Good and Green

Pacita Juan
  • 5.0 (1)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

The Good and Green Podcast, hosted by sustainability advocate Chit Juan, was created for the purpose of helping social entrepreneurs overcome challenges and grow impactful ventures that drive meaningful change. Each week, we share the tools, strategies, and stories that empower changemakers to build businesses with purpose. Whether you're launching your dream social enterprise or looking for fresh inspiration, this podcast is your go-to space for practical insights and uplifting conversations. Let's create a brighter, more sustainable future together!

  1. Episode 45: Sustainability Is the Future of Luxury Tourism with Janet Oquendo

    1D AGO

    Episode 45: Sustainability Is the Future of Luxury Tourism with Janet Oquendo

    Luxury means nothing without nature. In this episode, Chit Juan speaks with Janet Oquendo, General Manager of Banwa Private Island, about returning home to Palawan after decades of opening world-class resorts across Morocco, Venice, Turkey, Bhutan, and beyond. From protecting thriving reefs to building a culture of environmental care within her team, Janet shares how true luxury eco-tourism is not about excess, but about preservation, partnership with local communities, and honoring the land that makes it all possible. GUEST BIO: A native Palaweña, Janet Oquendo’s career is a testament to Filipino hospitality on a global scale. Having spent more than 20 years with the Aman group - starting at Amanpulo in the 1990s, she was assigned by the founder to manage, support and lead hotel openings in Morocco, Venice, Turkey, Montenegro, Bhutan and around Asia. Over a decade ago, a shared vision began to take shape when she met with the island’s owner, a true Aman aficionado, regarding the opening of a Banwa Private Island in Palawan.  Today, Janet has come full circle, bringing her years of experiences back home to Philippine soil. As General Manager of Banwa Private Island, she is uplifting the local landscape of luxury eco-tourism, blending service with a heartfelt commitment to sustainability and developing the local talents. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN: Growing up in Palawan and entering tourismWhy luxury and eco-tourism can coexistMarine conservation and the power of simply protecting what is already thereWorking with local communities and government to safeguard marine protected areasBuilding a culture of environmental care within the teamReducing plastic use and rethinking daily operationsWhy luxury is nothing without nature QUOTES: I wish that we would have more luxury tourism or luxury places because we have the natural environment for that. —Janet OquendoWe make sure that whatever conservation plans or programs we have, it starts with us first knowing what is there. —Janet OquendoWe're  very blessed with a team that is all Kababayan. We are a 100% Filipino team here on the island. —Janet OquendoUnderstand what you have so you'll know how to protect it. —Janet OquendoWe have to build a culture of care for the environment and our team, because we will do it all together. —Janet OquendoLuxury is nothing without nature. —Janet Oquendo LINKS or RESOURCES MENTIONED: Follow Banwa Private Island Banwa Private Island - https://www.banwaprivateisland.com/Banwa Private Island on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/banwaprivateisland/Banwa Private Island on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/BanwaPrivateIslandPH/Banwa Private Island on LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/company/banwa-private-island/ Listen, rate, and subscribe! Subscribe to the Good and Green Podcast on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyFollow Chit Juan on Instagram and Facebook, and Purchase Brew: Cafe, Coffee. Kape  at Echostore.ph. For more information about Brew: Cafe, Coffee, Kape, visit the Food Writers Association of the Philippine Facebook Group.

    29 min
  2. Episode 44: Why Values Matter More Than Speed in Business Growth with Butz Bartolome

    FEB 9

    Episode 44: Why Values Matter More Than Speed in Business Growth with Butz Bartolome

    What does it really take to build a business that lasts for decades? In this episode of Good and Green, Chit Juan sits down with franchising pioneer Armando “Butz” Bartolome to unpack how entrepreneurship has evolved and why values, credibility, and responsibility matter more than ever. Drawing from over 35 years of mentoring Filipino entrepreneurs, Butz shares insights on balancing speed with caution, using technology wisely, and building businesses that serve both people and communities. This conversation is a grounded reminder that growth means little without purpose. GUEST BIO: Armando Bartolome is an entrepreneur, franchise consultant, and mentor with over 35 years of experience helping Filipino MSMEs grow through responsible franchising. As President of GMB Franchise Developers Inc., he has guided over 800 entrepreneurs across food, retail, and service industries.  He is a founding member of the Philippine Franchise Association and the Association of Filipino Franchisers, and a Go Negosyo mentor for over 20 years. His co-authored book Is Franchising for You? was named Book of the Year in 2012, and he was granted a special E11 visa by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services in recognition of his expertise in franchising and business development. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN: How today’s entrepreneurs differ from those of previous generations.Why speed and opportunity need to be balanced with discipline and numbers.The role of credibility and sincerity in long-term business success.How franchising and business models have evolved with technology.Why values, sustainability, and community impact are shaping modern entrepreneurship.What it means to build a legacy through mentoring and shared responsibility. QUOTES: There is wisdom in the old way, and there is also wisdom in grabbing opportunities quickly because of the fast pace of business today. —Chit JuanYou cannot say one platform will suit everyone. —Butz BartolomeI always input my legacy in our clients. We don't want them to be dependent on us. —Butz BartolomeThere's no secret in this business. It's a matter of mindset. —Butz BartolomeThe award will only come when people remember you. —Butz Bartolome LINKS or RESOURCES MENTIONED: Connect with Butz Bartolome: Butz Bartolome's Website - http://www.butzbartolome.comGMB Franchise Developers - http://www.gmb.ph/Butz Bartolome on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/franguru/Butz Bartolome on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/butzbartolomeBusiness Mentor Talks Podcast - https://bit.ly/3ZeEAn0 Listen, rate, and subscribe! Subscribe to the Good and Green Podcast on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyFollow Chit Juan on Instagram and Facebook, and LinkedInSubscribe to EchoNews on LinkedIn.Purchase Brew: Cafe, Coffee. Kape  at Echostore.ph. For more information about Brew: Cafe, Coffee, Kape, visit the Food Writers Association of the Philippine Facebook Group.

    28 min
  3. Episode 43: How One Mom Chemist Built A Better Cacao Business with Mel Medrano

    JAN 26

    Episode 43: How One Mom Chemist Built A Better Cacao Business with Mel Medrano

    What started as a simple search for a healthier chocolate drink for her children became something much bigger. In this episode, Chit Juan sits down with chemist and entrepreneur Melanie “Mel” Medrano, founder of Cacaomistry, to talk about how science, motherhood, and sustainability came together to create a Filipino origin based cacao brand rooted in clean ingredients, local sourcing, and social impact. GUEST BIO: Melanie Medrano is a chemist, entrepreneur, and chocolate maker, and the founder of Gramworth Enterprises Inc., a family-owned social enterprise behind PhOligo and Cacaomistry — the Philippines' first origin-based instant cacao mix.  Rooted in science, heritage, and sustainability, Melanie creates clean, thoughtfully made products using local ingredients, while working closely with farmers, artisans, and communities. Her work bridges food innovation and social impact, proving that businesses can grow profitably while caring for people and planet. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN: Why reading ingredient labels is a powerful act of conscious consumption.How motherhood and science shaped the creation of Cacao Mystery.The difference between chocolate flavored products and real chocolate.Building a plant based food business rooted in local ingredients and Filipino cacao.Staying calm and creative during supply chain and pricing challenges. QUOTES: Your kids are your best critics. —Chit JuanIt can be healthy but it's useless when your child doesn't like it, so it has to be both. —Mel MedranoMy greatest challenge was when the cacao price tripled. —Mel MedranoEntrepreneurship is a little like chemistry. —Chit JuanMake it a habit to read ingredients. —Mel Medrano LINKS or RESOURCES MENTIONED: Connect with Mel Medrano: Cacaomistry Website - https://www.gramworthph.comCacaomistry on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Cacaomistry/Cacaomistry on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cacaomistry/ Listen, rate, and subscribe! Subscribe to the Good and Green Podcast on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyFollow Chit Juan on Instagram and Facebook, and LinkedInSubscribe to EchoNews on LinkedIn.Purchase Brew: Cafe, Coffee. Kape  at Echostore.ph. For more information about Brew: Cafe, Coffee, Kape, visit the Food Writers Association of the Philippine Facebook Group.

