These days, “lead batteries are BAD” is a common belief, yet many don’t realize that in certain cases, they can be the best option. To progress, we need to unlearn outdated narratives and embrace better, existing solutions. In this episode, Ananta Vangmai, co-founder of Revive, a pioneering social enterprise, discusses her journey into social entrepreneurship and the vital work her company is doing to regenerate lead-acid batteries using innovative technology. Revive’s process not only extends battery life but also reduces greenhouse gas emissions by avoiding energy-intensive recycling, offering a sustainable alternative to more polluting battery technologies.

Ananta, inspired by her family’s strong sense of community and environmentalism, draws from her diverse background. She was deeply influenced by her mother, a businesswoman, and her grandmother, a poet from the Himalayas who wrote about humanity’s relationship with nature. This cultural connection shaped her commitment to sustainability and her leadership style, rooted in empathy. In founding Revive, Ananta sought to create a practical solution to both environmental and social challenges, contributing to the energy transition while addressing misconceptions about lead-acid batteries.

You will hear:

Journey of Social Entrepreneurship: Ananta, co-founder of Revive, was inspired by her mother’s focus on community and developed a passion for socially responsible business. She navigates challenges in balancing empathy with business demands while staying true to her values.

Empathy and Leadership: Ananta highlights the role of empathy in leadership, balancing it with CEO responsibilities. She fosters a culture of responsibility and success by empowering others and letting go of control.

Startup’s Mission: Her startup focuses on lead-acid battery regeneration to reduce environmental harm and support energy transition, offering sustainable solutions compared to lithium alternatives.

Challenges in Public Perception: There’s a misconception that lithium is superior to lead-acid batteries. Ananta works to change this by promoting lead battery regeneration as a sustainable alternative.

Cultural Connection to Environmentalism: Ananta’s environmental commitment is inspired by her grandmother, a poet who wrote about nature’s importance, driving her to create lasting, sustainable solutions.

Throughout the conversation, Ananta reflects on the complexities of running a social enterprise, balancing the demands of business with her values, and the hurdles of changing public perceptions about lead-acid batteries in favor of more sustainable practices. A big thank you to Social Tides for building this bridge between social entrepreneurs.