Podcasts about democratizing

Join Todd Rogers, Co-founder and CEO of Moddy AI, for a paradigm-shifting exploration into the true nature of the artificial intelligence boom. For the past decade, building a production-ready predictive sports modeling business required millions of dollars in capital, an elite army of data scientists, and bespoke backend architectures—culminating in complex tools that only other data scientists could decipher. In this episode, Todd maps out how advanced LLMs and automated engineering workflows have completely rewritten this equation, moving past basic software optimization to open up entirely new categories of consumer and business software that were previously impossible to build.

Dr. Pramod Varma, chief architect of Aadhaar, UPI, and the India Stack, and co-founder of Networks for Humanity, joins host Tushar Shetty to discuss the design philosophy and the next stages of India's Digital Public Infrastructure.We discuss the core principles that distinguish the India Stack from platform models like Alipay and PayPal, the Account Aggregator framework's consent architecture and its relationship to data protection regimes like the GDPR, the extension of DPI logic to business identity and flow-based lending through the Unified Lending Interface, the role of AI as both a driver of demand for DPI foundations and an opportunity for, the case for DPI as a replicable global model for the democratization of technology.For more in-depth analysis on South Asia, subscribe to the Beyond the Indus podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, or follow us on YouTube for video episodes.

Fundrise CEO Ben Miller goes Inside the ICE House to discuss democratizing access to private markets and venture capital. He explains how staying private longer has concentrated wealth and why opening these markets to everyday investors is critical. Miller outlines Fundrise's push into venture through its Innovation Fund and its index-like approach to VC investing. He also explores how AI is reshaping investor education, decision-making, and the broader financial system.

Send Kevin a Text MessageJeff Annison and Paul Scanlan, Emmy-winning co-founders of the world's first fan-owned entertainment company, Legion M, join host Kevin Goetz for a conversation about disrupting industries, building communities, and betting on the audience. Annison and Scanlan pioneered mobile television at MobiTV and launched the very first equity crowdfunding campaign in U.S. history. The duo have spent two decades proving that the audience is the most powerful force in entertainment.Chicago, Boston, and a Love of Film (01:48): Paul Scanlan traces his passion for filmmaking to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and to a family trip to Cape Cod where seeing Jaws at age five both terrified and captivated him. Jeff Annison arrived at storytelling through an unlikely path: a mechanical engineering degree at UCLA and a series of screenwriting classes taken on a lark.MobiTV: Putting Television on a Flip Phone (07:18): The two founders recount how a mutual friend with a micro-display technology brought them together in 1999 to build what would become MobiTV, the first company to stream live television to mobile phones.Colossal (25:49): Legion M's first major move was a small P&A investment alongside the distributor Neon on the Anne Hathaway film Colossal. With just 3,500 investors and a million dollars, they organized screenings and community meetups.Community as Marketing Engine (29:54): Annison and Scanlan explain how Legion M's 60,000-plus investors are an organic grassroots marketing force. As Scanlan puts it, communicating with their community costs nothing but can drive millions in box office.Saving Coyote vs. Acme (35:25): One of the most discussed projects in recent Hollywood history found new life through Catchup Entertainment. Legion M is partnering on its release, and the trailer has already surpassed 50 million views.Advice for the New Filmmaker (43:22): Annison urges emerging creators to start with the end in mind, thinking not just about the key scene but about how to communicate a story in a brief window of attention. Scanlan adds a hard truth: the industry is more entrepreneurial than most people expect, and selling to a major studio is rarely the path.On Being on the Side of the Audience (56:44): Annison reflects on what keeps him grounded amid industry uncertainty and the rise of AI: the belief that no matter what technology produces, only human beings pay to watch movies. Building a company on the side of the audience, he argues, is the most defensible position in entertainment.Host: Kevin GoetzGuest: Jeff Annison and Paul ScanlanProducer: Kari CampanoWriters: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari CampanoAudio Engineer: Gary Forbes (DG Entertainment)For more information about Legion M:Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legion_MWebsite: https://legionm.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/legionmofficial/For more information about Kevin Goetz:- Website: www.KevinGoetz360.com- Audienceology Book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Audience-ology/Kevin-Goetz/9781982186678- How to Score in Hollywood: https://www.amazon.com/How-Score-Hollywood-Secrets-Business/dp/198218986X/- Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Substack: @KevinGoetz360- LinkedIn @Kevin Goetz- Screen Engine/ASI Website: www.ScreenEngineASI.com

What do you risk when you run a mission-driven campaign that breaks every rule in politics? Amaryllis Kennedy isn't just directing the KENNEDY24 presidential campaign. She's rewriting the playbook on grassroots leadership, digital disruption, and brutal operational honesty.In this Fan Favorite unfiltered episode, Cameron Herold dives deep with Amaryllis on the real strategies behind building a nimble, values-first organization in the most polarized landscape imaginable. She reveals the raw tension of building trust, keeping chaos at bay, and rescuing authenticity from a world addicted to power and performance. Hard-won lessons from Silicon Valley and the CIA collide with everyday realities of parenting, digital activism, and fighting the system from the inside.If you miss this conversation, you miss the forbidden playbook on what leadership really looks like when the stakes are generational. Listen now for a front-row seat on strategy you won't get anywhere else and discover why the real power lies in what you're willing to disrupt.Timestamped Highlights00:44 – The counterintuitive campaign strategy that energizes a disillusioned public05:17 – Why young people are secretly shaping America's future08:05 – How breaking political storytelling rules actually breaks through13:04 – The brutal inside story behind government overreach19:47 – A behind-the-scenes look into a campaign where careers are truly on the line24:00 – The ballot access chaos that forces real innovation30:31 – Why authenticity beats perfection in a runaway grassroots movement35:32 – Democratizing campaign fundraising with bold gamified tactics47:44 – The sacred job of protecting your leader so they can really listen59:35 – The surprising benefit of Sabbath-style strategy in hypergrowthAbout the GuestAmaryllis Fox Kennedy is a former CIA intelligence officer, author, and advocate focused on diplomacy, conflict resolution, and public policy. She is the bestselling author of Life Undercover: Coming of Age in the CIA and host of Netflix's The Business of Drugs. She also served as a senior advisor and campaign surrogate during Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s 2024 presidential campaign. She currently serves as Deputy Director of National Intelligence for Policy and Capabilities.

"Insurance is there for when you're sick or when something goes incredibly wrong. It's not there for prevention."The traditional healthcare system is designed to treat you when you are sick. You go to a doctor for 15 minutes, get a basic blood panel, and if you are within the "reference range," you are told you are fine. The goal of this system is to get you from -1 back to 0.My guest this week is Prabhat Dhar, the Head of Growth for Superpower, a new platform that wants to take you from 0 to 100. Rather than treating late-stage diagnoses, Superpower provides comprehensive biomarker testing, looking at advanced metrics like ApoB, Fasting Insulin, and HSCRP, to detect diseases like cardiovascular risk or metabolic dysfunction up to a decade before they materialize as claims.In this episode, we discuss how Superpower translates complex biological data into a highly personalized, AI-driven action plan for your health (and your lifestyle). We also dive into why employers must stop relying on health insurance carriers to manage wellness, the power of decoupling proactive screening from the traditional system, and how to start bending the cost curve by focusing on root-cause analysis instead of late-stage symptom management.If you want to know what the future of employee health benefits looks like when it's built on individual biology instead of group claims data, this episode is for you.Thank you to our 2026 sponsors!ParetoHealth: ParetoHealth empowers midsize employers with a long-term solution to reduce volatility and lower overall health benefits costs. Visit https://www.paretohealth.com/fully-insured-vs-self-funding-with-paretohealth-spencer-podcast/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=SelfFundedwSpencer to learn more.Samaritan Fund: A program that connects those who need help to the support they need. We are proud to offer the Samaritan Fund Program. Visit SamaritanFundProgram.com to learn more.Vālenz Health: We're Vālenz Health, your partner in improving health literacy, reducing plan spend, and delivering high-value healthcare. Visit ValenzHealth.com to learn more.Imagine360: Imagine360 helps self-funded employers save on healthcare with smarter health plans. Cut expenses by 20-30% with custom solutions. Contact us today at Imagine360.com.Episode Chapters(00:00:00) Intro: Getting from 0 to 100 (Not Just -1 to 0) (00:01:21) Why the Primary Care "Quarterback" System is Broken (00:04:47) Decoupling Proactive Health from Health Insurance(00:07:42) The Origin Story of Superpower & Treating Crohn's Disease (00:12:06) Democratizing "Concierge" Functional Medicine (00:15:22) Why Traditional Blood Tests Miss the Real Signals (00:19:06) Translating Biomarkers into Personalized Action Plans (00:23:44) Overcoming "Point Solution Fatigue" with Biological Data (00:27:55) The Superpower Member Experience: How It Works (00:31:41) Integrating an AI Doctor Chat and Clinical Teams (00:33:42) How Superpower Augments Direct Primary Care (DPC) (00:41:22) The 5 Biomarkers You Need to Be Testing For (00:49:36) Moonshot: The Future of the "Health Super App" (00:54:51) Closing Thoughts: Moving from Success to SignificanceKey Links for Social:@SelfFunded on YouTube for video versions of the podcast and much more - https://www.youtube.com/@SelfFundedListen/watch on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1TjmrMrkIj0qSmlwAIevKA?si=068a389925474f02Listen on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-funded-with-spencer/id1566182286Follow Spencer on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencer-smith-self-funded/Follow Spencer on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/selffundedwithspencer/

"Insurance is there for when you're sick or when something goes incredibly wrong. It's not there for prevention."The traditional healthcare system is designed to treat you when you are sick. You go to a doctor for 15 minutes, get a basic blood panel, and if you are within the "reference range," you are told you are fine. The goal of this system is to get you from -1 back to 0.My guest this week is Prabhat Dhar, the Head of Growth for Superpower, a new platform that wants to take you from 0 to 100. Rather than treating late-stage diagnoses, Superpower provides comprehensive biomarker testing, looking at advanced metrics like ApoB, Fasting Insulin, and HSCRP, to detect diseases like cardiovascular risk or metabolic dysfunction up to a decade before they materialize as claims.In this episode, we discuss how Superpower translates complex biological data into a highly personalized, AI-driven action plan for your health (and your lifestyle). We also dive into why employers must stop relying on health insurance carriers to manage wellness, the power of decoupling proactive screening from the traditional system, and how to start bending the cost curve by focusing on root-cause analysis instead of late-stage symptom management.If you want to know what the future of employee health benefits looks like when it's built on individual biology instead of group claims data, this episode is for you.Thank you to our 2026 sponsors!ParetoHealth: ParetoHealth empowers midsize employers with a long-term solution to reduce volatility and lower overall health benefits costs. Visit https://www.paretohealth.com/fully-insured-vs-self-funding-with-paretohealth-spencer-podcast/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=SelfFundedwSpencer to learn more.Samaritan Fund: A program that connects those who need help to the support they need. We are proud to offer the Samaritan Fund Program. Visit SamaritanFundProgram.com to learn more.Vālenz Health: We're Vālenz Health, your partner in improving health literacy, reducing plan spend, and delivering high-value healthcare. Visit ValenzHealth.com to learn more.Imagine360: Imagine360 helps self-funded employers save on healthcare with smarter health plans. Cut expenses by 20-30% with custom solutions. Contact us today at Imagine360.com.Episode Chapters(00:00:00) Intro: Getting from 0 to 100 (Not Just -1 to 0) (00:01:21) Why the Primary Care "Quarterback" System is Broken (00:04:47) Decoupling Proactive Health from Health Insurance(00:07:42) The Origin Story of Superpower & Treating Crohn's Disease (00:12:06) Democratizing "Concierge" Functional Medicine (00:15:22) Why Traditional Blood Tests Miss the Real Signals (00:19:06) Translating Biomarkers into Personalized Action Plans (00:23:44) Overcoming "Point Solution Fatigue" with Biological Data (00:27:55) The Superpower Member Experience: How It Works (00:31:41) Integrating an AI Doctor Chat and Clinical Teams (00:33:42) How Superpower Augments Direct Primary Care (DPC) (00:41:22) The 5 Biomarkers You Need to Be Testing For (00:49:36) Moonshot: The Future of the "Health Super App" (00:54:51) Closing Thoughts: Moving from Success to SignificanceKey Links for Social:@SelfFunded on YouTube for video versions of the podcast and much more - https://www.youtube.com/@SelfFundedListen/watch on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1TjmrMrkIj0qSmlwAIevKA?si=068a389925474f02Listen on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-funded-with-spencer/id1566182286Follow Spencer on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencer-smith-self-funded/Follow Spencer on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/selffundedwithspencer/

My podcast guest this week is Andy Hock, Chief Strategy Officer at Cerebras.  Andy and I are discuss the the revolutionary details of the Cerebras Wafer-Scale Engine (WSE). We also explore where the next major competitive frontier lies for AI hardware, how the latest WSE addresses the critical latency and energy efficiency challenges of deploying massive AI models for inference and Cerebras' role in democratizing access to large-scale AI research and deployment.