    24 min
  4. Episode 42: Why Starting Small Is the Most Beautiful Way to Farm with Turo Tolentino and Andrea Alforte

    JAN 12

    Episode 42: Why Starting Small Is the Most Beautiful Way to Farm with Turo Tolentino and Andrea Alforte

    Chit Juan sits down with the co-founders of ARTFARM Sustainable Solutions to explore how a small family-run farm in Bay, Laguna evolved into a certified organic and Slow Food-recognized enterprise. From surviving a natural disaster to building a regenerative, technology-enabled, and community-driven farming model, this conversation offers insight into resilience, innovation, and how sustainable farming can create both livelihood and impact. GUEST BIO: ARTFARM was co-founded in 2011 by Turo Tolentino and Andrea Alforte as a small-scale farming venture that evolved from hydroponics into a certified organic, regenerative agriculture enterprise specializing in high-value salad crops. Turo is an agriculture professional trained in horticulture and regenerative composting, with extensive experience supporting farmers through agribusiness entrepreneurship and organic certification work. Andrea brings a background in human ecology, social enterprise, and sustainability education, leading ARTFARM’s value-added processing, community engagement, and training programs. Together, they run ARTFARM Sustainable Solutions, a circular, zero-waste farm model recognized as a Slow Food Farm and a Top 10 Social Enterprise in the BPI Sinag Challenge. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN: How ARTFARM transitioned from hydroponics to soil-based organic and regenerative farming.Why small-scale farms can be productive, resilient, and financially viable.The role of family, diversification, and technology in sustaining a farm business.How composting, soil health, and minimal tillage support long-term productivity.Sharing knowledge through training, consultancy, and community-based farming models. QUOTES: We have always been looking for solutions that will be more sustainable over the longer term. —Andrea AlforteThe key is to diversify your production, the products that you are offering. —Andrea AlforteSince our land is limited, our consulting service is our way of expanding our production area. —Turo TolentinoJust make the first step. Take a small plot. Plant something. —Turo TolentinoAnything good and anything green that you can do, you can do it at home. You teach it to your kids. —Andrea Alforte LINKS or RESOURCES MENTIONED: Connect with ARTFARM: ARTFARM Sustainable Solutions on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/artfarmphARTFARM  on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/artfarm.ph/ Listen, rate, and subscribe! Subscribe to the Good and Green Podcast on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyFollow Chit Juan on Instagram and Facebook, and LinkedInSubscribe to EchoNews on LinkedIn.Purchase Brew: Cafe, Coffee. Kape  at Echostore.ph. For more information about Brew: Cafe, Coffee, Kape, visit the Food Writers Association of the Philippine Facebook Group.

    31 min
  5. Episode 41: Inspiring Habits for a More Fulfilling New Year with Chit Juan

    12/29/2025

    Episode 41: Inspiring Habits for a More Fulfilling New Year with Chit Juan

    In this New Year episode, Chit Juan shares a gentle reflection on welcoming 2026 with intention and purpose. She talks about simple ways we can shift our habits, broaden our experiences, and make the coming year more meaningful for ourselves and others. This short conversation is an invitation to start the year with clarity, curiosity, and a renewed sense of what it means to live good and green. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN: Welcoming the new year with intention and mindful habits.Exploring meaningful ways to care for our health and well-being.Finding inspiration through movement, reflection, and personal growth.Considering spiritual practices or acts of service as part of the new year.Embracing a fresh start by choosing purposeful and fulfilling actions. QUOTES: This coming year, let's make it different. —Chit JuanA new habit is something you can carry out throughout the year. —Chit JuanDo something out of the ordinary. —Chit Juan LINKS or RESOURCES MENTIONED: Listen, rate, and subscribe! Subscribe to the Good and Green Podcast on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyFollow Chit Juan on Instagram and Facebook, and LinkedInSubscribe to EchoNews on LinkedIn.

