"Utopia Plastics has been used in the making of over 200 different products in the alternative space." - Sharina Perry's journey from envisioning a better world as a child to revolutionizing the plastics industry with plant-based materials is truly inspirational.

[Why This Is Important] - The main message is to become a person worth listening to, so you can make a positive impact on the world and take strides towards sustainable innovations. The episode message revolves around the potential of plant-based plastics in transforming the manufacturing industry and contributing to environmental sustainability.

[What you need to know.] - Sharina Perry's vision and determination led to the development of plant-based materials that can be used as an alternative to petroleum in plastics manufacturing. Utopia Plastics is driven by values of stewardship, collaboration, and creating a sustainable ecosystem business model.

[What you need to do.] - Embrace a vision that can contribute to positive change, seek out strategic partners who align with your values, and build a community-driven approach towards problem-solving in your industry.

[TAKE ACTION] - Embrace a vision for positive change, seek out strategic partners who align with your values, and work towards a community-driven approach to problem-solving in your industry.

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures. Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/

Shelli Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst at Alchemy Consulting and Chief Operating Officer at The Storytellers Channel, Inc. Check out her LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Sharina Perry

is an entrepreneur with more than 25 years of experience establishing and running national businesses. Sharina is the founder and inventor of Utopia Plastix, a plant based alternative to petroleum-based polymers. Sharina is also the originator and developer of The Utopia Model, a sustainable ecosystem business model. She is well regarded as an innovator, strategist, and unconventional thinker. She is often praised for her exceptional capacity to foster creative thinking, effective execution, and deliberate leadership. Aside from her successful career, Sharina holds a significant number of leadership,

management, and business development certifications. Sharina holds an expert certification in Sustainable Strategies and Circular Economics. Her education

includes but is not limited to, The University of Oklahoma and Cambridge Judge Business School. Sharina also owns registered global patents and trademarks.

Throughout her illustrious career, Sharina has received numerous awards and accolades and has been recognized worldwide. This year Sharina was listed as Forbes's Top 10 Women To Watch in 2023 (globally). Sharina was also featured in September 2023 on the iconic Nasdaq Billboard in NYC Times Square as the Inventor of the Year.

Download a FREE checklist of how to craft intentional stories to inspire results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

Keywords

Utopia, change the world, paper straw, plants, plastics manufacturing, alternative, petroleum, injection molding, blown film, 3D manufacturing, thermoforming, extrusion, blow molding, environmental justice, health and wellness, education, economic development, family, covid, values, business owner, CEO, stewardship, partners, culture, community, supply chain, regenerative economics, Sharina Perry, Shelli Jost Brady, Gayle Turner

"We really do create more problems as we say we're going to solve them." - In this episode, Sharina Perry shares a powerful and eye-opening story about her journey towards creating a sustainable and innovative solution to the environmental impact of single-use plastics.

[Why This Is Important] - The main message is to become a person worth listening to so you can make a positive impact on the world, as evident from Sharina Perry's inspiring story of innovation and determination. This episode's message is the power of one person's vision and commitment to bringing positive change to the world.

[What you need to know.] - Sharina's realization of the environmental impact of single-use plastics led her to develop a plant-based alternative that could address this issue sustainably. She discovered the potential of plant materials in providing both ecological benefits and economic opportunities.

[What you need to do.] - Take the time to evaluate the environmental impact of the products you use and consider alternative solutions. Research and educate yourself about sustainable practices and innovative materials that can contribute to a more eco-friendly future. Support and advocate for sustainable initiatives in your community and beyond.

[TAKE ACTION] Do this now - Reflect on the environmental impact of your daily consumption habits. Investigate opportunities to support sustainable and environmentally friendly products and initiatives. Use your voice and influence to promote the adoption of sustainable practices within your circles of influence.

