What If the Economy Were Built on Care?

What if everything you’ve been taught about economic progress is wrong?In this episode, Stacey Edgar — social worker turned social entrepreneur and now executive director of the International Folk Art Market — shares her journey through the “career jungle gym” of the social impact sector. We unpack her concept of artisan economics, a radically human approach to commerce rooted in care, dignity, and connection.From surviving U.S. customs mishaps to rewriting economic theory from a feminist perspective, Stacey challenges the status quo and shows what a purpose-driven economy really looks like — on the ground, in the marketplace, and in our communities.If you’ve ever wondered whether mission can truly coexist with margin, or how to lead with care in a world of burnouts and bans, this episode is for you.Episode Highlights[00:00] IntroductionChallenging the paradox of progress and introducing artisan economics[02:06] Stacey’s Nonlinear PathFrom social work to fair trade founder to nonprofit ED[03:43] Turning $2,000 into a MovementThe surprising spark behind Global Girlfriend[05:35] Lessons from the Early Days“Just ask.” The power of invitation in purpose-driven business[07:30] Teaching Business with PurposeFrom MBA metrics to artisan-led projects across the globe[10:26] Leading a Legacy NonprofitThe cultural shift from founder-led to stakeholder-centered leadership[12:08] Resilience Under PressureWhat happens when “women” becomes a banned word in federal grants[16:27] Building a Purpose-First EconomyStacey’s upcoming book and why care must be central to the future of work[20:26] Defining the Culture of CareFrom feminist economics to Bhutan’s “gross national happiness”[23:18] The Loneliness of LeadershipWhere Stacey finds strength during tough times[24:35] What’s Lighting Her UpAuthentic creativity in a world obsessed with AI and performance[26:19] Digital DisconnectionWhy real person-to-person connection still matters most Notable Quotes“There is no career ladder. There is a career jungle gym. Go from playground to playground, following your curiosity.” — Stacey [02:06]“Once you tell people what you’re doing, it’s not a sale… You’re inviting someone to be part of a bigger movement.” — Stacey [05:35]“In the artisan economy, creativity builds on itself… It’s about building forward and retaining tradition.” — Stacey [19:58]“Our biggest personal poverty at the moment is disconnection.” — Stacey [27:23]“When purpose becomes your marketing, it’s gone past its core.” — Stacey [17:15]P.S. — Feeling the disconnect between your mission and your message? I help social impact leaders build trust through story-rich brands, compelling campaigns, and values-aligned strategy. Let’s talkListeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.*** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at [email protected] Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.

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