    7 min
  6. Episode 40: Creating a Greener Holiday Through the Gift of Time with Chit Juan

    12/15/2025

    Episode 40: Creating a Greener Holiday Through the Gift of Time with Chit Juan

    In this Christmas episode, Chit Juan reflects on the meaning of giving during the holidays and invites listeners to revisit the idea of presents beyond material gifts. She talks about offering the gift of time, creating a “job jar” of thoughtful favors, sharing causes and advocacies, and finding moments to be truly present with the people who matter. Chit reminds us that time is finite, but choosing how we give it can create deeper connections, greater purpose, and a more meaningful Christmas for ourselves and others. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN: Why time is one of the most meaningful gifts we can give.The “job jar” as a creative and thoughtful Christmas present.How to prioritize time through intentional choices.Sharing a cause or advocacy as a powerful non-material gift.Finding fulfillment in giving presence, not just presents. QUOTES: The gift of time is something that is very important, very precious, and something so nice to receive. —Chit JuanTime is also a present and it's the present. —Chit JuanThe gift of time is something that everyone can give. —Chit JuanThe best feeling is what you will feel after you spend time with that person. —Chit JuanThis Christmas, let's think of something that is intangible. —Chit Juan LINKS or RESOURCES MENTIONED: Listen, rate, and subscribe! Subscribe to the Good and Green Podcast on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyFollow Chit Juan on Instagram and Facebook, and LinkedInSubscribe to EchoNews on LinkedIn.

    8 min
  7. Episode 39: Organic Solutions Bringing New Hope to Filipino Farmers with Marco Schlüter

    12/01/2025

    Episode 39: Organic Solutions Bringing New Hope to Filipino Farmers with Marco Schlüter

    Organic farming is gaining new momentum in Southeast Asia, and the Philippines is beginning to feel that shift.  Chit Juan talks with Marco Schlüter, Director for Strategy and International Affairs at Naturland, about how organic markets emerge, what helps farmers transition successfully, and why restaurants and retailers play a crucial role in expanding access to organic products. Marco draws from decades of global experience, including his work with IFOAM, to explain the systems, training, and verification models that support sustainable agriculture. He also offers practical starting points for Filipinos who want to make organic part of their daily lives. GUEST BIO: Marco Schlüter is an international executive with more than 20 years of leadership experience in sustainable food systems and global market development. He serves as the Director for Strategy and International Affairs at Naturland, where he leads a €6M international department, developed Naturland’s first global strategy, and built teams across Southeast Asia, Africa, the US, and Europe. He is also Vice President of IFOAM – Organics International, shaping global policy and leadership development for the organic sector. His expertise spans strategic planning, sustainable supply chains, international organizational transformation, and capacity building for organic farming worldwide.  WHAT YOU’LL LEARN: Why organic demand is growing in Southeast Asia.How Naturland supports Filipino farmers transitioning to organic.The role of restaurants, hotels, and retailers in building organic markets.Why verification systems like PGS matter for local organic supply.How IFOAM strengthens global leadership and policy for organic farming.Simple ways consumers can begin living an organic lifestyle. QUOTES: Naturland's vision is to shape the ecological transformation worldwide. —Marco SchlüterWe believe in the need for innovation, for new knowledge. —Marco SchlüterWe always enhance our cooperation, always to the benefit of nature and the farmers. —Marco SchlüterOrganic is not input based. It's knowledge based, but not only in production, also on the leadership level. —Marco SchlüterWhat is important is that the government identifies organic as an opportunity. —Marco Schlüter LINKS or RESOURCES MENTIONED: Connect with Marco Schlüter: Naturland Philippines - https://www.naturland.phNaturland Philippines on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/naturlandphilippinesNaturland Philippines on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/naturland_philippinesIFOAM Organics International - https://www.ifoam.bio Listen, rate, and subscribe! Subscribe to the Good and Green Podcast on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyFollow Chit Juan on Instagram and Facebook, and LinkedInSubscribe to EchoNews on LinkedIn.Purchase Brew: Cafe, Coffee. Kape  at Echostore.ph. For more information about Brew: Cafe, Coffee, Kape, visit the Food Writers Association of the Philippine Facebook Group.

