Jodi Bondi Norgaard on Breaking Barriers & Building Purpose-Driven Brands

In this powerful episode of BizBlend, host Avik sits down with Jodi Bondi Norgaard—entrepreneur, activist, TEDx speaker, and author of More Than A Doll. Together, they dive deep into the long game of purpose-driven entrepreneurship. Jodi shares her incredible journey of launching the Go! Go! Sports Girls dolls, confronting gender stereotypes, and creating lasting social change. From the “aha” moment in a toy store to battling industry resistance, Jodi offers a candid look at what it takes to lead with mission over profit.

This episode is a must-listen for changemakers, entrepreneurs, and anyone passionate about making an impact. Discover why persistence fueled by purpose can move mountains, and how small steps can spark large-scale change.

About the Guest: Jodi Bondi Norgaard is the founder of Dream Big Toy Company and creator of the award-winning Go! Go! Sports Girls dolls, designed to empower young girls through sports and physical activity. A fierce advocate for gender equity, Jodi has worked with the Obama White House Gender Policy Council and the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media. She is also the author of More Than A Doll, a compelling memoir and blueprint for creating social impact through business.

Key Takeaways:

• Purpose-driven entrepreneurship challenges industry norms and drives meaningful change.

• The “aha” moment that sparked Jodi’s mission came from noticing gender stereotypes in toy marketing.

• Persistence and passion are critical when doors stay shut—Jodi faced 500 "no's" before securing her first major retail win with Walmart.

• Business and activism can co-exist, creating impactful brands that resonate with consumers.

• Social change begins in childhood but requires a long-term commitment to reshape narratives.

Connect with Jodi Norgaard:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodibondinorgaard/ 

• Instagram: @jodibondinorgaard

• Substack: https://jodibondinorgaard.substack.com/ 

• Ms. Magazine Contributor: https://msmagazine.com/

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