PFE Podcast – S2E8 Boxed Out with Ron Knox of the Institute for Local Self Reliance

Welcome to the People First Economy Podcast, a podcast where we talk with business leaders and movement builders who are building a people-first economy.

This episode of the PFE Podcast comes to you as part of Gift Local, Gift Good, a campaign designed to be a resource to our members and our audiences to help them shop locally and shop sustainably. In this episode, you'll hear our host, Emmanuel Ibarra, interview Ron Knox about a report titled 'Boxed Out' which covers the history of how large companies (Walmart/Amazon/Kroger/Dollar General, etc) have exerted their power to dominate markets unfairly and to stamp out competition at the expense of our communities. 

Ron Knox is a Senior Researcher at the Institute for Local Self-Reliance and a writer for their Independent Business Initiative.

The Institute for Local Self Reliance is a national research and advocacy organization that partners with allies across the country, like People First Economy, to build an American economy driven by local priorities and accountable to people and the planet.

Recent Blog Posts

November 10, 2025

Good For Governance | Walker-Miller Energy Services

Walker-Miller Energy Services (Walker-Miller) is one of the largest Black and woman owned energy efficiency companies in the United States.…
Learn More
November 10, 2025

Good For Workforce | Aldea Coffee

In the heart of downtown Grand Haven and Muskegon lies an inspirational café that is focused on relationships with their…
Learn More
November 10, 2025

Good For Community | Calyxeum Catalyst

Calyxeum Catalyst is a nonprofit community focused initiative that is committed to making the surrounding community a better place for the…
Learn More
November 10, 2025

Good For Environment | Sanctuary Farms

Sanctuary Farms (SF) began with three clear objectives: to cultivate organic produce, forage nutritious compost, and create and operate a…
Learn More
August 25, 2025

Local First Workshop: The City of Grand Rapids Equal Business Opportunity

Amaad Hardy, Business Developer for the City of Grand Rapids, recently led an engaging Local First Workshop on how businesses…
Learn More
May 30, 2025

People First Reflections: 2024 Annual Report

We’re kicking off our first People First Reflections with a look at what the People First Economy team has accomplished…
Learn More