1,000 episodes

We host changemakers who are using regulated investment crowdfunding for social impact--impact crowdfunding--as impact investors or social entrepreneurs, catalyzing change with leadership skills we call superpowers.

www.superpowers4good.com

Superpowers for Good: Empowering Changemakers for Social Impact via Regulated Investment Crowdfunding from the SuperCrowd‪.‬ Devin Thorpe

    • Business
    • 5.0 • 23 Ratings

We host changemakers who are using regulated investment crowdfunding for social impact--impact crowdfunding--as impact investors or social entrepreneurs, catalyzing change with leadership skills we call superpowers.

www.superpowers4good.com

    Changing Lives Through Understanding: Sara Schley on Living with Bipolar Disorder

    Changing Lives Through Understanding: Sara Schley on Living with Bipolar Disorder

    Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.
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    Devin: What is your superpower?
    Sara: I tend to just bless the heck out of people because it's genuine that I love them.

    For today’s episode, I had the privilege of speaking with Sara Schley, a passionate author and filmmaker, about her compelling journey living with bipolar disorder. Sara deeply explores this topic in her upcoming documentary, BrainStorm the Film. Sara's story is not only inspiring but also a powerful beacon for change in the mental health landscape.
    Sara explained how her personal struggles and the challenges she faced in obtaining the correct diagnosis led to her mission to "crush the stigma and maximize healing" for those living with bipolar disorder and their loved ones. Her film, BrainStorm, inspired by her own life experiences, aims to save lives by fostering a deeper understanding of bipolar disorder, which is often shrouded in misconception and stigma.
    The key idea here is the profound impact that accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment can have on individuals with bipolar disorder. Sara shared, "It took me 25 years and five psychiatrists to finally get the diagnosis that saved my life." This statement highlights the critical need for improved awareness and knowledge among both the public and healthcare professionals about the bipolar spectrum, which includes conditions that do not necessarily present with extreme mania.
    Further, Sara illuminated how the film weaves together powerful stories from individuals like herself and cutting-edge science to portray the reality of living with bipolar disorder. This integration of personal narratives with scientific insights serves as a testament to the resilience and potential for recovery that can arise with correct diagnosis and treatment.
    Living with bipolar disorder, as Sara poignantly described, can be a harrowing experience, especially when misdiagnosed. Her own journey of highs and lows, marked by periods of severe depression and cognitive dysfunction, underscores the necessity of destigmatizing mental health issues and promoting accurate medical responses.
    Through BrainStorm, Sara aims to bring visibility to the experiences of those living with bipolar disorder, encouraging a more empathetic and informed approach to mental health that transcends mere labels. Her work not only aims to educate but also to empower individuals and their families to seek help and advocate for proper care.
    As we wrapped up this episode, Sara's message was clear: understanding and treating bipolar disorder can dramatically change lives, turning despair into hope and dysfunction into stability. Her dedication to this cause is a vivid reminder of the power of resilience and the importance of compassion in the face of mental health challenges.
    AI Episode Summary
    1. Introduction of Sara Schley: The show features Sara Schley, an author and filmmaker with a focus on helping others understand bipolar disorder, aiming to correct misconceptions.
    2. Sara's Upcoming Film: Sara discusses her documentary Brainstorm the Film, inspired by her life story with bipolar disorder. The film highlights the journeys and challenges toward diagnosis and acknowledgment of the condition.
    3. Distinguished Guests in "Brainstorm": General Gregg Martin and Devika Bhushan, notable figures sharing their experiences with bipolar disorder, are mentioned as significant contributors to the film's narrative.
    4. Challenges Before Diagnosis: Sara shares personal hardships faced before proper diagnosis, describing her struggles with cognitive function, depression, and the overwhelming sense of fear.
    5. The Road to Proper Diagnosis: After years of misdiagnosis, Sara emphasizes the life-changing impact of receiving the correct diagnosis a

    • 25 min
    Revolutionizing Breastfeeding: A Game-Changer in Women’s Health

    Revolutionizing Breastfeeding: A Game-Changer in Women’s Health

    I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.
    Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.
    When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or invest after clicking a link here, we may earn a commission. Engage to support our work.
    Devin: What is your superpower?
    Sujay: The first one would have to be resilience. That's the biggest quality that I have. That sort of kept me going in this journey as an entrepreneur.

