Never Give Up with Jess Hodge

November 9, 2023

22 min 18 sec

Jess Hodge didn't set out to build a recycled plastics business. She wanted a coffee table that wasn't destroying the planet. When she couldn't find one, she made it herself.

That's the origin story of Resourceful Living – a Newcastle-based social enterprise turning waste plastic into furniture, plant pots, and everyday products. Since launching, Jess and her team have recycled 20 tonnes of plastic, saving enough energy to power 54 homes for a year.

In this episode she talks with Martin Sully about the moment the idea clicked (a honeymoon beach in Thailand, covered in rubbish), the challenges of manufacturing with a material most people think is flimsy, and why education has become just as important as production.

Common branding misconceptions

What's Covered in This Episode

The honeymoon moment in Thailand that set everything in motion
Why Jess solved her own problem first – and how that became a business
The surprising challenges of manufacturing with recycled plastic – including why outdoor plastic earned the nickname 'the beast'
How a chance conversation at Olive Tree Markets led to a collaboration with Hunter New England Health
Why education is one of the most underestimated parts of building a brand around a new material or concept
The buyback scheme vision – why Jess believes businesses should take responsibility for their products after the sale
What 20 tonnes of recycled plastic actually means in real terms (hint: enough energy to power 54 homes for a year)
The best sellers – and why they weren't the ones Jess expected
Why drive and passion are the most honest answer to 'what made you succeed'

Meet our guest

Jess Hodge

Jess's One Tip

When buying products with packaging, choose items made from a single material over mixed materials. A straight plastic container is far easier to recycle than one combining plastic, paper, and foil. Also: cucumbers don't need to be wrapped in plastic. She has feelings about this.

About Jess Hodge

Jess Hodge is the founder of Resourceful Living, a Newcastle-based social enterprise converting waste plastic into furniture, homewares, and everyday products.

Connect to them

Website

https://resourcefulliving.com.au

LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/company/resourceful-living/

Thinking about how your brand's values translate outward?

Try the Snapper Studio Sentiment Tracker -- a free tool that helps you understand what your brand is actually communicating.

Test the Brand Sentiment Tracker