    27 min
  8. Episode 38: How To Balance Geotourism And Environmental Protection with Ann Dumaliang

    11/17/2025

    Episode 38: How To Balance Geotourism And Environmental Protection with Ann Dumaliang

    In this episode of Good and Green, host Chit Juan speaks with Ann Dumaliang of the Masungi Georeserve Foundation about the delicate balance between nature conservation and human activity. Ann shares how the Masungi team transformed a once-threatened landscape into a thriving model for geotourism, reforestation, and environmental protection. She and Chit discuss the importance of building systems—not just trails—to protect over 3,000 hectares of critical land in Rizal. From dealing with encroachers to designing nature-based experiences, Ann reminds us that true sustainability is not just about planting trees—it’s about stewardship, collaboration, and protecting ecosystems for generations to come. GUEST BIO: Ann Dumaliang is the Managing Trustee of the Masungi Georeserve Foundation, a conservation project based in Baras, Rizal known for its work in geotourism, environmental protection, and sustainable development. Since founding the foundation in 2015, Ann has led efforts that earned Masungi global recognition—including awards from the UNWTO, the Global Water Partnership, and the UN SDG Action Awards. A National Geographic Explorer and Ashoka Fellow, she advocates for systems-based conservation approaches and has represented the Philippines at international climate and biodiversity forums. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN: How Masungi Georeserve blends conservation, tourism, and education to protect critical ecosystems.Why sustainable development must be rooted in science, not just aesthetics.The challenges of protecting public land and dealing with encroachers and corruption.How storytelling and design help build emotional connections to nature.Why real climate action starts with system change, not just symbolic gestures. QUOTES: If you wanna be Wakanda, we need to start learning about what we have for ourselves, building on that. —Ann DumaliangThere's nothing compared to boots on the ground. That's the most important  thing to have as far as human resources are concerned. —Ann DumaliangThere's no point in building something if it's not going to last. —Ann DumaliangWhen you're true to the science, it forces you to be creative. —Ann DumaliangWithout experiences in nature, we lose that connection with nature, and in the process we lose touch on how to protect it. —Ann Dumaliang LINKS or RESOURCES MENTIONED: Connect with Ann Dumaliang: Masungi Georeserve Foundation: https://www.masungigeoreserve.com/Masungi Georeserve on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/masungigeoreserveMasungi Georeserve on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/masungigeoreserve Listen, rate, and subscribe! Subscribe to the Good and Green Podcast on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyFollow Chit Juan on Instagram and Facebook, and LinkedInSubscribe to EchoNews on LinkedIn.Purchase Brew: Cafe, Coffee. Kape  at Echostore.ph. For more information about Brew: Cafe, Coffee, Kape, visit the Food Writers Association of the Philippine Facebook Group.

    38 min
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About

The Good and Green Podcast, hosted by sustainability advocate Chit Juan, was created for the purpose of helping social entrepreneurs overcome challenges and grow impactful ventures that drive meaningful change. Each week, we share the tools, strategies, and stories that empower changemakers to build businesses with purpose. Whether you're launching your dream social enterprise or looking for fresh inspiration, this podcast is your go-to space for practical insights and uplifting conversations. Let's create a brighter, more sustainable future together!

Information

  • Creator
    Pacita Juan
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    46
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Good and Green
  • Show Website
    Good and Green