The Circular Innovation Podcast Wed, 15 Apr 2026 08:34:27 -0400 https://www.mavencircular.com/ en-us © 2026 The Circular Innovation Podcast yes e3101c2d-0ee1-54c5-a50d-bfa7daae62cf Richard Bliss, Jessica Schisler, Nate Schisler episodic false The Circular Innovation Podcast, where we dive deep into the world of circular economy and branded Recommerce. 

Join Jessica Schisler and Nate Schisler, founders of Maven Circular, and their co-host Richard Bliss as they explore the challenges and opportunities organizations face in this evolving industry. 

Each episode offers insightful conversations, expert advice, and innovative solutions for launching, changing, or improving your circularity program. Whether you're a brand, technologist, operator, or investor - this podcast is your guide to building a sustainable and profitable circular economy. 

Tune in to learn, get inspired, and discover how you can positively impact generations to come.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Recommerce, Circular Economy, returns Richard Bliss, Jessica Schisler, Nate Schisler https://storage.buzzsprout.com/f2cqr0qnysyq9hc4xdvnld4nhf6n?.jpg The Circular Innovation Podcast https://www.mavencircular.com/ Jessica Schisler Nate Schisler Richard Bliss Ep.11- Overcoming Global Challenges in the Re-commerce Industry Ep.11- Overcoming Global Challenges in the Re-commerce Industry In this episode, Richard, Nate, and Jess discuss the challenges and complexities of cross-border commerce in circular innovation. As they delve into the operational components of re-commerce programs, they shed light on what makes moving products between different countries tricky and the need for sustainable solutions in expanding markets. From documentation requirements to compliance issues, they explore the hurdles brands face when considering a re-commerce program. Tune in as they share their insights, offer guidance on navigating these challenges, and discover how brands can successfully embrace a re-commerce approach.


Co-Hosts:

Richard Bliss on LinkedIn and BlissPoint website

Jess Schisler on LinkedIn

Nate Schisler on LinkedIn


Maven Circular website and Maven Circular LinkedIn


Podcast Manager Kimberly Smith

]]> In this episode, Richard, Nate, and Jess discuss the challenges and complexities of cross-border commerce in circular innovation. As they delve into the operational components of re-commerce programs, they shed light on what makes moving products between different countries tricky and the need for sustainable solutions in expanding markets. From documentation requirements to compliance issues, they explore the hurdles brands face when considering a re-commerce program. Tune in as they share their insights, offer guidance on navigating these challenges, and discover how brands can successfully embrace a re-commerce approach.


Co-Hosts:

Richard Bliss on LinkedIn and BlissPoint website

Jess Schisler on LinkedIn

Nate Schisler on LinkedIn


Maven Circular website and Maven Circular LinkedIn


Podcast Manager Kimberly Smith

]]> Buzzsprout-13876570 Mon, 30 Oct 2023 15:00:00 -0700 1514 1 11 full false Ep.10- The Next Phase of Re-commerce: Unleashing the Potential of Re-commerce 2.0 Ep.10- The Next Phase of Re-commerce: Unleashing the Potential of Re-commerce 2.0 In this episode, your hosts Richard, Nate, and Jess dive into the three phases of circular innovation, starting with Recommerce 1.0, which companies like Yerdle pioneered. They then discuss the challenges this model posed regarding sustainability and carbon emissions. Next, they explore Recommerce 2.0, which focuses on brand-certified re-commerce programs that offer trust and quality assurance to consumers, addressing the logistical and environmental challenges associated with shipping products across long distances. Finally, they touch upon the future state of re-commerce, known as Re-commerce 3.0, which aims to service products wherever they already exist, minimizing transportation and handling. Tune in as Richard, Nate, and Jess discuss the evolution and potential of circular innovation and the circular economy.


Co-Hosts:

Richard Bliss on LinkedIn and BlissPoint website

Jess Schisler on LinkedIn

Nate Schisler on LinkedIn


Maven Circular website and Maven Circular LinkedIn


Podcast Manager Kimberly Smith

]]> In this episode, your hosts Richard, Nate, and Jess dive into the three phases of circular innovation, starting with Recommerce 1.0, which companies like Yerdle pioneered. They then discuss the challenges this model posed regarding sustainability and carbon emissions. Next, they explore Recommerce 2.0, which focuses on brand-certified re-commerce programs that offer trust and quality assurance to consumers, addressing the logistical and environmental challenges associated with shipping products across long distances. Finally, they touch upon the future state of re-commerce, known as Re-commerce 3.0, which aims to service products wherever they already exist, minimizing transportation and handling. Tune in as Richard, Nate, and Jess discuss the evolution and potential of circular innovation and the circular economy.


