The Selling Circular Podcast

Do Circular Economy Deals Die at Big Companies?

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 01:19:18 GMT

Gary Lewis is the co-founder and CEO of Resourcify, Europe's leading digital waste-management and circularity platform, which he founded in Hamburg in 2015 after a stint in the cruise-ship industry exposed him to the scale of the waste problem. A Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, he's focused on making recycling and recovery economically obvious for large enterprises. He told listeners the best way to reach him is LinkedIn — and noted Resourcify is hiring (product and sales, including a future US Country Manager role).

Is Your Recycling Failing & What To Do About It

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Meredith Danberg-Ficarelli and Laura Rosenshine, co-founders of WATS, join Garr and co-host Sabira to make the case that commercial waste is the last unmetered utility — and what happens when you finally turn the lights on in the back of the house. The conversation moves from the broken trust between tenants and janitorial teams, to why diversion rate may be the wrong scoreboard, to the looming wave of packaging regulation. It's a practitioner's-eye view of an industry that hasn't fundamentally changed in decades and is now being forced to. If you manage waste for a building, a portfolio, or a brand, this one reframes the whole problem.

How Waste Workers in India Are Getting Mortgages Through Plastic Credits & EPR Compliance

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 05 May 2026 12:30:00 GMT

Svanika Balasubramanian, Co-Founder and CEO of rePurpose Global, joins Garr and Sabira for a deep dive into the economics of plastic credits, the real-world impact of EPR legislation hitting U.S. companies, and how rePurpose evolved from a plastic credit pioneer into a three-vertical platform covering software compliance, downstream supply chain operations, and PCR feedstock. The conversation gets personal when Svanika shares what gives her hope: women in Kerala, India, gaining formal employment, bank accounts, and eventually mortgages through rePurpose's waste collection programs.

Circular Economy's Best Pitch Isn't Sustainability

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Garry Cooper, neuroscientist-turned-CEO of Rheaply, joins Garr Punnett for an conversation about where the circular economy actually stands in 2026. They dig into why "sustainability" as a pitch is losing ground, why inflation and EPR compliance might finally be the acute pain the sector needs, and the brutal operational reality of selling circular solutions to budget-constrained middle managers. It's a candid conversation between two operators who've been doing this long enough to tell the difference between the narrative and the spreadsheet.

The Resale Brick-and-Mortar Market Is Underserved & How Domain Expertise Will Beat The SaaSpocalypse

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Nic Esposito returns to Selling Circular for a candid follow-up conversation about what happened after he paused Unless Kids — his direct-to-consumer toy resale brand — to focus entirely on Circa OS, the inventory and operations platform his team was building underneath it. We talk about why he made the call, what it's like selling B2B after running D2C, why 25,000 independent resale shops in the US are underserved by current retail tech, and what founders get wrong about pivots, customer feedback, and the "SaaSpocalypse." This one is for founders, resale operators, and anyone watching circular retail infrastructure evolve in real time.

The 85% Emissions Cut That Wine Brands Keep Ignoring

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 15:39:43 GMT

Adam Rack, co-founder of Revino, joins Garr to break down what it actually takes to build reusable glass bottle infrastructure in the United States — from negotiating with glass manufacturers and adhesive chemists to navigating regional bottle weight politics and deposit return carve-outs. This is a ground-level look at the supply chain plumbing behind one of the most promising circular economy models in the U.S. beverage industry.

Is Venture Capital Failing Climate Tech Founders

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Jamil Wyne, climate tech investor, educator, and lead author of Oxford's Climate Tech Opportunity report, joins Garr to unpack why the venture capital playbook is failing many climate companies, why adaptation and resilience are still dangerously underfunded, and where hope actually lives in 2026.

Disrupting the $215 Billion Wood Market: Insights from Cambium's CEO

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Mon, 06 Jan 2025 10:00:00 GMT

In this conversation, Garr, Ben, and Sabira discuss the innovative work being done by Cambium in the realm of circular economy and wood supply chains.

Ben Christensen shares insights into how Cambium is addressing the massive waste problem in the wood industry by creating regenerative supply chains that utilize wasted materials. The discussion also touches on the complexities of managing a multi-faceted supply chain, the importance of customer focus, and the potential for significant impact in the wood industry through better transparency and brand value.

In this conversation, Ben Christensen discusses the innovative approaches Cambium is taking in the wood industry, focusing on just-in-time manufacturing, building trust through case studies, and scaling supply chains. He emphasizes the importance of regional markets, the future demand for wood, and the carbon benefits of using salvaged materials. The discussion also covers the challenges of navigating city approvals, the role of mass timber in urban planning, and the need for digitization in the wood buying process. Christensen expresses optimism about the circular economy and the potential for innovation in this space, while acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead.

5,000 Fires a Year: How AI is Fighting A Safety Crisis in Recycling

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Mon, 09 Jun 2025 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani engage with Lia Kiam from Visia to discuss the innovative approaches using AI for the circular economy, particularly in recycling. They explore the challenges faced by recycling operators, including safety concerns related to hazardous materials like lithium-ion batteries, and the role of technology in enhancing operational efficiency. The conversation delves into the complexities of the recycling industry, including pricing strategies, generational shifts in business practices, and the importance of data transparency. Lia shares insights on the future of the circular economy and the need for collaboration among stakeholders to drive meaningful change.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Setup

04:07 The Importance of Safety in Recycling

06:50 Understanding the Circular Economy

09:53 Vizia's Innovative Solutions

12:49 Pricing Strategies and Market Dynamics

15:52 Transitioning from Finance to Recycling

18:52 Current Trends and Challenges in Recycling

22:16 Market Variability and Geopolitical Impacts

23:02 The Importance of Battery Recycling

25:14 Technological Limitations in Material Detection

26:38 AI and Automation in Recycling

28:11 Generational Shifts in Recycling Technology Adoption

31:02 Interoperability in Recycling Facilities

32:59 Feedback Loops in the Recycling Supply Chain

35:35 The Need for Data in the Circular Economy

39:05 Regulatory Challenges and Opportunities

42:29 Hope for the Future of the Circular Economy

45:45 Selling Circular Open (Presentation) (1).mp4

Design & Decentralized Recycling: The Future of Local Manufacturing

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 16:52:01 GMT

Join Garr Punnett, Sabira Lakhani, and Joseph Klatt in this insightful episode exploring the intersection of sustainability, design, and entrepreneurship.

Joseph Klatt, founder of Marble Plastics, shares his journey from leading global initiatives with Precious Plastic to creating innovative recycled plastic materials for furniture and building applications.

Discover how Marble Plastics transforms polystyrene waste into functional and aesthetically striking products, such as countertops and custom furniture, while tackling the challenges of recycling infrastructure and market education.The conversation delves into the creative process behind Marble Plastics' signature designs, like the playful "Gelato" pattern made from recycled bread tags, and collaborations with KidSuper and PACT Collective. Joseph also discusses the decentralized manufacturing model inspired by his international experience, emphasizing hyper-local solutions to address plastic waste.

Whether you're an architect, designer, or sustainability enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights into how recycled materials can reshape industries and consumer perspectives.

