We welcome Paul Rice, founder of Fair Trade USA. He shares his journey from working with Nicaraguan farmers to establishing a fair trade certification system in the U.S. The conversation explores the impact of fair trade on communities, challenges of maintaining standards amid corporate interests, and the importance of conscious consumerism. Rice discusses the evolution of fair trade, sustainability, and conscious capitalism, inspiring listeners to consider the power of their purchasing decisions in creating positive global change.

Topics Discussed:

• Paul’s Journey to Fair Trade
• Inspiration for Fair Trade
• First Fair Trade Co-op
• Paul’s Nicaraguan Experience
• Fair Trade USA’s Mission
• Certification Standards
• Market Premiums & Pricing
• Impact on Farmers & Communities
• Story of a Colombian Coffee Farmer
• Conscious Capitalism
• Shift in Perspective on Capitalism
• Sustainability vs. Profitability
• Traits of a Conscious Leader
• Greenwashing & Fair Trade Advertising
• Resignation from Labeling Organization
• Challenges of Maintaining Standards
• Expansion to Larger Farms
• Every Purchase Matters
• Changing Consumer Behavior
• Ethical Sourcing as an Outlet
• Growth of Fair Trade Products
• Vision for the Future of Fair Trade USA
• Holistic View of Sustainability
• Organic & Environmental Standards
• Social Sustainability & Living Wages
• Future of Fair Trade Standards

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