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures. Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/

Shelli Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst at Alchemy Consulting and Chief Operating Officer at The Storytellers Channel, Inc. Check out her LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Sharina Perry

is an entrepreneur with more than 25 years of experience establishing and running national businesses. Sharina is the founder and inventor of Utopia Plastix, a plant based alternative to petroleum-based polymers. Sharina is also the originator and developer of The Utopia Model, a sustainable ecosystem business model. She is well regarded as an innovator, strategist, and unconventional thinker. She is often praised for her exceptional capacity to foster creative thinking, effective execution, and deliberate leadership. Aside from her successful career, Sharina holds a significant number of leadership, management, and business development certifications. Sharina holds an expert certification in Sustainable Strategies and Circular Economics. Her education includes but is not limited to, The University of Oklahoma and Cambridge Judge Business School. Sharina also owns registered global patents and trademarks.

Throughout her illustrious career, Sharina has received numerous awards and accolades and has been recognized worldwide. This year Sharina was listed as Forbes's Top 10 Women To Watch in 2023 (globally). Sharina was also featured in September 2023 on the iconic Nasdaq Billboard in NYC Times Square as the Inventor of the Year.

Download a FREE checklist of how to craft intentional stories to inspire results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

Keywords

plant based materials, environment awareness, sustainability, single use plastics, paper straws, environmental impacts, circular economy, utopia, utopia plant based straw, viable alternative, wood and petroleum straw, world changing, Sharina Perry, Shelli Jost Brady, Gayle Turner

In today's episode of "Stories Matter! Helping Leaders Transform Lives," we dive into the important topic of sustainable economics with our guest Sharina Perry

"Imagining if we did something different became my way of solving problems." - Sharina Perry

[Why This Is Important] - The main message here is the importance of becoming a person worth listening to so you can make a positive impact in the world. In this episode, Sharina Perry shares her journey of creating a vision for a better world and turning her passion into advocacy for health and wellness in underrepresented communities.

[What you need to know.] You need to know about the disparities and challenges faced by minority communities, particularly in the context of health and wellness. Sharina Perry's personal experience with her nephew's diagnosis highlights the impact of these disparities and the need for advocacy and change.

[What you need to do.] Educate yourself about the disparities and challenges faced by underrepresented communities. Take action to become an advocate for positive change within these communities. Support initiatives and businesses that promote health and wellness for all.

[TAKE ACTION] Do this now - Listen to the voices of those advocating for change in underrepresented communities. Use your own platform and influence to raise awareness and support initiatives working towards equitable health and wellness for all.

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures. Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/

Shelli Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst at Alchemy Consulting and Chief Operating Officer at The Storytellers Channel, Inc. Check out her LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Sharina Perry

is an entrepreneur with more than 25 years of experience establishing and running national businesses. Sharina is the founder and inventor of Utopia Plastix, a plant based alternative to petroleum-based polymers. Sharina is also the originator and developer of The Utopia Model, a sustainable ecosystem business model. She is well regarded as an innovator, strategist, and unconventional thinker. She is often praised for her exceptional capacity to foster creative thinking, effective execution, and deliberate leadership. Aside from her successful career, Sharina holds a significant number of leadership,

management, and business development certifications. Sharina holds an expert certification in Sustainable Strategies and Circular Economics. Her education includes but is not limited to, The University of Oklahoma and Cambridge Judge Business School. Sharina also owns registered global patents and trademarks.

Throughout her illustrious career, Sharina has received numerous awards and accolades and has been recognized worldwide. This year Sharina was listed as Forbes's Top 10 Women To Watch in 2023 (globally). Sharina was also featured in September 2023 on the iconic Nasdaq Billboard in NYC Times Square as the Inventor of the Year.

Download a FREE checklist of how to craft intentional stories to inspire results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

Keywords

life shifts, belief, imagination, utopia, disparity, faith-based, man's inhumanity to man, collaboration, minorities, underrepresented communities, manufacturing facilities, air pollutants, neurofibromatosis, quality of life, ignorance, advocacy, education, cannabis, health outcomes, FDA guidelines, holistic approach, economic development, community health, entrepreneurship, finite games, infinite games, communal approach, disparity, intentional efforts, community development

"There's nothing I couldn't do. So, I didn't see my gender, my race as a handicap. I could shatter glass ceilings all day long." - Sharina Parry

[Why This Is Important] - The main objective of this episode is to illustrate the journey of becoming an entrepreneur and overcoming challenges. The message is to become a person worth listening to so you can navigate obstacles and achieve success. The story of Sharina Parry exemplifies the power of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

[What You Need to Know] - In this episode, Sharina Parry shares her entrepreneurial journey, from being unexpectedly laid off as the director of operations to founding Utopia Plastics and becoming a leading provider in the public and private space nationwide. She discusses the challenges she faced, the value of partnerships, and the importance of creating opportunities for others.

[What You Need to Do] - As a listener, it's essential to absorb the lessons shared by Sharina Parry, especially regarding resilience, creating opportunities, and the impact of diversity in entrepreneurship.

[TAKE ACTION] - Reflect on the challenges you've faced and consider how you can turn them into opportunities for growth. Take inspiration from Sharina Parry's story and apply the lessons learned to your own journey as an entrepreneur.

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures. Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/

Shelli Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst

at Alchemy Consulting and Chief Operating Officer at The Storytellers Channel,

Inc. Check out her LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Sharina Perry

is an entrepreneur with more than 25 years of experience establishing and

running national businesses. Sharina is the founder and inventor of Utopia

Plastix, a plant based alternative to petroleum-based polymers. Sharina is also

the originator and developer of The Utopia Model, a sustainable ecosystem

business model. She is well regarded as an innovator, strategist, and

unconventional thinker. She is often praised for her exceptional capacity to

foster creative thinking, effective execution, and deliberate leadership. Aside

from her successful career, Sharina holds a significant number of leadership,

management, and business development certifications. Sharina holds an expert

certification in Sustainable Strategies and Circular Economics. Her education

includes but is not limited to, The University of Oklahoma and Cambridge Judge

Business School. Sharina also owns registered global patents and trademarks.

Throughout her illustrious career, Sharina has received numerous awards and

accolades and has been recognized worldwide. This year Sharina was listed as

Forbes's Top 10 Women To Watch in 2023 (globally). Sharina was also featured in

September 2023 on the iconic Nasdaq Billboard in NYC Times Square as the

Inventor of the Year.

Download a FREE checklist of how to craft intentional stories to inspire results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

Keywords

entrepreneur, founder, Utopia Plastics, serial entrepreneur, director of operations, leading provider, bootstrap, partnership, investment, IP value, capital, revenue, public private space, government contractor, African American woman, prime contractor, funding, bootstrapping, inequity, glass ceilings, gender, race, taking up space, community, contributing to society, responsibility, society, family, contribution, leadership, business growth, Sharina Perry, Shelli Jost Brady, Gayle Turner

"The future of healthcare is evolving, with policy, people, process, and technology playing crucial roles." - Robert Witham discusses the evolving landscape of eldercare and the impact of policy, people, and technology on the healthcare industry.

[Why This Is Important] - The main objective is to highlight the importance of staying informed about the changing landscape of eldercare and the implications of healthcare policies, people's roles, and technological advancements. Becoming aware of the evolving healthcare industry impacts individuals and families, emphasizing the need for proactive action to adapt to the changing healthcare environment.

[What you need to know.] - Listeners need to understand the significance of policy, people, process, and technology in shaping the future of elder care. The discussion delves into how the aging population, healthcare policies, and technological advancements are influencing the healthcare industry, particularly in terms of community-based care, the gig economy, and the need for investment in primary care.

[What you need to do.] - Individuals and families need to reassess their understanding of healthcare policies and the impact on eldercare. They should also consider the changing roles of healthcare professionals due to the gig economy, as well as the potential benefits of community-based care. Additionally, being proactive by staying informed about the integration of technology into healthcare and the evolving healthcare processes is crucial.

[TAKE ACTION] Do this now - Stay informed about evolving healthcare policies, the role of technology in eldercare, the changing roles of healthcare professionals, and the importance of community-based care. Consider the implications for aging loved ones and the potential opportunities it presents for families.

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures.

Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/

Shelli Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst at Alchemy Consulting and Chief Operating Officer at The Storytellers Channel, Inc.

Check out her LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Robert Witham is Co-Founder and Co-CEO at Azimuth Healthcare. He’s an experienced military veteran, having served as a Captain in the United States Army Reserves for over 11 years. Transitioning from military service to the healthcare sector, he brings a wealth of leadership skills and strategic acumen as a healthcare executive. With a track record of driving sustainable growth and orchestrating strategic success for providers, payors, and start-ups, I excel in cultivating positive relationships within diverse organizational structures, both large and small.

Check out Robert’s profile on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-witham-he-him-military-veteran-70423a66/

Download a FREE checklist of how to craft intentional stories to inspire results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

Keywords

Robert Witham, health care, regenerative economics, polycrisis, broken systems, largest population, generations, sandwich generation, alternative health sources, reconciliation, policy, aging population, Medicare, insolvency, hospital at home programs, dispatch health, technology, cost savings, pandemic, gig economy, primary care, data collection, interpretation, natural paths, meditation, holistic approach, mental health, prescriptions, caregiver support, future preparation, forewarned is forearmed, Shelli Jost Brady, Gayle Turner.

"Transparency and trust are two of the most important values to uphold in the healthcare industry, areas where it often lacks," said Robert Witham, emphasizing the significance of these core principles.

[Why This Is Important] - In this episode, Robert Witham demonstrates the vital role of transparency and trust in the caregiving industry, setting the stage for a discussion on preparing to be a caregiver. The main message is to become a person worth listening to so you can empower yourself and others through caregiving.

[What you need to know.] - Listeners need to understand the importance of transparency and trust in caregiving, the value of emotional support and care, the different stages of caregiving, and the significance of honoring the wishes and values of loved ones.

[What you need to do.] - The action steps include learning about the different stages of caregiving, educating yourself about how to have conversations with family members, and empowering yourself to have those essential care plan discussions.

[TAKE ACTION] Do this now: Take the time to reflect on the values of transparency and trust in caregiving and start educating yourself on the different stages of caregiving, empowering yourself to have those important conversations with loved ones.

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures.

Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/

Shelli Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst at Alchemy Consulting and Chief Operating Officer at The Storytellers Channel, Inc.

Check out her LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Robert Witham is Co-Founder and Co-CEO at Azimuth Healthcare. He’s an experienced military veteran, having served as a Captain in the United States Army Reserves for over 11 years. Transitioning from military service to the healthcare sector, he brings a wealth of leadership skills and strategic acumen as a healthcare executive. With a track record of driving sustainable growth and orchestrating strategic success for providers, payors, and start-ups, I excel in cultivating positive relationships within diverse organizational structures, both large and small.

Check out Robert’s profile on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-witham-he-him-military-veteran-70423a66/

Download a FREE checklist of how to craft intentional stories to inspire results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

Keywords

Robert Witham, transparency, trust, healthcare industry, caregiving, emotional support, empathy, primary care physician, nurse case manager, employee stock plan, ownership, advocate, home health agency, educational models, caregiving stages, end of life, wishes and values, conversations, family members, care plans, independence, developing suite, moving, honoring wishes, controlling wishes, healthcare system, values, how people find you, marketing materials, word-of-mouth, personal situations, Shelli Jost Brady, Gayle Turner.

Robert Witham shares, "We wanted to take our time and be very thoughtful of how we are building this company."

[Why This Is Important] - The main message from this episode is to become a person worth listening to so you can understand the importance of strategic decision-making in business. In the context of Robert Witham's story, the episode emphasizes the significance of starting a direct-to-consumer (D2C) business over a business-to-business (B2B) model, and the careful planning and intention required for success.