What does it actually mean to fund community power? Not a one-time grant, not a single big donor relationship, but real, sustained infrastructure for the leaders closest to the problems. Vincent Jones has spent three decades figuring that out.Meet Vincent Jones

Get ready to have your perspectives shattered. Peter Laughter, a visionary in leadership and organizational strategy, dives deep into why traditional command-and-control models are crumbling and what leaders, especially in HR must do to adapt. This isn't just theory, it's a call to action, a blueprint for survival in the chaos of modern business.   In this episode:  The fundamental flaws of command and control leadership in today's complexity  How HR can measure and diagnose organizational failures before they explode  The transformative power of distributed leadership and democratized decision-making  Why modern technology can be the key to faster, smarter, more human organizations  The importance of listening to frontline voices and creating a culture of challenge    Timestamps:. 00:33 - Introduction to Peter Laughter's perspective on leadership 01:18 - Peter's background in entrepreneurship and social impact focus 02:03 - The failure of command and control in complex environments 02:46 - HR's role in creating new leadership pathways 03:18 - Fun facts: Peter's brief career as an anthropologist 04:06 - Organizations hiring anthropologists to make tech more human 06:34 - Why current HR data metrics might be missing the mark 07:13 - Redesigning data measurement for complex systems 09:24 - The importance of tracking decision-making and response times 10:36 - The concept of Hubers Syndrome and organizational blindness 11:00 - Fail-safes and organizational feedback loops 12:14 - The impact of hierarchy on information flow and decision quality 13:17 - The challenges of speaking truth to power in leadership 14:36 - Military's command flexibility vs corporate rigidity 15:04 - How frameworks and decentralization empower in decision-making 16:12 - Democratizing data and challenging old hierarchies 17:11 - The power of honesty and courage in leadership meetings 19:45 - The rise of entrepreneurial spirit sparked by workplace constraints 20:47 - When command and control fails in top organizations and why leaders are slow to react 24:10 - The changing cultural landscape and the craving for authentic leadership 27:22 - How distributed leadership models accelerate change 29:02 - Success stories of flat, autonomous organizations like Valve 33:00 - Measuring cultural shift and ethos through data 34:38 - Frontline engagement as a predictive metric for organizational health 36:25 - The critical role HR plays in shaping adaptive, resilient organizations 36:40 - Final thoughts: The urgency for HR to lead disruption and innovation  Resources & Links:  Valve's Handbook – Flat organization & manager-free culture  Greg Sattel - Cascades – Principles of distributed leadership  Turn the Ship Around by David Marquette – Leading from the point of decision  Total Quality Management & Deming – Foundations for organizational excellence  Jenny's Ice Cream & Zoe Schweitzer – Frontline leadership in HR  Connect with Peter Laughter:  LinkedIn  Twitter  Ready to shake up your leadership and HR strategy? It's time we move from fear-based hierarchies to trust-based, innovative organizations. The future is calling, will you answer?

The latest episode of the Business Brief podcast examines how small businesses are reacting to a plan to eliminate the state income tax — and raise sales taxes. Then, it features a conversation with a financial planner about the risks associated with alternative 401(k) investments.

SUBSCRIBE HERE FOR GIVEAWAY: https://bookfairepod.riverside.com/The conversation covers the inspiration behind 'We Need to Talk About Cancer' and the approach to communicating complex medical concepts to young readers. Dr. Sanjay Juneja shares insights on cancer misconceptions, advancements in research, and the decision to make the book accessible. The discussion also delves into the author's future writing plans and his perspective on work and obligation.TakeawaysCancer education for young readersDemocratizing access to medical informationChapters00:00 Introduction and Book Giveaway05:34 Communicating Cancer Concepts to Young Readers11:50 Misconceptions and Demystifying Cancer17:07 Transition to Writing and Book Publication23:54 Dr. Sanjay Junaidya's Perspective on Work and Obligation

SUBSCRIBE HERE FOR GIVEAWAY: https://bookfairepod.riverside.com/The conversation covers the inspiration behind 'We Need to Talk About Cancer' and the approach to communicating complex medical concepts to young readers. Dr. Sanjay Juneja shares insights on cancer misconceptions, advancements in research, and the decision to make the book accessible. The discussion also delves into the author's future writing plans and his perspective on work and obligation.TakeawaysCancer education for young readersDemocratizing access to medical informationChapters00:00 Introduction and Book Giveaway05:34 Communicating Cancer Concepts to Young Readers11:50 Misconceptions and Demystifying Cancer17:07 Transition to Writing and Book Publication23:54 Dr. Sanjay Junaidya's Perspective on Work and Obligation

In this episode of Working Forward, Jason Cochran sits down with Rob Eyler, CEO and co-founder of Capturely, a photography platform that deploys vetted photographers for professional headshots at scale. Rob shares how he co-founded Capturely in 2019, landed LinkedIn and Facebook as early clients, then watched revenue drop to zero when COVID hit. After two difficult years of pivoting into product photography and video, the team finally launched virtual headshots in 2024, allowing anyone with a phone and a window to get studio-quality headshots in minutes with a real photographer controlling their camera remotely. Rob discusses Capturely's vision to democratize photography by building the world's first agentic AI photographer, where human creatives move up the complexity chain rather than getting replaced. He also shares why vision and communication are the two most important tools for leading through change, how routine check-ins at every level prevent teams from filling silence with fear, and why genuine human connection remains the connective tissue of effective teams, even in fully remote environments. Additional Resources: Connect with Rob on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-eyler/ Learn more about Capturely: https://www.capturely.com Watch the Working Forward Podcast on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@Jason.Cochran Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-d-cochran/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/ Learn more about PeopleForward Network: https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/ Key Takeaways: Staying obsessed with your customer can reveal pivots hiding in plain sight, even when survival mode makes them easy to miss. AI will elevate creatives rather than replace them by automating routine tasks and moving human talent up the complexity chain. Vision and communication are the two most critical tools for leading teams through uncertainty and change. Consistency in habits, communication, and personal development will always outperform occasional great moments. Genuine human connection is the connective tissue that holds remote and distributed teams together.  

"Not a creative"?

Prediction markets like Kalshi and Polymarket have attracted controversy, as some interests view them as a form of legalized gambling that ought to be outlawed. A better way of looking at them, however, is as a means to harness the wisdom of crowds to improve our understanding of the world around us. Matt Kibbe sits down with BlazeTV host Stu Burguiere, host of the new show “Predictable,” to talk about how prediction markets not only offer a way for knowledgeable people to make money off their insight, but also are replacing traditional opinion polling, which has been notoriously inaccurate at making predictions, with information that is more specific and granular. It turns out that people tend to be more careful in their analyses of current events when there is actual money on the line.

Today, I'm joined by Anthony Geisler, founder & CEO of Sequel Brands.   A multi-brand fitness and wellness platform, Sequel Brands' portfolio of concepts span Pilates, stretching, EMS, and longevity.    In this episode, we discuss building futureproof franchises.   We also cover:   Sequel's five-brand platform  Scaling longevity-focused experiences Consumer behavior shifts across modalities  Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast  Subscribe to our newsletter → insider.fitt.co/subscribe  Follow us on LinkedIn → linkedin.com/company/fittinsider    Website: www.sequelbrands.com Explore all five brand concepts on the site.   -   The Fitt Insider Podcast is brought to you by EGYM. Visit EGYM.com to learn more about its smart fitness ecosystem for fitness and health facilities.   Fitt Talent: https://talent.fitt.co/  Consulting: https://consulting.fitt.co/  Investments: https://capital.fitt.co/    Chapters: (00:00) Introduction (01:34) Five-brand platform overview (02:25) Pilates Addiction (02:55) iFlex stretching and recovery (03:13) beem infrared sauna (03:20) BODY20 EMS technology (04:23) Ultimate Longevity Center launch (05:47) 100% ownership structure (07:15) Portfolio selection strategy (08:30) Sauna research (09:05) Democratizing longevity access (10:25) Gary Brecka partnership (11:35) Modality evolution over time (12:20) Post-COVID consumer shifts (13:15) Cycling's global decline (14:15) Equipment and offering evolution (15:23) Franchise playbook constants (16:19) ChatGPT and AI impacts (17:38) Value equation fundamentals (19:15) Cross-portfolio membership challenges (21:27) Finite inventory dynamics (22:34) Growth without pressure (24:40) Royalty business mindset (25:25) Discovery Day process (27:20) Franchisee selection rigor (27:45) Xponential story context (29:45) Public market challenges (31:10) COVID and Delta variant timing (32:07) Why keep building (33:28) Franchise life realities (35:14) Future acquisition appetite (36:11) Where to learn more (36:29) Conclusion

In this comprehensive interview, Nick Bushell, Executive Director of the Missouri Youth Soccer Association (MYSA), breaks down the strategic launch and operational mechanics of the National One League.The discussion moves beyond surface-level logistics to explore how this new structure aims to recalibrate the competitive landscape for youth players in the Midwest and beyond.1. The National One League ArchitectureBushell provides a technical deep dive into the league's tiered system, designed to eliminate "competitive stagnation."Tiered Hierarchy: An explanation of the promotion and relegation mechanics between the Premier, Elite, and Regional divisions.Organizational Standards: The rigorous criteria clubs must meet to participate, focusing on coaching licensure and facility quality.The "Gap" Solution: How the league addresses the historical void between local recreational play and high-cost national academies.2. Democratizing the PathwayA significant portion of the conversation focuses on inclusivity and socio-economic barriers. Bushell candidly addresses the "pay-to-play" model and the National One League's approach to mitigating costs:Geographic Localization: Strategies to reduce travel expenses for families by clustering competition cycles.Financial Aid Integration: How the league structure facilitates better scholarship opportunities and transparent fee schedules.Talent Identification: Ensuring that players from smaller markets or lower-income backgrounds remain visible to collegiate and professional scouts.3. Player Development & Coaching PhilosophyBushell emphasizes that a league is only as good as its output. He outlines the Developmental Blueprint integrated into the league's DNA:Standardized Periodization: Aligning league schedules with the physiological needs of youth athletes to prevent burnout and injury.Technical Oversight: The role of MYSA in monitoring game environments to ensure "result-oriented" coaching doesn't overshadow individual player growth.4. The Future of the US Soccer EcosystemLooking toward the horizon, Bushell explores the broader implications for the American soccer pyramid."We aren't just building a league; we're building a sustainable culture. The National One League represents a shift toward a more unified, logical progression for every kid who picks up a ball in Missouri."The Collegiate Pipeline: Strengthening ties with NCAA and NAIA programs to streamline recruitment.Multi-State Expansion: Future plans for cross-border collaborations that maintain high standards without over-extending club resources.Infrastructure Investment: How league revenue and partnerships are being funneled back into community fields and coaching education.

