The Entrepreneur Ethos Podcast, hosted by entrepreneur and author Jarie Bolander, will dig deep into the traits, values, and beliefs that drive entrepreneurs to create an independent life that completes them as well as what all of us can learn from them.
The Entrepreneur Ethos podcast is a truly inspiring and valuable resource for entrepreneurs. I stumbled across this podcast a few weeks ago and was immediately hooked. It is evident that each episode is meticulously planned and researched, with a lot of thought put into bringing the best content to the audience. As an entrepreneur myself, I find myself eagerly looking forward to each new episode drop. The guests on the show come from diverse backgrounds and share their own unique stories, which add depth and perspective to the conversations.
One of the best aspects of The Entrepreneur Ethos is that it provides not only inspiration but also practical tips and actions for entrepreneurs. Jarie Bolander, the host, goes beyond just sharing success stories and delves deep into the important lessons that can be learned from each guest's entrepreneurial journey. Whether you are a newbie entrepreneur or have been in the game for a while, there is something valuable to take away from every episode. I appreciate that the show focuses on actionable steps that listeners can implement in their own entrepreneurial endeavors.
Another great aspect of this podcast is Jarie's interviewing style. He is laidback, yet engaging and leads the conversation in interesting directions. He asks penetrating questions to ensure that his listeners get a full understanding of the topic being discussed. His curiosity shines through in every episode, making for stimulating and enjoyable conversations with his guests.
While it's difficult to find any significant drawbacks, one potential downside of The Entrepreneur Ethos podcast could be its lack of consistency in terms of release schedule. As someone who eagerly anticipates each new episode, it would be even more enjoyable if there were more frequent releases. However, this minor drawback does not overshadow the overall value provided by this podcast.
In conclusion, The Entrepreneur Ethos podcast is an exceptional resource for entrepreneurs seeking inspiration, actionable tips, and real-world insights into entrepreneurship. With its diverse range of guests and well-researched content, this podcast sets itself apart as a must-listen for aspiring and seasoned entrepreneurs alike. Jarie Bolander's authentic and engaging interviewing style adds depth and value to each episode. I highly recommend The Entrepreneur Ethos podcast to anyone looking to grow their entrepreneurial skills and find motivation in their journey.
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction In an era where creativity is commoditized and algorithms dominate the conversation, how do you build a business that values artistry while staying competitive in an efficiency-driven world? On this episode of The Entrepreneur Ethos podcast, host Jarie Bolander sits down with Matthew Gattozzi, founder of Goodo Studios, to explore the journey from struggling artist to ambitious entrepreneur. With insights that blend grit, resilience, and creativity, this episode is a roadmap for anyone who wants to turn their passion into purpose. Matthew's story begins in the unlikely world of classical ballet, where he spent over a decade training to perform at the highest level. A career-ending injury at 21 forced him to reimagine his future, leading to a transformative journey of self-discovery. Turning to his long-time love of photography and video, Matthew knocked on doors—literally—to build a portfolio and pay rent. Years later, he's the driving force behind Goodo Studios, a thriving video production house with aspirations as bold as creating a Super Bowl commercial. This episode unpacks the challenges of creating not just art, but a scalable business that blends innovation with soul. Matthew shares how he's tackling the complex world of creative operations, balancing the need for efficiency with the pursuit of original, compelling ideas. He also dives into how AI is becoming a key ally, not a competitor, for creatives, and how storytelling remains the heart of impactful work—even as technology evolves. If you're a creative looking for actionable strategies to grow your craft into a business—or an entrepreneur seeking inspiration to keep climbing your second mountain—this conversation is for you. Tune in to hear how Matthew is proving that business isn't the enemy of art; it's the ultimate canvas. Don't miss this insightful and inspiring episode of The Entrepreneur Ethos! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction In the rapidly evolving landscape of digital marketing, entrepreneurs often struggle with converting anonymous online traffic into meaningful business opportunities. Amidst the sea of ubiquitous content and relentless advertising, standing out requires not just creativity but strategic innovation. On this insightful episode of "The Entrepreneur Ethos" podcast, host Jarie Bolander is joined by Maxwell Nee, Chief Revenue Officer of ScoreApp, who reveals the potential of quiz-based marketing in transforming anonymous interactions into dynamic leads. Maxwell discusses his transition from a lucrative business coaching service to pioneering the use of quiz funnels that significantly reduce lead acquisition costs while enhancing lead quality. He explains how personalized digital interactions can create a richer customer profile, thus empowering businesses to tailor their offerings more precisely and increase engagement effectively. This episode not only highlights the tools necessary for implementing these strategies but also dives into the analytics behind customer interactions, shedding light on how businesses can leverage data for better decision-making. As Maxwell unpacks the success stories and the operational insights of ScoreApp, he provides listeners with a roadmap for integrating similar technologies into their marketing strategies. Whether you are a startup founder, a digital marketer, or a business strategist, this discussion offers valuable insights into leveraging quiz-based marketing to cut through the noise and connect with your audience more effectively. Tune in to learn how you can transform your digital outreach into a potent tool for business growth and customer engagement. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction Entrepreneurship is often seen as a solitary pursuit, however, building a thriving startup ecosystem requires more than just individual grit—it needs community, trust, and a deep understanding of complex systems. Many entrepreneurs struggle to find the right support network, and too often, local communities fail to create the conditions for entrepreneurial success. So, how do we move from isolated efforts to a collaborative, vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem? On this episode of The Entrepreneur Ethos, Jarie Bolander sits down with Chris Heivly, co-founder of Raleigh Durham Startup Week and author of Build the Fort, to dive deep into the essence of community building for startups. Chris, a seasoned zero-to-one expert and investor, shares his unique perspective on how successful entrepreneurial communities don't follow the traditional hierarchical systems that govern most organizations. Instead, they thrive when they're built on networks of peers, reducing friction for entrepreneurs and fostering an environment where ideas and connections flourish organically. Chris recounts his own journey, traveling the world to study various startup ecosystems, and reveals the power of small, consistent actions—what he calls "success through a thousand nudges"—that can transform entire cities into hubs for innovation. From mentoring to running startup events, Chris emphasizes the importance of giving back and building a legacy that inspires the next generation of founders. If you're an entrepreneur, community leader, or simply someone interested in how startups can shape local economies, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Learn how you can reduce friction, cultivate trust, and help create an ecosystem where entrepreneurs don't just survive—they thrive. Tune in now to discover the building blocks of a successful startup community and why your role in it matters more than you might think. Links Chris Heivly LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction In the world of startups, founders are often laser-focused on product development, leaving crucial back-office tasks like accounting as an afterthought. Yet, ignoring this foundational piece of the puzzle can lead to disastrous consequences when it's time to scale or raise funding. Without proper systems in place, businesses risk losing investor trust, facing compliance issues, or simply running into operational chaos. But how can entrepreneurs find a balance between driving their product forward and keeping their financial house in order? In this episode of The Entrepreneur Ethos, Jarie Bolander chats with the co-founders of KBA Partners—Kasia Rzepnikowska, Angel Zhao, and Barbara Legnitto Hansson—who turned their decades of experience in high-growth companies like New Relic into a boutique firm that helps startups navigate the complex world of finance and accounting. Drawing on their unique backgrounds in taking companies from fledgling startups to billion-dollar valuations, they offer actionable advice on building a financial infrastructure that's not just about staying compliant but enabling growth. This conversation dives deep into how early-stage companies can avoid the common pitfalls of financial mismanagement, why accounting should be seen as an asset rather than a burden, and how having the right systems in place early can provide the peace of mind needed to focus on what really matters—growing your business. From setting up basic bookkeeping to managing the complexities of scaling, these experts share practical, real-world insights that every entrepreneur needs to hear. If you're a founder who wants to sleep better at night knowing your financials are rock solid or an entrepreneur navigating the tricky waters of startup growth, you won't want to miss this episode. Hit play and learn how to lay the groundwork for long-term success with guidance from industry veterans who've been there and done it. Tune in now and start securing your startup's future! Links Barbara Legnitto Hansson LinkedIn Angel Zhao LinkedIn Kasia Rzepnikowska on LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction In the crowded fitness industry, gyms and studios face the constant challenge of standing out and retaining loyal members. With increased competition, changing customer expectations, and the complexity of managing day-to-day operations, business owners need more than just passion – they need precision and smart technology to succeed. On this episode of The Entrepreneur Ethos podcast, host Jarie Bolander talks with Tim Green, COO of TeamUp, about how fitness businesses can leverage technology to streamline their services and enhance customer experiences. Tim shares his journey from building a marketing business to transforming TeamUp into one of the leading fitness management platforms, catering to thousands of businesses worldwide. He explains how focusing on customer needs and automating key processes, such as scheduling and memberships, can make the difference between thriving and surviving. As the fitness industry shifts post-COVID, Tim offers practical advice on how businesses can use digital tools to reduce manual work, foster stronger client relationships, and scale efficiently without burning out. If you're a fitness business owner looking to simplify your operations or an entrepreneur interested in the intersection of tech and service-based industries, this conversation is a must-listen. Discover how embracing customer-centric technology and data-driven decisions can help your business stand out in an increasingly competitive market. Tune in to learn how to combine human touch with cutting-edge tools to keep your fitness community engaged and growing. Links Tim Green on LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction In today's digital age, finding trustworthy recommendations is more challenging than ever. With countless fake reviews, paid endorsements, and the overwhelming noise of online opinions, it's hard to know what advice you can truly rely on. This episode of the Entrepreneur Ethos podcast addresses this very problem. Host Jarie Bolander sits down with Eric Colbert, the co-founder of VouchVault and partner at Spark6, to explore how entrepreneurs can cut through the clutter and build trust in a world where authenticity is often in short supply. Eric's journey is a fascinating one, starting from his days in the punk rock music scene to becoming a successful entrepreneur. His story is filled with valuable lessons, from navigating the complexities of global manufacturing to the strategic growth of a tech agency. In this conversation, Eric shares how these experiences have culminated in the creation of VouchVault—a platform designed to revolutionize how we discover and share recommendations by leveraging the power of trusted, word-of-mouth advice. If you're an entrepreneur struggling to make your mark or simply looking for ways to connect more authentically with your audience, this episode is for you. Eric offers actionable insights on building a brand that stands out in a saturated market, all while staying true to your values and vision. Don't miss out on learning how to turn the challenge of finding reliable recommendations into an opportunity for growth and connection. Tune in now! Links Eric Colbert on LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction Standing out requires more than just a great idea—it demands relentless drive, strategic vision, and a deep passion for building something meaningful. In this episode of the Entrepreneur Ethos podcast, host Jarie Bolander interviews Marc Smookler, a seasoned entrepreneur whose journey from investment banking to launching successful ventures offers a blueprint for modern entrepreneurship. Marc dives into his evolution from analyzing other businesses to becoming a hands-on creator, sharing the lessons learned and the grit required to succeed. Whether you're just starting or looking to scale, Marc's insights on aligning with the right people, embracing hard work, and staying committed to your vision are invaluable. If you're searching for actionable strategies to boost your entrepreneurial success, this episode is a must-listen. Marc's experience highlights the importance of matching energy with opportunity, and how a strong work ethic, coupled with a clear focus, can help you build a business that truly makes an impact. Don't miss out on learning how to harness your potential and create something that resonates in today's competitive market. Tune in now to discover how to transform your entrepreneurial dreams into reality. Links Marc Smookler on LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction In today's digital landscape, standing out in a sea of content can be daunting. Many entrepreneurs need help to rise above the noise and connect with their audience meaningfully. The key to overcoming this challenge lies in mastering the art of storytelling. In this episode of the Entrepreneur Ethos podcast, host Jarie Bolander sits down with Tom Marks, a seasoned business leader and author of "The Second Best Business Book Ever Written," to uncover the secrets of effective storytelling. Tom Marks brings a wealth of experience from his career in advertising and marketing, sharing the fascinating story of his father's contribution to the success of Orville Redenbacher's Popping Corn. Through his journey, Tom emphasizes the importance of thought leadership built on wisdom, trust, honesty, ethics, and causes. Listeners will discover practical strategies to develop a compelling personal brand and create impactful content. Tom and Jarie delve into timeless lessons from ancient philosophers, illustrating how their teachings on rhetoric and persuasion are crucial in today's content-saturated world. Whether you're a small business owner or a corporate executive, this episode offers valuable insights on how to craft a narrative that truly resonates with your audience. Listen now to transform your brand and connect with your audience like never before. Links Tom Marks on LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction In today's fast-paced and highly competitive world, many aspiring entrepreneurs struggle tlöo carve out their niche and make a lasting impact. The challenge of building a standout brand, navigating complex startup ecosystems, and maintaining authenticity can seem insurmountable. In this episode of the Entrepreneur Ethos podcast, host Jarie Bolander sits down with Dan Gonzales, an author and seasoned podcast host, to explore these challenges and uncover the keys to entrepreneurial success. Dan's journey from an uncertain young professional to a venture capital analyst and soon-to-be author with Penguin Random House SEA offers a wealth of insights and practical advice. Discover how resilience and authentic storytelling can transform your entrepreneurial journey. Learn about the importance of building meaningful connections and leveraging networks for startup success. Dan shares his firsthand experiences, highlighting the highs and lows of Silicon Valley's dynamic startup culture. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of professional growth and stay ahead in the ever-evolving landscape of innovation. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how to build a brand that stands out and truly resonates with your audience. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from Dan's unique perspective on thriving in a globally connected world. Listen now and elevate your entrepreneurial journey! Links Dan Gonzales on LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Are you struggling to rise above the noise in a world saturated with content and competition? In this episode of the Entrepreneur Ethos podcast, Jarie Bolander sits with Bryan Wish, the founder of Arcbound, to discuss the critical importance of building a personal brand in today's digital age. Bryan shares his inspiring journey from a young writer to a successful entrepreneur dedicated to helping others tell their stories authentically. You'll hear about the challenges Bryan faced, including nearly running out of money and learning to listen to his intuition, and how these experiences shaped his approach to personal branding. This episode offers valuable insights into why trust and authenticity are more important than ever, especially for business leaders and entrepreneurs looking to make a meaningful impact. Tune in to discover actionable advice on developing a brand that resonates, creating impactful content, and navigating the complexities of personal and professional growth. Don't miss Bryan's unique perspective on the future of marketing and how you can stay ahead of the curve. Listen now to learn how to build a brand that stands out and truly connects with your audience. Links Bryan Wish on LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction Adam Robinson, CEO of Retention.com, shares his compelling journey from a high-pressure career in investment banking to the dynamic world of entrepreneurship. Adam offers a unique perspective on the challenges of making such a significant career shift and provides valuable insights into the lessons learned along the way. He discusses how his background in trading credit default swaps at Lehman Brothers equipped him with the skills and resilience needed to navigate the startup landscape. Adam delves into the innovative strategies he has employed to build and grow his business, emphasizing the power of leveraging LinkedIn for networking and brand building. He talks about the critical moments that shaped his entrepreneurial journey and the importance of creativity and adaptability in overcoming obstacles. His approach to building a personal brand and establishing a robust online presence offers practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make their mark. The episode also highlights the significance of having a dedicated and motivated team. Adam shares his insights on team building and leadership, discussing how a cohesive team can drive a startup towards success. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the intricacies of startup culture and the resilience required to thrive in the entrepreneurial world. Tune in to gain actionable insights and be inspired by Adam Robinson's remarkable story. Timestamps 00:00 - Work experience feels like a movie scene. 04:57 - Financial success inspires entrepreneurship. 07:30 - Learn skills and observe for success. 12:06 - Challenges and rewards of starting a startup. 14:40 - Successful startup collaborations through experience. 19:09 - Hardships and uncertainties in starting a company. 23:08 - Boosting product success with LinkedIn strategy. 24:02 - Providing scripts and leads, facing mixed reviews. 29:25 - Personal branding and offering free value. 32:19 - Effective onboarding and customer service approach. Key Topics Movie-like work experience: Discuss how early work experiences felt cinematic. Financial success and entrepreneurship: Unexpected financial gains sparking entrepreneurial ambitions. Skill acquisition and observation: Importance of learning and observing in achieving success. Startup challenges and rewards: Navigating the difficulties and triumphs of launching a startup. Collaborative success in startups: Leveraging experience for successful collaborations. Hardships in founding a company: The difficulties and uncertainties of starting a business. LinkedIn strategy for product success: Utilizing LinkedIn to boost product visibility and success. Mixed reception to scripts and leads: Providing scripts and generating leads amidst varying feedback. Personal branding and free offers: Emphasizing personal branding and the value of offering freebies. Customer service and onboarding: Ensuring effective onboarding and exceptional customer service. Links Adam Robinson on LinkedIn Retention.com RB2B.com Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Dive deep into the profound significance of water-related challenges and the monumental impact of water in our everyday lives. Have you found invaluable insights into the art of building a business, attracting investors, and the pivotal role of a deeply personal mission in nurturing successful companies? This is the path Brian Sheng took. From the realm of software automation to the transformative potential of AI and technology, explore how these groundbreaking innovations are addressing pressing global issues such as the water crisis. Jarie Bolander sat with Brian Sheng of Aquria and discussed the resurgence of hardware, the transition away from SaaS models, and the burgeoning frontier of renewable infrastructure. Learn from the firsthand experiences, challenges, and triumphs of transitioning from investor to founder, and understand the indispensable role of human engagement in driving impactful, top-tier outcomes. This episode intricately weaves together personal anecdotes, industry insights, and unwavering optimism for the transformative synergy of technology and human ingenuity. Don't miss out on this captivating episode brimming with actionable wisdom and inspiring narratives that will leave you motivated to break through perceived boundaries and make a meaningful impact. Tune in now on The Entrepreneur Ethos! Links Brian Sheng on LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction Have you ever looked around and wondered why some obvious problem or opportunity hasn't been addressed? Why hasn't someone created a product or service to fill that gap? That's exactly the situation Alexis Eizinas found herself in when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. As women around her stopped dyeing their hair due to lockdowns, Alexis noticed many embracing their natural silver and gray hair. But they had questions - what to do about eyebrows, how to prevent yellowing, and more. Despite having over 30 years of experience in the beauty industry, Alexis realized there were no dedicated hair care products for women going gray gracefully. From that light bulb moment was born SILVERING, Alexis' company celebrating and amplifying the beauty of silver hair. In this inspiring conversation, Alexis shares her entrepreneurial journey - identifying an unmet consumer need, finding the courage to fill it herself after corporate life, and pushing past pandemic hurdles to get her brand off the ground. You'll hear how sometimes the most innovative ideas come from simply looking around with fresh eyes at the problems we've all learned to live with. Alexis' story showcases the power of challenging assumptions and believing in the authentic beauty of people's natural selves. Links LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction Brace yourself for a brutally honest and eye-opening look into the world of startups with "The Entrepreneur Ethos" podcast's latest episode featuring the legendary Startup Shinobi. In this no-holds-barred conversation, Jarie Bolander invites the outspoken Shinobi to shatter the rose-tinted illusions surrounding entrepreneurship and startup culture. Get ready for a dose of harsh reality as Shinobi pulls no punches, delivering a much-needed reality check for aspiring founders and investors alike. With years of experience navigating the treacherous waters of the startup ecosystem, Startup Shinobi offers a refreshingly candid perspective on the challenges and pitfalls that often go unspoken. From the harsh truth about raising capital and the perils of thought leadership to the importance of grit, resilience, and intellectual honesty, this episode is a must-listen for anyone considering or already on the entrepreneurial journey. Shinobi's no-nonsense approach and biting wit cut through the noise, providing invaluable insights and advice that could make or break your startup's success. Join Jarie Bolander and Startup Shinobi as they explore the realities of founding a startup, debunk common myths, and lay bare the skills and mindset required to thrive in this competitive landscape. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur, an aspiring founder, or simply curious about the startup world, this episode is a powerful wake-up call that will challenge your preconceptions and equip you with the tools to navigate the "radioactive wasteland" of startups with clarity and resilience. Don't miss this unforgettable conversation – subscribe to "The Entrepreneur Ethos" podcast today and get ready to embrace the harsh truths that could propel your entrepreneurial journey to new heights. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction In the ever-evolving food industry, where consumers demand healthier alternatives without compromising taste, one entrepreneur is making waves with his innovative approach to reinventing the classic cookie. Nicholas Naclerio, the founder and CEO of mhmm.Ly, shares his inspiring journey of turning a personal struggle with an eating disorder into a mission to make delicious, nourishing foods accessible to all. Naclerio's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, resilience, and a deep-rooted passion for creating positive change. From his humble beginnings in a small New York apartment to securing investments from industry heavyweights like Andrew Yang and the former CFO of Oatly, Naclerio's path has been paved with challenges and triumphs. In this thought-provoking episode, Naclerio candidly discusses the arduous yet rewarding process of fundraising, navigating the complex world of investors, and the importance of selecting the right partners who understand the unique demands of the food industry. He also delves into the intricacies of marketing and distribution, offering valuable insights into the strategies that have proven successful for his brand. But Naclerio's mission extends far beyond mere business success. His unwavering commitment to creating a sustainable, ethical, and inclusive food system is a driving force behind his endeavors. With a focus on using simple, nourishing ingredients like nuts, root vegetables, and apple sugar, Naclerio's cookies are not only delicious but also cater to a wide range of dietary needs, promoting overall well-being. Join us as we explore the intersection of entrepreneurship, food innovation, and personal growth, and discover how Naclerio's journey is paving the way for a healthier, more conscious approach to indulgence. Links Nicholas Naclerio on LinkedIn Mmmly Website Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction Strap in for an insightful journey with Mike Trigg, a true Renaissance man who has carved a unique path spanning entrepreneurship, government, investing, and fiction writing. In this thought-provoking episode, host Jarie Bolander picks Mike's brain on his multifaceted career. From his early days working on Capitol Hill to diving headfirst into the dotcom boom, Mike offers a veteran's perspective on the roller-coaster startup world and the high-stakes venture capital game. He unveils his criteria for angel investing, emphasizing the importance of simplicity, clear target markets, and strong founding teams. But Mike's talents extend far beyond the tech realm. As a published novelist, he artfully draws parallels between the creative processes of building a business and crafting fiction - both require turning abstract ideas into tangible realities while incorporating user/reader feedback. Through his critically-acclaimed book "Burner," Mike uses the power of storytelling to examine thorny societal issues like political tribalism, online extremism, wealth gaps, and the erosion of truth. He delves into these complex themes, providing unique commentary born from his varied life experiences. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, literature lover, or simply someone fascinated by the intersection of technology and social commentary, this conversation is not to be missed. Tune in as Mike Trigg shares his unconventional wisdom acquired on the frontlines of Silicon Valley and the creative writing world. Links Mike Trigg on LinkedIn Burner on Amazon Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction Do you struggle with imposter syndrome or self-doubt as an entrepreneur? Feel like your success is a fraud? This podcast episode explores how to overcome these mental roadblocks. Kim Olver, founder of Olver International, shares her innovative "Mental Freedom" framework to help entrepreneurs eradicate self-limiting beliefs and negative self-talk. Learn about the 5 core human needs driving behavior and how understanding your motivations boosts entrepreneurial confidence. In this insightful discussion, get actionable tips for cultivating a success mindset using self-directed therapy techniques. Discover how taking responsibility for your desires empowers you to stop taking others' actions personally. Find tools for overcoming impostor feelings, self-sabotaging thoughts, and achieving your full potential as a business owner. Whether just starting your entrepreneurial journey or an accomplished professional, this episode provides strategies for mental freedom, resilience and innovative thinking. Overcome self-doubt and unlock your entrepreneurial self-belief. Links Kim Olver on LinkedIn Website Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction In this raw and eye-opening episode, we go beyond the surface to uncover the often unspoken struggles plaguing the mental health of modern men. Our special guest, Anson Whitmer, brings rare vulnerability as he recounts his personal journey from teenage depression to launching Mental, an innovative app providing tailored solutions for men's wellbeing. Whitmer pulls no punches exposing the tragic impacts of repressive masculine norms as he transparently shares his own painful story of masking inner turmoil. We travel with him to the breaking point where he finally rejects the delusion that seeking help betrays strength. You'll discover how societal pressures constrain men's humanity and leave their cries for relief disregarded. And you'll learn how Mental flips the script with practical support and guidance attuned to guys just like you. Join us for straight talk dismantling barriers that have long blocked men from embracing help. Gain tools to foster life-saving conversations in your own circles. And come away inspired to cultivate communities where men can stand together, authentic and unashamed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Welcome to another engaging episode of The Entrepreneur Ethos, the podcast that delves deep into the inspiring stories and effective strategies of distinguished entrepreneurs. Today, our insightful host, Jarie Bolander, engages in an enlightening conversation with the innovative Jason Malki, founder and CEO of the renowned Strtupboost and Superwarm.ai. This episode takes us on a journey through Jason's transformative path from spearheading a start-up sales team to establishing his own thriving agency. The discussion centers on the crucial impact of events and community building as catalysts for business development. As we navigate through this episode, we unlock a treasure trove of invaluable insights into sales, marketing, and the essence of the entrepreneurial spirit. Learn firsthand about the significance of fostering a community and mastering the art of sales from someone who's lived it. This episode is an indispensable resource for both budding entrepreneurs and seasoned business veterans, brimming with practical tips and real-life experiences that will both enlighten and inspire your own entrepreneurial path. Links Jason Malki on LinkedIn StrtupBoost Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction Welcome to The Entrepreneur Ethos! In this captivating episode, our host Jarie Bolander sits down with the dynamic entrepreneur and esteemed author, Joe Sanok, for a riveting exploration of the entrepreneurial journey. Joe, with his profound expertise, unfolds the narrative of his journey to establishing a flourishing counseling practice and spearheading a highly acclaimed podcast tailored for counselors in private practice. The conversation takes a deep dive into the intricate balance between honing clinical acumen and mastering the business acumen required in the field of therapy. They engage in an enlightening dialogue about the critical role of self-care and achieving a harmonious work-life equilibrium for entrepreneurs. This episode is an illuminating exploration into effective strategies to boost productivity, ignite creativity, and carve out time for essential relaxation. Tune in to this as we navigate the core attributes, values, and competencies that are pivotal in fostering ethical entrepreneurship and cultivating a successful business in the contemporary digital landscape. Links Joe Sanok on LinkedIn Practice of The Practice Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction Welcome to The Entrepreneur Ethos, where we explore the meaningful values, beliefs, and skills that allow entrepreneurs to drive positive change. In this episode, host Jarie Bolander and guest Chuck Chiodo delve into sales psychology insights for business owners and marketers. Together, we discuss timeless principles of persuasion dating back to Aristotle's rhetorical triangle - ethos, pathos, and logos - and why these concepts still very much apply when making an emotional appeal to modern clients. Chuck shares guidance around addressing client frustrations and keeping core needs central when making a pitch. He provides perspective on virtual marketing collaboratives as safe spaces for entrepreneurs to exchange transparent feedback devoid of traditional sales pressure. The conversation enlightens on the difficulties entrepreneurs face when collaborating within bigger corporate structures. I hope you gain as much value from listening as we did from exchanging in this engaging dialogue that offers invaluable strategies for entrepreneurs navigating today's complex marketing landscape. Links Chuck Chiodo on LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction The skilled trades are facing a massive shortage of workers to meet demand. At the same time, digital platforms offer new opportunities for tradespeople to build their brands and recruit more talent. In this timely episode of The Entrepreneur Ethos, hosts Jarie Bolander and Roger Wakefield have an illuminating discussion on how to leverage online media as a tradesperson. We dive into Roger's fascinating journey from plumbing expert to influential YouTube creator with over 550,000 subscribers. By producing informative and engaging videos, Roger has built a highly loyal audience for his plumbing advice while shining a light on the importance of skilled trades. He provides a blueprint for tradespeople to grow their personal brands digitally. Tune in to learn how Roger took his plumbing business online, keys to creating captivating content, and his empowering mission to inspire the next generation into skilled trades. It's an essential listen for any aspiring tradesperson or any tradesperson looking to stand out and recruit talent through social media and digital content. Links Roger Wakefield on LinkedIn Roger Wakefile on YouTube Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction The healthcare industry stands on the cusp of transformation by innovative technologies like artificial intelligence and big data analytics. In this episode of The Entrepreneur Ethos podcast, host Jarie Bolander has a compelling discussion with Ittai Dayan, co-founder and CEO of Rhino Health, an exciting AI healthcare startup. With his own experiences navigating his late wife's battle with leukemia, Bolander engages Dayan in an illuminating dialogue about his background and Rhino Health's pioneering work leveraging AI and federated learning to unlock siloed healthcare data while maintaining privacy. Rhino aims to become the premier platform for building the next generation of AI-powered healthcare applications. However, disrupting such a conservative industry comes loaded with challenges that Rhino has worked diligently to overcome. Tune in to gain insider perspectives into Rhino's inspiring journey to transform healthcare through innovative uses of data and AI. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Welcome back to The Entrepreneur Ethos, the podcast that delves into the minds and experiences of successful entrepreneurs, in today's episode we have a special guest, Eliran Bar, the co-founder of Jorny. Eliran will be sharing his experiences as an entrepreneur and offering valuable insights on finding balance, taking breaks, and staying resilient. In this captivating episode, we dive into how Eliran deals with being overwhelmed, the importance of disconnecting from work, and the power of taking breaks to prevent burnout. Eliran also discusses his unique approach to problem-solving, drawing inspiration from endurance athletics. He reminds us of the significance of finding our own "sweet spot" and not succumbing to the pressure of being an entrepreneur. Additionally, Eliran shares his thoughts on criticism, the role of authenticity in marketing, and the challenges of building a business from scratch. Stay tuned to discover Eliran's fascinating journey and gain valuable insights to apply to your own entrepreneurial endeavors. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Introduction Welcome back to The Entrepreneur Ethos, the podcast that delves into the minds and experiences of successful entrepreneurs, in today's episode, we have a very special guest joining us: Leland Chee, also known as the "Keeper of the Holocron" in the Star Wars universe. Leland takes us on a fascinating journey through his career, sharing insights into the unique challenges of managing and expanding the vast Star Wars lore. From his early days creating content on CDs to the evolution of databases and the changing landscape of storytelling, Leland provides a behind-the-scenes look into the world of Star Wars. Join us as we explore the intertwining of different platforms, the introduction of iconic characters, and the never-ending quest for expanding the Star Wars universe. So sit back, relax, and let's dive into the entrepreneurial ethos of Leland Chee on this captivating episode of The Entrepreneur Ethos. Timestamps 00:02:49 Principal's office booth - hidden excitement unleashed. 00:06:53 ILM revolutionized effects industry with computer animation. 00:09:47 Shared history: childhood in Belmont, Marine World. 00:14:06 Kids inspiring me to try stop motion. 00:17:23 UC Davis: Major in rhetoric, community involvement. 00:21:33 Working on Cantonese news without fluency. Various roles for 3 years in the industry. 00:24:22 Desire for theater, rejection letters from Lucasfilm. 00:26:57 Realized I'm not the biggest Star Wars fan. 00:30:43 I had a good day, no more waiting. 00:35:07 New licensee for RPG, miniatures, and cards. 00:36:29 Create database, track info, Star Wars knowledge. 00:42:14 "Star Wars: cohesive universe across platforms" 00:46:06 Franchise stands out with unique AAA game. 00:46:58 Books between films hint at Luke-Leia romance. 00:51:42 Enjoyed Entrepreneur Ethos Podcast? Share, review, follow! Links Leland Chee on LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction Welcome back to The Entrepreneur Ethos! In this episode, we have the pleasure of welcoming Jodi Lasky, a self-proclaimed highly functioning introvert and an expert in coaching introverted entrepreneurs and leaders. Get ready to gain valuable insights as we explore the dynamics between introverts and extroverts in the business world, the power of frameworks in maximizing productivity, and the importance of building trust in professional relationships. We'll also dive deep into Jodi's personal journey as an entrepreneur, from navigating the defense industry to the chaotic world of tech startups. So whether you're an introvert seeking guidance or an extrovert looking to understand your introverted counterparts better, this episode is for you. Stay glued as we unravel the intricacies of introverted entrepreneurship and discover the unique powers introverts bring. Let's dive in! Links Jodi Lasky on LinkedIn Introvert Founder Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction Welcome back to The Entrepreneur Ethos! In this episode, we have the pleasure of welcoming Parker Olsen, the founder and CEO of Forij to the show. Parker has a diverse background in management consulting and discovered the value of skills such as project management and organization along the way. However, the lack of autonomy in his job left him feeling bored and seeking new opportunities. Today, Parker shares his journey from being an entrepreneur in college to participating in the Ironman race, and ultimately diving deep into the fascinating world of mushrooms. We'll explore the range of mushrooms, from edible varieties to those with medicinal properties, and discuss their potential benefits. Additionally, Parker delves into their experiences with AI and its potential in the world of computer science, sharing his thoughts on training AI models to generate higher quality copy. Stay tuned as we dive into Parker's unique background and his curiosity about neuroscience and its impact on the brain. Let's jump right in! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction Welcome back to another episode of The Entrepreneur Ethos! We sat down to discuss with a truly inspiring guest, Stephany Lapierre, the founder of TealBook, a cutting-edge technology company revolutionizing supplier relationship management. In this episode, Stephany shares her incredible journey from starting a consulting business to creating a platform that helps companies find true innovation in their suppliers. She discusses the importance of financial stability, the need for diversity in the procurement process, and the power of AI and machine learning in streamlining business operations. We also delved into the entrepreneurial lessons she's learned along the way, including the significance of having a supportive partner. This episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable advice for anyone on the entrepreneurial path. So, without further ado, let's dive in and hear from the remarkable Stephany Lapierre of TealBook! Timestamps 00:01:40 Started TealBook to help find innovation in companies. Discovered lack of visibility and data in supplier relationships. Aimed to digitize and unify supplier information. Saw huge opportunities for companies to improve results. Started building a platform using cloud technology. Introduced AI and machine learning for automated data collection. Facing challenges in educating customers on AI. Capitalizing on market trends and opportunities. 00:10:19 TealBook: transparency and optimization for 3rd-party providers. 00:15:40 Early focus on suppliers evolved to AI. Educate suppliers, automate reporting, leverage technology, visibility for businesses, self-certification. 00:20:39 Level playing field for small businesses. [00:22:36 Equality enables success, stimulates growth, and impacts communities. 00:25:50 Driving spend towards small diverse businesses, sometimes volunteering. Organize, improve data, champion, educate, motivate, and impact. [00:29:35 Risk and financial stability for entrepreneurs. 00:35:21 Choose a partner wisely for a solid foundation. 00:38:09 Entrepreneur podcast: learn, share, improve, connect, follow. Key Topics - The company's shift from focusing on suppliers to utilizing AI technology - Suppliers managing their own profiles and adding information - Helping customers understand their spend with small diverse businesses - Beneficial for obtaining funding or contracts from the federal government - Automating the process of verifying and reporting small diverse suppliers - Providing a clean and accurate baseline - Identifying suppliers that qualify as diverse-owned but are not certified - Offering them the opportunity to self-certify at no cost - The competitive advantage of certification in certain bids - Providing educational resources to suppliers - Automating the process for tier 1 suppliers to determine their spend with small diverse businesses - Making it more accessible to implement a supply diversity program - Recognizing and accepting self-certification as a means of promoting inclusivity - Avoiding high certification costs on suppliers. Links TealBook Stephany on LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction Welcome back to The Entrepreneur Ethos! In today's episode, we have an inspiring interview with Jeanette Small the founder of Lucid Cradle, a remarkable individual who has overcome numerous obstacles and is now on a mission to revolutionize the field of psychology using innovative approaches like psilocybin therapy. Jeanette's journey started in the Soviet Union, where she experienced firsthand the repercussions of being considered an outsider. Her family's transgenerational trauma and the collapse of the Soviet Union shaped her early years, but Jeanette's resilience and thirst for knowledge led them to overcome adversity. After finding herself in San Francisco, Jeanette embarked on a path of discovery, using education as a safe haven to excel in the challenging immigrant experience. Her talents were recognized by the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, leading to exciting opportunities in the art world. However, her true passion lies in the realm of psychology, and her experiences with psilocybin have been transformative on a personal level. Determined to make a difference, Jeanette aims to establish industry standards for the responsible use of substances like psilocybin and create a sustainable business that prioritizes the well-being of clients. Join us as we delve into Jeanette's extraordinary story and explore the future of psychedelic therapy in this thought-provoking episode of The Entrepreneur Ethos! Timestamps 00:02:45 German Jewish family in Soviet Union struggles. Survives war, civil war, and immigrates to the US. Finds opportunities in art and education. 00:12:07 Psychiatrist specialized in opioid addictions, prescribed SUBOXONE. 00:16:05 Exploring psychology through research and clinical work. 00:20:35 Long-selling book, importance of entrepreneurship, pioneering psychedelic research. 00:23:00 Personal experience with psilocybin for healing trauma, advocating responsible exploration. 00:27:30 Unethical government program creates mind control. Powerful psychedelics can be beneficial. Concerns about business model and industry growth. 00:31:19 State provides choice, regulations and opportunities. Starting own business without compromises or investors. Using personal savings to fund company. Creating sustainable business while paying bills. Ethical concerns raised by others. 00:36:02 Taking risks is applauded; entrepreneurial experience. Personalized, intensive 3-day psilocybin therapy. Confidential and safe. 00:42:08 Transformational, grateful, Conclusion Links Lucid Cradle Jeanette Small on LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction On this episode of The Entrepreneur Ethos, host Jarie Bolander interviews Chris Troka, an entrepreneur who believes that the idea of AI causing the end of the world is not accurate. Chris compares AI to previous technological advancements like personal computers and the internet, seeing it as a tool that can increase productivity and automate mundane tasks. He believes that AI can be used for research and understanding problem spaces, and overall, thinks that AI will help accelerate strategic and thoughtful work. In the conversation, Chris acknowledges the tension between sales and marketing, noting that many businesses do not understand the value of marketing and tend to cut it during a downturn. He highlights the importance of effective marketing in driving business success, even if the product itself may not be exceptional. Chris emphasizes that sales and marketing need to be aligned for success, and he expresses fascination in the challenge of understanding the workings of marketing. Links Chris Troka on LinkedIn Focused Biz Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple On this episode of The Entrepreneur Ethos, host Jarie Bolander interviews Michael Barnett, the founder of Loanspark Marketplace. Michael shares his insights on the importance of finance for small businesses and startups, highlighting the difficulties they face in obtaining capital. He explains that Loanspark's marketplace model connects small businesses to lenders or individuals with capital or lines of credit. Michael emphasizes the need for clear and simple language when explaining these concepts for better understanding. Moving on to Loanspark Marketplace, Michael explains that they specialize in serving a wide range of small businesses, from startups to companies that have been established for a century. They primarily focus on main street businesses like coffee shops, pizza stores, and clothing stores. Loanspark partners with various companies, including platforms, banks, finance companies, and business services companies, to offer their services to customers. Michael praises his marketing team for their blogging efforts on loanspark.com and highlights the importance of feeling comfortable with the person assisting in the loan process. He also warns about unscrupulous individuals and companies in the loan industry. Michael emphasizes the need for thorough consultations and understanding the business needs of clients before providing loans. He mentions that Loanspark differentiates itself by having sales staff who act as advocates for small business owners. These staff members conduct interviews with clients to understand their needs, goals, past experiences, and financial considerations, in order to create a personalized plan and strategy for obtaining the best loan product at the best price. Michael believes that building relationships with customers is crucial and values having a specific person that customers trust at Loanspark. Customers often call their original agent for advice and potential future loans. Loanspark Marketplace also allows other businesses, like banks, to utilize their platform as a marketplace. Links LoanSpark Michael Barnett on LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction On this episode of The Entrepreneur Ethos, we have a fascinating interview with Priyanka Vazirani. The discussion covers a wide range of topics related to entrepreneurship and building successful ventures. Priyanka shares her experiences and insights as a co-founder of a social startup and her current role in creating a platform for content distribution. The conversation starts with an exploration of how her team curates and summarizes content from trending topics on social media. Utilizing Chargebee and AI technology, they work 16 hours a day to provide scheduled and non-time-sensitive content for their users. Priyanka emphasizes the importance of complementary co-founders and the need for trust and shared vision in building successful partnerships. During the interview, the importance of discoverability and instant visibility in capturing users' attention is discussed. Priyanka highlights the unique selling point of her platform, providing a glimpse of content to help users decide if it's worth investing their time in. She also shares statistics on user engagement, with 50% of daily active users clicking on at least one piece of content. The conversation then shifts towards Priyanka's journey as an entrepreneur. She shares her experience starting a social startup called Benefactory, which successfully ran campaigns in India and the US. However, negative media portrayal led to a decline in participation in one of their campaigns. The discussion explores different business models, successful book strategies, and the value of building a community for entrepreneurs. Towards the end of the episode, the host expresses gratitude to Priyanka for sharing her insights and experiences. They invite listeners to share and review the podcast, join the email list, and check out the host's book "The Entrepreneur Ethos." Timestamps [00:01:14] Finance journey led to social impact startup. [00:03:40] Epsilon appeals to both Gen Z and Millennials. [00:10:11] High school friends turned cofounders in startup. [00:11:15] Friends start endurance events, fascinating cofounder dynamics. [00:16:54] Dashboard curates, AI summarizes, content scheduled. 24/7 coverage. [00:18:55] Everyone is a media company; find distribution. [00:21:37] Longer content still important for browsing. Discoverability key. Preview before committing. [00:25:33] Different skills, divided tasks, shared vision. Volv: Gen Z and millennial go-to app. [00:31:52] Sanpar's newsletter had a powerful referral engine. [00:35:33] Involving customers in the product development process. [00:37:39] Great convo, thanks for being on show Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/priyanka-vazirani/ Volv: https://volvmedia.com/ Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction On this episode of The Entrepreneur Ethos, our guest Charlie Meaden shares their insights on various topics ranging from martial arts to AI to entrepreneurship. They draw parallels between the calm and confidence of individuals in wrestling or martial arts after a good performance and the mindset required for entrepreneurship. They emphasize the importance of being hungry, humble, and a team player in the entrepreneurial journey. The guest speaker also discusses the application of generative AI in understanding market dynamics and making better investment decisions, as well as the lessons they learned about leadership and decision-making from esports and gaming. They stress the need to focus on a few defining decisions that can be game-changers and share their experiences in martial arts, highlighting the importance of learning from different disciplines and body types. Additionally, our guest speaker reflects on the uncertainties of the future and the role of AI in predicting outcomes. They discuss their journey from goldsmithing to technology and their experiences in starting an esports platform. Finally, they talk about their vision to help people become financially literate and make regular contributions through their wealth management platform. Tune in to this episode of The Entrepreneur Ethos for valuable insights and perspectives from our guest. Timestamps 00:01:50 Goldsmith turned gamer and programmer starts investing platform. 00:07:14 Markets and investing are not linear; financial literacy and generative AI can help understand historical dynamics for trading opportunities. 00:12:09 Advancements in PCB design improve productivity. 00:13:47 AI offers ownership and income uncertainty. 00:18:55 Ethics, optimism, uncertainty in the goldsmithing industry. 00:22:27 Esports and gaming taught me leadership and decision-making. Communication and detachment from outcomes are key. Make the best decision with available information. Avoid decision fatigue by minimizing choices. 00:27:12 Entrepreneurs appreciate Game Theory and learning from losses. 00:29:22 Blue belt in jujitsu, big guy, humbled. Wife died, found purpose in jujitsu. 00:34:27 Learn from different body types in jiu jitsu 00:37:07 Different games, different rules, fascinating martial arts. 00:40:59 Podcast: Learn, share, review, improve, follow, connect. Key Topics - The correlation between wrestling/martial arts and entrepreneurship - Being calm and confident after a good performance - Constant learning and remaining humble - Key traits for entrepreneurship - Being hungry, humble, and a team player - Importance of helping others in training and not relying solely on physicality - Linear compounding in investing and its limitations - Understanding market dynamics and history through financial literacy and generative AI Links https://gembot.ai/ Charlie on LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction On this episode of The Entrepreneur Ethos, Jarie Bolander speaks with Gboyega Adebayo about his journey as an entrepreneur. Adebayo shares his experience of pursuing three business ideas simultaneously and realizing it was unsustainable. He talks about his podcast, the Be Helpful podcast, and his startup, Yensil, both aimed at helping aspiring entrepreneurs. Adebayo emphasizes the importance of solving problems that one is passionate about, rather than just trying to make money. He encourages experimentation and learning from others. Adebayo also shares his thoughts on the importance of community among entrepreneurs and how cities like New York, Chicago, and San Francisco are good environments for entrepreneurship. Finally, he discusses the significance of community and the ecosystem, using the example of the many coffee shops in his town and promoting entrepreneurship. Timestamps 00:02:00 Entrepreneurial drive led to current career. 00:05:56 Entrepreneurship is lonely without coworkers. 00:09:24 Introverted editor reflects on pandemic work changes. 00:13:02 Entrepreneurs need shared experience and support. 00:16:27 Friend's coffee shop promotes community and entrepreneurship. 00:19:45 Work at United disrupted by 9/11. Entrepreneurship important. 00:23:41 Startup Yensil: sell professional docs on Etsy. 00:27:35 Obsessed with solving problem, launched product late. 00:30:43 Engineer struggles with selling own creations. 00:33:15 Learn from others, podcast is my experiment. 00:38:25 Inflection points at 1k, 10k, 100k. 00:39:58 Boyega's evolution leads to self-improvement. 00:42:55 Entrepreneur Ethos podcast, learn, share, improve. Key Topics Topics covered in the audio session: - The speaker's learning style and how it influences their podcast and startup - The importance of focusing on problem-solving and experimentation - The speaker's introverted nature and their thoughts on working with others - The speaker's background in business and entrepreneurship - The speaker's startup, Yensil, and its inspiration and purpose - The speaker's personal growth and advice for embracing challenges - The speaker's experience launching a product and the importance of building an audience - The shared struggle and sense of mission among entrepreneurs - The importance of having a community of like-minded individuals - The benefit of entrepreneurship for communities and the greater world - The speaker's thoughts on coffee shops and the entrepreneurial ecosystem Links https://yencil.com/ Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction On this episode of The Entrepreneur Ethos, the host, Jarie Bolander, talks with Nick Spoors and Mike Mills about their mathematical investing aggressive growth fund and the importance of knowing your target audience. The discussion covers topics such as creating machine learning algorithms from scratch, expanding networks, and navigating heavily regulated industries. Nick and Mike share their history and discuss their interest in applying mathematical theories to investing. The speaker also delves into the importance of pure mathematics and explores concepts such as the Axiom of Choice and hypercomputing. Overall, this episode provides insight into the intersection of mathematics and investing, as well as the challenges and innovations in the industry. Timestamps [00:02:40] College friendship led to successful fund. [00:04:35] Nick found investing applied abstract mathematics [00:10:36] Researching pure math for novel applications. [00:12:43] "Axiom of choice: Math's fundamental principle" [00:17:16] Inventing investment strategy into a business product. [00:19:06] Learning from Nick; sometimes needs help. [00:22:44] Know your audience to target effectively. [00:28:24] Launching investment firm through regulated industry. Communication hurdle. [00:31:14] Mathematical investing fund seeks aggressive long-term growth. [00:36:30] Hypercomputing: A new frontier beyond Turing machines. [00:38:42] Accelerating advancements in computing and imagination's limits. [00:42:34] Small steps add up to exponential change. [00:45:49] Podcast outro: Learn, share, follow, read, get better. Key Topics - Explanation of the mathematical investing aggressive growth fund - Analyzing the short term past to predict the long term future - Use of own machine learning algorithms rather than overcrowded public ones - Plan to hire 100 mathematicians to replicate old think tank - Differential advantage in using math and investing together - Importance of knowing target audience and dialogue responses to potential investors - Expansion of network over the years - Specific dialogue responses and ability to discern conversations not worth pursuing - Encounter with potential investors who seem like a good fit but do not like what they do - Challenges faced by the speaker's company - Navigating a heavily regulated industry - Communicating message to appropriate audience - Fine-tuning message to potential clients' interests - Background and shared interest of Nick Spoors and Mike Mills - Nick's interest in applying mathematical theories to investing - Mike's introduction of the Banach-Tarski paradox - Appreciation for entrepreneurs who think differently and take risks to create new categories - Speaker's learning from interactions with Nick Spoors - Nick's ability to explain things in a way that fits the listener's learning style - Learning to communicate without Nick's help but knowing when to bring him in for technical and deep conversations - Interest in researching pure mathematics for new applications in investing - Discussion of mathematics principles and concepts - Importance of mathematics in understanding the physical world and foundational principles of AI and machine learning - Axiom of choice and its connection to complex adaptive systems - Hypercomputing and its potential for the future with advancements in AI and quantum computing Links https://www.infinitaryfund.com/ Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction On this episode of The Entrepreneur Ethos, host Jarie Bolander invites guest Matt Shields to discuss the importance of a blue-collar work ethic for success in various fields, including entrepreneurship. Shields shares personal anecdotes that emphasize this point, as well as the need for humility and responsibility in leadership. The discussion also covers the impact of current economic challenges on businesses, the importance of instilling foundational values in oneself, and the benefits of being a servant leader. Throughout the episode, Shields advocates for taking a positive outlook on life, even during difficult times. Timestamps 00:01:24 Real estate experience since childhood, electrical apprenticeship, technology company, multi-family real estate investment. 00:07:06 Blue collar work ethic drives entrepreneurship success. 00:09:06 "Servant leadership" concept: Lead by serving. 00:14:36 Boss doesn't have to do "drudgery stuff". 00:17:23 Early service jobs build empathy for people. 00:21:10 Businesses impacted, tech disruption minimal, investment opportunities. 00:25:39 Capitalism and democracy are important for human thriving. 00:28:54 Find positives in every situation, avoid negativity. 00:32:16 Loss led to positive changes in life. 00:38:50 Core values as verbs improve collaboration dynamics. 00:44:02 Podcast creator encourages feedback and sharing. Key Topics Topics covered in "The Entrepreneur Ethos - Matt Shields" episode: Personal experiences with blue-collar work Impact of economic situation on businesses Entrepreneurship and societal progress Importance of being a humble leader Core values and their importance Speaker's eclectic background and podcast Spreading positivity and creating a ripple effect Benefits of being a servant leader Criticisms of entitlement and lack of work ethic. Links Invest in Sqft Instagram (@investinsqft_) https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewshields Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Summary Hey everyone. Stay tuned to the end of the interview where I'll give you some actionable insights that I learned from my guest. These insights are also in the show notes. As always, thanks for listening. Now on to my guest for today, James Swanwick, founder of Alcohol Free Lifestyle, a program for high-achievers, executives and entrepreneurs to learn how to live alcohol-free. As you might expect, James' program originated in his own experience. For him, alcohol didn't have huge consequences, but it also didn't help him any either. He realized he was living a life of mediocrity, and targeted his daily drinking as one of the prime reasons. He wanted to feel better physically, think more clearly, advance in his professional life, and have better relationships. So in March 2010, he decided to give up drinking, and he hasn't had a drink since. Soon after James decided to give up alcohol, he got an offer to be a SportsCenter anchor, a huge career step. He also lost weight, found himself thinking more clearly and having better relationships. After a few years, James found himself giving advice to others on how to stop drinking, which led to the creation of a program to help people quit drinking in 90 days. James now runs two businesses that bring in $2 million — and he credits becoming alcohol free for a big part of his success. He also says his ability to be compassionate and empathetic has grown, and his relationships and health are much improved, and he sees similar results in his clients. Now, let's get better together. Actionable Insights If you want to quit alcohol - or anything - start with a doable frame of time. James started with 30 days, because a longer time seemed "unbelievable." If you're trying to change a habit, get accountability. For his 90-day program, mentoring and accountability are key aspects of the program. Some benefits James identifies with going alcohol free include: weight loss, better sleep, increased clarity, less irritability, and an overwhelming improvement in managing day-to-day life. Links to Explore Further James Swanwick | LinkedIn Alcoholfreelifestyle.com The Alcohol-Free Lifestyle Podcast Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or The Story Funnel Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Summary Hey everyone. Stay tuned to the end of the interview where I'll give you some actionable insights that I learned from my guest. These insights are also in the show notes. As always, thanks for listening. Now on to my guest for today, Will Sacks, CEO and founder of Fulcrum Venture Accelerator and Kindara, a femtech company. Will studied engineering in college; he says he loved making things. He was also interested in creating environmentally sustainable solutions. His first company was Lumetro, which sold energy-efficient lighting solutions. Kindara came about when he fell in love and was introduced to using tech to help with fertility tracking. Kindara was acquired in 2019, and Will started Fulcrum, a fundraising accelerator for mission-driven entrepreneurs. Will explains in this episode that of all the jobs an entrepreneur has to do, fundraising is one that can't be delegated. Unfortunately, many entrepreneurs are not very good at it, so that's where Fulcrum helps. Fulcrum is now working with its seventh cohort to help entrepreneurs raise money. Will explains that getting funded is like dating as well as sales —it's all about doing your research, connections, and finding the right fit. The areas where Fulcrum helps is in storytelling, organization and persistence, and identifying what he calls the intangibles — the energy behind the ideas and people. While he's an engineer and businessman, Will is also a musician and has learned that tuning into how he feels when meeting someone new — whether it's to play music or to hire someone — has been key in making better choices. Now, let's get better together. Actionable Insights Will says the conviction of the entrepreneur is vital — but also says nobody can ever get to 100% conviction. Instead, aim for as much conviction as you can get to — say, 70% — and work off that energy to get excited and share your vision. Will says a common issue he sees are entrepreneurs who don't listen to feedback. If several people are telling you the same thing, you need to listen. Sometimes you need to put the analytical mind on the back burner and tune into what your sense or instincts are telling you. Links to Explore Further Will Sacks on LinkedIn Fulcrum Venture Accelerator Fulcrum on Facebook Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or The Story Funnel Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Summary Hey everyone. Stay tuned to the end of the interview where I'll give you some actionable insights that I learned from my guest. These insights are also in the show notes. As always, thanks for listening. Now on to my guest for today, Andrei Zinkevich, cofounder of FullFunnel.io. Andrei, the son of a salesman, started playing soccer when he was four. When his soccer career was cut short by injuries in his teens, Andrei decided to follow in his father's footsteps. After five years in sales, he'd found success, largely through networking and building personal relationships. But this was a strategy that didn't scale well. Andrei moved into marketing, where he tried to keep the focus on personalization. Andrei began a blog sharing what he knew, offering courses and publishing a book. Eventually his recognition grew to the point where he was being invited to speak at conferences, like the one he attended in Spain. This is where he met one of his followers who had taken his first course. Vlad, a software engineer and musician, eventually joined him in cofounding FullFunnel.io. With FullFunnel, Andrei helps sales and marketing teams be more effective. He offers a lot of content online, mainly through LinkedIn, in addition to courses from his site. He focuses on helping companies grow by playing the long game. Growth hacks can help early on, but growing companies need more sustainable strategies. Andrei credits his training in sports with instilling in him the discipline needed to consistently continue to generate content, which helps him to connect with others and get noticed. Andrei advises businesses to think beyond sales and to continue to ask for feedback and nurture relationships with existing customers. He also stresses the importance of being able to withstand losses and failure, of knowing there will be some bad days, learning from them and moving on. Now, let's get better together. Actionable Insights Losing is part of the game. When you have a loss or failure, treat it as a lesson to teach you how to do better next time. It takes time and practice to build skills. Don't expect to be able to immediately apply and see results when trying a new strategy. This is a common mistake he sees people make. Take the time to learn and cultivate skills and experience. Build relationships. As much as possible, personalize your interactions. Vet the people you work with. Links to Explore Further Andrei Zinkevich on LinkedIn Fullfunnel.io Andrei on Twitter Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or The Story Funnel Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Summary Hey everyone. Stay tuned to the end of the interview where I'll give you some actionable insights that I learned from my guest. These insights are also in the show notes. As always, thanks for listening. Now on to my guest for today, Pete Huang, co-founder of The Neuron, a daily newsletter dedicated to the latest news about artificial intelligence. Pete started writing online when he was a teenager as a copywriter. After college he worked as an analyst at McKinsey then with a number of startups in tech. Throughout the interview, Pete expressed how exciting and interesting he found working in tech, and is particularly excited to see what will happen as AI becomes mainstream. How, ultimately, will AI affect business and entrepreneurship? Pete's not sure yet, but he's excited to see what happens next. Some of the questions and thoughts he shared in our talk: A new wave of businesses where AI comes first will emerge. AI has the potential to change how fast businesses evolve and adapt. Pete wonders if it might be possible to shorten the cycle of founding to exiting from 10-15 years to under 10. Think of ChatGPT as an "a very smart intern who doesn't know anything." People will need to "teach" ChatGPT before it can make a difference in how we work. Companies will have to come up with their own strategies and models for the use of AI. For now, Pete recommends a "wait and see" approach; at the same time he recommends companies who want to incorporate AI tools be nimble. Now, let's get better together. Actionable Insights If you're interested in building a business around AI: Know that it's still in the early stages. Be willing to try, to experiment, and to fail. This is a long game, not a shortcut, though Pete thinks things will become clearer in a matter of months. To help get you through the uncertainties of this moment, consider adopting Pete's attitude: he finds everything that's happening fascinating, and expresses gratitude for getting to be part of a moment that will likely radically transform what our future looks like. Be willing to be part of the conversation. Know that there may not be answers yet. Links to Explore Further Pete Huang | LinkedIn The Neuron (theneurondaily.com) Pete's Web3 Pals (pallet.com) Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or The Story Funnel Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Summary Hey everyone. Stay tuned to the end of the interview where I'll give you some actionable insights that I learned from my guest. These insights are also in the show notes. As always, thanks for listening. Now on to my guest for today, Bryan Clayton, CEO and cofounder of GreenPal, an app that connects homeowners with lawn care specialists. Bryan has been in the lawn care business since he was a kid mowing lawns for his neighbors. He eventually grew his lawn-mowing business into a successful landscaping company that he eventually sold — a rarity for that industry. His next venture was to figure out how to harness tech to help both service providers and their customers. As someone experienced in the field, he understands the challenges providers face, from finding customers to getting paid, but starting a tech company was new to him. He started by focusing on building a roster of service providers, and then went about finding customers to use the app. With some trial and error and lots of feedback, GreenPal has grown over the last 11 years to being recognized as the "Uber of lawn care" and runs thousands of transactions daily. While Bryan understood the lawn care business, founding a tech-based company was definitely out of his comfort zone. In this episode he explains how he had to "go back to kindergarten" and realize there was a lot he still didn't know. One critical action Bryan and his cofounders took was asking for feedback on their app when they first developed it, so they would know how to tweak and change it. They also had to work on themselves and "level up" alongside learning how to build the company. Now, let's get better together. Actionable Insights Having experience working in the field you're trying to serve can give you an edge in helping you understand the problems you'll be helping to solve. Don't discount the experience of "blue-collar" work. "The least sexy your business, the greater your chances of success," Bryan says. Because there is less competition in fields like plumbing and contracting, if you find the right problems and the right solutions, you'll have a shot. You need to be willing to do whatever it takes early on, and you'll need to be a generalist until you can build up an infrastructure of people around you, getting good enough in areas like marketing, sales, and other basics of running a business. Links to Explore Further Bryan Clayton on LinkedIn GreenPal GreenPal on Facebook Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Story Funnel Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Summary Hey everyone. Stay tuned to the end of the interview where I'll give you some actionable insights that I learned from my guest. These insights are also in the show notes. As always, thanks for listening. Now on to my guest for today, Jordan Crawford, founder of Blueprint, helping businesses scale by improving their outbound outreach. Jordan didn't really find his "thing," until 2016, when he started working on helping businesses grow. In this episode Jordan provides a lot of insights into his strategy and how he uses data. Jordan's approach is to focus on problems, not personas. He uses data about people to identify the problems his client is trying to solve. For this he culls data from LinkedIn and looks at people in relevant roles to figure out what the pain points are. He then uses this critical information to help businesses compose outbound messages to target potential customers. Jordan says that there are a lot of great tools that can help businesses, but what it comes down to is figuring out what to say to someone and how to say it - something only a living breathing person can do. Ultimately, Jordan says, a business's understanding of the market must match what customers in the market actually want. To do this, Jordan recommends getting into discussions with customers to really understand what their pain points are as well as using the data. One unique thing about Jordan's data is that he looks at job openings. This is a clear sign of a problem or pain point that a company wants to solve because they are willing to spend money to solve it. Now, let's get better together. Actionable Insights According to Jordan, AI and other martech tools can be helpful, but they'll only take you so far. You need to be able to have dialogues and to use critical thinking to get the information you need to craft a message that will lead to sales. The most important questions to ask are: "What can I say that none of my competitors can't? What is unique about me and what counter-intuitive insight do I have about the problem?" Then do research to figure it out and get a clearer picture of what your potential customers struggle with. Research and use keywords. Keywords can help you figure out the pain points and how to best craft your message. Potential customers are looking to solve pain points and the faster you understand their pain, the easier it will be to get them to talk to you. Links to Explore Further Blueprintgtm.com Jordan Crawford on LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or JSYPR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Summary Hey everyone. Stay tuned to the end of the interview where I'll give you some actionable insights that I learned from my guest. These insights are also in the show notes. As always, thanks for listening. Now on to my guest for today, Jeff Greenfield, a serial entrepreneur who has worked as a magician, chiropractor, and product placement guru, among other roles. His current venture is Provalytics. Jeff started out wanting to be a magician when he saw one perform at Disney World when he was just five years old. And that's what he did, putting on shows while he was still in grade school. He went to college for biochemistry and while he considered trying to be a magician professionally, instead he became a chiropractor. He had a thriving practice until an injury forced him to find another career. This gave him the opportunity to dive into professionally performing as a magician, getting gigs on college campuses. At the time, the internet was in its infancy, but he realized the importance of having a website in order to market himself. After trying to hire someone to build one who failed to do so, he figured out how to do it himself in a weekend. Before he knew it, he was being hired to build websites for other businesses. The next step was to figure out how to get businesses on the web to rank higher, which led him to develop an understanding of how SEO works. He worked with a developer to create an automated SEO platform. Though he'd found success and was having fun, Jeff wasn't content to stay where was. He worked in product placement and branding, but soon his projects led him to ask how to better measure the efficacy of the marketing he was doing. The result was C3 Metrics, a platform that's worked with companies like JP Morgan, Hertz and Nestle. Jeff next tried joining a company's management team, but while he learned a lot, it didn't suit him. He realized that new challenges in the area of marketing measurement brought about by new regulations was an untapped opportunity. So Jeff founded Provalytics to help companies find new ways to approach marketing analytics without the benefit of cookies and other tracking tools. Now, let's get better together. Actionable Insights While he earned an advanced degree to become a health professional, Jeff clearly has not let anything stop him from learning the information and tools he found he needed. By jumping in and learning new technology, he made himself invaluable to others while being at the forefront of innovation. Jeff sees opportunity where others might see difficulties. Rather than lamenting his injury, he built a business instead. When that wasn't satisfying, he pursued his passion in magic. More recently, seeing what was happening with marketing metrics, he jumped in to help figure out how to respond. Jeff has many accomplishments, but it's clear he values family time. He spoke of wanting to be with his wife and daughter, and making choices so that he could do so. He found ways to build the kind of life he wanted, even when unexpected events forced him to jump tracks. Links to Explore Further Jeff Greenfield on LinkedIn Jeff Greenfield on Twitter Provalytics Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or JSYPR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Summary Hey everyone. Stay tuned to the end of the interview where I'll give you some actionable insights that I learned from my guest. These insights are also in the show notes. As always, thanks for listening. Now on to my guest for today, John Li, cofounder of PickFu, an online tool for market research. John and his cofounder met as college students and both got jobs in high tech, but they were always interested in starting their own business. Two businesses they started were Menuism, a place where restaurants can offer menus, and Wedding Lens, a place where participants and attendees of weddings could share pictures. In the course of starting these businesses, they developed PickFu on the side to help them with market research. The business grew out of a need to get better feedback about products and marketing. As they saw it grow, they decided to turn their attention to building it as their central business. PickFu is built on existing consumer research panels to provide users with fast feedback on business collateral like websites, logos, and ads and products sold on ecommerce platforms. While they started out with providing ways for businesses and entrepreneurs to ask open-ended questions, PickFu has built a resource of templates and best practices businesses can use to create polls. Through the use of such feedback, businesses can gain valuable insight and validate ideas and strategies. In this episode John and I talk about the importance of market research and consumer feedback when building a business and how PickFu can help entrepreneurs quickly and easily get the feedback they need. Now, let's get better together. Actionable Insights Small things can make a difference. PickFu is good at helping you figure out decisions about seemingly minor things like website design and colors and logos. Use what's there. Instead of trying to reinvent the wheel, John is interested in finding ways to integrate already existing systems in place. They've used an existing framework and system, drawing on tools for consumer and political polling. They have built on top of these platforms to offer a fast, easy service. Always ask for open-ended feedback. Providing space for the people you are asking to give comments, other than simply answering a poll, can make a huge difference in the insight polling provides. Links to Explore Further Pickfu.com Sample polls Which product insert flyer would make you want to signup and give your email the most? | PickFu online consumer research This product is a premium anti-aging & skin beauty supplement. Which image do you most connect with and would convince you to purchase? Why? | PickFu online consumer research John Li on LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or The Story Funnel Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Summary Hey everyone. Stay tuned to the end of the interview where I'll give you some actionable insights that I learned from my guest. These insights are also in the show notes. As always, thanks for listening. Now on to my guest for today, Chad Price, CEO and founder of Life Grows Green and co-founder of Kettlebell Kings. Chad was a competitive football player and earned a scholarship to Rice University. After college, he brought that competitive spirit to the business world. He was always interested in entrepreneurship, but decided to join an existing company at first. Once in corporate America, though, he realized it wasn't for him. He didn't want to just go to the office and draw a paycheck; he wanted to make things happen. Now over 11 years old, Kettlebell Kings is being acquired by a larger company. In 2019, Chad founded Life Grows Green, which sells alternative health products. While he didn't know it when he started, Chad's businesses have become successful lifestyle brands. Kettlebell Kings cultivated a community by offering a good product and partnering with organizations that sponsor lifting competitions. He believes strong connections and positive partnerships are key to building a lifestyle brand. With Life Grows Green, Chad wants to shift the perspective of CBD and hemp products as being "hippie," to being embraced as healthy and viable alternatives to pharmaceuticals. Now, let's get better together. Actionable Insights Chad draws his strong work ethic from his competitive spirit and the drive to be the best he can. He believes employees are inspired by seeing leaders have that drive and that a positive work culture grows by facing challenges together. Chad did not know where his ventures would end up; he didn't set out consciously trying to build a lifestyle brand or a company that would be acquired. You may not always know where your road is going to take you, and you don't have to have it all figured out, but you do have to have the drive to succeed. In building Kettlebell Kings, Chad learned the importance of fostering positive connections and building a community to create a strong brand people will be loyal to. Links to Explore Further Chad Price on LinkedIn Life Grows Green Life Grows Green - Facebook Kettlebell Kings Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or The Story Funnel Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Summary Hey everyone. Stay tuned to the end of the interview where I'll give you some actionable insights that I learned from my guest. These insights are also in the show notes. As always, thanks for listening. Now on to my guest for today, Brent Freeman, founder of Stealth Venture Labs, a full-service growth marketing agency that has worked with such companies as Home Chef, Factor, and MUDWTR. Brent has had his share of failures. He's been an entrepreneur for 15 years, has been involved in 20 startups, and is founder of eight of those. He describes his experiences as "failing forward," taking what lessons he's learned to eventually find success. Before starting Stealth Venture Labs, he was using this knowledge to help other entrepreneurs, too. Nine years ago, he realized he wanted to do more than just advise others; he wanted to be part of business-building again. Originally founded as a studio to help e-commerce brands go to market, Stealth Venture Labs evolved into an agency that provides growth marketing services. However, Brent explains, the company is more like a "staff augmentation team," differentiating itself from other agencies by focusing on performance rather than time spent, where each team focuses on a company to help them grow. His agency provides a month of free onboarding and then contracts on a month-by-month basis to ensure clients are getting what they need. He says this unique approach is key to their success. Now, let's get better together. Actionable Insights Brent's attitude is to treat each failure as a learning experience. See failures as just another part of the process and keep persevering. In evolving Stealth Venture Labs to what it is today, Brent looks at the pain points of clients and seeks to differentiate the company from others. This has led to developing a different way of working to serve his clients better. Find a way to be unique and differentiate yourself, whether it's a product, service, or process. Embracing the unknown and discomfort is key. Companies that have been around a long time that are willing to evolve and change are those that will continue to innovate. Sometimes taking a risk helps you to break out of a rut. Links to Explore Further Stealth Venture Labs Brent Freeman on LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or JSYPR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Summary Hey everyone. Stay tuned to the end of the interview where I'll give you some actionable insights that I learned from my guest. These insights are also in the show notes. As always, thanks for listening. Now on to my guest for today, Krish Ramineni, CEO and founder of Fireflies.ai, a tool that takes notes - and more - to help knowledge workers be more productive. Krish got his start with Microsoft as a product manager after graduating from the University of Pennsylvania. He explains that his primary responsibility was having a lot of meetings. With meetings costing a lot in terms of money and time, Krish wanted to find a way to more easily record what happened during the meetings and be able to easily refer back to the conversations. For people who have 5-7 meetings per day, as much as 50% of the information gained from those meetings is lost. With the rise of Zoom and virtual meetings during the pandemic, it's no surprise that Fireflies AI took off. But, Krish says, it's actually seeing faster adoption now. The tool accrues value over time, Krish explains, as it builds up information and knowledge that you can go back to to analyze patterns and find key details. Krish is also dedicated to providing transparency with the product, explaining that everyone in the meeting knows the tool is being used. In fact, it is its visibility that has helped make it such a success. Another tool, Ask Fred, takes the usability of Fireflies even further by providing a way to easily search for information from the knowledge base created by Fireflies. Now, let's get better together. Actionable Insights Krish noticed something in how he and others worked that he thought he could improve on. While ultimately the company may branch out, he is currently focused on helping people in similar experiences as himself - the business professional. While Fireflies AI is not the only notetaking AI tool out there, Krish and his cofounder are clearly steered by their values, which means they provide a transparent solution for business meetings in order to help people be more productive and creative. While Krish also sees opportunities for branching out in order to grow in the future, he is focusing on what they can do right now. The time of simply churning out content is giving way to offering unique content. Krish sees Fireflies and other AI tools help access more unique content to help different brands stand out. Links to Explore Further Krish Ramineni on LinkedIn Fireflies on Twitter Fireflies AI website Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or JSYPR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Summary Hey everyone. Stay tuned to the end of the interview where I'll give you some actionable insights that I learned from my guest. These insights are also in the show notes. As always, thanks for listening. Now on to my guests for today, Aakash Shah and Damian Felchlin, founders of High Time Foods, a company that provides meat alternatives to the food industry. They met in business school at Babson College. Aakash is from India and Damian is from Switzerland, and both have backgrounds in the food industry. They saw a need for an alternative, shelf-stable protein source, so they played to their strengths. They won money at pitch competitions, enabling them to launch their company last year, with their first customer being a Mexican restaurant in Boston. The mission of High Time Foods is, as Damian says, very data-driven. They want to turn around the high level of carbon emissions caused by the meat industry while also helping people in circumstances where they don't have access to or can't afford refrigeration. They see their product as being attractive to "flexitarians," meat-eaters who are exploring plant-based alternatives. They ultimately hope that their product will be an affordable, sustainable option for meat, regardless of whether their customers are vegan, vegetarian, or flexitarian. Now, let's get better together. Actionable Insights Draw on your strengths. While both founders express some disenchantment with working in the food industry, finding a way to solve a problem around food was a good fit for their experiences and interests. Start where you know. They started focusing on the sales process they know — selling to chefs and restaurants — though they hope one day to go beyond that. Educate your customers. They understand the importance of educating the public about the environmental impact of meat while also providing a product that people will buy. They acknowledge the work other businesses have done in this area that have helped pave the way. Links to Explore Further High Time Foods High Time Foods on Instagram Damian Felchlin on LinkedIn Aakash Shah on LinkedIn And if you want to check out the vegan Mexican restaurant in Oakland I mentioned: Vengazafoods.com Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or JSYPR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Summary Hey everyone. Stay tuned to the end of the interview where I'll give you some actionable insights that I learned from my guest. These insights are also in the show notes. As always, thanks for listening. Now on to my guest for today, Eleanor Beaton, a business coach for women entrepreneurs and former CEO of a communications consulting company. Eleanor explains how she went from journalist to starting her own business. Both of her businesses were prompted from someone else's suggestions, and in both cases she was skeptical but did it anyway. As she ran her business and sought ideas and support for growing it, she noticed that the coaching and training that existed seemed to mainly speak to men or were too superficial, what she calls "Cosmo-ification." The kinds of discussions male entrepreneurs were having were different from the discussions women were having, and she wondered why, and what women might be missing. Eleanor saw the issues women founders faced in her communications business, and she decided women needed support and help in ways that most of them were not getting. One observation she makes is that most of the teachings around entrepreneurship have come out of Silicon Valley and tech entrepreneurship. But service-based businesses, of which many women have, aren't being served well by these teachings. Eleanor's observations, questions and frustrations led her to starting a podcast and developing other resources for women entrepreneurs, which has become Safi Media. She seeks to make a space where women can talk to other women entrepreneurs and learn from each other, breaking out of the "bro" culture of entrepreneurship. Now, let's get better together. Actionable Insights Eleanor describes how she met suggestions from others with skepticism. However, she tried out starting her own business and hasn't looked back. Sometimes what might be holding us back is our own discomfort and judgments. There are limits to scaling a service-based business. If you're not sure how to grow your business, it might be time to approach things differently. Get help. Consider if there's a segment of the market whose needs aren't being met. How can you help that segment? What might you need to do differently? Links to Explore Further Safi Media Podcast: Power+Presence+Position Eleanor Beaton on LinkedIn Eleanor on Twitter Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or JSYPR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Summary Hey everyone. Stay tuned to the end of the interview where I'll give you some actionable insights that I learned from my guest. These insights are also in the show notes. As always, thanks for listening. Now on to my guest for today, Kim Sorrelle, a longtime entrepreneur, director of the humanitarian organization Rays of Hope for Haiti and author. Kim's first and second book were written in wake of tragedy. In this podcast, Kim opens up about her experiences with her husband being diagnosed with cancer, followed by her husband's death just six weeks later. Married out of high school, Kim built a life and family with her husband by her side. To cope with the experiences and grief, Kim wrote and shared her writings by email. That resulted in her first book, Cry Until You Laugh. Her second book, Love Is, draws on Kim's experiences of losing her husband and also her humanitarian work in Haiti after its disastrous earthquake. It was written in response to her search for the real meaning of love, using the famous Biblical verse from 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 that starts, "Love is patient, love is kind" as a guidepost. While there's no magic answer for getting over the devastating loss of someone you love, Kim offers some good insight into how she has coped with grief, including deciding to choose the things you can control and being of service, which gives her purpose. Now, let's get better together. Actionable Insights Kim says, "You have permission to live a great life." She emphasizes that crying is a natural expression of grief, and that it's also okay to laugh, too. Getting cancer and losing a spouse are not things anyone can control. Instead Kim focuses on things she can control, and focuses on what she needs to do to be happy. Being of service can be the greatest healer. It's also good business. Links to Explore Further Kim's website Kim Sorrelle on LinkedIn Book link for Love Is Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or JSYPR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Hello everyone and welcome back to a miniseries I'm doing called A Personal History of Silicon Valley Recessions. This is a five part series of what it was like to go through two (and now starting three) recessions in Silicon Valley. This is part five titled Supply Chain Woes + War Spikes Inflation. If you're just turning in, I'd highly recommend listening to the first four episodes to get a sense of what I'm talking about. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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