Riveo Impact Lab

Elin Barton, Emily Adams
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Welcome to the Riveo Impact Lab, the podcast where we dive into the stories and strategies of trailblazing entrepreneurs and small business owners who are redefining what it means to build a successful business. If you’re ready to balance impact and income, compete with the big players, and lead with purpose, this podcast is for you. Each episode delivers: Expert Insights: Learn from inspiring guests who lead the way in sustainability, diversity, and inclusion.Practical Advice: Get actionable tips and tools to create meaningful change in your business.Real-World Stories: Discover how small businesses are overcoming challenges, innovating, and making a difference in their communities. At Riveo Creative, we’re committed to sustainability and ethics in our own work, and we’re here to share both our journey and those of our incredible guests. Together, we’ll tackle the opportunities and challenges of building a business that leaves a lasting positive impact. Join us for honest conversations, expert advice, and real-world inspiration to help you create a legacy you can be proud of. Subscribe now to the Riveo Impact Lab!

  1. Making the Impossible, Not Impossible: A Conversation with Mick Ebeling

    FEB 12

    Making the Impossible, Not Impossible: A Conversation with Mick Ebeling

    What if the world’s “impossible” problems aren’t impossible at all—just waiting for someone to refuse to accept them? In this episode of the Riveo Impact Lab, Emily sits down with Mick Ebeling, Founder and CEO of Not Impossible Labs—an innovation studio dedicated to solving society’s “absurdities” through technology and storytelling. A three-time recipient of TIME Magazine’s Best Inventions of the Year, Mick has built a career around one core belief: if something feels unacceptable, do something about it. From creating a $100 eye-tracking device that allowed a paralyzed artist to create again, to launching the world’s first 3D-printing prosthetics lab in a refugee camp, to addressing food insecurity through their groundbreaking platform Bento, Mick shares how bold ideas begin with helping one person—and grow from there. In this conversation, we explore: What Mick means by identifying “absurdities” in societyWhy being a doer matters more than being a commentatorThe philosophy of “help one, help many”How storytelling amplifies impactWhat “frictionless innovation” looks like in actionWhy impact isn’t just what you do for others—but what it does for youIf you’re a small business owner, entrepreneur, or simply someone who feels overwhelmed by the scale of the world’s problems, this episode will leave you inspired—and equipped—to start where you are. Because sometimes, making an impact begins with refusing to walk past what doesn’t make sense. 🎧 Listen now and take one small step toward making the impossible… not impossible. The Riveo Impact Lab is produced for you by Riveo Creative. For more Riveo Impact Lab content, including the video versions of all our episodes, please visit https://riveocreative.com/riveo-impact-lab/.

    38 min
  2. Leading with Responsibility: Chandra Chea on Decision-Making, Power, and People

    JAN 15

    Leading with Responsibility: Chandra Chea on Decision-Making, Power, and People

    In this episode, we sit down with Chandra Chea for a candid and thoughtful conversation about leadership, lived experience, and the weight of decision-making. Chandra shares her personal journey, the moments that shaped her perspective, and how navigating complex systems has influenced the way she leads, listens, and advocates for others. Together, we explore what it means to lead with empathy while still making hard calls, how identity and experience inform leadership styles, and why representation and accountability matter—especially when decisions have real human impact. This episode invites listeners to reflect on power, responsibility, and the kind of leaders we need moving forward. Whether you’re a leader, changemaker, or someone thinking deeply about impact and equity, this conversation offers insight, honesty, and practical wisdom. The Riveo Impact Lab is produced for you by Riveo Creative. For more Riveo Impact Lab content, including the video versions of all our episodes, please visit https://riveocreative.com/riveo-impact-lab/.

