This episode is packed with practical insights for organizations looking to embrace sustainability as a core component of their operations.  You can access Gitlab's library here: AI catalog: https://gitlab.com/explore/ai-catalog/agents/.  This link will pull up the 'green' agents and flows.   (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast (01:20) - - Guest Introduction: Stacy Cline (02:10) - - Stacy's Career Journey (05:00) - - Overview of GitLab's Sustainability Goals (07:45) - - Customer Expectations on Sustainability (10:30) - - Connecting Sustainability to Business Goals (13:20) - - Sustainability in a Software Company (16:50) - - GitLab's Green DevOps Committee (19:40) - - Balancing AI Innovation and Sustainability (23:10) - - Responsible Use of AI at GitLab (26:30) - - Vendor Collaboration on Sustainability (29:15) - - Best Practices for Smaller Companies (32:00) - - Importance of Cross-Functional Support (34:20) - - GitLab's Open Source Community Engagement (37:00) - - Conclusion and Final Thoughts (38:40) - - Closing Word: Intentionality in Actions

    Is Sustainability the New Business Imperative in the age of AI? ft. Stacy Cline
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About

Green Shoots & Big Shifts is hosted by Reetu Gupta, who started the show to have open, hopeful conversations about what it really takes to make sustainability part of how we live, lead, and work. Each week, she talks with people doing innovative, meaningful work, turning ideas into action. From startup founders and corporate change-makers to community leaders - reimagining how business, society, and the planet can thrive together. These are stories about innovation, collaboration, possibility, and the everyday shifts that move us toward a more abundant and resilient future.

Information

  • Creator
    Reetu Gupta
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Pistachio LLC
  • Show Website
    Green Shoots & Big Shifts