Profits on Purpose

Nate Littlewood

Welcome to the Profits on Purpose Podcast! New episodes weekly.

  1. 12/24/2025

    SE01E24 - Why Predictable Revenue Beats Funding in E-Commerce | Ethnik Living | Mehmet Can Ilker

    In this episode of Profits on Purpose, host Nate Littlewood interviews Mehmet Can Ilker, co-founder of Ethnik Living, a successful home decor brand that started with minimal investment during the pandemic. Mehmet shares his journey from being an engineering student in Turkey to building a thriving e-commerce business focused on the US market. He discusses the challenges of bootstrapping, managing cash flow, navigating tariffs, and the importance of supplier relationships. The conversation also delves into the unique strategies Mehmet employed, such as creating a custom ERP system and maintaining a disciplined approach to finances. Listeners will gain insights into the importance of predictable revenue, effective customer acquisition, and the value of weekly finance meetings in driving business success. Connect with Mehmet on LinekdIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mehmet-can-ilker-545978104/ I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team Connect with Nathan Littlewood on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanlittlewood/Visit the Future Ready CFO website here: https://www.futurereadycfo.com/Join the Future Ready Newsletter here: https://www.futurereadycfo.com/newsletter Listen to Profits on Purpose on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1h3U1cG0zhaSwqa8f2UFXIApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/profits-on-purpose/id1826982087Amazon Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/profits-on-purpose/id1826982087 #profitsonpurpose #nathanlittlewood #futurereadycfo #financeleadership #cfoinsights #purposeledbusiness #scalingforimpact #financialstrategy #purposeledprofit #missiondrivengrowth #sustainablebusiness #businessleaders #entrepreneurmindset #financialclarity #scalingbusinesses #ethicalentrepreneurship #businessstrategy #impactfulleadership #cforole #executivethinkingWelcome to the Profits on Purpose podcast, where we explore the journeys of purpose-led founders and the financial strategies that help them survive and thrive. Host Nate Littlewood sits down with eCommerce and CPG founders to unpack the real-life tension between a brand's mission and the practical realities of generating profit.Each episode digs into the leadership insights and financial approaches that empower consumer products businesses to grow with clarity, resilience, and impact. You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at how visionary founders reconcile their purpose with the everyday demands of scaling a successful brand and leading with both mission and margin.If you're a founder, finance leader, or simply navigating the purpose-profit paradox, this podcast is for you.

    45 min
  2. 12/17/2025

    SE01E23 - The three things I knew (and 7 that I didn't) building a multi-million dollar tree business | Simply Trees | Teddy Oitzman

    In this episode of Profits on Purpose, host Nate Littlewood interviews Teddy Oitzman, founder of Simply Trees, who shares his journey from having no experience in the plant industry to generating millions in revenue. Teddy discusses the importance of sales, understanding financials, and the challenges of running a seasonal business. He emphasizes the need for effective cash flow management and the lessons learned from overcoming significant setbacks, including a major inventory loss. The conversation highlights the hustle required in entrepreneurship and the eventual transition to hiring help to scale the business. I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team Connect with Nathan Littlewood on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanlittlewood/Visit the Future Ready CFO website here: https://www.futurereadycfo.com/Join the Future Ready Newsletter here: https://www.futurereadycfo.com/newsletter Listen to Profits on Purpose on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1h3U1cG0zhaSwqa8f2UFXIApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/profits-on-purpose/id1826982087Amazon Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/profits-on-purpose/id1826982087 #profitsonpurpose #nathanlittlewood #futurereadycfo #financeleadership #cfoinsights #purposeledbusiness #scalingforimpact #financialstrategy #purposeledprofit #missiondrivengrowth #sustainablebusiness #businessleaders #entrepreneurmindset #financialclarity #scalingbusinesses #ethicalentrepreneurship #businessstrategy #impactfulleadership #cforole #executivethinkingWelcome to the Profits on Purpose podcast, where we explore the journeys of purpose-led founders and the financial strategies that help them survive and thrive. Host Nate Littlewood sits down with eCommerce and CPG founders to unpack the real-life tension between a brand's mission and the practical realities of generating profit.Each episode digs into the leadership insights and financial approaches that empower consumer products businesses to grow with clarity, resilience, and impact. You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at how visionary founders reconcile their purpose with the everyday demands of scaling a successful brand and leading with both mission and margin.If you're a founder, finance leader, or simply navigating the purpose-profit paradox, this podcast is for you.

    43 min
  3. 12/10/2025

    SE01E22 - Overcoming adversity and claiming your second chance in the food business | Sunday Supper, Prospera Ventures | Spencer Oberg

    In this powerful episode of Profits on Purpose, host Nate Littlewood sits down with Spencer Oberg, a true testament to overcoming adversity and the power of second chances. Spencer shares his remarkable, candid journey from incarceration to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the highly competitive plant-based food industry. Spencer walks us through his transformative years in prison - a period of intense personal growth where he dedicated himself to education and ignited his entrepreneurial spirit after connecting with influential figures. He then dives into the challenging yet rewarding experience of being on the founding team for Good Planet Foods, detailing the intricate process of scaling businesses to a $22 million revenue and the necessary business lessons learned from navigating complex venture capital dynamics.From the mindset of a successful founder to the complexities of a CEO, Spencer discusses the future of the food industry through his new ventures, Prospera Ventures (acquiring and optimizing profitable food businesses) and Sunday Supper (a new branding and manufacturing project). This episode is a masterclass in leadership, strategic shifts, and the crucial distinction between startup culture and professionalization. 🔥 Key Takeaways & Business Lessons:Overcoming Adversity: Spencer Oberg's path is proof that it’s about second chances and turning your life around after serving time.The Power of Education: Education was a key focus during Spencer's time in prison, shaping his future.Scaling Rapidly: Learn how Good Planet Foods grew quickly, reaching $22 million in revenue, and the challenges of scaling businesses.Venture Capital Dynamics: Navigating the complexities of venture capital was a significant learning experience for Spencer.Founder vs. CEO: Understanding the differences between a founder and a CEO is crucial for sustainable business leadership and success.Strategic Shifts: The importance of balancing startup culture with professionalization in business growth. New Ventures: Insights into Prospera Ventures (acquiring food businesses) and Sunday Supper (a new approach to plant-based food). Connect with Spencer here: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/spenceroberg001/Email: spencer@sundaysupper.comProspera Ventures Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prosperaventures/ Prospera Ventures Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/weprospera Prospera Ventures YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ProsperaVenturesProspera Ventures LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/prospera-venturesSunday Supper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vegansundaysupperSunday Supper Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sundaysupperfoods?igsh=MWhjemtlcnA1a3J2bg==Sunday Supper LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sunday-supper/ I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team Connect with Nathan Littlewood on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanlittlewood/Visit the Future Ready CFO website here: https://www.futurereadycfo.com/Join the Future Ready Newsletter here: https://www.futurereadycfo.com/newsletter Listen to Profits on Purpose on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1h3U1cG0zhaSwqa8f2UFXIApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/profits-on-purpose/id1826982087Amazon Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/profits-on-purpose/id1826982087 #profitsonpurpose #nathanlittlewood #futurereadycfo #financeleadership #cfoinsights #purposeledbusiness #scalingforimpact #financialstrategy #purposeledprofit #missiondrivengrowth #sustainablebusiness #businessleaders #entrepreneurmindset #financialclarity #scalingbusinesses #ethicalentrepreneurship #businessstrategy #impactfulleadership #cforole #executivethinkingWelcome to the Profits on Purpose podcast, where we explore the journeys of purpose-led founders and the financial strategies that help them survive and thrive. Host Nate Littlewood sits down with eCommerce and CPG founders to unpack the real-life tension between a brand's mission and the practical realities of generating profit.Each episode digs into the leadership insights and financial approaches that empower consumer products businesses to grow with clarity, resilience, and impact. You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at how visionary founders reconcile their purpose with the everyday demands of scaling a successful brand and leading with both mission and margin.If you're a founder, finance leader, or simply navigating the purpose-profit paradox, this podcast is for you.#empowergrowth #weprospera #sundaysupper #exitstrategy

    56 min
  4. 12/03/2025

    SE01E21 - Founder to Nonprofit CEO: What Happens After You ‘Make It’ | The Farmlink Project | Eliza Blank

    In this episode of Profits on Purpose, host Nate Littlewood interviews Eliza Blank, founder of The Sill and CEO of The Farmlink Project, who shares her journey from launching a successful D2C houseplant brand to transitioning into nonprofit leadership with Farmlink. Eliza discusses the importance of understanding customer behavior, the challenges of retail expansion, and the impact of COVID-19 on business operations. She also reflects on her experiences with crowdfunding, the significance of unit economics, and the unique challenges faced by female founders. Eliza's insights provide valuable lessons for entrepreneurs navigating the complexities of building and scaling a business. Connect with Eliza here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizablank/Farmlink: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/accounts/login/?next=/farmlinkproject/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/farmlinkproject LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-farmlink-project/mycompany/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/farmlinkproject YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefarmlinkproject I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team Connect with Nathan Littlewood on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanlittlewood/Visit the Future Ready CFO website here: https://www.futurereadycfo.com/Join the Future Ready Newsletter here: https://www.futurereadycfo.com/newsletter Listen to Profits on Purpose on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1h3U1cG0zhaSwqa8f2UFXIApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/profits-on-purpose/id1826982087Amazon Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/profits-on-purpose/id1826982087 #profitsonpurpose #nathanlittlewood #futurereadycfo #financeleadership #cfoinsights #purposeledbusiness #scalingforimpact #financialstrategy #purposeledprofit #missiondrivengrowth #sustainablebusiness #businessleaders #entrepreneurmindset #financialclarity #scalingbusinesses #ethicalentrepreneurship #businessstrategy #impactfulleadership #cforole #executivethinkingWelcome to the Profits on Purpose podcast, where we explore the journeys of purpose-led founders and the financial strategies that help them survive and thrive. Host Nate Littlewood sits down with eCommerce and CPG founders to unpack the real-life tension between a brand's mission and the practical realities of generating profit.Each episode digs into the leadership insights and financial approaches that empower consumer products businesses to grow with clarity, resilience, and impact. You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at how visionary founders reconcile their purpose with the everyday demands of scaling a successful brand and leading with both mission and margin.If you're a founder, finance leader, or simply navigating the purpose-profit paradox, this podcast is for you.

    53 min
  5. 11/26/2025

    SE01E20 - Why Selling the Experience Matters More Than Selling the Dress | Les Aimants | Manon Martin

    In this episode of Profits on Purpose, host Nate Littlewood interviews Manon Martin, founder and CEO of Les Hémons, a bridal lab in New York that is revolutionizing the wedding dress shopping experience. Manon shares her background in the fashion industry, the challenges brides face in traditional shopping, and how her company addresses these issues through innovative technology and a focus on customer experience. The conversation explores the transition from B2B to direct-to-consumer models, customer acquisition strategies, fundraising experiences, and the importance of financial management in a startup. Connect with Manon here: Email: manon@les-aimants.comOfficial Website (URL): les-aimants.com I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team Connect with Nathan Littlewood on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanlittlewood/Visit the Future Ready CFO website here: https://www.futurereadycfo.com/Join the Future Ready Newsletter here: https://www.futurereadycfo.com/newsletter Listen to Profits on Purpose on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1h3U1cG0zhaSwqa8f2UFXIApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/profits-on-purpose/id1826982087Amazon Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/profits-on-purpose/id1826982087 #profitsonpurpose #nathanlittlewood #futurereadycfo #financeleadership #cfoinsights #purposeledbusiness #scalingforimpact #financialstrategy #purposeledprofit #missiondrivengrowth #sustainablebusiness #businessleaders #entrepreneurmindset #financialclarity #scalingbusinesses #ethicalentrepreneurship #businessstrategy #impactfulleadership #cforole #executivethinkingWelcome to the Profits on Purpose podcast, where we explore the journeys of purpose-led founders and the financial strategies that help them survive and thrive. Host Nate Littlewood sits down with eCommerce and CPG founders to unpack the real-life tension between a brand's mission and the practical realities of generating profit.Each episode digs into the leadership insights and financial approaches that empower consumer products businesses to grow with clarity, resilience, and impact. You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at how visionary founders reconcile their purpose with the everyday demands of scaling a successful brand and leading with both mission and margin.If you're a founder, finance leader, or simply navigating the purpose-profit paradox, this podcast is for you.

