Ben & Jerry’s Introduces A New Podcast “Into The Mix” About Activism And Advocacy

Ben & Jerry’s have always been about more than just ice cream. Sometimes, that outspoken activism has placed them in the crosshairs of conservative thinkers or the thought-unencumbered at Fox News. But the ice cream makers continue to press their case for positive change.

Ben & Jerry’s, well-known for advocacy work on issues ranging from criminal justice reform to refugee rights, today gave the scoop on its newest project: a podcast to inspire the next wave of activists and artists around the world.

The show, titled Into the Mix: A Ben & Jerry’s Podcast is hosted by New York Times best-selling author Ashley C. Ford and features prominent cultural figures reflecting on how they’ve used their influence to champion social change.

The first episode welcomes singer-activist John Legend breaking down racism in the criminal justice system, the importance of voting rights, his history of social activism, and his current efforts to dismantle structural racism at the local level.

On the episode, Legend — speaking on the relationship between artists and activists — shared, “Artists should be part of the imagination of the future; imagining a better world and creating art that shows people that.”

The podcast is being brought to life by Vox Media’s award-winning brand studio Vox Creative, with production by Black-owned ABF Creative.

Listen to Episode 1 with John Legend HERE

“Successful movements for social change have never just been about good ideas and good policy,” said Chris Miller, Global Head of Activism Strategy at Ben & Jerry’s. “Historically–from the abolitionist movement, to the modern civil rights movement, the anti-Vietnam war movement, and Occupy Wall Street — music and art were woven into the fabric of these efforts.

Ben & Jerry’s incorporates its vision of Linked Prosperity into its business practices in several ways, including a focus on values-led sourcing. In 2015 the company completed its transition to using entirely non-GMO (genetically modified organisms) ingredients by source and fully sources Fairtrade-certified ingredients wherever possible, which benefits farmers in developing countries.

Ben & Jerry’s, a Vermont corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of Unilever, operates its business on a three-part Mission Statement emphasizing product quality, economic reward and a commitment to the community. Ben & Jerry’s became a certified B Corp in 2012.

The Ben & Jerry’s Foundation granted $3.7 million in 2021 to support grassroots organizing for social and environmental justice around the country. The Foundation’s philanthropy is guided by Ben & Jerry’s employees, who serve on committees that review applications.