In this episode of SolPods Studio, host Katie Lockwood sits down with Ben Moore, a Central Valley farmer and founder of The Ugly Company, to talk about food waste, farming, and what sustainability looks like in practice. Ben shares how years spent hauling and dumping unmarketable fruit led him to start a company that transforms imperfect fruit into clean, simple snacks while preventing millions of pounds of food from going to waste.

The conversation explores why perfectly good fruit gets thrown out, how consumer expectations shape food systems, and the contradictions built into modern agriculture. Ben also reflects on sustainability beyond the buzzwords, emphasizing practicality, meeting people where they are, and building solutions that farmers and consumers can realistically support. From farming traditions to real-world problem solving, this episode offers a grounded look at how small, practical decisions can create meaningful impact.

Perfect for listeners interested in food systems, sustainability, agriculture, or anyone curious about how everyday choices connect to larger environmental challenges.

Visit the The Ugly Company website or follow The Ugly Company on Instagram to learn more.

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In this episode of SolPod Studios, host Mia Rubiera sits down with sisters Rachna and Ruchika Kumar, co-founders of Ichcha, a sustainable textile brand dedicated to preserving India’s ancient crafts and promoting conscious consumerism. They share their journey from tech and design into entrepreneurship, how they collaborate with artisans across generations, and their initiatives that empower women through education. From natural dyes to zero-waste practices, the Kumar sisters reveal how Ichcha weaves artistry, sustainability, and social impact into every piece.

Visit the Ichcha website or follow Ichcha on Instagram to learn more.

Check out the SolPods Website: www.solpods.org
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For questions, email us at: hello@solpods.org

In this inspiring episode, host Mia Rubiera chatted with Natalie Linden from Friends of the Earth’s Climate-Friendly School Food Program about why rethinking what’s on our school menus is such a big deal for climate action. Natalie breaks down how schools are moving toward healthier, plant-forward, and more sustainable meals—and what it really takes to make those changes happen. Perfect if you’re into food systems, public health, or want to learn how students can help push for climate-friendly food policies on campus!

Check out the Eat Real website to learn more.

Follow Eat Real on Instagram for more inspiration.

Check out the SolPods Website: www.solpods.org
Follow us on Instagram: @solpods.earth
Follow us on Linkedin
Follow us on YouTube

For questions, email us at: hello@solpods.org