Co-Hosts:

Richard Bliss on LinkedIn and BlissPoint website

Jess Schisler on LinkedIn

Nate Schisler on LinkedIn


Maven Circular website and Maven Circular LinkedIn


Podcast Manager Kimberly Smith

]]> Buzzsprout-13876539 Mon, 30 Oct 2023 15:00:00 -0700 1613 1 10 full false Ep.9- Circular Innovators: Brands That Are Leading the Way Ep.9- Circular Innovators: Brands That Are Leading the Way In this episode, Richard, Nate, and Jess talk about success stories in the circular economy. They highlight brands like Patagonia, Arc'teryx, and YETI, which have been leaders in implementing circular practices. They also discuss newer brands, such as Burton, that are revolutionizing the industry with rental and buyback programs. Join us as we explore the innovative approaches these brands are taking to create a more sustainable future.

Co-Hosts:

Richard Bliss on LinkedIn and BlissPoint website

Jess Schisler on LinkedIn

Nate Schisler on LinkedIn


Maven Circular website and Maven Circular LinkedIn


Podcast Manager Kimberly Smith

]]> In this episode, Richard, Nate, and Jess talk about success stories in the circular economy. They highlight brands like Patagonia, Arc'teryx, and YETI, which have been leaders in implementing circular practices. They also discuss newer brands, such as Burton, that are revolutionizing the industry with rental and buyback programs. Join us as we explore the innovative approaches these brands are taking to create a more sustainable future.

Co-Hosts:

Richard Bliss on LinkedIn and BlissPoint website

Jess Schisler on LinkedIn

Nate Schisler on LinkedIn


Maven Circular website and Maven Circular LinkedIn


Podcast Manager Kimberly Smith

]]> Buzzsprout-13876464 Mon, 30 Oct 2023 15:00:00 -0700 1562 1 9 full false Ep.8- Climate Tech Investing: Tips for Investors in Circular Innovation Ep.8- Climate Tech Investing: Tips for Investors in Circular Innovation In this episode, hosts Richard, Nate, and Jess discuss the world of venture capital investment and climate tech in the circular economy. They continue the conversation about the growing importance of solving re-commerce issues and the increasing demand for sustainable solutions from brands. With investments reaching hundreds of millions of dollars, they explore the challenges faced by investors in navigating this emerging market. Tune in as they share their insights and highlight the potential for growth in the climate tech space. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that will surely broaden your understanding of the circular economy and its impact on the investment landscape.


Co-Hosts:

Richard Bliss on LinkedIn and BlissPoint website

Jess Schisler on LinkedIn

Nate Schisler on LinkedIn


Maven Circular website and Maven Circular LinkedIn


Podcast Manager Kimberly Smith

]]> In this episode, hosts Richard, Nate, and Jess discuss the world of venture capital investment and climate tech in the circular economy. They continue the conversation about the growing importance of solving re-commerce issues and the increasing demand for sustainable solutions from brands. With investments reaching hundreds of millions of dollars, they explore the challenges faced by investors in navigating this emerging market. Tune in as they share their insights and highlight the potential for growth in the climate tech space. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that will surely broaden your understanding of the circular economy and its impact on the investment landscape.


Co-Hosts:

Richard Bliss on LinkedIn and BlissPoint website

Jess Schisler on LinkedIn

Nate Schisler on LinkedIn


Maven Circular website and Maven Circular LinkedIn


Podcast Manager Kimberly Smith

]]> Buzzsprout-13876423 Mon, 30 Oct 2023 15:00:00 -0700 1151 1 8 full false Ep.7- Crafting Winning Proposals: How Vendors Can Win in the Circular Economy Ep.7- Crafting Winning Proposals: How Vendors Can Win in the Circular Economy In this episode, Richard, Nate, and Jess delve into vendors' challenges in the circular economy space. They explore the rising awareness of circular economy among brands and the various incentives driving them to embrace this approach. There is a competitive landscape of re-commerce and a limited number of providers catering to the growing market. As a vendor, getting your foot in the door and finding the right person within a brand to champion the circular initiative is critical. It can be a challenge for brands to distinguish the unique differences among re-commerce platform providers, so providers must articulate the value they can offer them and provide solutions based on what the brand actually needs. Join us as we cover this facet of circular innovation and vendors' strategies to win business with brands. Let's dive in!


Co-Hosts:

Richard Bliss on LinkedIn and BlissPoint website

Jess Schisler on LinkedIn

Nate Schisler on LinkedIn


Maven Circular website and Maven Circular LinkedIn


Podcast Manager Kimberly Smith

]]> In this episode, Richard, Nate, and Jess delve into vendors' challenges in the circular economy space. They explore the rising awareness of circular economy among brands and the various incentives driving them to embrace this approach. There is a competitive landscape of re-commerce and a limited number of providers catering to the growing market. As a vendor, getting your foot in the door and finding the right person within a brand to champion the circular initiative is critical. It can be a challenge for brands to distinguish the unique differences among re-commerce platform providers, so providers must articulate the value they can offer them and provide solutions based on what the brand actually needs. Join us as we cover this facet of circular innovation and vendors' strategies to win business with brands. Let's dive in!


Co-Hosts:

Richard Bliss on LinkedIn and BlissPoint website

Jess Schisler on LinkedIn

Nate Schisler on LinkedIn


Maven Circular website and Maven Circular LinkedIn


Podcast Manager Kimberly Smith

]]> Buzzsprout-13876392 Mon, 30 Oct 2023 14:00:00 -0700 1183 1 7 full false Ep.6- Networking and Collaboration: Building a Circular Ecosystem Ep.6- Networking and Collaboration: Building a Circular Ecosystem In this episode, Richard, Nate, and Jess discuss the ecosystem within the circular economy and the importance of collaboration between vendors, brands, and technology in creating an efficient and sustainable circular economy. The brand company alone cannot fulfill all the requirements of circular commerce; a network of vendors is needed.


Jess, the expert in vendor relationships, shares her insights on being a matchmaker between brands, operators, and technology companies within the recommerce industry. She emphasizes the importance of understanding long-term goals and finding vendors that align with a brand's vision.


Nate, on the other hand, focuses on the technology aspect of the ecosystem. He highlights the manual processes involved in reverse logistics and the emerging sector of startups developing solutions for brands.


Join in for another insightful episode exploring the various components that make up the re-commerce ecosystem and how collaboration and innovation are shaping a more sustainable future.




Co-Hosts:

Richard Bliss on LinkedIn and BlissPoint website

Jess Schisler on LinkedIn

Nate Schisler on LinkedIn


Maven Circular website and Maven Circular LinkedIn


Podcast Manager Kimberly Smith

]]> In this episode, Richard, Nate, and Jess discuss the ecosystem within the circular economy and the importance of collaboration between vendors, brands, and technology in creating an efficient and sustainable circular economy. The brand company alone cannot fulfill all the requirements of circular commerce; a network of vendors is needed.


Jess, the expert in vendor relationships, shares her insights on being a matchmaker between brands, operators, and technology companies within the recommerce industry. She emphasizes the importance of understanding long-term goals and finding vendors that align with a brand's vision.


Nate, on the other hand, focuses on the technology aspect of the ecosystem. He highlights the manual processes involved in reverse logistics and the emerging sector of startups developing solutions for brands.


Join in for another insightful episode exploring the various components that make up the re-commerce ecosystem and how collaboration and innovation are shaping a more sustainable future.




Co-Hosts:

Richard Bliss on LinkedIn and BlissPoint website

Jess Schisler on LinkedIn

Nate Schisler on LinkedIn


Maven Circular website and Maven Circular LinkedIn


Podcast Manager Kimberly Smith

]]> Buzzsprout-13876367 Mon, 30 Oct 2023 14:00:00 -0700 1099 1 6 full false Ep.5- Leveraging the Operator: Strategies for Success in Circular Innovation Ep.5- Leveraging the Operator: Strategies for Success in Circular Innovation In this episode, Richard, Jess, and Nate dive into building a team and a process of functionality for service offerings within a circular economy. The meaning of an operator is often misunderstood, so this episode focuses on the role of an operator and how they contribute to the success of a circular economy program. Their mindset and skill set are crucial. They also explore the advantages of having warehouse experience as an operator, particularly in the context of recommerce. From managing teams to navigating the challenges of a rapidly evolving industry, this conversation sheds light on the integral role operators play in the circular innovation landscape.