    In today's episode of "Superpowers for Good," I had the pleasure of speaking with Sujay Suresh Kumar, the co-founder and CEO of Lilu, Inc. Our conversation unveiled groundbreaking advancements in breastfeeding technology that are not just innovative but are reshaping the postpartum experience for mothers globally.
    Sujay participated in the Kinect Capital Live Pitch on Superpowers for Good in March, winning the Judges Choice Award. This resulted in a $500 crowdfunding investment from The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation.

    Sujay explained how conventional breast pumps have largely been unchanged for decades, often resulting in painful and inefficient milk extraction. "Moms have been experiencing issues with breast pumping. It's a painful process, making motherhood more miserable," Sujay shared. This revelation highlighted a significant gap in women's health technology—a gap that Lilu is determined to bridge.
    Under Sujay's leadership, Lilu has developed the Omni Breast Pump, which incorporates patented breast massage technology. This isn't just an incremental improvement; it's a leap forward. The massage feature mimics the natural actions of a baby, significantly enhancing milk yield by stimulating milk-producing glands. "What we're doing differently is using our proprietary massage technology to add that extra element of comfort and stimulation to the breast," he explained. This technology helps mothers produce up to 55% more milk, alleviating common issues like clogged ducts and mastitis.
    But Lilu's innovation doesn't stop at hardware. They are also pioneering a lactation tracking app,  the Milksense Tracker, which uses machine learning algorithms to provide actionable insights into a mother's lactation and well-being. This digital tool helps both mothers and healthcare providers by offering data-driven feedback and support, thereby improving both physical and mental health outcomes.
    Reflecting on the broader impact, Sujay remarked, "Helping moms understand their lactation and all the factors around this is going to be very important." This approach not only supports mothers in sustaining breastfeeding but also alleviates the economic burden associated with inadequate breastfeeding solutions.
    As I spoke with Sujay, his passion for making a tangible difference in the lives of mothers and their babies was palpable. It's clear that through innovation and empathy, Lilu is setting a new standard in women’s health, making the journey of motherhood a little easier and a lot more empowering.
    AI Episode Summary
    1. Devin Thorpe introduces the show and Sujay Kumar, CEO of Lilu, highlighting Kumar's win in the Kinect Capital live pitch with a $500 investment.
    2. Kumar expresses gratitude for being on the show and proceeds to discuss the Lilu massage bra, with Devin playing a video from Kumar's YouTube channel showcasing the product's benefits.
    3. Various testimonials in the video highlight the bra's effectiveness in preventing clogged ducts, its comfort, and its ability to significantly increase milk output, emphasizing the positive impact on mothers' experiences.
    4. Kumar describes Lilu as a women's health company focused on creating tech-enabled products for more comfortable and efficient postpartum care, detailing their key products: the Omni Breast Pump and the Milksense lactation tracking app.
    5. He explains the exist

    • 25 min
    Business for Good: How Storyteller Café Combats Human Trafficking

    Business for Good: How Storyteller Café Combats Human Trafficking

    I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.
    Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.
    When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or invest after clicking a link here, we may earn a commission. Engage to support our work.
    Devin: What is your superpower? 
    Steph: I think it's so important that we see the value in people, that we see people. I think that something that's been developed in me, is to see people and to honor them and to see their humanity.

    In today's episode of Superpowers for Good, I had the privilege of speaking with Steph Page, the Executive Director and Co-Founder of Stories Foundation. Steph's pioneering approach to addressing human trafficking through business caught my attention, and I believe it will inspire you too.
    Steph introduced us to an extraordinary project — the Storyteller Café. This isn't just any café; it's a beacon of hope in the fight against human trafficking. "We believe in using business for good," Steph explained. The café serves as a community hub where every purchase helps combat this grave issue. From locally sourced coffee to boutique items crafted by local artisans, each transaction supports the cause.
    What sets Storyteller Café apart is its dual purpose. Not only does it raise awareness about human trafficking, but it also provides tangible support to survivors. The establishment offers job training, employment opportunities, and even housing in the form of apartments above the café. This holistic support system is crucial for survivors embarking on their new lives.
    The idea of integrating business with social impact resonates deeply with me. As Steph highlighted, this approach allows everyone to participate in the solution, moving beyond traditional donations. It's about creating sustainable change through everyday actions.
    As we wrapped up our conversation, I was moved by the potential of such innovative models to make a real difference. The Storyteller Café is more than a place for coffee; it's part of a larger narrative of empowerment and recovery for those who have endured unimaginable hardships.
    Join me in applauding Steph and the Stories Foundation for their visionary work. Their approach not only changes lives but also redefines how we can use our businesses to support and uplift our communities.
    AI Episode Summary
    1. The show introduces Stephanie Page, a social entrepreneur and nonprofit leader working on anti-human trafficking efforts.
    2. Stephanie discusses the Stories Foundation's effort to build the Storyteller Café, which aims to raise awareness about human trafficking, support survivors, and engage the community through the sale of food, coffee, and boutique items.
    3. The café will also serve as a supportive space for survivors, offering jobs, job training, and housing through three apartments located above the café.
    4. The project aims to create a community space that can also function as a large event space for raising awareness about human trafficking.
    5. Stephanie emphasizes that human trafficking often involves exploitation through seemingly trustworthy relationships rather than abduction, targeting vulnerable individuals based on their needs.
    6. The approach to aiding victims involves working with law enforcement and the judicial system, as well as providing rehabilitation and long-term support.
    7. The challenge of finding immediate safe housing for trafficking victims is highlighted, showing the complexity and urgency of responding to survivors' needs.
    8. A successful story is shared about an insurance agent who recognized signs of trafficking in a client and helped her escape her trafficker, emphasizing the importance of community awareness and intervention.
    9. Stephanie reflects on her superpower: seeing and valuing the humanity in others, and the impa

    • 22 min
    Embracing Our Shared Humanity Through "Stranger's Guide"

    Embracing Our Shared Humanity Through "Stranger's Guide"

    I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.
    Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.
    When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or invest after clicking a link here, we may earn a commission. Engage to support our work.
    Devin: What do you see as your superpower?
    Abby: Having spent the last almost 20 years in journalism wearing different hats, I feel like [it’s] bringing like an ecosystems approach, of trying to look at a community–whether that community is a local community or a professional community–and trying to figure out what are the roles each of us can play?

    In today's episode of the Superpowers for Good show, I had the pleasure of speaking with Abby Rapoport, the cofounder and publisher of Stranger's Guide. Abby's vision for the publication stems from a simple yet profound idea: to make the world feel smaller and more interconnected by focusing on the unique, yet universal aspects of different locales.
    Abby shared, "We started Stranger's Guide to create a publication that was rooted in the idea of place and exploring how different places feel to those people who are living there." She continued, "What does it mean for the individual who's going to work, taking their kids to school, making dinner? We aim to dig into what all of those big global themes mean for daily life."
    The essence of Stranger's Guide lies in its commitment to telling the stories of a place through the eyes of those who know it best—the local writers and photographers. Each issue is a deep dive into a single location, crafted by at least 80% of contributors from that area. This approach ensures that the narrative remains authentic and grounded in the community's lived experiences.
    Stranger's Guide isn't just about the exotic or the familiar; it's about bridging the gap between them. It offers readers a multifaceted portrait of a place, mixing human rights, history, sports, and culture to enrich our understanding of the world. It's about seeing the big picture and the tiny, essential details through a lens that respects and values every culture's unique contributions and challenges.
    By reading Stranger's Guide, we don't just learn about different parts of the world; we connect with them on a human level. It's a reminder that despite our differences, we share common threads—family, work, joy, struggle. This connection fosters empathy and, ultimately, a more compassionate worldview.
    In essence, Abby's work with Stranger's Guide serves as a powerful reminder of journalism's role in society—not just to inform but to connect us. By focusing on the universal yet unique experiences of communities around the globe, Abby and her team invite us to celebrate our shared humanity. This, indeed, is journalism as a form of superpower, the kind that nurtures understanding and respect across borders.
    AI Episode Summary
    1. Devin introduces Abby Rapoport, the co-founder and publisher of the Stranger's Guide, highlighting her role in creating impactful journalism.
    2. Abby explains the origin of the Stranger's Guide, which was inspired by the divisive political climate of 2016 and the desire to explore sustainable models for journalism.
    3. The publication focuses on storytelling from the perspective of locals, covering a broad range of topics from human rights to food, emphasizing the importance of understanding different cultures.
    4. Abby shares how the Stranger's Guide has published issues themed around various locations worldwide, aiming to provide a multifaceted portrait of each place.
    5. The conversation shifts towards challenging the notions of "good" and "bad" countries, highlighting the complexity of global affairs and the value of understanding individual perspectives within countries.
    6. They discuss the rise of authoritarianism globally and the role

    • 25 min
    Empowering Artisans and Preserving Heritage Crafts with Navroze Mehta

    Empowering Artisans and Preserving Heritage Crafts with Navroze Mehta

    I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.
    Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.
    When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or invest after clicking a link here, we may earn a commission. Engage to support our work.
    Devin: What is your superpower?
    Navroze: Whatever you do, you do it with complete passion, jumping in with both feet. I do that with everything I believe in.

    In today's episode of Superpowers for Good, I had the pleasure of speaking with Navroze Mehta, Founder and CEO of Mela Artisans, about a mission very close to his heart and crucial to many: the empowerment of artisanal communities in India. Navroze shared the inspiring origins and impactful journey of Mela Artisans, a venture he co-founded with his daughter after a striking revelation about the decline of artisanal communities in India.
    Navroze explained, "From the years 1980 to 2010, we had lost 30% of our artisanal base." This alarming statistic drove him and his daughter to action, leading to the creation of Mela Artisans. Their goal was clear: to empower artisans, enabling them to continue their craft and pass it on through generations. This not only preserves the rich heritage of Indian crafts like woodcarving and metalworking but also sustains these communities economically.
    "The most gratifying part of this," Navroze said, "is giving about 3,500 artisans full-time work every year." His company does more than just employ these artisans; it engages with them on a deeper level, providing infrastructure and support to help them thrive in their native settings without needing to relocate to urban centers.
    Mela Artisans stands out for its commitment to design excellence, which has led to their presence in high-end stores and mass-market retailers alike. Their products are a blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design, making heritage crafts accessible to a broader audience. "We want it not to be in a luxury bubble," he emphasized. "We want everyone to be able to afford these products."
    Navroze's approach to business is not just about preserving old techniques; it's about revitalizing them, ensuring they remain relevant and appreciated in a modern context. This philosophy underpins every beautiful piece that comes from Mela Artisans, turning traditional crafts into objects of desire for the contemporary home while supporting the artisans who make them.
    Join us in celebrating the artistry and entrepreneurial spirit that Navroze Mehta brings to the world of heritage crafts. His work not only beautifies homes but also enriches lives, making a tangible difference in the artisan communities of India.
    AI Episode Summary
    1. Devin Thorpe, the host of the Superpowers for Good show, introduces the episode and his guest, Navroze Mehta of Mela Artisans, a company supporting artisans primarily in India.
    2. Navroze Mehta details the founding of Mela Artisans by his daughter, Sonali Matharu, as a response to the decline of the artisanal community in India, aiming to preserve heritage crafts and empower artisans.
    3. The company’s mission is to provide sustainable employment to artisanal communities and sell their handcrafted products in high-end stores and department stores across the U.S., making luxury products affordable and accessible.
    4. Navroze showcases various handcrafted items from Mela Artisans' product line, including a wooden bowl, a tray made of sustainable mango wood, jewelry boxes with bone or resin inlay, a candleholder combining multiple materials, and intricate marble and metalwork pieces.
    5. The discussion includes the expansion of Mela Artisans beyond India to source from artisans in Vietnam and Bali, Indonesia, increasing the variety of handcrafted products offered.
    6. Navroze explains the pricing of their products, emphasizing the go

    • 25 min
    Transforming Water Access: Pulling Water from Air

    Transforming Water Access: Pulling Water from Air

    I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.
    Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.
    When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or invest after clicking a link here, we may earn a commission. Engage to support our work.
    Devin: What is your superpower?
    Cody: A lot of it comes down to just a high level of commitment to my ambitions and goals.

