94. Zimri T. Hinshaw on Creating and Scaling Bio-Based Materials

Purpose and Profit with Kathy Varol

Zimri T. Hinshaw, Founder and CEO of Rheom Materials, Inc., is a graduate of Temple University's Economics program and SOSV's IndieBio Program. Zimri started the company from his Temple University dorm room with initial ambitions to design leather jackets and pivoted to creating the materials themselves after realizing a gap in the market.

Rheom Materials is pioneering the use of biopolymers derived from plant-based matter for new applications across the fashion, home goods, electronic, and automotive sectors. Their collaborative approach and advanced melt extrusion techniques allow them to develop new materials effectively and sustainably while transforming the plastics industry to create a cleaner, greener, future. They currently have a bio-based resin designed to replace petrochemical plastics and an eco-friendly plant leather.

In this episode, we discuss:

● Lessons in creating a start-up

● What makes Rheom Materials suited for explosive growth

● The librarian as a secret ally

Key Takeaways:

● University as a Prime Launchpad for Entrepreneurship: Universities can be the perfect testing ground for entrepreneurial ideas. When Zimri founded Rheom Materials, Inc. at Temple University, he leveraged the rich ecosystem a university provides—tapping into students across various disciplines for collaboration, leaning on the university Librarian for market research support, and taking advantage of programs like the Blackstone LaunchPad. Universities, you might say, are the original incubators, offering access to resources, mentorship, and a network of motivated peers. It’s a unique environment where big ideas can be nurtured and refined if you have the vision and drive to create something new.

● Building a Sustainable Future with Alternative Materials: We’re witnessing a boom in the development of alternative materials, and it’s paving the way for a more sustainable future. Companies like Rheom Materials are creating innovative solutions that could replace plastics, leather, and other harmful or environmentally costly materials. Continued innovations in materials science will be key to transforming industries and shifting toward a future where sustainability is the norm.

● The Power of Self-Awareness in Business: When Zimri started Rheom Materials, he had a clear understanding of his strengths and weaknesses. As a young entrepreneur, his strengths were boundless energy, optimism, and a huge vision for what’s possible. But he also recognized there was a lot he didn’t know—like what could potentially sink his company. Instead of pretending to know it all, he hired experienced professionals with decades of industry expertise to complement his vision. This level of self-awareness is crucial in business. It’s not about trying to be good at everything; it’s about leaning into your strengths and surrounding yourself with people who fill in the gaps. The mix of complementary strengths around the table is what paves the best path forward for long-term success.

References:

Connect with Zimri on LinkedIn

Rheom Materials

Blackstone LaunchPad

Temple University|Fox School of Business Innovative Idea Competition

SOSV IndieBio

Biofabricate

Connect & Share:

If you enjoy the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It takes less than 60 seconds, and it really makes a difference in helping to convince hard-to-get guests. I also love reading them!

If this episode resonated with you, I ask you to send it to a friend. Help bring even more visibility to these leaders that are using business as a force for good!

Subscribe to the Purpose and Profit newsletter to make sure you don’t miss future episodes.

This podcast is for you, the listener. I’d love to hear what resonated with you, or if you have a suggestion on who would be a great guest for this show. Please send me a note at [e-mail].