[What you need to know.] - Robert Witham, the guest, explains the decision-making process behind choosing a D2C business over a B2B model to start asthma healthcare. They initially considered targeting employers but realized that starting small and slow, and building the brand with intention, would be more feasible.

[What you need to do.] -

1. Understand the thought process behind a D2C versus B2B business model.

2. Consider the benefits of starting small and building a brand deliberately.

3. Learn how direct engagement and listening to the customers' needs can shape a successful business strategy.

[TAKE ACTION] Do this now: Listen to the full episode for valuable insights into the decision-making process and strategic planning when starting a business.

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures.

Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/

Shelli Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst at Alchemy Consulting and Chief Operating Officer at The Storytellers Channel, Inc.

Check out her LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Robert Witham is Co-Founder and Co-CEO at Azimuth Healthcare. He’s an experienced military veteran, having served as a Captain in the United States Army Reserves for over 11 years. Transitioning from military service to the healthcare sector, he brings a wealth of leadership skills and strategic acumen as a healthcare executive. With a track record of driving sustainable growth and orchestrating strategic success for providers, payors, and start-ups, I excel in cultivating positive relationships within diverse organizational structures, both large and small.

Check out Robert’s profile on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-witham-he-him-military-veteran-70423a66/

Download a FREE checklist of how to craft intentional stories to inspire results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

Keywords

Robert Witham, Azimuth healthcare, b to b business, b to c business, brand building, direct to consumer, healthcare system, employees assistance programs, EAPs, funding, employer trust, name brand recognition, direct to consumer approach, caregivers, care navigation, small numbers, initial need, sentiment analysis, share more stories, SEEQAPP, soliciting stories, word-of-mouth, marketing plan, free education sessions, preparing for emergencies, upstream education, engagement, care solutions, home health agencies, transportation services, care for yourself, crisis planning, Shelli Jost Brady, Gayle Turner.

"The goal of Azimuth Health Care is for you to be able to love your loved one, and we take care of everything else." - Robert Witham shares a personal journey of navigating the complexities of the healthcare system when his father had a stroke.

[Why This Is Important] - The main message is to become a person worth listening to so you can understand the complexities of the healthcare system and how to effectively navigate it. This episode's message is about the importance of seeking expert guidance when dealing with healthcare challenges.

[What you need to know.] - Robert Witham's journey from a military healthcare role to founding Azimuth Healthcare. The challenges he faced in navigating the healthcare system for his father, including transitioning to hospice care and switching from Medicare to Medicaid.

[What you need to do.] - Seek expert guidance when dealing with healthcare challenges. Understand the complexities of healthcare and be prepared for the unexpected.

[TAKE ACTION] Do this now - Take the time to research and understand the healthcare options available for your loved ones. Reach out to experts who can guide you through the complexities of the healthcare system.

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures.

Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/

Shelli Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst at Alchemy Consulting and Chief Operating Officer at The Storytellers Channel, Inc.

Check out her LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Robert Witham is Co-Founder and Co-CEO at Azimuth Healthcare. He’s an experienced military veteran, having served as a Captain in the United States Army Reserves for over 11 years. Transitioning from military service to the healthcare sector, he brings a wealth of leadership skills and strategic acumen as a healthcare executive. With a track record of driving sustainable growth and orchestrating strategic success for providers, payors, and start-ups, I excel in cultivating positive relationships within diverse organizational structures, both large and small.

Check out Robert’s profile on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-witham-he-him-military-veteran-70423a66/

Download a FREE checklist of how to craft intentional stories to inspire results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

Keywords

Robert Witham, healthcare, Azimuth Healthcare, CEO, health care system, Medicare Advantage, insurance company, nurse case managers, Medicaid, long term care, veteran's home, hospice, health care industry, health care startups, healthcare planner, primary care physician, home health, transportation, senior living communities, b to b business, b to c business, financial industry, certified financial planner, health care planners, health care advocate, health care navigation, health care experience, health care crisis, health care services, health care decision-making, end-of-life care, Shelli Jost Brady, Gayle Turner.