Overconsumption, Political Pressure & Product As A Service Models w/ Elin Bergman

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 16:12:18 GMT

Sabira & Garr interview Elin Bergman - COO and Vice Chairman of Cradlenet. Elin candidly speaks about the differences / similarities between the Nordic & US cultures, the impact they have on designing policies for circular economy success and what it means to be a part of a mindset shift in capitalism. Later in the episode, Elin introduces us to Cradlenet's Product-as-a-Service Report, a researches set of recommendations, nine critical challenges and how to fix them for circular product success. You can find the free report here: https://www.cradlenet.se/rapport-product-as-a-serviceMore about Cradlenet: Cradlenet's vision is that Sweden has a circular economy in place by 2035 at the latest, as a prerequisite for reaching the national climate goal for 2045. Cradlenet was founded in 2009 by people inspired by the book "Cradle to Cradle - Remaking the way me make things" by William McDonough and Michael Braungart. The network was then about spreading the ground-breaking message in the book - that we should change to a circular cycle society instead of the current wear-and-throw society.Today, Cradlenet is one of the world's oldest circular economy networks that helps companies and organizations with the transition to a circular economy. We do this by supporting our members with, among other things, weekly themed meetings, advice, new knowledge, monitoring the world around us, studies, training, opinion and networking locally, nationally and at the Nordic level.Cradlenet organizes open and free national seminars on the latest in circular economy. Information dissemination also takes place on our social media, in the media, on the website and through Cradlenet's newsletter. Cradlenet also works with political influence to speed up the transition and support the politicians in their work with circular economy.Cradlenet is a non-profit organization based in Stockholm. Our work is run by the office, the operational board and by our local networks in North, South and West.

Fighting for the Himalayas: The True Cost Mountain Tourism Trash

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 06:00:00 GMT

With Garr out for the Thanksgiving Holiday, Sabira reconnects with former colleague Vishal, who leads Waste Warriors—a nonprofit tackling the overwhelming waste crisis in India's Himalayan region. From his journey working at Saahas Zero Waste to now managing 200 team members across remote mountain communities, Vishal shares what it truly means to build a career in waste management—and why it's so much more than a job.The conversation explores the unique challenges of collecting waste in villages without road access, where single-use plastics have arrived but reverse logistics haven't followed. Vishal reveals the cultural stigma that educated women on his team face for choosing this work, how recognition and awards eventually transformed their families' shame into pride, and why 60% of waste in the Himalayan states is simply burned or dumped in forests and glacial streams.

Dating is Hard, Finding a Tailor Shouldn't Be: The Future of AI in Fashion Repair

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Selling Circular, host Garr Punnett and guests Sabira Lakhani and Nancy Rhodes discuss the intersection of technology, sustainability, and fashion. They explore how Alternew, a B2B2C AI-enabled marketplace, connects brands, consumers, and tailors to reduce returns and enhance customer loyalty. The conversation delves into the challenges of fast fashion, the importance of tailoring, and the cultural shifts needed to embrace custom fit as a standard in the buying experience. Nancy shares insights from her extensive experience in the fashion industry and highlights the potential for technology to modernize the tailoring market and support sustainability efforts.

Closet to Closet: Unlocking The $400 Billion Opportunity In The Textile Economy

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 13:41:10 GMT

The Ellen Macarthur Foundation found that addressing environmental and social problems created by the fashion industry would provide a $192 billion overall benefit to the global economy by 2030 with the annual value of clothing discarded prematurely is more than $400 billion. In this episode of Selling Circular, Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani interview Marisa Adler about the complexities of textile recycling and the recent RRS report, "SORTING FOR CIRCULARITY USA: A COMMERCIAL ASSESSMENT OF FIBRE TO FIBRE RECYCLING IN THE U.S."They discuss personal journeys in sustainability, the challenges faced in waste management, and the importance of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in creating effective recovery systems. The conversation highlights the findings of the RRS report on textile waste, the role of technology in recycling, and the critical need for sorting processes to improve recovery rates.

Scaling Secondhand Shopping w/ Sarah Pinner (CEO & Co-Founder of Beni)

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 22:28:56 GMT

Beni is an aggregator that makes shopping secondhand easy and accessible. The team focuses on providing a seamless shopping experience and aims to make buying secondhand as convenient as buying new. They believe that resale should be a fundamental part of the market and are working towards a future where people view their purchases as assets. Beni's revenue model is primarily affiliate-based, and they have raised $5 million in funding. The team has faced challenges in data ingestion and AI search but has overcome them to provide relevant results to users. They are also focused on educating users and growing the market for secondhand shopping. In this conversation, Sarah discusses her journey as an entrepreneur in the circular economy and provides advice for those interested in starting a circular-oriented business. She emphasizes the importance of taking risks while also mitigating them and trusting one's gut instincts. Sarah also highlights the need to focus on answering the most critical questions about the business model and product, as well as the riskiest assumptions underlying them. Additionally, Sarah shares her hope for the future of the circular economy, emphasizing the abundance of opportunities for creativity and addressing psychological needs in a sustainable way.

How To Scale Equitable Climate Solutions - John Holm (Pyxera Global)

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 20:10:17 GMT

Sabira and Garr are joined by John Holm of Pyxera Global a global leader in advancing social, environmental and economically equitable solutions. On this episode, we discuss how to design solutions with communities, how to replicate success across communities and how to empower communities to own solutions. John is the vice president of Strategic Initiatives at Pyxera Global, where he spearheads the organization’s inclusive circular economy strategy, designing and executing inclusive circular city, material reverse logistics hubs, corporate advisory services, and zero (plastic) waste community programming. He’s responsible for the organization’s circular-economy thought leadership content and is a frequent speaker on the circular-economy conference circuit. In his current role, John also serves as an ambassador for the Ocean Plastic Leadership Network.#circulareconomy #climatechange #climate #socialgood #environment

A Backbone To Apparel Resale: The Future Of Liquid CO2 Re-commerce with Tersus

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 12:47:12 GMT

In this conversation, Garr Punnett and Peter discuss Peter's career journey from finance to the circular economy, highlighting his experiences at REI and Trove. They explore the challenges and opportunities in building sustainable business models, the importance of circularity in retail, and the innovative technologies being developed at Tersys to support these efforts. In this conversation, Peter discusses the unique positioning of his company in the B2B landscape, emphasizing their role as a solution provider for premium brands. He elaborates on the importance of balancing brand recognition with behind-the-scenes service, the competitive investment landscape, and the shift from venture capital to sustainable growth models. The discussion also touches on the future of the circular economy and the hope for a more sustainable industry.

Why Your Retirement Fund Might Be Destroying Your Future

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 12:01:14 GMT

Matt Orsagh spent 17 years inside the CFA Institute, working at the intersection of corporate governance, ESG, and sustainability until he realized the system he was trying to fix from within was fundamentally designed to produce the outcomes he was fighting against.

In this conversation, Matt and Garr dig into why GDP is a terrible measure of success, why degrowth isn't a political position but a response to physics, how planetary boundaries are already collapsing, and what a post-growth financial system might actually look like. The conversation gets personal, philosophical, and surprisingly hopeful.