Co-Hosts:

Richard Bliss on LinkedIn and BlissPoint website

Jess Schisler on LinkedIn

Nate Schisler on LinkedIn


Maven Circular website and Maven Circular LinkedIn


Podcast Manager Kimberly Smith

]]> In this episode, Richard, Jess, and Nate dive into building a team and a process of functionality for service offerings within a circular economy. The meaning of an operator is often misunderstood, so this episode focuses on the role of an operator and how they contribute to the success of a circular economy program. Their mindset and skill set are crucial. They also explore the advantages of having warehouse experience as an operator, particularly in the context of recommerce. From managing teams to navigating the challenges of a rapidly evolving industry, this conversation sheds light on the integral role operators play in the circular innovation landscape.


Co-Hosts:

Richard Bliss on LinkedIn and BlissPoint website

Jess Schisler on LinkedIn

Nate Schisler on LinkedIn


Maven Circular website and Maven Circular LinkedIn


Podcast Manager Kimberly Smith

]]> Buzzsprout-13775143 Fri, 13 Oct 2023 19:00:00 -0700 1288 1 5 full false Ep.4- Overcoming Resistance and Red Tape in Circular Service Offerings Ep.4- Overcoming Resistance and Red Tape in Circular Service Offerings In this episode, Richard, Nate, and Jess delve into the complexities of setting up and designing Circular Service offerings. They discuss the essential elements of a successful recommerce program, from the importance of efficient and accurate operations and technology solutions to the need for a well-designed online storefront and order management system. Our hosts also emphasize the crucial role of an executive sponsor who can drive the program and overcome internal obstacles. They discuss real-life examples of both successful and unsuccessful implementations and share insights on securing executive buy-in by highlighting the financial gains and untapped market potential of circular service offerings. Join us as we uncover the key tactics and approaches to make circular innovation a reality within organizations.


Co-Hosts:

Richard Bliss on LinkedIn and BlissPoint website

Jess Schisler on LinkedIn

Nate Schisler on LinkedIn


Maven Circular website and Maven Circular LinkedIn


Podcast Manager Kimberly Smith



]]> In this episode, Richard, Nate, and Jess delve into the complexities of setting up and designing Circular Service offerings. They discuss the essential elements of a successful recommerce program, from the importance of efficient and accurate operations and technology solutions to the need for a well-designed online storefront and order management system. Our hosts also emphasize the crucial role of an executive sponsor who can drive the program and overcome internal obstacles. They discuss real-life examples of both successful and unsuccessful implementations and share insights on securing executive buy-in by highlighting the financial gains and untapped market potential of circular service offerings. Join us as we uncover the key tactics and approaches to make circular innovation a reality within organizations.


Co-Hosts:

Richard Bliss on LinkedIn and BlissPoint website

Jess Schisler on LinkedIn

Nate Schisler on LinkedIn


Maven Circular website and Maven Circular LinkedIn


Podcast Manager Kimberly Smith



]]> Buzzsprout-13775057 Fri, 13 Oct 2023 18:00:00 -0700 1251 1 4 full false Ep.3- Empowering Technologists: How Maven Circular Is Building for the Future Ep.3- Empowering Technologists: How Maven Circular Is Building for the Future In this episode, Richard, Nate, and Jessica explore the role of technology in making the circular economy a reality, and the potential for a trillion-dollar business opportunity that is recommerce. They delve into the importance of recommerce as a selling channel, and how brands can embrace circular business models. They also cover the intersection of technology and operations, highlighting the need for collaboration between developers and operators to create effective solutions. So, get ready to deepen your understanding of the circular economy and the pivotal role technology plays in its success. 


Co-Hosts:

Richard Bliss on LinkedIn and BlissPoint website

Jess Schisler on LinkedIn

Nate Schisler on LinkedIn


Maven Circular website and Maven Circular LinkedIn


Podcast Manager Kimberly Smith



]]> In this episode, Richard, Nate, and Jessica explore the role of technology in making the circular economy a reality, and the potential for a trillion-dollar business opportunity that is recommerce. They delve into the importance of recommerce as a selling channel, and how brands can embrace circular business models. They also cover the intersection of technology and operations, highlighting the need for collaboration between developers and operators to create effective solutions. So, get ready to deepen your understanding of the circular economy and the pivotal role technology plays in its success. 


