Logistics With Purpose®

What does it really take to build a purpose-driven brand that lasts? In this episode of Logistics with Purpose®, presented by Vector Global Logistics and Supply Chain Now, hosts Kristi Porter and Enrique Alvarez sit down with Alastair Dorward, a seasoned entrepreneur and brand builder who has helped scale mission-driven companies from startup to global success. From launching refrigerated soup routes to helping build Method into a billion-dollar business, Alastair shares candid lessons on resilience, leadership, and what it really takes to win in competitive consumer markets. The conversation dives into the power of purpose-driven brands like Dropps, the importance of design and sustainability, and how supply chain excellence enables companies to deliver both impact and profitability. Along the way, Alastair opens up about near-failure moments, leadership transitions, and why understanding the consumer—deeply—is still the ultimate competitive advantage. What You’ll Learn: Why purpose-driven brands win (when they eliminate trade-offs) How packaging, design, and sustainability shape consumer behavior The real role of supply chain in enabling mission + margin How to spot “riches in the niches” and build winning products Leadership lessons from scaling brands through uncertainty Why resilience—and not perfection—defines entrepreneurial success Whether you’re a founder, operator, or supply chain…

In this episode of Logistics With Purpose, host Enrique Alvarez and co-host Jose Miguel Irarrazaval sit down with Oscar Herrera, CEO of ClickEat, to explore how innovation and entrepreneurship can drive real change in the packaging industry. Oscar shares his journey as a serial entrepreneur and explains how ClickEat is developing backyard-compostable alternatives to single-use plastic, helping businesses reduce environmental impact while maintaining functionality and affordability. The conversation also dives into the challenges of sustainability in global supply chains, the importance of transparency in packaging, and why eliminating greenwashing is critical to building trust with consumers. Throughout the discussion, Oscar also reflects on the power of purpose-driven businesses, B Corp values, and mission-aligned partnerships in creating lasting environmental and social impact. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The difference between industrial compostable and backyard compostable packaging Why replacing single-use plastic is one of the biggest sustainability opportunities today How ClickEat is developing innovative packaging solutions for global brands The role of B Corp certification and purpose-driven business models Why greenwashing is one of the biggest challenges in sustainable packaging How collaboration and relationships drive meaningful change across supply chains   This episode is hosted by Enrique Alvarez and Jose Miguel…

For our 150th episode of Logistics with Purpose®, we’re honored to feature a guest whose career spans Hollywood, entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and even the future of space exploration. Nadine Nicole Heimann — known to many as Clarissa Mao in The Expanse — joins us to share how her journey as an actress evolved into a mission-driven life centered on healing, ethical leadership, and human connection. Raised in a family of jewelers in Rochester Hills, Michigan, Nadine’s entrepreneurial roots run deep, shaping both her creative spirit and her commitment to doing business differently. In this powerful conversation, Nadine opens up about founding True Connection, a nonprofit that uses healing arts to support young people navigating trauma, and Yari Designs, her ethical jewelry brand focused on sustainable luxury, recycled gold, and responsibly created diamonds. We also explore her advisory role with Space for Humanity, an organization working to democratize access to space and expand human perspective. Throughout the episode, one theme rises above all: connection. Whether through storytelling, creative arts, ethical design, or space exploration, Nadine’s work is driven by a desire to empower others and help people rediscover their inherent worth. Episode 150 is a celebration of purpose — and a reminder…

On this episode of Logistics with Purpose, presented by Vector Global Logistics in partnership with Supply Chain Now, we sit down with Janine Firpo, co-founder of Invest For Better and author of Activate Your Money, for a conversation that connects finance, impact, and real-world change. With more than 35 years working across technology, philanthropy, and global development, including leadership roles with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Hewlett-Packard, Janine shares how a life-changing journey through Sub-Saharan Africa reshaped her career and inspired her mission: helping people, especially women, align their investments with their values. We explore the growing movement of values-aligned investing, why women are poised to control a massive share of global wealth by 2030, and how even small financial decisions can influence industries, communities, and supply chains worldwide. Janine also explains how Invest For Better has already helped thousands of women gain confidence and clarity around money, not through jargon, but through conversation and community. Whether you’re new to investing, curious about impact investing, or thinking about the broader purpose behind business and logistics, this episode offers practical insight and an empowering starting point.   This episode is hosted by Enrique Alvarez and Kristi Porter, and produced…