    41 min
  6. 11/19/2025

    SE01E19 - Navigating Profitability in E-Commerce | Vincero Collective| Sean Agatep

    In this episode of Profits On Purpose, host Nate Littlewood speaks with Sean Agatep, co-founder and COO of Vincero Collective, about the journey of scaling an e-commerce business from its Kickstarter roots to an eight-figure D2C brand. They discuss the challenges of navigating profitability, the importance of adapting to market changes, and the strategic decisions made to focus on sustainable growth. Sean shares insights on the significance of customer satisfaction, the evolution of their organizational structure, and the birth of Tidal, a recruitment firm for e-commerce teams. The conversation emphasizes the need for founders to reflect on their goals, the importance of financial metrics, and the value of paying oneself appropriately in the entrepreneurial journey. Connect with Sean: LinkedIn: LinkedIn.com/in/sagatepX: @SeanAgatepOfficial Website (URL): www.vincerocollective.comEmail: sean@vincerocollective.com I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team Connect with Nathan Littlewood on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanlittlewood/Visit the Future Ready CFO website here: https://www.futurereadycfo.com/Join the Future Ready Newsletter here: https://www.futurereadycfo.com/newsletter Listen to Profits on Purpose on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1h3U1cG0zhaSwqa8f2UFXIApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/profits-on-purpose/id1826982087Amazon Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/profits-on-purpose/id1826982087 #profitsonpurpose #nathanlittlewood #futurereadycfo #financeleadership #cfoinsights #purposeledbusiness #scalingforimpact #financialstrategy #purposeledprofit #missiondrivengrowth #sustainablebusiness #businessleaders #entrepreneurmindset #financialclarity #scalingbusinesses #ethicalentrepreneurship #businessstrategy #impactfulleadership #cforole #executivethinkingWelcome to the Profits on Purpose podcast, where we explore the journeys of purpose-led founders and the financial strategies that help them survive and thrive. Host Nate Littlewood sits down with eCommerce and CPG founders to unpack the real-life tension between a brand's mission and the practical realities of generating profit.Each episode digs into the leadership insights and financial approaches that empower consumer products businesses to grow with clarity, resilience, and impact. You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at how visionary founders reconcile their purpose with the everyday demands of scaling a successful brand and leading with both mission and margin.If you're a founder, finance leader, or simply navigating the purpose-profit paradox, this podcast is for you.

    51 min
  7. 11/12/2025

    SE01E18 - The Power of Authentic Marketing in Beauty | Bri Beauty | Brittany Ogletree

    In this episode of Profits on Purpose, host Nate Littlewood interviews Brittany Ogletree, founder of Bri Beauty, a clean beauty brand focused on solutions for acne-prone skin. Brittany shares her unique journey from studying acting to launching her own beauty line, emphasizing the importance of authentic marketing, community engagement, and feedback-driven product development. The conversation covers various topics, including funding strategies, navigating investor relationships, understanding unit economics, and the significance of technology in business operations. Brittany also discusses her lessons learned as a founder and her vision for future growth. Connect with Brittany: Official Website (URL): https://bribeauty.co/Email: brittany@bribeauty.co I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Nate and the Profits on Purpose podcast team Connect with Nathan Littlewood on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanlittlewood/Visit the Future Ready CFO website here: https://www.futurereadycfo.com/Join the Future Ready Newsletter here: https://www.futurereadycfo.com/newsletter Listen to Profits on Purpose on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1h3U1cG0zhaSwqa8f2UFXIApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/profits-on-purpose/id1826982087Amazon Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/profits-on-purpose/id1826982087 #profitsonpurpose #nathanlittlewood #futurereadycfo #financeleadership #cfoinsights #purposeledbusiness #scalingforimpact #financialstrategy #purposeledprofit #missiondrivengrowth #sustainablebusiness #businessleaders #entrepreneurmindset #financialclarity #scalingbusinesses #ethicalentrepreneurship #businessstrategy #impactfulleadership #cforole #executivethinkingWelcome to the Profits on Purpose podcast, where we explore the journeys of purpose-led founders and the financial strategies that help them survive and thrive. Host Nate Littlewood sits down with eCommerce and CPG founders to unpack the real-life tension between a brand's mission and the practical realities of generating profit.Each episode digs into the leadership insights and financial approaches that empower consumer products businesses to grow with clarity, resilience, and impact. You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at how visionary founders reconcile their purpose with the everyday demands of scaling a successful brand and leading with both mission and margin.If you're a founder, finance leader, or simply navigating the purpose-profit paradox, this podcast is for you.

    41 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Profits on Purpose Podcast! New episodes weekly.