What actually drives pitching performance, and why are so many players still getting it wrong? In this episode of the More Than Velocity Podcast, we sit down with legendary pitching coach and biomechanics pioneer Tom House to break down the future of pitching development. From his early work with elite athletes to today's cutting-edge tools like Mustard and ArmCare, Tom and Weston Lombard of Mustard share how the game is evolving beyond radar-gun readings—and what players, coaches, and parents need to understand to build durable, high-performing pitchers. We dive into: Why velocity alone is misleading The missing link between mechanics and strength How data is changing player development (and where it falls short) The concept of “windows of trainability” Why throwing strikes might be the most underrated skill in baseball This is all about performance, durability, and actually developing pitchers, not just velo. Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro + Why this conversation matters 1:00 – Who is Tom House and his impact on pitching 2:00 – What Mustard is and how it's evolving 4:00 – The shift from collecting data → applying data 6:00 – “Democratizing elite information” for players and coaches 8:00 – Player-led development vs coach-led systems 10:00 – The 80% rule: why tools don't replace coaches 11:30 – What Mustard actually measures (and why it matters) 14:00 – Using tech in the backyard vs team setting 16:00 – The real value of sports (beyond performance) 20:00 – How ArmCare + Mustard work together 21:30 – What declining arm strength reveals in mechanics 24:00 – What this tech would've changed for past players 25:00 – Measuring workload, recovery, and true capacity 27:00 – Why younger athletes improve the fastest 29:00 – Windows of trainability (huge concept) 32:00 – The danger of building “big engines” without control 34:00 – Why pitching injuries are rising 36:00 – The velocity vs command problem 38:00 – Social media vs real development (hard truth) 40:00 – Why teams need more pitchers—not just harder throwers 42:00 – The value of throwing strikes (career longevity) 43:00 – Final advice: dream big, but build a process Learn more about the Mustard App at https://teammstrd.com/

In this episode, CoStar News Hotels reporter Natalie Harms discusses the rise and growth of branded residential projects with Nate Siehr, co-founder of The Big Key Group. The company's first project, the Ambar Residences Orlando, is rising to meet changing traveler behavior and deliver on a product outside the luxury price point.

In this episode, Nathan sits down with Seth Gunning, Founder of Sunpath Solar, Georgia’s only B Corp-certified solar installation company. Seth shares his 20-year journey from community organizing and fighting coal initiatives to leading a business that specializes in making clean energy accessible to low-to-moderate-income homeowners and nonprofits. They discuss the "solar coaster" of shifting tax credits, the importance of "encoding values" into operations, and how Sunpath is using innovative financing models like "Solar Energy Procurement Agreements" to bypass the high upfront costs that often keep clean energy out of reach for those who need it most. Listen in to discover how Seth is proving that business can be a powerful tool for environmental justice and learn why 'encoding' values into your standard operating procedures is the key to surviving any industry’s volatility. RESOURCES RELATED TO THIS EPISODE Visit Sunpath Solar at https://sunpath.solar/ Follow Sunpath Solar on social media at: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sunpath-solar/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551612671287 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunpath.solar And get in touch with Sunpath Solar at https://sunpath.solar/contact/ CREDITS Theme Music

Gm! In this episode, we're joined by Austin Federa, Co-Founder of DoubleZero, to discuss the network's growth, its shift to Edge-based data monetization, and the role of high-speed data in trading. We also cover Solana's roadmap, validator dynamics, DeFi fairness, and evolving Foundation strategy amid shifting regulatory and institutional conditions. Enjoy! -- Follow Lightspeed: ⁠https://x.com/Lightspeedpodhq Follow DoubleZero: https://x.com/doublezero Follow Austin Federa: https://x.com/Austin_Federa Follow Danny: https://x.com/defi_kay_ Join the Lightspeed Telegram: ⁠https://t.me/+QHlbNTNS4gc1ZTVh -- Get top market insights and the latest in crypto news. Subscribe to Blockworks Daily Newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/ -- Timestamps: (0:00) Introduction (1:39) DoubleZero Growth Update (3:41) Why Edge Changes Revenue (6:48) Why APIs Are Too Slow (9:22) How Shreds Create Alpha (16:13) Can DeFi Be Fair? (20:07) Alpenglow and Constellation (28:58) What Comes Next? (31:01) Solana Foundation's New Playbook (35:02) Where Foundations Should Compete (46:51) Edge Launch Timeline (47:46) Closing Comments -- Disclaimers: Lightspeed was kickstarted by a grant from the Solana Foundation. Nothing said on Lightspeed is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Danny, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Did you like the episode? Send me a text and let me know!! The Undiscovered Entrepreneur | Episode: Elie Zalo – Fish Tank VC From Cold Calls to Crowdfunding Revolution: A 19-Year-Old Entrepreneur's Story  Episode Summary 19-year-old serial entrepreneur Elie Zalo joins host Skooby to share his raw, unfiltered entrepreneurship journey — from building an AI-powered cold calling training tool to launching Fish Tank VC, a social crowdfunding platform designed to democratize startup funding for everyday entrepreneurs and Gen Z founders.  What You'll Learn Why crowdfunding platforms are broken and who actually benefits from themHow AI tools are transforming sales training and startup buildingWhy failing fast is the ultimate entrepreneurship strategyHow Fish Tank VC is making startup investing accessible to retail investorsThe truth about product market fit and validating your business idea Timestamps [00:01:00] — Elie's origin story and entrepreneurship awakening on TikTok [00:02:30] — Building an AI-powered web development and CRM agency [00:04:00] — Creating Prospector, an internal AI cold calling trainer [00:07:00] — Gen Z risk-taking, StockX, crypto and prediction markets [00:09:30] — Why traditional crowdfunding platforms are broken [00:13:00] — The Fish Tank VC concept: TikTok meets startup investing [00:15:30] — Raw persistence: the one trait every entrepreneur must have [00:19:30] — How to use criticism to grow faster as a founder [00:24:00] — Validating your product before spending a single dollar [00:33:00] — Why authentic content beats AI-generated everything [00:42:00] — Failing fast, iterating smarter, and the future of Fish Tank VC Keywords Gen Z entrepreneurship, startup crowdfunding platform, democratize investing, retail investor startup funding, AI sales training tool, cold calling AI, prodDo you want to know what is your worst Hurdle is so you know what you want to do first to get across the start line?? Go to tuepodcast.net/quiz to get your 3 minute assessment right now and find out what your most prevalent hurdle is and how to start to overcome it!tuepodcast.net/quiz For a 15% discount on your first purchase go RYZEsuoerfoods.com use code PODNA15 Thank you for being a Skoobeliever!! If you have questions about the show or you want to be a guest please contact me at one of these social mediasTwitter......... ..@djskoob2021 Facebook.........Facebook.com/skoobamiInstagram.....  instagram.com/uepodcast2021tiktok....... @djskoob2021Email............... Uepodcast2021@gmail.comSkoob at Gettin' Basted Facebook PageAcross The Start Line Facebook CommunityFind out what one of the four hurdles of stop is affecting you the most!!Black Friday coaching Sale now!! 65% off original price! go to stan.store/skoob to book your appointment and take advantage of this limited time offer! On Twitter @doittodaycoachdoingittodaycoaching@gmailcom

I've spent a lot of years arguing that most organizations have the wrong mental model of what a UX team is for. In the vast majority of organizations, UX is dramatically underinvested. You have one UX person, or at most a small team, supporting an organization with dozens of developers, product managers, and business analysts. Or a small digital team made up of a variety of disciplines and generalists, supposed to raise the quality of every digital touchpoint across an organization of several thousand. In that environment, expecting UX to own and shape the entire user experience is not a strategy. It is wishful thinking dressed up as one. The only approach that actually makes sense is democratization. Instead of trying to do everything yourselves, your job is to spread the capability: set the standards, train people, and give everyone who touches digital the knowledge and tools to apply UX best practice on their own. I've written about this for years, and most UX professionals I talk to agree with the principle. The problem has always been the execution. The playbook was the best answer we had For the past decade or so, the most sensible response to this challenge has been the digital playbook. A playbook, in this context, is a collection of policies, principles, standard operating procedures, and training material that documents how the organization should approach digital work. Done well, it does several things at once: it educates people who don't have a UX background, it standardizes how work gets done, and it gives the UX or digital team something to point at when a stakeholder wants to skip testing or cram twelve things onto a homepage. The UK Government Digital Service manual is probably the best public example of this. Comprehensive, well-structured, and genuinely useful. It also took a significant amount of work to produce, and presumably even more work to get people to actually use. The UK Government Digital Service Manual is probably the best example of a digital playbook. That last part is the problem with most playbooks. They ask a lot of the people you want to reach. If a product manager wants to run a quick survey to inform a decision, they now need to find the right section of the playbook, absorb methodology they've never thought about before, learn to apply it to their specific situation, and avoid the dozen ways this kind of thing typically goes wrong. That is a reasonable request if surveys are their job. It is a significant ask if they have three other priorities and a deadline on Friday. The playbook shifts the burden of UX knowledge from the UX team onto everyone else. In theory, fine. In practice, people are busy, and busy people take shortcuts. I say this having spent years advocating for playbooks, so make of that what you will. What AI changes about this picture I've been building out a library of AI skills for my own consulting practice over the past year or so, and somewhere along the way I realized these are doing the same job as a playbook, just in a radically different form. An AI skill, if you haven't come across the term, is a reusable standard operating procedure that an AI can follow on demand. You write it once, document the process in enough detail that an AI can apply it reliably, and from that point on anyone can use it without needing to understand the underlying methodology. This is what makes them interesting at an organizational level. A well-designed AI skills library doesn't ask your product manager to read the playbook before running a survey. It lets them say, "I need to design a survey to find out why users are dropping off at checkout," and have an AI walk them through the process, applying your organization's standards as it goes. The best practice is embedded in the skill. The person using it doesn't need to have absorbed it first. That is a qualitatively different proposition from anything a static playbook can offer. What an organizational AI skills library actually looks like The specific skills worth building will vary depending on the organization. But for a UX or digital team trying to extend their influence, the candidates tend to cluster around the tasks that non-specialists most often get wrong. Survey design is an obvious one. Writing questions that don't inadvertently bias the answers is harder than it looks, and most people who aren't researchers have no idea how their phrasing is leading respondents astray. A skill that guides someone through question design, flags leading language, and checks for common structural problems would save a lot of quietly-useless survey data from being collected. Prototype testing is another. The basics of a usability test, what to observe, what to ask, how to avoid putting words in a participant's mouth, are genuinely learnable. The problem is that someone needs to learn them before running the test, not during it. You could build skills for writing user stories that capture real intent rather than implementation detail. conducting a heuristic review of an interface. analyzing the results of an A/B test without drawing confident conclusions from a sample size of 40. assessing whether a proposed feature maps to an actual user need or is just something that sounded good in a meeting. Each of these represents expertise that currently lives in the heads of a few specialists and gets applied only when those specialists have capacity and are directly involved. An AI skills library changes that dynamic. The expertise is no longer gated by headcount or availability. It is available whenever someone in the organization needs it, in a form they can actually use. The compounding effect Building a skills library at an organizational level is different from building one for yourself. You're not just creating tools that save you time. You're creating tools that let anyone in the organization apply a consistent standard, without needing to be a specialist first. The UX team's influence is no longer bounded by their headcount. And this is still relatively early days. Most organizations haven't started thinking about AI skills at that level. The teams that build these libraries now will have a head start that gets harder to close over time. ---- Running an agency or working freelance? This is worth thinking about for your own practice too. A well-built skills library makes your service more consistent, helps you bring junior team members up to speed faster, and gives clients a reason to see you as something more than a pair of hands. If this is the kind of thing you'd like to work through alongside other freelancers and agency owners, my Agency Academy is probably the right place. It's a group coaching community where we get into exactly these kinds of challenges. £28 a month, cancel whenever. ---- Where to start If you're thinking about this for your own organization, the most practical starting point is to identify the five tasks that non-specialists most often get wrong, and that cause the most friction or quality problems when they do. For each one, document how it should actually be done, in as much detail as you can. What does the process involve? What are the most common errors? What does good output look like? Then work with an AI to turn that documentation into a skill, test it against real examples, and refine it based on what it gets wrong. The goal isn't perfection on the first pass. The goal is something good enough to use, that improves each time you use it. That is a manageable starting point, and one that tends to produce visible results quickly enough that people want to keep going. If you're working through this and would like a thinking partner, or if your organization is seriously considering building out an AI skills library and wants some help thinking through what that looks like, I'd genuinely enjoy that conversation. Book some time here and let's explore it.