Human trafficking is one of the most urgent — and often hidden — crises of our time. In this powerful episode of Logistics with Purpose®, we shine a light on the realities of modern-day slavery in recognition of National Human Trafficking Awareness Month. Our guests share their personal journeys into advocacy and activism, revealing how trafficking operates across industries, borders, and supply chains — and the devastating impact it has on individuals, families, and communities. From the role logistics plays in both enabling and preventing exploitation to the critical importance of awareness, education, and accountability, this conversation challenges leaders and listeners alike to look deeper and act with purpose.   This episode is hosted by Kristi Porter, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton.   Additional Links & Resources Check out all the great resources and information mentioned during the show: Connect with Laura Cyrus Learn more about TAT Connect with Jeff Shaw Learn more about The Freedom Collective Connect with Kwami Adoboe-Herrera Learn more about Teleios Inc Connect with Dr. Brook Bello Learn more about More Too Life Inc. Learn more about our hosts Want more Logistics With Purpose®? We know you can’t get enough Logistics…

What does it take to deliver hope in the middle of crisis? In this powerful episode of Logistics with Purpose®, we spotlight the life-changing work of Lifting Hands International, a humanitarian organization providing critical aid to displaced communities around the world — with a focused lens on the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. Join us for an inspiring conversation with Hayley Smith, Founder and Director of Lifting Hands International, and Ihor Tereshchenko, the organization’s Ukraine Director. Together, they share deeply personal origin stories, the realities of operating humanitarian logistics in conflict zones, and the profound role that community-driven aid plays in restoring dignity and hope. This episode goes beyond headlines to explore: The logistical complexities of delivering aid in active conflict zones Why local partnerships and community trust are essential to humanitarian success The often-overlooked role of mental health support for displaced individuals How everyday people can take meaningful action to support global humanitarian efforts At its core, this conversation is a reminder that logistics isn’t just about moving goods — it’s about moving humanity forward. Every effort matters, and every listener has the power to contribute to positive change.   This episode is hosted by Enrique Alvarez and Kristi Porter,…

What does it take to climb the tallest mountain in Africa — and why would someone take on that challenge in honor of a loved one? In this inspiring episode of Logistics With Purpose®️, we sit down with Kieran Purtill to unpack his extraordinary journey to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, a climb driven by love, loss, and purpose. Kieran shares the deeply personal motivation behind the expedition — honoring his late mother — and how her legacy shaped every step of the journey. We dive into the physical, logistical, and emotional realities of preparing for and completing such a demanding climb, from months of training to the critical role of teamwork and support along the way. Kieran also reflects on the powerful lessons he learned about resilience, perseverance, mental strength, and community when facing adversity at altitude. Whether you’re an adventurer, someone navigating loss, or simply looking for inspiration to pursue a meaningful goal, this conversation will challenge you to reflect on your own purpose — and remind you that courage and connection can carry you further than you ever imagined.   This episode is hosted by Enrique Alvarez and Kristi Porter, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda,…

In this inspiring episode of Logistics with Purpose®, presented by Vector Global Logistics in partnership with Supply Chain Now, hosts Enrique Alvarez and Kristi Porter sit down with world-renowned artist and technologist Drue Kataoka. As CEO of Drue Kataoka Art Studios in Silicon Valley, Drue blends art, science, meditation, and emerging technologies to create visionary works that span more than 30 countries—including several pieces sent to space. Drue shares how her Zen and Samurai heritage shapes her approach to creativity, the power of meditation, and why building a strong “vision muscle” is essential in today’s fast-moving visual AI landscape. She also reveals how art and logistics overlap in their shared mission to orchestrate complexity, purpose, and innovation. Throughout the conversation, Drue reflects on: Her multidisciplinary education at Stanford, Harvard, and Yale Her work with Space for Humanity and creating art for space missions The story behind her iconic piece, “Vitruvian Woman”, and its message of modern inclusivity How artists can embrace AI rather than fear it The balance between consuming and creating—and how it drives productivity Her global speaking work with the World Economic Forum If you’re passionate about creativity, innovation, technology, or purpose-driven impact—this episode is packed with insights…

In this inspiring episode of Logistics with Purpose®️, presented by Vector Global Logistics in partnership with Supply Chain Now, hosts Enrique Alvarez and guest co-host Paul Courtney, President of Courtney Agencies, sit down with Rob Safrata—entrepreneur, CEO, and leader behind several purpose-driven companies including Novex Couriers and Fuse Power. Rob shares his journey from a young entrepreneur to a changemaker committed to building businesses that serve people, planet, and profit. Together, we explore how sustainability can be integrated into every layer of operations, why B Corp certification is such a powerful benchmark for ethical business, and how leadership rooted in purpose can spark meaningful transformation across logistics, delivery services, and beyond. You’ll hear insights on: How purpose-driven leadership fuels long-term success The benefits—and challenges—of building sustainable companies The role of B Corp certification in validating ethical practices How technology is shaping the future of sustainability Practical advice for leaders who want to drive positive change If you’re passionate about sustainability, ethical business, or the future of logistics, this episode will leave you inspired and empowered to make an impact in your own sphere.   This episode is hosted by Enrique Alvarez and Paul Courtney, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua…