After four years and 100 episodes, it’s time to bring Purpose and Profit with Kathy Varol to a close. This podcast has been a space to celebrate visionary leaders who are proving that business can be a force for good—leaders who bring heart, humanity, and accountability into every corner of their work.
As we wrap up this chapter, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve shared. Together, we’ve explored what’s possible when purpose and profit go hand in hand. Let’s revisit a few of the extraordinary guests whose stories have inspired us to reimagine the role of business in society.
Our journey began with Yancey Strickler, Co-founder of Kickstarter, who introduced us to bentoism. Yancey’s philosophy of balancing present needs with future needs set the tone for the podcast and reminded us that values—not just shareholder value—should guide decision-making.
Yancey challenged us to see the influence we wield as employees and consumers and encouraged us to use it to drive the change we want to see in the world.
Adrian Gore, founder and CEO of Discovery Limited, brought to life the idea of integrating purpose into a company’s DNA. His work revolutionized insurance by shifting it from a transactional model to a mission-driven approach that rewards healthier living.Adrien showed us how aligning stakeholder benefits with scalable business models creates not only engagement but remarkable growth.
Then there was David Bronner, the Cosmic Engagement Officer of Dr. Bronner’s, who gave us a masterclass in authenticity and transparency. David demonstrated how even a humble product like soap can drive profound social and environmental impact.
David reminded us of the potential we all have to act as stewards of the planet and humankind.
Lindsey Hoell, who is co-founder and CEO of Dispatch Goods, a women-founded reverse logistics company building the infrastructure for circular packaging. Dispatch Goods enables direct-to-consumer brands to offer their customers’ meals and groceries in completely reusable packaging, again and again. Their mission is to make single-use waste a thing of the past, with the motto of “better, cheaper, greener”.Lindsey’s work is proof that innovation can tackle systemic challenges while delivering real value to consumers.
Stephanie Benedetto, Co-founder of Queen of Raw, opened our eyes to the power of marketplaces that unlock unused resources. By turning textile waste into opportunity, Stephanie is helping to build a circular economy in the fashion industry, keeping resources in use longer and reducing environmental harm.Stephanie’s work is a powerful reminder that sustainability and innovation go hand in hand.
These stories—and the stories of so many other incredible guests—have left an indelible mark. They’ve shown us what’s possible when businesses lead with purpose, when profit is not the end goal but the means to create a better world.
As I pause this podcast, I’m filled with gratitude for the journey we’ve shared. These conversations have inspired me and deepened my hope for a future where capitalism is a tool used to elevate humanity and support a thriving planet.
While this is the end of Purpose and Profit, it’s not the end of my commitment to these ideas. It’s a transition—a chance to explore new opportunities and creative ways to continue amplifying the incredible work being done in the world.
This newsletter is one way I’ll continue to do that.
To everyone who has listened, thank you. Thank you for your curiosity, your passion, and your belief in what’s possible.
Together, we’ve planted seeds of change. Let’s keep nurturing them.