    44 min
  3. Beyond Profit: How Beth Bengtson is Redefining Business for Social Impact

    11/20/2025

    Beyond Profit: How Beth Bengtson is Redefining Business for Social Impact

    In this episode of the Riveo Impact Lab, Elin sits down with Beth Bengtson, founder of Working for Women, to explore what it truly means for small businesses to become a force for social good. Beth shares her journey—from the high-powered world of 1990s Wall Street to discovering a deeper purpose in elevating women’s economic mobility. Together, they unpack the roots of her passion for purpose-driven business, the global experiences that shaped her worldview, and the pivotal moments that fueled her commitment to gender equity. Beth explains how Working for Women is changing lives by creating economic pathways, building supportive communities, and reshaping the narrative around financial independence for women—especially those from marginalized backgrounds. She and Elin also dive into the practical side of social impact: how even the smallest businesses can integrate purpose into their operations, why community matters more than ever, and the cultural shift happening around women, money, and empowerment. Filled with inspiring stories, strategic insights, and a powerful call to action, this episode reminds us that impact begins with intention—and that small businesses can be catalysts for big change. The Riveo Impact Lab is produced for you by Riveo Creative. For more Riveo Impact Lab content, including the video versions of all our episodes, please visit https://riveocreative.com/riveo-impact-lab/.

    40 min
  4. From Pugs to Policy: Nancy Levine Stearns on Purpose and Impact

    09/10/2025

    From Pugs to Policy: Nancy Levine Stearns on Purpose and Impact

    What does it really mean when corporations talk about diversity, equity, and inclusion? Are companies backing away from these commitments—or doubling down?  In this episode of Riveo Impact Lab, host Elin Barton sits down with journalist and author Nancy Levine Stearns to uncover the truth behind corporate DEI in 2025. From Costco’s bold stand against anti-DEI proposals to shareholder votes at Apple, Merck, and Target, Nancy shares her front-row insights into why boards and investors are overwhelmingly backing inclusion.  Together, they explore:  The myths and misinformation fueling the “DEI is dead” narrativeWhy shareholder votes show the opposite storyHow diversity strengthens business outcomes for companies of all sizesWhat small businesses can learn from multinational corporationsThe role of journalism in holding companies accountable—and offering hope Nancy also reflects on her own journey—from corporate HR to authoring The Dao of Pug to documenting today’s high-stakes debates in business. Her message is clear: courage is contagious, and impact happens when values meet action.   👉 Tune in to discover how corporations, consumers, and communities are shaping the future of belonging—and why every voice matters. The Riveo Impact Lab is produced for you by Riveo Creative. For more Riveo Impact Lab content, including the video versions of all our episodes, please visit https://riveocreative.com/riveo-impact-lab/.

    45 min
  5. Why Empathy is a Business Strategy: Monica Mockus on Human-Centered Creativity in Healthcare

    08/25/2025

    Why Empathy is a Business Strategy: Monica Mockus on Human-Centered Creativity in Healthcare

    In this episode of The Riveo Impact Lab, Elin and Emily sit down with Monica Mockus, founder, CEO, and Executive Creative Director of mock5 design, a creative agency specializing in healthcare and wellness. With more than 20 years of experience as a designer and art director, Monica brings a unique perspective on building a purpose-driven business rooted in empathy, compassion, and a human-centered approach. Monica shares her journey of launching and leading mock5, the lessons she’s learned in fostering creativity while running a company, and how design can create meaningful impact in industries that touch people’s lives most directly. The conversation dives into sustainability, leadership, and the balance of creativity with business strategy—offering valuable insights for entrepreneurs, creatives, and leaders alike. Tune in to hear Monica’s inspiring story, and discover how purpose-driven design can transform not just brands, but communities. The Riveo Impact Lab is produced for you by Riveo Creative. For more Riveo Impact Lab content, including the video versions of all our episodes, please visit https://riveocreative.com/riveo-impact-lab/.