    In today's episode of Superpowers for Good, I had the pleasure of speaking with Cody Soodeen, the visionary CEO & Founder of Kara Water Inc. Cody introduced us to a groundbreaking technology capable of extracting drinking water directly from the atmosphere—even in arid environments. His approach is not just revolutionary; it's a beacon of hope for sustainable water consumption globally.
    Cody shared, "We take the air and make it into what I call locally sourced drinking water." This statement underscores the essence of Kara Water's mission—to innovate for accessibility and sustainability. The technology, according to Cody, is applicable even in desert climates, a testament to its versatility and potential to change lives.
    The implications of this technology extend beyond mere convenience. As Cody explained, "It's not just about producing water; it's about reshaping how we think about water consumption." He emphasized that traditional methods, such as bottling and extensive transportation, are not only inefficient but environmentally detrimental. Cody’s solution offers a localized, eco-friendly alternative that could significantly reduce our ecological footprint.
    One aspect that struck me about Cody's narrative was his background as an architect. He believes that his architectural insights have led to a consumer-friendly product design, distinguishing Kara Water from previous attempts by engineers focused solely on technical aspects. "Engineers think in squares, and architects think in circles," Cody noted, highlighting the importance of design in technology adoption.
    Our discussion ventured into the broader social impacts of such technology. Cody passionately pointed out the alarming prevalence of microplastics in our environment and how technologies like his can play a crucial role in preventing these contaminants from entering our bodies from the start.
    In a world increasingly aware of sustainability and health, the innovations presented by Cody through Kara Water Inc. are not just necessary; they are imperative. As we wrapped up the conversation, it was clear that he is not only a CEO but a pioneer advocating for a world where clean and sustainable water is not a luxury but a given. Today's episode wasn't just enlightening—it was a glimpse into a future where technology meets humanitarian needs head-on.
    In our conversation today, Cody highlighted an exciting opportunity for listeners to engage with Kara Water beyond consumer interaction—through their regulated investment crowdfunding campaign on StartEngine. 
    He expressed his enthusiasm about giving both loyal customers and new supporters a chance to own a part of the company. This initiative not only aims to extend the reach of their innovative water technology but also strengthens community involvement in their mission to make locally sourced drinking water accessible globally. 
    The campaign has already seen significant interest, reflecting confidence in Kara Water's potential and its impact on the future of sustainable water consumption. Cody invites everyone to visit startengine.com/offering/karawater to learn more about the offering and consider becoming a shareholder in a company poised to revolutionize how we access drinking water.
    AI Episode Summary
    1. Devin Thorpe introduces Cody Soodeen, CEO and co-founder of Kara Water, on the "Superpowers for Good" show for a discussion about the company's innovative technology tha

    • 25 min

Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5
23 Ratings

23 Ratings

obacker19 ,

Inspiring and energizing!!

This show is incredible and the breadth of topics covered with thoughtful, intelligent and passionate guests is truly remarkable. If you are at all interested in the forces tackling the world’s most pressing challenges today and the leaders championing the social impact movement, then this is a must-listen-to show. Thank you for bringing this podcast (and the entire Your Mark on the World Center), Devin!

Brooke Craven ,

Awesome Podcast!!

Devin, host of the Your Mark on the World podcast, highlights all aspects of business, entrepreneurship and more in this can’t miss podcast! The host and expert guests offer insightful advice and information that is helpful to anyone that listens!

KirstenFox ,

We all need good news...

Devin Thorpe delivers. Great to hear real stories about ways people are making their businesses and the world a better place. Inspiring and interesting!

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