
DO BEAUTIFUL THINGS
Welcome to Do Beautiful Things™, a podcast hosted by Jenny Lawson, President and CEO of Keep America Beautiful. This podcast will engage experts and everyday people looking for straightforward answers to questions about the science, behaviors, business solutions, and policies that can help us all create more beautiful and sustainable communities. Together we will explore fascinating topics like the life of a recycled beer can, the value of urban forests, the people who are cleaning up literal ‘tons’ of litter in their community, and so much more. Our discussions are not just interviews; they are insightful conversations that illuminate the path to a greener tomorrow!
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Recent Episodes

The Columbus Way: Growing Industry and Green Communities Together
In this episode of Do Beautiful Things, Jenny Lawson sits down with Columbus, Ohio Mayor Andrew Ginther to explore how the city is leading the way in circular innovation, climate action, and community partnerships. Mayor Ginther shares insights on Columbus’s ambitious sustainability goals, the impact of regional collaboration, and creative solutions like food scrap drop-offs and advanced recycling centers—all fueling a cleaner, greener, and more beautiful future.
“There’s not a Democratic or Republican way to pick up the trash, plow the streets, recycle, or keep neighborhoods safe and clean.”
— Mayor Andrew Ginther, Columbus, OH
“I’m not asking everyone to do everything, but I’m asking everyone to do something to do their part.”
— Mayor Andrew Ginther, Columbus, OH

Making Every Mile Shine: Mayor Holt's Vision for a More Beautiful Oklahoma City
In this episode of “Do Beautiful Things,” Jenny Lawson with sits down with Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt and OKC Beautiful Executive Director Natalie Evans to explore how local leadership and community partnerships are transforming Oklahoma City. They discuss innovative beautification initiatives, large-scale tree plantings for disaster recovery, and creative approaches to making public spaces thrive ahead of America’s 250th birthday.
“I love my city, and I recognize that beauty in all its forms is critical to having a city where people want to live, do business, move to, and visit.”
— Mayor David Holt, Oklahoma City, OK
“We’re not just building (tree) canopy—we’re building community.”
— Natalie Evans, Executive Director, OKC Beautiful

Trash Bags, Civic Pride, and the Power of Showing Up: This Georgia Mayor Is Leading with Purpose
In this episode of “Do Beautiful Things,” Jenny Lawson sits down with Mayor Bianca Motley Broom of College Park, Georgia, to discuss how she is leading by example—personally picking up litter and inspiring her community to join in beautification projects that foster pride and connection. Learn how College Park is transforming green spaces like the Flint River Nature Preserve and Camp Truitt Botanical Garden, and discover Mayor Motley Broom’s inspiring vision for engaging residents in the lead-up to America’s 250th birthday.
“I’ve always been one of those people who walks along and picks up trash. Because, honestly, if I’m. If I’m making a loop in my community and I see the same piece of trash that I’ve already passed, well, what the heck? I could have done something about that.”
— Mayor Bianca Motley Broom, College Park, Georgia

Paterson is Picking Up: How One NJ Mayor is Tackling Litter and Restoring Communities
In this podcast episode of Do Beautiful Things, Jenny Lawson sits down with Mayor Andre Sayegh of Paterson, New Jersey to discuss how bold leadership and community partnerships are driving real change in the fight against litter and illegal dumping. Mayor Sayegh shares how initiatives like “Paterson is Picking Up,” Operation Clean Sweep, and major park revitalizations are transforming neighborhoods and inspiring residents to join in the effort. Together, they explore the power of civic pride, the impact of beautifying public spaces, and how cities nationwide can take action ahead of America’s 250th birthday.
“People may view keeping their community clean as a spectator sport — but it’s not. Everybody has to be in the game.”
“Our approach is about the three E’s — education, engagement, and enforcement. We want people who live in Paterson to understand the importance of keeping their community clean.”
— Mayor Andre Sayegh, Paterson, New Jersey
Previous Episodes
Building a More Beautiful Future: Pennsylvania’s Role in America’s 250th Anniversary Celebration
Learn about America250PA and its role in honoring the United States as it approaches a historic 250th anniversary in 2026.
Planting Seeds of Service: Lucinda Robb on Family Legacy, Civic Engagement, and the Beauty That Builds Community
Lucinda Robb—granddaughter of President Lyndon B. Johnson and Lady Bird Johnson—shares how legacy, service, and small acts can spark lasting change.
Pollinator Power: How Native Plants Keep Nature Buzzing
From bees to trees, discover the importance of native plants—such as oaks and milkweed—in supporting pollinators in this captivating podcast.
“Reel it In for the Reefs”: Saving Florida’s Reefs One Cleanup at a Time
Dive into this episode of the “Do Beautiful Things” podcast to explore how local actions help protect Florida’s stunning reef ecosystems.
Trashercize and Education: Innovative Approaches to Litter Cleanup
Hear how educating youth and the community through initiatives like Trashercize drives engagement and beautification efforts in Tennessee.
NASA LunaRecycle Challenge: Exploring Space Sustainability
Discover how NASA’s LunaRecycle Challenge is revolutionizing recycling for space missions. Hear more on the “Do Beautiful Things” podcast.
Recycling Reality Check
Series 2
Series 1
Funding in support of the “Do Beautiful Things” podcast series,
“Recycling Reality Check,” is provided by:






