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A RETOLD RECYCLING SERIES

The Retold 10: With Author Lauren Finney Harden

Welcome back to the Retold 10 series! Thanks for joining us as we explore the minds of leaders dedicated to shaping a more sustainable globe. What is the Retold 10? In each segment, we ask individuals across fashion, business, and lifestyle the same 10 questions about sustainable living, eco-conscious choices, and small but meaningful changes. Our goal is to spark fresh ideas and offer actionable insights to help everyone take a step toward a more sustainable life!

In this edition, we’re excited to feature Lauren Finney Harden, a lifestyle journalist and writer. She has been published on InStyle.com, Insider.com, and other publications. Lauren brings a fresh perspective on how fashion and sustainability intersect, and her personal sustainable habits as a mum!

Scroll down to read more from Lauren and her approach to sustainable living.

1. Who are you? Share you name, title, and relevant info!

Lauren Finney Harden, from Atlanta, GA and freelance writer!

2. On a personal or professional level, what significance does sustainability hold for you?

Sustainability right now for me is a goal. I am very worried about doing my part but find it hard to find things that really make an impact / are easy to do. I have two children and really hope to leave the planet in a good place for them.

3. Where did you start your sustainability journey and what are some easy swaps you recommend for others?

I have always recycled and such, but it's more important to me than ever to do things like buy secondhand—I'm a HUGE consignment fan—older items are just better made! We also try to limit the amount of microplastics where we can by using silicone and glass. It's not perfect but it's something.

4. Have you set any specific sustainability goals this year? If so, what are they?

To try and eliminate as much single use plastic as possible while not driving myself nuts in the process. I really believe in doing what you can, not what's going to make you crazy. Until big corporations start recycling, our personal impact is minimal from what I understand, but I still think it's important to do.

5. What are your favorite eco-friendly brands, and/or which companies do you believe are leading the way in sustainable business practices?

We use a lot of stasher bags. I'm really into Arm & Hammer's new laundry sheets - waste way less product, water, and plastic! 

6. What would you like to see more of in the sustainability sector?

Companies recycling and doing their part more for the environment. It shouldn't be up to individuals to make the most impact. 

7. What was the last podcast, newsletter, or book that motivated you to adopt more sustainable practices or deepened your understanding of an eco-related topic?

I don't really know!

Check out Retold's latest podcasts!

8. How did you come across Retold?

I think it was through PR... but it might have been Instagram!

9. How would you describe your Retold persona (e.g., slow and steady = annual, big declutter = 10 packs)

Mine is ADHD style - create a HUGE pile of recyclable fabrics like dishtowels, socks, burp cloths, etc and then panic and get bags :)

10. If someone was going to gift you an item from Retold’s sustainable store, what would it be??

Ritual! I love non-alc stuff. It's helping me be better to my body! 

Check out our Sustainable Store

FOLLOW LAUREN ON INSTAGRAM

Together, we can create a more sustainable future—one small decision, one action, and one bag at a time! Thanks for reading, check out more from Lauren or visit our Retold Blog for more exciting stories.

Lauren Finney Harden