Responsible Sourcing & Plant-Based Energy: A New Brew With Ben Levine of Rasa
Republished with permission from Nutrition Without Compromise and ORLO NutritionGuest: Ben Levine, Co-Founder of Rasa & Clinical HerbalistIn this enlightening episode, we meet Ben Levine, a clinical herbalist and co-founder of Rasa, a sustainable adaptogenic coffee alternative brand. Ben shares his journey from corporate herbal sourcing to founding Rasa, revealing the darker side of the herb trade, the pitfalls of commoditization, and the powerful role of regenerative and responsible sourcing practices.You’ll learn how Rasa supports farmers and wildcrafters through boots-on-the-ground sourcing, why certifications like Fair Trade and Fair for Life aren’t always enough, and how adaptogens like ashwagandha and rhodiola can help combat modern stress. We also explore the future of plant-based nutrition, climate-resilient herbs, and how reconnecting with even a single plant can shift consumer behavior.Topics Covered:[00:01:04] Introduction to Ben Levine and his path from Celestial Seasonings to founding Rasa[00:02:57] Disillusionment with the commercial herb industry & the commodification of plants[00:04:41] The impact of popularity on wildcrafted adaptogens like rhodiola and eleuthero[00:06:21] Visiting ashwagandha farms in India and how Rasa builds sourcing relationships on the ground[00:08:17] Certifications like Fair for Life vs. direct trade: Are labels enough?[00:10:14] How certification programs can be co-opted by corporations[00:13:56] The case for paying more for responsibly sourced coffee and tea alternatives[00:14:26] How Rasa formulations address daily stress with adaptogens[00:15:35] Why ritual matters—building healthy habits into your daily routine[00:18:13] How adaptogens work: Partial cortisol agonists and stress modulation[00:20:32] Adaptogens at altitude: Helping the body acclimate to high elevations[00:23:38] The evolutionary intelligence of plants and why they thrive in extreme climates[00:25:12] The growing disconnect in modern diets: Nature deficit and phytochemical diversity[00:28:05] Coffee vs. herbal alternatives: Water use, land use, and regenerative potential[00:30:03] Fermentation teas, compost brews, and the Jeewamrutha system in India[00:31:01] Why rainwater catchment systems are essential in regions affected by climate variability[00:32:26] How regenerative practices spread farmer-to-farmer[00:33:33] The one action you can take today: Build a relationship with a single plant[00:34:56] Why sourcing matters more than ever—and how you can vote with your dollars[00:35:58] Discount code & final thoughts: Try Rasa and support responsible sourcing🔗 Use code NUTRITION15 at WeAreRasa.com for 15% off your first order.JOIN OUR CIRCLE. BUILD A GREENER FUTURE:🌴 Subscribe to our newsletter, and we'll plant a tree in your honor! https://caremorebebetter.com🌲 Subscribe and rate us wherever you listen, and we'll plant another tree Follow us on social media:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@caremorebebetter TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@caremorebebetterInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/CareMoreBeBetter/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CareMoreBeBetter LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/caremorebebetter
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37:19
Healing The Soil Through Regenerative Farming With Ric Scalzo
The earth offers a lot of things that make us and the entire planet healthier – we only have to know which things are genuinely good for us. Ric Scalzo joins Corinna Bellizzi to share how he masterfully combines his knowledge with herbal medicine, regenerative farming, and ancient traditions to bring healing to people and the world as a whole. Ric explains why he believes the future of medicine begins with a microbiome of the soil and ourselves, as well as how to grow high-quality crops through regenerative practices while keeping the soil healthy. Ric also shares the many lessons he has learned from founding Gaia Herbs to starting his newest venture Kokora Life.***Get 20% off Kokora products (Care More Be Better will ALSO receive a commission) with the coupon code: CAREMORE20 or just follow this link and the coupon will auto-load in your cart: https://kokoralife.com/discount/CAREMORE20 ***About Guest:Ric Scalzo began his exploration of herbal and naturopathic medicine in 1980, delving into fields such as Naturopathic Herbal Medicine, Eclectic Herbal Medicine, Ayurvedic Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and various diagnostic methods. He earned a master’s degree in Herbal Medicine from the School of Herbal Medicine and was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine. After several years of medical practice, Ric founded Gaia Herbs in 1987 and grew Gaia to the most respected and successful herbal company in the country. After selling Gaia in 2019, Ric established the Institute of Botanical Research in Arizona and established CR Medicinal Farms, a regenerative organic farm in Costa Rica. These became the stepping stones for his new adventure called Kokora, a herbal products company focused on regenerative organic cultivation with a mission to "create the finest herbal remedies that promote health and vitality for all”. Celebrated for his pioneering work in Herbal Medicine and his dedication to preserving herbal integrity for over four decades, Ric continues to innovate in the field and plays a key role in integrating regenerative agriculture with herbal medicine.Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kokoralifeGuest Website: https://kokoralife.comGuest Social: https://www.instagram.com/kokoralife/https://www.tiktok.com/@kokora.lifehttps://www.facebook.com/kokoraliferegeneratedhttps://www.youtube.com/@KokoraLifeShow Notes: Raw audio00:03:08 - Ric’s Origin Story00:06:44 - Merging Traditional Wisdom With Modern Science00:10:25 - Making Herbal Products Palatable00:14:50 - Nutrition Density In The Soil00:21:03 - Differences Between Regenerative And Organic00:28:09 - Weeds: The First Succession Of Life00:30:58 - How The Regenerative Movement Grows00:39:50 - Growing Your Own Ingredients00:45:10 - Ric’s Five Core Principles00:51:27 - Plants As Teachers00:50:25 - The Story Behind Kokora’s Name01:09:19 - Episode Wrap-up And Closing WordsJOIN OUR CIRCLE. BUILD A GREENER FUTURE:🌴 Subscribe to our newsletter, and we’ll plant a tree in your honor!🌲 Subscribe and rate us wherever you listen, and we’ll plant another tree Follow us on social media:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/caremorebebetter TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@circleb.co Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caremorebebetter Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CareMoreBeBetter LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/care-more-be-better
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1:03:11
The Blue Plate: How Our Meals Can Combat Climate Chaos | Mark J. Easter
What if your next meal could be a tool for climate action?In this episode of Nutrition Without Compromise, shared here with the permission of ORLO Nutrition, Corinna Bellizzi welcomes ecologist and greenhouse gas accountant Mark J. Easter to explore the connection between the foods we eat and the fight against climate chaos. Mark shares insights from his new book, The Blue Plate: A Food Lover’s Guide to Climate Chaos (Patagonia Press), offering a hopeful path forward through regenerative agriculture, plant-forward diets, and nature-based solutions like shellfish farming and soil restoration.Together, they examine:The personal legacy of farming on the Great Plains and carbon lossWhy shrimp farming is far worse for the environment than you might thinkHow regenerative practices restore soil health and human nutritionThe surprising role of mussels and oysters in carbon drawdownWhat we can learn from indigenous practices and planetary perspective🌱 Tune in and learn how your daily choices at the dinner table can help build a healthier, more resilient planet.Resources & Mentions:The Blue Plate: A Food Lover's Guide to Climate Chaos by Mark J. EasterPatagonia Books: https://www.patagonia.com/shop/books Learn more about Orlo Nutrition: https://OrloNutrition.com (Use code NWC for 10% off)JOIN OUR CIRCLE. BUILD A GREENER FUTURE:🌴 Subscribe to our newsletter, and we'll plant a tree in your honor! https://caremorebebetter.com🌲 Subscribe and rate us wherever you listen, and we'll plant another tree Follow us on social media:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@caremorebebetter TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@caremorebebetterInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/CareMoreBeBetter/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CareMoreBeBetter LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/caremorebebetter
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33:24
Creating A Sustainable Nutrition Ingredient Supply With Ben Kelly
