SmartMoney Ventures Podcast

In this episode of the SmartMoney Ventures Podcast, Ry Walker tells the story of his entrepreneurial journey from college dropout to Unicorn success in Cincinnati, Ohio.  In this episode, you will learn:How to build Unicorn software companies in Cincinnati Ohio.Why the entrepreneur's journey is like mountain climbing, where you value the climb more than the peak itself.  How Astronomer & Tembo are commercializing open source platforms and challenging software giants like Oracle and Snowflake.  What NBA Legend LeBron James and startup CEOs have in common.Why we learn more from failure than we do from success.Advice for tech entrepreneurs:  Visit San Francisco, build confidence, pursue speed.  Ry Walker is one of those rare entrepreneurs who sees trends before most other people do.  After dropping out of college at the University of Cincinnati, he got hired to build and deliver IBM clone computers and teach people how to use early PC software tools. Then he founded his first company, SharkBytes, building websites in 1995 in downtown Cincinnati.  He and his brother went to businesses, unplugged their fax machines and showed people the internet, trying to sell them websites, many times being told to plug the fax machine back in. Failure is part of the process, but getting back up is essential.  They built SharkBytes to 30 employees and sold it to a rollup in 1999.  He was a paper millionaire at 27 years old, only to watch it go up in flames in the “dot-bomb” of 2000/2001.  Fast forward to 2015, when he founded Astronomer, a software company that has raised over $280M of venture capital and is valued at over $1 Billion.  He describes Astronomer as a pipeline for data, built on top of Apache Airflow, a Python based open-source workflow management platform.  Ry served as CEO for 4 years, CTO for 2 more years, and left to start another company and become an investor.  In November of 2022, he founded Tembo, a developer platform built on top of PostGres, an open-source relational database management system.  Coming strong out of the gate, he raised a $7 Million dollar seed round led by Venrock with CincyTech, Cintrifuse Capital, Fireroad, Grand Ventures and Wireframe Ventures participating.  Ry believes that commercial platforms built on top of open-source software is the future, and is a founding principle for both Astronomer and Tembo.  Ry has been recognized as a Cincinnati “Top 40 Under 40” and is an AngelPad alum. He loves nature, science, art, sports, and indie game development.  I know that you'll enjoy hearing Ry share his story of entrepreneurship and all the wisdom that he's learned along the way.  Enjoy!

Ever wondered how a unicorn insurance company like Branch came to be? Join us for an insightful conversation with Joe Emerson, whose vision for simplified, bundled home and auto insurance is reshaping the industry. Joe provides us with a peek behind the curtain of Branch's early days, discussing the importance of strategic team building and harnessing software to enhance the customer experience. He also shares his philosophy on focusing on unique offerings and buying everything else that doesn't differentiate the company, a tactic that distinctly positions Branch in the market.Shifting gears, we tackle the evolution of software development, likening it to constructing intricate designs from Lego blocks. I reflect on the role of reliable services and components in building efficient products, drawing from a well of both veteran insights and innovative strategies. We also dissect the importance of aligning technology updates with a company's mission, plus the challenges of overly complex engineering that can lead companies astray from their core objectives. These anecdotes stem from my personal consulting adventures, where I've witnessed the transformative power of maintaining simplicity and clarity in tech development.The episode wraps with a vibrant discussion about why Columbus, Ohio, is the new frontier for burgeoning businesses. We unpack the strategic advantages of this growing metro area, from affordable housing and good public schools to the explosion of the startup scene fueled by local universities like Ohio State. Through the lens of Branch's experience, we share invaluable advice for any entrepreneur eyeing Columbus's potential, and the practical considerations that come with scaling a business state by state. As we unwrap the city's magnetic appeal, we show why central Ohio's business environment just might be the springboard needed for your next big venture.

Ever found yourself awestruck by the tales of tech pioneers who've navigated the treacherous yet rewarding seas of startup creation? Our latest episode features none other than Chris Heivly, the geography geek turned tech titan who co-founded MapQuest. As Chris unravels his journey from passionate mapping enthusiast to a leading figure in entrepreneurial community building, you'll be inspired by how the threads of curiosity and innovation can weave together a story of monumental success.Set sail with us on an exploration of entrepreneurial wisdom, where Chris shares the essentials of starting up, from the invaluable feedback loops with customers to the art of bootstrapping. He deftly illustrates the parallels between playful childhood endeavors, like fort-building, and the foundational principles of building a startup. It's a narrative that celebrates the power of action, the clarity of vision, and the sheer resilience required to scale the fort walls of the business world. With Chris's guidance, you'll discover how to keep your startup ship steady and sailing towards the coveted treasure of product-market fit.As we steer towards the more intricate waters of entrepreneurial finance and community ecosystems, Chris's insights on the significance of smart money investors and strategic investor alignment become your compass. He shares firsthand experiences and cautionary tales that are akin to navigating through a fog of venture capital – enlightening for both seasoned sailors and those just hoisting their sails. By the end of our voyage, Chris leaves us anchored with the wisdom that supporting fellow founders through the storms is as crucial as celebrating their sunny days of success. So join us, and let's chart the unexplored territories of startup adventures together.

