This week, we sit down with Mark Squire of Good Earth Natural foods, a lifelong independent grocer whose career began at the very roots of the natural foods movement. Mark reflects on how his early experiences in the Organic and Non-GMO movement shaped a mission that still drives the store today: food as healing, organic as non-negotiable, and education as a path to both business success and community empowerment. 

In this episode of Common Roots, we sit down with INFRA Board Member Drew Alexander, owner of Cornucopia Natural Foods in Sayville, NY. Drew shares his inspiring journey from dishwasher to store owner. We also discuss the strategies he uses to support employee longevity and how Cornucopia upholds its commitment to rigorous product standards. 

In this episode of Common Roots, we hear from Dan Stump from Leg Up Farmers Market in York, PA. Dan shares how the market is transforming its community through customer education around healthy eating, and how every purchase supports the incredible work of Leg Up Farm and ABLE Services, two nonprofits dedicated to empowering children and adults with special needs. Tune in for an inspiring look at how good food and good causes go hand in hand!  

In this episode of Common Roots, we sit down with Emily Kanter, INFRA Board Member and co-owner of Cambridge Naturals in Cambridge, MA. Emily shares her journey of stepping into her family’s business, the insights she’s gained serving on INFRA’s Board of Directors, and why self-care is essential for small business owners. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, legacy, and finding balance in the world of independent retail. 

In this episode, we talk with Jake Collier, Co-Founder of New Frontiers Natural Marketplace in Solvang, CA and a founding member of INFRA. Jake shares stories from the early days of the natural foods movement and reflects on the importance of community, passion, and education in building a successful business. He also highlights INFRA’s role in uniting and supporting independent retailers. 

In this episode of Common Roots, we chat with Ariell Ilunga, Founder and Owner of Carla’s Fresh Market in Los Angeles, CA. Hear about how she creates a vibrant and updated shopping experience for her customers, down to the sommelier selected wines. Plus, hear her advice on how to find purpose as an aspiring entrepreneur. 

In this episode of Common Roots, we chat with Diana Hicks, founder of Mama Jean’s Natural Market in Springfield, MO. She shares how their Change for Change program raised $35,000 for a tiny home for the unhoused and how being a woman-owned business shapes her leadership.  

Find them online at mamajeansmarket.com, on Instagram at @mamajeans_market, and on Facebook at @Mama Jean’s Natural Market.  

In this episode of Common Roots, we sit down with Michael and Emily Chase, Co-Founders of Chase’s Market in Ontario, Oregon. Michael shares his journey as a third-generation owner, reflecting on his decision to carry on the family legacy and how he upholds the store’s core values more than six decades after its founding in 1956. Emily discusses her role on the INFRA Board of Directors, what inspired her to join, and the valuable lessons she’s learned along the way. 

In this episode of Common Roots, we chat with second-generation Owner of the Bi-Rite Family of Businesses, Sam Mogannam. Located in San Francisco, CA, Bi-Rite has been a Bay Area staple for transparent, responsible foods since its founding in 1940. We get the inside scoop (pun intended) on how Sam’s culinary background has impacted his passion for sourcing high-quality ingredients, Bi-Rite's journey towards B-Corp certification, and Bi-Rite's unique Creamery operation.  

In this episode of Common Roots, we chatted with Christina, a worker-owner at Rainbow Grocery Cooperative. Tune in for a discussion about all things worker owned co-op, from how this unique business model increases employee longevity to how it builds and sustains community. We also touch on facing corporate competition, partnering with small businesses, and more!