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The Steve Harvey Morning Show
Brand Building: National entrepreneurial initiative Black Ambition provides capital, mentorship, mental wellness support.

The Steve Harvey Morning Show

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2026 22:54 Transcription Available


Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Felecia Hatcher CEO of Black Ambition, the national entrepreneurial initiative founded by Grammy-winning artist Pharrell Williams. Black Ambition provides capital, mentorship, mental wellness support, and a nationally competitive platform for Black and Hispanic founders, particularly those from HBCUs and underserved communities. Throughout the conversation, Hatcher breaks down the mission of Black Ambition, how its competition works, success stories, the mentorship pipeline, and her personal entrepreneurial journey from being a self‑described “C student” to running a major national innovation fund. Purpose of the Interview 1. Introduce Black Ambition’s Mission and Impact To explain how Black Ambition funds, mentors, and accelerates Black and Hispanic founders, awarding millions in capital and building pathways to long-term entrepreneurial success. 2. Educate Entrepreneurs on How to Compete Successfully Hatcher breaks down the application process, common mistakes, and how to stand out in one of the nation’s most competitive entrepreneurial prize competitions. 3. Inspire Through Transparency and Personal Storytelling Her journey—from a C student to tech entrepreneur, to CEO working directly with Pharrell—models what perseverance and creativity can achieve. 4. Spread Awareness of Black Ambition Resources & Events She highlights opportunities like Demo Day, masterclasses, mentorship cohorts, and the Fundable Founders Forum. Key Takeaways 1. Black Ambition Creates “Unprecedented Access” for Black & Brown Founders Hatcher emphasizes the organization’s mission of closing opportunity gaps caused by misaligned mentorship and unequal access to funding.Black Ambition invests capital, provides structured mentorship, and connects entrepreneurs to world-class partners (e.g., Louis Vuitton). 2. Highly Competitive National Competition 2,500–3,000 applications annually Only 250 semifinalists Semifinalists enter a three‑month cohort with elite mentorship Top teams advance to Demo Day for capital awards and follow-on support Categories include HBCU, National Finalists, Top Prize, and People’s Choice.. Hatcher stresses: Success leaves clues.Many past winners share insights, host office hours, and guide new applicants. 3. The Process Itself Makes Founders Stronger Hatcher says repeated applications build clarity, sharpen pitches, and transform entrepreneurs—even if they don’t win the first time. She cites an example: Lawrence Phillips, founder of Green Book Global, who succeeded on his third try. 4. Holistic Approach: Mental Health & Wellness Along with capital and mentorship, Black Ambition offers mental-wellness support because entrepreneurship is emotionally taxing.Founders are encountering proximity to wealth and power for the first time, and need guidance on transparency, investor expectations, and emotional resilience. 5. Black Women Are Fastest-Growing Entrepreneurs—But Need Teams Hatcher notes that Black women lead in entrepreneurship but often operate without teams.Black Ambition does not invest in solopreneurs; founders must demonstrate team-building capacity to create economic multiplier effects in communities. 6. Pharrell’s Why: Opening Doors He Once Needed Pharrell invests in Black Ambition because: He once needed others to “believe in him until he could believe in himself.” He wants to dismantle gatekeeping in industries where Black talent exists but opportunity does not. He believes “talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.” 7. Felecia Hatcher’s Personal Origin Story Her credibility comes from lived experience: A “C student” told she’d never make it to college College dropout Built multiple tech companies Founded Black Tech Week and the Center for Black Innovation Comes from a family of Jamaican farmers and Georgia builders who were “entrepreneurs before the word was used.”. Her takeaway: Creativity builds pathways to success that traditional systems overlook. 8. The Event is Public – and Transformational Black Ambition’s Demo Day is open to the public, creating visibility, inspiration, and networking opportunities for founders and supporters. Notable Quotes (All from the Transcript) On Black Ambition’s Mission “We’ve been building a rocket ship to create unprecedented access to opportunities and resources.”. “People are too comfortable wasting the time of Black entrepreneurs with misaligned resources and low-vibrational mentorship.”. On the Competition “Success leaves clues.” “Apply again… every time I applied, I became a different entrepreneur.” On Holistic Support “Entrepreneurship can swallow you whole.”. On Team Building “We don’t invest in solopreneurs… You need a team mindset.” On Pharrell’s Motivation “He borrowed someone else’s belief in him until that became his own.” “Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.” On Personal Journey “I’m a C student and a college dropout… I never let those things define me.”. “There is more than one pathway to success if you get creative.”. On Why Founders Should Join “Do you want to be in the same position this time next year? If the answer is no, then say yes to the process.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Strawberry Letter
Brand Building: National entrepreneurial initiative Black Ambition provides capital, mentorship, mental wellness support.

Strawberry Letter

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2026 22:54 Transcription Available


Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Felecia Hatcher CEO of Black Ambition, the national entrepreneurial initiative founded by Grammy-winning artist Pharrell Williams. Black Ambition provides capital, mentorship, mental wellness support, and a nationally competitive platform for Black and Hispanic founders, particularly those from HBCUs and underserved communities. Throughout the conversation, Hatcher breaks down the mission of Black Ambition, how its competition works, success stories, the mentorship pipeline, and her personal entrepreneurial journey from being a self‑described “C student” to running a major national innovation fund. Purpose of the Interview 1. Introduce Black Ambition’s Mission and Impact To explain how Black Ambition funds, mentors, and accelerates Black and Hispanic founders, awarding millions in capital and building pathways to long-term entrepreneurial success. 2. Educate Entrepreneurs on How to Compete Successfully Hatcher breaks down the application process, common mistakes, and how to stand out in one of the nation’s most competitive entrepreneurial prize competitions. 3. Inspire Through Transparency and Personal Storytelling Her journey—from a C student to tech entrepreneur, to CEO working directly with Pharrell—models what perseverance and creativity can achieve. 4. Spread Awareness of Black Ambition Resources & Events She highlights opportunities like Demo Day, masterclasses, mentorship cohorts, and the Fundable Founders Forum. Key Takeaways 1. Black Ambition Creates “Unprecedented Access” for Black & Brown Founders Hatcher emphasizes the organization’s mission of closing opportunity gaps caused by misaligned mentorship and unequal access to funding.Black Ambition invests capital, provides structured mentorship, and connects entrepreneurs to world-class partners (e.g., Louis Vuitton). 2. Highly Competitive National Competition 2,500–3,000 applications annually Only 250 semifinalists Semifinalists enter a three‑month cohort with elite mentorship Top teams advance to Demo Day for capital awards and follow-on support Categories include HBCU, National Finalists, Top Prize, and People’s Choice.. Hatcher stresses: Success leaves clues.Many past winners share insights, host office hours, and guide new applicants. 3. The Process Itself Makes Founders Stronger Hatcher says repeated applications build clarity, sharpen pitches, and transform entrepreneurs—even if they don’t win the first time. She cites an example: Lawrence Phillips, founder of Green Book Global, who succeeded on his third try. 4. Holistic Approach: Mental Health & Wellness Along with capital and mentorship, Black Ambition offers mental-wellness support because entrepreneurship is emotionally taxing.Founders are encountering proximity to wealth and power for the first time, and need guidance on transparency, investor expectations, and emotional resilience. 5. Black Women Are Fastest-Growing Entrepreneurs—But Need Teams Hatcher notes that Black women lead in entrepreneurship but often operate without teams.Black Ambition does not invest in solopreneurs; founders must demonstrate team-building capacity to create economic multiplier effects in communities. 6. Pharrell’s Why: Opening Doors He Once Needed Pharrell invests in Black Ambition because: He once needed others to “believe in him until he could believe in himself.” He wants to dismantle gatekeeping in industries where Black talent exists but opportunity does not. He believes “talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.” 7. Felecia Hatcher’s Personal Origin Story Her credibility comes from lived experience: A “C student” told she’d never make it to college College dropout Built multiple tech companies Founded Black Tech Week and the Center for Black Innovation Comes from a family of Jamaican farmers and Georgia builders who were “entrepreneurs before the word was used.”. Her takeaway: Creativity builds pathways to success that traditional systems overlook. 8. The Event is Public – and Transformational Black Ambition’s Demo Day is open to the public, creating visibility, inspiration, and networking opportunities for founders and supporters. Notable Quotes (All from the Transcript) On Black Ambition’s Mission “We’ve been building a rocket ship to create unprecedented access to opportunities and resources.”. “People are too comfortable wasting the time of Black entrepreneurs with misaligned resources and low-vibrational mentorship.”. On the Competition “Success leaves clues.” “Apply again… every time I applied, I became a different entrepreneur.” On Holistic Support “Entrepreneurship can swallow you whole.”. On Team Building “We don’t invest in solopreneurs… You need a team mindset.” On Pharrell’s Motivation “He borrowed someone else’s belief in him until that became his own.” “Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.” On Personal Journey “I’m a C student and a college dropout… I never let those things define me.”. “There is more than one pathway to success if you get creative.”. On Why Founders Should Join “Do you want to be in the same position this time next year? If the answer is no, then say yes to the process.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Best of The Steve Harvey Morning Show
Brand Building: National entrepreneurial initiative Black Ambition provides capital, mentorship, mental wellness support.

Best of The Steve Harvey Morning Show

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2026 22:54 Transcription Available


Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Felecia Hatcher CEO of Black Ambition, the national entrepreneurial initiative founded by Grammy-winning artist Pharrell Williams. Black Ambition provides capital, mentorship, mental wellness support, and a nationally competitive platform for Black and Hispanic founders, particularly those from HBCUs and underserved communities. Throughout the conversation, Hatcher breaks down the mission of Black Ambition, how its competition works, success stories, the mentorship pipeline, and her personal entrepreneurial journey from being a self‑described “C student” to running a major national innovation fund. Purpose of the Interview 1. Introduce Black Ambition’s Mission and Impact To explain how Black Ambition funds, mentors, and accelerates Black and Hispanic founders, awarding millions in capital and building pathways to long-term entrepreneurial success. 2. Educate Entrepreneurs on How to Compete Successfully Hatcher breaks down the application process, common mistakes, and how to stand out in one of the nation’s most competitive entrepreneurial prize competitions. 3. Inspire Through Transparency and Personal Storytelling Her journey—from a C student to tech entrepreneur, to CEO working directly with Pharrell—models what perseverance and creativity can achieve. 4. Spread Awareness of Black Ambition Resources & Events She highlights opportunities like Demo Day, masterclasses, mentorship cohorts, and the Fundable Founders Forum. Key Takeaways 1. Black Ambition Creates “Unprecedented Access” for Black & Brown Founders Hatcher emphasizes the organization’s mission of closing opportunity gaps caused by misaligned mentorship and unequal access to funding.Black Ambition invests capital, provides structured mentorship, and connects entrepreneurs to world-class partners (e.g., Louis Vuitton). 2. Highly Competitive National Competition 2,500–3,000 applications annually Only 250 semifinalists Semifinalists enter a three‑month cohort with elite mentorship Top teams advance to Demo Day for capital awards and follow-on support Categories include HBCU, National Finalists, Top Prize, and People’s Choice.. Hatcher stresses: Success leaves clues.Many past winners share insights, host office hours, and guide new applicants. 3. The Process Itself Makes Founders Stronger Hatcher says repeated applications build clarity, sharpen pitches, and transform entrepreneurs—even if they don’t win the first time. She cites an example: Lawrence Phillips, founder of Green Book Global, who succeeded on his third try. 4. Holistic Approach: Mental Health & Wellness Along with capital and mentorship, Black Ambition offers mental-wellness support because entrepreneurship is emotionally taxing.Founders are encountering proximity to wealth and power for the first time, and need guidance on transparency, investor expectations, and emotional resilience. 5. Black Women Are Fastest-Growing Entrepreneurs—But Need Teams Hatcher notes that Black women lead in entrepreneurship but often operate without teams.Black Ambition does not invest in solopreneurs; founders must demonstrate team-building capacity to create economic multiplier effects in communities. 6. Pharrell’s Why: Opening Doors He Once Needed Pharrell invests in Black Ambition because: He once needed others to “believe in him until he could believe in himself.” He wants to dismantle gatekeeping in industries where Black talent exists but opportunity does not. He believes “talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.” 7. Felecia Hatcher’s Personal Origin Story Her credibility comes from lived experience: A “C student” told she’d never make it to college College dropout Built multiple tech companies Founded Black Tech Week and the Center for Black Innovation Comes from a family of Jamaican farmers and Georgia builders who were “entrepreneurs before the word was used.”. Her takeaway: Creativity builds pathways to success that traditional systems overlook. 8. The Event is Public – and Transformational Black Ambition’s Demo Day is open to the public, creating visibility, inspiration, and networking opportunities for founders and supporters. Notable Quotes (All from the Transcript) On Black Ambition’s Mission “We’ve been building a rocket ship to create unprecedented access to opportunities and resources.”. “People are too comfortable wasting the time of Black entrepreneurs with misaligned resources and low-vibrational mentorship.”. On the Competition “Success leaves clues.” “Apply again… every time I applied, I became a different entrepreneur.” On Holistic Support “Entrepreneurship can swallow you whole.”. On Team Building “We don’t invest in solopreneurs… You need a team mindset.” On Pharrell’s Motivation “He borrowed someone else’s belief in him until that became his own.” “Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.” On Personal Journey “I’m a C student and a college dropout… I never let those things define me.”. “There is more than one pathway to success if you get creative.”. On Why Founders Should Join “Do you want to be in the same position this time next year? If the answer is no, then say yes to the process.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

K Drama Chat
13.14 - Podcast Review of Episode 14 of Start-Up

K Drama Chat

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2026 86:36


Comment on this episode by going to KDramaChat.com Today, we'll be discussing Episode 14 of Start-Up, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Bae Suzy as Seo Dal-mi, Nam Joo Hyuk as Nam Do San, Kim Seon Ho as Han Ji Pyeong, Kang Han Na as Won In Jae, and Kim Hae Sook as Choi Won Deok. We discuss: The songs we featured during the recap: My Dear Love by Suzy, Merry Go Round by Kim Dong Hyeok, Tears of Piano by Park Sejun Listener Jeff's comment about Yong San's revenge arc — was it a red herring, and why the storyline ultimately became more about Han Ji Pyeong's growth than actual danger. Why this episode is titled “Elevator Speech” - the literal and emotional elevator pitches that change minds in under a minute, especially SDM's desperate appeal to Do San. Seo Dal Mi's humiliation spiral: the hacked company, no back-ups, spilled coffee, pride, and why she couldn't take Do San's calls after he saved her company. Han Ji Pyeong's complicated tenderness — hiding Dal Mi under the desk, switching from “Dal-mi-shi” to “Seo 대표님,” threatening Do San in the elevator, then immediately confessing the truth. Do San's breaking point: the returned baseball from Park Chan Ho, his father's quiet wisdom, the five-hour bike ride to the cabin, and the symbolism of throwing something away that you cannot forget. The full-circle moment: Dal Mi once begged to be CEO at the hackathon; now she's begging the Samsan Tech trio to join CheongMyeong; this time, desperation wins. Yong San's maturity arc — seeking out honest criticism from Ji Pyeong, apologizing for blaming him for his brother's death, and asking the fundamental question: do we want to code or run a company? Chairman Yoon's sharp reminder that investors who fund companies without business plans are “garbage,” and a discussion of due diligence and startup discipline. The sisters' evolving relationship: Dal Mi accidentally calling In Jae “언니” before correcting herself to “대표님,” and In Jae filing paperwork to change her name back to Seo after realizing her grandmother's eyesight is failing. Words that wound: from Ji Pyeong's harsh Demo Day critique to Dal Mi's breakup lines — “You're not the one I loved” — and how language shapes identity and destiny in this episode. The epic piggyback ride across the land bridge, the bandana wrapped around Dal Mi's scraped knee, the wrist grab, hair touches, and that meaningful head-rest while she sleeps. What we're watching now: Summer Strike, While You Were Sleeping (a mini Start-Up reunion!), The Art of Sarah starring Shin Hye Sun, and narrowing down contenders for Season 14 — including Signal, My Mister, Resident Playbook (or maybe Hospital Playlist!), Our Unwritten Seoul, and more. References https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yeouido Waiting on a Wish by Bae Suzy Yes No Maybe Dance Practice with Bae Suzy How to play rock✊

The Real Estate Crowdfunding Show - DEAL TIME!

Hotels are not underperforming because demand is weak, they are underperforming because the economics of the guest relationship are still being managed manually.   That is the central takeaway from my recent Demo Day conversation with Luca Zambello, Founder, and Jason Lopez, VP of Revenue at Jurny.   [Full disclosure: I am an early investor in Jurny]   In brief: Hotels are leaving meaningful NOI on the table by treating guest experience as a cost center rather than an operating system.   What stands out Personalization at scale is an operational advantage that directly impacts NOI. Ancillary revenues sold post-booking carry near-zero marginal cost and disproportionately expand NOI. AI changes the labor equation by shifting staff from admin and triage to actual hospitality. Centralized communications using AI work when guest intent, sentiment, and history live in one place. Jurny helps hotels systematically monetize guests beyond the room night. When guest communication is fragmented across OTAs, email, SMS, WhatsApp, phone calls, and front desks, operators lose both service quality and revenue opportunity. Once communication is centralized, automation and AI start becoming leverage.   The most compelling insight is financial. As Luca puts it, a 10 percent lift in guest-driven revenue does not translate into a 10 percent NOI improvement. Because fixed costs are already covered, it can mean 30 to 40 percent relative to current NOI. Why this matters beyond hospitality What this demo really highlights is how AI is beginning to fundamentally change commercial real estate operations across asset classes.   CRE is moving away from linear models where growth requires more people, more friction, and more overhead and platforms like Jurny point to a future where intelligence, not headcount, becomes the primary scaling mechanism.   That shift is already underway - and it is happening faster than most operators think.   Tune in to learn more – you don't need to a hotelier to appreciate the power of AI on CRE.   ***   At GowerCrowd, we are bringing the most advanced AI tools to our clients for both capital formation - but across other operational verticals too (like acquisitions). If you'd like to learn more about how we can assist you too, please reach out.   Subscribe to my newsletter and get access to this transformational intel before anyone else:  https://gowercrowd.com/subscribe Email: adam@gowercrowd.com Call: 213-761-1000

Demo Day Podcast
Why Brian Garrett Says Most Founders Focus on the Wrong Things

Demo Day Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 69:20


"Strip out the bullsh*t." Brian Garrett reveals the hard-won lessons from 18+ years in venture capital and how he survived his most devastating year yet.Discover why one of LA's most seasoned investors is pivoting away from generalist VC to go all-in on Frontier Tech and the "techno-industrial era."In this episode of Demo Day, we sit down with Brian Garrett, Partner at Crosscut Ventures. Brian has spent nearly two decades at the center of the LA startup ecosystem, but 2025 changed everything. From losing his home in the Palisades fires to navigating profound personal loss, Brian shares a raw, unfiltered look at the resilience required to lead in the world of high-stakes venture capital.We dive deep into the "techno-economic analysis" Crosscut now uses to evaluate seed-stage companies in space, defense, and energy. Brian breaks down the common mistakes founders make when pitching, the difference between confidence and arrogance, and why the "lead investor" brand matters more than ever in today's fundraising landscape. Whether you are a founder raising your first round or an investor looking for the next paradigm shift, this episode offers a masterclass in staying focused on what truly matters.Key Takeaways:The Synthesizer Superpower: How to distill complex ideas into three sentences.Frontier Tech Thesis: Why Crosscut is betting on energy independence and the re-industrialization of America.The "Why Now" Question: What VCs are actually looking for in a defensive fundraising market.Personal Resilience: How to find joy and purpose after a "gut punch" year.

Best of The Steve Harvey Morning Show
Overcoming the Odds: She emphasizes resilience: “I'm a C student and a college dropout, but I never let that define me."

Best of The Steve Harvey Morning Show

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2026 22:54 Transcription Available


Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Felecia Hatcher. Purpose of the Interview To spotlight Black Ambition, a national initiative founded by Pharrell Williams that funds and mentors Black and Brown entrepreneurs. To share insights on entrepreneurship, access to resources, and strategies for scaling businesses. To inspire and educate small business owners and innovators on how to leverage opportunities for growth. Key Takeaways About Black Ambition Founded by Pharrell Williams to close the opportunity gap for Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs. Provides capital, mentorship, and masterclasses to help founders scale. Has invested in 131 companies and awarded millions in funding. Competition Structure Annual national competition with 2,500–3,000 applications. Categories include HBCU, National Finalists, Top Prize Winner, People’s Choice. Process: Applications → 250 semifinalists → 3-month cohort → Demo Day for top 20–25 companies. Unique Approach Focus on high-quality mentorship, not “low vibrational” guidance. Includes mental health and wellness support for entrepreneurs. Partnerships with brands like Louis Vuitton for luxury retail insights. Challenges for Entrepreneurs Many fail by rushing applications and skipping info sessions. Success requires clarity, traction, and persistence—sometimes multiple attempts. Black women are the fastest-growing entrepreneurs but often remain solopreneurs; Black Ambition prioritizes team-building. Pharrell’s Motivation Believes in democratizing opportunity: “Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.” Inspired by those who believed in him early in his career. Felecia Hatcher’s Journey Former founder of Center for Black Innovation and Black Tech Week. Emphasizes resilience: “I’m a C student and a college dropout, but I never let that define me.” Advocates for creative pathways to success and capital access. Notable Quotes “Success leaves clues.” – On learning from past winners. “Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.” – Pharrell’s guiding principle. “If it doesn’t work on you in that moment, it works for you in that moment. Either way, it works.” – On persistence. “We have to start enjoying the process… be stretched, be cut by the process.” – On entrepreneurial growth. “Wealth has a need for speed.” – On urgency in closing the wealth gap. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Peel
Garry Tan on the Past, Present, and Future of YC

The Peel

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2026 83:57


Gary Tan is the President and CEO of Y Combinator.YC is the startup accelerator behind companies like Airbnb, Stripe, Coinbase, Reddit, Twitch, and thousands more. According to Garry, they've invested in 20% of all startups worth $5B or more started since 2012.Gary has lived every side of the YC ecosystem. He went through YC as a founder, later became a partner, started Initialized Capital where he backed companies like Coinbase and Instacart, and then returned to lead YC.We walk through the different “eras” of YC, from the early Paul Graham and Jessica Livingston days in Cambridge, to scaling in San Francisco, to today's push back toward in person community and what Gary calls “founder mode” for the organization itself.We also talk about why the Bay Area still matters so much for startups, what's happening with California taxes and policy, and why Gary has gotten more involved in local politics to keep it the best place for founders to build companies.Then we go deep on the parts of startups people don't talk about enough. Co-founder conflict, rage quitting, therapy and coaching, and why companies inevitably take on the personality and emotional patterns of their founders.We also cover what YC looks for in applications, how the 13 week batch is structured, how Demo Day really works, how to choose the right investors, and what Gary thinks the next phase of YC looks like, including helping founders even after Series A.At the end, Gary shares his personal AI workflow, including meta prompting, comparing outputs across models, and the tools he uses every day to think and build faster.Try Numeral, the end-to-end platform for sales tax and compliance: https://www.numeral.com⁠Sign-up for Flex Elite with code TURNER, get $1,000: https://form.typeform.com/to/Rx9rTjFzTimestamps:(0:05) Moving from Winnipeg to California as a kid(1:35) How YC interviews work(2:55) The first batch in 2005(6:46) Why YC moved from Boston to SF(8:17) California's Billionaire Tax(11:00) Tech should care about public policies(17:01) Going direct to your audience(20:28) The 2nd Era of YC(24:01) Rage quitting Palantir, learning to understand himself(32:41) Co-founder conflict kills most startups(35:15) Joining YC as a group partner(37:22) Initialized Fund 1 (55x DPI)(39:44) Why Garry went back to lead YC(42:44) YC funds 20% of all $5B+ companies(44:30) Lessons from Brian Chesky(48:01) Garry's thoughts on YC rejection(51:41) How to get into YC(58:03) What it's like inside a 13-week YC batch(1:02:23) 20% of YC is hard tech(1:05:55) YC's 3rd era: founder mode, re-batching(1:07:56) Escaping the matrix(1:11:26) Garry's personal AI stack(1:20:25) Tech optimismReferencedY Combinator: https://www.ycombinator.com/Initialized Capital: https://initialized.com/Torch: https://torch.io/Perplexity: https://www.perplexity.ai/Anthropic: https://www.anthropic.com/OpenAI: https://openai.com/Airbnb: https://www.airbnb.com/Kyle Vogt on his new startup: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQoFbvyWEy8Follow Aaron Levie on X: https://x.com/levieFollow GaryTwitter: https://x.com/garytanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garytan/Follow TurnerTwitter: https://twitter.com/TurnerNovakLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/turnernovakSubscribe to my newsletter to get every episode + the transcript in your inbox every week: https://www.thespl.it/

Demo Day Podcast
The One Truth Every CEO Needs to Hear with Brian Lee

Demo Day Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 16, 2026 52:04


Most startup advice tells you how to grow, but Brian Lee is here to tell you how to survive. In this episode, the legendary founder of LegalZoom and The Honest Company reveals the "one truth" that separates elite CEOs from those who run out of runway.Whether you're a first-time founder or a seasoned operator, the role of a CEO is often misunderstood. Brian Lee (Managing Partner at BAM Ventures) joins us on Demo Day to strip away the fluff and deliver a masterclass in operational discipline. From his early days building LegalZoom and ShoeDazzle to his current work with Arena Club, Brian has seen the same patterns lead to both billion-dollar exits and total failures.In this episode, we break down "The CEO Playbook," including:The "CE-No" Philosophy: Why your primary job is saying no to good ideas so you can focus on the great ones.The Survival Mandate: Brian's #1 rule for every founder—treat money like gold and never, ever run out.Building Your Inner Circle: Why you must "hire fast and fire faster" to protect the culture of a high-growth startup.Founder Likability: Why being "likable" is actually a strategic superpower for fundraising and leadership.The VC Perspective: What BAM Ventures looks for in the pre-seed and seed stages of consumer tech.Brian also shares deeply personal insights into his transition from operator to venture capitalist, explaining how his time in the trenches allows him to spot "the signal in the noise" better than professional VCs who have never run a company. If you are looking for startup tips, fundraising advice, or a reality check on your founder success metrics, this is the one conversation you cannot afford to miss.

K Drama Chat
13.12 - Podcast Review of Episode 12 of Start-Up

K Drama Chat

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 13, 2026 92:20


Comment on this episode by going to KDramaChat.comToday, we'll be discussing Episode 12 of Start-Up, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Bae Suzy as Seo Dal-mi, Nam Joo-hyuk as Nam Do-san, Kim Seon-ho as Han Ji-pyeong, Kang Han-na as Won In-jae, and Kim Hae-sook as Choi Won-deok. We discuss:The songs featured during the recap: Love Letter by BOL4, In the Same Way or Another by Park Sejun, and Without Your Letter by Lee Nyeom.The fallout of the 2STO deal and how Samsan Tech's lack of legal, financial, and strategic guidance led to a contract that technically worked, but failed them completely.Han Ji-pyeong's crisis of conscience and how his absence at Demo Day changed everything for Dal-mi and Samsan Tech.Why Seo Dal-mi didn't bring the contract to Ji-pyeong for review, and how excitement, pride, and emotional distance all played a role.The brutal moment when Dal-mi and Jung Sa-ha are let go, revealing who 2STO actually wanted and how “acquiring a company” doesn't mean protecting its people.The heartbreaking confrontation between Nam Do-san and Han Ji-pyeong, culminating in a physical fight and the devastating reveal about Dal-mi's grandmother losing her vision.Ji-pyeong's visit to the grandmother at her corn dog stand, the meaning of the word “순딩이” (gentle soul), and why this hug becomes his emotional breaking point.The quiet late-night phone call between Dal-mi and Do-san, the recorded confession, and the realization that love alone cannot be a shared dreamWhy Dal-mi breaks up with Do-san on his birthday, and how humiliation, pride, and unequal trajectories force her to let him go.Dal-mi's decision to apply for a Strategic Planning Manager role at In-jae Company, swallowing her pride and reframing what leadership and vision look like after failure.The episode's closing questions: the uncertain future of NoonGil, Do-san's reluctant departure for Silicon Valley, and whether Ji-pyeong is finally ready to step into the role he's been avoiding.The two unforgettable dads of Start-Up: Kim Won-hae, who plays Nam Do-san's father,  and Kim Joo-hun, who portrays Seo Dal-mi's father.What we're watching now, including Pro Bono and Can This Love Be Translated.The exciting interview with a real-life venture capitalist next week!ReferencesMedication, shape, size, and color – what does it mean?Korean housingPill identifier from Drugs.comSouth Korea's housing crisis explainedNanta (theatrical show) - WikipediaKim Won-hae - WikipediaKim Joo-hun - Wikipedia

Marketing prawniczy w praktyce
#MPP129 LEGAL MARKET DAY 2026: kulisy i nowości (oraz ukryty w nagraniu kod rabatowy) – Patryk Kąsinowski

Marketing prawniczy w praktyce

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 11, 2026 44:48


Odkryj szczegóły 12. edycji wydarzenia, które od lat wyznacza standardy dla branży prawniczej w Polsce. To nie jest kolejna konferencja dla prawników - to prawdopodobnie jedyne w kraju spotkanie skierowane w głównej części wyłącznie do właścicieli i partnerów kancelarii oraz firm doradczych, skupione na strategicznym rozwoju biznesu i technologii.Z drugiej strony jedno z niewielu miejsc, gdzie posłuchasz merytorycznych występień dostawców technologii dla prawników z Polski i zagranicy.Moim gościem w 129 odcinku podcastu “Marketing prawniczy w praktyce” jest Patryk Kąsinowski – Head of Key Clients, który od 3 lat odpowiada za organizację i koordynację LEGAL MARKET DAY.

K Drama Chat
13.11 - Podcast Review of Episode 11 of StartUp

K Drama Chat

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 6, 2026 95:31


Comment on this episode by going to KDramaChat.comToday, we'll be discussing Episode 11 of Start-Up, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Bae Suzy as Seo Dal-mi, Nam Joo-hyuk as Nam Do-san, Kim Seon-ho as Han Ji-pyeong, Kang Han-na as Won In-jae, and Kim Hae-sook as Choi Won-deok. We discuss:The songs featured during the recap: Two Words by Wendy (of Red Velvet), Swing and Sand by Kim Dong-hyeok, and What Girls Do by Park Se-jun & Song Je-gyom.The emotional fallout for Han Ji-pyeong as he confronts the human cost of his words, especially in light of Kim Dong-su's death.The complicated idea of “Plan B” — why Ji-pyeong offers it, why Dal-mi, Do-san, and Yong-san reject it, and how pride, guilt, and independence all collide here.Samsan Tech's Demo Day win and why their decision not to inflate accuracy numbers becomes a defining moment for Do-san's integrity and leadership.The ethical debate sparked by Do-san's father during In-jae's presentation: innovation vs. jobs, and how this 2020 storyline feels even more relevant in today's AI-driven world.How Dal-mi reframes technology as something meant to serve people, especially the visually impaired, rather than replace them.The uneasy excitement around 2STO's acquisition offer, including why the lack of legal guidance is alarming and how inexperienced founders can be vulnerable in high-stakes deals.Ji-pyeong's fear that the acquisition is really a high-priced recruiting strategy — and his frantic attempt to stop the contract once it's already in motion.The shifting dynamic between the sisters, as Won In-jae quietly reaches out to Dal-mi with small gestures that suggest reconciliation, even while Dal-mi stays firmly competitive.Dal-mi's unresolved anger toward her mother, the grandmother's perspective on forgiveness, and the idea that letting go of grudges can be an act of survival.Our deep dive into Korean skincare, from the 10-step routine and “glass skin” ideals to realistic approaches, favorite products, and why sunscreen reigns supreme.What we're watching now, including Can This Love Be Translated? and Encounter, and Netflix's growing catalog of older K dramas.ReferencesAn Expert Guide to Your 10-Step Korean Skincare Routine34 Korean Beauty ProductsMedicube Collagen Jelly CreamCOSRX Snail Mucin

Customer Experience Superheroes
Customer Experience Superheroes - S16 E2 - CX Tech Demo Day

Customer Experience Superheroes

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2026 62:04


This episode of the Customer Experience Superheroes podcast captures a frank panel discussion recorded at Lexden's CX Tech Demo Day in October 2025. Believed to be the first event dedicated solely to CX technology, it brought together providers focused on real capability, not surface-level innovation.The panel features Federico Cesconi (Sandsiv), David Heneghan (CX Index), Keith Fulford (Genesys), Trent Rossini (inCuba) and Agam Kohli (Odigo), hosted by Christopher Brooks from Lexden Group. The discussion is shaped deliberately from a buyer's perspective, with questions that cut through typical vendor messaging.Rather than product talk, the panel explores how CX technology should deliver value. How ROI is genuinely measured. Where time savings create the biggest commercial impact. And whether AI can finally drive both efficiency and customer loyalty without compromise.The conversation also covers how vendors position themselves with clients, the role of cybersecurity as a non-negotiable part of customer care, and how leaders should think about AI as an intelligence layer across the entire customer journey.If you're responsible for CX strategy or technology investment, this episode offers clear, grounded perspectives from people working at the sharp end of CX tech decisions.

Demo Day Podcast
How VCs Predict Startup Success with Ben Savage

Demo Day Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 2, 2026 53:35


What is the single most powerful indicator that a founder will succeed? According to Ben Savage, it isn't just a great product or a massive market—it's the "Compete Test". When a seasoned investor looks at a founder and realizes, “That's not somebody I want to compete with,” they know they've found a winner.In this episode of Demo Day, we sit down with Ben Savage, Partner at Clocktower Technology Ventures, to demystify the internal frameworks used by top VCs to evaluate talent and risk. With over 13 years at Clocktower, Ben shares his deep expertise in the "Foundational Economy"—investing in FinTech, energy, and industrials.Key TakeawaysThe "Unbeatable" Founder: Why the best indicator of success is being a person that others are afraid to go up against in the market.The 4-Part Investment Framework: How Clocktower evaluates every deal based on Founder Quality, Narrative Quality, Fit, and Value.Investor vs. Operator: Why "making the donuts" is fundamentally different from coaching from the sidelines, and why you must choose a spike.The "I" vs. "We" Red Flag: How small shifts in vocabulary reveal a founder's true ability to build a world-class team and culture.Navigating the AI Disruption: Why founders today must either lead with an AI-centric strategy or risk being disrupted at an accelerating pace.The Power of Simplicity: Why the best investment decisions often come from cutting through complexity to the "dumb" or obvious version of a story.Ben also opens up about the "lonely journey" of entrepreneurship and why radical vulnerability is a superpower for building long-term partnerships.

K Drama Chat
13.10 - Podcast Review of Episode 10 of Start-Up

K Drama Chat

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 30, 2026 95:26


Comment on this episode by going to KDramaChat.comToday, we'll be discussing Episode 10 of Start-Up, the hit K Drama on Netflix starring Bae Suzy as Seo Dal-mi, Nam Joo Hyuk as Nam Do-san, Kim Seon Ho as Han Ji Pyeong, Kang Han Na as Won In Jae, and Kim Hae Sook as Choi Won Deok. We discuss:The songs featured during the recap: Lonesome Diary by Sandeul, We Want To Be Like You by Park Sejun, and Without Your Letter by Lee Nyeom.The many confessions in this episode, especially by Han Ji Pyeong and Nam Do San, and how they each deal with rejection.The depth of Seo Dal Mi's devastation as she discovers the truth behind the letters and struggles with shattered confidence before Demo Day.The beautiful and layered bus station scene between Nam Do San and Seo Dal Mi, including her heartbreaking question, “Was it fun?”Han Ji Pyeong's emotional confession over lunch and the debate between us about whether it was character assassination or honesty.The emotional and philosophical discussion between Nam Do San and his father about shedding expectations and just being themselves.Chul San's confession to Jung Sa Ha and how she unexpectedly seems touched by his sincerity.The symbolism of the suit and the decision by Nam Do San to present his authentic self, not a version dressed up for someone else.How the theme of “white lies” echoes across multiple storylines—grandmother, Nam Do San, Han Ji Pyeong, and Won In Jae—and the consequences of those lies.The offer by Alex Kwon of a job at 2STO and the golden handcuffs of stock options; Joanna explains the financial implications in USD.The haunting storyline about Yong San's brother and his desire for revenge against Han Ji Pyeong, whom he blames for his brother's death.The significance of “Plan B,” and how both Joanna and Sung Hee interpret its double meaning in different ways.Filming locations from Start-Up, including Oil Tank Culture Park (Sandbox exterior), Yeouido Hangang Park (corndog stand), Uijeongu Cathedral (church), and the Conrad Hotel in Seoul (HJP's apartment).ReferencesFilming Locations for Start-UpCaught in the Act: Practical and Legal Considerations When Executives' Office Love Affair ExposedLee Nyeom on Spotify

EL MIRADOR
EL MIRADOR T06C100 La Fundación Estrella de Levante impulsa el talento joven con "Dream Big" para resolver los desafíos ambientales del sureste español (27/01/2026)

EL MIRADOR

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2026 8:41


Cristina Clavel, representante de la Fundación Estrella de Levante, anuncia la apertura de las últimas 20 plazas para participar en Dream Big, una iniciativa que ya cuenta con 100 inscritos procedentes de diversas universidades de Murcia, Alicante, Almería y Albacete. El proyecto comenzará con una jornada de tres horas el 7 de febrero en la sala de catas de la cervecera, donde los participantes idearán respuestas innovadoras a retos críticos de la región como la escasez de agua, la gestión de plásticos o la situación del Mar Menor.Los proyectos seleccionados por el jurado accederán a una fase de incubación online mentorizada mediante la metodología Lombard para desarrollar una estructura empresarial sólida antes del "Demo Day" final. Además del respaldo técnico de instituciones como el INFO y una red de cátedras interuniversitarias, el equipo ganador recibirá 3.000 euros y la oportunidad de viajar 20 días a Silicon Valley para acelerar su idea dentro del certamen nacional Imagine Planet Challenge

The Real Estate Crowdfunding Show - DEAL TIME!
Feasibility Studies in Minutes with AI

The Real Estate Crowdfunding Show - DEAL TIME!

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 26, 2026 51:36


Introducing the Demo Day YouTube/Podcast   Demo Day is a new series focused on one simple idea: showing, not telling, where AI is actually revolutionizing commercial real estate.   No theory. No slide decks. Not a clever ChatGPT prompt.   Just live, on-screen demonstrations of AI tools you can use today to get a significant edge against your competitors.   If you think ChatGPT is all AI has to offer, this episode will reset your mental model fast. In this Demo Day, I reveal the extraordinary AI platform, TestFit, a platform that applies AI directly to land underwriting and early development decisions by building super-detailed feasibility studies for you in minutes.   Best seen on YouTube, watch this episode to see how AI does what traditionally took weeks, consultants, and real pursuit capital: Instantly show what can be built on a site Kill weak deals early and surface better ones faster Update layouts and early-stage economics live on screen Run thousands of zoning and density scenarios in real time This is the real deal.   Beneath all the hype about AI, and the usual 'here's (yet) another great prompt' incremental benefits, there truly are companies revolutionizing the industry.   Testfit is one of them.   If you want to get REAL benefit from AI and give your company a real, immediately tangible competitive advantage in the new AI era – start here.   ***   At GowerCrowd, we are aggressively researching AI tools you can actually use and that bring real, immediate value to your business.    Subscribe to my newsletter and get access to this transformational intel before anyone else:  https://gowercrowd.com/subscribe Email: adam@gowercrowd.com Call: 213-761-1000

#plugintodevin - Your Mark on the World with Devin Thorpe
AI-Powered Tech Condenses 7-Year Diagnostic Odysseys for Kids into 12 Weeks

#plugintodevin - Your Mark on the World with Devin Thorpe

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2026 25:52


Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Joshua: Resilience.Millions of families with children suffering from rare diseases endure years of frustration and uncertainty, seeking answers from specialists who rarely collaborate. Joshua Resnikoff, CEO and Cofounder of Sunstone Health, has been there. His middle child's years-long fight for a diagnosis inspired him to tackle this systemic inefficiency with AI-powered innovation.Sunstone Health uses AI to analyze healthcare claims data, identifying children who may have genetic conditions, like pediatric epilepsy or autism, and accelerating their path to diagnosis and care. “On average right now, it takes seven years for a family to go from first symptom to a care path that works for them,” Joshua explained in today's episode. “We can take that seven-year process and condense it down into 12 weeks.”This groundbreaking approach provides a win-win solution for families and health plans alike. By identifying patterns in data, Sunstone Health not only helps families avoid the “diagnostic odyssey” of endless referrals but also reduces healthcare costs. “Ultimately, we are saving the plans, the insurance, the employers—whoever is the financial backstop for that family—a lot of money,” Joshua said.The company's innovative model charges health plans only when results are delivered, making it a no-risk decision for employers looking to improve care while managing costs. Sunstone Health has already touched the lives of nearly half a million people through partnerships with health plans, scaling rapidly since its pilot phase.In addition to changing lives, Sunstone Health is raising capital via regulation crowdfunding on Wefunder. This community round allows families and supporters to invest in the company's vision alongside professional investors. “We opened up a few hundred thousand dollars so families could join our mission,” Joshua shared. The campaign has been so successful that Sunstone Health has reopened the round to accommodate more investors.This episode highlights the power of technology and mission-driven innovation to solve seemingly intractable problems. With AI and dedication, Joshua and his team are transforming the lives of families navigating the challenges of rare diseases.tl;dr:Joshua shared how his personal experience inspired Sunstone Health's AI-powered diagnostic solution for rare diseases.Sunstone Health condenses the average 7-year diagnostic process into just 12 weeks for families.The innovative model benefits families and health plans by aligning financial incentives with better care.Sunstone Health is raising capital through regulation crowdfunding, welcoming families and investors to join its mission.Joshua's resilience, driven by optimism and grit, has been key to Sunstone's success and growth.How to Develop Resilience As a SuperpowerJoshua identified resilience—what he calls “grit”—as his defining superpower. He explained, “To do something like this, it just takes a lot of resilience and determination.” Building a company to tackle the systemic inefficiencies in healthcare required overcoming countless challenges. From skeptics who dismissed the problem as “too big to solve” to navigating obstacles in scaling Sunstone Health, Joshua's perseverance has been key. He shared, “There are going to be such deeply dark and frustrating times as a founder…you just have to stay optimistic.”Joshua's resilience was evident early in life when he taught himself to code in BASIC as a child, spending hours figuring out how to make things work. Later, while working full-time as a biomedical engineer at Harvard, he co-founded a company that unexpectedly went viral, selling eco-friendly travel mugs featured on Oprah's blog and in the New York Times. Despite juggling two demanding roles, he stayed determined and made both endeavors successful.Tips for Developing Resilience:Stay Optimistic: Focus on opportunities rather than obstacles, even in challenging situations.Pursue What You Love: Work on projects that deeply resonate with you to sustain motivation through tough times.Embrace Determination: Commit to pushing through difficulties with persistence and grit.Learn from Challenges: View setbacks as opportunities to grow and improve.By following Joshua's example and advice, you can make resilience a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileJoshua Resnikoff (he/him):CEO and Cofounder, Sunstone HealthAbout Sunstone Health: Sunstone Health is an AI-powered precision health platform designed to help families and health plans recognize developmental delay earlier—before uncertainty turns into years of fragmented care and unnecessary cost. By analyzing health system data to identify early patterns of developmental complexity, Sunstone helps guide children toward clearer next steps while supporting families through what is often a long and confusing journey. The result is earlier clarity for families, more coordinated care for clinicians, and meaningful cost reduction for employers—without disrupting existing care or asking families to wait when the signs are already there.Website: sunstonehealth.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/SunstoneHealthOfficialCompany Twitter Handle: @Sunstone_HealthOther URL: wefunder.com/sunstone.healthBiographical Information: Biomedical engineer and entrepreneur in translational science and consumer products. 14 patents, work showcased in national news, and has scaled businesses to >3000x ROI. Focused on using business as a force for good.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/joshuaresnikoffSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We're grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.SuperCrowdHour, January 21, 2026, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on “From $10 to Impact: How Anyone Can Become an Impact Investor.” Drawing on his experience as an investment banker, impact investor, and community-building leader, Devin will explain how everyday people can start investing small amounts to support mission-driven companies while pursuing financial returns. In this session, he'll break down the basics of regulated investment crowdfunding, show how impact and profit can align, and share practical steps for identifying opportunities that create real-world change. As an added benefit, attendees can become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd for just $4.58 per month to receive an exclusive private Zoom meeting invitation with Devin, free tickets to paid SuperCrowd events, and the opportunity to directly support social entrepreneurs, community builders, and underrepresented founders.SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don't miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year. Learn more about sponsoring the event here. Interested in speaking? Apply here. Support our work with a tax-deductible donation here.Demo Day at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to present at the SuperGreen Live Demo Day session on January 22! The application window is closing soon; apply today at 4sc.fun/sgdemo. The Demo Day session is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who are NOT currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.SuperCrowd Impact Member Networking Session: Impact (and, of course, Max-Impact) Members of the SuperCrowd are invited to a private networking session on January 27th at 1:30 PM ET/10:30 AM PT. Mark your calendar. We'll send private emails to Impact Members with registration details.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Join C-AR Annual Reporting: Requirements, Deadlines, and Lessons Learned from the Field on January 14, 2026, an informative online webinar designed to help crowdfunding issuers and professionals clearly understand C-AR annual reporting requirements, key deadlines, and real-world insights to stay compliant and prepared.Join UGLY TALK: Women Tech Founders in San Francisco on January 29, 2026, an energizing in-person gathering of 100 women founders focused on funding strategies and discovering SuperCrowd as a powerful alternative for raising capital.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.Manage the volume of emails you receive from us by clicking here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

#plugintodevin - Your Mark on the World with Devin Thorpe
Regulation Crowdfunding Platform CineBlock Films Empowers Everyday Investors to Back Entertainment Projects

#plugintodevin - Your Mark on the World with Devin Thorpe

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 13, 2026 26:04


Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Prince: Solving problems by identifying pain points and creating solutions.The entertainment industry is evolving, and CineBlock Films is at the forefront of this transformation. The platform, created by Prince Ace, is democratizing access to entertainment investments, allowing everyday people to invest in films, video games, and other media projects. By leveraging regulation crowdfunding, CineBlock Films empowers independent creators to raise capital directly from the crowd.“This is a marketplace that we created to allow everyday retail investors to be able to invest in entertainment media from the ground up or at distribution at any stage of the production process,” Prince explained. “This allows you to be a part of it, a meaningful part of the process, and invest in what you watch.”In today's episode, Prince shared how CineBlock Films is designed to remove traditional barriers in the entertainment industry. Historically, financing for films and media projects was often reserved for wealthy individuals or institutions, leaving independent creators struggling to secure funding. Prince emphasized that crowdfunding not only levels the playing field but also creates opportunities for creators to maintain autonomy and ownership of their work.“Instead of having one person give me a million dollars, I'd rather have 1,000 people give me $1,000,” Prince said. “Now I have 1,000 people that are an army, that are fans, that are engaged, that are going to champion this project and market it to all their social networks.”Prince Ace, Founder of CineBlock Films, will be speaking at SuperGreen Live, sharing insights on democratizing investment in films, media, and the creator economy through fintech innovation—register now at SuperGreenLive.orgWith CineBlock Films, investors can back projects that align with their values and interests. Whether it's an AI-driven feature film, a documentary about climate change, or a multicultural musical drama, CineBlock Films enables everyday investors to participate in the creative process. The platform's inaugural offering, an AI-produced film called Awake, is already generating excitement.CineBlock Films is more than a crowdfunding platform—it's a movement. By giving retail investors the chance to support creative projects, Prince is reshaping the entertainment landscape. As he put it, “This allows them to now have autonomy and agency in their creative process, as well as in their returns.”If you've ever dreamed of being part of the next big blockbuster or an impactful indie film, CineBlock Films offers a unique opportunity to invest in entertainment and make a difference.tl;dr:CineBlock Films democratizes entertainment investments, allowing retail investors to support films and media projects.Prince Ace explains how crowdfunding empowers independent creators to retain ownership and creative control.New offerings on CineBlock Films include an AI-produced feature film and impactful documentaries.Prince's superpower is problem solving, which he uses to overcome challenges and create innovations.Prince encourages identifying pain points, iterating on solutions, and seeking feedback to solve problems.How to Develop Problem Solving As a SuperpowerPrince Ace describes his superpower as solving problems by identifying pain points and creating solutions. “When people have a problem, [I focus on] finding those pain points and [creating] a solution for that,” he explained. Prince shared that his approach involves iterating on ideas, going back to fundamentals, and being open to feedback.Prince shared how he faced challenges in financing an independent film. Frustrated by the traditional “dog and pony show” of pitching to wealthy investors, he envisioned a solution: a crowdfunding platform for entertainment projects. By writing a white paper, seeking feedback, and assembling a talented team, Prince turned his vision into reality. The result was CineBlock Films, a platform that empowers creators and retail investors alike.Tips for Developing Problem-Solving Skills:Identify pain points and write them down to clarify the problem.Use a structured, iterative process to brainstorm solutions.Return to fundamentals when blocked to find a clear path forward.Seek feedback from others to gain new perspectives and refine ideas.Embrace pivots and remain open to alternative approaches.By following Prince's example and advice, you can make problem solving a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfilePrince Ace (he/him):Founder, CineBlock FilmsAbout CineBlock Films: A marketplace for investable media security offerings. Everyday investors, fans, and audiences in the US can legally fund or invest in films, tv shows, video games, studios, and more. Invest in what you watch.Website: cineblockfilms.comBiographical Information: A industry disruptor with a passion for entertainment media and financial technology. He is a former portfolio and finance manager, an indie film producer, a promoter, and creator of the CineBlock platform. As an early investor and contributor to the ai and web3 movement, Prince has been on the pioneering side of fintech, AI, and the creator economy.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/princeaceSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We're grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.SuperCrowdHour, January 21, 2026, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on “From $10 to Impact: How Anyone Can Become an Impact Investor.” Drawing on his experience as an investment banker, impact investor, and community-building leader, Devin will explain how everyday people can start investing small amounts to support mission-driven companies while pursuing financial returns. In this session, he'll break down the basics of regulated investment crowdfunding, show how impact and profit can align, and share practical steps for identifying opportunities that create real-world change. As an added benefit, attendees can become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd for just $4.58 per month to receive an exclusive private Zoom meeting invitation with Devin, free tickets to paid SuperCrowd events, and the opportunity to directly support social entrepreneurs, community builders, and underrepresented founders.SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don't miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year. Learn more about sponsoring the event here. Interested in speaking? Apply here. Support our work with a tax-deductible donation here.Demo Day at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to present at the SuperGreen Live Demo Day session on January 22! The application window is closing soon; apply today at 4sc.fun/sgdemo. The Demo Day session is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who are NOT currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.SuperCrowd Impact Member Networking Session: Impact (and, of course, Max-Impact) Members of the SuperCrowd are invited to a private networking session on January 27th at 1:30 PM ET/10:30 AM PT. Mark your calendar. We'll send private emails to Impact Members with registration details.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Join C-AR Annual Reporting: Requirements, Deadlines, and Lessons Learned from the Field on January 14, 2026, an informative online webinar designed to help crowdfunding issuers and professionals clearly understand C-AR annual reporting requirements, key deadlines, and real-world insights to stay compliant and prepared.Join UGLY TALK: Women Tech Founders in San Francisco on January 29, 2026, an energizing in-person gathering of 100 women founders focused on funding strategies and discovering SuperCrowd as a powerful alternative for raising capital.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.Manage the volume of emails you receive from us by clicking here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

#plugintodevin - Your Mark on the World with Devin Thorpe
Transforming Trash into Treasure: The Profitable Economics of Zero Waste

#plugintodevin - Your Mark on the World with Devin Thorpe

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 8, 2026 25:50


Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Tom: I feel like my core superpower is convincing people to believe in my dreams and rallying them around.Most people view recycling as a public service, but the reality is that it is a business governed by the ruthless laws of economics. If the value of the material recovered doesn't exceed the cost to collect and process it, that item ends up in a landfill. This economic gap is exactly where Tom Szaky has built an empire.Recently, Tom Szaky, the CEO and founder of TerraCycle, shared insights on how he is tackling the world's garbage problem. His company isn't just a recycling firm; it is a supply chain innovator that figures out how to recycle the “unrecyclable,” from cigarette butts to dirty diapers.Tom explains the core issue with clarity. “The reality is most things in the world can be recycled. The difference is that recycling is not really a public service. It's run by for-profit companies.”He notes that aluminum cans are recycled because they are profitable. Conversely, complex items like coffee capsules cost more to process than the aluminum is worth. TerraCycle solves this by finding stakeholders—brands, retailers, and cities—willing to fund that gap.This model has proven incredibly successful. TerraCycle has been profitable for years and recently completed a Regulation Crowdfunding offering for TerraCycle US. They raised $5 million in less than 60 days.Investors are drawn to the company not just for its mission but for its financial discipline. Tom highlighted that previous investors have already received significant returns. “If you invested, say $1,000 in REG A back five years ago, you'd have already been paid somewhere between 17% and 20% of that invested capital in dividends.”Tom Szaky, Founder and CEO of TerraCycle, will be speaking at SuperGreen Live, sharing insights on sustainability, circular economy solutions, and rethinking waste at scale—register now at SuperGreenLive.orgTom challenges the old binary that you either make money or you do good. He believes purpose fuels business fundamentals. By locating his HQ in Trenton, New Jersey, he revitalizes an underserved community while gaining access to affordable real estate and a diverse talent pool.“Why should on one end we make money and on the other end give it away to NGOs to help save the world?” Tom asks. “Why can't those two concepts come together where you can invest in a profitable business whose core focus is making the world better?”TerraCycle is proving that you can indeed do both. By aligning profit with planetary health, Tom is showing a path toward a zero-waste world that makes economic sense.tl;dr:TerraCycle creates supply chains for hard-to-recycle waste by getting stakeholders to fund the cost gap.Recycling is an economic challenge because items are only recycled locally if they generate profit.Tom recently raised $5 million via Regulation Crowdfunding by demonstrating proven growth and consistent dividends.Purpose-driven business models can drive better economic fundamentals like lower costs and government support.Tom's superpower is rallying people around a vision by starting with a beautiful, impactful idea.How to Develop Rallying Believers As a SuperpowerTom describes his superpower as the ability to get others to see his vision and join him in executing it. It isn't just about salesmanship; it is about authentic conviction. He explains, “I feel like my core superpower is convincing people to believe in my dreams and rallying them around.” This ability allows him to mobilize diverse groups, from college interns to multinational corporations, to tackle massive global challenges like waste elimination.To illustrate this, Tom shared a charming story from his childhood. In second grade, he had a vision of folding thousands of origami cranes to create a decorative entryway for his bedroom. He started folding them at a table with four other classmates. He didn't force them to help; he just started doing the work with passion. Within two days, the whole table was folding cranes. By the end of the week, the entire class was involved. This early experience taught him that if you lead with action and a compelling idea, people will naturally want to be part of the journey.How to Develop This SuperpowerFor those interested in rallying people around a vision, Tom offers several insights that can help transform this into a skill:Start with a beautiful idea. The core concept should not just be about making money. It must be something that makes the world better, more beautiful, or more sustainable.Believe in it yourself. Authentic, unwavering belief in a dream is essential before expecting others to follow.Just start doing it. Action attracts others. By beginning the work, people will naturally gravitate toward the energy and vision.View profit as health, not the goal. While profit is necessary to survive, keeping the mission as the central focus ensures authenticity. This, in turn, attracts investors, employees, and partners who want to be part of something meaningful.Maintain clarity of vision. Instead of trying to fix everything at once, a focused approach on a specific area of expertise drives meaningful change.By following Tom's example and advice, rallying believers can become a powerful skill. With practice and effort, this superpower can enable individuals and organizations to achieve greater impact.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileTom Szaky (he/him):CEO/Founder, TerraCycleAbout TerraCycle: TerraCycle is an international leader in innovative sustainability solutions, creating and operating first-of-their-kind platforms in recycling, recycled materials, and reuse. Across 18 countries, TerraCycle is on a mission to eliminate the idea of waste and develop practical solutions for today's complex waste challenges. The company engages an expansive multi-stakeholder community, from Fortune 500 companies to schools and households, across a wide range of accessible programs and has raised millions for schools and nonprofits since its founding more than 20 years ago. To learn more about TerraCycle and join them on their journey to move the world from a linear economy to a circular one, please visit terracycle.com.Website: terracycle.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/terracycleInstagram Handle: @terracycleOther URL: invest.terracycle.comBiographical Information: Tom Szaky is founder and CEO of TerraCycle, an international leader in innovative sustainability solutions, creating and operating first-of-their-kind platforms in recycling, recycled materials, and reuse. Across 21 countries, TerraCycle is on a mission to rethink waste and develop practical solutions for today's complex waste challenges. The company engages an expansive multi-stakeholder community across a wide range of accessible programs, from Fortune 500 companies to schools and individuals.In 2019, TerraCycle launched Loop, a circular reuse platform that enables consumers to purchase products in durable, reusable packaging. Loop is available in France, Japan, and the U.S., and is a key step in helping to end the epidemic of waste that is caused by “single-use” consumption. Tom and TerraCycle have received hundreds of social, environmental, and business awards and recognition from a range of organizations, including the United Nations, World Economic Forum, Fortune Magazine, Time Magazine, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.Tom is the author of four books: Revolution in a Bottle, Outsmart Waste, Make Garbage Great, and The Future of Packaging. Tom created, produced, and starred in TerraCycle's reality show, Human Resources, which aired on Pivot from 2014–2016 and is syndicated in more than 20 foreign markets on Amazon and iTunes.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/tomszakySupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include RISE Robotics, and Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We're grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.SuperCrowdHour, January 21, 2026, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on “From $10 to Impact: How Anyone Can Become an Impact Investor.” Drawing on his experience as an investment banker, impact investor, and community-building leader, Devin will explain how everyday people can start investing small amounts to support mission-driven companies while pursuing financial returns. In this session, he'll break down the basics of regulated investment crowdfunding, show how impact and profit can align, and share practical steps for identifying opportunities that create real-world change. As an added benefit, attendees can become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd for just $4.58 per month to receive an exclusive private Zoom meeting invitation with Devin, free tickets to paid SuperCrowd events, and the opportunity to directly support social entrepreneurs, community builders, and underrepresented founders.SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don't miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year. Learn more about sponsoring the event here. Interested in speaking? Apply here. Support our work with a tax-deductible donation here.Demo Day at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to present at the SuperGreen Live Demo Day session on January 22! The application window is closing soon; apply today at 4sc.fun/sgdemo. The Demo Day session is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who are NOT currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.SuperCrowd Impact Member Networking Session: Impact (and, of course, Max-Impact) Members of the SuperCrowd are invited to a private networking session on January 27th at 1:30 PM ET/10:30 AM PT. Mark your calendar. We'll send private emails to Impact Members with registration details.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Join UGLY TALK: Women Tech Founders in San Francisco on January 29, 2026, an energizing in-person gathering of 100 women founders focused on funding strategies and discovering SuperCrowd as a powerful alternative for raising capital.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.Manage the volume of emails you receive from us by clicking here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

Don Diablo Presents Hexagon Radio
Hexagon Radio Episode 571 - DemoDay YearMix

Don Diablo Presents Hexagon Radio

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 7, 2026 60:41


Welcome to the world of Hexagonia 1. Wengel - Loving You2. Riscape - Wdays (Radio Edit)3. Kanette - Citadelle4. Menso - Innertide5. Nash Hawkins - The Top6. Benix - SAVE ME7. VICH - Easy to Love8. Axel Knox - Knee Deep9. You Liang - Maybe Tonight10. Rave Rae - Freaky Luv11. Zodoo - TOO MUCH12. Febration - SIGN13. SHERRNX - Why Don't You14. GLADIUS - UNBREAKABLE15. LAETER - On My Mind16. FRAN HOLYV - HOW U WANT AH AH17. Ad Voca, SKIIILLO - Party All Night18. ALLLION - SWEAT19. GHOST CLAW, Appys & IZAND - Lifeline20. Alex Clyde - I Need21. Don Diablo ft A R I Z O N A - Take Her Place (Castel 66 Remix)22. Goleen - Groover 99'23. Nigel Lakefield - The Underground24. Mert Kiraz & Erhun Er - Turn UP the Quick25. Hawker - The Pressure26. SOLLES - KEEP IT UP!27. Mutome - Don't Leave Me Here (Darkness)28. Andrew Melk & Hybrid Noise - HeartBeat29. Rave Rae - Pop N Lock (Extended Mix)30. JDMAJ - Wish31. 2 Below & NOLEPHANT - Otherdays32. Newhaven - For a Second33. Aku - Used To Say34. ERA00 - Falling35. Chumash - Hold Me36. Jordi Rivera - Off My Feet37. Jay Connor - Set Me Free (feat. MIKI)38. Michael Leathers - In My Bag39. Rory Hoy - That I Want40. BARKER - Hold My Ground41. NVIUS - BeBe42. Aizu - Heart43. KEELA - How Do You44. ghost. - I SEE COLORS45. Don Diablo x Nelly Furtado - Doing Nothin (Invisible Remix)46. Jop Govers - Oblivion

#plugintodevin - Your Mark on the World with Devin Thorpe
Transforming Chicago Housing: Robert Linn's Mission to Build Better Homes for People and the Planet

#plugintodevin - Your Mark on the World with Devin Thorpe

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 6, 2026 25:51


Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Robert: If I find out something isn't quite optimized from a building science perspective, I can't just leave it.Affordable housing has become one of the most pressing challenges in cities across the United States, and Chicago is no exception. With a housing shortage driving up prices, Robert Linn, Principal of Point B Properties, is taking an innovative approach to address the crisis while also prioritizing sustainability and health.In today's episode, Robert shared insights into his latest project—a conversion of a two-flat building into a three-flat under Chicago's ADU ordinance. This ordinance allows developers to add units to existing buildings, increasing the housing supply without tearing down older structures. “Chicago right now has a massive undersupply of multifamily housing,” Robert explained. “What we're doing by going in and taking this two-flat and making it a three-flat is helping keep that supply up. As anyone with kind of a basic knowledge of supply and demand knows, if we keep increasing supply, then prices are going to come down.”But Robert's work goes far beyond simply adding more units. He's also focused on making homes healthier and more energy-efficient. For instance, he uses energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) in his projects to improve indoor air quality while conserving energy. “A big focus for me, I would consider an easy win, is air quality,” he said. “We make sure that we pay really good attention to how the property is sealed and then invest extra in ventilation.”Robert also highlighted the importance of proper insulation to prevent issues like mold, which can develop when warm, humid air condenses inside walls. “You could build a building with zero insulation, and no one would be the wiser until your walls are really cold,” he noted. His commitment to detail ensures that his buildings are not only comfortable but also environmentally friendly and cost-effective for residents.What makes this project even more exciting is its funding model. Robert is raising capital through Small Change, a regulated investment crowdfunding platform that allows ordinary people to invest in impact-driven real estate projects. “It's nice to have something more formal to offer to the public in a really structured way,” Robert said, emphasizing the democratizing power of crowdfunding.By blending affordability, sustainability, and healthy living, Robert's work exemplifies how developers can meet critical housing needs while addressing broader challenges like climate change. I encourage you to visit Small Change to learn more about his inspiring Richmond Revival project. Together, we can support initiatives that make a real difference in our communities.tl;dr:Robert Linn's latest project converts a two-flat Chicago building into a three-flat under the ADU ordinance.Robert prioritizes healthy, energy-efficient housing using techniques like proper insulation and energy recovery ventilators.Chicago's housing shortage drives Robert's mission to preserve and expand affordable multifamily housing.He's raising funds for the Richmond Revival project via Small Change, democratizing investment opportunities.Robert's superpower, “constructive discontent,” pushes him to improve housing quality and solve problems creatively.How to Develop Constructive Discontent As a SuperpowerRobert described his superpower as “constructive discontent,” explaining how his refusal to accept subpar solutions drives him to continuously improve his projects. “If I find out something isn't quite optimized from a building science perspective, I can't just leave it,” he said. This mindset leads him to prioritize details like air quality, proper insulation, and energy efficiency, ensuring that the homes he develops are healthier, more sustainable, and more affordable for residents.During today's episode, Robert shared an example of how he used his constructive discontent to improve window installation on his latest project. When his general contractor dismissed best practices as “too complicated,” Robert took matters into his own hands by assigning the task to his crew. He provided them with a video outlining proper installation techniques, ensuring that the windows met his exacting standards. This hands-on approach reflects Robert's commitment to excellence, even when it means going the extra mile.Tips for Developing Constructive Discontent:Don't normalize annoyance—identify things that could be better and explore ways to improve them.Invest in tools or resources, like air quality monitors, to identify hidden problems in your environment.Learn best practices in your field and hold yourself accountable to implement them consistently.Surround yourself with a team you trust to execute your vision when others fall short.By following Robert's example and advice, you can make constructive discontent a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileRobert Linn (he/him):Principal, Point B PropertiesAbout Point B Properties: Point B Properties is a Chicago-based, vertically integrated real estate development firm focused on the “Missing Middle”—the essential workforce housing that institutional funds ignore and small flippers can't handle. Unlike traditional developers who rely on brokers, we utilize a proprietary direct-to-seller sourcing engine to identify off-market, value-add opportunities in high-growth Midwest corridors. We combine this sourcing advantage with rigorous architectural engineering to create “Healthy Buildings”—spaces designed to improve resident well-being through superior air quality and non-toxic materials. Crucially, we are committed to democratizing real estate wealth; through platforms like SmallChange.co, we open our deals to everyday investors, allowing them to co-invest alongside accredited partners.Website: pointbproperties.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/PointBPropertiesInstagram Handle: @pointbprop Other URL: smallchange.co/projects/richmondrevivalBiographical Information: Robert is an innovative real estate professional and developer whose passion for the industry was sparked in his family's woodshop during his childhood. His journey is underpinned by a solid educational foundation, having earned a dual degree in Architecture and Engineering from the University of Michigan.Robert's career began in the niche field of ship design, dovetailing into consulting where he was recruited to apply his expertise to real estate. His commitment to continual growth led him to Indiana University on a scholarship, where he further honed his skills with a double major in Finance and Management.During college, Robert embarked on a new adventure by purchasing his first property. This milestone marked the beginning of his entrepreneurial journey, leading to the formation of his own company, all while balancing a full-time job.Robert is not just about building properties; he's about building them right. Recognized for his contributions to energy-efficient building, like constructing the first Green Star certified condo building, he has a keen interest in the evolving landscape of design and building science. His dedication to the field is further exemplified by his LEED certification and his role as one of the early adopters of HERS rated developments.Robert's projects are infused with a unique blend of practical experience, technical expertise, and theoretical knowledge. His approach to each project is informed by this multidimensional perspective, ensuring solutions that are innovative, efficient, and sustainable.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/linnovatingPersonal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/rlinniSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include RISE Robotics, and Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We're grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.SuperCrowdHour, January 21, 2026, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on “From $10 to Impact: How Anyone Can Become an Impact Investor.” Drawing on his experience as an investment banker, impact investor, and community-building leader, Devin will explain how everyday people can start investing small amounts to support mission-driven companies while pursuing financial returns. In this session, he'll break down the basics of regulated investment crowdfunding, show how impact and profit can align, and share practical steps for identifying opportunities that create real-world change. As an added benefit, attendees can become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd for just $4.58 per month to receive an exclusive private Zoom meeting invitation with Devin, free tickets to paid SuperCrowd events, and the opportunity to directly support social entrepreneurs, community builders, and underrepresented founders.SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don't miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year. Learn more about sponsoring the event here. Interested in speaking? Apply here. Support our work with a tax-deductible donation here.Demo Day at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to present at the SuperGreen Live Demo Day session on January 22! The application window is closing soon; apply today at 4sc.fun/sgdemo. The Demo Day session is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who are NOT currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.Live Pitch at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to pitch at the SuperGreen Live—Live Pitch on January 23! The application window closes January 5th; apply today at s4g.biz/sgapply. The Live Pitch is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who ARE currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.SuperCrowd Impact Member Networking Session: Impact (and, of course, Max-Impact) Members of the SuperCrowd are invited to a private networking session on January 27th at 1:30 PM ET/10:30 AM PT. Mark your calendar. We'll send private emails to Impact Members with registration details.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Join UGLY TALK: Women Tech Founders in San Francisco on January 29, 2026, an energizing in-person gathering of 100 women founders focused on funding strategies and discovering SuperCrowd as a powerful alternative for raising capital.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.Manage the volume of emails you receive from us by clicking here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

#plugintodevin - Your Mark on the World with Devin Thorpe
How Fashion and Community Empowerment Intersect at GGirls Closet

#plugintodevin - Your Mark on the World with Devin Thorpe

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2026 26:19


Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Patricia: Real connection with real people.Sustainability, community impact, and empowerment are at the heart of Patricia Gillmore's mission with GGirls Closet LLC. As the CEO and founder, Patricia has built more than just a thrift store—she's created a hybrid model that combines resale fashion with meaningful community partnerships. Through innovative collaborations with Title I schools and nonprofits, Patricia is proving that thrifting can be a powerful force for good.“Our first point of opening was to help recycle, right, help reduce the landfill waste,” Patricia explained in today's episode. But GGirls Closet quickly became much more than a sustainability initiative. Patricia developed a consignment model that allows schools and nonprofits to generate revenue from donated clothing. “We do a consignment contract with them … they would get 40% of every item that is sold,” she said, describing how her business supports local communities.Patricia's journey began in 2013 when she launched her first boutique with her mother, inspired by their shared love of thrifting. Over the years, GGirls Closet has evolved into a hybrid e-commerce and brick-and-mortar store with a global reach. Patricia's mission grew to include partnerships with schools and nonprofits, where she organizes clothing drives and distributes donation bins. She emphasizes that the initiative isn't money-driven but rather about giving back. “If you need to clean out your closet, put it to a good cause,” she said.In addition to her consignment program, Patricia recently completed a successful Honeycomb Credit campaign, raising funds to expand her operations. The capital will support upgrades like a new point-of-sale system, improvements to the store's workspace, and even a stipend program for students participating in job training. “It was one of the most fulfilling things I've ever done,” she said of the crowdfunding experience.Patricia's vision is ambitious. She plans to franchise her model to impact more communities, expanding GGirls Closet's mission of sustainability and economic empowerment. Her story is a testament to the impact a for-profit business can have when it's guided by purpose and community values.By combining her entrepreneurial skills with a deep commitment to giving back, Patricia is redefining what it means to run a socially conscious business.tl;dr:GGirls Closet LLC combines sustainability and community impact by repurposing clothing to reduce landfill waste.CEO Patricia Gillmore partners with schools and nonprofits, helping them generate revenue through consignment programs.Patricia's recent crowdfunding campaign raised funds to expand operations and increase community impact.She shared how her superpower of “real connection” drives her success through collaboration and relationship-building.Patricia plans to franchise GGirls Closet to bring her mission of empowerment and sustainability to more communities.How to Develop Real Connection As a SuperpowerPatricia's superpower is her ability to connect deeply and authentically with people and organizations. She describes it as “real connection with real people,” explaining that her success comes from listening attentively, asking open-ended questions, and tailoring solutions to meet the needs of schools, nonprofits, and businesses. “The connecting really just comes with learning to talk,” Patricia said, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and authentic communication in building relationships. Her approach has helped her grow GGirls Closet into a community-driven business that serves over 10 nonprofits and Title I schools.Patricia shared an inspiring example of using her superpower to secure a contract with New Legacy, a nonprofit school for super seniors. She developed a program that allows students to earn real-world work credits by working at GGirls Closet. This partnership helps students graduate while gaining valuable job experience. With additional funding from her recent Honeycomb campaign, Patricia plans to introduce a stipend for participating students and create pathways for job placement after graduation. Her ability to collaborate with the school and design a mutually beneficial program exemplifies her talent for connecting with others to make a difference.Tips for Developing This Superpower:Listen Actively: Pay close attention to others' needs and ask open-ended questions to gather insights.Practice Communication: Rehearse conversations or networking scenarios to build confidence before important meetings.Collaborate Generously: Approach partnerships with the mindset of solving problems together rather than focusing on individual gains.Build Authentic Relationships: Focus on integrity and trust when forming connections, as Patricia describes with her “my word is bond” philosophy.Be Adaptive: Tailor your approach to fit the unique needs of each person or organization you engage with.By following Patricia's example and advice, you can make real connection a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfilePatricia Gillmore (she/her):CEO/Founder, GGirls Closet LLCAbout GGirls Closet LLC: GGirls Closet is a unique hybrid boutique based in Aurora, Colorado, with a powerful social mission. We partner with Title I schools, nonprofits, and small businesses by offering consignment accounts that turn resale into a funding opportunity. Through local clothing drives, they recycle only community-donated clothing, selling it through their extensive inventory both online and in-store.There is a return 40% of the proceeds to their partners:Schools receive checks to support student councils and school events.Nonprofits gain funding for classes and essential programs.Small businesses host events in the retail space and receive a portion of the sales to support their missions.This innovative model has made GGirls Closet a staple in the community and a standout example of a for-profit business with a strong commitment to social impact.Website: ggirlscloset.netCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/ggirlsclosetllcInstagram Handle: @ggirlscloset Other URL: 303magazine.com/2022/10/ggirls-closet-is-a-brand-for-the-community , amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/72IPEQRI2ISD, and invest.honeycombcredit.com/campaigns/GGirls-ClosetBiographical Information: Patricia Gillmore is the founder and owner of GGirls Closet, a community-driven resale boutique based in Aurora, Colorado. Since 2013, she has pioneered the state's first for-profit boutique of its kind, operating through a hybrid online and brick-and-mortar model that reinvests directly into local communities. Through strategic partnerships with Title I schools, nonprofits, and small businesses, GGirls Closet returns 40% of consignment proceeds to support educational initiatives, community programs, and small business growth. Under Patricia's leadership, GGirls Closet has become a recognized force in sustainable fashion and social enterprise. She collaborates with Aurora Public Schools to educate students on sustainable shopping and conscious consumption, helping cultivate environmentally aware future consumers. Her work has earned GGirls Closet recognition as Mile High's 3rd Best Women's Store and features in 303 Magazine. Beyond retail, Patricia continues to strengthen community ties through clothing drives, local events, and food distribution efforts—demonstrating a business model where profitability and purpose go hand in hand.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/patricia-gillmore-b5323975Personal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/patricia.gillmoreSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include RISE Robotics, and Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We're grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don't miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year. Learn more about sponsoring the event here. Interested in speaking? Apply here. Support our work with a tax-deductible donation here.Demo Day at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to present at the SuperGreen Live Demo Day session on January 22! The application window is closing soon; apply today at 4sc.fun/sgdemo. The Demo Day session is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who are NOT currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.Live Pitch at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to pitch at the SuperGreen Live—Live Pitch on January 23! The application window closes January 5th; apply today at s4g.biz/sgapply. The Live Pitch is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who ARE currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.SuperCrowd Impact Member Networking Session: Impact (and, of course, Max-Impact) Members of the SuperCrowd are invited to a private networking session on January 27th at 1:30 PM ET/10:30 AM PT. Mark your calendar. We'll send private emails to Impact Members with registration details.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Join UGLY TALK: Women Tech Founders in San Francisco on January 29, 2026, an energizing in-person gathering of 100 women founders focused on funding strategies and discovering SuperCrowd as a powerful alternative for raising capital.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.Manage the volume of emails you receive from us by clicking here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

#plugintodevin - Your Mark on the World with Devin Thorpe
Peacebuilding Begins at Home: Why Solving Local Discord Can Inspire Global Change

#plugintodevin - Your Mark on the World with Devin Thorpe

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 26:05


Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Chip: My challenge, and it's become my superpower, was to work with…to start where people are.The divide in the United States today is often described as being at its worst since the Civil War. The tensions are palpable, with political, social, and cultural divisions creating an atmosphere of discord. Charles (Chip) Hauss, Senior Fellow for Innovation at the Alliance for Peacebuilding and author of Peacebuilding Starts at Home, believes the solution lies in starting small—right in our own communities.In today's episode, Chip shared a critical insight: peacebuilding doesn't happen in a distant, abstract sense—it's something we actively build in our daily lives. “Peace is a verb,” Chip explained. “It is something I do. I build it. And more importantly, it starts at home.”For Chip, the importance of local peacebuilding became clear during a conversation with colleagues after the 2014 killing of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri. The Alliance for Peacebuilding, at the time, focused almost exclusively on international conflicts. But Chip posed a poignant question: “How can we tell people in Burundi that we can solve their problems if we can't do it in Baltimore?”This realization sparked a shift in focus. Chip emphasized that addressing the microcosm of our lives—our families, neighborhoods, and local communities—has the power to ripple outward. By fostering understanding and collaboration in these spaces, we can create broader societal change.What makes this approach even more compelling is its inclusivity. Chip encourages finding common ground even with those we disagree with. “Our first instinct should be to find the things that we share, find the things that we are for,” he said. This mindset, he believes, is the foundation for building meaningful relationships and, ultimately, peace.Chip's work is now evolving into a larger movement to equip individuals with the tools to build peace in their own lives. By focusing on what unites us instead of what divides us, he hopes to inspire millions to take small, tangible steps toward a more peaceful society.It's a powerful reminder that while global challenges may seem insurmountable, the solutions often begin with simple, human connections close to home.tl;dr:Charles Hauss explains why peacebuilding must start at home to inspire broader societal change.The Alliance for Peacebuilding shifted focus to U.S. communities after Ferguson, Missouri, in 2014.Chip emphasizes finding shared values, even with those we strongly disagree with.He shares a practical example of applying peacebuilding to resolve local condo tensions.Chip's new book and movement aim to empower individuals to build peace in daily life.How to Develop Building Meaningful Relationships As a SuperpowerChip's superpower is his ability to build meaningful relationships, especially with people he disagrees with. He explained, “My challenge, and it's become my superpower, was to work with…to start where people are.” For Chip, peacebuilding isn't about tolerating differences but about celebrating them. He shared, “Peacebuilding is not a burden or a chore. It's actually something you can do for fun.” His unique gift lies in creating connections that foster understanding and collaboration, even in contentious or divided spaces.Chip shared a story about moving into a new condo complex where management issues caused tension among residents. Many neighbors were frustrated and confrontational, but Chip encouraged a different approach. He suggested getting to know the new building manager, understanding her perspective, and working together constructively. Within weeks, the community made progress, replacing the manager and starting to build a stronger, more collaborative environment. This story exemplifies Chip's ability to transform conflict into connection through relationship-building.Tips for Developing the Superpower:Start where people are—understand their values, perspectives, and interests.Focus on what you share rather than what divides you.Embrace disagreements as opportunities for learning and growth.Approach peacebuilding as something enjoyable rather than a chore.Encourage collaboration by guiding conversations toward constructive solutions.By following Chip's example and advice, you can make building meaningful relationships a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileCharles (Chip) Hauss (he/him):Senior Fellow for Innovation and Emeritus member of the board o directors, Alliance for PeacebuildingAbout Alliance for Peacebuilding: AfP is the largest network of peacebuilding organizations in the world with over 250 organizational members. After having done the bulk of its work around the world, its leaders and members have decided that peacebuilding has to start at home and that if we want to help people in Botswana create a more peaceful society, we have to do so in Baltimore as well. Chip Hauss will be part of the team that makes that happen starting--but not ending with--the publication of his book, not surprisingly, called Peacebuilding Starts at Home.Website: peacebuildingstartsathome.us and allianceforpeacebuilding.orgOther URL: amzn.to/3KPaWBaBiographical Information: Charles “Chip” Hauss has been exploring ways of producing large scale social and political change through nonviolent and cooperative means since his undergraduate days in the late 1960s. In all of this work, Hauss has tried to be a political bridge builder who brings “strange political bedfellows” together to help solve problems that can only be effectively addressed if they work together. Hauss is currently Senior Fellow for Innovation at the Alliance for Peacebuilding where he helps lead its Peacebuilding Starts at Home initiative which focuses on what the Judy and Peter Blum Kovler Foundation refers to as “America's neglected needs.Hauss is the author of nineteen books on peacebuilding and comparative politics. His newest book Peacebuilding Starts at Home was published in November.Hauss holds a BA from Oberlin and a PhD from the University of Michigan.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/chip-hauss-03a64744/Support Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, and RISE Robotics. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We're grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don't miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year. Learn more about sponsoring the event here. Interested in speaking? Apply here. Support our work with a tax-deductible donation here.Demo Day at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to present at the SuperGreen Live Demo Day session on January 22! The application window is closing soon; apply today at 4sc.fun/sgdemo. The Demo Day session is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who are NOT currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.Live Pitch at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to pitch at the SuperGreen Live—Live Pitch on January 23! The application window closes January 5th; apply today at s4g.biz/sgapply. The Live Pitch is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who ARE currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Join UGLY TALK: Women Tech Founders in San Francisco on January 29, 2026, an energizing in-person gathering of 100 women founders focused on funding strategies and discovering SuperCrowd as a powerful alternative for raising capital.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.Manage the volume of emails you receive from us by clicking here. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

Demo Day Podcast
The Industry Quietly Taking Over VC with Gabriel Schlumberger

Demo Day Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2025 60:17


Space startups today look a lot like the internet in 1995 – early, chaotic, and packed with upside for the founders brave enough to build in the void. With VCs going all in on space, Techstars betting big on the category, and an entire industry quietly taking over venture capital, this is a moment founders can't ignore.In this episode of Demo Day, Techstars Space Managing Director Gabriel Schlumberger breaks down why “SPACE IS THE FUTURE” is more than a catchy thumbnail – it's an actual investing thesis. Gabriel explains how launch costs, new business models, and a surge of satellites are turning space into one of the most important frontier markets for startups and venture capital.Gabriel shares his journey from Pixar, Blue Sky, and Disney to becoming a founder himself, building an FDA‑regulated glasses startup for kids in the middle of a global pandemic, and then stepping into his role at Techstars Space. That experience across creative studios, corporate innovation, and true zero‑to‑one startup chaos shapes how he now evaluates founders and why he's so bullish on space companies.You'll learn:Why space today feels like the internet did in 1995, and what that means for startup timing and upside.How Techstars is betting big on space through its accelerator with NASA JPL and the U.S. Space Force.The trait Gabriel calls “pathological curiosity” and why it separates the best founders and VCs.What actually happens inside Techstars: mentor weeks, “give first” culture, and how a few teams get picked from hundreds of applicants.A real founder story: running a hardware and medical device startup through COVID, fundraising, manufacturing, and brutal unknowns.Whether you're a founder thinking about space, a SaaS builder curious about frontier markets, or an investor trying to understand the industry quietly taking over VC, this episode is a masterclass in how the next decade of startups will be built.

#plugintodevin - Your Mark on the World with Devin Thorpe
Solar-Powered Revolution: A Vehicle That Could Change the Way We Commute

#plugintodevin - Your Mark on the World with Devin Thorpe

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 23, 2025 26:06


Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Rob: I've been an environmentalist forever… I have this understanding of what an efficient vehicle should and can be, and I've worked to bring the public's passions together with the mission of the company.The idea of a solar-powered vehicle that's part bike and part car may seem futuristic, but Rob Cotter, CEO and founder of Organic Transit, has already delivered over 800 of them to customers in 15 countries. Known as the “Elf,” this innovative solar-electric bicycle vehicle is redefining transportation. Weighing just 160 pounds yet capable of carrying 550 pounds, the Elf offers a sustainable and affordable alternative to cars.“What's amazing is that the Elf gets the equivalent of 1,800 miles per gallon,” Rob explained during today's episode. “And in sunny parts of the country, many customers have told us they've never even needed to plug it in—they've powered it entirely by sunlight for years.”Designed for practicality, the Elf provides all-weather protection and enough room for a passenger and a dozen bags of groceries. Because it's legally classified as a bicycle, no license, insurance, or registration is required. It's a solution designed not just for environmentalists but for anyone looking to save money, reduce their carbon footprint, and enjoy a healthier lifestyle.Although Rob and his team achieved remarkable early success, challenges with investors forced the company into a period of rebuilding. Now, Organic Transit is poised for a comeback, raising capital via a regulated crowdfunding campaign on WeFunder. Rob shared how crowdfunding aligns perfectly with the company's mission and values: “The population overall—the retail consumers—have been our biggest advocates. If we had done an equity crowdfunding campaign earlier, it would have been a perfect fit.”Priced at $7,500 for the base model, the Elf is not only affordable but also pays for itself quickly. Rob shared stories of customers who reported saving $8,000 annually by using the vehicle instead of a car.In today's episode, Rob's passion for creating a sustainable future was contagious. With the Elf's proven technology and a growing community of supporters, Organic Transit is ready to redefine what vehicles can be. For those interested in supporting this exciting venture, you can learn more and invest at s4g.biz/organic.tl;dr:Rob Cotter explained how the Elf's design combines solar power, practicality, and bike-like efficiency.Organic Transit delivered 800 Elfs globally before challenges forced the company into rebuilding mode.The Elf costs $7,500, pays for itself quickly, and doesn't require insurance or registration.Organic Transit is now raising capital via crowdfunding to relaunch the Elf.Rob shared how his environmental vision fuels his passion for creating sustainable transportation solutions.How to Develop Environmental Vision As a SuperpowerRob's superpower is his ability to activate environmentalism into actionable, innovative solutions. As Rob explained, “I've been an environmentalist forever… I have this understanding of what an efficient vehicle should and can be, and I've worked to bring the public's passions together with the mission of the company.” This unique combination of environmental commitment and technical expertise has allowed him to create groundbreaking solutions like the Elf, which reduces pollution while promoting healthier lifestyles.Illustrative Story:Rob shared how decades of experience with innovative vehicles combined with his environmental activism led to the creation of the Elf. He drew inspiration from lightweight designs in bicycles, aircraft, and boats, ultimately reimagining what a vehicle could be. By integrating solar power and practical aerodynamics, he created a vehicle so efficient that some customers in sunny regions have powered their Elfs solely with sunlight for years.Tips for Developing This Superpower:Develop expertise in a field that aligns with your values, like Rob's work with vehicles.Combine technical skills with a passion for environmental causes to create innovative solutions.Align your work with the public's values to build support for your vision.Reimagine existing paradigms—don't let traditional boundaries limit your creativity.Think globally but act locally; start with practical, small-scale solutions that can scale up.By following Rob's example and advice, you can make environmental vision a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileRob Cotter (he/him):CEO/ Founder, Environmental Transit AuthorityAbout Environmental Transit Authority: Organic Transit (OT) designs, builds and distributes the cleanest, most efficient vehicles on the planet. ELF is the cornerstone of the company but there are several vehicles smaller and larger than the ELF currently in the prototype phase. Environmental Transit Authority (ETA) is the parent company and was formed to acquire OT and serve as a platform to offer other sustainable transportation solutions.Website: organictransit.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/organictransitOther URL: wefunder.com/organictransitBiographical Information: Rob Cotter, founder and CEO of Organic Transit, where we design and build solar-powered, enclosed pedal-assist vehicles that combine the practicality of a car with the efficiency of a bicycle. My work is driven by a simple question: why are we using multi-ton vehicles to move 200-pound people? I've been building innovative human-powered and solar vehicles for decades. Early in my career, I served as Vice President of the International Human Powered Vehicle Association, where I oversaw cutting-edge designs and races for bicycles now capable of exceeding 90 mph. I also directed the first U.S. solar car race in 1988 and contributed to projects that inspired modern electric vehicles, drones, and hydrofoils. Before launching Organic Transit, I worked with Porsche, led multimedia projects as a creative director, and ran human rights and environmental campaigns with Anita Roddick, combining technical skill with storytelling and advocacy. Other clients: IBM, Lexus/Nexus, and Environmental Advisor to Gov. Jerry Brown. In 2012, I founded Organic Transit and began developing the ELF, a three-wheeled, solar-powered Pod vehicle with an advanced polymer body and lightweight, aircraft aluminum chassis, 1 horsepower, and an efficiency equivalent of 1,800 miles per gallon. Over the years, we delivered 850 vehicles across 15 countries, accumulating over 10 million miles of user experience feedback. Many of our ELFs are still in daily use today, highlighting the durability and versatility of the design. After a challenging period of ownership transitions, I reacquired the company and am now leading a comeback with ELF 3.0, incorporating over a decade of learning and community insights. Our shop is fully solar-powered and off-grid, reflecting our commitment to sustainability. I'm passionate about making safe, practical, and sustainable mobility accessible to everyone, and believe crowdfunding and community engagement are key to scaling this vision. Organic Transit is about building a resilient, green transportation future.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/rob-cotterSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, and RISE Robotics. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We're grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don't miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year.Demo Day at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to present at the SuperGreen Live Demo Day session on January 22! The application window is closing soon; apply today at 4sc.fun/sgdemo. The Demo Day session is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who are NOT currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.Live Pitch at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to pitch at the SuperGreen Live—Live Pitch on January 23! The application window closes January 5th; apply today at s4g.biz/sgapply. The Live Pitch is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who ARE currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Join UGLY TALK: Women Tech Founders in San Francisco on January 29, 2026, an energizing in-person gathering of 100 women founders focused on funding strategies and discovering SuperCrowd as a powerful alternative for raising capital.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

iTunes - Insurance Journal TV
Risky Future Demo Day Series 2026: Where Insurance Innovation Takes the Stage

iTunes - Insurance Journal TV

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 15, 2025 3:49


Get ready for a full year of fast-paced, vendor-powered innovation as Insurance Journal, Carrier Management, and Claims Journal bring you the entire 2026 Risky Future Demo Day lineup. … Read More » The post Risky Future Demo Day Series 2026: Where Insurance Innovation Takes the Stage appeared first on Insurance Journal TV.

iTunes - Insurance Journal TV
The Future of Agency Workflows—Live AI Demos You Can't Miss

iTunes - Insurance Journal TV

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 9, 2025 0:22


https://riskyfuture.com/agents A rapid-fire live demo event where top AI innovators show retail agents the tools that will streamline workflows, boost productivity, and drive more revenue in 2025 and … Read More » The post The Future of Agency Workflows—Live AI Demos You Can't Miss appeared first on Insurance Journal TV.

The Grid: Photography Podcast
Cyber Week KelbyOne Demo Day with Scott Kelby, Erik Kuna & Guests | The Grid Ep 671

The Grid: Photography Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 4, 2025 117:18


The Grid: Photography Podcast(Audio-Only)
Cyber Week KelbyOne Demo Day with Scott Kelby, Erik Kuna & Guests | The Grid Ep 671

The Grid: Photography Podcast(Audio-Only)

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 4, 2025 117:18


l8nightwithchoccy's podcast
Conversations at HSS SURF DEMO DAY_EG Fratantaro_Sector9_Matt Singly_Florence_HSS Groms_Frizzelle Groms

l8nightwithchoccy's podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 3, 2025 99:48


We had a great time at the HSS Surf Demo Day.We sat down and talked Surfing withEG Fratantaro / Sector 9Matt Singly / FlorenceHSS GromsFrizzelle Groms

Deconstructor of Fun
312. How Three Engineers No One Wanted to Fund Built a $XXXM Company

Deconstructor of Fun

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 24, 2025 78:25


This isn't your typical "we raised $50M and exited" story. This is what happens when you have no choice but to figure it out yourselves. When the tripod refuses to fall. When you run out of everything except ideas. This is the story of Heroic Labs.About Heroic Labs: Core infrastructure for game studios. If you've played games from Zynga, Gram Games, or dozens of other studios, you've used their tech without knowing it. That's by design.

The Steve Harvey Morning Show
Overcoming the Odds: She was a C student and a college dropout, but she is the CEO of Black Ambition.

The Steve Harvey Morning Show

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2025 22:27 Transcription Available


Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Felicia Hatcher. Purpose of the Interview To spotlight Black Ambition, a national initiative founded by Pharrell Williams that funds and mentors Black and Brown entrepreneurs. To share insights on entrepreneurship, access to resources, and strategies for scaling businesses. To inspire and educate small business owners and innovators on how to leverage opportunities for growth. Key Takeaways About Black Ambition Founded by Pharrell Williams to close the opportunity gap for Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs. Provides capital, mentorship, and masterclasses to help founders scale. Has invested in 131 companies and awarded millions in funding. Competition Structure Annual national competition with 2,500–3,000 applications. Categories include HBCU, National Finalists, Top Prize Winner, People’s Choice. Process: Applications → 250 semifinalists → 3-month cohort → Demo Day for top 20–25 companies. Unique Approach Focus on high-quality mentorship, not “low vibrational” guidance. Includes mental health and wellness support for entrepreneurs. Partnerships with brands like Louis Vuitton for luxury retail insights. Challenges for Entrepreneurs Many fail by rushing applications and skipping info sessions. Success requires clarity, traction, and persistence—sometimes multiple attempts. Black women are the fastest-growing entrepreneurs but often remain solopreneurs; Black Ambition prioritizes team-building. Pharrell’s Motivation Believes in democratizing opportunity: “Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.” Inspired by those who believed in him early in his career. Felicia Hatcher’s Journey Former founder of Center for Black Innovation and Black Tech Week. Emphasizes resilience: “I’m a C student and a college dropout, but I never let that define me.” Advocates for creative pathways to success and capital access. Notable Quotes “Success leaves clues.” – On learning from past winners. “Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.” – Pharrell’s guiding principle. “If it doesn’t work on you in that moment, it works for you in that moment. Either way, it works.” – On persistence. “We have to start enjoying the process… be stretched, be cut by the process.” – On entrepreneurial growth. “Wealth has a need for speed.” – On urgency in closing the wealth gap. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Strawberry Letter
Overcoming the Odds: She was a C student and a college dropout, but she is the CEO of Black Ambition.

Strawberry Letter

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2025 22:27 Transcription Available


Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Felicia Hatcher. Purpose of the Interview To spotlight Black Ambition, a national initiative founded by Pharrell Williams that funds and mentors Black and Brown entrepreneurs. To share insights on entrepreneurship, access to resources, and strategies for scaling businesses. To inspire and educate small business owners and innovators on how to leverage opportunities for growth. Key Takeaways About Black Ambition Founded by Pharrell Williams to close the opportunity gap for Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs. Provides capital, mentorship, and masterclasses to help founders scale. Has invested in 131 companies and awarded millions in funding. Competition Structure Annual national competition with 2,500–3,000 applications. Categories include HBCU, National Finalists, Top Prize Winner, People’s Choice. Process: Applications → 250 semifinalists → 3-month cohort → Demo Day for top 20–25 companies. Unique Approach Focus on high-quality mentorship, not “low vibrational” guidance. Includes mental health and wellness support for entrepreneurs. Partnerships with brands like Louis Vuitton for luxury retail insights. Challenges for Entrepreneurs Many fail by rushing applications and skipping info sessions. Success requires clarity, traction, and persistence—sometimes multiple attempts. Black women are the fastest-growing entrepreneurs but often remain solopreneurs; Black Ambition prioritizes team-building. Pharrell’s Motivation Believes in democratizing opportunity: “Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.” Inspired by those who believed in him early in his career. Felicia Hatcher’s Journey Former founder of Center for Black Innovation and Black Tech Week. Emphasizes resilience: “I’m a C student and a college dropout, but I never let that define me.” Advocates for creative pathways to success and capital access. Notable Quotes “Success leaves clues.” – On learning from past winners. “Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.” – Pharrell’s guiding principle. “If it doesn’t work on you in that moment, it works for you in that moment. Either way, it works.” – On persistence. “We have to start enjoying the process… be stretched, be cut by the process.” – On entrepreneurial growth. “Wealth has a need for speed.” – On urgency in closing the wealth gap. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Best of The Steve Harvey Morning Show
Overcoming the Odds: She was a C student and a college dropout, but she is the CEO of Black Ambition.

Best of The Steve Harvey Morning Show

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2025 22:27 Transcription Available


Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Felicia Hatcher. Purpose of the Interview To spotlight Black Ambition, a national initiative founded by Pharrell Williams that funds and mentors Black and Brown entrepreneurs. To share insights on entrepreneurship, access to resources, and strategies for scaling businesses. To inspire and educate small business owners and innovators on how to leverage opportunities for growth. Key Takeaways About Black Ambition Founded by Pharrell Williams to close the opportunity gap for Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs. Provides capital, mentorship, and masterclasses to help founders scale. Has invested in 131 companies and awarded millions in funding. Competition Structure Annual national competition with 2,500–3,000 applications. Categories include HBCU, National Finalists, Top Prize Winner, People’s Choice. Process: Applications → 250 semifinalists → 3-month cohort → Demo Day for top 20–25 companies. Unique Approach Focus on high-quality mentorship, not “low vibrational” guidance. Includes mental health and wellness support for entrepreneurs. Partnerships with brands like Louis Vuitton for luxury retail insights. Challenges for Entrepreneurs Many fail by rushing applications and skipping info sessions. Success requires clarity, traction, and persistence—sometimes multiple attempts. Black women are the fastest-growing entrepreneurs but often remain solopreneurs; Black Ambition prioritizes team-building. Pharrell’s Motivation Believes in democratizing opportunity: “Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.” Inspired by those who believed in him early in his career. Felicia Hatcher’s Journey Former founder of Center for Black Innovation and Black Tech Week. Emphasizes resilience: “I’m a C student and a college dropout, but I never let that define me.” Advocates for creative pathways to success and capital access. Notable Quotes “Success leaves clues.” – On learning from past winners. “Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.” – Pharrell’s guiding principle. “If it doesn’t work on you in that moment, it works for you in that moment. Either way, it works.” – On persistence. “We have to start enjoying the process… be stretched, be cut by the process.” – On entrepreneurial growth. “Wealth has a need for speed.” – On urgency in closing the wealth gap. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

iTunes - Insurance Journal TV
AI Demo Day: The Future of MGAs Is Here!

iTunes - Insurance Journal TV

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2025 0:23


Get ready to see the most innovative AI tools reshaping wholesale, MGAs, and specialty insurance. Join Insurance Journal and Risky Future on November 12 for an exclusive AI … Read More » The post AI Demo Day: The Future of MGAs Is Here! appeared first on Insurance Journal TV.

AT Banter Podcast
AT Banter Podcast Episode 441 - Hands-On The Glide

AT Banter Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 23, 2025 62:04


Join us for an epic crossover episode where AT Banter and Limitless podcasts collide to explore the Glide - a groundbreaking AI-powered navigation device that could be poised to change how blind individuals move through the world! Our panel (that includes Limitless Podcast host and friend of the show Shawn Marsolais along with Albert Ruel and first-time guest Alethea) dive deep into their experiences demoing a prototype at a recent Demo Day at the offices of Canadian Assistive Technology. Packed with laughs, insights, and genuine excitement, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in cutting-edge accessibility tech. Show Transcript https://atbanter.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/at-banter-podcast-episode-441-impressions-of-the-glide.pdf Show Notes Glidance https://glidance.io/ Canadian Assistive Technology https://canasstech.com/

SaaS Connection
#179 Nicolas Dessaigne, General Partner chez Y Combinator. Comprendre les transformations de l'écosystème startup à l'ère de l'IA.

SaaS Connection

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2025 59:11


Pour l'épisode de cette semaine, je reçois Nicolas Dessaigne, General Partner chez Y Combinator et cofondateur d'Algolia.Nicolas était déjà venu dans l'épisode #21, à ses débuts chez YC, quatre ans plus tard il revient pour partager les coulisses du plus célèbre accélérateur de startups au monde.Dans cet épisode, nous avons parlé en profondeur de Y Combinator, de son fonctionnement interne et de la façon dont Nicolas accompagne les startups, de leur sélection jusqu'à la levée de fonds post Demo Day.Nous avons également exploré l'impact de l'intelligence artificielle sur les nouvelles générations de fondateurs : le retour d'une ambition “tech-first”, la baisse de l'âge moyen des créateurs, et l'émergence d'entrepreneurs autodidactes qui lancent leur startup parfois avant même d'être diplômés.Nicolas partage aussi son regard sur :la vague IA et comment elle a remplacé la folie crypto dans les candidatures YC,les nouveaux modèles de croissance ultra-rapides (certaines startups passant de 0 à 800k ARR en trois mois),la redéfinition du “moat” (l'avantage défensif) à l'ère où le code devient une commodité,la montée des boîtes ultra-efficientes (quelques employés pour plusieurs millions d'ARR),et la nécessité, pour les entreprises établies, de se disrupter elles-mêmes pour survivre, inspirée notamment par le fameux talk de Brian Chesky (Airbnb).Un échange passionnant sur la vitesse du changement, les nouvelles dynamiques du SaaS et la transformation profonde du monde startup, vu depuis la Silicon Valley.Vous pouvez suivre Nicolas sur LinkedIn.Bonne écoute !Mentionnés pendant l'épisode :Y Combinator sur YouTubeLightcone Podcast (YC)AlgoliaÉpisode #21 avec Nicolas DessaigneBrian Chesky – Founder Mode (Airbnb)Pour soutenir SaaS Connection en 1 minute⏱ (et 2 secondes) :Abonnez-vous à SaaS Connection sur votre plateforme préférée pour ne rater aucun épisode

Law, disrupted
Inside the World's Most Famous Startup Accelerator

Law, disrupted

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 9, 2025 35:13


John is joined by Carolynn Levy, Chief Legal Officer of Y Combinator (YC).  They discuss YC's evolution into the world's most prominent startup accelerator.  Some of the famous startups to come out of YC include DoorDash, Airbnb, Stripe, and Coinbase.  Carolynn joined YC in 2012.  Since then, the organization has grown from a small early-stage investor to a robust platform funding approximately 600 startups annually.  In 2012, companies were evaluated in two seasonal “batches,” but YC's growth now requires having four seasonal batches every year.  Each batch now includes approximately 150 startups.  Each startup receives $500,000 in seed funding and gains access to a network of alumni, ongoing mentorship, and lifetime support through YC's internal platform, Bookface. To select the startups, YC evaluates up to 20,000 applications per batch, relying on human review and in-person interviews, where selected applicants receive immediate decisions on whether they will be included in the next batch.  The startups included in a batch work on their product for three months.  Then, on Demo Day, the founders are given the opportunity to pitch their companies to a room full of investors.  That room is now supplemented by online participation for broader reach. In Carolynn's opinion, strong, resilient, and flexible founders are the most crucial ingredient for a start-up's success and more important than the idea for the project itself.  YC favors entrepreneurs who are focused on product-market fit and is cautious about early-stage founders who are overly preoccupied with legal formalities.  Optimism is crucial in the startup world.  This has caused Carolynn to shift her mindset from risk-averse legal training to embracing bold innovation. As the Chief Legal Officer of YC, Carolynn leads a team of seven lawyers that handle everything from entity formation and investment paperwork to founder breakups and brand protection.  Recently, immigration issues have posed additional challenges due to the global nature of YC's business. The episode offers a rare inside look at how YC balances legal oversight with startup culture, emphasizing practicality and a deep respect for entrepreneurial vision.Podcast Link: Law-disrupted.fmHost: John B. Quinn Producer: Alexis HydeMusic and Editing by: Alexander Rossi

The Snowjobs Podcast
S3-139: Talking Northeast De-Icing Solutions Demo Day!

The Snowjobs Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 6, 2025 67:30


The guys sit down with Robert Thyng of RD Outdoor, Shawn DiVincenzo of Native Property Managment, and Pat Salmon of Northeast De-Icing Solutions to get everyone's take on a fantastic final snow event of the off season!

Demo Day Podcast
The Real Reason Jeff Crusey Walked Away from Brazil's Solar Boom

Demo Day Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 6, 2025 51:18


How do top VCs really pick winners, and what's the “fine print” every founder misses? In this Demo Day episode, we go deep inside the investing mind of Jeff Crusey, EVP at Blacklake Group—one of the most unique and active voices in deep tech, defense, and venture capital.Jeff Crusey's journey moves from building batteries in his garage to becoming a leader at Blacklake Group, where he now guides founders and scouts the “thick tail” of defense technology startups. Jeff opens up about the habits that separate great investors from the crowd—including why reading the legal and technical fine print is a repeatable, unfair advantage in venture capital.You'll hear candid stories about Jeff's investment process—from corporate VC in climate tech to navigating the corruption of emerging markets, bouncing back from failure, and ultimately shaping the next generation of defense, energy, and deep tech founders. Jeff also debunks common venture myths: it's not always the best product or team that wins, but resilience, timing, and a willingness to start over as a beginner.Whether you're fundraising for a startup, considering a shift into deep tech, or aiming to decode what real founder success looks like, this episode is packed with actionable strategies and mindset shifts—from evaluating defensible markets to fostering low-ego, high-intellect teams. Jeff's honest blueprint for bouncing back from failed ventures, focusing on true value creation, and the future rise of AI in deep tech is a must-listen for anyone in the startup or VC world.Don't miss Jeff's practical tips for both angel investors and founders, inside stories from Blacklake Group, and a discussion of which defense innovations are set to reshape national security, from missile technology to next-gen satellite navigation.

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew
Crunch Time: Startup Triumphs Against Adversity

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 30, 2025 13:57 Transcription Available


Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Crunch Time: Startup Triumphs Against Adversity Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2025-09-30-07-38-20-he Story Transcript:He: בסביבת העבודה המשתררת באביב המרכז לסטארט-אפים בתל אביב, הצוות של אריאל עמד בפני אתגר גדול.En: In the bustling work environment blossoming in the spring at the startup hub in Tel Aviv, Ariel's team faced a significant challenge.He: הייתה זו עונת סתיו מלאה בציפייה ובחגיגות סוכות, האווירה הרועשת מחוץ למיגע העבודה לא השפיעה על נחישותם.En: It was an autumn season filled with anticipation and Sukkot celebrations, yet the noisy atmosphere outside the workplace did not affect their determination.He: האריאל, מלא באמונה בחדשנות וטכנולוגיה, הוביל את הצוות שלו לקראת היום הגדול - יום הדמו.En: Ariel, full of faith in innovation and technology, led his team towards the big day - Demo Day.He: תמר, מהנדסת תוכנה מוכשרת שהאמינה בשיתוף פעולה, עבדה ללא הרף.En: Tamar, a talented software engineer who believed in collaboration, worked tirelessly.He: היא הרגישה את הלחץ אך ניסתה לשמור על שלום בצוות.En: She felt the pressure but tried to maintain peace within the team.He: אלי, מעצב מוצר מבריק, חיפש דרכים יצירתיות לשפר את המוצר.En: Eli, a brilliant product designer, sought creative ways to improve the product.He: אך בתוכו הוא חשש מכשלונות העבר.En: However, internally he feared past failures.He: הוא ידע שהפעם חייב להצליח.En: He knew this time they had to succeed.He: כמה ימים לפני הדמו, בעיצומו של לילה עמוס ואינטנסיבי, מצאו תמר ואלי פגם קריטי במוצר.En: A few days before the demo, amidst a busy and intense night, Tamar and Eli discovered a critical flaw in the product.He: הכשל הזה יכול היה למנוע מהם לקבל את המימון שהם כה זקוקים לו.En: This failure could prevent them from obtaining the funding they so desperately needed.He: "מה נעשה עכשיו?En: "What will we do now?"He: " שאל אלי בחשש.En: asked Eli with concern.He: אריאל התחבט בתוך עצמו.En: Ariel wrestled internally.He: האם להציג את המוצר עם הפגם או לדחות את ההשקה ולסכן את הגיוס?En: Should they present the product with the flaw, or delay the launch and risk the fundraising?He: במהלך הערב, האווירה הייתה מתוחה.En: Throughout the evening, the atmosphere was tense.He: הצוות התכנס מול הלוח הלבן שפיזר רעיונות ולחץ.En: The team gathered around the whiteboard, brainstorming and under pressure.He: ואז, פתאום, פרץ אלי עם רעיון מבריק.En: Then, suddenly, Eli burst forth with a brilliant idea.He: "אם נשנה את הקוד כך ונעבוד יחד, נוכל לפתור זאת", הוא הציע בתקווה.En: "If we change the code this way and work together, we can solve it," he suggested hopefully.He: תמר הנהנה, מבינה את הפוטנציאל שבחזון שלו.En: Tamar nodded, understanding the potential in his vision.He: גם אריאל ראה בכך הזדמנות לאחד את הכוחות.En: Ariel also saw it as an opportunity to unite their strengths.He: הצוות התגייס, כל אחד מילא את תפקידו.En: The team rallied, with each person fulfilling their role.He: הלילות הקצרים הלכו והתקצרו, אך רוח הצוות התגברה.En: The short nights grew even shorter, but the team's spirit intensified.He: עת הגיע יום הדמו, הצוות הציג בגאווה את המוצר שלהם.En: As Demo Day arrived, the team proudly presented their product.He: המשקיעים היו נדהמים מהיצירתיות ומהתוצאה.En: The investors were amazed by the creativity and the outcome.He: אריאל הביט בתמר ואלי, וכך למעשה הבין שהצלחה תלויה בשיתוף פעולה ובאמון הדדי, ולא רק באמביציה אישית.En: Ariel looked at Tamar and Eli, realizing that success depends on collaboration and mutual trust, not just individual ambition.He: כשירד הגשם הראשון של הסתיו, הצוות חזר למשרדים בידיעה שהם הצליחו.En: When the first rain of autumn fell, the team returned to the offices knowing they had succeeded.He: האריאל, שכעת הבין את ערכה של עבודת צוות, הציע לחגוג יחד בבניית סוכה.En: Ariel, who now understood the value of teamwork, suggested celebrating together by building a sukkah.He: ההצלחה הייתה רק תחילת הדרך.En: The success was just the beginning of their journey. Vocabulary Words:bustling: המשתררתblossoming: פורחhub: מרכזanticipation: ציפייהdetermination: נחישותfaith: אמונהinnovation: חדשנותsignificant: גדולtalented: מוכשרתcollaboration: שיתוף פעולהtirelessly: ללא הרףmaintain: לשמורpeace: שלוםcreative: יצירתיותflaw: פגםdesperately: כה זקוקיםpresent: להציגdelay: לדחותrisk: לסכןatmosphere: אווירהtense: מתוחהbrainstorming: לפזר רעיונותburst forth: פרץvision: חזוןopportunity: הזדמנותrallied: התכנסintensified: התגברהproudly: בגאווהmutual: הדדיambition: אמביציהBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

Soul of Travel
Special Bonus Episode: wmnsWORK Tourism Business Accelerator Cohort 6 Demo Day!

Soul of Travel

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2025 92:03 Transcription Available


Send us a textIn this special episode of Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women's Wisdom + Mindful Travel, presented by @journeywoman_original, we are thrilled to share the inspiring wmnsWORK 2025 Cohort 6 Demo Day presentations.wmnsWORK is an accelerator focused on women and non-binary early-stage entrepreneurs designed to help you get a leg up on your tourism business and rally a community while you build it. They do this through 3 main pillars: Education, Mentorship, and Community.Through each company's 5-minute pitch, you'll get a glimpse of their passion and dedication as they unveil their unique ventures to fellow members of the tourism industry, and learn how YOU can support them. We encourage you to connect and collaborate with these fabulous wmn+!Featuring:WellGather | Marla Mae RamosMorocco with Hope | Amal BachikhBlue Lobster Travel | Caroline QuinnThree Waves Retreats | Tanya Stojovic, Sam Mikhael, and Hailey MartinAdventure Collective | Lindsay WhiteAmble Journeys | Tina FinanAvventura Vida Travel | Maria HerreraLovely Little Adventures | Jodi SuckleJoin us for this special soulful presentation from the graduates of WmnsWork Cohort 6.

Demo Day Podcast
Mark Mullen: Why VC Success is Broken

Demo Day Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2025 67:41


What does it really mean to “succeed” as a founder or a VC? In this episode of Demo Day, we sit down with Mark Mullen, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Bonfire Ventures, to explore the realities behind startup success, venture capital, and what it takes to build a high-performing team in today's market.Mark opens up about the unrealistic expectations in venture capital, why selling a company for $11M can be celebrated in some industries but deemed a failure in VC, and how the focus on founder personalities has shifted startup culture. He also shares the lessons he's learned growing Bonfire from a solo GP to a team of 11 managing over a billion dollars, and the strategies behind picking founders, understanding their motivations, and making early-stage investments.In this conversation, we cover:- The evolution of Bonfire Ventures and its $245M fundraise- The difference between founder wins vs. VC wins- How capital markets, interest rates, and M&A affect venture returns- Why intuition matters — and how to back it up with real metrics -The qualities Mark looks for in founders and early-stage companies- Lessons from market downturns, COVID, and AI's rise in venture capital- The Palisades fire and how that affected Mark and his familyIf you're a founder, investor, or curious about venture capital, this episode will give you a behind-the-scenes look at the decisions, mindset, and strategies that shape startup and VC success today.Mark Mullen LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mamullen Website: https://www.bonfirevc.com/Sean Goldfaden LInkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-goldfaden Website: https://www.coefficientlabs.com/

Demo Day Podcast
The Simple Rule That Predicts Founder Success with Santhosh Devati

Demo Day Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2025 80:24


In this episode of Demo Day, Sean Goldfaden interviews venture capitalist and angel investor Santhosh Devati (Managing Parter at Anamika Ventures) about the secret to building lasting success. Santhosh, a seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience, shares the unconventional philosophy that has guided his career and his investment decisions.Santhosh reveals why he believes in "giving without expectations" and explains how focusing on helping others can lead to "wealth as a byproduct." He also dives deep into the art of making the right investment, the common mistakes new investors make, and the major tech trends he's most excited about right now.If you're a founder or an investor looking to level up your mindset and your portfolio, this is an episode you can't afford to miss.Santhosh DevatiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/santhoshdevati/Website: https://mailchi.mp/233840580357/anamika-venturesSean GoldfadenLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-goldfaden/Website: https://www.coefficientlabs.com/#podcast #venturecapital #investing #startup #entrepreneur #business #investment

Covenant Life Church
Transformation Series Part 5: Demo Day

Covenant Life Church

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 7, 2025 44:16


For the past four weeks, we’ve been a series called Transformation, in which we’ve been looking at the ways God wants to change us from the caterpillars He found us as into the butterflies He wants us to be. It is not just a slight adjustment — it’s a radical transformation, a metamorphosis powered by the Holy Spirit. Maybe, the biggest takeaway so far is that the process starts on the inside and works its way to the outside. Nothing is more crucial to deep, lasting change than our thoughts and attitudes, and Romans 12:2 says they need to be renewed. The word renewed means renovated, and a key part of any renovation is demo day. That’s where you rip out the old and remove the stuff that just doesn’t fit the new design. That’s the name of the message and our focus this week: finding out what needs to be demolished from our thoughts and attitudes.

The Fence Industry Podcast
477. Star-Studded Lineup at the First Annual NO-DIG Demo Day Presented by Goliath Fence Systems!!!

The Fence Industry Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2025 34:04


#FenceFam Blake Thomas with Vinyl Fence Warehouse and Goliath Fence Systems is putting on a clinic!!! Everything and everyone from Tony Thornton and Robert Whittaker to US Hammer and HomeLand Vinyl! If you're in the area... It's a must attend event! You can't afford not to! Trust me!   Everything FenceTech Here: https://www.americanfenceassociation.com/fencetech/2026/   Cheers! Remember to like, share, comment and REVIEW!   The Fence Industry Podcast Links: IG @TheFenceIndustryPodcast FB @TheFenceIndustryPodcastWithDanWheeler TikTok @TheFenceIndustryPodcast YouTube @TheFenceIndustryPodcastWithDanWheeler Visit TheFenceIndustryPodcast.com Email TheFenceIndustryPodcast@gmail.com Mr. Fence Companies:    IG @MrFenceAcademy FB @MrFenceAcademy TikTok @MrFenceAcademy YouTube @MrFenceAcademy Mr. Fence Tools https://mrfencetools.com Mr. Fence Academy https://mrfenceacademy.com   Gopherwood & Expert Stain and Seal IG @stainandsealexperts  FB @ExpertProfessionalWoodCare YouTube @Stain&SealExperts  FB Group Stain and Seal Expert's Staining University  Visit RealGoodStain.com Visit Gopherwood.us   Log Cabin Fence IG @Log_Cabin_Fence FB @LogCabinFence Visit LogCabinFence.com   Elite Technique Visit getelitetechnique.com   Greenwood Fence Visit greenwoodfence.com   FenceNews Visit fencenews.com   Ozark Fence & Supply promo code: TFIP15 for 15% off! Visit ozfence.com   Benji with CleverFox for all your FENCE website needs! Visit cleverfox.online     Stockade Staple Guns Visit stockade.com   Bullet Fence Systems Visit bulletfence.com   ZPost Metal Fence Posts Visit metalfencepost.com

Sustainable Packaging
Demo Day! International Fresh Produce Assoc. (Vonnie Estes)

Sustainable Packaging

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 10, 2025 16:00 Transcription Available


Demo Day for the International Fresh Produce Association new fresh Field Catalyst Date: Wednesday, August 20, 2025Time: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM PTLocation: Taylor Building, 150 Main Street, 3rd Floor, Salinas, California, USALearn more about the Fresh Field Catalyst program and this year's cohort here.https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/fresh-field-catalyst/Reach Out To : https://www.linkedin.com/in/vonnieestes/Contact Us at Atlantic Packaging Today for Smart Strategies, Sustainable SolutionsInnovative Packaging you can trust for over 75 years! https://www.atlanticpkg.com/ https://anewearthproject.com/pages/our-story https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/packaging-today-show/id1656906367Join Us Live Daily on LinkedIn Or YouTube or listen at your leisure on Apple or Spotify Packaging Today Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/6dksVwqEFVDWdggd27fyFF?si=e924995740f94e19https://www.linkedin.com/in/cory-connors/I'm here to help you make your packaging more sustainable! Reach out today and I'll get back to you asap. This podcast is an independent production and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2022.

My First Million
I dropped out of high school…Now I'm building a $1T dollar company

My First Million

Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2025 72:23


Episode 704: Sam Parr ( https://x.com/theSamParr ) and Shaan Puri ( https://x.com/ShaanVP ) talk to Blake Scholl ( https://x.com/bscholl ) about he went from high school dropout to Groupon to the founder of a supersonic jet startup.  — Show Notes: (0:00) Find your red line (4:29) Problems hidden in plain sight (13:00) The making of Boom Supersonic (23:00) No rules of thumb (29:13) Blake's favorite interview question (34:22) Demo Day at YC (38:13) Selling Richard Branson (47:46) Being a dark matter founder (52:14) What does the most ambition of yourself look like? (55:51) Progressively overturning of the skeptics (1:01:06) Working with Jeff Bezos at Amazon — Links: • Steal Shaan's $20M Pitch Deck: https://clickhubspot.com/wem • Boom - https://boomsupersonic.com/  — Check Out Shaan's Stuff: Need to hire? You should use the same service Shaan uses to hire developers, designers, & Virtual Assistants → it's called Shepherd (tell ‘em Shaan sent you): https://bit.ly/SupportShepherd — Check Out Sam's Stuff: • Hampton - https://www.joinhampton.com/ • Ideation Bootcamp - https://www.ideationbootcamp.co/ • Copy That - https://copythat.com • Hampton Wealth Survey - https://joinhampton.com/wealth • Sam's List - http://samslist.co/ My First Million is a HubSpot Original Podcast // Brought to you by HubSpot Media // Production by Arie Desormeaux // Editing by Ezra Bakker Trupiano