As the insurance industry's landscape constantly evolves, it's leaders like Sue Tyler who navigate us through the complexities with exceptional knowledge and foresight. Our latest conversation with this pioneering force peels back the curtain on a career that's both shaped and adapted to the seismic shifts within the sector. From her groundbreaking work at Progressive Insurance to the exhilarating journey with Reliant Insurance, Sue elucidates the dance of blending tried-and-true expertise with innovative approaches that challenge the status quo.Building a successful team requires more than spotting talent; it's about understanding the unique dynamics between startups and corporate giants. Sue shares her experience in cultivating teams that thrive in the fluidity of their roles and the structured environment of larger entities. We dissect the nuances of growth strategies, the intricacies of acquisitions, and the art of mentorship that steadies the ship amidst turbulent waves. Her insights are an invaluable compass for those navigating the choppy waters of business expansion and integration.Lastly, we navigate the art of forming the right alliances in the startup investment universe. Sue stresses the significance of aligning with investors and board members who are more than just a financial infusion—they're strategic partners who champion your vision. As we examine the nuances of startup investing, from handling rejections to the indispensability of a robust network, Sue lays out a roadmap for entrepreneurs to build resilience, adaptability, and the keenness to thrive in the face of ever-shifting market dynamics. Join us as we absorb the wisdom Sue Tyler offers, a beacon for those charting their own course in the entrepreneurial seas.

SMV8: Dwight Smith shares why personality & integrity lead to success. He won E&Y Entrepreneur of the Year, built & sold his company, and Chaired the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland.In this episode, you will learn:Why your personality and integrity are essential elements of success.Four important considerations in selling your company - price is NOT one of them.What it's like to Chair the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland.How they almost lost the whole company, and bounced back to success.Why culture and relationships are your best team retention strategies.Episode Summary:  This episode of the SmartMoney Ventures Podcast features Dwight Smith who is a true servant leader in business, board service, and the philanthropic pursuits that he and his wife Renee are deeply committed to.  Dwight built his company, Sophisticated Systems, Inc. for 33 years and along the way, he has consistently given back to his community with both his time and his treasure.  His colleagues & peers frequently recognize his achievements and contributions with awards and accolades. Dwight is the recipient of the E&Y Entrepreneur of the Year Award, the Milt Lewin Legacy Award from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio, and he and his wife Renee are recent recipients of the Harrison M. Sayre Award from The Columbus Foundation for their passionate support of social justice, entrepreneurship & youth empowerment!   Dwight has served on 16 Boards of Directors, including as Chair of the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Columbus Foundation where he served on the Governing Committee, Columbus State Community College, The Highlights Foundation, the Columbus Chamber of Commerce and more recently, People's Bank and Rocky Brands.  In 2015 Smith co-founded My Special Word, a non-profit focused on empowering children around the world and the importance and impact of positive words. Smith is an active investor and mentor for several entrepreneurial ventures.He has served as an Adjunct Professor in the MBA Program at Franklin University and is a guest lecturer at The Fisher College of Business at The Ohio State University. Smith was awarded an Honorary Doctorate Degree from Franklin University in 2021.He graduated from The Ohio State University with a BS in Marketing and an MBA in Finance.