Colleen Joyce took an unconventional path to becoming CEO of Lawyer.com, pivoting from interviewing A-list celebrities at Popstar.com to leading one of the largest legal marketplaces in the country. In this episode, Colleen shares how she built a company that connects 60,000 consumers monthly with local attorneys, why customer service remains her competitive edge, and how AI and private equity are reshaping the legal landscape.We explore what it means to democratize access to justice, why lawyers need to be listed everywhere, and how LawyerLine's AI-powered intake service is solving one of the biggest pain points for law firms. Colleen also opens up about leading as a woman in a male-dominated industry, the power of mentorship, and why she doesn't view what she does as "work."If you're feeling stuck or looking for ways to grow your practice with purpose, Colleen's advice is clear: get out there, join a community, and never lose sight of the human side of law.Key Takeaways:Follow the revenue: passion projects need sustainable business modelsCustomer service is still the ultimate differentiatorAI is a tool with guardrails, not a threat to your practiceCommunity and mentorship accelerate growthTreat every client call as if they're reaching out on their worst day02:09 – Colleen Joyce joins the show02:30 – The defining moment: pivoting from Popstar.com to Lawyer.com04:30 – Staying authentic in a traditional industry05:15 – How culture evolved at Lawyer.com06:46 – Leading as a woman in a male-dominated space07:51 – What makes Lawyer.com different from other directories09:18 – LawyerLine: AI-powered intake for 800+ law firms11:28 – The Lindsay Lohan strategy and creative risk-taking12:41 – Legal tech trends: private equity and AI consolidation14:00 – Democratizing access to justice15:40 – Is AI a threat or a tool for attorneys?16:32 – The Lawyer Growth Summit and thought leadership17:44 – Why community matters for isolated attorneys18:37 – The power of mentors, coaches, and masterminds19:32 – Maintaining the human connection in a tech-driven world20:35 – Work-life balance when you love what you do21:29 – Meeting clients where they are with empathy22:45 – Advice for attorneys feeling stuck23:29 – Closing thoughts and how to connect with ColleenColleen Joyce is the CEO of Lawyer.com, the leading online legal marketplace connecting consumers with trusted attorneys across every practice area and location. Under her leadership, Lawyer.com serves approximately 60,000 consumers monthly and supports a nationwide network of attorneys in private practice. The company's ecosystem includes LawyerLine, an AI-powered call answering and intake service for over 800 law firms, and the Lawyer Growth Summit, an annual conference bringing together legal tech innovators and forward-thinking attorneys. Before Lawyer.com, Colleen built Popstar.com into a recognized celebrity news platform, where she interviewed A-list talent and learned the power of authentic, engaging content. She brings that same energy, transparency, and growth-first mindset to everything she does in legal tech.Connect with Gary Miles:Website: garymiles.netEmail: ⁠gary@garymiles.netWould you like to learn what it looks like to become a truly Free Lawyer? You can schedule a complimentary call here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-callYou can find The Free Lawyer Assessment here- https://www.garymiles.net/the-free-lawyer-assessment

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?Mark: Refusal to give up, no matter the obstacles.Mark Elenowitz, CEO of Nant Global Finance, is transforming capital markets by creating opportunities for entrepreneurs to raise capital and for everyday investors to participate in early-stage investments. Using regulatory innovations like the JOBS Act, Mark has developed strategies to make capital formation easier, faster, and more accessible. His work effectively democratizes Wall Street, opening doors for smaller businesses and leveling the playing field for individual investors.Mark explained how the traditional investment model excluded non-accredited investors from participating. “The rich were getting richer,” he said, “while everyday Americans who wanted to support businesses and be part of their growth were left out.” Regulations like Reg A+ under the JOBS Act have changed the game, allowing companies to crowdfund investments while offering liquidity through public markets. This enables “individual investors to get the same access the Wall Street elite always had.”Mark Elenowitz, CEO of Nant Global Finance, will be speaking at SuperCrowd26, featuring PurposeBuilt100™. His session, "What Actually Scales: What Survives and What Doesn't," will offer invaluable insights into building sustainable, scalable ventures. Don't miss this chance to learn from an industry innovator. Register now at https://supercrowd26.comNant Global Finance is leading the way by utilizing these updated frameworks to innovate the capital markets. In 2017, Mark spearheaded the first Reg A+ company to go public on the New York Stock Exchange. Since then, similar groundbreaking successes have followed, including the public offering of Newsmax, which raised capital from over 30,000 investors. These milestones highlight a future in which smaller businesses can access public markets without the overwhelming costs associated with traditional IPOs.Part of Mark's mission is to support entrepreneurs who start their journeys with limited capital and resources. Through regulated investment crowdfunding campaigns, Nant Global Finance provides a way for smaller businesses to generate significant capital in ways that mirror traditional IPOs. As Mark noted, “Customers can become shareholders, and shareholders can become customers—it's self-fulfilling.”Mark's approach to capital markets is clear: combine technology and progressive regulations to create wealth-sharing opportunities on an unprecedented scale. Whether you're a business owner with a bold vision or an investor eager to support innovative ideas, this model offers a tangible path to meaningful impact.By creating these opportunities and reconnecting public markets with smaller enterprises, Mark is building a Wall Street that serves both investors and entrepreneurs alike.tl;dr:Mark Elenowitz shares how new laws under the JOBS Act are democratizing early-stage business investments.Nant Global Finance creates new opportunities for small entrepreneurs to raise capital through Reg A+ IPOs.Mark highlights his pioneering efforts, including the first Reg A+ listing on the New York Stock Exchange.Through resilience and creativity, he overcame obstacles to design innovative solutions for emerging markets.Mark's inspiring determination reminds entrepreneurs to embrace persistence as a key to long-term success.How to Develop Unyielding Determination As a SuperpowerMark's superpower is his refusal to give up, no matter the obstacles. He shared, “I've never been one to accept what everyone else is doing without trying to find an alternative path.” Mark explained how this perseverance has fueled his career, allowing him to see possibilities others overlooked. By tackling challenges like modernizing Wall Street and introducing blockchain-based securities, Mark leverages his unrelenting drive to empower others. “I've been an entrepreneur all my life…I earned everything I had,” he said, highlighting how resilience has shaped his approach to business and life.One of Mark's defining moments came during the 2010 collapse of the Chinese cross-border M&A market. Overnight, he faced the stark reality of managing a firm of over 70 employees with no revenue. Standing at a crossroads, Mark embraced the newly emerging JOBS Act as an opportunity to build something transformative. This pivotal decision not only saved his business but laid the foundation for his industry-changing work in crowdfunding and democratizing capital markets.Tips for Developing Determination:Learn from mistakes and consistently use them as stepping stones for growth.Identify risk as an opportunity—take calculated risks to achieve meaningful goals.Challenge conventional paths and always seek creative, alternative solutions.Embrace resilience by committing to your vision, even in the face of setbacks.Focus on persistence by breaking down overwhelming challenges into manageable tasks.By following Mark's example and advice, you can make unyielding determination 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 ProfileMark Elenowitz (he/him):CEO, Nant Global FinanceAbout Nant Global Finance: Nant Global Finance, Inc. (“NANT”) is a next generation blockchain enabled financial services company that is creating a fully integrated capital markets platform combining U.S. broker capabilities, exchange operations, transfer agency services, and blockchain technology. NANT brings together three U.S. registered broker dealers, two U.S. transfer agents, a global exchange operator, proprietary software and blockchain infrastructure, a portfolio of blockchain patents and significant marketing support from the Los Angeles Times Media Group, including its partnership with the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) for floor-based broadcasting.Website: nantglobalfinance.comBiographical Information: Mark Elenowitz is a Wall Street veteran with over 35 years' experience. He co-founded a boutique investment bank that was based in Manhattan and its online capital formation platform BANQ® (www.banq.co) *, both which have been instrumental in laying down the framework for Regulation A+ crowdfunding offerings. The methodology Mark Elenowitz structured is what led the first successful Reg A+ IPO to list on a National Securities Exchange — the New York Stock Exchange — with other Reg A+ offerings following the blazing trail. He is a noted speaker at Small Cap and Reg A events, including the SEC Small Business Forum, and has been profiled in BusinessWeek, CNBC, and several other publications. Mr. Elenowitz also was a member of the Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation (DTCC) Private Markets Executive Advisory Board tasked with developing DTCC's new Digital Securities Management (DSM) platform.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/mark-elenowitz-45a438Personal Instagram Handle: @mark.elenowitzSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include rHealth, Frontier Bio, High Desert Gear, and Mission Booster Procurement. 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 | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Babbit | Coledger Solutions | Mike Green, Envirosult | Nick Degnan, Unlimit Ventures | 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.SuperCrowd Impact Member Networking Session: Impact (and, of course, Max-Impact) Members of the SuperCrowd are invited to a private networking session on April 14th at 1:30 PM ET/10:30 AM PT. Mark your calendar. We'll send private emails to Impact Members with registration details. Upgrade to Impact Membership today!SuperCrowdHour, April 15, 2026, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on “Compliance Made Easy: Navigating Form C.” Drawing on his extensive experience as an investment banker, impact investor, and crowdfunding expert, Devin will simplify the complexities of Form C filing for regulated investment crowdfunding campaigns. In this session, he'll walk through the key components of Form C, highlight common compliance pitfalls, and share practical strategies to ensure your offering meets regulatory requirements with confidence. Whether you're launching your first campaign or refining your compliance process, this SuperCrowdHour will equip you with the knowledge to navigate Form C efficiently—so you can focus on building trust and raising capital successfully.SuperCrowd26 featuring PurposeBuilt100™: This August 25–27, founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders will gather for a three-day, broadcast-quality global experience focused on disciplined capital formation, regulated investment crowdfunding, and purpose-driven growth. We're bringing together leading voices in impact investing, compliance, digital marketing, and circular economy innovation to deliver practical frameworks, real-world case studies, and actionable strategies. The event culminates in the PurposeBuilt100™ Showcase, recognizing 100 of the fastest-growing purpose-driven companies in the U.S. Register now to secure your seat and get all the details. August 25–27, streaming worldwide.Share the application for the PurposeBuilt100™: Purpose-driven founders deserve recognition. The PurposeBuilt100™ application window is now open—celebrating the fastest-growing companies building profit with purpose. If you know a founder creating real impact and real growth, please share this opportunity. Applications are free and confidential. Explore the program and apply today: PurposeBuilt100.com.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Platform Leaders Workshops Program – 5th ICAFR (Málaga, April 8–10, 2026): Join GECA and EDFA for hands-on, interactive workshops for crowdfunding platforms and ecosystem builders—covering investor UX & engagement, secondary markets/technology/tokenization, and platform data & research—plus dedicated peer exchange with global platform leaders. Register: https://www.crowdfunding-research.org/pagoICW 2026 Keynote Kickoff - Apr 13 | 10:30–11:00 AM PT - Tim Draper kicks off ICW 2026 with insights on backing transformative startups. Set the stage for three days of pitches, panels, and competition.Creators as an Asset Class - Apr 13 | 11:00–11:55 AM PT - Scott Kitun and Brian Belley explore creator investing as a new asset class. Learn the opportunities, risks, and emerging playbook.Group A Pitch Session - Apr 13 | 12:00–12:55 PM PT - Devin Thorpe, Hugh McDermott, and Wendel Afonso present live pitches. Vote for the top startup advancing to the Championship.Group B Pitch Session - Apr 13 | 2:00–2:55 PM PT - Paul Lovejoy, Sona Shah, Joe Schaeppi, and Hiten Sonpal pitch live. Cast your vote and back the strongest founder.Capital Dept: Diversifying the Capital Stack - Apr 14 | 11:00–11:55 AM PT - Kelley Frank, Brian Belley, Olowo-n'djo Tchala, Yael Weiss, and Wendel Afonso share proven fundraising strategies. Learn how to plan, launch, and close a successful raise.Group C Pitch Session - Apr 14 | 12:00–12:55 PM PT - Justin Renfro, Franck Lahaye, and Trevor Legwinski feature in this live pitch round. Watch, evaluate, and vote for the standout startup.The Listing Playbook - Apr 14 | 1:00–1:55 PM PT - Ajay Tandon, Chris Lustrino, and Gregg Jaclin discuss post-raise pathways. Learn how startups prepare for listings and liquidity.Group D Pitch Session - Apr 14 | 2:00–2:55 PM PT - Chase Collins, Amanda Benaim, Arthur Erickson, Chad McClennan, and Cole Shepherd pitch live. Vote for who advances to the final round.Beyond Stocks: Alternative Investing - Apr 15 | 11:00–11:55 AM PT - Scott Kitun and Darren Rovell explore collectibles and alternative assets. Discover trends shaping modern portfolios.Group E Pitch Session - Apr 15 | 12:00–12:55 PM PT - Eitan Charnoff, Teddy Lyons, Annette Azan, Jaeson Bang, and Jeremy McCool present the final pitches. Last chance to vote before finalists are selected.Compliance & Regulatory Landscape - Apr 15 | 1:00–1:55 PM PT - Brian Belley, Andrew Stephenson, and Jason Fishman cover key regulations. Understand disclosures, protections, and what's changing.Championship Pitch & Closing - Apr 15 | 2:00–3:15 PM PT - Chris Lustrino, Léa Bouhelier-Gautreau, and Teddy Lyons host the final round. Watch the winner crowned and ICW 2026 conclude.Want to Work to Clean Up Fashion? Career Choices in a Challenging Environment (Washington, DC | Tue, April 21, 2026 | 11:30 AM–1:00 PM EDT): Join Women for Women's Wear during DC Climate Week for an interactive roundtable + networking on building a career in sustainable fashion—whether you're exploring a new path, considering a pivot, or looking to drive impact from within your current role. Hear practical insights from professionals across apparel/footwear, government, technology, and finance, and leave with clearer next steps (bring your lunch; refreshments served). Limited space—registration subject to approval (Chatham House Rules apply). Register: https://luma.com/yyz01e4iFashion and the Climate Crisis: Policy and Innovation for a Cleaner Industry (Washington, DC | Tue, April 21, 2026 | 3:00–4:30 PM EDT): Join Loop Labs and Women for Women's Wear during DC Climate Week 2026 for a high-energy session on how policy, innovation, and entrepreneurship are reshaping fashion—featuring a policy panel on sustainability standards and supply-chain transparency, curated networking across government/industry/creatives, and a sustainable fashion showcase spotlighting circular designs from DC-area makers. Limited space—registration subject to approval. Register: https://luma.com/1ns7cqsjSave the Date! October 20th and 21st will be the Crowdfunding Professional Association Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit for 2026. This is the event of the year for everyone in the crowdfunding ecosystem.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

