This is the Leadership Journey series on the Choosing Leadership Podcast.

I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other's stories - of where we started, where we are now, and our successes and struggles on the way. With this series of interviews, my attempt is to give leaders an opportunity to share their stories and for all of us to learn from their generous sharing. If you know a leader whom you would like to see celebrated on the show, please send me a message on LinkedIn with their name.

What does it really mean to lead with purpose in a world that’s constantly pulling us toward profit and performance?

In this inspiring conversation, Saasha Celestial-One—co-founder and COO of Olio—shares how she’s tackling food waste while staying grounded in mission, sustainability, and conscious leadership.

From building a globally recognized app to not buying new clothes for over a decade, Saasha’s choices challenge the status quo and invite us to rethink our own.

We explore how vulnerability, emotional energy, and authentic partnerships shape bold leadership.

If you're navigating growth while trying to stay true to your values, this episode is a must-listen.

You can find Saasha Celestial-One at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/saasha-celestial-one-929390/
• https://olioapp.com/en/

In the interview, Saasha shares

• "Leadership is a choice—and I choose to lead with purpose, not just profit."
• "Every transaction is a vote for the kind of world we want to live in."
• "Starting Olio wasn’t just about food waste—it was about reimagining our relationship with the planet."
• "The highs and lows of entrepreneurship are real—but so is the power of resilience."
• "I haven’t bought new clothes in 13 years. Sustainability starts with small, personal decisions."
• "Building a startup is like a marriage—you need shared values, mutual respect, and a whole lot of patience."
• "Creativity without structure is chaos; structure without creativity is lifeless. You need both to lead."
• "Vulnerability and authenticity aren't weaknesses—they're leadership superpowers."
• "Scaling globally means working with—not against—regulations, and seeing them as tools for impact."
• "We all have the power to create change. Start with what’s on your plate—and what you choose to waste."