SMV7: Hugh Cathey is a serial entrepreneur with multiple IPOs who gives back to the community and invests in educating other entrepreneurs.   In this episode, you will learn:How Hugh built and sold his first company at 25 years oldWhy Hugh provides equity compensation to all team members.Why continuing education is a lifelong pursuit for CEOs.The inside scoop on 2 IPOs and working with Craig McCaw.Why the Midwest is a great place to start a business.Episode Summary: This episode of the SmartMoney Ventures Podcast features Hugh Cathey who is an award winning dealmaker and experienced CEO with 2 successful IPOs completed and a passion for building strong communities. Hugh is a lifelong entrepreneur who built and sold his first company at 25 years old.  Hugh specializes in generating rapid revenue growth, and he currently serves as CEO of ChromoCare and as a Principal at Columbus Partners. He previously served as CEO of Digital Networks, where he led a successful IPO and eventually sold the business to Star Telecom. He also served as President of XO Communications, a telecommunications startup with initial funding of $1 Billion from Craig McCaw, founder of McCaw Cellular. Hugh served as President of Qwest Communications International broadband division. This subsidiary grew to over $200 Million in annual revenue within the first two years of operations. With over 800 employees and an annual budget of over $300 Million, it was one of the fastest growing divisions of Qwest Communications. Hugh believes that continuing education is a lifelong pursuit for CEOs, and he walks the walk by mentoring & coaching CEOs regularly. He also believes that all employees should share in equity compensation in the form of stock options. Hugh's philanthropic pursuits are as impressive as his business acumen. Hugh has served on the Board of Directors of LifeCare Alliance for over 26 years and is past Chairman, along with serving as Chairman of the Board of 1st Responders Bridge as well. Companies, people & topics mentioned in this episode:Companies Hugh has worked at: Chromocare Columbus Partners HealthSpot Digital Networks (acquired by Star Telecom) XO Communications Qwest Communications Companies/Institutions where Hugh serves or served as a Board Member : ZNode (Board Chair) Pinnacle Data Systems TC Logic LifeCare Alliance / Meals on Wheels 1st Responders BridgeOther companies/institutions/people mentioned in this episode: AT&T MCI Vancouver Stock Exchange Craig McCaw (McCaw Cellular) Ayn Rand, author of Atlas Shrugged Marc Andreessen - Andreessen Horowitz Ohio Semiconductor BIll Gross  Idealab Ted Nottingham Spurk Case Western University James Bond 007The E-Myth by Michael Gerber Coach Woody Hayes Coach Jim Tressel 

SMV6: Refinery Ventures Managing Partner Tim Schigel shares how he found “Lightning in a Bottle” and hit $50M in revenues in 4 years at ShareThis.This episode of the SmartMoney Ventures Podcast features Tim Schigel, Founder and Managing Partner of Refinery Ventures who invests in early stage companies based on his own experience as Founder of ShareThis, where they hit $50M of revenues in 4 years.  Also as an investor in Advertising.com, they achieved $150M in revenues in year 5.  The story illustrates the immense value of having hands-on experience working in a company with an extremely rapid growth trajectory.  It can be a bumpy ride, but once you've experienced it, you'll never go back.  Tim Schigel is the Founder of ShareThis, Founding Board Member of Cintrifuse, a fund of funds, and Founder & Managing Partner of Refinery Ventures.  He is a recipient of the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year award.  Tim has invested in many successful companies including dotloop (acquired by Zillow), Advertising.com & Third Screen Media (both acquired by AOL/Time Warner), and BuzzMetrics (acquired by Nielsen). Tim holds a Bachelors of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering from Case Western Reserve University and serves on the Advisory Board of The Institute for Management & Engineering (TiME) at Case Western.  

This episode of the SmartMoney Ventures Podcast features Dr. Michael Triplett, CEO of Myonexus Therapeutics who, along with co-founder Dr. Louise Rodino-Klapac, successfully completed a 9 figure exit event before securing Series A financing. The story illustrates how successful tech transfer and strategic positioning resulted in the establishment of a new Gene Therapy Center of Excellence creating over 100 new jobs while transforming Muscular Dystrophy patient treatments.  Prior to co-founding Myonexus, Michael held leadership positions at Proctor & Gamble, Battelle Memorial Institute and Ventaira Pharmaceuticals among others. In this episode, you will learn:How to get a 9 figure exit before your Series A financingHow Technology Transfer is transforming the Heartland RegionWhy resilience is a big part of entrepreneurial psychologySage advice for technical & scientific foundersHow a Gene Therapy Center of Excellence was established in Central OhioDr. Triplett holds both a bachelor's degree and a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from THE Ohio State University graduating Summa Cum Laude.    

SMV4: Ketos CEO Meena Sankaran shares how she raised $30 Million to solve water quality, an issue she experienced as a child in India.Meena Sankaran is the Founder and CEO of Ketos, where they are saving lives with innovative water quality products.  She is truly and creator and builder of change and lives the embodiment of inspiration, innovation and impact.  Prior to founding Ketos, Meena held Engineering leadership positions at Bank of America, Cisco Systems, Big Switch Networks (acq by Arista) and Cumulus Networks (acq by Nvidia).  Meena holds a Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering from University of Mumbai, a Master's Degree in Electrical Engineering from University of Texas, along with Education in Foreign Policy coursework at Stanford University.    