Co-Hosts:

Richard Bliss on LinkedIn and BlissPoint website

Jess Schisler on LinkedIn

Nate Schisler on LinkedIn


Maven Circular website and Maven Circular LinkedIn


Podcast Manager Kimberly Smith



]]> Buzzsprout-13775052 Fri, 13 Oct 2023 18:00:00 -0700 1196 1 3 full false Ep.2- Brands Embracing Change: 3 Driving Forces Behind the Re-commerce Revolution Ep.2- Brands Embracing Change: 3 Driving Forces Behind the Re-commerce Revolution In this episode, your hosts, Richard, Nate, and Jessica, discuss the far-reaching impact of COVID-19 on the retail sector of various industries. They cover links between the surge in e-commerce and the subsequent increase in returns, the rise in outdoor activities causing a demand for related products, and the problem that surrounds retailer’s excess inventory.


The pandemic era reshaped consumer behavior. We experienced exponential growth of e-commerce online, which led to an unprecedented wave of returns, challenging businesses to adapt. Simultaneously, we witnessed a shift towards outdoor lifestyles as offices and schools were closed. Add to all that the consequences of excess inventory that brands grappled with during those turbulent times.


Join us in uncovering how companies handled the e-commerce boom, increased outdoor activity, excess inventory, and the impact of consumer behavior shifts over the past few years.


Co-Hosts:

Richard Bliss on LinkedIn and BlissPoint website

Jess Schisler on LinkedIn

Nate Schisler on LinkedIn


Maven Circular website and Maven Circular LinkedIn


Podcast Manager Kimberly Smith



]]> In this episode, your hosts, Richard, Nate, and Jessica, discuss the far-reaching impact of COVID-19 on the retail sector of various industries. They cover links between the surge in e-commerce and the subsequent increase in returns, the rise in outdoor activities causing a demand for related products, and the problem that surrounds retailer’s excess inventory.


The pandemic era reshaped consumer behavior. We experienced exponential growth of e-commerce online, which led to an unprecedented wave of returns, challenging businesses to adapt. Simultaneously, we witnessed a shift towards outdoor lifestyles as offices and schools were closed. Add to all that the consequences of excess inventory that brands grappled with during those turbulent times.


Join us in uncovering how companies handled the e-commerce boom, increased outdoor activity, excess inventory, and the impact of consumer behavior shifts over the past few years.


Co-Hosts:

Richard Bliss on LinkedIn and BlissPoint website

Jess Schisler on LinkedIn

Nate Schisler on LinkedIn


Maven Circular website and Maven Circular LinkedIn


Podcast Manager Kimberly Smith



]]> Buzzsprout-13775037 Fri, 13 Oct 2023 18:00:00 -0700 1538 1 2 full false Ep.1- Pioneering the Circular Economy: The Maven Circular Founding Story Ep.1- Pioneering the Circular Economy: The Maven Circular Founding Story Welcome to the first episode of The Circular Innovation Podcast. In this episode, our hosts Richard, Nate, and Jessica delve into circular innovation and its importance in today's business landscape. Nate and Jess are the co-founders of Maven Circular, a company that aims to help small businesses navigate the challenges of sustainable supply chain management. Together with Richard, they introduce us to the circular economy, which involves finding ways to extend the lifespan of products and reduce waste. By sharing their expertise and working closely with brands, Maven Circular strives to create impactful recommerce programs that promote trust, authenticity, and sustainability. Tune in to The Circular Innovation Podcast to uncover circular innovation's history, challenges, and solutions in this thought-provoking series.

Co-Hosts:

Richard Bliss on LinkedIn and BlissPoint website

Jess Schisler on LinkedIn

Nate Schisler on LinkedIn


Maven Circular website and Maven Circular LinkedIn


Podcast Manager Kimberly Smith



]]> Welcome to the first episode of The Circular Innovation Podcast. In this episode, our hosts Richard, Nate, and Jessica delve into circular innovation and its importance in today's business landscape. Nate and Jess are the co-founders of Maven Circular, a company that aims to help small businesses navigate the challenges of sustainable supply chain management. Together with Richard, they introduce us to the circular economy, which involves finding ways to extend the lifespan of products and reduce waste. By sharing their expertise and working closely with brands, Maven Circular strives to create impactful recommerce programs that promote trust, authenticity, and sustainability. Tune in to The Circular Innovation Podcast to uncover circular innovation's history, challenges, and solutions in this thought-provoking series.

Co-Hosts:

Richard Bliss on LinkedIn and BlissPoint website

Jess Schisler on LinkedIn

Nate Schisler on LinkedIn


Maven Circular website and Maven Circular LinkedIn


Podcast Manager Kimberly Smith



]]> Buzzsprout-13775034 Fri, 13 Oct 2023 18:00:00 -0700 1259 1 1 full false