If we can be more conscious about our food consumption, building a more sustainable world is certainly achievable. Corinna Bellizzi chats with Ben Kelly of Better Origin Ingredients about what it takes to create a sustainable nutrition ingredient supply. He shares the environmental benefits of using algae-based Omega-3s, particularly in ending illegal fishing, saving fish populations, and replacing fish oil. They discuss the complexities of global supply chains, as well as how to handle trade wars and tensions happening all around the world. Ben also talks about his philosophy of running a business focusing on social impact, employee well-being, and community service.About Guest:An entrepreneurial-minded leader and connector, Ben has spent the past 15+ years in business development and leadership roles in the dietary supplement and food ingredient industry. He holds his B.A. (Honors) from the University of New Brunswick and his M.P.A from the University of Saskatchewan. Ben’s partner Katie, their two daughters and two dogs make their home in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. Ben began his professional career in business development with POS Bio-Sciences (a global leader in contract R&D services). While at POS, Ben Co-Founded Algarithm, with Dr. Udaya Wanasundara building on his interest in lipids, childhood nutrition and sustainability. In 2021 the business was acquired by Mara Renewables Corp., creating a fully integrated ingredient organization. In 2024 Ben left Algarithm and joined Virun as their Vice President of Business Development, moving one step closer to the consumer. He also took on a new role as CEO of a new B2B ingredient organization - Better Origin Ingredients in April 2025.Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-k-4b326460/Guest Website: https://www.betterorigin.ca/Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-origin-ingredients/Show Notes: Raw audio | Final FV00:03:28 - Ben Kelly And Better Origin [00:03:32]00:07:11 - Saving Fishes Through Algae Oil [00:06:47]00:12:37 - Understanding The Impact Of Illegal Fishing [00:11:52]00:24:17 - How To Significant Improve Supply Chains [00:22:58]00:28:24 - Working Opportunities With Better Origin Ingredients [00:26:54]00:31:19 - How Ingredients Will Be Sourced In The Future [00:29:39]00:40:21 - More Clarity In The Food Ingredient Industry [00:37:52]00:47:11 - How Consumers Can Push For Change [00:43:48]00:50:38 - Episode Wrap-up And Closing Words [00:46:29]JOIN OUR CIRCLE. BUILD A GREENER FUTURE:🌴 Subscribe to our newsletter, and we’ll plant a tree in your honor!🌲 Subscribe and rate us wherever you listen, and we’ll plant another tree Follow us on social media:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/caremorebebetter TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@circleb.co Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caremorebebetter Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CareMoreBeBetter LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/care-more-be-better
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43:09
Toxic Harvest: Kelly Ryerson of 'Common Ground' Unpacks Glyphosate Toxicity & Regenerative Hope
In this eye-opening bonus episode, originally aired on Nutrition Without Compromise, host Corinna Bellizzi interviews Kelly Ryerson—better known as Glyphosate Girl. Together, they expose the hidden toxicity of glyphosate (the active ingredient in Roundup), its role in chronic illness, microbiome destruction, and environmental collapse. Kelly shares her personal health journey, dives into courtroom dramas from the Monsanto trials, and offers practical tips to reduce glyphosate exposure through conscious food choices.Kelly is also featured in Common Ground, the award-winning documentary on regenerative agriculture—a powerful sequel to Kiss the Ground—now streaming on Amazon. She appears alongside notable voices like Rosario Dawson, Laura Dern, Jason Momoa, Ian Somerhalder, and Woody Harrelson, helping drive awareness of regenerative solutions for our health and the planet.Topics Covered:Why glyphosate is an endocrine disruptor and probable carcinogenHow it affects soil health and the human microbiomeGMO crops, superweeds, and the rise of pesticide-resistant agricultureFood labeling confusion: Organic vs Non-GMOEnvironmental justice and glyphosate runoffHow to reduce exposure at home, and what to buy organicThe connection between glyphosate and global fishery collapseResources & Links:GlyphosateFacts.com – Kelly’s information hub@GlyphosateGirl on InstagramWatch Common Ground on Amazon PrimeThe New Fish – Simen SaetreRodale InstituteMendocino Grain ProjectAbout Our Guest: Kelly Ryerson (Glyphosate Girl) is an independent journalist, speaker, and advocate who bridges the worlds of agriculture, policy, and chronic illness. She has contributed