The Midnight Founders Podcast

In this episode of the Midnight Founders Podcast, we sit down with Mirgen Hoxha, founder of Motomtech, to explore the intersection of international trade and tech entrepreneurship. Mirgen brings a wealth of experience in navigating global markets and shares key lessons he's learned while building and scaling a tech company across borders. Whether you're a first-time founder or a seasoned entrepreneur, his insights on thinking globally, managing cross-border logistics, and entering international markets are invaluable. What you'll learn: How to approach international trade as a startup Strategies for scaling a tech product beyond domestic borders Why global thinking is essential from day one Tune in for actionable advice and inspiration from a founder who's turning bold ideas into global solutions.

What happens when you trust your gut, embrace the unconventional, and let MC Hammer pitch your product on Oprah? In this episode, we sit down with Robert Pedersen, founder of ZAGG—the company behind the iconic invisibleSHIELD. Robert shares the scrappy beginnings of a now-global brand, diving deep into what it takes to innovate in crowded markets and stand out with bold, sometimes wild, marketing moves. From startup struggles to striking gold with protective tech for electronics, this is a masterclass in creative problem-solving and fearless branding. If you're a founder looking to zig where others zag, this one's for you.

On this episode of The Midnight Founders Podcast, we're joined by Whitney Rigby, the visionary CEO and founder of Magnetic Hair Design. With no background as a hairstylist, Whitney entered the beauty industry with a bold idea—to build a magnetic brand that redefines what it means to feel confident and beautiful. She shares how she identified a gap in the market, scaled her business from the ground up, and built a strong community around innovation, aesthetics, and leadership. This is a conversation about trusting your gut, leading with intention, and creating something magnetic—without following the traditional path.

In this episode, we're joined by Cory Ivins, Aaron Shields, and Vanessa Perez — the visionary leaders behind MakeUtah, a groundbreaking hub that's building the future of hard-tech innovation. From concept to commercialization, MakeUtah is redefining what it means to be a maker by equipping entrepreneurs with cutting-edge tools, strategic industry partnerships, and mentorship that fuels real economic impact. We dive into how MakeUtah is transforming big ideas into market-ready solutions and creating a space where creators, engineers, and founders collaborate to drive serious innovation and growth.

In this powerful episode of The Midnight Founders Podcast, we sit down with Brandy Vega, CEO of Promise2Live—a life-saving nonprofit dedicated to suicide prevention and mental health awareness. Brandy shares her deeply personal story of how a crisis in her own home sparked a mission to help others facing similar battles. Through Promise2Live, she's created a movement encouraging individuals to make a simple yet powerful commitment: to promise to live and to reach out when in need. We talk about: The heartbreaking story that inspired the foundation How Promise2Live is using digital campaigns and real-world outreach to make a difference Why vulnerability and connection are the antidotes to silent suffering The challenges of founding a nonprofit rooted in pain—and the healing that can follow This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about mental health, social impact, or finding purpose through adversity.

In this episode of The Midnight Founders Podcast, we're diving deep into the future of global hiring with Landon Pitcher and Sam Hendrickson, the visionary founders behind Kiin — the offshore hiring service that's changing the game by making sure talented workers around the world get paid fairly. Landon, a returning guest and seasoned entrepreneur, brings powerful insights on how to scale companies ethically and intentionally. Sam adds his fresh perspective as they unpack the challenges and breakthroughs of building Kiin. Together, they share how they're not just outsourcing work — they're building a movement that empowers people across borders. If you're thinking about scaling your team, hiring globally, or just want to build a business that actually makes the world better, this one's for you.

In this episode, we sit down with Trina Limpert, founder of RizeNext, whose extensive experience in the tech industry includes leadership roles at Oracle, eBay, and other major players. Trina shares her entrepreneurial journey and dives into powerful insights on how to navigate and adapt your business in today's rapidly evolving tech landscape. From building inclusive innovation to staying ahead in digital transformation, Trina brings real-world advice for founders looking to thrive in the new age of technology.

Trevor Schultz, founder of JJ Coffee Co., has built a standout coffee brand in a market where coffee culture isn't the norm. He shares his journey of overcoming local stigmas, building a loyal customer base, and maintaining top-tier quality. Now preparing to launch his second location, Trevor offers valuable lessons on scaling a business while staying authentic to your original vision. His practical advice and real-world experience make this a must-listen for any entrepreneur navigating growth in a challenging market.

In this episode of The Midnight Founders Podcast, we sit down with Garrett Blood — serial entrepreneur and founder of KaJae, a trailblazing offshore staff augmentation company that's changing the game for startups and scaling businesses. With years of experience helping companies grow efficiently and sustainably, Garrett shares his journey of launching KaJae, lessons learned from scaling multiple ventures, and what founders need to know when building lean, effective teams in today's global economy.  

In this episode of The Midnight Founders Podcast, we sit down with one of Utah's most accomplished entrepreneurs, Jeff Flamm—founder of Infinite Mind and a key partner behind Koloa Landing, one of the premier resorts in Kauai. Jeff shares the incredible journey of building businesses that leave a lasting legacy, from partnering with industry giants to creating experiences that inspire. But beyond the business success, Jeff opens up about something even more powerful—how to stay grounded and happy through life's hardest moments. Whether you're chasing your first big idea or navigating challenges on your entrepreneurial path, this episode is full of real, unfiltered wisdom on business, mindset, and living with purpose.

In this electrifying episode of The Midnight Founders Podcast, we sit down with Kreg Peeler, the visionary founder of EVject—a game-changing company making massive waves in the EV industry. Kreg has worked alongside industry giants, from Elon Musk to every major car company you can name, bringing innovation to the forefront of the electric vehicle revolution. We dive into his incredible journey—how he built a powerhouse brand, pioneered cutting-edge technology, and navigated the high-stakes world of automotive innovation. Kreg shares insights on what it takes to disrupt a trillion-dollar industry, build real relationships with top-tier players, and stay ahead of the curve. If you're into startups, tech, or just want to know what it's like to collaborate with the world's most powerful innovators, this one's for you.

Join us as we chat with Heather Groom, former campaign manager turned top Utah realtor. She shares how political strategy shaped her business mindset, the keys to success in real estate, and the habits every entrepreneur needs to thrive. Don't miss this episode packed with insights on leadership, negotiation, and building a winning career!

On this episode of The Midnight Founders Podcast, we sit down with Eric Engebretson, founder of Bloom—a company dedicated to making a social impact through offshore staff augmentation. Eric shares how Bloom is transforming businesses while changing lives, providing opportunities for talented individuals in less fortunate circumstances. We dive into his entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of building a purpose-driven company, and how social impact and business growth go hand in hand. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about using business as a force for good!

In this episode of The Midnight Founders Podcast, we chat with Jill Schulman—Marine veteran, entrepreneur, author, and motivational speaker—on overcoming fear and embracing bravery. She shares lessons from the military, business, and life to help you push past limitations and take bold action. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on courage and resilience!

In this episode of The Midnight Founders Podcast, we sit down with Travis Stringham, the mastermind behind Origin Branch Merch. With a reputation for crafting high-quality merchandise, Travis has worked with some of the biggest names in the game—including professional sports teams like the Lakers and the Jazz. We dive into his journey of building a top-tier merch company, the secrets behind creating products that fans love, and how he's scaled his business to work with elite brands. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a creative, or just a fan of great merch, this is one episode you won't want to miss!

Your personal brand matters more than ever. Connor Dehlin, co-founder of WTF Media Network (Worth the Follow), helps leaders refine their message, create standout content, and build influence. In this episode, he shares the secrets to communicating with confidence—on stage, online, and in business. In this episode, we discuss: The blurred line between business and personal branding—why authenticity wins and how to make it work for you. Why most founders struggle to explain what they do—and the simple formula to refine your pitch in 60 seconds. The mindset shift that helps business leaders show up online with confidence, plus the "HDMI" storytelling framework for stronger messaging. -- The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault. 

  Most executives focus on managing the business, but great leaders inspire and align people. Michael Simpson, CEO and co-founder of Pairin, shares what it really takes to lead effectively and drive long-term success. Most companies are over-managed and under-led. Here's how to shift focus from operations to inspiration. The five essential leadership skills that bring clarity, alignment, and execution at the highest levels. Why setting too many goals kills progress—and the simple framework to focus on the right ones. -- The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault. 

Most founders dream of selling their company—but what happens when you sell and still have to run the business? Justin Haskell, CEO and founder of Maximum Senior Benefits, shares his journey from struggling entrepreneur to building a nationwide business and selling a majority stake. Tune in to hear: How Justin went from seeing sales as a necessary evil to realizing it's the foundation of every successful business. Why knowing how your customers actually want to engage with you is the key to building trust and lasting relationships. Why selling a business doesn't mean instant freedom and why staying on as CEO and reporting to a parent company was a bigger adjustment than expected. -- The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault. 

Starting a company always takes longer, costs more, and throws challenges you never saw coming. But what do you do when you lose 95% of your revenue overnight? Noah Eyre, co-founder of Alegra Learning and Joy School English, shares the highs and lows of building an EdTech company from scratch. Tune in for a conversation on: The hidden costs of entrepreneurship: Noah was prepared for challenges, but the time and money it took to build a company still caught him off guard. Working with family—without ruining relationships: How to successfully co-found a business with family, plus why fostering a culture where disagreement is encouraged leads to better decisions. Rebuilding after a 95% revenue loss: When COVID wiped out nearly all of their international business overnight, Noah and his team had to pivot fast. Here's how they survived. -- The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault. 

The difference between a thriving business and a failing one often comes down to fixing small problems before they snowball. Mike Hawker, Managing Partner at CoDev, knows this firsthand. From scaling companies to running dozens of ultramarathons, he's learned that success—whether in business or endurance sports—comes down to preparation, resilience, and pacing yourself. In this episode, he shares: The ‘hot spot' rule: Minor inefficiencies in your business are like blisters in a race—ignore them, and they'll take you out later. How to spot and fix small issues before they become major failures. The right mentor can change everything. Mike shares how a simple ask turned into a years-long mentorship that shaped his career. Remote work isn't always the answer. Why companies should rethink their approach to global teams and how to support employees beyond just a paycheck. -- The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault. 

How do you know if your startup is worth fighting for—or if you're just throwing money into a sinking ship? Joe Grover, Managing Partner at Ampleō, Fractional CMO, and Venture Investor, has seen both sides—leading high-growth ventures and watching businesses collapse under their own weight. In this episode, he pulls back the curtain on the toughest lessons founders learn the hard way. Grit vs. knowing when to quit: Why “never quit” can be bad advice, and how to tell if your business model is actually broken. Marketing that actually works: Joe shares hard-won lessons on building brand trust, cutting through the noise, and why 10-20% of your marketing budget should always be reserved for experimentation. The hyper-optimism trap: Why founders overestimate demand, underestimate costs, and how bad assumptions kill startups.     -- The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault. 

What does it take to transform a red wagon of baked goods into Utah's largest catering company? Mary Crafts proves that success has no age limit, and fear is just another mountain to climb. In this episode, Mary shares: How she turned her passion for food and service into the award-winning business, Culinary Crafts. The mindset shifts that helped her overcome fear and imposter syndrome. The unexpected opportunities that shaped her entrepreneurial journey—and how saying “yes” changed everything. -- The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault. 

Carrie Hill, Chief Architect of CHill Consulting Agency, takes us on her journey to entrepreneurship—from discovering her innate talent for storytelling to building a boutique PR firm. As a publicist, brand manager, and content creator, Carrie shares how she uses her expertise to elevate her clients' brands through authentic and impactful narratives. Tune in for a conversation around: How PR stands apart from marketing and sales by creating genuine human connections through the “why” behind the “what.” The power of earned media versus paid media, and how authentic storytelling builds trust and long-term engagement. The story behind Empowered, an eight-week program Carrie co-founded to help single mothers transition from welfare to sustainable careers. -- The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault.   

Disrupting an industry isn't just about groundbreaking tech—it's about understanding the people and systems that drive it. In this episode, we talk with Ubair Javaid and Sebastian Schepis, the visionaries behind Nomyx, who are redefining how traditional finance embraces distributed ledger technology. Tune in as we explore: How Nomyx bridges the gap between tradition and innovation with seamless compliance solutions Why tokenizing real-world assets is revolutionizing liquidity and financial operations What it takes to drive adoption in cautious industries—and how persistence pays off -- The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault.   

Entrepreneurship often involves solving problems no one else dares to tackle. In this episode, Glen Mella, Chief Revenue Officer of OliverIQ and co-founder of the smart home pioneer Control4, shares how he's creating the next evolution of smart living. From scaling startups to IPOs, Glen reflects on his experiences building businesses that transform everyday lives. Tune in for a conversation around: Why the smart home is AI's most critical interface—and how Glen's team is making "one app to rule them all"; Why founders are always in fundraising mode, whether they realize it or not; The key elements that make or break a founding team, including complementary skills, trust, and honest forecasting. — The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault. 

The path of entrepreneurship is rarely straightforward. In this episode, Tyler Bennett, Co-founder of Initiator and a franchisee of Crumbl, pulls back the curtain on his journey from zero to nine franchise locations in just 18 months. Tyler dives into building a business while navigating massive debt, personal sacrifices, and unexpected market opportunities. Tune in for a conversation around: The psychological challenges of early-stage entrepreneurship, including working without pay and putting family financial stability on the line while maintaining hope and vision; Strategic approaches to franchise expansion, including how to mitigate risks and capitalize on emerging market opportunities; The power of partnership, creative financing, and maintaining relationships through business challenges. -- The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault.   

Balancing a family, building a career, and leading a city as dynamic as Provo is no small feat—but Mayor Michelle Kaufusi makes it look effortless. In this episode, we sit down with Mayor Kaufusi and Keith Morey, Provo's Economic Development Director, to uncover the vision, leadership, and entrepreneurial mindset driving Provo to national recognition. Tune in to explore: How Provo's innovative projects and startup-friendly ecosystem are transforming it into an entrepreneurial powerhouse Leadership lessons from Mayor Kaufusi; how her upbringing shaped a culture of empathy, empowerment, and forward-thinking innovation as Provo's first woman mayor The four pillars of Mayor Kaufusi's administration and her commitment to building a welcoming, safe, economically vibrant, and future-ready city — The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault. 

This week, we're joined by Shawn Finnegan, co-founder of Tax Hive and partner with Kevin O'Leary from Shark Tank, to explore how his journey from startup struggles to building a thriving business shaped his approach to entrepreneurship. Tune in to learn: Tax-saving strategies every entrepreneur should know, like the "Augusta Rule" and leveraging family payrolls How Shawn overcame losing $1.5 million, missed payroll, and rebuilt his business through partnerships and relationships The importance of aligning the right investors with your mission—and how to know when to take the leap or continue bootstrapping Check out Tax Hive's FREE business blueprint here. — The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault. 

Building a successful business isn't just about products or profit—it's about people. In this episode, Brian Brown, Founder of Partner Philosophy, shares his unique approach to business development, blending creativity, community, and a touch of fun to foster authentic relationships that drive revenue. In this episode, we explore: Why automated sales funnels and follow-ups aren't meeting quotas—and how face-to-face connections close the deals that matter most. The story behind “Burning Questions,” a networking event featuring hot wings and spicy conversations that break down barriers and build lasting relationships. How cold plunging turned into a flourishing business franchise, creating an unexpected space for networking and human connection.

Wealth isn't just about numbers—it's about the impact you leave behind and the principles that guide your life. In this episode, we sit down with Bruce Miller, founder and CEO of PROFi - The Professional Financial Company, to explore how his journey from IT professional to financial entrepreneur shaped his approach to helping families and business owners live lives of significance. Tune in to learn: The broader meaning of wealth, including spiritual and intellectual legacy that transcends generations Smart strategies for family wealth preservation and avoiding the pitfalls of consumerism How behavioral finance can help you make smarter, more intentional money decisions — The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault. 

Being a successful entrepreneur isn't just about knowing how to lead—it's about knowing how to chill, too. In this episode, we talk with Kortney Osborne, Amplēo's Fractional CMO and self-titled “Chief Chill Officer,” who's reshaping what effective leadership looks like. Tune in as we explore: Why calm, focused leadership can be a startup's secret weapon for building resilient, motivated teams The impact of Fractional Leadership—how startups access C-level expertise without the full-time cost The vital role of advocacy in advancing women's entrepreneurship—and why lifting up diverse voices drives real change -- The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault. 

Today, we're joined by Corbin Church, founder of iHub and BYU entrepreneurship professor, who has set his sights on transforming his local community into a powerhouse of gritty, real-world entrepreneurial growth. Corbin has guided hundreds of founders through the startup maze, emphasizing the value of building businesses on hard-earned lessons. Tune in as Corbin gets real about what it takes to launch—and why your next big step might just start with a misstep. How the best founders fail forward, turning mistakes into learning degrees How the right mentor can help you avoid guesswork and common traps How to get clear answers to your "what's next?" questions and set yourself up for wins — The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault. 

While remote work has its benefits, it also comes with challenges like blurring the lines between work and home life and the struggles of constant availability. In this episode, Whitney Finlinson, President of Visionary Talent, a leading recruiting firm, shares her approach to navigating these challenges. As a leader managing a fully remote team, Whitney offers candid insights on balancing personal and professional responsibilities while keeping her team engaged and productive. We discuss: Creative ways to keep remote teams connected, and the value of occasional in-person meetups for fostering stronger team connections and accountability Why less is more when it comes to meetings and how leadership style impacts team dynamics How Whitney sets boundaries to be fully present at work and with her family, creating a healthy balance that avoids burnout and promotes mental well-being — The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault. 

Pitching isn't just about the product; it's about the founder behind it. In this episode, we sit down with Kent Richardson, the mastermind behind Shit Pitch, a unique pitch event where founders face the task of pitching absurd, on-the-spot ideas they haven't prepared for. Kent shares how his unconventional format helps showcase adaptability and quick thinking. Tune in as we explore: The creation of Shit Pitch and why bad ideas reveal great founders How on-the-spot pitches highlight a founder's communication and problem-solving skills The Anti-Pitch: presenting why investors shouldn't invest in your company How Shit Pitch is gaining traction across the U.S. and beyond Tips for founders to connect with investors in a fresh, authentic way — The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault. 

Jamis has spent over 20 years tackling one of the nation's biggest challenges: affordable housing. With a background in corporate housing and land acquisition, Jamis is now on a mission to make homeownership a reality for more Americans. In this episode, we'll dive into: Why most developers avoid affordable housing, and why Lone Tree is stepping up to solve the problem. The importance of aligning cities, contractors, and investors to make projects successful. How investors are making homeownership harder, and Lone Tree's approach to balancing investor interests with homebuyer opportunities. The power of vertical integration to scale affordable housing with low margins and high volume. Key financial advice for first-time homebuyers, including how to save and avoid common pitfalls.

Tim Cooley, the Director of Entrepreneurship for the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, shares how he's helping to elevate Utah's entrepreneurial ecosystem through the Startup State initiative. If you're curious about the resources available for entrepreneurs in Utah—or how to get your startup off the ground, stick around. We'll cover: The four key initiatives driving the Startup State program How Tim is helping founders get to revenue faster without sacrificing long-term growth Why Utah's give-first culture sets it apart from other startup ecosystems The importance of founders reinvesting in the community that helped them succeed — The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault. 

Scaling a company is hard enough, but scaling your way up the ladder at the same company for 40 years while preventing injuries and saving lives? That's a different ladder to climb. In this episode, we sit down with Ryan Moss, CEO of Little Giant Ladder System, to uncover the milestones, challenges, and innovation strategies that helped the company grow from a small Utah business to a global brand. Tune in to explore: How Ryan transitioned from $4.50 an hour in manufacturing to the CEO's office The strategic decision that led Little Giant to partner exclusively with a single retail partner How the company's 2003 infomercial catapulted 600% growth in a single year Ryan's leadership philosophy and his commitment to both employee and customer feedback — The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault. 

Running a legal tech startup takes more than just knowing the law—it requires a deep understanding of technology, sales, and a persistent drive to solve industry pain points. In this episode, Nathan Walter, Founder and CEO of BriefPoint, shares his journey from practicing law to learning coding and building an innovative platform that automates discovery responses for litigation attorneys using advanced AI. We'll explore: How he automated his entire sales funnel, from lead generation to client acquisition The unique challenges of selling untested legal tech and securing early adopters Nathan's approach to raising capital and what he looks for in investors The creative ways Nathan funded BriefPoint, including taking a job as an entry-level salesperson at a competitor company to keep the business afloat -- The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault. 

This week's guest is Dan Clark, a world-renowned public speaker who has delivered over 6,000 speeches in 76 countries, authored 37 books, and even ventured into space. Dan Clark suffered a severe injury during a college football practice, where he had a violent head-on collision with another player. This life-altering event eventually led him to his path as a motivational speaker.   Tune in as Dan shares powerful lessons on resilience, the importance of having a "why" that's bigger than your "why not," and the critical difference between living a life of success or a life of significance.   This episode is packed with actionable insights that can help you rethink your approach to leadership, storytelling, and personal growth.   -- The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by: RevRoad - Your sweat equity partner CB Vault - The entrepreneur arm of Central Bank   Contact us: aj.rounds@revroad.com jake.mchargue@cbutah.com

Kurt Francom is the founder of Leading Saints, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing training resources to ecclesiastical leaders of the Church of Jesus Christ. What once began as a simple blog has evolved into a global podcast and full-time venture. In this episode, Kurt emphasizes the importance of finding a "niche of a niche" to build a dedicated audience and believes that every business, regardless of industry, can use podcasting as a tool for networking and client education. Tune in to learn about Kurt's transition from corporate life to self-employment, the challenges of scaling a nonprofit, and his plans to broaden his reach by launching a Spanish version of the podcast. Whether you're interested in podcasting, nonprofit leadership, or entrepreneurial growth, this episode offers valuable insights for you. -- The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by: RevRoad - Your sweat equity partner CB Vault - The entrepreneur arm of Central Bank   Contact us: aj.rounds@revroad.com jake.mchargue@cbutah.com

Jeff Griffin, once a collegiate football player, experienced a life-altering fall from a 40-foot scaffold that left him paralyzed and confined to a wheelchair. Now a world-renowned speaker and author, Jeff is known for his incredible resilience and transformative messages. In this episode, Jeff shares his journey of turning that tragic event into a powerful message of hope, focusing on overcoming mental barriers like doubt and fear. Entrepreneurs alike can learn practical strategies from Jeff's “Daily Dime” technique to maintain a positive mindset and achieve their goals. Jeff also highlights the importance of building strong relationships in driving business success, sharing real-world examples of companies that experienced significant growth under his guidance. Tune in for actionable insights and inspiring lessons to apply to your growing startup. -- The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by: RevRoad - Your sweat equity partner CB Vault - The entrepreneur arm of Central Bank   Contact us: aj.rounds@revroad.com jake.mchargue@cbutah.com

After facing personal frustration with accreditation laws and exclusion, Jesse Randall, founder and CEO of Sweater, started a revolutionary venture capital fund accessible to everyone. For more than two years Jesse engaged with the SEC until he found a compliant way to allow non-accredited investors to participate with just $500, ushering in the Cashmere Fund. Learn about the innovative legal structures, such as the interval fund, that made Sweater's vision possible, and gain valuable advice on navigating the modern fundraising landscape. Jesse also shares his insights on the value of building relationships rather than relying on cold outreach and the practicalities of balancing entrepreneurial dreams with personal responsibilities. Listen now! -- The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by: RevRoad - Your sweat equity partner CB Vault - The entrepreneur arm of Central Bank Contact us: aj.rounds@revroad.com jake.mchargue@cbutah.com

In this episode, we sit down with Michael Romrell, co-founder of Literal, to explore his journey in the EdTech industry. Michael shares how Literal improves student engagement by making books as addictive as social media, leading to a 70% increase in reading time. He discusses the challenges of selling to risk-averse school districts, and the importance of managing co-founder relationships. Michael also reveals how he nurtures entrepreneurship in his children, encouraging them to start their own businesses. Tune in for a deep dive into innovative strategies and inspiring stories from the frontlines of EdTech. -- The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by: RevRoad - Your sweat equity partner CB Vault - The entrepreneur arm of Central Bank Contact us: aj.rounds@revroad.com jake.mchargue@cbutah.com

Case Lawrence is the founder of CircusTrix (now SkyZone), the world's largest owner, operator, and franchisor of trampoline parks with over 300 facilities, 5,000 employees, and 50 million annual guests. In this episode, Case discusses his experience campaigning for the U.S. House of Representatives in Utah's 3rd District, drawing parallels between running for office and starting a business. His wife, Kerri, shares her perspective on involving the family in both the trampoline park business and the political campaign. Case highlights the sacred relationship between investors and entrepreneurs, the importance of remaining true to your values in the face of adversity, and the benefits of involving children in the business journey. Case and Kerri's story will inspire you to take the leap into entrepreneurship during both times of famine and prosperity.

Nate Tew started KeyRenter with the goal of changing lives one property at a time. He joins us for an insightful episode to discuss the journey of building a franchise model business. Nate firmly believes in the power of small businesses and the potential of franchises to empower entrepreneurs through mentorship, access to success tools, and a strong community culture. Today, KeyRenter has 56 franchise owners operating in 70 locations across the United States. Nate also opens up about the challenges of balancing family life with business growth, and the importance of seeking counseling to navigate tough times with his co-founder.  -- The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by: RevRoad - Your sweat equity partner CB Vault - The entrepreneur arm of Central Bank Contact us: aj.rounds@revroad.com jake.mchargue@cbutah.com

In this follow-up episode, we reconnect with Logan Nicholson of Talsey AI, formerly known as LocalEyes, to explore the exciting transformations his company has undergone over the past year. Join us as Logan shares his experiences: Pivoting from a local food recommendation service to a smart guest engagement system, finding product-market fit despite never being his own customer. Involving customers for feedback and even inviting them to sit on the board. Securing a large enterprise deal that's in the works. The story and behind the rebrand to Talsey AI. Plus, hear an inspiring success story of how their hospitality chatbot helped a client boost reviews, increase occupancy, and sell their property for several hundred thousand dollars more. Tune in for an episode packed with valuable takeaways on adapting, growing, and succeeding in the dynamic world of startups. — The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by: RevRoad - Your sweat equity partner CB Vault - The entrepreneur arm of Central Bank   Contact us: aj.rounds@revroad.com jake.mchargue@cbutah.com

The founders of Awsm stood outside the Delta Center with picketing signs when Utah's first NHL team was announced. But they weren't opposing Utah's first NHL team—they were advocating for fan ownership. Meet Jordan Volz and Dave Oldham. Together, they are building Awsm, a SaaS platform that enables companies to share ownership on a performance basis. Research shows that when people have an ownership stake—whether it's a consumer or an employee—their behavior changes dramatically. Jordan and Dave advise other entrepreneurs to focus less on their competition and more on meeting the needs of customers. It's not a foot race. They also caution against the trap of thinking you can buy speed—hiring more engineers to accelerate product development is a myth. From this episode, you can gain insights into the true drivers of efficient and effective product launches. — The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by: RevRoad - Your sweat equity partner CB Vault - The entrepreneur arm of Central Bank Contact us: aj.rounds@revroad.com jake.mchargue@cbutah.com

Learn how to turn a sweet tooth into a national sensation with Taz Murray, the co-founder of Trü Frü, as he shares his journey from accountant to confectionery connoisseur. Contrary to what was taught in business school, Taz proved that you don't need a $500M marketing budget to become a national brand. Instead, he leveraged the power of social media and influencer collaborations to place Trü Frü products in major retailers and tickle taste buds across the country. In this episode, you'll get an inside scoop on the candy trade, the perils of scaling too quickly, and the secrets of working with retail brokers. Plus, hear the incredible story of how a Costco buyer was so impressed, they drafted a purchase order within 22 minutes of their first call.

Kristi Holt, a natural-born entrepreneur, turned $10,000 into half a million by the age of 26. Now, she's on a mission to revolutionize mental and emotional wellness with Vibeonix, an AI-driven platform that deciphers emotional intelligence and emotions through voice analysis. Kristi joins us to share her insights on building a product before knowing who the customer was and navigating the complex relationship entrepreneurs have with money. Many founders use money as a band-aid to cover up underlying issues. Kristi views money as a tool for convenience but emphasizes that it's people who solve problems—not money. Tune in to hear Kristi's advice on rejecting negativity and embracing a more positive narrative, a mindset that has fueled her achievements and can inspire your own journey. — The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by: RevRoad - Your sweat equity partner CB Vault - The entrepreneur arm of Central Bank   Contact us:  aj.rounds@revroad.com jake.mchargue@cbutah.com 

In this episode, we dive deep into the unsung heroes of the business world: intrapreneurs. These innovative minds work within companies to enhance processes, making organizations stronger and more resilient. Woody Klemetson, founder of AskElephant, discusses how intrapreneurs protect businesses and their people, and highlights the importance of "minding your wake"—being aware of the impact you have on your team and environment. We'll also explore creating spaces where founders' ideas can be constructively challenged and the importance of being honest about product-market fit. Tune in for a value-packed episode that will help you build a better, more innovative company. — The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by: RevRoad - Your sweat equity partner CB Vault - The entrepreneur arm of Central Bank   Contact us:  aj.rounds@revroad.com jake.mchargue@cbutah.com   

Meet Scott Johnson, the ultimate customer-focused founder and CEO of WOJE Money. When a customer missed a payment, Scott called them on the phone and learned that their wife had lost her job. With six clicks of a mouse, Scott put that customer on a new financing plan that better suited their current financial situation. Scott has revolutionized financing for small businesses and individuals with flexible terms and dynamic pricing tiers tailored to their needs. In this episode, Scott shares how his journey was shaped by mentors who pushed him to start his own company and the advice he received along the way. He pays it forward by mentoring others, giving more to those who receive and take action. Tune in to learn how Scott's innovative fintech solutions and unwavering commitment to customer success are setting new industry standards. — The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by: RevRoad - Your sweat equity partner CB Vault - The entrepreneur arm of Central Bank   Contact us:  aj.rounds@revroad.com jake.mchargue@cbutah.com