CONVERSATIONS
Host Nancy Sheed is talking with Heather Terry. She’s the Founder and CEO of GoodSam Foods. In this episode, they are discussing the business of doing good, entrepreneurship and business growth. Her story is compelling because like many of us, how she got here wasn’t predictable.
Heather started her career acting in New York. She performed on Broadway and television. Nutrition and diet became a focus when Heather’s dad was dealing with non-Hodgins Lymphoma. She soon found herself learning all she could about nutrition.
Chocolate was always on the menu, and Heather started to make her own. Her friends loved it, so she decided to go into business. With a business partner on board, she developed the first non-GMO chocolate – ahead of the big brands.
Sam Stroot was one of her first clients, and she quickly realized he had contacts that would allow her to work directly with the growers. They partnered up and together they formed GoodSam into the company it is today.
“You cannot … just jump on a trend and not be authentic about it.”
Terry shares how companies can make shifts to embrace regenerative practices, or sustainable sourcing. First comes passion. If it comes from a place of passion, it will work out. Caring matters!
Baby steps matter too. Start where you are. She shares 3 key things to consider when planning your social initiatives (huge help!) to set yourself up for success.
How can you get started?
- Local community is a great place to start.
- Get clear about what really matters to you.
- It doesn’t have to be perfect.
- Start somewhere.
- Your business goals matter too. Making a profit while doing good is key.
Terry breaks down the win/win/win model. She also gives some ideas about how that can look in other businesses.
“You can make a lot more impact listening to your partners than deciding what it is you want to put on it.” Terry’s advice for companies and leaders looking to create a social impact program.
Connect with Heather:
