Interview with Emily Waddell, Founder of The Honest Consumer and Give a Damn Goods
Hey, everyone, I am excited to share an interview with Emily of The Honest Consumer and Give a Damn Goods! Emily and I connected recently on Instagram and I’ve really enjoyed reading her posts, so I thought you might, too. Check out her interview here and then give her a visit on Instagram!
Please tell us a bit about yourself and what inspired you to start The Honest Consumer?
When I was in college I actually majored in Social Entrepreneurship. While I was studying how businesses could make a positive impact in the world I was also connecting with entrepreneurs & change-makers through local craft fairs and networking events. I was inspired at the difference these small businesses were making and thought they deserved to be discovered. I decided I wanted to create a trusted outlet that people could learn about small businesses making a positive impact on the world. I started The Honest Consumer as a sophomore in college which was great because I think a lot of college aged kids are into conscious living.
What has been your biggest challenge so far with The Honest Consumer?
Social media has been a huge challenge for me. I think social media can be a great tool for educating and learning from others, but I also find myself comparing myself to others and how they are doing more than me. Finding that balance of sharing my own content, learning from others, and knowing when to step away from social media is something I'm still working on.
What advice do you have for anyone who is just starting their sustainability journey?
Sustainability is a process and not something that is going to happen over night. I encourage people to start with small swaps such as switching out beeswax wrap for plastic cling wrap or swapping plastic baggies for reusable snack bags. These little swaps can make a big difference over time. I think it's also important to celebrate progress over perfection. There isn't one right way to live sustainability. Sustainability looks different for everyone.
If you could go back in time and tell yourself one thing about sustainability, what would it be?
If I could go back I would stress the progress over perfection in sustainable living. Sometimes I get caught up comparing myself to how other people practice sustainable living and beating myself up for not doing enough. Over the years I've realized sustainable living is a different journey for everyone and that is okay.
What part of sustainability lights you up the most?
When people have those "light bulb" moments and realize they can make a difference, this really lights my fire! I think a lot of people are overwhelmed by sustainability and conscious consumerism. I love having conversations with people about conscious living because I think it helps take away some of the overwhelm. Along with The Honest Consumer, I have my own ethical t-shirt line and my best seller is the Give a Damn shirt. I designed this shirt to be a conversation starter. When I sell these at local craft fairs
people often ask "Give a Damn about what?" and this is a great segue into talking about slavery in the fashion industry, sustainable living, and mindful practices. Having these conversations in person can be really meaningful.
Emily Waddell
Founder of The Honest Consumer & Give a Damn Goods