From Storms to Sustainability: The Rise of Eco-Conscious Entrepreneurs
February 11, 2025, 4:53 pm
In a world where consumer choices can either heal or harm the planet, two innovators are steering their ships toward sustainability. Jeff Shardell, a former Google executive turned storm chaser, and Amy Langfield, an art teacher turned plant-based milk pioneer, are rewriting the rules of their industries. Their journeys are not just about personal fulfillment; they are about creating products that resonate with the growing demand for eco-friendly alternatives.
Shardell's story begins with a childhood fascination for storms. While others sought shelter, he chased the tempest. This thrill-seeking spirit eventually led him to Google, where he played a pivotal role in its meteoric rise. Yet, the corporate ladder felt confining. He craved something deeper, something meaningful. So, he traded his suit for a storm-chasing adventure, which ignited a minimalist mindset.
This mindset sparked a critical question: Why are modern products so complicated? With a keen eye for simplicity, Shardell ventured into the world of personal care. He discovered the hidden dangers of conventional deodorants, particularly those laden with aluminum. The natural alternatives he tried fell short. They were either ineffective or messy. So, he took matters into his own hands, quite literally.
In his kitchen, he donned rubber gloves and began experimenting. With cornstarch and baking soda, he crafted a formula that absorbed sweat and neutralized odors. It was a start, but it felt like a “half-risen loaf of bread under your arm.” Undeterred, he refined his concoction, adding waxes and oils for a smoother application. The result? Humble Brands, a company dedicated to creating simple, effective, and sustainable deodorants.
Today, Humble Brands products grace the shelves of over 11,000 retail locations across the U.S. Shardell’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond the product itself. The packaging is made from 75% post-consumer recycled materials, and he’s on a mission to innovate further. His vision includes developing a 100% biodegradable bioplastic. It’s a daunting task, but Shardell thrives on challenges. He channels the audacity he learned at Google, believing that no challenge is too big.
Meanwhile, in the UK, Amy Langfield's journey began with a personal crisis. Her daughter, Iris, faced severe allergies to dairy and soy. Frustrated by the lack of suitable infant formulas, Langfield decided to create her own. Teaming up with her best friend, they launched Grow with Iris, a brand dedicated to producing allergen-free, plant-based milk for toddlers.
Their flagship product, the Growing Up Drink, is a testament to their commitment. It’s free from the six most common allergens and crafted with a short ingredient list. The drink is not just safe; it’s nutritious, containing essential vitamins and minerals. Langfield’s focus on taste is paramount. After conducting multiple focus groups, she ensured the product is appealing to young palates.
Grow with Iris is more than just a brand; it’s a movement. With 400,000 UK toddlers facing allergies, the need for safe, nutritious options is critical. Langfield’s mission is to cater to climate-conscious parents while ensuring that children with allergies have choices. The startup is already making waves, selling directly to consumers and planning to expand into major retailers.
Both Shardell and Langfield are navigating uncharted waters. They face competition from established giants in their respective fields. Yet, their commitment to sustainability and health sets them apart. They are not just selling products; they are offering solutions to pressing problems.
As the world grapples with climate change and health concerns, the demand for sustainable products is surging. Consumers are becoming more discerning, seeking transparency and integrity in the brands they support. Shardell and Langfield embody this shift. They are pioneers, crafting products that align with the values of a new generation.
Their stories remind us that entrepreneurship is not just about profit; it’s about purpose. It’s about creating a legacy that benefits both people and the planet. As they forge ahead, they inspire others to rethink their choices and embrace sustainability.
In a landscape dominated by fast fashion and disposable goods, Shardell and Langfield are beacons of hope. They show that with passion and determination, it’s possible to turn personal challenges into powerful movements. Their journeys are proof that the path to sustainability is not just a trend; it’s a necessity.
As we look to the future, the impact of these eco-conscious entrepreneurs will resonate far beyond their products. They are part of a larger narrative, one that champions health, sustainability, and community. Their innovations are not just lightning in a bottle; they are the storm of change we desperately need.
In a world that often feels overwhelming, their stories serve as a reminder that change begins with individuals willing to take risks. Whether it’s chasing storms or crafting allergen-free milk, the journey toward a sustainable future is one worth taking. And as more entrepreneurs follow in their footsteps, the possibilities are endless.
Shardell's story begins with a childhood fascination for storms. While others sought shelter, he chased the tempest. This thrill-seeking spirit eventually led him to Google, where he played a pivotal role in its meteoric rise. Yet, the corporate ladder felt confining. He craved something deeper, something meaningful. So, he traded his suit for a storm-chasing adventure, which ignited a minimalist mindset.
This mindset sparked a critical question: Why are modern products so complicated? With a keen eye for simplicity, Shardell ventured into the world of personal care. He discovered the hidden dangers of conventional deodorants, particularly those laden with aluminum. The natural alternatives he tried fell short. They were either ineffective or messy. So, he took matters into his own hands, quite literally.
In his kitchen, he donned rubber gloves and began experimenting. With cornstarch and baking soda, he crafted a formula that absorbed sweat and neutralized odors. It was a start, but it felt like a “half-risen loaf of bread under your arm.” Undeterred, he refined his concoction, adding waxes and oils for a smoother application. The result? Humble Brands, a company dedicated to creating simple, effective, and sustainable deodorants.
Today, Humble Brands products grace the shelves of over 11,000 retail locations across the U.S. Shardell’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond the product itself. The packaging is made from 75% post-consumer recycled materials, and he’s on a mission to innovate further. His vision includes developing a 100% biodegradable bioplastic. It’s a daunting task, but Shardell thrives on challenges. He channels the audacity he learned at Google, believing that no challenge is too big.
Meanwhile, in the UK, Amy Langfield's journey began with a personal crisis. Her daughter, Iris, faced severe allergies to dairy and soy. Frustrated by the lack of suitable infant formulas, Langfield decided to create her own. Teaming up with her best friend, they launched Grow with Iris, a brand dedicated to producing allergen-free, plant-based milk for toddlers.
Their flagship product, the Growing Up Drink, is a testament to their commitment. It’s free from the six most common allergens and crafted with a short ingredient list. The drink is not just safe; it’s nutritious, containing essential vitamins and minerals. Langfield’s focus on taste is paramount. After conducting multiple focus groups, she ensured the product is appealing to young palates.
Grow with Iris is more than just a brand; it’s a movement. With 400,000 UK toddlers facing allergies, the need for safe, nutritious options is critical. Langfield’s mission is to cater to climate-conscious parents while ensuring that children with allergies have choices. The startup is already making waves, selling directly to consumers and planning to expand into major retailers.
Both Shardell and Langfield are navigating uncharted waters. They face competition from established giants in their respective fields. Yet, their commitment to sustainability and health sets them apart. They are not just selling products; they are offering solutions to pressing problems.
As the world grapples with climate change and health concerns, the demand for sustainable products is surging. Consumers are becoming more discerning, seeking transparency and integrity in the brands they support. Shardell and Langfield embody this shift. They are pioneers, crafting products that align with the values of a new generation.
Their stories remind us that entrepreneurship is not just about profit; it’s about purpose. It’s about creating a legacy that benefits both people and the planet. As they forge ahead, they inspire others to rethink their choices and embrace sustainability.
In a landscape dominated by fast fashion and disposable goods, Shardell and Langfield are beacons of hope. They show that with passion and determination, it’s possible to turn personal challenges into powerful movements. Their journeys are proof that the path to sustainability is not just a trend; it’s a necessity.
As we look to the future, the impact of these eco-conscious entrepreneurs will resonate far beyond their products. They are part of a larger narrative, one that champions health, sustainability, and community. Their innovations are not just lightning in a bottle; they are the storm of change we desperately need.
In a world that often feels overwhelming, their stories serve as a reminder that change begins with individuals willing to take risks. Whether it’s chasing storms or crafting allergen-free milk, the journey toward a sustainable future is one worth taking. And as more entrepreneurs follow in their footsteps, the possibilities are endless.