Sustainable supply chains aren’t just the future—they’re the foundation of smarter, more responsible business. In this episode, Christine Yeager sits down with Sushma Kittali-Weidner, VP of Products at Rheaply and a former software engineer turned circularity champion, to explore how AI, digital infrastructure, and intentional design can scale sustainability. From overcoming pilot paralysis and EPR compliance to the role of asset traceability and second-life procurement, this conversation dives deep into the tech, tactics, and team alignment needed to make circular economy principles a living, breathing part of enterprise strategy. Sushma brings clarity to the intersection of automation, AI, and environmental impact—with a toolkit that spans from digital twins to regenerative agriculture.

Sustainability tension management is the secret edge of companies that thrive under pressure. Steve Rochlin and Jeff Senne—seasoned strategists and co-authors of a foundational report on sustainability strategy—unpack how high-performing organizations navigate the push and pull between short-term wins and long-term value. With host Christine Yeager, this candid conversation dives into CEO mindset archetypes, real business performance data, and how to align incentives without diluting purpose. From boardroom skepticism to strategic breakthrough, this is a masterclass in turning tension into transformation.

For the circular economy to be truly effective, the right balancing act of people, planet, and profit must be pulled out. Christine Yeager discusses how corporations can turn this into reality, giving more opportunities to lower-income communities and building a more sustainable world. She also presents some companies that excel in these areas and one particular organization that balances those three legs pretty well.

If you want people to rapidly and actively address today’s biggest social issues, you have to simplify overwhelming ideas and set aside unusual jargons. This is the reason why Rachel Zerowin focused on telling better stories to educate communities about the importance of water conservation and circular economy. She joins Christine Yeager to share her work at Circular Action Alliance (CAA), wherein she uses storytelling to drive awareness of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation across Colorado. Rachel talks about different approaches to teaching communities about recycling programs and water conservation projects. She also explores how sustainability does not only concern community-building efforts but also building a better version of yourself every single day.

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Understanding Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program plans is crucial for the future of recycling, and states like Oregon and Colorado are leading the way. In this insightful episode, host Christine Yeager unpacks the complex details of these blueprints, revealing how they're set to revolutionize waste management. We delve into the specific program plans of Oregon and Colorado, exploring how their funding models differ, how oversight agencies are involved, and what concrete changes are on the horizon for recycling systems. You’ll learn how these plans will impact recyclers, brands, and communities through increased access, stronger markets, and better accountability. Discover why the unique strategies of Oregon and Colorado, from infrastructure investments to equity initiatives, could serve as a model for nationwide recycling reform.

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We can use this ad to promote CSY Impact when someone discussed a particular challenge related to EPR - especially in Geoff Inch & Rachel Zerowin's episodes.

Waterway litter removal isn’t easy—it’s messy, underfunded, and often overlooked. But for Don Bates, founder of Osprey Initiatives and inventor of the Litter Gitter, that’s exactly why it matters. In this episode, we explore how Don has built a mission-driven company that thrives by embracing the suck—transforming neglected urban streams, engaging underserved communities, and revolutionizing recycling in regions where systems are broken or nonexistent. With deep Southern roots and over 25 years of environmental consulting experience, Don shares how passion, persistence, and process are changing the way we tackle litter and drive circular solutions in the places that need them most. From repurposing event waste at the Super Bowl to bringing recycling infrastructure to towns with no curbside pickup, his team is proving that real innovation doesn’t wait for perfect conditions—it builds in spite of them. This is a story about legacy, leadership, and why the hardest problems are often the most worth solving.

Let's dive into the complicated world of recycling in the U.S., where a broken system wastes billions and leaves a gaping hole in our fight for sustainability. In this episode, host Christine Yeager unravels why national recycling rates are stagnant and how Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) could revolutionize the industry. We’ll unpack the urgent needs of states like Maryland, Colorado, California, and Oregon, spotlighting the struggles with inconsistent access, outdated facilities, and confusing guidelines. Discover how hefty investments, ranging from millions for upgrades to billions for national system overhauls, could unlock the $70 billion potential of a circular economy, and learn about the game-changing strategies like mandated access, inclusive education, and closed-loop systems that are essential for real change.

In this episode, we discuss Balancing Cost, Competition, and Sustainability.

Balancing cost, competition, and sustainability is a tightrope walk for any industry, especially through the rapidly evolving landscape of extended producer responsibility (EPR). In this episode, Geoffrey Inch, Head of Producer Services at Circular Action Alliance, shares his unique journey and insights on navigating this challenge. We delve into his career, from leading sustainability initiatives at a petrochemical company to his current role at CAA. Geoffrey opens up about influencing change, overcoming obstacles, and embracing a circular economy. Join us as we uncover Geoffrey's lessons learned from experiencing change and his invaluable advice for producers looking to thrive in a more sustainable world.

We can use this ad to promote CSY Impact when someone discussed a particular challenge related to EPR - especially in Geoff Inch & Rachel Zerowin's episodes.