Have you ever bought a product online and have it break in a day? Our guest bought a rangefinder on Amazon only to have the eyepiece pop off on the first hole! That moment of frustration on a San Francisco golf course didn't just ruin a round for two friends - it sparked a movement. In this episode, host Colin Weston sits down with Drew Koehler, co-founder of Blue Tees Golf, to unpack how a group of young professionals with zero golf industry experience but a ton of business acumen decided to disrupt the golf tech space. From liquidating their bank accounts to buying a company just to get the perfect name, Drew shares the wild, unfiltered journey of building one of golf's coolest and fastest-growing brands. If you've ever dreamed of turning a side-hustle into a full-blown business, or just want to know what's next in golf tech, this is a masterclass you don't want to miss. Key takeaways in this episode with Drew that you will discover: Build Your Team Like a Stool, Not a Table Drew shares why the founding team at Blue Tees was intentionally diverse - sales, finance, industrial design, and marketing. He reveals why going into business with people who have the exact same skillset is a recipe for disaster and how complementary strengths are the true engine of growth. Design Matters from the Box to the Course Learn how Blue Tees borrowed a page from Apple's playbook to create a premium "unboxing" experience. Drew explains that the customer journey starts long before the product is turned on, and how tactile feedback, packaging, and high-quality materials are critical to building trust and brand loyalty. The Future is a Connected Ecosystem Drew lifts the curtain on the company's "Scout AI" and the new Rainmaker launch monitor. He explains how Blue Tees is moving beyond standalone gadgets to create a seamless, connected ecosystem where your launch monitor data automatically updates your rangefinder's club recommendations - keeping your phone in your bag and your focus on the game. Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then check out our extended bonus segment with Drew on The ModGolf YouTube channel. Click on this link or the image below to watch. Three Quotable Moments from Drew: On taking the leap: "I was like, 'This is ridiculous. You should go do this yourself. Put your money where your mouth is and actually stand behind the advice you're giving.' So that was my AHA moment. I loved my job. It was safe. But let's go take that leap of faith." On product design philosophy: "When you open up an Apple product before you even touch the phone, the box is the first thing you touch. Everything is already priming you to have an incredible experience. That design component was a pillar for us." On the origin of the name: "When we heard 'Blue Tees Golf,' it was a light bulb moment. We were like, 'Our brand and our products are going to give you the confidence to take that step back and go play from the blue tees.' It became our mantra." Drew Koehler's bio page >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/drew-koehler Links & Resources Mentioned: Blues Tees Golf Instagram: @levelwear LinkedIn: Drew Koehler Blue Tees Golf website: https://blueteesgolf.com/ The ModGolf YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@modgolfpodcast Episode Chapters: 00:00 - Welcome to the show and The PGA Show converstation that led to this episode 01:30 - The Power of Invitation: Drew's First Golf Memory 04:25 - From Political Science to Gartner: A Non-Traditional Path 06:50 - The Origin Story: A Broken Rangefinder and a Frustrating Round 09:30 - The "Blissfully Ignorant" Idea: Assembling the Dream Team 12:10 - From Concept to Creation: The Battle for a Name (and buying the company) 14:15 - Liquidating Bank Accounts and The 3 Pillars of Blue Tees 16:15 - The Apple Influence: Obsessing Over the Customer Experience 20:30 - Brand Culture: The Travis Mathew & Southern California Vibe 25:30 - Defining Features: How They Decide What to Build (And What to Leave Out) 28:45 - The Player Plus GPS Speaker: Innovation Born from Selfishness 30:05 - Introducing the Rainmaker Launch Monitor: A Screen Changes Everything 33:55 - The Connected Ecosystem: How Hardware and Software Work Together 35:50 - Frictionless Experience: Keeping the Phone in the Bag 39:55 - The Next Frontier: Scout AI and Democratizing the Caddy Experience 43:15 - Closing thoughts and where to find the extended conversation on The ModGolf YouTube channel Join our mission to make golf more innovative, inclusive and fun... and WIN some awesome golf gear! As the creator and host of The ModGolf Podcast and YouTube channel I've been telling golf entrepreneurship and innovation stories since May 2017 and I love the community of ModGolfers that we are building. I'm excited to announce that I just launched our ModGolf Patreon page to bring together our close-knit community of golf-loving people! As my Patron you will get access to exclusive live monthly interactive shows where you can participate, ask-me-anything video events, bonus content, golf product discounts and entry in members-only ModGolf Giveaway contests. I'm offering two monthly membership tiers at $5 and $15 USD, but you can also join for free. Your subscription will ensure that The ModGolf Podcast continues to grow so that I can focus on creating unique and impactful stories that support and celebrate the future of golf. Click to join >> https://patreon.com/Modgolf I look forward to seeing you during an upcoming live show!... Colin We want to thank Golf Genius Software who have supported The ModGolf Podcast since 2019! Are you a golf course owner, manager or operator looking to increase both your profit margins and on-course experience? Golf Genius powers tournament management at over 10,000 private clubs, public courses, resorts, golf associations, and tours in over 60 countries. So if you're a golf professional or course operator who wants to save time, deliver exceptional golfer experiences, and generate more revenue, check them out online at golfgenius.com.Special Guest: Drew Koehler, Co-Founder / Chief Revenue Officer at Blue Tees Golf.

What kind of hope is worth holding onto? In this episode, Tristan and Rashid unpack the idea of critical hope, drawing on the work of Jeff Duncan-Andrade and a powerful quote from Paulo Freire's Pedagogy of Hope. They introduce us to Ashley and Helene Visagie, founders of Bottom Up, a Cape Town youth organisation that equips teenagers with tools of critical thought to question the systems around them rather than simply plugging gaps.In clips from the original Liminal Space episode, Ashley describes the shift from fixing broken toilets to asking why they're broken in the first place, and how capitalism alienates us from our work, each other, and the environment. Helene speaks about telling kids the truth without leaving them stranded in despair, and what it takes to move forward together. Tristan and Rashid reflect on when they first encountered critical thinking, and why imagining a new world requires us to question the imagination behind the current one. The episode closes with a guided imagination exercise inviting listeners to picture their neighbourhood 20 years from now.THEMESCritical hope. Democratizing critical thought. Stop plugging gaps. Alienation under capitalism. Education as liberation. Imagination as action. Youth as co-constructors of change.LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODEThis episode features clips from The Liminal Space Season 1, Episode 3: Critical Hope and Being Human with Ashley Visagie. The full conversation is available on all podcast platforms.Listen on Apple PodcastsListen on SpotifyWatch on YouTubeFEATURED VOICESAshley & Helene Visagie are the founders of Bottom Up, a Cape Town-based youth organisation that develops socially engaged leaders who can critically analyse how political, economic, and cultural systems produce inequality, and then organise to change them.Tristan Pringle is a life and executive coach, facilitator, and poet based in Cape Town.Rashid Adams is a musician, songwriter, music producer, and ethnomusicologist based in Cape Town.CREDITS | Produced by | Rashid Epstein Adams | Music by | Rashid Epstein Adams (AKA Arkenstone) and Pursuit | A collaboration between | The Common Good Podcast & The Liminal Space PodcastLINKS| Podcast | linktr.ee/theliminalspacepod | Substack | theliminalspacepodcast.substack.com | Instagram | @theliminalspacepod

Will Zell — Founder and Managing Partner of Vessel, founding CEO and now Executive Chair of AssetWatch, and a leading voice in rethinking how venture capital works across Ohio.Will's path into technology and venture isn't conventional. He grew up — and still lives — in Bellefontaine, Ohio. At 17, he ran for city council under the slogan “A Voice for the Future.” He spent time in ministry, built a real estate portfolio during the financial crisis, and ultimately found his way into technology startups — learning firsthand what it means to raise capital in a state that consistently punches below its weight in venture investment. After early startup failures, Will co-founded what became AssetWatch, a predictive maintenance platform serving global manufacturers. The company has since raised more than $100 million in venture capital and scaled into a high-growth industrial technology business employing hundreds.But perhaps more interesting than breaking through Ohio's capital gap is Will's effort to redesign it. In 2020, he founded Vessel — a diversified venture platform focused on investing in and building category-defining companies in Middle America. Through Vessel and the Ohio Angel Collective, Will is working to expand access to early-stage capital, grow the top of Ohio's innovation funnel, and shift the ecosystem from scarcity to abundance.In our conversation, we unpack:The structural capital gap facing Ohio foundersWhat it took to navigate AssetWatch through near-zero runway momentsWhy democratizing venture access mattersHow to build a multi-stage venture platform outside the coastsAnd what it would mean for Ohio to invest in innovation proportionally to the size of its economyThis is a conversation about capital formation, ecosystem design, and the long-term work required to build a venture-backed innovation economy in Ohio.00:00:00 Introduction & Show Disclaimer00:00:58 Will Zell's Background & Early Influences00:04:26 Path to Entrepreneurship & Community Impact00:11:11 Transition from Curiosity to Entrepreneurship00:13:03 Early Business Ventures & Real Estate00:20:01 Entry into Technology Startups00:22:01First Tech Swings & Lessons Learned00:25:58 The Ohio Capital Gap00:31:08 Breaking Through with AssetWatch00:36:59 AssetWatch Product & Impact00:40:22 Transition to Vessel & Venture Capital Access00:45:34 Vessel's Mission & Structure00:49:07 Goals for Success & Midwest Venture Landscape00:55:16 Power of Community & Culture Change01:00:25 What's Next: Curiosity and Culture Change01:04:35 Founders, Opportunity, and Encouragement01:06:08 Bellefontaine Highlights & Closing01:08:39 Farewell & Closing Credits-----LINKS:https://www.linkedin.com/in/willzell/https://www.ohioangelcollective.com/https://buildvessel.com/https://spiltsocial.com/-----SPONSOR:Cerity PartnersCerity Partners, a full-service investment and wealth management firm serving high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and business owners, is proud to sponsor Lay of The Land. The firm has local roots in Cleveland and across Ohio, and like this podcast, Cerity Partners advisors specialize in serving the interests of local entrepreneurs and business leaders. They understand how to manage the total picture of wealth, both personal and professional. Cerity Partners has a unified team of specialists who collaborate on almost every aspect of a client's financial life, including business ownership. The firm's national presence means it can offer the resources and specialized knowledge of the largest institutions with the independence and service of a neighbor. The Cerity Partners Cleveland team understands the complexity that comes with wealth, and they adhere to fiduciary standards. Discover the financial lay of your land.Learn more at ceritypartners.com/NPR or call 216-464-6266.Roundstone InsuranceRoundstone Insurance is proud to sponsor Lay of The Land. Founder and CEO, Michael Schroeder, has committed full-year support for the podcast, recognizing its alignment with the company's passion for entrepreneurship, innovation, and community leadership.Headquartered in Rocky River, Ohio, Roundstone was founded in 2005 with a vision to deliver better healthcare outcomes at a more affordable cost. To bring that vision to life, the company pioneered the group medical captive model — a self-funded health insurance solution that provides small and mid-sized businesses with greater control and significant savings.Over the past two decades, Roundstone has grown rapidly, creating nearly 200 jobs in Northeast Ohio. The company works closely with employers and benefits advisors to navigate the complexities of commercial health insurance and build custom plans that prioritize employee well-being over shareholder returns. By focusing on aligned incentives and better health outcomes, Roundstone is helping businesses save thousands in Per Employee Per Year healthcare costs. Roundstone Insurance — Built for entrepreneurs. Backed by innovation. Committed to Cleveland.-----Stay up to date by signing up for Lay of The Land's weekly newsletter — sign up here: https://layoftheland.ck.page/5f0c1e28faConnect with Jeffrey Stern on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreypstern/Follow Lay of The Land on X @podlayofthelandhttps://www.jeffreys.page/

Mastering Business Scalability: Scott Abbott on Fusing AI, Systems, and Human GrowthIn a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur Podcast, host Josh Elledge sat down with Scott Abbott, the serial entrepreneur, investor, and Founder & CEO of BOS-UP. The conversation explored the critical intersection of modern technology and timeless business principles, focusing on how Scott's "Boss Up" framework helps startups and mid-market companies scale effectively. By integrating AI-driven insights with high-level coaching and human-centered development, Scott provides a roadmap for leaders who want to move beyond mere "hustle" and toward a structured, engineering-minded approach to growth. This episode is a masterclass in leveraging the latest digital tools without losing the "soft tissue" of emotional intelligence and personal reflection.The Boss Up Methodology: Balancing Business Mechanics with Human Soft TissueScaling a business requires a dual focus on rigorous systems and the human factors that drive them. Scott Abbott describes this balance through the lens of "mechanics"—the essential business competencies and disciplines—and "soft tissue," which encompasses conflict resolution, anxiety management, and boundary setting. For an organization to truly thrive, it must implement a blueprint that democratizes high-level strategies once reserved only for the Fortune 500. By adopting an engineering mindset, founders can build a "Boss Up Blue" infrastructure that identifies operational gaps, while simultaneously using "Boss Up Moments" to foster the emotional resilience needed to navigate the inevitable stresses of entrepreneurship.A cornerstone of this methodology is the strategic integration of Artificial Intelligence as a partner in critical thinking rather than a replacement for it. Scott advocates for a three-dimensional learning model that fuses traditional reading and writing with AI-powered customization. Instead of using AI to generate shortcuts, leaders are encouraged to use tools like ChatGPT or NotebookLM to create personalized journaling prompts and organize complex insights. This technology-enhanced reflection allows for a deeper, more contextual understanding of business challenges, enabling a founder to show up to coaching sessions with a refined perspective that maximizes the value of human-to-human mentorship.Democratizing high-level business education is the ultimate mission behind the BOS-UP ecosystem. By offering open-source content and a social enterprise model where profits support under-resourced entrepreneurs, Scott is championing a form of humanitarian capitalism. This approach ensures that sophisticated tools for work-life integration and organizational scaling are accessible to all, regardless of their funding stage. When technology, coaching, and human-centered philosophies are fused correctly, the result is an interactive learning environment where founders can build not just successful companies, but purpose-driven lives that impact their communities and the global market.About Scott AbbottScott Abbott is a serial entrepreneur, investor, and the Founder & CEO of BOS-UP. With decades of experience building and scaling companies, he is a dedicated advocate for lifelong learning and the strategic use of technology in personal development. Scott is the author of Boss Up and the Boss Up Moments workbook, and he leads a global network of coaches focused on democratizing elite business strategies.About BOS-UPBOS-UP is a business coaching and systems firm designed to help small to mid-market companies scale with precision. The company offers a structured framework centered on nine core competencies, blending technical business engineering with human-centered growth strategies. BOS-UP operates as a social enterprise, providing accessible resources and coaching to empower entrepreneurs worldwide.Links Mentioned in This EpisodeScott Abbott Official WebsiteScott Abbott on LinkedInKey Episode HighlightsThe "Boss Up" Framework: A deep dive into the nine core competencies required to scale a business from startup to mid-market success.AI as a Thinking Partner: How to use artificial intelligence to enhance critical thinking, generate reflective prompts, and prepare for high-level coaching.Mechanics vs. Soft Tissue: Balancing the technical systems of a business with the emotional intelligence and human factors that sustain a team.Democratizing Strategy: The social enterprise model that makes Fortune 2500-level business education accessible to under-resourced entrepreneurs.The 3D Learning Model: Integrating reading, writing, and technology to create a comprehensive and interactive ecosystem for lifelong growth.ConclusionScott Abbott's philosophy serves as a reminder that the most successful businesses are built on a foundation of continuous learning and structural integrity. By embracing both the data-driven power of AI and the reflective depth of human coaching, leaders can navigate complexity with clarity and purpose.More from The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

In this episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, Jason sits down with Vikram Chalana, co-founder of Pictory, to talk about building an AI-powered video platform designed to simplify content creation for creators, educators, and businesses. Vikram shares how Pictory was built to remove the complexity from video production and content repurposing. We discuss scaling a SaaS company, leading product and engineering teams, and how AI is reshaping content creation workflows. The conversation also explores Vikram's earlier experience co-founding Winshuttle, lessons learned from building enterprise software, and how those insights shaped Pictory's product strategy. Jason and Vikram talk about the future of AI in media, founder discipline, and what it takes to turn a technical idea into a widely adopted product. This episode is especially valuable for founders, SaaS builders, product leaders, and anyone leveraging AI to scale content and business growth.  Topics Discussed  • Vikram's path into entrepreneurship  • Founding and scaling Pictory • Democratizing video creation with AI • Leading product and engineering teams • Lessons from building enterprise software • SaaS growth and customer adoption • AI's role in content repurposing • Startup discipline and execution • Building technology for creators and businesses • The future of AI-driven media Connect with Vikram Chalana LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vikramchalana/ Pictory Website: https://pictory.ai Connect with Jason Cavness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncavness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejasoncavnessexperience/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jasoncavness Podcast: https://www.thejasoncavnessexperience.com  

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!Here's How »Join the Capital Gains Tax Solutions Community today:capitalgainstaxsolutions.comCapital Gains Tax Solutions FacebookCapital Gains Tax Solutions TwitterCapital Gains Tax Solutions Linked In

What if your giving plan felt as intentional and optimized as your FI plan, and just as easy to automate? In walks Daffy, the new and modern donor-advised fund that is democratizing giving! Adam Nash, co-founder and CEO of Daffy, joins us today to explain how donor-advised funds (DAFs) went from stuffy tools for the ultra-wealthy to something you can open on your phone. Daffy is a fast-growing fintech platform and community for charitable giving, made for everyday people. Adam shares the pandemic-era "why now" behind Daffy, how traditional donor-advised funds quietly skim high AUM fees while setting eye-watering minimums, and walks through Daffy's flat-fee, app-first model.    This episode also covers:  ✅ What donor-advised funds are and why they've been hidden from most everyday givers  ✅ DAFs for tax optimization (bunching, appreciated stock, estate planning)  ✅ How to turn giving into a family and workplace culture (campaigns, matching, gift links)  ✅ Why Adam sees a DAF as a simple "charitable 401(k)" or mini family foundation without the lawyers, board meetings, or overhead, built to help you be more generous   ==========   DEALS & DISCOUNTS FROM OUR TRUSTED PARTNERS   MONARCH MONEY The modern way to manage money! Monarch will change the way you organize your financial life. Track, budget, plan, and do more with your money – together. Get 50% off the first year using this link and entering code: CATCHINGUP50   For a full list of current deals and discounts from our partners, sponsors and affiliates, click here: catchinguptofi.com/our-partners    SUPPORT  THE  SHOW

Discover the future of social commerce directly from the experts at LTK, YouTube Shopping, and Gap Inc. Live from SoCom in sunny Venice, Lauren and Josh break down the shift from relevance to revenue in the creator economy. In this episode, we explore why follower counts are losing their weight, how affiliate marketing is evolving, and the ways legacy brands integrate social platforms into retail experiences.What you'll learn:-- Why social followers and subscribers don't matter anymore.-- How LTK's new brand platform is democratizing creator marketing.-- The massive impact of YouTube Shopping timestamps and auto-tagging.-- Gap Inc.'s omnichannel approach to capturing consumer demand.00:00 Intro: Live from SoCom05:13 Interview: Amber Venz Box (LTK)09:08 Why Followers Don't Matter Anymore16:41 Democratizing the Creator Ecosystem20:26 AI Chatbots and Trust in Creators25:46 Interview: Lauren Celinski (YouTube Shopping)28:25 Maximizing YouTube Shopping Features36:05 Interview: Damon Berger (Gap Inc.)38:59 Gap's Social Commerce Strategy44:50 Final Thoughts and OutroCreator Upload is your creator economy podcast, hosted by Lauren Schnipper and Joshua Cohen.Follow Lauren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/schnipper/Follow Josh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuajcohen/Original music by London Bridge: https://www.instagram.com/londonbridgemusic/Edited and produced by Adam Conner: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamonbrand

As a teacher, patent examiner, and workforce development manager, Omi Bell consistently rose to leadership only to encounter institutional resistance to meaningful change. Rather than continue fighting from within, she built Black Girl Ventures in 2016 to address a staggering reality: less than one percent of Black and Brown people access venture capital. Her unique dual background as artist and computer scientist enabled her to see systemic gaps clearly and imagine scalable solutions. Omi's philosophy of diplomatic radicalism offers a counterintuitive path to systemic change: engage opposing viewpoints with genuine curiosity rather than confrontation. During her Congressional testimony on expanding the accredited investor definition, she identified shared values across political divides—both Democrats and Republicans care about financial inclusion. By starting conversations from agreement rather than disagreement, she creates space for dialogue that transforms policy. This approach extends beyond finance into community organizing and neighborhood problem-solving. Ready to invest in your own nervous system regulation and join leaders committed to systemic change? Explore Omi Bell's transformative work here, where you'll find comprehensive breathwork sessions, Yoga Nidra guidance, and the option to set up individual breathwork sessions tailored to your needs. For the accessible version of the podcast, go to our Ziotag gallery.We're happy you're here! Like the pod?Support the podcast and receive discounts from our sponsors: https://yourbrandamplified.codeadx.me/Leave a rating and review on your favorite platformFollow @yourbrandamplified on the socialsTalk to my digital avatar Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In Episode 6 of Space Revolution, Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Steven L. Kwast and guest Brad Zerbo explore how mining asteroids and building in zero gravity could transform life on Earth. The discussion centers on three pillars of prosperity in space: information, energy, and resources, and how tapping into them could support the eight essentials of life, air, water, food, shelter, information, energy, transportation, and healthcare. They examine robotic asteroid mining, 3D printing structures in zero gravity, and the possibility of constructing entire homes in space and delivering them gently to Earth. The conversation highlights reusable rockets, renewable satellites, space-based energy beaming, and using water in space as fuel. Kwast emphasizes that reducing the cost of energy and materials could uplift the human condition globally while preserving Earth from destructive mining practices. Throughout the episode, they stress the importance of moral leadership, constitutional principles, and decentralizing control so individuals, not centralized powers, retain access to life's essentials. The show concludes with a recommended reading of Mining the Sky and a call for citizens to engage politically to guide this revolution responsibly.

Music law is important for everyone in our industry to be familiar with, no matter your role or experience level. This episode features Matthew Wilson and Michelle Davis of Arnall Golden Gregory LLP, two entertainment lawyers who champion this belief by spreading their own wealth of knowledge to others via mentoring & education programs. The two discuss their respective backgrounds and involvement in academia, Music Biz's #NEXTGEN_U Student Summit, the parallels between current & past legal proceedings in music copyright law, and more!

With a career spanning the US Navy, executive leadership positions at PetSmart and Banfield Pet Hospital, and pioneering online training, Don brings unique insights into building and scaling businesses across industries. Throughout the conversation, Avanish and Don discuss OpenSesame's evolution from an online learning marketplace to an AI-powered platform that serves enterprises, learning management systems, and content publishers. They explore the "Intel Inside" ecosystem strategy, the Simon AI tool that democratizes course creation and enables instant translation into 70 languages, and how organizations can successfully navigate workforce reinvention in the AI era while meeting customers where they are.In this episode, Avanish and Don discuss:OpenSesame's dual-sided platform strategy: Partnering with 200+ LMS/HRIS systems on the delivery side while aggregating 50,000 courses from 200+ publishers, providing distribution for small publishers to reach enterprise customers and enabling large publishers like Harvard Business Publishing to access mid-market and SMB segments.The Simon AI course creation tool: Democratizing content development by enabling subject matter experts to create high-quality courses without instructional designers, with built-in translation capabilities across 70 languages for voiceover and text—expanding global reach for multinational organizations.Workforce reinvention as strategic imperative: Positioning OpenSesame at the center of organizational AI transformation by providing not just technology but comprehensive change management roadmaps, helping HR and learning leaders guide their teams through adoption with curated content and use cases.The "meet them where they are" philosophy: Balancing long-term product vision with practical customer adoption paths, especially during transformational periods like AI implementation, by understanding customer needs deeply before prescribing solutions and allowing products to flex without compromising the ultimate vision.The 1% better daily improvement mindset: Embracing continuous learning and incremental progress as the foundation for breakthrough innovation, recognizing that overnight successes are built on consistent dedication and discipline over time.About Don Spear:Don Spear is CEO of OpenSesame. Before his current role, he founded BlueVolt.com, held executive leadership positions at Banfield Pet Hospital and PetSmart, and served as a submarine officer aboard the USS Tunny (SSN 682).About OpenSesameOpenSesame, the leading provider of online business training, is the choice for L&D professionals wanting to drive learning initiatives forward with innovation, agility, and care. We offer the world's most comprehensive digital learning catalog, with regularly updated content from expert publishers in a variety of formats and languages. By providing comprehensive learning resources and innovative tools like Simon, OpenSesame empowers L&D professionals to exceed their goals and champion learning across their entire organization.Host Avanish SahaiAvanish Sahai is a Tidemark Fellow and served as a Board Member of Hubspot from 2018 to 2023; he currently serves on the boards of Birdie.ai, Flywl.com and Meta.com.br as well as a few non-profits and educational boards. Previously, Avanish served as the vice president, ISV and Apps partner ecosystem of Google from 2019 until 2021. From 2016 to 2019, he served as the global vice president, ISV and Technology alliances at ServiceNow.  From 2014 to 2015, he was the senior vice president and chief product officer at Demandbase.  Prior to Demandbase, Avanish built and led the Appexchange platform ecosystem team at Salesforce, and was an executive at Oracle and McKinsey & Company, as well as various early to mid-stage startups in Silicon Valley.About TidemarkTidemark is a venture capital firm, foundation, and community built to serve category-leading technology companies as they scale.  Tidemark was founded in 2021 by David Yuan, who has been investing, advising, and building technology companies for over 20 years.  Learn more at www.tidemarkcap.com.LinksFollow our host, Avanish SahaiLearn more about Tidemark

Who will be the Democratic presidential nominee in 2028? What will the price of gold be at the end of the week? Who will win the World Cup? All of these are relatively benign bets you can make today. But there are other bets that maybe aren't so benign, like will Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro be removed from office by the end of January? That well-timed bet, made in the hours before the U.S. captured and extracted Maduro, netted the anonymous investor who made it $400,000. Are prediction markets democratizing information as some argue or are we monetizing reality in a way that incentivizes perverse motives? Alex Goldenberg, Fellow at Rutgers University, joins The Excerpt to explain how these markets work and the risks they pose financially and politically.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. Episode transcript available here. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Fab Brasca (SVP at Kinaxis) discusses the evolution of supply chain technology from 1990s silos to modern, integrated systems. The three key takeaways: Concurrency over Silos: Moving beyond sequential processes, concurrency allows for instantaneous, cross-functional visibility. A change in one area—such as a forecast adjustment—immediately ripples across the entire network. Actionable Control Towers: While many towers only monitor, the sources emphasize that they must become actionable. Through scenario planning, teams can evaluate disruptions (like labor shortages) and agree on responses before committing changes to a master plan. AI Democratization: Agentic AI and LLMs are lowering skill barriers, allowing non-planners to use natural language to identify supply chain trouble spots. However, human-in-the-loop governance is essential to ensure reliability. Ultimately, as volatility becomes structural, firms must build adaptable environments to thrive. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode,  Adam Torres and Boomer Anderson, Co-Founder & CEO at Troscriptions and CEO at Health Optimization Medicine and Practice. Boomer shares his mission to “democratize enlightenment” by removing health barriers that prevent presence—covering practical testing, personalization, and why the “off switch” matters for sustainable high performance. Follow Adam on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/askadamtorres/ for up to date information on book releases and tour schedule. Apply to be a guest on our podcast: https://missionmatters.lpages.co/podcastguest/ Visit our website: https://missionmatters.com/ More FREE content from Mission Matters here: https://linktr.ee/missionmattersmedia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

PAC directors and government affairs professionals have long struggled to access reliable state legislative data, as free resources have been locked behind paywalls. State Navigate founder Chaz Nuttycombe returns to explain how his nonprofit is filling that gap with comprehensive, free campaign finance data, legislative forecasting, and ideological analysis across eight states. Learn how this transparency tool can inform your 2026 midterm strategy—from identifying competitive races to tracking members and analyzing voting patterns.

In episode 104 of Venture Everywhere, Scott Hartley, co-founder and managing partner at Everywhere Ventures, talks with Kat Garcia, co-founder and co-CEO of Ground, a startup building the AI revenue system for autonomous revenue generation and retention. Kat shares how she left BCG Digital Ventures to work for free with B2C companies, uncovering that operators didn't need more productivity tools—they needed technology that could autonomously generate revenue on their behalf. She discusses how Ground's AI ontology transforms static metrics into actions that drive up to 10% more top-line revenue, moving companies from dashboards to agentic commerce.In this episode, you will hear:Unlocking unrealized revenue potential in fragmented tech stacks.Autonomous revenue generation beyond productivity tools.Real-time commerce ontology that learns and acts.Proving autonomous systems in high-churn e-commerce.Democratizing enterprise capabilities for mid-size brands.Learn more about Kat Garcia | GroundLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-garcia-online/Website: https://joinground.com/Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4zuhbqKwF34X0wqDXa1Lsx?si=91da32c586844f1aLearn more about Scott Hartley | Everywhere VenturesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scotthartley/Website: https://everywhere.vc

On this episode of HALO Talks, host Pete Moore sits down with Hunter Ziesing, founder of Longevity Health, to dive into the rapidly chaing volving world of preventive health and personal wellness data. Bringing decades of experience from Wall Street, athletic pursuits, and nonprofit work, Hunter shares his inspiration for moving into longevity and healthspan solutions after seeing friends and family struggle with preventable health issues. He discusses Longevity Health's mission: Democratizing access to clinical-grade health data and AI-driven recommendations. . . basically what elite practitioners charge six figures for, made accessible to the masses. Learn about how he aims to empower individuals to truly own their health data, integrate information from wearables and medical tests, and leverage AI for personalized action. This episode also explores the business of building scalable solutions, collaborating with fitness chains, and balancing the desire to revolutionize public health with mindful entrepreneurship.  On affordable (preventative!) health care for all, Zasing states, " My mission is to really give people the Peter Attia. You know. . .what he charges $150,000 for, for as little as 30 cents a day." Key themes discussed Leveraging personal health data for prevention and longevity AI integration in health management and recommendations Consumer ownership and use of health data Partnerships with fitness clubs and labs for testing Transition from nonprofit to for-profit health ventures Scaling health platforms through technology and collaborations Challenges and vision for democratizing preventive healthcare A Few Key Takeaways:  1.Data-Driven Personalized Health is the Future: Hunter is building a platform (Longevity Health) that brings together personal health data—from wearables, medical records, blood tests, and more—to help guide individuals in preventative health and wellness. His mission is to democratize access, offering "Peter Attia-level" insights at an affordable price. 2. Behavior Change is Achievable and Measurable: Through previous ventures like the national cycling series supporting Livestrong, and his work at Paceline, Hunter  demonstrated that motivating people with goals, teams, and rewards (even as simple as a dollar for hitting your heart rate target) can create real, lasting behavior change. 3. AI-Powered Recommendations Enhance Preventive Care: The company is beta testing an AI engine that analyzes your consolidated health data, gives personalized recommendations, and will eventually act almost like a virtual doctor. For now, a human clinician still reviews and oversees the AI's conclusions, ensuring safety and accuracy. 4. Consumer Ownership Over Health Data is Key: Both Ziesing and Pete discuss the importance of individuals owning their own health data. Regulatory shifts (even tech giants like Apple and Google are getting behind this) are beginning to empower consumers, rather than siloing data within companies. 5. Partnerships and Integrations Will Drive Scale: Rather than trying to own every piece of the ecosystem, Hunter emphasizes the strategy of partnering with gyms, health clubs, and existing testing providers. The vision is to make Longevity Health the connective "last mile" that ties together disparate data to deliver actionable insight—potentially white-labeling the tech or integrating with large fitness chains for scale. Resources:  Hunter Ziesing: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hunterziesing/ Longevity Health: https://www.longevityhealth.me/  Integrity Square: https://www.integritysq.com Prospect Wizard: https://www.theprospectwizard.com Promotion Vault: https://www.promotionvault.com HigherDose: https://www.higherdose.com

Your host, Sebastian Hassinger, talks with Alumni Ventures managing partner Chris Sklarin about how one of the most active US venture firms is building a quantum portfolio while “democratizing” access to VC as an asset class for individual investors. They dig into Alumni Ventures' co‑investor model, how the firm thinks about quantum hardware, software, and sensing, and why quantum should be viewed as a long‑term platform with near‑term pockets of commercial value. Chris also explains how accredited investors can start seeing quantum deal flow through Alumni Ventures' syndicate.Chris' background and Alumni Ventures in a nutshellChris is an MIT‑trained engineer who spent years in software startups before moving into venture more than 20 years ago.Alumni Ventures is a roughly decade‑old firm focused on “democratizing venture capital” for individual investors, with over 11,000 LPs, more than 1.5 billion dollars raised, and about 1,300 active portfolio companies.The firm has been repeatedly recognized as a highly active VC by CB Insights, PitchBook, Stanford GSB, and Time magazine.How Alumni Ventures structures access for individualsMost investors come in as individuals into LLC‑structured funds rather than traditional GP/LP funds.Alumni Ventures always co‑invests alongside a lead VC, using the lead's conviction, sector expertise, and diligence as a key signal.The platform also offers a syndicate where accredited investors can opt in to see and back individual deals, including those tagged for quantum.Quantum in the Alumni Ventures portfolioAlumni Ventures has 5–6 quantum‑related investments spanning hardware, software, and applications, including Rigetti, Atom Computing, Q‑CTRL, Classiq, and quantum‑error‑mitigation startup Qedma/Cadmus.Rigetti was one of the firm's earliest quantum investments; the team followed on across multiple rounds and was able to return capital to investors after Rigetti's SPAC and a strong period in the public markets.Chris also highlights interest in Cycle Dre (a new company from Rigetti's former CTO) and application‑layer companies like InQ and quantum sensing players.Barbell funding and the “3–5 year” viewChris responds to the now‑familiar “barbell” funding picture in quantum— a few heavily funded players and a long tail of small companies—by emphasizing near‑term revenue over pure science experiments.He sees quantum entering an era where companies must show real products, customers, and revenue, not just qubit counts.Over the next 3–5 years, he expects meaningful commercial traction first in areas like quantum sensing, navigation, and point solutions in chemistry and materials, with full‑blown fault‑tolerant systems further out.Hybrid compute and NVIDIA's signal to the marketChris points to Jensen Huang's GTC 2025 keynote slide on NVIDIA's hybrid quantum–GPU ecosystem, where Alumni Ventures portfolio companies such as Atom Computing, Classiq, and Rigetti appeared.He notes that NVIDIA will not put “science projects” on that slide—those partnerships reflect a view that quantum processors will sit tightly coupled next to GPUs to handle specific workloads.He also mentions a large commercial deal between NVIDIA and Groq (a classical AI chip company in his portfolio) as another sign of a more heterogeneous compute future that quantum will plug into.Where near‑term quantum revenue shows upChris expects early commercial wins in sensing, GPS‑denied navigation, and other narrow but valuable applications before broad “quantum advantage” in general‑purpose computing.Software and middleware players can generate revenue sooner by making today's hardware more stable, more efficient, or easier to program, and by integrating into classical and AI workflows.He stresses that investors love clear revenue paths that fit into the 10‑year life of a typical venture fund.University spin‑outs, clustering, and deal flowAlumni Ventures certainly sees clustering around strong quantum schools like MIT, Harvard, and Yale, but Chris emphasizes that the “alumni angle” is secondary to the quality of the venture deal.Mature tech‑transfer offices and standard Delaware C‑corps mean spinning out quantum IP from universities is now a well‑trodden path.Chris leans heavily on network effects—Alumni Ventures' 800,000‑person network and 1,300‑company CEO base—as a key channel for discovering the most interesting quantum startups.Managing risk in a 100‑hardware‑company worldWith dozens of hardware approaches now in play, Chris uses Alumni Ventures' co‑investor model and lead‑investor diligence as a filter rather than picking purely on physics bets.He looks for teams with credible near‑term commercial pathways and for mechanisms like sensing or middleware that can create value even if fault‑tolerant systems arrive later than hoped.He compares quantum to past enabling waves like nanotech, where the biggest impact often shows up as incremental improvements rather than a single “big bang” moment.Democratizing access to quantum ventureAlumni Ventures allows accredited investors to join its free syndicate, self‑attest accreditation, and then see deal materials—watermarked and under NDA—for individual investments, including quantum.Chris encourages people to think in terms of diversified funds (20–30 deals per fund year) rather than only picking single names in what is a power‑law asset class.He frames quantum as a long‑duration infrastructure play with near‑term pockets of usefulness, where venture can help investors participate in the upside without getting ahead of reality.

Most leaders assume AI and search already see the whole internet. In reality, they all operate on the same tiny slice of the web.In this episode of IT Visionaries, host Chris Brandt sits down with Sudheesh Nair, Co-Founder and CEO of TinyFish and former CEO of ThoughtSpot, to unpack why only a small percentage of the web is indexable and how that cripples enterprise AI.Sudheesh explains why the next breakthrough won't come from bigger models or better search, but from agents that can operate the web at scale, logging in, filling forms, running workflows, and surfacing the long tail of opportunities that never appear on page one. He also shares why human craft, taste, and presence will matter more than ever in an agent-driven world. Key Moments:00:00 - The Deep Web Problem02:48 - The Amazon Search Trap04:26 - Why Search is Broken07:01 - Internet is No Longer a Library08:29 - AI Answers vs Blue Links13:05 - Introducing Tiny Fish's Mission16:00 - Search as a Poor Experience18:29 - The Deep Web: APIs, Workflows & Logins22:11 - Tackling the 93% Problem25:47 - The Eight-Room Hotel Success Story29:04 - Operating the Web vs Skimming It32:42 - Real-Time Personalized Workflows38:31 - Enterprise B2B Strategy40:18 - Taste Over Tools43:08 - AI Freeing Human Experience46:36 - Travel Experiences & Local Discovery50:00 - Democratizing the Internet56:39 - The Waving Guide in China1:01:12 - Optimism for AI's Future -- This episode of IT Visionaries is brought to you by Meter - the company building better networks. Businesses today are frustrated with outdated providers, rigid pricing, and fragmented tools. Meter changes that with a single integrated solution that covers everything wired, wireless, and even cellular networking. They design the hardware, write the firmware, build the software, and manage it all so your team doesn't have to.That means you get fast, secure, and scalable connectivity without the complexity of juggling multiple providers. Thanks to meter for sponsoring. Go to meter.com/itv to book a demo.---IT Visionaries is made by the team at Mission.org. Learn more about our media studio and network of podcasts at mission.org. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What if you could access the same sophisticated tax and wealth strategies used by the ultra-rich—without the ultra-high fees? Join host Khudania Ajay (KAJ) for an insightful conversation with David Snider, Founder and CEO of Harness Wealth. David is on a mission to make bespoke financial advice accessible to the next generation of builders by using technology to democratize wealth management. Learn how advanced tax planning, strategic investing, and legacy-building tools are no longer reserved for the elite—and how you can leverage them to secure your financial future. Explore a new era of financial empowerment at https://kajmasterclass.com.=========================================*KAJ Masterclass*A video-first, conversation-led knowledge platform featuring thoughtful conversations with leaders, professionals, authors, and experts across leadership, business, health, technology, and the changing world of work. Each conversation is designed to help people learn, reflect, and take meaningful action.

Andrey Chabanov is the Co-Founder & CEO of Wellspring (wellspring.money), a next-generation high-yield savings platform that transforms everyday USD deposits into up to 12% APY through stablecoins and decentralized finance (DeFi).Wellspring bridges the gap between conventional banking and the world of on-chain finance — delivering accessible, high-yield opportunities powered by audited DeFi lending protocols like Aave and HypurrFi, while keeping funds in self-custodial wallets and maintaining a simple, user-friendly experience that requires no crypto expertise. In this episode, Andrey breaks down how Wellspring makes DeFi yield effortless for everyday savers — converting bank deposits to stablecoins, automating deployment into proven lending strategies, and emphasizing self-custody so your money never fully leaves your control. He explores the real drivers of on-chain yields in 2025, the advantages over traditional high-yield savings accounts, strategies for risk management and security in DeFi, the impact of evolving regulations on mainstream adoption, and why platforms like Wellspring represent the future of personal finance — where transparency, automation, and higher returns empower users without middlemen taking the lion's share. He also dives into practical tips for beating inflation, avoiding common pitfalls, and why now is the moment to rethink how your savings work in a digital-first world.

In this episode, Darin sits down with BioHarvest CEO Ilan Sobel, a leader who is redefining the future of plant compounds, human performance, and scalable biotech. Ilan shares the extraordinary origin story of BioHarvest's technology, how a single scientific breakthrough is disrupting global supply chains, and why "democratizing the power of the plant kingdom" has become his life mission. From hydration to longevity molecules to the French Paradox, Ilan reveals how his company is transforming ancient wisdom into modern, clinically validated solutions that can reach the masses.     What You'll Learn 00:00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:00:32 Sponsor: Thera Sage 00:02:10 Introducing Ilan Sobel (Bio Harvest Sciences) 00:03:37 Electrolyte Solution Powered by Circulation 00:04:37 Vinia's Baseline: Sea Salt, Coconut Water, Marine Magnesium 00:05:36 The Uniqueness of Pi-Seed Resveratrol 00:06:50 Solubility and Bioavailability: Lasting 12 Hours 00:08:48 Overview of Botanical Synthesis Technology and Cell Growth 00:13:58 Vinia's Potency: 1,000 Red Grapes in a Capsule 00:15:31 Why Blood Flow is Critical for Longevity 00:17:23 Increased Blood Flow to the Brain and Mental Alertness 00:19:00 Sponsor: Our Place Cookware 00:21:35 The Abuse of Nature and the Need for Preservation 00:24:15 Overcoming Pharma's Barriers: Consistency, Low Levels, and Patents 00:28:32 Vinia as a Validation of the Technology's Power 00:30:02 Scaling Production: 137 Bioreactors 00:32:21 Scaling Comparison: Manhattan Island's Worth of Resveratrol 00:34:26 Clinical Substantiation and Solubility 00:35:14 The Mechanism: Increasing Nitric Oxide and Reducing ET-1 00:38:33 The "Vinia Difference" - When Consumers Feel the Benefits 00:40:05 Unseen Benefits: Reducing Oxidative Damage 00:41:16 Low Churn Rate and Science-Backed Commitment 00:42:52 Sponsor: Manna Vitality 00:44:46 Commitment to Mission and Customer Reviews as Fuel 00:48:01 Support for First Responders and Veterans 00:51:32 Ilan's Journey to CEO and Unlocking the Gold Mine 00:55:37 The Plan to Build a Second 100-Ton Facility 00:57:12 Democratization and Scaling: Software Economics in Biotech 01:00:21 The French Paradox and Red Wine Connection 01:01:33 Next in DTC: Olive Cells and Forbascoside for Liver Health 01:05:36 New Partnership: Creating a Super Saffron for Cognitive Health 01:13:02 Partnership with Tate & Lyle for Non-Nutritive Sweeteners 01:16:11 The Movement of Change and Legacy for Future Generations 01:18:52 Introducing the Vinia Blood Flow Hydration Stick Packs     Thank You to Our Sponsors Therasage: Go to www.therasage.com and use code DARIN at checkout for 15% off Our Place: Toxic-free, durable cookware that supports healthy cooking. Go to their website at fromourplace.com/darin and get 35% off sitewide in their largest sale of the year. Manna Vitality: Go to mannavitality.com/ and use code DARIN12 for 12% off your order.     Join the SuperLife Community Get Darin's deeper wellness breakdowns — beyond social media restrictions: Weekly voice notes Ingredient deep dives Wellness challenges Energy + consciousness tools Community accountability Extended episodes Join for $7.49/month → https://patreon.com/darinolien     Find More from Ilan Sobel Website: bioharvest.com Instagram: @ilansobel Red Grape Cell Product: vinia.com     Find More from Darin Olien: Instagram: @darinolien Podcast: SuperLife Podcast Website: superlife.com Book: Fatal Conveniences     Key Takeaway "Democratizing the plant kingdom isn't just a business strategy — it's a responsibility. If science gives us the ability to help millions of people feel better, perform better, and live longer, then we have an obligation to scale it in a way the whole world can access."

Our continuing exploration of the intersection of private wealth and alternatives takes us to Future Standard, one of the largest distribution platforms bringing the wealth channel exposure to the middle markets. Michael Kelly is Co-President and Chief Investment Officer of Future Standard, a $90 billion alternative asset manager focused on private middle-market strategies for the wealth channel. Michael has been in the alternatives industry for three decades, starting as an analyst under Lee Cooperman and Julian Robertson, helping build FrontPoint Partners, which began the institutionalization of hedge funds, serving as CEO of ORIX USA, where he led the acquisition of $250 billion global asset manager Robeco, and for the last decade turning to the democratization of alternatives. Our conversation covers Michael's path from working in hedge funds to building alternative asset businesses, including lessons about incentives, leadership, and culture. We then discuss his pivot from the institutional market to the wealth channel, and the growth from a single strategy at Franklin Square with $12 billion in assets to a full suite of strategies under the rebranded Future Standard with $90 billion across private credit, private equity, real estate, infrastructure, and multi-asset investing. Michael also shares his views on performance expectations and what the flood of new capital means for the institutional market. Learn More Follow Ted on Twitter at @tseides or LinkedIn Subscribe to the mailing list Access Transcript with Premium Membership   Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com⁠)