    39 min
  6. Simplifying Sustainability: How Aclymate Founder Mike Smith is Making Climate Action Accessible

    05/19/2025

    Simplifying Sustainability: How Aclymate Founder Mike Smith is Making Climate Action Accessible

    How can small businesses take real climate action without massive budgets or in-house experts? In this episode, we sit down with Mike Smith, founder and CEO of Aclymate—a platform designed to simplify carbon tracking and sustainability for everyday business owners.  From serving as a Navy commander to leading major reforestation efforts, Mike’s path to climate tech wasn’t typical—but it’s one filled with purpose.  In this episode, you’ll hear about: What Aclymate does to make carbon tracking easy for small businessesWhy sustainability is a smart move for business growth and resilienceTips for getting started with emissions tracking—even if you’re busyThe surprising impact small businesses can have on climate progressTune in as we explore how Aclymate is making sustainability practical, why it matters for your business, and how even small steps can lead to big impact. The Riveo Impact Lab is produced for you by Riveo Creative. For more Riveo Impact Lab content, including the video versions of all our episodes, please visit https://riveocreative.com/riveo-impact-lab/.

    40 min
  7. Leading with Authenticity and Action : Ashley Brundage’s Mission to Empower Differences

    05/05/2025

    Leading with Authenticity and Action : Ashley Brundage’s Mission to Empower Differences

    What does it look like to lead with authenticity—and build power by embracing what makes you different? In this episode of Riveo Impact Lab, co-hosts Elin Barton and Emily Adams sit down with Ashley Brundage, author, speaker, and the first transgender person to win any election in Florida. From navigating homelessness to founding a leadership company and running for state office, Ashley shares her powerful story of resilience and impact. Tune in as we discuss: How Ashley built her four-step empowerment modelThe data behind her DEI work—and why tracking outcomes mattersWhat it means to go beyond allyship and practice active sponsorshipHer groundbreaking political run and what it taught her about leadershipHow visibility can shift culture in every room where power is builtThis episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about inclusion, equity, and leading meaningful change from wherever you are. The Riveo Impact Lab is produced for you by Riveo Creative. For more Riveo Impact Lab content, including the video versions of all our episodes, please visit https://riveocreative.com/riveo-impact-lab/.

    58 min
  8. Why Accessibility Is Good Business — And What Every Leader Should Know with Amy Graves

    04/21/2025

    Why Accessibility Is Good Business — And What Every Leader Should Know with Amy Graves

    How can businesses take small, meaningful steps toward inclusivity — and why is accessibility not just ethical, but strategic? In this episode of Riveo Impact Lab, co-hosts Elin Barton and Emily Adams welcome Amy Graves, California Chapter President of NAWBO, founder and CEO of Hidden Consumer Consulting, and author of The Hidden Consumer. Amy shares her personal and professional journey as a disabled entrepreneur and industry consultant, and explores how accessibility and inclusive practices drive both human and business impact. Tune in as we discuss: The real-life challenges that inspired Amy’s mission-driven workHow accessible practices lead to broader market reach and brand loyaltyWhy accessibility should be embedded in company culture — not bolted onEasy first steps any leader can take to make their workplace more inclusiveWhether you're just starting out or seeking to deepen your understanding, this conversation offers powerful insights into building a business that includes everyone. The Riveo Impact Lab is produced for you by Riveo Creative. For more Riveo Impact Lab content, including the video versions of all our episodes, please visit https://riveocreative.com/riveo-impact-lab/.

    43 min
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About

Welcome to the Riveo Impact Lab, the podcast where we dive into the stories and strategies of trailblazing entrepreneurs and small business owners who are redefining what it means to build a successful business. If you’re ready to balance impact and income, compete with the big players, and lead with purpose, this podcast is for you. Each episode delivers: Expert Insights: Learn from inspiring guests who lead the way in sustainability, diversity, and inclusion.Practical Advice: Get actionable tips and tools to create meaningful change in your business.Real-World Stories: Discover how small businesses are overcoming challenges, innovating, and making a difference in their communities. At Riveo Creative, we’re committed to sustainability and ethics in our own work, and we’re here to share both our journey and those of our incredible guests. Together, we’ll tackle the opportunities and challenges of building a business that leaves a lasting positive impact. Join us for honest conversations, expert advice, and real-world inspiration to help you create a legacy you can be proud of. Subscribe now to the Riveo Impact Lab!

Information

  • Creator
    Elin Barton, Emily Adams
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Riveo Impact Lab
  • Show Website
    Riveo Impact Lab