to documentaries—including Common Ground, where she appears alongside Rosario Dawson, Laura Dern, Jason Momoa, and Woody Harrelson—co-hosts a daily show on CHDtv, and serves as an ambassador for the Rodale Institute.JOIN OUR CIRCLE. BUILD A GREENER FUTURE:🌴 Subscribe to our newsletter, and we'll plant a tree in your honor! https://caremorebebetter.com🌲 Subscribe and rate us wherever you listen, and we'll plant another tree Follow us on social media:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@caremorebebetter TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@caremorebebetterInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/CareMoreBeBetter/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CareMoreBeBetter LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/caremorebebetter
À propos de Care More Be Better: A Podcast For Sustainable Social Impact and Regeneration
Care More Be Better, invites you to care more so we can create a better world together. We amplify the voices of environmentalists, activists, scientists, and leading experts who seek to make the world a better place. We share actionable insights and tools so you can make a measurable difference each day. Over the course of more than 230 episodes, you'll hear from inspired individuals, ecologically responsible entrepreneurs, and conscious companies from diverse communities and backgrounds. Listen for free on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Audible, on our website, and on most major podcast platforms.Notable guests include: Jean-Michel Cousteau, Paul Hawken, Nina Simons, Dr. Wallace J. Nichols, Captain Liz Clark, Nana Aba Anamoah, Dr. William Li, Miyoko Schinner, John Roulac, Chef Babette Davis, Kelly Reyerson (@glyphosategirl), Starhawk, Donna Grantis and many more. These global change agents and activists create positive impacts and encourage us to think globally while also acting locally. Inspired by Paul Hawken’s aspirational book Regeneration - Ending The Climate Crisis In One Generation, and the late Dr. Wallace J. Nichols' Blue Mind Movement, this show aims to create a realistic roadmap to build a better future. As Paul Hawken simply states: “Global warming is not a science problem. It’s a human problem.” On this journey, you'll become the person you aspire to be by remaining curious, thinking deeply, and listening intently while looking inward. You'll discover your internal wisdom and learn to listen to your inner voice to receive the gifts nature provides fully. Tune in to understand the most important issues that affect us all.Hear experiences from the front lines of social policies and political struggles.Feel enlightened by conversations about health, wellness, and mindfulness.Discover valuable entrepreneurship and business strategies. Hone your communication and leadership skills.Become part of the regeneration nation by expanding your knowledge of agriculture, social systems, and help us build a more circular and just economy. As a community, we aim to evolve our understanding of social impact, sustainability, and regenerative, circular living to create a healthier and more just world. The stories we tell will get you thinking about how to secure the future for the human race and all Earth's inhabitants - from how you can build positive change in your local community, to how you might broaden your reach and impact globally.About Our Host: A natural products industry executive, Corinna Bellizzi helped develop and grow several responsible, sustainable nutrition brands including: Nordic Naturals and ORLO Nutrition. With these achievements and experience, Corinna went back to school to earn her MBA, graduating at the top of her class at Santa Clara University, and is now pursuing her PhD at the intersection of Sustainability, Education and Nutrition at Prescott College. Her colorful career and exceptional experiences fill this show with life-changing conversations and insights you're sure to benefit from. Beyond elevating business ventures and earning massive profits, she exemplifies how to deliver genuine value, achieve bigger things, and pursue significant positive change. Care More Be Better is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Audible, our website and most major podcast platforms. JOIN OUR CIRCLE. BUILD A GREENER FUTURE! https://caremorebebetter.com When you join our email list, we plant a tree with the help of ForestPlanet! Remember, our aim with Care More Be Better is to help you use less, waste less, and live more! Engage with us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok!
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