Books Referenced

The Dawn of Everything: A New History of Humanity — David Graeber and David Wengrow (2021). Matt referenced this as a "huge doorstop of a book" written by an anthropologist and archaeologist. It examines how diverse civilizations throughout history organized themselves in ways that challenge the capitalism-vs-socialism binary. Published by Farrar, Straus and Giroux.The

Limits to Growth — Donella H. Meadows, Dennis L. Meadows, Jørgen Randers, and William W. Behrens III (1972). Commissioned by the Club of Rome, this MIT study modeled the consequences of exponential growth on a finite planet and predicted systems breakdown between 2020–2050.

If You Can't Fix It, You Don't Own It: Capitalism & Repair w/ Liz Chamberlain

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Sabira and Garr explore the concept of the right to repair, the decline of repair shops and the impact of capitalism on repairability. The conversation also touches on the origins of the right to repair movement and the surprising role of IBM in shaping repair practices. Our conversation concludes with a discussion on the repair manifesto and the community of repair advocates that leads right into our guest Liz Chamberlain. iFixit is a company that aims to teach the world how to fix everything. They provide free repair manuals, sell parts and tools for electronic devices, and have a vibrant community of repair enthusiasts. The culture at iFixit is centered around the idea of repair as a way to fight against entropy and connect people and things. They work with manufacturers to promote design for repairability and advocate for right to repair legislation. The organization also developed a repairability score system to assess how easy it is to fix different products. Liz Chamberlain, the Director of Sustainability at iFixit, shared her career journey and emphasized the importance of volunteering and building connections in pursuing a career in the circular economy and sustainability. She shares her journey from being an English professor to working at iFixit and highlights the company's commitment to clear and accessible repair instructions. Liz also talks about the role of iFixit in advocating for right to repair legislation and the challenges they face from manufacturers. She envisions a future where repair is embraced by manufacturers and consumers, leading to more sustainable and long-lasting products.

Revolutionizing Kids' Toys with Circular Design: The Beginning of Hara the Hippo

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Sun, 30 Mar 2025 09:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Sabira & Garr discuss the upcoming Circularity 2025 event and engage in a deep conversation with Teresa Giovannoli, founder of Little Squiggle, about her journey in creating a circular toy company.

They explore the challenges of communicating circularity, the importance of design in sustainability, financial projections for circular products, and the need for consumer engagement. Teresa shares her vision for the future of circular toys and the significance of building a strong team culture to support her mission.

Introduction To Automotive Remanufacturing w/ Theo Lamperis (CE Analyst at BBB Industries)

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 06:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Garr and Sabira discuss the rise of automotive remanufacturing and how companies like Stellantis and BMW are embracing circularity in their designs. They explore the concept of building circular ecosystems and the potential for shared and networked use of circular cars. They also discuss the considerations for material makeup and reusability in circular car designs. Later in the episode, Theo Lamperis, Circular Analyst from BBB Industries, discusses the process and benefits of remanufacturing in various industries. Theo explains the core charge system and how it supports the circular economy. Theo also highlights the challenges and hesitations in remanufacturing, as well as the potential for growth in new industries. He emphasizes the importance of sustainable manufacturing and the role of BBB Industries in providing high-quality remanufactured products. Overall, Theo is hopeful about the future of remanufacturing and the increasing adoption of circular economy practices.

Fungi For The Future Of Recycling w/ Joanne Rodriguez (CEO of Mycocycle)

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 05 Mar 2024 06:30:54 GMT

Garr & Sabira continue to introduce new topics to one another, delving into the topic of ISO (International Organization for Standardization) and its importance in setting global standards. They explain the history and purpose of ISO, including its role in defining measurements and discuss the ongoing voting process for defining circular economy standards within the ISO.

As a part of the interview segment, Garr and Sabira are joined by Joanne Rodriguez, Founder & CEO of Mycocycle. The three discuss the use of mushrooms and mycelium to decarbonize industrial waste streams and create renewable bio-based materials. Joanne continues to explain the process of training mushrooms and mycelium to consume waste materials and develop new materials. Joanne shares the challenges and opportunities in the circular economy, including market development and investment.

Bold Reuse’s Stadium Revolution: How Brands & Sports Teams Are Ditching Single-Use

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 10:00:00 GMT

Join us for an exclusive conversation with Jocelyn Quarrell, Co-Founder of Bold Reuse, as she unveils how her company is transforming the $200B food service industry—one reusable cup at a time. Discover how Bold Reuse pivoted from B2C to B2B, partnered with giants like Pepsi, Dr. Pepper, and Starbucks, and convinced NFL stadiums to adopt closed-loop systems that save $10,000+ annually. Learn the gritty logistics of sanitizing millions of cups, the secret to their 95% return rates, and their audacious plan to launch 30+ hubs nationwide. Whether you’re a sustainability skeptic or a circular economy devotee, this episode will change how you see waste—and the bold solutions rewriting its future.

Bold Reuse Website: https://www.boldreuse.com

Moda Center Case Study: How the Trail Blazers Eliminated 500K Single-Use Cups

Keurig Dr. Pepper Partnership: Behind the Bears Stadium Reusable Cup Initiative

Follow Bold Reuse: LinkedIn | InstagramMentioned

Organizations: Levy Restaurants | Aramark | Eco-Products

Establishing Trust Through Design & Platform Experience w/ Lance Amato (Head of CX at Canoa)

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 02:12:22 GMT

This week we explore the process of selling circular solutions and the challenges faced in the industry. We discuss in the frame of Canoa's platform and applications, which provide a resource for the architectural, engineering, and construction community to find sustainable products and secondhand furnishings. The discussion highlights the importance of meeting users where they're at and making the shopping and design experience familiar and easy to use. Trust is established through clear terms and policies for sellers and buyers of used and refurbished products. The conversation also touches on the collaboration and exchange that occurs within the circular economy.

Endineering the Circle: Why Circularity Fails Without Product Farewells

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 09:00:00 GMT

In this conversation, Joe Macleod discusses the importance of consumer off-boarding experiences and the emotional connections we have with products. He explores the historical context of consumption, the emotional grip of consumerism, and the responsibilities of both consumers and providers at the end of a product's life cycle. The discussion also touches on the role of brand equity, the future of consumer relationships, and the impact of AI on consumption. Macleod emphasizes the need for brands to create meaningful endings for their products and to bridge the gap between marketing and sustainability efforts.

Tool Libraries & Climate Change: A New Vision for Community Resilience

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 10:00:00 GMT

Tessa from the Chicago Tool Library shares how this grassroots organization empowers communities through tool-sharing, fosters resilience, and redefines sustainability. Learn how they’ve grown from a small space to a 7,000 sq/ft hub offering everything from camping gear to disaster-response tools, while tackling climate challenges and building connections. Discover their innovative pay-what-you-can model, DIY repair fairs, and vision for tool libraries as community resilience hubs

Preparing For The $630 Billion EV Battery Tsunami

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Grayson Shor, an expert in circular economy and battery sustainability walks Sabira and Garr through the importance of batteries in the green energy transition, the challenges of battery recycling, and the innovations in battery technology. Grayson shares insights on the role of policy, market trends, and the economic implications of transitioning to a circular economy. The conversation highlights the need for collaboration, transparency, and creative thinking to tackle the complexities of battery sustainability and the circular economy.

