What if you could turn off the tap of single-use plastic while simultaneously building a thriving business that supports local communities?

Today we're diving into the extraordinary journey of Terravive with founder and CEO Julianna Keeling and COO Joe Swider. In this episode, you'll discover three game-changing insights:

1. How to Build a Business-First Approach - Learn why Juliana, who started with zero business knowledge while in college, emphasizes building a strong business foundation before falling in love with your product idea, and how accelerator programs can be your secret weapon.

2. The Power of the Triple Threat - Discover how being a woman, minority, and veteran-owned company isn't just about checking boxes—it's about bringing unique perspectives that drive innovation in sustainable manufacturing.

3. Scaling With Purpose - Find out how Terravive grew from a college startup to operating across 16 contract manufacturing facilities and three warehouses while staying true to their environmental mission.

Terravive's story is compelling because it proves that you don't need a business background to build something transformative. Julianna started as a chemistry student from a family of doctors, armed with knowledge of biomaterials but no business experience. Today, she's leading a company that's revolutionizing how we think about packaging and sustainability. This conversation, recorded in the Huntington Bank Studios, reveals the scars, the wins, and the wisdom gained from 11 years of building a business that matters.

The Pittsburgh Technology Council produces TechVibe to explore Pittsburgh technology, innovation and entrepreneurial community.