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Crypto insiders debate the Ethereum Foundation's new “CROPS” mandate: is the EF losing touch with builders, why does Solana keep pulling startups away, and what will it actually take for Ethereum to stay ahead? Expect a candid conversation on governance, comms, and crypto culture wars. Welcome to The Chopping Block — where crypto insiders Haseeb Qureshi, Tom Schmidt, Tarun Chitra, and Robert Leshner chop it up about the latest in crypto. This week we've got plenty of firepower with special guests Taylor Monahan (formerly of MetaMask, now a security sensei) and Bankless impresario David Hoffman. The crew digs into the Ethereum Foundation's freshly dropped “CROPS” manifesto — a 38-page PDF full of cypherpunk values, new acronyms, and debate fuel. What does it really say about where Ethereum is headed? Is EF finally embracing “sanctuary tech,” or just giving startups another reason to choose Solana? Who deserves credit for Ethereum's growth: the Foundation, the community, or the market? Expect sharp takes on EF's endless comms problems, why L2s aren't a cure-all, and whether crypto culture matters as much as the tech. It's a spicy, insider-heavy episode — so grab your popcorn and dive in. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pods, Fountain, Podcast Addict, Pocket Casts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform. Show highlights
If you're a federal employee or retiree approaching age 65, you've likely asked: "Do I really need Medicare Part B if I already have FEHB?" In this Federal Fact Check episode, Micah Shilanski, Managing Partner and Wealth Advisor, explains how Medicare Parts A, B, and D work with your Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) coverage, and what federal retirees should consider before deciding. In this episode, we discuss: • The 7-month Medicare enrollment window • When Part A is typically required • Why Part B is often considered "quasi-optional." • The 10% per year late enrollment penalty • How IRMAA can increase Medicare premiums • How FEHB prescription coverage impacts Part D decisions • Key financial planning considerations at age 65 Medicare decisions are highly personal and depend on your income, health outlook, and retirement plan. This episode is designed to help you understand the structure of the rules so you can make a more informed decision. If you're nearing 65 or helping someone who is, this conversation is worth your time. Check out the full episode here:https://zurl.co/Jake1 https://zurl.co/7P2P3
Ram is bearish on equities, oil is keeping the Fed frozen, and Bitcoin is holding up anyway. The hosts debate whether crypto has bottomed or whether worse is still ahead. --- Thanks to our sponsor, Nexo! ---- Three weeks into the Iran conflict, oil is keeping inflation elevated, rate cuts are getting pushed out, and hedge funds are being forced to sell good names just to reduce exposure. So why is Bitcoin holding up? Ram sees a market on the right shoulder of a bubble, with industrials like Caterpillar at 35x earnings and no real capitulation yet in equities or private credit. Chris is watching trading desks pick up the “short-gold, long-Bitcoin” trade, and sees Ethereum's fundamentals quietly strengthening. Austin wants to know what happens to DeFi the day a major stablecoin gets compromised on a censorship-resistant chain with no network-level controls. And all three are asking the same question investors need answered now: does the Iran conflict end fast enough to stop oil from triggering a true inflationary regime, or is a harder correction still ahead? Hosts: Ram Ahluwalia, CFA, CEO and Founder of Lumida Austin Campbell, NYU Stern professor and founder and managing partner of Zero Knowledge Consulting Christopher Perkins, Managing Partner and President of CoinFund Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Brandon Sedloff sits down with John Atwater to explore the evolution of Prime Finance and the broader dynamics shaping real estate private credit. John shares the story of launching Prime during the Savings and Loan crisis and how periods of market stress often create the best opportunities for disciplined lenders. The conversation traces the growth of Prime into a major platform across CMBS, origination, and special situations while examining how lending businesses are ultimately built around relationships and service. Along the way, they discuss how today's private credit market compares to past cycles and where the most compelling opportunities may emerge over the next several years. They discuss: • John Atwater's career path and the founding of Prime during the Savings and Loan crisis • Why market dislocations often create the best investment opportunities for lenders • How Prime built scale across CMBS, origination, and special situations strategies • Key differences between real estate private credit and corporate private credit markets • Current private credit market dynamics and the outlook for the next five years Links: John on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-atwater-89ba1b126/ Prime - https://primefinance.com/ Brandon on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bsedloff/ Juniper Square - https://www.junipersquare.com/ Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:02:34) - John Atwater's career and background (00:12:39) - Starting prime during the S&L crisis (00:17:28) - Why crisis creates opportunity (00:22:42) - Building the Prime finance platform (00:28:04) - Special situations vs origination (00:33:12) - Real estate credit vs corporate private credit (00:40:08) - Current private credit market dynamics (00:43:31) - Outlook for next 5 years (00:50:20) - How to reach prime finance (00:50:42) - Closing remarks
Michael Barasch, Managing Partner at Barasch & McGarry Law Firm, a firm dedicated to representing 9/11 victims and first responders joins Enterprise Radio. This … Read more The post Justice, Advocacy, and the Fight for 9/11 Responders: A Conversation with Michael Barasch appeared first on Top Entrepreneurs Podcast | Enterprise Podcast Network.
In this episode, Bashir Agboola, DBA, MBA, MSc, CHCIO, CDH-E, Managing Partner at Interdym and former executive at Hospital for Special Surgery, discusses moving from AI experimentation to sustainable execution in healthcare. He shares insights on ambient documentation, predictive analytics, structured governance, and how disciplined strategy turns digital investments into measurable clinical and financial impact.
Jeff Drazan, Managing Partner at Bertram Capital and BluWave's 2026 Private Equity Innovator of the Year, explains how a technology-first operating model reshaped his transition from venture capital to private equity and became a durable competitive advantage. He details how Bertram Labs embeds software, data, and digital execution directly into diligence and value creation—well before the deal closes. Jeff also shares the investment principles that matter most today: large markets, strong margins, and customer trust. This episode lays out what modern private equity innovation actually looks like—hit play. Episode Highlights: 1:18 – From Princeton engineering and Bell Labs to venture capital on the West Coast 6:05 – Treating early career roles as paid fellowships, not permanent destinations 14:37 – Why technology was the missing link in traditional private equity models 16:25 – Founding Bertram Capital to bring digital transformation to lower-tech businesses 21:06 – Inside Bertram Labs: in-house software, data, and execution—not just advice 27:14 – Winning deals by fixing problems during diligence, not after closing 33:39 – The two non-negotiables: large TAMs and meaningful gross margins 48:45 – Why continuous innovation is the only sustainable edge in private equity To learn more about Bertram Capital, visit https://www.bertramcapital.com/ For details on BluWave's 2026 Top Private Equity Innovator Awards and Bertram Capital's recognition, visit www.bluwave.net/awards To discover more about Jeff Drazan, visit https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffdrazan
In "Freight Tech Strategy: Avoiding the Implementation Trap with JBF's Brad Forester", Joe Lynch and Brad Forester, Founder and Managing Partner of JBF Consulting, discuss the critical need for a strategic roadmap to ensure logistics technology delivers real ROI rather than becoming a costly mistake. About Brad Forester Brad Forester is the Founder and Managing Partner of JBF Consulting, bringing more than 25 years of leadership experience in transportation strategy, logistics technology, and supply chain transformation. A recognized industry expert, Brad has advised Fortune 500 companies and high-growth brands on complex global transportation initiatives, from network design and technology selection to implementation and value realization. His background spans senior roles in consulting, software, and shipper operations, giving him a uniquely balanced perspective on strategy and execution. Brad is a frequent industry speaker and thought leader on TMS, visibility, and logistics innovation. About JBF Consulting JBF Consulting is a leading logistics strategy advisory and technology integration firm that partners with shippers to transform their logistics and supply chain execution operations. We empower clients to achieve operational efficiency and scalable, sustainable value through strategy development, roadmap orchestration, unbiased technology selection, expert implementation, data-driven insights, and ongoing managed services. For over two decades, our client-centric approach and alliances with best-of-breed solution providers have ensured that every strategy and solution we deliver drives measurable impact, long-term success, and customer satisfaction. Key Takeaways: Freight Tech Strategy: Avoiding the Implementation Trap In "Freight Tech Strategy: Avoiding the Implementation Trap with JBF's Brad Forester", Joe Lynch and Brad Forester, Founder and Managing Partner of JBF Consulting, discuss the critical need for a strategic roadmap to ensure logistics technology delivers real ROI rather than becoming a costly mistake. The Trap is Set Early: Implementation failures (going over budget or missing ROI) are usually symptoms of a missing strategy months prior, rather than errors made during the setup itself. Strategy as Insurance: Investing just 1% to 2% of your budget in a strategic assessment acts as an insurance policy, potentially mitigating up to 80% of common implementation risks. "Slow is Steady, Steady is Fast": Rushing to execute without "future-casting" (planning for growth or acquisitions 5–10 years out) leads to the "$10 million mistake"—having to rip out and replace a system that no longer fits. Create a Shipper Profile: Use a "matchmaking" approach to tech. A tool that works for a retail giant might fail for a bulk chemical shipper; you must find the specific vendor that matches your unique mode mix. The Hybrid Tech Trend: Large shippers are increasingly owning the software and data while outsourcing physical operations, allowing them to switch 3PLs without losing their historical data or visibility. Beware of Shiny Objects: Avoid "AI for AI's sake." Don't buy a hammer and then go looking for a nail; ensure any new tech solves a defined problem statement rather than just chasing industry hype. Phase Two is a Myth: Brad warns that "Phase Two never comes." If you don't build the necessary capabilities into the initial launch, the project often stalls at 75% completion, and the promised ROI is never realized. Learn More About Freight Tech Strategy: Avoiding the Implementation Trap Brad Forester | LinkedIn JBF Consulting | LinkedIn JBF Consulting Freight Tech Trends with Mike Mulqueen FreightTech for Fortune 500 Shippers with Brad Forester and Mike Mulqueen FreightTech Reality Check with Brad Forester The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
We unpack why the “SaaS-Pocalypse” is less about software dying and more about buyers finally right sizing cloud and marketplace deals with better data. We dig into AI unit economics, token driven cost volatility, and how procurement, FinOps, and venture capital are being rewritten in real time. • Flywl as a cloud meta marketplace across AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud • Buyer pain and buyer empathy as the product design center • Why AI inference costs make traditional FinOps reactive • Treating a marketplace purchase as a transaction lifecycle asset • Real time consumption tracking, alerts, and contract renegotiation timing • Outcome based pricing challenges with token variability and agentic workflows • Revenue recognition uncertainty in consumption and outcome models • Why humans still matter in go to market despite AI agents • The data cleanup problem in procurement and the need for universal product IDs • Why enterprises are not rushing to build all SaaS internally with AI • 2026 VC dynamics, mega rounds, capital concentration, and what counts as real recurring revenue “SaaS-Pocalypse” makes for a great headline, but the real shockwave is quieter and more disruptive: enterprise buyers finally understand their cloud environment well enough to demand better deals, better governance, and real proof of value. We sit down for a roundtable on cloud marketplaces, AI unit economics, and the new reality of software procurement where a purchase is no longer a static line item, it's a living asset you have to monitor, benchmark, and continuously right size. Ankur Srivastava, CEO and founder of Flywl, explains why he built a cloud meta marketplace to unify buying and selling across AWS Marketplace, Azure, and Google Cloud and why “buyer empathy” is the only way to fix a broken procurement playbook. Priya Ramachandran, founder and managing partner at Foster Ventures, connects the dots from operator experience to investing, and breaks down why traditional FinOps can't keep up with AI inference costs, token volatility, and outcome-based pricing models like per ticket resolved. Then we zoom out to the 2026 venture capital environment: mega rounds, capital concentration, and the debate over whether AI-native efficiency makes old funding assumptions obsolete. Along the way, we tackle an agentic economy question: when algorithms negotiate with algorithms, what happens to trust, brand, and human relationships in go to market?Ankur Srivastava: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ankursrivas/Ankur Srivastava is the CEO and Founder of Flywl, the world's first cloud meta-marketplace transforming how enterprises buy and sell software across AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. Previously, he was an elite sales leader at Amazon Web Services (AWS), where he spent five years as Head of Field and Customer Business Development for the AWS Marketplace.Priya Ramachandran: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sivapriyaramachandran/Priya Ramachandran is the Founder and Managing Partner at Foster Ventures, an early-stage VC firm she built from the ground up to act as the "startup of the VC world". She is an operator-turned-investor with significant experience building and scaling products at companies like Coupa Software, BetterCloud, and Intel.Website: https://www.position2.com/podcast/Rajiv Parikh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajivparikh/Sandeep Parikh: https://www.instagram.com/sandeepparikh/Email us with any feedback for the show: sparkofages.podcast@position2.com
In the latest episode of BDO's Private Equity PErspectives Podcast, Host Todd Kinney sits down with Kyle Bethancourt, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Sallyport Investments, and Eliot Kerlin, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Broadwing Capital, to discuss:Creative exit pathways to consider in 2026 as long holding periods persistHow AI is being deployed inside PE firms and across their portcosThe biggest challenges and opportunities ahead — from deal selectivity and leverage discipline to a potentially robust M&A environment
Crypto OG Erik Voorhees joins The Chopping Block crew to dissect the future of agentic payments, the eternal war for privacy, memecoin-fueled AI drama on Moltbook, and why your next DeFi user might just be your OpenClaw agent—plus, a candid look at crypto's core and how AI turns software engineering existential. Welcome to The Chopping Block — where crypto insiders Haseeb Qureshi, Tom Schmidt, Tarun Chitra, and Robert Leshner chop it up about the latest in crypto. This week, we're joined by none other than Erik Voorhees, legendary crypto pioneer and founder of Venice, for a no-holds-barred discussion on the wild convergence of AI, crypto, and the meme coin casino. Erik unpacks his journey from anti-surveillance crusader to AI entrepreneur, why Venice is all-in on privacy and free speech for LLMs, and how “provable privacy” is a Sisyphean technical challenge. The crew breaks down OpenClaw's agent drama, memecoin carpet-bombing of Moltbook, and Meta muscling in on AI social networks. We debate agentic payments (will your first paying customer soon be a bot?), the true game theory behind state surveillance, and why crypto's greatest killer use case might actually be building tools for robots instead of humans. Plus: existential crises for software engineers, why “AI alignment” is a philosophical dead end, and the childlike glee (or open psychosis) of trading OpenClaw war stories at AI meetups. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pods, Fountain, Podcast Addict, Pocket Casts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform. Show highlights
Ben Choi has spent three decades across the technology ecosystem—as a product leader, founder, and venture investor—and today serves as a senior leader at Next Legacy Partners, where he helps oversee $3.5B+ invested across premier venture capital firms and early-stage startups.In this episode of Investing in Integrity, our host Ross Overline and Ben navigate the intersection of venture capital, philanthropy, and moral leadership. Ben shares how Next Legacy's flagship model is designed to multiply capital—and then give it away.From there, the conversation goes deeper than mechanics. Ben outlines the values that shaped his leadership and why generosity is often driven not by one motivation, but by the shared joy of impact beyond yourself.Finally, Ross and Ben wrestle openly with capitalism—how it's the best economic system ever tested at scale, it can still evolve to be even better, and what responsibility future finance leaders carry to make that a reality.Whether you're a student trying to define success or a senior leader shaping institutions, this episode is a masterclass in using capital with clarity, humility, and purpose.Meet Ben ChoiBen Choi is a Managing Partner at Next Legacy. He manages $3.5B+ in investments with premier venture capital firms and directly into early-stage startups. His venture track record includes pre-PMF investments in Marketo (acquired for $4.75B) and CourseHero (last valued at $3.6B). He previously ran product for Adobe Creative Cloud offerings and founded CoffeeTable, raising venture financing before selling the company.Ben studied Computer Science at Harvard University and earned his MBA from Columbia Business School. He lives in Los Altos with his wife, Lydia, their three sons, and a ball python.
Dr. Dotun Olowoporoku didn't take the typical route to venture capital. He started as a PhD researcher on air quality and climate change, stumbled into entrepreneurship with an online food delivery startup, became CCO at Moniepoint during its most critical growth years, and then became Managing Partner at Ventures Platform, one of Africa's most founder-supportive seed funds.In this episode, we go deep on the questions the ecosystem rarely asks out loud: What does portfolio support actually look like when a company is dying? When does investor support become dependency? Which African companies does VC money quietly destroy? And is the AI wave signal or hype?Dotun also shares how he spotted Tosin Eniolorunda's thesis before Moniepoint was Moniepoint, why he evaluates every investment as a research hypothesis, and what the Capitec Bank story from South Africa taught him about the future of African fintech.If you're a founder, an investor, or anyone building on this continent, this one will make you think differently.
In recognition of International Women's Month, I'm releasing a montage of advice from some of the most accomplished women in our industry. These remarkable leaders have navigated one of the most demanding and historically male-dominated corners of business and have done it with conviction, resilience, and extraordinary leadership. If you're a young professional, a student considering this industry, or a leader developing the next generation of talent, this episode is worth your time. Sunaina Sinha - Global Head, Private Capital Advisory, and Senior Managing Director, Raymond James https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-equity-fast-pitch/id1359329939?i=1000667167867 Shannon Zoller - Founder, Tephra Advisors https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-equity-fast-pitch/id1359329939?i=1000552841977 Neha Markle - Managing Director, Morgan Stanley https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-equity-fast-pitch/id1359329939?i=1000633494095 Caroline Stevens - Investor, MPK Equity Partners https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-equity-fast-pitch/id1359329939?i=1000597747344 Chrisanne Corbett - Managing Director, KPMG https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-equity-fast-pitch/id1359329939?i=1000432826264 Deborah Smith - Co-Founder and CEO, The CenterCap Group https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-equity-fast-pitch/id1359329939?i=1000557619821 Devon Kirk - General Partner, Portage Capital Solutions https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-equity-fast-pitch/id1359329939?i=1000658066071 Franny Jones - Partner, Investor Relations, The Sterling Group https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-equity-fast-pitch/id1359329939?i=1000452341799 Gina Luna - Partner, GP Capital https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-equity-fast-pitch/id1359329939?i=1000555838972 Gretchen Perkins - Partner(Origination), Avance Investment Management https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-equity-fast-pitch/id1359329939?i=1000453890941 Kristin Johnson - Managing Director, Altamont Capital Partners https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-equity-fast-pitch/id1359329939?i=1000726285319 Lauren Moohalland - Waypoint Ridge Capital https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-equity-fast-pitch/id1359329939?i=1000468986627 Lucy Heintz - Partner, Head of Energy Infrastructure, Actis https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-equity-fast-pitch/id1359329939?i=1000701104377 Michelle Noon - Founder and Managing Partner, Clearhaven Partners https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-equity-fast-pitch/id1359329939?i=1000733152917 Neda Vakilian - Partner, Actis https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-equity-fast-pitch/id1359329939?i=1000713638680
My guest is Mark Kaplan, Managing Partner of the Dagoba Group and co-author, along with Mason Donovan, of the book The Parenthood Advantage: Building Corporate Cultures That Value Working Parents. In the book, Mason and Mark argue that supporting working parents isn't just the right thing to do—it's a powerful competitive advantage for organizations. They explore how companies can rethink policies, leadership practices, and workplace culture to better support employees who are raising families. This is a conversation about leadership, inclusion, productivity, and how organizations can thrive by recognizing the real lives of the people who power them.
Today, it is my pleasure to speak with Brad Fisher, founder and Managing Partner of The Scalable Leadership Group, a firm that works with Growth Stage Company leaders to streamline their operations and accelerate their progress. Brad works with business leaders who want to unlock the long-term potential of their companies and their families. He speaks and writes about scalability, leadership, and family business matters. He recently published a book called Family Business Abundance. Brad has devoted most of his career to entrepreneurship in the business-to-business, technology, healthcare, manufacturing, family business, and private equity investment arenas. He has built, acquired, and consulted with companies across a wide range of industries. Brad is a former council member of FOX, and former member of the FOX Advisory Board, and a true friend and frequent collaborator of the FOX team and our broader community. Brad has dedicated much of his advisory work to the pursuit of scalability and helping businesses and families achieve their full potential. He talks about what scalability means, especially in the context of a family enterprise or a family office, and what are the accelerators and impediments to achieving scalability. Brad has formulated the concept of "the second leap". He offers a definition of this concept for our audience and describes its significance in the growth and scalability journey of businesses, families, and family offices. One practical tool Brad has developed is the "Six Scalabilities" framework. He describes the framework and its components, and shares his tips on how family businesses, family leaders, and family offices can use it to engineer their growth and evolution. An important and practical metric Brad talks about is the "Leadership Leverage Ratio". He elaborates on how this KPI is defined and measured, and how leaders in the family or the family office can use it to advance the scalability of their organizations. Do not miss this engaging conversation with a widely recognized long-time practitioner, thought leader, and advisor in the family office and family business space.
In Episode 303 of The Rainmaking Podcast, Scott Love speaks with Jason Stiehl, Managing Partner of the Chicago office of Crowell & Moring, about a unique perspective on law firm business development: treating networking like theater. Jason explains why successful rainmakers approach conferences and networking events as a series of interactions over time rather than a quick sales pitch. Preparation, curiosity, and authentic connections are critical to building trust and long-term client relationships. They also discuss how lawyers can use conferences, presentations, and follow-up conversations to uncover shared interests and create genuine connections that lead to business opportunities. If you're looking to improve your law firm client development, rainmaking strategy, and professional networking, this episode offers practical insights from a practicing rainmaker. YouTube: https://youtu.be/Y5hDNsBYDCU --------------------------
Scaling a law firm requires more than systems. John Glon explains why many managing partners hit a ceiling even after implementing EOS. The issue is leadership alignment, ego, and unclear personal goals. Growth stalls when the owner refuses to evolve. In this episode you will learn how to define your future role, when to hire a president or COO, and why reinvesting profits into your firm often beats outside investments. You will also hear why chasing 10X growth without clarity leads to burnout. If you own a law firm and want structured growth without losing control of your life, this conversation gives you a clear path. Today's episode is sponsored by The Managing Partners Mastermind. Click here to schedule an interview to see if we're a fit. Chapters (00:00:00) - How To Build a Law Firm.(00:00:32) - Managing Partners: John Glenn on the Podcast(00:01:50) - Why EOS 2.0 Is the Right Fit for You(00:04:54) - How to Get Out Of the Closer With Your Personal Growth(00:08:26) - Do You Need a Co-Founder?(00:10:50) - Grow Your Business or Start a Law Firm(00:15:49) - Getting the Ego Out of the Way(00:18:42) - How Much Money Should You Invest in Your Business?(00:23:34) - Grow 10x in 5 Years or Less(00:27:09) - How to Get Out Of Debt For Your Kids(00:30:03) - What Do You Really Want For Your Life?(00:30:55) - John Grossman
This episode is sponsored by Phaedon.Download their 2026 research paper on Humanizing Loyalty here now.Today we are re-publishing back one of our most popular episodes as our planned episode has been delayed for technical reasonsThis re-released episode features Evert de Boer, Managing Partner at On Point Loyalty and CEO of Fidivo, sharing key takeaways from his book “Loyalty Programs and the Currency Effect” and his perspective on loyalty in the travel sector.Hosted by Aaron Dauphinee.Show Notes:1) Evert de Boer2)Fidivo3)On Point Loyalty5) Loyalty Programs and the Currency Effect: A Comprehensive Guide to Realizing the Power of Points – By Evert de Boer & Xiao Yao Chin6) A Perfect Spy: A Novel - Book Recommendation 7) Connemara: A Novel - Book Recommendation8) German Summer Book (but only available in Dutch) - Book Recommendation
In this episode of Private Markets 360°, Warren Hibbert, Co-Founder of Asante Capital, shares insights on today's challenging fundraising landscape and the rise of spinouts. He discusses the importance of team dynamics and alignment of interests, how Asante is reshaping the placement agent model, and touches on the growing interest in AI-driven strategies within private markets. More S&P Global Content: [Report] Private Equity Outlook 2026 Credits: Host/Author: Chris Sparenberg and Jocelyn Lewis Guests: Warren Hibbert, Asante Capital Group Producer: Georgina Lee Published With Assistance From: Feranmi Adeoshun, Kimberly Olvany www.spglobal.com www.spglobal.com/market-intelligence
Today, we return to US domestic energy supply and private equity. The vibrancy of private capital markets launched the shale revolution and is now unlocking key bottlenecks in infrastructure as the US looks to meet the world's demand for LNG and domestic AI. Where is shale production today? Are rumors of its demise overstated? Where is demand headed, particularly for natural gas? And how is private equity faring more broadly in a world of higher interest rates and other macro-economic headwinds? And what are the opportunities within energy and its infrastructure? Our guest is Jason Downie, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Tailwater Capital, a private equity firm with over 6 billion in capital and a core focus on energy infrastructure.
Financial progress doesn't always come from big changes. Often, it's the small habits that make the biggest difference over time.In this episode, Miguel Gonzalez explains how small financial wins — like increasing savings by 1%, automating contributions, or cutting one minor expense — can build momentum and strengthen long-term financial confidence. Tiny steps taken consistently can lead to meaningful progress toward your financial goals.Miguel Gonzalez is a Certified Retirement Counselor (CRC) with over 20 years of experience helping individuals and families build retirement income strategies and long-term financial stability. He is the Managing Partner of Cortburg Retirement Advisors, a boutique firm focused on retirement planning, financial organization, and investment guidance.#MoneyHabits #FinancialWellness #CortburgSpeaksRetirement #MiguelXGonzalez #WealthBuilding #PersonalFinanceWelcome to Cortburg Speaks Retirement Podcast with Miguel Gonzalez, MBA, AIF®, CPFA®, CRC® CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO MIGUEL'S LATEST PODCAST FOLLOW US ON: YouTube->https://m.youtube.com/c/CORTBURGRETIREMENTADVISORS Facebook-> https://m.facebook.com/CortburgInc Twitter-> https://twitter.com/CortburgInc LinkedIn->https://www.linkedin.com/in/miguelxgonzalez/ Website: www.CortburgRetirement.com Email: Miguel@CortburgRetirement.com
Jeff Drazan, Managing Partner at Bertram Capital and BluWave's 2026 Private Equity Innovator of the Year, explains how a technology-first operating model reshaped his transition from venture capital to private equity and became a durable competitive advantage. He details how Bertram Labs embeds software, data, and digital execution directly into diligence and value creation—well before the deal closes. Jeff also shares the investment principles that matter most today: large markets, strong margins, and customer trust. This episode lays out what modern private equity innovation actually looks like—hit play. Episode Highlights: 1:18 – From Princeton engineering and Bell Labs to venture capital on the West Coast 6:05 – Treating early career roles as paid fellowships, not permanent destinations 14:37 – Why technology was the missing link in traditional private equity models 16:25 – Founding Bertram Capital to bring digital transformation to lower-tech businesses 21:06 – Inside Bertram Labs: in-house software, data, and execution—not just advice 27:14 – Winning deals by fixing problems during diligence, not after closing 33:39 – The two non-negotiables: large TAMs and meaningful gross margins 48:45 – Why continuous innovation is the only sustainable edge in private equity To learn more about Bertram Capital, visit https://www.bertramcapital.com/ For details on BluWave's 2026 Top Private Equity Innovator Awards and Bertram Capital's recognition, visit www.bluwave.net/awards To discover more about Jeff Drazan, visit https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffdrazan
Is the "move to the center" vs. "lean left" debate a false choice?Following recent election cycles, the dominant advice for Democrats has been to moderate their cultural messaging and pivot to the middle—a strategy championed by the October 2025 Deciding to Win report. Conversely, many argue the party should double down on a bold, progressive populist agenda to mobilize the base.In this episode, we challenge this entire left-versus-center framework with Frank A. Spring, Chief of Research at Altum Insight and Managing Partner at Undaunted Ventures.Through deep qualitative research, Frank discovered that voters are "politically heterodox"—they don't fit into the neat ideological boxes we've built for them. We explore why the real crisis isn't "ideological excess," but "narrative confusion." Voters might know the party is "for diversity," but they often don't know what a Democratic vision of governance actually feels like for their daily lives.Text me your feedback and leave your contact info if you'd like a reply (this is a one-way text). Thanks, DavidSupport the showShow Notes:https://outrageoverload.net/ Contact me, David Beckemeyer by email outrageoverload@gmail.com. Follow the show on Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload. Check out our Subtstack https://outrageoverload.substack.comHOTLINE: 925-552-7885Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the O2 hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episodeIf you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That's the best way to support it.Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload Also check out our companion podcasts, This Week in Outrage and Outrage Science Bites. Intro music and outro music by Michael Ramir C.Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen. Outrage Overload, a Conners Institute podcast, ...
On this episode of #29DaysOfMagic, we have Shannon Washington, Chief Creative Officer, Managing Partner at 11 Ounces. Unlock the power of authenticity, resilience, and Black excellence with Shannon Washington, a trailblazing leader in advertising and a fierce advocate for Black women in industry. When was the last time you heard a story that combines heartfelt wisdom, groundbreaking achievements, and raw honesty? Shannon Washington, CCO, managing partner, and proud Black woman, shares how her journey from food service to leading global agencies is a masterclass in tapping into your true power and breaking barriers others say are unbreakable. Her insights will reshape how you see success, failure, and the legacy you're building.This description starts with a compelling hook that emphasizes Shannon's trailblazing journey and the episode's transformational insights. It combines concrete examples of her experience, working in political hotspots, breaking industry barriers, with clear, valuable takeaways. The emotional angle of empowerment and authenticity appeals directly to Black women, creatives, and leaders seeking inspiration and practical wisdom. The tease of frameworks and stories invites curiosity while emphasizing real-world applicability, making it an irresistible call to action to hit play. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tune in for an episode packed with practical takeaways, inspiring stories, and actionable advice that will resonate with entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey.Welcome to another episode of the Empowering Entrepreneurs Podcast, where hosts Glenn Harper and Julie Smith explore the journeys that shape successful business leaders.In this episode, we meet Mike Milligan—certified financial planner, author, podcast host, adjunct professor, and passionate baseball coach—whose entrepreneurial path is anything but ordinary.Growing up in Laurinburg, North Carolina, Mike Milligan's childhood was shaped by strong family values, resourcefulness, and a firsthand view of survival through innovation.From selling collard sandwiches alongside his grandmother to avoiding the IRS with cash hidden in coffee cans and labeled “liver” in the freezer, his early life sparkled with lessons in grit and ingenuity. As the first college graduate and millionaire in his family, Mike's story is a testament to forging your own way, inspired by the hard work and entrepreneurial spirit of those closest to him.Unpacking his career, Mike Milligan shares candid reflections on his time inside the banking industry, the pitfalls and opportunities of working in financial institutions, and his unwavering commitment to putting clients first—well ahead of Wall Street's profit motives.He reveals how he pioneered unique business models within banks, eventually founding 1.oak Financial, and offers wisdom on leveraging connections, trademarks, and word-of-mouth to grow his business.Listeners will also discover the surprising tax-saving strategies available in places like Puerto Rico, where Mike Milligan now lives and runs his practice, and how geographic arbitrage and creative planning can help entrepreneurs pay zero federal income tax—legally.But beyond finance, the conversation is filled with heartfelt moments and powerful advice on embracing life's opportunities, never missing a moment, and building a meaningful legacy.Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs PlusHere are three key takeaways:Adaptability Breeds Opportunity: Mike's childhood experiences taught him the value of hard work and creative problem-solving. When his family faced tough times, innovation and grit were the answer, setting the tone for his entrepreneurial journey.Tax Strategy Is a Gamechanger: Mike's approach to leveraging the Puerto Rico tax code is a masterclass in thinking outside the box. Understanding and utilizing unique tax strategies can radically improve your bottom line—all it takes is planning and a willingness to learn.Never Miss a Moment: At the heart of entrepreneurship is the drive to craft a life with purpose. Mike's “endgame” is not just about business success, but about living fully and intentionally—embracing every opportunity to create meaningful experiences.Running a business doesn't have to run your life.Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it's easy to be so busy ‘doing' business that you don't have the right strategy to grow your business.Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year. An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family.Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast. Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree.https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/Copyright 2026 Glenn HarperMentioned in this episode:Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs PlusRunning a business takes vision, grit… and the right financial partner. At Harper & Company CPAs Plus, we don't just crunch numbers—we empower entrepreneurs. From proactive tax strategy and accounting to business advisory services, our team helps you keep more of what you earn and scale with confidence. Whether you're launching, growing, or preparing for exit, Harper & Company is in your corner with expert guidance built for business owners like you. Visit www.harpercpaplus.com to book a complimentary discovery call today - or call us at 614-456-7222. Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs Plus
In today's episode, I sit down with Danny Cortenraude, Founder and Managing Partner of InStudio Ventures, and NFL quarterback Jameis Winston of the New York Giants. We talk about what it really takes for athletes to transition from the locker room to the boardroom, and why humility is the ultimate competitive advantage. Jameis shares how faith, stewardship, and disciplined planning shape his approach to wealth across family, health, and finance, while Danny explains what he looks for when partnering with elite athletes in venture capital. Together, we explore mentorship, long-term impact, and building influence that extends far beyond a championship ring or a billion-dollar exit.
A U.S. Army Major-General on what markets got wrong about Iran, whether the Strait was ever really at risk, and what the new U.S. strike doctrine signals to China. --- Bits + Bips is spreading its wings Starting soon, new episodes will only be published on our brand‑new feeds. Here's what you need to do: Click the links below. YouTube Apple Spotify X Smash Follow or Subscribe.
Jessica Karr, Founder and Managing Partner at Coyote Ventures, shares how she backs AI-driven startups focused on improving health access, outcomes, and equity. Drawing from her six years at Impossible Foods, where she helped build a product from prototype to global phenomenon, Jessica explains how she brings a product innovator's lens to healthcare's most overlooked problems: women's health, racial disparities, rural access, and aging care. Jessica demonstrates why solving for equity isn't just morally right; it's economically smart through better outcomes and cost savings. She also discusses how her Health Equity Innovator Summit has become the convergence point where founders, health systems, payers, and policymakers forge the partnerships that turn healthcare's biggest gaps into its biggest opportunities. In this episode, you'll learn: [02:40] Jessica's journey from Texas to San Francisco and her early work in R&D at Impossible Foods [04:55] The idea behind plant based meat and how innovation can reshape consumer behavior [07:30] Why Jessica started Coyote Ventures and how the firm focuses on overlooked areas of healthcare [10:35] How AI driven digital health platforms can improve patient outcomes between doctor visits [13:15] What Coyote Ventures looks for when evaluating seed and pre seed healthcare startups [18:55] How AI is changing healthcare products and operations [22:35] Advice for founders building healthcare startups in a complex and relationship driven system [28:45] The Health Equity Innovator Summit The nonprofit organization Jessica is passionate about: Reproductive Freedom for All About Jessica Karr Jessica Karr is the Founder and Managing Partner of Coyote Ventures, an early stage venture capital firm focused on improving healthcare access and outcomes. She previously worked in research and development at Impossible Foods, where she helped develop early prototypes of the company's plant based meat products and contributed to patents. After earning her MBA and working closely with startups, Jessica launched Coyote Ventures to back founders building innovative healthcare solutions, especially in areas that have historically been underserved. About Coyote Ventures Coyote Ventures is an early stage venture capital firm investing in digital health and healthcare technology companies that improve access, outcomes, and equity in healthcare. The firm focuses on areas such as women's health, mental health, caregiving, aging, and other underserved segments of the healthcare system. Coyote Ventures invests in AI driven platforms and digital health solutions that help patients, healthcare providers, and payers deliver better care at scale. Portfolio companies include Alvee, Betterleave, Flex, Gabbi, Hera Biotech, Magnolia, Malama Health, Maude among others. Subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode.
Many people who don't have a clear understanding of career planning often choose the wrong subject or the wrong certifications, which causes them to fall behind for years. However, with the right direction, someone can start from Accounting and even reach the position of a CEO.Our guest, Mahtab Uddin Ahmed (Founder & Managing Partner of BuildCon Consultancies), shares his incredible journey starting from an Accounting background and rising to leadership positions in the Telecom and FMCG industries. Today, he is guiding young professionals to make better career decisions.In this podcast, we discuss:1. How to choose the right career and the mistakes that can ruin your entire journey2. What career opportunities exist for those who study Accounting3. The real difference between CA and CMA, and which one might be the best fit for you4. Which skills you should start building now if you want a secure job5. Bangladesh has fewer than 3,500 qualified accountants how this gap can become an opportunity for you6. How a CEO leads and manages an entire team7. What it truly takes to become an effective leaderIf you are still unsure about your career path, studying Accounting or Finance, or aiming to move into leadership in corporate life, this episode is a must-watch for you
Excellent Executive Coaching: Bringing Your Coaching One Step Closer to Excelling
Pamela Steele, PhD, is an educational psychologist, certified mediator, and conflict resolution trainer who helps people communicate effectively and define practical, realistic ways to meet challenges head-on. How did you get from where you started professionally to where you are today? What inspired you to write your book? What personality characteristics do you believe have supported your growth and survival, given all the losses you've experienced? What do you hope people will take away from reading your book or hearing this interview? Pamela Steele Pamela Steele, PhD, is an educational psychologist, certified mediator, and conflict resolution trainer who helps people communicate effectively and define practical, realistic ways to meet challenges head-on. She has held executive leadership roles in four industries: Education, Financial, Media, and Healthcare. Pamela is the Managing Partner of Navigate Grief, through which she has supported clients through end-of-life discussions and decision-making and facilitated workshops on Living Deeply, Dying Well. Dr. Steele is the author of Nights of Hunger: A Cocktail of Grief, Dreams and Dating for Old-Ass Women. Excellent Executive Coaching Podcast If you have enjoyed this episode, subscribe to our podcast on iTunes. We would love for you to leave a review. The EEC podcasts are sponsored by MKB Excellent Executive Coaching, which helps you get from where you are to where you want to be with customized leadership and coaching development programs. MKB Excellent Executive Coaching offers leadership development programs to generate action, learning, and change that is aligned with your authentic self and values. Transform your dreams into reality and invest in yourself by scheduling a discovery session with Dr. Katrina Burrus, MCC, to reach your goals. Your host is Dr. Katrina Burrus, MCC, founder and general manager of Excellent Executive Coaching, a company that specializes in leadership development.
Ring, the Amazon-owned video doorbell company, has canceled its partnership with technology firm Flock Safety in the aftermath of controversy following their 2026 Super Bowl commercial. In this episode, host Amanda Glassner is joined by Heather Engel, Managing Partner at Strategic Cyber Partners, to discuss. To learn more about today's stories, visit https://cybercrimewire.com • For more on cybersecurity, visit us at https://cybersecurityventures.com.
What does successful growth really look like for today's firms? In this episode, Sarah Krom, CPA, MST, Managing Partner of SKC & Co. CPAs, LLC, explores how firm leaders can scale intentionally without sacrificing culture, people, or purpose. Sarah shares how SKC approaches growth by focusing on other factors beyond revenue and headcount. From launching new service lines to navigating change through overcommunication, this conversation offers practical insight for any firm or organization looking to grow while protecting what makes their firms thrive. To find out more about transforming your business model, explore our business model transformation resources at aicpa-cima.com/tybm. You'll also see a link there to all of our previous podcast episodes. Thanks for listening. It takes just a couple of minutes to share your feedback. You can also contact us directly at podcast@aicpa-cima.com This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com
Neal Bloom is a San Diego-based venture capitalist, entrepreneur, and ecosystem builder in the tech and startup space. A Southern California native, he studied mechanical engineering at UC San Diego (UCSD) and early in his career worked with NASA on the Space Shuttle Main Engines and aspects of the Artemis program.He co-founded the edtech startup Portfolium, which was acquired by Instructure. This experience transitioned him into angel investing, where he built strong networks in the San Diego tech community. He has been involved with Tech Coast Angels and co-founded an angel syndicate.Currently, Neal serves as Managing Partner (or General Partner) at Rising Tide Partners, an early-stage investment group focused on curating signal in the noise to back exceptional founders, particularly in innovative tech solving real-world problems. He previously held a similar role as co-founder and Managing Partner at Interlock Capital, an early-stage fund and community of experienced operators.With nearly 20 years in tech, he's passionate about fostering startup ecosystems—advising on community building, events, and public outreach. He runs the Rising Tide Partners Substack (covering tech trends, AI, hard tech, and San Diego venture insights), hosts or contributes to podcasts/talks (e.g., Tacos and Tech), and is active in San Diego's startup scene through groups like Startup San Diego (where he's held leadership roles in sponsorships and partnerships).He's a frequent speaker, LinkedIn thought leader (15K+ followers), and connector in areas like AI for Main Street businesses, hard tech, and regional innovation hubs. Neal has appeared on podcasts and at events like TechCon Global discussing AI, investing, and ecosystem growth.
Susan Akbarpour is an Iranian-American serial entrepreneur, investor, philanthropist, and venture capitalist based in Silicon Valley. She began her career as an investigative journalist in Iran before immigrating to the United States in 1997. With over 30 years of experience building innovative products and businesses in technology, media, advertising, finance, retail, and more, she is best known as the co-founder and CEO of Mavatar Technologies (launched in 2011), a consumer-centric e-commerce platform focused on personalized shopping experiences and ending the "consumer as product" model in digital advertising. She holds an MS in Management (MSx '10) from Stanford University Graduate School of Business, where she founded the @Akbarpour Aalaei Fellowship to provide need-based scholarships for Farsi-speaking MBA, MSx, or PhD students. Thanks to Strike Social for sending me.
Inflation doesn't always show up loudly, and for many federal employees and retirees, the biggest danger is assuming COLA will protect their retirement income. In this episode of the Plan Your Federal Retirement podcast, Micah Shilanski, Managing Partner, Wealth Advisor, and Luke Eberly, Wealth Advisor, break down the "COLA mirage": why cost-of-living adjustments often fail to keep pace with real inflation, rising FEHB premiums, and increasing expenses. They explain how COLA works differently for federal employees, FERS retirees, Social Security, and special provision employees, and why many retirees see their buying power shrink year after year, even after an increase. Listen in to find out what practical steps you can take before and during retirement to guard against inflation, help protect your cash flow, and avoid spending down your retirement savings too quickly. https://zurl.co/RFWJd
If you aren't elbow-deep in the code, you're flying blind. We are currently witnessing a "Cambrian explosion" of AI, and most investors are watching from the sidelines without a clue of what's actually happening under the hood.In this episode of Demo Day, Adam Struck, Managing Partner at Struck Capital, explains why he fundamentally changed his firm's DNA to survive the AI revolution. Adam argues that the traditional venture capital model is no longer enough; to truly understand tech innovation in 2026, you have to be a builder. By launching Struck Studio and hiring full-time PhD AI researchers, Adam has gained proprietary insights into how AI agents are about to dismantle the traditional B2B SaaS landscape.In this masterclass on founder success and AI strategy, we discuss:The Building Requirement: Why "vanilla" VC is dying and why proprietary access to deal flow now requires operational expertise.Systems of Action vs. Systems of Record: Why agentic workflows are eating the software budget and moving into the labor budget.The 2026 Pivot: Why 2025 was the year of "Intelligence," but 2026 is officially the year of AI Memory.Founder Resilience: The "punched in the face" philosophy that separates unicorn founders from the rest.The Death of "Per-Seat" Pricing: How AI agents are forcing a total rethink of unit economics and enterprise sales.Whether you're a founder looking for startup fundraising tips or an investor trying to navigate the venture capital landscape, this episode is a wake-up call. Adam shares the "spidey sense" he uses to identify winning teams and why he moved his entire firm's focus from GPT to Google Gemini for agentic reasoning.Stop watching from 30,000 feet and start building.
The United States is at a crucial turning point for crypto regulation, with the Clarity Act emerging as one of the most important pieces of legislation for the industry. Meanwhile, Banks are threatening legal action against the OCC over the regulator's move to grant national trust charters to crypto and fintech firms.~This episode is sponsored by iTrust Capital~iTrustCapital | Get $100 Funding Reward + No Monthly Fees when you sign up using our custom link! ➜ https://bit.ly/iTrustPaulGUEST: Austin Campbell, Founder & Managing Partner at Zero Knowledge ConsultingFollow on X➜ https://x.com/austincampbell00:00 intro00:07 Sponsor: iTrust Capital00:34 CLARITY Odds Update02:25 Austin Campbell on CLARITY Status03:18 CLARITY Not Passing?03:46 Banks Suing Government06:37 CBDC Ban Fight Coming?08:30 Crypto Fed Master Account10:16 Christopher Waller is anti-yields11:59 Treasury wants to control stablecoins like CBDC's18:28 Self-Custody19:10 Florida CLARITY vs Visa & Mastercard?21:16 LIGHTNING ROUND21:42 Independence Day21:58 Bluff22:13 Coincidence?22:34 Scott Bessent vs Coinbase23:20 Bank Fees Incoming24:37 DeFi & Privacy25:14 Progressives are impossible25:39 Elizabeth Warren vs CLARITY26:09 Crypto Offensive Amendment26:44 Freezing Funds vs Self-Custody27:16 Circle Doomed?27:28 Trust X Bank?28:16 Robinhood wins28:45 outro#Crypto #Bitcoin #Ethereum~Banks Suing Government For Stablecoin Yields!?
The Twenty Minute VC: Venture Capital | Startup Funding | The Pitch
Mitchell Green is a legendary growth equity investor and the Founder and Managing Partner of Lead Edge Capital, a firm with over $5 billion in assets under management. Known as a relentless "money maker", Mitchell has led investments in the likes of Bytedance, Toast, Procore, Duo Security and more. AGENDA: 0:00 The SaaS Apocalypse: Why Incumbents Aren't Going to Zero 05:50 "Dead Money": Why Public Software Estimates Were Too High 08:15 Leverage is the Enemy: Lessons from the 1999 Retail Crash 11:50 The Truth About Growth Equity: Zeroes vs. 10X Returns 15:40 Mainframes to AI: Why Oracle and SAP Will Thrive 20:35 The "Stock-Based Comp" Scandal: Silicon Valley's Hidden Crime 24:35 ByteDance vs. The World: Why China Could Win the AI War 31:50 Selling is the Job: Why Buying is the Most Glamorous Part of VC 35:45 Too Many Tourists: Why 50% of VCs Shouldn't Be in the Business 44:10 The Gross Dollar Retention Rule: The Only Number That Matters in SaaS
Ashley Hansen, Managing Partner at Forward Global, a risk and reputation management firm in Los Angeles who specializes in crisis communications in the entertainment industry is here! We get into Lisa Rinna's controversial comments about her fellow real housewives. Alex Cooper's ex bff and co host Sofia Franklyn is writing a tell all. What is a star to do when they are being cancelled for their words? How do The Beckhams manage their family? What are the Royals to do post Prince Andrew's arrest? What would Carolyn Bisset be like if social media had existed in the 90s? So juicy! Enjoy! -Take proactive care of your health and head to https://OPositiv.com/JUICYSCOOP or enter JUICYSCOOP at checkout for 25% off your first purchase. -For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering our listeners $10 off your first month's subscription and free shipping when you visit https://Nutrafol.com and enter promo code JUICYSCOOP -Go to https://HelloFresh.com/juicyscoop10fm to Get 10 free meals + a FREE Zwilling Knife (a $144.99 value) on your third box. Offer valid while supplies last. Free meals applied as discount on first box, new subscribers only, varies by plan. -As an exclusive offer, new listeners can get their choice between organic ground beef, chicken breast or ground turkey in every box for a year, PLUS $20 off when you go to https://ButcherBox.com/juicyscoop. Subscribe to my new show Juicy Crimes!: https://bit.ly/juicycrimes Stand Up Tickets and info: https://heathermcdonald.net Subscribe to Juicy Scoop with Heather McDonald and get extra juice on Patreon: https://bit.ly/JuicyScoopPod https://www.patreon.com/juicyscoop Watch the Juicy Scoop On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JuicyScoop Shop Juicy Scoop Merch: https://juicyscoopshop.com/ Follow Me on Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heathermcdonald TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heathermcdonald YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeatherMcDonaldOfficial Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Crypto's vibe check time: Jez (izebel_eth) joins the crew to dissect whether idealism is RIP, if cypherpunks should abandon hope, how Memecoins and asset mayhem changed the game, why prediction markets are both truth engines and regulatory minefields, and where real permissionless finance is actually winning in the middle of global chaos. Welcome to The Chopping Block — where crypto insiders Haseeb Qureshi, Tom Schmidt, Tarun Chitra, and Robert Leshner chop it up about the latest in crypto. This week the gang is joined by super-perpetuals-junkie Jez for a spicy look at whether crypto has lost its soul — or if things are just getting interesting. Is crypto's vibe shift just growing pains, or did Memecoins and jaded traders nuke our idealism for good? The crew rehashes dreams of cypherpunk glory, debates the “death of the dream,” and gets existential about crypto's place in a world where everything is either a commodity, a meme, or a permissionless financial machine. Plus: War in Iran sends TradFi running, but DeFi markets are live, and prediction markets step up just as the regulators get weird. Enough nostalgia — let's get into it. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pods, Fountain, Podcast Addict, Pocket Casts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform. Show highlights
The 2026 Charge – Powering Energy Brands conference, hosted at the offices of CPS Energy in San Antonio, was a tremendous success. The event brought together leaders and innovators from across the energy and communications space for an unforgettable experience focused on connection, insight, and creativity. We were thrilled to once again record The Green Insider podcast live from this Charge North America event, featuring an outstanding lineup of guests: Rob Cantrell, CEO, Atlantic Energy Timothy Wang, Managing Partner, Keymaker Jake Edie, Managing Partner, RenewComm Mush Khan, CEO, Alchemy Industrial Jacob Yang, CEO, Amp Your Story Together, these conversations highlighted how Charge continues to deliver on its promise of networking, education, creativity, and recognition across the energy ecosystem. Congratulations to all this year's conference award winners—you can learn more about them here. Special congratulations and thank you to Fridrik Larsen, Natalie Bacon, and the entire Charge team for producing another exceptional event. And to our Follower Friday listeners and guests: thank you for being part of the journey—we truly couldn't do this without you. Become a Green Insider Be sure to subscribe to The Green Insider, powered by ERENEWABLE, wherever you get your podcasts—and don't forget to leave us a five‑star rating! To learn more about our guests or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities, please contact ERENEWABLE and The Green Insider Podcast. The post 2026 Charge – Powering Energy Brands Conference Recap appeared first on eRENEWABLE.
What if the most powerful business strategy today isn't AI, automation, or scale… but relationships? In this episode of The Jess Larsen Show on Innovation & Leadership, Jess sits down with serial entrepreneur and investor Noah Berkson to talk about the surprising power of real human connection in a digital world. Noah shares how he went from a self-described terrible student with ADHD to building and exiting multiple companies—including a recent sale of his farmland marketplace—by focusing on relationships, curiosity, and relentless momentum. The conversation explores why in-person gatherings still outperform online networking, how Noah built a reputation as a “super connector,” and why generosity and introductions can unlock opportunities that strategy alone never will. They also dive into lessons from Noah's entrepreneurial journey—from selling companies and investing through Austin Capital to launching curated events like Outcove, designed to bring extraordinary people together in ways that spark real collaboration. If you're building a company, investing, or simply trying to create more meaningful opportunities in your life, this episode is a powerful reminder: the right relationship can change everything. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Scot Lowry — Managing Partner and Co-Founder of PromiseONE CompaniesScot is the Managing Partner and Co-Founder of PromiseONE Companies, a Cleveland-based investment firm that helps purpose-driven entrepreneurs acquire and grow established businesses through Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition, or ETA. Prior to launching PromiseONE, Scot acquired and led Fathom, a digital marketing firm he grew more than 450% over a decade — an experience that became both the financial engine and talent incubator behind PromiseONE's long-term portfolio strategy. Today, Scot also serves as the Richard Osborne Professor of Entrepreneurship at Case Western Reserve University, where he teaches acquisition entrepreneurship and helps steward one of the nation's longest-standing ETA programs.In our conversation, Scot and I explore Cleveland's unique “right to win” in ETA and the decades-long lineage that traces back to his mentor, Richard Osborne. We talk about what it truly means to become a credible buyer, how to earn the trust of legacy sellers, and why understanding what matters most to them is the foundation of great dealmaking. We unpack the evolution of PromiseONE's patient capital model, the philosophy of “your dream is my dream,” and how Scot has helped multiple operators transition from employee to business owner. We also discuss negotiation, long-term ownership versus traditional private equity, mentorship, and a deeply personal crucible moment that reshaped Scot's leadership philosophy and sense of purpose.Scot is a thoughtful entrepreneur, investor, and teacher, and this was a really meaningful conversation — please enjoy.00:00 Introduction to Promise Partners and Scott Lowry03:08 Cleveland's Right to Win in Entrepreneurship05:51 The Role of Richard Osborne and Promise Partners08:57 Building Credibility as a Buyer12:07 The Evolution of Promise One Companies14:55 Understanding Legacy Sellers18:04 The Importance of Relationships in Deal Making20:55 Navigating the Acquisition Process23:48 Lessons from Fathom's Growth and Leadership27:06 The Philosophy Behind Promise One's Model37:56 Choosing the Path of Entrepreneurship40:06 Building a Community of Entrepreneurs43:13 Incubating New Business Ideas46:04 The Promise Partners Model48:46 Long-Term Vision and Patient Capital51:53 The Art of Deal Making56:03 Teaching and Mentoring Future Entrepreneurs01:00:13 Reflections on Personal Growth and Purpose-----LINKS:https://promiseone.com/about-us/https://case.edu/weatherhead/academics/entrepreneurship-through-acquisitionhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/scotlowry/-----SPONSOR:Roundstone Insurance — https://roundstoneinsurance.com/Roundstone Insurance is proud to sponsor Lay of The Land. Founder and CEO, Michael Schroeder, has committed full-year support for the podcast, recognizing its alignment with the company's passion for entrepreneurship, innovation, and community leadership.Headquartered in Rocky River, Ohio, Roundstone was founded in 2005 with a vision to deliver better healthcare outcomes at a more affordable cost. To bring that vision to life, the company pioneered the group medical captive model — a self-funded health insurance solution that provides small and mid-sized businesses with greater control and significant savings.Over the past two decades, Roundstone has grown rapidly, creating nearly 200 jobs in Northeast Ohio. The company works closely with employers and benefits advisors to navigate the complexities of commercial health insurance and build custom plans that prioritize employee well-being over shareholder returns. By focusing on aligned incentives and better health outcomes, Roundstone is helping businesses save thousands in Per Employee Per Year healthcare costs. Roundstone Insurance — Built for entrepreneurs. Backed by innovation. Committed to Cleveland.Cerity PartnersCerity Partners, a full-service investment and wealth management firm serving high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and business owners, is proud to sponsor Lay of The Land. The firm has local roots in Cleveland and across Ohio, and like this podcast, Cerity Partners advisors specialize in serving the interests of local entrepreneurs and business leaders. They understand how to manage the total picture of wealth, both personal and professional. Cerity Partners has a unified team of specialists who collaborate on almost every aspect of a client's financial life, including business ownership. The firm's national presence means it can offer the resources and specialized knowledge of the largest institutions with the independence and service of a neighbor. The Cerity Partners Cleveland team understands the complexity that comes with wealth, and they adhere to fiduciary standards. Discover the financial lay of your land.Learn more at ceritypartners.com/NPR or call 216-464-6266.-----Stay up to date by signing up for Lay of The Land's weekly newsletter — sign up here: https://layoftheland.ck.page/5f0c1e28faConnect with Jeffrey Stern on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreypstern/Follow Lay of The Land on X @podlayofthelandhttps://www.jeffreys.page/
Suzanne Yoon is the Founder and Managing Partner of Kinzie Capital Partners, a Chicago- based private equity firm redefining the lower middle market. With over 25 years of experience, Suzanne founded Kinzie on the conviction that sustainable value is unlocked by integrating people and operational innovation with technology. Under her leadership, Kinzie specializes in founder transitions across the manufacturing, business services, and consumer sectors. Suzanne and her team move beyond traditional oversight to serve as hands-on partners, utilizing tech-driven efficiencies to scale established businesses while honoring their heritage. A recognized industry trailblazer, Suzanne has been honored by The Wall Street Journal as a Top Female Deal Maker and by Mergers & Acquisitions as a leading voice in Mid-Market M&A. Beyond the firm, she serves on the board of NYSE-listed ADT and the Chicago Bears Women's Advisory Board. An avid outdoorswoman and proud University of Iowa alumna, Suzanne enjoys golfing and fishing with her husband and three children.
From Navy SEAL to Venture Builder:Nuri Golan on Turning Elite Operators into Elite EntrepreneursIn this week's Team Never Quit Podcast, Marcus and Melanie are joined by Nuri Golan, a man who proves that elite performance doesn't end when the uniform comes off — it evolves.A Veteran and Officer in the Israeli Navy SEALs, Nuri transitioned from high-stakes maritime operations to high-impact venture creation. Today, he is a serial entrepreneur, startup advisor, investor, and Managing Partner of Vetted — a powerful platform helping combat veterans build world-class companies.In this episode, Nuri shares how the mindset forged in special operations becomes a competitive advantage in the startup arena.Building & Exiting Multiple CompaniesNuri's entrepreneurial track record is nothing short of remarkable:· Co-Founder & CEO of EXO Technologies (acquired by Lear Corporation)· Co-Founder of Navmatic (acquired by Superpedestrian)· Co-Founder of SosivioAfter EXO's acquisition, Nuri went on to lead Lear's corporate venture arm — investing in startups and venture funds, gaining firsthand insight into what separates promising founders from scalable operators.He brings a rare perspective: he's been the founder, the acquirer, and the investor.Vetted: Unlocking the Entrepreneurial Power of Combat VeteransToday, Nuri serves as Managing Partner of Vetted — an education, acceleration, and investment platform designed specifically for combat veterans from the U.S. and Israel.Through:· The Vetted Startup Accelerator· The Alpha-Bet Entrepreneurship ProgramVetted equips veterans with:· Hands-on mentorship· Early-stage funding· Tactical business education· A powerful cross-border founder & investor networkThe mission is clear: transform operational excellence into entrepreneurial success.Bridging Two Innovation PowerhousesAs an Israeli-American, Nuri is passionate about strengthening collaboration between U.S. and Israeli veteran communities — two ecosystems known for innovation, resilience, and leadership.He believes elite combat veterans represent one of the most untapped entrepreneurial resources in the world — disciplined, decisive, mission-driven leaders ready to build companies that matter.This conversation with Nuri Golan delivers powerful insight from someone who has operated — and succeeded — at the highest levels. In this episode you will hear:• By the time he was 19 or 20 [my grandfather] had already graduated from college and was in the U.S. Army. (8:31)• You don't have to precheck in Israel because it's mandatory service for Israeli's. (9:25)• We saw our family with tattoos on their arms from death camps and concentration camps they were sent to. (19:19)• In Israel, all of our officers are “Mustangs.” (Prior enlisted and then cross over to become officers) (26:51)• In Israel, you don't really have a lot of senior enlisted guys, especially operators. The most senior guys – the ones with the most experience – are officers. (30:11)Israeli Arabs, who are Israeli citizens, don't have to serve. Ulta orthodox Jews are also exempt from service. (31:44)• [Marcus] Do something for your people. (37:01)• I really wanted to help create a program to help show them [combat veterans] how to utilize the skills they got from their military training and service in the business world, because I realized that a lot of the skills that I got from the military is what helped me become a successful entrepreneur.0 (40:46)• Our program is open to all combat veterans from U.S and Israel. We also started an entrepreneurship school.0 (43:53)• Hamas operators don't walk around with rifles. (57:51)• Their command centers are all under Mosques and hospitals by design. (58:37)• There's always conflict so you'll go to Tel-Aviv in the middle of the war and you'll still see people on the beach playing volleyball, and out at restaurants. We have to continue to go on. That's how you fight terrorism. (61:36)• Israel is one of the most important partners that the United States has in the global landscape. (66:36)Support Nuri:- https://accelerator.thevetted.vc/ Support TNQ - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquitSponsors: - Navyfederal.org - bubsnaturals.com [Promo code TNQ] - davidprotein.com/TNQ - mizzenandmain.com [Promo code: TNQ20] - masterclass.com/TNQ - Dripdrop.com/TNQ - ShopMando.com [Promo code: TNQ] - Tractorsupply.com/hometownheroes - meetfabiric.com/TNQ - Prizepicks (TNQ) - armslist.com/TNQ - PXGapparel.com/TNQ - bruntworkwear.com/TNQ - shipsticks.com/TNQ - stopboxusa.com {TNQ} - Tonal.com [TNQ] - greenlight.com/TNQ - drinkAG1.com/TNQ - Hims.com/TNQ
US and Israeli strikes killed Iran's Supreme Leader and initially rattled markets. But does the subsequent market calm reflect genuine resilience or a dangerous underpricing of what comes next? --- Nexo is the premier digital wealth platform. Receive interest on your crypto, borrow against it without selling, and trade a range of assets. Now available in the U.S with 30 days of exclusive privileges. Get started at nexo.com/unchained Bits + Bips is spreading its wings Starting soon, new episodes will only be published on our brand‑new feeds. Here's what you need to do: Click the links below. YouTube Apple Spotify X Smash Follow or Subscribe.
In today's economy, your brand is your most valuable asset. Who's protecting it? The Lawyer Stories Podcast Episode 257 features Rosa Villa, Founder and Managing Partner at Villa Law, PLLC in Miami, Florida. A University of Miami School of Law graduate, Rosa provides bold, results-driven representation in Intellectual Property, Entertainment, Employment Law, and business contracts. Born in Cuba and brought to the United States at just four years old, Rosa built her path from immigrant roots to leading a practice dedicated to protecting entrepreneurs, creatives, and businesses. At Villa Law, she guides clients through every stage of litigation and alternative dispute resolution - from strategic case development and high-impact negotiations to strong advocacy in federal and state courts. Outside the courtroom, Rosa works closely with innovators, artists, and companies of all sizes to proactively manage risk, protect valuable brands and ideas, and resolve employment, business, and IP matters with efficiency and precision. Her approach is both strategic and practical, focused on delivering solutions that support long-term growth. This episode presented by CallRail - Integrated into your case management system, CallRail helps you: Capture every call - even after hours Spot high-value leads instantly Respond faster Get the insights you need to bring in bigger cases Join over 3,000 law firms using CallRail to follow up faster, land bigger cases, and drive growth for your firm. Start your free trial at callrail.com/lawyerstories
Derek Vickers is the Managing Partner of Vicktory Capital and Fund Manager of VC Equity Fund I, a value-add manufactured housing fund targeting high-growth Sun Belt markets. He oversees investment strategy, capital raising, and execution, with ownership in 50 manufactured housing communities totaling nearly 2,400 lots. Specializing in turning around mismanaged assets through rent-to-own conversions, operational improvements, and professional management, Derek has led multiple refinances that returned 100%+ of investor capital while preserving long-term equity. With a background leading a 100-person corporate sales organization, he now focuses on scaling the firm's vertically integrated platform across Florida, Arizona, Texas, and other key markets. Here's some of the topics we covered: From Partying and Rock Bottom to Building a Wealth Machine The Wake-Up Call That Changed Derek's Financial Future The Real Estate Fast Track Most People Miss Investing In Mobile Home Parks vs. Multifamily Apartments Why the Right Property Manager Makes or Breaks a Deal What Really Happens When You Buy a Mobile Home Park How to Win With Brokers and Unlock Off-Market Deals Creative Financing Moves That Supercharge Mobile Home Park Returns If you'd like to apply to the warrior program and do deals with other rockstars in this business: Text crush to 72345 and we'll be speaking soon. For more about Rod and his real estate investing journey go to www.rodkhleif.com
Gavin Baker is the Managing Partner and Chief Investment Officer of Atreides Management, which oversees $7 billion across public, private, and crossover strategies focused on technology and the consumer. Gavin's deep knowledge of semiconductors and AI may be second to none, but our conversation barely touches the space. We begin with Gavin's upbringing, intellectual curiosity, and path to investing, before turning to the beliefs that shape his approach. We explore his view that investing is a search for truth best pursued through debate, intellectual honesty, and a willingness to be wrong, and why people, culture, execution, and risk management matter more than investment process in driving long-term performance. We then turn to the application of those beliefs at Atreides, where Gavin emphasizes the importance of deep fundamental understanding, hypothesis-driven research, and culture that rewards constructive disagreement. We discuss how crossover investing can create informational and behavioral advantages - particularly in AI - and how portfolio construction in both hedge funds and venture capital can narrow the gap between insight and performance. As a disclaimer, I am both an LP and an advisor to Atreides, so I'm a little biased in my suspicion that you will really enjoy this conversation with Gavin Baker. Learn more about our Strategic Investments: Thema. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com) All opinions expressed by Ted and podcast guests are solely their own opinions and do not reflect the opinion of Capital Allocators or their firms. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a basis for investment decisions. It should not be construed as investment advice or a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, or offering of any kind. Clients of Capital Allocators or podcast guests may maintain positions and securities discussed on this podcast. The statements and opinions contained herein may change at any time, based on market or other conditions.