From eBay to Eco-Hero: The Birth of EcoShip with Aleksandra Plewa

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Mon, 20 Jan 2025 10:00:00 GMT

In this conversation, Aleksandra Plewa shares the inspiring journey of EcoShip, a non-profit organization focused on reusing packaging materials to support small businesses and reduce waste. The discussion covers the origins of EcoShip, its evolution from a simple idea to a structured non-profit, and the challenges faced in the recycling landscape.

Aleksandra emphasizes the importance of community engagement, collaboration with local businesses, and the need for innovative solutions to address the recycling crisis. The conversation concludes with a hopeful vision for a future where waste is minimized and sustainability is prioritized.

Landfills Don't Build Communities: Deconstruction with Stephanie Phillips

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 10:00:00 GMT

In this conversation, Stephanie Phillips discusses her work in the City of San Antonio's Office of Historic Preservation and its intersection with the circular economy. She explains the importance of deconstruction in preserving cultural heritage and reducing waste, and how her office engages with the community to promote these initiatives.

The conversation also covers the challenges of navigating political landscapes, the establishment of the Material Innovation Center, and the significance of education and collaboration in advancing circular economy practices. Phillips shares insights on the deconstruction ordinance in San Antonio, its impact on the community, and her vision for a future where waste is viewed as a resource.

Repurpose Gambler's Guide To An Empire Built on Corporate Waste

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 06:00:00 GMT

What if the key to a multi-million dollar business was hidden in corporate America's trash bins? Meet Damon Carson, CEO of Repurposed Materials Inc., who built a nationwide empire by betting on industrial waste that others pay to destroy.

In this revealing conversation, discover why major corporations choose landfills over reuse, learn the surprising economics behind the "fast nickel or slow dime" approach to waste management, and explore how one entrepreneur's "Reese's moment" transformed into six warehouses full of materials waiting for their second life.

Damon pulls back the curtain on the dirty secrets of corporate sustainability, challenges our assumptions about recycling versus reuse, and shares why he considers himself a "curator" in the high-stakes game of industrial repurposing.

Whether you're an entrepreneur seeking untapped markets, a sustainability advocate wanting to understand the real economics of waste, or simply curious about the hidden world of industrial materials, this episode will fundamentally change how you see the potential in everything destined for the dumpster.

Rethinking Ownership: Creating a Platform for Occasional-Use Items

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 06:00:00 GMT

In this insightful episode, we sit down with François Servon, founder of Green Gooding, an innovative appliance rental service in Brooklyn, NY. François shares his journey from humanitarian work in Africa to launching a circular economy startup in the US. Highlights include: How observing waste management differences between Africa and the US inspired Green Gooding's concept The unique business model of partnering with local shops as pickup/dropoff points Challenges and successes in building trust with early adopters Insights on choosing the right appliances to rent, balancing cost, quality, and consumer demand The importance of automation and technology in scaling the business Strategies for changing consumer habits and promoting a "usage over ownership" mindset Plans for expanding services, including a weekend delivery option François discusses the potential for partnerships with manufacturers, the role of data in improving product reliability, and his vision for Green Gooding as a platform for occasional-use items. This conversation offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in building a sustainable, circular economy business.

Remanufacturing & The World Of Office Furniture w/ Andy Delisi, VP of Envirotech Office Systems

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 18:39:14 GMT

Pulling no punches, Andy helps break down the world of office furniture remanufacturing. From procurement, design, sourcing and placing - it is never easy to create sustainable change but it involves working with supportive clients and dedicated team members to pull it off.

Robotics, AI & The Lumber Reuse Economy w/ Eric Law (CEO & Co-Founder of Urban Machine)

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 05:00:00 GMT

On this episode, Sabira & Garr discuss the complexities of creating a circular business model while competing against linear, status quo operations.

Eric Law walks Sabira & Garr through the lumber reuse market, the surprisingly world of wood fasteners and the role of humans in a circular future.

Swaying the System: How Seaweed is Supplanting Plastic Packaging

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 09:30:00 GMT

In this conversation, Julia discusses the potential of seaweed as a sustainable alternative to plastic, sharing her personal journey and the importance of designing for a circular economy. The discussion covers the challenges of adopting seaweed solutions, the packaging ecosystem, and the role of advocacy in raising consumer awareness. Julia also highlights the regulatory landscape surrounding biodegradability, the economic potential of seaweed farming, and the importance of consumer actions in promoting sustainable packaging. The conversation concludes with insights into Sway's upcoming products and the future of sustainable materials.

Unlocking Circularity: Insights From GreenBiz's VP Jon Smieja

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 02 Apr 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Sabira Lakhani and Garr Punnett start out the podcast with the existential nature of founding not just a solution based company but also a circular company with the challenges and opportunities it presents. They explore the growth model of Amazon as an example of a successful business model and discuss the importance of understanding the current linear economy and finding clues in broken models. They also delve into the different versions of circular economy, including Circular Economy 1.0 and Circular Economy 2.0, and the business models associated with each. In the interview segment, Jon Smieja explores the challenges and progress in the circular economy space. Jon highlights the efforts made by Green Biz to create a welcoming community for new attendees and young professionals. The discussion also delves into the barriers faced in implementing circular economy practices and the need for support infrastructure. The slow adoption curve and the potential for growth in different industries, such as the built environment, consumer electronics. While we are currently designing solutions, the different levers of change in the transition to a circular economy need to factor in the value of collaboration, co-opetition, and the role of governments in driving circular economy initiatives. The conversation also highlights the importance of sharing ideas and results, the mix of attendees at the conference, and the role of AI in knowledge transfer. The chapters conclude with a discussion of what to expect at Circularity 24 and the hope found in the circular economy movement.

Crossover Bonus Episode! Cynthia Power & Laura Novich of The Untangling Podcast

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 05:00:00 GMT

The conversation revolves around the experience of attending the Circularity 24 conference. We all discuss the importance of energetic presentations and engaging the audience. Circularity 24 was not our first rodeo! We all discuss the evolution topics, the inclusion of different industries, and the importance of community input. We all also suffered from conference FOMO and the challenge of choosing between multiple sessions and the frustration of missing out on valuable information. We shared thoughts on the importance of conferences to connect with other passionate professionals, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability, sharing knowledge, and working TOGETHER towards a more sustainable future.

The Reuse Reality Check: Building a Sustainable Packaging Company with Mike Newman

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Wed, 02 Oct 2024 07:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Selling Circular, Garr and Sabira interview Mike Newman, CEO of Returnity, discussing the challenges and opportunities in the reusable packaging industry. They explore the importance of understanding consumer behavior, the role of B2B solutions, and the impact of regulations on sustainability efforts. Mike shares insights from his journey in the industry, emphasizing the need for realistic expectations and the importance of building a foundation for progress in sustainability.

Open Data to £90 Million Tax Bills: How UK Packaging Laws Are Reshaping Business

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 05:01:00 GMT

Garr Punnett and Emily Rogers discuss the evolution of Reath, a company focused on the circular economy and open data standards. They explore the challenges and opportunities in the sustainability sector, including the importance of consumer behavior, the impact of legislation, and the need for collaboration among businesses. Emily shares insights from her entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the human element in business and the necessity of patience in the waste reduction space. The discussion also touches on the significance of adapting to changing regulations and the role of open data in driving industry standards.

Doors & The Blueprint For Circular Commercial Construction

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 09:00:00 GMT

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Andrew from Doors Unhinged as we explore the fascinating intersection of sustainability, innovation, and entrepreneurship in commercial construction. Discover how one company is challenging industry norms, reducing waste, and paving the way for a greener future—all while navigating the complexities of procurement, risk, and scalability. This episode is packed with insights that will leave you rethinking what’s possible in the world of building materials!

Farm To Furniture With Regenerative Design

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 13:11:37 GMT

In this conversation, the founders of Common Object Studio discuss their journey in sustainable design, focusing on their case study with Okaterra. They explore the challenges and triumphs of creating furniture that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally responsible. The discussion delves into the importance of materials, supply chains, and the need for transparency in sustainability. They emphasize the beauty of variation in design and the significance of community and collaboration in driving change within the industry.

Circular Manufacturing & Robotics w/ Rob Lawson-Shanks (CEO & Co-Founder at MOLG)

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Sabira and Garr cover various topics related to waste management, circular economy, and entrepreneurship. It begins with a discussion on Starbucks' reusable cup and the concept of prototyping reusable products. Sabira shares her experience working in waste management in Bangalore, highlighting the challenges and opportunities in the industry. The conversation then explores the concept of self-help groups and how they can formalize waste management practices. In the second part of the episode, Sabira and Garr interview with Rob Lawson-Shanks, CEO of MOLG, who shares insights into their innovative approach to disassembling servers using automation and AI.In this conversation, Rob from Molt discusses the journey towards circular manufacturing and the challenges in achieving circular design. The name 'MOLG' is derived from the poem 'Machines of Loving Grace' and represents the vision of a harmonious coexistence between humans and machines. The focus of MOLG is on e-waste and their first robot is designed to disassemble servers and enterprise-level laptop PCs. The value of reuse and recycling is emphasized, as well as the importance of designing for multiple lives and adopting a product-as-a-service model. The conversation also touches on the productivity of machines compared to humans and the need for advocacy and simplification in the circular economy.

Deconstruction Taxes, Incentives & Equity w/ Jessica Irving Marschall (CEO of The Green Mission)

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Thu, 07 Sep 2023 05:00:00 GMT

Jessica walks us through the complex topics of material appraisals, dealer limitations, tax credits and equitable deconstruction incentives.

Domestic Manufacturing is the Secret Weapon of a Circular Economy

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 14:01:22 GMT

In this conversation, Preston Poag Jr. from Mohawk Industries discusses the challenges and opportunities in recycling flooring materials within the context of the circular economy. The discussion covers the differences between commercial and residential recycling, the importance of education and communication in promoting recycling programs, and the impact of policy on sustainability initiatives.

The conversation also explores innovative business models like flooring as a service and the economic considerations that influence the adoption of circular economy practices. Ultimately, the dialogue emphasizes the need for collaboration and the role of the next generation in driving sustainable change.

Transforming Waste into Hope: The Chip Bag Project

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 13:52:13 GMT

In this episode, Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani interview Erada Olieta, founder of the Chip Bag Project, which transforms unrecyclable Mylar chip bags into essential products for people experiencing homelessness. The conversation explores the innovative solutions Erada has developed, the challenges of scaling her organization, and the importance of corporate partnerships. Erada shares her journey from a simple idea to a thriving social enterprise, emphasizing the human element in her work and the iterative process of product development.

A Million Tiny Decisions: Barriers & Breakthroughs In Circular Construction

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Megan Zack shares her journey from the insurance industry to becoming a sustainable architect. She discusses the evolution of green building practices, the challenges of promoting sustainability in architecture, and the importance of the circular economy. Megan emphasizes the need for smarter decision-making in design and the significance of reusing materials. The conversation also touches on client perspectives, municipal reuse challenges, and the necessity of educating architects and engineers on circular economy principles. Finally, they explore potential policy shifts that could facilitate sustainable practices in the industry.

Trust, Technology, and Takeout: The MUUSE Approach to Sustainable Packaging with Brittany Gamez

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Wed, 16 Oct 2024 08:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Selling Circular, Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani discuss the innovative world of reusable cups with Brittany Gamez, COO of Muuse. The conversation explores the challenges and successes of implementing reusable packaging systems, the technology behind Muuse's platform, and the importance of consumer behavior and trust in driving sustainability. Brittany shares insights from the Petaluma project, where reuse is the default option, and discusses the future of interoperability in the reuse economy. The episode highlights the potential for significant impact through collaboration and community engagement in the circular economy.

Plastic Diplomacy: Negotiating a Circular Future

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Mon, 20 Jan 2025 18:02:27 GMT

In this episode, we discuss the intersection of commerce and sustainability, focusing on the global initiative to create an international plastics treaty. We explore the impact of plastics on society, the challenges of negotiating the treaty, and the importance of stakeholder engagement. The conversation emphasizes the need for reduction targets, the role of technology in the circular economy, and the balance between economic and environmental goals. The episode concludes with a hopeful message about the future of circular economy and the importance of inclusive conversations.

Circular Fashion Marketing: Strategies for Resale Success with Monday Creative's CEO, Amanda Lee Smith

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Wed, 09 Oct 2024 08:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Selling Circular, Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani engage with Amanda Lee Smith, founder of Monday Creative, to explore the intersection of marketing and the circular economy, particularly in the fashion and apparel industry. They discuss the role of agencies in circular marketing, the importance of consumer education, and the challenges of changing perceptions around pre-owned products. The conversation delves into branding strategies for resale initiatives, the balance between marketing and environmentalism, and the future of circular marketing as brands adapt to consumer demands and sustainability goals.

Designing for Efficiency: The Future of Circular Fashion & Economics

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 10:00:00 GMT

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani chat with Nicole Bassett, a pioneer in the circular economy and founder of The Renewal Workshop. They discuss the evolution of sustainable fashion, the challenges of scaling circular solutions, and the importance of collaboration in creating effective business models. Nicole shares her journey from Patagonia to founding the Renewal Workshop, the impact of her work on the industry, and the future of circular economy in the context of AI and consumer behavior. The conversation highlights the need for brands to adapt and find pathways to profitability within circular frameworks, emphasizing the importance of meaningful work and collaboration in driving change.

Supply Chains, AI & Why Digital Passports Might Be Overkill

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 09:05:00 GMT

Supply chain expert and author Deborah Dull joins Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani for a candid conversation about the practical realities of building circular supply chains. Fresh off publishing her comprehensive guide to circular supply chain maturity models and a business novel co-written with AI, Deborah cuts through the sustainability rhetoric to focus on what actually works.

From Door-to-Door to Nationwide: Lessons From A Ridwell Recycling Revolution

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Aliya Marder from Ridwell as we explore how one company is transforming the recycling landscape from grassroots community sessions to a groundbreaking national mail-in program. Discover why passionate recycling advocates are the secret vectors of change in their communities, learn about the patchwork of solutions emerging across America, and understand why doing things imperfectly might be our best path forward. This episode reveals the human side of waste management innovation and offers a renewed sense of hope for anyone feeling overwhelmed by our environmental challenges.

What Is Next For Fashion Resale? - Karin Dillie (Fashion Resale Expert)

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Wed, 09 Aug 2023 20:03:54 GMT

Sabira and Garr hang out with Karin Dillie to gain insights from her career spanning from Sotheby's, The RealReal, Recurate and more! As we dive in, we learn that this is just the beginning for the trends of re-commerce, what consumers want and the future of fashion resale!As a market, fashion resale is expected to continue its growth trajectory over the next decade for several reasons:Sustainability Emphasis: As environmental concerns grow, consumers are becoming more conscious of their fashion choices. Resale aligns with sustainable practices by extending the lifespan of garments and reducing the need for new production.Changing Consumer Attitudes: Younger generations are placing more value on experiences and uniqueness rather than traditional notions of ownership. Resale allows them to access unique, vintage, and designer items without the hefty price tags.Digital Transformation: Online platforms have made it easier for buyers and sellers to connect in the resale market. Continued advancements in technology will enhance user experiences, making online resale more convenient and efficient.Traditional Retail's Involvement: Traditional fashion retailers and luxury brands are recognizing the resale market's potential. Some are partnering with or creating their own resale platforms to tap into the growing demand for second-hand items.Increased Acceptance: Resale was once stigmatized, but it's now becoming more mainstream. As more people participate and openly discuss their resale activities, the perception of second-hand fashion is shifting positively.Circular Economy Focus: Governments and organizations worldwide are promoting circular economy models, and fashion resale fits into this framework. Policies and incentives that encourage sustainable practices could further boost the resale market.Rise of Rental and Subscription Services: The popularity of fashion rental and subscription services may drive interest in resale. As consumers experiment with different ways of accessing fashion, resale could complement these models.

Why Buy New? The Kid Approved Process of Pre-Loved Toys

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 09:00:00 GMT

In this conversation, Nic Esposito, co-founder of Unless Kids, discusses the innovative approach to transforming children's toy consumption through a circular economy model. The discussion covers the journey of Unless Kids, the importance of customer discovery, funding strategies, and the challenges of logistics in a sustainable business. Nic emphasizes the need for affordability and accessibility in circular solutions, as well as the role of technology in supporting operational efficiency. The conversation concludes with Nic's hopes for the future of circularity and the growth of Unless Kids.

The Divided States Of Recycling: EPR Rules Reshaping American Waste

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Join Garr and Sabira as they dive deep into the complex world of recycling & EPR policy with John Hite. Explore how America's patchwork of state laws creates both opportunities and challenges for waste management reform, from California's groundbreaking standards to Montana's youth-led climate lawsuit. Learn why a major constitutional challenge could reshape the future of recycling programs nationwide, and discover what's driving momentum for change despite the legal and political hurdles ahead.

What's Next for Customer-Centric Circular Retail

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 06:00:00 GMT

What happens when the sustainability executive who built Walmart's first corporate sustainability program tells us we've been asking the wrong questions about circular economy all along?

Andy Ruben—founder of Trove, innovator of Walmart's omnichannel strategy, and a pioneer who's been in the trenches of sustainability since 2004—joins Garr and Sabira for a candid conversation about why circular economy has exploded in awareness but failed to truly scale.

From debunking the cannibalization myth that paralyzed brands for a decade, to revealing why "founder-market fit" matters more than most entrepreneurs realize, Andy shares hard-won lessons from building companies at the intersection of commerce and sustainability. He challenges the circular economy community to stop talking to themselves and start reframing the conversation in ways that actually move executives to action.

It's Andy's bold prediction about AI-powered shopping agents that might change everything you think you know about the future of resale—and why the winners won't be the ones with the prettiest storefronts.

Decoding Clothing To Close The Loop On Textiles

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 04:42:27 GMT

In this episode of Selling Circular, hosts Sabira Lakhani and Garr Punnett engage with Constanza Gomez, co-founder of Sortile, to discuss the pressing challenges and innovative solutions in textile recycling. They explore the complexities of the fashion supply chain, the importance of technology in identifying materials, and the impact of new regulations on the industry. Constanza shares insights from her journey in building Sortile, the significance of data in recycling, and the evolving landscape of consumer awareness and brand accountability. The conversation highlights the need for collaboration and education in driving the circular economy forward, ultimately fostering hope for a more sustainable future in textiles.

Turning Porta-Potties Into Fertilizer Factories: Inside The Circular Sanitation Revolution

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Every day, billions of gallons of liquid fertilizer get flushed down the drain with clean drinking water. The nutrients your body produces — nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium — are the exact same ones farmers pay a fortune to spray on their crops. And the portable sanitation industry? It hasn't meaningfully innovated since the 1970s.

The founders of wasted* saw all of this and thought: what if we stopped wasting our waste?

Thor is a co-founder of wasted* PBC, a Vermont-based benefit corporation that's flipping the porta-potty business on its head. What started as a backpacking trip where he literally couldn't avoid stepping in human waste on remote mountain trails became a nonprofit, then a three-month road trip disassembling toilets across the West Coast, then a quarantine-era revelation that human urine is nature's perfect fertilizer — and finally, a venture-backed company that's registered the first urine-derived fertilizer in five U.S. states.

Overcoming Zero Waste Cost Barriers w/ The Trash Talkin' Texan - Stacy Savage (CEO of Zero Waste Strategies, LLC)

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 27 Feb 2024 06:00:00 GMT

In this conversation, Garr and Sabira discuss the concept of systems thinking and its application in the context of the built environment industry. They explore the various stakeholders involved in the industry and the potential for individual influence and collective action. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the interconnectedness of systems and the need for collaboration to drive positive change.In the interview with Stacy Savage, she shares her journey of starting a zero waste business and the importance of focusing on waste as a sustainability issue. Stacy emphasizes the need for education and answering questions to break down barriers and engage employees. The group also discusses the value of waste audits and transparency in waste management. She addresses the cost barriers of implementing zero waste programs and highlights the economic benefits and recruitment advantages. Finally, Stacy talks about the challenges of waste management in Texas and the importance of recycling.

Why the Circular Movement Isn't Growing: Communication, Clarity & Certifications

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Garr Punnett and Jon Strassner delve into the world of podcasting, sustainability, and the challenges of circular economy practices. They reflect on their experiences at conferences, the serendipitous nature of podcasting, and the importance of building relationships within the industry. Jon shares insights from his six years of podcasting, emphasizing the evolution of their discussions from environmental issues to broader societal topics, including gender gaps in leadership and the need for more inclusive design practices. The conversation highlights the significance of vulnerability in sharing ideas and the necessity of open dialogue to foster understanding and collaboration in tackling systemic issues.

From Deadstock to Durability: Cotopaxi's Circular Economy in Action

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 11:00:00 GMT

In this engaging podcast episode, Annie Agle from Cotopaxi shares insights into the company's circular economy initiatives and sustainable practices. She discusses their approach to using responsible, repurposed, and recycled materials, emphasizing the importance of deadstock fabrics in reducing environmental impact. Annie explains Cotopaxi's framework for material selection and their commitment to transparency and authenticity in sustainability reporting.The conversation covers various topics, including the challenges of implementing circular programs, the business case for sustainability, and the importance of collective action in the industry. Annie highlights the need for better life cycle assessments, improved chemistry management, and the transition towards more sustainable fibers. She also touches on the company's efforts in communicating their sustainability initiatives to consumers and the importance of building trust through transparency.Throughout the episode, Annie provides valuable advice for companies looking to implement circular economy practices, emphasizing the importance of starting with achievable goals and collaborating with industry peers. She discusses the future of the textile industry, including the potential for pooled purchasing and the development of new eco-friendly materials.

Circular Economy Is Customer Care: Lessons From Logitech

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 09:08:00 GMT

In this episode, we explore Sacni Leon's remarkable 15-year journey at Logitech and her unexpected path into the circular economy. Her simple question - "Why are all these products coming back?" - sparked a transformation that would reshape how the company handles returns and reverse logistics.The conversation highlights key themes including the power of asking obvious questions, the unexpected connections between customer service and supply chain sustainability, and how hands-on warehouse experience can reveal hidden opportunities for circular innovation. Sacni's story demonstrates how one curious employee willing to challenge the status quo can drive meaningful change in corporate sustainability practices.

How Progressive Policy Created a Profitable Circular Economy in India

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 12:37:17 GMT

In this episode of Selling Circular, Sabira Lakhani and Garr Punnett engage in a deep conversation with Wilma Rodrigues, a pioneer in India's waste management sector. They discuss the evolution of Saahas Zero Waste, the challenges of decentralized waste management, and the importance of regulatory frameworks. Wilma shares insights on the innovative approaches to textile waste management and the future of circular economy practices in India. The conversation emphasizes the need for sustainable business models, the significance of living wages, and the role of civil society in shaping effective waste management policies.

Introduction To Reusable Packaging - Chantal Emmanuel (LimeLoop CTO / Co-Founder)

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Mon, 24 Jul 2023 04:45:44 GMT

Sabira & Garr introduce the new podcast, Selling Circular, and chat with Chantal Emmanuel, CTO & Co-Founder of LimeLoop, about the world of returnable packaging and supporting software.

A $50 Phone Flip & The Electronics Trade-In Revolution

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Christopher Hale shares his journey in the electronics recycling and refurbishment industry, discussing the challenges and opportunities within the circular economy. He emphasizes the importance of sustainability, the competitive landscape in recycling, and the role of affiliate marketing in driving consumer attention toward refurbishment options. Chris also advocates for the right to repair movement and highlights the need for education in the industry. The discussion touches on innovations in technology, the future of trade-ins, and the untapped potential in electronics recycling.

Data-Driven Insights & The Surprising Items That Make Reuse Operations Profitable

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 13:26:08 GMT

In this episode of Selling Circular, Sabira Lakhani, Garr Punnett, and Theo Zizka discuss the intricacies of the circular economy, focusing on Community Forklift's operations. Theo shares his unique journey into the resale space, the challenges of managing online sales, and the importance of sustainability in packaging. The conversation delves into pricing strategies, the unpredictability of inventory, and the emotional connections people have with donated items. The episode concludes with advice for donors and a reflection on the philosophy of reuse.

How Metropolis Magazine is Shaping the Circular Built Environment

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 08:00:00 GMT

In this podcast episode, hosts Sabira Lakhani and Garr Punnett speak with Avi, editor-in-chief of Metropolis Magazine, about circular economy principles in architecture and design. Avi discusses Metropolis's longstanding commitment to sustainability, dating back to the 1980s, and highlights their recent initiative, "Seven Proposals for a Circular Built Environment." He emphasizes that circular economy isn't a new concept but a modern framing of long-standing environmental ideas.

The discussion covers several key points:

Metropolis's History with Sustainability: Avi explains how Metropolis has been covering environmental issues since the early 90s, including pioneering research on carbon emissions in architecture and interior design.
Seven Proposals for a Circular Built Environment: Avi details how Metropolis gathered over 60 industry experts to collaboratively develop proposals addressing circularity at multiple scales—from questioning ownership models to challenging the culture of newness.
Adaptive vs. Adaptable Reuse: Avi emphasizes the importance of moving beyond adaptive reuse (simply preserving buildings) toward adaptable reuse, meaning designing structures that are inherently flexible and able to transform over time.
Recycling vs. Reuse: The conversation highlights that reusing structural steel significantly reduces carbon emissions compared to recycling—even when recycling uses renewable energy.
Changing Mindsets: Avi stresses the need for designers and architects to shift from viewing sustainability as a problem-solving exercise toward embracing it as a creative opportunity informed by intuition and cultural sensitivity.

The conversation concludes with Avi emphasizing that true circularity requires creative intuition rather than solely technical solutions, urging industry professionals to think long-term about sustainability.

Metropolis Magazine: Digital publication focused on architecture and interior design.
Seven Proposals for a Circular Built Environment: Recent initiative by Metropolis exploring circular economy principles.
Climate Toolkit for Interior Design (2021): Resource created by Metropolis to help interior designers understand carbon emissions related to their work.
Ellen MacArthur Foundation & Arup's Circular Buildings Toolkit: Comprehensive resource informing Metropolis's proposals.
Victor Papanek's concept of Kleenex Culture: Critique of consumerist culture discussed by Avi.
Steelcase & HumanScale Pilot Programs: Initiatives exploring furniture refurbishment and reuse within circular economy frameworks.

Metropolis Magazine
Seven Proposals for a Circular Built Environment (Metropolis)
Climate Toolkit for Interior Design (Metropolis, 2021)
Ellen MacArthur Foundation & Arup's Circular Buildings Toolkit
Victor Papanek's critique of consumerist culture ("Kleenex culture")
AquaFill's chemical recycling of nylon carpets
3Form's surfaces using non-mechanical recycling
Steelcase pilot program on furniture refurbishment
HumanScale's furniture refurbishment and resale pilot program

References Discussed in the EpisodeReferences Discussed in the Episode

From Amsterdam to the World: Inside Metabolic's Circular Innovations with Andrew McCue

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 08:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Selling Circular, Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani engage with Andrew McCue from Metabolic, discussing the transformative potential of the circular economy. They explore the challenges of implementing circular practices, the importance of building trust with public entities, and the need for place-based solutions tailored to local contexts. The conversation emphasizes the significance of relationships in fostering a circular economy and highlights the hope found in grassroots initiatives and community-driven efforts.

Circular Nonprofits In A Broken Reuse Economy

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani engage with Shannon Goodman, co-founder of the Lifecycle Building Center, to discuss the critical role of nonprofits in the circular economy, particularly in material reuse. They explore the challenges and opportunities within the reuse industry, emphasizing the importance of community building, collaboration, and workforce development. The conversation highlights the need for courage in initiating reuse initiatives and the progress made in the industry over the years. They also touch on the economic and social benefits of reuse, the political landscape surrounding sustainability, and the future of circular economy practices.

