As we enter the winter solstice, exploring the dark that inevitably comes before the light, we’re considering new ways to think about gifting, yes, and what of commerce?  What of a community that reverses the epidemic of loneliness pervasive in our modern society?  Can we do better?  That’s up in the latest Are We Here Yet? Podcast to close season X and 2024. 

I’m joined by Veronica Mangio, founder of the Minneapolis-based Gifting Grove and once again by my good friend from Grand Isle County, Vermont based Byron Garcia of Natural Designs. 

Veronica is the inspiring founder of Gifting Grove, a company dedicated to facilitating community that can involve creating meaningful, sustainable, and handcrafted gifts that leave a lasting impact, sharing time, and skills. Her vision is rooted in promoting conscious gifting, empathy in an epidemic of loneliness, and supporting local artisans/organizations, fostering environmental and social well-being.  Veronica has turned her passion for sustainability and community into a thriving business redefining how we think about giving.

Referenced in our episode

Braiding Sweetgrass Wall Kimmerer

Our episode on Biomimicry with Byron Garcia on the Innova802 series

The Giving Tree: Shel Silverstein (link to the youtube video)

Artist Neri Oxman

Strong Towns