624 Jessica Bragdon: Co-Founder & Co-CEO of Koala Eco

On this episode of The Kara Goldin Show, I’m thrilled to be joined by Dr. Eric Dawson, Co-Founder and CEO of RIVET, an innovative social impact brand that’s leveraging the power of Gen Z to drive global change. With an impressive background that includes three degrees from Harvard and a doctorate in Leadership and Innovation from NYU, Eric has dedicated his career to empowering young people around the world. Through RIVET, he’s built the world’s first consumer-facing micro-financing platform, designed to harness the collective influence of Gen Z to support young social innovators across the globe.In our conversation, Dr. Dawson shares his journey from academia to leading a transformative organization, his deep commitment to youth-driven change, and how RIVET is redefining social impact by funding innovation in “capital deserts.” We explore the challenges and rewards of working with Gen Z, the role of brands in empowering youth, and Eric’s vision for a future where young people are the catalysts for solving the world’s toughest problems. If you're curious about the future of social impact, youth innovation, and the power of collective action, you won’t want to miss this episode. Tune in now on The Kara Goldin Show! Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at [email protected]. You can also find me @‌KaraGoldin on all networks. To learn more about Dr. Eric Dawson and RIVET:https://www.linkedin.com/company/rivethttps://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-dawsonhttps://www.rivet.org Sponsored By:BYU's Uncomfy Podcast - Tune into Uncomfy and discover how getting uncomfortable can be the key to personal growth and stronger connections. Available now on your favorite podcast platform!Open Phone - OpenPhone is offering 20% off your first 6 months! Just go to OpenPhone.com/KaraGoldinShipStation - Get a 60-day free trial at ShipStation.com/KARA. Thanks to ShipStation for sponsoring The Kara Goldin Show!Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at Shopify.com/karaGrammarly - Head to Grammarly.com/enterprise to learn more about Grammarly Enterprise-ready AI. Check out our website to view this episode’s show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/627

On this episode of The Kara Goldin Show, I’m thrilled to host Kim Vaccarella, the visionary Founder and CEO of Bogg. Starting with a personal need for a better beach bag, Kim transformed a simple idea into a revolutionary product line that's reshaped how we carry our essentials. Bogg has become a symbol of functionality and joy in carrying solutions, not just for beachgoers but for parents, teachers, and anyone in need of a reliable bag.We explore how Kim’s journey from a mom in search of a sand-free bag led to creating a product that twice landed on Inc. Magazine’s Top 5000 list of fastest-growing privately-held companies in America. Kim shares her insights into the challenges of product design, the importance of listening to customer feedback, and how Bogg has maintained its commitment to joyful and functional design. Kim's story is a powerful testament to entrepreneurship, innovation, and finding the balance between function and fashion. Don’t miss it! Tune in now on The Kara Goldin Show! Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at [email protected]. You can also find me @‌KaraGoldin on all networks. To learn more about Kim Vaccarella and Bogg:https://www.boggbag.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimvaccarellahttps://www.instagram.com/boggbagshttps://www.facebook.com/BoggBag Sponsored By:Range Rover Sport - The Range Rover Sport is your perfect ride. Visit LandRoverUSA.com and check it out.ShipStation - Get a 60-day free trial at ShipStation.com/KARA. Thanks to ShipStation for sponsoring The Kara Goldin Show!Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at Shopify.com/karaGrammarly - Head to Grammarly.com/enterprise to learn more about Grammarly Enterprise-ready AI. Check out our website to view this episode’s show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/626

On this episode of The Kara Goldin Show, I’m joined by Maria Ross, brand strategist, speaker, and author on a mission to bring empathy into business. As the founder of Red Slice, Maria has helped countless companies connect with purpose and lead authentically. Her latest book, The Empathy Dilemma, reveals why empathy is a game-changer for business success, fueling innovation, strong cultures, and growth.In our conversation, Maria explains the “ROI of empathy,” sharing why it’s vital for today’s leaders and how to integrate it into team dynamics, customer relationships, and daily operations. This episode is packed with insights on empathy’s role in creating positive change and driving purposeful success.Don’t miss it! Tune in now on The Kara Goldin Show! Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at [email protected]. You can also find me @‌KaraGoldin on all networks. To learn more about Maria Ross and The Empathy Dilemma:https://www.instagram.com/redslicemaria/https://www.ted.com/talks/maria_ross_how_to_trojan_horse_leaders_into_being_more_empathetichttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mariajross/https://www.TheEmpathyDilemma.com Sponsored By:StoryWorth - Go to StoryWorth.com/karagoldin and save $10 on your first purchase!SelectQuote - Head to SelectQuote.com/kara, and a licensed insurance agent will call you RIGHT away with the RIGHT policy for YOUR life and YOUR budget.ShipStation - Get a 60-day free trial at ShipStation.com/KARA. Thanks to ShipStation for sponsoring The Kara Goldin Show!Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at Shopify.com/karaGrammarly - Head to Grammarly.com/enterprise to learn more about Grammarly Enterprise-ready AI. Check out our website to view this episode’s show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/625

On this episode of The Kara Goldin Show, we’re joined by Jessica Bragdon, the passionate Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Koala Eco, a brand that’s redefining eco-friendly products with a mission rooted in love for nature and sustainability. Koala Eco’s range of plant-based, natural home and personal care products is inspired by Jessica’s commitment to creating safe, effective solutions for her family and beyond. Jessica, along with her husband Paul, developed Koala Eco after searching for clean, natural products they could trust, especially after their son’s health challenges. Today, Koala Eco has grown into a globally recognized brand loved for its eco-conscious products and meaningful community initiatives.In our conversation, Jessica shares the powerful origin story behind Koala Eco, the impact of its partnerships with organizations like One Percent for the Planet, and how the brand is bringing nature back into people’s daily lives. We dive into Koala Eco’s rapid expansion in the U.S. and how Jessica navigates sustainable entrepreneurship, balancing profit with purpose, and the journey of building a brand that truly cares, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Tune in now on The Kara Goldin Show! Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at [email protected]. You can also find me @‌KaraGoldin on all networks. To learn more about Jessica Bragdon and Koala Eco:https://www.instagram.com/koalaecohttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-bragdon/https://www.koalaeco.com Sponsored By:Open Phone - OpenPhone is offering 20% off your first 6 months! Just go to OpenPhone.com/KaraGoldinShipStation - Get a 60-day free trial at ShipStation.com/KARA. Thanks to ShipStation for sponsoring The Kara Goldin Show!Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at Shopify.com/karaGrammarly - Head to Grammarly.com/enterprise to learn more about Grammarly Enterprise-ready AI. Check out our website to view this episode’s show notes: https://www.karagoldin.com/podcast/624

On this episode of The Kara Goldin Show, we're joined by Sarah O’Leary, the dynamic CEO of Willow, the company that revolutionized the breastfeeding experience with its wearable breast pumps. Sarah dives into how Willow has shifted the landscape of maternal health technology and how under her leadership, the company has grown from an innovative startup to a leader in the industry. We explore Willow’s journey from its inception, focusing on its mission to support breastfeeding mothers through state-of-the-art technology that offers both freedom and functionality. Sarah shares insights on the challenges and breakthroughs in developing such pioneering products, and how customer feedback has shaped their evolution. This episode is a deep dive into how a commitment to innovation and understanding user needs can create impactful products that change lives. Tune in to gain invaluable insights into leading a tech-forward company with a strong mission of support and empowerment. Now on The Kara Goldin Show! Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at [email protected]. You can also find me @‌KaraGoldin on all networks. To learn more about Sarah O’Leary and Willow:https://www.facebook.com/WillowWearablePump/https://www.instagram.com/willowpump/https://www.linkedin.com/in/saraholearywillowhttps://www.onewillow.com Sponsored By:ShipStation - Get a 60-day free trial at ShipStation.com/KARA. Thanks to ShipStation for sponsoring The Kara Goldin Show!Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at Shopify.com/karaGrammarly - Head to Grammarly.com/enterprise to learn more about Grammarly Enterprise-ready AI. Check out our website to view this episode’s show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/623

On this episode of The Kara Goldin Show, I’m thrilled to welcome Meredith Mann, the powerhouse founder and CEO of The Peachie Spoon! As a certified personal trainer, holistic nutrition coach, and recipe developer, Meredith is known for her simple, nourishing recipes that don’t compromise on quality or flavor. She’s the creator of Well Made Academy, an online course dedicated to simplifying nutrition, and she recently made waves in the wellness world by launching her own line of ultra-clean protein powders.We dive into Meredith’s journey, from sharing recipes on social media to building The Peachie Spoon brand and launching high-quality, nutrient-dense protein products. Meredith shares her insights into making bold moves in the crowded wellness space, staying grounded in her mission of ingredient integrity, and why she believes The Peachie Spoon is changing the game. If you’re interested in wellness, entrepreneurship, or building a brand that truly resonates with consumers, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and inspiration. Don’t miss it—tune in now on The Kara Goldin Show! Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at [email protected]. You can also find me @‌KaraGoldin on all networks. To Learn More About Meredith Mann and The Peachie Spoon:https://www.instagram.com/thepeachiespoonhttps://www.instagram.com/thepeachiespoon.nutrition/https://www.linkedin.com/in/meredith-mann-a8b326328/https://www.thepeachiespoon.com/ Sponsored By:Range Rover Sport - The Range Rover Sport is your perfect ride. Visit LandRoverUSA.com and check it out.Mint Mobile - Head over to MintMobile.com/KARAGOLDIN and grab three months of premium wireless for just 15 bucks a month.StoryWorth - Go to StoryWorth.com/karagoldin and save $10 on your first purchase!SelectQuote - SelectQuote - Head to SelectQuote.com/kara, and a licensed insurance agent will call you RIGHT away with the RIGHT policy for YOUR life and YOUR budget. Check out our website to view this episode’s show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/622

On this episode of The Kara Goldin Show, I’m joined by the influential Sandrine Dixon-Decleve, a visionary leader, author, and passionate advocate for sustainable development and climate action. Sandrine has dedicated her career to working alongside world leaders, policymakers, and activists, focusing on some of our planet’s most urgent challenges: climate change, economic inequality, and social instability. With a background in energy, environmental impact, and social equity, she’s a powerful voice for the systemic change we need.In her latest book, Earth For All, Sandrine presents a bold and urgent framework for tackling today’s most pressing global issues, emphasizing the need for holistic transformation across society. Her insights aren’t just inspiring—they’re a roadmap for creating a more sustainable and just future. In this conversation, Sandrine shares impactful lessons from her book, her thoughts on the role of individual action, and what we can all do to contribute to a thriving planet.This episode is packed with valuable lessons on sustainability, systemic change, and leading with purpose. Don’t miss it! Tune in now on The Kara Goldin Show! Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at [email protected]. You can also find me @‌KaraGoldin on all networks. To learn more about Sandrine Dixon-Decleve and Earth For All:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandrine-dixon-decleve/https://twitter.com/SandrineDDChttps://earthforall.org/ Sponsored By:1Password - Get a free 2-week trial at 1Password.com/karaShipStation - Get a 60-day free trial at ShipStation.com/KARA. Thanks to ShipStation for sponsoring The Kara Goldin Show!Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at Shopify.com/karaGrammarly - Head to Grammarly.com/enterprise to learn more about Grammarly Enterprise-ready AI. Check out our website to view this episode’s show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/621

On this episode of The Kara Goldin Show, I’m joined by Dr. Kyle Landry, Co-Founder and President of Delavie Sciences, a brand on a mission to revolutionize skincare through cutting-edge science. Their first product, Aeonia, is terrific and uses Bacillus Lysate, a groundbreaking skincare ingredient that’s making waves in the beauty industry for its age-defying properties.In our conversation, Dr. Landry shares his journey from academia to entrepreneurship, his partnership with renowned scientist Dr. David Sinclair, and the rigorous research and testing that went into developing Delavie’s signature ingredient. We discuss the future of skincare, the role of science in developing truly innovative products, and how Delavie Sciences is poised to disrupt the skincare market with its commitment to transparency and proven results. If you’re interested in the intersection of science, skincare, and innovation, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Tune in now on The Kara Goldin Show! Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at [email protected]. You can also find me @‌KaraGoldin on all networks. The Delavie Sciences team is giving listeners of The Kara Goldin Show a special discount. Use code KARA15 for 15% off your order at checkout!To learn more about Dr. Kyle Landry and Delavie Sciences:https://www.linkedin.com/company/delavie-sciences/https://www.instagram.com/delaviesciences/https://www.delaviesciences.com/ Sponsored By:ShipStation - Get a 60-day free trial at ShipStation.com/KARA. Thanks to ShipStation for sponsoring The Kara Goldin Show!Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at Shopify.com/karaGrammarly - Head to Grammarly.com/enterprise to learn more about Grammarly Enterprise-ready AI. Check out our website to view this episode’s show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/620

On this episode of The Kara Goldin Show, I’m joined by Jana Goodbaum, Co-Founder and CEO of Happy Wolf, a snack brand that’s reimagining healthy snacks for kids. Jana's journey began when, as a health-conscious mom and former fast-food marketer for Tim Hortons, she noticed a lack of school-safe, whole-food snack options for her children. Determined to find a better solution, she began crafting recipes in her own kitchen, leading to the creation of Happy Wolf: nut-free snack bars made with only whole ingredients you’d find at home, naturally sweetened with dates and honey.We dive into Jana’s inspiring journey of building a brand from scratch, her dedication to providing genuinely clean, school-safe snacks, and the challenges and wins she’s faced along the way. Jana also shares insights into navigating the crowded food industry, growing Happy Wolf from 120 stores to an upcoming major retailer launch, and how she’s staying true to her mission in the face of rapid growth. If you’re interested in entrepreneurship, health-conscious living, or love a good story about following your passion, this is an episode you don’t want to miss! Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at [email protected]. You can also find me @‌KaraGoldin on all networks. To learn more about Jana Goodbaum and Happy Wolf:https://happywolf.com/https://www.instagram.com/happywolfsnacks/https://www.linkedin.com/in/janagoodbaum/ Sponsored By:Nutrafol - For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering our listeners ten dollars off your first month’s subscription and free shipping when you go to Nutrafol.com and enter the promo code KARAGOLDIN.ShipStation - Get a 60-day free trial at ShipStation.com/KARA. Thanks to ShipStation for sponsoring The Kara Goldin Show!Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at Shopify.com/karaGrammarly - Head to Grammarly.com/enterprise to learn more about Grammarly Enterprise-ready AI. Check out our website to view this episode’s show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/619

On this episode of The Kara Goldin Show, we’re joined by Morgan Spenla, the visionary Founder and CEO of Crafter—a game-changing platform bringing hands-on, creative learning to life for makers everywhere. 🚀 Morgan has created the ultimate home for artists and makers of all levels to connect with each other, learn from top experts, and dive into immersive workshops from the comfort of home. Whether it’s stained glass, needle felting, or woodturning, Crafter has it all, with high-quality instruction that makes it easy to explore creativity.Morgan shares the journey of building Crafter, from securing partnerships with major names like Girl Scouts and Anthropologie to hosting in-person Crafter Retreats that foster a deeper community connection. As a seasoned entrepreneur, Morgan has taken Crafter through startup accelerators, fundraised like a pro, and scaled her vision into a thriving movement that’s redefining creative discovery. Tune in to hear Morgan’s inspiring story and insights on building community, driving innovation, and the power of hands-on learning. Don’t miss it! Now on The Kara Goldin Show! Are you interested in sponsoring and advertising on The Kara Goldin Show, which is now in the Top 1% of Entrepreneur podcasts in the world? Let me know by contacting me at [email protected]. You can also find me @‌KaraGoldin on all networks. To learn more about Morgan Spenla and Crafter:https://www.instagram.com/thecraftersbox/https://www.crafter.com/ Sponsored By:Vanta - Get a special offer of $1,000 off Vanta at Vanta.com/KARAShipStation - Get a 60-day free trial at ShipStation.com/KARA. Thanks to ShipStation for sponsoring The Kara Goldin Show!Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at Shopify.com/karaGrammarly - Head to Grammarly.com/enterprise to learn more about Grammarly Enterprise-ready AI. Check out our website to view this episode’s show notes: https://karagoldin.com/podcast/618