Think Like a Circular Economy VC Leader: The Corporate Venture Playbook for Sustainability

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 10:00:00 GMT

In this conversation, Sabira Lakhani and Garr Punnett discuss the Heritage Group and its venture capital arm, HG Ventures, focusing on their approach to investing in the circular economy. They explore the challenges and opportunities within this space, emphasizing the importance of relationships, storytelling, and transparency in venture capital. The discussion also highlights the need for innovation, the role of software in circular solutions, and the balance between short-term and long-term goals in investment strategies. Ultimately, the conversation conveys a sense of optimism about the future of circular economy investments and the potential for systemic change.

Public Private Partnerships & The Future Circular Economy Policy w/ Amanda Jordan (City of Phoenix - Circular Economy Project Manager)

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 05:00:00 GMT

In the NERD OUT section of the podcast, Sabira and Garr discuss the concept of industrial ecology and its connection to the circular economy. They explore the principles of industrial ecology and industrial symbiosis, which involve bridging biology with industry. They also highlight the importance of systems thinking and visualizing the interconnectedness of different industries and their impact on the circular economy. The conversation touches on the need for modeling and visually illustrating these concepts to make them more tangible. While countries like Italy, Sweden, Australia, and the Netherlands have seen success, the USA has struggled due to lack of trust between corporations and limited governmental support. The conversation also touched on the importance of non-profit and government-run programs.

In the discussion with Amanda Jordan, the group discusses the city's progress in implementing circular economy initiatives. Amanda highlights the unique factors that contribute to Phoenix's success, such as the city's ownership of waste facilities and the collaboration between different departments. Amanda also shares exciting projects, including the circular plastics micro factory and the Resource Innovation Campus. She emphasizes the importance of constituent support and education in driving circular economy solutions. Amanda envisions Phoenix becoming the most sustainable desert city and a leader in circular economy practices.

The Evolution of Circularity: Insights and Reflections with Katie Ryan

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Wed, 07 May 2025 09:00:00 GMT

The conversation reflects on the recent Circularity conference, discussing the evolution of the event, the importance of community and networking, and the challenges of communication in sustainability. Key themes include the grouping of events under Trellis Impact, the significance of serendipitous connections, and insights from notable speakers. The discussion also touches on the discomfort companies feel in sharing their strategies publicly, highlighting the need for transparency in corporate sustainability efforts. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the dynamics of conferences focused on circularity, the challenges of sharing insights in public forums, and the impact of economic uncertainty on sustainability efforts. They explore the importance of feedback and iterative improvements in event planning, as well as the preparation required for future events. The conversation concludes with reflections on the value of collaboration and community engagement in driving change.

Babysitting Billions in Parts: Inside Manufacturing's Circular Revolution

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 17:28:20 GMT

What if the key to a more sustainable manufacturing future has been sitting in dusty warehouses this whole time?

In this episode, we sit down with Martin Weber, CEO and co-founder of SpareTech, who left a dream job at Porsche to tackle one of manufacturing's most overlooked problems: the hundreds of billions of dollars in spare parts collecting dust across factory floors worldwide.

Martin takes us inside the hidden world of industrial spare parts, a massive, fragmented industry that most people don't even know exists. He reveals why factories hoard parts "just in case," how a single missing component can cost millions in downtime, and why the lack of a simple barcode system for industrial parts has created chaos across the global supply chain.

From building a catalog of 40+ million parts to helping manufacturers discover they already own what they're desperately trying to buy, Martin shares the seven-year journey of turning an obvious-yet-unsolved problem into a company now expanding from Germany to the U.S. Plus, he drops the surprising advice a fellow founder gave him about what Americans really think of German engineering.

If you've ever wondered what "circular economy" actually looks like in practice or why your car, phone, and frozen pizza all depend on a system held together by gut feelings and email chains, this one's for you.

Dirty Diapers, Dead Inventory, and Zero Landfill: Inside Recyclops' Circular Economy Playbook

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 01:43:47 GMT

What happens when 60% of U.S. apartments have zero recycling access? You build your own solution. Ryan Smith started Recyclops after discovering his college apartment—and every apartment he visited—had no recycling. Twelve years later, he's running an Uber-style recycling network across 30 states, picking up everything from residential recyclables to dirty diapers to Amazon's unsellable inventory. In this episode: the $1 that started it all, why bags actually reduce contamination, storing 800 lbs of diapers in his garage, and Amazon's "100% out of landfill" mandate.

Degrowth Demystified: The Movement Challenging Economic Orthodoxy with Dr. John Mulrow

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 10:00:00 GMT

In this conversation, the hosts and guest John Mulrow delve into the concept of degrowth, exploring its implications for sustainability and social justice. They discuss the misconceptions surrounding degrowth, emphasizing that it is not about reducing everything or advocating for recession, but rather about intentionally downscaling the economy to achieve ecological and social justice goals.

The conversation also touches on the importance of community engagement, corporate responsibility, and the need for a shift in mindset regarding economic growth. In this conversation, John Mulrow discusses the concept of degrowth, emphasizing the need for international cooperation, alternative economic metrics, and community engagement. He highlights the importance of creating brave spaces for dialogue, acknowledging limits to growth, and the role of education in fostering a degrowth movement. The discussion also touches on the privilege associated with the degrowth conversation and the necessity of building community connections to promote sustainability.

350 Million Tires Are Trashed Every Year - Now They're Becoming Life-Saving Infrastructure

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 09:44:00 GMT

In this conversation, Eric Davis discusses Pretred, a company focused on creating sustainable products from recycled tires. He shares insights on the resilience of their products, the challenges of transitioning from an idea to a viable business model, and the importance of government partnerships in funding circular economy initiatives. The discussion also covers the diverse customer base for their products, the potential for global expansion, and valuable lessons for entrepreneurs in the circular economy space.

The Burnout Epidemic: Could 62% of Sustainability Leaders Be Running on Empty?

Garr Punnett and Sabira Lakhani — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 09:00:00 GMT

What happens when the people trying to save the world can't save themselves? In this deeply personal episode, executive coach Laurie McGinley reveals a startling truth: 62% of sustainability professionals report signs of burnout. Drawing from her own experience of having a stroke at 31 while being a perfectly healthy D1 athlete, Laurie challenges everything we think we know about careers, success, and sacrifice.

Discover why treating your career like a compost cycle instead of a linear extraction could revolutionize not just how you work, but whether you survive the work. Learn the counterintuitive remedy to burnout that has nothing to do with vacations or sabbaticals, and everything to do with increasing seconds of flow state in your day.

From her daughter's burned finger providing an unexpected metaphor for organizational trauma, to questioning whether Back to the Future holds up (spoiler: it doesn't), this conversation weaves together neuroscience, circular economy principles, and radical self-care into a blueprint for sustainable leadership.

If you've ever felt like you're the only one who can do the work, if you've mined your own wellness for a cause bigger than yourself, or if you lead a team of brilliant, passionate people who are burning out faster than fossil fuels – this episode might just save your career, your health, and your mission.