Rev1 Ventures' Parker MacDonell shares how venture ecosystems in the heartland are birthing Unicorns and more!  Rev1 Ventures has invested close to $100 Million into 210 companies and completed 15 exit events - all in the Heartland. In this episode, you will learn:How public/private partnerships have birthed Unicorns and more in the Heartland of America! How Rev1 Ventures has invested in 210 companies, 55 Lead Investments and completed 15 exit events primarily in Ohio. Why Myonexus Therapeutics is such a success story of tech transfer and early engagement with strategic corporate partners. How Rev1 Ventures collaborates with corporate innovation teams to create strong ecosystems that benefit everyone. Where you can learn more about the innovation happening in the Heartland of America at www.Rev1Ventures.com. Parker MacDonell serves as Managing Director of Rev1 Ventures and Managing Director of OTAF: the Ohio Tech Angel Funds. He served as a Board Member of the Angel Capital Association for 6 years and currently serves on the Boards of MentorCliq, EmployStream, Improveit!360 and RapChat. A banker and a musician by background, Parker brings deep experience and wisdom to the Rev1 portfolio and the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Heartland of America. 

Episode 2 features Richard Sudek who pushes the envelope when it comes to building ecosystems & opening doors for entrepreneurs of all backgrounds. He unpacks the keys to his success with Tech Coast Angels, the Angel Syndication Network and UCI Beall Applied Innovation. Richard Sudek serves as Executive Director of UCI Beall Applied Innovation & Chief Innovation Officer at UC Irvine.  Richard is also Chairman Emeritus of Tech Coast Angels and an active angel investor himself.  Dave Berkus & J.D. Davids co-host this episode.  In this episode, you will learn:How a new standard has been set for university entrepreneurship & innovation programs at The Cove and UCI Beall Applied Innovation.  Why diverse teams outperform and how to navigate multiple perspectives effectively.  Why there is no such thing as a “Complete CEO” and what that means for investors, board members and advisors.Why the Angel Syndication Network (ASN) is a model of success for syndicating early stage financing for startups nationwide.  How the Tech Coast Angels' Ace Funds set a lasting example of investor diversification and greater success.  Companies, people & topics mentioned in this episode:Companies where Richard works or has worked:UCI Beall Applied Innovation - Executive DirectorUC Irvine - Chief Innovation OfficerThe Cove - Executive DirectorAngel Syndication Network (ASN) - FounderCove Fund - Founder & AdvisorTech Coast Angels - Chairman EmeritusGolden Seeds - MemberAngel Resource Institute - Angel Capital Education FoundationTiE - Executive CommitteeTedX - "Courage to Fail" PresenterUniversity AffiliationsUC IrvineClaremont Graduate UniversityChapman UniversityLeatherby Center for Entrepreneurship & EthicsRichard Sudek's LinkedIn ProfileDave Berkus websiteJeff (J.D.) Davids' website

Episode 1 features former PayPal Executive & Angel Investor David Chang on why it is critical to get the right investors in your company at the right time.  He unpacks the art & science of fundraising and company building from both sides, as an entrepreneur with PayPal & TripAdvisor, and as an angel investor in over 60 startup companies.         David is an entrepreneur and angel investor who has held operating roles at six startups and invested in 60 companies. He was most recently the Chief Executive Officer of Gradifi, which was acquired by E*TRADE. Previously, he was Entrepreneur-in-Residence at Harvard Business School and Director of the Babson Summer Venture Program.In this episode, you will learn:Why it is critical to get the right investors in your company at the right time.  The art & science of finding & attracting the right investors even if you don't have a network.  David's 40+ Angel investments - where he sourced them, how he helps them and where they're headed.  The how and why of getting warm introductions to investors.  Why it seems to take so long to close a deal - developing trust between entrepreneur & investor.  Companies, people & topics mentioned in this episode:Companies where David has worked:PayPal - ExecutiveGradifi - CEOStart Tank Innovation Space - Co-FounderWhere Angel Fund - Co-FounderTripAdvisor - Director New ProductsSnapMyLife - Co-Founder, VP Marketingm-Qube - Director Product MarketingeDocs - Senior Product ManagerGoldman Sachs - Vice President - TechnologyHarvard Ventures - AdvisorNanigans - AdvisorCO Everywhere - AdvisorOpenFrame - AdvisorLinkwell Health - AdvisorCompanies where David is/was an investor:Crashlytics, clypd, Amino, Logz, Cuseum, University AffiliationsHarvard Business SchoolCornell UniversityBabson CollegeGroups where David is active:MITXMass Challenge