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Blog calendar    Feb 05, 2025

Electrifying Growth Episode 39: Re-release: Embracing Innovation and Doing Good

Managing Partner and host Chris Sugden sits down with 120Water Co-Founder & CEO Megan Glover to share her journey of tackling water quality challenges, building a mission-driven business, and redefining how municipalities and organizations safeguard public health.

Chris Sugden
Chris Sugden

 

Megan Glover, Co-founder and CEO of 120Water, is a mission-driven entrepreneur whose work at 120Water is reshaping the future of water quality management. In this re-release of Electrifying Growth, Megan reflects on her decision to leave a successful career to tackle one of today’s most pressing global challenges: access to clean, safe drinking water.

120Water began with direct-to-consumer water testing kits but quickly scaled to a full-service platform that equips municipalities and organizations with the tools they need to manage water quality and compliance programs efficiently. Megan’s leadership has not only driven the company’s growth but also its ability to positively impact public health across the country.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

  1. Turning Vision into Action

    Megan shares how her "aha" moment—recognizing a critical gap in water quality management—propelled her to quit her corporate job and launch 120Water. Her insights reveal the power of conviction and the importance of acting on a clear vision.
  2. The Realities of Water Quality Challenges

    From lead contamination to PFAS (forever chemicals) and aging infrastructure, Megan breaks down the multifaceted issues affecting water quality today. She explains how 120Water’s platform empowers municipalities to tackle these challenges with data-driven solutions.
  3. Balancing Social Impact and Profitability

    While mission-driven businesses often face challenges aligning purpose with profit, Megan illustrates how 120Water achieves both. By embracing innovation and focusing on customer needs, the company continues to grow while making a difference.

Innovation as a Catalyst for Change

Megan’s entrepreneurial journey demonstrates the role of technology and innovation in addressing systemic challenges, especially in industries resistant to change.

The Importance of Perseverance in Leadership

Breaking into a male-dominated and traditionally analog industry required grit, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to the mission. Megan’s story is a testament to the power of persistence.

Building a Culture of Accountability

Megan emphasizes the importance of creating a culture where employees are inspired to contribute to the greater mission while holding themselves accountable for delivering results.

Entrepreneurial Advice

Megan offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs:

  • Follow Your Convictions: If you’re passionate about a problem, don’t hesitate to take the leap.

  • Prepare for the Long Game: Scaling a mission-driven business takes time and resilience.

  • Hire Strategically: Surround yourself with people who share your vision but bring diverse skills to the table.

Interested in guest starring on Electrifying Growth? Apply Here to be a guest!
Chris Sugden

Chris is Managing Partner and Chairman of the firm's investment committee. A leading fintech executive and investor for over 25 years (before fintech was fintech), Chris' investment expertise and exits span payments, capital markets and wealth management segments, and track record includes leading dozens of new investments and over 60 rounds of financing.